CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING                                 MONDAY                  AUGUST 23, 2004

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 23, in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch” Berry, Karen Lindblad, Gayle Money, Bill Ott and Earl “Bud” Umland, City Attorney Tim Weaver and City Clerk Mary Jean Sell. There is one vacancy.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

            Mayor Harrison led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

 

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:

            Ms. Money moved to approve the agenda. Mr. Ott seconded.

            Mayor Harrison added a presentation on Carving in the Ozarks as Old Business Item #3 since there are people present to discuss the festival.

            Mr. Berry asked for a discussion on the filling of the vacancy on the council as New Business Item #3.

            Ms. Money moved to approve the agenda as amended. Ms. Lindblad seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0.

 

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: August 9, 2004

            Mayor Harrison said the minutes would be postponed until the next meeting.

 

COMMISSION, COMMITTEE, AUTHORITY REPORTS AND VACANCIES:

            Planning Commission – Position 5 – Expires 1/1/07- vote – Jan Grinnell

            Ms. Lindblad and Ms. Money asked to postpone the vote on Ms. Grinnell another two weeks to give them time to contact her.

            Parks and Recreation Commission  - Position 1- Expires 5/31/07

Mayor Harrison nominated David Clements for the position.

City Advertising and Promotion Commission – Position 4 – Expires 6/30/08

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

            Vision – Ott, Lindblad, Richie and Harrison

            Mr. Ott said a meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 30. He hopes to have a list of priorities for city action finalized during that meeting and ready for adoption by resolution during the Sept. 13 council meeting.

 

 

 

                                                                                    City Council 8/23/04           1

 

 

 

OLD BUSINESS:

            1. Discussion of Ordinance #1959, an ordinance for procedure for non-payment of CAPC tax – LeRoy Gorrell

            Ms. Lindblad moved to table the ordinance. She said she had just gotten the ordinance with changes in it and had not had time to read it. Motion died for lack of a second.

            Ms. Money moved to place Ordinance 1959 on its first reading. She asked for a discussion of the changes in the ordinance for clarification.

            Mr. Weaver said the CAPC had removed references to the “executive director” and substituted “designee of the commission.” On page 1, the definition of “taxpayer” has been amended to include the current definition in the Municipal Code. He corrected typographical errors in the code citations on the last page.

            Mr. Ott moved to amend the ordinance to reflect the changes as outlined by Mr. Weaver. Ms. Money seconded. Four voted aye, Ms. Lindblad opposed. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Ms. Lindblad said she had information from Hot Springs City Attorney David White that the A&P ordinance there had never been tested in court, as our council had been told. She said she had done research at the University of Arkansas and could not find any court cases to support the ordinance. She still does not like the idea of one person being the arbitrator of issues, as set out in the ordinance. She would like either a CPA or lawyer specified as the arbitrator of issues.

            Ms. Money said any business that collects taxes of any kinds runs the risk of having its books audited.

            Mr. Ott said that in 17 years of the existence of the Hot Springs ordinance, it has been challenged five times: three of the challenges were settled out of court, one owner filed bankruptcy and the fifth went out of business.

            Beverly Blankenship, candidate for council seat in Ward 3, said she has talked with business owners in the ward and they feel the ordinance penalties are too strong  -

­ way extreme. She said the people in Ward 3 do not want the ordinance approved.

            Michael Johnson asked for time to read the ordinances with the changes before it was acted upon.

            Virginia Lindblad said she had done the research on the Hot Springs ordinance. She found no relevant court cases in Westlaw, Garland County or through other sources. She said the Hot Springs ordinance only applies to hotels and restaurants.

            CAPC Commissioner Bryan Sumpter said the commission had been told the ordinance was court-tested. He said the commission would be receptive to in-put from the citizens.

            Joe Zickmund said he collects the CAPC tax in both his stores although he doesn’t have to because he has general merchandise. He said he is choosing not to pay the tax and encouraged others not to pay as well.

            Bill Rubley said bringing in the definition of taxpayer is a super big mistake. State statutes give the city the right to enforce ordinances. The council needs to define the collectors before approving an enforcement ordinance.

 

                                                                                                City Council 8/23/04           2

            Mr. Umland said he was getting calls from business owners who did not feel the ordinance was a club of enforcement. He suggested a clear definition of tax collectors might be needed before the enforcement ordinance.

            Mr. Berry said he could see both sides. He said the city has to have enforcement for the ordinance. People who are supposed to collect the tax but aren’t, are hurting themselves and the city.

            On the motion to approve the ordinance on its first reading, Mr. Berry, Mr. Ott and Ms. Money voted aye. Mr. Umland and Ms. Lindblad voted nay. Motion failed 3/2/0

 

            2. Discussion of Ordinance #1965, an ordinance restricting habitation and sleeping on public property in the City of Eureka Springs, except where designated. (2nd reading)

            Ms. Money moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1965 on its second reading by title only. Mr. Ott seconded. By roll call, all voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

            Mayor Harrison read the title aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to amend the ordinance to include in Section 1 “unless a special overnight permit is issued by the Eureka Springs Police Department for special needs as/if they might arise.” Ms. Money seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

            Ms. Money moved to approve the ordinance on its second reading as amended. Mr. Ott seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

            Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1965 on its third reading by title only. Mr. Umland seconded. By roll call, four voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted no.

            Mayor Harrison read the title aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance 1965 on its third reading by title only. Ms. Money seconded.

            Ms. Lindblad said there wasn’t an emergency to this issue and there was no need to hurry along with the readings. She said people needed time to comment.

            Fatima Swallow said there is an emergency. Five people have been “dropped” in the community and are creating havoc.

            Mr. Berry said he had been contacted by people who believe there is an emergency.

            Police Chief Earl Hyatt said there are more itinerant people in town this year. As the weather cools off, he believes they will leave the area for warmer climates.

            On the motion to approve the ordinance, four voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted no. Motion passed 4/1/0

 

            3. Discussion of the Carving in the Ozarks proposed festival.

            Bill Rubley said the chain-saw carving festival is scheduled for April 21-24, 2005, in the Planer Hill parking lot. The organizers would also like to use the city-owner property between the highway and the parking lot for a demonstration area.

            David Blankenship said between 30 and 40 carvers interested in coming to the festival. He has posted information about the festival on several internet sites.

            Mr. Ott moved to send the organizers to the special events committee to work with them. Ms. Money seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

                                                                                                City Council 8/23/04           3

            Council members agreed to a break from 7:15 to 7:37 p.m.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

            1. Discussion of Ordinance 1914, an ordinance making the unnecessary “racking” of vehicle exhaust illegal.

            Mayor Harrison said this ordinance had failed the first time it was presented. A new ordinance needs to be written. She had notes from a workshop last year on including vehicle noise, amplified noise, unmuffled vehicles and posting of signs of welcome with the note that a noise enforcement is enforced in the city.

            She asked for volunteers for a committee to work on the ordinance with Police Chief Hyatt. Ms. Money, Ms. Lindblad and Mr. Umland agreed to be on the committee.

They agreed to meet at 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30, in the jury room.

 

            2. Discussion of Ordinance 1966, an ordinance concerning the re-zoning of the property at 80 Mountain St. from R-1 to C-3.

            Ms. Money moved to place the ordinance on its first reading. Mr. Umland seconded. Four voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted no. Motion passed 4/1/0

            Mr. Ott moved to table the ordinance until there are six council members. Ms. Money seconded. Four voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted nay. Motion passed 4/1/0

 

            3. Discussion of filling Ward 1 vacancy.

            Mr. Berry said he would like to have the seat filled as soon as possible. He asked members of the public interested in serving to get their resumes or applications to the City Hall by Aug. 30 so they could be reviewed in time for the Sept. 13 meeting.

            Mr. Umland suggested the existing uncontested candidate in Ward 1 be appointed.

            Mr. Ott seconded Mr. Berry’s request for the agenda item during the Sept. 13 meeting.

           

COUNCIL COMMENTS:

            Ms. Lindblad said she would like the council to reconsider following the rules of order only allowing each member two times to discuss an issue. She feels the public is getting cut short. She was concerned that several citizens and three members of the Planning Commission who attended the meeting to speak to the rezoning ordinance did not get to speak when the ordinance was tabled. She wants the issue on the next agenda. Ms. Money seconded the agenda item.

            Mr. Ott gave a brief presentation about the production of “Picasso at the Lapin Agile” by the Eureka Theater Company Sept. 3,4,5,9,10,11 and 12.

 

MAYOR’S COMMENTS:

            Mayor Harrison said she was sorry the rezoning ordinance had been tabled so quickly, without discussion and without allowing citizens to comment.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

            Ms. Money moved to adjourn at 7:58 p.m. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0                                                             City Council 8/23/04          4

 

 

            This is the signature page for the City Council minutes of Aug. 23, 2004.

 

 

 

                                                                      _______________________________

                                                                                    Mayor Kathy Harrison

 

 

________________________________

City Clerk Mary Jean Sell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

SPECIAL MEETING                         TUESDAY                          AUGUST 10, 2004

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the special City Council meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch” Berry, Karen Lindblad, Bill Ott and Earl “Bud” Umland, Mayor’s Assistant Brenda Spencer. Alderman Gayle Money was absent. There is one vacancy.

 

            The purpose of the meeting was to approve Ordinance 1967 providing emergency expenditures of approximately $40,000 for repair of Black Bass Dam and authorizing the Mayor to take the necessary steps to have the repairs done.

 

            Mr. Ott moved to place Ordinance 1967 on its first reading. Ms. Lindblad seconded.

            Mayor Harrison read the ordinance aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance 1967 on its first reading. Ms. Lindblad seconded.

            Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1967 on its second reading by title only. Ms. Lindblad seconded. By roll call, all voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Mayor Harrison read the title aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance 1967 on its second reading by title only. Ms. Lindblad seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1967 on its third reading by title only. Ms. Lindblad seconded. By roll call, all voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Mayor Harrison read the title aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance 1967 on its third reading by title only. Ms. Lindblad seconded.

Mayor Harrison read the title aloud

            She explained the scope of work included hiring Ralph Pruente to level an area beside the dam for access by trucks, which will pump concrete into the cracks in the dam to seal them. Additional stone is to be stacked on the face of the dam for reinforcement.

Fencing for the two pump houses and the access gate to the area may be paid for through the Homeland Security Act. The gate can be closed to prevent “midnight visitors” in the dam area.

            On the motion to approve the ordinance on its third reading, all voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

Mr. Ott moved to accept the emergency clause. Mr. Umland seconded.

            Mayor Harrison read the emergency clause aloud.

 

Mr. Ott moved to adjourn at 5:45 p.m. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

                                                                                                City Council 8/10/04     1

 

 

            This is the signature page for the minutes of the special City Council meeting Aug. 10. 2004.

 

 

 

                                                            ___________________________________

                                                                        Mayor Kathy Harrison

 

 

________________________________

            City Clerk Mary Jean Sell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING                        MONDAY                          AUGUST 9, 2004

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 6:05 p.m. Monday, Aug. 9, in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch Berry, Karen Lindblad, Gayle Money, Bill Ott and Earl “Bud” Umland, City Attorney Tim Weaver, Mayor’s Assistant Brenda Spencer, City Advertising and Promotion Commission (CAPC) Executive Director LeRoy Gorrell, CAPC Marketing Director Lynn Berry, Historic District Commission (HDC) member Frank Green Jr. and City Clerk Mary Jean Sell. There is one vacancy.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

            Mayor Harrison led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

 

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:

            Ms. Money moved to approve the agenda. Ms. Lindblad seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: July 26, 2004

            Ms. Money moved to approve the minutes of the July 26 City Council meeting as presented. Mr. Ott seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

COMMISSION, COMMITTEE, AUTHORITY REPORTS AND VACANCIES:

            Planning Commission – Position 5 – Expires 1/1/07  Mayor Harrison nominated Jan Grinnell to the position.

            Planning Commission – Position 3 – Expires 7/1/05 – vote – Patrick Brammer

            Mr. Ott moved to approve the nomination of Mr. Brammer. Ms. Lindblad seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

            Historic District Commission (HDC) – Position 2 – Expires 3/07/05 – vote – John Brammer

            Mr. Ott moved to approve the nomination of Mr. Brammer. Ms. Lindblad seconded.

            Mr. Berry said thought the chairman of the HDC had been given Mr. Brammer’s name for her review and approval. He asked the Mayor if she routinely asked chairmen of commissions for their approval of nominees and why would a chairman know of a nomination before the council did.

            Mayor Harrison said the chairman of the HDC did not know of the nomination before the council. Chairman Debbie Frisbie had asked the mayor to ask the council to postpone voting on the nomination until Ms. Frisbie had a chance to talk with Mr.

                                                                                             

City Council 8/9/04           1

 

Brammer about his interest in serving on the commission.

            Mr. Umland said he had received telephone calls saying that Mr. Brammer was in violation of HDC regulations.

            Mr. Green said Mr. Brammer is in compliance with HDC regulations. The commission has made a site visit to their property and granted a six-month extension to the Certificate of Appropriateness (CofA) so the exterior work could be completed.

            On the nomination, all voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

            Parks & Recreation Commission – Position 1 – Expires 5/31/07

            City Advertising and Promotion Commission – Position 4 – Expires 6/30/08

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

            Vision – Ott, Lindblad, Richie and Harrison

            Mr. Ott reported he and Mr. Richie had met and gone over their lists of recommendations for short and long-term city projects.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

            1. Discussion of Ordinance #1959, an ordinance for procedures for non-payment of CAPC tax. – LeRoy Gorrell

            Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1959 on its second reading by title only. Mr. Berry seconded. By roll call, four voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 4/1/0

            Mayor Harrison read the title of the ordinance aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to approve place Ordinance 1959 on its second reading by title only. Mr. Berry seconded.

            Mr. Weaver said that with the elimination of the CAPC executive director’s position, there were references in the ordinance, which now have to be changed. He suggested the CAPC be given the opportunity to make the changes.

            Mr. Ott moved to defer the vote on the second reading of the ordinance by title only to the next meeting, if the CAPC can meet and make the necessary changes in the ordinance. Ms. Money seconded.

            Ms. Lindblad said she wants to know who will hear the appeals. She said the ordinance does not specify clearly enough. She wants a board of appeals made up of persons not connected with the commission.

            On the motion to defer, five voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

NEW BUSINESS:

1.      Discussion of noise Ordinance #1914.

Mr. Ott moved to place Ordinance 1914 on its first reading. Ms. Money seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

Ms. Sell read the ordinance aloud.

Ms. Money moved to approve Ordinance 1914 on its first reading. Ms. Lindblad seconded.

Council members agreed in discussion the ordinance was not to discourage motorcycles in town, but to prohibit loud noises from a variety of vehicles.

                                                                          City Council 8/9/04           2

 

 

            Mr. Berry moved to table the vote until Police Chief Earl Hyatt could come to the meeting. Mr. Umland seconded.

            Mayor Harrison recognized Gentry Mayor Wes Hogue to speak. He said he understood the concern of the council for the peace and quiet of the city. Speaking as a motorcycle rider, instructor and mechanic, he said motorcycle riders now cross every aspect of society. He said many cyclists perceive the ordinance as a tool to discriminate against them. He asked the council to be sensitive to the perception and to not discourage cyclists from coming to town.

            On the motion to defer the vote, Mr. Ott, Mr. Umland and Mr. Berry voted aye; Ms. Lindblad and Ms. Money voted against. The motion was declared passed. Later in the meeting, Mr. Weaver said that with a body of five voting, the mayor would have to vote in favor of a motion to give four votes for approval. Mayor Harrison voted in favor of the motion to defer the vote until Chief Hyatt could discuss the ordinance with the council. Motion passed 4/2/0

 

            2. Discussion of Ordinance #1965, an ordinance restricting habitation and sleeping on public property.

            Ms. Money moved to place Ordinance 1965 on its first reading. Mr. Ott seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0  Ms. Lindblad had briefly left the table.

            Mayor Harrison read the ordinance aloud.

            Ms. Money moved to approve Ordinance 1965 on its first reading. Mr. Ott seconded.

            Mayor Harrison explained there a no current ordinances to restrict persons from sleeping or living on public property in the city.

            Mr. Berry wanted to know the difference in sleeping and snoozing. Mayor Harrison said the ordinance was intended for those sleeping on public property as part of habitation.

            Mr. Weaver agreed the word “sleep” might need to be defined in the ordinance. He thought local police officers and prosecutors would use common sense in determining “sleeping” and “habitation” of public property.

            Mr. Ott moved to remove the word “sleep” and change the phrase to “overnight camping or overnight use” in the ordinance. The motion died for lack of a second.

            Mr. Ott moved to remove the word “sleep” from the ordinance. Mr. Berry seconded. Four voted aye. Ms. Money voted no. Motion passed 4/1/0

            On the motion to approve the ordinance on its first reading, as amended, all voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0.

 

            3. Applicants’ appeal to council concerning zoning request denied by Planning Commission.

            Mayor Harrison said the council is to act as a separate body and to consider the appeal as a new case, not considering the action of the Planning Commission.

            The application from James and Shirley Bird was to re-zone 80 Mountain St., known as the Old Stone Church, from R-1, residential, to C-3, quiet business use.

                                                                                                City Council 8/9/04           3

            Attorney Wade Williams presented a plat map showing the property zones and uses surrounding 80 Mountain St. He said the building is in a commercial area and should be brought into compliance with the existing zoning codes. The church, built in 1901, predates the city’s zoning code. It has more than 20 parking spaces.

            He said several letters from neighboring property owners had objected to the rezoning if the building was to be used as a restaurant. He did not believe a conditional use permit (CUP) for the property would be appropriate. The city’s code prohibits the particular use of a property if the same use is within 200 feet. There is another church within 200 feet of this property.

            He said the current owners of the property are not interested in using the property as a restaurant.

            Planning Commissioner Terry McClung said he believed bringing the property into compliance with the zoning code would be appropriate.

            Mr. Weaver said that any uses permitted within a zoning classification would be appropriate to the property and none of the uses could be excluded.

            Ms. Money moved to have an ordinance drawn to re-zone the property from R-1, residential, to C-3, quiet commercial. Mr. Ott and Mr. Umland seconded.

            After additional discussion, Mr. Umland called for the question to stop discussion. Ms. Money seconded. Mr. Ott, Mr. Umland and Ms. Money voted aye. Mr. Berry and Ms. Lindblad voted nay. Motion failed 3/2/0

            On the original motion to have the ordinance prepared to re-zone the property, Mr. Ott, Mr. Umland and Ms. Money voted aye. Mr. Berry and Ms. Lindblad voted nay. Mr. Weaver said that with a body of five voting, the mayor would have to vote in favor of a motion to give four votes for approval. Mayor Harrison voted in favor of the motion. Motion passed 4/3/0.

 

COUNCIL COMMENTS:

            Mr. Ott quoted former President Gerald Ford in saying, “Truth is the glue that holds government together.”

            Ms. Lindblad said she did not appreciate being personally attacked during the council meeting. She hoped the council would be firm in not allowing such things.

 

MAYOR’S COMMENTS:

            Mayor Harrison said a special meeting will be needed in the next few days to approve expenditures to repair Black Bass Dam. There are large holes in the dam allowing quite a bit of water to come through. She said it will be necessary to fence off the two pump houses near the dam and access to the dam area as part of homeland security measures. Federal funding might be available for the security measures. She thought the cost might be $30,000-$35,000.

            She congratulated the four new candidates for city council, praising them for willingness to be of service to the community.

 

ADJOURNMENT

            Ms. Money moved to adjourn at 7:49 p.m. Mr. Berry seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

                                                                                          City Council 8/9/04           4         

           

 

This is the signature page for the minutes of the regular City Council meeting Aug. 9, 2004.

 

 

 

                                                            __________________________________

                                                                        Mayor Kathy Harrison

 

 

_____________________________________

City Clerk Mary Jean Sell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

SPECIAL MEETING                                    MONDAY                  AUGUST 2, 2004

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the special meeting of the City Council to order at 6 p.m. in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch” Berry, Karen Lindblad, Bill Ott and Earl “Bud” Umland, City Attorney Tim Weaver, Transit Director Lamont Richie, Mayor’s Assistant Brenda Spencer and City Clerk Mary Jean Sell. Alderman Gayle Money was absent. There is one vacancy.

 

            The purpose of the special meeting was to consider Resolution #503, transferring funds from the city’s general fund to the Transit Department for the purpose of paying for a trolley. The funds will be reimbursed from the Transit Department when they are received from the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD).

 

            Mr. Ott moved to adopt Resolution #503. Mr. Berry seconded.

            Ms. Sell read the resolution aloud.

            All voted aye to adopt the resolution. Motion passed 4/0/0

 

            Mr. Ott moved to adjourn at 6:03 p.m. Mr. Berry seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0.

 

 

            This is the signature page for the special City Council meeting of Aug. 2, 2004.

 

 

 

                                                                        _________________________________

                                                                                    Mayor Kathy Harrison

 

 

__________________________________

            City Clerk Mary Jean Sell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                    City Council 8/2/04             1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

SPECIAL MEETING                                    MONDAY                  AUGUST 2, 2004

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the special City Council meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Monday, Aug. 2, in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch” Berry, Karen Lindblad, Bill Ott and Earl “Bud” Umland, City Attorney Tim Weaver, Transit Director Lamont Richie, Mayor’s Assistant Brenda Spencer and City Clerk Mary Jean Sell. Alderman Gayle Money was absent. There is one vacancy.

 

            The purpose of the special meeting was to consider Ordinance #1964, an ordinance directing the Transit Department to eliminate trolley stop #83, at 99 Spring St., until Dec. 31, 2004, and declaring an emergency.

 

            Mr. Ott moved to place Ordinance1964 on its first reading. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Ms. Sell read the ordinance aloud.

            Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance1964 on its first reading. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1964 on its second reading by title only. Mr. Umland seconded. By roll call, all voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

            Mayor Harrison read the title aloud.

Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance1964 on its second reading by title only. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1964 on its third reading by title only. Mr. Umland seconded. By roll call, all voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

Mayor Harrison read the title aloud.

Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance1964 on its third reading by title only. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

Joe Zickmund wanted to know why the fourth section of the ordinance had not been read.

Mayor Harrison explained it was the emergency clause and would not be read until the ordinance had been approved on its third reading.

Mr. Zickmund said he hoped the transit department would pass out statistical questionnaires to determine the ridership of the trolleys. He said the purpose of the trolleys was not to assist shop owners.

Mr. Richie said he thought it is “the height of micromanagement and a ludicrous

 

                                                                                    City Council 8/2/04       1

 

 

 

action” for the council to remove the trolley stop. He said he would provide postcards to riders and the addresses of council members so riders could send their comments directly to council members.

Mr. Berry said he agreed with Mr. Richie that the purpose of the trolley system was not for the convenience of shopping but for moving people around town. He agreed with Mr. Richie’s intent to have negative comments sent to the council.

Mr. Ott said the tax collections from the shops in the area would be seen if there was a spike in business to merit permanently changing the trolley stop.

Ms. Lindblad said she did not want to see the trolley system used to increase business for individual shops. She said it was not her intention to micromanage the transit system.

James DeVito said changing the trolley stop would make the available maps incorrect.

 

On the motion to approve the ordinance, all voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

Mr. Ott moved to read the emergency clause. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye.

Mayor Harrison read the emergency clause aloud.

 

Mr. Ott moved to adjourn at 6:20 p.m. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 4/0/0

 

 

This is the signature page for the minutes of the second special City Council meeting Aug. 2, 2004.

 

 

 

                                                __________________________________

                                                            Mayor Kathy Harrison

 

 

 

__________________________________

City Clerk Mary Jean Sell

 

 

                                                                                    City Council 8/2/04     2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING                             MONDAY                              JULY 26, 2004

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the regular City Council meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Monday, July 26, in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch” Berry, Penny Carroll, Karen Lindblad, Gayle Money, Bill Ott and Earl “Bud” Umland, City Attorney Tim Weaver, City Advertising and Promotion Commission (CAPC) Executive Director LeRoy Gorrell, Marketing Director Lynn Berry, CAPC Chairman Steve Roberson, CAPC Commissioner Bryan Sumpter, mayor’s assistant Brenda Spencer and City Clerk Mary Jean Sell.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

            Mayor Harrison led the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

            Ms. Money moved to approve the agenda. Ms. Lindblad seconded.

            Ms. Lindblad moved to remove the discussion of Ordinance 1959, regarding procedures for non-payment of the CAPC tax, from Old Business and set a public hearing on the ordinance. Mr. Umland seconded.

            Mr. Roberson urged the Council to go forward with the approval of the ordinance as quickly as possible. He said it is copied from the Hot Springs ordinance, modified to fit Eureka Springs, and it has stood up under court tests. The CAPC has tweaked it and it is ready.

            There was some additional discussion.

            On the motion, Ms. Lindblad and Mr. Umland voted aye; Mr. Berry, Ms. Carroll, Mr. Ott and Ms. Money voted nay. Motion failed 4/2/0

            Mayor Harrison asked for two executive sessions, one to confirm the hiring of Ileene Kelly as accounts supervisor and one to confirm the dismissal of Building Official Randy Mills.

            She called for the vote on the agenda as amended. All voted aye. Motion passed 6/0/0

 

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: July 12, 2004

            Ms. Money moved to approve the minutes of July 12 as presented. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 6/0/0

 

COMMISSION, COMMITTEE, AUTHORITY REPORTS AND VACANCIES

            Mayor Harrison nominated Patrick Brammer for the Planning Commission Position 3, term expires 7/1/05.

            She nominated John Brammer for Position 2 on the Historic District Commission, term expires 3/7/05

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            She said she has two applications for Position 1, expires 5/31/07, on the Parks and Recreation Commission.

Planning Commission – Position 5 – Expires 1/1/07

           

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

            Vision – Ott, Lindblad, Richie and Harrison

            Mr. Ott gave a brief report on the work to prioritize lists of city needs from members. The next meeting is at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 2.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

1.      Discussion of Rules of Order  - Ott, Berry

Mr. Ott moved to add the rule that each council member could only speak twice to any issue. Ms. Carroll seconded.

After discussion, Mr. Ott moved to amend his motion to return to using Robert’s Rules of Order. Ms. Lindblad seconded. Five vote aye, Ms. Money voted against. Motion passed 5/1/0

 

Mr. Ott moved to go into executive session on the arrival of Police Chief Earl Hyatt at 6:35 p.m. Mr. Berry seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 6/0/0

The Council returned to open session at 7:08 p.m. Mayor Harrison said the Council had accepted the resignation of the Building Official.

Mr. Ott moved to accept, by unanimous consent, the hiring of Ms. Kelly. Ms. Lindblad seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 6/0/0

 

2. Discussion of Ordinance #1959, an ordinance for procedure for non-payment of CAPC tax – LeRoy Gorrell.

Ms. Money moved to place Ordinance 1959 on its first reading. Mr. Ott seconded.

Ms. Lindblad said she had problems with the ordinance in the appeals process. Mr. Ott asked to save discussion of the ordinance until after its first reading. He called for the question. Ms. Carroll seconded. Five voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 5/1/0

On the motion to read the ordinance, five voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 5/1/0

Mayor Harrison, all of the council members and Ms. Sell read portions of the ordinance aloud.

Mr. Ott moved to approve Ordinance 1959 on its first reading. Ms. Money seconded.

Mr. Umland asked who would be designated to review non-payers books. Mr. Roberson said, in his opinion, it would be an outside CPA firm. The firm would review the books then issue a report to the CAPC. With that method, the working papers of the CPA firm would remain confidential and only the report would be subject to FOIA (Freedom of Information Act).

Ms. Lindblad wanted that language included in the ordinance. She also wanted an appeals board included, rather than putting the burden on the CAPC director or one designee.

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Ms. Money wanted to hold a public hearing on the ordinance at 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 9, prior to the regular meeting at 6 p.m.

Ms. Money called the question to stop discussion. Mr. Ott seconded. Five voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 5/1/0

On the motion to approve Ordinance 1959 on its first reading, five voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 5/1/0

Ms. Money moved to begin at 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 9, to hear comments from the public on the ordinance. Mr. Ott seconded. Five voted aye, Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 5/1/0

Ms. Carroll moved to have an emergency clause prepared so the ordinance could be read the second and third times Aug. 9 and approved to go into effect immediately. Ms. Money seconded. Four voted aye. Mr. Umland and Ms. Ms. Lindblad voted against. Motion passed 4/2/0

 

3. Discussion of ordinance amending 86-4 of the Municipal Code regarding banners and signs.

Ms. Money said the ordinance is not ready for presentation.

 

Mr. Ott moved to suspend the rules and defer New Business Item #4, discussion of new sign ordinance, to the next council meeting or the one after. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye.  Motion passed 6/0/0

There was a brief discussion of new state statutes regarding signage, particularly billboards, which need to be incorporated into the proposed sign ordinance. Mr. Berry said the proposed ordinance should be returned to the Planning Commission to be updated.

Mr. Ott moved to defer consideration of the new sign ordinance and to return it to the Planning Commission for review. Mr. Berry seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 6/0/0

 

4. Discussion of Ordinance 1942, amending Chapters 114-4(c)(6) and 70-4 of the Municipal Code, regarding manufactured homes. (3rd reading) – Berry

Ms. Sell said the Planning Commission is still trying to determine which zoning districts to place manufactured homes, will be recommending the rezoning of properties with existing multi-family complexes to R-3, and has discussed the possible use of conditional use permits (CUP) or establishing a new zoning district, R-4, for manufactured homes. They do recommend the removal of the A, agriculture, zones from Ordinance 1942.

Mr. Weaver said a CUP in R-2 or R-3 areas would not meet the state requirements. Locations for an R-4 district would still have to be designated.

Mr. Berry said he had suggested placement with conditions or guidelines.

Mr. Ott moved to defer Ordinance 1942 until a recommendation comes from the Planning Commission. Mr. Berry seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 6/0/0

 

The Council took a break from 8:26 to 8:38 p.m.

 

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NEW BUSINESS      

1.      Discussion of vacancy on City Council – Umland, Lindblad

Ms. Carroll read a short prepared statement saying she is a resident of Ward 1. She had to move out temporarily because the house she was renting had been sold. She has a home in Ward 1 where she plans to live after renters have vacated and the place has been cleaned. She showed a copy of a six-month lease of 27 Paxos, also in Ward 1, where she said she was now living. She said she is storing her furniture and other things in a house on Eureka St. leased to John Foley, her business partner and the person with whom she has a committed relationship.

She provided copies of her voter registration card showing her address as 22 Emporia, tax records and a mortgage record for that property. She said it is her intention to reside at 22 Emporia.

There was almost an hour of discussion. Council members asked questions to determine the timeline of Ms. Carroll’s activities. Mr. Umland said several times he felt she was being evasive and untruthful in her answers.

Ms. Lindblad said she wanted it recorded that the lease with Marcia Yearsley for 27 Paxos had been signed June 25.

Ms. Lindblad moved to recognize the vacancy in Ward 1. Mr. Umland seconded.

After additional discussion, Ms. Lindblad called for the question to stop the discussion. Mr. Umland seconded. Four voted aye, Ms. Money and Ms. Carroll voted against. Motion passed 4/2/0

On the motion to recognize the vacancy, Mr. Ott moved for a roll call vote. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye.

By roll call, voting yes were Ms. Lindblad, Mr. Umland and Ms. Money. Voting no were Ms. Carroll, Mr. Berry and Mr. Ott. Mayor Harrison voted aye to pass the motion 4/3/0.

Ms. Carroll left the table at 9:35 p.m.

 

2.      Discussion of Ordinance #1962, an ordinance establishing voting by ward.

Ms. Money moved to put Ordinance 1962 on its first reading. Ms. Lindblad seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

Mayor Harrison read the ordinance aloud.

Ms. Money moved to approve Ordinance 1962 on its first reading. Mr. Umland seconded.

Mayor Harrison said Carroll County Clerk Shirley Doss said approximately 300 persons are registered to vote in each of the city’s three wards. Election Commission Chairman Levi Phillips has said that, based on the 2000 census, the Eureka wards have not changed significantly and could remain as they are.

Mr. Ott asked to have Mr. Phillips send a certified letter to that effect. Mayor Harrison said she would request it.

Mr. Ott moved to table discussion pending receipt of an opinion about the wards from the legal body in charge. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

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3.      Discussion to establish a Board of Appeals regarding retaining walls – Berry.

Mr. Ott moved to have the council direct the city attorney to work with Mr. Berry to draft and amend Ordinance 1956 regarding retaining walls. Ms. Money seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

4. Discussion on drafting an ordinance to revise downtown trolley stop – Umland, Ott

Mr. Ott moved to have an ordinance drawn to remove trolley stop #83 at 99 Spring St. and to designate #84 at 127 Spring St. as the last downtown stop. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

5. Discussion of noise ordinance.

Ms. Lindblad asked that the discussion be deferred to the next meeting.

Mayor Harrison proposed reviewing Ordinance 1914 written by Police Chief Earl Hyatt. The ordinance was never voted on. Mr. Ott seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

 

COUNCIL COMMENTS

            Ms. Lindblad said the movie Sunday, July 25, was cancelled because of possible thunderstorms. “Pirates of the Caribbean” will be shown Sept. 19 as the final movie for the Lucky 13 Starlight Cinema this season.

 

MAYOR’S COMMENTS

            She said she wanted to put the proposed ordinance regarding persons sleeping in the city parks on the Aug. 9 agenda.

            She reminded council members that matters discussed during executive sessions should not be discussed in public. She said there is a council member who does discuss the matters in public. She said that could result in a lawsuit and she does not want that to happen. She said council members could be sued as council members and as individuals without the city attorney’s services or protection.

 

ADJOURNMENT       

            Ms. Money moved to adjourn at 10:04 p.m. Mr. Umland seconded. All voted aye. Motion passed 5/0/0

           

            This is the signature page for the City Council minutes of July 26, 2004.

 

                                                                       

__________________________________

                                                                                    Mayor Kathy Harrison

 

 

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            City Clerk Mary Jean Sell                                City Council 7/26/04            5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CITY OF EUREKA SPRINGS

CITY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING                             MONDAY                              JULY 12, 2004

            

 

            Mayor Kathy Harrison called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 6 p.m. Monday, July 12, in the jury room of the Western District Carroll County Courthouse.

 

PRESENT: Mayor Kathy Harrison, Aldermen Robert “Butch” Berry, Karen Lindblad, Gayle Money and Earl “Bud” Umland, City Attorney Tim Weaver, City Advertising and Promotion Commission (CAPC) Executive Director LeRoy Gorrell, mayor’s assistant Brenda Spencer and City Clerk Ma