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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN AUG 25 1998 M I N U T E S - CITY OF BEAU FONT Lulu L.Smith DAVID W. MOORE, MAYOR Bobbie J. Patterson, Mayor Pro Tem Guy N.Goodson CITY COUNCIL MEETING Andrew P.Cokinos John K.Davis AUGUST 25,1998 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 25, 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. The Reverend Mike Thompson, Spindletop Unitarian Church, gave the invocation. Mr. George Hudspeth led the pledge of allegiance. Present at the meeting were: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, and Davis. Also present were Ray A Riley, City Manager; Lane Nichols, City Attorney; and Barbara Liming, Deputy City Clerk. *Presentations and Recognitions - One Proclamation was issued: "Communities in Schools Week," August 24-31, 1998. The Reverend Dwight Benoit, pastor of Magnolia Missionary Baptist Church, addressed Council to share a report about the success of their feeding the homeless program. The Reverend Benoit expressed appreciation to Council for their support and thanked Councilmember Davis for his successful efforts in representing the north end of Beaumont and making it more viable and presentable. He said the program began two years ago at his church and now they are about to begin another avenue of ministry. The Reverend Benoit asked Mrs. Dorothy Snell, director for the program, to share some statistics. Mrs. Snell said that since the program began in November, 1996, to August, 1998, 3,690 individuals have been served meals. They average feeding 45 persons per Sunday. She reported that five auxiliaries from the church serve the meals and that a total of 574 meals have been sent to homes. Mrs. Snell said that clothing has also been provided to the needy through this program. Mrs. Liz Eaglin, a member of the church, reported that they have also worked with three young men in the Community Service Program for Municipal Court and another young lady needing community hours for her college degree. She acknowledged the help of Mercy Funeral Home in their program, and said that through this ministry, some positive lifestyle changes have been seen. The Reverend Benoit acknowledged the programs of the Salvation Army and Some Other Place, but said his church serves homeless clients on Sunday when other agencies are not open. He thanked community supporters for their donations, and said they are on the threshold of beginning a rehabilitation ministry they have titled Grace Ministries. The thrust of the Grace Ministries will be aimed at recovering addicts by giving them a changed environment. Mr. Fred L. Mitchell, Jr., a member of Magnolia Missionary Baptist Church will be in charge of the new ministry. Mr. Mitchell is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor. Mr. Mitchell briefly reviewed his concept of the new program by stating that they want to be available to those persons being released from local correctional institutions that have drug and alcohol problems. Mr. Mitchell said they may not be able to reach the masses, but they can reach a few. Mayor Moore expressed appreciation for the efforts of the church in the community and said he looks forward to people coming with good news. Mayor Moore said the news received today is the linkage to better serving people—such as serving meals on Sunday when other agencies are not open. He commended them for taking the step to do this kind of work. Councilmember Davis said he is very familiar with the program, and that "nothing can happen unless individuals take responsibility for their own communities," and commended Pastor Benoit and his church for bold leadership. Councilmember Davis said he thinks God is most pleased when we try to help those who are less fortunate. Ms. Lisa Eaker, with KLVI Radio Station, told Council that she is privileged to be here with so many people doing wonderful things for the community. Ms. Eaker announced that the Market Basket Kid Fest, produced by Gulf Star Communications, will be held at the Civic Center this weekend. Gulf Star Communications owns four radio stations: KLVI, KKMY, KIOC, and KYKR. She said the event will occur on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There will be many planned activities that include an interactive presentation from Moody Gardens of Galveston, a roller hockey clinic from the Lake Charles Ice Pirates, a stunt and bike show, a moon walk, and round the clock entertainment from organizations within the community. Market Basket will also sponsor additional fun events. Ms. Eaker said that free tickets may be obtained from all Market Basket locations, Bicycle Sports, all video retail locations and Centennial Wireless. There will be a $3.00 ticket charge at the door for those without a ticket. Ms. Eaker invited the public and all Councilmembers all citizens to attend. Minutes;8C25/9B;Page 2 *Public Comment: Citizens were invited to comment on the Consent Agenda and Main Agenda Items 1 through 4 and 6 through 9. 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 18, 1998; * Confirmation of committee appointments - Resolution No. 98-211 (Mrs. Lou Saldana appointed to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway Commission for a term expiring August 24, 2000) A) Accept the donation of property across from the Fire Department Headquarters for use by the Fire Museum (the East 52' x 77', Tract 1 of Lots 714 and 715, Block 32 of the Beaumont Townsite, the northwest comer of Walnut and Mulberry Streets, from Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Sweeney of Houston) - Resolution No. 98-212 B) Approve the acquisition of properties for the Concord Road Improvement Project (1: 0.561 of an acre out of property at 1667, 1685, and 1739 Live Oak from John Wade Horn in the the amount of$60,249, and 2: 0.049 of an acre out of property at 3143 Concord Road from The Famiglia Corporation in the amount of$10,103) - Resolution No. 98-213 C) Authorize eminent domain proceedings to acquire property located at 2580 Concord Road for the Concord Road Improvement Project (Parcel 14 needed for Phase I: 0.034 of an acre located at 2580 Concord, Lot 9, Block 1, C.H. Ainsworth Addition, partial taking, appraised value--$1,525, Jack Fisher, owner) - Resolution No. 98-214 D) Approve the release of paving assessment charges and weed lien charges 1) Release paving liens on property described as Lots 15 and 16, Block 41 of the Jef Chaison Addition, 550 Harriot Street, totaling $2,276.23, owned by the Young Women's Christian Association and Broussard-Warfieid Company - Resolution No. 98-215 2) Release paving liens on Lot 5, Block 3 of the Arlington Addition, 555 Euclid Street, totaling $1,132.99, owned by V. O. Hoist and Maude Hoist - Resolution No. 98-216 3) Release weed liens on property located at 185 Lethia Street owned by Nancy Daw in the amount of$2,468.15- Resolution No. 98-217 and on property at 175 Lethia Street owned by General Hayes in the amount of$2,116.43 - Resolution No. 98-218 Minutes;8P15M;Page 3 E) Approve the settlement of a claim (Lloyd Payne in the amount of $7,180) - Resolution No. 98-219 Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, Ames and Davis Noes: None GENERAL BUSINESS 1. Consider approving the use of the Coliseum at Fair Park for the proposed Western Professional Hockey League franchise and authorizing plans for improvements to the facility Mr. Riley introduced use of the Coliseum at Fair Park for the proposed Professional Hockey League franchise and reviewed elements of the presentation and proposal received last week for locating a franchise in Beaumont for the league year 1999/2000. Mr. Riley said that in October, there will be leagues in 17 cities in 5 states; ten will be in Texas. He said that Beaumont was selected as a site because it is the center of Southeast Texas, or in effect, a regional hub. Mr. Riley quoted the opportunities of a league in Beaumont, including entertainment and visitor attraction and economic factors realized through room occupancy tax and sales tax from ticket sales and concessions. He addressed the location, improvements required, financial obligations and concerns regarding a conflict with current users. The YMBL is the main user and has a lease for 29 days during the fair season. Mr. Riley said there was a meeting with the president and officers of the YMBL, the Fair chairman and other YMBL persons, representatives from the franchise and City personnel last Friday. He said the meeting was very cordial and that everyone is mindful of the best interests of the City, the fairgrounds and the product of the fair and what it represents to the city. Mr. Riley said all concerns were discussed openly and believes they were all resolved, and that exclusive use and control of the fairgrounds belongs to the YMBL during the fair. He said their current lease will be honored and not modified in any regard. The franchise with the hockey team will be secondary during that time frame. Another concern expressed has been competition, and Mr. Riley said the events that could be brought to the Coliseum include hockey and ice related activities. This should only provide more opportunity to bring other kinds of activity and economic opportunity to the community. Today, Council is requested to authorize moving forward in response to the proposal by obtaining an architect to commence preparing plans and specifications and give authority to commence drafting a lease for proposed use of the Coliseum for final consideration by Council at a later date. Minutes;8/25/98;Page 4 To execute the franchise and have the Coliseum ready for the 1999 season, these activities must begin immediately. At this time, Council would not be obligated to anything, but in concept giving approval to begin preliminary procedures. Councilmember Cokinos questioned the ultimate results of the conference with the YMBL, and was informed that the agreement with the YMBL for use of the fairgrounds for 29 days remains as it has been since 1985, and that both entities were at the meeting and both realize they will be working together for success of this venture. Councilmember Cokinos referred to a portion of the YMBL contract stating"the lessee shall cooperate with the lessor in promoting the use of the Fair Park Coliseum and shall when practicable, permit lessor to lease said Coliseum for events to be held during the 29 days as described above," and asked the City Attorney if there is a conflict. The City Attorney replied that the statement means "the two parties would have to negotiate and agree upon any use of the facility during the Fair period of time. If it's practicable, and if it's not a problem, then they would be required to agree, but they would have to communicate and have to come to a mutual understanding." Councilmember Cokinos further questioned conflict of a lease with the Hockey League, expressed concerns about treatment of the YMBL, and said he would like to see further studies, conversations and meetings before taking action. In additions, Councilmember Cokinos said he has learned that not all of the hockey teams are doing well. He referred to San Angelo having problems with attendance and profitability, Waco struggling with attendance, and the Temple/Belton franchise in serious financial problems and near bankruptcy, the risk being worth the reward, and spoke about the length of time necessary to repay$3.3 million at$200,000 per year. Councilmember Cokinos questioned the outcome, if the hockey team is not as successful as anticipated, said he favors more study and discussion, and spoke of the economic development brought about by the YMBL. Councilmember Davis requested Mr. Bobo, as a representative of the YMBL, to come forward to express his concerns and position and ideas on action today. Mr. Bobo confirmed that two meetings occurred, said the one on Friday was a very good, but lengthy meeting. He said the sides of the City, the YMBL and the Hockey League were considered. Mr. Bobo reference a letter he sent to Council, stated that the YMBL does not control the grounds except during the Fair, and said their lease would not be affected at all by the franchise with the Western Professional Hockey League. Mr. Bobo expressed satisfaction and comfort by the Executive Board of the YMBL at this point. The full board of the YMBL will meet Thursday night, and he sees no reason for not receiving full agreement because they will not lose anything, but gain a tremendous facility and the potential to work with the City and the Hockey League to enhance the Fair. Councilmember Davis requested that the Executive Board of the YMBL present to Council a written list of any concerns they may have. He stated that this is a time to grow our city Minutes;8fL5/98;Page 5 and initiate new and innovative programs because he feels our city is about to experience growth. Councilmember Ames expressed appreciation to Mr. Bobo for the spirit of his letter to Council and referred to telephone conversations about some concerns. Mr. Bobo responded that they are satisfied with resolve of those concerns. He said some changes are not as easy as others, but change is inevitable. Mr. Bobo said the City is working with the YMBL regarding their rodeo and agreed to include them in conversations about the building, and said he feels that, as a whole, they are satisfied that they will not be affected adversely. Councilmember Ames commented that everyone agrees that the YMBL has contributed tremendously to our community. Councilmember Goodson spoke of precaution in moving on this item, the history of YMBL activities and said this item will only move forward, if these facilities are a positive improvement to the Coliseum and to the Fair. With this understanding, Councilmember Goodson expressed a desire that a comfort level for everyone has been reached. Mayor Moore thanked Mr. Bobo for his letter in pointing out a spirit of cooperation between the City and YMBL being in place, commented about the three points in his letter being addressed, and presented a fourth point that this is a unique opportunity to benefit everybody. He spoke of building around opportunity and not cascading upon negative thoughts about tearing up the YMBL. Mayor Moore expressed appreciation to the YMBL and said Council will work with them in whatever way possible. Councilmember Smith added thanks to Mr. Bobo for his letter and the spirit of the letter. She said it showed a willingness to work together, and said this has to be a win/win situation for everybody and said she looks forward to working with the YMBL. Councilmember Goodson added comments that he, as Councilmember Cokinos, does not want this to be viewed as not supporting economic development and wants to proceed with the process, but said several items Councilmember Cokinos addressed need further information for Council. He said they need to have repayment data, spoke about success of franchises, and asked for good financial information and outlook on other markets. Councilmember Goodson said we have a large base to draw upon, but we need to make sure that as this franchise is brought to the public, there is assurance that it is a good franchise and not have later. He suggested investigating other franchises in similar size markets and bring back more information. Councilmember Goodson said it is also important to again address financing and bond issues and term of repayment. He said the only complaints he has heard from citizen reference is the financial impact of entering into this project. Also, Councilmember Goodson voiced comments about construction completion and time constraints, and said he would like full information to answer questions of Minutes;WSW;Page 6 constituents. Councilmember Goodson requested financial reports of all the hockey teams, especially the one from Lake Charles. Mayor Moore commented that members of the audience are potential investors which adds a local flavor to the project. He said it appears that this is a win for Beaumont, stated that we are not selling or giving anything away, said someone is willing to help finance making a community facility better, and said he views this project positively with receiving $200,000 a year plus proceeds from ticket sales and concessions. Mayor Moore said the facility will remain ours and become a place for year-around use. Children will be able to take advantage of the ice skating and hockey learning opportunities. Councilmember Ames clarified that no construction funds are being expended or leases granted with passage of this resolution. The City Manager replied that authority will be given to employ an architect today and approve the use of the Coliseum in concept. Meetings will then begin to formulate a lease that Council will ultimately approve. Councilmember Cokinos again questioned the YMBL's approval. Mr. Riley confirmed the YMBL's approval, and Mr. Bobo responded that there are no problems or concerns remaining and said that all questions have been answered. Councilmember Cokinos questioned other possible locations, and Mr. Riley said there are no other public buildings available. Councilmember Davis moved to approve Resolution No. 98-220 authorizing the City Manager to negotiate terms and conditions of a lease with the Western Professional Hockey League, retain an architect, and if successful, present terms and conditions of the lease agreements and plans for renovation and improvements to the Fair Park Coliseum to the City Council. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Ames and Davis Noes: None Abstained: Councilmember Cokinos 2. Consider accepting the offer of a donation of the Gilbert Building for the proposed use as a cultural center Councilmember Cokinos expressed objection to Item No. 5 in the letter from Chase Bank stating that the property would revert back to the sellers in the event the City were to abandon the property for use as a cultural center and to the Gilbert Building being taken off the tax rolls. Minutes;8/25W;Page 7 Councilmember Goodson complimented David Hitt, Executive Vice President and Executive Trust Officer of Chase Bank for his stroke of genius in putting this arrangement together for downtown Beaumont. He commented that during his time in Beaumont, the Gilbert Building has not had been occupied as a viable structure except for very limited ground floor office use. Councilmember Goodson said there are some parking limitations, understands the concern about the reversionary clause, and said that before we spend a great deal of money we would want to make sure of our obligation. He said failing to take advantage of this opportunity would be an opportunity lost and commented that because of the age and condition of the building not much would be lost by taking it off the tax roll. Councilmember Cokinos again asked if something could be done about Item 5 of the letter. The City Attorney said that a deed of gift has not been drafted, and Council could seek deleting the reversionary clause. He said that it is typical to have a reversionary clause in a gift for a specific community purpose. Councilmember Cokinos said he is for the project and thinks it is a great gesture, but is concerned about Item 5. Councilmember Smith moved to approve Resolution No. 98-221 authorizing the City Manager to negotiate appropriate instruments of conveyance and gift from Mrs. Gilbert Fortune and execute all documents necessary to complete the transaction for a proposed cultural center. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, Ames and Davis Noes: None 3. Consider a Section 108 loan request by the National Development Council for the renovation of the Hotel Beaumont The City Manager explained that we have been in the process of renovating Hotel Beaumont for about three years, said that Sally Loveland has been here several times to give information from the National Development Council. Mr. Riley said it would be appropriate for Sally Loveland to give details to Council before the required public hearing is opened. Sally Loveland offered an update and overview of the renovation of the hotel. She explained that the National Development Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to both preserving affordable housing and helping communities rebuild and bring reinvestment into downtown areas and create jobs. She spoke of the City envisioning a public/private Minutes;8/255;Page 8 partnership, feasibility of the project, financing, importance of the project in the community and meeting a public purpose. Ms. Loveland reported that the project budget is about $6 million, and said they are requesting $2 million in Section 108 proceeds to bridge the gap between the lenders and equity providers. She said that in raising the other $4 million, Beaumont has really rallied around the project. She reported that Chase Bank has committed $3.7 million, and that they have relied heavily on Beaumont Main Street. In addition to Chase Bank, Community Bank and First Bank and Trust will also participate in construction financing. The Chase Bank construction loan will be replaced by a permanent loan from State Street Global Advisors of Boston and tax credit equity from Fannie Mae. Ms. Loveland said there will be full renovation of the building. When completed, there will be 135 units of affordable senior resident housing. All residents will receive three meals per day. She reviewed other amenities that will be offered. At least half of the units will be available to low to moderate income residents. Hotel Beaumont will be the only full-service, affordable senior residential facility of its kind. Exterior improvements include a new roof, sandblasting, renovating the awnings, sidewalk and alley work, replacing heating and air- conditioning units, replacing plumbing, and completely sprinkle the building. Repairs inside the hotel include repairing or replacing elevators, renovating the lobby, kitchen and dining room, refurbishing the Rose Room, repairing individual units and installing new bath tubs, and insuring that everything is up to Fire and A.D.A. requirements. The three-story annex on Orleans Street has been condemned and too expensive to repair. The interior will be demolished and most of the roof removed. The existing walls will be retained to serve as a border for a park and green space area for the residents. It will be landscaped with some covered areas and will be accessible from the Rose Room. Depending on the length of time necessary to complete the Section 108 Loan, construction should begin this winter and complete in about twelve months. Ms. Loveland said this is a challenging project, but thinks everyone should like it when finished. The public hearing was opened at 3:02 p.m. Mayor Moore applauded the cooperation of the local banking community for their efforts in stepping forward to help this project move forward to becoming a reality. Mrs. Nancy Beaullieu, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, 1625 Brighton, applauded continued efforts to make this project a reality, and said this is another star added to the growing list of downtown projects. Minutes;8f25M;Page 9 Mr. Ben Bundy, president of Main Street, commented that this is probably the most exciting project seen in downtown Beaumont for quite a while and will have immeasurable benefits for the downtown area and city-wide. He expressed appreciation to Council's commitment and volunteered Main Street's assistance in bringing this project to completion. Mr. Dan Hallmark, chairman and chief executive officer at Chase Bank, asked Mr. Wilton White, president and chief executive officer of First Bank and Trust, and Mr. Bill McNinch, of Community Bank to join him. Mr. Hallmark thanked Council for leadership in bringing this project to fruition. He said this is a tremendous project that involves the City of Beaumont, the property owner, Main Street, the Chamber of Commerce, the National Development Council, Community Bank , First Bank and Trust and Chase Bank. He commented about the historic designation of the building in a targeted area that will provide unique, affordable housing and assisted living for senior citizens. He said that renovation of this property will continue to spur other economic development and other renovation to downtown. Mr. Hallmark said the banks want to express appreciation for bringing this project to the National Development Council—the premier non-profit group in the nation--to do affordable housing and community development, and said it has been a pleasure working with Sally Loveland. Mr. Lynn DeMary, 430 East Elgie, said that as a citizen, Hotel Beaumont has been the home for some of the elderly members of his church for the last several years and commended the City and development company for efforts to maintain the facility to accommodate low to moderate income persons. Mr. DeMary said he looks forward to the success and contributions the renovated hotel will make to downtown Beaumont. There being no one else desiring to speak, the public hearing was closed at 3:09 p.m. Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve Resolution No. 98-222 authorizing the City Manager to submit and execute all documents necessary to make a Section 108 Loan application for a line of credit up to $2 million. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, Ames and Davis Noes: None Abstained: Mayor Moore 4. Consider a bid for the sale of Carroll Street Park and allowing the execution of a deed without warranty to convey the property Minutes;BMW;Page 10 Councilmember Davis moved to approve Resolution No. 98-223 authorizing the sale of Carroll Street Park to Mike Sinclair with Sherman and Sherman, Inc. in the amount of $205,000. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, Ames, and Davis Noes: None 5. Consider a request for a zone change from RS (Residential Single Family Dwelling) to NC (Neighborhood Commercial District for property located at the southeast corner of McLean Drive and South Major Drive (Councilmember Davis left the Chamber at 3:14 p.m. before the vote on Item 5) Councilmember Smith moved to approve Ordinance No. 98-55 ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 30 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF BEAUMONT,TEXAS,AND IN PARTICULAR THE BOUNDARIES OF THE ZONING DISTRICTS,AS INDICATED UPON THE ZONING MAP OF BEAUMONT, TEXAS, BY CHANGING THE ZONING OF PROPERTY PRESENTLY ZONES RS (RESIDENTIAL SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING) DISTRICT TO NC (NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL) DISTRICT FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT S.E.CORNER OF MAJOR DRIVE AND MCLEAN DRIVE, BEAUMONT,JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL AND PROVIDING A PENALTY. Councilmember Goodson seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, and Ames Noes: None 6. Consider approving an agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation to receive $322,569 in grant assistance from the State Public Transportation Fund for operating expenses related to the Beaumont Municipal Transit System Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve Resolution No. 98-224. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, and Ames Noes: None 7. Consider approving a lease agreement for the Tyrrell Park Riding Stables Minutes;8x15198;Page 11 Councilmember Smith moved to approve Resolution No. 98-225 authorizing a three-year lease agreement with Patrick D. Sykes for operation of the Tyrrell Park Riding Stables located at Tyrrell Park commencing September 1, 1998, and expiring on August 31, 2001. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, and Ames Noes: None 8. Consider approving an annual contract for the purchase of polyethylene pipe for use in the Street and Drainage Division/Public Works Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve Resolution No. 98-226 authorizing an annual contract with Coburn Supply Company for an estimated annual amount of $115,400 for various sizes of corrugated polyethylene pipe. Councilmember Goodson seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, and Ames Noes: None 9. Consider approving the purchase of concrete box culverts for use in the Public Works Department Councilmember Smith moved to approve Resolution No. 98-227 authorizing purchase of box culverts from Gifford Hill Concrete Products in the amount of$100,190.25to be installed on Avalon, Glendale, and Montrose Streets at Jane's Gully in a joint project with Drainage District No. 6. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Patterson, Councilmembers Smith, Goodson, Cokinos, and Ames Noes: None The meeting recessed at 3:31 p.m. and resumed at 3:32 p.m. with all Councilmembers present except Councilmember Davis. OTHER BUSINESS Minutes;8/25138;Page 12 *Receive a presentation related to the proposed redevelopment of the "Dixie Street" commercial block in downtown Beaumont Mr. Tom Flanagan, president of James J. Flanagan Corporation, presented Council with several artist renditions depicting the changes planned for redevelopment of Crockett Street to be known as "Dixie Street." Mr. Flanagan referred to his long love for downtown Beaumont and of$10 million in private, historic restoration of other structures in downtown Beaumont during the past ten years. He explained that his goal has always been to keep up with other communities and create a "people place" in downtown Beaumont, "not just a place for special events, but to actually make it a part of daily life, or daily after-five life." Mr. Flanagan stated that the hottest areas of real estate development around the country is development of urban entertainment centers, and that is what he proposes for downtown Beaumont. He said the community is ready, and that he has identified a group of buildings that many consider the most historic buildings available for restoration in downtown Beaumont. Downtown will become a defining area for Beaumont with an overriding theme for live entertainment, music and food from our area. One of the unique features will include usage of the alley ways. Mr. Flanagan said that a large Country Music Opry House will be erected. In general, the area will be patterned after the concept of an urban entertainment center and become a catalyst for possibly bringing other restaurants, night clubs, apartments, and condominiums to the area. Mr. Lynn Harden, architect for the project further described "Dixie Street' as shown in Exhibit"A." He said the five existing buildings along Crockett Street will be renovated with a facade at the first-floor level to portray the feeling of the street. The sidewalks and the street will be bricked, archways will define the area, and the old drive-in bank property will be converted into parking. The center of the Opry House will face the Art Museum to tie them together. The street will not be closed, but will be narrowed, and the sidewalks will be widened to accommodate outside seating and dining. Mr. Flanagan said the same pre-leasing philosophy used previously will be conservatively used, and said they already have a strong interest from community business people, as well as national and regional chains. He said it will take a lot of work, but thinks the results will be worth it. Council commented about other cities that have capitalized on this kind of development and have enhanced and brought new activity to their downtown area. Minutes;8/25198;Page 13 Councilmember Goodson referred to this requiring a Section 108 Loan and asked when the request for that and a public hearing might come forward. Mr. Flanagan replied that he is here to request Council direction and action to begin the process. Mr. Riley stated that because of publication requirements, the earliest date to begin the procedure for a Section 108 Loan would be two weeks from today. Mr. Flanagan offered to answer additional questions, said there is so much to the project that it changes daily, but said he is encouraged, desires Council support, and believes in Beaumont and that this project will add to our quality of life. Mayor Moore thanked Mr. Flanagan for the amount of time and diligence he has spent on a project to create a beautiful corner in downtown Beaumont, and told him that a public hearing will be scheduled to be held in two weeks. COMMENTS * Councilmembers comment on various matters Councilmember Ames told Carolyn Howard, executive director for Beaumont Main Street, that this was definitely a happy downtown day! Mayor Pro Tem Patterson invited everyone to attend the third annual Operation One Vote celebration on Thursday, August 27, 6:30 p.m., at the L. L. Melton YMCA. Mayor Moore asked Public Works Director Tom to check the variance of speed zones on Lucas traveling east and west. On one side of U.S. 69 the speed limit is 30 miles per hour and 40 on the other side. *Public Comment (Persons are limited to 3 minutes) No one wished to comment. EXECUTIVE SESSION *Executive Session in accordance with Section 551.071 of the Government Code to discuss contemplated or pending litigation: Calvin Harris v. City of Beaumont Grievance concerning prescription drugs - Local 399, IAFF Minutes;WSW;Page 14 There being no further business, the meeting recessed at 3:53 p.m. to reconvene in executive session. (:L�— Mayor David W. Moore l f i /• Barbara Liming, Deput City alerk Minutes;8/25198;Page 15 t � �i��►'�'•s �. 11� Igo �•- G in I'-7 .� +,gip ,t,, � �►. t.���� i✓� , ji� � i• � r� r �r�r�r �`frI �f •,�.'•� �.a+i,: .•�• ii ��. �F iC L►r:•• ,.�• � , i�,/1� rrFFFF__ ��'�11{�`�, •�•in � �•�J =►:�j �Iii ti i�� � • i�n/ �• fir' �• ~��•, �.w.��/7 • �✓? r' ' �� C J •.l .rte-�.:I�� � r.. • �j��:� �. �••C _ `►►w`r+cs•�•.. I �, j f r Fr CA t