HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN FEB 27 1996 REGULAR SESSION
CITY COUNCIL - CITY OF BEAUMONT
HELD FEBRUARY 27, 1996 - 1 :30 P.M.
BE IT REMEMBERED that the City Council of the City of Beaumont, Texas, met in regular session
this the 27th day of February, 1996, with the following present:
HONORABLE: David W. Moore Mayor
Becky Ames Mayor Pro Tern
Councilman-At-Large
Andrew P. Cokinos Councilman-At Large
Lulu L. Smith Councilman, Ward
Guy N. Goodson Councilman, Ward II
John K. Davis Councilman, Ward III
Bobbie Patterson* Councilman, Ward IV
Ray A. Riley City Manager
Lane Nichols City Attorney
Barbara Liming Deputy City Clerk
*(Councilman Patterson arrived at 1:37 p.m. during reading of the first Proclamation.)
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The Invocation was given by the Reverend Delbert Mack, Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Kenny (Mayor Moore's son) and his friend Sam, students
at Cathedral in the Pines Christian School visiting Council today.
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Two Proclamations were issued: "Spay Day USA," February 27, 1996; and "Purchasing Month,"
March, 1996.
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Mayor Moore recognized 6th, 7th and 8th grade students and their teacher, Carl Gerhardt, from
Cathedral in the Pines who are observing Council meeting today. Mayor Moore added that his son,
Kenny, is present with the students and that Kenny's grandfather, Raymond Chaisson, is also in
71 February 27, 1996
attendance today. Mayor Moore told the students that he hoped their observation of today's
meeting will be meaningful and they will glean information that can be taken back to the class room
for discussion.
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Mr. Bubba (James) Martin and members of the Drug Free Beaumont Commission presented Mayor
Moore with a Certificate of Appreciation that read, "The Mayor's Commission for a Drug Free
Beaumont hereby honors Mayor David Moore for his service and contribution in promoting a drug
free lifestyle in our city." Mr. Martin said the certificate is signed by Chairman Gene Landry and
comes in part because Mayor Moore was at the Mayor's Conference in Atlanta last year and signed
the Atlanta Resolution that endorsed drug free cities in the United States. He said they
appreciated the Mayor's stand on behalf of Beaumont and his other contributions and support of
the Commission and want to show that appreciation by presenting this certificate today. Mr. Martin
said he is presenting the certificate in Mr. Landry's absence along with Commission members May
Carol Russell and Tony Sacker.
Mayor Moore thanked the Commission for their commendation, and said he is very proud of them
and having a drug free Beaumont is very important to him and told the young people in the
audience that there is "only one way to live, and that is drug free."
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Mr. Vic Carlstom, Chairman of the Keep Beaumont Beautiful Commission, addressed Council with
good news by presenting four participants to sign Operation Clean Street agreements. He
explained to the audience that "Operation Clean Street is the City of Beaumont's version of the
State's Adopt a Highway Program, and Operation Clean Street is a project of the Keep Beaumont
Beautiful Commission. It's purpose is to set aside the perception that clean streets are someone
else's responsibility and that an attractive physical environment can aid in the effort to restore pride
and self-confidence and in turn create a significant benefit to...Beaumont's economic development
prospects." Four agreements were signed: 1) Central Sr. High School "I Have A Dream" Program
students adopted South Street from 11 th to 4th Street (Barbara Hansen, representative); 2) Pi
Kappa Alpha Fraternity adopted Virginia from University to Highland Avenue (James Almon,
representative); 3) Howell's Furniture Company adopted Gulf Street from IH10 service road to Live
Oak (Wade Witt, representative); and 4) the South Park Neighborhood Association adopted the
corner of Irving at Harriot Street as a landscaping project (Ruth Naumczik). Mayor Moore and
Mayor Pro Tem Ames signed contracts with representatives from each of the organizations.
Mayor Moore described the relationship with the organizations as "a great partnership" and a way
to empower the community to do better, thanked the groups and told the students that for the next
year these people have pledged to keep certain areas in Beaumont clean by picking up liter and
trash and in some cases keeping the grass cut. He explained this is a volunteer effort without any
72 February 27, 1996
charge to the City and "out of the goodness of their heart to make our community that much more
beautiful." He also explained that this is a special effort of the Keep Beaumont Commission and
acknowledged the presence of members in attendance.
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Citizen comment was invited on the Consent Agenda and Main Agenda Items 7 and 8. No one
wished to addressed these items.
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The following Consent Agenda item was considered:
Approval of the Minutes of the City Council meetings held February 20, 1996.
The Consent Agenda was approved on a motion made by Councilman Cokinos and seconded
by Mayor Pro Tem Ames.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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Ordinance No. 96-12 authorizing a Specific Use Permit to allow a helistop for Saint Elizabeth
Hospital for its Air-Medical Program at the northwest corner of Liberty Avenue and Fifteen Street
to be used as a secondary or backup helistop only subject to final approval of the U. S. Department
of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, Southwest Region and installation of a 100 lb.
Wheel unit fire extinguisher to be on site at all times was considered:
ORDINANCE NO. 96-12
ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT
TO ALLOW A HELISTOP AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF
LIBERTY AVENUE AND FIFTEENTH STREET FOR ST. ELIZABETH
HOSPITAL IN AN AREA ZONED GC-ME (GENERAL COMMERCIAL-
MULTIPLE FAMILY DWELLING) DISTRICT, IN THE CITY OF
BEAUMONT, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS.
Council discussion and questions included explanation of the Federal Aviation Administration
approval, lighting and secondary use as a backup when the facility on the parking garage could
not be used recommended by the Planning Commission. Councilman Goodson observed that the
third condition that the helistop is to be used only as a secondary use is not stated in the ordinance
and said he preferred the language of the ordinance be the same as the Planning and Zoning
Commission stated.
73 February 27, 1996
Ordinance No. 96-12 was approved on a motion made by Councilman Davis and seconded by
Councilman Smith.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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Ordinance No. 96-13 authorizing a Specific Use Permit to allow Mount Gilead Missionary
Baptist Church to construct a new church in an LI (Light Industrial) district in the Flowers Addition
was considered:
ORDINANCE NO. 96-13
ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT
TO ALLOW A NEW CHURCH IN AN AREA ZONED LI (LIGHT
INDUSTRIAL) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE CITY OF
BEAUMONT, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS.
Ordinance No. 96-13 was approved on a motion made by Councilman Cokinos and seconded
by Councilman Davis.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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Ordinance No. 96-14 rezoning Lots 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A and 813, Block 1 of the Flowers Addition,
located on Sabine Pass Avenue north of Flowers Street, from GC-MD (General Commercial -
Multiple Family Dwelling) to RM-H (Residential Multiple Family - Highest Density) at the request
of the Innovative Housing Development Corporation for the purpose of constructing new homes
in the Chariton-Pollard neighborhood was considered:
ORDINANCE NO. 96-14
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 ZONED GC-
MD (GENERAL COMMERCIAL-MULTIPLE FAMILY DWELLING)
DISTRICT TO RM-H (RESIDENTIAL MULTIPLE FAMILY DWELLING-
HIGHEST DENSITY) DISTRICT FOR LOTS 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A AND 8B,
BLOCK 1, FLOWERS ADDITION TO THE CITY OF BEAUMONT,
JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR REPEAL AND PROVIDING A PENALTY.
74 February 27, 1996
Ordinance No. 96-14 was approved on a motion made by Councilman Davis and seconded by
Councilman Patterson.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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Ordinance No. 96-15 rezoning a 2.85 acre tract, part of a 5-acre tract, extending from Highland
east to Reed Street out of the J. W. Bullock Survey from NSC (Neighborhood Shopping Center)
to RM-M (Residential Multiple Family Dwelling-Medium Density) so that the entire 5 acre tract will
be RM-M at the request of American Real Estate was considered:
ORDINANCE NO. 96-15
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 ZONED
NSC (NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPPING CENTER)
DISTRICT TO RM-M (RESIDENTIAL MULTIPLE FAMILY
DWELLING-MEDIUM DENSITY) DISTRICT FOR A 2.85
ACRE TRACT OUT OF THE J. W. BULLOCK SURVEY,
BEAUMONT, JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR
REPEAL AND PROVIDING A PENALTY.
Ordinance No. 96-15 was approved on a motion made by Councilman Cokinos and seconded
by Councilman Smith.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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An Ordinance authorizing a zone change from RS (Residential Single Family) to GC-MD (General
Commercial-Multiple Family) for a lot at 3990 Baldwin at the request of Larry Engelmann who
wished to sell used cars with recommendations for denial by the Planning Director and the
Planning Commission was considered:
ORDINANCE NO.
ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 30
OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF BEAUMONT,
75 February 27, 1996
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 ZONED RS
(RESIDENTIAL SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING) DISTRICT
TO GC-MD (GENERAL COMMERCIAL-MULTIPLE
FAMILY DWELLING) DISTRICT FOR A LOT AT 3990
BALDWIN AT CONCORD ROAD IN BEAUMONT,
JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL AND
PROVIDING A PENALTY.
Councilman Goodson said that he hopes long range plans are considered as Concord Road is
developed because it is similar to what is happening on Calder Avenue and said he will vote
against denial to be consistent. He said he wants to protect the neighborhoods, but wants to allow
the areas to develop. Councilman Davis said he encourages commerce in the area being
considered, but is concerned with retail intrusion into a developed residential neighborhood now,
but said that in the future he would be more receptive. Councilman Smith expressed thoughts that
this is different than on Calder where there are existing businesses and said this would result in
spot zoning in her opinion and would adversely affect the neighborhood. Councilman Cokinos
mentioned other businesses in the area.
The Ordinance was denied on a motion made by Councilman Smith and seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Ames.
Question: Ayes: Mayor Moore Nayes: Councilman Goodson
Mayor Pro Tem Ames
Councilman Cokinos
Councilman Smith
Councilman Davis
Councilman Patterson
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Ordinance No. 96-16 authorizing abandonment of a five-foot-wide street light easement located
between Lots 14 and 15, Block 1, Westhaven Terrace Addition was considered:
ORDINANCE NO. 96-16
ENTITLED AN ORDINANCE ABANDONING A 5' WIDE STREET
LIGHT EASEMENT LOCATED BETWEEN LOTS 14 AND 14, bLOCK
1, WESTHAVEN TERRACE ADDITION IN THE CITY OF BEAUMONT,
JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS.
76 February 27, 1996
Ordinance No. 96-16 was approved on a motion made by Councilman Goodson and seconded
by Councilman Smith.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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Resolution No. 96-57 authorizing a one-year lease agreement with Lamar University's Center for
Industrial Fire and Hazardous Materials Training for use of the equipment and facilities at the
Fire/Rescue Training Center effective September 1, 1996 through August 31, 1997 for a monthly
payment of $20,000 and authorizing a service agreement with the Lamar Center for the 28th
Annual Firefighters Training School scheduled in May of 1997 with the Center receiving 17% of
the gross income from the Training School was approved on a motion made by Councilman
Cokinos and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ames.
Question: Ayes: All Nayes: None
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Resolution No. 96-58 authorizing an annual contract, effective March 1, 1996, with Insurance
Concepts through Zurich-American Insurance Company in the amount of$105,124 to provide
fire, flood and extended coverage property insurance (Buildings, $96,831,950; Contents
($14,937,500; Business Income, $300,000; Valuable Papers, $2,000,000; Computer Hardware,
$3,883,967; Computer Software, $200,000; Boiler & Machinery, $5,000,000) was approved on
a motion made by Councilman Goodson and seconded by Councilman Smith.
Question: Ayes: Mayor Moore Nayes: None
Mayor Pro Tem Ames
Councilman Smith
Councilman Goodson
Councilman Davis
Councilman Patterson
Abstained: Councilman Cokinos
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Mr. John LaBrie discussed the City's Integrated Solid Waste Management System reporting that
it is composed of three components: collections, disposal and recycling. Mr. LaBrie reviewed each
area of his report that is attached to the Minutes and concluded his remarks by requesting future
Council consideration of a proposed simplified weekly recycling program that will be more
convenient for citizens and cost effective for the City. Mr. LaBrie explained the recycling
educational process that can be accomplished through a $90,000 grant received from the South
East Texas Regional Planning Commission.
77 February 27, 1996
Council thanked Mr. LaBrie for his report, complimented his leadership, expressed approval of
weekly recycling collection and emphasized agreement for community education of recycling
benefits.
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Councilman Davis reported that Mrs. Lucille Bennett, 2755 Primer, and Mrs. Briggs, 355 East
Simmons, have sewage and drainage problems that need assistance, announced that on March
6 at 1:30 p.m. an Minority Business Enterprise Conference will be held to provide participation
opportunity and thanked Councilman Cokinos for faithful attendance at neighborhood association
meetings in his Ward. Also, Councilman Davis said he had a very productive meeting for about
an hour and twenty minutes following the Council meeting with members of the Nations of Islam
discussing some of the problems presented to them by Mr. Lee. He said their comments to him
were for Council to do the best they could and keep up the good work.
Mayor Moore shared that the Willie Ray Smith Awards ceremony will be held tonight featuring
former Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker who currently plays for the New York Giants as
the keynote speaker. He said the two top high school athletes in our community will be recognized.
Also, Mayor Moore thanked Target Stores for being a good corporate citizen today through their
scholarship program that gave $1,000 scholarships to two students for their college tuition, by
presenting United Way with a check for$3,000, and providing two buggy loads of teddy bears for
EMS use. Mayor Moore said the Homecoming Celebration at Lamar University this past week was
excellent with lots of activities and special guests and asked that Entergy/GSU be alerted to the
fact that there are no street lights in a two or three block area on 7th Street between the Interstate
and Concord Homes and needs to be illuminated for the safety and convenience of residents at
the complex. Also, Mayor Moore said he was at Concord Homes for Black History Month activities
this past week with Office Don Gordon presiding, Councilman Davis was the speaker, and other
attendees included a HUD representative and Officer Walker and other police officers. He said
they presented an excellent program. Leaving the program, a seven-year-old young man made
him aware of the lighting situation at Concord Homes. Mayor Moore added that part of Mrs. Briggs
problem on East Simmons is damage to a fence caused by the sewage and drainage problems.
He asked that Staff continue to work with her regarding repairs.
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Before opening the microphone for general citizen comments, Mayor Moore extended an invitation
to the teacher or students of Cathedral in the Pines Christian School to address Council with
questions or comments.
Trevor Brock, President of Cathedral Student Council, 4845 Kristina, told Council they come to the
meeting today to better understand Council government and steps they might need to take to make
their school a better place. He said he was most impressed that Council meetings are opened with
78 February 27, 1996
prayer and said he thinks praying for the city is most important.
Mayor Moore explained to the students that the microphone will now be opened for citizen
comments regarding any subject of importance to them, not just the posted agenda items.
Mr. Allen Lee, 5095 Maddox, commented about the Lenten season, his confirmation and instruction
by his priest, spoke of his position on the Civilian Review Board issue, spoke about Black leaders
including Martin Luther King, Jr., Bull Congress, A. Phillip Randolph and Rosa Parks, commented
about an article in the EnterQrise, said he opposed building houses in the Charlton Pollard
neighborhood because it encouraged segregation, claimed the houses should be built in the west
end of town, discussed lawsuits, and said he was giving up attacking remarks about City Council
for the Lent season.
Mr. Raymond Chaisson, 1130 Lamar, said there is no segregation intended with building homes
in the Charlton Pollard neighborhood, said he supports revitalization of the neighborhood and the
only way to do that is through HUD grants. Councilman Davis interjected that homes are being
bought in non-impacted area and HUD is doing a good job and said emphasis is on affordable
housing that will provide opportunity for poor people to own a home. Mr. Chaisson complained that
Martin Manufacturing trucks stop on Irving Street to load and tie up traffic for extended periods,
asked that they be required to put the loading ramp inside the plant yard. He said the street is too
narrow to allow traffic to pass when they load. Mayor Moore advised Mr. Chaisson that Staff would
follow up his request and pursue alternative loading plans with the company.
The Reverend Anthony Perrio, Route 5, Box 526, owner of Perrio Automotive, addressed Council
to relate how enthusiastic the students at Hamshire-Fannett were about Mayor Moore's remarks
to them at the Black History program. He said his daughter immediately began to research the life
of Peter Salem after hearing Mayor Moore speak. He commended the Mayor for inspiring the
young people to dig for an answer. Mayor Moore commented about the eagerness of the children
to learn and the enjoyment he received from the experience.
Ms. Carla Faye Williams Hiltz, 2972 Pine Street, addressed Council to relate an incident of her
arrest on October 9, 1995 because of an encounter with her daughter, claimed abuse by the
arresting police officer at the scene and during her incarceration, said she had physical reactions
after each meal, spoke of flashbacks and other incidents, said she favors a Citizen's Review Board,
discussed a local issue regarding children and stated that she has to pay a contest fee even
though her child proved to be ineligible.
Mr. Jim Doane, 3460 Minglewood Drive, commended Council for patience, spoke about the hours
Mayor Moore has spent becoming knowledgeable about the Police Department and said the Mayor
has a great interest in not only law enforcement, but the citizens of Beaumont. Mr. Doane spoke
of recent honors bestowed upon Mayor Moore by a fraternity, said he is excited about Black History
Month, said he is concerned about Police Officers and the fact they have to make split second
79 February 27, 1996
decisions. He said Beaumont is a leader in the Community Oriented Policing Program and said
Chief Scofield has set a positive trend throughout the State of Texas. Mr. Doane said he has
helped train Police Officers, said the Citizen Police Academy has been very positive over the past
three years and commended Police administration.
The Reverend Samuel Laday, Route 5, Box 557, commended Mayor Moore for coming to the
Hamshire-Fannett School District to speak for Black History Month and said there is still a problem
with Police Officers. The Reverend Laday said because of a request, an individual will not speak
publicly today, but asked that time be made to hear the individual's complaints.
Mr. Charles Johnson, 5080 Helbig Road, thanked a Police Officer from whom he received a letter
today, thanked Councilman Davis for his visit Sunday at Plymouth Village, and complained of
alleged comments made against him on February 10. As Mr. Johnson continued, he used an
illustration where in the past when a Negro attempted to educate their children, plantation masters
would send their head Negro out to discourage them. Mayor Moore addressed Mr. Johnson's
remark by telling him that when he and Councilman Davis spent three hours at Plymouth Village,
they addressed issues, walked the premises, talked and visited with management and shared
concerns with them, but never tried to discouraged anyone from coming to City Hall to express
something that is wrong. He told Mr. Johnson, "The only thing we said is that we need to work
these problems out here with the residents." In reference to the illustration used by Mr. Johnson,
Mayor Moore said, "I would never want to discourage any community that wants to do better and
empower themselves. I have spent my time on this City Council working with people to help make
communities a lot stronger...the only thing I want to see happen is that property improve. During
the dialogue, comments were made from Mr. Lee at the back of the Chambers, and he was advised
that he already had his opportunity to speak and to please control himself. Mr. Lee responded that
he wanted to be kicked out of the meeting so he could file a law suit. Mr. Johnson spoke about
being the Plymouth Village president, voiced allegations against Plymouth Village management,
and told the City Manager that he would like a Police Officer stationed at the school bus stop
because of excessive speeding.
Mr. Tony Sacker, 4635 Elmherst, addressed Council to complain about political signs unlawfully
being placed in rights-of-way and asked Council to assist with penalizing the offenders.
Ms. Gerry Hudson, 1760 Terrell, addressed Council to discuss her feelings toward Police Officers
and various issues.
Mr. Tony Jones, 3715 East Lucas, addressed Council in appreciation for assistance with bus
schedules and routes, suggested recycling efforts at apartment complexes, and thanked Council
for his recent appointment to the Transit Advisory Commission.
Mr. Roberto Flores, 2425 Buchanan, addressed Council regarding the public hearing for the
Consolidated Grant Program and the specific projects, membership of the CDBG Commission
80 February 27, 1996
having only White and Black members with no other Minority represented, spoke in support of a
park close to Fletcher Elementary, referenced the race diversity of a neighborhood and their needs,
and discussed the recent visit of a gentleman from Mexico to Beaumont, and LULAC availability.
Councilmembers commented that they have or have endeavored to appoint Hispanics to a Board
or Commission.
Mr. Lynn DeMary, 430 East Elgie, invited Council to attend the South Park Neighborhood
Association meeting Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and described the flowers in bloom at the South Park
Triangle.
Mr. Buddy Hebert, 295 North Parkway Drive, suggested a large clock be installed to remind
speakers of the time limit, supported removal of unlawful political signs, said he appreciates the
five-minute time limit for speakers and noted that all comments should pertain to City business.
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Councilman Goodson suggested that perhaps City Staff should make political sign information
available for any candidate, said signs in his Ward seem to be legally posted and said that after
March 12, we should endeavor to be consistant with enforcement.
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There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
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1, Barbara Liming, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Beaumont, Texas, certify that the above is a true
copy of the Minutes of the regular City Council session held February 27, 1996.
Barbara Liming
Deputy City Clerk
81 February 27, 1996
CITY OF BEAUMONT
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT
DEPARTMENTAL REPORT
FEBRUARY 23, 1996
INTRODUCTION
In an integrated Solid Waste Management System (ISWMS) there are three (3)
components:
1 . Collections
2. Disposal
3. Recycling
The City of Beaumont's ISWMS includes only single family residential and small
businesses. We do not provide service to multi-family dwelling complexes, large
commercial businesses, or industrial plants. Our system for providing service to our
customers consists of the three (3) components listed above. In this report, we will
discuss the three components, how they work together, and present a new plan for the
improvement of the curbside recycling program.
COLLECTIONS
The city currently provides three collections to 33,000 residential customers and 2,000
small commercial businesses that receive service identical to residential customers.
1 . Garbage - green containers
2. Bulky trash - furniture, appliances, general trash and;
Green waste - lawn trimmings, trees, branches
3. Recyclables - blue bins
GARBAGE COLLECTIONS
Garbage is collected from 90 gallon containers once-a-week by automated garbage
trucks. Following is data related to garbage collection for the period 02/01/95 to
01/31/96:
Residential customers 33,000
Small commercial customers 2,000
Total customers 35,000
Tons collected annually 45,000
Annual collection cost $1,387,000
Annual collection cost per ton 30.82/ton
Amount of monthly bill to pay for collection 3.30/month
ATTACHMENT
In 1992, CDM Engineering, Inc. performed a waste characterization study of
Beaumont's residential waste stream. The study was done under a South East Texas
Regional Planning Commission contract to develop a Regional Solid Waste
Management Plan. The results show the following waste composition:
% OF WASTE BY WEIGHT
Newspaper 10.0*
Corrugated 11.1*
Other paper 9.0*
Piastic,pet & HDPE 2.1*
Plastic, other 4.0***
Food waste 5.2***
Wood 3.6***
Yard waste 17.3**
Metals 1.9***
Steel cans 3.1*
Aluminum cans 1.2*
Glass, clear 9.1*
Glass, other 6.6***
Other 15.7***
TOTAL 100.00
* Recyclable through curbside blue bins (45.7%)
** Recyclable through composting (17.3%)
*** Non-recyclable in Beaumont (37.0%)
Percent of Waste Percent of Waste
By Weight By weight
pp Recyclable,curbside
P lastic.pet&Hppther ar
Plastic,other EE Corrugated
Fo o d waste
Wood
Newspaper
Recycl,compost
Yard waste
Non-recyclable
Other
M elals
A lume"einlum cans
G Glass,other
lass,clear
A-2
The study involved separating waste on residential garbage trucks by type and actually
weighing each type. Note that paper comprises 30.2% and yard waste 17.3% of the
residential waste stream respectfully. A total of 63% of the waste stream can currently
be recycled through blue bins and composting if all were separated.
BULKY TRASH/GREEN WASTE COLLECTION
Bulky trash and large green waste are collected twice-a-month using grappler loading
trucks working with open bed trailers. Materials at the curb is separated by collection
crews. Bulky waste to be landfilled is loaded onto one trailer while large green waste is
loaded onto another trailer. Small containerized green waste is manually collected with
rear loader trucks. This service is provided to residential customers only. Following is
data related to bulky trash/green waste collections for the period 02/01/95 to 01/31/96.
Residential customers 33,000
Tons of bulky trash collected
annually-landfilled 28,000
Tons of green waste collected
annually-composted 28,000
Total tons collected 56,000
Annual collection cost $1,132,300
Annual collection cost/ton 20.22
Amount of monthly bill to
pay for collection 2.70
Currently, approximately 90% of the green waste generated by residential customers is
recycled. Of the 28,000 annual tons processed, 27,000 tons are collected at the curb
by city crews. The other 1,000 tons is hauled by citizens and lawn care businesses.
(50.0%)Bulky trash-landfilled
4
(50.0%)Green waste-composted
A-3
DISPOSAL
The Sub-Title "D" landfill modification is virtually complete. The only remaining item is
approval from the Corp of Engineers for the boundary of five (5) acres of wetlands.
Total cost of the project to date is $312,000. Final cost is estimated to be
approximately $320,000. Volumes of waste entering the landfill during the period
02/01/95 to 01/31/96 were:
TONS %
City of Beaumont residential waste
collected by city crews 101,000 63.9
Residential waste hauled by residents 5,300 3.3
Commercial waste 32,500 20.6
Waste hauled by other city departments 3,200 2.0
La Salle Hotel demolition materials 7,600 4.8
City residential demolition program 7,400 4.7
Others 1,100 .7
TOTAL 158.100 100.00
Final disposition of the above 158,000 tons was:
DISPOSITION TONS %
Landfilled 130,000 82.2
Composted 28,000 17.7
158.000 100.00
DISpOSaI Method of Disposition
Residential, collected
Landfilled
Others
lil
Resid demolition
La Salle
City departments Composted
Residential, hauled
Commercial
A-4
Approximately 26.17% of waste entering the landfill is from the commercial waste
stream (non-residential) and 17.7% of everything entering the gate is composted. The
landfill's operating budget for F.Y. '96 is $1,161 ,200. The budget includes landfill
operations and compost operations. Following is a budget distribution:
BUDGET %
Landfill operations $1,011,200 87.1
Compost operations 50,000 12.9
TOTAL 1,161.200 100.00
Current processing cost for the two components are:
Landfill ($1,011,200= 130,000 tons) $7.78/ton
Compost ($150,000 _ 28,000 tons) 5.36/ton
The above processing cost is pre-Sub-Title "D" cost. The first Sub-Title "D" cell will not
be constructed until the summer of 1997. Cell preparation cost is estimated to be
$175,000 per acre. At the current volume of waste being buried, we are using four (4)
acres of space annually. This would add $700,000/year to operating cost. Following is
estimated processing cost when Sub-Title "D" cells are used (inflation is not included in
the calculation):
F.Y. '96 landfill operating cost $1,011,200
4 acres of Sub-Title "D" cost 700,000
Operating cost after Sub-Title "D" $1 711,200
Landfill ($1,711 ,200 = 130,000 tons) $ 13.16/ton
Composting ($150,000 _ 28,000 tons) 5.36/ton
Budget Dist I Processing cost
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10
■Pre-Subtitle D
y ■Sub-title D
Compost
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Landfdl Compostr:g
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The cost per ton to compost is today is $2.42/ton less than the cost per ton to bury.
After Sub-Title "D", landfill cost will increase by 69% while compost cost remains
virtually the same. Collection cost of materials composted is not a factor because
collection cost is incurred whether the material is hauled to the landfill or to the
compost operation which is located on the landfill property. The diversion of green
waste from the landfill saves 17.7% of space which will increase the life of the landfill
by 17.7%. The processing cost and landfill space savings makes composting a very
efficient and economical disposal method for 27.7% of residential waste.
RECYCLING
Curbside recycling collection is provided bi-weekly to 33, 000 residential customers.
Prior to April 1 , 1995, collection service was provided weekly on the same day of
garbage collection. Following is a comparison of the last 12 months of weekly and the
first 10 months of bi-weekly collections:
COLLECTION FREQUENCY
WEEKLY BI-WEEKLY
Number of households 33,000 33,000
Set out rate 33% 24%
Participation rate 54% 28%
Average monthly collections 200 tons 150 tons
Average per set-out (Ibs) 36.7 37.9
Average cost per month $45,000 $26,000
Collection cost per ton $225/ton $173/ton
12 month period ended March 31, 1995
** 10 month period ended January 31, 1996
As can be seen from the above comparison, after the change in collection frequency,
volume went from 200 tons to 150 tons per month, participation went from 54% to 28%,
and set-out went from 33% to 24%.
Although 48% of the households stopped recycling, volume and set-out declined by
only 25% and 27% respectfully, indicating that marginal recyclers discontinued their
efforts while avid recyclers continued.
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The most frequent reasons given for not recycling are:
1 . Too much material accumulates in two weeks
2. Bin not large enough
3. Can't keep track of recycling day
4. Not enough space to store materials for two weeks.
Based upon the above, convenience for residents is the key to success and many
residents consider bi-weekly collection inconvenient.
The city and citizens of Beaumont could realize benefits from a successful recycling
program. As shown by the waste characterization study discussed earlier, 45.7% of
what's in residential garbage cans is recyclable with 30.2% of that being paper. 30.2%
of the 45,000 annual tonnage is 13,600 tons of paper.
CURRENT PRO - FORMA
Monthly tons 150 200 300
Waste diverted from
green cans 4% 5.3% 8.0%
Increase in tons -- 33% 100%
Annual volume (tons) 1,800 2,400 3,600
Annual revenue ($40/ton) $72,000 $96,000 $144,000
Landfill avoidance cost
after Sub-Title "D" ($13.16/ton) $23,700 $31,600 $47,400
Landfill avoidance cost plus
annual revenue $95,700 $127,600 $191,400
Cost of collections $312,000 $312,000 $362,000
Net cost $216,300 $184,400 $170,600
Net cost per ton $120.16 $76.83 $47.39
Market prices currently being paid for recyclables is low. In August/September of 1995,
the $40/ton price used above was $100/ton. Experts predict that market prices for
paper will increase in the second quarter although not to the levels of
August/September 1995.
NEW PLAN FOR RECYCLING
To increase the volume of materials recycled, we must:
1 . Educate the public to the need for recycling and the benefits
2. Make recycling simple
3. Make recycling convenient.
The educational process will be accomplished with a $90,000 grant from the South
East Texas Regional Planning Commission ($115,000 was requested and $90,000 was
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awarded). This money will be used for a professionally developed and conducted
public media campaign designed to increase recycling awareness and to increase
participation in the curbside program. In accordance with the grant requirements and
our grant proposal, the campaign will have a regional flavor.
Recycling will be made simple by stressing the need to recycle paper. As discussed
earlier, 30.2% of what's in garbage cans is paper and today we can recycle virtually all
paper. Paper does not require any processing, the only requirement is to place it in
the blue bin rather that the green can.
Convenience will entail once-a-week collection on the same day that garbage is
collected which is easy to remember. Dependable service will be provided by city
crews. Increasing participation and set-out rates with weekly collection will mean more
bins at the curb and more distance to drive. We feel that we can increase to 225 tons
collected per month without additional personnel. Anything above that volume will
possibly require two (2) additional collection personnel. Equipment should be
adequate to handle 300 tons/month of recyclables considering we have the trailers that
were used prior to receipt of the recycling trucks. Any additional cost would be offset by
additional revenue resulting in a lower net cost.
SUMMARY
The city is providing all residential waste collection and disposal services. As we move
into the future, recycling should be an integral part of waste management because it
will make good business sense as well as good environmental sense.
50% of the residential heavy trash/green waste is now being recycled. This saves in
excess of one (1) acre of landfill space a year. There is great potential to recycle a
significant amount of waste now collected in green garbage cans, in particular, paper
which represents about 30%. Currently 4% of residential waste is collected in the
curbside program.
The curbside recycling program experienced a decline in all measurable aspects when
collection went to bi-weekly. We attribute that to "inconvenience to citizens." The
proposed new recycling program will address the needs required to make the program
more beneficial.
To begin the new program we are requesting that curbside recycling be changed to
weekly collection.
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