title
Minutes for the Infrastructure Committee meeting on February 6, 2003.
body
Infrastructure Committee Minutes
Thursday, February 6, 2003
5:15 PM
Members Present: Copeland, Dover, Farmer, Moore, Street
DRAINAGE SUBCOMMITTEE
Alderman Farmer stated the purpose of the meeting was to review recommendations of engineering firms for the Comprehensive Drainage Plan. He provided documentation from Chairman Aubrey Scott, giving a brief history and the recommended Scope of Work as determined by the Master Drainage Plan Committee. According to the documentation the 2002 Professional Services Committee met December 19, 2002, but did not have a quorum and were unable to accept the ranking of engineering firms as determined by the Master Drainage Plan Committee.
Chairman Farmer explained due to the critical nature of the drainage issue, it would be best to accept the ranking done by Aubrey Scott and the Master Drainage Plan Committee. Mr. Scott stated the top three firms, based on qualifications were Carter-Burgess, NRS, and U.S. Infrastructure. Councilman Moore moved, seconded by Councilman Dover to accept the ranking recommendation of the Master Drainage Plan Committee and Chairman, Aubrey Scott. A voice vote was taken resulting in all members voting aye.
Secondly, the Committee reviewed on going projects as provided by City Engineer Claude Martin. Chairman Farmer explained considerations for drainage improvements were based on what would most benefit citizens and most feasible for the City of Jonesboro. In other words, what would have the most affect on the largest number of homes, structures, yards, and other property in comparison to the cost to the City of Jonesboro relating to the number of citizens affected. The projects submitted were: 412 W. Highland (Culvert too small need 8 X5 Box); Donald Brancer, 2309 Culberhouse (Valley Drive, Owen and Sims) Owens Street; Sims Street; Georgia Medlock, 707 Owens; Edward W. Holder, 408 Parkview (Water in Carport); 611 East Nettleton Avenue (Water in House); 3203 and 3205 Quail Ridge (Pipe too small, House flooded); 3411 Quail Ridge (Pipe too small, House flooded); Shadow Ridge (Needs bigger culverts, 12 X 8 Box or equal); Mardis Drive (Needs bigger culverts, 12 X 8 Box or equal); 317 E. Cherry (Drainage Pipes); Pine Run Apartments, N. Caraway; 302 Melton Circle (Need Easements); First Baptist Church.
Councilman Moore questioned where the funds would come from, drainage improvements or a special appropriation. Chairman Farmer stated Mayor Brodell had indicated the $1,000,000,000 unspecified amount in the drainage line item was for repairs.
Councilman Dover questioned the procedure for following up on complaints, and the communication process. Mr. Martin stated Information Systems was going to implement new software that would correct the problem. Mr. Gene Barnett, Street Superintendent stated it would help if they were all located in the same area.
Councilman Moore moved, seconded by Councilman Dover to recommend that the plans and specifications be prepared for advertisement for the projects. A voice vote was taken resulting in all members voting aye.
STREET SUBCOMMITTEE
The Street Subcommittee reviewed Bid No. 2003:02 - A Street Sweeper for the Street Department which had a budgeted amount of $108,000. Street Superintendent, Gene Barnett stated the low bid of Arkansas Power Steering did not meet bid specifications because the Street Department had requested a hydraulic gutter broom instead an electric one was provided. For this reason, Mr. Barnett recommended River City Hydraulics # 2, who had a total bid of $100,425.00 minus $800.00 for a final amount of $99,625.00. River City Hydraulics # 2 deducted the $800.00 for the City of Jonesboro sending two employees to a training session on how to use the equipment. Councilman Copeland moved, seconded by Councilman Dover to recommend to the full Council the River City Hydraulics # 2 bid. A voice vote was taken resulting in all members voting aye.
Chairman Moore requested City Engineer, Claude Martin to look at a spillway that runs across a walking trail located in Craighead Forrest Park. He explained someone had been injured and the Parks Department wanted to construct a bridge to correct the problem. Chairman Moore stated, he would feel more comfortable having the city engineer make a recommendation. Mr. Martin recommended rerouting the walking trail rather than reconstructing the dam and possibly weakening its structure, but stated he would provide a written recommendation.
PLANNING
Chairman Street reported on several public hearings conducted by the Planning Department regarding traffic near and around south Jonesboro. It was explained that the Metropolitan Area Traffic Authority had stipulated a traffic and drainage study be done when the Southern Hill Mall property was approved for rezoning. Chairman Street explained a traffic engineer needed to be in place prior to conducting any more public hearings, so prioritized recommendations could be made. Councilman Farmer recommended a phased traffic study beginning southwest Jonesboro since so much of the area consists of state highways, with more concentration given to the east-west corridors. Mr. Glenn Batten, City Planner was instructed to coordinate efforts with the proper departments for a Scope of Work, and Statement of Qualifications and provide a report at the next Infrastructure meeting.
With no further business, Councilman Farmer moved, seconded by Councilman Moore for adjournment. A voice vote was taken resulting in all members voting aye.