Year: 2011

The Board of Aldermen held a Special meeting Monday August 29, 2011 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond, Alderpersons JR Fisher, Kristin Lett and Ald Hess. Also, present were City Clerk Paula Brodie and Tax Collector Dawn Bunch. Ald Kohley was absent.

The Mayor called the Special meeting to order. He noted that the meeting was called to hold a public hearing to set the 2011 Tax Levy at 0.6332 per $100.00 valuation on Real Estate and Personal Property. He noted that the 2011 Personal valuation is $1,958,150.00 and the 2011 Real Estate valuation is $6,115,980.00

 Public hearing:  no comments.

The Board of Aldermen discussed Bill # 2011-425 for Ordinance # 2011-435. It was noted that the ordinance needed to be voted on twice in the current meeting because the tax levy needs to be passed and approved before September 1, 2011.

The Mayor read Bill # 2011-425 for Ordinance # 2011-435 in its entirety for the first reading.

Ald Fisher moved to approve the first reading of Bill # 2011-425 for Ordinance # 2011-435. Ald Hess seconded. Ald Fisher, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nay votes.

The Mayor read Bill # 2011-425 for Ordinance # 2011-435 in its entirety for the second reading.

Ald Lett moved to approve the second reading of Bill # 2011-425 for Ordinance # 2011-435. Ald Fisher seconded. Ald Fisher, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nay votes.

Ald Fisher moved to adjourn the special meeting. Ald Hess seconded. Ald Fisher, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nay votes.

 

                                                                                   __________________________

                                                                                   Greg Richmond, Mayor

Attest:

______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

                                                                                   

 

                                                                                          Approved: _________

                                                                                          Date: ______________                            

 

 

The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night August 16, 2011 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond, Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Kristin Lett, JR Fisher and Bill Hess. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Chief of Police Tom West and Officer Curt Drake. Guests included Carlton Lewis, Greg Hammon, Vicky Leach and Gary Wimpy. Also present was Joyce Haynes from the McDonald County Press.

The Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the meeting on August 2, 2011. Ald Kohley moved to approve the minutes from August 2, 2011. Ald Fisher seconded. Aldermen Kohley, Hess, Fisher and Lett voted aye, with 0 nays.

The Board discussed a request from Evelyn Reardon to average her water bill at 142 S. School St.  David noted that they discovered that their dog had chewed through a hose in the back yard. He confirmed that they fixed the problem. Ald Fisher moved to approve averaging her water and sewer bill. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Fisher voted aye with 0 nays.

The Clerk noted that it was time for the Board to set a public hearing regarding the setting of the 2011 tax levy. She stated that the levy amount is calculated by the McDonald County Clerk, using a formula put together by the Missouri State Auditor per Missouri State Statute. She noted that the approved amount for the City of Goodman for 2011 was $0.6332 per $100.00 evaluation. The Board agreed to hold a public hearing on Monday August 29, 2011 at 7:00PM at the Goodman City Hall to set the 2011 Tax Levy.

Department heads gave the following reports:

Tom West- Tom reported that the white patrol car has developed a knocking sound in the engine and the black patrol car needs a new battery.

David Brodie- noted that he had gotten the crosswalk at the school painted. Tom asked if a crosswalk could be placed at the intersection of Janice and Chase. He stated that there was a lot of traffic from the school kids and the day care.

Dawn Bunch – no report.

                           Paula Brodie – noted that the city received the SEMA funds for the snow removal during the declared 2011 Winter Storm, in the amount of $1,070.57.

 The Board discussed the following old business:

 Ald. Lett asked about the decision to chip and seal the city streets. The Mayor stated that he thought part of the problem with the streets was erosion from under the streets. David stated that putting chip and seal on the streets does not take care of the street not being level. He said he believed the Board needed to have the cuts in the streets grinded down first and then put down a leveling coat. David stated he thought that it would be better to put down a 2” overlay. He noted that some of the water improvement settlement money could be used to do some of the street repairs as a lot of the damage was caused by the water improvement project cutting the streets. The Board asked David to make some phone calls to check into prices.

 Ald Fisher reported that Jesse Ruby had completed work for Mrs. Wiley and was getting the easement drawn up. Ald Hess asked who Jesse was getting the easement for, himself or the city. Ald Fisher stated the easement would be for the City.

 Greg Hammon stated that there was a rough spot on Stites street where the new bank was built. David reported that the contractor for the bank is responsible for repairing the cut and has said that they will repair it as soon as they can.

 Vicky Leach stated that she needed until the First of next month to pay both her mothers current bill and the next bill for September. The Mayor stated that the Board would allow her to pay the bill on the first without being shut off.

 David asked to be allowed to purchase two new tires for the white truck. He also noted that the dump truck had a blown tire, he had purchased a used tire but they will need to consider purchasing new tires for the dump truck. He also noted that the signs he needed are ordered and should be here soon.

 The Board discussed the following new business:

 Tom told the Board that Denis Kolb had asked him to ask the Board to set up a bank account to accept the IRIS memberships, a bank account for the Emergency Management Department and one for the Police Department. The Clerk noted that all funds coming into the city and being paid out by the city are under the control and approval of the Board of Aldermen, therefore they should check with their accountant about authorizing the Emergency Management Department to receive and distribute funds. Ald Kohley stated he did not know anything about the request for the checking accounts and asked why Denis did not stay for the meeting as he was present before the meeting started, so that he could explain his request. The Board decided not to make any decisions about checking accounts until Denis could be present to answer their questions.

 Ald Kohley reported that Denis Kolb had received an email from Greg Sweeten chastising the Emergency Management Department for telling lies about him. Ald Kohley stated for the record Greg Sweeten had no business within the City Limits, as his jurisdiction ended at the Goodman City limits. He stated that he would like the Board to approach the McDonald County Commissioners to see about having Mr. Sweeten removed from his position. He stated that in the past Mr. Sweeten had told members of the Goodman Emergency Management personnel to get off the radio.

 Tom West stated that Mr. Sweeten was not going to tell him when he can or can not be on the radio. He said that the Emergency Management Department was given permission by 911 to be on the radio and that Greg Sweeten had no right to tell them to get off the radio. He said the radio frequency belonged to the City of Anderson not Greg Sweeten or 911.

 Ald Kohley stated that the Emergency Management Department was having trouble with the Goodman Fire District also. He noted that it began when the Fire Department became the Goodman Rural Fire District. He stated that he felt all of the departments needed to work together.

 The Mayor stated that Denis Kolb would be asked to attend the next meeting. Ald Kohley stated that as a Department Head should he not be required to attend all meetings and be added to the Department head list to give reports to the Board. It was decided to add him to the agenda in the future under department head reports.

 The Board discussed whether or not to ask Mr. Sweeten to be present at the next meeting. Ald Hess stated that he felt the Board should have a discussion with Denis first then ask Greg Sweeten to the next meeting.

 Ald Fisher asked how Crystal, the new Asst City Clerk was doing. The Clerk reported that she was doing very well. Ald Fisher asked that she be asked to attend the Board of Aldermen meetings to learn about the minute taking. The Clerk stated that she had already asked Crystal to attend as soon as she gets her feet on the ground with the water billing.

 David reported on a class that he is going to have to attend in Springfield. He said that the Department of Natural Resources vouchers would pay for it. He noted that a lot of the changes occurred when changes were made to the Safe Water Act. Ald Hess moved to allow David to attend the SPCC class in Springfield on September 13, 2011, including paying his wages for the day and gas. Ald Fisher seconded. Ald Hess, Fisher, Lett and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

 The Board discussed the bills for August 2, 2011 for $37,534.27 including transfers. Ald Fisher moved to approve the bills in the amount of $37,534.27. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

 Ald Kohley moved to adjourn. Ald. Fisher seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

                                                                                                     __________________________

                                                                            Greg Richmond, Mayor

 

Attest:

______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

 

                                                                                                     Approved: ____________________

                                                                                                     Date: ________________

The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night August 2, 2011 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond, Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Kristin Lett, JR Fisher and Bill Hess. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Chief of Police Tom West, Officer Curt Drake, Tax Collector Dawn Bunch, Recreation Board Director Stewart Pace and Municipal Judge Clyde Davidson. Also present was Amye Buckley, Neosho Daily News.

The Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the meeting on July 19, 2011. Ald Kohley moved to approve the minutes from July 19, 2011. Ald Fisher seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays.

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the special meeting on July 22, 2011. Ald Fisher moved to approve the minutes from July 22, 2011. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays.

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the special meeting on July 28, 2011. Ald Lett moved to approve the minutes from July 28, 2011. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays.

 

The Board discussed the hiring of an Asst. City Clerk.  The Mayor stated that the Board had asked him to talk with Crystal Nix about the position. He stated that after talking with her she agreed to accept the position. Ald Fisher moved to approve the hiring of Crystal Nix as Asst. City Clerk. Ald Kohley seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays.

Mayor Richmond reported on a meeting between himself and Callie Hudson regarding the bills from Paragon Architecture and Hudson Consulting. The Mayor stated that he did remember that when he met with her the first time she told him that when she was securing funds from Cornerstone Bank, part of the funds would help pay for her work on the grant applications and the preliminary architecture plans. The Mayor noted that the payments to Ms. Hudson and Paragon were a one time payment for work already completed. He said that Ms. Hudson stated that the City would not receive any more bills until after the submission and awarding of the grant from Rural Development. It was noted that once the grant is received, bids would be let for the final architecture plans and the administration of the grant. The Mayor stated that when the grant is received a contract should be agreed upon before hiring an administrator, architect and builder. He said that in the future the city needed to have a contract in writing with whomever is writing and applying for grants for the City, with all expenses documented within the contract. The Mayor noted that the payments the Board is approving tonight will pay both Ms. Hudson and Paragon in full. Clyde Davidson asked if the city would be responsible for any future costs if the city does receive the grant.  The Mayor stated that he believed all future costs would be covered by the grant itself. Clyde stated would the building as is, be the match that the City would need for the grant.  It was noted that when the City gets a copy of the grant application it should reflect how much ‘in kind’ work would be needed, if any from the City. It will also list how much is allowable for the administrator of the funds, for the architect, and builder.

Dawn Bunch asked after paying Ms. Hudson and Paragon would anymore money be spent out of the proposed donation from Cornerstone Bank. She stated that it might look bad if the City spends all of the funds from the donation without receiving a grant, since the donation came with the agreement to include the Cornerstone Bank in the name of the building. She noted that the Board had applied for a previous grant but did not get it.

The Board discussed the preliminary architectural report from Paragon on the proposed renovations to the Community Building.

The Board discussed the following old business:

                    1. Discussed Jesse Ruby’s water. Ald Fisher stated that he would like to have the clerk pull out one of the past easements to use as an example for him to show Ms. Wiley’s son. Ald Fisher asked if the City has an easement already, why they have to obtain another one. It was explained that the City does not have an easement. Ald Fisher stated that he had talked with Jesse Ruby and Mr. Cantrell and both of them are willing to give the City an easement. He stated that he had not received an answer yet from Ms. Wiley. The Board agreed to table further discussion until Ald Fisher could get back with Ms. Wiley.

 

                  2.  Discussed Joshua Bradford’s cleanup. David stated that is almost done. Ald Fisher moved to allow him until August 31 to complete the cleanup.  Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

Clyde Davidson stated that he had a question regarding the Board’s action on the IRIS system. He said that he wanted it understood that he was not against the IRIS system, but he was concerned about how the Board handled voting on it. He stated that in the meeting the Board held on July 19^th he had made a recommendation for the Board to hold a public meeting for citizens questions and input. He said in the minutes it reflected that the Board agreed to hold a discussion at its next regular meeting. He stated that sometime after that meeting and before the special meeting scheduled July 22that was scheduled to discuss Ms. Freund’s unemployment benefits and the hiring of a new Asst. City Clerk, the discussion of the IRIS system was added to the agenda. Ald Fisher stated that he was the one who asked to have it added to the agenda as he felt that it was important to vote on it quickly to get the system started as soon as possible. Clyde stated that the Board discussed and voted on the system without public comment and questions which was specifically contrary to what the Board had agreed upon during their meeting on July 19th. 

The Mayor stated that he had asked the Board to wait to make any decisions until the regular meeting scheduled for August 2, 2011 but felt he was railroaded into allowing the vote. He said that he wanted it understood that he had told the Board during the meeting on July 22 that he was not against the IRIS system but was concerned about voting on it during the special meeting.

Clyde stated that he understood that the Board had already voted and a check for $560.00 was already written. Clyde stated he was concerned about the conduct of the Board and the way they were doing things without allowing input from citizens. Clyde stated that he read the proposal for the IRIS system and he thought it said that for start up fees it was $300.00 and then $1.50 per person.  Clyde asked why there was a difference in the costs.

The Mayor stated that he specifically asked the board to wait to vote until the regular meeting.  Clyde stated that it seemed like certain members were making a lot of the decisions with out a discussion with the citizens. Clyde stated that it gives a bad perception to the citizens when the Board says one thing and does another. Ald Fisher stated that he believed that was Clyde’s opinion. Ald Fisher stated that the IRIS system would benefit the citizens. Ald Lett stated that the Board voted for the right reasons. Clyde stated that he was not against the system but was very concerned about how the Board handled it.

Ald Fisher read from the original agreement on the IRIS system noting that it did read $300.00 and $1.50 per person. Clyde stated that there was confusion regarding which was the better way to handle the IRIS system. He said that Greg Sweeten, the McDonald County Emergency Management director had told the Board they could join under him. He noted in another meeting Mr. Kolb had been present and talked about the benefits of the City having its own system. He stated that Lisa McCool from 911 was at that same meeting and would not commit to anything until after talking with her Board. Ald Kohley stated that the question about the costs and all the other questions should be directed to the City’s Emergency Management Director Denis Kolb.

Clyde noted that it would take all the citizens in the city to join to the IRIS system to pay for it. Ald Fisher stated that even if no one else joined it is a good system.

Clyde stated that he was concerned that even though he had noted that the Board had not followed through with when they had planned to hold their discussion on the IRIS system not one them had acknowledged that they should have waited to hold the discussion until the next regular session. Mayor Richmond apologized for the Boards action and stated that he should not have allowed the vote to be taken at the special meeting.

Dawn Bunch asked if the 911 Board would be the administrator of the system. Ald Fisher stated that 911 would make money by going through the Cities membership. Dawn stated that she understood from Lisa McCool’s comments at the meeting on July 19^th, 911 would be the administrator of the City’s system.

Ald Hess stated that he agreed with Clyde that the Board should have held off the discussion until the next regular session but he wanted it understood that he did believe the IRIS system was a good system.

Ald Fisher asked what the Board could do to make the citizens perception different. He said he was interested in doing good things for the citizens. Clyde stated that the Board could take more time to make decisions, be more open and follow through with what they have agreed upon in an open meeting.

 Department head reports:

Tom West- Police had no reports. Suggested the Board look into putting in an audio/video system for Board meetings. It was noted that the Board did have an audio system in the past but had removed it at the suggestion of a past attorney.

David Brodie stated that he needed to order 8 Streets signs for $240.00, a handicapped sign for $15.00 and a dead end sign for $57.95. He said he also needed stop signs but would be willing to try decals instead of replacing the whole sign at a cost of $34.95 each. He said he could get a box of stop sign decals for $189.50. He said he would order them from Barcode as they have the best price. He said that total it would be around $515.00 dollars. The Board agreed to allow him to order the signs.

David noted that the streets are in very bad shape with limited funds to do any repairs. He suggested the Board allow him to look into the cost of grinding down all of the street cuts that were caused by the Water Improvement Project.  Ald. Fisher stated that they might check into the cost of using chip and seal and then an overlay in the future. David stated that he needs to do a repair on School Street before the busses start running again. He told the Board that he would be getting cold mix to do that repair before school starts.

David reported that he needed to purchase new tires on the front of the white truck and that the Board should start thinking about replacing the red truck. He said that what needs to be done is the white truck needs to replace the red truck and replace the white truck with a ¾ ton, 4 wheel drive pickup with a utility bed. He noted that during the snow storm this past winter he drove his own 4-wheel drive vehicle. Ald Kohley stated that they might go over to Watt’s, in Oklahoma and see about purchasing a truck and replace the white police car at the same time.

Dawn Bunch- noted that the Board had her report. They had no questions.

Paula Brodie- noted that she had sent the 2010 City audit to the State Auditor which is required by Missouri Law. She also noted that the 6 month City Financial statement will be published in the McDonald County paper in the near future. She noted that it too is required by state law.

The Board discussed the following new business:

Ald Lett asked if Stewart and Mike Wasson could receive their checks now instead of in September. Ald Lett moved to pay Mike Wasson his $250.00 and Stewart Pace his $500.00 now instead of in September Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

Stewart thanked the Board, David and Ald Fisher for their assistance during the ball season. He noted that Ald. Fisher donated an air conditioner and new lights for the concession stand. He stated that the city guys installed the lights and that they were working great. Clyde stated that the Recreation Board did well by getting the ball field lights donated and would be working on getting them installed in the future. He said that they might have to ask the Board for some help financially to get the lights installed. Stewart said that if they were installed he could schedule several tournaments which would bring in a lot of money. Mayor Richmond stated that he wanted to thank Stewart for all his hard work during the last two years.

The Board discussed the bills for August 2, 2011 for $20,274.41 including transfers. Ald Kohley moved to approve the bills in the amount of $20274.41. Ald Fisher seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

Ald Fisher moved to adjourn. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

                                                  __________________________

                                                      Greg Richmond, Mayor

 

Attest:

______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

 

                                                                                                     Approved: ____________________

                                                                                                      Date: ________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Board of Aldermen held a special meeting Friday July 22, 2011 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond Alderpersons JR Fisher, Keith Kohley, Kristin Lett and Ald Hess. Also, present was City Clerk Paula Brodie. Guests included Steve Wimpy, and Mr. and Mrs. Denis Kolb

 

The Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00PM.

 

The Board discussed the Iris System. JR Fisher stated that after the last meeting he had looked into the IRIS system; he thought it was a very good system and he thought that the Board needed to just go ahead and vote on it now. Mayor Richmond stated that the Board had tabled the discussion for the next regular meeting; that he thought because of that they needed to wait to have an open discussion at that meeting and that he did not see why the Board was rushing to vote on it. Ald Kohley stated that if the Board would go through Joplin they would see why the Board needed to hurry and get the system. Ald Fisher stated that if the city could go ahead and get the system they could go ahead and collect the membership money. Ald Kohley stated that Greg Sweeten had let the county’s IRIS system expire and then miraculously after the City of Goodman had their Board meeting on July 5^th he renewed his contract for the system. The Board asked how the clerk got on the system. She stated that she was at a meeting where Greg was talking about the IRIS system and she asked for a membership application. She stated that he said anyone could get on the system. She said that she understood that he had put a notice in the paper telling people about the systems and how to join.

 

Denis Kolb stated that Greg’s IRIS system expired on January 21^st. 2011 and had not been renewed until the City of Goodman’s board held their meeting on July 5^th. 

 

It was noted that the City would need to renew their contract every year at a fee of $560.00. Ald Fisher stated it made more since for the City to make the money by signing people up then the county.

 

Greg Richmond stated that he was not against the IRIS system, He stated that his only problem with voting on it was that it had been in the paper that the board was going to discuss it at the next board meeting

 

Ald Hess asked if it was true that the Emergency Management Department would be paying $560.00 for the system and then would turn around and make the citizens join to pay for it. Ald Lett stated that the City couldn’t make people join however the City was only going to charge each citizen $1.00 per membership. She said that up to 5 members of the persons family would be allowed to be included on that membership.

 

Denis Kolb stated that the city would be charging the $2.00 membership fee.  He said that if the other city’s join under the City of Goodman they will charge the $2.00 membership fee, keeping $.75 and sending the City of Goodman $1.25.

 

Denis stated that he wanted to join the IRIS system so that the emergency management department could warn the people in Goodman of approaching storms. He said that he was very concerned because his department had been told to stay off the radio during storms which was very distressing to him.

 

Ald Lett stated that she had been in the EOC when people had come in scared because they had no where to go during storms. She stated that she would like to see the City purchase the IRIS system, which would allow the City to make some money from the membership’s allowing the City to use the excess funds to build a storm shelter.

 

Ald Kohley stated that he wanted it on record that there have been three times that Greg Sweeten had ordered the people from the City of Goodman’s Emergency Operations Center off the radio during storms.

 

Steve Wimpy stated speaking as a citizen of Goodman he thought that the IRIS system sounded very good and he did not think that if the Board wanted to go ahead and vote on it now there would be any complaints from any other citizens. He said he thought the other citizens would not mind that the Board went ahead and voted on purchasing the system during a special meeting instead of waiting for a regular meeting.

 

Mayor Richmond stated that it seemed like the Board wanted to go ahead and vote with out waiting for the next session and as there was a citizen present who agreed with the Board he would entertain a motion to approve the City of Goodman purchasing the IRIS system. Ald Fisher moved to purchase the IRIS system allowing the EOC to run the system. Ald Kohley seconded the motion. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

 

The Board agreed to have an open meeting to explain how the system works..

 

Ald Kohley stated that he wanted it on record that he appreciated the Board’s voting on the IRIS system as it had bothered him greatly that the City’s Emergency Management Department had not been able to worn the people in the past.

 

The Board discussed Missy Freund’s filing for unemployment benefits.

 

Ald Kohley stated that it worried him that she had been keeping a record of the violations that the City’s Board of Aldermen was supposed to have done. He said that he had a problem with her threatening the Board to use the information and that in the past she had threatened twice to sue the city.

 

Ald Hess stated that if there was something wrong with her work, or with her attitude the Board could deny her request, however since they were not able to say that  he felt that the city should let her have her unemployment benefits.

 

Mayor Richmond asked for a motion allowing her application for unemployment to go through. Ald Hess moved to allow Mrs. Freund’s application to go through. The motion died for a lack of a second.

 

Mayor Richmond asked for a motion to deny her request for unemployment benefits. None of the Aldermen made the motion.

 

The Mayor noted that without a vote on either motion her request for unemployment benefits will go through.

 

The Mayor noted that the Board of Aldermen was now going to vote to go into closed session pursuant to RSMO. Section 610.021, Section (3) to discuss hiring, firing, disciplining or promoting of particular employees by a public governmental body when personal information about the employee is discussed or recorded.

 

Ald Fisher moved to go into closed session at 7:42 PM.  Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays.

 

The Board came out of closed session at 9:40PM with no announcements.

 

Ald Lett moved to adjourn the open session at 9:40PM Ald Hess seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            __________________________

                                                                                                 Greg Richmond, Mayor

 

Attest:

______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

 

                                                                                                     Approved: ____________

                                                                                                     Date: ________________

 

 

The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night July 19, 2011 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond, Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Kristin Lett, JR Fisher and Bill Hess. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie and Officer Curt Drake. Guests included Carlton Lewis, Gene Lett, ______ Davis, Dawn Bunch, Clyde Davidson, Jim Morgan from the Goodman Area Fire Protection District, Dawn Davidson, Denis Kolb, Goodman Emergency Management Director, Bill Rataczak, and Lisa McCool Rataczak,  from 911. Also present were Amye Buckley, Neosho Daily News and Joyce Haynes from the McDonald County Press.  

The Mayor called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from July 5, 2011.  Ald Lett asked for amendments to be added to the minutes from July 5, 2011. She stated to clarify what happened on the day Ald Kohley asked Missy for the closed meeting minutes. She stated that she was present and that Missy refused to give Ald Kohley the minutes but failed to give him a reason why she wouldn’t give them to him. Ald Lett also asked that it be made clear that she did not tell Missy at the meeting on July 5, 2011 that she should have gone into JR’s business to see if he was there. She also asked that it be noted that the minutes reflected that Missy had stated that during the ice storm not one of the Board members came by to see if anyone needed anything. Ald Lett asked that it be added to the minutes that no one from City Hall had contacted the Emergency Management Department either. Ald Kohley asked that it be noted also that he was not with Ald Fisher as reported because that would have been a violation of the sunshine law. Ald Hess stated that he would like to add a correction also. He stated that he wanted it made clear that he said that the Board had not been fair to him, not Missy when they would not discuss why they were terminating her with him. Ald. Fisher moved to approve the minutes from July 5, 2011 with the above noted amendments and corrections. Ald. Kohley seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays. 

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the special meeting on July 7, 2011. Ald Hess moved to approve the minutes from July 7, 2011. Ald Kohley seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays. Ald Hess asked if the Board needed to approve the closed minutes also The Mayor stated that they were included with the regular minutes.

The Board discussed a request by Robert Adams to average his water/sewer bill. It was noted that Mr. Adams works nights but David reported that he had been monitoring Mr. Adams meter and stated that if Mr. Adams did have a leak it had stopped. Ald Fisher moved to average his water and sewer bill. Ald Lett seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye, with 0 nays.

The Board discussed going over applications for the Asst. City Clerks Position. They agreed to meet in closed session on Friday the 22^nd at 7:00 PM to discuss the hiring, firing or disciplining of personnel.

The Board discussed renewing the support contract for the Jayhawk water billing software. The Clerk noted that with a new water clerk being hired she might have to call and ask for more support than usual. Ald Hess moved to renew the contract with Jay Hawk. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed allowing the Mayor to sign a letter approving the Goodman Area Rural Fire District retaining a repeater on the water tower at 203 W. Barlow. The Board discussed with Jimmy Morgan the fire districts need to have a letter of approval from the Board allowing them to maintain the antenna on the city water tower. Ald Lett moved to allow Mayor Richmond to sign the letter. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed the following old business:

The Board discussed Jesse Ruby’s water problem. Ald Fisher stated that Jesse Ruby and Mr. Cantrell said they would be willing to sign the easements. He said that Mrs. Wiley needed some extra time for her son to read the easement when he gets back from vacation. The Board agreed to table further discussion until the next meeting.

Clyde reported that the awards banquet for the ball program is set for July 23^rd at the ballpark from 12:00PM to 3:00PM. He also noted that the Recreation Department had picked up the lights from the Neosho School. He said that Empire might help them install them and that they will need a new breaker box. He said there will be some added costs to install the lights. He noted that there will be food and fun things for the kids to do at the awards banquet and he told the Board that they were all welcome to attend.

Dennis Kolb asked if the Board had looked at the proposal on the IRIS system. He said that IRIS has agreed to lower the cost per person from $1.50 to $1.00. Lisa McCool stated that the 911 Board is interested in getting the IRIS system also. She stated that they had looked into the reverse 911 system which would cost $1.00 per person. It was noted that if the City does get the IRIS system they could offer it to 911. The Denis stated that he would like to see the city bill the charge out on their water bills. Dennis stated that if the city had the IRIS system they could sign up other cities like Tiff City, Noel, etc. Ald Hess stated that he thought it would be a good idea but he didn’t think that the city could force the landowners to pay for the memberships. Dennis stated that the City was not allowed to sound the tornado siren now to warn people of approaching tornados but if they had the IRSI system they could.  He stated that it will cost $2.00, $1.00 for IRIS, $.75 cents to the 911 and .25 cents to the city for maintaining the system. Dennis stated that it would cost $560.00 for the initial set up fees. It was noted that the tornado siren could only be sounded by the Fire Chief or the McDonald County Emergency Management Director.

The Mayor stated that it sounds good, but asked shouldn’t the city ask the people if they would be interested. Clyde Davidson stated that maybe the city could hold a public meeting to discuss the system. Dennis Kolb stated on December 31stst 2010 there was a tornado in Arkansas. He said that the Goodman Emergency Management Department was the only department on duty. He said that if there had been a tornado in Goodman there would have been no way to warn the citizens. Ald Kohley stated that their hands were tied right now and they can not inform the citizens, he stated that it was really frustrating. Lisa McCool stated that her 911 board has asked her to contact the cities, and water districts to see if they wanted to ask their customers if they would consider joining the IRIS system. Ms. McCool stated that her Board had not made any final decisions but if 911 could work under another city the 911 Board would not have to pay for every residence in McDonald County, only those people who would decide to opt-in and pay for them selves would be counted.

Ms. McCool was asked why 911 and McDonald County Emergency Management Department both had to have the system. She stated that 911 and the McDonald County Emergency Management Department are not connected. Ms. McCool stated that the McDonald County system has only 200 available slots on its IRIS system right now but she would like to see the whole county signed up.  

Mayor stated that it was obvious that everyone was in agreement that the IRIS system was needed, however there were many questions that still needed answered. The Board agreed to table further discussion until the next regular board meeting. 

The Mayor stated that he had met with Callie Hudson and Sy Warner from the Cornerstone Bank and received the check for $6500.00. He stated that he had contacted Paul Sprenkle to see if he wanted to be in the picture to represent the Goodman Betterment Club, as the club had been the ones to start the building. He noted that the $6500.00 is part of the $20,000.00 that the Cornerstone Bank has promised to the City if it receives grant funding. He also noted that the city had received two bills on from Hudson Consulting for $2,744.00 and one from Paragon Architecture. The Board discussed the bills, and how they do not have a written contract with Ms. Hudson stating what her fees are. The Board agreed to not pay the bills but table discussion of their questions for the next Board meeting.

Clyde stated that the Betterment Club still intended to guild the fence at the new city par, however the club has not met to make their final plans.

The Department heads gave the following reports:

Tom West- not present

David Brodie- reported working on the plans for the hookups for the generators. He noted he needed more time to get the plans drawn up. 

Dawn Bunch –no report

Paula Brodie – no report 

The Board discussed the following new Business:

1.      Note:  Karen Freund filed for unemployment benefits. The Clerk asked about does the Board want to allow her to receive the unemployment benefits or not. Ald Fisher asked if it could be discussed in the closed session on Friday. The Mayor stated that he didn’t think it needed to be discussed in closed session.  Ald Fisher stated he had some questions and would like to know if he could have some time to make some phone calls. Mayor Richmond stated that the Board would have an open session to discuss the claim for unemployment benefits and then go into closed session for personnel

2. Note:  The new check signers signed the City’s Certificates of Deposits.

3. Note:  City wide yard sale will be on July 30^th, 2011 from 8:00 am to 3:00pm. Don’t forget to sign up for the city map. Names must be turned in by the 25^th.

The Board discussed the bills for July 19, 2011 for $25696.05 including transfers. Ald Lett asked what the CCR Report was and why was it placed in the Arkansas Paper. David stated that it was an annual report to the citizens on the water that is tested twice monthly and required by the Department of Natural Resources. He stated it had to be run in the paper and posted at three places. He stated that he had posted it at First Community Bank, the Goodman Post office and City Hall. It was noted that the Northwest Arkansas News owns the local paper. The notice was run in the McDonald County Press. Ald Fisher moved to approve the bills in the amount of $25,696.05. Ald Kohley seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

Ald Kohley moved to adjourn. Ald Fisher seconded. Aldermen Fisher, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

 

                                                                            __________________________

                                                                             Greg Richmond, Mayor

 

Attest:

______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

 

                                                                                                     Approved: ____________________

 Date: ________________