March 8, 2010

Springfield, Missouri

 

 

The City Council met in regular session March 8, 2010 in the Council Chambers at City Hall.  The meeting was called to order and a prayer was given by Mayor James O’Neal.    

 

 

Roll Call

 

Present: Robert Stephens, Scott Bailes, Jerome Compton, Nicholas Ibarra, Cindy Rushefsky, John Rush, Doug Burlison, Dan Chiles, and James O’Neal.  

 

 

Minutes        

The minutes of February 22, 2010 were approved as presented.

 

 

 

Mayor O’Neal recognized Boy Scout Troop #239 from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. He noted members of the Troop were in attendance working on their citizenship badge, community involvement badge, and communications badge.

 

 

Consent Agenda

 

The Consent Agendas were finalized and approved as amended. 

 

Dan Chiles requested Council Bill 2010-080 and Council Bill 2010-081 be removed from Consent Agenda One Reading Bills.  Anita Cotter, Assistant City Clerk, informed Council that Council Bill 2010-080 would become item #11.5 under First Reading Bills.  Ms. Cotter also informed Council that Council Bill 2010-081 would become item #14.5 under Resolutions.

 

Mayor O'Neal requested Council Bill 2010-074 be removed from this agenda.  With no opposition Council Bill 2010-074 was removed from the agenda.

 

 

CEREMONIAL MATTERS     

 

 

Citizen Led Petition Drive

Sponsor: Ibarra.  Council Bill 2010-070. A resolution recognizing the efforts of the citizen-led petition drive to ensure that the rights afforded citizens under the Constitution remain intact.

 

 

 

Nick Ibarra gave a brief overview of the proposed.  He noted he was approached by a group of citizens who had a petition concerning the 1st and 2nd amendments of the Constitution.  He added they asked that he do what he felt was appropriate with it, adding they would be honored if he recognize it.

 

Jerry Compton asked for clarification about the process regarding the proposed.  Mr. Ibarra responded that staff informed him that the resolution would be read, then Council discussion, but no public comment.  Mayor O’Neal asked if the proposed would be opened for public comment.  Ms. Cotter responded that two citizens have requested to speak regarding the proposed.

 

An opportunity was given for citizens to express their views.

 

Fred Ellison, 1315 N. Broadway, spoke in support of the proposed.  He noted he has had the opportunity of supporting the petition included in the proposed.  He expressed his belief that the petition supports the 2nd amendment rights of all citizens.  Mr. Ellison expressed his belief that it is essential that the House of Representatives, Senate, and Secretary of State understand that the 2nd amendment is not something that the government has any right to abridge or remove.

 

Wendell Kerr, 3913 S. Belvedere, spoke in support of the proposed.  He expressed his appreciation to Mr. Ibarra for bringing the proposed to Council.  Mr. Kerr noted there have been times when governments have taken the rights of its citizens away.  Mr. Kerr expressed his belief that the proposed would help to guarantee that those rights are protected.

 

With no further appearances the discussion was closed.

 

Mr. Ibarra expressed appreciation to Council for their input regarding the proposed and for listening to both “sides” of the issue.  He noted that he did not intend for the proposed to be a controversial issue, and expressed his belief that the proposed resolution is the best way to recognize the petition initiative.  Mr. Ibarra noted that when laws are created in Jefferson City or Washington D.C. they are upheld not by those cities but by local government.  He added that previous Council’s have included more stringent laws regarding conceal and carry weapons in their legislative priorities.  Mr. Ibarra noted that another Councilmember had concerns that the proposed may appear to be disloyalty or treason.  He added that the proposed is about one thing: citizen’s rights to petition.  Mr. Ibarra expressed his support of the Constitution and citizens rights to petition.

 

John Rush spoke in opposition of the proposed.  He expressed his belief that the proposed does not speak of the 2nd amendment and is not about the Constitution.  Mr. Rush expressed his support of many parts of the proposed.   He expressed concern that the proposed includes a specific political agenda and a petition that he has not seen.  Mr. Rush expressed concern that if the proposed petition-drive is recognized, all petition drives would have to be recognized. 

 

Doug Burlison spoke in support of the proposed.  He expressed his belief that the proposed is asking Council to be aware of concerns expressed by citizens.

 

Mr. Compton spoke in support of the proposed.  He noted that he is concerned that this may not be the appropriate venue for the proposed.  Mr. Compton presented Council with historic dates and information pertaining to the Constitution.  He expressed his belief that the proposed is necessary and he intended to support this resolution.

 

Cindy Rushefsky spoke in opposition of the proposed.  She expressed her support of the Constitution.  She added that she has taught a number of classes and she always discusses the Constitution, because she feels it is important for every American citizen to understand what it is and what it means.    Ms. Rushefsky expressed her belief that the Constitution is the heart and soul of what America is.  She expressed her appreciation to all citizens who take the time and make the effort to circulate petitions and garner support.  Ms. Rushefsky expressed concern that the proposed is tied to a particular petition.  She added she agrees with the last line of the proposed resolution that states: “be it further resolved the City Council encourages all citizens to become active in their local, State, and Federal government”.

 

Mr. Chiles spoke in opposition of the proposed.  He expressed his appreciation to Mr. Ibarra for bringing this resolution before Council.   Mr. Chiles noted he is opposed to the proposed because it is flawed.  He added that the details of the petition are not provided.  Mr. Chiles expressed his belief that due to the current economy neighbors should be coming together and helping one another.  He expressed concern that guns may cause problems in the community.

 

Robert Stephens spoke in opposition of the proposed.  He noted that when he was sworn-in in April, 2009 he swore to uphold the Constitution of the United States.  He added that he did not swear to uphold “parts” of it, but the Constitution in its entirety.  Mr. Stephens expressed concern that the proposed petition only addressed the first two amendments.  He expressed concern that the proposed is interjecting Council into a National debate.  Mr. Stephens noted that if any of the nine members of Council wish to express their rights to free speech, to support whatever causes they choose, they may.  He added that he would have signed the petition included in the proposed, but he expressed concern that as a member of the governing body of the City it would be inappropriate to commit to a particular position that has not yet been publicly discussed among the community.

 

Scott Bailes spoke in support of the proposed.  He noted he has family members who choose to be members of the National Rifle Association (NRA).  He added that he will be supporting the proposed due to the last two lines of the resolution that state: “the City Council recognizes the efforts of citizen led petition drives to ensure the rights afforded citizens under our Constitution remain intact. Further be it resolved the City Council encourages all citizens to become active in their local, State, and Federal government”.

 

Mayor O'Neal spoke in support of the proposed.  He expressed his appreciation to Mr. Ibarra for bringing the proposed before Council.  Mayor O’Neal noted he would support any amendments Council may want to discuss.  He encouraged everyone to participate in the 2010 census, which is the 1st amendment of the Constitution.

 

Ms. Rushefsky moved to amend the proposed by removing the 3rd, 4th, and 5th “Whereas” and add at the end: “the City Council recognizes the efforts of citizen-led-petition drives to ensure that the rights afforded citizens under the Constitution remain intact.  Be it further resolved the City Council encourages all citizens to become active in their local, State, and Federal government and participate in the 2010 census” and also add a 3rd “Whereas” that states: “the First Amendment to the Bill of Rights includes the right to petition by citizens of their government”.  Mr. Chiles seconded the motion and it was discussed.

 

Mr. Ibarra noted he is not opposed to discussing possible amendments but he would ask that petition drive remain singular.  He added he is not opposed to removing the 3rd “Whereas”, but would prefer to amend the 4th “Whereas” and not remove it.

 

Mr. Chiles expressed support of Ms. Rushefsky’s proposed amendment.  He added that his main concern with the proposed is the fact that it references one specific petition.

 

Mr. Ibarra expressed concern that some members of Council may not have opened the email that included a copy of the petition discussed in the proposed.  He added that he has no problem with adding a copy of the petition to the proposed to add clarification.

 

The motion to amend the proposed was approved by the following vote:  Ayes: O’Neal, Rushefsky, Rush, Chiles, Bailes, and Stephens.  Nays: Ibarra, Burlison, and Compton.

 

 

 

Amended Council Bill 2010-070.  Resolution 9769 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: Compton. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS RAISED AT THE FEBRUARY 22, 2010 COUNCIL MEETINGS AND CITY MANAGER’S REPORT.

 

 

 

Greg Burris, City Manager, responded all questions had been answered.  Mr. Burris noted the sales tax revenue for March 2010 is down 17.9% compared to March 2009.  He added that revenue for the budget year to date is down 9.16%.  Mr. Burris noted the red light camera program has been suspended due to a ruling by the Missouri Supreme Court.  He added that the City is currently in the process of requesting a re-hearing of the courts decision.  Mr. Burris congratulated Fire Captain Eric Latimer for his recent nomination by Governor Jay Nixon to serve on the State’s Advisory Council on Emergency Medical Services.  He added that Captain Latimer is awaiting confirmation by the State Senate.    Mr. Burris noted that former Springfield Greene County Park Board Director Dan Kinney has been selected for induction into the Missouri Park and Recreation Association’s Hall of Fame. 

 

Mayor O'Neal asked for clarification regarding the status of a meeting regarding the Heer’s development.  Mr. Burris responded the aforementioned topic is on the agenda for an upcoming Council luncheon.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Public Hearings.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-071 and Council Bill 2010-072 were read and discussed together.

 

 

Commercial Street Zoning District

Sponsor: Ibarra.  Council Bill 2010-071. A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Zoning Ordinance, Article 1, Division II, Section 2-1100, Definitions, Regulations for the COM, Commercial Street Zoning District to add a definition for layer; and amending the Land Development Code, Article 1, Zoning Ordinance, Division IV, adding section 4-3500, for the purpose of establishing a new zoning district, the COM, Commercial Street Zoning District.  (Both Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommend approval.)

 

 

Rezoning BNSF Railway to the north, just west of Grant Avenue on the west, Pacific, Ozark and Commercial Street on the south, and North Clay Avenue on the east,

Sponsor: Ibarra.  Council Bill 2010-072. A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 1-1600, Zoning Maps, by rezoning approximately 53.5 acres of land generally bounded by BNSF Railway to the north, just west of Grant Avenue on the west, Pacific, Ozark and Commercial Street on the south, and North Clay Avenue on the east, more particularly described in this ordinance, from a HM, Heavy Manufacturing, HC, Highway Commercial, and CC, Center City, to a COM-1 and COM-2, Commercial Street Zoning District.  (Both Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommend approval.)  (By:  City of Springfield, Missouri; To rezone approximately 53.5 acres of land generally bounded by BNSF Railway to the north, just west of Grant Avenue on the west, Pacific, Ozark and Commercial Street on the south, and North Clay Avenue on the east from HM, Heavy Manufacturing, HC, Highway Commercial, and CC, Center City, to a COM, Commercial Street Zoning District; Z-06-2010.)

 

 

 

Mike MacPherson, Planning Department, gave a brief overview of the proposed.  He noted that the proposed bills would create a text amendment to the zoning ordinance and also create a zoning amendment.  He added that both of the proposed bills cover the same issue.  Mr. MacPherson noted Council created a Task Force to review this issue and make recommendations to Council.  He added the Commercial Street Task Force held thirteen public meetings to hear presentations regarding programs, issues, and financial tools available to the area.  Mr. MacPherson noted that at the conclusion of all the presentations recommendations were made to Council for their consideration.  He added that all eight of the recommendations made by the Task Force were accepted by Council on January 11, 2010.  Mr. MacPherson noted that Council directed staff to initiate a new zoning district.  He added the proposed bills are a result of this request.

 

Mr. Chiles expressed appreciation to staff and the Commercial Street Task Force for their work on the proposed.

 

Mayor O’Neal also expressed appreciation to staff and the Commercial Street Task Force for their work on the proposed.

 

 

 

An opportunity was given for citizens to express their views.  With no appearances, the discussion was closed.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under First Reading.

 

 

Capital Improvements Sales Tax

Sponsor: Council.  Council Bill 2010-073. A special ordinance calling a special election in the City of Springfield, Missouri, to be held on Tuesday, June 8, 2010, in said City for the purpose of testing the sense of the qualified voters of said City on a proposition to continue the one-quarter of one percent Capital Improvements Sales Tax for a period of three years and declaring an emergency.

 

 

 

Ralph Rognstad, Director of Planning, gave a brief overview of the proposed.  He noted the proposed will set the election and establish the language for the ballot.  He added that the proposed includes a series of recommended projects that will be funded by the Capital Improvement Sales Tax.  Mr. Rognstad noted that public open houses were held recently along with a website-survey to help finalize the list of recommended projects.  He added that several citizens attended the public meetings and 174 people completed the online survey.  Mr. Rognstad noted the recommended projects are broken into three categories: traditional projects; continuation projects; and new projects.

 

Mr. Bailes spoke in support of the proposed.  He asked for clarification regarding the order the projects are completed.  Mr. Rognstad responded that essentially all of the projects are being worked on simultaneously.  Marc Thornsberry, Director of Public Works, noted that funds are allocated in each category, and projects are completed based on the revenue available.

 

Mr. Burlison asked for clarification regarding the election date.  Dan Wichmer, City Attorney, responded the proposed election date was created so that the issue could be voted on prior to the tax lapsing, which would cause a nine month collection delay.

 

Mr. Ibarra asked for clarification regarding the definition of conceptual design.  Mr. Thornsberry responded conceptual design would not be complete and finalized plans, but staff would meet with neighbors and businesses in those areas and come up with a conceptual design and try to get a neighborhood consensus.  Mr. Ibarra expressed concern that all zones don’t receive the same amount of consideration.  Mr. Thornsberry responded that all areas of the City are given the same consideration.

 

Mr. Rush asked for clarification regarding the debt estimate included in the ballot language.  Mr. Wichmer responded that language is included in case any projects are bonded out.  Mr. Thornsberry noted that language has always been included, although the projects have historically been “pay-as-you-go”.

 

Mayor O’Neal asked if the items included in the proposed are set or if they could be amended.  Mr. Wichmer responded the proposed is generally used as a reference document. 

 

Mayor O'Neal asked staff to respond to a letter written to Council by Mr. Hornaday regarding priorities.  Mr. Burris responded staff would create a response and forward to Mr. Hornaday and Council.

 

 

 

An opportunity was given for citizens to express their views.

 

The following citizens spoke in support of the proposed: Jerry Harmison, 4721 S. Stewart; Bruce Adib-Yazdi, 1946 S. Holland; Allen Casey, 2425 Raynell; and Shawn Matthews, 631 S. Broadway.  They each expressed their belief that the proposed will be very beneficial to the community by facilitating improvements that will benefit all citizens.

 

With no further appearances, the discussion was closed.

 

 

Sanitary Sewer District No. 196 of Section No. 15

Sponsor: Bailes.  Council Bill 2010-080. A special ordinance accepting the bid of Hutchins Telecom in the amount of $805,304.65 for the construction of sanitary sewers in Sanitary Sewer District No. 196 of Section No. 15, located in the vicinity of Lakehill Avenue and Muir Street in the City of Springfield, Missouri; declaring the work to be necessary; stating the intention to pay for all or part of the improvements from the proceeds of bonds; specifying those costs and expenses to be specifically assessed against the properties in the district and the method by which the costs will be apportioned; setting forth the manner of payment, the lien of the assessments, and the duration of the lien; setting forth the interest rate to be charged on the tax bills; authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, of the City of Springfield, Missouri, to enter into a contract and to approve the bond for said improvement; and authorizing progress payments to be made to the contractor.

 

 

 

Mr. Chiles noted that several meetings have been held regarding sewering the City.  He asked for clarification regarding if the proposed passes will there be a delay or will the project begin immediately.  Mr. Thornsberry responded the contractor has held his bid for longer than normal, adding that the contractor was $265,000 below the second bidder.  He added that if the proposed passes work should begin as soon as possible.

 

Mr. Compton noted that he supports sewering the entire City, but expressed concern regarding costs associated for citizens.

 

Mr. Burlison asked for clarification regarding a future presentation regarding alternative options for citizens to pay the costs associated with installing sewers.

 

Mr. Bailes noted that the City has helped with citizens costs for the trunk line, but expressed concern regarding the costs for citizens for construction from the trunk line to their home.  Mr. Thornsberry responded that he has heard someone mention the cost for the citizen would be approximately $50,000 for connection.  He added that he has never seen costs that high associated with sewer connection.  Mr. Thornsberry noted the range is usually $5,000-$7,000.

 

Mayor O’Neal noted he is sympathetic to the costs involved for citizens, but that septic systems will fail and sewering the entire City will be beneficial to all citizens.

 

 

 

An opportunity was given for citizens to express their views. 

 

Colleen Cook, 2557 E. Muir Street, spoke in support of the proposed.  She noted that she is very excited about finally get sewers in her area. She noted that her sewer tax bill increased due to the delay that was place on the proposed.  She expressed her hope that Council will approve the proposed so another increase will not occur.

 

Mr. Chiles asked Ms. Cook if she feels she reflects the sentiment of her neighbors.  Ms. Cook responded all of her neighbors have signed their easements. 

 

Mr. Burlison asked for clarification regarding the linear footage of work that was completed on her property.  Ms. Cook responded 200 feet uphill from the road.

 

Mr. Rush asked if she was aware of the huge estimates, up to $50,000, that some of her neighbors have stated they have received.  She responded that she spoke with the contractor who stated that a few of the neighbors had called him regarding these large estimates, and he assured them the amounts would be closer to $5,000-$7,000.

 

Mr. Bailes asked Ms. Cook if her home had a basement.  Ms. Cook responded her home does not have a basement.

 

With no further appearances the discussion was closed.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-080.  Special Ordinance 25737 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Resolutions.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-074 was removed from the agenda.

 

 

 

Sponsor: O’Neal.  Council Bill 2010-075. A resolution supporting the City of Springfield’s Participation in the Google Fiber for Communities Project.

 

 

 

Mr. Burris gave a brief overview of the proposed.  He noted the City is hoping to be chosen for a pilot program titled “Google Fiber for Communities Project”.  He added that staff has been working with City Utilities, Greene County, and the Chamber of Commerce regarding the proposed which would allow the City to submit a request for information for an ultra high speed internet access.  Mr. Burris noted that not many specifics have been received from Google, because they will be situation specific.

 

Mr. Ibarra asked if matching funds were required from the City to assist with infrastructure, what fund would they come from.  Mr. Burris responded that would depend on the amount of funds required.  Mr. Burris also noted that this project will be a joint effort with the County, City Utilities, Higher Education Representatives, and Medical Community so the funding may come from any of these.  City Funding would most likely came from the General Fund.

 

 

 

An opportunity was given for citizens to express their views. 

 

Ryan DeBoef, 2122 E. Ryan Street, spoke in support of the proposed.  He expressed his belief that the proposed would be very beneficial not only young professionals, but all citizens.  Mr. DeBoef expressed his belief that the proposed would be a great addition to the City’s technology resources.

 

With no further appearances the discussion was closed.

 

Mr. Chiles expressed his support of the proposed.  He noted that the proposed would help to connect Springfield with the rest of the world, via the internet. He expressed his belief that the proposed would be a great tool to help keep college students in Springfield after they graduate.

 

Mr. Burlison expressed his support of the proposed.  He noted that the internet is integral to some local businesses, and the proposed could help bring a higher level of infrastructure to the community.

 

Mr. Compton expressed his support of the proposed.  He expressed his belief that the proposed could help to attract industry and higher education within the community.

 

Mayor O’Neal expressed his support of the proposed.  He expressed his belief that the proposed would be very beneficial to the community and will create a higher foundation for economic development in Springfield.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-075.  Resolution 9765 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

Sidewalk along Blaine Street and Packer Road

Sponsor: Rushefsky.  Council Bill 2010-081. A resolution granting the request to waive the fee in lieu of constructing a sidewalk along Blaine Street and Packer Road, generally located at 1725 N. Packer Road.  (Staff recommends approval.)

 

 

HELP ME WITH THIS WORDING

 

8:27:00 recording time

Mr. Chiles asked if the proposed states a sidewalk will not be built.  Mr. Thornsberry responded that the property owner had donated the right-of-way for a sidewalk.   He added the proposed waiver will allow for the City to continue with its plans to build this sidewalk, while removing the requirement of the property owner to build a sidewalk which would have to be removed and then be rebuilt by the City.  Mr. Thornsberry noted that the property owner is in agreement with the proposed.

 

Ms. Rushefsky asked for clarification regarding pothole funds used in her zone on Blaine Street to build sidewalks asking if these were the same sidewalks.  Mr. Thornsberry responded that these were not the same .  He additionally noted that the money for the proposed would be included in the Capitol Improvements Project funds. 

 

 

 

An opportunity was given for citizens to express their views.  With no appearances the discussion was closed.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-081.  Resolution 9766 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Emergency Bills.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Public Improvements.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Grants.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Second Reading Bills.

 

 

Wholesale Sales and Distribution Use

Sponsor: Rush.  Council Bill 2010-059. A general ordinance amending Article I, Zoning, Springfield Land Development Code, Division IV, District Regulations, to permit wholesale sales and distribution use and revise retail sales uses in industrial districts.  (Both Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommend approval.)

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-059.  General Ordinance 5864 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

Adaptive Use of Non-Residential Structures

Sponsor: Compton.  Council Bill 2010-060. A general ordinance amending Article I, Zoning, Land Development Code, Division III, Section 3-3300, Conditional Use Permits, to expand the uses permitted with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit for the Adaptive Use of Non-Residential Structures in Residential Districts (Both Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommend approval.)

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-060.  General Ordinance 5865 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

Phase III Improvements to the Landfill Gas Collection and Control System

Sponsor: Chiles.  Council Bill 2010-061. A special ordinance amending the budget for the Public Works Department of the City of Springfield for the fiscal year 2009-2010 in the amount of $270,750.00, for the initial construction of Phase III improvements to the landfill gas collection and control system (GCCS) at the City’s sanitary landfill.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-061.  Special Ordinance 25738 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

Widening of Campbell Avenue

Sponsor: Bailes.  Council Bill 2010-062. A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, on behalf of the City of Springfield, to enter into a Cost Apportionment Agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) to coordinate participation by the City in the cost of the Commission’s Project No. J8P0792, which consists of widening Campbell Avenue to six lanes from near the South Avenue intersection southward, terminating immediately north of the Plainview Road intersection with South Campbell Avenue; and amending the budget provided for the Public Works Department of the City of Springfield for the fiscal year 2009-2010 in the amount of $800,000, and to appropriate federal STP-Urban funds allocated to the City by the Ozarks Transportation Organization.  

 

 

 

Mr. Chiles asked for clarification regarding the proposed being delayed due to a stimulus issue.  Mr. Thornsberry responded the proposed is not being delayed due to a stimulus issue.  He added the Federal Highway Trust bill includes a thirty day extension, but there are some bills in Congress that will hopefully address this issue. Mr. Thornsberry noted that most highway bills are six year bills, and are usually extended for several months after the end date.  He added that  the Missouri Department of Transportation held up their February letting and there has been some question as to the March letting.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-062.  Special Ordinance 25739 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

Maples Healthcare

Sponsor: Compton.  Council Bill 2010-063. A special ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development to accept the public streets and easements to the City of Springfield as shown on the Preliminary Plat of Maples Healthcare, generally located on the west side of the 2600-2700 blocks South Campbell Avenue, upon the applicant filing and recording a final plat that substantially conforms to the preliminary plat; and authorizing the City Clerk to sign the final plat upon compliance with the terms of this ordinance.  (Planning and Zoning Commission has approved the Preliminary Plat. Both Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommend that City Council accept the public streets and easements.)

 

 

 

Mr. Ibarra expressed appreciation to staff for their work on the proposed.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-063.  Special Ordinance 25740 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, and O’Neal. Nays: Chiles. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

 

 

 

PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, AND COMMUNICATIONS

 

 

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

 

 

The Mayor recommended the following reappointments to the Public Housing Authority:  Patty Van Weelden, and Bill Ladd with terms to expire April 11, 2014. 

 

 

 

The Public Involvement Committee recommended the following appointments to the Police Officers and Fire Fighters Retirement System Board of Trustees:  Joshua D. Hartman; Charles B. Cowherd; Marilyn Hill; and John M. Bishop with initial terms to be determined. 

 

 

 

Council referred to the Plans & Policies Committee the following three issues:  Raising chickens inside the city limits of Springfield; Strategic Plan for the Mayor’s Commission on Human Rights & Community Relations; and the Ozarks Technical College (OTC) Master Plan.

 

 

 

As per RSMo. 109.230 (4), City records that are on file in the City Clerk’s office and have met the retention schedule will be destroyed in compliance with the guidelines established by the Secretary of State’s office. 

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Consent Agenda – First Reading Bills.

 

 

Purchase of Real Property: 1221 S. Crutcher Avenue

Sponsor: Rushefsky.  Council Bill 2010-076. A special ordinance approving the offer and acceptance by Mike and Kelly Polino, for the purchase of real property that is located at 1221 S. Crutcher Avenue, in the amount of $11,000.00, and authorizing the issuance of a deed for same.

 

 

Purchase of Real Property: 1516 N. Grant Avenue

Sponsor: Ibarra.  Council Bill 2010-077.  A special ordinance approving the offer and acceptance by David Poindexter, for the purchase of real property that is located at 1516 N. Grant Avenue, in the amount of $12,101.90, and authorizing the issuance of a deed for same.

 

 

Purchase of Real Property: 1230 S. Willow Lane

Sponsor: Rushefsky.  Council Bill 2010-078. A special ordinance approving the offer and acceptance by Rick Suttles, for the purchase of real properties that are located at 1230 S. Willow Lane, 1236 S. Willow Lane, and 1242 S. Willow Lane, in the amount of $500.00, and authorizing the issuance of a deed for same.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Consent Agenda – One Reading Bills.

 

 

Change of Quorum for Police and Fire System Board of Trustees

Sponsor: Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, and Bailes.  Council Bill 2010-079. A general ordinance amending the Springfield City Code, Chapter 2, Administration, Sec. 2-447. Meetings of Board of Trustees of the Springfield Police and Fire Pension System, by changing the amount of members present from six to five to form a quorum, and declaring an emergency.  (The Public Involvement Committee recommends approval.)

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-066.  General Ordinance 5863 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-080 was read and voted on under First Reading Bills.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-081 was read and voted on under Resolutions.

 

 

Construction of a Lift Station and Wastewater Forcemain

Sponsor: Ibarra.  Council Bill 2010-082. A resolution approving the plans, specifications, and the bid of LS&C Development Services, Inc., a locally owned company, for construction of a lift station and wastewater forcemain, extending from the Springfield Sanitary Landfill to the Northwest Wastewater Treatment Plant (NWTP).

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-082.  Resolution 9767 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

Industrial Development Authority

Sponsor: Rush.  Council Bill 2010-083. A resolution consenting to and approving the financing of a project by The Industrial Development Authority of Greene County, Missouri, for Drury University.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-083.  Resolution 9768 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

The following bills appeared on the agenda under Consent Agenda – Second Reading Bills.

 

 

Purchase of Real Property: 1219 E. Locust Street

Sponsor: Rushefsky.  Council Bill 2010-065. A special ordinance approving the offer and acceptance by Gary and Nancy Reed, for the purchase of real property that is located directly west of property owned by Nancy Reed located at 1219 E. Locust Street, in the amount of $5,000.00, and authorizing the issuance of a deed for same.

 

 

 

Council Bill 2010-065.  Special Ordinance 25741 was approved by the following vote: Ayes: Stephens, Bailes, Compton, Ibarra, Rushefsky, Rush, Burlison, Chiles, and O’Neal. Nays: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.

 

 

 

With no further business to come before Council, this meeting adjourned.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                           Anita Cotter, CMC/MRCC

03/08/10 lh

                                                           Assistant City Clerk