The City Council for the City of Crossville, Tennessee met in regular session on Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at Crossville City Hall.
Roll Call. Present: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt. Others present were Interim City Manager Mike Turner, City Clerk Sally Oglesby, David Beaty, Ronnie Webb, Jim Young, Tim Begley, Mark Rosser, Rolf Weeks, Billy Martin, Lou Morrison, Jerry Garrison, Joe Miller, Vince King, Ricky A. Pack, Amanda Maddox, Joan DuBois, Jared Ross, John Bilbrey, Marsha Bean, Tommy Bean, Tom Bean, Steve Powell, Jeff Brown, David Sutton, Peggy Bean, Brooke Salinez, Jim Mitchell, Karli Threet, Tim Chesson, Tommy Hale, Frances Carson, Amanda Elmore, Aaron Elmore, Logan Johnson, Bob Citkovic, Bob Weber, Steve Kraft, Chris South, J. Thompson, C.J. Thompson, Margaret Thompson, Rebecca Berry, Brittney Benson, Cecil Benson, Annell S. Fields, Ashley Kesterson, Frank Shipley, Nan Evans Beesley, Chester Bush, Tony Perry, Clark Annis, Aarona VanWinkle, Andy Lyon, W. S. Maddox, Dustin Tidwell, Julia Dean, Billy Loggins, Tim Claflin, Mary Shipley, Barbara Braden, and Erwin Braden.
Mayor J. H. Graham, III was present and presiding. He called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. The invocation was given by Tim Chesson of the Faith Worship Center. The Young Marines presented the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ITEM #1 – PRESENTATION/PROCLAMATIONS
a) Student of the Month – Christopher Thompson for “Cooperation”
b) Mayor’s Green Award – Ecology Classes of Stone Memorial High School
c) Thomas L. Bean Courtroom – Recognized for 30 years of distinguished service
ITEM #2 – CONSENT AGENDA
A motion was made by Councilman Earl Dean, seconded by Councilman Danny Wyatt, that all items on the consent agenda be approved as follows:
a) Approval of minutes (8/9, 8/25, 8/26, 8/30, 9/12)
b) 3rd Reading of Ordinance amending the FY11-12 budget in the amount of $15,000 for tank maintenance
c) 3rd Reading of Ordinance amending the FY11-12 budget in the amount of $3,475 for fire department salaries
d) 3rd Reading of Ordinance enacting a Code of Ordinances
e) 2nd Reading of Ordinance raising the speed limits on Hwy. 70E and Interstate Drive
f) Approval of lease of Catoosa Dept. office building at $1,000 per month from Leo Garrison, Jerry Garrison, and Thresea Garrison
g) Approval of Amendment No. 2 to Agreement with E.G.&G. for Water Facilities Plan required by State Revolving Loan Fund in the amount of $34,100 (to be paid out of the grant/loan proceeds) – sub-consultant ECE Services
h) Approval of the temporary closing of Division Street from Thurman to East Street whenever events are held at the Spirit Broadband Amphitheatre
i) Approval of temporary closing of 4th Street and Thurman Ave. on October 15-16 for grand opening of Spirit Broadband Amphitheatre
j) Approval of City participation in Fireball Run on September 29
k) Approval of Debt Policy
l) Approval of Change Order #1 with W. L. Hailey & Company in the deduct amount of $96,068 on the water harvesting project
m) Approval of Amendment One with the State of Tennessee-Aeronautics Division in the amount of $22,500 (local share $22,500) on the fuel farm relocation project
n) Approval to submit a SAFER grant application for 100% of the salary cost, including benefits, for 15 new firefighters for two years
Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
(It was noted that the Police Chief approved the temporary street closings.)
ITEM #3 – BIDS/PURCHASES
(Bids attached and made a part of these minutes.)
a) Interior Design services for new City Hall – McCarty Holsaple McCarty
b) Backhoe/Loader – Stowers Caterpillar of Crossville 420E – It was recommended that the bid from Stowers in the amount of $80,775 for a 2011 420E Backhoe Loader be accepted. Stowers has agreed to accept the trade-in of two (2) used backhoes in the total amount of $20,000 and for that trade-in to be credited towards the purchase price, reducing the actual purchase price to $60,775. The backhoe being recommended meets and exceeds the specifications in the bid.
c) 4 Post Service Lift – Tri-County Parts & Equipment – Only one bid was received in the amount of $20,017.68.
d) 2 Patrol K-9’s from Southern Police Canine in the amount of $28,000 – It was recommended that two K-9 Belgium Malinois Patrol/Narcotics dogs be purchased with the cost coming out of the Drug Fund.
e) Less Lethal Training simunitions from Parafrog in the amount of $8,676.50 – DEFERRED
A motion was made by Councilman Boyd Wyatt, seconded by Councilman Earl Dean, that bids/purchases “a-d” be approved as recommended including trade-in and surplus backhoes. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
ITEM #4 – 3RD READING OF ORDINANCE REGARDING OUTDOOR SALES, GARAGE SALES, AND YARD SALES
Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Wyatt reported that he had not heard any negative comments.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Wyatt, seconded by Councilman Earl Dean, that the ordinance regarding outdoor sales, garage sales, and yard sales be adopted on third and final reading. Vote: Motion passed (summary: Yes = 4, No = 1, Abstain = 0). Yes: Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt. No: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr.
Councilman Boyd Wyatt commented that he was opposed to the residential component of the ordinance and felt that it would be an undue burden on the taxpayers and citizens of Crossville.
ITEM #5 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING
Marketing Director Billy Loggins discussed the latest marketing and public relations projects.
(At 6:28 p.m. the regular meeting was recessed and the Solicitation Board convened.)
SOLICITATION BOARD
Fairfield Lions Club
An application was made by the Fairfield Lions Club for their annual cheese sale to raise funds for the club’s vision, hearing and scholarship projects.
A motion was made by Councilman Earl Dean, seconded by Councilman George Marlow, that a Solicitation Permit be issued to the Fairfield Lions Club. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
(At 6:30 p.m. the Solicitation Board was adjourned and the Beer Board convened.)
BEER BOARD
Circle K Store #2707749
An application for an off-premises beer permit was submitted by Circle K Stores, Inc. dba Circle K Store #2707749 to be located at 4234 Hwy. 127N. Chief David Beaty gave a clear records report and recommended approval.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Wyatt, seconded by Councilman Boyd Wyatt, that an off-premises beer permit be approved for Circle K Stores, Inc. dba Circle K Store #2707749. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
(At 6:32 p.m. the Beer Board was adjourned and the regular meeting reconvened.)
ITEM #6 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO STONEPEAK EXPANSION
Deferred. When the information is received, a meeting will be called, subject to proper notification and information.
ITEM #7 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO NORTHWEST CONNECTOR
Mayor Graham updated the Council on the project and information from a meeting recently held with the Deputy Commissioner of Transportation. The suggested resolution provides assurances to TDOT regarding the developments around the proposed roadway.
A motion was made by Mayor J. H. Graham, III, seconded by Councilman Earl Dean, that in regards to the Northwest Connector Section 1:
§ all developments and plans for roads connecting to the Northwest Connector must be reviewed and approved by the Crossville Regional Planning Commission; and
§ deed exhibits of affected property owners must show that all controlled access openings are permanent and may not be closed or removed; and
§ any future development will include a standard street that meets the criteria of a city collector street.
Vote: Motion passed (summary: Yes = 4, No = 0, Abstain = 1). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt. Abstain: Councilman George Marlow.
ITEM #8 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO BOARD OF EDUCATION
ANNEXATION REQUEST
A letter from the Cumberland County Board of Education requesting the annexation of Stone Elementary and Homestead Elementary Schools was presented. The letter indicated that they would like the protection of the Crossville City Police and the Crossville Fire Department, in addition to discounted water and sewer rates.
Fred Houston reported on the difference between inside-City and outside-City rates for the past year on four schools (South, Stone, Homestead, and North). If the schools were charged inside-City rates, the reduction would be about $20,000 per year.
Mayor Graham reviewed contributions made by the City to the school system and the costs for SRO officers at three schools. Superintendent of Schools Aarona VanWinkle spoke to the Council and pointed out the support that the City gives to the schools and students. She expressed their sincere appreciation and stated that a major part of their request for annexation was their support for the City.
A motion was made by Councilman Boyd Wyatt, seconded by Councilman George Marlow, that the resolution amending the schedule of rates be adopted. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
ITEM #9 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO RETAIL DEVELOPMENT
Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Wyatt proposed that, if Billy Loggins is requested to work more on retail development, he should be given additional compensation. Mr. Turner reported that he had talked to Billy and he is willing to contact potential retail businesses to encourage their expansion in Crossville. He would expect a written plan and monthly report from Mr. Loggins. Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Wyatt recommended proceeding as a pilot program for one year. Mr. Turner suggested additional compensation of $500/month.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Wyatt, seconded by Mayor J. H. Graham, that Billy Loggins’ responsibilities be expanded for a period not to exceed 12 months with an increase in salary of $500/month. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
Councilman Dean commented on the storefronts available in downtown and the need for additional restaurants. Councilman Boyd Wyatt stated that he was interested in retail, but also in industrial expansions. In reviewing incentives that could be offered, Mayor Graham stated that there are few available for retail. He would like to talk to some national businesses to find what other cities or states offer in incentives that Crossville might be able to also offer. Councilman Marlow asked about other expenses that might be incurred in working on economic development. Mr. Turner reported that there might be some expenses in traveling, meals, etc., but that they would be reviewed in advance. Councilman Marlow further pointed out that he would not consider it a pay increase, but that it would be an additional job, as a pilot program for a year only and reviewed monthly.
Councilman Boyd Wyatt asked for an update on Bekzon. Mayor Graham stated that the company is waiting on TVA to approve loan for plant and equipment on not only Crossville’s industrial park, but also another site. A lease on the incubator is on its way from EDA.
There was no update available on other potential industries. Councilman Boyd Wyatt asked about the process on obtaining options on potential properties for industrial development. There are approximately 600 acres under consideration for options, some of which have been prepared and/or under review. An update will provided at an upcoming meeting.
ITEM #10 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO AMPHITHEATRE PLANS
Plans for the grand opening celebration were presented at the meeting by Frances Carson. Since no money has been budgeted for any of the work already performed, grand opening costs, or future costs for utilities and other needs, a proposed budget amendment was presented. The $31,000 budget amendment covers site preparation of approximately $8,067 for materials, $18,323 for labor, $1,000 for the grand opening, and $3,610 for future costs. There is $4,000 left in the marketing budget for undesignated events that will be used for part of the grand opening costs estimated at $5,000.
Mike Turner reported that it is a great asset to the community that needs to be supported. The grand opening is being planned for October 15-16. Sod will be placed in the next few weeks. Councilman Marlow stated that he thought it was a great asset and thanked Vince King and Spirit Broadband. Vince King commented that everything should be considered a 20-30 year investment in the economic program and an additional way to help sell the community.
A motion was made by Councilman Boyd Wyatt, seconded by Councilman Earl Dean, that the plans for the grand opening be approved and a budget amendment passed on first reading. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
ITEM #11 – MATTERS RELATIVE TO CITY MANAGER SELECTION PROCESS
Mayor Graham reported that sixty-five applications were received. The Council determined that they will interview Randy Martin, Bruce Wyatt, Aaron Elmore, and Jeffrey Skidmore on September 26-27. The interviews will be open to the public. Background checks and credit checks will be made. Councilman Marlow commented that the City received a large number of high quality applications. Mayor Graham stated that letters have been sent to all those who submitted resumes.
ITEM #12 – CITY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
City Attorney Kenneth Chadwell reported that the lawsuit with the Lake Tansi property owners is still in the discovery stage. Any hearing would not be held until next year, if it is not resolved before that time.
ITEM #13 – CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
Interim City Manager Mike Turner presented the monthly revenue reports for local option sales tax, wholesale beer tax, and retail liquor inspection fees. Also presented was a report on building permits and updates on grants/special projects.
In reviewing the building and codes enforcement program, it was noted that no negative comments have been received from the County or contractors regarding the building permit program. The City Manager was asked to write a letter to the County Mayor encouraging the program be continued for another year.
In the FY2011-12 budget, the concessions manager and assistant in the Parks & Recreation Departments were omitted from raises. It was requested that they be granted the 16¢/hr. raise as was given to the concession workers, retroactive to July 1st.
A motion was made by Mayor J. H. Graham, seconded by Councilman Boyd Wyatt, that raises for the concession manager and assistant be approved as recommended. Vote: Motion carried by unanimous roll call vote (summary: Yes = 5). Yes: Councilman Boyd Wyatt, Sr., Councilman Earl Dean, Councilman George Marlow, Mayor J. H. Graham, III, Mayor Pro-Tem Danny R. Wyatt.
Mr. Turner reported that 5 firefighters from Crossville participated in the Nashville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at the Tennessee Tower on 9/11/11.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.