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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN JAN 08 2002 M I N U T E S - CITY OF BEAUMONT Lulu L.Smith DAVID W. MOORE, MAYOR Guy N.Goodson, Mayor Pro Tern Andrew P. Cokinos CITY COUNCIL MEETING Becky Ames Bobbie J. Patterson January 8,2002 Audwin Samuel Lane Nichols,City Attorney Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager Barbara Liming, City Clerk The City Council of the City of Beaumont, Texas, met in a regular session on January 8, 2002, at the City Hall Council Chambers, 801 Main Street, Beaumont, Texas, at 1:30 p.m. to consider the following: OPENING Invocation Pledge of Allegiance Roll Call Presentations and Recognition Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items Consent Agenda Mayor Pro Tern Goodson called the meeting to order at 1:31 p.m. City Attorney Lane Nichols gave the invocation. Councilmember Cokinos led the pledge of allegiance. Present atthe meeting were: Mayor Pro Tem Goodson,Councilmembers Smith,Cokinos,Ames, Samuel, and Patterson. (Mayor Moore was absent.) Also present were Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager; Lane Nichols, City Attorney; and Terri Hanks, Administrative Assistant. Mayor Pro Tern Goodson extended Mayor Moore's apology for not being present due to a company meeting in Houston, and announced work session comments could be made during the public comment section and future work sessions would be held in the Executive Office. Presentations and Recognitions Police Chief Tom Scofield announced SWAT officers Lieutenant Pat O'Quinn, Jerry LaChance, Keith Briener,and Randy Moss, Sergeants Mike Wickland,and Ky Brown,Specialist Scott Apple, and himself were given a unique opportunity to train police officers in Brazil. He gave a PowerPoint presentation of their experiences in Brazil, explained four disciples of SWAT were taught, covert entry, hostage rescue, low light and combat shooting to members of CATI, Center for Advanced Immobilization Techniques, as shown in Exhibit "A." Police Chief Scofield spoke of being very proud of the SWAT members work, their enthusiasm, knowledge and professionalism, and spoke of long working days, difficulties working through interpreters, and being well received by the Brazilians. Mayor Pro Tern Goodson expressed appreciation to Police Chief Scofield and the SWAT members for being great emissaries of the City, and spoke of other law enforcement organizations recognizing the superior training and being an export to other countries as a world wide business. While attending an Amelia Neighborhood Association meeting, Mayor Pro Tern Goodson commented there were discussions on domestic terrorism issues and the level of concern that has been raised since the recent Fall events, and he expressed appreciation to the police department's efforts on behalf of the community. Public Comment: Persons may speak on scheduled agenda items. Mr. Michael Getz, 1190 Shakespeare,member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, addressed Council to express appreciation to Councilmember Smith for the appointment and for the opportunity to serve the citizens. Mr. Getz explained the process of prioritization and urged Council consideration for the committee's recommendations. He recognized Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee members, Mr. Gary Celli, Mr. George Jackson, and Mr. George Chute who were in attendance. Mr. Gary Celli, 2095 Howell, member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee addressed Council in support of a Pony League Park and believed a city the size of Beaumont should have a Pony League Park. Mr. Celli spoke of a void for 13 and 14-year-old ball players having to travel or using other facilities, suggested using playing fields at the Municipal Complex for Pony League weekend tournaments throughout the Summer, and as a Pony League representative stated their commitment of working together to address the many options. Mr. Roberto Flores, 2425 Buchanan, President of the Avenues Neighborhood Association, addressed Council concerning Work Session Item 2, quoted from the College Street Avenues Neighborhood Plan, Parks and Recreation Open Space Section, "to provide safe and attractive cultural, social and recreational facilities for the residents of the area." He commented Fletcher Park has problems with excessive loitering and criminal activities which pose a dangerous situation to neighborhood residents, and the park is too small to serve as a neighborhood park. Mr. Flores spoke of rectifying two proposals, the demolition of existing structures for additional space and park operations in conjunction with BISD. He stated the neighborhood association is requesting a larger space for cultural activities, enhancement of the Old Spanish Trail area, removal of the park benches and replacement with playground equipment, relocation of the existing platform, new lighting with lighting assessment made at night, and an earlier curfew of 10:00 p.m. unless there is a function. Mr. Jude Paredez, 920 Wisteria, addressed Council concerning Police Chief Scofield's presentation and spoke in agreement of a reduced curfew and suggested a 9:00 a.m. curfew. Consent Agenda Approval of minutes - December 18, 2001 Confirmation of committee appointments - Appointments: Carolyn Howard, Convention and Tourism Advisory Board, term expiring January 7, 2004 - Resolution No. 02-001 A) Approve funding in the amount of $25,000 for the Partnership of Southeast Texas - Resolution No. 02-002 B) Authorize the City Manager to execute an Industrial District Contract with Slamback Partners - Resolution No. 02-003 C) Approve a resolution waiving the application for funds available to the City of Beaumont through the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant and to designate Jefferson County, Texas as the governmental recipient (of $76,563 in funds while agreeing to Minutes January 8,2002 Page 2 participate in the Juvenile Crime Enforcement Coalition under the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant) - Resolution No. 02-004 D) Approve an extension to the contract(until March 31, 2002)between the City of Beaumont and the Charlton-Pollard Neighborhood Association, Inc. (in the amount of$375,700 for the construction or reconstruction of up to five (5) homes) - Resolution 02-005 Councilmember Samuel moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Pro Tern Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None GENERAL BUSINESS 1. Consider a request for a tax exemption for the "Coale Building" at 461-469 Bowie Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve Resolution No. 02-006 for a tax exemption for the"Coale Building"at 100%of the pre-renovation value for a period of ten (10)years. Councilmember Smith seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Pro Tern Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None 2. Consider authorizing the City Manager to execute Change Order No. 1 related to the rehabilitation contract for the wastewater digester system Councilmember Smith moved to approve Resolution No. 02-007 authorizing Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $104,938 to the contract for rehabilitation of the digester system with Allco, Inc. Councilmember Cokinos seconded the motion.MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Pro Tern Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None 3. Consider approving the purchase of equipment for use at the Water Reclamation Plant Councilmember Cokinos moved to approve Resolution No. 02-008 awarding contracts to: Houston Service Industries in the amount of $219,200 for multistage centrifugal blowers; US Filter, Envirex Products d.b.a. Envirex, Inc. in the amount of $92,000 for coarse bubble aeration equipment; and Allco, Inc. in the amount of$138,000 for stainless steel pipe. Councilmember Ames seconded the motion. MOTION PASSED. Minutes January 8,2002 Page 3 Ayes: Mayor Pro Tern Goodson, Councilmembers Smith, Cokinos, Ames, Samuel, and Patterson Noes: None WORK SESSION Mayor Pro Tern Goodson requested the order of work sessions be rearranged and to proceed with discussion of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee recommendations. Review Proposed Park Improvements City Manager Bonczek commented four acres of Central Park was sold to Baptist Memorial Herman Hospital realizing $575,000 for park improvements, and the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee has submitted park improvement priorities which include renovations of the Athletic Complex Tennis Courts estimated at$300,000, construction of three water playgrounds estimated at $150,000, partnership with BISD on Fletcher Park estimated at $75,000 which is open for discussion because of the park being unaccessible to the community, and modification of an existing softball field for the Pony League estimated at $50,000 as shown in Exhibit"B." Councilmember Ames extended appreciation to the Parks and Recreation Committee for their recommendations,because of past maintenance to the tennis courts she questioned the life span of the proposed renovation and the current usage of the facility, and was not in favor of the Fletcher Park partnership with BISD if the park is not accessible to the neighborhood and expressed interest in Mr. Flores' park improvement suggestions. City Manager Bonczek responded that every possible correction effort has been made to address the seepage problem at the tennis courts, stated there would be more community interest if the courts were in better condition, and would certainly review the suggestions of removing the benches, relocating the platform, and additional lighting in Fletcher Park. Public Works Director Tom Warner reported the condition of the tennis courts prevents serious play, there is an opportunity for the tennis courts to become a revenue generator similar to the softball fields, particularly the senior circuit, and believed the improvements would benefit the community. Councilmember Smith commented there are few public tennis courts and most of the private courts are not accessible to children, spoke of the tennis court flaws since the original construction and the improvement expenditures, supported proceeding with the tennis court improvements because of the need and the revenue generation, and expressed agreement with Councilmember Ames concerning Fletcher Park. Councilmember Samuel expressed agreementwith Councilmembers concerning the tennis court renovations, and recalled when tennis tournaments were very successful just as the softball tournaments have proven to be a financial asset. Councilmember Samuel was not in favor of purchasing park equipment at the Fletcher School location while having the area unaccessible to the residents of the neighborhood, and was convinced there is a desperate need for changes and recommended designating the advisory committee's allocated funds to the Fletcher neighborhood to explore other alternatives. Minutes January 8,2002 Page 4 Councilmember Patterson stated concerns regarding renovating the tennis courts, past renovations in 1976, 1985, and 1991, requested explanation of the procedure, and suggested inclusion of$35,000 for improvements to Alice Keith kitchen area because of usage. Public Works Director Tom Warner believed the original construction of the courts was too low, over the years hydrostatic water pressure comes up through the cracks, and explained the French drains were constructed to remove the water from underneath the courts, a fabric surface was added, and the tennis courts have outlived their useful life. Mr. Warner proposed construction of a 4" to a 6" concrete slab on top of the existing courts with a fabric and asphalt overlay between the existing court and the new concrete, and a post tensioning slab with cables that are pulled tight for a better surface. Mayor Pro Tern Goodson extended appreciation to the members of the committee, commented all the projects recommended by the various groups are important and worthy projects, especially for the neighborhoods without parks, and understood the difficulties of prioritization. He joined members of Council in appreciation of collaboration efforts with the BISD, concurred with the need to further evaluate the expenditures to benefit the community and carefully analyze the liability issues, and hoped to continue to work in collaboration with BISD in other capacities. Council supported the recommendations of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee with the exception of Fletcher Park and requested the matter be presented at the next regular meeting. Central Business District Parking Study City Manager Bonczek introduced discussion of the study of the free parking system, the cost of enforcement, on-site parking survey conducted to determine turnover, verification of the operational status of the meters, benchmark data from other cities, feasibility of coin operated meters, and adjustment of fine amounts as shown in Exhibit "C." Public Work Director Tom Warner explained the existing program has approximately 150 meters which are one-hour and two-hour meters, and there were 30-minute meters before the construction began on Crockett Street near the Entertainment District and near the post office which have been removed. He reported there is an enforcement officer and a meter repair person assigned to the parking control program along with other duties, approximately $45,000 in revenue was collected in FY 2000 with estimates of$15,800 in uncollected fines, and Municipal Court past years records estimate $81,000 in unpaid parking citations. Public Works Director Tom Warner reported comparisons with other communities showed the City being among the lowest in fine structure except in the loading category, the results of the survey showed the parking meters do work to create turnover, and with the additional activity in the downtown area, meters will be needed in order to ensure the proper turnover and the availability of on street spaces for customers and clients. Mr. Warner recommended the reinstatement of fees for parking while establishing additional 30-minute zones charging $.25, a one-hour meter at $.50, and a two-hour meter at $1.00, further analyzing the parking activity to ensure the time limits correlate with anticipated use of the property, and reevaluation of the parking fine rate structure to generate approximately $60,000 in additional revenue. For the record, Mayor Pro Tern Goodson questioned the accessibility of other parking facilities in the City, and requested discussion on the procedure when there is no activity at the parking area North of the Convention Center. Public Works Director Warner responded a box is used to insert Minutes January 8,2002 Page 5 money and it is based on the honor system, and Lee Parking has a contractual agreement to manage the lot. Mayor Pro Tem Goodson commented it is $3.00 per day and is less expensive than most other competitive parking lots, and there are other parking facilities downtown besides street parking. He spoke of the no fee parking being a wonderful plan to stimulate growth in the downtown area, but thanks to the efforts of many people, there are many additional venues underway and it has become more of a detriment than a benefit to continue, and encouraged businesses to make appropriate use of the on street parking for customers. Public Works Director Warner mentioned there would be no fees for parking after 5:00 p.m., weekends and holidays, and there are new technologically advanced meters available and depending on the cost would be presented to Council for consideration. Councilmember Smith expressed appreciation for the longer parking time frames, because she has received many complaints of the time not being sufficient, and was in favor of the meter being tailored to the activity. Councilmember Samuel expressed appreciation to staff for a very explanatory study. Council was in agreement of the proposed parking fees and fines and requested submittal at the next regular meeting. COMMENTS * Councilmembers comment on various matters Mayor Pro Tern Goodson extended appreciation to Parks Manager Lewis Hiltpold and staff from the Amelia Neighborhood Association for their hard work at the new Perlstein Park, commented he is are looking forward to a ribbon cutting and requested the ribbon cutting be conducted on a Saturday to accommodate a number of citizens who have been instrumental to the project. * City Manager's Report City Manager Bonczek reported receiving a$2,000 donation from Williams Fire&Hazard Control for the City's hospitality during their recent visit to the Fire Training Center and extended appreciation to Fire Chief Micky Bertrand, Chief Charles Mullins and Chief AnnHuff for doing an outstanding job. Mr. Bonczek distributed the Partnership and Governance 2002 workbooks to Council for a meeting 11:30 a.m., on January 15, 2002, at Tyrrell Park Garden Center. Mayor Pro Tern Goodson mentioned that the Partnership and Governance meeting provides an opportunity to review goals and challenges for the community, the meeting will be held in lieu of a Council meeting, and clarified that discussions held today would be brought before Council on the next regular Council meeting, January 22, 2002. * Public Comment (Persons are limited to three (3) minutes). Mr. Robert Preston, 1190 Iowa Street, addressed Council to voice his opinion of the City Clerk's Questys records retrieval system, complained photographs maintained on digital storage are in black, white, and no mid-tones, questioned if the documents are legally admissible in Court, and voiced complaints of open record requests. Minutes January 8,2002 Page 6 EXECUTIVE SESSION Consider matters related to contemplated or pending litigation in accordance with Section 551.071 of the Government Code: Claim of Margaret King Joyce McKinney d.b.a. Classic Kid Learning Academy There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 2:44 p.m. JVt"1AJ Guy N. Goodson, Mayor Pro Tem Terri Hanks, Administrative Assistant Minutes January 8,2002 Page 7 INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM City of Beaumont,Texas A EL Police Department Date: January 3,2002 To: Stephen J. Bonczek,City Manager From: Tom Scofield,Chief of Police Subject: Brazilian Training COMMENTS In June of 2001,a group of Brazilian police officers came to Beaumont to give a class to our SWAT team on immobilization methods. This class taught officers different methods of dealing with violent persons without using night sticks or physical force against them. Our SWAT officers were so impressed with the training,we ask:."'!Lea, t�,ass.,`u ai,i some of our pate of officers. it H as during this time,that many of the Beaumont-SWAT officers formed a friendship with the Brazilian officers which resulted in our SWAT team being invited to Brazil to give some of our SWAT training to them. In Brazil,once police officers finish the academy,the government can no longer legally train them. They must rely on private companies to train the officers in any advanced methods of law enforcement. These four officers were not allowed to train other Brazilian officers while they were working as officers. Capt.Marcos Do Val, Evandro Cora,Marco Vinesus De Andrada and Mauro Cosa decided to form a group known as CATI,Center for Advanced Immobilization Techniques. This small group works with all law enforcement in Brazil teaching them different police techniques. It is the first group of off duty police officers to be allowed to train other Brazilian police officers. CATI has worked with many police departments here in the United States learning police methods to take back to Brazil. They could have asked any police department to come to Brazil,but they asked the Beaumont Police Department to do training in their country. Mr.Do Val told me that the Beaumont Police Department was by far, one of the most professional departments he had been to in the United States. For us,this was a tremendous compliment. On November 301,six Beaumont SWAT officers,one Patrol Officer and myself traveled to Brazil to conduct 5 days of SWAT training. Lt. Pat O'Quinn, Sergeants Ky Brown,Mike Wickland,Specialist Scott Apple,Officers Jerry LaChance,Randy Moss, and Keith Breiner taught 120 Brazilian officers techniques of dynamic entry, Covert entry,close quarter combat, and low light tactics. The Brazilian people were excellent hosts and we were treated like"family"as one officer put it. It was a great feeling to know that in some small way,we have helped fellow police officers. The Brazilian officers were enthusiastic throughout the training which made each of us feel we had accomplished what we set out to do. It was a great trip. EXHIBIT "A" CITY OF BEAUMONT low nif PUBLIC WORKS INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM � � L DATE: December 13, 2 TO: Stephen J. Bonczek,City Manager FROM: Tom Warner, Public Works Director SUBJECT: PARKS&RECREATION ADVISORY I 1 6 r COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS COMMENTS The December 11, City Council agenda included a recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee regarding the use of the proceeds from the sale of a portion of Central Park.The committee recommended to City Council that the$575,000 of proceeds be allocated to the following projects: • Renovation of Athletic Complex Tennis Courts $300,000 • Construct Three Water Playgrounds 150,000 • Partnership with BISD on Fletcher Park 75,000 • Modify Existing Softball Field for Pony League Use 50,000 During the City Council meeting, several questions were raised concerning the original twelve projects reviewed by the committee and a more detailed description of the projects recommended was requested. The twelve projects reviewed by the committee included: • Renovation of Athletic Complex Tennis Courts $300,000 • Construct Three Water Playgrounds at Sprott, Rogers and Central Park 50,000/each • Renovate Playgrounds at Babe Zaharias,Magnolia and Cottonwood 70,000/each • Renovate Babe Zaharis Walking Path 80,000 • Renovate Alice Keith Building Kitchen/Plumbing 35,000 • Use As Match for Collier's Ferry Phase H 250,000+ • Enlarge Fletcher Mini-Park&Provide New Facilities 575,000 • Renovate Walking Path at Wuthering Heights 75,000 • Replace Softball Lighting at Athletic Complex 75,000 • Pony League Baseball Field 300,000 EXHIBIT "B" To:Steve J.Bonczek From:Tom Warner Subject:Parks&Recreation Advisory Committee Recommendations Pg2of2 • Install New Walking Path at Perlstein Park 180,000 • Replace Hard Surface Covers on Four Basketball Courts 70,000/each Installing air conditioning at the large Recreation Building at Tyrrell Park was considered by was not included in the above list due to the potential modifications to the structure and the potential impact on the architectural integrity and historical importance of the structure as it now exists. A more detailed description is enclosed for each project. Please contact me if additional information is required. Tom Warner PROPOSED PARK IMPROVEMENTS Tennis Court Renovation( Athletic Complex) The existing eight (8) courts were constructed in 1976. As the courts aged and began to crack, groundwater seepage began to occur as hydraulic pressure created water, through expansion joints and cracks, to stand on the courts. Several renovations were made over the years in an attempt to alleviate this condition. A French drain was constructed around the entire perimeter in 1985. In 1991, a reinforced fabric (Supreme Court)was installed. The material is designed to allow water to move through channels in the underside of the material to the outer edges ofthe courts. This surfacing was removed in 1999 on the back four courts and all eight courts were cleaned, sealed, and then two water-based polyurethane paint coats were applied. The courts were also re striped. The groundwater seepage onto the courts has continued to occur and now requires renovation or removal of the courts. The most economical solution is to install a post tension surface over the existing concrete surface. This surface will alleviate the water seepage and provide a first class tennis facility for Beaumont tennis participants and allow for tennis tournaments to return to our community. The estimated cost to renovate the eight courts at the Athletic Complex is $300,000. New courts, including lighting, and demolition of the existing courts is estimated to cost $450,000. Water Playgrounds The installation of water playgrounds are proposed for Sprott, Rogers and Central Parks. The cost of the new water playground installed on Perlstein Park in the Amelia Neighborhood was as follows: • Water feature $36,000 • Concrete skirt 4,000 • Electrical service 5,000 • ADA access 2,000 • Grass sod 1,000 • Installation 5,000 • Total cost $53,000 Additional elements, such as a water recycling unit, cost approximately$5,000 per unit. Renovate Playgrounds at Babe Zaharias, Magnolia and Cottonwood The wooden play structures located on these parks have deteriorated and require replacement. Replacement parts are no longer available and equipment has been removed because of vandalism. Improvements to these playgrounds would include new equipment and ADA accessible surfacing and new sidewalks. The useful life of playground equipment is generally ten (10)years. The equipment on these parks is fifteen(15)years in age or more. The estimated cost for a playground is$70,000. Renovate Walking Paths at Babe Zaharias & Wuthering Heights The slag material used for the path at Babe Zaharias Park has deteriorated and no longer available as a replacement. The recommended replacement surface is an asphalt surface with a stabilized base. This design would match the walking path at Central Park. The estimated cost is $80,000. The Missouri base material on the path at Wuthering Heights has collapsed and new material is required. An asphalt surface with stabilized base is also recommended. The estimated cost is $75,000. Renovate Alice Keith Building Kitchen/Plumbing The kitchen facilities require renovation to better serve the public. The estimated cost to modify the kitchen facilities, plumbing fixtures, and installing a fire prevention system is $35,000. Use as a Match for Collier's Ferry Phase H The Park, Recreation, and Open Space Element of the Comprehensive plan recommends the expansion of Collier's Ferry Recreation Area. Phase II of the master plan includes picnic areas, additional shelters, parking and trails, an observation tower, a ramp for personal water craft, and other site improvements.Grants from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department could afford matching funds up to $500,000, making the improvements a $1,000,000 project. Partnership with BISD on Fletcher Mini-park Fletcher was constructed as a mini park to provide a park site for the neighborhood. Current resources are not available to acquire additional property in the vicinity of the existing site. A partnership with the school district is proposed that would provide for the installation of playground equipment on the Fletcher School site. The playground would be available for use by the school during the day and would be available to the neighborhood after school hours. The estimated cost of a new park is$575,000 while the cost to install playground equipment at Fletcher School is$75,000 Replace Softball Lighting at Athletic Complex In 1998, a lighting survey was conducted on the softball fields at the Athletic Complex. The existing lights create shadows which makes it difficult to see fly balls. The existing light standards are not tall enough to provide the recommended lighting. The estimated cost to replace the lighting is$75,000. Modify Existing Softball Field for Pony League Use The Beaumont Youth Baseball Association has requested a pony league field with an outfield of 310 feet. The most economical means to accomplish this request is to modify one of the existing fast- pitch softball fields on complex III at the Athletic Complex. A baseball field requires a turf infield while a slow pitch softball field requires a soil infield. A review is underway to determine if a portable synthetic surface for the infield is feasible. Estimates indicate the proposed field would be used by the association for seventy-five(75) days for league and tournament play. Perlstein Park Walking Path The master plan for Perlstein includes a walking path around the perimeter of the park. The A.C.O.R.N. neighborhood association requested the path for the original project, but funds were available. This improvement is included in phase Il of the project. The estimated cost to provide an asphalt surface with a stabilized base is $180,000. Replace Hard Surface Covers on Four Basketball Courts The following parks have covered hard surface areas: Alice Keith, Athletic Complex, Central, Cottonwood, Halbouty, Jacobs Street, Liberia, Magnolia, Pine Street, Rogers, Sprott, and Tyrrell. The supports and roof structure have aged and require replacement on Cottonwood, Liberia, Magnolia,Pine Street,Rogers,and Sprott. The estimated cost to replace these structures is$70,000 each. Air Condition Recreation Building at Tyrrell Park Major modifications to the structure would be required in order to insure an efficient system capable of cooling the recreation building. The doors and windows would require modification and the installation of insulation would also be required. These modifications would severely change the architectural integrity and historical importance of the structure. Any modifications to the building would require approval from the various historical agencies prior to commencement of any work.The estimated cost to install the air-conditioning system and modifications to the building is$200,000. CITY OF BEAUMONT PUBLIC WORKS INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM EL DATE: January 4,2002 TO: Stephen J. Bonczek, City Manager FROM: Tom Warner, Public Works Director SUBJECT: CBD PARKING STUDY COMMENTS The Transportation Division has recently completed a parking study to determine the effectiveness of the free parking meter concept in the Downtown area. Also included in this study is a review of the operation and maintenance of the parking meters and the costs associated with the parking enforcement program. A copy of this report is attached for your review. This survey, initiated in August 2001, includes data compiled as a result of on-site parking surveys conducted during a thirty (30) day period and verification of the operational status of all 149 parking meters in the downtown area.Additionally,on-street parking data,from twenty(20)cities comparable in size to Beaumont,was compiled as a basis for comparison to Beaumont's current parking control program. The results of the study reveal that parking duration times increase beyond the time limits and parking space availability rates are significantly lower in the areas where parking is not metered. It is recommended that metered parking remain and that coin operated meters be reintroduced to assure parking space availability.Also,it is recommended that the parking citation fine rates be increased as proposed during the budget process. The revenues generated by the reintroduction of coin-operated meters and the proposed increase in parking citation fines will be sufficient offset the costs associated with the program. The Public Works Department will provide a summary of the study to City Council during the Work Session of the January 8, Council meeting. Tom Warner EXHIBIT"C" C.B.D. Parking Program Review and Study Results Background The Transportation Division conducted a study to evaluate the current Central Business District (CBD) panting program. The principal issues addressed in this study were the effectiveness ofthe free parking meter concept,the operation and maintenance ofthe parking meters, and the costs associated with the parking enforcement program. Study Procedures Parking meters at sample locations in the CBD were covered during August 2001,in an effort to determine the effectiveness ofthe free metered parking program. The parking meters were covered along a two (2) block section of Liberty Street, and a one block section of Bowie Street. Hourly inventories of the vehicles parked at these meters were conducted weekdays between the hours of 8:00 a.m.and 5:00 p.m.by recording partial license plate numbers. For comparison purposes,parked vehicles at uncovered meters on Forsythe Street and at the non metered spaces on Pearl Street were also inventoried. Upon completion of this month-long parking inventory,results were tabulated to determine parking space occupancy and parking duration. The mechanical operation of the parking meters was also reviewed during this time frame. Approximately ten(10) parking meters were removed for the CBD at a time and replaced with parking meters known to be operating properly. The removed meters were then tested to determine proper operation. Meter timing was tested using an electronic digital stopwatch. Meters found to be short-timing were adjusted to time properly. Meters found to be timing slow,effectively giving motorists 3 to 5 extra minutes,were deemed as functioning properly and not adjusted. If timing was slower than the 5 minute tolerance,the meters were adjusted as needed. Test results were recorded,repairs were made as needed and these meters were then utilized to replace the next ten (10) parking meters to be tested. This procedure was repeated until all 149 parking meters in the CBD were evaluated. !'he existing parking citation fine structure,which has been in place for many years,was also evaluated. As a part of this evaluation, twenty (20) Texas cities, comparable in size to Beaumont or larger, were contacted and surveyed to determine their respective parking citation fines for over parking, parking in a no parking zone, and parking in a fire zone. Study Results Areas in which the parking meters were covered or not present at all,experienced lower rates of parking space turnover and more frequent occurrences of multi hour parking. As shown inAttachmentA,parking duration rates and the percent ofvehicles exceeding time limits were significantly higher at meters that were covered. It should be noted that a significant percentage of these vehicles occupied the same space for the entire daily study period. The lower parking duration rate found in the area where parking meters were not covered is an indicator that metered parking does encourage parking space turnover. This turnover increases the availability of curb side parking for patrons of businesses in the downtown area. The parking meter repair summary, identified as Attachment B, indicates the malfunctions found during the parking meter mechanical operation review. As indicated in the summary, 27 of the 149 parking meters tested were found to be malfimctioning, resulting in a malfunction rate of 18%. The majority of malfunctions resulted from coins or other objects inserted into the coin slots of the meters jamming the mechanism and rendering the meter inoperative. Of the seventeen(17)meter found to be jammed,eleven(11)were found to have coins or other objects in the mechanisms.The placement of covers over these slots has proven to be ineffective. A survey of cities that utilize parking meters and their parking fine structure was conducted in October 2001,and is summarized in Attachment C. The survey revealed only one other city with a fine structure as low as Beaumont. The findings indicate that fifteen(15) cities are presently utilizing parking meters and that parking fine rates varied considerably. Over parking fine rates varied from$3.00 to$20.00,while fines for parking in a no parkingAoading zone varied from $5.00 to $30.00. Parking in a fire zone resulted in fines ranging from $10.00 to $280.00. The remaining five (5) cities indicated that while they do not presently utilize parking meters,they do however enforce time limits by marking tires. The average fine structure rate of the cities surveyed is as follows: Over parking $10.20 Loading zone violation $16.31 Fire zone violation $55.82 In most instances, a doubling of the fine was used as a penalty for late payment. Recommendation It is recommended that metered parking remain in the CBD area. The free meter concept, while being convenient to patrons of downtown establishments, does have drawbacks. The free meter concept has resulted in an increase in narkin-a duration rates and thus,a reduction in parking space turnover rates. Additionally, it is difficult to convey to motorists the operational concept of the free parking meter in the limited space available on the meter. The modifications necessary to convert the meters to free operation have resulted in meter malfumctions. Coins or other foreign objects inserted into the meters render them inoperable and have caused nearly half of the reported malfunctions. The reinstatement of the coin operated meters would encourage turnover, lower the number of meter malfunctions and increase revenue. Parking rates are easily indicated on the meters and would reduce the confusion now associated with the free parking program. .y Municipal Court activity reports indicate that 4,645 parking citations were issued in Fiscal Year(FY)2001. Seventy-four(74) percent of these citations were either paid or dismissed resulting in a revenue of$44,913. Uncollected revenue on the remaining twenty-six(26) percent of the citations issued in 2001 is an estimated $15,800. Currently, outstanding or uncollected parking fines total $81,750. Efforts to improve the collection rate on unpaid parking citations and increasing the amount of the fine structure would increase revenues an additional $60,000 annually. It is anticipated that increasing the fine structure would discourage parking violations, further increasing on-street parking availability. The recommended fine structure is as follows: Existing fine Proposed fine • Over parking $3 ($6 after five days) $10($20 after five days) • No Parking Zone $10($20 after five days) $15 ($30 after five days) • Fire Zone $10($20 after five days) $40($70 after five days) Summary The average duration of vehicle parking and the percentage of vehicles exceeding the time Tlk Emits was observed to be higher in areas where parking meters were covered. The absence of parking meters resulted in even higher rates of noncompliance. The subsequent parking demand created by the new growth of entertainment activities proposed and currently under construction in the CBD will be best addressed by metered parking. The importance of convenient parking cannot be overstated and metered parking will help insure parking space availability rates at a Ievel that will be perceived as convenient. The reintroduction of coin-operated meters will lessen confusion and lower malfunction rates. These rates, which fall well within the boundaries of the rates imposed by other surveyed cities are as follows: 30 minutes $0.25 1 hour $0.50 2 hours $1.00 I-: a��t:c- .w. -'--- ;'-� _� , -,�J �--�' increase in parking citation fines 1 N:.a .x �, �..a� V�xfax•b..a, _ t+c.�y aJ 4�_J xlxvi•�....wu would further encourage compliance, leading to improved turnover rates. These changes will provide the tools necessary to better regulate and enforce parking in a rapidly changing area ofBeaumont.The cost effectiveness ofthe parking program in the CBD will improve by providing annual revenues sufficient to cover the costs associated with the program Attachment A Parking Space Occupancy August 2001 No. of No. of No. of Vehicles Total Hours % Vehicles Average Location Spaces Vehicles Exceeding Limit Exceeding limit Exceeding_limit Duratio n Liberty 9 440 344 1373 78% 5.0 hrs (Pearl- Main) Liberty 14 639 507 2072 79% 5.1 hrs. (Orleans- Pearl) Bowie 15 397 254 1231 63% 5.8 hrs. (Orleans- Pearl) * Forsythe 17 828 148 266 17% 2.8 hrs. (Orleans- Pearl) **Pearl 20 622 578 2999 92% 6.2 hrs. (Forsythe- Bowie) * 2 hour meters(not covered) ** 1 hour space(non metered) Note: Unless otherwise shown, above locations denote one-hour parking meters. Attachment B Paring Meter Repair Summary Parking Meter Repairs-August/September 2001 Meters with broken parts 3 Improper meter timing 7 Jammed/frozen mechanism* 17 Total 27 Total number of parking meters tested 149 Percentage of meters requiring repair 18% * Eleven(11)parking meters were found to be jammed due to insertion of coins or foreign objects. PARKING FINES a r, CITY OVER-PARKING FIRE ZONE LOADING ZONE Abilene $5 (double after 20 days) Tickets Written By Police/Fire Only $10 .. n Amarillo $ 5 (10 days) No Fire Zone Downtown $5 (10 days) Austin $15 (14 days) N/A N/A BEAUMONT $3 ($6 after 5 days) $10 ($20 after 5 days) $10 ($20 after 5 days) Brownsville $3 $15 (10 days) $10 (10 days) Corpus Christi $10 (20 days) $20 (10 days) $20 (10 days) Dallas $20 (15 days) $40 _ ($75 after 15 days) $25 ($50 after 15 days) El Paso $10 ($17 after 15 days) `" $35 ($40 after 15 days) $15 ($20 after 15 days) Fort Worth $12 ($17 after 15 days) $35 ($40 after 15 days) $15 ($20 after 15 days) Galveston $17 (double after 20 days) $17 (double after 30 days) $17 Houston $20 (double after 45 days) $280 ($350 after 45 days) $30 ($50 after 30 days) Laredo $6 (add $3/each reminder) $15 (add $3/each reminder) $10 (add$5/each reminder) Longview $59 $13 Lubbock No-Meters - Time Limit $60 ($60 after 12 days) $15 ($15 after 12 days) Midland No Meters N/A N/A Odessa $4 ($11 after 10 days) 2/hr Meters $115 (warrant issued after 10 days) $30 (warrant issued after 10 days) San Angelo $22 $17 San Antonio $15 ($25 after 14 days) $35 ($45 after 14 days) $20 ($30 after 14 days) Tyler $8 ($23 after 15 days) $53 ($230 after 15 days) $11 ($35 after 15 days) Waco No Meters $80 $20 Wichita Falls Meters Around Post Office Only $58 $17