Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN JUL 09 2002 M I N U T E S - CITY OF BEAUMONT Lulu L. Smith, Mayor Pro Tem EVELYN M. LORD, MAYOR Guy N. Goodson Andrew P. Cokinos CITY COUNCIL MEETING Becky Ames Bobbie J. Patterson July 9, 2002 Audwin Samuel Lane Nichols, City Attorney Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager Lolita Ramos, Interim City Clerk The City Council of the City of Beaumont,Texas, met in a regular session on July 9,2002,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 Evelyn Lord called the meeting to order at 1:33 p.m. The Reverend Mark Viator, Pastor of Friendship Baptist Church,gave the invocation. Councilmember Bobbie Patterson led the pledge of allegiance. Present at the meeting were:Mayor Lord,Mayor Pro Tern Smith,Councilmembers Goodson,Cokinos, Ames,Samuel and Patterson. Also, present were Stephen J. Bonczek,City Manager; Lane Nichols, City Attorney; Lolita Ramos, Interim City Clerk;and Terri Hanks,City Clerk Administrative Assistant. Presentations and Recognitions Inspire, Encourage,Achieve(IEA)Executive Director Regina Rogers,2030 Thomas Road,expressed appreciation for Council's designation of Community Development Block Grant(CDBG)funds used to purchase a passenger van. Ms. Rogers recognized Jefferson County Juvenile Probation Chief James Martin, IEA Board Memberthe Reverend Mark Viator,and JK Chevrolet Owner Robert Turner for their contributions enabling the success of the IEA program. Mayor Lord extended invitations from Texas Director of the American Fastpitch Association (AFA) Tommy Voss to attend the Texas AFA softball tournament at the Athletic Complex from Friday,July 12, 2002 through Sunday, July 14, 2002. Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items. Mr. Allen Lee, (no address given), addressed Council to clarify the public comment section and requested a special comment section after the work session. Mayor Lord declined Mr.Lee's request. Consent Agenda Approval of minutes - Special Session and Regular Session of July 2, 2002. Confirmation of committee appointments - No committee appointments. A) Accept (street, storm sewer, water and sanitary sewer) maintenance of the improvements constructed in Washington West, Section Two, Phase One - Resolution No. 02-153 Councilmember Goodson moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Council member Cokinos seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Lord,Mayor Pro Tern Smith,Councilmembers Goodson,Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Nays: None GENERAL BUSINESS 1. Consider approving an application requesting FY 2002 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant funds from the Department of Justice Mayor Lord rectified Jefferson County's previous challenge in 1996 being withdrawn and should be considered a standing challenge. The Mayorelaborated on research and discussions with Jefferson County officials and the importance of reaching a decision by July 17. Councilmember Goodson suggested addressing disparity issues, advocated concurrence between the three entities in reaching a long term agreement,and expounded on the privileges and benefits of receiving grant funds. Mayor Pro Tern Smith proposed allocating 15%of enforcement grant funds to Jefferson County. Mayor Lord agreed 15%as a fairoffer,noted Jefferson County's bearing more than 50%of the costs of violent crime,and emphasized having a neighboring relationship with Jefferson County. Councilmember Samuel cited Jefferson County for uncooperative efforts in other projects, stipulated the relationship work both ways,and urged reaching an agreement in lieu of losing funding allocations. Councilmember Patterson concurred with reciprocating efforts, recommended the opportunity to move forward and develop positive relationships, and supported the increased allocation. Assistant to Jefferson County Judge Carl Griffith, John Johnson informed Council he would recommend acceptance of the 15% allocation to the County Commissioners Court with the understanding of revisiting the issue to determine an equitable split. Mr.Johnson suggested investing the next grant allocation in a public safety communication system benefitting the entire County. Mayor Pro Tern Smith moved to approve Resolution No. 02-154 to expend FY 2002 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant funding from the Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, providing an allocation of 15% to Jefferson County with the remaining 85% allocated by formula to Beaumont and Port Arthur. Councilmember Goodson seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Lord,Mayor Pro Tern Smith,Councilmembers Goodson,Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Nays: None Minutes -July 9,2002 Page 2 2. Consider a request to adopt a new floodplain ordinance Councilmember Goodson spoke in support of the ordinance. He expressed concerns with enforcement and compliance issues, and the insurability of recreational vehicles. Councilmember Goodson specified notification to the appropriate parties of the new requirements and additional responsibilities,and suggested obtaining a listing of recreational vehicle owners from Jefferson County. City Manager Bonczek acknowledged the ordinance concerns a particular circumstance for recreational vehicles consecutively stored over six months,and affirmed identifying owners and locations. Mr. Bonczek proposed notification by publications and neighborhood associations. Mayor Lord suggested notification to recreational vehicle parks. The Mayor disclosed receiving certified mail from F.E.M.A. (Federal Emergency Management Agency)and stated concerns with pending deadlines. Mayor Pro Tern Smith expressed concerns with code enforcement and ordinance penalties, and discussed a recent Landmark Commission incident. She recommended imposing code violation fines,suggested ordinance notification to recreational vehicle dealerships,and warned of potential noncompliance insurance increases. Councilmember Goodson moved to approve Ordinance No.02-050 ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 6 BY REPEALING ARTICLE III,FLOOD HAZARD AREAS,SECTIONS 6-30 THROUGH 6-49.1 AND ADDING A NEW ARTICLE III, FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION, SECTIONS 6-25 THROUGH 6-47; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL;AND PROVIDING A PENALTY. Mayor Pro Tern Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Lord,Mayor Pro Tern Smith,Councilmembers Goodson,Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Nays: None WORK SESSION FY 2003 Budget City Manager Bonczek reported finalizing departmental budget analysis with alternatives and projections available next week. Review revised proposal from the Metropolitan YMCA City Manager Bonczek discussed the revised proposal from the Metropolitan YMCA as shown in Exhibit°A." Mr.Bonczek explored options for property market development and subsidizing operating expenses, and consideration of allocating FY 2003 Community Development Block Grant funding. YMCA Consultant Brian Cormier established $47,000 was owed to the YMCA of the USA and the amount has been negotiated to$23,500, and noted there are several other liabilities. Mr. Cormier discussed meeting with accounting firms for audit proposals,moving forward with the reconstruction of the executive and the branch management boards, and the contractors agreement to maintain original construction costs. The YMCA Consultant communicated the proposed construction project Minutes -July 9,2002 Page 3 would be a tremendous boost to the community and the YMCA organization. He suggested providing the facility's programs and services at a fraction of the cost of a similar City owned facility, and indicated a great opportunity for a public/private partnership. Mr. Cormier responded to Mayor Pro Tern Smith's questions regarding board members, staffing assurances, and long term commitments. He answered there would be a metropolitan board of directors that would have representation from each of the branch boards of management consisting of a mixture of new and old board members. The YMCA Consultant discussed plans for the responsibilities of boards and staff,mandatory completion of an orientation program,and delineation of the duties of the various officers,directors,boards,and staff. Regarding long term commitment,Mr. Cormier explained the proposal is a public/private partnership,as the costs of services increases,the amount will remain the same which will decrease the percent of City's support and be worth far less in the future based on time value of money. Mayor Pro Tern Smith expressed concerns with retreading past board members and suggested appointment of new board members. She recounted statements of the partnership being a variable long term commitment and questioned the United Way commitment. Mr.Cormierdetailed United Way Executive DirectorTerry Bourdier recommendations fora transition committee,completion of audits,a new board of directors with staffing and support structures in place. He indicated the Houston YMCA has committed to provide staff support, training development programs, and financial establishment at no cost. As a United Way Trustee,Mayor Lord affirmed the United Way's anxious desire forthe YMCAto move forward. However, she stated allotments are contingent upon yearly campaign successes and the Budget and Admission Committee recommendations. Mr.Cormier confirmed no construction would begin until the boards are in place with 75%of the board members having no prior involvement. The Consultant spoke of expediting project management issues. He remarked the present Port Arthur YMCA is owned by the City of Port Arthur and is leased to the YMCA for operations. Councilmember Goodson discussed CDBG public service allocations being historically designated for programmatic activities,and expressed concerns with market changes in philosophy and inequity to entities requesting operational funding. He referred to the original proposal having tangible assets, spoke of long term commitment issues,and stated difficulties in projecting membership participation. Councilmember Goodson addressed concerns with allowing programs to become permanent general fund expenditures and stated opposition in supporting an operations subsidy. Mr. Cormier clarified auditing services would be reimbursed from administrative overhead accounts. The YMCA Consultant questioned Council regarding justification of programs and services at the Sterling Pruitt Center(North End)and not having similar facilities in other sectors of the community. Councilmember Goodson concurred the needs are great in all areas of the City and spoke of disbelieving the City contributed to the failure of the YMCA. He stated questioning operating expenses three years ago without receiving a response and disapproved of being rushed into making a decision. Council member Ames acknowledged prior assistance to the YMCA and stated disagreement with Mr. Cormier's remarks pitting parts of the community against each other. She cited needs throughout the City,endorsed fairness,and addressed financial restrictions. Council member Ames questioned the YMCA's delay in reporting their financial situation and acknowledged accountability issues. Minutes -July 9,2002 Page 4 Councilmember Patterson remarked the plan is to have a new Metropolitan Board of Directors, and suggested seasoned members with representation from the branch board,community members,and City. She proposed a fair and equitable representation with a diverse group from every sector of the community. Mayor Pro Tern Smith was adamantly opposed to past board members becoming new board members. The YMCA Consultant responded board rules are in place, one third of the board will change at the end of this year, and the process will continue as a policy of board turnover. Further discussions included board responsibilities, representation, structure, and selection processes. Councilmember Samuel expressed being uncomfortable with Mr.Cormier's statements and approach regarding inequity and the City not stepping forward as a partner. He referenced L.L.Melton YMCA contributions and serving as a past board member.Councilmember Samuel spoke against selecting new board members and remarked it is not entirely the board's fault the YMCA has not been successful. He expressed concerns with the absence of audit results,a business plan,organizational structures,and board responsibilities.Councilmember Samuel discussed fiscal responsibility,budget deficits, CDBG funding, capital improvement programs, and subsidizing operating expenses. (Councilmember Smith left Council Chambers at 3:02 p.m. and returned at 3:08 p.m.) Councilmember Goodson established additional funds will be necessary to complete the proposed construction project, and examined the possibility of using CDBG funds toward the additional costs needed for construction with the YMCA requesting funding every year similar to other non profit organizations. The YMCA Consultant stated the plan could work with approval from donors of designated funds and thought it would be possible to pursue. Executive Assistant to the City Manager and Economic Development Director Kyle Hayes advised 2002 CDBG funds are allocated and recommended using 2003 CDBG funds of which$100,000 is not earmarked for distribution. Councilmember Patterson related the dire need to save the YMCA and the City not being in a financial position to build a new community recreational facility. She suggested moving in a positive direction and outlined issues such as board orientation,trained and certified staff,marketing plan,delineation of accountability,responsibility,and leadership,and project management.Councilmember Patterson discussed the history of the YMCA and the generous support of the City,and supported continuing the partnership. Mr. Cormier indicated the 255 days(nine months)for construction completion would allow sufficient time to request 2003 CDBG allocations. The YMCA Consultant appreciated comments and agreed with accountability issues. He expressed appreciation for consideration and support of the YMCA. COMMENTS Councilmembers comment on various matters Councilmember Patterson extended invitations from Mrs. Sprott Deplanter to attend the historical landmark designation dedication atthe Sprottfamily home,2398 Roberts Street,Friday,July 12,2002 at 2:00 p.m. Minutes -July 9,2002 Page 5 Councilmember Samuel stated concerns with methods of weed control enforcement,noted areas in Ward I I I as being deplorable,and requested a work session concerning addressing weed violations. He expressed pleasure with the Dr.Martin Luther King,Jr.maquette,promoted continued support,and requested Council to support community efforts. Councilmember Samuel communicated being open to citizen comments on work sessions and suggested allowing citizens an additional three minutes. Councilmember Goodson related sympathy to the family of Mrs. Elizabeth Fortune,a Beaumontnative who resided in Indianapolis,acknowledged hergenerous bequest to the Tyrrell Historical Library,and requested an update of the development plan for the Gilbert Building. Mayor Lord thanked everyone for their participation in the 4"'of July celebration,extended appreciation to staff and sponsors forefforts in organizing the event,and commended citizens for being very orderly. City Manager's Report City Manager Bonczek expounded on the passing of Mrs. Elizabeth Gilbert Fortune and hergift to the Tyrrell Historical Library. Mr.Bonczek reported three new repeaters and new computer software were installed to insure the reliability of the police communications system. Public Comment ( Persons are limited to three (3) minutes ) The Reverand Laday,7498 Boyt Road,addressed Council in opposition of streamlining bus services and increasing fares,recommended moving ahead with the YMCA project, and discussed the failure of the horse stable venture. He spoke of having less disparities and more togetherness,and requested signage designating enterprise zones. The Honorable Judge Paul Brown,4370 Cartwright Street,addressed Council in opposition of the City supporting the YMCA on a continuous basis. The Honorable Judge remarked leadership starts with time and money, and proposed having a strong leadership. Mrs. Emily Irving, 3580 Charleston, addressed Council in support of the YMCA. She discussed similarities between the Food Bank and the YMCA, and spoke of community and block grant assistance contributing to the Food Bank's success. Mr. Diamond Blue,3012 Roberts Street,addressed Council to communicate the YMCA is changing in a positive way,reported two girls competing in a State karate tournament,and discussed the youth and community needs of the YMCA. Ms. Sallye J. Keith, 1260 Cherokee, addressed Council as a long time supporter of the Beaumont YMCA since 1957 and spoke of admiration for the YMCA and the YWCA programs. Mr. Cleveland Nisby,4520 Corley,addressed Council concerning comments made regarding YMCA board members and budget deficits,and suggested placing confidence in Ieaders.Mr.Nisby requested Council consideration in the YMCA's proposal and mentioned the new residential complex being built near the YMCA location. Minutes -July 9,2002 Page 6 Mr.Allen Lee,5095 Maddox,addressed Council concerning constructing a City owned facility similar to the Sterling Pruitt Center and named in honor of Dr. L. L. Melton. Mr. Lee spoke in opposition of funding the YMCA and membership fees, suggested researching conflicts of interests issues, and proposed filing a lawsuit regarding allocating public funding to a private facility. He also requested Sunday bus services. Ms. Marjorie Arrington, 1470 Sheridan Place, addressed Council in support of the YMCA and discussed the organization's assets. Ms. Arrington spoke of the professionalism of the West End YMCA tennis pro and discussed volunteer improvement efforts. Ms. Emily Comptom,7895 Blue Bonnet,addressed Council,as president of Goodwill Industries,spoke in support of the YMCA. However, she expressed concerns with funding a non profit organization's operational expenses and suggested a non-profit organization solve its own problems. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 4:07 p.m. _Ja �, vin . Evelyn M. ord, Mayor C2,ef--, , , ,-< Lolita Ramos, Interi City Clerk Minutes -July 9,2002 Page 7 Proposal to the City of Beaumont Dear Mayor Lord, Manager Bonczek, and City Council persons; Patterson, Samuel, Smith, Goodson, Ames and Cokinos, Following our workshop session, meetings with each of you individually, meetings with over 60 other concerned community leaders, I have listened hard and learned much about the proud character of the diverse and good people that make up this fine community. I have learned that there is overwhelming support to re- establish quality YMCA facilities, programs and services to address the present and growing needs of thousands of youth, families, adults and seniors in this area. I have learned that while the city is to be commended for the efforts it has made in some sectors of the community, other areas are in need of such opportunities that are within our grasp with a bit of creativity and commitment on your part. Although the original proposed partnership would have produced a stronger organizational structure and financial position and not quite as big a challenge for the community branches, I realize the city has its own challenges at this time and cannot take on this task alone. Therefore, I would like to seek your support for a partnership that would allow for facility or program support dollars totaling $8,333.34/month or $100,000/yr that would be partnered with a matching amount of $100,000/yr from United Way and a community responsibility to produce $300,000/yr in membership, programs, and contributions to meet its $500,000 operating budget. These funds could come from CDBG dollars to begin with and eventually be worked into the operating budget at $25,000/yr. over 4 years. This commitment on the part of the city and the United Way would allow the YMCA in this community to experience a rebirth with enthusiasm and excitement that would bring significant benefits to thousands of families for many future generations. It would challenge the community to step up in both membership and program support and develop quality youth and adult leadership programs to benefit the total area. The Metropolitan YMCA is in the process of re-establishing it's Board of Directors, adopting new by-laws, bringing its annual audit up to date, forging a relationship with Houston for staff training and development services and other management assistance, negotiating its debt issues, putting the downtown property on the market and putting plans in place for a new and improved West End Family Branch to better serve that sector of the community. We are taking on significant challenges and responsibilities to save and re-establish a quality organization with a long proud history in this community but we cannot do it alone. We have cut our original operating budget by $50,000 in expenses and increased revenues and we have a business plan in place. We need the partnerships of the City of Beaumont, the United Way, community leaders and other healthy YMCA's to put us on the path to recovery and a promising future. Because xve are in danger of our contract prices to increase on our proposed plan, in danger of losing support from the National YMCA, United Way and in danger of losing community support, we need a very quick decision on this issue with a long awaited ground breaking ceremony as soon as possible. There will never be another time or opportunity to provide so much for such a modest investment over time than we can accomplish through such a strategic partnership. Please give this your prayerful consideration and vote on it at your next council meeting even if it requires some details to be worked out by management. Thank you so much for your consideration. Sincerely, J-1 Brian T. Cormier - ; V y YMCA of the USA Dn behalf of the Youth and Families of Beaumont # enc. L.L. Melton Family YMCA Pro-forma Operating Budget EXHIBIT "All L. L. Melton Pro Forma Budget Projections Membership Type _ Annual Dues Monthly Draft Year 1 Family $300 $25 250 Adult (25-64) $240 $20 100 Young Adult(19-24) $180 $15 50 Sr.Citizen (65+)' Youth( 6-18) $120 $10 50 Total 450 Income Year Sustaining, (Partners with Youth) $ 10,000 Special Event Gala (Achievers Banquet) $ 30,000 United Way $100,000 Misc. Revenue (VendingLg $250/mo) $ 3,000 Facility Rental ($500/mo) $ 6,000 i outh Membership Young/Adult— Sr. Citz. Membership $ 9,000 Adult Membership $ 24,000 Family Membership $ 75,000 Program Fees $137,000 City of Beaumont (Not to Exceed Cost) $100,000 Total $500,000 • Corporate or Group Membership=category less 10% • Set up a very tough policy on membership discounts with a more generous policy on program financial assistance. • Membership includes services (aerobics classes,water aerobic classes,weight training instruction, facility use, 50%discount on most programs). Expense Year 1 Salaries $230,000 Benefits 35,000 Contract Services 5,000 Supplies 35,000 Telephone 3,000 Postaee 2.000 Utilities 75,000 Insurance 7,000 Maintenance/Repair 30,000 PR/Printing/Advertising 5,000 Vehicle Expense/Mileage 10,000 Special Events 6,000 Bank Charges/ Misc. Expense 2,000 Management Allocation & Overhead 55,000 (includes Natl. dues,staff training, fees, permits, leases, etc.) Total $500,000 Net 0 7/3/02