City Council

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BOSSIER CITY STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 5, 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, December 5, 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 Councilor, President Jeff Free, Honorable Councilors David Montgomery, Jr., Chris Smith, Brian Hammons, Jeffery Darby, Don Williams and Vince Maggio Also Present: Mayor, Thomas Chandler, Assistant City Attorney Richard Ray, Deputy City Clerk, Amyanna Germany and City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw, read statement about decorum during meeting and public participation in the meeting. Ceremonial Matters/Recognition of Guests – Mr. Free recognized the Bossier Youth Leadership members in the audience and had them to introduce themselves. Brittainy Pope with Bossier Arts Council went over the Annual Eastbank District Report with the Council. By: Mr. Smith Motion to add to Agenda New Business #8 – Adopt a Resolution to change the name of “Diamond Jack Boulevard” to “Live Casino Boulevard”. This item is being requested to be added to the Agenda due to time restraints. Seconded by Mr. Williams Mr. Montgomery asked about time restraints. Ms. Nottingham, CAO, reported that they were trying to get the name changed prior to the ground breaking next week and that all businesses affected were notified and that there weren’t any objections. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Smith Motion to approve agenda as amended. Seconded by Mr. Maggio No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to approve minutes of the November 21, 2023, Regular Council and dispense with the reading. Seconded by Mr. Hammons No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Bids: Agenda item called - Witness Opening of Sealed Bids: P23-18 Bossier City Municipal Complex Security Upgrades Bid Alternate #1 Alternate #2 Alternate #3 ELA Group, Inc. $960,000.00 $351,000.00 $46,300.00 $12,000.00 Integrity, Inc. $969,000.00 $224,000.00 $35,800.00 $15,700.00 Precision Builders, Inc $818,000.00 $220,000.00 $5,250.00 $7,420.00 By: Mr. Williams Motion to take bids under advisement. Seconded by Mr. Hammons Council members discussed the bids coming in almost double over the estimate with Ms. Beauchemin, Purchasing and Mr. Rauschenbach, Engineering. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Public Hearing/Actions on Unfinished Business – The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 153 OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE TO TRANSFER $1,900,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO THE LIABILITY INSURANCE FUND _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, a transfer of $1,900,000 from the General Fund to the Liability Insurance Fund is needed to fund claims, administrative fees, and legal fees associated with departments within the General Fund; and WHEREAS, a budget amendment is required to transfer appropriations between funds. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, in regular session convened, that the Council approves a transfer of $1,900,000 from the General Fund to the Liability Insurance Fund to fund claims, administrative fees, and legal fees. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the 2023 General Fund Budget is hereby amended to increase Transfers Out by $1,900,000 and decrease Fund Balance by $1,900,000. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on December 13, 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 _____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called – Adopt an Ordinance to establish a Citizens Charter Review Commission for the purpose of revising Bossier City’s Home Rule Charter. Audience Member, Mr. David Crockett spoke on Ordinance and asking Council to continue it. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 154 Of 2023 AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A CITIZENS CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVISING BOSSIER CITY’S HOME RULE CHARTER. ______________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City’s home rule Charter was adopted by the electorate on November 2, 1976, with an effective date of July 1, 1977, and has served the city well as its initial charter under the current “Strong Mayor-Council” form of government; and WHEREAS, on two prior occasions, Charter Review Commissions have been empaneled to consider the need for revisions to the Charter; and  WHEREAS, proposed revisions to the Charter were last presented to the citizens of Bossier City by way of referendum on October 15, 2005, and the proposed changes were ratified by a majority of the citizens; and WHEREAS, the growth and changes to the population of the city since that time have necessitated changes in order to meet the needs of the citizens. Therefore, in order to service this vibrant and growing community, there is a need to review the Charter for possible changes or updates; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council concur that the Charter should be reviewed for possible changes pursuant to the amendment provisions in the Charter. Additionally, the Louisiana Constitution of 1974 as well as statutory provisions including Louisiana Revised Statute 33:1395 et seq. provide guidance regarding charter revisions by way of a Charter Review Commission; and WHEREAS, on August 29, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 69 of 2023 announcing the intention of the City Council to start the process of selecting a Charter Review Commission; and WHEREAS, the Charter Review Commission shall be comprised of nine (9) Commissioners, one nominated by each member of the City Council and two nominated by the Mayor in accordance with Chapter 21.02 of the Charter. The Charter Review Commission shall be comprised of citizens who reside in the city limits of the City of Bossier City and who are registered to vote in the City of Bossier City; and WHEREAS, once nominated, all Commissioners shall be confirmed by the City Council. Additionally, the Chief Administrative Officer and the City Attorney shall serve as ex-officio, non- voting members of the Charter Review Commission; and WHEREAS, the following persons have provided bios attached as Exhibit “A” and have been nominated by the Mayor and City Council to serve as Commissioners: Shane Cheatham, Preston Friedley, Lee A. Jeter, Sr., David Johnson, Sandra Morehart, Julianna Parks, Panderina Soumas, Vicky Whitman, and Lisa Wilhite. WHEREAS, the herein named Commissioners shall take office immediately after confirmation by the City Council and shall hold this office until revisions to the Charter are approved or disapproved in a referendum of the voters. The Charter Review Commission shall propose and submit recommended Charter revisions to the City Council as soon as practicable but no later than eighteen (18) months after taking office. The City Council shall not alter or change the recommendations of the Charter Review Commission and shall call for an election for the citizens to adopt or reject any recommended revisions at the next election allowed by Louisiana law, but no earlier than sixty (60) days following publication of the recommendations. If the Charter Review Commission does not present proposed revisions within eighteen (18) months after appointment, the terms of the Commissioners shall automatically expire. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened does hereby authorize appointment of a Charter Review Commission for the purpose of proposing changes to the Charter. The Charter Review Commission is to be comprised of the following citizens: Shane Cheatham, Preston Friedley, Lee A. Jeter, Sr., David Johnson, Sandra Morehart, Julianna Parks, Panderina Soumas, Vicky Whitman and Lisa Wilhite with the Chief Administrative Officer and the City Attorney serving as ex-officio, non-voting members of the Charter Review Commission. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that Commissioners shall take office immediately after confirmation by the City Council and shall hold this office until any Charter revisions are approved or disapproved in a referendum of the voters. The Charter Review Commission shall propose and submit recommended Charter revisions to the City Council as soon as practicable but no later than eighteen (18) months after taking office. The City Council shall not alter or change the recommendations of the Charter Review Commission and shall call for an election for the citizens to adopt or reject the recommended revisions at the next election allowed by Louisiana law, but no earlier than sixty (60) days following publication of the recommendations. If the Charter Review Commission does not present proposed revisions within eighteen (18) months after appointment, the terms of the Commissioners shall automatically expire. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeffery Darby and seconded by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on December 13, 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 _____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 155 Of 2023 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE 2023 WATER FUND BUDGET ______________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the Bossier City Charter Section 6.06 Additional appropriations and budget amendments requires that additional appropriations be made by amending the respective budgets by ordinance; and WHEREAS, the water treatment facility has seen an increase in water production in 2023 due to warmer temperatures and supplying water to Barksdale Airforce Base; and WHEREAS, the price of chemicals required to treat City water have increased and; WHEREAS, equipment and Water Main Repair and Maintenance costs have increased this year due to higher water demands; and WHEREAS, it is estimated that an additional appropriation of $740,000 from the Water Fund is needed to cover operational costs for the remainder of the fiscal year; and WHEREAS, the 2023 Water Fund operating budget needs to be amended to appropriate additional funding to ensure sufficient funds are available to cover anticipated expenses for the remainder of the fiscal year. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, does hereby amend the 2023 Water Fund operating budget to increase the appropriations in division 63 Water Treatment Plant for Chemicals by $566,000 and Equipment Maintenance by $39,000 and increase the appropriations in division 64 Transmissions & Distributions for Water Main Repair and Maintenance by $135,000 and decrease net fund position by $740,000. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on December 13, 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 _____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called – Adopt an Ordinance to establish a minimum reserve balance for the Health Insurance Fund. Mr. Montgomery and Ms. Williamson, Finance Director discussed amounts on Ordinance. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 156 OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A MINIMUM RESERVE BALANCE FOR THE HEALTH INSURANCE FUND _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the Health Insurance Fund, an internal service fund, has been established to collect insurance contributions and pay claims, administrative fees and other costs necessary to administer and operate the City’s health insurance plan; and WHEREAS, a minimum reserve balance shall be established to ensure sufficient funds are available to pay plan expenses; and  WHEREAS, funds shall not be transferred out of the Health Insurance Fund or used for any purposes not directly related to administering and operating the health insurance plan until such time as the minimum reserve balance has been accumulated; and WHEREAS, should the reserve balance exceed the minimum reserve, the excess cash reserve shall only be used for reduction in contributions made by the City and employees to the plan, to add additional benefits, or be maintained in the reserve if deemed appropriate. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, in regular session convened, that a minimum reserve balance of $2,500,000 be established for the Health Insurance Fund. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that there shall be no expenditures paid from the Fund other than those necessary to administer and operate the health insurance plan until the minimum reserve balance is accumulated. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that cash reserves in excess of the established minimum reserve balance shall only be expended for reduction of City and employee contributions or to add additional benefits, and may be maintained in the reserve if deemed appropriate. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on December 13, 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 ____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 157 OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE INCURRING OF DEBT AND ISSUANCE OF A TAXABLE EXCESS REVENUE BOND, SERIES 2024, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $550,000, BY THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY, STATE OF LOUISIANA; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER MATTERS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH. BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Bossier City, State of Louisiana (the "Governing Authority"), acting as the governing authority of the City of Bossier City, State of Louisiana, that: SECTION 1. Authorization and Sale of Bond. Pursuant to R.S. 39:526 and the other applicable provisions of Part II of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority (collectively, the "Act"), and subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission, the City of Bossier City, State of Louisiana (the "Issuer") is hereby authorized to incur debt for the purpose of paying a portion of the costs of constructing and acquiring improvements, extensions, renovations and replacements to the drinking water system of the Issuer (the "System"), including costs of studies, planning and design and equipment, fixtures and accessories therefor, both personal and real, a work of public improvement for the Issuer, and paying costs of issuance, and to represent said indebtedness, the Issuer shall issue its Taxable Excess Revenue Bond, Series 2024, in an amount not exceeding Five Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($550,000) (the "Bond"). The Bond shall be issued in the form of a single fully registered bond, dated the date of delivery thereof and numbered R-1. The Bond shall be non-interest bearing and shall mature not later than ten (10) years from date thereof. The principal of the Bond will be subject to forgiveness as provided in Section 3 below. The Mayor may approve a different series designation if the Bond is delivered after the end of calendar year 2024.  Pursuant to the Act and La. R.S. 39:505(B), the Issuer has determined to sell the Bond at a private sale without the necessity of publishing any notice of sale. Accordingly, the Bond is hereby sold to the Louisiana Department of Health Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund (the "Department"). The purchase price of the Bond shall be paid to the Issuer by the Department in installments on an "as-needed" basis, and the date and amount of each installment of the purchase price shall be noted on the Bond and the obligation of the Issuer to repay the principal of the Bond shall only accrue to the extent of the purchase price of the Bond theretofore paid by the Department. SECTION 2. Form and Execution of Bond. The Bond shall be in substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A, and the Mayor and City Clerk of the Issuer and President of the Governing Authority (collectively, the "Executive Officers") are each authorized and directed on behalf of the Issuer to execute, seal and deliver the Bond to the Department. SECTION 3. Security for Bond; Principal Forgiveness. As provided by the Act, the Bond will be secured by and payable from the revenues of the Issuer of subsequent years, after the payment from such revenues of (1) all charges required by law or regulation, (2) all contractual obligations, (3) all necessary and usual charges provided for by ordinance or resolution, excluding depreciation and (4) all payments in respect of bonds for which a pledge or dedication of specified taxes or revenues has been provided by law or in proceedings authorizing such bonds, regardless of the date of issue of such bonds, all in accordance with the provisions of the Act. The Governing Authority shall budget and set aside from time to time as necessary sufficient revenues, subject to the foregoing, to pay the principal of the Bond when due. However, it is understood that the terms of the purchase of the Bond by the Department provide that the Issuer's obligation to repay the principal of the Bond will be forgiven simultaneously with the payment by the Department of each installment of the purchase price of the Bond. Accordingly, it is anticipated that no payments of principal, interest or administrative fees to the Department will ever be due and payable on the Bond. Notwithstanding any law or contractual provision to the contrary, the forgiveness at any time of any or all of the principal of the Bond theretofore advanced by the Department shall in no way extinguish the Bond or the obligation thereof with respect to the yet-to-be advanced portion of the principal thereof. SECTION 4. Recital of Regularity. This Governing Authority, having investigated the regularity of the proceedings had in connection with the Bond, and having determined the same to be regular, the Bond shall contain the following recital authorized by and having the effect set forth in R.S. 39:507, to wit: "It is certified that this indebtedness is authorized by and is issued in conformity with the requirements of the Constitution and statutes of Louisiana." SECTION 5. Loan Documents. The Commitment Agreement and the Loan and Pledge Agreement, in substantially the forms on file in the records of the Issuer, are hereby approved. The Executive Officers are authorized to execute and deliver the Commitment Agreement and the Loan and Pledge Agreement on behalf of the Issuer, with such changes as may be deemed necessary, upon the advice of bond counsel, in connection with the Bond. SECTION 6. Authorization of Officers. The Executive Officers are hereby further authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the Issuer, to accept, receive, execute, seal, attest and deliver all such additional documents, certificates and other instruments as are required in connection with the authorization, issuance, sale and delivery of the Bond and to take such further action as may be appropriate or required by law or advised by bond counsel in connection with the authorization, issuance, sale and delivery of the Bond. SECTION 7. Publication; Peremption. A copy of this ordinance shall be published immediately after its adoption in one issue of the official journal of the Issuer, provided that as provided by La. R.S. 39:509, exhibits to this ordinance need not be published but will instead be available for public inspection at the office of the Governing Authority during regular business hours.  For thirty (30) days after the date of such publication any person in interest may contest the legality of this ordinance and of any provision herein made for the security and payment of the Bond. After that time, no one shall have any cause of action to test the regularity, formality, legality, or effectiveness of this ordinance, and provisions thereof for any cause whatsoever. Thereafter, it shall be conclusively presumed that every legal requirement for the issuance of the Bond, has been complied with. No court shall have authority to inquire into any of these matters after the thirty days. SECTION 8. No Recourse on the Bond. No recourse shall be had for the payment of the Bond or for any claim based thereon or on this ordinance against any member of the Governing Authority or officer of the Issuer or any person executing the Bond. SECTION 9. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect ten (10) days from the date of its publication. The above and foregoing Ordinance, was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 5th day of December, 2023, by the following vote: YEAS: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAINING: None. And the Ordinance was declared adopted on this, the 5th day of December, 2023. /s/ Phyllis McGraw /s/ Jeff Free City Clerk President The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 158 OF 2023 ADOPT AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE REPORT OF CHANGE ORDER 1 FOR THE HWY 71 STREET LIGHTING PROJECT PHASE II WITH AN INCREASE IN PROJECT COST OF $6,667.50 AND ADDING AN ADDITIONAL ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-THREE DAYS. WHEREAS; Ordinance No. 92 of 2020, Ordinance 31 of 31 of 2022, and Ordinance 64 of 2022 appropriated $1,356,782.00 from the Parkway Capital Projects fund to add street lighting along Hwy 71. and WHEREAS; Wilhite Electric Company was awarded a Contract for the proposed improvements for $1,285,491.00; and WHEREAS; Change Order #1 includes a reconciliation of construction items for a total increase of $6,667.50.00 and an additional 153 days; and WHEREAS; no additional funding is needed to close out the project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, approves Change Order #1 for the Hwy 71Street Lighting Project Phase II; and 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. Brian Hammons and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on December 13, 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 _____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 159 OF 2023 ADOPT AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE REPORT OF CHANGE ORDER 1 FOR THE ELM GROVE DITCH PROJECT WITH AN INCREASE IN PROJECT COST OF $22,279.07 AND ADDING AN ADDITIONAL NINETY-THREE DAYS. WHEREAS; Ordinance No. 87 of 2021 and Ordinance 5 of 2022 appropriated $184,300.00 from the River Boat Capital Projects fund to make improvements to the Elm Grove Ditch; and WHEREAS; Wicker Construction, Inc., was awarded a Contract for the proposed improvements for $176,096.00 and Nixon Engineering was awarded a contract for services in the amount of $9,300; and WHEREAS; Change Order #1 includes a reconciliation of construction items for a total increase of $4,220.00 and an additional 93 days; and WHEREAS; there were additional project costs including easement acquisition and related expenses totaling $16,963.07 that need to be captured within this project for closeout; and WHEREAS; an additional $22,279.07 is needed from the 2023 Riverboat Capital Project Fund for these expenses. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, approves Change Order #1 for the Elm Grove Ditch Project and appropriates an additional $22,279.07 from the 2023 Riverboat Capital Project Fund for these expenses; and 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. Brian Hammons and seconded by Mr. Don Williams and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on December 13, 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 _____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk New Business – The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 160 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 REPAIR STORM DAMAGE TO THE RESERVOIR PUMP STATION FOR BOSSIER’S WATER TREATMENT FACILITY AT A COST OF $12,099.71 TO COME FROM THE WATER CAPITAL AND CONTINGENCY FUND. WHEREAS, the reservoir pump station is a critical system in supplying water to Bossier’s water treatment facility and was badly damaged from what is believed to be a lightning strike putting the water treatment facility at risk of disruption; and WHEREAS, the Public Utilities Department needs emergency support to purchase and install replacement components; and  WHEREAS, the scope of work involved is beyond the expertise of the water treatment operational staff; and WHEREAS, it will cost of $12,099.71 in labor, equipment, and material to complete the repair efforts; and WHEREAS, $12,099.71 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 $12,099.71 to come from the Water Capital and Contingency Fund to be used for the purpose of restoring the reservoir pump station; 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 required repairs by $12,099.71 and decrease Fund Balance by $12,099.71. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 5th of December, 2023. Further this Ordinance becomes legal immediately. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none _____________________________ ____________________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance to appropriate $640,000 from the Disaster Reserve Fund for June and July 2023 Storms. Seconded by Mr. Maggio Mr. Hammons asked about reimbursements from FEMA. Ms. Nottingham reported that City is eligible for 75% from State. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Darby Motion to introduce an Ordinance to appropriate $10,000 from the Disaster Reserve Fund to purchase equipment for winter weather preparedness efforts. Seconded by Mr. Smith No comments Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Agenda Item called – Adopt a Resolution authorizing the hiring of two Deputy Marshals to fulfill two positions for the enhanced security measures to the Municipal Complex as approved in the 2024 Budget. Mr. Hammons asked if should be continued since bids for project came in so far over budget. Mr. Montgomery asked about the change to the 2024 budget. Marshal Whitman reported that it had already been budgeted for 2024 and that these positions wouldn’t be added unless the building project moves forward. The following Resolution offered and adopted: Resolution No. 95 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF TWO DEPUTY MARSHALS TO FULFILL TWO POSITIONS FOR THE ENHANCED SECURITY MEASURES TO THE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX AS APPROVED IN THE 2024 BUDGET. _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a budgetary control requiring a resolution to be approved by the Bossier City Council prior to hiring or employment of any individual receiving wages, compensation, or remuneration for labor including temporary or contractual employment; and WHEREAS, the two Deputy Marshal positions were approved in the 2024 budget to fulfill the two positions that are required for the enhanced security measures to the Municipal Complex; and WHEREAS, the administration and department assure that the current budget has been verified and that funding available in the total budgeted salaries is not exceeded. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Marshal’s Office is hereby authorized to hire two Deputy Marshals to fulfill two positions for the enhanced security measures to the Municipal Complex as approved in the 2024 budget. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeffery Darby and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 5th day of December, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: Resolution No. 96 Of 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PROMOTION OF (1) LIEUTENANT TO CAPTAIN AND (1) SERGEANT TO LIEUTENANT FOR THE BOSSIER CITY MARSHAL’S OFFICE _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of personnel; and WHEREAS, the promotions of (1) Lieutenant to Captain and (1) Sergeant to Lieutenant due to realignment of personnel due to the new security measures of the Municipal Complex. WHEREAS, the administration and department assures that current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salary has been exceeded; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Marshal’s Office is hereby authorized to promote one (1) Lieutenant to Captain and one (1) Sergeant to Lieutenant. 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. David Montgomery, Jr. and adopted on this the 5th day of December, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: Resolution No. 97 Of 2023  A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE REPLACEMENT OF TWO POSITIONS DUE TO TWO RETIREMENTS AND TO BACK FILL ANY POSITIONS THIS CREATES BY HIRING OR PROMOTING WITHIN THE BOSSIER CITY MARSHAL’S OFFICE. _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a budgetary control requiring a resolution to be approved by the Bossier City Council prior to hiring or employment of any individual receiving wages, compensation, or remuneration for labor including temporary or contractual employment; and WHEREAS, two positions are vacant due to retirements creating the need to fulfill by hiring or promoting from within and backfill any positions this creates; and WHEREAS the administration and department assure that the current budget has been verified and that funding available in the total budgeted salaries is not exceeded. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Marshal’s Office is hereby authorized to replace two positions due to retirement and backfill any positions this creates by hiring or promoting within the Bossier City Marshal’s Office. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeffery Darby and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 5th day of December, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called – Hearing of appeal for Rickey Evans, Bossier City, LA. for violation of City Ordinance Section 14- Vicious and Dangerous Dog. Ms. Stanford, Animal Control, reported events that led up to declaration of Dangerous Dogs. Ms. Jeanie Mathers, victim, spoke about attack and injuries her and her dog sustained. Dog owner, Mr. Rickey Evans apologized for attack but asked Council to over turn Dangerous Dog declaration. Council members and Mr. Ray, Assistant City Attorney, spoke on the law, discussed attack and other problem animals in the area. Mr. Evans understands all rules. By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to uphold Animal Controls designation as Dangerous Dogs. Seconded by Mr. Williams No comments Vote in favor of motion is unanimous. The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO 98 of 2023 A RESOLUTION TO CHANGE THE NAME OF “DIAMOND JACKS BOULEVARD” TO “LIVE CASINO BOULEVARD” WHEREAS, the Cordish Companies purchased the casino property that previously operated as Diamond Jacks Casino and Resort; and WHEREAS, the Cordish Companies is making a significant investment in the property to create the first land-based casino in Northwest Louisiana; and WHEREAS, the Cordish Companies desire to rename “Diamond Jacks Boulevard” to “Live Casino Boulevard” to reflect the name the casino will operate under; and WHEREAS, the businesses with addresses on said street were notified of the pending name change and have not registered any objections.  NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, endorses and approves the renaming of Diamond Jacks Boulevard to Live Casino Boulevard. or promoting within the Bossier City Marshal’s Office. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 5th day of December, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________ Jeff Free, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Reports – Announcements- Mayor announced Kellie Bell from the Utilities Department was selected as the first Employee of the Month. Council and Mayor sent her congratulations. There being no further business to come before this Council, Council President Free adjourned the meeting at 3:51PM Respectfully submitted: ____________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Publish December 13, 2023