8-26-2019 Minutes.Pdf

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES, STATE OF LOUISIANA, REGULAR MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2019 AT 5:30 P.M.

The City Council of the City of Natchitoches met in legal and regular session at the Natchitoches Arts Center, 716 Second Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana on Monday, August 26, 2019 at 5:30 p.m.

There were present:

Mayor Lee Posey Councilman At Large Don Mims, Jr. Councilman Dale Nielsen Councilwoman Sylvia Morrow Councilman Lawrence Batiste

Guests: None

Absent: None

Mayor Lee Posey called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone for coming. Michael Braxton was asked to lead the invocation and Councilwoman Sylvia Morrow led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Posey then called for the reading and approval of the minutes for the August 12, 2019 meeting. Mr. Mims moved that we dispense with the reading of the minutes and approval of same. Seconded by Ms. Morrow a roll call vote was as follows:

Ayes: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow Nays: None Absent: None Abstain: None

The following Ordinance was Introduced by Mr. Mims and Seconded by Mr. Nielsen as follows, to-wit:

ORDINANCE NO. 029 OF 2019

AN ORDINANCE DECLARING CERTAIN BUILDINGS UNSAFE AND RECOMMENDING THAT SAME BE DEMOLISHED OR PUT INTO REPAIR TO COMPLY WITH THE BUILDING CODE, AUTHORIZING NOTICE TO BE SERVED, FIXING HEARING DATE AND APPOINTING CURATOR TO REPRESENT ABSENTEES

WHEREAS, the City Building Inspector and the Director of Planning & Zoning have filed written reports with the City Council declaring that the buildings listed below are in a dangerous and unsanitary condition which makes them unsafe and endangering the public welfare, and recommending that said buildings be demolished or put in repair to comply with the Building Code, to-wit:

1. Midwest Management P.O. Box 82668 Lincoln, NE 68501

Lot E Side Washington St., N By Breazeale, E By Bayou Bourbeaux, S By Kirk (1457 Washington St.)

2. Lois K. Breaux & Forrest M. Kavanaugh 1521 Frenchmans Bend Rd. Monroe, LA 71203

Lot 60 Feet Front East Side Washington St., N By Fletcher, E By Cane River Lake, S By Breazeale And Lot East Side Washington St., N By Kavanaugh, E By Cane River And South By Hyams (1429 Washington St.)

3. Clyde & Inez Thompson C/O Gloria Jones 830 Second Street Natchitoches, LA 71457

Lot 60 Ft. Front S Side Pavie St., Extending Back For Depth Across Lots 36, 37, 38, 39 & 40 Of Fluery Plat. (717 Pavie St.)

4. Hopeville Partners LP 8960 Old Southwick Pass Alpharetta, GA 30022

Lot 91.3 Feet Front West Side 2nd St., Bounded N By Martin, Et Al, W By Duplex St. & City Property & S By Scarborough & Tauzin, As Shown On A Plat In CB 257, Pg. 410 & A Lot Adjoining The NW Portion Of The Above Described Lot Have A South Line Of 129.3 Ft., A West Line Of 65.7 Ft., A North Line Of 110.5 Ft. And A East Line Of 63 Ft. (312 Second St. – includes four (4) apartment buildings and accessory building)

THIS ORDINANCE was introduced July 22, 2019 and published in the Natchitoches Times on July 27, 2019. The above Ordinance having been duly advertised in accordance with law and public hearing had on same, was put to a vote by the Mayor and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington NAYS: Morrow ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Ordinance passed by a vote of 4 Ayes to

1 Nays this 26th day of August, 2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR DON MIMS, MAYOR PRO TEMPORE

Delivered to the Mayor on the 27th day of August, 2019 at 10:00 A.M.

Tim Tryniecki attorney for Sterling Bank with Hopeville Partners LP addressed the council stating he has provided documents tonight and has given a copy to the City Attorney, Mr. Ronald Corkern and also, City Clerk Mrs. Stacy McQueary. He was last here on July 22nd with some exhibits, affidavits, property condition report and a timeline over the last 2 years of their efforts to replace the contractor, a general partner of the owner along with photographs. Today he brought more exhibits building code ordinance, zoning ordinance, and audio from the last meeting. He also brought a biography of the new developer as well. He then stated they intend to build a security chain link fence with a lock in the next 20 days, but this makes it hard to get a developer to come out with this ordinance hanging over our head. Mr. Minden’s affidavit was presented to state they have over $2 million in this project and will lose millions of dollars in tax credits from the state is this is torn down. He provided additional documents which included building plans, permits, etc. He stated David Albert another attorney and Phil Minden with Sterling Bank were also in attendance tonight.

Mr. Tryniecki stated he could not find where the owner had been notified of tonight’s meeting as that is a prerequisite for these things. The owner has told them she did not receive notification of the hearing. According to the architect’s report and contractor the building is considered unsafe and that is expected during a construction project. There has been a long delay in this project, but it is still considered a construction project. The tax credits will go away in 2020 if the project is not completed. He then stated the City Council has stated many times affordable housing is not support and while we can’t stop it zoning wise, but will do everything to stop it even though a building permit was issued and the state of Louisiana certified there was a need. Even though the condemnation will take the property away from the owner, investors, and the bank, it will essentially cost them millions of dollars in losses. The structure is sound and there have been no defects found therefore they would like to complete the project. Mr. Tryniecki asked the Council to think very carefully before making a decision and is asking for time to be given to complete the project in the next 8 months.

Mayor Posey stated in 2016 he stopped by job site several times to check on the progress. There were problems during the interim and the job was shut down twice. When you were here on July 22nd you stated there was someone who was supposed to secure the property then and it has still not been secured. Mayor Posey feels like 3 years was plenty of time to do this and hoping this council will vote on the condemnation. He also stated he has told Mr. Minden if this project was not good for our community then he would not stand behind it.

Ms. Morrow stated she has been up to date on this project. In Natchitoches, we have a need for housing and is in favor of the project moving forward if we can find a way for it to be conducive for the area. She stated if adequate funding could be secured and the project could start moving forward she would be in support of that.

Mr. Harrington directed a question towards Mr. Corkern, if proper notice was given to the owner. Mr. Corkern stated he was not aware at this time.

Mr. Corkern asked when is the last time any work was done towards actually completing the project as documentation states in the affidavit that work ceased on the property in November 2018 due to cost overruns, but in fact it was actually August 2017. Mr. Tryniecki stated this date reflects when the owner removed herself from the property. Mr. Corkern asked if there were actually investors who were ready to start building because erecting a security fence may satisfy the safety aspect, but this is not what we are looking for in the historic district.

Mr. Harrington stated the paperwork given to the attorney tonight should have been provided to the Council and definitely before the meeting in which they are voting. He also stated it was his understanding the security fence would be erected before tonight’s meeting and now they have come back to ask for more time. Also, he stated because this is located in the historic district which can hinder it being a historic district destination if the destination was brought up for review and could possibly lose that title.

Mr. Nielsen stated through the entire process we have not gotten a response, but rather lip service back to the original developer. He then stated, it took putting it onto the condemnation list to start moving and I don’t have a good feeling about it.

Mr. Corkern stated for the record the photographs referred to and the ones in his office he will send to Mr. Tryniecki.

Mr. Edward Creighton (218 Second St.) stated a group met to talk about this project and didn’t really make a decision because they didn’t have a lot of information. They have concerns of safety, property values, what the property will look like. There is not a lot of trust in how it has been handled. He believes you can have low income housing in the historic district and should not be the reason this project should not move forward. It is important people follow the rules, is it going to uplift or tear us down and these are valid concerns in his opinions. He then stated he believes Hopeville is a good idea, but the mistake is the lack of information to the neighbors.

Before the vote, Mr. Corkern gave some history behind how this project came about and the lack of information that was provided to the City prior to the project being approved. He also presented some information regarding low income housing in Natchitoches and what is available for our community.

For a complete audio of minutes, please contact City Hall at 318-352-2772.

The following Ordinance was Introduced by Mr. Harrington and Seconded by Mr. Nielsen as follows, to-wit:

ORDINANCE NO. 028 OF 2019

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 64 OF 2001 BY CHANGING ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

TO REZONE THE FOLLOWING: Lot East Side Williams Avenue, 75 Feet Front By 371 Feet - 4 Inches, North By Corley And Thomas, East By Street, South By Lilly from R-1 Residential to R-1 Residential, Special Exception to operate a dental office.

(219 Williams Ave.)

WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Natchitoches, State of Louisiana, has recommended at their meeting of July 2, 2019 that the application of Ted Methvin to rezone the property described above from R-1 Residential to R-1 Residential, Special Exception to operate a dental office, be DENIED.

WHEREAS, this Ordinance was introduced on July 8, 2019 and published in the Natchitoches Times on July 11, 2019.

WHEREAS, This Ordinance, was TABLED at the July 22, 2019 City Council meeting; and

WHEREAS, a motion was called to uphold the decision of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

The above Ordinance having been duly advertised in accordance with law and public hearing had on same, was put to a vote by the Mayor and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Ordinance passed to uphold the decision

of the Planning and Zoning Commission by a vote of 5 Ayes to 0 Nays this 26th day of August,

2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR DON MIMS, MAYOR PRO TEMPORE

Delivered to the Mayor on the 27th day of August, 2019 at 10:00 A.M.

Dr. Methvin addressed the City Council stating he had the opportunity to meet with individuals in this area by phone and in person. He stated he wanted to use this time to answer any questions or go over information that was talked about at the last meeting. He noticed in the South Williams area the houses were going down and he saw this as an opportunity to do something positive for Natchitoches. The property has been on the market for 450 days and is located on a busy street. He provided more information and details regarding the property and his intent for keeping the look residential, but converting it to a dental office. Concerns that have been brought to his attention are property value, increased traffic, and signage which he addressed. Mr. Harrington stated his opinion that he does not like spot zoning. Areas are planned to be specifically zoned, but it also depends on the individual circumstance at hand.

Mayor Posey stated what you are running into is what scares people. If we allow one person to make a change then that opens the door for what might happen next.

Several residents spoke in opposition of the project and asked the Council to support their decision of keeping this area residential.

For a complete audio of minutes, please contact City Hall at 318-352-2772.

The following Ordinance was Introduced by Mr. Nielsen and Seconded by Mr. Harrington as follows, to-wit:

ORDINANCE NO. 030 OF 2019

AN ORDINANCE EXTENDING THE CITY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES ANNEXING SIX TRACTS SITUATED IN SECTION 83, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, AND SECTIONS 25 AND 40, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 8 WEST, NATCHITOCHES PARISH, LOUISIANA, ONE OF SAID TRACTS LYING EAST OF LIMEKILN ROAD AND SOUTH OF RUE DE GABRIEL, AS EXTENDED, AND FIVE OF SAID TRACTS SITUATED BETWEEN LOUISIANA HIGHWAY 6 AND LOUISIANA HIGHWAY 3278, AND ADJACENT TO THE EXISTING MUNICIPAL LIMITS OF THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES, BEING A TOTAL OF 87.3 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AND FURTHER PROVIDING FOR THE FIXING OF A PUBLIC HEARING, ADVERTISEMENT, FIXING COUNCIL DISTRICT FOR SAME, FIXING ZONING CLASSIFICATION AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE ORDINANCE.

WHEREAS, a petition has been filed in accordance with Revised Statutes 33:172, et. seq., by Evans Family, L.L.C., requesting that the boundaries of the City of Natchitoches be enlarged so as to include the following described parcels or tracts of land, to-wit:

Tract 1, South of Rue de Gabriel, as extended:

That certain tract of land, together with all buildings and improvements located thereon, situated in Section 83, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, and being more particularly described as follows:

Commencing at a point on the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, which said point is the corner located closest to the Southwest corner of the intersection of Louisiana Highway 6 and Lime Kiln Road, thence South 25 degrees 46 minutes 57 Seconds East, along the westerly right of way of Lime Kiln Road and along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, a distance of 567.96 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence from the point of beginning North 76 degrees 32 minutes 12 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, a distance of 2,227.54 feet; thence along a curve to the right having a radius of 2,259.64; a delta angle of 09 degrees 59 minutes 3 second, an arc length of 393.76, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, to the point of tangency; thence North 86 degrees 31 minutes 15 seconds East along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, a distance of 803.65 feet to a point of curvature; thence along a curve to the left having a radius of 2,080.68 feet, a delta angle of 11 degrees 08 minutes 27 second, an arc length of 404.57 feet, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, to the Point of tangency; thence North 75 degrees 22 minutes 49 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, a distance of a distance of 764.28 feet, or a distance sufficient to intersect the Northwest corner of a tract owned by Cane River Children’s Services, as depicted on that survey by Glen L. Cannon, dated January 27, 2005, and recorded with that instrument at Conveyance Book 591, page 691, of the records of Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana; thence leaving the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, South 00 degrees 18 minutes 29 seconds West a distance of 611.99 feet; thence in a westerly direction to a point that is located on the westerly right of way of Lime Kiln Road and located 600 feet from the point of beginning; thence in a northerly direction along the westerly right of way of Lime Kiln Road a distance of 600 feet to the point of beginning.

Tract 2, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

That certain tract of land, together with all buildings and improvements located thereon, situated in Section 83, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, and being more particularly described as follows:

Tract 3, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

That certain tract of land, together with all buildings and improvements located thereon, situated in Section 83, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, and Section 25, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, and being more particularly described as follows:

Beginning at a found 4" x 4" concrete monument being point 50 on a survey for International Paper Co. by A. J. Brouillette, dated October 30, 1962; thence South 0 degrees 8 minutes 18 seconds East a distance of 153.08 feet; thence South 89 degrees 17 minutes 22 seconds West a distance of 508.53 feet to a point of the western right of way of Louisiana Highway 6 and a point on the existing corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches; thence South 40 degrees 25 minutes 9 seconds West, along the western right of way of Louisiana Highway 6, a distance of 170.86 feet; thence South 45 degrees 35 minutes West, along a curve more fully described on a survey by Robert Lynn Davis dated May 22, 2004, and along the western right of way of Louisiana Highway 6, a distance of 616.82 feet; thence South 39 degrees 13 minutes 1 second West, along the western right of way of Louisiana Highway 6, a distance of 14.77 feet; thence South 53 degrees 44 minutes 8 seconds West, along a curve more fully described on the above referenced Davis plat, and along the western right of way of Louisiana Highway 6, a distance of 224.79 feet; thence North 89 degrees 59 minutes 00 seconds West a distance sufficient to intersect the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana said point being the point of beginning; thence from the to the point of beginning; continue North 89 degrees 59 minutes 00 seconds West to the southerly right of way of Louisiana Highway 3278; thence in a westerly direction along the southerly right of way of Louisiana Highway 3278 a distance sufficient to intersect the Southeast corner of the intersection of Louisiana Highway 3278 and Lime Kiln Road, said point also being a point on the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, thence South 15 degrees 41 minutes 46 seconds East, along the easterly right of way of Lime Kiln Road and the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect that point where the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches turns to the East; thence North 71 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 623.86 feet to a point of curvature; thence along a curve to the left having a radius of 2,924.05 feet, a delta angle of 54 degrees 6 minutes 37 seconds, an arc length of 735.43 feet, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches; to the point of beginning.

Tract 4, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

That certain tract of land, situated and located in Section 25, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, being a 2.7 acre tract of land, more or less, and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit:

Commencing at a 1" iron pipe found for the Northeast Corner of Lot 3 of Spanish Trail Subdivision, in Section 25, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana; thence run North 80 degrees 31 minutes 38 seconds East a distance of 373.37 feet to a point on the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches; thence run North 58 degrees 37 minutes 37 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 107.97 feet; thence run North 78 degrees 14 minutes 22 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 209.28 feet; thence run North 78 degrees 10 minutes 25 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 100 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence from the Point of Beginning run South 11 degrees 45 minutes 00 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect that point where the existing corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches turn to the East; thence run in an easterly direction, along the existing corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to reach a point on the westerly right of way of Lime Kiln road; thence North 14 degrees 41 minutes 32 seconds West, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect the Southwest corner of the intersection of Louisiana Highway 3278 and Lime Kiln Road; thence in a westerly direction, along the southerly right of way of Louisiana Highway 3278 a distance sufficient to intersect the Point of Beginning.

Tract 5, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

That certain tract of land, situated and located in Section 25, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, being a 6.7 acre tract of land, more or less, and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit:

Commencing at a 1" iron pipe found for the Northeast Corner of Lot 3 of Spanish Trail Subdivision, in Section 25, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana; thence run North 80 degrees 31 minutes 38 seconds East a distance of 373.37 feet to a point on the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches and the Point of Beginning; thence from the Point of Beginning in a westerly direction along the southerly right of way of Louisiana Highway 3278 a distance sufficient to intersect the property line of George Breedlove; thence South 0 degrees 18 minutes 5 seconds East a distance sufficient to intersect the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches; thence North 76 degrees 19 minutes 00 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 186.18 feet; thence North 76 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect that point where the corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches turns to the North, also being the property line of property of New Life Evangelism Center; thence North 11 degrees 49 minutes 28 seconds West, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect the Point of Beginning.

Tract 6, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

That certain tract of land, situated and located in Section 40, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, being a 8.4 acre tract of land, more or less, and being more particularly described as follows, to-wit:

Beginning at a point on the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches said point located at the Southeast corner of the intersection of Louisiana Highway 504 and Louisiana Highway 3278; thence South 47 degrees 22 minutes 21 seconds, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 178.24 feet; thence North 73 degrees 25 minutes 24 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 200 feet; thence North 45 degrees 19 minutes 39 seconds West, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 172.58 feet to a point on a curve to the right having a radius of 11,809.16 feet and an arc of length of 670.53; thence North 76 degrees 19 minutes 00 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 768.67 feet; thence North 00 degrees 27 minutes 5 seconds West a distance sufficient to intersect the property line of Richard E. Foshee, Jr., said point being 200 feet South of Louisiana Highway 3278; thence South 75 degrees 10 minutes West a distance of 125 feet; thence North 0 degrees 15 minutes West a distance of 200 feet to the South right of way of Louisiana Highway 3278; thence in a westerly direction to the Point of Beginning.

WHEREAS, the petitioner, Evans Family, L.L.C., is the sole owner of the property described above as is reflected in the attached certificate from the Assessor's Office of the Parish of Natchitoches, Louisiana which was filed with the petition for annexation;

WHEREAS FURTHER, attached to the petition is a certificate from the Tax Assessors's

Office of the Parish of Natchitoches, Louisiana, certifying that the requirements of Louisiana

R.S. 33:172 have been complied with, said certificate being dated May 23, 2019.

WHEREAS FURTHER, the matter was considered by the City Council for the City of

Natchitoches, Louisiana, and a public hearing was called for on the 26th day of August, 2019 at which time the public was allowed to express opinions concerning this annexation; WHEREAS FURTHER, the notice of filing of the petition has been published in The

Natchitoches Times, legal journal of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, on the 25th day of

July, 2019;

WHEREAS FURTHER, the property to be annexed is currently open raw land with no residents living thereon and no structural improvements;

WHEREAS FURTHER, an opportunity has been given to all interested person in accordance with Louisiana R. S. 33:172, et. seq., on the 26th day of August, 2019;

WHEREAS FURTHER, the property is contiguous to the City of Natchitoches,

Louisiana;

NOW THEREFORE, be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Natchitoches, in legal session assembled as follows:

Section 1. The boundaries of the City of Natchitoches are hereby enlarged so as to include the following described property, to-wit:

Tract 1, South of Rue de Gabriel, as extended: That certain tract of land, together with all buildings and improvements located thereon, situated in Section 83, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, and being more particularly described as follows:

Tract 2, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

That certain tract of land, together with all buildings and improvements located thereon, situated in Section 83, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, and being more particularly described as follows:

Tract 3, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

Tract 4, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

Tract 5, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

Commencing at a 1" iron pipe found for the Northeast Corner of Lot 3 of Spanish Trail Subdivision, in Section 25, Township 9 North, Range 8 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana; thence run North 80 degrees 31 minutes 38 seconds East a distance of 373.37 feet to a point on the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches and the Point of Beginning; thence from the Point of Beginning in a westerly direction along the southerly right of way of Louisiana Highway 3278 a distance sufficient to intersect the property line of George Breedlove; thence South 0 degrees 18 minutes 5 seconds East a distance sufficient to intersect the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches; thence North 76 degrees 19 minutes 00 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance of 186.18 feet; thence North 76 degrees 14 minutes 50 seconds East, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect that point where the corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches turns to the North, also being the property line of property of New Life Evangelism Center; thence North 11 degrees 49 minutes 28 seconds West, along the current corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, a distance sufficient to intersect the Point of Beginning.

Tract 6, between Louisiana Highways 6 and 3278:

Section 2. Be it further ordained that the City of Natchitoches takes cognizance of the

fact that this ordinance was introduced at a regular session of the City Council on the 22nd

day of July, 2019, after receiving the petition signed by the sole property owner, and that a public

hearing was held on the 26th day of August, 2019;

Section 3. Be it further ordained that the above and foregoing property be and is hereby

annexed to the City of Natchitoches, declared to be included in Council District No. 3, all in

accordance with Section 2.03B of the Homerule Charter of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Section 4. Be it further ordained by the City Council that the above described property

be, and it is hereby annexed into the corporate limits of the City of Natchitoches, with zoning

classifications of R-1 Residential for Tract 1 and B-3 Commercial for Tracts 2, 3,4, 5 and 6.

Section 5. Be it further ordained by the City Council that this ordinance shall go into effect thirty (30) days after the publication of this ordinance in accordance with Louisiana

Revised Statute 33:173. THIS ORDINANCE was introduced on July 22, 2019 and published in the Natchitoches Times on July 25, 2019.

The above Ordinance having been duly advertised in accordance with law and public hearing had on same, was put to a vote by the Mayor and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington NAYS: Morrow ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Ordinance passed by a vote of 4 Ayes to

1 Nays this 26th day of August, 2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR DON MIMS, MAYOR PRO TEMPORE

Delivered to the Mayor on the 27th day of August, 2019 at 10:00 A.M.

The following Ordinance was introduced by Ms. Morrow at the Natchitoches City Council meeting held on August 26, 2019 as follows:

ORDINANCE NO. 033 OF 2019

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO CONVEY LOT 4 OF BLOCK AE OF ROY ADDITION TO THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES TO JOE RAGGIO AND JANIE RAGGIO, SETTING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SAME, AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE DEED OR DEEDS BY THE MAYOR AFTER DUE COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAW.

WHEREAS, the City of Natchitoches (City) owns Lot 4 of Block AE of Roy Addition to the City of Natchitoches; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, Joe Raggio and Janie Raggio own the adjoining property and wish to purchase Lot 4 for the sum and price of $6,000.00; and

WHEREAS URTHER, the City of Natchitoches desires to sell Lot 4 of Block AE of Roy Addition to Joe Raggio and Janie Raggio, inasmuch as the City is not currently using the property for any purpose and desires to avoid future costs associated with the maintenance of the property; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the City of Natchitoches has received an appraisal from Dranguet’s Appraisal Service dated March 26, 2019, reflecting a value of the property to be conveyed in the amount of $6,000.00; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, under the provisions of Louisiana R. S. 33:4712, any property owned by the City can be sold to any person after due advertisement and compliance with the law; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the City Council of the City of Natchitoches finds that the property is not currently being used for any public purpose;

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council in legal session convened as follows:

(1) That after due proceedings and advertisement, the said City does sell Lot 4 of Block AE of Roy Addition to Joseph Raggio and Janie Raggio for the total sum of $6,000.00, said consideration to be paid in cash, but only after final adoption of this ordinance, and after final compliance with due legal proceedings and advertisements required by law.

(2) That notice of this proposed ordinance be published three (3) times in fifteen (15) days, one (1) week apart, in the Natchitoches Times, the legal journal for the City, and that ordinance be posted in the City Hall.

(3) That any opposition to this ordinance shall be made in writing, filed with the Clerk for the City of Natchitoches within fifteen (15) days after the first publication of this ordinance, and that a public hearing be held after the advertisements have been completed.

(4) That the Mayor, Lee Posey, be and he is hereby authorized, after due proceedings had, and after the legal delays have run, to execute a deed or deeds in favor of Joseph Raggio and Janie Raggio, conveying Lot 4 of Block AE of Roy Addition for the total consideration of $6,000.00 cash.

(5) That the City Clerk be authorized to advertise this proposed sale in accordance with law, i.e., three times in fifteen days, one week apart and to report to the City Council if any opposition is made in writing prior to the time of final adoption.

(6) That the City takes cognizance of the fact that the property described above is not needed for public purposes by the City.

Mayor Posey called for a motion to add Ordinance No. 34 of 2019 to the meeting agenda. Mr. Nielsen made a motion, seconded by Mr. Mims.

The roll call vote was recorded as follows: AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

The following Ordinance was introduced by Mr. Mims at the Natchitoches City Council meeting held on August 26, 2019 as follows:

ORDINANCE NO. 034 OF 2019

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES TO LEASE ALL OR A PORTION OF THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 607/TRUDEAU STREET/DEPOT STREET AND 720 SIXTH STREET, NATCHITOCHES, LA TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN THROUGH THE DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION (GSA) PUBLIC BUILDINGS SERVICE, SETTING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SAME, AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF THE LEASE BY THE MAYOR, LEE POSEY, AFTER DUE COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAW, AND FURTHER PROVIDING FOR ADVERTISING OF THE LEASE AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Mayor Posey stated this ordinance is in reference to the Depot. He stated we are excited the direction of which it is moving and what this will mean for our community. The National Park Service has expressed an interest to put in a proposal to place their offices inside the depot. The building would consist of the NPS offices, interpretive center of the African American history of our community, and a meeting area with multimedia capabilities. The NPS needs approximately 10,000 square feet to store their collection which has been proposed to be house at the Eagle Distributing building down the street. Due to the time frame of which this must be approved by the federal government to receive funding, a special call meeting will be held on Friday, September 13th at 9:00 a.m. in the Natchitoches Municipal Building.

Mr. Creighton stated this is good for our community. Using the depot, it fits and I think it will be a hit. He is concerned about whether an opportunity will be given to African American students and curators to be a part of this.

Mayor Posey stated the building structure is great. Mr. LaCaze did state it will be a complete renovation on the interior. The intent is to save the depot and how to use it, but also preserve it. It is ironic this use has come forward and fits so perfectly.

The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Batiste and Seconded by Mr. Nielsen as follows, to –wit:

RESOLUTION NO. 062 OF 2019

RESOLUTION APPROVING A LEASE AND AGREEMENT BETWEEN NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY AND THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES FOR TEST WATER WELL TO BE LOCATED IN SECTION 137, TOWNSHIP 9 NORTH, RANGE 7 WEST, AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE LEASE AND AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA

WHEREAS, the City of Natchitoches desire to increase the water available to the City of Natchitoches Water System and has negotiated with Northwestern State University to drill a test water well on property owned by Northwestern State University in Section 137, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the parties have identified the location of the test water well and the area to be leased by Northwestern State University to the City of Natchitoches is shown and depicted on the attached sketch within “Yellow” boundary lines; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, a Lease and Agreement Between Northwestern State University and The City of Natchitoches, Louisiana has been negotiated and drafted and a copy is attached hereto; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the City Council of the City of Natchitoches is of the opinion that it is in the best interest of the City of Natchitoches to enter into the Lease and Agreement Between Northwestern State University and The City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, and the Council desires to have the Lease and Agreement Between Northwestern State University and The City of Natchitoches, Louisiana executed on behalf of the City; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Natchitoches City Council, in legal session convened, does hereby approve of the attached Lease and Agreement Between Northwestern State University and The City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, and does further hereby authorize the Mayor to execute the Lease and Agreement Between Northwestern State University and The City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, on behalf of the City of Natchitoches.

This Resolution was then presented for a vote, and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Resolution passed by a vote of 5 Ayes to

0 Nays on this 26th day of August, 2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR

The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Mims and Seconded by Mr. Nielsen as follows, to –wit:

RESOLUTION NO. 063 OF 2019

A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE GRANTING OF A RIGHT OF WAY AND EASEMENT IN FAVOR OF ATMOS ENERGY CORPORATION OVER AND ACROSS PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES, AND LOCATED ON THE EASTERLY RIGHT OF WAY OF BOYD STREET AT ITS INTERSECTION WITH BOSSIER STREET, CITY AND PARISH OF NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA, APPROVING THE FORM OF THE RIGHT OF WAY AND EASEMENT AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE RIGHT OF WAY AND EASEMENT AND ANY OTHER RELATED DOCUMENTS

WHEREAS, the City of Natchitoches (sometimes hereinafter “City”) is the fee title owner of certain property located at the southeast corner of the intersection of Bossier Street and Boyd Street in the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, which property is depicted on a survey by Carl A. Jeansonne, Jr., attached to the proposed Right of Way and Easement (sometimes hereinafter “Property of the City”); and

WHEREAS FURTHER, Atmos Energy Corporation (sometimes hereinafter “Atmos”) has requested a that the City grant a right of way and easement across the property of the City for the placement of a gas line in order to provide service to customers; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, a copy of the proposed Right of Way and Easement is attached hereto and the proposed right of is shown and depicted on the attached survey by Jeansonne; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the Director of Utilities has reviewed the Right of Way and Easement and has approved the form of same; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the City Council of the City of Natchitoches desires to authorize the Mayor of the City of Natchitoches, Lee Posey, to execute the proposed Right of Way and Easement attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, and to further take any steps necessary and proper; and

WHEREAS FURTHER, the City Council of the City of Natchitoches finds that the placement of gas lines on the property will be of benefit to the City of Natchitoches and its citizens; and

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, in legal session convened as follows:

SECTION I: That the City Council of the City of Natchitoches, Louisiana, does hereby authorize and direct the Mayor, Lee Posey, to execute the Right of Way and Easement, attached hereto and to further execute any other documents necessary to create and establish a right of way and easement across the Property of the City, and said easement more fully shown and depicted on the survey attached to Exhibit “A”.

SECTION II: That the Mayor, or his assignee, be and he is hereby authorized to do all things necessary and proper to establish the Right of Way and Easement.

SECTION III: THIS RESOLUTION shall take effect after publication in accordance with law.

This Resolution was then presented for a vote, and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Resolution passed by a vote of 5 Ayes to

0 Nays on this 26th day of August, 2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR

The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Harrington and Seconded by Ms. Morrow as follows, to –wit:

RESOLUTION NO. 064 OF 2019

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS FOR LIQUID CHLORINE FOR THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT

BID NO. 0621

WHEREAS, the City wishes to advertise for bids for Liquid Chlorine for the Water Treatment Plant, Bid No. 0621; and

WHEREAS, sealed proposals shall be addressed to the City of Natchitoches, Office of the Director of Purchasing, City of Natchitoches Purchasing Department, 1400 Sabine Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana, 71457; and

WHEREAS, the City of Natchitoches will accept sealed and electronic bids for the project until 2:00 pm on Wednesday, September 26, 2019 at the Office of the Director of Purchasing, 1400 Sabine Street; and

WHEREAS, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 2:00 pm, on Wednesday, September 26, 2019 held at the above mentioned Office of the Director of Purchasing; and

WHEREAS, upon receipt of proposals the committee of Debbie Miley, Director of Finance; Edd Lee, Director of Purchasing; Don Mims, Councilman at Large; and Charles Brossette, Utility Director, are to review and make a recommendation of the bids received.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Council of the City of Natchitoches, in legal session convened, that the Honorable Lee Posey, Mayor, be and is hereby authorized, empowered and directed to order the publication of the above bid.

This Resolution was then presented for a vote, and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Resolution passed by a vote of 5 Ayes to

0 Nays on this 26th day of August, 2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR

The following Resolution was introduced by Mr. Nielsen and Seconded by Mr. Mims as follows, to –wit:

RESOLUTION NO. 065 OF 2019

A RESOLUTION APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE MAYOR’S HEALTH AND FITNESS COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES

WHEREAS, the Mayor of the City of Natchitoches has submitted the following names for appointment to the Mayor’s Health and Fitness Council as follows, to-wit:

1. Michael Moulton 2. Don Mims 3. Jennifer Sheffield 4. Tom Matuschka 5. Holly Cane 6. Lisa L. Wiggins 7. Brian Hicks 8. Johnny Barnes 9. Feamula Bradley 10. Carl I. Walters III 11. Linda Queen

WHEREAS FURTHER, the City of Natchitoches is authorized by Section 7.08 of the City Charter to appoint boards and commissions, subject to council confirmation, and to serve at the pleasure of the Mayor; and

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Natchitoches that they hereby acknowledge the appointment of the above individuals to the Mayor’s Health and Fitness Council and hereby approve and consent to same.

This Resolution was then presented for a vote, and the vote was recorded as follows:

AYES: Batiste, Nielsen, Mims, Harrington, Morrow NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None

THEREUPON, Mayor Lee Posey declared the Resolution passed by a vote of 5 Ayes to

0 Nays on this 26th day of August, 2019.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR

Debbie Miley, Finance Director, presented the Council with the Finance Report. The General Fund summary as of June 2019 stated the revenues were at 4.67% and expenditures at 3.84%, with 8% of the budget year elapsed. The Utility Fund revenues were at 7.39% and expenditures at 9.17%. Sales Tax Collections were 9.39% for June and 9.39% for the year to date. The TIF for June was 29.59%. The Motor Vehicles sales were down 1.15% in May versus this time last year.

The next scheduled City Council meeting will be September 9, 2019

The City of Natchitoches offices will be closed on Friday, August 30, 2019 for Employee Appreciation Day and Monday, September 2, 2019 in honor of Labor Day.

With no further discussion, Mayor Posey made a motion for adjournment and all were in favor.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

______LEE POSEY, MAYOR DON MIMS, MAYOR PRO-TEMPORE