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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES 03/17/2015 REGULAR MEETING REGULAR MEETING — March 17, 2015 I. INVOCATION, PLEDGE & ROLL CALL Mayor Pro Tern Freeman 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, March 17, 2015 at 8:34 a.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, with the following members present: Mayor Deloris "Bobbie" Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Derrick Freeman; Councilmembers Raymond Scott, Jr., Morris Albright, III., Stephen A. Mosely, Robert E. "Bob" Williamson, and Kaprina Frank; City Manager Brian McDougal, City Secretary Sherri Bellard, City Attorney Valecia R. Tizeno, and Sergeant At Arms Chief of Police Mark Blanton. Councilmember Willie "Bae" Lewis, Jr. joined the Regular Meeting at 8:37 a.m. Councilmember Tiffany Hamilton joined the Regular Meeting at 8:40 a.m. II. PROCLAMATIONS & MINUTES Proclamations Mayor Prince issued the following Proclamations: March 17, 2015 as "Gift of Life Tobacco Control Coalition of South East Texas Lock up Tobacco Day" March 2015 as "American Red Cross Month" Minutes — None III. PETITIONS & COMMUNICATIONS A. Speakers (1) Kerry LaGrone Regarding Planning and Zoning And Building Department Mr. Kerry LaGrone, Spring Texas, appeared before the City Council regarding the above-mentioned topic. (2) Robert Troy Regarding Petition Roadblocks And Difficulties Vs Ease Of Requirements For Citizens Mr. Robert Troy, 5123 Roosevelt Avenue, appeared before the City Council regarding the above-mentioned topic and requested the attached statement be made a part of the Minutes attached hereto as Exhibit "A". (3) Warren Field Regarding Audit Petition Challenges Gathering Signatures Mr. Warren Field, 1147 60th Street, appeared before the City Council regarding the above-mentioned topic. IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS — 9:00 AM (1) To Consider A Zoning Change From Agricultural "A" And Multiple Family "MF" To Light Commercial "LC" On 36.0278 Acres Of Land Out Of Lots 2, 3, 4, 5, 14, 15, 16 And 17, Block 8, Hillcrest Second Addition, Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Public Hearing at 9:30 a.m. Senior Planner Paul Brown appeared before the City Council and gave an overview of the above-mentioned item. The Mayor requested to hear from anyone present in the audience who wished to speak regarding the above-mentioned item. Mr. Brady Gerad, 4749 Twin City Highway, appeared before the City Council regarding the zoning change. Planning Director Ron Burton appeared before the City Council to answer inquiries regarding the above-mentioned zoning change. Upon the motion of Councilmember Hamilton, seconded by Councilmember Williamson and carried unanimously, the City Council closed the Public Hearing at 9:43 a.m. (2) To Consider A Zoning Change From Agricultural "A" To Light Commercial "LC" On 3.800 Acres Of Land, Part Of Lots 6 And 7, Block 13, Range "L", Port Arthur Land Company Subdivision, Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Public Hearing at 9:43 a.m. Senior Planner Paul Brown appeared before the City Council and gave an overview of the above-mentioned item. The Mayor requested to hear from anyone present in the audience who wished to speak regarding the above-mentioned item. Mr. John Rogers, 928 Airport Road, Hot Springs Arkansas, appeared before the City Council regarding the above-mentioned zoning change. Upon the motion of Councilmember Williamson, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Freeman and carried unanimously, the City Council closed the Public Hearing at 9:43 a.m. III. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS B. Presentations (1) Presentation Regarding Library Digital Wallpaper Port Arthur Public Library Director Jose Martinez gave the above-mentioned presentation. (2) Presentation Regarding CDBG Funds Mayor Prince filed a Conflict of Interest Affidavit with the City Secretary and did not participate in discussion or action regarding the above-mentioned presentation. Mayor Pro Tern Freeman chaired the meeting. Grants Specialist Mary Essex appeared before the City Council and gave the above- mentioned presentation. (3) Presentation By Mayor Pro Tern Freeman Regarding Port Arthur Becoming A Film Friendly City Mayor Prince returned to chair the meeting. Mayor Pro Tern Freeman gave the above-motioned presentation. (4) Presentation Regarding O.W. Collins Bedbug Situation (Requested By Councilmember Lewis) City Council Minutes 2 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 Port Arthur Health Director Judith Smith appeared before the City Council and gave the above-mentioned presentation. (5) Presentation By Public Works Department Regarding The Repairs And Future Maintenance Of 1st Street In Sabine Pass (Requested By Councilmember Lewis) Public Works Director Sue Polka appeared before the City Council and gave the above- mentioned presentation. (6) Presentation Of 2014 End Of The Year Crime Report Port Arthur Police Chief Mark Blanton appeared before the City Council and gave the above-mentioned presentation. C. Employee Recognition — None D. Correspondence (1) Certification Of Petition Pursuant To Article IV Of The Charter Of City Of Port Arthur The City Secretary read the above-mentioned certification into the record. (2) Certification Of Candidates For May 9, 2015 Election The City Secretary read the above-mentioned certification into the record. V. UNFINISHED BUSINESS — None VI. CONSENT AGENDA The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Freeman seconded by Councilmember Williamson that the following Consent Agenda items be adopted with the exception of Proposed Resolutions No. 18875, 18876, 18880, 18885, and 18890: The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt the Consent Agenda: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" A. Expense Reports: (1) Mayor Deloris Prince: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $1,215.83 (2) Councilmember Raymond Scott, Jr.: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $874.60 (3) Councilmember Morris Albright, III: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $125.00 City Council Minutes 3 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 (4) Councilmember Stephen Mosely: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $874.60 (5) Councilmember Willie Lewis, Jr.: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $874.60 (6) Councilmember Robert Williamson: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $1,208.34 (7) Councilmember Kaprina Frank: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $874.60 (8) City Manager Brian McDougal: Attended Golden Triangle Days Austin, TX, March 1-3, 2015 $1,122.66 B. Resolutions — Consent (1) P.R. No. 18822 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Accept The Real Property Donation From Lettie Curtis, Located At 619 W. 6th Street Proposed Resolution No. 18822 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-085. (2) P.R. No. 18827 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute Change Order No. 7 To The Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And Allco, L.L.C., Of Beaumont, Texas, For The Highway 87 Water System Improvements From Keith Lake To Sabine Pass Standpipe, For Time Extension Of 24 Days, Due To Weather Delays, To A New Contract Time Of 329 Days Proposed Resolution No. 18827 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-086. (3) P.R. No. 18835 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Accept A Proposal With Ascende, Inc., To Provide Administrative Services For The 2015 Retirees Drug Subsidy (RDS) Filing At A Cost Of $17,500.00. Fund No. 614 — Health Insurance Fund Proposed Resolution No. 18835 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-087. (4) P.R. No. 18842 — A Resolution Authorizing A Contract With Alpha-Lee Enterprises, Inc., Regarding The July 4, 2015 Fireworks Display. Total Cost Of The Contract Is $14,800.00 (Account No. 001-1003-512.59-00; M99901) Proposed Resolution No. 18842 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-088. (5) P.R. No. 18859 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute Change Order 002 To The Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And McInnis Construction, Inc., Of Silsbee, Texas, For Construction Of The City's Transit Administrative Building, Increasing The Contract Term By 94 Days Due To Weather Delays, To A New Term Of 402 Days Proposed Resolution No. 18859 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-089. City Council Minutes 4 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 (6) P.R. No. 18861 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Enter Into A Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And A & A Electric, Co., Inc., Of Beaumont, Texas, For Installation Of The Transit Department's Emergency Generator And Transfer Switch, In An Amount Not To Exceed $12,257.00. Transit Budget Account No(s): 401- 1501-561.59-00, 401-1509-561.54-00 And 401-1501- 561.54-00 Proposed Resolution No. 18861 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-090. (7) P.R. No. 18873 — A Resolution Authorizing The 2015 General/Joint Election Support And Services Agreement With Hart Intercivic In An Amount Not To Exceed $9,230.00. Funding Is Available In City Secretary's Account No. 001-1013-513.54-00 Proposed Resolution No. 18873 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-091. (10) P.R. No. 18879 — A Resolution Approving The City Of Port Arthur Section 4A Economic Development Corporation Entering Into A Janitorial Services Contract With Southeast Texas Building Services For Janitorial Services At 501 Procter For A Cost Not To Exceed $17,760.00 Per Year Proposed Resolution No. 18879 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-092. (12) P.R. No. 18882 — A Resolution Accepting A Water Utilities Easement From The Port Arthur Housing Authority For Construction, Installation, Laying, And Maintaining Of Water Utilities On Their Property At Carver Terrace Apartment Complex, Port Arthur, Texas Proposed Resolution No. 18882 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-093. (13) P.R. No. 18884 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And Arceneaux Wilson & Cole, LLC, Of Port Arthur, Texas, For Construction Phase Services Of An Elevated Storage Tank, Not To Exceed $840,000.00, Contingent Upon Notice To Proceed Issuance And Property Purchase Proposed Resolution No. 18884 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-094. (15) P.R. No. 18886 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute Change Order No. 1 To The Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And AlIco, L.L.C., Of Beaumont, Texas, For Project 4, Phase I Surface Water Treatment Plant Improvements, In An Amount Not To Exceed $44,575.00, Increasing The Contract Amount To $12,417,886.00, And The Contract Time By 16 Days For Weather Delays And Construction Of An Alternate Access Road, To A New Contract Time Of 416 Days. Account No. 429-1258-532.59-00, Project No. WSI008 Proposed Resolution No. 18886 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-095. (16) P.R. No. 18889 - A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute The First Year Of A Contract With Martin Asphalt Company Of Houston, Texas, For The Purchase Of Asphalt, Oil, & Emulsions, In An Annual Amount Not To Exceed $50,000.00. Public Works Streets Program Account No(s). 001-1203-531.86-00 And 001- 1203-531.36-00, And CDBG Project Accounts City Council Minutes 5 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 Proposed Resolution No. 18889 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-096. (18) P.R. No. 18892 - A Resolution Authorizing The Purchase Of Landfill Portable Litter Fencing From Metta Technologies, Inc., Of Toledo, Ohio, In An Amount Not To Exceed $48,374.00. Funding Is Available In Landfill Account No. 403-1274-533.92-00 Proposed Resolution No. 18892 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-097. (19) P.R. No. 18893 — A Resolution Authorizing A Payment To Brown Reynolds Watford Architects, Inc., Of College Station, Texas, For Design Of The Renovations And Improvements To The Property Located At 3451 57th Street In The Amount Of $24,278.00, Account No. 301-1606- 591.59-00 Proposed Resolution No. 18893 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-098. (20) P.R. No. 18898 — A Resolution Designating The Early Voting Ballot Board, Deputy Lead And Alternate Lead Early Voting Clerks, Election Day Presiding Judges And Alternate Judges, As Well As Appointing The Spanish And Vietnamese Interpreters, The Presiding Judge, Alternate Judge, Tabulation Supervisor, Ballot Production Specialist, Counting Station Manager And Election Records General Custodian Of The Central Counting Station For The May 9, 2015 General/Joint Election UNA RESOLUCION QUE DESIGNA A LA JUNTA DE VOTACION PREMATURA, DIPUTADO PRINCIPAL Y SECRETARIOS AL TERNA TIVOS DE VOTACION PREMA TURA, JUECES QUE PRESIDEN EN EL DIA DE LAS ELECCIONES Y MAGISTRADOS SUPLENTES , ASI COMO EL NOMBRAMIENTO DE LOS INTERPRETES EN ESPA/VOL Y VIETNAMITA , EL PRESIDENTE DEL TRIBUNAL , JUEZ SUPLENTE, SUPERVISOR DE TABULACION, ESPECIALISTA EN PRODUCCION DE VOTACION, GERENTE CONTADOR DE REGISTROS, Y CUSTODIO GENERAL DE LA ELECCION CUSTODIAL DE LA ESTACION PRINCIPAL CONTADORA PARA LA GENERAL/ARTICULACION ELECCION EN MA Y0 9, 2015 Proposed Resolution No. 18898 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-099. (21) P.R. No. 18899 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A Professional Services Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And SCS Engineers, Of Bedford, Texas, To Provide The Necessary Ballast Evaluation Report For Cell 48 At The City's Landfill, In The Amount Not To Exceed $12,000.00, With Funding Available In Landfill Account No. 403-1274-533.54-00 Proposed Resolution No. 18899 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-100. (22) P.R. No. 18900 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A Written Agreement Between The City Of Port Arthur And Kerri Bentley For Participation In The City Of Port Arthur's Owner Occupied Housing Assistance Rehabilitation And Reconstruction Program Proposed Resolution No. 18900 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-101. City Council Minutes 6 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 (23) P.R. No. 18902 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Port Arthur Section 4A Economic Development Corporation To Increase The Price Per Acre In The Business Park Located At 9555 W. Port Arthur Road To $57,500.00 Per Acre Proposed Resolution No. 18902 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-102. (24) P.R. No. 18903 — A Resolution Approving The Sale Of Land In The City Of Port Arthur Section 4A Economic Development Corporation's Business Park To Clay Development & Construction, Inc., For A Price Of $52,500.00 Per Acre Proposed Resolution No. 18903 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-103. (25) P.R. No. 18904 — A Resolution Authorizing The Payment Of An Invoice By The City Of Port Arthur Section 4A Economic Development Corporation In The Amount Of $11,760.00 To Multiview, Inc., Of Dallas, Texas, For A Behavioral Targeted Campaign, In An Amount Not To Exceed &11,760.00. Funds Are Available In PAEDC Account No. 120-1429- 582.59-06 Proposed Resolution No. 18904 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-104. (26) P.R. No. 18905 — A Resolution Approving Water And Sewer Adjustment To Certain Utility Accounts Proposed Resolution No. 18905 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-105. (27) P.R. No. 18907 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Negotiate A Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And Whitley Penn, LLP, As Independent Auditor For The City Of Port Arthur For Fiscal Year 2014, With The Option To Renew For Four Subsequent Years Proposed Resolution No. 18907 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-106. (28) P.R. No. 18908 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A Temporary Contract Delay For AlIco, L.L.C., For Work Being Performed On The City Of Port Arthur 24" Waterline From 19th Street To The Sabine Neches Canal Project, As Another Contractor Is Working On A City Of Port Arthur Project, Which Does Not Allow Allco, L.L.C., To Finish This Project (To Resume Once Other Contractor Completes Assignment) Proposed Resolution No. 18908 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-107. VII. ITEMS REQUIRING INDIVIDUAL ACTION Consent - Resolutions (8) P.R. No. 18875 — A Resolution Authorizing The Emergency Expenditure For Track Repairs To Equipment No. 1896 D6N Caterpillar Dozer For The Public Works Landfill Division From Louisiana CAT Of Lake Charles, Louisiana, In The Not- To-Exceed Amount Of $31,136.17. Public Works Landfill Account No. 403-1274-533.43-00 The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. City Council Minutes 7 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 The motion was made by Councilmember Albright and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Freeman that Proposed Resolution No. 18875 be adopted. Public Works Director Sue Polka appeared before the City Council to answer inquiries regarding the above-mentioned repairs. Councilmember Mosely left the meeting. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18875: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18875 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-108. The caption of Resolution No. 15-108 reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 15-108 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EMERGENCY EXPENDITURE FOR TRACK REPAIRS TO EQUIPMENT NO. 1896 D6N CATERPILLAR DOZER FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS LANDFILL DIVISION FROM LOUISIANA CAT OF LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA, IN THE NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $31,136.17. PUBLIC WORKS LANDFILL ACCOUNT NO. 403-1274-533.43-00 (9) P.R. No. 18876 — A Resolution Approving The 2015 Community Development Block Grant Allocations In The Amount Of $1,015,481.00 For The City Of Port Arthur The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The Mayor filed a Conflict of Interest Affidavit with the City Secretary and did not participate in discussion or action regarding the above-mentioned item. Mayor Pro Tem Freeman chaired the meeting. The motion was made by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Albright that Proposed Resolution No. 18876 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18876: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18876 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-109. The caption of Resolution No. 15-109 reads as follows: City Council Minutes 8 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 RESOLUTION NO. 15-109 A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2015 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ALLOCATIONS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,015,481.00 FOR THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR The Mayor returned to chair the meeting. (11) P.R. No. 18880 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A One Year Contract With S-Mo Unlimited, Of Port Arthur, Texas, For Grass Cutting Services Of Vacant Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) Properties Located City-Wide, And Designated As Areas NSP-1, NSP-2, & NSP-3, In The Annual Not-To-Exceed Amount Of $32,000.00. Funds Are Available In NSP Account Number 129-1435-554.59-00; Project Number NSP007 And Housing Account Number 117-1404-621.59- 00, Project Number HOPE 3 The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright and seconded by Councilmember Hamilton that Proposed Resolution No. 18880 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18880: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18880 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-110. The caption of Resolution No. 15-110 reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 15-110 A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A One Year Contract With S-Mo Unlimited, Of Port Arthur, Texas, For Grass Cutting Services Of Vacant Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) Properties Located City-Wide, And Designated As Areas NSP-1, NSP-2, & NSP-3, In The Annual Not-To-Exceed Amount Of $32,000.00. Funds Are Available In NSP Account Number 129-1435-554.59-00; Project Number NSP007 And Housing Account Number 117-1404-621.59-00, Project Number HOPE 3 (14) P.R. No. 18885 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A Contract Between The City Of Port Arthur And Arceneaux Wilson & Cole, LLC, Of Port Arthur, Texas, For The Construction Phase Services Of An Elevated Storage Tank Not To Exceed $78,000.00, Contingent Upon Notice To Proceed Issuance And Property Purchase City Council Minutes 9 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Freeman and seconded by Councilmember Frank that Proposed Resolution No. 18885 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18885: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18885 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-111. The caption of Resolution No. 15-111 reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 15-111 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR AND ARCENEAUX WILSON & COLE, LLC, OF PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS, FOR THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE SERVICES OF AN ELEVATED STORAGE TANK NOT TO EXCEED $78,000.00, CONTINGENT UPON NOTICE TO PROCEED ISSUANCE AND PROPERTY PURCHASE (17) P.R. No. 18890 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager To Execute A Contract With Member's Building Maintenance, LLC, Of Dallas, Texas, For Janitorial Services For City Hall And City Hall Annex, In An Annual Not-To- Exceed Amount Of $88,536.00. Funding Is Available In Public Works — City Hall Account No. 001-1206-531.32-00 The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Freeman and seconded by Councilmember Hamilton that Proposed Resolution No. 18890 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18890: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18890 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-112. The caption of Resolution No. 15-112 reads as follows: City Council Minutes 10 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 RESOLUTION NO. 15-112 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH MEMBER'S BUILDING MAINTENANCE, LLC, OF DALLAS, TEXAS, FOR JANITORIAL SERVICES FOR CITY HALL AND CITY HALL ANNEX, IN AN ANNUAL NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $88,536.00. FUNDING IS AVAILABLE IN PUBLIC WORKS — CITY HALL ACCOUNT NO. 001-1206-531.32-00 A. Resolutions (2) P.R. No. 18877 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager And City Attorney To Negotiate A Contract For The Purchase Of Land For The Construction Of An Elevated Storage Tank And Pump Station, And To Enter Into An Escrow Agreement In An Amount Not To Exceed $32,000.00 Proposed Resolution No. 18877 was held until after Executive Session. (2) P.R. No. 18887 — A Resolution Appointing And/Or Reappointing A Member Or Members To The Port Arthur Youth Advisory Council The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Councilmember Williamson and seconded by Councilmember Albright that Proposed Resolution No. 18887 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18887: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18887 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-113. The caption of Resolution No. 15-113 reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 15-113 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING AND/OR REAPPOINTING A MEMBER OR MEMBERS TO THE PORT ARTHUR YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL (3) P.R. No. 18896 — A Resolution Appointing A Negotiating Team Under Chapter 174 Of The Texas Local Government Code Annotated, To Conduct Collective Bargaining With The Bargaining Agent Of The Port Arthur Police Association Of The City Of Port Arthur Police Department The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. City Council Minutes 11 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 The motion was made by Councilmember Albright and seconded by Councilmember Williamson that Proposed Resolution No. 18896 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18896: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18896 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-114. The caption of Resolution No. 18896 reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 15-114 A RESOLUTION APPOINTING A NEGOTIATING TEAM UNDER CHAPTER 174 OF THE TEXAS LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE ANNOTATED, TO CONDUCT COLLECTIVE BARGAINING WITH THE BARGAINING AGENT OF THE PORT ARTHUR POLICE ASSOCIATION OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR POLICE DEPARTMENT (4) P.R. No. 18897 — A Resolution Appointing And/Or Reappointing A Member Or Members To The Beautification Commission (Requested By Mayor Pro Tem Freeman) The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Freeman that Proposed Resolution No. 18897 be adopted. The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Freeman and seconded by Councilmember Albright that Proposed Resolution No. 18897 be removed from the agenda. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to remove Proposed Resolution No. 18897 from the agenda: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18897 was removed from the agenda. (5) P.R. No. 18906 — A Resolution Adopting The Governing Rules Of The City Of Port Arthur Youth Advisory Council (Requested By Councilmember Williamson) The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright and seconded by Councilmember Williamson that Proposed Resolution No. 18906 be adopted. City Council Minutes 12 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 The motion was made by Councilmember Albright and seconded by Councilmember Lewis that Proposed Resolution No. 18906 be amended as follows that the proposed rules remain but remove the advisor position. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to amend Proposed Resolution No. 18906: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "No" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "No" Mayor Prince "No" The motion to amend Proposed Resolution No. 18906 carried. The City Council recessed their meeting at 12:03 p.m. and reconvened their meeting at 12:18 p.m. with the following members present: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tem Freeman; Councilmembers Scott, Hamilton, Albright, Mosely, Lewis, Williamson and Frank; City Manager McDougal; City Secretary Bellard; City Attorney Tizeno and Sergeant At Arms Chief Blanton. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18906 as amended: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "No" Proposed Resolution No. 18906 was adopted, as amended, becoming Resolution No. 15-115. The caption of Resolution No. 15-083 reads as follows: RESOLUTION NO. 15-115 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE GOVERNING RULES OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL (REQUESTED BY COUNCILMEMBER WILLIAMSON) B. Ordinances (1) P.O. No. 6440 — An Ordinance Authorizing Three (3) Special Warranty Deeds For Conveyance Of Property To Low And Moderate Income Residents Of The City Who Are Participating In The Hurricane Ike Housing Reconstruction Program Through The Texas Department Of Housing & Community Affairs (TDHCA) The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Hamilton and seconded by Councilmember Albright that Proposed Ordinance No. 6440 be adopted. City Council Minutes 13 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 6440: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Ordinance No. 6440 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-07. The caption of Ordinance No. 15-07 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-07 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THREE (3) SPECIAL WARRANTY DEEDS FOR CONVEYANCE OF PROPERTY TO LOW AND MODERATE INCOME RESIDENTS OF THE CITY WHO ARE PARTICIPATING IN THE HURRICANE IKE HOUSING RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM THROUGH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING & COMMUNITY AFFAIRS (TDHCA) (2) P.O. No. 6442 — An Ordinance Authorizing The Execution Of A Special Warranty Deed To The Estate Of Pat Wood, Jr. As It Pertains To The Property Located At Pleasure Pier Sea Cabins, Building B, Phase II The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright seconded by Councilmember Williamson that Proposed Ordinance No. 6442 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 6442: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Ordinance No. 6442 was adopted becoming Ordinance No. 15-08. The caption of Ordinance No. 15-08 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-08 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A SPECIAL WARRANTY DEED TO THE ESTATE OF PAT WOOD, JR. AS IT PERTAINS TO THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT PLEASURE PIER SEA CABINS, BUILDING B, PHASE II City Council Minutes 14 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 (3) P.O. No. 6443 — An Ordinance Amending Section 2-285 Of The Code Of Ordinances As It Pertains To Purchases And Contracts The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Williamson seconded by Councilmember Albright that Proposed Ordinance No. 6443 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 6443: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Ordinance No. 6443 was adopted becoming Ordinance No. 15-09. The caption of Ordinance No. 15-09 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-09 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A SPECIAL WARRANTY DEED TO THE ESTATE OF PAT WOOD, JR. AS IT PERTAINS TO THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT PLEASURE PIER SEA CABINS, BUILDING B, PHASE II (4) P.O. No. 6444 — An Ordinance Adopting Guidelines For Filming In The City Of Port Arthur And Becoming A Certified "Film Friendly City" (Requested By Mayor Pro Tem Freeman) The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright seconded by Councilmember Williamson that Proposed Ordinance No. 6444 be tabled. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to table Proposed Ordinance No. 6444: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "No" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "No" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Ordinance No. 6444 was tabled. (5) P. O. No. 6449 — An Ordinance Authorizing Chief Executive Officer Of The City Of Port Arthur Section 4A Economic Development Corporation To Sell Surplus Property By A City Council Minutes ]5 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 Public Auction Through American Office Auction Of Beaumont, Texas The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Albert seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Freeman that Proposed Ordinance No. 6449 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 6449: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tem Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Ordinance No. 6449 was adopted becoming Ordinance No. 15-10. The caption of Ordinance No. 15-10 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-10 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR SECTION 4A ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION TO SELL SURPLUS PROPERTY BY A PUBLIC AUCTION THROUGH AMERICAN OFFICE AUCTION OF BEAUMONT, TEXAS (6) P.O. No. 6450 — An Ordinance Amending The Zoning Ordinance Of The City Of Port Arthur By Changing The Zoning From Agricultural (A) And Multiple Family (MF) To Light Commercial (LC) For A 36.0278-Acre Tract Of Land Out Of Lots 2 - 5 And Lots 14 - 17, Block 8, Hillcrest 2nd Addition, City Of Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas (Violation Of This Ordinance Or The Zoning Ordinance Of The City Of Port Arthur Is Punishable As Provided In Chapter 1, Section 1-13 Of The Code Of Ordinances, As Amended, By A 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. Z15 —01 — JG Realty & Investment, LLC agricultural (A) Multi-Family (MF) To Light Commercial (LC) The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright seconded by Councilmember Williamson that Proposed Ordinance No. 6450 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 6450: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" City Council Minutes 16 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Ordinance No. 6450 was adopted becoming Ordinance No. 15-11. The caption of Ordinance No. 15-11 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-11 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR BY CHANGING THE ZONING FROM AGRICULTURAL (A) AND MULTIPLE FAMILY (MF) TO LIGHT COMMERCIAL (LC) FOR A 36.0278-ACRE TRACT OF LAND OUT OF LOTS 2 - 5 AND LOTS 14 - 17, BLOCK 8, HILLCREST 2ND ADDITION, CITY OF PORT ARTHUR, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS (VIOLATION OF THIS ORDINANCE OR THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR IS PUNISHABLE AS PROVIDED IN CHAPTER 1, SECTION 1-13 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, AS AMENDED, BY A 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. Z15 —01 — JG REALTY & INVESTMENT, LLC AGRICULTURAL (A) MULTI- FAMILY (MF) TO LIGHT COMMERCIAL (LC) (7) P.O. No. 6451 — An Ordinance Amending The Zoning Ordinance Of The City Of Port Arthur By Changing The Zoning From Agricultural (A) To Light Commercial (LC) For 3.800 Acres Of Land, Part Of Lots 6 And 7, Block 12, Range "L", Port Arthur Land Company Subdivision, City Of Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas (Violation Of This Ordinance Or The Zoning Ordinance Of The City Of Port Arthur Is Punishable As Provided In Chapter 1, Section 1- 13 Of The Code Of Ordinances, As Amended, By A 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. Z15 — 02 — Park Central West, LTD., Agricultural (A) To Light Commercial (LC) The City Manager introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Ordinance. The motion was made by Councilmember Albright seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Freeman that Proposed Ordinance No. 6451 be adopted. The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 6451: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" City Council Minutes 17 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 Proposed Ordinance No. 6451 was adopted becoming Ordinance No. 15-12. The caption of Ordinance No. 15-12 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-12 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR BY CHANGING THE ZONING FROM AGRICULTURAL (A) TO LIGHT COMMERCIAL (LC) FOR 3.800 ACRES OF LAND, PART OF LOTS 6 AND 7, BLOCK 12, RANGE "L", PORT ARTHUR LAND COMPANY SUBDIVISION, CITY OF PORT ARTHUR, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS (VIOLATION OF THIS ORDINANCE OR THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR IS PUNISHABLE AS PROVIDED IN CHAPTER 1, SECTION 1-13 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, AS AMENDED, BY A 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. Z15 — 02 — PARK CENTRAL WEST, LTD., AGRICULTURAL (A) TO LIGHT COMMERCIAL (LC) IX. * CLOSED MEETING (EXECUTIVE SESSION) Closed Meeting: (1) Section 551.072 Government Code — To Deliberate The Purchase And Value Of Real Property On The City's West Side (2) Section 551.072 Government Code — To Discuss The Value Of Real Property Near The West Side Development Center The City Council recessed their meeting at 12:37 p.m. to meet in Executive Session to consider the above-mentioned topics, and reconvened their meeting at 1:13 p.m. with the following members present: Mayor Prince; Mayor Pro Tern Freeman; Councilmembers Scott, Hamilton, Albright, Mosely, Lewis, Williamson and Frank; City Manager McDougal; City Secretary Bellard; City Attorney Tizeno and Sergeant At Arms Chief Blanton. VII. ITEMS REQUIRING INDIVIDUAL ACTION NON-CONSENT (2) P.R. No. 18877 — A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager And City Attorney To Negotiate A Contract For The Purchase Of Land For The Construction Of An Elevated Storage Tank And Pump Station, And To Enter Into An Escrow Agreement In An Amount Not To Exceed $32,000.00 The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution. The motion was made by Councilmember Scott seconded by Councilmember Williamson that Proposed Resolution No. 18877 be adopted. City Council Minutes 18 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 18877: Councilmember Albright "Yes" Councilmember Frank "Yes" Mayor Pro Tern Freeman "Yes" Councilmember Hamilton "Yes" Councilmember Lewis "Yes" Councilmember Mosely "Yes" Councilmember Scott "Yes" Councilmember Williamson "Yes" Mayor Prince "Yes" Proposed Resolution No. 18877 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 15-116. The caption of Resolution No. 15-116 reads as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 15-116 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A SPECIAL WARRANTY DEED TO THE ESTATE OF PAT WOOD, JR. AS IT PERTAINS TO THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT PLEASURE PIER SEA CABINS, BUILDING B, PHASE II IX. ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING Upon the motion by Mayor Pro Tern Freeman, seconded by Councilmember Hamilton and carried unanimously, the City Council adjourned their meeting 1:15 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 DELORIS "BOBBIE" PRINCE ATTEST: CITY SECRETARY SHERRI BELLARD END OF REGULAR MEETING HELD March 17, 2015. APPROVED .• City Council Minutes 19 Regular Meeting — March 17, 2015 EXHIBI 'A" Good Morning Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and Staff My name is Robert Troy My address is 5123 Roosevelt Avenue; Port Arthur, TX. The Petition for a Forensic Audit was not my idea. It was initiated by Mr. Antone Goudeaux, but he was called to go to work in Baytown, so he asked me to see it through for him since he has already initiated it. When I got involved, I found that there were many obstacles in getting the petition to form and on two occasions, there was something left out that had to be put back into the proposal. Then at the final attempt, the petition had been changed into two separate petitions. I think that all this was intentional delays. When it was finally ready, I was given instructions, and a deadline which was roughly two weeks away, and we were in a holiday season. According to the State Secretary's office, Petitions from the citizens should be made as simple as possible to accommodate the citizens. In this experience, I have observed just the opposite. Our city has had much devastation over the past 10 years with two very powerful Hurricanes leaving behind much destruction and damage to our city and its infrastructure. Likewise, there has been many millions of dollars poured into this region by federal agencies in an effort to aid in the cleanup and rebuilding of our city. In that span of time, we have seen our neighboring cities who suffered much of the same destruction and in some cases, more. They have rebuilt and show very few signs of the destruction while we have a downtown area that still looks like the remains of a War zone, and houses that still have blue roofs. We have houses that should have been demolished 5 years ago that still stand and are a fire hazard to the community. The people have grown tired of the excuses that there is not enough money, or that we are waiting on the funds from the Government agencies. They are tired of the rhetoric and not seeing any improvement. This city is stagnated and it is no wonder why the people have lost faith and trust in their city government. It is for this reason that the people are asking for a forensic audit so that they can know just where the federal funds went and why there are no improvements to their city and their community. The citizens have asked for a FORENSIC AUDIT only because this city government is so translucent. They are told in open speeches that the city is not broke and that we have plenty of money, yet, none of it is being spent to make the necessary repairs to the city. The people have asked for a Forensic audit, and have signed petitions to indicate as much. Yet, the city government is trying to give them less than what they ask. They are treated as if they do not know what they are asking for, and are being fed the idea that something less would give them the same satisfaction they seek. A Forensic audit is their plea, and what they will accept. They are told that the cost of a forensic Audit is very high. It doesn't take s lot of effort to see that the price is based on the scope of the audit. And since no scope is set forth, no one can actually say how much it will cost. Obviously, this administration must think that it will take a very long time for an audit of only five departments. If that is the case, then it is even more obvious that a Forensic audit is really what is needed. If all of our books are clean, and there is no problem, then a forensic audit should be complete within a month. Remember that it is their money that is to pay for this Audit, not yours. The citizens are told that a watered down version of an audit is sufficient when right in this room, at this very podium that I am now standing, Ms. Jana Uribe of the Polans & Cohen CPA firm indicated to this council and said, "The agreed upon procedures is an engagement where you test certain elements or accounts" She also stated that: "The only way to get assurances would be an audit. The audit will give you assurances; whereas agreed procedures will only give you findings of the test". She further said that "Agreed procedures are for third parties only" and that "No opinion is given with agreed upon procedures". Therefore, it is obvious that this is not what the citizens are asking for. They are not as unfamiliar with the difference, as this council seems to think they are. From what has happened in the past 10 years that trust has worn very thin. The citizens have accomplished all the requirements that was laid out for them to do in order to get this proposition on the ballot, in spite of all the stumbling blocks that have been put in their path. The people of this city have left their families at home on Christmas and New Years to get signatures for this purpose. They have braved cold and wet weather to get other citizens to sign the petition. Without the stumbling blocks, this petition should be on the May ballot. In closing, I would suggest that this council make every effort to make a petition from the citizens be much easier to execute. It is the citizens that you are all here to help, not make things more difficult. The State Secretary's office has indicated that Petitions by the citizens should be made as simple as possible, and that the duty of the city government is to assure only that the petition is in proper form. This assembly is supposed to be about the citizens. They put trust in you to handle their affairs, not to dictate what they need and do not need. They speak through their elected officials. It is time for the officials to start listening to the citizens.. Thank you for your time and indulgence.