Board of Aldermen

CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, zof9 The Council of the City of Opelousas, Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana, convened in a regular session on this 9tr' day of July 2019 at 5:00 p.m. With Mayor Julius Alsandor presiding, the meeting was called to order. Mayor Alsandor requested the Clerk to call the roll and the following Council members were PRESENT: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford (arrived late), Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. ABSENT: None. A moment of silent meditation was observed for the late Roland McCarthy, City employee, who passed away about two weeks ago. Rev. Frank Ford led the Prayer. Mr. Paul Gennuso led the Pledge of Allegiance. On a motion by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts and seconded by Alderman Charles Cummings, it was resolved to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting held 06/l ll20l9 with any necessary changes. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IlI, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT:None. The City Clerk noted the following corrections Under the PR-ESENTATIONS Section: CORRECTING Item No. 9 and Item No. 10 which should state the business owner's name as (Conunerce Plaza Shopping Center-Real Estate Investments oJ'Acudicutcr LLQ insTead of (CommercePlaza - Derrick Comeaux). DELBTING Item No. l8.- "Discr.tss requestþr ANNEXATION of a portion o/'the property locuted at I7l6 LT. Landry (G & R Properties LLC/Gerard Peruott) us clescribed below: ] LOT (5 AC) N LOFTON S ROAD E VENDOR W CITY LIMITS FORMERLY OLD HOITARD BROTHERS SHOPPING CENTER IN sEC 72 T-65 R-48 826338 (T-36-750) (LOT 2 BLK 18 W LANDRY ST-FOR OFFTCE USE ONLY) TO ANNEX THE PORTION DESCRIBED AS 330'X295' AS SHOWN ON SURVEY PROJECT 19448 BY MORGAN GOUDEAU & ASSOCIATES". Under the CONSBNTS Section: CORRBCTING NAME on Item No. 34 from Brent Tezeno to Al Deville, "Approve the hiring oJ'Al Deville as Probationary Police Officer, e/Jëctive 07/14/2019". (AT REQUEST OF CHIEF MCLENDON) DELETING Item No. 35, "Approve the hiring of Malcolm McKinney as Provisional Police O/Jìcer, effective 07/I5/2019". (AT REQUEST OF CHIEF MCLENDON). Asst. ChieJ'Scott Aymond interjected and statecl that the Chief did not wont Item No. 35 deleted. Chief McLendon hud stepped out the buikling and was not present to conJirm. Council requestetl that this item be maintained on the agenda until confirmation is meule by Chief McLendon. On a motion by Alderman Milton Batiste III and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, it was resolved to ADD ltem No. 35-A, "Approve the resignation of Provisional Police Communiccttions OlJicer Mary Fonîenot, effective 05/04/2019". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. On a motion by Aldermen Marvin Richard and Charles Cummings and seconded by Alderman Floyd Ford, it was resolved to ADD Item No. 35-8, "Approve the resigtation of Police OIJìcer First Cluss Jeremy Jentings ". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT: None. On a motion by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to ADD Item No.35-C, "Accept the resignation oJ'Probcttionary Police Sergeant Herbert Levier, effective 06/28/2019". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT:None. On a motion by Alderman Floyd Ford and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to ADD Item No.35- D, "Approve the confirmation of Broclie Ortego from Probutionary Police Lieutenant to Permanent Police Lieutenunt, effective 07/08/2019". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IIl, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT: None. On a motion by Alderman Charles Cummings and seconded by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts, it was resolved to ADD Item No.35-E, "Approve the confirmation rf'Cutina Guilbeaufrom Probationary Police Sergeant to Permanent Police Sergeunt, effective 07/08/2019". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IIl, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. On a motion by Alderman Floyd Ford and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, it was resolved to ADD Item No. 35-F, "Accept the resignation of Police Recnüt Ruby Lemelle and approve her appointnxent as Prr¡visional Police Communications Officer, effective 07/01/2019 ". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IIl, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT:None. On a motion by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to ADD Item No.35-G, "Approve the extended sick leave of Police Recor¿ls Clerk Dana Castille, e/fective 05/21/2019". A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis.  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 2019 NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. On a motion by Alderman Floyd Ford and seconded by Alderman Charles Cummings, it was resolved to maintain Item No. 35, "Approve the hiring of Malcolm McKinney as Provisional Police Olf;cer, elJëctive 07/15/2019" on the agenda. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT:None. On a motion by Alderman Charles Cummings and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to accept the agenda, as presented. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IlI, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT: None. ANNOUNCEMENTS o Recognition of Mr. Steven West, Public Works Department (Street). Mr. Steven West, Sr., has been employed with the City of Opelousas for over 20 years and is currently employed in the Public Works Street Department. Mr. West thanked the Mayor and the public for this recognition. o Mayor's Report. Mayor Alsandor read a prepared message as follows: Good Evening and Welcome to All! A little more than six months ago, I began my tenure as the Mayor of the City of Opelousas, where I was born, raised, and still reside today. I did not leave from what and where I called HOME, proudly say wherever I venture to. I chose to stay here to do exactly what I am presently doing raising my family in the city. I humbly represent all citizens of our city, Opelousas. I did not see nor ever dream of becoming a public seryant, especially not the Mayor. However, throughout these forty-two years of adulthood, I have tried to serve all members of our community in many ways, providing help however it was needed. My wife, Liz, has said many times, "All the money you have given away we could have benefitted us, but we would gladly do again and still do today''. I served on the city council for several years with the hope of having a group of people who would serve in the best interest of our city's present and future. However, this did not always happen as we lost our way by not making rational decisions for the good of the city. Unfortunately,' selfishness' resulted. We speak and reflect each day on where we were yesterday, and where we are now. This reflection is based on our last six months (6) months in offrce. 'We came in, started a process to find out where we have becn and where we are going. We know we have hurdles, but we also know that we can overcome them. l. We have money issues that we 'must' fix. How'l Spend less, manage what we have. 2. Repair and restore our partnerships with service providers. - Prove to them we are open for good business and good stewards. 3. We must pay our lingering bills that are long overdue, and restore belief in our business partners. 4. rùy'e must explain to our shareholders of the roadblocks we are confronting and encountering by informing them what those boulders are-FINANCES. 5. To State the truth, we are running a marathon, not a sprint. We all have to be long-winded, because our decisions are for longevity, with small incremental progress over time. 6. Vy'e must change how we have done business that benefits the city and its citizens. Helen Keller said, "Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to understand". If we are not willing to learn from our mistakes and not tighten up on the spokes of a wobbling wheel, wisdom is not GAINED, and nor will we straighten UP. o We canriot hx a road without managing our gravel. ¡ We cannot clean our sludge if we fail to change our filters. ¡ We cannot build a castle if our practices of molding is not modihed. We are trying to achieve all of these goals by changing our practices and by using our insightful knowledge of simplicity. In essence, we must find our problems and address them. Which we are doing. We must spend less and use our existing workforce by holding every worker accountable. Vy'e must spend time working on our new budget, together-for the better good of the city. My hope is that we will learn for our past as we move forward in making Opelousas a "Better" tomorrow. We will learn from our past. Because our past impacts our present which in turn dictates our future, meaning that all 3 shall continue to help us strive for a better tomorrow. PRESENTATIONS Discuss request by Mr. and Mrs. Joey and Joli Darbonne for appeal of Historic District Commission's denial of their request to remove chimneystack and cover the existing asbestos roof with a metal roof. Mrs. Darbonne stated that she purchased a repossessed home at 701 E. Grolee Street. The home has an asbestos roof and as she shopped for insurance, she discovered that the premiums were very high. She decided that they were going to fix the roof and decided to go with a metal roof. She gave an overview of the issues of the roof and provided pictures to the Council for review. She stated that she did not find out until three days before they were about to close on the house that they had to get approval from the Historic District Commission. She stated that she already had everything in place. She feels that the roof is a structural hazard. She is willing to work with the chimney and try to fix it in some kind of way but her mortgage sent her letter stating that it is a default of loan-breach of contract if she does not fìx the roof the way they said. Alderman Cummings commented that he understands what she is going through because he went through the same thing with his asbestos roof. He ended up taking his down and putting up an architectural roof. He thinks that they should review this matter. Ms. Opal Thibodeaux, Historic District õhuirp".son, addressed the Council. She stated that she also has an asbestos shingle roof and when Mrs. Darbonne came in they reviewed everything. She stated that she asked Mrs. Darbonne if the roof was leaking and Mrs. Darbonne stated that it was not leaking and the house is insurable with an asbestos shingle roof. Ms. Thibodeaux stated that when she went and looked at the roof, there was not one whole shingle missing from her roof. She stated that eleven of the 42 homes in the Historic District have asbestos shingle roofing which is an architectural feature as well as the chimneystack. SHPO states that they are deemed eligible to encompass the whole local Historic District on the National Registry because of architecture and their features so that is why they declined Mrs. Darbonne's request. On a motion by Alderman Charles Cumming and  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 2OI9 seconded by Alderwoman Davis, it was resolved to reverse the Historic District Commission's denial of the request made by Mr. and Mrs. Joey and Jolie Darbonne to chimneystack and cover the existing asbestos roof with a metal roof. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Charles Cummings, and Chasity Davis. NAYS: Sherell Roberts. ABSTAINING: Milton Batiste III and Floyd Ford. ABSENT: None. MOTION FAILS. A second motion was offered. On a motion by Alderman Milton Batiste III and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to TABLE the item until more information is received and place the matter on the August 2019 agenda. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IIl, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT: None. Discuss rolling forward to the maximum authorized millage rate for tax year 2019. Mr. Cliff Palmer and Ms. Kristyn Childers of the LaMATS agency which is affiliated with the Louisiana Municipal Association, gave a brief overview of the property tax millage process regarding the request the City's request to roll forward to their authorized maximum rate in an effort not to lose the adjusted rate prior to the reassessment period next year. The following is a breakdown of the anticipated additional revenue that will be available for the City with the roll forward: RE: Ad valorem taxes - General Alimony Ad valorem taxes are one source of revenue tbr the city. This revenue is based offthe taxable value and the general alimony rnillage rate authorized by the state's Constitution. The taxable value on the last audit was $141,843,040, which generated a revenue of 5951,341.27 at7.060 mills. This revenue can be increased by $9,432.56 (estirnate) by levying 7.130 mills f'or 2019 tax year. This is the same rate that the town levied between the years 2012-2015. State laws requires every Parish Tax Assessor to revalue all property every (4) years. ln order to remain "revenue" neutral, millage rates are adjusted accordingly. The city saw a slight increase in property value in the 201 ó reassessment, therefore the millage rate of 7.130 mills was adjusted down to 7.0ó0 mills. The city can rescind the resolution that was passed back in May and roll forward the rnillage rate back to 7.1 30. If this is not done in2019, the city will no longer have the option to levy a rate any higher than 7.060 unless there is a decrease in value, but the revenue would be based off $951 ,341.27 . The additional cost to property owners with a home (or land) valued as follows: Residence Tax Bill at the Residence Tax Bill at the 'adjusted rate': 'max rate': Increase of: Value at $50,000: $35.30 Value at $50,000: $35.ó5 $0.35 Value at $75,000: $52.95 Value at $75,000: $53.48 $0.53 Value at $ 100,000: $70.60 Value at $ 100,000: $7 I .30 $0.70 Valueat$200,000: $141.20 Valueat$200,000: $142.60 $1.40 On a motion by Alderman Floyd Ford and seconded by Alderman Charles Cummings, it was resolved to rescind Resolution No. l4-A of 2019 which adopted the current millage rate. A Public Hearing will be held in September to adopt a new resolution to roll forward to the maximum authorized millage rate for the 2019 tax year. RESCIND RESOLUTION NO. I4-A OF 20I9 BE IT RESOLVED, that the following millage(s) were hereby levied on the 2019 tax r¡¡ll on all property subject to taxation by Citv of Opelousas by Resolution No. l4-A of 2019: (Name of taxing district) MILLAGE Ceneral Alimony 7.0ó mills (Tax for: e.g. General Alimony, Library, Maintenance) BEITFURTHERRESOLVED,thatResolutionNo. l4-Aof20lgisherebyrescindedbytheGoverningAuthorityoftheCityofOpelousas in order to levy additional or increased millage rates without further voter approval or adopting the adjusted millage rate after reassessment and rolling fbrward to rates not to exceed the prior year's maximum. A roll call vote was taken vi,ith the following results: YEAS; Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT:None. Discuss request for approval of site plans for property located in a C2 (Commercial2) Zone aI I-49 Frontage @ Commerce Boulevard to build a Strip Mall (CommercePlaza Shopping Center- Real Estate Investments of Acadiana LLC). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on0710812019 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderman Charles Cummings and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to approve the request for approval of site plans for property located in a C2 (Commercial2) Zone aTI-49 Frontage @ Commerce Boulevard to build a Strip Mall (CommercePlaza Shopping Center - Real Estate Investments of Acadiana LLC). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste lll, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT:None. Discuss request for VARIANCE approval for property located in a C2 (Commercial2) Zone at I-49 Frontage @ Commerce Boulevard for parking at referenced location (Commerce Plaza Shopping Center - Real Estate lnvestments of Acadiana LLC). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on07l08l20l9 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderwoman Chasity Davis and seconded by Aldermen Floyd Ford and Marvin Richard, it  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 2OI9 was resolved to approve the request f.or VARIANCE approval f'or property located in a C2 (Commercial2) Zone at.I-49 Frontage @ Commerce Boulevard for parking at referenced location (Commerce Plaza Shopping Center - Real Estate Investments of Acadiana LLC). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste lll, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS: None. ABSENT:None. Discuss request for CONDITIONAL USE approval forproperty located in a NMU (Neighborhood Mixed Use) Zone at 606 N. Main Street to re-open a Snowball Stand (Denise Lalonde). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on 0710812019 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderman Milton Batiste III and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, it was resolved to approve the request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a NMU (Neighborhood Mixed Use) Zone at 606 N. Main Street to re-open a Snowball Stand (Denise Lalonde). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste lll, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. Discuss request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a NMU (Neighborhood Mixed Use) Zone aT 420 N. Main Street to open a Seafood Market (T & L Seafood LLC). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on 0710812019 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderman Marvin Richard and seconded by Aldermen Floyd Ford and Charles Cummings, it was resolved to approve the req uest for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a NMU (Neighborhood Mixed Use) Zone at 420 N. Main Street to open a Seafood Market (T & L Seafood LLC). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste IlI, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT:None. Discuss request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a R2 (Residential 2) Zone af 1405 Park Avenue to sell and serve Alcoholic Beverages in the Video Poker Game Room (Da Thi Nguyen - Thanh Randy Nguyen). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on07l08l20l9 regarding this matter and recommended denial of this request. Mrs. Jackie Martin spoke in support of the business and stated that there had been no trouble there and the owners were good people. Alderwoman Chasity Davis asked if his existing business already had a liquor licênse. He stated that he did have one for the store. Mrs. Diane Jenkins Mclendon and Ms. Catherine Jenkins, a resident in the area spoke against the business stating that it would be too much foot traffic and hanging out in the area and that they didn't need another liquor store in that area. Mr. Paul Gennuso addressed the City Attorney and stated that across the street from this business there is a park-an area that was designated to be Cherry Street Park and if a license was granted before then it was issued in error. The Attorney stated that to the extent that if Mr. Gennuso is correct and if there is a park in less than 300 f-eet then it would be in violation of the City ordinance. A variance would have had to be granted for that business to obtain a license. Mrs. Margaret Doucet stated that she was not aware of a park in that area--just a site for a park. Alderwoman Davis stated that she never received any calls stating that residents did not want the video poker room there. She did receive calls from residents wanting the business there. On a motion by Alderwoman Chasity Davis and seconded by Aldermen Charles Cummings and Marvin Richard, it was resolved to approve the request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a R2 (Residential 2) Zone at 1405 Park Avenue to sell and serve Alcoholic Beverages in the Video Poker Came Room (Da Thi Nguyen - Thanh Randy Nguyen). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste lll, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings and Chasity Davis. NAYS: Sherell Roberts. ABSENT: None. Discuss request for VARIANCE approval for property located in a C I (Commercial l) Zone at the 700 Block of Hall Street to place a Mobile Home at referenced location (Shalana Marie Green). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on 0710812019 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderwoman Chasity Davis and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, it was resolved to approve the request for VARIANCE approval for property located in a C I (Commercial I) Zone at the 700 Block of Hall Street to place a Mobile Home at referenced location (Shalana Marie Green). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. Discuss request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a Cl (Commercial l) Zone at 1116 N. Main Street to open a Drive Thru Window to serve customers at a Donut Shop (Tony Bui - Fresh Donuts). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on 0710812019 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderman Floyd Ford and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to approve the request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a Cl (Commercial l) Zone at 1116 N. Main Street to open a Drive Thru Window to serve customers at a Donut Shop (Tony Bui - Fresh Donuts). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste lll, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. Discuss request for CONDITIONAL USE approval for property located in a Cl (Commercial 1) Zone at 1144 N. Main Street to open an Automotive Paint & Repair Shop at referenced location (Tony Bui). THIS ITEM WAS TABLED AT THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINC BECAUSE THERE WAS NO REPRESENTATION AT THE MEETING. NO ACTION NEEDED AT THTS TIME.  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 2019 Discuss request for VARIANCE approval for property located in Cl (Commercial l) Zone af. 4312I-49 Service Road @ Gateway Blvd to place a Sign at referenced property (Morgan Signs - Honda of Acadiana). The Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on 07 l08l20l 9 regarding this matter and recommended approval of this request. On a motion by Alderman Charles Cummings and seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis, it was resolved to approve the request for VARIANCE approval for property located in Cl (Commercial l) Zone at 4372I-49 Service Road (@ Gateway Blvd to place a Sign at referenced property (Morgan Signs - Honda of Acadiana). A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT:None. Discuss request for ANNEXATION of a portion of the property located aT l716 W. Landry (G & R Properties LlClGerard Perron) as described below: I LOT (5 AC) N LOFTON S ROAD E VENDOR W CITY LTMITS FORMERLY OLD HOWARD BROTHERS SHOPPING CENTER IN SEC 72T-65 R-48 82ó338 (T-36-750) (LOT 2 BLK 18 W LANDRY ST-FOR OFFICE USE ONLY) TO ANNEX THE PORTION DESCRIBED AS 330'X295'AS SHOWN ON SURVEY PROJECT I9448 BY MORCAN COUDEAU & ASSOCIATES. ITEM DELETED. Presentation by Ms. Lena Charles regarding the Opelousas Downtown Development District and proposed resolution of support for the District. A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE OPELOUSAS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT. STATE OF LOUISIANA PARISH OF ST. LANDRY On a motion by Alderman Charles Cummings and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, the following Resolution was offered for adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 15 OF 2OI9 A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE OPELOUSAS DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Aldermen and the Mayor pledge to fully support the Opelousas Downtown Development District (the "District") and the purposes for which the District was created including, but not limited to, improving the public health, safety and welfare of the City, strengthening the City's downtown as the center of commercial, civic and cultural activity, fostering the creation of new jobs and economic activity in the City, and generally assisting the City and other stakeholders in its revitalization efforts of the downtown area of the City. BE IT FURTHER, RESOLVED, that the Board of Aldermen and the Mayor fully support the District's efforts to engage the services of a consultant to develop a master plan to assist the City, the District and the City's stakeholders to enhance infrastructure capacity in order to provide investors' confidence and accelerate economic growth. NOW, BE IT KNOWN that the City of Opelousas (the "City"), acting by and through its Board of Aldermen and with the approval of its Mayor, did adopt this Resolution on the 9th day of July, 2019 as follows: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. CITY OR Discuss CLECO Operating and Franchise Agreement Extension and authority to Mayor to Execute Said Extension A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AN EXTENSION OF THE CLECO OPERATING AND FRANCHISE AGREEMENT. Mayor Alsandor gave a brief overview by stating that CLECO has been the utility provider for the City for a number of years. Thirty years ago, the City had another provider and CLECO came in a negotiated another contract. Ms. Tanisha Wilkes asked that the City not go ahead with the contract because there is a 4%o markup lhat is added to each customer's bill that CLECO cannot say what it is for and they need to stand and help the elderly and the poor because they almost cannot afford to pay their rent and light bills. She suggested a flexible rate for the elderly. Mr. Paul Gennuso stated that there are other providers out there that are a lot cheaper. He stated that CLECO adds all types of charges to the customer's bill. Mr. Gennuso stated that the City needs to seek other providers. Mr. Lawrence Richard asked if the City could get SLEMCO to take over because the bills are much cheaper. Mr. Loren Carriere stated that CLECO has been an excellent partner for our community. Mayor Alsandor stated he is not here to abdicate for or against CLECO but the City has reached out to other electrical service providers but did not receive any responses. He pointed out that CLECO does not make the prices-the Public Service Commission does. RESOLUTION NO. 16 OF 2OI9 A RESOLUTION APPROVING A RENEWAL OPTION AND THIRD AMENDMENT TO OPERATING AND FRANCHISE AGREEMENT WITH CLECO WHEREAS, on May 14, 1991, the City of Opelousas (the "City") entered into an Operating and Franchise Agreement (the "Franchise Agreement") with Central Louisiana Electric Company ('CLECO"). V/HEREAS, the Franchise Agreement provided for an original term of ten (10) years and three renewal options of ten (10) years each; WHEREAS, the Franchise Agreement was renewed on November 10,2000 and July 14,2011 for two additional terms of ten (10) years each; WHEREAS, the Franchise Agreement continues for another ten (10) year term autonatically unless the City gives written notice to CLECO on or before August ll,2019; WHEREAS, the City and CLECO have negotiated a Third Amendment to the Franchise Agreement for the purpose of renewing the Franchise Agreement for an additional ten (10) year term beginning August ll,202l and ending August 11,2031; NOW THEREFORE, after the Resolution was read by title, on a Motion made by Alderwoman Sherell Robefs and seconded by Alderman Charles Cummings, the following vote was taken:  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 2OI9 NAME YEA NAY ABSENT/ABSTAIN HON. MARVIN RICHARD X HON. MILTONBATISTE III X HON. FLOYD FORD X HON. CHARLES CUMMINGS X HON. SHERELL ROBERTS X HON. CHASITY DAVIS X TOTAL 6 0 0 THEREFORE, pursuant to the affirmative vote of the governing authority of the City of Opelousas in legal session convened, BE IT RESOLVED the City is authorized to enter the Third Amendment to the Franchise Agreement. IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor Julius Alsandor is given all necessary authority to execute the proposed Intergovernmental Agreement. THUS DONE AND CERTIFIED this 9th day of July 2019 at Opelousas, Louisiana. A CITY MAYOR Presentation by City Attorney. No Report. Engineer's Monthly Status Report. Mr. William Jarrell stated that the Disinfection Facilities at the Wastewater Treatment Plant are now under construction and anticipated to proceed ahead of schedule. Next, he stated tlie Utilities for the Waterlines on Judson Walsh are being relocated now and should be completed within the next two weeks. PT]BLIC HEARINGS A PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF CONDEMNATION/DEMOLITION OF THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES: Pursuant to an advertisement in the Daily World, a Public Hearing was opened at 7:13 p.m. for A PUBLIC HEARING for possible condemnation/demolition of the following properties: a. Willie Williams, c/o AAR Properties (Abandoned Wood Frame Structure) 916 Pike Avenue Recommendation is /òr condemnation /or demolition. b. Encturion Home Builder LLC (Abandoned Bumed Mobile Home) 1500 Block of Frilot Street Recommendation is þr condemnation Jbr demolition. c. Edward Charles (Abandoned Wood Frame Structure) 540 S. Liberty Street RecommendqÍion is for condemnation /ör demolition. d. B & B Builders lnvestors Inc. (Abandoned Wood & Steel Structule) 838 Cherry Street Recomme ndat io n is fo r co ndem nat io n /o r demo I i t io n. The Public Hearing was closed at 7:18 p.m. On a motion by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, it was resolved to accept the recommendations. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. II OF 2018 DEEMING CERTAIN PROPERTY NOT USEFUL FOR A PUBLIC PURPOSE AND PROVIDING FOR A LEASE OF SUCH PROPERTY (HRON OPELOUSAS LLC-AGRATECH). INTRODUCTIONOFANORDINANCEAMENDINGORDINANCE NO. I I OF 20I8 DEEMING CERTAIN PROPERTY NOT USEFUL FOR A PUBLIC PURPOSE AND PROVIDING FORALEASE OF SUCH PROPERTY WHEREAS, by Ordinance No. I I of 2018, the Governing Authority of the City of Opelousas deemed not useful for a public purpose the following property owned by the City: Alloflot4containinga4.000acretractanda2.000acretractofthe North half of Lot 2 of the Opelousas Industrial Park, as described on the Plat of Survey made by Morgan Goudeau & Associates on October 8,2018, and recorded at Act No._ in the conveyance records of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, a copy of which is attached. (hereafter the "Property") WHEREAS, in the same Ordinance, the Governing Authority authorized the City to enter a proposed lease agreement with HRON OPELOUSAS, LLC ("Proposed Lessee") to lease the Property; WHEREAS, since the enactment of Ordinance No. ll of 2018, the Proposed Lessee has requested that Ordinance No. l1 of 201 8 be amended to adopt the proposed lease agreement attached to this Ordinance as Exhibit I . V/HEREAS, by this Ordinance No._ of 2019, the Governing Authority of the City of Opelousas desires to amend Ordinance No. ll of 2018. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelousas, in legal session convened, that Ordinance No. ll of 2018 is hereby amended to adopt the form of the Lease Agreement attached as Exhibit 1. All other provisions of Ordinance No. I I of 201 8 shall remain. Said Ordinance was introduced by Alderman Charles Cummings. RESOLUTIONS A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF OPELOUSAS AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PARISH OF ST. LANDRY. RESOLUTION NO. 17 OF 2OI9 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF OPELOUSAS AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PARISH OF ST. LANDRY  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 2019 V/HEREAS, the City of Opelousas (the "Citl') and the Government of the Parish of St. Landry (the "Parish") desire to enter an intergovernmental agreement to advance the public purpose of enhancing public safèty and promoting local economy and efficiency in the operation of local public services, which will include the sharing and/or provision of services; WHEREAS, the Parish will provide to the City, and the City will receive from the Parish, road grading services as needed and requested by the City from time to time at a cost to the City of ONE HLTNDRED EIGHTY ($180.00) DOLLARS per hour for those streets listed on the attached list of streets within the City; V/HEREAS, the Parish and the City have reduced to writing these terms in a proposed contract titled "Intergovernmental Agreement"; and V/HEREAS, the Parish and the City desire that the governing authority of the City consider and approve the Intergovernmental Agreement at a public meeting, and that the Mayor be given the requisite authority to exeçute the Intergovernmental Agreement and to bind the City to same; NOW THEREFORE, after the Resolution was read by title, on a Motion made by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts and seconded by Alderman Milton Batiste III, the following vote was taken: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts, and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. THEREFORE, pursuant to the affirmative vote of the governing authority of the City of Opelousas in legal session convened, BE IT RESOLVED the City is authorized to enter with the Parish the proposed lntergovernmental Agreement; IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that Mayor Julius Alsandor is given all necessary authority to execute the proposed Intergovernmental Agreement. THUS DONE AND CERTIFIED this 9d'day of July 2019 at Opelousas, Louisiana. CITY MAYOR CONSENTS On a motion by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts and seconded by Alderman Marvin Richard, it was resolved to approve the following CONSENTS items: Approve the Confirmation of Michael Lacomb, as a Police Lieutenant, effective 0510612019. Approve the Reinstatement/reemplo)rment of Amber Sylvester, as a Police Offrcer First Class, effective 07lrsl20t9. Approve the hiring of Al Deville as Probationary Police Offrcer, effective 0711412019. Approve the hiring of Malcolm McKinney as Provisional Police Officer, effective 0711512019. Approve the resignation of Provisional Police Communiccttions Officer Mary Fontenot, ffictive 05/04/2019. Approve the resignation of Police OIJìcer First Class Jeremy Jennings. Accept the resígnation of Probationary Police Sergeant Herbert Levier, elfective 06/28/2019". Approve the confirmatíon of Brodie Ortego/i,om Probationary Police Líeutenant to Permanent Police Lieutenont, effective 07/08/2019. Approve the confirmation of Catina Guilbeaufrom Probationary Police Sergeant to Permanent Police Sergeant, effective 07/08/2019. Accept the resignatíon oJ'Police Recruit Ruby Lemelle and approve her appointment as Provisional Police Communications Offìcer, effectiv e 0 7 /0 I / 2 0 I 9. Approve the extended sick leave oJ'Police Records Clerk Dana Castille, elfective 05/2 I /2019. A roll call vote was taken with the following results: YEAS: Marvin Richard, Milton Batiste III, Floyd Ford, Charles Cummings, Sherell Roberts and Chasity Davis. NAYS:None. ABSENT: None. BIDS Accept Bids for Off-Site 2 Card Fuel System (Bid #04-19). Pursuant to an advefisement inthe Daily lVorld for Off-Site 2 Card Fuel System (Bid #04-19), one (l) bid was received: BID PROPOSAL GASOLINE AND DIESEL OFF.SITE MOTOR FUEL 2 FOR CITY OF OPELOUSAS FOR FISCAL YEAR SEPTEMBER 1,2019 THROUGH AUGUST 31,2020 AS PER SPECIFICATIONS 1. GASOLINE: REGULAR UNLEADED MINIMUM OCTANE 87 MARGIN cost plus 0.09 cents MID-GRADE UNLEADED MINIMUM OCTANE 89 MARGIN cost plus 0.09 cents PREMIUM UNLEADED MINIMUM OCTAIN 92 MARGIN cost plus 0. certts BASE PRICE: WEEKLY PRICE ESTABLISHED BY OPIS, LAKE CHARLES TERMINAL LA STATE FUEL TAX - 0.2 FEDERALTAX: EXEMPT 2. DIESELFUEL: #2 DIESEL MARGIN cost plus 0.09 cents BASE PRICE: \ilEEKLY OPIS PAD 3 REPORT, LAKE CHAR-LES TERMINAL BIDS \ilILL BE BASED ON THE FOLLO\ryING ESTIMATED ANNUAL USAGE:  CITY OF OPELOUSAS OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 9, 20I9 GASOLINE: REGULAR UNLEADED 104.870 GALLONS MID-GRADE UNLEADED 10.930 GALLONS PREMIUM UNLEADED 4.200 GALLONS DIESEL: #2 DIESEL I4.OOO GALLONS ALL BIDS WILL BE SUBMITTED IN A SEALED ENVELOPE. THE FIRM'S NAME, ITEM BEING BID UPON, AND STATE CONTRACT NUMBER (IF APPLICABLE), AND MUST BE CLEARLY STATED ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE ENVELOPE. F le etRite N et/S h o p Ríte NAME OF FIRM SUBMITTING BID STATE CONTRACT # (IF APPLICABLE) Jan G. Janíce AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE 6/26/19 DATE SUBMITTED On a motion by Alderman Floyd Ford, seconded by Alderman Milton Batiste III and unanimously carried, it was resolved to take under advisement and award if the bid meets specifications. At this time, Mayor Alsandor announced that the City may be facing some inclement weather in the next few days and sandbags could be picked up at the following locations: Opelousas, Louisiana, July 10,2019 In preparation for the predicted inclement weather forecasted for our areao the City of Opelousas will be providing pre-filled sandbags to residents beginning July 11,2019 through July 12,2019, at the following locations: Opelousas Police Deparünent 3 18 N. Court Steet, 337 -948-2513 . Opelou.sas Public Works (City Bam), 436 W. Park Avorue, 337 -948-2550. In the event ofa shortage ofpre-filled bap at these two locatiorn, residents may also bring a shovel to fill provided bags. The Yarnbilee Building, 1939 W. I^andry Sfeet, will also provide sand. Residens are asked to bring their own shovel to fill p'rovided bags. Conact the Pa¡ish Office at 337 -948-3688 or Ms. Lisa Vidrine at337 -948-7 177 for more information for this location. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCBS lr¿s¿m ¿rl¡ INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDINC THE OPERATING BUDGET OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 1, 2OI8 AND ENDING AUGUST 31,2019. INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE OPERATING BUDGET OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 1, 2OI8 AND ENDING AUGUST 3I,2OI9 WHEREAS, the City of Opelousas desires to amend the budget ofrevenues and expendifures adopted by the City of Opelousas in October 201 8 as set out in the document attached to this ordinance; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelousas, in legal session convened, that the budget of revenues and expenditures adopted by the City Council in fàll 2018 for the fiscal year beginning September l, 2018 and ending August 31,2019, shall be and is amended as set out in the document attached to this ordinance. Said Ordinance was introduced by Alderwoman Sherell Roberts. INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE OPERATING BUDGET OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING SEPTEMBER I, 2019 AND ENDTNG AUGUST 31,2020. INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING AN OPERATING BUDGET OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING SEPTEMBER I,2OI9 AND ENDING AUGUST 3I,2O2O WHEREAS, the Louisiana Local Government Budget Act requires the City of Opelousas to adopt an annual budget of revenues and expenditures on or before August 30,2019; WHEREAS, the proposed budget must be accompanied by a budget adoption instrument; WHEREAS, the City of Opelousas desires to adopt the budget of revenues and expendirures proposed by the Mayor of the Municipality, Reginald Tatum, and attached to this Ordinance (the "Budget Ordinance"); V/HEREAS, at a regular meeting of the Board of Aldermen for the City of Opelousas (the "City Council") held on July 9. 2019, this Budget Ordinance was introduced by Alderwoman Chasity Davis pursuant to the provisions of La. R.S. 33:406(BXlX2); and WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of La. R.S. 33:406(B)(2), a public hearing on the Budget Ordinance was held prior to final adoption, and notice was appropriately run as required by the Louisiana Local Government Budget Act; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Opelousas, in legal session convened, that the budget of revenues and expenditures proposed by the Mayor of the Municipality, Julius Alsandor, and attached to this Budget Ordinance be and is hereby adopted by the governing authority of the City of Opelousas. The referenced Budget is available for public inspection at City oJ'Opelousas Municipal ffice, 105 N. Main Street, Opelousas, Louisictna, Monday-Thursduy, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. und Friday, 8:00 a.m. - I I:00 a.m. (except holidays). There being nothing further to come before the Council, on a motion by Alderman Charles Cummings, seconded by Alderwoman Chasity Davis and unanimously carried, it was resolved that the meeting be adjourned. The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m. ATTEST: CITY MAYOR