HomeMy WebLinkAboutSeptember 11, 2007 RegularREGULAR MEETING--September 11, 2007
I. I'NVOCATI'ON, PLEDGE & ROLL CALL
Councilmember Chatman gave the invocation followed with the pledge to the flag.
The City Council of the City of Port Arthur met in Regular Session on Tuesday,
September 11, 2007 at 8:35 a.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, with the
following members present: Mayor Deloris "Bobbie" Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Michael
"Shane' Sinegal; Councilmembers Jack Chatman, Jr., Cai Jones, Thomas J. Henderson
and Martin Flood; City Manager Steve Fitzgibbons; City Secretary Evangeline "Van"
Green and City Attorney Mark T. Sokolow.
Councilmember John Beard, .Ir. was absent from the Regular Meeting.
Councilmember Robert E. "Bob" Williamson arrived at 8:40 a.m.
Councilmember Henderson made known that long time Griffing Park Neighborhood
Watch and Patrol President John Spears, Jr. passed away Monday, September 10, 2007.
Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal appealed for prayers for former Thomas Jefferson High School
football star and Buffalo Bills Tight End Kevin Everett who suffered from a spinal injury
during a kickoff game against the Denver Broncos.
II. PROCLAMATIONS & MINUTES
Proclamations
(1) September 11, 2007- "Celebrate Freedom Day"
Police Chief Mark Blanton received the proclamation in remembrance of the tragic
events of September 11, 2001.
(2) September 17--21, 2007 - "United Way of South Jefferson
County Week"
United Way Executive Director Carol Hebert received the proclamation and spoke on
United Way's motto, "Together We Matter".
Minutes- None
III. PETITIONS &COMMUNICATIONS
A. Presentations
A Presentation On M&I Electric Industries, Inc. And 3ob
Fair September 22, 2007 (Recreation Center - 1308 9th
Avenue)
M&I Electric ]~ndustries Vice President of Operations Carl Vitanza appeared before the
City Council to conduct a presentation regarding MS~'s operations and worldwide sales.
Mr. Vitanza spoke on current and future demands for trained electrical workers and
invited Port Arthur citizens to attend a job fair on Saturday, September 22, 2007 from
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Recreation Center.
M&I Electric Tndustries Quality Systems Manager Hope Turnbow appeared before the
City Council to discuss on-the-job training opportunities.
IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 9:00 AM
To Consider A Proposal To Increase Total Tax Revenues From
Properties On The Tax Roll In The Preceding Tax Year By 30.60
Percent (Percentage By Which Proposed Tax Rate Exceeds Lower
Of Rollback Tax Rate Or Effective Tax Calculated Under Chapter
26, Tax Code). Your Individual Taxes Hay Increase At A Greater
Or Lesser Rate, Or Even Decrease, Depending On The Change In
The Taxable Value Of Your Property In Relation To The Change In
Taxable Value Of All Other Property And The Texas Rate That Is
Adopted
Mayor Prince introduced the above-mentioned Public Hearing at 9:08 a.m.
Finance Director Rebecca Underhill appeared before the City Council to report that the
above-mentioned public hearing is a requirement of the Truth and Taxation law to
increase property tax revenues and that the City Council will have the opportunity to
vote on the proposed tax rate increase on September 25, 2007.
Mayor Prince requested to hear from anyone present in the audience who wished to
speak regarding the above-mentioned Public Hearing. No one appeared to address the
Public Hearing.
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember
Williamson and carried unanimously, the City Council closed the Public Hearing at 9:09
a.m.
The City Council recessed their meeting at 9:10 a.m. to attend the September 11th
Commemorative Service, and reconvened their meeting at 10:10 a.m. with the
following members present: Mayor Prince; Councilmembers Chatman, ]ones, Henderson
and Williamson; City Manager Fitzgibbons, City Secretary Green and City Attorney
Sokolow.
Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal and Councilmember Flood joined the meeting at 10:12 a.m.
III. PETITIONS &COMMUNICATIONS
B. Sneakers
(1) Stephen f4osely Regarding Relocation Of"The Breeze"
Truth and Education Executive Director and President and Chief Operations Officer of
The Breeze Radio Station, Stephen Moseley, 1420 Barbara Lane, appeared before the
City Council to request consideration in relocating The Breeze radio station to the
vacant space at the Health Department building.
Radio Personality Leon Wright, no address given, appeared before the City Council to
speak on the importance of The Breeze community radio broadcasting services.
(2) Aletha Kirkwood Regarding Beautification Commission's
New Location
Beautification Commission President Aletha Kirkwood, 4248 Ferndale, appeared before
the City Council to discuss achievements and responsibilities of the Beautification
Commission. She requested consideration in making Beautification Commission
appointments that are willing to participate in activities and assume leadership roles.
Mrs. Kirkwood expressed dissatisfaction with the donation of their former facility on
Ninth Avenue and noted the unsuitability of the new facility on 39th Street.
Mayor Prince requested Assistant City Manager and Human Resources Director Harvey
Robinson to answer the following question for the record:
Port Arthur City Council Page 2
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
"The City is not putting any funds into that building on Ninth Avenue, to
renovate it for the .lames Hope Center?"
Assistant City Manager and Human Resources Director Harvey Robinson responded:
"That is correct."
C. Corresoondence- None
Councilmember Jones left the City Council Chamber at 10:58 a.m.
V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
(1)
P. R. No. 14280 - A Resolution Approving The Continued
Use Of Section 4A Sales And Use Tax Within The City Of
Port Arthur For Amateur Sports, And Athletic Purposes And
Events Until May 2010 (Proposition 8)
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Upon the motion by Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember Chatman
and carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 14280 was adopted becoming
Resolution No. 07-396.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman,
Henderson, Flood and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 07-396 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 07-396
A RESOLUTTON APPROVING THE CONTZNUED
USE OF SECTION 4A SALES AND USE TAX
WITHIN THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR FOR
AMATEUR SPORTS, AND ATHLETIC PURPOSES
AND EVENTS UNT1~L MAY 2010 (PROPOSTTION
8)
Councilmember Jones returned to the City Council Chamber at 11:02 a.m.
(2)
P. R. No. 14281 - A Resolution Approving The Continued
Use Of Section 4A Sales And Use Tax Within The City Of
Port Arthur To Promote Or Develop New Or Expanded
Business Enterprises That Create Or Retain Primary 3obs,
Including A Project To Provide Demolition Of Existing
Structures Until May 2010 (Proposition 9)
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Chatman that Proposed Resolution No. 14281 be adopted.
Community Services Director Lawrence Baker appeared before the City Council to
discuss demolition and funding needs.
Councilmember Henderson stated the following into the record:
For the record, ! just want to point out that the uses that we are
proposing here are outside the scope of the current EDC, but they are still
necessary for continued commercial development here. If it were possible
to do this without the current EDC funding, then we would not need it.
Port Arthur City Council Page 3
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
But another thing we need to keep in mind, too, is that the half-cent sales
tax that the EDC has been collecting over the last couple of years has sky
rocketed considerably, and they are not going to be hurt a whole lot by
our doing this over the money that they currently have. And this is my
opinion.
The motion was made by Councilmember Flood and seconded by Councilmember
Williamson that Proposed Resolution No. 14281 be tabled.
The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to table Proposed Resolution No.
14281:
Councilmember Chatman
Councilmember Flood
Councilmember Henderson
Councilmember 3ones
Councilmember Williamson
Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal
Mayor Prince
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes
The motion to table Proposed Resolution No. 14281 carried over the dissenting votes
of Mayor Pro Tern $inegal and Councilmember Chatman.
Proposed Resolution No. 14281 was tabled.
(3)
P. R. No. 14324 - A Resolution Authorizing The
Advertisement For Bids For An Option To Purchase The
Sabine Hotel
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Councilmember Flood recused himself from the above-mentioned item and filed a
conflict of interest affidavit with the City Secretary.
Upon the motion by Councilmember Henderson, seconded
Williamson and carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No.
becoming Resolution No. 07-397.
by Councilmember
14324 was adopted
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, 3ones,
Henderson and Williamson,
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 07-397 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 07-397
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR AN OPTION
TO PURCHASE THE SABINE HOTEL
VL CONSENT AGENDA
Upon the motion of Councilmember Williamson, seconded by Councilmember 3ones and
carried unanimously, the following Consent Agenda items were adopted with the
exception of Items B:
Consideration And Approval Of The Purchase Of A Software
Upgrade From LT Systems, .~n¢., Of Port Neche~ TX And
The Supporting Hardware From De//, Austin, TX (Throu§l~
D_rR.) In The Total Amount Of $34,469.20 For The Municipal
Court
Port Arthur City Council Page 4
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
3udge Kermit Morrison:
Attend Legislative Update Tn Austin, TX
August 15-18, 2007
$542.85
Resolutions - Consent
(1)
P. R. No. 14322 - A Resolution To Rescind The Three (3)
Year Contract For Janitorial Services In The City
Hall/Annex Building With Southeast Texas Building
Services, THC., Of Nederland, Texas And Authorize The
Purchasing Division To Advertise For Bids
Proposed Resolution No. 14322 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-398.
(2)
P. R. No. 14335 A Resolution Authorizing The City
Manager To Enter Into A Letter Agreement With Lamar
University For The Taping Of Governmental Meetings
Proposed Resolution No, 14335 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-399.
(3)
P. R. No. 14336 - A Resolution Affirming The Investment
Policies Of The City Of Port Arthur For The 2007-2008
Fiscal Year
Proposed Resolution No. 14336 was adopted becoming Resolution No, 07-400.
(4)
P. R. No. 14337 - A Resolution Authorizing The Execution
Of An Agreement To Share Operating Expenses Of Rose Hill
Between The City Of Port Arthur And The Federated
Women's Club Of Port Arthur For The 2007-2008 Fiscal
Year, In An Amount Not To Exceed $12,000, Account #140-
1405-551.59.00, M97908
Proposed Resolution No, 14337 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-401.
(5)
P. R. No. 14338 - A Resolution Approving A Contract
Between The City Of Port Arthur, Lamar State College-Port
Arthur And The Port Arthur Historical Society For The
Purpose Of Funding The Museum Of The Gulf Coast For The
2007-2008 Fiscal Year In The Amount Of $76,000, Account
#140-1405-557.59-00, M97904
Proposed Resolution No. 14338 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-402.
(6)
P. R. No. 14339 - A Resolution Approving A Contract
Between The City Of Port Arthur And The Port Arthur
Historical Society For The Purpose Of Funding The
Pompeiian Villa For The 2007-2008 Fiscal Year In The
Amount Of $19,800, Account #140-1405-551.59-00,
M97909
Proposed Resolution No, 14339 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-403.
(7)
P. R. No. 14340 - A Resolution Approving An Amendment
To The Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And The
Port Arthur Convention And Tourist Association Which
Manages And Operates A Convention/Visitors Bureau
Proposed Resolution No. 14340 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-404.
Port Arthur City Council Page 5
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
(8)
P. R. No. 14341 - A Resolution Approving A Contract
Between The City Of Port Arthur And Southeast Texas Arts
Council (SETAC) For The Purpose Of Funding SETAC For The
2007-2008 Fiscal Year In The Amount Of $45,000, Account
#001-1003-512.59-00, M97901
Proposed Resolution No. 14341 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-405.
(9)
P. R. No. 14344 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC In The Amount Of $14,500.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For .T. he
Demolition Of Five (5) Dangerous Residential Properbes
(Group A-t), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures Ineligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14344 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-406.
(10) P. R. No. 14345 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC In The Amount Of $12,400.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Five (5) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group B-t), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures Zneligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14345 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-407.
(11) P. R. No. 14346 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC Zn The Amount Of $18,050.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Six (6) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group C-t), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures ~neligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14346 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-408.
(12) P.R. No. 14347 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To Lark
Group, [nc. [n The Amount Of $20~100.00, And Authorizing
The Execution Of A Contract For The Demolition Of Five (5)
Dangerous Residential Properties (Group D-t), To Be
Charged To Account No. 132-1021-514.59-00; Project No.
SSBG03; Structures Ineligible For The Grant Will Be
Charged To Other Available Funding Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14347 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-409.
(13) P. R. No. 14348 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC In The Amount Of $20,600.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Six (6) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group E-t), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures Ineligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14348 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-410.
Port Arthur City Council Page 6
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
(14) P. R. No. 14349 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC In The Amount Of $14,400.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Six (6) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group A), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures l~neligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14349 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-411.
(15) P. R. No. 14350 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC in The Amount Of $9,650.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For .T. he
Demolition Of Six (6) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group B), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures ineligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14350 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-412.
(16) P. R. No. 14351 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC in The Amount Of $14,000.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Five (5) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group C), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures ineligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14351 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-413.
(17) P. R. No. 14352 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC in The Amount Of $15,650.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Six (6) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group D), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures ineligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14352 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-414.
(18) P.R. No. 14353 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC in The Amount Of $11,150.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Five (5) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group E), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures ineligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14353 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-415.
(19) P.R. No. 14354 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To Lark
Group, inc. in The Amount Of $17,300.00, And Authorizing
The Execution Of A Contract For The Demolition Of Six (6)
Dangerous Residential Properties (Group F), To Be Charged
To Account No. 132-1021-514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03;
Structures ineligible For The Grant Will Be Charged To
Other Available Funding Sources
Port Arthur City Council Page 7
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
Proposed Resolution No. 14354 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-416.
(20)
P. R. No. 14356 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K-T
Construction, LLC tn The Amount Of $13,900.00, And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The
Demolition Of Five (5) Dangerous Residential Properties
(Group H), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-1021-
514.59-00; Project No. SSBG03; Structures Zneligible For
The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
Proposed Resolution No. 14356 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-417.
(21) P. R. No. 14357 A Resolution Authorizing The City
Manager And Fire Chief To Accept The FY 2007 Assistance
To Firefighters Grant
Proposed Resolution No. 14357 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-418.
(22) P. R. No. 14358 A Resolution Authorizing The City
Manager To Enter Znto A Contract With RWL Group For Risk
Management Consulting Services At The Not To Exceed
Cost Of $18,000 For The 2007-2008 Fiscal Year. Funding
By: General Liability Znsurance Fund 612-1702-581.52.00
Proposed Resolution No. 14358 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-419.
(23) P.R. No. 14359 - A Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of
Windstorm Coverage (Commercial And Residential) tn The
Amount Of $460,345.25 Per Annum. Proposed Funding By:
General Liability Znsurance Fund: 612-1702-581.52-00 -
$460,345.25
Proposed Resolution No. 14359 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-420,
(24) P. R. No. 14360 - A Resolution Authorizing The City
Manager To Do Ali Things Necessary To Execute The
Settlement Of A Claim tn The Amount Of $6,536.62 Made
Against Texas Municipal League tntergovernmental Risk
Pool (TML) As A Result Of The Property Damage To City
Vehicle #1605
Proposed Resolution No. 14360 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-421.
(25) P. R. No. 14361 - A Resolution Authorizing The City
Manager To Execute Renewal Contracts Between tbs Third
Party Administrator (Administrative Services Only) For The
City Of Port Arthur Group Medical, Dental Znsurance; For
Basic Life, And For Basic Accidental Death And
Dismemberment, And Excess Loss tndemnity With Blue
Cross And Blue Shield Of Texas, tnc. Fund No. (S) 614-
Health Tnsurance Fund
Proposed Resolution No. 14361 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-422.
(26) P. R. No. 14362 - A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Port
Arthur To Support A Comprehensive Selective Traffic
Enforcement Grant (S.T.E.P.) tn The Amount Of $50,078.20
With A Cash Match By The City Of Port Arthur Zn The
Amount Of $6,347.50 (Account No. 001-1101-521.92-00)
Proposed Resolution No. 14362 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-423.
Port Arthur City Council Page 8
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
(27) P. R. No. 14363 - A Resolution Authorizing Submitting An
Application To The Economic Development Administration
For A Grant For Water System Zmprovements
Proposed Resolution No. 14363 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-424.
(28)
P. R. No. 14364 - A Resolution Authorizing A License For
The Construction Of A Recreational Vehicle Park On 6.8
Acres Of Land On North Side Of Pleasure Zsland Blvd.
Between The Wave Barrier And The Sabine Neches Channel
Proposed Resolution No. 14364 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-425.
(29) P. R. No. 14365 A Resolution Approving Teaching,
Assessment, And Class Monitor Contracts As Tt Pertains To
The Community Prosecution Program
Proposed Resolution No. 14365 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-426.
(30) P.R. No. 14370 - A Resolution Approving Water And Sewer
Adjustment To Certain Utility Accounts
Proposed Resolution No. 14370 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 07-427.
VZ]. ZTEMS RE(~UZRZNG ZNDZVZDUAL ACTZON - NON-CONSENT
Consent Ttems
Consideration And Approval Of Payment To E~ Per/co
Publi$1~ing And Broadcasting Of Port Arthur~ TX 'l'n The
Amount Of $6,000 For Advertisement Space For A Twelve
(12) Month Period
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Item.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Williamson that Item B be adopted.
Councilmember Henderson requested distribution of the E~ Per/co newspaper to the City
Councilmembers.
E~ Per/co Vice President Caleb Avila, 3820 Delaware, appeared before the City Council to
address inquiries related to providing Spanish publication and radio broadcasting
services for members of the Hispanic community.
Item B was adopted.
A. Resolutions
(m)
P. R. No. 14283 - A Resolution Authorizing A Contract With
Germer Gertz For Legal Services As The Primary Attorney
For The City Of Port Arthur Section 4a Economic
Development Corporation
The City Attorney requested that Proposed Resolution No. 14283 be considered alter
the Executive Session.
(2)
P. R. No. 14355 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To K.
H. Dugas Construction & Demolition ]n The Amount Of
$14,900.00, And Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract
For The Demolition Of Five (5) Dangerous Residential
Properties (Group G), To Be Charged To Account No. 132-
1021-5;L4.59-00; Project No. SSBG03, Structures [neligible
Port Arthur City Council Page 9
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
For The Grant Will Be Charged To Other Available Funding
Sources
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Williamson and seconded by Councilmember
Henderson that Proposed Resolution No. 14355 be adopted.
Community Services Director Lawrence Baker appeared before the City Council to
address inquires related to policies requiring demolition contractors to submit landfill
deposits.
City Attorney Mark Sokolow recommended the following amendment:
That this resolution is contingent upon K.H. Dugas Construction &
Demolition providing documentation by September 25, 2007 that any and
all debris that K.H. Dugas Construction & Demolition has previously
received from any City project has been properly disposed of and that
K.H. Dugas Construction & Demolition is now in compliance with T.C.E.Q.
('rexas Commission on Environmental Quality) regulations.
The motion was made by Councilmember Williamson and seconded by Councilmember
Henderson that Proposed Resolution No. 14355 be amended as stated by the City
Attorney.
The motion to amend Proposed Resolution No. 14355 was approved by a unanimous
vote.
Proposed Resolution No. 14355 was adopted as amended, becoming Resolution No.
07-428.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, Jones,
Henderson and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 07-428 reads as follows:
RESOLUTTON NO. 07-428
A RESOLUTZON AWARDING A CONTRACT TO K.
H. DUGAS CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLTTION
THE AMOUNT OF $14~900.00, AND
AUTHOR1~ZTNG THE EXECUTION OF A
CONTRACT FOR THE DEMOLITION OF FTVE (5)
DANGEROUS RESTDENTTAL PROPERTIES
(GROUP G), TO BE CHARGED TO ACCOUNT NO.
132-1021-514.59-00; PRO3ECT NO.SSBG03~
STRUCTURES 1~NELTGTBLE FOR THE GRANT
WILL BE CHARGED TO OTHER AVAILABLE
FUNDING SOURCES
Councilmember Flood returned to the City Council Chamber at 11:36 a.m.
(3)
P. R. No. 14367 - A Resolution Authorizing The Purchasing
Division To Advertise For The Sale Of Lots 1-7, Block 462
Owned By The City of Port Arthur (Requested By City
Manager)
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Williamson that Proposed Resolution No. 14367 be adopted.
Port Arthur City Council Page 10
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
Councilmember Williamson suggested consulting with the Marshall Group, a downtown
revitalization firm, to verify if they are interested in developing the property.
The motion was made by Councilmember Flood and seconded by Councilmember
Williamson that Proposed Resolution No. 14367 be tabled.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, 3ones,
Henderson, Flood and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
Proposed Resolution No. 14367 was tabled.
(4)
P. R. No. 14368 - A Resolution As It Pertains To Approving
A Purchase Agreement Between The City Of Port Arthur
Section 4A Economic Development Corporation And
Embree Asset Group, Inc.
The City Attorney requested that Proposed Resolution No. 14368 be considered after
the Executive Session.
(5)
P. R. No. 14369 - A Resolution Authorizing The Execution
Of An Agreement Between The City Of Port Arthur Section
4A Economic Development Corporation And The City Of
Port Arthur As It Pertains To Administrative Charges For
The Fiscal Year October 1, 2007 Through September 30,
2008
The City Attorney requested that Proposed Resolution No. 14369 be considered after
the Executive Session.
B. Ordinances
(1)
P. O. No. 5787 - An Appropriation Ordinance Amending The
Budget For The Fiscal Year Beginning October 1, 2006 And
Ending September 30, 2007 As To Fund Additional
Expenses For The Police Department, Solid Waste Fund And
Municipal Court Technology Fund
The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance.
Upon the motion by Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember 3ones and
carried unanimously, Proposed Ordinance No. 5787 was adopted becoming Ordinance
No. 07-62.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, 3ones,
Henderson, Flood and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Ordinance No. 07-62 reads as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 07-62
AN APPROPRI~ATION ORD1~NANCE AMENDING
THE BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2006 AND ENDTNG
SEPTEMBER 30, 2007 AS TO FUND
ADDITIONAL EXPENSES FOR THE POL1~CE
DEPARTMENT, SOLrD WASTE FUND AND
MUNICIPAL COURT TECHNOLOGY FUND
Port Arthur City Council Page 11
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
(2)
P. O. No. 5788 An Ordinance Authorizing The City
Manager To Do All Things Necessary To Execute Settlement
Of A Claim In The Amount Of $8,174.17 Made Against
Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool
(TML) As A Result Of The Property Damage To City Vehicle
#1530
The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance.
Upon the motion by Councilmember Williamson, seconded by Councilmember Chatman
and carried unanimously, Proposed Ordinance No. 5788 was adopted becoming
Ordinance No. 07-63.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, Jones,
Henderson, Flood and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Ordinance No. 07-63 reads as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 07-63
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO DO ALL THINGS NECESSARY TO
EXECUTE SETrLEMENT OF A CLAIM IN THE
AMOUNT OF $8,174.17 MADE AGAINST TEXAS
MUNICIPAL LEAGUE INTERGOVERNMENTAL
RISK POOL (TML) AS A RESULT OF THE
PROPERTY DAMAGE TO CITY VEHICLE #1530
(3)
P. O. No. 5789 - An Ordinance Authorizing A Special
Warranty Deed Of Property To Southeast Texas Interfaith
Organization
The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance.
Councilmember Williamson recused himself from the above-mentioned item and filed a
conflict of interest affidavit with the City Secretary.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Chatman that Proposed Ordinance No. 5789 be adopted.
Planning, Zoning and Grants Director Dale Watson appeared before the City Council to
report that the property is located in the El Vista Subdivision at Shreveport and 48th
Street.
Proposed Ordinance No. 5789 was adopted, becoming Ordinance No. 07-64.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, Jones,
Henderson and Flood.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Ordinance No. 07-64 reads as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 07-64
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL
WARRANTY DEED OF PROPERTY TO
SOUTHEAST TEXAS INTERFAITH
ORGANIZATION
Councilmember Williamson returned to the City Council Chamber at 11:41 a.m.
Port Arthur City Council Page 12
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
(4)
P. O. No. 5790 - An Ordinance Amending Chapter 98
(Subdivisions) Of The Code Of Ordinances, City Of Port
Arthur To Provide Requirements For Underground Electric,
Construction Inspection And Installation Of Street And
Traffic Signs, Punishable As Provided In Section 1-13 Of
The Code Of Ordinances As Amended By Fine Not
Exceeding Two Thousand [$2,000] Dollars); And Providing
For Publication In The Official Newspaper Of The City Of
Port Arthur And Effective Immediately After Publication
Date
The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance.
Upon the motion by Councilmember Chatman, seconded by Councilmember Henderson
and carried unanimously, Proposed Ordinance No. 5790 was adopted becoming
Ordinance No. 07-65.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, .]ones,
Henderson, Flood and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Ordinance No. 07-65 reads as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 07-65
AN ORDTNANCE AMENDTNG CHAPTER 98
(SUBDIVTSIONS) OF THE CODE OF
ORDTNANCES, CITY OF PORT ARTHUR TO
PROVTDE RE(~UiREMENTS FOR UNDERGROUND
ELECTRIC, CONSTRUCTION ~NSPECT~rON AND
TNSTALLATION OF STREET AND TRAFFIC
STGNS, PUNISHABLE AS PROVIDED IN
SECTION 1-13 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES
AS AMENDED BY FINE NOT EXCEEDTNG TWO
THOUSAND [$2,000] DOLLARS); AND
PROVIDTNG FOR PUBLICATTON IN THE
OFFTCIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE CITY OF PORT
ARTHUR AND EFFECT:[VE TMMEDIATELY AFTER
PUBLICAT1'ON DATE
(5)
P. O. No. 5791 - An Ordinance Allowing For, In Certain
Situations Outlined Herein, The Parking, Use And
Occupancy Of Recreational Vehicles As Temporary Living
(~uarters On Residential Property During The Period Of
Repair And Reconstruction Of Damage To Property Caused
By Hurricane Rita; Punishable As Provided In Section 1-13
Of The Code Of Ordinances As Amended By Fine Not
Exceeding Two Thousand [$2,000.00] Dollars); And
Providing For Publication In The Official Newspaper Of The
City Of Port Arthur And Effective Immediately After
Publication Date
The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance.
Councilmember Flood left the City Council Chamber at 11:46 a.m.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Chatman that Proposed Ordinance No. 5791 be adopted.
Planning, Zoning and Grants Director Dale Watson appeared before the City Council to
state that the Proposed Ordinance would allow an additional ninety (90) days for
temporary housing, and after that date, the homeowner would be allowed an extension
Port Arthur City Council Page 13
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
if documentation is provided showing that: (1) substantial progress on repairs are being
made under a building permit; (2) there is ongoing litigation with their insurance
carrier; or (3) application for assistance has been made with a disaster recovery
program.
Proposed Ordinance No. 5791 was adopted, becoming Ordinance No. 07-66.
Voting Yes: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal; Councilmembers Chatman, Jones,
Henderson and Williamson.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Ordinance No, 07-66 reads as follows:
ORDtNANCE NO. 07-66
AN ORDTNANCE ALLOWZNG FOR, TN CERTATN
STTUATTONS OUTLINED HEREIN, THE
PARKING, USE AND OCCUPANCY OF
RECREATTONAL VEHICLES AS TEMPORARY
LTVING (~UARTERS ON RESTDENTTAL
PROPERTY DURING THE PER~OD OF REPATR
AND RECONSTRUCTION OF DAMAGE TO
PROPERTY CAUSED BY HURRICANE R/TA;
PUNISHABLE AS PROVIDED iN SECTION 1-13
OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES AS AMENDED
BY FiNE NOT EXCEEDTNG TWO THOUSAND
[$2,000.00] DOLLARS); AND PROViDiNG FOR
PUBLiCATiON TN THE OFFICTAL NEWSPAPER
OF THE CTTY OF PORT ARTHUR AND EFFECTIVE
IMMEDTATELY AFTER PUBLTCATTON DATE
(6) P.O. NO. 5792 - An Ordinance Authorizing The Sale Of The
Land Located At 44~.~. Highland Drive, Port Arthur, Texas,
.235 Acres (Lot 10, Block 40, Griffin Park) Excluding The
Lift Station And The 8 Feet By 93.77 Feet Parcel in The
Amount Of $3,600 To Sanchez Remodeling Of Port Arthur,
Texas
The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance.
Councilmember Flood returned the City Council Chamber at 11:56 a.m.
The motion was made by Councilmember Chatman and seconded by Councilmember
Jones that Proposed Ordinance No. 5792 be adopted.
Purchasing Manager Joseph Broussard appeared before the City Council to address
inquiries related to proposed bidder's building plans.
The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No.
5792:
Councilmember Chatman
Councilmember Flood
Councilmember Henderson
Councilmember 3ones
Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal
Councilmember Williamson
Mayor Prince
"No"
"Yes"
"No"
"No"
"Yes"
"No"
"Yes"
The motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 5792 failed over the dissenting votes of
Mayor Prince, Councilmember ,]ones and Councilmember Flood.
Port Arthur City Council Page 14
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
City Manager Steve Fitzgibbons stated that City has no interest in maintaining the
property.
Purchasing Manager Joseph Broussard appeared before the City Council to address
inquiries related to selling the property.
Assistant City Manager and Human Resources Manager Harvey Robinson appeared to
before the City Council to discuss the bid rejection; and to cite the advertisement and
mowing expenses.
Mayor Prince stated the following into the record:
".lust for the record, ! don't agree with this. This is just not responsible
behavior to me and ! am going to stick with that."
Councilmember Williamson stated that his reason for rejecting the proposed bid is that
he does not believe that the lot is suitable for building a home.
Assistant City Manager and Human Resources Director Robinson suggested that the City
Council reconsider the item to allow the proposed bidder to present plans for
developing the property.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern
Sinegal that Proposed Ordinance No. 5792 be reconsidered to table to allow the
proposed buyer to provide development plans.
Proposed Ordinance No. 5792 was tabled.
C. *Reoorts And Recommendations
(1) Report On Westside Development
City Manager Fitzgibbons reported on the Westside Development Meeting held
Thursday, September 6, at the Memorial Ninth Grade Campus. He discussed comments
related to relocation incentive options to provide safety buffer zones.
Mayor Pro Tem Sinegal requested additional information regarding industry's plans for
suitable safety buffer zones.
Councilmember Chatman requested additional advertisement of Westside Development
meetings.
TX. *CLOSED MEETING (EXECUT1~VE SESSION)
Closed Meetinq:
(1)
Section 551.087 Government Code - To Discuss Incentives
For Commercial, Residential, And Industrial Business
Prospects
(2)
Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The
City Attorney Prospective Litigation As It Pertains To Port
Iron And KCS
(3) Section 551.072 Government Code - To Discuss The Value
Of Land At 3510 Lake Arthur Drive
(4)
Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The
City Attorney Prospective Litigation As It Pertains To
Overdue Water Bills
Port Arthur City Council Page 15
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
(5)
Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The
City Attorney Pending Litigation As It Pertains To City
Entergy
(6) Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The
City Attorney Prospective Litigation As Zt Pertains To TCEQ
(7)
Section 551.074
Appointment And
Morrison
Government Code - To Discuss The
Evaluation Of Municipal Court 3udge
(8) Section 551,071 Government Code - To Discuss With The
City Attorney Potential Litigation As To Candidate Zssues
(9)
Section 552.074 Government Code - Discuss With The City
Attorney His Duties And Responsibilities As Tt Pertains To
The Port Arthur Section 4A Economic Development
Corporation
The City Council recessed their meeting at 12:42 p.m. to meet in Executive Session to
consider the above-mentioned topics, and reconvened their meeting at 3:48 p.m. with
the following members present: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Sinegal;
Councilmembers Chatman, 3ones, Henderson and Williamson; City Manager
Fitzgibbons, City Secretary Green and City Attorney Sokolow.
Councilmember Flood left the meeting during the Executive Session.
VZZ. XTEMS RE(~UTRZNG INDZVTDUAL ACTTON- NON-CONSENT
A. Resolutions
(1)
P. R. No. 14283 - A Resolution Authorizing A Contract With
Germer Gertz For Legal Services As The Primary Attorney
For The City Of Port Arthur Section 4a Economic
Development Corporation
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Upon the motion by Mayor Pro Tern $inegal, seconded by Councilmember Chatman and
carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 14283 was tabled.
(4)
P. R. No. 14368 - A Resolution As Zt Pertains To Approving
A Purchase Agreement Between The City Of Port Arthur
Section 4A Economic Development Corporation And
Embree Asset Group, Znc.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Williamson and seconded by Councilmember
3ones that Proposed Resolution No. 14368 be adopted.
The motion was made by Councilmember Williamson and seconded by Councilmember
Chatman that Proposed Resolution No. 14368 be tabled.
Proposed Resolution No. 14368 was tabled.
(5)
P. R. No. 14369 - A Resolution Authorizing The Execution
Of An Agreement Between The City Of Port Arthur Section
4A Economic Development Corporation And The City Of
Port Arthur As It Pertains To Administrative Charges For
The Fiscal Year October 1, 2007 Through September 30,
2008
Port Arthur City Council Page 16
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Upon the motion by Councilmember Williamson, seconded by Councilmember Chatman
and carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 14369 was tabled.
Proposed Resolution No. 14368 was tabled.
C. *Reports And Recommendation~
(2) Report On Weedy Lots
Community Services Director Lawrence Baker and Demolition Coordinator Darlene
Pierre presented the above-mentioned report.
(3) Updated Report On Demolition
Community Services Director Lawrence Baker and Demolition Coordinator Darlene
Pierre presented the above-mentioned report.
VTT[. REPORTS OF BOARDS & COMMITTEES - NONE
X. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS OR RE(~UESTED REPORTS
Mayor Prince:
Requested a status update on the Fallen Heroes Monument.
(1)
(2) Requested City Council consideration in addressing Beautification
Commission appointments.
(3) Requested that the Fire and Police Department assist citizens in
registering cell phones with STAN at (866) 484-3264.
Councilmember Williamson:
(1) Requested a breakdown of health insurance experience.
(2) Requested a report on vacant property with tax liens.
(3) Requested a pilot program using vacant lots for neighborhood gardens.
t4avor Pro Tem Sineqah
Requested that Mr. Clayton Mayfield conduct a grass cutting presentation.
X?. AD.3OURNMENT OF MEETTNG
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember Chatman
and carried unanimously, the City Council adjourned their meeting at 4:17 p.m.
An audio-tape of this meeting is on file in the office of the City Secretary and is made a
part of the official minutes of this meeting.
MAYOR DELOR1rS "BOBBZE' PRINCE
ATTEST:
CITY SECRETARY EVANGEL[NE GREEN
END OF REGULAR MEETING HELD September 11, 2007. APPROVED:
Port Arthur City Council Page 17
Regular Meeting - September 11, 2007