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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN AUG 18 1998 M I N U T E S d CITY OF BEAI MONT Lulu L.Smith DAVID W. MOORE, MAYOR Bobbie J.Patterson, Mayor Pro Tom Guy N.Goodson CITY COUNCIL MEETING Andrew P.Cokinos John K. Davis AUGUST 18, 1998 Becky Ames Lane Nichols,City Attorney Ray A. Riley,City Manager City Clerk The City Council of the City of Beaumont, Texas, met in a regular session on August 18, 1998, 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 Mayor Moore called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Mr. Sam Bean, president of the N.A.A.C.P., gave the invocation. Mayor Moore led the pledge of allegiance. Present at the meeting were: Mayor Moore, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, and Davis. Mayor Pro Tem Patterson was absent due to work obligations. Also present were Ray A Riley, City Manager; Lane Nichols, City Attorney; and Barbara Liming, Deputy City Clerk. *Presentations and Recognitions - No proclamations were issued *Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items. No one wished to address these subjects. *Consent Agenda The following consent agenda items were considered: * Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held August 11, 1998; * Confirmation of committee appointments - No appointments made A) Approve the acquisition of property for the Walden Road Project (97% interest of the north 40 feet out of Lots 1 through 11 and Lots 13 through 16, Block 3, C. E. Smith Addition from LaBelle Properties Ltd. in the amount of$114,678.25) - Resolution No. 98-202 B) Approve an annual contract for the purchase of office supplies (Corporate Express, estimated annual expenditure of$82,000, including 40% discount from general catalogue items and a 54% discount from the in-stock catalogue) - Resolution No. 98-203 C) Approve an annual contract for furnishing containers and solid waste collection services for City facilities (Gulf Coast Waste Services for an approximate annual expenditure of$36,384 or $3,032 per month) - Resolution No. 98-204 D) Approve a contract for demolition of the structure at 3650 Magnolia (with CST Environmental, Inc. in the amount of$19,680 for demolition of the vacant, former Magnolia Street Baptist Church) - Resolution No. 98-205 E) Approve the acquisition of two lots related to Neighborhood Revitalization Projects ( Lot 8, Block 17, Cartwright Addition, 2483 Avenue H, in the amount of$1,150 and Lot 16, Block 4, Cloverdale Addition, 505 East Elgie, in the amount of $1,150 from the Housing Authority of Beaumont) - Resolution No. 98-206 F) Approve the settlement of claims 1)The claim of Paul and Helen Davidson settled in the amount of$6,800 - Resolution No. 98-207 2) The claim of Hattie Green settled in the amount of$5,500 - Resolution No. 98-208 Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, Ames and Davis Noes: None GENERAL BUSINESS 1. Consider scheduling a Public Hearing relating to the property tax rate and record a vote to be published in the Notice of the Public Hearing Resolution No. 98-209 scheduling a public hearing to consider a property tax rate of $0.64/100, an increase of $0.025/100, as the maximum tax rate to be considered on September 1, at 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers with a record of vote to be published in the Notice of the Public Hearing was considered. Mr. Riley briefly explained the new laws requiring a public hearing to be held for any revenue increase and new appraisal values, reviewed fund balances maintaining the present tax rate of $0.615/100 assessed value, Minutes;8/18/98;Page 2 shortfalls to be expected in the Debt Service fund, proposed a $0.025 tax increase, and said a tax rate published and presented at the public hearing could be reduced, but not increased. Councilmember Cokinos voiced objection to any tax increase, said they are already high enough, and his stand is that if funding is not available for a program, he does not want to increase taxes to finance it. Councilmember Davis clarified that because of a new law effective January 1, 1998, a notice must be published and a public hearing held on any increase in revenue, not just an increase in the tax rate. Councilmember Goodson moved to approve Resolution No. 98-209. Councilmember Davis seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Ames and Davis Noes: Councilmember Cokinos 2. Consider approving annual contracts for the purchase of couplings, brass fittings, plastic tubing and other materials for use in the Water Distribution Division/Water Utilities Councilmember Goodson moved to approve Resolution No. 98-210 authorizing contracts with Coburn Supply in the amount of$94,531.52, Golden Triangle Pipe in the amount of $145,511.50, and East Texas Utility Supply in the amount of $36,762.45 for purchase of various sizes of couplings, brass fittings, and plastic tubing. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, Davis, Noes: None OTHER BUSINESS * Review proposal from the Western Professional Hockey League City Manager Ray Riley introduced the possibility of a professional hockey league locating in Beaumont and said that the City was approached about three years ago by representatives of the Western Professional Hockey League about the feasibility of a franchise in Beaumont. He said conversations and negotiations in recent months have moved forward from perspective to a realistic possibility. He recognized Rick Kozuback, Minutes;8/18/98;Page 3 president of Western Professional Hockey League, and league participants Keith Duplechin and Paul Bonin. Mr. Riley invited Mr. Kozuback to make a presentation to City Council. Before Mr. Kozuback began his presentation, Mayor Moore welcomed all representatives of the hockey league to City Council and those from the City of Lake Charles. He complimented their promotion of hockey in Lake Charles. Mr. Kozuback expressed appreciation for the opportunity to make a formal presentation and thanked his Lake Charles colleagues for being instrumental in arriving at this point today. Mr. Kozuback referred to a packet given to Council with information and an overview of the Western Professional Hockey League. He said that media information, press releases and an economic impact study is also in the packet. Mr. Kozuback reviewed a history of the league that included their concept in 1994 to bring profession hockey to Texas, and when a feasibility study was begun in the spring of 1995, he said that Beaumont was his first stop. In the 1996/97 season, the league began to play with six teams, five in the state of Texas, and one in New Mexico. In the 1997/98 season, the Western Professional Hockey League expanded to 12 teams, adding three more Texas franchises and three in Louisiana. For the 1998/99 season, the league rapidly expanded to 17 member teams across five southwest states. Hockey is the fastest growing spectator sport, especially in our region. Mr. Kozuback said he is optimistic that Beaumont will be added as the 18th team. Currently, the state of Texas has the highest number of professional sports hockey teams of any other state. Mr. Kozuback said he is happy to have had an active role in that statistic and in establishing 11 hockey teams in Texas, as well as teams in the southwest and southeast. In addition to bringing a professional entity to an area, Mr. Kozuback said an important aspect for every community is the opportunity for youth of the area to experience and participate in a new sport. In every area, youth hockey programs have been started and figure skating programs have begun. He said a lot of youngsters see this as a new sport opportunity, and said they try to promote skating in general as much as possible to make people more aware of the sport, the complexities and enjoyment that it brings. More interest in skating makes hockey more successful. Another important ingredient is local ownership. He referred to the local ownership in Lake Charles that has contributed to the success of professional hockey. Mr. Kozuback said they try to co-exist with other sports in the community and not conflict with their programs. He said they want to put together that kind of group in Beaumont, to respect and do long-term what is right for the community. He said they have a reciprocal commitment with their franchisee for a ten-year franchise with an on- going license agreement. Minutes;8118/98;Page 4 Mr. Riley spoke of the Civic Center being considered originally as a possible location for the team, but the realization that it was not compatible for this activity was realized, and the only viable option available is the coliseum at Fair Park. After a substantial review, the League has determined that the coliseum would be a good facility, but the City would have to be involved in making improvements to enclose and air condition the structure to adequately serve a franchise. Mr. Riley said these issues have been under consideration and negotiation. He said the essential key for the City is that we would be able to have this activity, expand economic development, create jobs, with the cost of improvements totally supported by the franchise. If Council moves forward with this opportunity, any improvements would be shared by the City and the team. The lease payments would offset any improvements. He stated there would be an initial five-year lease with an option for an additional five years. With anticipated success, Mr. Riley said all benefits gained would be for the community and enhancement of the activities of Fair Park with no subsidy on the part of the City of Beaumont or any increase in local or property taxes. Councilmember Goodson opened Council discussion by stating that with the significant capital expenditure for the Concord Road Project, improvements to Fair Park would be very positive for that part of the city, but said we would want to make sure that other activities at Fair Park are not inhibited. Also, he addressed horse shows and rodeos held at San Angelo and questioned if any problems are incurred scheduling around these activities. Mr. Kozuback responded that the same situations occur in almost every venue, and that almost everybody has a major rodeo or event to consider. During those major events, Mr. Kozuback said they schedule team games out of the city. Scheduling avoids conflicts with other activities and groups. Mr. Kozuback also explained an eight hour procedure to cover the ice surface for dirt events rather than to completely remove the ice. Other discussion and inquiries included the estimated number of jobs that would be created, confirmation that a tax increase would not be necessary to fund this activity, additional confirmation of no conflict with other Fair Park activities and assurance of a cooperative effort in scheduling, cultivation of a youth hockey program, local ownership possibilities, and coliseum rehabilitation costs. Mr. Kozuback responded to Council questions, said that a total of about 118 jobs will be added, reviewed youth programs in other cities and addressed the possibility of drawing large attractions such as a Disney ice show because of the facility and ice already being in place. He spoke of working with Tara Lapinski to bring an ice show throughout the league in buildings that will be available. Mr. Kozuback said he is working toward local ownership Mr. Riley explained conditions of the lease with the YMBL, meeting with them for inclusion of discussion, verified conditions of a potential lease with Western Professional Hockey League and responsibility of coliseum rehabilitation costs, and the economic impact expected through concession sales and from sales tax. Mr. Riley said the City will not be Minutes;8/18198;Page 5 involved in any of the ice making equipment, and said the estimated the ice hockey improvements to be put in the coliseum will cost approximately $850,000 and will be borne totally by the franchise and will become a permanent part of the facility. He said the success of this venture will be felt both by the City and the league. Mr. Riley reaffirmed that the partnership with the YMBL will not be reduced, but will be enhanced with a superior facility. He reviewed the positive aspects of added jobs, increased revenue, tourist attraction and general recognition for the City. Mr. Riley told Council that during the initial construction period, the YMBL will be offered the use of the Civic Center for their rodeo. Mayor Moore spoke to YMBL members in reassurance of Council's commitment to their lease, addressed a transition period, and declared Beaumont's progressive attitude will not displace anyone already serving the community. General Council consensus was appreciation for an opportunity to rehabilitate an existing structure and to bring an added attraction to Beaumont and a renewed commitment to YMBL activities. " Report relating to the Gilbert Building in downtown Beaumont Mr. David G. Hitt, Executive Vice President and Executive Trust Officer for Chase Bank of Texas, presented a proposal to Council to receive a gift from Mrs. Elizabeth Gilbert Fortune of her 1/6 interest in the Gilbert Building located at the corner of Pearl and Bowie. Mr. Hitt reviewed the history of the Gilbert family in Beaumont and Mrs. Fortune's love for her family, their memory, and desire to do something significant for this area. Mr. Hitt said that Mrs. Fortune will make a gift of stock equivalent to the purchase price of the other 5/6 interest in the building. In return for the gift, the building will be designated as a cultural center to be used as offices for the arts, cultural, historic preservation and similar organization in the city. (Described in Exhibit °A") Also, Mrs. Fortune has left a substantial amount in her will for refurbishing expenses of the building. Mr. Hitt explained that if the gift is received, he is authorized to contact Mrs. Fortune's lawyers to begin necessary legal procedures. Ms. Carolyn Howard, director of Beaumont Main Street, and Ms. Barbara Knight of the Southeast Texas Arts Council, expressed pleasure in the addition of another refurbished building and asset in downtown Beaumont that will promote and solidify efforts of the art and cultural community. Mr. Hitt displayed an artist's rendition made a few years ago of the rehabilitated Gilbert building, and said he will be waiting to hear from Council. Mimdes;8116!96;Page 6 Mayor Moore thanked Mr. Hitt for the presentation and said it fits with the whole scope of downtown redevelopment and rejuvenation. * Report relating to activities of the Recycling Division/Clean Community Clean Community Director John Labrie presented a report to Council regarding curbside recycling activities and a proposal for a new and improved program as outline in Exhibit "B." Mr. Labrie spoke about citizen participation in curbside recycling, the types of materials sorted and picked up at the curb, and the resale value of these items. Currently they are collecting paper, aluminum, plastic, glass and metal cans. Mr. Labrie said that paper and aluminum are good revenue items, while plastic, glass and metal cans make up 18% in weight of the items picked up, but only generate 3 1/2% in revenue. The market has increased for paper, aluminum has remained stable, no movement in plastic, and glass has declined tremendously. After reviewing the benefits and expenses involved with the recycling program, Mr. Labrie recommended collecting only paper products and aluminum cans beginning October 1, 1998. Mr. Labrie reported that application was made with the TNRCC for a $100,000 grant to conduct an educational campaign and pending approval tomorrow night by the Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission, $93,755 has been granted. Mr. Labrie said they expect approval and funding will be available to educate the public on the changes and encourage participation in the recycling program when needed. Councilmember Davis said he has been reviewing the budget of the Clean Community Department and commended Mr. Labrie for reductions in several categories, including overtime, and for doing an excellent job. Councilmember Davis said it is important to proceed with publicity and education, and from his point of view, would like the same publicity team that worked with the City previously to return to assist with publicity. As an aside, Councilmember Davis took opportunity to report complaints about tall grass in the 2300 block of Hemlock and trash accumulation at the comer of Hemlock and Doucette and added further commendations to Mr. Labrie and his department. Councilmember Goodson confirmed with Mr. Labrie that the cost associated with plastics, glass and tin cans in the absence of a market is not cyclical, but has not produced revenues over a significant period, and that there is no need or market and costs are too high. Mr. Labrie reported that he has already been informed by purchasers of the material that when this contract expires, if they continue to collect glass, there will a charge. Minutes;8/18/98;Page 7 COMMENTS * Councilmembers comment on various matters Councilmember Davis spoke of the vacancy in the position of a City Clerk, said that he has not received a request, but would be responsive to additional compensation for the Deputy City Clerk and other employee in that office, since the selection process is not moving fast. Councilmember Davis complimented continuance of the office function and said cognizance of that department should remain and compensation made to employees, if needed. Councilmember Davis said this has been a very good day for the city with the presentations regarding the Gilbert Building and the Western Professional Hockey League and prospective growth of our city. Councilmember Davis reported that reports have been broadcast on CNBC about the growth of Beaumont, Texas, and the Southeast Texas area. He said we have an excellent opportunity to "Carpe Diem--seize the day" for our city! Councilmember Goodson said he has seen some of the same newscasts Councilmember Davis reported, and one bit of information that is important is that it is not just about the multimillion dollar improvements that are being developed, but appreciation for all the small to medium size business owners that are growing and expanding. He thanked staff of Chase Bank for the exciting prospect of the Gilbert Building, complimented John Labrie on the great job Solid Waste is doing, not only with the budget and programs, but because of the activities that are worthy of consideration for grant funding. He said entities do not receive these grants for no good reason, but because of production and realization that funding can be put into positive programs. Councilmember Smith reported that she had to leave the Chamber for a moment and was met with N cameras and reporter questions that proved a lack of comprehension of some of the issues presented today. Councilmember Smith explained to the reporter that the hockey team and possible tax increase are not related and enumerated the various street, sewer, library and park projects that have been completed to her. The reporter questioned projects started and not finished, and Councilmember Smith informed her she was not aware of any. Councilmember Smith said all the things discussed today are very important. She said that if we want our community and economic development to continue to grow, "we're going to have to learn to think out of the box a little bit," and said "this is especially true with the project at Fair Park." Councilmember Smith said this has to be a good move for everyone, something in it that improves the quality of life, and told members in the audience that the City is not trying to displace anyone, but trying to do something new and different and bring different options into the community. She said this should be accomplished without offending anyone by working together. Councilmember Smith said infrastructure projects should be continued, and if they are continued, taxes will have to be increased to pay for the debt service. Councilmember Smith said she is "excited about Minutes;81181'98;Page 8 Mere we are and where we're going." She said the Gilbert Building is a wonderful building and another chink in our armor for downtown revitalization. *Public Comment (Persons are limited to 3 minutes) Mr. Ralph W. Beard, 980 Alma, reported an unsanitary condition at his home created by inadequate access to the sewer system. Mr. Beard related experiences with the Water Department and presented copies of bills he incurred for repairs and said the problem remains. Mr. Beard said he was advised by the plumbing contractor to call the City of Beaumont for repairs because the tap needs to be repaired as soon as possible. He said he cannot put solid waste matter into the sewer and that he had no recourse but to come to Council for assistance. Mrs. Katherine Wiggington, 900 Elgie, said there are a lot of problems with pipes in the area in which she and Mr. Beard live, told Mr. Labrie there is a lot of litter that needs to be cleaned up and grass that needs cutting in the South Park area, especially the Old Giles School site where grass is growing over the curb and trash littered over the property. Mr. Lynn DeMary, 430 East Elgie, said the reports of today have been good and relayed concerns of Get Williams about the waiting list for senior citizens to receive emergency repair assistance being long and slow. He said people that are not disabled go to the bottom of the list without any evaluation to identify the necessity of the repair request. He said Mrs. Williams would like to see relief for senior citizens who need home repairs and will be sending specific information to Council. Mr. DeMary questioned Item No. 1 about the public hearing being legally satisfactory to request a $.64 tax rate. Mr. Harold Engstrom, 5510 Gail Street, said the YMBL was notified yesterday of the prospect of the hockey league locating in Beaumont and they have been trying to assess the situation. Mr. Engstrom said the YMBL has had a contract with the City since 1980 for 29 days each year for use of the entire Fairgrounds and facilities. He said they are not opposed to hockey, but are concerned with the improvements they have made and their status as a lessee. Mr. Engstrom said they are happy to hear they will be included in some of the negotiation discussions. He stated that their contract calls for a fee of$50,000 per year for use of Fair Park for 29 days each year, and Mr. Engstrom reiterated the YMBL's concerns and asked Council to not get into a big rush until they understand how the hockey team will affect their program. Councilmember Davis told Mr. Engstrom that nothing would be done without the YMBL's strong recommendation taken into consideration and working together with them. Minutes;8118196;Page 9 Mayor Moore expressed appreciation to YMBL members for their input and presence. He addressed past and future meetings with the YMBL and said 29 days should be easily workable. Mayor Moore said no one is being kicked aside, a master plan is being developed, there will be give and take on both sides and the point of negotiation is with the City Manager not the hockey league, and said fine tuning will need to take place. Chris Colletti, Executive Director for the YMBL, said he was involved in meeting with City Council and wants Council to know that it was a very positive meeting. Mr. Colletti said the YMBL felt it important to convey their thoughts to Council. He said the YMBL is 81 years old and is about progress and improving Beaumont. Mr. Colletti said none of the men here today are against progress, and said that would be contrary to the reason they were formed. He stated that he feels concerns and questions will be addressed in the coming weeks and expressed appreciation to Council and the City Manager. EXECUTIVE SESSION * Executive Session in accordance with Section 551.071 of the Government Code to discuss contemplated or pending litigation: Zoning violation at 1155 IH-10 North and 3355 Gladys Heath Vaughn Enterprises v. City of Beaumont There being no further business, the meeting recessed at 3:30 p.m. to reconvene in executive session. Mayor David W. Moore Barbara Liming, Deputy dity Cle Minutes;8/18/98;Page 10 Co CHASE Chase Bank of Texas, N.A. David G. Hitt P.O. Box 3928 Executive Vice President and Beaumont,Texas 77704-3928 Executive Trust Officer Ph (409)880-1429 Fax (409)880-1435 July 22, 1998 Mr. Ray Riley, City Manager City of Beaumont P. O. Box 3827 Beaumont, TX 77704 Dear Ray: We have previously discussed the possibility of the City of Beaumont receiving a gift to be used for the City's purchase of the Gilbert Building. This matter has been further developed through the charitable intent of Mrs. Elizabeth Gilbert Fortune. It is now appropriate for us to express mutual intent concerning this proposed transaction, allowing necessary efforts to be undertaken for its completion. Specifically, Mrs. Fortune proposes that: 1. She make a gift to the City of Beaumont of shares of Eli Lilly common stock equal in value to $62,500, together with a deed of her 1/6 interest in the . building. 2. That the City utilize the proceeds of the gift of Lilly stock for the purchase of the other 5/6 interest in the Gilbert Building at a price of$62,500. The current owners are Chase Bank of Texas, Trustee (5/6 interest) and Mrs. Elizabeth Gilbert Fortune (1/6 interest). 3. i1at the building be permanently designated as the "Gilbert Cultural Center." and be substantially utilized as offices for the arts, cultural, historic preservation and similar charitable organizations within the City of Beaumont. It is understood that the City will need certain flexibility in this regard, in being able to use a portion of these facilities for other compatible community or city related organizations and agencies. EXHIBIT "A" OCHASE Mr. Ray Riley, City Manager City of Beaumont July 22, 1998 Page 2 4. That the City use reasonable diligence in the restoration, preservation and maintenance of this building as is practicable and within the City's ability to do so. 5. That the property revert to the sellers in the event that the City were to abandon the property for this purpose. It is within the spirit and intent of Mrs. Fortune's gift to: • Provide significant support to the cultural organizations of Beaumont which add immeasurably to the higher quality of life of the citizens of Southeast Texas. • Provide a center of concentration for such organizations, which will foster leveraging, cooperation, and joint prograniming between these groups: To facilitate increased activities. • Serve as an anchor for the revitalization of downtown Beaumont and to preserve the historic heritage of the City, as embodied by this particular structure (Gilbert Building). • Form a center within the heart of the City to which significant numbers of people will come, work and be served. • Perpetuate the Gilbert name, as an important pioneering family of Southeast _ Texas, as a continuation of the family's interest and love for the City of Beaumont and the citizens of this region. Please place this proposition on the Agenda for a future City Council meeting. Your favorable response as to the City's actions will enable the attorneys to prepare proposed drafts of deeds and contracts. Thank you for your interest in this significant opportunity. truly }ours,/ David G. Hitt Executive Vice President and Executive Trust Officer DGH:rm CITY OF BEAUMONT CLEAN COMMUNITY DEPARTMENT CURBSIDE RECYCLING PROPOSAL FOR A NEW AND IMPROVED PROGRAM JUNE 1, 1998 BACKGRO-UND City wide curbside recycling began in February 1992. Since that time, the annual amount of materials recycled has been relatively consistent at approximately 2,400 tons per year. Recyclables are placed on the curb in a single bin by residents and collection personnel separates the materials into a compartmentalized truck. Because five (5) different materials must be sorted (newspaper, cardboard, glass, plastic, and metal cans), the time spent at each stop is significant. However, because the local area does not have a separation plant, we must separate at the curb in order to market the materials. At the present time we feel that we are operating as efficiently as possible considering the time required by the separation process. Our operating cost is reduced by the revenue generated from the sale of the materials. Following is data for Fiscal Year 1997 and projections for Fiscal Year 1998 based on financial data through May 1998: OPERATING NET YEAR COST REVENUE COST 1997 $388,000 $ 97,000 $291,000 1998 1 $340,000 1 $100,000 1 $240,000 PROGRAM FACIS In 1992,most industry experts and market analyst predicted that in five (5) years, the markets for recycled materials would catch up with supply and prices would increase enough to off-set collection cost. This has not happened for plastics, glass, and tin cans. Data by material collected for the past calendar year shows that plastics, glass, and tin cans account for 18.5% of the total weight and generate only 3.5% of the revenue (see Exhibit "A"). These three items account for an estimated 40% of the separation time at each stop. The total landfill space that would be required to dispose of plastics, glass, and tin cans collected in the recycling program is less than 800 cubic yards a year. Total annual landfill space used is approximately 200,000 cubic yards. Considering that plastics, glass, and tin cans are a small percentage of recyclables, generate a small amount of the revenue, and would consume an insignificant amount of landfill space, it would make good sense (Cents) to discontinue collecting these items. Without these items in the EXHIBIT "B" program, we estimate a reduction in net cost of approximately$60,000 (25%) annually. In addition, we have already been informed by the purchaser of our recycling materials, that upon expiration of our current contract on September 30, 1999, the City will be charged a fee to dispose of glass because there is no market available. The most common reason given by citizens for not participating in the recycling program is, "I'm not going to wash garbage" and "It's too much trouble." These statements refe[to requirements to rinse residue from plastic containers, glass containers, and tin cans. Based upon experience we believe that more citizens will participate in the program if only items that do not require pre- preparation are included in the program. Pre-preparation is not required for paper and aluminum cans. Paper and aluminum cans account for 81.5% of the volume and 96.5% of the revenue. An additional 100 tons per year of paper and aluminum will more than make up the 3.5% of lost revenue. THE IyEW AND LMPROVEZ RECYCLING PROGRAM Our proposal for a new and improved recycling program would include the following: 1. Collect only paper products and aluminum cans 2. Educate elected officials, staff, and citizens as to the reasons for discontinuing collection of plastics, glass, and tin cans No market for glass Net cost reduction of the recycling program Ease of recycling without pre-preparation of materials 3. Promote the ease of recycling to increase participation resulting in increased paper volumes, increased revenues, and lower net operating cost. FUNDING FOR EDUCATION AND AWARENESS A grant application in the amount of $100,000 for the purpose of conducting a professional education and awareness campaign related to recycling, litter prevention, and illegal dumping was submitted to the South East Texas Regional Planning Commission. Grant funds are available from the TNRCC's Landfill Fees. The application was approved for$93, 755 by the S.E.T.R.P.C. Solid Waste Advisory Committee and it will be on the Executive Committee's Agenda for approval on August 19, 1998. Final approval is anticipated on that date. The grant funds will be used for recycling education if the "New and Improved Recycling Program" is implemented as well as for education related to Neighborhood Services. Grant funds cannot be used to purchase recycling bins. SUMMARY The purpose for recycling is to reduce the use of virgin natural resources and to preserve landfill space. Due to the cost associated with the collection of an insignificant volume of plastics, glass, and tin cans, it would be cost effective to discontinue the collection of these items because the landfill space that is preserved is immaterial. Paper and aluminum account for 81.5% of the volume and 96.5% of the revenue. Collecting only paper and aluminum would make the recycling program more efficient and cost effective while attracting more participants in the program. We project an increase in paper volume with a 25% operating cost reduction. It is my recommendation that we make the proposed changes beginning October 1, 1998. This is the first day of Fiscal Year 1999 and also the first day of a new contract to sell the recycled materials. The proposed changes would provide a new and improved recycling program for the City that makes more sense (Cents). CITY OF BEAUMONT CURBSIDE RECYCLING REVENUE Sc TONNAGE BY FISCAL.YEARS FMCAL REVENUE NEWSPAPER REVENUE '-ARDROARDI REVENUE TGU1 TOTAL TONNAGE 1 TONNAGE OCT 913EPT 93 $10,362.51 1,124, WA NAI WA OCT 933EPT 94 517,903.06 1,470' WA WA I WA OCT It3EPT 96 $23,130.46. 1,509: WA WA I Wq 06-SEPT 99 $85,949.89 1,4591 $46,025.75 1351: $4,806.53: OCT 99-SEPT 97 $89,563.36 1.6111 $49,535.23 259! $10,013.961 OCT 97-SEPT 99 L $105.250.92 1 551! $59,388.24 3131 116,231.0811 OTAIS $332,160.20 8,724 $1547949.22 707 $31,051.57 PLASTIC I REVENUE GLAS�rREVWENUE TIN REVENUE ALUMINUM REVENUE TONNAGE TONNAGTONNAGE I TONNAGE I 88' WA 6241 WA 149 WA 571 WA ' I I 106. WA 572, WA 1371 WA 591 WA 89' WA 528 WA 126! WA 371 WA 99! $3,507.09 2141 $1,868.75 1251 $1,629.55 361 $28,112.22 99' $1,032.91 1931. $997.16 1271 $1,422.08 361 $26,562.02 99! 999.12 204 $1,014.36 1251 11,305.60 361 $26.312,521 5801 $5,539.12 2,335. $3 SR0.271 7891 $4,357.23 2611 $80,986.76 Note: 'Cardboard Recycling collection began January 1996 'October 1995,Recycling Program is serviced by City of Beaumont Clean Community Department