City Council

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BOSSIER CITY STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 22, 2024 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, October 22, 2024, at 3:00 PM Invocation was given by Council Member Chris Smith Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Vince Maggio Roll Call as follows: Present: Honorable Councilor, Vice President Chris Smith, Honorable Councilors, David Montgomery, Jr., Jeffery Darby, Jeff Free and Vince Maggio Absent: Honorable Councilors, Brian Hammons and President Don Williams Also Present: Mayor, Thomas Chandler, City Attorney, Charles Jacobs, Deputy City Clerk, Amyanna Germany and City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw read the statement about decorum during the meeting and public participation in the meeting. Ceremonial Matters/Recognition of Guests – City Council welcomed two Bossier Youth Leadership students By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to amend the agenda to remove New Business item #1 & #2 at the request of MPC Seconded by Mr. Free No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to add to the Agenda under New Business - Introduce an Ordinance to contract with Neel-Schaffer to provide a traffic study for the intersection of Arthur Ray Teague Parkway and Shady Grove. Seconded by Mr. Free No comment Motion carried By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to approve the agenda as amended. Seconded by Mr. Free No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to approve Minutes of October 8, 2024, Regular Council meeting, October 8, 2024, Budget Workshop and October 10, 2024, Special Meeting and dispense with the reading. Seconded by Mr. Maggio Audience members Alice Boyer and David Crockett voiced what they perceive as inaccuracy’s in the minutes. Ms. Boyer is concerned about her reference to a letter in a previous meeting not being in the minutes, why she walked out of a prior meeting and wants Council to not approve minutes until they are corrected. Mr. Crockett noted that people need to feel welcomed to meetings, that Council has adopted Robert’s Rule of Order by Res 1 of 2024 and read passage out of Robert’s Rule of Order book. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Bids – Agenda item called “Witness Opening of Sealed Bids for P24-07 Lateral B-1 Ditch Paving Construction - RE-BID Purchasing Agent,, Denna Beauchemin read the following bids: Testament, LLC $1,964,316.00 3 Gen Construction, LLC $2,654,568.75 By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to take bids under advisement. Seconded by Mr. Smith No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Public Hearings/Actions on Unfinished Business: The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 105 Of 2024 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING MAYOR THOMAS H. CHANDLER TO EXECUTE A COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY AND THE LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES TO DESIGNATE THE BOSSIER CITY CIVIC CENTER AS A MEDICAL NEEDS SHELTER SITE IN THE EVENT OF A DECLARED EMERGENY WHEREAS, the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is in need of a location to for a Medical Needs Shelter (MNS) to house citizens in the event of a declared emergency; and WHEREAS, the Bossier City Civic Center has served as a designated Medical Needs Shelter and DCFS desires to continue the agreement with the City of Bossier to use the Civic Center as a Medical Needs Shelter for future declared emergencies; and WHEREAS, the proposed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement, attached hereto, would assist both Bossier City Officials and DCFS in the coordination of efforts and would allow for the Civic Center to be utilized by DCFS as a Medical Needs Shelter for citizens in the event of an emergency declaration; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Civic Center shall be reserved solely for the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to utilize as a Medical Needs Shelter upon an emergency declaration. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that Mayor Thomas H. Chandler is hereby authorized to execute the attached agreement with Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to operate a Medical Needs Shelter at the Bossier City Civic Center in the event of an emergency declaration. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of by Mr. Jeffery Darby and seconded by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and adopted on this the 22nd, day of October 2024. Further this Ordinance will publish on October 30, 2024, and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ______________________________ ____________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called – Adopt an Ordinance appropriating one million six hundred thousand dollars ($1,600,000.00) from the 2018 LCDA Bond Fund for all project closeout costs and approving report of change orders 9, 10, 11, and 13 in the amount of $1,322,930.53 for the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway Phase II Project. Audience member David Crockett spoke about from an article Jeff Sadow wrote about Bossier City debt and asked for full cost of WOB Carriageway Phase II. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 106 OF 2024 AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING ONE MILLION SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,600,000.00) FROM THE 2018 LCDA BOND FUND FOR ALL PROJECT CLOSEOUT COSTS AND APPROVING REPORT OF CHANGE ORDERS 9, 10, 11, and 13 IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,322,930.53 FOR THE WALTER O. BIGBY CARRIAGEWAY PHASE II PROJECT WHEREAS; The 2018 LCDA Bond has unencumbered funds available to complete the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway Phase II project in its entirety; and WHEREAS; Change Orders 9, 10, 11, and 13 in the amount of $1,322,930.53 are required for closeout activities and will require an additional 26 days; and WHEREAS; the 2018 LCDA Bond will be used for all costs associated with the closeout of the Walter O. Bigby Phase II Project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, approves reporting of change orders 9, 10, 11, and 13 and does hereby appropriate $1,600,000 from the 2018 Bond for closeout costs for the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway 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 by Mr. David Montgomery , Jr. and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 22nd, day of October 2024. Further this Ordinance will publish on October 30, 2024, and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ______________________________ ____________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 107 OF 2024 AN ORDINANCE TO PROVIDE $200,000 IN SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING FOR THE CITY’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION BLOCK GRANT TO ENHANCE AND REPLACE STREET LIGHTING WITH MODERN AND ENERGY EFFICIENT LED LIGHTING USING THE 2024 RIVERBOAT GAMING CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND. WHEREAS; The U.S. Department of Energy has approved the City’s Energy efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program Equipment Rebate Voucher application; and WHEREAS; This grant will provide $126,320 to purchase LED lighting eligible for 100% reimbursement; and WHEREAS; the labor and contingency costs for installation are budgeted at $73,680; and WHEREAS; Implementing the proposed lighting improvements will improve public safety and the quality of life for Bossier City residents; and WHEREAS; The Riverboat Gaming Capital Projects Fund will be used to fund this effort; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, authorizes the Mayor to use $200,000 of 2024 Riverboat Gaming Capital Projects Fund towards the implementation of the EECDBG to complete street lighting enhancements. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the 2024 Riverboat Capital Projects Fund is hereby amended to increase expenditures to provide the necessary to provide the EECDBG street lighting enhancements by $200,000 and decrease Fund Balance by $200,000. 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 by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on this the 22nd, day of October 2024. Further this Ordinance will publish on October 30, 2024, and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ______________________________ ____________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 108 OF 2024 AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE REPORT OF CHANGE ORDER 1 FOR THE WALBROOK PARK MAINTENANCE BUILDING PROJECT, WITH AN INCREASE OF $11,010.23, FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT PRICE OF $490,010.23. WHEREAS; the Walbrook Park Maintenance Building Project required additional imported select fill embankment due to saturated subsurface conditions; and WHEREAS; said enhancements required an additional $11,010.23; and WHEREAS; an additional $11,010.23 will be added to the contract price, for a total contract of $490,010.23 for this project; and WHEREAS; Ordinance 2 of 2024 and 53 of 24 appropriated $550,000 for the Walbrook Park Maintenance Building Project; and WHEREAS; no additional funding is needed to complete the project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the Bossier City Council does hereby approve report of Change Order 1 for the Walbrook Park Maintenance Building Project, with an increase of $11,010.23, for a total contract price of $490,010.23, and an additional twenty-seven (27) days; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments in connection with the furtherance of this Ordinance. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 22nd, day of October 2024. Further this Ordinance will publish on October 30, 2024, and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ______________________________ ____________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called - Adopt an Ordinance enacting Section 110-115 of the Bossier City Code of Ordinances prohibiting the parking of vehicles in front and side yards. Motion by Mr. Smith Motion fails due to a lack of a second The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 109 OF 2024  AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE REPORT OF CHANGE ORDER 1 FOR THE MUNICIPAL COMPLEX SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, WITH AN INCREASE OF $8,456.00, FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT PRICE OF $826,456.00. WHEREAS; the Municipal Complex Security Improvements Project will be enhanced by the addition of casework at each media panel location, curtain wall and glazing modifications and, pipe bollards as an added deterrent and security function; and WHEREAS; the proposed window shades were removed from the project to reduce maintenance and operational costs and complexities; and WHEREAS; said enhancements require an additional $8,456; and WHEREAS; an additional $8,456.00 will be added to the contract price, for a total contract of $826,456.00 for this project; and WHEREAS; Ordinance 49 of 2023 and 7 of 24 appropriated $960,000 for the Municipal Complex Security Improvements Project; and WHEREAS; no additional funding is needed to complete the project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the Bossier City Council does hereby approve report of Change Order 1 for the Municipal Complex Security Improvements Project, with an increase of $8,456.00, for a total contract price of $826,456.00, and an additional seven (7) days; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments in connection with the furtherance of this Ordinance. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 22nd, day of October 2024. Further this Ordinance will publish on October 30, 2024, and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ______________________________ ____________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called - Adopt an Ordinance proposing amendments to the City Charter of the City of Bossier City as recommended by the Charter Review Commission. By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to amend Ordinance to change election date in the Ordinance from December 7, 2024 to March 29, 2025. Seconded by Mr. Darby No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to reintroduce an Ordinance proposing amendments to the City Charter of the City of Bossier City as recommended by the Charter Review Commission as amended. Seconded by: Mr. Darby No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Public Hearing - FY 2025 -2029 CDBG Consolidated Plan and 2025 CDBG Annual Action Plan. Mr. Smith opened the Public Hearing. Community Development Director, Bob Brown, spoke about the Block Grant Program and how much the City could potentially receive. He noted what type items were and weren’t allowed for the money to be used on. Mr. Darby asked about Community Services Transportation. Hearing no further comments, Mr. Smith closed the Public Hearing at 3:26PM New Business – The following ordinance offered and adopted:  ORDINANCE NO. 110 OF 2024 AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE FOR THE SALE OF HIGH AND LOW CONTENT ALCOHOL FOR OFF PREMISE CONSUMPTION AT A CONVENIENCE STORE, PETER’S GROCERY AND LIQUOR, LOCATED AT 1521 BARKSDALE BLVD, BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA. WHEREAS; Jingneshkumar Patel, Peter’s Grocery and Liquor, has applied to the Bossier City- Parish Metropolitan Planning Commission for Conditional Use Approval for the sale of high and low content alcohol, for off premise consumption at convenience store, located at 1521 Barksdale Blvd, Bossier City, Louisiana. WHEREAS; a public hearing for the Conditional Use application was held on October 14, 2024; and WHEREAS; The Planning Department has submitted the results of said public hearing to the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Bossier City. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY HEREBY ORDAINS: SECTION 1. That the Conditional Use for the sale of high and low content alcohol for off premise consumption at 1521 Barksdale Blvd., Bossier City, Louisiana is hereby approved. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 22nd, day of October 2024. Further this Ordinance will publish on October 30, 2024, and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ______________________________ ____________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk C-ALC-000122-2024 By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to combine budget items #4 – #28 into one reading. Seconded by Mr. Darby Audience Member, David Crockett spoke again about Jeff Sadow’s article on Bossier City’s debt, spoke about possible tax and fee increases and wants the city to use the $30 Million in Riverboat Gaming Trust Fund. Mr. Montgomery discussed with CAO, Amanda Nottingham about finances and the possible increase in taxes next year is not equated to debt service. Mr. Darby verified that there would be a second reading on the budget at next meeting and Mr. Montgomery noted they have been available to the public and they are on the website. Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce the 2025 Capital and Operating Budgets. Seconded by Mr. Free Audience member, David Crockett spoke again about the article from Jeff Sadow about Bossier City’s debt and he also spoke about what he perceives as wasteful spending. Mr. Montgomery addressed audience on governmental accounting. Mr. Smith notes he is proud of this budget and how hard the Council and Administration worked to do it with the challenges ahead the city faces and happy the city could achieve pay raises. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce an Ordinance appropriating $2,800,000.00 from the 2018 LCDA Bond Fund and approving report of change order 12 for the construction of Citizens Bank Drive Roadway Extension in the amount of $2,533,740.91 for the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway Phase II Project Seconded by Mr. Free Audience member, David Crockett expressed his concerns on the cost of what he perceives as a mistake in project design and feels this project is a waste of money. Mr. Montgomery and City Attorney, Charles Jacobs noted that it wasn’t a design error but that it was as a result of restrictions and mandates placed upon the city by Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. Mr. Darby had Engineer, Ben Rauschenbach to explain why the city is doing this. Mr. Smith and Mr. Rauschenbach noted that must be started withing 90 days of completion of the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway phase II. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce an Ordinance requesting the destruction of the 2016 Motorola in car camera systems and communications equipment. Seconded by Mr. Maggio No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Resolution # 86 of 2024 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY’S CURRENT INVESTMENT POLICY IN ACCORDANCE WITH LOUISIANA REVISED STATUTE 33:2955 (D) AND SECTION 16.02 (J) OF THE BOSSIER CITY CHARTER. ____________________________________________________________________________ I. Introduction In accordance with the provision of R.S. 33:2955 (D) and the authority of Section 16.02 (J) of the Charter of the City of Bossier City, the Director of Finance is authorized and required to make rules and regulations and to establish administrative policies and procedures relating to the cash management and investment policies of the City. It is anticipated that this policy statement will be reviewed and evaluated on a regular basis, to ensure that the policies and procedures expressed herein are responsive to the prevailing cash management and investment environment. This policy statement must, therefore, be appropriately amended, expanded, or purged on continuing basis. II. General Policies In general, the City of Bossier (City) shall operate under the “Prudent Person” rule, exercising judgement and care, under the circumstances prevailing, which people of ordinary prudence would employ in the management of their own affairs – not in regard to speculation, but as to the permanent disposition of their funds, considering both income and safety of capital. The assets of the City shall be held in trust by the fiduciary (fiduciaries) designated by the City. This policy is not intended to remain static. Normally, the City will review this policy at least annually and, if deemed advisable, recommend changes. Recommendations from outside professionals leading to improvements in policies, procedures, and operations are always welcome. OBJECTIVES The primary investment objective of the City is to ensure that the current and future obligations are adequately funded in a cost-effective manner. The goals of this investment policy shall be (1) safety of principal, (2) liquidity, and (3) yield. Preservation of capital and the realization of sufficient total return to ensure the ongoing financial integrity of the funds are essential. Preservation of capital encompasses two goals: Managing the risk of loss of principal for the fund as a whole. Managing the erosion of principal value through inflation. The City shall prohibit the use of derivative investments due to the inherently risky nature of these financial instruments. For purposes of this policy, “derivative” means any financial instrument created from or whose value depends on the value of one or more underlying assets or indexes of asset value. RESPONSIBILITY The investment of funds shall be managed by the Comptroller, subject to the approval of the Director of Finance, and may be accomplished by the selection of an investment manager(s). The selection must be approved by the City Council in accordance with the criteria established by the Director of Finance. The investment manager(s) must acknowledge in writing their obligations as a fiduciary responsible for the investment of the City’s assets. Prospective investment managers shall be registered investment advisors with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Act of 1940 or bank trust department regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. GUIDELINES The assets of the City shall be invested, as provided in Louisiana Revised Statute 33:2955 (A) (1), as amended, in the following: 1. Direct United States Treasury obligations, the principal and interest of which are fully guaranteed by the government of the United States. 2. Bonds, debentures, notes or other evidence of indebtedness issued or guaranteed by federal agencies and provided such obligations are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States of America, which obligations include but are not limited to: U.S. Export-Import Bank, Farmers Home Administration, Federal Financing Bank, Federal Housing Administration Debentures, General Services Administration, Government National Mortgage Association - guaranteed mortgage-backed bonds and guaranteed pass-through obligations, U.S. Maritime Administration - guaranteed Title XI financing, and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. 3. Bonds, debentures, notes, or other evidence of indebtedness issued or guaranteed by U.S. government instrumentalities, which are federally sponsored, and such obligations include but are not limited to Federal Home Loan Bank System, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, Federal National Mortgage Association, Student Loan Marketing Association, and Resolution Funding Corporation. 4. Direct security repurchase agreements of any federal book entry only securities enumerated in paragraphs (1) through (3) above. “Direct security repurchase agreement” means an agreement under which the political subdivision buys, holds for a specific time, and the sells back those securities and obligations enumerated in paragraphs (1) through (3). 5. Time certificates of deposit of any bank domiciled or having a branch office in the state of Louisiana, savings accounts or shares of savings and loan associations and savings banks, as defined by Louisiana Revised Statute 6:703(16) or (17), or share accounts and share certificate accounts of federally or state chartered credit unions issuing time certificates of deposit. For those funds made available for investment in time certificates of deposit, the rate of interest paid by the banks shall be established by contract between the bank and the political subdivision; however, the interest rate at the time of investment shall be a rate not less than fifty basis points below the prevailing market interest rate on direct obligations of the United States Treasury with a similar length of maturity. Funds invested in accordance with this paragraph shall not exceed at any time the amount insure by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in any one banking institution, or in any one savings and loan association, or National Credit Union Administration, unless the uninsured portion is collateralized by the pledge of securities in the manner provided in Louisiana Revised Statute 39:1221. 6. Mutual or trust fund institutions which are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Act of 1940, and which have underlying investments consisting solely of and limited to securities of the United States government or its agencies. Investment of funds in such mutual or trust fund institutions shall be limited to twenty-five percent of the monies considered available for investment as provided  by Louisiana Revised Statute 33:2955 (A) (2). In no event shall monies be considered available for investment under Louisiana Revised Statute 33:2955 (A) (2) unless and until such funds are determined by the treasurer or chief financial officer, in the exercise of prudent judgment, to be in excess of the immediate cash requirements of the fund, to which the monies are credited. 7. Guaranteed investment contracts issued by a bank, financial institution, insurance company, or other entity having one of the two highest short-term rating categories of either Standard & Poor’s Corporation or Moody’s Investors Service, provided that no such investment may be made except in connection with a financing program for political subdivisions which financing program is approved by the State Bond Commission and offered by a public trust having the state as its beneficiary, provided further that no such investment shall be for a term longer than eighteen months, and provided further that any such guaranteed investment contract shall contain a provision providing that in the event the issuer of the guaranteed investment contract is at any time no longer rated in either of the two highest short-term rating categories of Standard & Poor’s Corporation or Moody’s Investors Service, the investing unit of local government may either be released from the guaranteed investment contract without penalty, or be entitled to require that the guaranteed investment provider collateralize the guaranteed investment contract with any bonds or other obligations which as to principal and interest constitute direct general obligations of, or are unconditionally guaranteed by, the United States of America, including obligations set forth in paragraphs (1) through (3) to the extent unconditionally guaranteed by the United States of America. 8. Investment grade commercial paper issued in the United States, traded in the United States markets, denominated in United States dollars, with a short-term rating of at least A-1 by Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC or P-1 by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or the equivalent rating by a Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization (NRSRO). 9. A Business and Industrial Development Company (BIDCO), as authorized by Louisiana Revised Statute 51:2395.1. 10. Bonds, debentures, notes or other evidence of indebtedness issued by the State of Louisiana or any of its political subdivisions with the exception of those of the City provided that all of the following conditions are met: (i) the indebtedness shall have a long-term rating of Baa3 or higher by Moody’s Investors Service, a long-term rating of BBB- or higher by the Standard & Poor’s or a long-term rating of BBB- or higher by Fitch, Inc., or a short-term rating of MIG1 or VMIG1 by Moody’s Investors Service, a short-term rating of A-1 or A-1+ by Standard & Poor’s, or a short-term rating of F1 or F1+ by Fitch, Inc, and (ii) the indebtedness has a final maturity, mandatory tender, or a continuing optional tender of no more than five years, except that such five-year limitation shall not apply to (a) funds held by a trustee, escrow agent, paying agent, or other third party custodian in connection with a bond issue or (b) investment of funds held by either a hospital service district, a governmental 501(c)(3), or a public trust authority. 11. Bonds, debentures, notes, or other indebtedness issued by a state of the United States of America other than Louisiana or any such state’s political subdivisions provided that all of the following conditions are met: (i) The indebtedness shall have a long-term rating of A3 or higher by Moody’s Investors Service, a long-term rating of A- or higher by Standard & Poor’s or a long-term rating of A- or higher by Fitch, Inc., or a short-term rating of MIG1 or VMIG1 by Moody’s Investors Service, a short-term rating of A-1 or A-1+ by Standard & Poor’s, or a short-term rating of F1 or F1+ by Fitch, Inc. (ii) The indebtedness has a final maturity, mandatory tender, or a continuing optional tender of no more than five years, except that such five-year limitation shall not apply to funds held by a trustee, escrow agent, paying agent, or other third-party custodian in connection with a bond issue nor to investment of funds held by either a hospital service district, a governmental 501(c)(3) organization, or a public trust authority. (iii) Prior to purchase of any such indebtedness and at all times during which such indebtedness is owned, the purchasing Louisiana political subdivision retains the services of an investment advisor registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; a trust department of an institution that is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, that exercises trust powers in Louisiana, and that has a main office or a bank branch in Louisiana; or a trust company that has offices in Louisiana, that is regulated by the  Office of Financial Institutions or the applicable federal agency, and that owes a fiduciary duty to act solely in the best interest of the political subdivision. 12. Bonds, debentures, notes, or other indebtedness issued by domestic United States corporations provided that all of the following conditions are met: (i) The indebtedness shall have a long- term rating of Aa3 or higher by Moody's Investors Service, a long-term rating of AA- or higher by Standard & Poor's, or a long-term rating of AA- or higher by Fitch Ratings, Inc. (ii) The indebtedness has a final maturity, mandatory tender, or a continuing optional tender of no more than five years. (iii) Prior to purchase of any such indebtedness and at all times during which such indebtedness is owned, the purchasing Louisiana political subdivision retains the services of an investment advisor registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; a trust department of an institution that is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, that exercises trust powers in Louisiana, and that has a main office or a bank branch in Louisiana; or a trust company that has offices in Louisiana, that is regulated by the Office of Financial Institutions or the applicable federal agency, and that owes a fiduciary duty to act solely in the best interest of the political subdivision. Notwithstanding the foregoing list of investments, in no instance shall the City invest in obligations described in items (2) and (3) above which are collateralized mortgage obligations that have been stripped into interest only or principal only obligations, inverse floaters, or structured notes. For the purposes of this policy “structured notes” shall mean securities of U.S. government agencies, instrumentalities, or government-sponsored enterprises which have been restructured, modified, and/or reissued by private entities. Nothing in this Policy shall be construed as to abrogate, impair, or supersede the ability to combine monies from several funds in order to invest such monies at a better rate of return. The interest earned on bonds, notes or certificates, time certificates of deposit, or mutual or trust fund investments, so purchased shall be credited to the fund from which the bonds, notes or certificates, time certificates of deposit, or mutual or trust fund investments, were acquired, or it may be applied to the payment of the principal and interest of the outstanding bonded indebtedness of the City. At any time that may be deemed advisable the City may cash and liquidate any of the investments authorized herein which are purchased for any particular fund. The proceeds of any such liquidation shall be credited to the fund from which the authorized investments were originally purchased. The City shall also include in the notes to the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report the disclosures required by Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statements 3 and 40. These notes shall address the common deposit and investments risks related to credit risk, concentration of credit risk, interest rate risk and foreign currency risk. In addition, the notes shall include disclosures required by Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statement 72. These disclosures include fair value measurements, the level of fair value hierarchy, and valuation techniques related to investments. BE IT RESOLVED that the Investment Policy referenced herein is hereby adopted. 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. Jeff Free and adopted on this the 22nd day of October, 2024. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk RESOLUTION NO. 87 OF 2024  A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE CITY’S APPLICATION TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT FOR FUNDING (ENTITLEMENT STATUS) UNDER AUTHORITY OF TITLE I OF THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 1974 (42 U.S.C. 3535) (d) and (42 U.S.C. 5301) (et.seq.) BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Bossier City, Louisiana that the City of Bossier City Council hereby supports the City’s Five-Year Consolidated Strategy Plan and 2024 Action Plan and application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for funding (Entitlement Status) under authority of the Consolidation for the following: Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS): title I of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. 12702-12711; Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, 42 U.S.C. 5304-5320; Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG): title VI, subtitle B, of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 11371-11378; HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME): title II of the Cranston-Gonzalez Nation Affordable Housing Act, 42 U.S.C. 12741-12839; Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA): the AIDS; Housing Opportunity Act, 42 U.S.C. 12901-12912; Also serving as a basis for determining requirements in this rule are the Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3601-3619), title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act, and Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701u). WHEREAS, the primary objective of the Community Development Entitlement Program is the development of viable urban communities, including decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income, and whereas, consistent with this primary objective, the Federal Assistance realized from this application is for the support of community development activities which are directed toward the following specific objectives: (1) The elimination of slums and blight and the prevention of blighting influences and the deterioration of property and neighborhood and community facilities of importance to the welfare of the community, principally persons of low and moderate income; (2) The elimination of conditions which are detrimental to health, safety and public welfare, through code enforcement, demolition, interim rehabilitation assistance, and related activities; (3) The conversation of the city’s housing stock in order to provide a decent home and a suitable living environment for all persons, but principally those of low and moderate income; (4) The improvement of the quality of community services, principally for persons of low and moderate income, which are essential for sound community development; (5) The reduction of the isolation of income groups within communities and geographical areas and the promotion of an increase in the diversity and vitality of neighborhoods of housing opportunities for person of lower income and the revitalization of deteriorating neighborhoods to attract persons of higher income; and (6) The restoration and preservation of properties of special value or historic, architecture or aesthetic reasons. WHEREAS, THE City of Bossier City possesses legal authority to apply for this grant, and all other related Housing and Urban Development Programs to execute all proposed projects and whereas, this City is now established as an “Entitlement City”; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Bossier City hereby supports Thomas H. Chandler, Mayor of Bossier City, Louisiana, the chief official of Bossier City, to apply for and sign all document as necessary and appropriate in the City’s application of Housing and Urban Development The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Jeffery Darby and adopted on this the 22nd day of October, 2024. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called - Adopt a Resolution authorizing the hiring of an Accountant I due to a termination in the Finance Department Audience member, David Crockett spoke about the City Charter and that he feels the City Council is abusing their authority. The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 88 OF 2024 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF AN ACCOUNTANT I DUE TO A TERMINATION IN THE FINANCE 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 Finance Department has an available position due to termination of an employee; and WHEREAS, this promotion 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 Accountant I in the Finance 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. Jeffery Darby and seconded by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and adopted on this the 22nd day of October, 2024. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION 89 OF 2024 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT ___________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance 76 of 2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS, multiple positions in Parks and Recreation need to be filled due to resignations and the incoming Director will need flexibility to staff and organize the Department to best meet the needs of the citizens; and WHEREAS, the current job titles may not accurately reflect the duties and role of said positions; and WHEREAS, some job titles may change to more accurately represent the position as part of reorganization of the department; and WHEREAS, the Administration and the Department assure that any changes will result in a net-neutral change to the budget; and WHEREAS, some promotions within the Department may result in vacancies that will need to be filled; and WHEREAS, the total staffing of 31 (thirty-one) approved in the 2024 Revised Budget will not be exceeded. 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 the vacant positions in the Parks and Recreation Department and backfill any vacancies created. 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 22nd day of October, 2024. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION 90 OF 2024 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF PART TIME JAILERS FOR THE BOSSIER CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT ___________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, Ordinance 63 of 2024 provided for the Bossier City Police and Fire Departments hiring authority within approved Manning Report; and WHEREAS, the Bossier City Police Department has recently implemented a change that allows 18-year-olds to be hired as Jailers; and WHEREAS, the Bossier City Chief of Police desires to convert two full-time jailer positions to four part-time jailer positions to allow for flexible scheduling in consideration of potential jailer candidates who are pursuing their degree; and WHEREAS, the (up to four) part-time positions will be dissolved and filled by (up to) two full-time positions if and when full-time candidates are available; and WHEREAS, the administration and the Bossier City Chief of Police assure that all current budgets have been verified and this change is net-neutral to the budget. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Chief of Police is authorized to proceed to make the requested adjustments to the positions of jailer within the Bossier City Police Department. 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 Jeffery Darby and adopted on this the 22nd day of October, 2024. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Darby, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Hammons and Mr. Williams ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ _______________________________ Chris Smith, Vice President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Darby Motion to approve Parade Permit Fee Waiver for Stonewall Baptist Church - Community Awareness Event on Oct. 19, 2024 Seconded by: Mr. Maggio No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to approve Parade Permit Fee Waiver for Parkway High School Homecoming on Oct. 19, 2024 Seconded by: Mr. Darby No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Smith  Motion to introduce an Ordinance to contract with Neel-Schaffer to provide a traffic study for the intersection of Arthur Ray Teague Parkway and Shady Grove Drive. Seconded by Mr. Free Council members Mr. Montgomery and Mr. Smith spoke to Mr. Rauschenbach about this project. Mr. Montgomery asked for them to look at options besides just putting up a red light and that the Parkway was designed to have free flow from South to North. He also noted why the light at McDade Street was added. Mr. Smith spoke about the speeding on Parkway and the serious and even deadly accidents at this location. Mr. Darby asked Mr. Rauschenbach to look at a previous traffic study that was completed for the Parkway No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Reports - Finance Director, Angela Williamson went over Monthly Financial Report for September 2024. She noted being over budget in revenues and under budget in expenditures. She also went over manning numbers and sales tax revenue. Engineer, Ben Rauschenbach went over the Monthly Project Report. He noted the various projects the city is working on including the Municipal Complex Security Upgrades, the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway Phase II and Traffic Signal Upgrades. He also noted that Senator Bass has been working on helping the city to get the reimbursement on the Coleman Street upgrades and that check should be in mail and that the City has received reimbursement on Hamilton Road. Announcements - Mayor thanked Louis Williams, with BPCC that has helped run the cameras for the City Council Meetings for last 20 years and congratulated him on his retirement. There being no further business to come before this Council, Council Vice President Smith adjourned the meeting at 4:03PM Respectfully submitted: ____________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Publish October 30, 2024