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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN FEB 08 2000 M I N U T E S - CITY OF BEAUMONT Lulu L.Smith DAVID W. MOORE,MAYOR Guy N.Goodson,Mayor Pro Tem Andrew P.Cokinos CITY COUNCIL MEETING Becky Ames Bobbie J.Patterson February 8,2000 Audwin Samuel Lane Nichols,City Attorney Stephen J.Bonczek,City Manager Barbara Liming,City Clerk The City Council of the City of Beaumont,Texas,met in a regular session on February 8,2000,at the City Hall Council Chambers, 801 Main Street, Beaumont, Texas, at 1:30 p.m. to consider the following: OPENING * Invocation Pledge of Allegiance Roll Call * Presentations and Recognition- * Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items * Consent Agenda Mayor Moore called the meeting to order at 1:45 p.m. The Reverend Charles Garrett, Paradise Baptist Church, gave the invocation. Mayor Moore led the pledge of allegiance. Present at the meeting were: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson. Also present were: Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager; Lane Nichols, City Attorney; and Barbara Liming, City Clerk. *Presentations and Recognitions -No presentations were made. *Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items Citizen comment was invited on the Consent and Regular Agendas. There were no public comments. * Consent Agenda Mayor Moore requested that Item C be pulled from the Consent Agenda and voted upon separately. * Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held February 1, 2000. * Confirmation of committee appointments: No committee appointments. A) Authorize the acceptance of a Water Line Easement(10-feet, out of the Schumacher Business Park, Samuel Stivers Survey, Abstract 51 (5390 Walden Road)) - Resolution 00-38 B) Approve the acquisition of property for the Concord Road Improvement Project (Parcel 79: 0.021 acre,Minglewood Addition, 3580 French Road, from Robert Earl Wilson in the amount of$1,840)- Resolution 00-39 Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the exception of Item C. Councilmember Samuel seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None C) Approve a contract extension between the City of Beaumont and Statewide Consolidated Community Development Corporation(in the amount of$140,000 until December 31,2000 to develop up to ten new houses in targeted neighborhoods) - Resolution No. 00-40 Mayor Pro Tem Goodson moved to approve Resolution No. 00-40. Councilmember Cokinos seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos,Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None Abstention: Mayor Moore GENERAL BUSINESS 1. PUBLIC HEARING: Dilapidated Structures Consider an ordinance declaring certain dilapidated structures to be public nuisances and ordering their repair or removal by the owners and authorizing the removal of certain other structures whose owners failed to comply with condemnation orders Ordinance No. 00-18 ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE FINDING CERTAIN STRUCTURES TO BE PUBLIC NUISANCES AND ORDERING THEIR DEMOLITION, RENOVATION AND REMOVAL; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY was introduced; The twenty-nine (29) below listed dilapidated structures are found to be in violation of the City of Beaumont's Dangerous Structure Ordinance, Article III, Section 14-50: 2211 Ashley - G.B. Lee, owner; 6390 Big_ner Road-Abe Joseph Brown, II ET UX, owner; 10765 Black Lane-Creasy Smith c/o Tommy Lee,Jr.,owner;4045 Broussard Street-Adams Coleman,c/o Dolores Giles,owner;4047 Broussard Street - Adams Coleman, c/o Dolores Giles, owner; 4055 Broussard Street - Adams Coleman,c/o Dolores Giles,owner; 3120 Cleveland-Emma J. Ward,owner; 1810 Corley- Charles Dipmore,owner; 1842 Corley-Helen Louis Parks ESTATE,owner;618 Euclid(Rear Apt/Garage)- Marguerite Johnson, owner; 1530 Gill - Mollie Bean, owner; 3010 Goliad - Mrs. Israel Mose, c/o Maud J.Southall,owner; 1113 Hazel(Garage Apartment)-Heriberto Herrera,owner;2365 Morrison -Beatrice Carrie,owner; 1010 Orange-Homebuyers Solution,owner;2041 Primrose-HUD,owner; 2019 South-Virginia F. Coffinan,owner; 3586 St.James-Lula Mae Rodgers,owner;2141 Taylo - Darline Justiss, owner; 3510 West - Ernest D. Green, owner; each with 25 violations and staff recommendation to raze within 30 days; 2495 An e� lina- Mekhael Georges Sawaya ET UX, owner; 2895 Goliad - John F. Guillory, owner; 3845 Lou-Alice Seale,owner;3865 Lou-Arthur Dural,owner;2860 Park-Bertha Lemell ESTATE, owner; 2250 Rusk (Garage Apartment) - Carrie Grisby, owner; 2573-75 Rusk (Duplex) - Gene Thomas, owner; 3925 Scranton - James C. Citizen ET UX, owner; 3510 West - Ernest D. Green, owner, staff recommendation to raze or repair within 30 days; February 8,2000;Page 2 The three(3)below structures have been condemned by City Council and the owners ordered to either raze or repair them within specified time frames. Reinspection of these structures has revealed non- compliance with the Council's order. Authorization is requested from the City Council to demolish these structures in accordance with the Dangerous Structure Ordinance: 4360 Brandon-Mark W. Willman, owner; 1113 Hazel-Heriberto Herrera, owner; 3673 St.James- John Redeaux, Jr., owner. The public hearing opened at 1:48 p.m. Mr. Benny Jenkins, addressed Council to represent his mother, Carrie Grisby, who resides at 2250 Rusk. Mr. Jenkins commented about the present condition of the house, outlined the work that has been done on the exterior of the structure after an inspection by the Clean Community Department, stated that the structure will only be used for storage of a hot water heater, and said he was denied permits for electrical and plumbing work. Pam Loiacano informed Council that they were on a work program and did obtain a permit to complete structural work, and explained that when an owner is not going to occupy the structure, licensed contractors must complete electrical and plumbing work, and that is why permits were refused. Ms. Loiacano stated that she does not know who informed him that this property could not be used as a rental property, commented on the acceptability of the exterior work that has been completed, and the interior work that needs to be accomplished. The recommendation is for raze or repair to enable work to continue under a new work order. Ms. Loiacano said that this structure is in the historical district, and suggested Mr. Jenkins speak to the Planning Department in order to assess if changing the intended use of the structure is allowable. City Attorney Lane Nichols stated that he has not seen this property,reiterated the need for the work to be completed by a licensed contractor if the property will not be occupied by the owner, since the structure could be occupied at some future time by a nonowner. Mr. Nichols commented about the possibility of there being a middle ground wherein the building could be used for storage of the hot water heater,if it is secured and not dangerous,and stated that he would have to get with Ms. Lociano to assess whether this can be worked out within the limitations of the current ordinances. Ms. Loiacano stated the only problem she foresees is the possibility that the historical district designation would not allow a change in the use of this structure. Clean Community Director John Labrie recommended Mr. Jenkins meet with his department to see what can be worked out to allow the structure to be used for storage,recommended deferral,and said if there is a problem,the structure can be brought back to Council at a later date. Mr.Harvey Coffinan,addressed Council regarding the structure at 2019 South Street,commented that this process is new to him,and requested more time to complete the repairs. He said the property has been inspected, most of the structure is in good order, listed the repairs that need to be made, and stated that the detached building in the back would be razed. (Mayor Moore left the Chambers at 1:56 p.m.) February 8,2000;Page 3 Ms. Loiacano stated that the previous owner of the structure was never under a work order. Mr. Coffinan purchased the property and was unable to arrange a work program due to illness. A letter was sent to notify Mr. Coffman that the structure would be brought before Council because of its deteriorating condition, and Ms. Loiacano stated that this structure would be very costly to repair. In response to Councilmember Cokinos' query,Ms. Loiacano stated that the fire damage is confined to the rear shed. Mr. Coffman restated that the shed would be razed. In response to Councilmember's questions,Mr.Coffinan stated that the property has been continually vandalized, said the windows could be boarded up, listed the repairs that have been made and those remaining,stated he does a lot of the work himself, and said he could begin repairs in approximately 30-60 days. Mayor Pro Tern Goodson informed Mr. Coffman that Council usually requires that a work order last no longer than 30-60 days. Normal requirements are for the work program to begin immediately. He said that securing the property is important and necessary, and said the City looks for the property to be demolished or repaired immediately. He stated that repairs must commence immediately or the property would be brought back to Council next month for noncompliance. Mr. Coffinan stated that he understands, said this is his first time coming before Council and repairs have not been completed due to illness, and he requested additional time. Mr. Mekhael Sawaya addressed Council regarding 2495 Angelina Street to request time to repair the structure. Mr.Sawaya commented that this is a historic building built in the 1930's,said he has been out of the country for five years, now lives in Atlanta, Georgia, does historic renovations professionally, and said he has been working with Ms. Loiacano to bring the structure up to code. In response to Councilmember's queries,Mr. Sawaya stated that he has worked on the structure,the structure on the outside is very firm, the house has been continually vandalized though secured, stated that he could totally finish the structure in 90 days,and the house can be secured immediately. Ms. Loiacano stated that this property would not be dangerous if it was totally secured, commented that the kitchen is the worst room in the house, and there is a lot of water damage in the house. Councilmember Smith stated that most of these properties are in the historical district within her Ward, commented on the desire of residents of that area to rid their community of dilapidated structures, and stated she does not feel the work will be completed in 90 days. Mr. Sawaya stated that he will not be here overseeing the work,and has neighbors that are interested in rehabilitating the property, if he should not be able to complete the task. Ms.Nancy Staub, a near-by resident of the structure, stated that she owns several houses in the area, commented on the details of the house,and stated she is willing to purchase the house and bring it up to code, if Mr. Sawaya is unable to renovate the structure. (Mayor Moore returned at 2:10 p.m.) February B,2000;Page 4 Further discussion included new regulations requiring notes on deeds of dilapidated structures and consensus that Ms. Stahl could adequately rehabilitate the structure to the satisfaction of Council and the neighbors, should Mr. Sawaya decide to sell the structure. The public hearing was closed at 2:15 p.m. Council discussed the amount of damage to the structures,cost of repairs,owners ability to complete repairs, respecting the integrity of neighborhoods, and keeping housing stock. Consensus was to remove 2250 Rusk(garage apartment)from raze or repair for 30 days to allow determination by staff of the compatibility of the owner's intended use to house a water heater,remove 2019 South from raze within 30 days to raze or repair and establish a work program immediately,and allow 2495 Angelina to be placed on a raze or repair order and establish a work program immediately. Mayor Pro Tem. Goodson moved to approve Ordinance No. 00-18 with the above amendments. Councilmember Cokinos seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None * City Manager's Report-EMS Billing/Collection Alternatives,Affordable Housing Project,and Dick Dowling Area The City Manager reported he has received proposals for EMS billing collection alternatives and a team of representatives from different departments analyzed the proposals and determined Omni Billing was the best. The cost would be approximately$120,000 per year. Another alternative would be to improve collection rates within the Finance Department by adding two employees and setting a goal of increasing collections to $1.6 million. The program could be tried for six months with monthly reports to Council. Mr. Bonczek commended Councilmember Samuel for his imitative in the Dick Dowling area and outlined the dynamics covered in their meeting with area residents. COMMENTS * Councilmembers comment on various subjects Councilmember Smith stated the Classic Film Festival at the Jefferson Theater was very exciting this weekend and that all tickets were sold. She complimented the luncheon today at the Civic Center honoring Black ministers. Councilmember Ames congratulated the Jefferson Preservation Society for the Classic Film Festival and the Black ministers luncheon, and reported that she has given items to the City Manager and Mayor Pro Tem. Goodson that were discussed in the ACORN neighborhood meeting last night. Councilmember Samuel commended staff for work accomplished at his request and commented about the meeting held at Douglas Memorial Church last night. Councilmember Samuel said that he recently was advised about zoning in the Dick Dowling area being Light Industrial. Any residential structure razed in that area could not be rebuilt. He voiced concern and reported that staff came back with a proposal to rezone the area that would allow the growth of residences and the growth of February 8,2000;Page 5 businesses. He said this was well received by citizens in the area, and from that meeting a Dick Dowling Neighborhood Association was formed. He thanked everyone that attended the meeting, Pastor Robinson for hosting the meeting,Mr.Bonczek and staff for moving expediently on this issue. Councilmember Patterson congratulated the Black ministers in the community and thanked Hibernia Bank for sponsoring the luncheon. She announced that the Pear Orchard Neighborhood Association hold its monthly meeting February 15`h at Our Mother of Mercy Catholic Church. Mayor Moore commented that this was a great weekend for the Jefferson Preservation Society, expressed best wishes to Tom Moeller on his relocation to Baton Rouge and Jerry Watson on his appointment as the new Mobil Plant Manager. The Mayor congratulated the BISD for an excellent Educational Summitt, stated that Hibernia Bank sponsored a great luncheon honoring the Reverend William McCarty, the Reverend Edward Brown, and the Reverend G.W. Daniels, who were known as the Big Three in the 1950s as they worked toward making this a better community for everyone. He congratulated Greg Busceme on his one man art show, stated that he was a part of the Chinese Association of Southeast Texas' celebration of the Chinese New Year, and said these events speak well of the community and of Council who took the time to attend them. The City Manager commented that administration has received information on revising the sign overlay ordinance to be presented to the development review committee. He requested names from Council of individuals that they would like to see on this committee, and said the first meeting is scheduled for February 24, from 3-5 p.m which will help create an ordinance that will be acceptable by all segments of the community. Mr. Bonczek commented about the enthusiasm of the choirs that sang at the luncheon and his secretary, Angie Thomas, being a participant. Mayor Moore stated that the City has an opportunity to receive an independent grant in the amount of $5,000 to help feed the hungry in the City by getting signatures on a petition. The Mayor commented that parties signing the petition must live in the City of Beaumont, the cities in America who have the largest percentage of their population sign the documents will receive the grants from a personal donor in an effort to send a message to Congress. He announced that petitions will be in the Mayor's office on the third floor, as well as in the Clerk's Office, and challenged everyone to become involved. WORK SESSION - STRATEGIC ISSUES Economic Development Department • Land Use Plan • Major Street and Highway Plan Senior Planner Bill Dupree assisted by Senior Planner Bart Baker reviewed the proposed Land Use Element Plan and the Major Street and Highway Plan. Mr.Dupree explained in detail the reasons for the proposed changes and gave examples of need for modifications, deletions, additions and realignments of both plans. He addressed reproductions of maps being a problem and new GIS software that will enhance the ability to produce maps in black and white and in color. Mr. Dupree explained various housekeeping implementations that should improve clarity of the plans and provide better development opportunities. February 8,2000;Page 6 Fire Department * Fire Service Fees * Fire Training Center Projects/Staffing Review Fire Chief Mickey Bertrand presented information regarding a revised proposal to generate revenue relevant to Beaumont Fire/Rescue Services. He said revisions were made based on concerns of Council,input from Fire Union Local 399,and the Financial Improvement Team. Fees for excessive responses to medical alarms, for salvage work or water evacuation, and for extrication of persons requiring the use of the "jaws of life" were omitted entirely. Fees that were amended include, patching or plugging of fuel tanks to only apply to non commercial vehicles; the fee to utility companies for situations involving downed power lines will be waved in situations involving disaster, catastrophes, extreme weather conditions,and nonresidents and tax exempt properties were removed from fees for fire department services provided to nonresident businesses operating within the city. In addition, Chief Bertrand stated that a third party billing service contract will be necessary. Council discussion included Council concerns of not wanting to burden those needing medical services or citizens being concerned about having medical coverage, the possibility of the Finance Department or Cash Management Division performing billing duties, alarm fees to include a penal provision, clarification of false alarm definition,consistency of enforcement, and appeal process. Fire Chief Bertrand also presented a need for additional personnel at the Fire Training Center. He requested approval for hiring one welder and one maintenance worker. Chief Bertrand stated that the Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center has benefitted the local economy for over thirty years by drawing students from around the world and attracting convention business. The City has partnered with Lamar University since 1980 to provide OSHA approved industrial fire training,which is one of only four industrial training programs in the nations. Chief Bertrand said additional personnel is needed to get projects operational and to provide a flexible work schedule. After brief discussion about the goal for self-sufficiency of the center and budget questions, Chief Bertrand asked District Chief Anne Huff, as the Chief Training Officer, to give a status report of the Fire Training Center. Chief Huff reviewed the status report shown as "Exhibit A" and spoke of the need for additional personnel to learn about the center and share in its operation. She spoke of good marketing,changes in the program, working together with Lamar University, and a five-year plan to be self sufficient. She addressed the need for Lamar to provide marketing expertise and the City to provide a good facility. Chief Huff invited Council to tour the facility and commended Tommy Sparks for being a devoted employee and the need for someone else to learn the system from him. Council discussion included uses of the Fire Training Center, agreement of a comprehensive planning process, deterioration and rehabilitation options, and use of donated equipment. Council concurred with the need for additional personnel, setting a plan in place, and aggressively marketing the Fire Training Center. Health Department * EMS System Status Report The City Manager reported an increase in meeting the national and local compliance standard, said there is still a concern with the North End response times, and stated that two options will be presented to Council on March 7 for acquiring a fifth unit, along with ways to finance this effort. February 8,2000;Page 7 Further discussion included generation of revenues through the billing process, a more aggressive collection effort, the purchasing process of a fifth unit, two reserve units that could be brought into service,the impact of the CAD Unit on overall response times, an automatic vehicle locator system, the duties of the dispatcher,the average number of incoming calls,the limited effects of updated CAD software and the costs associated, and the effects of working with a private EMS service. City Council/City Manager * Council Strategic Action Plan 2000 The City Manager reported that the Strategic Action Plan reflects some of the ideas and goals established by Council in order to move into a more functional direction: building and diversifying an economic base, revitalization neighborhoods, building up individual areas of the city and maintaining financial stability. Mr.Bonczek stated this is a revised version where he tried to link each Councilmember to a proj ect in which they are interested. He said he would like to have this approved at the February 15'Council meeting in order to validate work on these projects and asked for Council input. Additional topics included the ability of all Councilmembers to be involved in issues, youth initiatives and the Youth Summit. COMMENTS * Public Comment (Persons are limited to three (3)minutes) No one wished to comment on other items. EXECUTIVE SESSION - (Not held) * Consider matters related to contemplated or pending litigation in accordance with Section 551.071 of the Government Code: Lloyd Brooks v. City of Beaumont There being no other business, the meeting adjourned at 2: p.m. C - I A I David Moore, Mayor Barbara Liming, City Clerk February 8,2000;Page 8 Status Report: Beaumont Fire/Rescue Services Training Center Submitted by: Anne Huff Chief Training Officer February 7, 2000 EXHIBIT "A" Introduction The City of Beaumont established a "training grounds" for hands-on instruction of the communities' firefighters in 1966. The site chosen for the facility was the old municipal landfill. In the early days at the Training Grounds, trucks were still dumping in a portion of the landfill while firefighters trained. The choice of this site for the location of the training center is critical and has influenced the growth of the facility in a number of ways. The first firefighting simulation or project constructed at the facility was the "House Fire," which simulated conditions that might be present for firefighters when responding to a one-story, single-family home. Next to be built were a classroom and storage garage. These buildings were constructed with funds received from the demolition of the old drill tower at Pine and Concord. The Texas State Highway Department purchased this property as a right-of-way to begin construction of Interstate 10. The Beaumont Fire Department joined forces with the Sabine-Neches Chiefs Association and Lamar University in late 1960's to offer an Annual Emergency Response Training School. In May, the school celebrates its 31 S, year of bringing local industrial and municipal organizations together, and of attracting students from all over the world to our community. Through the industrial training program, the Training Center not only provides a valuable service to and builds partnerships with local industry, but boosts the local economy through tourism and convention business. Background The Lamar University Industrial Training Program Since 1980, Lamar University has operated the Center for Industrial Fire and Hazardous Materials Training at the facility. The Lamar University program has been recognized by the United States Occupational and Health Administration as one, of only four in the nation, to train personnel in fighting chemical and hydro-chemical fires. Annually, Lamar University has leased the facility from the City of Beaumont. Initially, the terms of the lease were a "pay-per-student" arrangement. In the early 1990's, this was altered to a flat fee per month. Since attendance for programs runs in cycles (higher in spring and fall, lower in winter and summer), the later arrangement provided a regular and definite cash flow to the City. It has been Lamar's expectation since the inception of the partnership, that the revenues generated from facility operations be reinvested to maintain and improve the Training Center. Status Report. Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 2 Other Programs at the Training Center In addition to the Lamar Industrial Program, the City of Beaumont signs an annual agreement with Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) to conduct the regional Fire Academy at the Training Center. There are generally two basic firefighter academies each year, running concurrently with the Fall and Spring semesters. The uniformed staff at the Training Center also schedule classes with local and regional groups/organizations to provide continuing-education training for municipal, volunteer, and industrial rescue and haz-mat brigades. Municipal and volunteer clients include the East Texas Firemen's and Fire Marshal's Annual Spring and Fall Schools and the Galveston County Firefighters Annual School. Industrial clients include Motiva Rescue and Haz-Mat Teams and Huntsman Rescue Team. Examples of other clients include the Annual Ansul Fire Extinguisher School, Roco Rescue, Foster Enterprises, and the ATV Safety Institute. The Training Center Staff There are three uniformed staff members assigned to the departmental Training Division. In addition to coordinating the department's training efforts and maintenance of certifications, the uniformed members of the Training Division share in routine clerical duties (filing, data entry, report generation, photocopying, answering phones, etc.), since traditionally the division has not had regular clerical help assigned. All uniformed members also share in duties relating to the scheduling and customer service of clients at the Training Center. Currently, the breakdown of uniformed positions within the Training Division is as follows: District Chief (Grade IV): Responsible for the success of all program areas of the Departmental Training Program and the maintenance and development of the Fire Training Center. Captain (Grade III) Responsible for the Fire Training, Haz-Mat Operations Level, and Officer Development Training Programs. Assists with Fire Training Center as required. Driver/Operator (Grade III Responsible for the Emergency Medical and Wellness/Fitness Training Programs. Assists with Fire Training Center as required. At present, the civilian staff at the Training Center consists of one Welder, and one Maintenance Worker I. In the most practical sense, these two persons are responsible for the upkeep and growth of the facility through the completion of their daily routine. The industrial firefighting projects alone require quite a bit of regular maintenance. Status Report.,Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 3 Beyond this, design and construction of new projects, upkeep of buildings, regular cleaning and repair work, keep both employees exceptionally busy. In spite of their best efforts, there is literally more work that they can reasonably be expected to accomplish. The Current Dilemma Lamar University's Reduced Student Count In the past ten years, Lamar University has seen a critical drop in attendance to their programs. FY 1993 experienced the largest annual student population count to date totaling 6304. Since that time, Lamar programs have seen a downward trend in attendance, as evidenced in the following chart i 7000 -- 6000 -1 , 5 0 0 0 4000 3000 - 2000 1000 190 191 '92 193 '94 195 196 '97 198 199 Lamar University Student Count: FY1990 through FY1999 The FY1999 student census was 2992 students. According to Lamar University officials, under the current lease arrangement, the Lamar Industrial Training Program is operating under a deficit budget. This has raised concerns with the long term financial viability of this program. How We Got Here The understanding of the partnership between the City and Lamar University was that revenues generated from facility operations would be reinvested to enhance the maintenance and growth of the Training Center. During the 1980's, the Lamar student census showed a slow, but constant upward trend. Things appeared to be on the right Status Report:Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 4 track. The Training Center was to grow and prosper, resulting in a "win-win" situation for both parties. The Fire Department was not diligent in addressing infra-structure problems during the 1980's which led to a major problem in the early 1990's. Fuel spilled into the Neches River, which resulted in a $1.5 million dollar remediation project at the facility. This was a major setback, and one that may have been preventable. With revenues being used to support the remediation, monies available for field maintenance operations at the Training Center were justifiably limited. To compound this problem, revenues from field operations were being diverted to supplement the department budget. In fiscal years 1990 through 1999, it is estimated that $649,202 of expenditures and personnel costs charged to the Training Center were used to subsidize departmental operations. (For a breakdown by fiscal year, refer to Appendix A.) This caused the Training Center to deteriorate into severe disrepair, which is a contributing factor in Lamar's reduced student census. Where Do We Go From Here? Action Plan: Fire Training Center On January 11, 2000 a meeting of key Fire Department and Lamar University representatives was held to discuss this question. Lamar University has raised a number of concerns regarding the maintenance and development of the Training Center. While they are pleased to see the recent infrastructure improvements completed by the BoMac construction, there is much work that stili must be done to complete the current capital improvement projects and position Lamar's programs effectively. Lamar believes that this work must be accomplished if they are to compete for clients that were lost as the facility deteriorated, and to effectively market the Training Center to bring in new business. For many years, the salaries for the Fire Museum Curator and the Maintenance Worker position at Fire Headquarters have been paid from Training Center revenues. In FY2000, fire department administration has attempted to correct this situation by ultimately charging the expense for these positions to the department budget. However, to properly account for administrative services, a percentage of the cost of salaries/benefits of the uniformed staff assigned to Fire Training, who perform tasks related to the operation of the Training Center, were assigned to its budget. In FY2001, the Curator and Maintenance Worker II positions will formally be moved to the department budget, and 50% of the Chief Training Officer's salary/benefits will be charged to the Training Center budget, so that an accurate accounting of operations occurs. Status Report:Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 5 Projects which must be completed in FY2000 are prioritized in the following table. As stated previously, the Training Center currently employs only two maintenance personnel, one Welder and one Maintenance Worker I. Estimated time to complete is defined as number of days required for the welder, Tommy Sparks, to complete each project working alone. Est. Time Target to Priori Order Project Description Date Complete 1 1 Base material & foundation for new 2/15/00 3 days restrooms 1 2 Complete fuel main on north side/move 2/28/00 8 days fuel pump to contained area 1 3 Complete construction of new pump house 2/15/00 8 days 1 4 Reassemble fire extinguisher project/short 3/1/00 30 days term fix to make ready for March school 1 5 Hard pipe south sump to separator system 5/1/00 20 days 1 6 Run electrical and plumbing, build ramps to new restroom facilities Infrastructure Improvement Project Complete! 2 1 Refurbish Drill Tower 5/1/00 2 2 Repair holes in House Fire project 5/1/00 2 3 Remediate contaminated sand from drain 7/1/00 lines and separator system 2 4 Install new pumps in north and south 7/1/00 sumps 2 5 Rebuild and insulate Flashover container 8/1/00 2 6 Rebuild props and complete hard-piping at 8/1/00 fire extinguisher project 2 7 Extend fuel, water, and cooling water 9/30/00 mains to new project area "Central Services - Building Maintenance is responsible for completion of this item. Status Report:Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 6 Options for completing this work are as follows: Option 1: Complete Projects In-house This option would require hiring additional maintenance personnel. Annual salary plus benefits projections for one additional welder/fitter and maintenance worker total $54,697. An additional cost of approximately $2,500 would be required to outfit the new welder/fitter. This cost is figured under the assumption the Lamar Industrial Program will allow the new welder to utilize a welding machine that is assigned to their program, but which is not currently being used. Total estimated cost (annual) for this option is $57,197. Option 2: Contract Projects Outside This option would require the use of contract labor. This may prove difficult, since the work to be completed is not drawn out in blueprints. It would be difficult, if not impossible, for a contractor to bid. Stopping work progress for Tommy Sparks to work with engineers to draw blueprints would be costly, and would not allow the work to be completed within present time constraints. For a number of years, projects and piping on the field have been designed and built by Tommy Sparks, who is a critical asset to the facility. Tommy's practical knowledge of industrial and municipal firefighting and his craft enable him to envision and create realistic fire simulations. The bottom line is, all of the project blueprints are in Tommy's head, and at present, time and money prohibit transferring them to paper. Administrative Recommendation The short-term solution involves hiring the right mix of personnel so that, in time, the facility is not totally dependent on any one individual. Also of immediate importance is discontinuing the use of Training Center revenues as a subsidy for departmental endeavors. Development of a proactive planning process that supports the maintenance and growth of the Training Center is critical to long term success. Additional maintenance staff are necessary, not just for FY2000, but for the Training Center to keep pace with demand. This being the case, Option 1 is the preferred plan. Summary There are many concerns which must be addressed to promote the viability of the Fire Status Report:Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 7 Training Center and the partnership with Lamar University. Immediately, Tommy Sparks must be allowed to work overtime as necessary to continue to make progress on critical projects. Additionally, steps must be taken to make budget adjustments and hire additional maintenance personnel. Methods of financing further field improvements must be explored. Infrastructure improvement is only the beginning if the facility is to compete successfully. A long range plan must be developed, which outlines the responsibilities of both the City and Lamar University in creating a mutually beneficial partnership. Status Report.Beaumont Fire/Rescue Training Center p. 8 Appendix A Estimates of Departmental Expenditures Charged to the Training Center Budget FY1990 - F1999 FYI 990 Account Amount FYI Personnel $0.00 Annual Totals: Office Supplies $925.50 Realized Revenue: $351,249.14 Small Tools $249.95 L.U. Student Count: 3702 Parts & Supplies $768.01 Maior Departmental Expenditures: Educational Materials $2,750.52 Repairs to S-1: $33,185.00 Departmental Training: $5,013.67 Travel Expenses $998.65 Inspect Aerials: $2,120.00 Special Services $35,704.00 Haz Mat Team Equipment: $576.50 Total for FY 1990 $41,396.63 FY1991 Account Amount FYI Personnel $15,000.00 Annual Totals: Office Supplies $317.67 Realized Revenue: $326,151.82 Operating Supplies $8,611.72 L.U. Student Count: 5178 Printing $99.50 Maior Departmental Expenditures: Travel & Training $6,825.16 Repairs to T3: $34,972.74 Departmental Training: $7574.12 Special Services $35,037.81 Truck 74 items: $4577.92 Total for FY 1991 $65,891,86 Misc. Equipment for Suppression: $2081.64 9 FYI 992 Account Amount FYI Personnel $30,000.00 Annual Totals: Fixed Assets $64,700.00 Realized Revenue: $333,178.07 Office Supplies $431.75 L.U. Student Count: 5756 Operating Supplies $16,306.20 Major Departmental Expenditures: Travel & Training $3,980.25 Opticom Equipment: $64,700.00 Bunker Gear/SCBA Equipment: $6746.14 Special Services $6,433.92 Haz Mat Team Equipment: $5416.00 Total for FY 1992 $121,852.12 Departmental Training: $14,563.59 FY1993 Account Amount FYI Personnel $40,000.00 Annual Totals: Office Supplies $603.19 Realized Revenue: $330,000.00 Operating Supplies $1,862.04 L.U. Student Count: 6304 Travel& Training $5,476.29 Major Departmental Expenditures: Special Services $12,754.03 Departmental Training: $20,493.20 Total for FY 1993 $60,695.55 FY1994 Account Amount FYI Personnel $40,000.00 Annual Totals: Office Supplies $195.76 Realized Revenue: $297,042.42 Operating Supplies $2,172.56 L.U. Student Count: 4625 Equipment Maintenance $139.90 Major Departmental Expenditures- Travel & Training $2,818.04 Departmental Training: $10,101.83 Special Services $5,017.58 Total for FY 1994 $50,343.84 10 FY1995 Account Amount FYI Personnel $40,000.00 Annual Totals: Office Supplies $1,604.00 Realized Revenue: $295,213.36 Operating Supplies $4,239.70 L.U. Student Count: 4811 Equipment Maintenance $659.00 Major Departmental Expenditures: Travel & Training $2,569.94 Departmental Training: $23,968.94 Special Services $14,896.30 Total for FY 1995 $63,968.94 FY1996 Account Amount FYI Personnel $40,000.00 Annual Totals: Operating Supplies $3,765.60 Realized Revenue: $319,300.7 Equipment Maintenance $1,181.59 L.U. Student Count: 4104 Printing $60.00 Major Departmental Expenditures: Travel & Training $2,489.34 Departmental Training: $12,152.53 Contract Services $4,656.00 Total for FY 1996 $52,152.53 FY1997 Account Amount FYI Personnel $46,500.00 Annual Totals: Operating Supplies $3,771.76 Realized Revenue: $239,823.18 Equipment Maintenance $604.50 L.U. Student Count: 4334 Travel & Training $3,737.95 Major Departmental Expenditures: Contract Services $5,359.00 Departmental Training: $13,473.21 Total for FY 1997 $59,973.21 11 FY1998 Account Amount FYI Personnel $46,500.00 Annual Totals: Operating Supplies $5,329.22 Realized Revenue: $200,863.44 Equipment Repair $499.58 L.U. Student Count: 3835 Travel & Training $4,478.56 Major Departmental Expenditures: Contract Services $744.92 Departmental Training: $11,052.28 Total for FY 1998 $57,552.28 FY1999 Account Amount FYI Personnel $60,000.00 Annual Totals: Fixed Assets $2,989.00 Realized Revenue: $275,000.01 Operating Supplies $3,722.00 L.U. Student Count: 2992 Equipment Maintenance $718.85 Major Departmental Expenditures: Travel & Training $2,834.31 Departmental Training: $15,375.16 Contract Services $5,111.00 Total for FY 1999 $75,375.16 Ten Year Totals: FY1990 through FY1999: Realized Revenues: $2,967,822 Department Purchases Charged to Training Center: $291,202 Department Salaries/Benefits Charged to Training Center: $358,000 Total Departmental Expenditures Charged to Training Center: $649,202 Percent of Realized Revenues: 21% 12