City Commission Agendas and Minutes

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS CITY OF DOTHAN, ALABAMA REGULAR MEETING JUNE 2, 2015 The Board of Commissioners of the City of Dothan, Alabama, met in regular session in the Commission Chambers of the Roy Driggers Municipal Building at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, June 2, 2015 with the following members present: Mayor Mike Schmitz, Associate Commissioners Kevin Dorsey, Amos M. Newsome, Jr., Albert Kirkland, John Ferguson, Beth Kenward, and Hamp Baxley. Also present were City Manager Michael West, City Clerk Tammy Danner, Assistant City Clerk Wendy Shiver who recorded the Minutes of the Meeting, and the local news media representatives. Mayor Schmitz called the meeting to order. Pastor Clark Cornelius, Grace Anglican Mission Church, then led in prayer, afterwhich Commissioner Ferguson led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Commissioner Baxley moved that the Minutes of the Meeting of May 19, 2015, be approved, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland and unanimously approved. Mayor Schmitz thanked the community for attending the Memorial Day ceremony held on Monday, May 25th at Sunset Memorial Park. He said there was a large turnout at this incredible event and he is proud to live in a community that supports our military, their families, and their sacrifices. Mayor Schmitz said Glasstream Powerboats held their ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, May 29th and Wayne Farms recently announced a facility expansion which will create over 500 jobs. He said we are proud of these companies for their investment in our community and we are grateful to them for hiring our people. Mayor Schmitz said he recently had another opportunity to tour the Michelin plant. He said they are in the process of updating their machinery which dates back to the late 70’s when the company began operation, and he said we are grateful for their investment in our community. Mayor Schmitz complimented Michelin’s employees for their ability to increase production and efficiency by 24 percent in the past five years, and he commended Michelin for hiring new workers to replace their retired employees. City Manager West invited Patti Rutland Simpson to give a presentation on the Guinness World Record. Mrs. Simpson played a DVD of the event held in November, 2014 at the Dothan Civic Center to break the Guinness World Record for the largest hip-hop dance performance. She said over 2,000 children worked together to achieve this goal. She thanked everyone for their tireless efforts, commitment to our community, and support of the arts. She presented the official Guinness World Records certificate to Mayor Schmitz on behalf of the City of Dothan and the Dothan Civic Center. Mayor Schmitz said he is grateful for all the work Patti Rutland Jazz does for the community. City Manager West invited Charlotte Mitchell, Dothan Houston County Library Manager, to give an award presentation on the downtown library. Ms. Mitchell, who was joined by library staff members, said the Library Journal presented them with an award in April, 2015, recognizing the downtown library and the community as being a LibraryAware community. She explained this award was given because the library sought out and answered the needs of the public, and the other part of this is looking at the backing and support of the City of Dothan and Houston County. She said they received a plaque for the City of Dothan and this plague is to be presented to everyone who was involved in the decision making and provided assistance with getting the two new library buildings. Ms. Mitchell presented the plaque to Mayor Schmitz on behalf of the City of Dothan, and she thanked everyone who helped in this accomplishment. Minutes of the Board of Commissioners – June 2, 2015, continued. City Manager West, along with Public Works Director Jerry Corbin and Environmental Services Manager Ken Rice, presented Jimmie L. Reese, Jr. with a service award for twenty-five years of service with the City. City Manager West invited Dothan Utilities Director Billy Mayes, Electric Operations Superintendent Chris Phillips, and Supervisor Mark Kight to make a presentation in recognition of “Lineman Appreciation Day.” A crew from Dothan Utilities was also present for this recognition. Mr. Mayes thanked the Commission for this opportunity to recognize the City’s linemen. He spoke about the schedule, training, and work involved in being a lineman, and he expressed appreciation for the great job they do. City Manager West invited Public Works Director Jerry Corbin to provide an update on storm damage cleanup. Mr. Corbin said the majority of the storm debris has been placed by the curb and those piles have been removed. He explained that debris will continue to be placed by the curb as properties are cleaned up and this could last for several months. He said after of a lot of hard work by City employees and the equipment holding up, the storm debris from both staging areas have been relocated to City owned property where it will eventually be burned. Mr. Corbin applauded the citizens for being very patient throughout this process, he thanked the City shop for doing a great job in keeping the equipment on the road, he expressed his gratitude to the employees for their hard work, and he thanked the Commission for their support. City Manager West made the following announcements: • A Bidder Enrollment Seminar will be held in the Civic Center’s Board Room on Wednesday, June 3rd at 9:00 a.m. to provide enrollment assistance to those who are interested in bidding on City projects. • The Alabama State Games will be held June 12th-14th with Opening Ceremonies on Friday, June 12th beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds. He said this is a great opportunity for the Wiregrass and for the local communities to show support for the athletes. • A list of board member vacancies have been provided to the Commission and appointments are needed to fill these positions. Mayor Schmitz recognized Ozark Mayor Billy Blackwell as being present in the audience. Mayor Schmitz announced a Public Hearing regarding the proposed Community Development Block Grant 2015 Projects and the Entitlement Funds. Altha Newman of the Boys and Girls Club of Hawk-Houston, Karinne Simmons of the Human Resource Development Corporation, Tina Glasgow of The Ordinary Peoples Society, Michael Jackson of The Dubois Institute, and Linda O’Connell of the Alfred Saliba Family Services Center spoke regarding their respective organizations and requests. There being no further discussion, Mayor Schmitz declared the Public Hearing closed. Mayor Schmitz announced a Public Hearing regarding the demolition and removal of unsafe structures. There being no one present to speak, Mayor Schmitz declared the Public Hearing closed. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-131 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), declaring certain properties as creating a nuisance, constituting a hazard to the public health, safety and convenience of the citizens and authorizing the demolition and removal of said properties. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Baxley and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-132 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), assessing properties for the cost of demolition of substandard structures and turning the amounts over to the county tax collector to Minutes of the Board of Commissioners – June 2, 2015, continued. be added to the next regular bills for taxes levied against the respective lots and/or parcels of land. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Newsome and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-133 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), approving an allocation to Troy University for Entrepreneurship and Economic Innovation, in the amount of $400,000.00 to be paid over a four-year period; $100,000.00 annually, beginning with FY 2016. Commissioner Newsome moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland. Jeff Coleman, President and CEO of Coleman World Group, who had signed up for privileges of the floor regarding this item, spoke regarding the importance of business, industry, higher education, and jobs in our community. Mr. Coleman talked about the benefits of this proposed new center, and he requested the Commission’s support of this project. Mayor Schmitz recognized Charles Nailen, a long-time businessman, community leader and Trustee of Troy University, who was present in the audience, and he thanked him for all of his years of community service. Commissioner Newsome said he is thankful for Troy University and its international reach around the world. He added that we are in the center of an agricultural location and the agriculture business adds dollars to our area. He said he believes we have an opportunity to teach agricultural education right here in the Wiregrass, and he would love to see Troy University take that leadership. He explained that, because the university is international, this education could spread to third world countries to help feed the hungry. Commissioner Ferguson noted that there are contingencies for this funding and Mayor Schmitz explained that the funding is tied to the construction. The contingencies are a) that the funds are available to begin construction and b) that a contract has been entered into for the construction of the project. There being no further discussion, the resolution was unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-134 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), approving the 2015 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Dorsey. CDBG Administrator Maurice Head confirmed for Commissioner Newsome that all of the organizations requesting money have boards of directors. Commissioner Newsome inquired into who is on the board for Genesis Housing Development Corp., and David Jamison answered from the audience that he is on this board. Mr. Jamison confirmed for Commissioner Newsome that Sam Crawford is also on this board. Commissioner Newsome said he has some problems with this because Mr. Crawford was previously with another group who received CDBG funds and he feels that group did not do repairs as they should have been done. Commissioner Ferguson confirmed with Mr. Head that contractors have to be bonded and insured. City Manager West said they are also required to obtain a permit. Commissioner Ferguson asked for clarification of what today’s vote means in respect to approving the projects. City Manager West advised that the Commission’s approval today will allow the advertisement to take place, then the public comment period will follow, and those comments may cause the Commission to change their minds. There being no further discussion, the resolution was unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced a proposed resolution consenting to and approving the continuation of the existing services and facilities of the Southeast Alabama Solid Waste Disposal Authority located in the city limits of Dothan, Alabama, for a one- year period. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Newsome and upon the motion being put to vote, those voting “yea,” were Schmitz, Newsome, and Kirkland; “nay:” Dorsey, Ferguson, Kenward, and Baxley. The motion was denied by the majority of four “nays” to three “yeas.” Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-135 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), entering into a permit agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation for the installation of 2,400 linear feet of 12 inch PVC water main from MP 212.69 to MP 213.12 on the northwest side of AL-12 in Dothan. Commissioner Baxley moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Ferguson and unanimously adopted. Minutes of the Board of Commissioners – June 2, 2015, continued. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-136 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), entering into a permit agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation for the installation of 655 linear feet of 12 inch PVC water main from MP 9.69 to MP 9.82 on the west side of AL-210 in Dothan. Commissioner Baxley moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-137 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), authorizing a Notice of Intent to be submitted to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management for the installation of water lines along AL Hwy 12. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Newsome and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-138 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), accepting a grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior through the Alabama Historic Commission in the amount of $7,500.00 to be used to resurvey the Downtown Commercial Historic District to update the status of buildings in the District. Commissioner Baxley moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-139 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), entering into an agreement with Pileum Corporation to provide support, training and guidance to the City of Dothan Information Technology staff for areas related to several new and ongoing projects, in the amount of $6,340.00. Commissioner Baxley moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Kenward and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-140 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), entering into a contract with Cook’s Pest Control for the termite treatment and warranty at the Omussee Treatment Plant for a total first year cost of $777.00. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Baxley and unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-141 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), approving a fee and charge increase for the Leisure Services Facility and Field Rentals, Athletics and Program Registrations, and admission fees. Commissioner Dorsey moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland. Commissioner Baxley asked for Leisure Services to provide feedback in approximately six months on the impact of this increase on participation rates. There being no further discussion, the resolution was unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-142 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), agreeing to allow the Fire Department to issue a fireworks permit for the Dothan Country Club Independence Day Celebration Fireworks Display to be held on Friday, July 3, 2015. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Dorsey. Commissioner Ferguson asked if this is a public or membership event. An audience member confirmed that it is a club function. There being no further discussion, the resolution was unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-143 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), agreeing to allow the Fire Department to issue a fireworks permit for the National Peanut Festival (NPF) Fireworks Display to be held on Saturday, July 4, 2015. Commissioner Kenward moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland. Mayor Schmitz said he is excited about this large community event, and he thanked the NPF for doing this. There being no further discussion, the resolution was unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-144 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), agreeing to allow the Fire Department to issue a fireworks permit for the Alabama State Games Fireworks Display to be held on Friday, June 12, 2015. Commissioner Kirkland moved for adoption, motion seconded by Commissioner Dorsey. Commissioner Kenward said lots of Minutes of the Board of Commissioners – June 2, 2015, continued. community volunteers are needed for this event, and for those interested, information is available on Facebook. She recognized Vanessa Harris, who was present in the audience, for taking the lead in this effort. Mayor Schmitz said we are blessed to have the games here. He said he knows we will work hard to make this first year a success, and we will have a great turnout. He said we have signed a three-year deal, and he knows this event will be a wonderful thing for our community. There being no further discussion, the resolution was unanimously adopted. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-145 (recorded in Ordinance Book No. _______at Page_______), awarding the following bids and approving other purchases over $15,000.00 by the City. ITEM VENDOR AMOUNT Automotive, Truck & Equipment Tractor & Equipment See Price in Filters, Estimated Annual Dothan, AL Description Purchases $31,697.76; See bid tabulation sheet for unit prices. Distribution Transformers Mayer Electric See Price in Overhead Conventional Single Dothan, AL Description Phase, per Bid Specifications: 37.5 KVA Pole Type Transformer with Taps, Double Bushings, Primary Voltage 7620/13200, Secondary Voltage 120/240: Quantity: 40 (more or less): Price: $807.00 Load: 79 Loss: 508 Brand: GE Prolec Delivery: 7 weeks 50 KVA Pole Type Transformer with Taps, Double Bushings, Primary Voltage 7620/13200, Secondary Voltage 120/240: Quantity: 15 (more or less): Price: $930.00 Load: 103 Loss: 580 Brand: GE Prolec Delivery: 7 weeks 75 KVA Pole Type Transformer with Taps, Double Bushings, Primary Voltage 7620/13200, Secondary Voltage 120/240: Quantity: 5 (more or less): Price: $1,398.00 Load: 147 Loss: 758 Brand: GE Prolec Delivery: 7 weeks Other Purchases: Assistance to the City of Dothan City of Troy $ 22,003.00 for Storm Work, including Troy, AL Personnel, Trucks and Equipment Purchase of Motorcraft and Delco The Parts House $ 25,000.00 Parts, when Prices are Lowest Dothan, AL Quoted and Stock is on Hand Commissioner Kirkland then moved for adoption of Resolution No. 2015-145, motion seconded by Commissioner Kenward and unanimously carried. Minutes of the Board of Commissioners – June 2, 2015, continued. Mayor Schmitz introduced Resolution No. 2015-146 (recorded in Ordinance Book No._______at Page_______), approving the following advance travel requests for City employees: NAME CONFERENCE AMOUNT Scott Heath Hazardous Devices School Recertification $ 1,418.16 Brian Smith Huntsville, AL Chris Clayton Gainesville Assessment Center $ 0.00 Gainesville, FL Rose Evans-Gordon Alabama State Bar Annual Meeting $ 1,174.00 Point Clear, AL Jana Kirkland Department of Transportation Specimen $ 1,753.99 Collector Training/Breath Alcohol Technician Training Knoxville, TN Doug Bell SEAFC/AAFC Joint Leadership Conference $ 300.00 Stacey McAllister Birmingham, AL Mitch Anderson AREA’s Book 1 – Fundamental Lab 1 for $ 5,846.00 Garrett Hall Lineman Apprentice Jacob Williamson Montgomery, AL David McQuain Commissioner Kirkland then moved for adoption of Resolution No. 2015-146, motion seconded by Commissioner Newsome and unanimously carried. Commissioner Ferguson moved that the meeting be adjourned, motion seconded by Commissioner Kirkland. Mayor Blackwell requested permission to speak in order to address a technical question regarding the proposed resolution (consenting to and approving the continuation of the existing services and facilities of the Southeast Alabama Solid Waste Disposal Authority), which did not receive approval. He explained that the Authority currently has contracts with 118 companies located in the Dothan city limits and they are obligated under those contracts to provide services. Mayor Blackwell asked what will happen with these contracts given that the resolution was not approved today, and he inquired if they will be allowed to fulfill them. He said the Authority would love to stay in business and for the Commission to reconsider this at some point. Commissioner Kirkland said he would like to see the Authority fulfill these contracts. Commissioner Baxley said he believes the Authority should be granted a reasonable amount of time, maybe a 30, 60, or 90 day period, in order to allow their customers to obtain new services, and Commissioner Ferguson agreed with this position. Mayor Schmitz requested legal guidance regarding this matter. City Attorney Len White advised that a review of the contracts is necessary in order to determine if their obligation will be affected by this decision. Mr. White said he will be happy to review the contracts in conjunction with Mayor Blackwell’s counsel. Mayor Schmitz requested a two-week time period for assessment, and everyone agreed with this request. City Manager West asked Mayor Blackwell if he will make sure Mr. White receives copies of the contract and perhaps have his attorney discuss this matter with Mr. White. Mayor Blackwell said he will be happy to do so. There being no further discussion and upon the unanimous vote of "yea," the meeting was duly adjourned. /s/Tammy Danner, City Clerk See approval next page: Minutes of the Board of Commissioners – June 2, 2015, continued. Approved: /s/Mike Schmitz, Mayor /s/Kevin Dorsey, Associate Commissioner Amos M. Newsome, Jr., Associate Commissioner /s/Albert Kirkland, Associate Commissioner /s/John Ferguson, Associate Commissioner /s/Beth Kenward, Associate Commissioner /s/Hamp Baxley, Associate Commissioner BOARD OF CITY COMMISSIONERS