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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1985-08-20 MinutesMINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS A regular meeting of the Fayetteville City Board of Directors was held on Tuesday, August 20, 1985, at 7:30 P.M. in the Board Room of City Hall at 113 West Mountain Street, Fayetteville, Arkansas. PRESENT: Mayor Noland; Directors Bumpass, Hess, Johnson, Lancaster Martin and Orton; City Manager Grimes, Assistant City Manager McWethy, City Attorney McCord, City Clerk Kennedy; members of the press and audience CALL TO ORDER Mayor Noland called the meeting to order, with seven. Directors present, and asked for a moment of respectful silence. SOLID WASTE FACILITY BONDS Mayor Noland introduced an ordinance approving the issuance and sale of approximately $18,000,000 in Solid Waste Management Revenue bonds, by the Northwest Arkansas Resource Recovery Authority. The Mayor reported that the Resource Recovery Authority met on August 19 and passed a resolution recommending. an alternate method of financing for the solid waste facility. Louis Watts was present to speak on behalf of the Authority. Watts reported that the financial plan recommended by the Authority was developed by the Authority's financial consultant, Stephens, Inc., along with Morrison Knudsen's Financial Department. Watts explained the plan was turned over to the city's Finance Director for an evaluation of residential rates. Jim Reynolds, Consulting Engineer for the project, presented the Board with details regarding the guarantees included in the design/construction and the operations/maintenance contracts for the facility. Reynolds commented that, even though the University of Arkansas cannot, by law, enter into a contract for more than five years at a time, it was his feeling that the University had an incentive to stay with its agreement to purchase steam generated by the facility. Reynolds reported that, based on estimates, the University will purchase 97-99"% of the steam generated by the plant. Reynolds stated that, although it has been said the University will save $15 million on the steam it buys from the plant, it has not been mentioned that they will purchase 247 247.1 247:2 247.3 247.4 247.5 ?48 August 20, 1985 248.1 about $72 million of steam over the life of the project. He also pointed out that steam not sold will be condensed back into the water cycle and will not pass out of the plant and into the atmosphere. 248.2 Reynolds stated that a prudent estimate was made of the amount of waste there will be in the near future but there has been added, at a cost to the project, the ability for there to be a second "train" which can double the size of the plant in the future. Reynolds noted the only adjustment made to the guarantee has been a change from 38,500 tons of "through -put" to 41,000 tons. 248.3 Reynolds explained that, with the new financing alternative, the original proposal for a $28 million bond issue would now amount to approximately $18.7 million. Reynolds explained that this financing method will increase rates in early years, but only by approximately $2 per month per household (assuming that existing funds are not used). 248.4 Scott Linebaugh, City Finance Director, explained that, if the project stood on its own, the financing proposed would require a bond cost of approximately $22 million (actual costs of construction of the plant being $15,300,000 plus approximately $7 million in bond issuance Costs and capitalized interest). Linebaugh explained that the project, in summary, would cost $50 per ton in .absolute dollars, over the life of the financing. Based on 41,000 tons, Linebaugh explained that the plant would cost $2,050,000 per year. Linebaugh explained that the landfill and extra hauling costs (assuming tripling of fees and 5% escalation) would cost $1,504,769 per year. Linebaugh estimated there to be a $541,000 per year difference in cost between operating the facility and taking 41,000 tons to the landfill. Linebaugh noted that by the year 2002, 30% of the city's trash will be sent to the landfill at a cost of $30 per ton average, and the amount of this tonnage going to the landfill instead of the incinerator will drop our cost per year to $450,503. Linebaugh explained that the extra cost per household per month would be $1.46 to $3.37. 248.5 Linebaugh noted' that other important variables which can affect the financing are tipping fees and gas prices. Linebaugh explained that the financing alternative now proposed (Alternative 3) would involve a large up -front expenditure, with members of the Authority being asked to pay the capitalized interest in the first two years, amounting to approximately $1,500,000. Linebaugh noted this method reduces the bond issue to $18,685,000 and lowers the annual debt service to $1,928,112 and would result in lower tipping fees ranging from $35.80- $45.76 per ton. Linebaugh explained that this will mean an extra $2.13 per household per month rate increase immediately, raising the. residential rate to $7.63, and commercial rates to $12.03. Linebaugh explained that in 1988 there would have to be another increase of $1.10 per month, bringing.residential rates to $8.73; and an increase in 1993 and 1998 of .21 each time, bringing the top residential rate up to $9.15. August 20, 1985 Mayor Noland asked Linebaugh if the "absolute value" monthly rates proposed under Alternative 3 reflected increased collection costs. Linebaugh explained that the operating expenses of the collection system would have to be added to the rates. Linebaugh added that, if the $1,500,000 accrued towards the costs of the plant (including $320,000 expended so far by the Authority) could be applied towards operational increases, a rate increase would not be needed for quite awhile. Jim Reynolds pointed out that the projected monthly rates do include collection costs -- at today's costs of collection -- and that it is only the increase in collections costs for the future which are not included. Reynolds displayed charts which showed that the $18.7 million alternative financing would have a total debt service of $54 million over 25 years, with the range -of residential rates being between $5.50 — $9.50. In answer to a question from Mayor Noland, Reynolds explained that there is a 38,544 tons per year guaranteed minimum through—put included in the contiact, with no maximum. Director Hess asked if costs of machine repair were included in the Operations & Maintenance contract price. Reynolds explained that a "long—term maintenance fund" is included, at a rate of approximately 7% of the gross capital costs of the plant every year; that $75,000 per year would be held out of the fund for such expenses. Peg Anderson, Authority member representing Washington County, commented on the county's landfill problems. She noted that, of the two landfills operating under permits in the county, Parsons' landfill received 10 violations and Sunray landfill received 34 violations in the last year. Anderson explained that the Department of Pollution Control and Ecology is mandated to inspect the landfills four times per year but, because they do not inspect that frequently, Washington County has hired someone to look at the landfills on a biweekly basis. Anderson commented that the county is not sure whether or not there is leachate pollution in Beaver Lake or Clear Creek from the landfills. Director Orton commented that the incinerator facility should be another long—term solution (in addition to the city's wastewater treatment plant) to the problem of water pollution. Orton urged that the project go forward, remarking that Fayetteville "can be proud to be leaders in the State" and "be proud that it is doing a first—class job in taking care of pollution problems". Director Orton stated she thought citizens had heard about the project and there was a lot of support. Orton added that, if there is enough opposition on the part of the citizens, there is the opportunity to submit a petition for a referendum. Mayor Noland asked that feedback be received from citizens, rather than the Board taking action now on the basis of facts which he said were received one day prior to the meeting. Noland commented that 249 249.1 249.2 249.3 249.4 249.5 249.6 249.7 250 August 20, 1985 "250.1. the Board is committing the citizens of Fayetteville for a 25 -year period and he asked to be given time for further consideration of the project. 250.2 Director Johnson commented that, in speaking to civic groups recently, she mentioned the issue and received no negative feedback from citizens regarding the idea of the plant. Johnson added that those with whom she spoke did not seem afraid of a raise in sanitation rate of around $3.00 per month. Johnson also expressed her concerns about the future costs of operating a landfill in this area. Johnson stated she would be in favor of an ordinance authorizing the bond issue. 250.3 Director Hess spoke in favor of the Board proceeding with a decision; commenting that he felt the citizens put their trust in the ultimate judgment of the Board. Hess remarked that, in visiting a Volund-designed plant in Tampa, he observed that it did not emit any pollutants into the atmosphere. Hess also pointed out that sometimes it pays to be patient because, had the Board voted in June when the ordinance was first proposed, they might have voted for a $28 million dollar issue. 250.4 Director Martin explained that, because he is an officer of Arkansas Western Gas Company and, since the University of Arkansas is the gas company's largest customer, he would abstain from the discussion and voting. 250.5 Director Bumpass expressed his concerns about landfills, noting that the geological sub -structure in Northwest, Arkansas has a limestone base which fractures easily and allows water running through a landfill to trickle down through the cracks in the limestone. Bumpass noted, however, that he would still like to have an election on this issue, rather than having a decision just by the Board of Directors. Bumpass commented that, in every other instance where the city has borrowed money for projects, the issue has been taken to a vote of the people. Bumpass stated he didn't understand why in this instance the Board was going around "an established procedure that is ordinarily mandated by constitution or statute". 250.6 Director Lancaster remarked that he would support this issue at any cost; rather than see the project go down the drain -- but that he hated to see the Board pass an ordinance when they weren't in 100% agreement. 250.7 The City Attorney read the ordinance for the first time. Director Orton, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion failed to pass, 3-3-1, with Directors Hess, Johnson and Orton voting "yes", Directors Noland, Bumpass and Lancaster voting "no", and Director Martin abstaining. • August 20, 1985 In answer to a question from the Board, the City Attorney confirmed that 1,092 signatures are necessary to call for a referendum. Director Bumpass asked the City Attorney why an election was not required in this instance, and he explained that a vote is necessitated on a bond issue by a municipality only when required by statute, such as in the case of General Obligation bonds. He also pointed out that the city had issued other bonds without elections, specifically Airport bonds and Water and Sewer Revenue bonds. *THE MEETING WAS RECESSED AT 9:35 P.M. AND RECONVENED AT 9:45 P.M.* FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT Director Martin reported on the Finance Committee meeting held August 16th. Martin explained the committee discussed the refunding of out- standing Water and Sewer bonds issued in 1963, 1966, 1969 and 1975 which were originally planned to eventually be defeased. Martin pointed out .that, last January, the Supreme Court ruled that the proceeds of a new bond issue cannot be used to defease old issues. Finance Director Scott Linebaugh reported that, at the Finance Committee meeting, underwriters A. G. Edwards and Sons proposed a new bond issue, in the range of $5,000,000, be used to pay off all old Water and Sewer bond issues. Linebaugh explained the proposal would allow rates to remain the same, and would save money as well. Linebaugh added that the proposal will also allow the city to earn more on the new bond issue than it will pay out on the defeasance -- for a net absolute savings of $1,755,000 (on premium and interest payments to be made in the future). Linebaugh explained this would mean a .savings in present dollars of $285,128. Linebaugh pointed out that, if a refunding issue is not used, rates will increase 10% in 1986 , 20% in 1987, 10% in 1988 and 31% in 1999 (or collections of almost $900,000 more per year). Linebaugh requested the Board approve a resolution which would allow A. G. Edwards to begin work on a refunding proposal which would be brought before the Board for approval. Director Martin pointed out that this request does not ask for any additional financing, in that the defeasance of the bonds had been planned to take place. Director Martin, seconded by Johnson, made a motion that A. G. Edwards and Sons be authorized to bring a firm proposal before the Board as soon as possible. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. RESOLUTION NO. 88-85 APPEARS ON PAGE 391 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XxII 251 251.1 251.2 251.3 251.4 251.5 252 August 20, 1985 GREGORY PARK ACCESS ROAD 252.1 A presentation was made by Wayne Jones of McClelland Engineers regarding the preliminary design of an access road running through Gregory Park on the V.A. Hospital grounds. Jones explained that his firm was retained by the city to prepare plans and specifications for a roadway through Gregory Park; that the plan was prepared in consultation with the V.A. engineering staff and the city's Street Superintendent concerning the Sycamore Street location. Jones added that his firm was also asked to develop a pre -determined route through the park, to define the locations of the road on the V.A. property and to determine the location for the road to connect with Sycamore Street. 252.2 Jones told the Board of two alternatives which were considered for the Sycamore connection - one being near the crest of Sycamore which was thought would provide greater sight distance - the other being at the intersection of Greenvalley Avenue. 252.3 Jones explained that their conceptual plan also includes the minimization of street grades from Sycamore to the terminus point on the V.A. grounds, storm drainage considerations, and minimum city street standard Con- struction. Jones said the proposed road would be from 1550 to 1725 feet in distance, depending on the route used across the V.A. grounds, with the average grade from Sycamore Street to the grounds being around 5.1%-5.2%. Jones stated the specific grades would vary from approximately 36 to 8%. 252.4 In answer to a question from Director Martin, Jones explained that the main objection to the proposed route is the somewhat sharp curve in the road, which has a 55 foot radius. Jones stated he thought the final result would be a curve with a 70-75 foot radius, because of the possible trailer -truck traffic using the road. Jones noted that the proposed road would take up approximately 1 1/2 acres of the park. Director Orton objected to the road using up so much of the park. Jones pointed out that, although there are other routes which would be.less sharp and circuitous, it was not the firm's task to determine the routing and the desired grade. He explained that the center portion of the road was pre -determined and his firm was asked to determine the terminus on Sycamore Street and the terminus on the grounds. Jones pointed out that a shorter route would have a higher grade. 252.5 Director Johnson stated it was her observation that visibility is poor to the west when presently exiting Greenvalley south to Sycamore. Johnson commented that the proposed connection point at Greenvalley would only compound the problem by increasing traffic. Jones pointed out that the proposed exit point from the grounds is proposed to be four feet higher and would give a clear line of sight. August 20, 1985 John Mahaffey, speaking for the V.A. Hospital, explained that the V.A.'s intention in building the road is to eliminate so many left turns onto College Avenue. In answer to questions about large truck traffic, he estimated there to be five or six trucks per day but that traffic going southbound would be more likely to use the main exit onto College Avenue. Mayor Noland questioned. Jones about the possibility of locating the exit one block east, at Woodland. Jones explained that using that location would increase the grade to about 11%. The Mayor reported that the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board is very much opposed to the concept of the road cutting through the middle of the park. The Mayor stated he hoped for a solution which would be acceptable to both the V.A. and the PRAB. Charles Richardson, resident of 1712 Greenvalley Avenue, submitted a petition to the Board containing 31 signatures of area residents who believe that extending Greenvalley to the V.A. Hospital grounds would be harmful to their neighborhood, and urging the Board not to approve the road., Richardson explained that the eastern boundary of the neighborhood is zoned R-0, there is no access from the north, to the west is R-2 zoning, and to the south is Gregory Park. Richardson remarked that the Planning Commission and the Board of Directors had done a good job in protecting the neighborhood with "good zoning". Richardson stated he thought the concept for the road would be an invitation to drive through the Greenvalley neighborhood for access to College. Richardson urged the Board to reject the proposal. Helene Furst, resident of 1729 Greenvalley, also spoke in opposition. Furst ,pointed out that there is another exit from the V.A. grounds onto Woolsey and she stated she thought this proposal would simply move the traffic problem from Woolsey to Greenvalley. Furst asked if truck traffic would be permitted to travel on residential streets. Director Johnson suggested the Board drive south on Greenvalley and also drive east or west through the College Avenue/Sycamore intersection. She commented that those two intersections are extremely dangerous and should be viewed by the Board before taking any further action. Johnson remarked that Director Lancaster, at a prior meeting, had already requested the College/Sycamore intersection be studied by the engineers. Wayne Jones asked that a decision be made whether to approve the plan as proposed, in order for plans and specs to be advertised by the end of September. Director Hess asked Jones if, in the interest of compromise, the terminus of the road on the grounds could be located further east, near a cul de sac shown on the plan, thus allowing for a shorter length of road. 253 253.1 253.2 253.3 253.4 253.5 253.6 254 August 20, 1985 254.1 Jones stated that service drives are located in that area, which is a heavy traffic receiving area, and do not lend themselves to additional traffic. 254.2 Mayor Noland suggested the Traffic Superintendent, the V.A. and McClelland Engineering review the objections from the area residents and the Parks Board, with a view to finding a feasible route which would be acceptable to the V.A., satisfactory from an engineering standpoint, and still take care of the traffic problems 254.3 Director Martin stated he recalled that when the Board first considered the question of having the road, it was to be located on the east side of the park, and it was not intended that it would cut the park in two. 254.:4 Director Johnson, seconded by Martin, made a motion to refer this issue back to McClelland Engineers to meet with all those concerned and report back to the Board with a different proposal. 254.5 Doris Cassady, Acting Associate Director for the V.A., addressed the Board. Ms. Cassady noted that three engineering proposals had been presented to the Parks Board. She commented that the V.A. is also interested in the conservation of the park, noting that the V.A. had donated the land to the city for a park and that the city, in twenty years, had built one pavilion. She pointed out that the V.A. is in the process of building three new units, and that they too have received petitions from V.A. organizations, asking for a safer access. Cassady stated that, if truck traffic is a problem, she thought the V.A. could ban such traffic from using the new street, since the V.A.'s main interest is to provide a safe entrance for the patients. 254.6 In answer to a query from Director Hess, Charles Richardson and a spokesperson from the Parks Board both agreed that, if there is to be a road at all, it would be preferable for it to be located further east. 254.7 City Manager Grimes commented that the possibility of acquiring private property might also be considered, if it was necessary in order for an acceptable route to be found. 254.8 Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. 254.9 Director Johnson stressed that there be some study of the Sycamore/College intersection to improve its design. NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT 254.10 Director Johnson reported for the Board Nominating committee recommended the following persons be nominated Committee. That to fill vacancies, 255 August 20, 1985 representing managers of hotels, motels or restaurants, on the Advertising 255.1 and Promotion Commission: Wayne Dyer, of the Hush Puppy Linn Carlson, of the Ozark Mountain Smokehouse Bill Clodfelter, of the Holiday Inn Directoi Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to approve the recommendation of the committee. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. Director Johnson reported that the Nominating Committee did not have a recommendation for the vacancy on the Planning Commission at this time but she expected to report on that nomination at the next Board meeting. UNSIGHTLY PROPERTY/1328 S.SCHOOL AVE The Board considered an ordinance ordering the abatement of unsightly conditions and the razing and removal of an unsafe structure located at 1328 South School Avenue, which was left on first reading at the August 6th meeting. Director Johnson, seconded by Hess, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the third time. No one was present to represent this item and, upon roll call, the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3103 APPEARS ON PAGE 36 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK xxii REZONING APPEAL/EARTHWORKS The Board considered an appeal of a decision by the Planning Commission regarding failure to approve rezoning petition R85-21. The Mayor explained that the petitioner, "Earthworks", requested a change from A-1, Agricultural, to C-2 Thoroughfare Commercial for 33.26 acres located at the northeast corner of the Fulbright Expressway and Highway 112 North. The Mayor reported that the Planning Commission's motion to recommend approval failed to pass by a vote of 3-3; that the Planning Consultant recommended C-2 zoning for the following reasons: 255.2 255.3 255.4 255.5 255.6 255.7 ?56 August 20, 1985 256.1 1. C-2 zoning is consistent with the recommendations of the General Land Use Plan; 256.2 2. C-2 zoning currently exists to the north, south, and west of this property; 256.3 3. The property is bounded on two sides by an expressway, with an arterial street on the third side and a drive-in theater • on the fourth; and 256.4 4. Water and sewer is available to serve the property. „256.5 The Mayor asked if anyone present wished to speak in opposition to the ordinance.. With no public opposition expressed, The City Attorney read the ordinance for the first time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the final time. Upon roll call, the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3104 APPEARS ON PAGE 38 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK xxzz REZONING PETITION R85-22/JOHNSON 256.6 The Board considered an ordinance rezoning 7.04 acres located west of Root Avenue and the Fulbright Expressway and south of West Sixth Street from A-1, Agricultural, and R-2, Medium Density Residential, to C-2, Thoroughfare Commercial. The Mayor explained that the petition, submitted by Lewis P. and Harold B. Johnson, was considered by the Planning Commission which recommended approval by a vote of 5-1. The Mayor noted.t_hat the Directors had viewed the property. 256.7 The City Attorney read the ordinance for the first time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinanceon third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the third time. 256.8 The Mayor asked if anyone present wished to speak against the ordinance. There being no public opposition expressed, the roll was called and the ordinance passed, 7-0. ii August 20, 1985 ORDINANCE NO. 3105,APPEARS ON PAGE 40 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK :XXII REZONING PETITION R85-19/ROBBINS The Board considered an ordinance rezoning 2.04 acres located at the northwest corner of Highway 16 East and Hunt Lane, which was left on first reading at the August 6th meeting. The Mayo* explained that the petition, submitted by Keith and Jackie Robbins, was to rezone from A-1, Agricultural, to R-1, Low Density Residential, and was recom- mended for approval by the Planning Commission by a vote of 7-0. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading., Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The ordinance was read for the third time. The Mayor asked if anyone present wished to speak against the ordinance. There being no public opposition expressed, the roll was called and the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3106 APPEARS ON PAGE 42 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXii O UNSIGHTLY PROPERTY/920 W. BERRY ST. The Board considered an ordinance ordering the abatement of unsightly conditions and the razing and removal of an unsafe structure located at 920 West Berry Street, which was left on first reading at the August 6th meeting. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made" a motion to further suspend the rules and 'place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The ordinance was read for the third time. The Mayor asked if anyone present wished to speak against the ordinance. There was no ppblic opposition expressed. Upon roll call, the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3107 APPEARS ON PAGE 44. OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK xxII 2 257.1 257.2 257.3 257.4 257.5 257.6 258 258.1 August 20, 1985 ALLEY CLOSING The Board gave further consideration to an ordinance abandoning and vacating a ten -foot north/south alley located between Rockwood Trail and Rebecca, east of Fallin Avenue, which was left on first reading at the August 6th meeting. 258.2 Director Johnson, seconded by Orton, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further. suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the third time. 258.3 The Mayor asked if anyone present wished .to speak in opposition to the ordinance. There being no public comment expressed, the roll was called and the ordinance passed, 6-1, with Director Bumpass voting in the minority. ORDINANCE NO. 3108 APPEARS ON PAGE 46 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII SIDEWALK INSTALLATIONS/CODE AMENDMENT 258.4 The Board considered an ordinance amending the City Code to provide that the City Manager's designee may, under specified conditions, give a property owner notice to construct a sidewalk. The ordinance was .left on first reading at the August 6th meeting. 258.5 Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the third time. 258.6 The Mayor asked if anyone present wished to speak against the ordinance. No public opposition was expressed. 258.7 Director Johnson stated she did not understand why a designee is needed to handle this item, rather than the City Manager. David McWethy, Assistant City Manager, explained that the City Code presently provides that the City. Manager must give notice to property owners to construct a sidewalk, yet it is the Planning Office which knows when such notice must be given. McWethy commented that the change would simplify the process, in allowing the Planning Office to give the notice. August 20, 1985 In answer to a question from Director Martin, the City Attorney explained that, pursuant to a policy decision by the Board, the City Code requires a sidewalk to be built (if shown on the Master Sidewalk Plan) when a new structure is being built, or an existing structure is being modified, or where a parking lot having a minimum capacity of seven automobiles is being constructed or enlarged. Director Johnson stated that she thought, in order to "give clout to the issue" of requiring sidewalks; the task of signing the notice should be remain in the City Manager's Office, although she thought it still could be administered by the Planning Office. Mayor Noland asked the City Manager how many such notices were sent out in the course of a month. Grimes explainedthat the notices have been going out from the Planning Office, and that he hadn't been signing them. Grimes stated he thought there were not a large number of notices and most of them had been in conjunction with new construction. Grimes explained that, if he were to sign the notices, he might then be burdened with having to discuss the marter with the property owners involved to try to work out problems when they arise. Director Orton stated she thought this task should be handled in the Planning Office and she commented that, although it is a policy decision for the Board, she thought this should be an administrative matter. Orton added that the City Manager should not have to handle such routine jobs, with the ordinance containing guidelines for the Planning Office to follow. The City Attorney recommended the question be tabled and that a copy of Section 18-31 of the Code of Ordinances be provided the Directors in the agenda for the next meeting, so that the Board can review the factual circumstances being addressed. 259 259.1 259.2 259.3 259.4 259.5 Director Bumpais, seconded by Orton, made a motion to table. Dpon 259.6 roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. PRESENTATION TO ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER Director Hess explained that during his travels he discovered that the proper sign of authority was adequate head covering and he presented Assistant City Manager McWethy with an Arab kaffiyeh which Hess brought back from a recent journey to Israel. Director Hess expressed the hope that McWethy would wear the headdress in his "wanderings around City Hall". i 259.7 260 August 20, 1985 SEWER ENGINEERING SERVICES 260.1 The Board considered a resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a contract for engineering services with Northwest Engineers, for the extension of sewer lines to the Sherwood Forest Estates sub- division. The Mayor explained that the Health Department was working with the city on some problems in this area and he noted that the proposed not -to -exceed fee is $12,600. In answer to Director Lancaster, Mayor Noland confirmed that this item had been reviewed by the Water and Sewer Committee. 260.2 Director Lancaster, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to approve the resolution. 260.3 In answer to'a question from Director Orton, City Utilities Engineer Don Bunn explained that engineering is planned for'the entire area, not just the east section; and that only construction which is necessary will take place. Bunn added that, after plans and specs are drawn up, and cost Is determined, an attempt will be made to meet with property owners to decide what should be constructed. 260.4 Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. RESOLUTION NO. 89-85 APPEARS ON PAGE 392 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII WATER QUALITY STUDY 260.5 The Board considered a resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a contract for professional services with Dr. David Parker, for the preparation of a background water quality study of Mud Creek and Clear Creek. The Mayor explained this study would establish a baseline prior to the city's discharge of treated sewage into the streams. The Mayor added that the proposal was brought before the Board once before as a joint venture, at a higher fee, but that now the work is proposed to be done by Dr. Parker himself. 260.6 Director Orton, seconded by Hess, made a motion to approve the resolution. 260.7 Director Bumpass remarked that the city had not followed its professional selection policy in awarding this contract. Bumpass expressed concern that a citizen of Fayetteville had been chosen to prepare the study, "in an appearance of a conflict of interest" which could be raised as an issue in future litigation. Mayor Noland noted that the Water Ind Sewer Committee had discussed the fact that a local person must supervise the study, because some monitoring is necessary on the site after a rain. City Manager Grimes remarked that he did not think Parker had any vested interest in the results of the study. • August 20, 1985 Director Martin asked why the first sampling location was not at or near the point of discharge. Dr. Parker explained that the sampling point should be located sufficiently downstream because of the necessity for the effluent discharge to be well mixed in the stream. Parker stated that, although he felt his choice of first sampling point to be better, he would have no objection to changing the first sampling point, or adding an additional point. Martin pointed out that the project was presented to the public on the basis that the effluent to be discharged would be of equal or superior quality to the water in the stream. Dr. Parker noted that, even if the first point is moved closer to the point of discharge, he would recommend it be slightly below the point of discharge so that it can't be argued that the discharge isn't well mixed (because one of the criteria for sampling the effect of a discharge is to make sure it is mixed into the water). Parker pointed out that the effluent can be superior in quality and still take time to mix with the water in the stream. Director Johnson suggested another point be added at the point of discharge which Parker could choose whether or not to include in his study. Mayor Noland asked what additional cost would have to be incurred to add another sampling point. Dr. Parker explained that there would be an additional cost for adding a sampling point, because more lab analysis would be involved, and he estimated this cost to be about $1200 (12 analyses at $100 per analysis). Director Johnson, seconded by Orton, moved to amend the resolution to reflect an additional sampling point, at the discharge point, with the fee to be increased by $1200. Upon roll call, the amendment passed, 6-0-1, with Director Martin abstaining. Upon roll call, the original motion passed, 5-1-1, with Director Bumpass voting against the motion, and Director Martin abstaining. RESOLUTION NO. 90-85 APPEARS ON PAGE 396 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII DRILLING LEASE The Board considered a request by Quapaw Oil & Gas, Inc. for Board approval ofan oil and gas lease, to allow drilling on city property in the area of Lake Sequoyah. Director Martin stated that, as an officer of Arkansas Western Gas Company to whom Quapaw would sell gas, he would abstain from voting on this request. 261 261.1 261.2 261.3 261.4 261.5 261.6 261.7 262 262.1 August 20, 1985 Director piton made a motion to accept the request with the provision that the City Attorney review the lease and that the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board have some say regarding the site where a well could be placed. 262.2 Director Lancaster expressed concern that no more than one well be drilled on the property. It was clarified that the State of Arkansas sets a limitation of no more than one well on 40 acres of land. Director Lancaster, with City Manager Grimes concurring, asked that it be stipulated that any pipeline location be subject to approval by the City of Fayette- ville. 262.3 Director Bumpass seconded the motion. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 6-0-1,vith Martin abstaining. RESOLUTION NO. 91-85 APPEARS ON PAGE 398 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII CONTRACT AMENDMENT/CH2M HILL .262.4 The Board considered a resolution authorizing an amendment to a contract for engineering services between the City and CH2M Hill, to reflect additional design work necessitated by changes in the electrical system of the. new sewer treatment plant. The Mayor explained that the changes would cost $2,775 in additional engineering fees, but will save the city $9,305 in construction costs --a net savings of $6,530. 262.5 Director Johnson, seconded by Hess, made a motion to approve the reso- lution. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. RESOLUTION NO. 92-85 APPEARS ON'PAGE 402 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII PART-TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 262.6 The Board considered a proposal to allow certain employee benefits for permanent part-time city employees. Personnel Officer Jeanette Crumpler told the Board she hoped a policy could be adopted which would allow benefits to be uniform for all permanent part-time employees. 262.7 Director Orton asked for information on such benefits given by other employers in Fayetteville, for part-time employees. Director Martin stated that Arkansas Western Gas Company's part-time employees do not receive health insurance benefits, although most of those employees are temporary. 262.8 Director Johnson commented that the city is faced with a problem where some part-time city employees, such as those at the Library, are currently August 20, 1985 receiving benefits while others do not. Johnson stated she thought the proposal was fair to all employees. Director Johnson, seconded by Hess, made a motion to approve the recom- mendation of the Personnel Officer for benefits for permanent, part-time employees. At the suggestion of Director Martin that the city look into the matter of pension plan qualifications and waiting periods, the City Attorney suggested arecomthendation be obtained from the city's consultant, Bob Hall. Director Martin, seconded by Orton, moved to amend the motion to, state that the-iecommendation be approved; subject to review and concurrence. by Bob Hall. In answer to questions from Director the Sidewalk Inspector's status- is employee, simply working full-time and that'his benefits would accrue on Upon roll call, the motion as amended voting in the minority. • Johnson, Grumpier explained that that of a permanent, part-time for a temporary period of time; a pro -rata basis. passed, 6-1, with Director Bumpass BRIDGE WEIGHTS The Board considered a resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute an agreement with the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department regarding the posting of weight limits on bridges in the city. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to approve the • 263.8 resolution. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. 4 RESOLUTION NO. 93-85 APPEARS ON PAGE 405 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII :63 263.1 263.2 263.3 263.4 263.5 263.6 263.7 BID AWARD 11642/TRAFFIC SIGNAL EQUIPMENT The Board considered award of Bid 11642 for traffic signal equipment. The Mayor explained three bids were received, with the low bid, for $43,808, being received from Pinkley Sales Company of Oklahoma City. The Mayor added that the equipment would be used to install the pedestrian - actuated crossing at the Lafayette Street/College Avenue intersection; and to upgrade and standardize the signals at a number of other inter- sections on College Avenue and Dickson Street. 263.9 264 264.1 August 20, 1985 Director Johnson, seconded by Hess, made a motion to award the bid to Pinkley Sales Company. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. BID WAIVER/PUMPING UNIT 264.2 The Board considered an ordinance waiving competitive bidding require- ments for the rehabilitation of an hydraulic pumping unit on the Sewer Department's high pressure wash truck. 264.3 The City Attorney read the ordinance for the first time. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final ,reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the third time. There being no public comment regarding the ordinance, the roll was called and the ordinance passed, 7-0.' ORDINANCE NO. 3109 APPEARS ON PAGE BOOK XXII BID WAIVER/POLYMER FEED SYSTEM 47 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION 264.4 The Board considered an ordinance waiving competitive bidding requirements for the purchase of a polymer feed system for the Pollution Control Plant. 264.5 The City Attorney read the ordinance for the first time. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The ordinance was read for the third time. 264.6 It was pointed out that the Water and Sewer budget contains $6,900 for the purchase of two polymer mix and feed pumps but that a quotation has been received for $17,660 for the units. Don Bunn requested that the units be purchased with Sewer Plant Construction funds since they will be an integral part of the renovated plant. Director Martin noted that it should be specified to the Finance Director that funding for this purchase will be offset from the Sewer. Plant Construction Account. Director Lancaster commented that the Water and Sewer budget August 20, 1985 will be reduced by $6,900, before' any funds are used from the Sewer Plant Construction Fund. City Manager Grimes explained that Bunn's request is that the full amount of the purchase be taken from the Sewer Plant Construction Fund. Upon roll call, the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3110 APPEARS ON PAGE 49 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK XXII UNSIGHTLY PROPERTY%615 N. COLLEGE The Board considered an ordinance ordering the abatement of unsightly Conditions and the razing and removal of an unsafe structure located at 615 North.College Avenue. • City Attorney McCord read the ordinance for the first time. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. McCord read the ordinance for the second time. Director Bumpass, seconded by Johnson, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. McCord read the ordinance for the third time. There being no one present to represent the property owner, and with there being no public comment, the roll was called and the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3111 APPEARS ON PAGE 51 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK xXII BUILDING PERMIT TIME LIMITS The Board considered an ordinance amending the City Code by prescribing time limits for -which building permits shall be valid, which was left on first reading at the August 6th meeting. Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to suspend the rules and place the ordinance on second reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. The City Attorney read the ordinance for the second time. Director .Johnson, seconded by Hess, made a motion to further suspend the rules and place the ordinance on third and final reading. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0, and the City Attorney read the.ordinance for the third time. Upon roll call, the ordinance passed, 7-0. ORDINANCE NO. 3112 APPEARS ON PAGE 53 OF ORDINANCE & RESOLUTION BOOK xxII 265.1 265.2 265.3 265.4 265.5 265.6 August 20, 1985 266.1 In answer to a question from Director Bumpass, the City Attorney clarified that the time extensions would automatically be granted upon payment of the fees.. Director Bumpass pointed out that, in some cases, when construction of single family residences takes two or three years to complete, it can be unsightly. Mayor Noland suggested the Planning Director bring a recommendation back to the Board at some future date. OTHER BUSINESS REQUEST FOR PENSION WITHDRAWAL 266.2 The Board considered a request from Phillip Jefferson for authorization to allow him to withdraw his contributions from his city pension account. Assistant City Manager McWethy explained that when refferson joined the pension program in 1983, employees were -permitted to withdraw from the pension plan -- and that the Board, in July of 1984, changed this policy. In answer to a question from Director Lancaster, McWethy explained that, at the time the policy was changed in 1984, employees were not given an opportunity to withdraw from the pension plan. Lancaster commented that he recalled the intention of the Board at the time the policy was changed was that the pension plan not be used as "a savings account". Director Bumpass asked if employees were notified of the change in policy, suggesting perhaps notice should have gone out with employee paychecks. McWethy stated a memorandum was sent to department heads but that it was not known whether Jefferson himself ever received the memorandum. 266.3 Director Martin commented that, for the Board to deny the request would be like "confiscating" Jefferson's money -- since the policy for withdrawing funds was changed with no opportunity being given to employees to withdraw their funds. "266.4 Director Johnson expressed concerns that granting this request would allow every other employee who joined the plan before the policy was changed to withdraw funds. McWethy pointed out that Jefferson is only requesting his, not the city's, contributions to the plan. He added that only two or three individuals have expressed a desire to withdraw funds. 266.5 Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to deny the request. 266.6 Director Martin asked the City Attorney to research the issue of whether the law requires the city to pay interest to employees who withdraw their contributions. Noland suggested the request be tabled until further information can be obtained regarding when Jefferson began making contributions to the pension plan. 266.7 Director Johnson, seconded by Bumpass, made a motion to table the request. Upon roll call, the motion passed, 7-0. ri August 20, 1985 1 Director Johnsontstated she thought a report was needed regarding how an employeeleaving the plan can affect the soundness of the entire plan. SPECIAL CENSUS 26 267.1 Assistant City Manager McWethy asked the Board if they still wished 267.2 to have a special census conducted, if it cannot be done until approxi- mately October. 7th. McWethy explained that in March a certified letter was sent to schedule the census, with a reminder letter being sent on July 10th.. McWethy stated that the Census Bureau, in a letter dated July, 26th, promised that the census would be scheduled between August 20th and October 1st. McWethy explained that, in calling the Dallas office last week, he, was informed that other cities had been scheduled ahead of Fayetteville and that Dallas knew nothing of our request. McWethy added that he would be informed. within the next few days whether Dallas will be able to obtain a special census director from another area, in order to begin our census in mid-September. Mayor Noland 'was in favor of conducting the census even if it had 267.3 to be as late as October 7th. The Directors were in general agreement, with Director Orton commenting that the census should be done before Christmas. STREET VACATION REQUEST John Leonard requested the Board approve the vacation of Warwick Drive. Leonard explained that when he bought a lot on Warwick, he did not realize that 30 feet of the property was street right-of-way, and ten feet of the property is an easement. Warwick explained this leaves him with only 66 feet, and unable to meet the zoning setbacks required to build a house. Warwick explained that he came before the Board with this request because of time restrictions relating to a loan. The City Attorney told the Board that, should the Board choose not to vacate the street, Leonard would have to schedule a hearing before the Board of Adjustment for a waiver of setback requirements, a process which could take about a month because of public notification require- ments. Director Lancaster pointed out that, in the process of vacating a street, there must be written concurrence from utility companies involved. Lancaster added that he thought such requests should appear on the regular agenda, and should include the necessary paperwork. After discussion by the Directors, Director Orton stated she would prefer that Leonard go through the Board of Adjustment. McCord explained that the Board of Adjustment schedules regular meeting dates, but has the authority to call a special .meeting, as long as the 15 day public notification requirement is met. 267.4 267.5 267.6 267.7 268.1 Directoi Orton, seconded by Bumpass, made a of Adjustment to schedule a special meeting Upon loll call, the motion passed, 6-0-1, with 268.2 The City Attorney told Leonard to contact advise the Planning Director that the Board of Adjustment to hold a special meeting. August 20, 1985 motion to ask the Boaid to considei this issue. Director Hess abstaining. the Planning Office and voted to ask the Board POLICE DEPARTMENT VACANCIES 268.3 Director Bumpass asked if the City Manager could be instructed to call a special meeting of the Civil Service Commission to fill vacancies in the Police Department. Police Chief Jones stated that"it was possible to .schedule special meetings but would take about 30-40 days. It was decided to place this item on the agenda for the next Board meeting. MINUTES :268.4 The minutes of the August 6th meeting were approved, with the following additions and changes: 232.5 At the end of the sentence, add "...and the work would be completed in six weeks." 235.2 ...an island of busy highways around Happy Hollow School..." should be changed to read "...Happy Hollow School an island surrounded by busy highways..." 235.3 "and around" should be changed to "along" 239.8 After "polypropylene", add "...with only Choctaw bidding." ADJOURNMENT The Directors agreed to adjourn the meeting at about 1:03 A.M., without considering items 13 through 20. 0 10`(ET r,r Fi I Q oN co��'�� �'AYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS OFFICE OF CITY MANAGER P. O. DRAWER F 72702 (501) 521-7700 August 21, 1985 H. Keith Cearley it 1 Center Square Fayetteville, AR Dear Mr. Cearley: Earlier this month you applied for appointment to the City Advertising 6 Promotion Commission. The City Board made s to this group at last night's meeting, but I'm afraid that you w not one of .those se ected at this time. There were quite a few applicants, and several Board members expressed the feeling that the Commission needed members representing the North College Avenue trade and firms located further from the central part of town. We will keep your application on file, however, and it will. automatically be re -submitted fo,r consideration if a vacancy occurs within the next year. Thanks for your interest. Sincerely, cl��-rjd vvu� David McWethy Assistant City Manager