COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY OF SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA

JUNE 11, 2002

The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Shreveport, State of Louisiana, was called to order by Chairman Roy Burrell, at 3:00 pm., Tuesday, June 11, 2002, in the Government Chambers in Government Plaza (505 Travis Street).

Invocation was given by Pastor Timothy Hunter.

On Roll Call, the following members were Present: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Absent: Councilman Spigener who was out of town. 1. Clerk of Council Arthur Thompson was also out of town.

Motion by Councilman Shyne, seconded by Councilman Huckaby for approval of the Summary Minutes of the Administrative Conference of May 24, 2002, the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 28, 2002 and the Special Meeting of May 22, 2002. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

Awards, Recognitions of Distinguished Guests, and Communications of the Mayor Which Are Required By Law. Mayor Hightower: I don't have anything today, Mr. Chairman.

Awards, Recognitions of Distinguished Guests, and Communications of the Council Which Are Required By Law. Councilman Shyne: I have a gentleman who has been doing business with the City of Shreveport who is from St. Louis. I would just like for him to stand at least, we'd like to acknowledge that he is in the house, Mr. Jack Boatman, would you please stand. We appreciate having you down. I realize you have got a bad foot there, so I am not going to come forward.

Councilman Burrell: Welcome to Mr. Boatman. I would like to make a couple of Recognitions, I guess Awards, too, per se. There are two employees that have recently passed a 10-year tour of service for the City of Shreveport and one unique person here that has done that, is one of our fellow Council members, Councilman John David Stewart. He is not aware of this, I don't think knowing Deborah she probably told him already. [Chairman Burrell presented the 10-year pin to Councilman Stewart.] Councilman Stewart: Thank you very much, it is a pleasure.

Councilman Burrell: We have employee of the city of Shreveport, a young lady that I've admired. She is also one of my alumnus from Northeast Louisiana, I know that is where she got one of her degrees if not both of her degrees, and she is our City Internal Auditor, in the name of Ms. Leanis Graham. She looks like a young kid, you wouldn't think she has 10-year of service. Leanis, this is for 10 years of dedicated service to the City of Shreveport and she is our Head Auditor; congratulations. [Chairman Burrell presented the 10-year pin to Ms. Graham.]

Councilman Carmody: I would certainly think that the gentleman to my right has had to have been here 10-years if Councilman Stewart has been here 10 years; maybe we can get him a pin. Councilman Burrell: Oh, the Mayor, oh, that doesn't qualify. If he was on the Council, but now he has moved on. But anyway, congratulations Mayor, you have been here more than 10-years, I'm sure. Councilman Carmody: That's right. Mayor Hightower: Thank you.

Councilman Shyne: Since you are giving hands, I think I was here when the Mayor got here. I've been here so long until I guess I could get my second 10-year pin and thank you all, hear. See, those people right there is the reason why I've been down here so long; thank you, hear.

Councilman Burrell: We'll give you the Century Award, Councilman Shyne.

Public Hearing: None.

Confirmations and/or Appointments: None.

Public Comments:

Motion by Councilman Shyne to suspend the Rules to allow persons to address the Council, seconded by Councilman Stewart. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

Councilman Shyne: Reverend Hunter is one of the fine ministers in this community who is really about economic development and growing his ministry. His church is in my district, but his project is in District A, which is Councilwoman Huckaby's. I've had an opportunity to talk with Pastor Hunter a number of times and I think he has a beautiful project, it is a worthwhile project, And, like I was telling Pastor Hunter, it does not really have anything to do with minority investment and development, it is a worthwhile project. I mean, it wouldn't matter if somebody from Mars brought this project down, I mean, it's a worthwhile project. And I'm asking all of my colleagues on the Council to please and in-depth and a positive look at the project that Pastor Hunter will talk about and I'd like to indulge on my Council members, if we could give him a little bit more than the 3 minutes that we generally give because they have put a tremendous amount of work and a tremendous amount of research into this project. And Pastor Hunter, I appreciate the love that you've shown for this City.

Pastor Timothy Hunter (1628 Aline Circle, Shreveport, Louisiana, 71107): If I could I'd like to have Ms. Ward to stand with me. To Mayor Hightower and to all of the Councilmen, we are grateful for the opportunity.

I am here representing the Tabernacle Baptist Church and we have embarked on a community development project. We began focusing on a non-profit. We evolved into a for-profit as well as a non-profit. The non-profit is Trinity 1 and the for-profit is Skyled Enterprise.

We have attempted to realize our dream and a vision that I had begun some years back and with the aid of the developer, Ms. Eleanor Ward, she has given me some ways to come to the fruition and to come to a reality of how this dream could be realized.

What we are offering to the City is a downtown development that would consist of a service station, primarily the Chevron has already given the green light to partner with us in this endeavor and we will have a number of franchises based on the construction size, the largest convenience store in America, in this country. The franchise will consist of Burger King, Church's Chicken, Marble Slab Creamery, Donut Palace, Pack Mail, Smoothies, a number of other franchises. We believe that it would not only be a benefit to the entrepreneurs, but more so to the City at large.

We believe that it will also do a number of things to help and aid the City as well a those that will own these establishments. We believe that it will create jobs. It will create a better quality of life, it will add to the city a tax base and more than anything, it will create a business development. And, we trust that all that we have put into this will meet your approval. We tried to do everything according to what was requested and required and we've gotten bankers, we've gotten the oil companies, we've gotten the researchers to do feasibility studies. The land people at Jones Brothers, getting the land together for us to make sure that there is no land contaminations and we are asking the City to join us in this vision to be realized. Ultimately, what we are going to ask the City, to help us in the aid and the support of bringing this dream to a reality.

Now, our sole purpose here is to request financial support in the sum of $1.2 million dollars to assist us in the funding of this project. I would for Sister Ward to have her statement as well as I have to give a little more light on this project. Eleanor Ward (119 Executive Way, Desoto, Texas): To the Honorable Mayor Keith Hightower and this Council, we thank you for allowing us this opportunity this afternoon. We come before you with an economic development project that has been 2 years in the making. I would like to say first, to the City, I'd like to thank the City of Shreveport because the Mayor's Office has been very instrumental in helping us. Arlena Acree has worked with us on this project from Day 1, we had pretty much our first meeting in the conference room in the Mayor's Office. We have had numerous meetings here. We have had, there have been a lot of, different distractions and things that have been put in our way, but we have worked with Arlena and she has been wonderful in helping us to make this project a reality.

We have meet with the City's Community Development Corporation. We have meet with Planning and Zoning, we have met with Permits so we have gone through pretty much the whole process. We have had feasibility, market studies. We have had environmental. The site, you know, it did have some contamination. We've had an environmental, Phase I and Phase II. We've used Jones Environmental who has done our Phase I and Phase II and there has been some remediation done on that site, that is what has taken us so long. Early on we knew it would have to be a partner, a brand new facility. We looked at the what the City was saying, what Downtown Development was saying, the Shreveport Chamber. With all of the development that has gone on in the city of Shreveport since `95 with the casinos, the proposed new convention center, the news, Shreveport Times was stating that, there were two things that we are still lacking in the City of Shreveport: 1) a convenience store or grocery store. We looked at the demographics. There are not enough demographics to support a grocery store, but the demographics were good for a convenience store.

This facility will be the sole provider, the sole source of gasoline in the City of Shreveport. You come down to this City and no gas, you are in trouble, because there is no place downtown to get gas. Also, another factor is, there hasbeen a lot of urban revitalization. The retail facilities are being converted into lofts. People are moving downtown, so along with the regular business climate, now you are having consumers coming downtown with condos and apartments. The site is located at the corner of Spring and Market, it sits between Airport Drive and Cadillac Street. Presently, the City, this is going to be the North Gateway to the City. The front of this site, the City is using as a gateway as well as a medium to North Market and I am almost certain that the work will begin next month on the North Gateway for this City.

This project, we had architects who looked at the rendering and talked to the architects from the City and our project encompasses the grill work and the iron work that the City is putting in the Gateway Project, so the two projects will look like they are one. We will use the same landscaping that the City uses and the same color, the green iron work. So there has been a lot of detail, there has been a lot of funds that have been spent into bringing this project to fruition.

This site is also an enterprise zone, so it is a site that the City early on, someone decided that it was an area that needed development, so that is another plus. Also, with all of the franchises, there will be a creation of jobs - 75 to 100 jobs. It will be open 24-hours, 7-days a week.

We talk about business development and minority business development. There has been a lot of business development in the city of Shreveport. There has been a lot of tax dollars spent, but this will be one of the largest projects, I think in this City at this point, that has come forth asking for tax dollars.

We are using Hibernia Bank as our banker, has been one Board with us from Day 1. We are using funding from the state of Louisiana, the LADC and we are requesting funds from the city of Shreveport to make this project a reality. The franchises will all be owned except one, by women and minorities. These are people who have worked for other people but we are talking start up of new businesses with franchises and not mom and pops.

We have also worked with the City's Small Business Loan, we worked Rufus Linnear in dealing with that part of this program, so like I say, this project is literally ready to go in the ground. We are in the last stages of the per forma for this project and now we are here, we are putting the final pieces together for the financials, so we are here today at the City, to bring this project to you to let you see it, ask questions, anything we can answer. We also have with us today, we have Chevron, Ronnie Smith, who represents Lott Oil. Lott Oil is the Chevron Distributor who has a long history here in this City and the State of Louisiana. They are our distributor partner who is working with Jones Environmental as well as Jones Brothers Construction which is a well known name in this area. Francine Miller from North Shreveport Development Corporation, the Shreveport Chamber, Downtown Development, all are aware of this project. We do have their support. So we are here today to present to you a project that is an economic development project. It is not a minority project, it is an economic development project that, we know is needed in the City of Shreveport.

Pastor Hunter: One more thing, this project has been approached very meticulously and the fact that we are not coming to the City for a hand out, we want a hand up. This is new, I am sure in many ears and eyes, perhaps, but it is a dream that we know can be realized and we are asking the City to share in the dream and in the vision with us to bring a new life and a new light to our great City, Shreveport. If you will allow me, allow my Church to stand and show support of who came to support this project (appropriately 100 people stood in support). This is just part of our membership. But we are all in this vision and this dream together as one and I trust that you will share with us in helping us to bring that vision and dream to reality.

Councilman Huckaby: I would just like to congratulate you on what you are doing, Pastor Hunter and, I am so happy you chose District A. We can stand all the help we get and you too Ms. Ward.

Councilman Shyne: Again, Pastor Hunter, I don't want to tell my age, but I been knowing Pastor Hunter for a long, long, long time and he has always, even as a teenager because he is only about 31 now, but even as a teenager, Pastor Hunter was a kind of young man who always had a love for people and he had a vision. He had a vision about wanting to do something to help his people. And I have promised him that whatever I could do in order to help him realize his vision.

I am a little jealous Councilman Huckaby, because I wished it was in my district, but I think you all chose the best location. I guess I am satisfied because your church is in my district, but I will have to admit that you all chose the best location and your project is something that is really needed downtown. I mean, people are moving downtown now, there are condominiums, there are apartments and we are looking at maybe doing more of that. And like you say, if you need gas or something to do with your automobile, you are in trouble. You are in trouble if you are downtown. And then if you are coming down and I saw Pastor Jones come in, and he knows my daddy was a minister. But I'll even say if you are coming downtown to do a little (I almost said, gambling, but I'll say) gaming, that sounds better. If you are coming downtown to do a little gaming and you run out of gas, you are trouble. We need the kind of project that you have there and I'm glad that you all have emphasized it that, this is not a black project, this is not a red project, this is not a green project, this is an economic project that would do well and that is needed, like I say, if people were coming in from Mars, putting it.

At this particular point, I would like for, I almost said Councilman Ferdinand, I guess Larry and I served together on the Council for a long time because Larry is older than I am, but I'd like for Larry Ferdinand to come forward. And Larry, I know you have some information and what I would like to say is, I would hope that you would work with this group in order to help this project to come to fruition because it would make the whole city of Shreveport look good. We need what they have to offer and if you have any comments about where we need to go from here or if it is something that they need to do or if it is something that we need to do, because that comes through your Department, I would appreciate and I would just like to say that, whatever I can do as a Council member to help their project get off the ground, you have my support even if we need to put some more funds over in your budget because I know some times you say, you are running out of money. So if we need to help put some more funds over into your budget and I would ask my colleagues to please look favorable on this project. I mean, this is something that they have worked at for the last 2 to 3 years and this is not just a fly by night. I mean, you can look at the quality of work. I mean, I was, I almost said, I was shocked but I guess I shouldn't have been knowing these two people because they are strictly first class people, they don't believe in going second class and I want to commend you all, Ms. Ward. I want to commend you for working with the Pastor because what you have there, I mean you could show that in downtown New York or in downtown Atlanta, or downtown New Orleans, or downtown San Francisco or downtown L. A., anywhere. I mean, any major city would appreciate that kind of development downtown. So, I want you to know that we really appreciate. We appreciate the effort. We appreciate having somebody locally that can come up with that kind of vision. So, Larry if you have any comments.

Mr. Ferdinand: I've reviewed the project with Ms. Ward a couple of times, as well as my staff. What, as I understand, she is coming to us for a Section 108 loan and it is very impressive project, no question about that. But we do have to go by, have to adhere to certain due diligence, from HUD Washington D. C. And the per forma that shementioned is going to be very critical as a part of the project or else HUD will kick it right back on you. It is a lot of paperwork and I'm sure Ms. Ward is familiar with it already, that we have to turn in. And I had talked to her about three weeks ago and then again yesterday, about 9:30 she was still waiting to get that information from her CPA. We know HUD and D. C. is going to require that, so it is just a matter of getting it because that is what we've got to look at and they are going to be looking at to make sure that the numbers flow; so, she did say her CPA is working that issue.

Councilman Shyne: Ms. Ward, you don't foresee any problems with getting that information and getting it to Mr. Ferdinand so? Ms. Ward: No because this project is all encompassing not only do we have a convenience store, we also have leases probably of about 8 leases and franchises, so this is not your normal project that a CPA would just run numbers on if it was just a convenience store. We have eight other entities and that is why it is taking so long because again the leases, helps the cash flow, and the cash flow that is the way the project will flow because it will have leases. It is a convenience store that the convenience store is 2500 square feet but then there are leases that takes up a considerable portion of that facility. So the leases, all of the franchises, all of that information has to be a part of this per forma and so that is why it has taken so long.

Councilman Shyne: Maybe Councilman Huckaby or some of the other Council members might want to say something but, Larry I would appreciate it if you would work with Ms. Ward and Pastor Hunter. I'd like to see this, of course, I'm hoping that I'll get another 4 years on the Council, but I'm hoping that even before the next 4 or 5 months, we could at least see, I'd like to see something before I come to the end of my journey. Mr. Ferdinand: Ms. Ward just whispered and said 7 to 10 days from her CPA and if I'm not mistaken, some time ago, our staff gave you all the due diligence requirement and sort of like a check list that HUD D. C. was going to be looking for all 108s and so she has that and we are at her disposal if she has some additional questions.

Councilman Shyne: Ms. Ward, I don't mean any harm but I still want Councilman Huckaby to know that I'm a little jealous because that sure would look good somewhere out in Mooretown, but I believe you all picked the right spot, downtown. Now, Pastor, next time you come up with an idea like that, I want you to think about us in Mooretown, hear.

Councilman Burrell: Pastor Hunter you came some time ago with this project and I'll will tell you, you and Ms. Ward has come along way with it from the time that talked earlier and it is a very nice looking project. I'm very impressed and it goes along the line of what we are trying to do in terms of inner city revitalization and this is part of the inner core. So, it is pretty much in line with what we are trying to do already and hopefully, there is some help that we can do, hopefully we can do that. We will do that.

Mrs. Francine Miller (2014 River Road, Shreveport, Louisiana): I'm the Executive Director of North Shreveport Development Corporation. I am happy to be here in front of the Mayor and you Council people. I just want to say that, I worked with Ms. Ward. I'm very impressed with her development. I think it would be an asset to any part of our City and I am exceptionally pleased that she plans to have it in North Shreveport. I think it will compliment not only North Shreveport, but downtown Shreveport. I myself have had times when I needed gasoline and had to go a long way to do get it from the downtown area. I think that this is a project that meets both of the missions of North Shreveport Development which are economic development and neighborhood revitalization. I think that it is put together well. I think that Ms. Ward has done an outstanding job of pulling the franchises together and developing something that we can all be proud of and I would just encourage the City to assist them in any way that you can, to make this project come to fruition.

Councilman Shyne: Ms. Ward might have those figures or one of you all might have them. Do you have the figures on how many jobs that will be created? Ms. Ward: 75 to 100.

Jim McClain (357 Leo Avenue): I am here today asking that you overturn the ZBA decision on this beauty shop and help keep this place where I live, a residential neighborhood. I would remind you that the Broadmoor Neighborhood Association, voted unanimously to oppose the special exception of this beauty shop.

I presented a petition to the ZBA with signatures from 21 households that oppose the beauty shop. Other neighborhoods from the vicinity of the beauty shop also voiced their opposition. Installation of a two car parking space has not solved the traffic problem next to the beauty shop where I often see cars parked on the street on this very narrow section of Leo. The special exception to operate this beauty shop is a dangerous precedent for our neighborhood. The next person wishing to open a business can point to this beauty shop and say, why not me, too. I urge you to overturn the ZBA decision. Thank you.

Motion by Councilman Stewart to suspend the Rules to allow persons to address the Council, seconded by Councilman Huckaby. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

Pastor Ernest Edwards Jones (3035 Independence Avenue): I am delighted to be here today, not so much as the Pastor of the Galilee Church, but I guess that's in order too. But I'm here as the Judicatory head of several million Baptist. In February of 2003, I have asked of course, this is without particular motion and second, but by Presidential prerogative, to bring to this city our February Board Meeting. Ms. Williams (here) is our Convention Planner and we have begun interceding to have this meeting at Expo Hall. Recently we were in Albuquerque, New Mexico and before that, we were in Ft. Worth, Texas and before that believe it or not, Mrs. Huckaby, were in Alexandria and we were in Houston. This meeting will be attended by people from all across America. Might rush to say to that for 17 uncontested years, I have been the President of this August body which in itself is a commentary of a sorts--7 years is a long time out of one's life. I'm not too sure that I'm not ready to step down or I'm not going to be contested against, because I feel that our Administration has done what its supposed to do in terms of integrity.

I've asked this meeting, almost told this meeting, to come to my town because it is possible that after September in Atlanta, GA, I could be stepping down and I wanted to bring the Board Meeting which is an extended session of that convention here to Shreveport. I do not believe that after all of these years of service, that my clout will be any less than it is now (hopefully, it will be heightened) and I had promised the Honorable Mayor, when we were talking about the building of the Convention Center, that we would be one of the first to come and to take the advantage of this facility. Well, time has kinda oozed on and we don't quite have the Center yet, but I still have the people and I would hope that I'll have clout enough with the people that I have served over these years, that when that Center is built whether its 2 years, 3 years from now, I'll be able to say "return to my city".

And I'd like to have a good taste in my mouth when I make this request. My request is (and I've taken a long time to get to it) that the fees for the Expo Hall for this Board Meeting would be waived. We will bring a lot of people here. We do have some statistics that Ms. Williams has gotten together for us. In Houston, TX in 1999, we had total room nights of 868 and total room nights in Alexandria, 901, total room nights in Ft. Worth, Texas of 830.

The economic impact, direct economic impact, in Alexandria was right at $600,000--That's not dealing with all of our extra fines and that's not going down to Marksville. Don't have to go that far. Chairman Burrell: What's in Marksville, Pastor?

Pastor Jones: What's in Marksville, well we have some wonderful people who just like to see sites. Then in Ft. Worth, the direct economic impact was $540,000 and the rollover was $1,080,000. In Albuquerque (which is a long ways for most of our people) the direct economic impact there was right at $500,000. So, I am really asking you today to help me help our City by wavering the cost of the cost of the Center and Mr. Chairman, that's about it.

Councilman Burrell: Well, we've heard the comments of the Pastor and before we go further, I would like to recognize, Mary. I don't know your last name, I know you got married at one time-it back, Williams. For those of you who don't know, Mary, she was here for some time as the Vice President of the Shreveport Tourist Bureau. She worked very hard. She decided to move on and then Pastor captured her and brought her back home. Pastor Jones: Neededhelp.

Councilman Shyne: Pastor, we appreciate you thinking about us here at home. A lot times, we think about everybody, but its very seldom that people think about their hometown. And I'd just like to say, whatever I can do, you have my support. I think it's a worthwhile meeting that you're bringing to town and this is what we need. We need more meetings. We're in the process of building a nice convention center and we're going to have to have conventions like what you have in order to realize what we're trying to do here in Shreveport. So you have my support.

Pastor Jones: Thank you, Sir. And you might include too, that I'm older than you. I taught the fellow in seventh grade so I am older than he is.

Chairman Burrell: Are there any other questions or comments for the Pastor on this issue? Pastor, you know understand that we are trying to develop his city as a tourist destination, but also as a convention destination and we were sure hoping for that big one too and like you say, this is a prelude to the big one. And hopefully along with the accommodation of the Convention Center, hopefully, we'll be in a position to hold the crowd. Because I know the national convention is a very large convention and one of the problems now, even if we could get it here, we couldn't hold it. So, hopefully, we'll be in a position to accommodate that too; so, we'll address this issue at a later date.

Pastor Jones: Okay. I'd just like to tell you that in 1985, when I was elected, we did have more than 7,000 people who came to town. Every hotel between here and yonder was filled; so, that's what we represent. Thank you so much. Chairman Burrell: Thank you for coming down and taking your time and we will definitely take all of that into consideration.

Ms. Myrtle White (6011 Canal Boulevard): My objective is to provide a quality affordable child care in a safe environment with all the educational opportunities available as well as provide for the nutritional needs of our youth. Upon survey in Zone B-2, the area between Hollywood Avenue and Greenwood Road, I found that there was only one child care facility which forces parents in this area to commute across town to access quality affordable child care.

In an effort to enhance the community, I am proposing a quality facility that will provide the necessary convenience in the neighborhood. My facility will not only provide convenience to parents, but will be a positive fixture of this community. And that this is not a liquor store or any type of business that will attract drugs or violence. Parents would feel good about leaving their little ones in the care of our experienced staff who we will hire based on their love of children, experience in the field, and willingness to go above and beyond their duties to provide the kind of care necessary for a successful child care facility.

I am trying to obtain help from the city to get a day care at 5510 Broadway. I assessed that area. Its not a day care in that area between Hollywood and Greenwood Road. It's a good area. I see a lot of parents walking to the bus stop to take their kids to day cares and I think we could be putting a day care there, I could enhance the area a lot. Also, I feel like with my after school program, through tutoring, I cold help there also. And I will have qualified people there for 24 hour a day, day care. With the casinos and everything we've got now, we have very few 24 hour day cares and I think that would be a plus having one in that area.

Councilman Shyne: Ms. White, I believe that's in District F. You said that's 5510 Broadway and you discussed that with Mr. Kirkland? Ms. White: No, Sir.

Councilman Shyne: Okay, why don't you get together with Mr. Kirkland. I'm trying to identify. . . what is there now? Ms. White: Used to be, I think, a barber shop. It's right across from Ms. Wilson's house.

Councilman Shyne: Oh, okay, I know where you're talking about. Is the zoning there already Charles? Mr. Kirkland: I'd have to check the maps and see.

Councilman Shyne: As the Councilman in that area, it probably would be a great idea. If its anything I can do to work with you in order to facilitate it, you would need to get with Mr. Kirkland there so he could give you all the rules and regulations, all of the dos and don'ts. And let you know what permit you need to have and what inspections you need to have and how many of this you need and how many of that(s) you need. Ms. White: I've already completed that, got all my inspections back from the City.

Councilman Shyne: Already in the building? Ms. White: Yes sir. They've told me what I needed to have done and everything.

Councilman Shyne: So what do you need now, then? Ms. White: I need funding. Help from the City to get everything started and I need, the amount came to $33,000.

Councilman Shyne: Oh, you need to tell us what you need. You didn't tell us what you needed. You just told us that it was a day care center needed there. So now, I agree with you that the day care is needed there. You're probably gonna have to talk to, is Mr. Ferdinand still in here or did he ease out and get him a haircut? I think he is still here.

Councilman Burrell: Why don't we just refer her to Mr. Ferdinand. Councilman Shyne: I think you are probably going to need to get with Mr. Ferdinand then, because I was not under the impression that you needed money, I thought you was saying that you needed the zoning and that is why-Ms. White: I've got the zoning. Councilman Shyne: Okay, you need to talk to Mr. Ferdinand then. And Mr. Ferdinand if you don't need, if it is too far for you to go over to your office, we've got-you can use an office right back there. Mr. Ferdinand: We'll step right out there. Councilman Shyne: Thank you Ms. White and if I can be of any assistance, please let me know.

The Chairman recognized the request of Mr. Bill Scott who was not in the Chamber. Ms. Tomasek: He thought that he had to come back here and meet with me, but-we talked. Councilman Burrell: We will go past that. We'll pick him up in Public Comments at the end.

Ms. Velma White (3116 Fulton): To the Mayor and Councilmen panel, I came to address an issue here having problem with the refinery plant in our neighborhood, Calumet Refinery. We have formed a grass roots organizations called Residents for Air Neutralization to try to look into the issues of what we can do or what can be done to correct the problem that we are having over there. The plant is producing products that contain, I think, a health hazard chemical. We have been working on this for I guess about a 1 ½ years now, as Residents for Air Neutralization.

I am not going into the depths of it, I just want to bring it up to the Councilmen that our main question is, we was trying to find out, when a plant come into a city, do a company have to come through the City Councilmen for this plant to operate in the city of Shreveport?

Councilman Burrell: Just address that to the Mayor's Office or Mr. Antee, would you want to address that issue? Mr. Antee: I'm sorry, but I didn't hear the question. Ms. White: We want to know that, for a plant or a company to come into the City of Shreveport or an operation, do they have to come through the City Councilmen board to operate here in the city of Shreveport? Mr. Antee: A new plant? Ms. White: Yes, any plant? Mr. Antee: It would have to go through the zoning process which would get approval from the Zoning Board, at which time if anybody disagreed with the finding of the Zoning Board then it would appeal to the City Council.

Ms. White: So, in other words if someone had of disagreed with it then, it would have come through the City Council? Mr. Antee: If somebody would have appealed the finding of the Zoning Board, now if zoning was already in place where they didn't have to request a change in zoning, then it would not come before that. Ms. White: Because, through our research, I am not saying, definite, but through our finding and research, we have found out that a lot of products and byproducts that this plant is using is a contributing factor to a health problem there. Mr. Antee: That is why the federal government has a Department of Environmental Quality that monitors that, not the City. Councilman Shyne: And the State. Mr. Antee: And the State.

Ms. White: We have involved the federal government in it. As of this time, we have involved the federal into this matter. We have tried over and over again, to get someone to look into this matter to see was they do any type ofviolation. I have documents to show that they have did a lot of violations. First of all, we have the Clean Act law and they didn't abide by the Clean Act law. Calumet Refinery came in with a high sulphur content, and from my understanding of study, the Clean Act Law said that they was going to use a low sulphur content; that is in the 1990 Clean Act law. So the problem is that we have been having this problem over in that area for quite a while. In fact, before it became Calumet it used to be Atlas and then Pennzoil; so, Atlas been in production since 1923. And I have asked questions about, why did they permit a company that produce chemicals to move into a residential area and again, it was told to me that it was a commercial area before it was a residential area.

But through my research, I found out that, Midway it was a, Atlas wasn't in the city limits. That the city limits didn't come any further than Midway going south and then later on in the years, they built Midway School there then it came into the city limits. After that, Atlas bought out Midway School and they moved there and they start expanding and they expanded. And I'm wondering and the organization is wondering, why did the city allow this to happen into a residential area. (Mayor Hightower: Councilman Shyne was the only one that was here back then.)

Councilman Burrell: She is asking a question and we want to make sure we are taking it serious. I don't know if anyone can address that issue under the circumstances. Like you said, you have a Clean Air Act and I would suggest maybe that she would get with the Mayor's Office and let them look at that because I don't think that it is anything that we can address here on the Council in this Council meeting. Now, the issue has come up before and I know that I've been involved in several of those meetings, myself, although it is not in my district, but and I know that the DEQ has been involved in this. Mike Strong back there, who was with the DEQ prior to coming back to the City. He left the city to go to the DEQ down in the State and then he has come back and I know that he brought those people here to do some testing and I think it is what I understand. Mike, do you want to come up and maybe make a couple of comments.

Mr. Strong: One of the things that we are working on right now, in fact it will be coming up before the city Council at the next Council meeting is that, DEQ is looking to get an additional parcel of land which is to put an additional monitoring station there, so we will be coming to the Council to allow us to allow them to put their equipment in there; so, we are working with that. And also, we are been making meetings and I made the last meeting, I believe that the Air Neutralization group held and one of the things that came out of it is with the water in the area that there were some complaints to come in. We have now run different complaint checks in the area of the water findings, different phone calls that have come in, and different complaints that is coming in and trying to track all of that back; so, I'm putting all of that together, in there.

And I know that we had one major complaint that came in, I think it was on Theo Street. We have not found that one as a complaint that came in, but what we are doing is trying to follow up on that and see everything in there, but we are not finding anything. All of the testing results that we do in and around the area which is part of our normal monitoring that is in there, we are not finding anything that is wrong with our water system but what we are doing is working with DEQ, we are working with the EPA and we are also have the ATSDR which in town, which is out of Atlanta, and they've got an office over in Dallas with the EPA and that is the health side of the EPA. They are totally separate. They are its own unit and they are up here doing their investigation now and I think they said at the last meeting that they are hoping to be through in about 12 months, am I right on that? Ms. White: Yes, they are suppose to have some results by the end of June.

Mr. Strong: So, they are doing this and this is going around and doing a complete health investigation of the area; so, all of this is going on. The City is aware. We are working with them and we are to follow through on this.

Councilman Carmody: Mike, I know you are not with Calumet, but I do know that you have experience in the kind of chemicals that they are using. I know that in passing that location that sometimes you really do have a very strong odor. Are they producing a different type of product out of there than what I guess they were doing with Libbey or Atlas before? Mr. Strong: They were using a different type of crude. Of recent, I think they have changed back to a different crude now that it is not a, the high sulphur content. that's in there. I mean, I drive by it, at least, twice a day and where I live also, I can get odors of it too. So, the answer is, yes there were some odors going back to the heavy ones, what in November of last year, isn't that when they had the spill. Ms. White: Yes. Mr. Strong: November, they had a spill out there which was very bad, that was in there and we were ver much involved in that. But of recent days, I haven't had the smell that I've had nor have I had the complaints that is come in lately.

Councilman Shyne: I probably live closer to that plant than any Council members, and Mike is right. When Calumet came in they began to use a low grade crude with a tremendous amount of sulphur in it and that is what caused the odor because I could get the odor over where I live, which is probably 10-blocks away. And Tom, I probably pass there, maybe 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10 times a day. At one time, it was time it was extremely strong.

Councilman Carmody: Like the Amiss Treatment Plant. Councilman Shyne: Yeah. Mr. Strong: Well, now, now. . . .Councilman Carmody: I'm just saying it was that strong.

Councilman Shyne: Yeah, I would hate to live out by the Amiss Treatment Plant. I think I'd actually have to move from out there. But no hard feelings. . . . truth. At one time, it was extremely strong. I mean you could, people could wash their clothes and hang them out, and that odor would get into their clothes but now I want to say over the last, maybe 4-months, I am just guessing over the last 4-months they have used a different kind of crude.

I've met with the people at Calumet and there was a group, before Ms. White got her group together that used to meet at Winnfield Funeral Home. And we had some people to come up from New Orleans and from the State Department, Mr. Antee, from the State Environmental Quality, that checked the air. Now, their results was that the odor was there, but that the plant was within the guidelines that was set by the state and federal government on the pollutants that was being let into the air. But I do know as of the last three or four months, that the odor was not there as it was.

My suggestion to, matter of fact, had a few people that called me that the plant needed to be shut down, my suggestion to them was, if you think you have a problem and our City Attorney will tell you, you've got lawyers who would be glad to get a case like that. If there is a person who is sick or if you think that the plant is impacting your health or whatever, if you can come up with the documentation that will prove that this plant is causing the condition that you are having or whatever, you would have a good case there. Now, what the EPA will show when they get through with their study, I do not know at this particular point, what it will show.

Ms. White: Let me, comment on something you said, Mr. Shyne. In the month of May, I think I called DEQ, four times. And when they come out, when DEQ respond to my calling, when they come out, the little monitors, the PHD 5 they was using to monitor the air, well quite naturally when I called them, the odor is very strong. When they come out, they don't detect anything, so what DEQ did is got in a new monitor that have detect. They smelled the H2S gas, I mean I have documents where they smelled the H2S gas, put the PHD 5 wasn't picking it up. So, what DEQ did, the local DEQ is got a new monitor in where they get the air in the plastic bag and they send it off to the lab. So, that problem that we are having out at Calumet, hasn't ceased. I have documents where I have called and had them to come out, and they recorded it, that they smelled these odors and their monitor picked it up. Now, as far as, you know I would love to move from in that area, but it is not that easy. We been there 23 years.

And when we moved over in that area, no one warned us that that refinery-I knew that refinery plant was there because I could read and I knew it was a refinery plant, but no one warned us that the refinery plant was dealing with them type of chemicals.

When ya'll pass by, ya'll are passing through. We are there 24-hours a day, we are breathing this in. And regardless to how that, DEQ, I had to show them the point, how their little monitor wasn't picking up that odor, it was there. The chemical was there. So, this is why, the problem hasn't ceased at Calumet because in the month of May, I called four times; not only did I call, other residents called complaining about that odor.

Councilman Shyne: Let me state this. We are not going to get into a back and forth here because I can't make a decision on, to solve and nobody that you see up here can make a decision on saying, we are going to close Calumet down or Calumet we are going to fine you, that has to come before a judge and none of us are judges up here at this particular point.

Now, I didn't say that the problem had bene settled. I was saying that the odor is not as strong as it was, lets say, 6-months ago. I don't live probably as close as you do to the plant, but I live within, I would say 10-blocks and there was a time when you could smell that odor not only at my house, but even beyond. I mean you could smell that odor all the way up to, I want to say Lakeshore. The last three months, I have not been able to smell the odor that strong. Now, I have not been by your house and I have not stood out in your yard to see whether I could smell it or not. I mean, I will admit to that and I will not say that the problem has not been settled.

But I will say that, we are not in a position right here, in order to say, Calumet you must close down or Calumet we are going to fine you. We have to wait and get the results back from the environmental agencies that are responsible for giving us that reading. Now, once you get into a court of law, then you are in a position to present your case and say hey look, all of these folks are wrong because I got the information right here that I know is right and they can ask you to prove your information. Now, if you prove your information then, judges who are fair will rule in your favor but none of us are in a position, Ms. White, at this particular point in order to make a decision on it unless there is somebody here that I don't-I don't know whether the Mayor's Office can do it. But we have to kind of wait to see what the reports are from the state and from the federal environmental agencies.

Councilman Burrell: Ms. White, what I've asked is that the Mayor's Office look into it. I think I heard Mike say that there is some new testing that is going to be done, so I would suggest that you, it seem that you've been involved in that same dialogue with them, in that meeting. Ms. White: Yes I have.

Councilman Burrell: So why don't yo work with them on that, but no, it is nothing that we can do, at this juncture. Ms. White: No I didn't present this for you all to make a ruling or anything. Councilman Burrell: Oh, I understand that, I understand. Ms. White: I just brought that problem to the. . . Councilman Burrell: And I think you should. Ms. White: To the table. Now that I, I think I've did enough research to realize who can and who can't. Councilman Burrell: It seems like you've got your facts together, I just brought it to the table. Now, I didn't expect for ya'll to make a ruling or anything on that matter, but I wanted to bring it to the table.

Mr. Daniel Swanning (361 Atlantic Avenue): I was told when I entered today that next week they are going to be talking about the topic that I was going to discuss, but I was invited to go ahead and speak today since I was here. Next week, I won't be available to be here. . . . Councilman Burrell: Really, it will be the 2-weeks, I would think, so you may be available.

Mr. Swanning: I would just like to point out a couple of, a few things about, the possible closing of Atlantic Avenue at the Youree Drive location for Broadmoor Baptist Church. My wife and I have lived in that area for 26 years. We raised our family in that area.

The way we see it, if they were to close that location, the emergency vehicles that, if they are required to come to our location, they would have to make 2 additional turns to get to our home for example. A while back we had a fire at our house and we were told by the Fire Department, if a few seconds or minutes longer, our house could have blown up because we had a gas leak, but they were able to contain the fire.

We also attend Broadmoor Church that has grown considerable in attendance and they too have expanded their buildings, but they have done it in a way where they didn't have to close any streets around there to do this. What I'm wondering is why Broadmoor Baptist could not use a, either a crossing guard on their heavy days of Sundays and any other heavy days they have or back during the holiday season they had a Town of Bethlehem set up there and at those particular times they have the streets actually closed off during their ceremony. I feel like out of the 168 hours out of the week, plus the majority of the time they are actually going to be using the church facilities where they would need to have the road blocked off permanently affects the other residents that live in that area; that is about all I have to say today.

Councilman Carmody: I just conferred with Charles Kirkland and I understand that an appeal has been filed to the approval for the closure, so there will be an opportunity for the public to come and address the Council before that matter is considered. And I think Councilman Burrell had mentioned that, the Council meets on the second and fourth Mondays and Tuesdays of each month. And so, we won't have a meeting next week, but the following week we will have a meeting and then again, the second Monday and Tuesday, which I think at that time it will come on our agenda. So, I am sure that all of the Council members will have some input from both sides in this particular issue before then.

Councilman Burrell: I know I fielded a lot of calls and I pretty much relayed that same information. I think I got a little mixed up on yours because I think I talked to you too, the reason why you made it here. Mr. Swanning: You talked to my wife. [The Chairman remarked I don't see Mr. Scott here, so we will take him at the end of the meeting.]

Adding Legislation to the Agenda: Motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Shyne to suspend the Rules to add legislation to the agenda. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

Motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Huckaby to add Resolution 66 of 2002 to the agenda.

1) Resolution No. 66 of 2002: A resolution approving the 2002 Downtown Development Authority Program of Work and otherwise providing with respect thereto.

Motion to add the legislation to the agenda approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

Motion by Councilman Shyne, seconded by Councilman Carmody to add Resolution 67 of 2002 to the agenda.

2) Resolution No. 67 of 2002: A resolution authorizing the acceptance of a Donation in the amount of Seventy-five Thousand Dollars from Nike Incorporated and Affiliates, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Motion to add the legislation to the agenda approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

CONSENT AGENDA LEGISLATION:

INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES ON CONSENT:

RESOLUTION: None.

ORDINANCE: None.

ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES ON CONSENT:

RESOLUTIONS: None.

ORDINANCES: None.

REGULAR AGENDA LEGISLATION:

RESOLUTIONS:

RESOLUTION NUMBER 53 OF 2002

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT THE DONATION OF CERTAIN IMMOVABLE PROPERTY FROM BEAIRD INDUSTRIES, INC., AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, Beaird Industries, Inc., desires to donate fee simple title to land consisting of a total of approximately .284 acres, more or less, to the City of Shreveport; and

WHEREAS, the property intended for donation is unimproved land located adjacent to existing right of way for St. Vincent Avenue that is required for use to construct proposed improvements to said St., Vincent Avenue; and

WHEREAS, the donation is made with warranty of title to the City of Shreveport and title to the property shall at all times remain in the name of the City of Shreveport or it's successor organizations unless authorized in writing by the City of Shreveport; and,

WHEREAS, the said property is valued in excess of $16,230.00 and will be of benefit to the City of Shreveport and citizens thereof as it will enable the City's Department of Operational Services to construct needed improvements to St. Vincent Avenue,

WHEREAS, the property will be acquired from Beaird Industries, Inc., duly authorized to act pursuant to the corporate resolution; and,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, regular and legal session convened that the Mayor of the City of Shreveport is hereby authorized to accept the donation of certain immovable property located along the east side of St. Vincent Avenue, from Beaird Industries, Inc., and, after review and approval by the Office of the City Attorney, to execute any and all documents on behalf of the City of Shreveport relative to same, and that the donation is made with Beaird Industries, Inc.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items, or applications, and to this end the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Serio, seconded by Councilman Carmody passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 54 OF 2002

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EMPLOYMENT OF SPECIAL LEGAL COUNSEL TO REPRESENT THE CITY OF SHREVEPORT, AND OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City of Shreveport to retain the services of outside legal counsel to represent the interest of the City of Shreveport in connection with the City's lease purchase of vehicles and equipment through financing provided by Suntrust Leasing Corp.

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 8.03 of the City Charter, the City Attorney recommends that Jack Brown, Attorney at Law with the law firm Casten and Pearce, be retained for the purpose of said representation.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, regular and legal session convened that the mayor be and he is hereby authorized to execute, for and on behalf of the City of Shreveport, a retainer agreement with Jack Brown, Attorney at Law with the law firm, Casten and Pearce, substantially in accordance with the terms and conditions of the draft thereof which was filed for public inspection, together with the original copy of this resolution in the office of the Clerk of Council on May 28, 2002.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this contract shall be paid out of the general government legal expense fund.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Huckaby, seconded by Councilman Stewart passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 56 OF 2002

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE INSTITUTION OF EXPROPRIATION PROCEEDINGS AGAINST CERTAIN DESCRIBED PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY OF SHREVEPORT IN CONNECTION WITH THE NEW CITY JAIL PROJECT, INDEX CODE NO. 400721, PARCEL NO: G-1, AND OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has developed then New City Jail Project, Index Code No. 400721; and

WHEREAS, the property described in the legal description marked as Exhibit "A" attached hereto, is situated in said development; and

WHEREAS, all attempts to amicably acquire fee title to the property comprising Parcel No: G-1 have failed; and

WHEREAS, public necessity dictates that this property be owned by and subject to the use by the City of Shreveport.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, regular and legal session convened, that the expropriation of this property is necessary for the public interest; therefore, the City Attorney be and he is hereby authorized to institute expropriation proceedings against the owners of record, as they might appear at the time of filing suit, of the property described in Exhibit "A" attached hereto as Parcel No: G-1, to be acquired in fee title.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end, the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

CONTINUED - RESOLUTION NO. 56 OF 2002

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Carmody passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 57 of 2002

RESOLUTION STATING CITY OF SHREVEPORT'S ENDORSEMENT OF CONCO FOOD SERVICE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BENEFITS OF THE LOUISIANA ENTERPRISE ZONE PROGRAM AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Act of 901 of 1981, Act 337 of 1982, Act 433 of 1987, Act 1024 of 1992, Act 581 of 1995, Act 624 of 1997, and Act 997 of 1999;

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program offers significant incentives for economic development to some of the most distressed areas in parish, and

WHEREAS, CONCO FOOD SERVICE is located in Census Tract 233.00 Block Group 1 , which is a designated Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, said business will employ a minimum of 35% of its employees from the distressed groups targeted by the Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport states this endorsement is in agreement with the Overall Economic Development Plan for the City of Shreveport, and

WHEREAS, the attached Enterprise Zone map is marked showing the location of the business being endorsed, and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program requirements the City of Shreveport agrees:

1. To participate in the Enterprise Zone Program.

2. To assist the Department in evaluating progress made in any Enterprise Zone within its jurisdiction.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Shreveport, in due, regular, and legal session convened that CONCO FOOD SERVICE and their project CONCO FOOD SERVICE, Enterprise Zone Application # 2002-0171, is endorsed to participate in the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are

hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Shyne, seconded by Councilman Stewart passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 58 of 2002

RESOLUTION STATING CITY OF SHREVEPORT'S ENDORSEMENT OF RHINO AVIATION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BENEFITS OF THE LOUISIANA ENTERPRISE ZONE PROGRAM AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Act of 901 of 1981, Act 337 of 1982, Act 433 of 1987, Act 1024 of 1992, Act 581 of 1995, Act 624 of 1997, and Act 997 of 1999;

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program offers significant incentives for economic development to some of the most distressed areas in parish, and

WHEREAS, RHINO AVIATION is located in Census Tract 235.00 Block Group 9 , which is a designated Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, said business will employ a minimum of 35% of its employees from the distressed groups targeted by the Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport states this endorsement is in agreement with the Overall Economic Development Plan for the City of Shreveport, and

WHEREAS, the attached Enterprise Zone map is marked showing the location of the business being endorsed, and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program requirements the City of Shreveport agrees:

1. To participate in the Enterprise Zone Program

2. To assist the Department in evaluating progress made in any Enterprise Zone within its jurisdiction.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Shreveport, in due, regular, and legal session convened that RHINO AVIATION and their project RHINO AVIATION, Enterprise Zone Application # 2002-0199, is endorsed to participate in the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Shyne, seconded by Councilman Huckaby passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 59 of 2002

RESOLUTION STATING CITY OF SHREVEPORT'S ENDORSEMENT OF BUILDERS SUPPLY CO., INC. TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BENEFITS OF THE LOUISIANA ENTERPRISE ZONE PROGRAM AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Act of 901 of 1981, Act 337 of 1982, Act 433 of 1987, Act 1024 of 1992, Act 581 of 1995, Act 624 of 1997, and Act 997 of 1999;

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program offers significant incentives for economic development to some of the most distressed areas in parish, and

WHEREAS, BUILDERS SUPPLY CO., INC. is located in Census Tract 202.00 Block Group 2 , which is a designated Enterprise Zone, and

CONTINUED - RESOLUTION NO. 59 OF 2002

WHEREAS, said business will employ a minimum of 35% of its employees from the distressed groups targeted by the Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport states this endorsement is in agreement with the Overall Economic Development Plan for the City of Shreveport, and

WHEREAS, the attached Enterprise Zone map is marked showing the location of the business being endorsed, and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program requirements the City of Shreveport agrees:

1. To participate in the Enterprise Zone Program

2. To assist the Department in evaluating progress made in any Enterprise Zone within its jurisdiction.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Shreveport, in due, regular, and legal session convened that BUILDERS SUPPLY CO., INC. and their project STEEL FABRICATION, Enterprise Zone Application # 2002-0224, is endorsed to participate in the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are

hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Huckaby, seconded by Councilman Stewart passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 60 of 2002

RESOLUTION STATING CITY OF SHREVEPORT'S ENDORSEMENT OF NYX, INC. TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BENEFITS OF THE LOUISIANA ENTERPRISE ZONE PROGRAM AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Act of 901 of 1981, Act 337 of 1982, Act 433 of 1987, Act 1024 of 1992, Act 581 of 1995, Act 624 of 1997, and Act 997 of 1999;

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program offers significant incentives for economic development to some of the most distressed areas in parish, and

WHEREAS, NYX, INC. is located in Census Tract 241.08 Block Group 3 , which is a designated Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, said business will employ a minimum of 35% of its employees from the distressed groups targeted by the Enterprise Zone, and

WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport states this endorsement is in agreement with the Overall Economic Development Plan for the City of Shreveport, and

WHEREAS, the attached Enterprise Zone map is marked showing the location of the business being endorsed, and

WHEREAS, in accordance with the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program requirements the City of Shreveport agrees:

1. To participate in the Enterprise Zone Program

2. To assist the Department in evaluating progress made in any Enterprise Zone within its jurisdiction

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Shreveport, in due, regular, and legal session convened that NYX, INC. and their project SHREVEPORT PLANT, Enterprise Zone Application # 2002-0170, is endorsed to participate in the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Carmody, seconded by Councilman Huckaby for passage.

Councilman Carmody: This is actually in Mrs. Spigener's district, but yesterday at our work session, I believe, the CAO Mr. Antee confirmed that all of these endorsements for these companies to participate in the benefits of the Louisiana Enterprise Zone Program, do not preclude the payment of municipal taxes. It is just our endorsement and forwarding it onto Baton Rouge to show that we consider them to be worthy of consideration for the enterprise zone program. Mr. Antee: That's certainly our intent. I've read each one. I know it is our practice not to have our portion in that and then when we do, we bring it to the Council's attention as an exception but, I don't want to say that I have read those and made sure that they are not in there.

Resolution passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

RESOLUTION NO. 66 OF 2002

A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2002 DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY PROGRAM OF WORK AND OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO.

BY: COUNCILMAN JOHN DAVID STEWART

WHEREAS, Act 554 of 1978, which authorized the creation of the Downtown Development Authority, requires that DDA plans developed for the improvement of the Downtown Development District be adopted by the City Council; and

WHEREAS, the DDA has prepared and formally adopted the Downtown 2010 Redevelopment Strategy and has sought and received approval by the Shreveport/Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission; and

WHEREAS, the DDA recommends and seeks approval of the Downtown 2010 Redevelopment Strategy by the City Council;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, in legal session convened, that it adopts the Downtown 2010 Redevelopment Strategy, as provided to the Clerk of Council with the original copy of this resolution.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this resolution or the application thereof is held invalid, suchCONTINUED - RESOLUTION NO. 66 OF 2002

invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this resolution which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications, and, to this end, the provisions of this resolution are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Huckaby passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS:

2. Resolution No. 61 of 2002: A resolution accepting the bid of The Times and selecting The Times the official journal for the city of Shreveport for the period commencing July 1, 2002 through June 30, 2003 and otherwise providing with respect thereto

3. Resolution No. 62 of 2002: A resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in the City of Shreveport, State of Louisiana, to authorize the levy of a special tax in the Downtown Development District, making application to the State Bond Commission in connection therewith and providing for other matters in connection therewith.

4. Resolution No. 63 of 2002: A resolution authorizing the waiver of building permit fees and authorizing the donation of building materials and supplies to 13 qualified low income homeowners in the City of Shreveport and otherwise providing with respect thereto.

5. Resolution No. 64 of 2002: A resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute grant documents with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission for the acceptance of grant funds, and otherwise with respect thereto.

6. Resolution No. 65 of 2002: A resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a Cooperative Agreement in the amount of $161,667 between the City of Shreveport and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality for erosion control projects in the Cross Lake Watershed and otherwise providing with respect thereto

7. Resolution No. 67 of 2002: A resolution authorizing the acceptance of a Donation in the amount of Seventy-five Thousand Dollars from Nike Incorporated and Affiliates, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Serio for Introduction of the Resolutions to lay over until the June 25, 2002 meeting. Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE;

1. Ordinance No. 78 of 2002: An ordinance to amend Chapter 66 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Shreveport relative to the Employees Retirement System and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Huckaby, seconded by Councilman Carmody for Introduction of the Ordinance to lay over until the June 25, 2002 meeting. Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE:

1. Ordinance No. 52 of 2002: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by rezoning property located on the north side of Ford Street, 200 feet west of Allen Avenue, Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, from B-2, Neighborhood Business District, and B-3, Community Business District, to I-2, Heavy Industrial District, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Having passed first reading on April 23, 2002 was read by title and on motion ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Shyne, seconded by Councilman Huckaby for adoption. The Deputy Clerk read the following amendment:

Add Stipulation No. 2 to read as follows:

2. Approval is granted for a three (3) year period only, with any extension requiring re-application to the Planning Commission. Request for extension shall be at no fee to the applicant.

Motion by Councilman Huckaby, seconded by Councilman Carmody for adoption of the amendment.

Councilman Carmody: Mr. Kirkland, I know yesterday we had discussed this and I know Mrs. Huckaby had asked about that. The zoning that he has there, he is asked it to be changed from the B-2, B-3 to I-2 (Industrial)? Mr. Kirkland: Correct. Councilman Carmody: And there was an appeal made to ask that not be approved, but what we are going to grant by the amendment is a permitted use for a 3 year period, only? Mr. Kirkland: Well, the Board denied it unanimously and it was appealed by Mr. Mahoney to the City Council. And Mrs. Huckaby's request for an amendment would approve th I-2 for a 3-year period.

Councilman Carmody: So we are stipulating the zoning is only approved for that period. Mr. Kirkland: That is correct and he could reapply, prior to that time expiring to see if the Board would consider approving it again and the Council.

Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

Motion by Councilman Huckaby, seconded by Councilman Carmody for adoption of the ordinance as amended. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

2. Ordinance No. 74 of 2002: An ordinance closing and abandoning a portion of the 22 foot alleyway in Cedar Grove Addition Unit No. 3 Subdivision, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Having passed first reading on May 28, 2002 was read by title and on motion ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Carmody, seconded by Councilman Stewart for adoption.

Councilman Carmody: This is the case regarding the alley there at 70^th Street and Southern Avenue which as I recall is where the Race Petroleum Service Station is to be built. I just wanted to verify, it says here that, Robert Westerman has said the closure of the 22 foot alleyway would secure servitude of passage. We will retain, I just want to make sure, the City is going to be retaining the easements and servitudes that we have except that we are now going to abandon this alley because we don't have any public purpose for it, correct? Mr. Strong: That is correct. If we had utilities or anything like that, we (inaudible) serve that. Now what we have done that is in here, when they first came into us is wanting us to extend the alley coming down, actually to 71^st Street and to replace the other section. Well we did and say no, we won't, that in turns becomes a private drive for them so we are not going to have to maintain that section and we take off the alley itself and close and abandon it.

Councilman Stewart: I would assume Mr. Carmody is in favor of this? Councilman Carmody: That is correct, yes sir.

Ordinance adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

3. Ordinance No. 75 of 2002: An ordinance authorizing the donation of two (2) city owned lots at 2704 Frederick Street and 2730 Judson Street to qualified participants in the City's Neighborhood Revitalization Program and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Having passed first reading on May 28, 2002 was read by title and on motion ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Carmody to postpone the ordinance until the June 25, 2002 meeting. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Huckaby. 1.

4. Ordinance No. 76 of 2002: EIGHTEENTH SUPPLEMENTAL ORDINANCE A Supplemental Ordinance amending and supplementing Resolution No. 131 of 1984 (the "General Bond Resolution") adopted on June 12, 1984, as amended; providing for the issuance of $22,000,000 principal amount of Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds, 2002 Refunding Series A, of the City of Shreveport, State of Louisiana, pursuant to the General Bond Resolution; approving and confirming the sale of such bonds; prescribing the form, fixing the details and providing for the payment of principal of and interest on such bonds and the application of the proceeds thereof for refunding certain bonds issued for the purpose of constructing and acquiring extensions and improvements to the City's combined waterworks plant and system and sewer plant and system (the "System") of the City; making application to the State Bond Commission; and providing for other matters in connection therewith.

Ms. Glass: I think the Administration was going to ask you to postpone this, that is what I understood from Mr. Brown. Mr. Antee: That is correct.

Having passed first reading on May 28, 2002 was read by title and on motion ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Carmody, seconded by Councilman Stewart to postpone the ordinance until the June 25, 2002 meeting. Motion adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Huckaby. 1.

5. Ordinance 77 of 2002: An ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute the Third Amendment to the Amended and Restated Ground Lease between the City of Shreveport and Red River Entertainment of Shreveport Partnership in Commendam and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.

Having passed first reading on May 28, 2002 was read by title and on motion ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman Carmody to postpone the ordinance until the June 25, 2002 meeting. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Huckaby. 1.

The adopted Ordinances, as amended, follow:

ORDINANCE NO. 52 OF 2002

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 106 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, THE CITY OF SHREVEPORT ZONING ORDINANCE, BY REZONING PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF FORD STREET, 200 FEET WEST OF ALLEN AVENUE, SHREVEPORT, CADDO PARISH, LOUISIANA FROM B-2, NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS DISTRICT, AND B-3, COMMUNITY BUSINESS DISTRICT, I-2, HEAVY INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT AND OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO

SECTION I: BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, in due, legal and regular session convened, that after having earlier been considered and denied at a public hearing by the Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission of Caddo Parish, Louisiana, that the zoning classification of Lots 25, 26, 27 Block D, Ingersoll Heights Subdivision, Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, property located on the north side of Ford Street, 200 feet west of Allen Avenue, be and the same is hereby changed from B-2, Neighborhood Business District, and B-3, Community Business District, to I-2, Heavy Industry.

SECTION II: THAT the rezoning of the property described herein is subject to compliance with the following stipulation:

1. Development of the property shall be in substantial accord with the site plan submitted, with any additions or expansions to require review and approval by the Planning Commission.

2. Approval is granted for a three (3) year period only, with any extension requiring re-application to the Planning Commission. Request for extension shall be at no fee to the applicant.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that if any provision or item of this ordinance or the application thereof is held invalid,CONTINUED - ORDINANCE 52 OF 2002

such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items, or applications of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items, or applications and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that all ordinances or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

______________________________

Roy Burrell, Chairman

____________________________________________

Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council

ORDINANCE NO. 74 OF 2002

AN ORDINANCE CLOSING AND ABANDONING A PORTION OF THE 22 FOOT ALLEYWAY IN CEDAR GROVE ADDITION UNIT NO. 3 SUBDIVISION, AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.

BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, in due, legal, and regular session convened, that a portion of a 22 foot alleyway in the Cedar Grove Addition Unit No.3 Subdivision in Section 25 (T17N-R14W), Caddo Parish, Louisiana, and as shown on the plats attached hereto and made a part hereof, is hereby closed and abandoned. And be it ordained that a drainage servitude be retained on the south 5 feet of the closed and abandoned alleyway.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the original plat reflecting the closing and abandoning of a alleyway be and recorded in the official records of the District Court for Caddo Parish, Louisiana.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision or item of this ordinance or the application thereof is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items or applications and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are hereby declared severable.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.

______________________________________

Roy Burrell, Chairman

________________________________________

Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

1. Discussion and/or Action Relative to the Public Safety Committee. (F/Shyne) (Tabled on Oct. 23)

2. Resolution No. 12 of 2002: Authorizing the Mayor to accept the donation of certain immovable property from Charlton Christopher Holmes. (1033 Shreveport-Barksdale Hwy.) (Tabled on March 26)

Councilman Carmody: Could the Administration give us an update on where we are on the Shreveport Barksdale property? Mr. Antee: We were anticipating receiving the Phase II report within the next day or so, I am not sure if we received that yet. Mr. Strong: We don't have it. Mr. Antee: We don't have it. I would anticipate we'd have by the end of this week, at which time we will present it with a Plan of Action.

3. Alcohol Retail Permit: Ms. Deborah Hawkins [Employer: 2901 Milam St. [Take-A-Bag Grocery] (G/Burrell) (Special Meeting scheduled for June 13)

Councilman Burrell: It will be on Thursday at 1:30, so I suggest that we add some time in there because I understand that the Police Department has an extensive presentation and I am sure that the business will also have a lot of information.

NEW BUSINESS:

1. ABO Card Appeal: Mr. Tracey Weaver - Employer: Harrah's Casino. (Postponed on June 10 until June 11)

Captain Shoemake: Mr. Weaver was in the Chamber earlier, I believe he is outside right now. However, the only reason the Police Department had denied him was due to the fact that we had a warrant for him on his traffic citation. He did leave here yesterday, got the City Marshal's Office and take care of that, so we have no further objections to him having a card at this time.

Motion by Councilman Shyne, seconded by Councilman Huckaby for approval of the ABO card. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

2. BAC-32-02, ASHLEY TRIDICO, 4304 Clingman Dr., Special Exception Use in an R-1D District, hair salon limited to 1 operator.

Councilman Carmody: I believe the Council members will remember that we were addressed by Mr. McClain earlier who had asked for the Council to overturn the decision granting the permission for this business to operate in a residential neighborhood. What I am going to ask the Council members to join me in is support of an amendment to the approval on the zoning.

Motion by Councilman Carmody, to add Stip. 3 to read as follows: 3. Approval is granted for a one year period only. Prior to the end of this one year period, the applicant shall reapply to the Zoning Board of Appeals for further consideraiton and approval. The reapplication fee is hereby waived, seconded by Councilman Shyne.

Councilman Carmody: Basically the concern is here, Ms. Tridico, I've talked to her on the phone, wants to operate a single chair facility as a beauty salon. And there has been some concern and actually a petition that was forwarded from the neighbors concerned about the number of parking spaces that were in theneighborhood. So this will give an opportunity for Ms. Tridico to show the neighbors that she can operate with her one chair and not be encumbering the neighborhood with a lot of automobiles; so, I would ask your support in th is.

Councilman Burrell: Clarification and Julie, this is a stipulation and really a, is this an amendment to the ordinance or. . . . Ms. Glass: There is not an ordinance, this is a ZBA approval. I believe it would be, his motion is to modify the decision of the ZBA in the way that you just read.

Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Huckaby, Stewart, Carmody, Serio, Shyne and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Spigener. 1.

REPORTS FROM OFFICERS, BOARDS, AND COMMITTEES. None.

CLERK'S REPORT. None.

THE COMMITTEE RISES AND REPORT. None.

ADJOURNMENT. There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting adjourned at approximately 5:08 p.m.

______________________________________

Roy Burrell, Chairman

________________________________________

Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council