Board of Directors

MINUTES BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING APRIL 21, 2003, AT 7:00 P.M. The regular meeting of the Board of Directors was held on Monday, April 21, 2003, at 7:00 p.m., Board Chambers, City Hall, with Mayor Mike Bush presiding. The invocation was given by Mr. James Frierson, and Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Mayor Bush. Mayor Bush called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 1 Roll Call Roll call was as follows: Present: Directors Peggy Maruthur, Elaine Jones, Burt Newell, Carroll Weatherford, Bill Edwards, Bob Wheeler, and Mike Bush, total 7. 2 Approval of Agenda A motion was made by Director Edwards, duly seconded by Director Wheeler, that the agenda be approved. Upon discussion, Director Maruthur requested that Agenda Item No. 12 (Proposed Resolution No. R-03-104 Appointing Bill Jameson, Stephanie “Stevie” Spargo, and Bill Watson to the Transportation Advisory Committee) be removed from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration and add reconsideration of the naming of the downtown parking facility. A motion was made by Director Maruthur, duly seconded by Director Weatherford, that the Board reconsider naming of the downtown parking facility; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. A motion was made by Director Newell, duly seconded by Director Jones, that Agenda Item No. 20 (Proposed Ordinance No. O-03-42 Amending Ordinance No. 5113 Accepting Nell Street as a Public Street by Revising the Funding for the Improvements) be deleted from the agenda. Upon discussion, Director Newell advised that this was considered last fall and was passed by a vote of 6-1. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to delete Item No. 20 from the agenda; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, and Wheeler, total 4. Voting “no”: Directors Weatherford, Edwards, and Bush, total 3; motion carried. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to approve the agenda, as amended; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. 3 Approval of Minutes of April 7, 2003 Board Meeting A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Edwards, that the minutes of the April 7, 2003 Board Meeting be approved; and upon voice vote, the motion unanimously carried. 4 Recognition of Guests City Manager Kent Myers recognized Fire Marshall Ed Davis to give an update on the City’s ISO rating, which was at the suggestion of Director Maruthur. Fire Marshall Ed Davis expressed appreciation to the Board for its support and also to Utilities Director Don Cochran, who was instrumental in the new fire hydrants, as well as Mr. Milton Raabe and Mr. James Mattingly, former utilities employees. Also, he acknowledged Police Chief Gary Ashcraft and the Police Department’s 911 operations, who assisted in upgrading the 911 center to meet the NFTA specifications. In 1996, there were discussions on reducing the City’s ISO rating, and a master plan was implemented based on the National Fire Academy’s program of improving the Fire Department. All of those efforts culminated in an ISO Class 2 rating, which was issued in March 2003. The ISO reduction should be in the April ratings books and will be going out to the insurance companies the first part of May. Director Maruthur questioned the City’s rating in 1996 and the general decrease, and Mr. Davis advised that the rating was a Class 4 (61.24 points total). The new class rating is 81.79, Board of Directors Meeting 2 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M. which would be a Class 2. He stated that the reductions for homeowners will depend upon the different insurance agencies, and commercial occupancies will see the greatest decrease. City Manager Kent Myers stated there is one insurance company that no longer recognizes ISO rating. Mr. Davis replied that is State Farm Insurance, but it will not apply to State Farm residential customers; however, as far as the State Farm commercial customers, they still use the ISO as the basis. In response to Director Edwards, Mr. Davis advised that the larger occupancies, such as businesses 10,000 square feet and larger, will see the greatest decrease in their premiums. 5 Acknowledgment of Financial Statements for March 2003 Mayor Bush announced that the Financial Statements for March 2003 are on file in the City Treasurer’ Office for review by the Board and the public. CONSENT AGENDA The Consent Agenda consisted of the following: 6 Public Safety Report (April 14, 2003). 7 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-99 Approving Certain Bid Awards Pursuant to Ordinance No. 4609 (Purchasing Procedure) [a] Sign Material - Traffic Department (awarded to Vulcan Signs in the amount of $7,650.17 and 3M in the amount of $4,868.75); [b] Batteries - Fleet Service (annual supply contract) (reject and rebid); [c] Equipment Rental - Central Avenue Water Project (awarded to J.A. Riggs in the amount of $33,936) [estimated]; and [d] Four Patrol Units and a Mini-Van (awarded to Landers Ford in the amount of $80,912 and Little Rock Dodge in the amount of $15,898) [State Contract]. 8 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-100 Requesting Membership in the Mid-Arkansas Water Alliance. Board of Directors Meeting 3 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M. 9 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-101 Appointing Aaron Burroughs, Ricky Hood, Larry Hansen, Marvin Lewis, and Anthony Taylor to the Construction Trades Advisory Committee. 10 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-102 Appointing Edward Berkun and Phillip L. Jones to the Airport Advisory Committee. 11 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-103 Appointing Deborah L. Justice and Richard E. Braughton to the Animal Control Advisory Committee. 12 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-104 Appointing Bill Jameson, Stephanie “Stevie” Spargo, and Bill Watson to the Transportation Advisory Committee. (Removed from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration) 13 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-105 Appointing Orville Poole and James “Jim” Rountree, Jr. to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. 14 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-106 Approving Certain Street Names (Chickadee and Cornerstone Lane). 15 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-107 Accepting a Capital Assistance Grant from the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department for the Purchase of Transit Buses and Construction of a Bus Storage Facility. A motion was made by Director Newell, duly seconded by Director Maruthur, that the Consent Agenda be approved, as amended; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. NEW BUSINESS 12 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-104 Board of Directors Meeting 4 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  A resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION APPOINTING BILL JAMESON, STEPHANIE “STEVIE” SPARGO, AND BILL WATSON TO THE TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE,” was taken from the agenda and read by title only. A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Newell, that the resolution be adopted as read. Upon discussion, Ms. Karen Garcia was recognized and stated she was seeking reappointment to the Transportation Advisory Committee. She related the feedback from the chairman of the committee, other committee members, City staff, and the community has been favorable. She spoke of her dedication to the community and to the various issues presented to the committee. She requested that the Board reappoint her to the Transportation Advisory Committee. Mr. Jorgé Garcia spoke in support of his wife and her dedication for continuous improvement to the City. He said that he supports her efforts and urged the Board to reappoint her to the committee. Ms. Patricia Hicks and Ms. Gertie Watson spoke in support of reappointing Ms. Garcia to the committee. Deputy City Manager Lance Hudnell commented the Board voted by ballot as to the names to insert into the resolution. He stated the Board can either table the resolution and re - vote on the nominees or proceed with what has been presented in the packet. Director Maruthur questioned if the Board could add another person on the committee, and Deputy City Manager Lance Hudnell advised that this committee is set at five members. However, the Board could amend the resolution creating it and add two members. He added that Mr. Carl Craig was also desirous of being reappointed. Director Maruthur stated she has attended a few of the committee meetings, and there were several members not in attendance. She suggested appointing two more positions since this is an important committee. She stated that approximately two years ago, there was a thought to dissolve the committee, which concerned her. Board of Directors Meeting 5 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  A motion was made by Director Maruthur, duly seconded by Director Wheeler, to add two positions to the Transportation Advisory Committee. Upon discussion, Deputy City Manager Lance Hudnell asked if there should be a new resolution to amend the original resolution; and City Attorney David White advised that, if the motion passes, the Board is amending R-03-104 by appointing two additional members. He advised that after the fact, the Board will need to amend to create the seven positions. City Manager Kent Myers questioned how the Board would officially appoint Ms. Garcia and one additional member after these two members are added, and City Attorney David White advised that they will be appointed de facto as soon as the resolution is amended. City Manager Kent Myers questioned who would be the second person to be appointed, and City Attorney David White stated that Deputy City Manager Lance Hudnell mentioned that Mr. Carl Craig was desirous of being reappointed. Deputy City Manager Lance Hudnell commented that the motion could include adding two positions and including those two names (Karen Garcia and Carl Craig). City Attorney David White announced that the motion is to amend the resolution by adding Karen Garcia and Carl Craig to the committee. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. 16 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-108 A resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE INCREASE OF PURCHASE ORDER AMOUNT TO B&F ENGINEERING FOR THE HOT SPRINGS CIVIC AND CONVENTION CENTER EXPANSION PROJECT (SURVEYING SERVICES),” was taken from the agenda and read by title only. A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Jones, that the resolution be adopted as read. Board of Directors Meeting 6 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  Upon discussion, Mr. John Eisman, Project Manager, explained that this contract (B&F Engineering) and the next contract on the agenda (Grubbs, Hoskyn, Garner, Barton & Wyatt) are companies involved as one part of the four-part quality control program. In regard to B&F Engineering, that company performed some initial topographic surveys, laid out some benchmarks to show the contractors where to begin. These contractors came in at various points and reconfirmed what the contractors had laid out and established where they thought the work was going to be was actually correct. Regarding B&F Engineering, the existing facility was to be connected with a new construction and had to make sure of the location of the building and the existing columns. He explained that in setting up these contracts, they try to project out how many man-hours it is going to take. In the case of B&F Engineering, they thought it would take approximately $10,000; but that has been exceeded by another $1,075. Regarding Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton and Wyatt, he advised they are responsible for numerous portions of independent testing and cover compaction of the soil that is underneath the building and any underground utilities. They also are responsible for the concrete test and long-term tests. In addition to those tests, they perform welding inspections, bolting inspections, and testing of the structural steel fireproofing. All of those tests are part of the overall quality control program, and they are an integral part of the overall system that is in place. He advised that all of this is in place so that in the future, there are not some major or unexpected problems. In response to Mayor Bush, Mr. Eisman advised that typically in the third-party type of testing, the cost is approximately ½ of a percent of the construction cost. With both of these contracts together, ½ of a percent of the construction cost would be about $100,000. Therefore , the cost is still below what is typical for this type of job. Director Weatherford questioned where the original figures were derived, and Mr. Eisman replied that he took the items they had done for the last expansion and tried to do an estimate. He explained that normally it is one percent. Based on the last project, he said they should be able to do a little less than the 1 percent, so he tried to start out conservative. On the B&F Engineering contract, he stated the firm was used extensively up-front to make sure the two buildings were going to meet up properly. Therefore, that was overspent by $1,075. Regarding Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton and Wyatt, that involved mostly the compaction tests and the concrete tests; and they were used extensively through all of the concrete operations, especially when the concrete suppliers were changed. In reply to Mayor Bush regarding the funding, Mr. Eisman advised these are covered within the overall program budget. Board of Directors Meeting 7 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  Director Weatherford asked if there was a contract for Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton and Wyatt; and Mr. Eisman explained that it is a professional services contract. Therefore, it is set up similar to a purchase order and is not the typical construction contract. On these professional services contracts, the y list out for all of the various testing. They solicited proposals, and various companies submitted their rates. They took an average of these rates and looked at which test they would run the most often and how many times they would use those. Grubbs, Hoskyn, Barton and Wyatt was selected as the most responsive, responsible bidder and selected to do the contract. Director Weatherford pointed out that it specifies not to exceed $72,000, but there is a request for additional funds; and Mr. Eisman responded that he underestimated based on the last project. He stated they will exceed $72,000 and will not use all of the $8,000 but will probably use most of it. He advised their objective is to run as many tests as necessary. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to adopt; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the resolution was declared adopted. 17 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-109 A resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN THE MAXIMUM COMPENSATION FOR GRUBBS, HOSKYN, BARTON AND WYATT, INC. FOR SERVICES PERFORMED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE HOT SPRINGS CIVIC AND CONVENTION CENTER EXPANSION PROJECT,” was taken from the agenda and read by title only. A motion was made by Director Jones, duly seconded by Director Wheeler, that the resolution be adopted as read; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the resolution was declared adopted. 18 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-110 Board of Directors Meeting 8 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  A resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE RECONSIDERATION OF A DAMAGE CLAIM FROM KENNETH AND PAT MADLOCK,” was taken from the agenda and read by title only. A motion was made by Director Jones, duly seconded by Director Maruthur, that the resolution be adopted as read; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, and Bush, total 4. Voting “no”: Directors Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, total 3. motion failed. Whereupon the resolution was declared failed. Mayor Bush explained that it takes five votes to reconsider an issue. 19 Proposed Resolution No. R-03-111 A resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN EXTENSION TO THE OPTION TO PURCHASE CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY FROM KEITH SMITH PROPERTY, INC. (22 ACRES OFF WINKLER ROAD),” was taken from the agenda and read by title only. A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Edwards, that the resolution be adopted as read. Upon discussion, Mr. Don Cochran, Utilities Director, stated that staff recommends approval of the extension on the option to purchase the property from Keith Smith Farms, which is 22 acres off Winkler Road for the new wastewater treatment facility, now referred to as the South West Wastewater Treatment Plant. This extension requires a payment of $5,000, which will be applied to the purchase of the property at the time of closing. Staff and NRS Engineering are in the process of obtaining the permit with the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and have been working with them for the past six months. At the next Board Meeting, he will submit Work Order No. 2 for NRS Engineering to get them started on the preliminary design and construction plans for the facility. He hopes to have this completed by the end of the year, and this extension will go through December 31, 2003. Board of Directors Meeting 9 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to adopt; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the resolution was declared adopted. 20 Proposed Ordinance No. O-03-42 Amending Ordinance No. 5113 Accepting Nell Street as a Public Street by Revising the Funding for the Improvements. (Removed from the Agenda) 21 Proposed Ordinance No. O-03-43 An ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING POLICIES AND RATES FOR PRIVATE WRECKER VEHICLE TOWING SERVICES REQUESTED BY THE HOT SPRINGS POLICE DEPARTMENT; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,” was taken from the agenda for consideration. A motion was made by Director We atherford, duly seconded by Director Maruthur, that the rules be suspended and the ordinance be read for the first time by title only; and upon voice vote, the motion unanimously carried. The ordinance was then read for the first time by title only; and upon the question “Shall the ordinance be passed as read?” and upon motion of Director Weatherford, duly seconded by Director Maruthur, that the ordinance be passed as read. Upon discussion, Police Chief Gary Ashcraft reported that a committee was formed to study the present ordinance on the wrecker services and has submitted a new ordinance that allows the wrecker services to charge a little more because they have not had an increase in their rates since 1993. The ordinance also provides for a grievance procedure for complaints received against a particular wrecker service or a complaint that a wrecker service would have with another wrecker service. Mayor Bush asked if there was any direct impact to the City, and Police Chief Gary Ashcraft advised the re was not. He added there is a list of six wrecker services in the City that meet the requirements of nonconsensual tows set up by the State Wrecker Board and use those on a rotating basis. Director Edwards stated individuals needing a wrecker do not have to use the service that is next on the list but can choose whomever they want, and Police Chief Ashcraft advised that is Board of Directors Meeting 10 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M. correct. He added anytime they are working an accident or towing a vehicle, the owner of that vehicle has a choice of whichever wrecker service he or she wishes. Director Edwards questioned when this committee would be formed to hear complaints, and Police Chief Ashcraft advised that he will appoint the committee as soon as the ordinance is passed. If a complaint is found to be needed, then an individual may call his office; and he will set up a meeting of the committee. Director Edwards reported there is a problem with the cleanup after an accident by the wrecker services, and Police Chief Ashcraft advised this ordinance provides for stronger enforcement. City Manager Kent Myers clarified this ordinance covers only the wrecker services that are requested by the Police Department. Individuals who want to get their own wrecker service on a private basis have the ability to contact whatever wrecker service they want and at whatever fee they are able to negotiate with the wrecker service. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to adopt; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the ordinance was declared passed. 22 Proposed Ordinance No. O-03-44 An ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE WAIVING THE REQUIREMENTS OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY (VERN AND JESSIE SMITH),” was taken from the agenda for consideration. A motion was made by Director Edwards, duly seconded by Director Wheeler, that the rules be suspended and the ordinance be read for the first time by title only; and upon voice vote, the motion unanimously carried. The ordinance was then read for the firs t time by title only; and upon the question “Shall the ordinance be passed as read?” and upon motion of Director Jones, duly seconded by Director Edwards, that the ordinance be passed as read; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the ordinance was declared passed. 23 Proposed Ordinance No. O-03-45 Board of Directors Meeting 11 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  An ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A LEASE/PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH 1ST NATIONAL BANK FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A BACKHOE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,” was taken from the agenda for consideration. A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Edwards, that the rules be suspended and the ordinance be read for the first time by title only; and upon voice vote, the motion unanimously carried. The ordinance was then read for the first time by title only; and upon the question “Shall the ordinance be passed as read?” and upon motion of Director Edwards, duly seconded by Director Maruthur, that the ordinance be passed as read; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the ordinance was declared passed. 24 Proposed Ordinance No. O-03-46 An ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN TERRITORY TO THE CITY OF HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS, AND MAKING SAME A PART OF THE CITY OF HOT SPRINGS AND ASSIGNING SAME TO DISTRICT (159 HILLSIDE PLACE),” was taken from the agenda for consideration. A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Jones, that the rules be suspended and the ordinance be read for the first time by title only; and upon voice vote, the motion unanimously carried. The ordinance was then read for the first time by title only; and upon the question “Shall the ordinance be passed as read?” and upon motion of Director Edwards, duly seconded by Director Wheeler, that the ordinance be passed as read. Upon discussion, City Manager Kent Myers announced this is a voluntary annexation by Craig and Tracy Keaton. He added if there are any other property owners who would like to be annexed, they may contact his office; and he will get them a petition for voluntary annexation. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to adopt; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Jones, Newell, Weatherford, Edwards, Wheeler, and Bush, total 7; motion unanimously carried. Whereupon the ordinance was declared passed. Board of Directors Meeting 12 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M. 25 Discussion on Naming the Downtown Parking Facility A motion was made by Director Wheeler, duly seconded by Director Maruthur, to consider discussion on naming the downtown parking facility. Upon discussion, Director Maruthur stated at the last Board Meeting, final names were submitted for the naming of the downtown parking facility. However, since that time, she has received phone calls regarding the naming of the facility. In response to Mayor Bush, City Manager Kent Myers advised that the vote to name the downtown parking facility as Exchange Street Parking Plaza was 4-2. Mr. Steve Smith suggested that the Board reconsider naming the parking facility. He said while there is nothing wrong with Exchange Street itself, he believes with the size of the parking facility, the City needs the recognition and identity to go along with it, such as Bathhouse Row or National Park as part of the name. He urged the Board to reconsider the naming and possibly tying in bathhouse row or national park. Mayor Bush commented if the City installs the proper signage, people will come to the parking facility. He added that Exchange Street is the location of the facility. Director Wheeler pointed out that the City is Hot Springs National Park, and a parking deck is going to be located downtown in Hot Springs National Park. He stated that National Park parking should be included in the name since it spells out where the National Park is located. Director Maruthur said she agreed with Director Wheeler, pointing out that the water and bathhouses are known all over the world; and she believes the City should capitalize on that. She noted there is an effort to renovate bathhouses, which is the reason she had recommended Bathhouse Parking Plaza. She reported that she received some e-mails and phone calls, not necessarily for Director Wheeler’s recommendation or hers; but the name should be related to the bathhouses and the National Park. She noted this is not against what the Board previously voted on but is about the interest of the parking facility. She commented that people will identify with the parking facility and its location. She commented it is on Exchange Street, and people will come to know Exchange Street because the City closed off the street that goes to the parking facility so they have to use Exchange Street. She suggested more time for citizens to submit names. Board of Directors Meeting 13 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Bush commented at the last Board Meeting, there were four Directors who voted for “Exchange Street Parking Plaza.” Director Newell pointed out that the Board voted on this name, but it will not be a success or failure based on its name. He stated individuals need to know where it is and how to get to it. Director Wheeler said it should not be based on its name but neither should Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. He stated if it is based on the name National Park Parking, it is tied into the City of Hot Springs; and it is downtown Hot Springs, which is logical for it to be National Park. Director Maruthur urged the Board to receive more input from the public. City Manager Kent Myers pointed out that it takes several months to get signs installed, and many complaints have been received from people who do not know what the building is because the proper signage is not installed. Therefore, he needs the Board to make a decision tonight. He mentioned there have been several months of public input, and now the building needs to be finished and the signage installed so people will know what it is. He commented that staff has no preference other than try to leave “parking” in the name. Director Maruthur pointed out there is a large banner spanning across the facility, and City Manager Kent Myers stated it is a temporary banner but is not the permanent sign. He added that Mr. David French is on hold at the present time to develop the idea for the permanent signage. Once that is done, it takes a while to construct it; and the project needs to be completed. Director Jones pointed out that the Board did not name it, and over 50 names were suggested by citizens. Mayor Bush then called for a vote on the motion to reconsider naming the downtown parking facility; and upon roll call, the following voted “aye”: Directors Maruthur, Weatherford, Edwards, and Wheeler, total 4. Voting “no”: Directors Jones, Newell, and Bush, total 3; motion failed. City Attorney David White advised that under the Board’s Procedural Rules and Regulations (A-11), once adopted or defeated, a proposition may not again be considered at a subsequent Board Meeting as new business or otherwise for at least 180 days from the date of adoption or defeat unless a motion to place the proposition on the agenda is approved, which is Board of Directors Meeting 14 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M. 2/3 of the quorum. Since there was not 2/3 of the quorum, he advised that the downtown parking facility remains as Exchange Street Parking Plaza. Director Newell expressed concern that this is the fourth item tonight the Board has reconsidered from prior votes. Director Wheeler pointed out that in the midst of two weeks, Directors talk to constituents and listen to what they have to say. He said that he has changed his mind on issues because he listens to the constituents. OTHER BUSINESS 26 Board of Directors Items Director Jones announced that on Saturday, April 26, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at Webb Community Center, 127 Pleasant Street, there will be the formation of the Gateway Neighborhood Association. If people live in the neighborhood, own, or occupy commercial or residential property within the area, they should make plans to get involved. Also, lunch will also be served. She reported the re is an employee (Sheila Beavers) at Kroger’s who is in need of a bone marrow transplant, and an account has been opened at Alliance Bank. Individuals may contact Director Jones at 321-1839 for the account number. Director Maruthur announced there is a medical need for Mr. Paul Anthony Nagey, and a bank account has been set up at Regions Bank (#81-42-23-0306). Director Edwards advised that the property owners on Nell Street are not going to be forced by the City to have curb and gutter if they do not want it, and they may contact the City Manager’s Office and Engineering Department. City Manager Kent Myers advised that last year, the Board approved the paving and curb and gutter of Nell Street. He added that it will be paved, curbed and guttered as directed by the Board. He noted the property owners will not have to pay for it, and the Board agreed the City would pay for it when it was voted on last year. Earlier tonight, the Board voted not to reconsider that position. Director Edwards stressed that the property owners do not want it, and Director Newell commented they do want it and are going to get it just as the Board voted. Board of Directors Meeting 15 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  Director Weatherford commended Sanitation Director Bill Burrough and his department for the cleanup in his neighborhood. 27 City Manager’s Report City Manager Kent Myers gave the following report: 1. Regarding items on the Consent Agenda, the Board appointed members to various Boards and Committees; and those committee members were announced. He reported there is a problem filling some vacancies and would appreciate the Board’s assistance. The following boards and committees have vacancies: (1) Animal Control Advisory Committee - one vacancy; (2) Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee - one vacancy; (3) Hot Springs/Garland County Beautification Commission - two City vacancies and two County vacancies. For the County positions, individuals may contact County Judge Larry Williams or Julie Dickson at the Hot Springs/Garland County Beautification Commission; and (4) the Historic District Commission - two vacancies. Those vacancies are restricted to property owners within the downtown business district. Individuals who are interested in serving may contact Margaret Parris in the City Manager’s Office for an application form at 321-6811. Director Maruthur requested that citizens be advised of the restrictions. City Manager Kent Myers stated that applicants must live in the city limits; and for some of the vacancies, the applicants have to live in Districts. The Beautification Commission does not require that. For Parks and Recreation, applicants must reside in Districts 2, 4 or 5; Animal Control Advisory Committee, applicants must reside in Districts 2, 3, 5 and 6. He noted that these committees already have residents from the other Districts, and the Board has previously indicated that it wants representation citywide. 2. On April 22, at 9 a.m., there will be a paving demonstration at Frieda and Seventh Streets. A paving contractor will give a free demonstration on micro-paving. 3. At the last Board Meeting, the Board agreed to hire Peters and Associates to conduct a downtown traffic study in conjunction with CBID No. 3. The property owners wanted to have an opportunity to meet with the company before the study to indicate some concerns and answer some questions. On Thursday, April 24, at 9:30 a.m., Central Fire Station , Mr. Greg Simmons, with Peters and Associates, will be in town to answer any questions. Board of Directors Meeting 16 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.  4. There are Highway Department public involvement meetings during the next two weeks and encouraged all city and county residents, as well as city and county officials, to attend. On Thursday, April 24, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Highway Department will be hosting a public involvement meeting at the Central Fire Station. Citizens may stop by and look at the plans and offer comments, which will be noted by a representative of the Highway Department. The Higdon Ferry Road right-of-way plans are completed and can review the right-of-way the City will have to acquire in order to get the project moving forward. 5. On Tuesday, April 29, the Highway Department will have a public involvement meeting from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Fountain Lake High School Cafeteria, on the next segment of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Expressway. This will be from Highway 70 East up to the intersection with Highway 7 North. The plans will be conceptual in nature and will show three or four routes that the next segment of the expressway can take and see what the public reaction is to the various routes they are considering. 6. He suggested a Board Work Session for Monday, May 12. Director Maruthur indicated she would prefer Tuesday, May 13. He said his office will poll the remainder of the Board tomorrow. 28 ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m., to meet again on Monday, May 5, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. ATTEST: _____________________ APPROVED:__________________ Lance Hudnell, City Clerk Mike Bush, Mayor Board of Directors Meeting 17 April 21, 2003 at 7:00 P.M.