City Council

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BOSSIER CITY STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING MARCH 21, 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, March 21, 2023 at 3:00 PM Invocation was given by Council Member Jeffery Darby Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Chris Smith 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. Hammons Motion to approve Minutes of March 7, 2023, Regular Council Meeting and dispense with the reading. Seconded by Mr. Williams No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Smith Motion to amend agenda to remove New Business Item #6 from agenda – Introduce an Ordinance enacting a change to Chapter 14 of the City of Bossier City Code of Ordinances by adding Section 67 - Mandatory Sterilization of Dogs and Cats. Seconded by Mr. Hammons No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to amend agenda to continue Public Hearing/Actions on Unfinished Business Item #1 until the April 4, 2023 Council Meeting – Adopt an Ordinance authorizing Mayor Thomas H. Chandler to execute the attached Joint Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Caddo Bossier Parishes Port Commission. Seconded by Mr. Darby Some Council members reported they still have questions. City Clerk, read Special Workshop notice. No further comment Motion carries with the following vote: Yeas: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio Nays: Mr. Hammons Absent: none Abstain: none By: Mr. Williams Motion to approve agenda as amended Seconded by Mr. Smith No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Ceremonial Matters/Recognition of Guests – Council welcomed Parkway High School Girls State Champion Basketball Team. Mayor Chandler and Councilman Hammons presented Coach Gloria Williams with a Proclamation and had each young lady to introduce themselves. This is the first Girls Basketball State Championship in the Schools history. Council welcomed Parkway High School State Champion Wrestler, Kristofer Mesloh. Councilman Williams and Mayor Chandler presented Mr. Mesloh with a Proclamation. Public Hearing/Actions on Unfinished Business – The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 30 OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING MAYOR THOMAS H. CHANDLER TO EXECUTE THE ATTACHED AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY AND CG6 TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING, LLC FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AND AMENDING THE 2023 GENERAL FUND BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE $40,000 FROM FUND BALANCE FOR CONSULTING SERVICES. ______________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the City Council has requested that CG6 Technology Consulting, LLC provide virtual Chief Technology Officer professional consulting services to Bossier City; and WHEREAS, these professional services are proposed in an agreement entitled “Statement of Work” between the City of Bossier City and CG6 Technology Consulting, LLC, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit “A”. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that Mayor Thomas H. Chandler is hereby authorized to execute any and all documents necessary to complete said agreement and said agreement is hereby approved; BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that $40,000 is hereby appropriated from the General Fund to retain CG6 Technology Consulting, LLC and the 2023 General Fund Budget is hereby amended to increase City Council Consultant Services $40,000 and decrease Fund Balance $40,000; BE IT FURETHER ORDAINED that the Information Services department is hereby authorized to provide all necessary information to CG6 Technology Consulting, LLC in accordance with the agreement. 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 21st day of March, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on March 29, 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. 31 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 COLLAPSED MANHOLE ALONG SHED ROAD AT A COST OF $141,963.03 TO COME FROM THE SEWER CAPITAL AND CONTINGENCY FUND. WHEREAS, on January 17, 2023, the Public Utilities Department responded to an emergency manhole collapse on Shed Road requiring immediate action to restore the gravity sewer collection system; and WHEREAS, the Public Utilities Department needed emergency support to make the repair due to the size, scale, depth, and repair location; and  WHEREAS, Lawler Construction was contacted and immediately responded to aid Bossier City at a cost of $141,963.03 in labor, equipment, and material to complete the repair efforts; and WHEREAS, $141,963.03 shall be appropriated from the Sewer 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 $141,963.03 to come from the Sewer Capital and Contingency fund to be used for the purpose of making repairs to restore the gravity sewer collection system on Shed Road; 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 Sewer Capital and Contingency Fund Budget is hereby amended to increase expenditures for required repairs for a collapsed manhole along Shed Road by $141,963.03 and decrease Fund Balance by $141,963.03. 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. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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 an Ordinance to declare than an emergency did exist in the City of Bossier City which affected property, public health, and safety due to the requirement to restore a 24- inch sewer force main blowout along Airline Drive near Meadow Creek Drive at a cost of $19,310.00 to come from Sewer Capital and Contingency Fund. Ben Rauschenbach, Engineering and Utilities Department report that this is the 4th blowout in this area and investigations will be ongoing to try to alleviate the issue for good. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 32 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 24-INCH SEWER FORCE MAIN BLOWOUT ALONG AIRLINE DRIVE NEAR MEADOW CREEK AT A COST OF $19,310 TO COME FROM WATER CAPITAL CONTINGENCY FUNDS. WHEREAS, on February 19, 2023, the Public Utilities Department responded to an emergency 24-inch sewer force main rupture near the intersection of Airline Drive and Meadow Creek Drive requiring immediate action to repair a short section of this main; and WHEREAS, the Maintenance Division, within the Public Utilities Department, self- performed a portion of the work avoiding significant labor costs; and WHEREAS, the Public Utilities Department needed additional emergency support to make the repair due to the size and scale of the pipe geometry, material, and repair location; and WHEREAS, Pulley Construction of Bossier City, Louisiana was contacted and immediately responded to aid Bossier City at a cost of $19,310.00 in labor to support the repair efforts; and WHEREAS, $19,310.00 shall be appropriated from the Sewer 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 $19,310.00 to come from the Sewer Capital and Contingency fund to be used for the purpose of making repairs to the 24-inch sewer force main on Airline Drive near Meadow Creek Drive; 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 24-inch sewer force main by $19,310.00 and decrease Fund Balance by $19,310.00. 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. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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 Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 33 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 WATER TREATMENT CAPACITY AT A COST OF $160,000.00 TO COME FROM WATER CAPITAL AND CONTINGENCY FUND. WHEREAS, stress on Bossier’s Water Treatment Facility was experienced during the arctic blast in December of 2022 that requires immediate action to restore treatment capacity; and WHEREAS, the Public Utilities Department needs emergency support to purchase and install replacement membrane feed control valves; and WHEREAS, the scope of work involved is beyond the expertise of the water treatment operational staff; and WHEREAS, it will cost of $160,000.00 in labor, equipment, and material to complete the repair efforts; and WHEREAS, $160,000.00 shall be appropriated from the Water Capital and 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 $160,000.00 to come from the Water Capital and Contingency Fund to be used for the purpose of restoring water treatment capacity by replacing membrane feed control valves; 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 Fund Budget is hereby amended to increase expenditures for required repairs to restore treatment capacity at the Water Treatment Facility by $160,000.00 and decrease Fund Balance by $160,000.00. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Chris Smith and seconded by Mr. Don Williams and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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 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 replace the standby power switchgear for Bossier's water treatment facility at a cost of $353,000 to come from the Water Treatment Plant 2023 Capital Budget. Discussion between Councilman Hammons and Ben Rauschenbach on this issue. Problem should be fixed now. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 34 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 REPLACE THE STANDBY POWER SWITCHGEAR FOR BOSSIER’S WATER TREATMENT FACILITY AT A COST OF $353,000.00 TO COME FROM THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT 2023 CAPITAL BUDGET. WHEREAS, the standby switchgear used to transfer power to the on site generators at Bossier’s water treatment facility is no longer functioning properly putting the water treatment facility at risk of a power disruption and subsequent water loss; and WHEREAS, the Public Utilities Department needs emergency support to purchase and install replacement standby power switchgear; and WHEREAS, the scope of work involved is beyond the expertise of the water treatment operational staff; and WHEREAS, it will cost of $353,000.00 in labor, equipment, and material to complete the repair efforts; and WHEREAS, $353,000.00 shall be appropriated from the Water Treatment Plant’s 2023 Capital Budget. 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 $353,000.00 to come from the Water Treatment Plant’s 2023 Capital Budget to be used for the purpose of restoring the standby power switchgear; 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 Water Treatment Plant’s 2023 Capital Budget is hereby amended to increase expenditures for required repairs to the standby power switchgear for the water treatment plant by $353,000.00 and decrease Water Treatment Plant Equipment by $353,000.00. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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. Smith Motion to introduce Ordinance to enlarge the limits and boundaries of the City of Bossier City by annexing approximately 71.003 acres adjacent to the current City limits west of Airline Drive and south of Wemple Road. Seconded by Mr. Maggio Councilman Hammons asked both Chief’s if this annexation would cause issues. Chief Zagone reported the Fire Department has already been working in the area. Chief Haugen reported that they have been working a number of accidents in the City limits near this location and further expansion could be a burden without manpower increases. 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 Joint Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Ninna's Road to Rescue and Rockers Rescue. Seconded by Mr. Free Praise from Mayor on this Agreement. Speaking on Ordinance Nina Lopez, Carey Chandler and Dr. Larry Snider. Further discussion from Council members, City Attorney Jacobs and Assistant City Attorney Ray. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Free Motion to introduce an Ordinance recognizing the attached list of Bossier City Marshal vehicle surplus to the needs of the City of Bossier City. Seconded by Mr. Smith The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 21 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF A METER READER DUE TO RESIGNATION IN THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT ______________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a budgetary control requiring a resolution to be approved by the Bossier City Council prior to the hiring or employment of any individual receiving wages, compensation, or remuneration for any labor including temporary or contractual employment; and WHEREAS, the Customer Service Department has an available position due to resignation of an employee; and WHEREAS, this resignation provides for an opportunity to hire a replacement; and WHEREAS, this action will have no impact on the existing budget. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to hire a meter reader, due a resignation in the Customer Service Department, with no impact to the existing budget. 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 21st day of March, 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 expressing support from the City Council and Mayor Thomas H. Chandler and their approval to move forward the Chasing Aces Project. Speaking on Resolution was Project owners - John Dudley and Randy Rogers. They are ready to break ground. Councilman Montgomery thanked Mr. Dudley for his hard work and diligence in getting all information requested and getting all issues worked out. Thanked him for bringing this project to the City. Further discussion from Councilmembers. The following Resolution offered and adopted: Resolution No. 22 Of 2023  A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SUPPORT FROM THE CITY COUNCIL AND MAYOR THOMAS H. CHANDLER AND THEIR APPROVAL TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE CHASING ACES PROJECT. _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City represented herein by its duly elected Mayor, Thomas H. Chandler and the City Council wish to express its support for the project described in Exhibit “A” as attached hereto; and WHEREAS, said project will provide not only a unique entertainment venue for the benefit of its citizens and visitors but will also generate considerable tax revenue for the City; and WHEREAS, the immovable property contemplated for the building of said venue has been out of commerce for a significant period of time and generates no revenue; and WHEREAS, the location of said City owned property is uniquely situated to ensure the success of said project; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the City Council and Mayor Chandler express their support for said project and further express their approval to proceed with said project following of legal obligations imposed by L.R.S. 33:4712 et seq. 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 21st day of March, 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 23 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OR PROMOTION OF A RECREATION MAINTENANCE WORKER I AND BACKFILLING ANY POSITION THIS MAY CREATE FOR THE PARKS & RECREATION 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 Recreation Maintenance Worker I 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 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 21st day of March, 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 24 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OR PROMOTION OF A RECREATION WORKER I AND BACKFILLING ANY POSITION THIS MAY CREATE FOR THE PARKS & RECREATION 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 Recreation Worker I 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 discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Chris Smith and seconded by Mr. Brian Hammons, and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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 25 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OR PROMOTION OF A PERMANENT PART TIME GYM MONITOR FOR SHADY GROVE COMMUNITY CENTER AND BACKFILLING ANY POSITION THIS MAY CREATE FOR THE PARKS & RECREATION 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 Permanent Part Time Gym Monitor for Shady Grove Community Center 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 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 21st day of March, 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 26 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OR PROMOTION OF A PERSONNEL SPECIALIST II FOR THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT DUE TO A TRANSFER. WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a budgetary control requiring a resolution to be approved by the Bossier City Council prior to the hiring or employment of any individual receiving wages, compensation, or remuneration for any labor including temporary or contractual employment; and WHEREAS, the Human Resources Department has an available position due to a transfer to another department; and WHEREAS, this transfer provides for an opportunity to hire a replacement; and WHEREAS, this action will have no impact on the existing budget. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to hire a Personnel Specialist II position in the Human Resources Department due to a transfer. 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. Chris Smith, and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 2023. AYES: Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 27 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF AN ACCOUNTS CLERK II DUE TO A RESIGNATION IN THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT ______________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a budgetary control requiring a resolution to be approved by the Bossier City Council prior to the hiring or employment of any individual receiving wages, compensation, or remuneration for any labor including temporary or contractual employment; and WHEREAS, the Customer Service Department has an available position due to resignation of an employee; and WHEREAS, this resignation provides for an opportunity to hire a replacement; and WHEREAS, this action will have no impact on the existing budget. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to hire an Accounts Clerk II, due to a resignation in the Customer Service Department, with no impact to the existing budget. The above and foregoing Resolution 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 21st day of March, 2023. AYES: Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda Item called - Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Engagement of an Employment Service for the Hiring of a Temporary Contract Traffic Control Tech Employee for the Engineering Department Resulting in a Net Neutral change to the Operating Budget. Ben Rauschenbach explained need for using employment agency to hire temporary workers. The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 28 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ENGAGEMENT OF AN EMPLOYMENT SERVICE FOR THE HIRING OF A TEMPORARY CONTRACT TRAFFIC CONTROL TECH EMPLOYEE FOR THE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT RESULTING IN A NET NEUTRAL CHANGE TO THE OPERATING BUDGET. WHEREAS; Ordinance No. 21 of 2018 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS; the position of Traffic Control Tech is currently vacant; and WHEREAS; the Traffic Control Tech responsibilities are limited due to the lack of current personnel; and WHEREAS; the existing salary for this position will be used to cover the cost of the contract labor resulting in a net neutral impact to the operating budget; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, that the Engineering Department is hereby authorized to use an employment service for the hiring of a temporary contract traffic control tech employee, and to utilize the unused salary budgeted as needed to fully fund the temporary position as described. 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. Don Williams, and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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 29 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF A PART TIME DEPUTY CITY CLERK WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel unless approved by Resolution of the City Council; and WHEREAS, the position of a Part Time Deputy City Clerk was created by a budget amendment during the October 18, 2023, City Council Meeting; and WHEREAS, the City Council 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 discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Brian Hammons and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith, and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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 30 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF (2) FULL TIME AND (2) PART TIME KENNEL WORKERS IN ANIMAL CONTROL DUE TO VACANCIES. 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 two full time and two part time positions are vacant in the Public Works Animal Control Division; WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that the authorized salary has not been exceeded. NOW, THEREFORE, be it ordained the administration is hereby authorized to fill (2) Full Time and (2) Part Time positions in the Public Works Animal Control Division due to vacancies. The above and foregoing Resolution 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 21st day of March, 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. 31 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF A TAX AUDITOR DUE TO A RESIGNATION IN THE TAX DEPARTMENT ______________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a budgetary control requiring a resolution to be approved by the Bossier City Council prior to the hiring or employment of any individual receiving wages, compensation, or remuneration for any labor including temporary or contractual employment; and WHEREAS, the Tax Department has an available position due to resignation of an employee; and WHEREAS, this resignation provides for an opportunity to hire a replacement; and WHEREAS, this action will have no impact on the existing budget. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to hire a Tax Auditor, due a resignation in the Tax Department, with no impact to the existing budget. The above and foregoing Resolution 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 21st day of March, 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 32 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION FOR AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF TWO (2) POLICE OFFICERS, AND ONE (1) POLICE RECORDS CLERK. WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a hiring freeze requiring Bossier City Council approval for the hiring of any personnel and Ordinance No. 21 of 2018 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by the hiring of any personnel and other action prohibiting the hiring of any employee receiving pay without council approval; and WHEREAS, the hiring of two (2) Police Officers, and one (1) Police Records Clerk are needed to keep current manning levels 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 ordained the administration is hereby authorizing the Police Department to fill the above vacancies. 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 21st day of March, 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 33 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OR PROMOTION OF SUPERINTENDENT OF ANIMAL CONTROL DUE TO TERMINATION AND BACKFILLING ANY POSITIONS THIS MAY CREATE FOR PUBLIC WORKS/ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION 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 Superintendent position is vacant in the Public Works Animal Control Division due to a termination; WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salaries have been exceeded. NOW, THEREFORE, be it ordained the administration is hereby authorized to fill the Superintendent position in the Public Works Animal Control Division due to a termination and also backfill any positions this may create within the Division. 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 21st day of March, 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 34 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION FOR PUBLIC WORKS TO FILL A PART TIME LABORER I POSITION IN THE STREETS AND DRAINAGE DIVISON.  WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 2 of 2010 implemented a hiring freeze requiring Bossier City Council approval for the hiring of any personnel and Ordinance No. 21 of 2018 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by the hiring of any personnel and other action prohibiting the hiring of any employee receiving pay without council approval; and WHEREAS, A Laborer I position is available; 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 ordained the administration is hereby authorizing Public Works to fill a Part time Laborer I in the Streets and Drainage Division. The above and foregoing Resolution 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 21st day of March, 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 35 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION FOR PUBLIC WORKS TO AUTHORIZE A PAY INCREASE FOR AN ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT IN THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT WITH NO BUDGET CHANGE. WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS, the employee has great work ethic and has had an increase of responsibilities with the Solid Waste contract. WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salary has been exceeded. NOW, THEREFORE, be it ordained the administration is hereby authorizing this pay increase. The above and foregoing Resolution 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 21st day of March, 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 City to pursue loans and/or grants through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program operated by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality for the purposes of improving the City's wastewater collection system. Ben Rauschenbach explained what Resolution is for and answered questions from various Council Members. The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 36 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO PURSUE LOANS AND/OR GRANTS THROUGH THE CLEAN WATER STATE REVOLVING FUND LOAN PROGRAM OPERATED BY THE LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY FOR THE PURPOSES OF IMPROVING THE CITYS WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM. WHEREAS; the City of Bossier City is in need of wastewater collection system improvements in south Bossier in the Shady Grove area; and, WHEREAS; loans and/or grants for this project may be available through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan program operated by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, that: The City’s Chief Administrative Officer is hereby authorized to submit a pre-application, application, and issue debt in the amount of $5,000,000.00 to the Department of Environmental Quality on behalf of the City of Bossier City for the purpose of placing this project on the Project Priority List for funding through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan program; and, The City’s Chief Administrative Officer is further authorized to furnish such additional information as may reasonably be requested in connection with the pre-application; and, The City’s Chief Administrative Officer is hereby designated as the Official Project Representative for the City of Bossier City for any project that may result from the submission of the pre-application. 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. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on this the 21st day of March, 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. Smith Motion to approve Parade Permit Fee Waiver for Walk with the Cross, April 7, 2023. Seconded by Mr. Darby No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Reports – Finance Director, Angela Williamson, went over the monthly Financial Report for month ending, February 2023. She noted that she hopes to close out 2022 in April and that Sales Taxes continue to be up. Engineering Department, Ben Rauschenbach, went over monthly Project Report showing Council and audience status of each of the major City Projects. Announcements – Mayor thanked Ashley Warner for her hard work in trying to turn around Boardwalk. He also spoke about upcoming Barksdale Airshow and thanked Public Works Director, Wade Rich for his departments hard work in cleaning up City for all the visitors. There being no further business to come before this Council, Council President Darby adjourned the meeting at 4:11PM Respectfully submitted: Phyllis McGraw City Clerk Publish: March 29, 2023 Bossier Press Tribune