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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNovember 20, 2023 City Council COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY JEFFERSONVILLE, INDIANA November 20,2023 Regular Meeting Minutes The Common Council of the City of Jeffersonville, Indiana met for the Regular Meeting on November 20, 2023. Council President Owen along with City Clerk Gill called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.The meeting was open to the public in person as well as live streamed via the City Website using Zoom. INVOCATION: Councilperson Ellis led the Invocation. Pledge of Allegiance: ROLL CALL: The roll call was conducted by City Clerk Lisa Gill and present in Council Chambers were Councilperson Burns, Councilperson Paris,Councilperson Anderson,Councilperson Webb,Council Vice President Hawkins, Councilperson Ellis and Council President Owen.Councilperson White joined via Zoom. Councilperson Croft was absent. Let the record reflect that 7 Council Members were present in Council Chambers, 1 via Zoom and 1 absent. APROVAL OF MINUTES: Councilperson Burns made a motion to approve the Minutes from the November 8, 2023 regular Meeting, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed,8-0. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA: Council Vice President Hawkins made a motion to amend the agenda to add a transfer for the Police Department as line item 18,seconded by Councilperson Burns; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris---Yes Councilperson Anderson--Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins—Yes Councilperson Ellis---Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. Council Vice President Hawkins made a motion to approve the Agenda as amended,seconded by Councilperson Burns; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris---Yes Councilperson Anderson--Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins—Yes Councilperson Ellis---Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. CLAIMS TO APPROVE: Civil City$1,411,614.93 Mrs. Metcalf advised the amount of the Civil City Claims was $1,411,614.93 and there were no changes. Councilperson Anderson made a motion to approve the Civil City claims, seconded by Councilperson Paris; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. Parks$104,740.08 Mrs. Metcalf advised the amount of the Parks Claims was$104,740.08 and there were no changes. Councilperson Burns made a motion to approve the Parks Claims, seconded by Councilperson Paris; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris---Yes Councilperson Anderson--Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins—Yes Councilperson Ellis---Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. REPORT OF THE CLERK: Please make sure to leave the microphones on for the duration of the meeting, people have been complaining about not being able to hear when listening to the live stream. Happy Thanksgiving to all. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 1. Kim Calabro 2023-OR-69 Ordinance Amending 2023-OR-47 Fixing the Salaries of Appointed Officers and Employees for all Departments of the City of Jeffersonville Mrs. Calabro advised there were no changes. Councilperson Burns made a motion to approve 2023-OR-69 on the Third and Final Reading, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris---Yes Councilperson Anderson--Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins—Yes Councilperson Ellis---No Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 7-1. 2. Heather Metcalf 2023-0R-70 Ordinance of Additional Appropriation(Public Hearing) Mrs. Metcalf advised there were no changes. President Owen opened the Public Hearing at 7:07 PM, no one was present in the Council Chambers to comment for or against the matter;Clerk Gill stated there were no questions or comment directed to the Clerk's office. Council President Owen closed the Public Hearing at 7:07 pm. Councilperson Burns made a motion to approve 2023-OR-70 on the Third and Final Reading, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-No Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 7-1. 3. Heather Metcalf 2023-OR-71 Ordinance of Transfer of Funds Within the Same Department Mrs. Metcalf advised there were no changes. Councilperson Burns made a motion to approve 2023-OR-71,seconded by Councilperson Paris; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-No Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 7-1. NEW BUSINESS: 1. Carolyn King—Clark County Cares Mrs. King advised Clark County Care(CCC)started in 2015 due to concerns regarding the use of opioids and the deaths because of the use. CCC has become a huge coalition of at least 70-100 people that have reached out to CCC. There have been a lot of changes over the years, many new services such as administering narcan to help prevent so many deaths. Every year they host a program called "Drug Facts Week" and it has grown each year. Another event is scheduled from January 29, 2024 through February 4, 2024. The City of Jeffersonville has played a huge roll in this program with their continued financial support which has helped to cover the cost of speakers, venues, live streaming, etc. Mrs. King requested for the continued support from the Council. Mrs. King requested the same amount as last year, $7,500.00. Council President Owen advised the Council has always supported CCC and the hard work that is put into Drug Fact Week and the other events. Council Vice President Hawkins made a motion to approve$7,500.00 for CCC and to take$7,500.00 out of Riverboat, Special Projects, seconded by Councilperson Burns; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. 2. Bill Burns-JHS Band Boosters Carrie Crouch, Treasurer for the Band Boosters advised she was here to seek sponsorship for a new wrap for the Band Trailer. The semi-trailer was gifted to the band several years ago by the Woerle family. The wrap on the trailer is between 10-15 years old and needs replaced. An estimate was gotten from Fast Signs in the amount of$14,582.00 to cover the sides and back doors. They tried to replace the white lettering only, however, there would have to be a lot of ghosting done and that would not look good. The Jeffersonville Band is approaching its 100th year in 2030. The trailer is used year round for different band events. Most event are held in Indianapolis, therefore the City of Jeffersonville is advertised well, with the City of Jeffersonville Logo. Mrs. Crouch advised that the band does not have money in the budget for the wrap and requesting help from Jeffersonville Council. Council Vice President Hawkins asked if the request was for$5,000.00 and if the rest of the money would be raised by doing fundraisers. Mrs. Crouch advised yes. Council Vice President made a motion to approve$5,000.00 to JHS Band Boosters out of the Riverboat, Special Projects, seconded by Councilperson Ellis; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. 3. Bill Burns/Executor Director Jerry Leonard YouthLink Southern Indiana Update Jerry Leonard, Executive Director with Youthlink Southern Indiana a non-profit organization that works with the school system, particularly Jeffersonville was present to request a donation in the amount of $50,000.00. This program was started 22 years ago and was known as Community in Schools. Youthlink offers academic, mental health and basic needs support. They offer in school support for one on one or small group tutoring, and oversees the 3, 2, 1 reading program. They also have resources for children who are in need of shoes, clothing, hygiene,food, etc. along with resources for parents. They are currently in 19 schools in Clark County and 1 in Floyd County. Youthlink is contracted with CenterStone for mental health services for Pre-K to 12th grade, and the only requirement to receive services is they have to be enrolled in school.There is a before and after school program that is fee based that is very reasonably priced, however there are still parents that cannot afford those fees,these funds will help offset those fees. The Council was presented with information regarding these programs and improvements of academic progress. Mr. Leonard asked for the Councils support in the amount of $50,000.00. Council Vice President asked Mr. Leonard what their revenue budget was. Mr. Leonard advised they are working on a budget of$2.3 Million dollars, which mostly comes from EDL Program, (Extended Day Learning)which covers a little over a million dollars which is used to cover salaries, back office expenses. The money that is donated goes directly to the programs along with grant money. The program recently received a million dollar grant from Lilly Dowment Inc. which is highly restricted as to what it can be used for. Council Vice President Hawkins asked if Greater Clark County Schools referred the program to what schools they are in. Mr. Leonard advised that they work with all 4 school districts and go to all the schools. Each school does not have the same needs as the others. Youthlink also has the 21"Century Program which is the education centers through the 215t Century Grant of Southern Indiana which is different from the 21"Century Scholarship. Council Vice President Hawkins asked Mrs. Metcalf where the funding had come from in the past. Council President Owen advised there is a line in the Council's budget under Communities in Schools. Mrs. Metcalf advised that the name could be changed. Council Vice President made a motion to approve$50,000.00. Council President Owen advised that there is only$5,000.00 budgeted. Council Vice President Hawkins withdrew his motion for$50,000.00. Council Vice President Hawkins made a motion to approve$5,000.00 to Youthlink out of the Riverboat Fund, seconded by Councilperson Burns; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. 4. Kim Calabro 2023-R-12 A Resolution Approving the Employee Benefits Section of the City of Jeffersonville Policy and Procedure Manual Mrs. Calabro presented the Employee Benefits Section with updated changes reflecting changes that have been previously approved by the Council as well as additional changes that had not been before the Council. It also includes requirements to comply with Federal Law. The draft was approved by legal Counsel outside the City by Fisher& Phillips out of Louisville, KY. Mrs. Calabro advised the only thing that changed under vacation to reflect weeks instead of days due to some departments working 4-10 hour day's verses 5-8 hour days.A major change is the 15 day paid Military leave for any employee that is out in reserve. A request to change the contribution rate for retirees,for civilians to 75/25 verses currently the ordinance is 60/40. Council Attorney Larry Wilder advised the Council that this does not require them to approve this Resolution, however it is ok to agree to it. Council President Owen asked if on page 59, section 3,the Mayor's Longevity had been previously approved. City Attorney Les Merkley advised this is still contingent on being funded each year by the Council. If the money was not appropriated for the benefit they would not be able to offer the benefit. Councilperson Webb made a motion to approve 2023-R-12, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris---Yes Councilperson Anderson--Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins—No Councilperson Ellis--Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 7-1 5. Les Merkley 2023-OR-72 Ordinance Establishing a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) Pursuant to I.C. 7.1-3-31 City Attorney Les Merkley advised the State Legislator in the last session passed a law that allowed communities to have a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) and it required Council to approve. The ordinance set before the Council is believed to meet State Law. Attached was a map of the boundary area. The Ordinance would allow for any participating restaurants, establishments, etc.that serves alcohol to allow their patrons to leave the premises with the alcohol beverage as long as they remain in the DORA district. Certain signage would be required, the cups have to be designated and so forth. Establishments within the boundary are not required to participate. This Ordinance does require at least one establishment to apply with the State to get DORA up and running. The statue states that if you are within 200 feet of a church or religious establishment that it would require written consent from that church. The boundaries that have been have set were avoided from the 2 churches in the area. Mr. Reischel from Planning and Zoning helped with the map and there is a legal description of the district. Council Attorney Larry Wilder advised that even though the Ordinance seems to be compliant,the City would not know for sure until one of the establishments apply for DORA, however,the City would not be held to any potential liability for the DORA cups if that establishment is denied. Councilperson Burns asked if the City would be responsible for the cups with the DORA logo. City Attorney Les Merkley advised there is a provision in the Ordinance that the City would supply the signage and the graphic decal for them to have printed on the cups,the establishments must supply the cups. Councilperson Burns asked if the establishments would be required to buy the cups from the City. Mr. Merkley advised that is not in the Ordinance at this time, but it could be discussed further down the road. Councilperson Webb asked how the boundary was determined. Mr. Merkley advised that he and Mr. Reischel mapped it out. This would be contingent upon ATF approval. Councilperson Webb made a motion to approve 2023-OR-72 on the First and Second Reading, seconded by Councilperson Burns; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-No Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 7-1. 6. Matt Owen 2023-OR-73 Ordinance Establishing Salaries for Elected Officials of the City of Jeffersonville Council President Owen advised this Ordinance was put together by Mr. Merkley at his request to reflect a change for the Mayor's compensation, which he felt was appropriate. This shows an average of 3% increase for each year the Mayor has served and will serve for another 4 years. Typically this is not done every year, but he felt this bump was warranted for a 4th term. Council Vice President asked if that was the only change. Council President Owen advised that was the only change he requested. Councilperson Webb made a motion to approve 2023-OR-73 on the First and Second Reading, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-No Councilperson Ellis-No Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 6-2. 7. 2023-OR-74 Ordinance of Transfer of Funds Within the Same Department JPD Chief Kavanaugh presented the Council with a letter requesting a transfer of existing funds budgeted that are remaining in the salary/payroll GL line of approximately$150,000.00 to the GL line for the purchase of agency operational equipment. The remainder of budgeted funds are due to vacancies of three (3) retirements, two(2) officer vacancies and transition of personnel through hiring which has evolved the agency hiring six(6) officers thus far in 2023. Currently in the final stage of hiring an experienced Police officer this month that will take the final test on November 30, 2023. Currently the Police Department is respectfully requesting a transfer of$100,000.00 form Salary GL line to the equipment line in the amount of$45,000.00 and $55,000.00 to the supply GL line.The operational needs of the requested funds support the following: a traffic control speed radar sign,tactical equipment to support the SWAT and QRT teams supporting the specialty unit, a un-maned aerial drone system and potentially purchasing an additional K-9 training package to expand the agency capability for public safety. The reason for saying potentially is dependent upon the arrival of the K-9 coming to the country in the next 30 days. Council President Owen asked if there was a transfer Ordinance put together. Mrs. Metcalf advised there was not. JPD Chief Kavanaugh apologized he did not have the information in time for it to be prepared. Council Vice President Hawkins made a motion to approve 2023-OR-74 on the First and Second Reading, seconded by Councilperson Anderson; roll call: Councilperson White-Yes Councilperson Burns-Yes Councilperson Paris-Yes Councilperson Anderson-Yes Councilperson Croft-Absent Councilperson Webb-Yes Council Vice President Hawkins-Yes Councilperson Ellis-Yes Council President Owen-Yes; motion passed, 8-0. ATTORNEY COMMENT: Larry Wilder—No Comment Les Merkley—No Comment DEPARTMENT HEADS: Kim Calabro-reminder regarding the Holiday Luncheon on December 7, 2023 from 11 am to 1 pm at the Refinery. JPD Chief Kavanaugh—Thank you to Jerry Leonard from Youthlink,the program does make an impact with the care it provides before and after school. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None COUNCIL COMMENTS: • Councilperson White—No Comment • Councilperson Burns—No Comment • Councilperson Paris—Happy Thanksgiving • Councilperson Anderson-No Comment • Councilperson Croft-Absent • Councilperson Webb—Happy Thanksgiving, need to be thankful for what we have, never know when it will be gone. • Council Vice President Hawkins-Happy Thanksgiving • Councilperson Ellis—No Comment • Council President Owen—Shout out to the Jeffersonville Police Department,they had their awards ceremony over the weekend, by the looks of it, it was a great celebration. They are greatly appreciated. ADJOURNMENT: Councilperson Burns made the motion to ADJOURN the meeting at 8:04 p.m. APROVED BY. Matt Owen, President ATTEST: Lisa Gill, Clerk