The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night August 7 2012 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond Alderpersons Kristen Lett, Keith Kohley, Calvin Wilson and Bill Hess. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Chief Tom West and Officer Curt Drake. Guests included Valerie and Fred Branstetter, Doug Williams, Crystal Vaughan, Steve Wimpey, J.R. Fisher, Joyce Haynes from 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 July 17, 2012. Ald. Calvin Wilson moved to approve the minutes. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Wilson, Lett, Hess and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

The Mayor acknowledged Mr. and Mrs. Fred Branstetter and Doug Williams regarding the Sawmill Mobile Home Park. Doug Williams, the past owner of the trailer park was present to talk to the Board in behalf of the Branstetters, the new owners of the park. He stated that 20 years ago the Board of Aldermen had passed a set of rules for mobile home parks in the city. He said at the time the Board did that his park was not in compliance to the new rules but was given 20 years to comply. He said that he felt the Sawmill Mobile Home Park should have been grandfathered in because he thought that the ordinance was really written for new Mobile Home Parks not existing ones. He said over the years he owned the park he had made several improvements. He has run the sewer line from the parks property line to the city’s main but not connected the trailers yet. He said he has gotten all of the septic tanks working correctly. He said until the trailers are individually connected to the city’s sewer line he didn’t think that they should be expected to black top the streets. He said he would really like the Board to give the Branstetters a variance from the existing ordinance, and grandfather it in. David stated that the park is operational, that Doug put in septic tanks, keeps it well groomed, the road is less than to be desired, has 16 pole lights, electric for them paid by the owner of the trailer park, but the park is still not quite up to the specifications of the ordinance. It was noted that most of the old trailers have been replaced with newer ones and the Branstetters own all but three. Fred Branstetters said to black top now would not be feasible if they have to install new sewer lines throughout the park.

The Mayor stated that he always felt the ordinance was written for new parks, not existing parks.

David said the setbacks are close, there is tie downs per the ordinance.

Doug Williams stated that they have tried to make the park a good and safe place for people to live, that they were very careful about who they rent to, they do not allow any people with drug records, or sex offences to rent from them.

Ald. Wilson stated that they had 20 years to bring the park into compliance with the ordinance.

Doug said that he hadn’t wanted to put in the streets until the sewer lines were installed.

Ald. Hess stated that he is not so concerned about the Branstetters not taking care of the park but what if they sell it in the future. The Board would not know if the next owners would maintain it as they should. He said if the Board approved grandfathering the park in there would be no control over changes needed in the park.

Doug asked if the Board would give the Branstetters 5 years to run sewer lines and hook up the trailers and then another 5 years to complete the streets. Mrs. Branstetter stated one of her concerns about blacktopping the streets in the park was that people would speed through the park.

Ald. Lett said that she was concerned about the Board giving them a variance for the whole ordinance.

It was suggested that the Branstetters write out a variance request so the Board would actually know what they were requesting. Ald. Hess stated that he thought the Board needed to get something in writing, so what has happened in other trailer parks in other cities would not become a problem in Goodman.

Mayor Richmond stated that maybe the Board could draw one up an ordinance for new mobile home parks and one for existing mobile home parks.

Ald. Wilson made the motion to extend the compliance to the ordinance for 60 days to allow the Branstetters to draw up a list of variances that they would like the board to consider. Ald. Lett second. Ald. Lett, Kohley, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays. The Board will discuss the variance requests at the meeting on October 2, 2012.

The Mayor opened the bids for the street repairs. They were as follows, Swift Constructions $61,625.00 which included leveling layers and a 2” overlay and APAC in the amount of $52,050.0 for a 2 inch overlay of the 8 areas. It was noted that the city would provide the manhole risers. Steve Wimpey said that in the past the Board had talked about the need to dig up the streets and put in new base rock first. David said the Board had discussed that, but the cost was more than the city could afford. He said that this street project included 8 manholes and 1700 feet by 22 feet wide in 8 places throughout the city. Steve Wimpey asked if the city would then in the future put down chip and seal on all the streets. The Board said they had not made any decisions for future repairs and any decisions would rely on funding. Ald. Wilson stated that he felt APAC was leaving their bid open to not cover a lot of things.

The Board discussed what Swift meant by charging an additional $1200.00 for each mobilization. They decided that they needed to get clarification from Swift.

The Mayor stated that the Board was tabling any decisions on the bids to get clarification on the wording of the bids.

The Mayor reported on the needed repairs to the city’s tornado siren. He said that Marshall Long had talked to a representative from Blue Valley and that his suggestion was to repair the existing siren instead of purchasing a new one. He said the representative said that the city would actually have a better siren once it was repaired then purchasing a new one. He said that there quote was for repairs and to bring the Siren up to FCC standards for narrow band by the end of 2012. He said that since Blue Valley was going to be in Neosho working on their sirens he had gone ahead and approved them fixing the City’s at the same time. He said he had talked with Board members about the quote and that they verbally agreed to approve the bill when it was placed on the bill sheet.

The Board discussed whether or not to change the date of the City Wide Yard Sale for 2013. The Mayor stated that people had voiced a concern about having the sale at the end of the month because people didn’t have as much money as they do at the first of the month. The Board noted that some people complained that it is too hot. Crystal Vaughan suggested making it the first Saturday in September. The mayor said that he understood people liked it before School starts so that they can purchase school clothes. It was noted that whatever date the Board would choose would not be convenient to everyone.  Ald. Wilson moved to change the City Wide Yard Sale to the first Saturday in August. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Lett, Wilson, Kohley and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed setting a public hearing for the 2012 Tax Levy. The clerk noted that the rate this year is the same as last year.  It is $0.6332 per every $100.00 assessed valuation.

Ald. Wilson moved to set 6:50PM on August 21, 2012 for the public hearing. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Lett, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed changing the wording on Section 210.690 of the City’s Code regarding junk, salvage trash and industrial debris. The Mayor reported that there had been complaints about peoples junk in the front and back yards. He also noted that the existing Ordinance allowed junk and debris in the front and back yard as long as it is covered with a tarp. Chief West stated that several places have stuff covered with tarps.

Ald. Wilson moved to delete the part of Section 201.690 that says that items can be placed under cover Ald. Lett seconded. Ald. Lett, Kohley, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Mayor noted that Assistant City Clerk Karla McNorton will be completing her 90 day probationary period on August 14, 2012. Ald. Lett moved to approve the 90 day probationary and to give Karla McNorton  a 50 cent raise starting on the 16^th of August. Ald. Wilson seconded. Ald. Lett, Wilson, Kohley and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

The following reports were given by department heads:

Tom West- Gilliam Electric was scheduled to install the transfer switches at the Police department on Thursday August 9^th.  He also reported that the air conditioner went out on the white car and would cost $500.00 to repair. He said Curt was just going to drive the black car until the new police vehicle arrived in about 6 weeks.

David Brodie reported that the ultraviolent disinfection unit at the treatment plant is obsolete. He said one of the ballasts went out and he was not able to find a replacement. He said that the bulbs were designed to work with specific ballasts. He stated that they were going to have to look into redoing the whole system so that replacement parts can be found in the future. He said that there might need to be some changes to the electrical. He reported that 5 out of the 6 bays were working properly at this time. He noted that the ultraviolent disinfection system is the last step on the treating of the city’s sewer. The Board told him to get pricing and suggestions on how to replace them.

David reported that the check valve at the lift station was leaking back. He noted that this was another part that he cannot find replacements for. He said the lift stations were going to need to be re-plumbed. He said that even the ductile iron is flacking off like sheets of rust. He stated that while the lift stations are being re-plumbed the sewage will need to be hauled manually to the treatment plant. The Board told him to look into the cost of doing the re-plumbing.

Denis Kolb-  not present.

Dawn Bunch – not present but monthly report in Boards packets1.

Paula Brodie – Noted that the annual fall training for City Clerks is September 16^th and 17^th at Osage Beach. This year it is in conjunction with the annual MML Conference, which causes one of the training days to be on Sunday. She asked the Board to approve for two night’s motel expense and seminar cost of $125.00. The Board agreed for her to attend.                      

The following old business was discussed:

Crystal Vaughan asked about the speeders on Janice noting that even Officer Drake who was in the black car was speeding too. The Mayor stated that he would get together with Tom and Curt about stopping the speeders. She said that the speeding was an ongoing problem on Janice Street.

JR Fisher said that he talked to Swift about doing street repairs when he was on the Board and that he had received a quote from Swift of $18,000.00 per lineal 1,000 feet for a 2 inch overlay. He said he was told then that the street couldn’t be done without doing a base coat. He asked why couldn’t the city employees fill in the pot holes and then have Swift do an overlay. The Mayor stated that the Board realized that they could not do complete streets because of the cost so they had decided to have the worst spots repaired first.

David stated that Swift had told him that to do Garner from 59 Hwy to School St would cost the same amount as the whole job that the city was asking bids for.

The following new business was discussed:     

Steve Wimpey reported that the sidewalk from in front of Roger Coe’s to the Corner of C Hwy and School Street is in much needed repair. The Board tabled to look into who is responsible to do the repairs and to see what actually needs done.

The Board discussed allowing people to use the ball park. They discussed whether or not to charge for the use of the park, how much to charge for the lights, and whether or not to charge a security deposits. There were voiced concerns about the hours that the lights could be on, whether or not the people using the park would clean it up, the need to clean and maintain the bathrooms.                                       

Ald. Wilson suggested charging a hundred dollar rental fee and a $100.00 fee for clean-up. He said if they failed to clean up the park the $100.00 would be kept to use to clean up the park. It was suggested that some people would pay $100.00 just so they wouldn’t have to cleanup and if that happened who would be responsible to do the cleanup.

It was decided that the park could be used this coming weekend but not the lights as the Board needs to figure out what to charge for the park lights. At this time there is no deposit required.

Mayor Richmond stated that Jill Breashers had called and asked him to meet with her and the Chairmen of the First Community Bank about the Goodman State Bank building.

The Board discussed the bills in the amount of $26,405.99 including transfers. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the bills in the amount of $26,405.99. Ald. Kohley seconded.  Ald. Lett, Wilson, Kohley and Hess voted aye with 0 nays.

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

 

The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night August 21 2012 at 6:50 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Calvin Wilson and Bill Hess. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Chief Tom West, Officer Curt Drake, Judge Clyde Davidson and Emergency Management Director Denis Kolb. Guests included Lois Kolb, JR. Fisher, Carlton Lewis, and Roger Hensley. Ald. Lett was not present.

The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:50 PM. He noted that the meeting was called at 6:50PM to hold a Public Hearing for public comments and questions in regards to the Board setting the 2012 Tax Levy. The Mayor noted that the tax levy of $0.6332 was the same as last years. The Mayor informed the Board that the Ordinance needs to be voted on two times because it must be approved before September 1, 2012.

The Mayor asked for comments and questions.

Roger Hensley asked the Board how much the taxes would be on a valuation of $50,000.00. The Mayor told him that his taxes will be the same as last year, if the valuation of his property stayed the same.

Ald. Lett joined the meeting.

The Mayor asked if there were any more public comments or questions, which there were none.

The Mayor noted that the Board was moving from the Public hearing into regular session.

The Mayor read Bill # 2012-431 for Ord. # 2012-441 for the first reading setting the 2012 tax levy at $0.6332 per $100.00 valuation on personal property and real estate.

Ald. Wilson moved to approve the first reading of Bill # 2012-431 for Ord. #2012-441. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

The Mayor read Bill # 2012-431 for Ord. # 2012-441 for the second reading. Ald. Kohley moved to approve the second reading of Bill # 2012-431 for Ord. #2012-441. Ald. Hess seconded. Ald. Hess, Kohley, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the meeting on August 7, 2012. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the minutes. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Hess, Kohley, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays

The Mayor noted that the next item on the agenda was for the Board to discuss Bill # 201-432 for Ord#2012-442 which removes the words “under cover” from Section 210.690 (a).

The Mayor read Bill # 2012-432 for Ord. # 2012-442 for the first reading. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the first reading of Bill # 2012-432 for Ord. #2012-442. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed the bids that they had received during the last meeting on the street repair. David informed the Board that he had called Swift and asked for clarification on the charge of $1200.00 for each mobilization. He said if the City had told Swift that they were ready for Swift to start, and they moved in all of the equipment and then the city wasn’t ready and Swift had to come back at a later time, there would be a charge of $1200.00.

The Mayor reported that the Board had voiced a concern at the last meeting about the bid from APAC as it did not include anything except the 2” overlay.  He informed the Board that per Section 135.050 of the city’s Code the Board does not have to accept the lowest bid but they must put in the journal the reasons why they went with the higher bidder.

Ald. Wilson stated that he was concerned about APAC’s bid which reflected they were intending on only putting down a 2” overlay and did not include any leveling coats or milling. He said that Swifts bid reflected doing milling, a leveling course before the 2” overlay and all traffic control.

Ald. Wilson moved to approve the bid from Swift Construction in the amount of $61,625.00 due to the fact that Swift’s bid included leveling course, cold mix tie ins, before the 2” overlay and all traffic control, where APAC’s bid did not, and because of all of the exceptions to their bid there might be unexpected expenses not included in their bid.. Ald. Kohley seconded.  Ald. Kohley, Lett, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Following reports were made by:

Tom West- reported that the new patrol car should be delivered in the near future.

                 – he also reported that the light bar on the white patrol car is not working correctly. He said the way the lights were designed moisture got into them and made them not work. He said that Curt had tried to order parts for it but was not able to locate the manufacturer. He said that they had called Able 2 out of Cassville, Missouri to see if they could work on them and they had stated that they get numerous calls regarding needed repair to that kind of light bar, but they do not work on any but their own.  Curt said he asked Able 2 for quotes on a new light bar and switch board.

They are as follows:

Generation 5 LED light bar and switch board for $1,573.49 cities price versus $2,286.00 regular price.

Generation 4 LED light bar and switch for $1,492.91 cites price versus $2,092.00 regular price.

He noted that if any repairs were needed they would do them right at the plant in Cassville.

Indian Trails will do the installation. Tom said he thought they had quoted between $300 and $400.00 to do the installation.

Tom recommended giving the old light bar to the fire department as their vehicles are kept indoors, so the lights would not draw moisture.

Ald. Kohley stated the price for the LED’s might seem high but they really aren’t and he noted that most light bars have LED lights in them now.

Ald. Wilson moved to purchase the Generation 5 light bar and switch box from Able 2, Cassville for $1,573.49. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

David Brodie- told the board that David Sarratt turned in his two weeks’ notice today. He said David had been talking about quitting and that he understood that David had informed the Clerk that he was turning in his two weeks’ notice. David stated that he would not be able to attend the Chemical Spill response class.  The Board agreed to have him go ahead and sign up for the class for $125.00.  It was noted that if he could not go they would be refunded if notification was given 3 days before the class. Ald. Wilson moved to allow David to go to the Chemical Spill Response Class in Springfield for $125.00 plus wages. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

David informed the Board that the City’s waste water permit is up for renewal soon. He said because of this Greg Perkins from DNR had spent a day with him doing an inspection of the plant. David reported that Mr. Perkins told him he should be doing a composite sampling once a month. He said that a composite sample was taken over a 24 hour period. David told the Board that he has a composite sampler that he can use in the trough where the UV lights are but he needs one that can go deeper because he has to take samples from the pit. He said that Blue Book has one that will go to a depth of 13 feet for $1,328.00. He said that Mr. Perkins told him he should start doing the testing as soon as he can.

David said that the city sends a lot of their samples to an outside lab source for testing. He said that most of the cities do this except Noel. He said Mr. Perkins said that was fine because it was another source to check the samples other than the City.

David stated another thing Mr. Perkins wants the City to do is to start testing the solids which would require the purchase of an analytical balancer at the cost of $1,695.00 for one that is EPA approved.

He stated that he was also having trouble with his dissolved oxygen (DO) meter. He said that it keeps drifting off and won’t hold a calibration. He said that he had taken it to Mike Jeffers, from the Noel Wastewater plant to look at and that they had gotten it calibrated, but within a short time it was back to not being correct. He said that a replacement DO meter will cost $1,845.00.

He told the Board that he definitely needs the Composite Sampler and the Analytical Balancer and then in the future a DO meter. He said that Greg Perkins said that the new wastewater permit will require the city to do more testing then in the past. He said the items he has asked for will be required once the Board receives the new permit.

Ald. Wilson moved to allow David to go ahead and purchase the composite sampler in the amount of $1,328.00, the analytical balancer for $1,695.00 and the DO Meter for $1,845.00 for a total sum of $4,868.00. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

David reminded the Board that at the last Board meeting he had told them that one bay of the UV lights had gone out and that he could not find any replacement parts. He said that the Board had told him to contact Paul Crews to see what it would take to redo the whole system. He said before Mr. Crews could come down to give him some ideas Mr. Perkins did the plant inspection. He said that Mr. Perkins said the system has to be replaced and he suggested the need of hiring an Engineer to draw up the specifications.

He said he has talked to Paul Crews and asked him to get some prices for him. He said that Paul estimated the cost could be around $40,000.00. David said because of the cost of the project the Board would need to place the project out for bid and to place it out for bid specifications would need to be put together. He said he was not qualified to draw up the specifications.

The Mayor stated that the project would definitely need to be bid out. David stated his concern was if another bay of lights go out the city could be in violation, so he was wondering if the city had some kind of emergency clause which would allow them not to have to go through the bidding process.

The Mayor asked if he could ask someone from DNR. David said he could make some phone calls and see if he could get some information.

David asked if the city had an engineer under contract. The Mayor noted that Tri State Engineering had been the city’s expert witness for the water improvement project.

Ald. Wilson said he didn’t understand why an engineer was needed.  Clyde stated because it sounded to him that it was not a replacement part needed but a rebuilding of the complete system.

The Board decided to have David find out if the City could classify the situation as an emergency which would shorten the bidding process.

David stated that another item that needed to be repaired at the plant was the chatter boxes, which is a notification system if the plant shuts down. He said that Mr. Perkins said they had to be replaced. David said that he realized that he was asking for a lot of items but he reminded the board that the plant is 21 years old and parts are obsolete. He also stated because of the clean water act there will be new levels of compliance for the treatment plant to meet in the future.  

He reported that Gene from JCI had come down and worked on the lift station generator and it is working now. He said that they figured out it was the light panel, so Gene ordered the part, but David will be able to install it.

David sated that the final thing Greg Perkins said was that anyone working on the wastewater system must have a wastewater license. He said that when the Board hires someone to replace David Sarratt they need to inform the applicant that it will be a requirement that they attain a “D” license within 6 months of hiring. David said that he believed a high school diploma and attending a 12 day class would qualify for the pre- requisite to take the test for a “D” wastewater license. He said he would be going to a class taught by the Department of Natural Resources personnel next week and while he was there he would ask about the classes and requirements for the “D” license.

The Board agreed to place the advertisement for a public works employee in the Neosho Daily News and the Joplin Globe. They decided to require applications to be turned into the City hall by 4:00PM on September 4, 2012.

Denis Kolb- stated that he would like the Board to turn the city’s IRIS members over to the McDonald County 911 Alert system. Keith said that he had talked with Lisa McCool and she said it would be fine. Tom said he talked with Lisa McCool today and she said she would like to put the idea before her board first.  Denis asked about the city’s water table as he said the drought was forecasted to last until October. David said the water level of the city’s well is being monitored and is OK right now. The Board agreed to table any decision on renewing the IRIS program until they hear back from 911.

Dawn Bunch – no report

Paula Brodie – discussed the need to raise meter deposits for renters and owners. The Board agreed for her to get some information together for them and discuss it during budget workshops.                            

                      – noted the Board received July’s Financial Statements in their packets.

The Board discussed the following old business: David said that he had contacted Blue Valley Siren Company about when they were going to come and update the siren. He said that they were going to combine their trip to Goodman with some other cities close by and were waiting for parts before scheduling an appointment. He also noted that Marshall long had suggested that they install a push button inside the fire station in case the radios go down and the siren needs to be set off manually.

The Mayor stated that he had mentioned at the last meeting that Jill Breshears from the First Community Bank had made an appointment with him to meet with her and her Chairmen of the Board. He said that he was unable to keep that appointment but had agreed at her suggestion to have Paula and one of the Board members meet with them. Paula noted that Bill Hess was the only Board Member that would have been able to attend as the others work so the Mayor asked her to ask Bill to see if he could attend the meeting. Mr. Hess was able to arrange to meet with Jill Breshears, her CEO Dale Cole, and Paula.

Ald. Hess reported what took place during the meeting. He stated that Mr. Cole said that his concern was how to preserve the main street area. Bill stated that Mr. Cole was interested in finding out if the Board would be willing to purchase the old bank building to move the City Hall back to Main Street. He said Mr. Cole’s reasoning was to make the City Hall more visible to people coming into town.  He said people are always coming into the bank asking where the City Hall is. Ald. Hess stated that Mr. Cole had said that they might be willing to sell the building to the city for around $70,000.00 interest free. Mr. Hess stated that he told Mr. Cole that he was concerned about what the people would think about going into debt when the existing City Hall is paid for. He said that he told Mr. Cole that the Board had a lot of things they needed to do like repair the streets and finish the community building. Ald. Hess said that Mr. Cole said that the bank might consider swapping the existing City Hall for the bank building. Mr. Cole stated that if the current City Hall was worth more than their building they might even pay some cash difference which would pay for needed repairs to the bank building.  

There were several comments from those present regarding the cost, what condition the bank is in, how much it will cost to get it in shape to move into and various pros and cons on moving the City Hall. Several of the citizens present liked the idea of moving the City Hall back to Main Street but they were concerned about the cost and feasibility of making the bank building workable as the City Hall.

David stated that he was very concerned about selling the land next to the City’s main well. He said the Board should seriously consider if they want to have another person or business that close to the well. Also it was noted that the land the City Hall is on is zoned residential not commercial.

Ald. Hess stated that Mr. Cole gave him the impression that they would work hard to make a deal. The Mayor stated that he felt that the bank should get a proposal together and then attend a meeting to discuss it with the Board. Ald. Lett asked if the Board could look at the building. It was also suggested that the Board might have their Building inspector look at it to see what all would need to be repaired. Judge Davidson stated he thought it was a good suggestion but recommended the Board finding out how much the bank wants for the building and exactly what they propose. Mayor Richmond stated that he was sure they would be agreeable to allow the Board to inspect the bank. The Board decided to table further discussion until they receive more information from the bank.                                        

The Board discussed the following new business: 

Clyde Davidson stated that a softball tournament was being put together for a fund raiser for Herb Heath. He said he was asked to ask the Board of Aldermen if they would waive the light fee and cleanup fee for the tournament. He assured the Board that the ballpark would be cleaned up after the tournament. He said it was going to be held on August 24^th and 25^th. Ald. Lett moved to waive the light and cleaning fee for the benefit. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays. Clyde said he would like the police to be aware of the tournament.

Mayor Richmond asked about getting some new signs for directions to City Hall. David said he would check with Barco for new signs and find out how much they would cost.

The Board discussed the bills in the amount of $44,148.04 including transfers. Ald. Lett noted that two of the checks did not match the bills. The Board agreed to void those checks and have them reissued at the next meeting for the correct amount.  Ald. Lett moved to approve the bills in the amount of $44,148.04, including transfers minus the amount of check number 9408 and 9409. Ald. Kohley seconded.  Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

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

 

The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night July 3 2012 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond, Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Calvin Wilson, Bill Hess and Kristen Lett. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Chief of Police Tom West, Officer Curt Drake, Emergency Management Director Denis Kolb, Tax Collector Dawn Bunch and Municipal Judge Clyde Davidson Guests included Carlton Lewis J.R. Fisher, Kelson Rehobson and Inderson Rehobson.

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

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the meeting on June 19, 2012. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the minutes. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Lett, Kohley, Wilson and Hess voted aye with 0 nays

The Mayor acknowledged Nick Myers to give the 2011 Audit report. He went through the complete Audit explaining different sections.  He stated that the City had a strong balance sheet, and the water/sewer department is holding its own, but needs to look to future expenses and revenues. He noted that the water/sewer department is the City’s business account and should show a profit enough to maintain the running of the water/sewer department and to pay of its bond obligations. He stated that he found no deficiency in the internal control  of the City but always recommends looking into ways to improve existing controls. He made recommendations including better reversing entry’s, making out job descriptions and duties, adding account numbers to the actual bills to help alleviate errors in entering revenues and expenditures to the Easy Accounting Program and suggested looking into to how to better handle compensatory time off compering requirements  for wage and hour by the Department of Labor.

Ald. Kohley moved to approve the 2011 Audit Report. Ald. Hess seconded. Ald. Kohley, Hess, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed the house that burned owned by Cynthia McCoy at 122 N. School Street. It was noted that the Board had voted to give her an extension until June 29^th to comply with the suggestions made by William Mosby the City Inspector.  The Clerk noted that she had tried to call Ms. McCoy to remind her of the meeting but the phone number that she had used before to contact her was now not working. She also noted that she had talked to William Mosby and he said that he had not heard from her either and suggested the Board going ahead with the condemnation. The Board agreed to give her until the next Board meeting to complete the items that Mr. Mosby asked for or to attend the next Board. If she fails to appear the Board will vote to continue the condemnation.

The Mayor reported on MODOT’s answer on posting signs stating “No Jacobs Breaking Systems within the City Limits”. (Copies of City’s existing noise ordinances in packets). The Mayor stated that MODOT would allow signs that say that the “City’s Noise Ordinance Is Being enforced”, however they will not allow signs that say “No Jacobs Breaking Systems within the City Limits”. The Mayor stated that MODOT was concerned about the legality of them telling truckers that they can’t use their jake breaks. Ald. Wilson said the city does have existing ordinances about loud noise within the City Limits. Clyde Davidson said that the Police Department can issue tickets for loud noise right now. J.R. Fisher stated that the trains are as loud as the jake brakes and that the City of Neosho does not allow the use of the train horns. Municipal Judge Davidson stated that the City of Neosho has a whistle ordinance and has spent a good deal of money to make the town whistle free from the trains. The Mayor stated that for now the Police Department will inform people who are in violation of the noise ordinance and if they do not stop the officers will issue citations. The Board agreed to have the Police Department handle the matter.

Clyde Davidson was present to ask the Board to average the Micronesian Church’s water bill. He said that they have been working on the church but are not actually having services yet. He said that they received a bill showing that they had used 27,000 gallons. David said that the Church’s usage had showed up on the high water usage report so he had gone over to check the meter and in one day they had used another 2,000 gallons so he went ahead and shut off the water. Clyde stated that they were going to see where the leak was and asked if David could meet with them to help them find the leak and he agreed. Ald. Wilson moved to average the water bill for the Micronesian Church. It was noted that they do not have sewer. It was noted that they have a septic tank Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Lett, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Following were reports from department heads.

Tom West- Nothing

David Brodie reported that the pumps he had fixed where repaired and installed and the extra pump was stored. He noted that his water line locator is not working correctly. He stated that a new one costs around $900.00. He said he had called the company that it was purchased about repairing it. He said they do not keep parts anymore but the representative that he talked to said his problem sounded like it might just need to adjusted. He said for it to be worked on the cost will be $350.00. He said his concern was that if the adjustments made to the locator do not work the Board would still have to purchase a new one and would have wasted the $350.00. He said he would call them and see if they would not charge the $350.00 if it could not be repaired. Ald. Wilson stated that if they have to pay the $350.00 and it didn’t fix the problem wouldn’t it be better to just go ahead and approve the purchase of a new one. David noted that the locator was 15 years old and he needed one that was reliable to do locates. David stated after looking the catalog that it would be ordered from that a new one is $850.00.  Ald. Wilson moved to allow the purchase of a locater for $850.00. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Wilson, Kohley, Lett and Hess voted aye with 0 nay votes.

Denis Kolb- .  stated he had nothing to report. Ald. Kohley stated on behalf of the Emergency Management Department he hoped people would be careful around town shooting off fireworks do to the dryness.

Dawn Bunch – stated she had nothing to report. Her monthly reports were in the Aldermen’s packets.

Paula Brodie – noted that the 22^nd Annual City Wide Yard Sale will be July 28 and people could sign up at City Hall to have their sale added to the City Maps until the 25^h    of July. She noted that the water bill incorrectly stated people could sign up until the 25^th of June.

– noted that the ads have been placed in the paper for the transfer switch for the Generators at the Police Department and City Hall. Bids will require using prevailing wage order # 18. JR Fisher asked if the transfer switches had to be bid prevailing wage. It was noted that any public works job that cost $2,000.00 or more has to be bid prevailing wage.

The Board discussed the following old business:                                          

The Board discussed the street repair bids. The Mayor stated that the suggestions made by David are OK however he would like to add Garner Street from 59 HWY to just past the Casey’s store driveway. The Board discussed going ahead and bidding the streets with the existing drawings and bid the Garner street addition later.  Ald. Wilson suggested that the Board should go ahead and add the part from 59 HWY to the Casey’s Store driveway and then if the bid comes in to high it could be cut from the project. The Board discussed where they wanted the bid advertisement placed to get the best response.  J.R. Fisher stated that Seneca had recently received bids on a project from contractors all over. It was noted that the water project contractor was from the far East side of the state and it turned out to be a real problem as the contractor had no ties with the area. Ald. Wilson moved to go ahead and place the advertisement for bids for the street repair project adding the stretch from 59 HWY to the Casey’s Store driveway. Ald. Kohley seconded.  Ald. Kohley, Hess, Wilson and Lett voted aye with 0 nays.   

JR Fisher stated his business had been broken into again and he was wondering what is going to be done to alleviate the break-ins.   Officer Drake noted they had requested over 20 lights around town to be repaired, they have asked New Mac and Empire to do some tree trimming around the lights, and the city guys have also been cutting brush along the streets. He said that all these things were being done for better visibility around town. Chief West stated that all the towns around the area are getting hit. He said that he knew in the past they would work areas in groups. Dawn stated that they had a lot of traffic down their dead end street. Chief West stated that he had been trying to catch and talk with the cars he has seen going down the dead end. He said all of the local departments in the area work together to try and catch those who are breaking in.

The Mayor stated that he had talked in the past about putting up a sign at the City Park on Barlow and Janice. David reported that he had talked with the Betterment Club about getting the fence repaired and then the Board could have a sign installed.

The Board discussed the bills in the amount of $24,782.19 including transfers. Ald. Lett moved to approve the bills in the amount of $24,782.19. Ald. Hess seconded. Ald. Hess, Kohley, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

Ald. Hess moved to adjourn. Ald. Kohley seconded.  Ald. Kohley, Lett, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.                                                                                                                         __________________                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Greg Richmond, Mayor

Attest:______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

 

                                                                                                                                                                  

The Board of Aldermen held a meeting on Tuesday night July 17 2012 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Acting President Kristen Lett, Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Calvin Wilson and Bill Hess. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Officer Curt Drake and Emergency Management Director Denis Kolb. Guests included DeAun Richmond, Marshall Long, Crystal Vaughan, Carlton Lewis, Joyce Haynes, Ashley Vance and Daniel Proctor. Mayor Richmond was not present.

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

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the meeting on July 3, 2012. Ald. Hess moved to approve the minutes. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Hess, Wilson, Kohley and Lett voted aye with 0 nays

Acting President Lett acknowledged DeAun Richmond to discuss averaging her water bill from 222 S. Ozark Trail. She stated that it leaked at the faucet, and that it probably ran for 24 to 36 hours. She asked that the board average her bill and informed the Board that the leak had been taken care off.  Ald. Wilson moved to average her water bill at $91.50. Ald. Hess seconded. Ald. Wilson, Hess, Kohley and Lett voted aye with 0 nays.

Acting President Lett acknowledged Marshall Long who was present to discuss what he had found out about updating the City’s tornado siren. He said that he had received one bid from the company that the City had purchased the siren from, to update and do maintenance. The updating will include adding the equipment to change the siren to narrow band. All of the department’s radios and sirens are required to go to narrow band per the FCC by December 31^st 2012. Marshall stated that he had contacted a few companies for quotes but had not received them all back. He said for new sirens and installation the cost is around $20,000.00. Marshall noted that the new sirens were stationary with stationary horns facing different directions. He said that the sirens can also be used for making announcements or giving an all clear.  Marshall said that he would continue to get some more quotes. 

The Board discussed the condemnation of Cynthia McCoy’s property at 122 N. School Street. It was noted that the Board had voted to condemn the property on May 1^st and then went ahead and gave her an extension for 45 days until the 3^rd of July. It was noted that the Building Inspector William Mosby had told Ms. McCoy what she needed to do prior to the meeting on the 3^rd of July. Ms. McCoy failed to appear at the Board meeting on the 3^rd of July and the Board tabled final decision until July 17^th. The Board agreed to go ahead with the condemnation. The Clerk is to put a notice in the paper to run for a two week period, if Ms. McCoy does not respond by that date the Board will seek bids to demolish the house.

The Board opened bids to install transfer switches for generators from Long Electric, Neosho Missouri in the amount of $3,793.00 and Gilliam Electric in the amount of $3,800.00. The Board noted that Gilliam had done work for the city before, that he had put a bid in on the first time the Board had put the bids out and that his bid noted that Prevailing wages would be paid. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the bid from Gilliam Electric in the amount of $3,800.00. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Wilson, Hess, Lett and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

Department heads gave the following reports:

                               Denis Kolb- no report

David Brodie reported that the bid requests were put in the paper for the street repair project. Bids should be in by 4:00PM on August 7^th, to be opened that night at 7:00PM. 

Dawn Bunch –no report

Paula Brodie – noted that the 22^nd Annual City Wide Yard Sale will be July 28.  Sign-ups will be taken for the city map until July 25^th at City Hall.

                      – noted copies of the June financial Statements and a 6 month budget comparison was in the Boards packets.

                      – noted that the City received a premium rebate from Anthem due to the Affordable Care Act. A copy of letter is in the Boards packets.

                      – noted that HB 1329 was vetoed by the Governor and may affect future vehicle taxes, which goes directly into the Street Account.

There was no old business discussed.                                       

The Board discussed the following new business: Ashley Vance 215 E. Garner was present to discuss her water bill. She stated that she was not aware of any leaks. The Board asked David to go by and see if they have any leaks. Ald. Wilson moved to approve averaging their bill if their leaks were repaired. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Hess, Kohley, Lett and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Board discussed the bills in the amount of $26,644.34 including transfers. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the bills in the amount of $26,644.34. Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Kohley, Lett, Hess and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

The Clerk noted that the Ford Expedition patrol car had been involved in an accident. She stated that the City’s insurance company had been contacted and that they had asked for Chief West to get two bids. She said Tom had gotten two bids and that approval from MOPERM had been given to have it repaired by Burr Auto.

Ald. Kohley moved to adjourn. Ald. Lett seconded.  Ald. Hess, Kohley, Wilson and Lett 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 June 19, 2012 at 7:00 PM.  Those present included Mayor Greg Richmond, Alderpersons Keith Kohley, Calvin Wilson and Kristen Lett. Also present were City Supervisor David Brodie, City Clerk Paula Brodie, Chief of Police Tom West and Officer Curt Drake. Guests included Carlton Lewis, Crystal Vaughan and Joyce Haynes. Alderman Hess was absent.

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

The Board of Aldermen discussed the minutes from the meeting on June 5, 2012. Ald. Kohley moved to approve the minutes. Ald. Wilson seconded. Ald. Wilson, Lett and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays

The Board discussed the need to get a prevailing wage determination so that advertisements for bids for electrical hook ups for generators for Police Department and City Hall could be placed in the newspapers.  The Mayor asked if the Board could advertise the project as two separate projects since one was for the Police Department and one is for the City Hall. He noted that if the project comes in over two thousand dollars it has to be bid as a prevailing wage job. David stated he thought that the project should be considered one project to assure the Board is keeping with the Prevailing Wage Laws.  Ald. Wilson moved to keep the two projects together, apply for a Prevailing Wages Determination and place an advertisement for bids in the paper. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald Lett, Kohley, and Wilson voted ayes with 0 nays.

The Mayor stated that he had tried to contact Dave Taylor from MODOT in regards to the City’s question about their posting signs stating no Jacobs Breaking Systems allowed within the City Limits on State Highways. The Mayor stated that he had a message that Mr. Taylor had called him back. Ald. Wilson stated that he did know that other towns did have such signs. He said that jake breaks are not required by law so he did not see why MODOT would have a problem with the City putting up the signs.  The Mayor stated before going to the trouble and expense of passing an ordinance and purchasing signs he would like to hear from MODOT first.

The Board discussed a request from the McDonald County Health Department asking the City to become a partner in their request for a $300,000.00 grant from the Missouri Foundation to address health issues within the County. The Mayor stated that they were asking for the Board to appoint a liaison to meet with the health Department employees to discuss the use of the grant fees. Mayor stated he would volunteer to be the liaison if the Board wanted him to. Ald. Lett moved that the City should become a partner with the McDonald County Health Department and that Mayor Richmond should be appointed the Liaison from the City.  Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Lett, Kohley and Wilson voted aye with no nays.

The Mayor read a letter from Callie Hudson regarding her Consulting Services for Grants. The letter stated that Callie had gotten a new job as Associate Director of the Ronald McDonald House and therefore would not be working on Grants. She did offer to be of assistance if the Board had any questions about future grants that they applied for. The Clerk noted that the Board had finally received the closing paper work on the CDBG Grant on the Water Improvement Project. This will allow the Board to apply for future CDBG grants.

The following department head reports:

Tom West- No reports

David Brodie stated that he had given the Board copies of maps of areas of streets in town that he felt should be addressed first for street repairs. He said as the Board members all work during the day he and David had gone around the town selecting spots that they felt were the worse. He had drawn the maps after measuring the areas and had included existing manholes. He said he was sure the Board would like to add some other areas to the list. He said he did not include Riley Street and B Ave. as both of those streets need to be completely redone. He asked the Board to look at the maps and to go out around town checking other areas. David stated that the contractors will grind the starting and ending points of the areas and then put down a two inch over lay and some leveling coats. Ald Kohley asked if the Board had a ball park figure for the costs. The Mayor stated that he thought before they had been told in the past around $18,000.00. David said he felt just leveling and over lays to the worse areas would be a doable project costs wise, but putting in base rock and redoing the complete streets would not be. The Mayor asked for Garner St. at the beginning of 59 Hwy to the driveway of Casey’s be added to the list. David suggested the Board keep looking to see what streets needed repair the most. The Board agreed that this job would also need a Prevailing Wage Determination. David said that he would get together with a few of the contractors just to get some basic idea of the costs. The Board agreed that once they get bids they would know if they could add more locations to be repaired.

David informed the Board that there was a continuous sewer problem at 122 Russell Street. He said that the owners had been working on the problem for several years. He said that he has tried to help them with the problem. He said that recently they had more problems with the sewer and that he had looked into it again. He said that during the Water Improvement Project he believed the contractors had broken the line and had not repaired it correctly. He said that he believed about 25’ of the line needed to be dug up and repaired correctly. He said that he felt that by all rights the city should repair it. He reported that he had talked with Chris Morgan and that Chris had said he could do the repairs for $500.00. Ald Wilson moved to approve hiring Chris Morgan to fix the sewer line at 122 Russell. Ald Lett seconded. Ald Wilson, Lett, and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

David said that he and David had gotten the houses that were foreclosed on mowed.

David asked the Board to let him know if they know of any others that need to be mowed.

Denis Kolb-  was not present.  Ald. Kohley stated that he had looked for a monitor for the Emergency Management Department to use with the rebuilt water computer. He said that he felt that Best Buy had the best monitor for the price. He told the Board that Best Buy had one for $89.99. Ald. Wilson moved to purchase the monitor for 89.99 from Best Buy. Ald Kohley seconded. Ald. Wilson, Lett and Kohley voted aye with 0 nays.

Dawn Bunch – was not present

Paula Brodie – noted letter written to John Britt and Rockie and Bonnie Helms asking them  to  mow their properties. She said that Calvin had agreed to mow the  Helm’s propery.

                      – note news release for 22^nd Annual City Wide Yard Sale. Board agreed to  place a bigger ad in the Big Nickel this year.

                      – noted memo on MOPERM meeting. Board needs to go over policy.

                      – the Clerk asked the Board to consider purchasing a new lap top for the City Hall. She stated that her lap top was one purchased from the Highway Patrol  years ago for $100.00. She noted that at the last meeting she could not even get it to come on and had to take the Board meeting minutes by hand. She  said that she had included in the Boards packets different quotes from Walmart and Best Buy. She stated that she felt the Hewlett Packard 15.6” was the best buy for the money. She noted that the hard drive memory was                           more on the Walmart Computer versus the same computer from Best Buy.                             She stated that it cost $328.00.  Ald. Wilson moved to purchase the Hewlett  Packard lap top for $328.00.  Ald. Kohley seconded. Ald. Lett, Kohley and  Wilson voted ayes with 0 nays.

                      – note that the Clerk gave Board and Police Department a copy of the City                              Code on parking regulations. Officer Drake had asked the Board to draw up an ordinance to restrict parking close to intersections. The existing Code already addressed that parking problem. Ald. Wilson stated that the  ordinance read that people have to park 30 feet back from an intersection.  Ald. Wilson stated that Section 355.060 reads that if the roadway is not more  than twenty (20) feet wide cars cannot be parked along the street. It was noted for the Police Officers to enforce the no parking it had to be posted.                                   The Officers decided that they would talk to people first informing them of the law and then if necessary some signs could be ordered and put up. Put  them up in problem area only.                            

The Board discussed the following new business: The Mayor stated that he had a lady who lives on West Splitlog ask him to put up a speed limit sign or a child at play sign. It was noted that West Splitlog is outside the city limits. Ald. Wilson moved that the Clerk should write a letter to the McDonald County Commissioner’s with the lady’s request. Ald. Kohley seconded.  Ald. Lett, Kohley and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

Ald.  Kohley asked where they were on the annexation of 59 Hwy.  It was noted that nothing else has been done on it.

The Board discussed the bills in the amount of $38,514.48 including transfers. Ald. Wilson moved to approve the bills in the amount of $38,514.48. Ald. Lett seconded. Ald. Lett, Kohley and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.

Ald. Kohley moved to adjourn. Ald. Lett seconded.  Ald. Lett, Kohley and Wilson voted aye with 0 nays.                                                                                                  __________________________                                                                                                 Greg Richmond, Mayor

Attest:

______________________________

Paula W Brodie, MRCC, City Clerk

 Approved: ____________________

 Date: ________________