On roll call, the following members were present: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio (arrived at 3:20), Spigener, Burrell, and Green. 7. Absent: None.
Motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Cooper for approval of the Summary Minutes of the Administrative Conference of September 4, 1998, and the minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 8, 1998, and the Agenda as amended. Motion approved by the following vote: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Spigener, and Green. 5. Out of Chamber: Councilman Serio and Burrell. 2.
Awards, Recognition of Distinguished Guests and Communications of the Mayor Which Are Required by Law. Councilman Green: I have one for Sister Mattie Sneed. She is present with us and she has a great entourage with her. Mama, would you come on up and bring your Pastor and whoever else you want to come with you. She has given so much and ask so little, and sometimes when we have people like this, we fail to just say, thank you. And today we wanted to just sit aside a little time just to say, thank you. (See Resolution No. 207 of 1998 in numerical order of Resolutions.) Ms. Sneed: I would like to thank Councilman Green and the staff, and to the Mayor of the City, for such a recognition. And I shall continue to serve the Most High in the only manner that I know how to serve. And I also like to mention my Pastor, who has been an inspiration to me and who have helped me tremendously through my work for the Lord. Thank Councilman Green because he has been an inspiration to me, all of the young ministers of this city of Shreveport. This is my play sister, Sister Bernie Hall of Shreveport, a retired school teacher; this is Dr. Allen of Shreveport, which is a Pastor and a retired educator; thank you, thank you.
Public Hearings: None.
Confirmations and/or Appointments. None.
CONSENT AGENDA LEGISLATION:
INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES ON CONSENT:
Motion by Councilman Hightower to Introduce the Resolutions and Ordinance on the Consent
Agenda to lay over until the October 13, 1998, meeting seconded by Councilman Burrell.
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Green
and Burrell. 5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman
Spigener. 1.
INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS:
Resolution No. 203 of 1998: A resolution authorizing the employment of special legal
counsel to represent the City of Shreveport, and otherwise providing with respect thereto.
Resolution No. 204 of 1998: A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into an
agreement with the Red River Road Runners, Inc. for the Riverside Road Race and
Awards Event and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Resolution No. 205 of 1998: A resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute grant
documents with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission for the acceptance of grant
funds, and otherwise provide with respect thereto.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE:
Ordinance No. 181 of 1998: An ordinance closing and abandoning a 20 foot-wide public
street dedication in Lot 14 of the Forest Park Subdivision, and to otherwise provide with
respect thereto.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES ON CONSENT:
Motion by Councilman Hightower to Adopt the Resolution on the Consent Agenda, seconded by
Councilman Burrell. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper,
Stewart, Hightower, Green and Burrell. 5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of
Chamber: Councilman Spigener. 1.
RESOLUTION:
RESOLUTION NO. 199 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE WAIVER OF THE ENTIRE BUILDING RENTAL
FEE FOR THE EXPOSITION HALL TO ALLOW THE ASSOCIATED GENERAL
CONTRACTORS TO HOLD A CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY EXPO AND
OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO.
BY: COUNCILMAN STEWART
WHEREAS, the Associated General Contractors (AGC) - Shreveport Chapter, a non-profit organization, has been serving the Northwest Louisiana area since 1925 and is the largest construction trade association in the area; and
WHEREAS, the AGC is partnering with other local construction trade associations to host a Construction Technology Expo on November 3, 1998. The partnership includes the local chapters of the following: American Institute of Architects, Louisiana Engineering Society, American Society of Civil Engineers, Consulting Engineers Council, Construction Specifications Institute, National Association of Women in Construction, and National Association of Minority Contractors; and
WHEREAS, the Construction Technology Expo is designed to improve construction products and cut costs through education and better communication; and to display the skills and competencies of local construction and design companies to end users, so that local companies can increase their participation in construction projects. The Construction Technology Expo will therefore provide an economic benefit to the end users, including the City of Shreveport, the citizens of Shreveport and the economy of this region.
WHEREAS, it is therefore in the public interest and it serves a public purpose for the City to waive the entire rental fee for the use of the Exposition Hall for the Construction Technology Expo to be held on November 3, 1998.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, in due, legal and regular session convened, that the entire rental fee for the use of the Exposition Hall by the Associated General Contractors for the Construction Technology Expo to be held on November 3, 1998 is waived and the provisions of Section 26-123 and Section 26-124 of the Code of Ordinances are suspended relative to this event only.
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.
ORDINANCES: None.
REGULAR AGENDA LEGISLATION:
RESOLUTIONS ON SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE:
The Deputy Clerk read the resolution by title: Resolution No. 164 of 1998: A resolution closing
to vehicular thru traffic a portion of Drexel Drive (an area between the 736 and 737 addresses)
and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Councilman Hightower: We want to postpone that another two weeks, MPC is going to hold a
public hearing on that, so we'd ask to delay until after that public hearing.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Burrell to
postpone the resolution until the October 13, 1998, meeting. Motion approved by the following
vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Green and Burrell. 5. Nays: None.
Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Spigener. 1.
RESOLUTION NO. 196 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE REVENUE ASSUMPTIONS TO BE USED IN
FORMULATING PRELIMINARY BUDGET REQUESTS AND THE PRELIMINARY
MULTI-YEAR FORECAST AS REQUIRED BY RESOLUTION NO. 132 OF 1989, AND
OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 132 of 1989 establishes the policy of the City of Shreveport representing the preparation, submission and adoption of the Multi-Year Operating Budget forecasts; and
WHEREAS, Section 2.1 of Resolution No. 132 of 1989 requires that no later than the first regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council in August of each year, the Mayor shall prepare and submit to the Council a resolution establishing the revenue assumptions to be used in formulating preliminary budget requests and the preliminary forecast.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, in due,
legal and regular session convened:
Section 1. Description of Revenues
The City of Shreveport General Fund receives 27 types of revenues including sales tax, ad
valorem taxes, franchise taxes, business taxes, Public Works fees, Courts and Marshal's fines
and fees, and many others. Also included in annual revenues is the prior year's unrestricted fund
balance which becomes available for expenditure in the subsequent year.
Section 2. Forecasting Assumptions
Due to the varied nature of each of the separate revenue types, no attempt will be made to apply any one assumption to all revenues. Rather, each revenue type will be forecast on the basis of a trend analysis for each type of revenue and other economic indicators applicable to only certain revenue types.
A. Trend Analysis
A trend analysis will be prepared for each revenue type and will include analysis of the following factors:
1. Average annual growth rate from 1993 - 1997.
2. Estimated current year collections.
3. Known local, state and/or national events affecting revenue collection rates.
4. No significant local population increase or decrease over the forecast period.
B. Other Economic Indicators
Other economic indicators will be evaluated in forecasting revenues; however, these indicators
are useful only to the extent that they provide support for trend projections and informed
judgement in determining the growth or decline in revenue collections.
The primary economic indicators which will be considered where applicable include the following:
1. Inflation rate of 2-3% annually.
2. Local unemployment rate of 6-7% over the forecast period.
3. Sales tax (the City's largest source of operating revenue) has grown annually at a rate of approximately 5% for the last several years. Due to State legislation, sales tax growth will be stymied in 1998.
4. Local Property tax collection rate of 96% annually.
5. Increase in property tax assessments of an average of 2.5% annually.
C. Other Factors
Several revenue types are amenable to prediction on the basis of level of services provided. For instance, Parks and Recreation fees can be directly related to the number of users anticipated. Where appropriate, the anticipated level of services will be used to supplement and support projections.
Section 3. Applicability
The assumptions presented in this resolution are applicable in the multi-year forecast for the years 1999 - 2002.
Section 4. Severability
If any provisions 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 provision of this resolution are hereby declared severable.
Section 5. Repealer
All resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Cooper, seconded by Councilman Stewart
passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Green and Burrell.
5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Spigener. 1.
RESOLUTION NO. 197 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE A THIRD AMENDMENT
TO THE LANDFILL SERVICES CONTRACT WITH BROWNING-FERRIS INDUSTRIES,
AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport and Browning-Ferris Industries (BFI) entered into a Landfill Services Agreement in 1987, pursuant to which BFI has operated the City's Woolworth Road Landfill and has provided other services; and
WHEREAS, both parties have agreed to amend said agreement to provide for BFI's operation of the yard waste processing/recycling facility located at the Woolworth Road Landfill and for other purposes.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, in legal session convened, that the Mayor be and is hereby authorized to execute a Third Amendment to the Landfill Services Agreement with Browning-Ferris Industries, substantially in the form of the document filed along with the original copy of this resolution in the office of the Clerk of Council of the City of Shreveport.
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 ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Burrell, seconded by Councilman Hightower
passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Green and Burrell.
5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Spigener. 1.
RESOLUTION NO. 198 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH
SCI-PORT DISCOVERY CENTER AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT
THERETO.
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport obtained funding from the State of Louisiana for the design and construction of a hands-on science and technology museum and a dome theater; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has also committed City funds toward the design and construction of a hands-on science and technology museum and a domed theater; and
WHEREAS, Sci-port Discovery Center was instrumental in assisting the City of Shreveport in obtaining funds from the State of Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, Sci-Port Discovery Center has experience in the management and operation of a hands-on science and technology museum; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport desires to enter into an agreement with Sci-Port Discovery Center for the management and operation of the Discovery Center.
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 is hereby authorized to execute an agreement with Sci-Port Discovery Center substantially in accordance with the draft thereof which was filed with the original copy of this resolution in the office of the Clerk of Council.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a certified copy of this resolution be attached to and included with the original agreement when filed and recorded in the conveyance records of Caddo Parish, Louisiana.
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 provision, item or application 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 Burrell
passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Green and Burrell.
5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Spigener. 1.
The Deputy Clerk read the resolution by title: Resolution No. 201 of 1998: A resolution
authorizing the Director of Finance to advertise a Request for Proposals for a Banking Services
Agreement and otherwise providing with respect thereto.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Burrell for
passage. The Council considered the substitute resolution (changes October 25 to October 27).
Motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Spigener for adoption of the
substitute resolution. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper,
Stewart, Hightower, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio.
1.
Motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Cooper for adoption of the substitute resolution. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1.
RESOLUTION NO. 201 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO ADVERTISE A
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR A BANKING SERVICES AGREEMENT AND
OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, legal and regular session convened that the Director of Finance be and she is hereby authorized and instructed to advertise a request for proposals for a banking services agreement for the City of Shreveport, covering the deposit of funds derived from taxes and other revenues for a two year term beginning January 1, 1999, with an option to renew for an additional two year period.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the successful proposer shall be required to bind and obligate itself to comply with all requirements provided by law and to meet the City's request for services described in the attached request for proposal for the term agreed on. The deposit of all City funds made pursuant to this agreement shall be protected and secured as provided by law.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that proposals shall be returnable no later than 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 27, 1998 to the Director of Finance in Room 105, City Hall, 1234 Texas Ave., Shreveport, Louisiana. At 3:00 p.m., said proposals will be publicly opened and announced in the City Council chambers located on the second floor of City Hall. This resolution shall be promulgated according to law, and banks having local offices shall be notified of the request for proposals.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that after the proposals are opened and in the case that all are deemed unsatisfactory, the Director is hereby authorized to negotiate a satisfactory banking services agreement with any qualified financial institution. The City of Shreveport reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to waive any informalities.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provision 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.
RESOLUTION NO. 202 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND DEVELOPMENT TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY OF ADVERTISE
FOR BIDS ON THE OCKLEY DITCH FLOOD CONTROL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
(STATE PROJECT NO's. 576-09-0014 & 576-09-0015, OCKLEY DITCH UPSTREAM OF
HIGHLAND AVENUE TO LINE AVENUE AND OCKLEY DRIVE BRIDGE) PHASES 5 & 6
OF SPN 576-09-0007 AND OTHERWISE PROVIDING WITH RESPECT THERETO.
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has submitted an application for funding of the
Ockley Ditch Flood Control Project under the Statewide Flood Control Program; and
WHEREAS, the State's share of the project funds has been made available and the City of Shreveport has available its local matching share of the project funds in an amount of not less than thirty (30%) percent; and
WHEREAS, at the request of the City of Shreveport, BBC Engineering, Inc. & A.F.J.M., Inc. have prepared plans and specifications for said project, which plans and specifications are designated by State Project No's. 576-09-0014 & 576-09-0015, Phase 5 & 6 of SPN 576-09-0007; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has reviewed the final plans, specifications, and cost estimate and accepts them as submitted and the Department of Transportation and Development has reviewed the final plans, specifications, and cost estimate and has approved them inasmuch as they comply with the requirements of the Statewide Flood Control Program; and
WHEREAS, all necessary servitudes, rights-of-way, spoil disposal areas, rights of ingress and egress and the means thereof have been acquired by the City of Shreveport and the titles thereto are valid and indefeasible; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has obtained all necessary permits required for the construction of this project; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has agreed to accomplish all necessary utilities, fence and other facilities relocations and alterations made necessary by this project; and
WHEREAS, the Official Journal for the City of Shreveport is The Shreveport Times, whose mailing address is P. O. Box 30222, Shreveport, LA 71130, and whose telephone number is (318) 459-3200; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport desires to advertise for competitive bids in accordance with LRS 38:2212 et seq for the award of a contract in the name of the City of Shreveport and furnish engineering services during the progress of the work.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in regular session assembled on this 22nd day of September, 1998 that the Department of Transportation and Development be and hereby is requested to authorize the City of Shreveport to advertise for competitive bids in accordance with LRS 38:2212 et seq for the award of a contract in the name of the City of Shreveport covering the aforesaid improvements.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Transportation and Development be and hereby is assured that all necessary servitudes, rights-of-way, rights of ingress and egress and the mens thereof have been obtained by the City of Shreveport and the means thereof have been obtained by the City of Shreveport and the titles thereto are valid and indefeasible and the City of Shreveport expressly agrees to defend any action for the failure of any servitudes, right-of-way, right of ingress or egress, and the City of Shreveport does hereby assume complete responsibility for providing engineering services during construction and the maintenance and upkeep of the project after construction.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Transportation and Development be and hereby is assured that all required permits have been obtained by the City of Shreveport.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Transportation and Development be and hereby is assured that the City of Shreveport has available its local matching funds in an amount not less than thirty (30%) percent and which combined with the State's share is sufficient to insure construction of this project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Shreveport will and hereby does assume complete responsibility for all utilities, fences, and other facilities relocations and alterations made necessary by this project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Shreveport does hereby save and hold harmless the Department of Transportation and Development against any loss or damage of any kind incident to or occasioned by activities undertaken in pursuance of this agreement and expressly agrees to defend any suit brought against the Department of Transportation and Development, and pay any judgement which may result from said suit as it relates to this project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any provisions 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 Stewart, seconded by Councilman Hightower
passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Spigener, Green
and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1.
Mayor Williams: On Resolution No. 206, I'd like to ask the Council to postpone this until
Councilman Serio is in the Chamber. Motion by Councilman Stewart, seconded by Councilman
Cooper to postpone the resolution. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman
Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman
Serio. 1.
RESOLUTION NO. 206 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND SEWERAGE
FOR THE KEY ROLE IT PLAYED IN HELPING THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ATTAIN A
CLASS 1 RATING.
BY: COUNCILMAN SERIO
WHEREAS, the Department of Water and Sewerage played a key role in helping the Fire Department attain a Class 1 rating which will save City businesses $2 million a year on its insurance premiums; and
WHEREAS, the water supply status makes up 40 percent of the fire rating analysis and includes a review of supply works, main capacity, hydrant distribution, hydrant type and method of installation, frequency of hydrant inspection and condition of hydrants; and
WHEREAS, the Department conducted a rehab program to change out of all existing water mains and replace them with 6-inch and larger mains; and
WHEREAS, the Department conducted in-house program to replace, rather than repair, aging fire hydrants; and
WHEREAS, the Department made improvements to its fire hydrant inspection program, resulting in more timely maintenance of hydrants; and
WHEREAS, the Department added new facilities, including the Linwood tank with a 2 million gallon capacity and elevated and ground storage facilities at the Caddo-Bossier Port.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, in due,
legal and regular session convened, does hereby congratulate and commend all the employees of
the Department of Water and Sewerage for the vital role which it played in helping the Fire
Department attain a Class 1 rating thereby making the Fire Department of the most elite in the
country.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Serio, seconded by Councilman Green passed by
the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and
Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Councilman Serio: Chief Roberts, if you would because I think this is very important for the Fire Department and the Water Department is able to do their part. Chief Roberts: Yes, sir. As most of ya'll know that since July, the Shreveport Fire Department has received a great deal of recognition for becoming a Class 1 Fire Department. And what has gone unnoticed during this, is the process that the Water Department has done a tremendous job. Over a third of the amount of the points that is during the 100 point process, goes on behalf of the Water Department. If they do poorly, we do poorly. So, today we would like to present a plaque, and all it does is determine the water pressure, the number of hydrants, and the amount of waterflow that flows through those fire hydrants; so, without them we couldn't achieve that Class 1 rating, so today we have a plaque that we'd like to present to the employees of the Shreveport Water Department.
Councilman Serio: Chief, somebody asked me the other day if ya'll had a football team. Chief Roberts: Football team? Councilman Serio: Since ya'll were No. 1. Chief Roberts: No, sir, we don't have a football team. (Chief Roberts read the inscription on the plaque: Presented to the Shreveport Water Department for your dedicated service and assistance in achieving the Class 1 fire rating).
Mr. Game: I've been here just a little bit over two years and I've always had a great working relationship with Chief Roberts on the Fire Department, but their process was just beginning when I first came here. Some of the people I have here are Tammy Ruddock, who just inherited the Water Distribution Group and I also have Steve Barras and Steve Clifton who are the two people, plus Lonny Faust who could not be here today. And they are the ones that really go out in the field and make all that happen, so I guess I would like to give credit to him and if they want to say anything, I'll allow them to do that, but thank you very much. Mr. Barras: Thank ya'll very much for the recognition. The Fire Department has been great to work with; we like this Administration.
Councilman Burrell: I also like to commend Margene on his accomplishment because even
though (inaudible) is our (inaudible) may consider running for state office unless that is a step
down for Margene. Councilman Green: Again, Margene, congratulations. Also, to the Water
Department, congratulations. Bob, I think the Council members had a problem understanding
what you say, could you write that out for us, your statement?
RESOLUTION NO. 207 OF 1998
A RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MATTIE SNEED FOR HER PHILANTHROPIC
EFFORTS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS, AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT
THERETO.
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed is a resident of Shreveport, Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed has dedicated her life to religious and philanthropic endeavors; and
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed's vocations and avocations have involved service to others; and
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed worked with the armed forces during the Vietnam War, meeting the physical, spiritual and mental needs of veterans; and
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed recently retired from the VA Medical Center after more than 30 years of service; and
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed now devotes her time, energies and resources to missionary and philanthropic endeavors in the United States, especially the southern states, and in Israel, Japan and the Bahamas; and
WHEREAS, Mattie Sneed has received an honorary Doctorate Degree in Religious Education and Counseling in recognition of her outstanding work for humanity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, legal, and regular session convened that Mattie Sneed is recognized for her many religious and philanthropic endeavors and accomplishments.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council thanks Mattie Sneed for her lifetime of outstanding work for humanity.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall be executed in duplicate originals and
one original shall be presented to Mattie Sneed and an original shall be filed in perpetuity in the
Office of the Clerk of Council for the City of Shreveport.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Green, seconded by Councilman Hightower
passed by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Green and Burrell.
5. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1. Out of Chamber: Councilman Spigener. 1.
RESOLUTION NO. 208 OF1998
A RESOLUTION COMMENDING CAPTAIN MARGENE McCOY FOR HIS SUCCESSFUL
LEGISLATIVE SESSION AS PRESIDENT OF THE PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS
ASSOCIATION OF LOUISIANA, AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT
THERETO.
BY: COUNCILMAN SERIO
WHEREAS, the Louisiana Municipal Association has cited Captain McCoy for his leadership during the past legislative session; and
WHEREAS, Captain McCoy was successful in having the Governor appoint representatives from Shreveport, Bossier and Crowley to the EMS Commission which regulates the EMT and Paramedics of the State of Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, Captain McCoy was successful in working with Fred McClanahan in passing the 911 Enhancement bill; and
WHEREAS, Captain McCoy was successful in working with area legislatures and worked diligently to preserve local taxes by lobbying against exemptions in the 1998 regular session of the Louisiana Legislature; and
WHEREAS, Captain McCoy is currently the President of the Professional Firefighters Association of Louisiana; and
WHEREAS, through Captain McCoy's leadership the unions have realized that as the cities go, so go the public employees; and
WHEREAS, Captain McCoy has taken no sick leave in the last 22 years.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, legal, and regular session convened, does hereby congratulate Captain Margene McCoy for his vital role in the 1998 Louisiana legislative session.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council thanks Captain Margene McCoy for his lifetime of outstanding work for humanity.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution shall be executed in duplicate originals and
one original shall be presented to Captain Margene McCoy and an original shall be filed in
perpetuity in the Office of the Clerk of Council for the City of Shreveport.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Serio, seconded by Councilman Stewart passed
by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green
and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Captain McCoy: I really appreciate that, that's very nice, I appreciate the recognition. It is very
good to work with the City and to work together on legislation on Baton Rouge and for the last
eight years, we've done that. And we've found out that working together, we get a lot more
accomplished than we do working apart. Prior to those eight years, there would always be
dozens of bills against the firefighters coming out of Shreveport and I'm real glad that that's no
longer the situation and it is much better productive for us to work together. And, I appreciate
the Administrative Director of the LMA writing the nice letter, he sent me a copy of it a day or
two ago, and I want to thank all of ya'll; thank you very much.
INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS: None.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES:
Ordinance No. 182 of 1998: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of
Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning
classification of property located on the south side of Greenwood Road, 200 feet east of
Curtis Lane and north of Pro Street, 200 feet east of Curtis Lane, Shreveport, Caddo
Parish, Louisiana, from I-1, Light Industry District to R-MHP, Residence, Mobile Home
Park District, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Ordinance No. 183 of 1998: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of
Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning
classification of property located on the NE corner of Linwood Avenue and W 71st Street,
Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, from R-1D, Urban, One-Family Residence District
to B-2, Neighborhood Business District, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Ordinance No. 184 of 1998: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of
Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning
classification of property located on the SW corner of Youree Drive and Stratford,
Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, from SPI-3-E, Commercial Corridor
Overlay/Extended Use District to SPI-3-E, Commercial Corridor Overlay/Extended Use
District limited to "a beauty shop" only, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Ordinance No. 185 of 1998: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of
Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning
classification of property located on the NE corner of Hearne Avenue and Morningside
Drive, Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, from R-1D, Urban, One-Family Residence
District to B-1, Buffer Business District, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Ordinance No. 186 of 1998: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of
Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning
classification of property located on the east side of Monkhouse Drive, 700 feet north of
Lyba, Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, from B-1, Buffer Business District to B-1-E,
Buffer Business/Extended Use District limited to "a car rental agency" only, and to
otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Read by title and as read motion by Councilman Green, seconded by Councilman Hightower for
Introduction of the Ordinances to lay over until the October 13, 1998, meeting. Motion
approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Spigener,
Green, and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1.
ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE:
Ordinance No. 166 of 1998: An ordinance authorizing and providing for an encroachment
within the block bounded by Texas, Edwards, Travis, and Marshall Streets, and to
otherwise providing with respect thereto.
Councilman Cooper: Could Mr. Kirkland shed just a little light on this, 166? Councilman
Green: Tom Dark. Councilman Cooper: Could you shed just a little light on this? Mr. Dark:
That one's actually pretty simple. Banc One is in the process of transferring title to that building.
And in a title search, they discovered that there was an encroachment over an alley or over an air
right or something that they couldn't give them a clean title without it. It won't change anything
you see now. Councilman Cooper: There was no opposition? Mr. Dark: No, sir, not at all.
Having passed first reading on August 11,1998, was read by title and as read on motion ordered
passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Cooper,
seconded by Councilman Burrell adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper,
Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None. (Councilman Serio:
Mr. Green, I see you started without me today. Councilman Green: Thank Mr. Serio, I figured
you was out on the campaign trail.
Ordinance No. 168 of 1998 by Councilman Cooper: An ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Shreveport by adding Section 2-250 to require the Police Department to report certain personnel findings and actions, and otherwise providing with respect thereto.
Councilman Green: This is asked to be postponed again.
Having passed first reading on August 11,1998, was read by title and as read on motion ordered
passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Stewart,
seconded by Councilman Hightower to postpone the ordinance until the next regular meeting.
Mayor Williams: As I stated at the last Council meeting, this proposed ordinances places the Police Department in a very untenable position, in my opinion. And under the circumstances, I would veto that ordinance, should it be passed by the Council.
Councilman Cooper: As I stated earlier and been trying to state for the last, I guess, 6 months now that this would be just a fraction of a step in the right direction to give the citizens some authority as to knowing what happened and what the findings are when one of the officers are accused or it has been alleged that it has been brutality inflicted upon them. All this would do, is enable them to know what happens or if anything happened to the officer that has been accused of abusing them. I think they have the right to know the results as to what happened. The United States of America, we have the right to pry into our President of the United States and find out all of the business that happens to him because the citizens require it, now why can't a citizen find out what happened to an officer when he crossed the line? That is all this is asking, is that the individual will be made known as to what, if, anything is done to that officer. And again, it has been shot down more than 3 or 4 times, but I say to the citizens, don't give up. Rights are never voluntarily given to you, they have to be fought for.
Councilman Green: Just for a correction, Mr. Cooper, this is not shot down; this has been postponed. Councilman cooper: But for the second time. Councilman Green: Yes, sir.
Councilman Burrell: Just to add something to this, because there seems to be a point of
contention between my fellow Councilman as well as the Mayor on this, and being the Chairman
of the Audit and Finance Committee where we do some investigative work to try and help clear
up some problems that we confront. I have taken the liberty to request an interpretation by the
Attorney General's Office of the state ordinance or should I say the state statute that the
Administration is using to justify not releasing this information just for the benefit of the Council
to have that information and have another interpretation of the law. So, I'm putting that out as
hopefully some assistance to try and clear this matter up. Councilman Green: Thank you, Mr.
Burrell.
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Stewart, Hightower, Spigener, Green
and Burrell. 5. Nays: Councilman Cooper. 1. Absent: Councilman Serio. 1.
Ordinance No. 170 of 1998: An ordinance amending the 1998 Riverfront Development
Special Revenue Fund, appropriating the funds authorized therein, and otherwise
providing with respect thereto.
Councilman Burrell: Because this particular ordinance is, I believe it is important to our city
because you are talking about tourism dollars in terms of multi-cultural activities and buildings
that can benefit the city now and in the future, I propose to get the two groups together and try to
work out something that would be amenable to both parties because I feel that if you try to do it
now in a political season, then it because (inaudible) for politics. So to keep from having to do
that and then lose the opportunity to develop something meaningful, I'm requesting the Council
at this time, to postpone this.
Having passed first reading on August 25,1998, was read by title and as read on motion ordered
passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman Burrell,
seconded by Councilman Hightower to postpone the ordinance until the next regular meeting.
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio,
Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Ordinance No. 177 of 1998: An ordinance amending Chapter 106 of the Code of
Ordinances, the City of Shreveport Zoning Ordinance, by changing the zoning
classification of property located on the north side of Pine Hill Road, 100 feet east of its
intersection with N. Market, Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, from R-1D, Urban,
One-Family Residence District and R-3, Urban, Multi-Family Residence District to R-1D-E, Urban, One-Family Residence/Extended Use District limited to "an automotive
body repair and restoration business" only, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Having passed first reading on September 8,1998, was read by title and as read on motion
ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman
Cooper, seconded by Councilman Spigener to postpone the ordinance until the next regular
meeting. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman Cooper, Stewart,
Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Ordinance No. 178 of 1998: To amend and reenact Section 46-76(20) of the Code of
Ordinances of the City of Shreveport entitled, Operating Requirements, and to provide
with respect thereto.
Having passed first reading on September 8,1998, was read by title and as read on motion
ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman
Green, seconded by Councilman Stewart adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman
Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Ordinance No. 179 of 1998 by Councilman Green: An ordinance to create and establish a
no through truck route on West 69th Street between Union Avenue and Linwood Avenue,
and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Having passed first reading on September 8,1998, was read by title and as read on motion
ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman
Green, seconded by Councilman Hightower adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman
Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Ordinance No. 180 of 1998 by Councilman Green: An ordinance to create and establish a
no through truck route on West 67th Street between Clift Avenue and Wallace Avenue,
and to otherwise provide with respect thereto.
Having passed first reading on September 8,1998, was read by title and as read on motion
ordered passed to third reading. Read the third time in full and as read motion by Councilman
Green, seconded by Councilman Hightower adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilman
Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Councilman Green: What these two items will do is, there was a request that there would be a no
truck route through 69th and 67th, so we've got that taken care of.
The adopted Ordinances follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 166 OF 1998
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND PROVIDING FOR AN ENCROACHMENT
WITHIN THE BLOCK BOUNDED BY TEXAS, EDWARDS, TRAVIS AND MARSHALL
STREETS AND TO OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.
WHEREAS, Bank One, Louisiana, National Association, a national banking association which was formerly known as Premier Bank, National Association, is the owner of the Northeast Half of Lot 5 and Lots 6, 7, and 8, Block 33, City of Shreveport, as per said plat, as well as lots 9, 10, 11, 12 and the Southwest 10 feet of Lot 13, Block 33, City of Shreveport, as more clearly shown on the attached plat, upon which are situated a multi-story office building and a multi-level parking garage, respectively; and
WHEREAS, a title examination of Bank One, Louisiana, National Association, revealed the following existing encroachments within the block bounded by Texas, Edwards, Travis, and Marshall Streets: (1) an overhead crosswalk connecting the improvements located on the two tracts of Bank One situated over and above an alley running between Marshall Street and Edwards Street; (ii) an overhead stairwell and two driveway overhangs extend over and above the aforementioned alley; (iii) two driveway overhangs extend over and above a portion of Travis Street; and, (iv) the exterior wall of the bank's parking garage encroaches a distance of 0.2 feet upon land now occupied by the Shreveport Chamber of Commerce pursuant to a long-term lease agreement with the City, as shown on the attached plat; and,
WHEREAS, the encroachments upon and use of the alley and land is not adverse to the public interest of the citizens of the City of Shreveport; and,
WHEREAS, such disposition by ordinance is authorized by the provisions of Section 2.03(e) of the Charter of the City of Shreveport, 1978.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, in due, legal and regular session convened, that the City of Shreveport is hereby authorized and empowered to grant certain encroachments with respect to property of the City of Shreveport adjacent to the Northeast Half of Lot 5 and Lots 6, 7, and 8, Block 33, City of Shreveport, as per plat, as well as lots 9, 10, 11, 12 and the Southwest 10 feet of Lot 13, Block 33, City of Shreveport, as per said plat, upon which are situated a multi-story office building and a multi-level parking garage, respectively, as set forth and shown on the plat attached hereto and made a part hereof, unto and in favor of Bank One, Louisiana, National Association, after due notice, publication, and compliance in all respects with the laws applicable thereto, and after the effective date of this ordinance, the Mayor of the City of Shreveport is hereby authorized to execute and deliver, for and on behalf of the City of Shreveport, an instrument of permit of encroachment, substantially in the form of the document filed along with the original copy of this ordinance in the office of the Clerk of Council of the City of Shreveport.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that the original permit and a certified copy of this ordinance be filed and recorded in the official records of the Clerk of Court for Caddo Parish, Louisiana.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED 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 ORDAINED that all ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed.
/s/James Edward Green, Chairman
/s/Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council
ORDINANCE NO. 178 OF 1998
TO AMEND AND REENACT SECTION 46-76(20) OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF
THE CITY OF SHREVEPORT ENTITLED, OPERATING REQUIREMENTS, AND TO
PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport provides emergency ambulance services through its Fire Department within the City of Shreveport in accordance with Section 46-31 et seq. of the Shreveport City Code and Sections 4.20 and 11.04 of the Charter of the City of Shreveport; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport has established by ordinance an emergency medical services membership program available to persons who may be in need of emergency medical services within the City on an annual fee basis; and
WHEREAS, it is established by ordinance, Section 46-34, that it is unlawful for any person other than the City of Shreveport Fire Department to operate an emergency ambulance or provide emergency ambulance services as a business except as provided in Section 46-56 of the Code of Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, Section 46-76(20) currently provides for non-emergency ambulance service licensees to conduct and operate membership programs for the purpose of entering into membership agreements with the citizens of the City to provide non-emergency medical services under certain conditions; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Shreveport finds that solicitation by non-emergency ambulance services for membership programs is in potential conflict with the City of Shreveport Fire Department emergency services membership program and leads to confusion among the public as to what type services they are purchasing through the various memberships offered; and
WHEREAS, the City of Shreveport City Council finds that pursuant to the authority granted to it
by R.S. 33:4791, R.S. 33:4791.1, the Charter of the City of Shreveport, Section 4.20 and the
Charter of the City of Shreveport, Section 11.04, this Council does specifically find that to
continue providing consistently high-quality emergency service care together with any and all
aspects attendant to ambulance operation, to avoid confusion among the public and to provide for
the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the City of Shreveport, Section 46-76(20) of the
Code of Ordinances of the City of Shreveport is hereby amended and reenacted to read as
follows:
Section 46-76(20) -
20. No non-emergency ambulance licensee and no manager, agent, servant, employee or other representative of any non-emergency ambulance licensee shall conduct or operate any membership solicitation program for the purpose of entering into membership agreements with the citizens of the City to provide emergency or non-emergency ambulance services.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED 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 affect 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.
/s/James Edward Green, Chairman
/s/Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council
ORDINANCE NO. 179 OF 1998
AN ORDINANCE TO CREATE AND ESTABLISH A NO THROUGH TRUCK ROUTE ON
WEST 69TH STREET BETWEEN UNION AVENUE AND LINWOOD AVENUE AND TO
OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.
BY: COUNCILMAN GREEN
BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, legal and regular session convened that West 69th Street between Union Avenue and Linwood Avenue is hereby created and established as a No Through Truck Route and it shall hereafter be unlawful for trucks exceeding ten thousand (10,000) pounds gross vehicle weight to use any portion of West 69th Street except for local pickup and delivery.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED 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 ORDAINED that all ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed.
/s/James Edward Green, Chairman
/s/Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council
ORDINANCE NO. 180 OF 1998
AN ORDINANCE TO CREATE AND ESTABLISH A NO THROUGH TRUCK ROUTE ON
WEST 67TH STREET BETWEEN CLIFT AVENUE AND WALLACE AVENUE AND TO
OTHERWISE PROVIDE WITH RESPECT THERETO.
BY: COUNCILMAN GREEN
BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Shreveport in due, legal and regular session convened that West 67th Street between Clift Avenue and Linwood Avenue is hereby created and established as a No Through Truck Route and it shall hereafter be unlawful for trucks exceeding ten thousand (10,000) pounds gross vehicle weight to use any portion of West 67th Street except for local pickup and delivery.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED 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 ORDAINED that all ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed.
/s/James Edward Green, Chairman
/s/Arthur G. Thompson, Clerk of Council
Councilman Green: I would like to move the establishment of a Shreveport City Council
Riverfront Development Committee. The Riverfront Committee shall review and recommend to
the City Council proposed sales, leases and purchases of property, all contracts, plans and other
items which relate to development of the Riverfront which is require Council approval. The
terms Riverfront means areas near the Red River and Cross Bayou within Shreveport city limits.
The Riverfront Committee shall remain in existence until it is terminated by a majority vote of
the City Council.
Motion by Councilman Green, seconded by Councilman Stewart to establish the Committee.
Councilman Spigener: I would just like some clarification. And I just seen then, but I guess all just seen it at the last few minutes, but there is a part of this that I have a question or concern. It says: The Riverfront Committee shall review and recommend to the City Council proposed sales, leases, and purchases of property. If, I wonder about negotiating contracts for property for sale. And I have a concern here that if there are other entities in our city, such as the Administration or perhaps the Chamber of any other entity, but particularly the Administration, if they are looking at properties and of course, I know that negotiations aren't going to take place without some input from the Council, but I can see a real confusion here, especially trying to buy property and many times the more demand there is for property, the higher the price gets. So, I don't know if I just not interpreting this right, I don't know what the intent is, but I do need some clarification and who is the author of this. Are you making this. . . .I just don't know, depending on where we are coming from on this. Councilman Green: Basically, I'm one of the authors. Chip Holloway called my office and we had some dialogue. He also talked to Mr. Stewart and they had some dialogue and also we talked with Mr. Thompson and we developed this. At this particular time, there is no committee to take care of riverfront business. So therefore, we thought it would be a need at this particular time to put a----something like that, into operation.
Mr. Thompson: Ms. Spigener, as this is written--- and Julie, I'd like for you to chime in whenever you need to---this is not intended to give the Council the exclusive right or authority to negotiate or do any of the things that were mentioned. The Administration still has the same authority to do all of those things as it has now. This is a committee that can be bought in the loop and should be brought in the loop, according to the authors, sooner. But the Administration still has the authority to negotiate, to do all of the things that it was doing. I don't think that we could take that authority away from them even if Council wanted to; so, they will have all of that. This is just a committee to look specifically at those things whenever it is the appropriate time to do so.
Councilman Spigener: Thank you Mr. Thompson, I'm not worrying about taking authority from anybody or giving authority to anybody, that's not my concern. My concern is more muddying the water of our negotiations for properties and I believe that under our bond issue, there is already money to buy riverfront properties. I have a concern about too many people trying to do the same job, I guess when it boils down to one thing, that's my concern at this point. And as I said, I know when properties become apparently in demand, that's when prices skyrocket and I think the more people you have seeking those properties---I just see this as a duplication of effort and I don't see, I guess I don't have a picture of where it would be beneficial. And I'm not worried about authority, responsibility, who gets credit for what, who gets patted on the back for being for being able to purchase this or that, that's not my concern. My concern is, is this going to be for the benefit of the citizens of the city in trying to negotiate for buying properties that we desperately need, and I'm not against that.
Mayor Williams: I do not have a copy of that and I would appreciate a copy of. And I would like to ask the City Attorney, Ms. Glass about the constitutionality. It seems to me on the surface, that this is really crossing the line from legislative to administrative nature? Ms. Glass: Mr. Thompson talked to me about this. He didn't ask for a formal opinion, but we did have some discussions about it. Mr. Mayor, I would note that it says on items which requires Council approval. So, the way I read it, it is limited to those situations where a matter is going to come before the Council anyway.
Councilman Green: Just for the record, I'm actually just doing this to have Council input because we have slogan down here that deals with. I really don't need a motion to appoint this committee, but I just thought that I would be open-focus and give everyone an opportunity to share. So, just for the record, the Chairman of the Council has that kind of authority to do. But this is a committee that will consist of members of the Council, members of the community, members of the Administration. Its a committee that will have a broad sense of what we need on the riverfront. So, here again, Mr. Stewart is aware of it and he's also talked to Chip, so this is something to broaden our scopes to---that sometimes we live in a little glass jar and we keep everything real close and real small. This is just broaden it up, so that's where we are.
Councilman Burrell: I hadn't had an opportunity to see it until just recently. Reading through it,
many times we do have a lot of questions, I know I do on certain things that come before us in
terms of sales and certain issues associated with property not only on the riverfront but other
things. And, many times we make un-informed decisions because of it. And if this will help in
some way prepare us to make those decisions, then I'm all for it. I don't see it as being
something that circumventing anybody's authority either, but I know that there has been a long
complaint that we've had, I know I've had it, of persons not quite having all the information that
I need or have time to understand that before decisions are made on things that are very pertinent
and important to our city and hopefully, this will do that. Am I. . . .?
Councilman Green: Yes, sir. Also, I have not appointed the committee members as of yet, I do have some in mind, that by the next Council meeting we will have the full committee, of course Ms. Spigener, you will be one of the committee members. Councilman Spigener: I appreciate that, Mr. Chairman. I guess, that was another of my concerns, perhaps I just need a little bit more information of where we are coming from, that kind of thing. However, one of my questions was, what is the make-up of this committee going to be. And when I first read this, I just assumed that it was going to be a City Council member, but you've elaborated on that a little bit, so you have in mind a wider scope? Councilman Green: Yes, ma'am.
Councilman Serio: I'm just wondering and is wondering out loud, because you know I attended a meeting the other day and we folks from (inaudible), folks from the Tourist Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce, those people from most of the downtown business associations, land owners that actually have an interest in making something occur on the riverfront and on the waterfront. And I'm just wondering if we are going to wear these people out with one committee here and one committee there, and not have any solid directions of where we are going? Councilman Green: This committee will have the solid direction of where we are going. Councilman Serio: What I'm saying is, you have people wanting to know which committees to go to and which meetings to go to. Councilman Green: I'll specifically tell them to, come to this one. Councilman Serio: That's interesting, Mr. Chairman. I think you are sort of getting at is we dilute ourselves to the point. . . .Councilman Green: This is what I'm trying to explain, this one won't be like that, this one will be different. Councilman Serio: That is interesting.
Councilman Spigener: I thought I was finished, but I guess I'm not. Mr. Serio is, I think, maybe have expressed better than I the another concern that I have and that was continuity, and I think he has said that in what he said. I feel that, maybe your committee will be the one that provides this. . .Councilman Green: Of course you are going to be on it. Here again, we talk about a cooperative Council, an inclusive Mayor, makes a winner for Shreveport and that's what we are trying to do. So as Chairman of the Council, I think that this committee is very important at this particular time. And at this point, we just want to get the committee established and next meeting we will have some appointments. So, may be move forward with the vote whereas all of us will have a part of this particular committee to make our riverfront and our city better and I know all of you want to do that.
Councilman Spigener: I don't believe that's the question here at all, making our city better, I don't think that that is what we are voting on. We are voting for (inaudible). I don't want any indication that I'm not for making our city better. We do want to be cooperative but we've got to evaluate things on an (inaudible) basis. Councilman Green: My point is, Ms. Spigener, you are asking about the brain of this committee. My brain says this will help us make our city better. Councilman Spigener: Thank you.
Councilman Cooper: I'd like to make a motion that we move on because I need to go campaign,
see.
Motion by Councilman Green to establish the committee, seconded by Councilman Stewart.
Councilman Hightower: Am I going to be on this?
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio,
Green and Burrell. 6. Nays: Councilman Spigener. 1.
Councilman Green: Next week, at this particular time, we have one member of the committee
which is Ms. Spigener, and next week the other members will be appointed. Councilman
Spigener: Are you going to make me Chairman?
Councilman Serio: I have a resolution that I wanted to get on and passed today, a resolution
commending Captain Margene McCoy, being that I was late. Councilman Green: He just
stepped out, we'll come back to it by the time he gets back in.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS. The following items remained tabled:
1. Ordinance No. 46 of 1995 by Mr. Stewart: To revise the membership of the Board of Trustees
of the Employees' Retirement System. (Tabled on 6-13-95)
2. Ordinance No. 90 of 1995: Amending Sec. 30-92 of the Code relative to fireworks. (F/Green)
(Tabled on 2-27-96)
3. Ordinance No. 61 of 1996: Amending the Code by adding Div.5, Art. V, Chap. 26 relative to
establishing a Riverfront Development Special Revenue Fund. (D/Serio) (Tabled on 7-9-96)
4. Resolution No. 94 of 1997: Renaming Airport Park the "Maurice 'Blimp' Monroe Park."
(F/Green) (Tabled on 5-27-97)
NEW BUSINESS:
ABO Card appeal: James P. Brock (Postponed on September 21, 1998 until the October
12, 1998 Administrative Conference).
Motion by Councilman Spigener to reconsider the appeal of Risa Roberts, seconded by
Councilman Green.
Councilman Spigener: Yesterday we heard from the Police Department and we also heard from
Risa Roberts. I don't think we heard all of the details and all of the dates and the significance of
some of this, of the arrest and the charges and that kind of thing and that is why I wanted us to
reconsider it. I think that we need to hear a little bit more of the details. And I also have a letter
and I'm sorry I didn't have an opportunity to get this to you from the employer of Ms. Roberts,
who has stated that she has been in employment there for a while and in this time she is found to
be a valuable employee, but I wanted to hear from the Police Department again. As you know,
there was a warrant out for Ms. Roberts arrest. That warrant was from 1988 and I don't know if
all of us were aware of that, I believe, if I'm correct. Can I have someone from the Police
Department come back and.
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio,
Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: Councilman Spigener. 1.
Corporal B. K. Hall: That is correct Ms. Spigener. The warrants were 10-years old, dated back to 1988. And the funny thing about an arrest warrant, it never dies. The only way that you can make it go away is to execute the arrest warrant and that was done yesterday and she's taken care of that problem. As the Police Department, we don't have a problem with her being issued an ABO card, but we would ask that maybe it be site specific until such time that we can do Vice checks and see that everything is going good with her. If we might could ask for that. Councilman Spigener: Okay, thank you. And this I think was something that perhaps we did not all understand yesterday, I didn't I know. And the employer could not be here today, but has written a letter recommending that we, and asking us to reconsider this and that Ms. Roberts has no other means of supporting herself, she has two children. And I believe that one of these warrants was for simple battery and the other was for property damage.
Councilman Serio: What's her name? Councilman Spigener: Risa Roberts. Back to the Police Department, am I correct in what those warrants were for? Corporal B. K. Hall: Yes ma'am, simple property damage and it was a simple battery whereas an adult was a complainant. That being 10-years ago, we don't know if person is even still a resident of Shreveport or this part of the area, we have no way of knowing that.
Councilman Spigener: And so after talking to Ms. Roberts, I just felt maybe that you would want
to hear at little bit more detail and I would recommend that we approve this ABO Card.
Motion by Councilman Spigener, seconded by Councilman Hightower to issue an ABO card.
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio,
Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Motion by Councilman Serio, seconded by Councilman Burrell, to suspend the Rules of
Procedure to address Resolution Nos. 208 and 206; motion unanimously approved.
3. C-52-98, URBAN HOUSING OF AMERICA, INC., LA, 6110 Greenwood Road, Planned
Unit Development - R-3 District, 96-unit townhouse subdivision.
Motion by Councilman Burrell to uphold the decision of the MPC to approve this Planned Unit
Development through the Urban Housing of America, seconded by Councilman Green.
Councilman Burrell: I had talked with various Council members and they didn't have a problem
with and at this time, I would like to ask their support for this measure.
Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio,
Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
REPORTS FROM OFFICERS, BOARDS, AND COMMITTEES. None.
CLERK'S REPORT.
Letters of Appeal:
1. ZONING APPEAL: C-42-98, INEZ SHEARS, 4200 blk. Greenwood Rd. from I-1 to R-MHP,
mobile home park. (G/Burrell) (not to be considered prior to Oct. 13)
ZONING APPEAL: C-57-98, RAINY TRAN, 7017 Linwood Ave. from R-1D to B-2,
shopping center. (C/Hightower) (not to be considered prior to Oct. 13)
BAC-101-98, TEX & ROSANNE WELLS, 4107 Hollywood; Special Exception Use in a
B-3 District, restaurant with the on-premises consumption of beer. (F/Green) (not to be
considered prior to Oct. 13)
C-52-98, URBAN HOUSING OF AMERICA, INC., LA, 6110 Greenwood Rd., Planned Unit Development - R-3 District, 96-unit townhouse subdivision. (G/Burrell)
COMMUNICATIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS.
The Council resolved itself into Committee of the Whole, on motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Cooper. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Cooper, Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 7. Nays: None.
Motion by Councilman Hightower, seconded by Councilman Spigener that the Committee Rises and Report and convene itself as the Council. Motion approved by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Stewart, Hightower, Serio, Spigener, Green and Burrell. 6. Nays: None. Out of Chamber: Councilman Cooper. 1.
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting adjourned by 4:00 p.m.
/s/JAMES EDWARD GREEN, CHAIRMAN
/s/ARTHUR G. THOMPSON, CLERK OF COUNCIL