City Council Minutes - December 28, 2021
- regular session
There was a legal and regular session of the City Council of the City of Monroe, Louisiana held this date, December 28, 2021, at the Council's regular meeting place, 400 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway, City Council Chambers/City Hall Building, Monroe, Louisiana.
The Honorable Carday Marshall, Sr., Chairman, called the meeting to order.
The roll call was done by Ms. Carolus Riley, Council Clerk.
Council members present for roll call: Ms. Juanita Woods, Mr. Carday Marshall, Sr., Mr. Douglas Harvey, and Mrs. Gretchen Ezernack. (Mrs. Dawson entered in after roll call at approximately 6:02 p.m.)
Council member (s) absent: NONE.
Chairman Marshall declared a quorum.
The Invocation was done by Mr. Curt Kelly, and the Pledge of Allegiance by Mayor Ellis.
COMMUNICATIONS & SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:
1. Mr. Harvey welcomed each one to the meeting.
2. Mrs. Ezernack welcomed and thanked each one for attending the last meeting of 2021. She wished everyone a good 2022, and thanked the city employees, department and division heads that work to make the lives of the citizens better. She thanked her fellow council members for their work and also working together, they have done good things, and look forward to working together in 2022.
3. Ms. Woods welcomed each one present; She commented that it has been a good year, with their shares of ups and downs but through it all have gotten to this point, and it’s a good thing. She announced three things going on in District 3; the pedestrian bridge at Hwy 165 and Renwick Street is on the agenda; the community garden in Booker T is much needed and there are several partners, ULM, LDCC, Ochsner Hospital, the City of Monroe, along with an elementary school in the area, as it will give the children the opportunity to see how fruit and vegetable are grown. She commented that a Philanthropy group out of DC, the Joyce and Thomas Morehead Foundation, and Mr. Morehead is a graduate of Carroll High School, and he and some of his influential friends are looking to make it a better school, they want to restore it to their original form; Carroll High School is the oldest African American high school in this city; Ms. Woods commented that she is looking forward to an exciting 2022.
4. Mr. Marshall thanked everyone for coming out and those watching via social media. He thanked the council members for their support and the work they do and thankful for the relationships developed with council members, as they all have a common goal. He thanked the city employees for all of the work they do during the storms, as they pull through and make things happen on a daily basis. There will be a community cleanup on January 8, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. beginning at Barkdull Faulk, working the Lee Avenue area; he encouraged volunteers to come out and help cleanup the area, and they will be painting houses, doors of houses to uplift and beautify the community. On February 12, 2022, they will be having their first kids Mardi Gras parade in District 4, and the time will be announced at a later date, along with the route; He thanked the Crew Rivière for putting on the event. He thanked the citizens for coming out and voicing their concerns during Council meetings and through phone calls.
5. Mrs. Dawson welcomed each one and wished everyone a safe and happy New Year; she asked that citizens would be reminded of Covid and also that people are testing positive and to consider being vaccinated; she asked that citizens wear their masks for safety. She announced the first 2022 Town Hall meeting for District 5 on January 13, 2022, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Center; issues of concern will be the development of the Cultural Arts District, housing development in District Five, and purchasing policy information; there will be a Broadway musical, The Color Purple on January 14-15 sponsored by the Arts With Passion, and tickets can be purchased at the arts with passion dot com, and she will be a part of the musical.
6. Mayor Ellis wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year due to him being out of town on last week. He thanked each Council member for their leadership during tough times, and for their faithful service. He thanked the City employees for their dedication to the citizens. He thanked the citizens for what they do for city employees that are out working in the community. He thanked the citizens for giving him the opportunity to serve, it has been challenging, but the most rewarding thing he has done in life, helping people every day. He looks forward to the great things, new friendships, and relationships in the next year and servicing the citizens as Mayor.
Upon a motion of Ms. Woods and a second by Mrs. Dawson, the minutes of the Legal and Regular session of December 14, 2021, were unanimously approved. (There were no public comments.)
PRESENTATION: NONE.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE.
PROPOSED CONDEMNATIONS: Public Comment:
1. 3709 Pippen Street (D3) (Owners - McKinley Smith c/o Ronnie L Smith, McKinley Smith) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved for item to be removed from the agenda. (There were no public comments.)
2. 1203 South 8th Street (D4) (Owners - Roy Sykes Curatorship) - Pearlie Irby (Non-Curator) Upon a motion by Mr. Marshall, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved for property to be condemned and property owner to be given 30 days or January 30, 2022, in which to bring the structure into compliance with the code or to demolish the structure and clean the lot. (There were no public comments.)
3. 107 Jack McEnery (D4)(Owner - Dorothy Ann Brown) Upon a motion by Mr. Marshall, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved for property to be condemned and property owner to be given 30 days or January 30, 2022, in which to bring the structure into compliance with the code or to demolish the structure and clean the lot. (There were no public comments.)
4. 809 South 27th Street (D3) (Owner - Marcus Stevens c/o Herbert Walk, Jr.) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved for item to be removed from the agenda. (There were no public comments.)
ACCEPTANCE OR REJECTION OF BIDS: Public Comment NONE.
RESOLUTIONS AND MINUTE ENTRIES:
Council: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8138, granting an exception to the Open Container Ordinance to the Twin Cities Krewe of Janus (Mardi Gras Parade) pursuant to Monroe City Code Sec. 12-231 D. (Open Container Ordinance), and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
(b) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8139, granting an exception to the Open Container Ordinance to the Twin City Art Foundation (Exhibition Reception and Talk for Theo Tobiasse: Textural Emergence) pursuant to Monroe City Code Sec. 12-231 D. (Open Container Ordinance), and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
(c) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Ms. Ezernack and unanimously approved for item to be removed from the agenda to Adopt a Resolution authorizing a city representative to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with University of Louisiana at Monroe, Ochsner LSU Health Monroe, Louisiana Delta Community College, and Chris Gallow to establish a Community Garden and further providing with respect thereto. (Woods) (There were no public comments.)
Upon a motion by Ms. Woods, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to add to the agenda to Adopt a Resolution authorizing a city representative to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Christopher Davis to establish a Community Garden and further providing with respect thereto. (Woods) (There were no public comments.)
Comments: Mr. Harvey asked the differences in the two resolutions; Mrs. Sturdivant commented that the add-on resolution would be between Christopher Davis and the City. She said ULM, Ochsner LSU Health Monroe, Louisiana Delta Community College would be participating through a service project and volunteering, but not parties to the agreement.
(d) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Ms. Woods and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8140, authorizing a city representative to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Christopher Davis to establish a Community Garden and further providing with respect thereto. (Woods) (There were no public comments.)
Department of Administration: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Consider Application by Taco Bandido, LLC dba Taco Bandido, 2127 Forsythe Ave., Monroe, LA 71201 for a New 2021 Class A Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (Distance Report Cleared) Cert. of Occupy Cleared.
Public Comments: Mr. Tyler Moses, part owner of Taco Bandido was present to answer any inquiries.
(b) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Consider eleven (11) Renewal Applications for a New 2022 Class A Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (There were no public comments.)
Comments: Ms. Woods inquired about the new license for Taco Bandido and the renewal; Mr. Tim Lewis, Tax and Revenue commented that the reason for them getting a new license was because there was an ownership change; the new license will end on the 31st and it is being renewed.
(c) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to Consider nine (9) Renewal Applications for a New 2022 Class B Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (There were no public comments.)
(d) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Consider two (2) Renewal Applications for a New 2022 Class C Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (There were no public comments.)
(e) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Consider one (1) Renewal Applications for a New 2022 Class G Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (There were no public comments.)
(f) Upon a motion by Mr. Marshall, second by Ms. Woods to pass over agenda item until January 24, 2022, to Adopt a Resolution authorizing the renewal of the Cookout’s Class A Alcohol License as outlined below and further providing with respect thereto. Voting YES: Woods, Marshall; Voting NO: Harvey, Dawson, Ezernack; not approved to pass over.
Comments: Mr. Harvey asked for the justification on moving the item back to the January 24, 2022, meeting. Mr. Marshall commented there were qualifications and other language that needed to be discussed. Mr. Harvey asked what the alcoholic beverage license status would be between now and January 24, 2022. Mrs. Rowell commented they would not be able to sell alcohol after December 31, 2021, at midnight. Mr. Harvey asked what the penalty would be for someone at this stage who has been a bad actor, at this point based on citizens feedback, general concerns, the number of police calls received on this business; he said the language that is in there warrants what has been seen with the business; what is the penalty and is it considered in this stage. Mrs. Rowell asked if he was questioning regarding the tax side and would have to defer to Legal. Mr. Harvey said if they serve alcohol between now and the 24th and haven’t seen good behavior at this stage. Mrs. Sturdivant commented that she was hopeful that Council would have taken it into strong consideration and deny their request for a permit on January 24th , they would be violating all the Ordinances related to alcoholic beverages. Ms. Woods commented that she believes the young man is a shrewd businessperson and if he doesn’t have a license to sell alcohol, doesn’t believe that he will sell it at his place and probably understands there are penalties that will go along with it and am certain he’s not trying to jeopardize himself in getting his license renewed.
Mr. Marshall commented that he doesn’t think he will take that chance. Mrs. Dawson asked what they would do about the constant emails, and phone calls they are getting about it. If they are ignoring those concerns and people are feeling like they are in danger; if the license is given on the 24th or whenever, then what are the plans to address the concerns. Ms. Woods said with them passing over it, the purpose of it is to have some real conversation with the young man, and do believe he wants to stay in business, and not out of business; he needs to understand the severity that’s going with it. In having a conversation with him, doesn’t believe he knew that it would be on the agenda, with the language in it, and this is according to him and can’t debate it one way or the other; it is incumbent upon Council to let him understand that he runs the risk of his business not opening.
Mrs. Dawson commented that it would not keep him from being in business; and Ms. Woods commented that he wouldn’t be able to serve alcohol. Mr. Marshall said it is what he’s up against and what he needs to do to move forward. We don’t want to hinder anyone’s business but do understand what the concerns are from the community.
Mrs. Ezernack asked the difference in Council not renewing it and then him coming back on the 24th with a new application and is there any difference in letting this one expires because this is what’s happening anyway; even though we’re saying come back on the 24th and what penalty is involved for him in having to re-apply.
Mr. Harvey asked what’s the difference in a rejected 2022 application versus an expired 2021 application. Mrs. Rowell commented that right now he does not meet the minimum requirements for a new sales tax and at that point until he meets that requirement. Mrs. Ezernack commented that if he comes back on the 24th, and if he doesn’t meet all the minimum requirements needed and it would have to be put off again. The only penalty for him at this point is his license will expire one way or the other on the 31st no matter what action is taken tonight. Mrs. Sturdivant commented that he would have to reapply after his license has expired. Mrs. Rowell said it would be a new license. Ms. Woods said on the 31st that his license is voided and then he would have to reapply for a new license. Mr. Lewis said they were speaking about an alcohol license. Mrs. Ezernack said there was no difference in saying Council was going to act on it or wasn’t going to act on it as far as his licenses, because it will expire on the 31st. Mrs. Dawson asked what the purpose was of moving it at that point if it will expire on the 31st. Mrs. Rowell said it could be removed or voted down. Ms. Woods said to remove it and have the opportunity to have a talk with him.
Mayor Ellis commented for a point of clarification, this is not or will not be the first conversation with this business owner; everyone here and including those at this table have been privy to conversations in the past, multiple with Monroe Police Department, to where the regulations of operating a business or operating a business the way it should has been laid down months ago. He said the conversation that if you continue with this behavior, his clients behavior, then these are the consequences when your license get renewed that there is a world that exists that when you have citizens that call his office, council members office, multiple community groups complaining about the behavior of not the business owner, but complaining about the patrons in not being under control and not controlling the situation, there is a world that exists that your license will not get renewed. Mayor Ellis clarified that the conversations have been had and people, even with council members in legal chambers, and that conversation has happened; he wanted to clarify that this isn’t the first time that anyone has had a conversation about behavior and performance.
Ms. Woods commented that she agreed with Mayor Ellis one hundred percent; she stated for the record that she was privy to the conversation, however, her concern right now is and commented for the record to Chief Zordan if he had seen any improvements or has it always been as bad as it was from the initial onset. Mr. Marshall commented that in his defense that he has made adjustments and there has been improvement in his eyesight because he has been involved and do know that MPD has been involved much more; Mr. Marshall commented that the owner stated that he will not allow anyone to jeopardize his business and as he and the owner were standing outside the business there were some on the other side of the business smoking; some patrons don’t have the best interest of the owner and he fully understands that and to make adjustments to do what it takes to keep his business going.
Chief Zordan commented that they met with him during September, the end of September and did pull his address, 1301 North 18th Street, the Cookout since then. The conversation in September was that he would have one more event on a Thursday, and then he was going to not do any more events or advertise the events through social media. Chief Zordan said he pulled the stats on the business since October until now, December 23, 2021, and there were none in October, it looked good, and there have been nine calls; on 11/16,they had a public assist, it could be anything; 11/24, they had shots fired; 11/25 there was a fight in the parking lot; 11/26, there was a fight in the parking lot; 12/3, about 20-30 people were loitering in the parking lot; 12/10, a group of people were fighting; 12/15 extra patrol; 12/17, investigation, this could be anything; 12/23, extra patrol; this has been since meeting with him and it’s consistent with what has happened in the past.
Mrs. Dawson asked what could be done to help eliminate the behavior on the outside, and of course it’s not him. We can’t say who can and who cannot come to eat, but how do we keep the activity from going on outside and causing the residents from feeling unsafe and uncomfortable.
Chief Zordan said it is on him and see it as being his problem. He’s advertising events, groove and grub Thursday night and come out, everyone is there; MPD wasn’t working it, he had his own security guards there that he pays, don’t know the integrity there. If you advertise an event and cause people to come to a location because you advertised it, to me you are somewhat responsible for what goes on. He said he could read a document where there were seven or eight business owners that lined North 18th Street that have documentation evidence of people smoking, loitering, and trashing it up, and they don’t want them there, that’s trespassing and it's illegal. The problem with this place versus Two Dudes is 82 calls of service for cookout during that period of time and had 30 at Two Dudes and the majority of those are locked vehicles, alarms going off and if an officer does have to go due to a fight, it’s one or two officers. He said he has had to shut his whole shift down on several occasions to go and deal with the amount of people, 200-300 at a time and fighting in the parking lot. He said he has video, bodycam. He said in anticipation of the Thursday events that they have that he has to start being proactive and adjust the schedule of other supportive divisions and have them come out after hours to be staged up in case something happens. He can enforce the law but can’t arrest 200 people at a time and this place lends itself to having the propensity of having violence which it has in the past with the amount of people that gather there.
Ms. Woods commented that she spoke with the Chairman and wanted to move it and would like to have a conversation and do have a group of business people that want to have a conversation with the young man; do know that we have all met with him, but to put it out there, this is where you are, do you want this business or do you not want it and if he doesn’t want to change it and right now he has a little bit of support, but if he doesn’t want to change it; she commented that she spoke with Mrs. Sturdivant today and do understand now that it is a karaoke instead and do know that businesses will have karaoke, Applebee’s has a big crowd of Karaoke and do know it’s doable; you can have a restaurant. Mr. Harvey commented that Applebee’s doesn’t shut down police shifts with their Karaoke. Mr. Marshall commented that he hasn’t had to shut down because of Karaoke, let’s be real.
Mrs. Ezernack commented that the license would expire whether it is passed over or not and there is no point in passing it over and may as well act on it, because it’s going to expire as of the 31st and he will have to reapply if it’s in the next year because once that time hits. Ms. Woods said he was asked to pass over it and can vote to either pass over it or keep it on and vote it either up or down. Mr. Harvey commented that he wasn’t going to vote to pass it over. Ms. Woods said that was fine. Mrs. Ezernack called for the vote. Mr. Marshall made the motion to pass over it until the 24th. Mr. Harvey commented to either withdraw it or vote on it. Mrs. Riley and Mr. Marshall commented they already had a motion. Mrs. Riley commented that she didn’t hear a second, Ms. Woods seconded.
Mrs. Sturdivant, Legal advised Chairman Marshall to read the agenda item again for motion and second. Agenda item was read and voted on.
(f) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mr. Marshall; Voting YES: Woods, Marshall; Voting NO: Harvey, Dawson, Ezernack; to not Adopt a Resolution authorizing the renewal of the Cookout’s Class A Alcohol License as outlined below and further providing with respect thereto.
Comments:
Mrs. Ezernack commented that however this vote goes, that Ms. Woods and her conversation that she is planning to have with him along with businesses and community leaders would need to happen whichever way it goes; and cannot see with the place being 4 or 5000 sq ft and having 200 or 300 people inside or outside is unimaginable and there is no required parking for that kind of opportunity; as Chief Zordan stated, it is an accident waiting to
happen, which we don’t want to have happen. Mrs. Rowell commented that the Ordinance stated that they have to meet a minimum requirement under the sales tax, and they have not met that. Mrs. Dawson said in going forward and if they do meet the minimum requirements, they reapply, and in this conversation that Ms. Woods would still happen, so when he reapplies, he will know going forward, if it is approved that this is what needs to happen in going forward to try and minimize the complaints. He has wonderful food and he do like him as a person but do need to find some type of way for his message and what he’s trying to do to not affect the residents in District 3 and continue to build his business without the phone calls and complaints and have to figure out a way to help him with that.
Ms. Woods commented before giving her vote that she represents District 3, and no one is more concerned about the citizens or the residents of their District than she is. She is very concerned about them and the businesses in the district and am very concerned about a young African American man that’s trying to have a business on the North side of town; she commented that her concern is that he didn’t know that it would be on the agenda, and it was said that they would work to remove it and have a conversation about it, bring it back and have the conversation; he’s not present to defend himself or his business and it’s not a good thing; to vote it down and not having him present to defend himself is disturbing.
Mr. Harvey commented that the Cookout is not excluded from anything else that any other business is required to do, as far as required to act, how they renew their permits, or what they are to do for minimum standards.
Mr. Marshall commented that what he has heard based on from Chief and looking at where they first began, there has been a lot that has transpired; he just opened his business during Covid, and he got an overwhelming response based on some of the events that he held. As you can see throughout the City and the events, there have been issues, and didn’t shut down because of incidents, even though they only open up seasonal. He commented that he looks at things totally different, there has been progress, still a considerable amount of incidents, but for a businessman trying to do a business and pouring out thousands of dollars into growing a business and no one is trying to open up a business to shut down or cause trouble in the community and do understand. He commented that he understands the severity of it but isn’t sure if he understands it or is familiar with the language that is on the table. He asked if anyone could tell him if the information has been shared with him. Mrs. Rowell commented that contrary to all of it, he still would not meet the minimum requirements. Mr. Marshall said he understands that and there are other businesses that don’t meet minimum requirements, and this is one thing and am not concerned about this. Ms. Woods commented that 30 days may give him the opportunity to try and raise the money. Mr. Marshall commented that he doesn’t think they have done all they can do. Mrs. Dawson commented they would be out of order voting yes, and he doesn’t meet the requirements. Mrs. Rowell commented that it does rest with Council and Ms. Woods commented this is the reason that she wanted it removed from the agenda so they wouldn’t be out of order, because he wasn’t in standing where he needed to be, remove it. Mr. Marshall said if they do that, then they have to do it across the board and have heard where there are others that are far behind on requirements. Mrs. Sturdivant commented for the record, that unfortunately state law prohibits them from disclosing all the way that he doesn’t meet the minimum requirements and if he does come into compliance, he can reapply, but the Ordinance says that he shall meet the requirements and as of today and all were hopeful that he would come into compliance today, and he has not. Mrs. Rowell commented that they have taken payments from the day of meetings and issues and gave him until the last hour.
(g) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8141, authorizing an authorized city representative to advertise for bids on Central Warehouse Limited Improvements Project. The estimated cost of this project is $150,000.00. The DBE Goal is 15% and source of funds is Capital Account. (There were no public comments.)
(h) Add-On: Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Consider four (4) Renewal Applications for a New 2022 Class A Alcoholic Beverage Permit.and two (2) Class B Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (There were no public comments.)
Comments: Ms. Woods asked why the add on; Mrs. Rowell commented that everyone is given until the last minute to get their alcohol license in; Ms. Woods said if there is a no on it then they will be added to the next agenda. Mrs. Rowell said that was her understanding. Ms. Woods asked if their license would expire on the 31st, and they won’t be able to serve alcohol until they come back. Mrs. Sturdivant commented that she was correct
and there would also be a list like each year, on businesses that fail to renew timely will be issued to the various departments. Mrs. Ezernack asked in referencing to giving business opportunities to meet the requirements, asking if they get their applications in late; Mr. Lewis said the applications are all sent out together in October and the businesses just came in and got in under the wire, they have met the requirements, sales tax compliant, the distance requirement, and the background check. Mrs. Ezernack asked if renewing licenses included a background check each time; Mr. Lewis said yes.
(h) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Consider four (4) Renewal Applications for a New 2022 Class A Alcoholic Beverage Permit .and two (2) Class B Alcoholic Beverage Permit. The Monroe Police Department has no disqualifying records and Sales Tax has been approved. (There were no public comments.)
Department of Planning & Urban Development: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8142, authorizing Friday Ellis, Mayor, to the City of Monroe to reject all bids received on December 21, 2021, to rehabilitate 1606 Fairview Avenue from the (HOME) Home Investment Partnership Program M-20-MC-22-0206 and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
(b) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8143, requesting to advertise for bids for the Housing Rehabilitation or Reconstruction Project located at 1606 Fairview Avenue from the Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME), and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
Legal Department: Public Comment: None.
Mayor’s Office: Public Comment: None.
Department of Public Works: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8144, authorizing a designated city representative to enter into a Service Agreement with Ouachita Electrical Contractor LLC for the Public Works Department on an as needed basis and further providing with respect thereto.
(There were no public comments.)
(b) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8145, authorizing a city representative to execute Change Order Number 2, (MLU Drainage Improvements Project) between the City of Monroe and Merrick, LLC., for an additional 56 calendar days to the contract and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
(c) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8146, authorizing a designated city representative to enter into a Service Agreement with Ouachita Electrical Contractor LLC for the Monroe Regional Airport and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
(d) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8147, authorizing the City of Monroe to advertise for bids to replace the parking, access, and revenue control system/equipment and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
Department of Community Affairs: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mrs. Dawson, Voting YES: Woods, Ezernack, Marshall, Dawson; Voting to ABSTAIN: Harvey, approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8148, authorizing the renaming of Bendel Stadium located in Forsythe Park to Bendel-Neal Stadium in honor of Jackie Donald Neal, and further providing with respect thereto.
Comments: Mr. Dunham Wright gave history of the Bendel stadium and also the renaming of adding Neal to the name, with it being renamed Bendel-Neal Stadium and honoring his dedication to the City. He quoted information received regarding Mr. Neal, a longtime director for 34 years of City Parks and Recreation for the City of Monroe, where he was the driving force of local baseball for many years.
Mrs. Ezernack commented in favor of the resolution and that it’s a good idea to recognize both with the official name change. It is good to recognize the work that Dr. Bendel who started it all and for Mr. Neal.
Mr. Pat Dayton spoke on behalf of Mr. Neal being his mentor and his having a 32 year career in recreation and parks.
Mr. Roy Holloway spoke on behalf of the renaming the stadium; commented regarding playing on the Bendel field in 1958 and asked that it be renamed.
Mr. Mark Neal, youngest son of Mr. Neal; he thanked the City for their consideration and it being the best news since the death of his Father, six years ago.
More citizens spoke regarding the contributions of Mr. Neal and his support of the renaming of the stadium; his work with the youth in baseball during the summers all over the city, allowing kids to play, the development and maintaining of the facilities.
Mr. Robert Truck Johnson spoke regarding the contributions of Mr. Neal and his support of the ball fields on the South side making sure the lights were on and all the work that he did for the youth program.
Ms. Wood commented her support of the resolution and although didn’t know Mr. Neal, does know his Son, and considers him a friend, and thanked him for his work in the community.
Mrs. Ezernack commented that she was honored to vote yes.
Mr. Harvey commented that he never votes on these types of items.
(b) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8149, authorizing a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the City of Monroe and James “Jimmy” Street for Elvis Impersonator Dean Z to perform at the Monroe Civic Center Theater and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
Police Department: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8150, authorizing a designated city representative to accept and execute an agreement with the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement to accept funding in the amount of $44,803.00 for the DARE Program and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
Fire Department: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8151, authorizing Friday Ellis, Mayor, to apply for and accept an Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency on behalf of the Monroe Fire Department for funding to purchase firefighter personal protective gear extractors and dryers and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.) (There were no public comments.)
Engineering Services: Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Ms. Woods, second by Mr. Harvey and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8152, accepting the base bid of W.L. Bass Construction Inc. in the amount $785,777.00, for the Pedestrian Bridge at Renwick Improvements Project, and further authorizing an authorized city representative, to enter into and execute a contract for said work. (There were no public comments.)
Comments: Ms. Woods thanked Mayor Ellis, commenting that he is a man of his word, and this is one of the things that she asked him when he came into office; he said he would. Mayor Ellis commented that he told her this should be a point of pride for the neighborhood and when the neighborhood sees the gold and blue, Carroll High School bulldogs, there will be a point of pride and do look forward for the record on how to beautify the four corners of the area. He thanked her for pioneering it and hopes that she see’s the work on the old Pontiac dealership and it’s a direct reflection of Mr. Tommy James as the new Code Enforcement Director.
(b) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Adopt Resolution No. 8153, accepting as substantially complete work done by and between the City of Monroe and W.L. Bass Construction, Inc. for the Entergy Substation Cross Drain, and further providing with respect thereto. (There were no public comments.)
BREAK IF NEEDED: NONE.
INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS & ORDINANCES:
Public Comment:
(a) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Introduce an Ordinance declaring certain immovable property in the Monroe Air Industrial Park as not being needed for public use and authorizing the same to be sold at private sale to the Chennault Aviation & Military Museum pursuant to revised statute 33:4712, and further providing with respect thereto. (Legal) (There were no public comments.)
RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES FOR SECOND READING AND FINAL ADOPTION AND SUBJECT TO PUBLIC HEARING:
Open Public Hearing/Public Comment/Close Hearing: Chairman Marshall opened the Public Hearing and upon seeing no one come forward the Public Hearing was closed.
(a) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Finally Adopt Ordinance No. 12,093, authorizing the City of Monroe to take Corporeal Possession of the property described below and sell to Joseph and Mignon Burks all rights, title, and interest that the City may have acquired to the Lot 19, Square 18, Unit 4, Booker T. Washington Addition, Ouachita Parish, 3709 Gayton St., Monroe, La, by Adjudication at Tax Saledated July 30, 2000, and further with respect thereto. (Legal) (There were no public comments.)
Open Public Hearing/Public Comment/Close Hearing: Chairman Marshall opened the Public Hearing:
Public Comments: Mr. Stewart Broh on behalf of Century Village Partners LLC, spoke regarding the agenda item and being present to answer any questions. Seeing no one else come forward the Public Hearing was closed.
(b) Upon a motion by Mrs. Dawson, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Finally Adopt Ordinance No. 12,094, rescinding dedication for a street name change from Century Village Boulevard to Victory Park Boulevard, being an 85’ wide by 1,150’ long, more or less, street right-of-way, located north of Venable Lane, south of Allgood Street and west of U.S. Hwy 165 north and further providing with respect thereto – Applicant: Century Village Partners, LLC (PUD/P&Z) (There were no public comments.)
Comments: Ms. Woods asked for explanation of agenda item. Mrs. Sturdivant explained that it was approved at last meeting to be Victory Park Boulevard and after the meeting it was discovered they wanted to drop Park and
be Victory Boulevard and rescinding the final adoption where it was approved as Victory Park Boulevard and the next agenda item is to finally adopt it as they requested, Victory Boulevard.
Open Public Hearing/Public Comment/Close Hearing: Chairman Marshall opened the Public Hearing and upon seeing no one come forward the Public Hearing was closed.
(c) Upon a motion by Mrs. Ezernack, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to Finally Adopt Ordinance No. 12,095, an Ordinance Dedication for a street name change from Century Village Boulevard to Victory Boulevard, being an 85’ wide by 1,150’ long, more or less, street right-of-way, located north of Venable Lane, south of Allgood Street and west of U.S. Hwy 165 north and further providing with respect thereto – Applicant: Century Village Partners, LLC (PUD/P&Z) (There were no public comments.)
Open Public Hearing/Public Comment/Close Hearing:
(d) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Dawson and unanimously approved to pass over item until January 24, 2022, to Finally Adopt an Ordinance adopting and amending the Zoning Map for the City of Monroe, Louisiana to rezone a ±0.33-acre tract of land, from the R-1 (Single Family Residence) District to R-4, (High Density Multi-Family Residence) District, in order for the applicant to be able to develop a 4-plex housing unit, at 1809 Hickory Street – 1809 Hickory Street (Lot 4 of the Resub. of Lot 2, Square F, Southside Commercial Subdivision Unit #2 (0.33-more or less)) – Applicant: Jerin Rountree (PUD/P&Z) (There were no public comments.)
Open Public Hearing/Public Comment/Close Hearing:
Chairman Marshall opened the Public Hearing and upon seeing no one come forward the Public Hearing was closed.
(e) Upon a motion by Ms. Woods, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Finally Adopt Ordinance No. 12,096, amending Chapter 12 Section 230 of the Monroe City Code Entitled Criminal Code and further providing with respect thereto. (Woods/Mayor Ellis) (There were no public comments.)
Open Public Hearing/Public Comment/Close Hearing:
Chairman Marshall opened the Public Hearing and upon seeing no one come forward the Public Hearing was closed.
(f) Upon a motion by Mr. Harvey, second by Mrs. Ezernack and unanimously approved to Finally Adopt Ordinance No. 12,097, authorizing Mayor Friday Ellis to enter into and execute Lease by and between the City of Monroe and the United States of America a/k/a General Services Administration, and further providing with respect thereto. (Legal) (There were no public comments.)
CITIZENS PARTICIPATION:
1. Ms. Bernadine Adams, spoke regarding coming before Council several months ago to share concerns and issues in District 3. She referenced a bullet that came through her window and also how a man walked in her driveway and along side her home and pulled on her storage room door. She called 911 and an officer did come. She explained how the man hid in the high grass, the brush near the railroad and how she has asked that it be cut many times. She commented that on Christmas night there was loud noises and couldn’t determine if it was a firecracker or gun fire and determined it was another bullet and wanted to go on record saying that if she ends up dead, because of the hands of people behind her on White, Elm Street and it is disgraceful, but she will be aimed up. She commented regarding the law concerning fireworks as long as you follow the law, but it is illegal to shoot fireworks within the city limits of Monroe and West Monroe. This is the second time coming and the neighborhood was once very quiet before the neighborhood Walmart, and now everyone comes through, and the traffic is ridiculous. She asked that it not be on the city’s conscience that she is stretched out.
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 7:38 p.m., upon a motion of Ms. Woods and seconded by Mrs. Dawson. (There were no public comments)
Mr. Carday Marshall, Sr.
Council Chairman
Ms. Carolus S. Riley
Council Clerk
Ms. Jacqueline Benjamin
Council Secretary