Town Of Abita Springs

The following minutes were taken from the regular monthly meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen on June 17, 2008 at the Town Hall in Abita Springs.

Alderman Campbell gave the Invocation and Alderman Lemons led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Fitzmorris introduced Will Crain who is running for Judge, Division G. and Warren Montgomery who is running for District Judge, Division C.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:
OPEN CONTAINER ORDINANCE AMENDMENT: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing Alderman Patterson read an amendment to the ordinance. Mayor Fitzmorris explained the intent was to allow people to leave businesses with a drink in the designated area. Discussion followed on buying drinks from businesses and walking outside. Alderman Dugas made a motion to close, seconded by Alderman Campbell.
TREE ORDINANCE AMENDMENT: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing and noted the Ordinance was to strengthen the protection of protected trees. Alderman Lemons commented on pruning and cutting trees so severely as to damage. Discussion followed on protection of trees. Alderman Campbell made a motion to close, seconded by Alderman Dugas.
CAHILL STREET ORDINANCE: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public hearing advising that the Public Hearing would be tabled. Alderman Dugas made a motion to table, seconded by Alderman Lemons.
BED & BREAKFAST ORDINANCE: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing and explained the allowance and requirements for a Bed n Breakfast in a residential zone. Alderman Dugas commented on this being along the lines for not having hotels. He also noted concern for parking and suggested Planning and Zoning granting reasonable variances. Discussion followed on variances, businesses with residential on top parking and fire marshal approval. Alderman Patterson made a motion to close, seconded by Alderman Campbell.

Mayor Fitzmorris called roll and present were Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson. Absent was Alderman Edmiston.

Alderman Lemons made a motion to accept and waive the reading of the minutes of the May 20, 2008 regular monthly meeting, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Alderman Edmiston

Alderman Dugas motioned to accept the February 2008 Financial Reports, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Alderman Edmiston

LT. ESCHER/STPSO:
Lt. Escher gave a brief summary on all traffic citations/arrest to date. Lt. Escher noted that the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is paying close attention to the trace.

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
Alderman Lemons gave a brief report on all calls for Fire District #8. He mentioned that the fire camp was taking place at Abita Springs Middle School.

TOWN MARSHAL REPORT:
Town Marshal Joe Candilora gave a recap for the month. He commented on items that were closed and items still open.

PARK COMMITTEE:
Mayor Fitzmorris reported on the Park Committee. He noted the Ladies Progressive Club was paying for an ice machine and copier for Town Hall and has donated the money for the arch way to the park. McMath Construction has donated the time and materials for the columns to the park and Bindewald Maintenance will be working on the waterpark feature. Mayor Fitzmorris thanked the VFW for the flag pole and the flags they donated.

FRIENDS OF THE PARK: Alderman Campbell spoke about a new exhibit in the Museum being Art Of Children. She advised that volunteers are still needed at the park on June 24, 2008 thru June 29, 2008 for the assembling of the playground equipment.

Eddie/Kyle Associates gave an update on the sidewalks, landscape and lighting for the roundabout.

OLD BUSINESS:
Alderman Patterson made a motion to accept the amendments to the Open Container Ordinance Amendment as read, seconded by Alderman Dugas. Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Patterson made a motion to adopt the Open Container Ordinance Amendment as amended, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Campbell made a motion to adopt the Tree Ordinance Amendment, seconded by Alderman Dugas. Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Dugas made a motion to table the Cahill Street Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Patterson, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS 0,
ABSENT: 1, Edmiston
Alderman Campbell made a motion to adopt the Bed & Breakfast Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Dugas, Vote: YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Dugas made a motion to reconsider the last vote, seconded by Alderman Patterson, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Alderman Edmiston

Alderman Dugas made a motion to amend the Bed n Breakfast Ordinance to exclude Multi Family, Condos and Town Houses in Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Patterson, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Alderman Edmiston.

NEW BUSINESS:

Alderman Dugas made a motion to accept St. Tammany News as the 2008 and 2009 Official Journal, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Dugas made a motion to accept the 2007 Audit, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Lemons made a motion to adopt the Cultural District Resolution, seconded by Alderman Dugas, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Mayor Fitzmorris presented the Ladies Progressive Club with an Appreciation Proclamation for all of their generous donations and hard work.
Alderman Campbell made a motion to introduce the Minimum Lot Size Amendment Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Dugas, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Dugas made a motion to amend the Agenda to add the CDBG Resolution to the agenda, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Dugas made a motion to adopt the CDBG Resolution, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Campbell made a motion to amend the agenda to add the Rules, Regulations and Rental Fees be set by Resolution Ordinance to the agenda, seconded by Alderman Dugas, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS:0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.
Alderman Campbell made a motion to introduce the Rules, Regulations and Rental Fees Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Dugas, Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 1, Edmiston.

Alderman Dugas motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Campbell.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED THIS 17th DAY OF JUNE 2008.

________________________ _______________________
Jennifer Oalmann, Town Clerk Louis Fitzmorris, Mayor

TC MINUTES 6-08

The following minutes were taken from the regular monthly meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen on May 20, 2008 at the Town Hall in Abita Springs.

Alderman Dugas gave the Invocation and Alderman Edmiston led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Fitzmorris introduced Rick Swartz who is running for District Judge, Division C.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:
HWY 59 REZONE RESIDENTIAL TO RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing discussing zoning and the importance of rezoning (Rangeline) Hwy 59. Alderman Campbell showed specific detail on rezoning using a map. Discussion followed on previous rezoning and areas included. Alderman Dugas made a motion to close the Public Hearing, seconded by Alderman Edmiston.

Mayor Fitzmorris called roll and present were Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson.

Alderman Lemons made a motion to accept and waive the reading of the minutes of the April 18, 2008 regular monthly meeting, seconded by Alderman Patterson, Vote: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0

Alderman Dugas motioned to accept the January 2008 Financial Reports, seconded by Alderman Lemons, Vote: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0

LT. ESCHER/STPSO:
Lt. Escher gave a brief summary on all traffic citations/arrest to date. Lt. Escher noted that the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has stepped up patrols in the area as well as on the trace.

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
Alderman Lemons announced that Fire District #8 had their Annual Crawfish Boil May 3, 2008 at the Park. He noted the Fire Department raised around 25,000.00 and the head count was around 4000. Alderman Lemons reported on calls.

TOWN MARSHAL REPORT:
Town Marshal Joe Candilora gave a recap for the month. He commented on items that were closed and items still open.

Mayor Fitzmorris reported on the action taken for removal of FEMA Trailers. He noted letters were delivered to occupants with the number to FEMA for trailer removal or rental assistance.

PARK COMMITTEE:
Mayor Fitzmorris reported this weekend will be the last weekend for the Smithsonian Institute Exhibit. There has been 2000 people visit the exhibit. Alderman Patterson mentioned that Rick Edward will be the contractor on the water feature and they will be on site within the next 10 days.

FRIENDS OF THE PARK: Alderman Campbell advised the building dates for the playground will be June 24, 2008 thru June 29, 2008 and that volunteers are needed. She noted it will take about 260 people per day to have the playground equipment completed by June 29, 2008. Alderman Lemons mentioned the North Shore Foundation gave a grant of $20,000.00 and Cleco made a $1,000.00 donation to Friends of the Park. Alderman Lemons noted that Friends of the Park now has a website www.Abitafriendsofthepark.org, the website also has sign up forms.

Mr. Brad Nobles with Kyle Associates noted they are ahead of schedule with the South Utility Extension and work on the Sidewalks should start within the next week.

OLD BUSINESS:
Alderman Dugas made a motion to adopt the Hwy 59 Rezone Residential To Residential/Commercial Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Campbell. Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0.

NEW BUSINESS:
Alderman Patterson made a motion to introduce the Open Container Ordinance Amendment, seconded by Alderman Lemons.

Alderman Lemons made a motion to introduce the Tree Ordinance Amendment, seconded by Alderman Campbell.

Alderman Dugas motioned to introduce Cahill Street Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Edmiston.

Alderman Campbell made a motion to introduce the Bed & Breakfast Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Dugas.

Mayor Fitzmorris explained the CDBG – Cooperative Endeavor Agreement Resolution. Alderman Dugas made a motion to accept the Resolution, seconded by Alderman Patterson.

Alderman Dugas motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Patterson.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED THIS 15th DAY OF MAY 2008.

________________________ _______________________
Jennifer Oalmann, Town Clerk Louis Fitzmorris, Mayor

TC MINUTES5-08

The following minutes were taken from the regular monthly meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen on April 15, 2008 at the Town Hall in Abita Springs.

Alderman Campbell gave the Invocation and Alderman Dugas led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:
BUFFERS & CONFORMING USES REZONE: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing discussing zoning. Alderman Campbell showed specific detail on rezoning using a map and answered questions. Discussion followed on previous rezoning and areas included. Alderman Patterson made a motion to close the Public Hearing, seconded by Alderman Lemons.

Mayor Fitzmorris called roll and present were Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson.

Alderman Lemons made a motion to accept and waive the reading of the minutes of the March 18, 2008 regular monthly meeting, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0

LT. ESCHER/STPSO:
Lt. Escher gave a brief summary on all traffic citations/arrest for the month of April as well as commenting on response times.

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
Alderman Lemons announced the Fire Department District #8 Annual Crawfish Boil is set for May 3, 2008 at the Park. He noted some of the vendors and entertainment that will be there.

TOWN MARSHAL REPORT:
Town Marshal Joe Candilora gave a recap for the month. He commented on items that were closed and items still open.

Mayor Fitzmorris reported on the action taken for removal of FEMA Trailers. He noted letters were delivered to occupants with the number to FEMA for trailer removal or rental assistance.

PARK COMMITTEE:
Mayor Fitzmorris reported that the Museum opened and the Smithsonian Exhibit “New Harmonies” is on loan to the town for 6 weeks. He mentioned there will be music every Sunday through May 3, 2008. Mayor Fitzmorris summarized the research for a water feature. Alderman Patterson described the water and light feature design and options. A proposed design was shown. Construction on water feature is planned to begin in May.

FRIENDS OF THE PARK: Alderman Campbell announced that building of the playground will begin on June 25, 2008 and end on June 29, 2008. She expressed the need for volunteers and noted that Friends of the Park are still having fund raisers. Alderman Lemons announced Friends of the Park received a grant from Northshore Community Foundation for $20,000.00.

OLD BUSINESS:
Alderman Campbell made a motion to adopt the Buffers & Conforming Uses Rezoning Historic Commercial District to C2 District Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Edmiston. Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0.

NOTE: 5 Minute Break

Alderman Patterson motioned to accept the amendments as read to the Buffers & Conforming Uses Rezoning Historic Commercial District to Residential/Commercial District Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Campbell. Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0.

Alderman Patterson motioned to adopt the Buffers & Conforming Uses Rezoning Historic Commercial District to Residential/Commercial District Ordinance as amended, seconded by Alderman Campbell. Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0.

Mayor Fitzmorris welcomed Mr. Alahmed who was requesting Cahill Street revoked due to a portion of the house being on the street. Discussion followed and it was suggested that Mr. Alahmed to return to Public Committee with his request.

NEW BUSINESS:
Alderman Lemons made a motion to adopt the NIMS Resolution, seconded by Alderman Edmiston. Vote YEAS: 5 Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0.

Alderman Patterson made a motion to adopt the Verizon Resolution, seconded by Alderman Campbell. Vote YEAS: 5 Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0.

Alderman Lemons motioned to introduce Hwy. 59 Rezone Residential to Residential/Commercial Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Dugas.

Brad Nobles with Kyle Associates stated that South Utility Extension is on track. He noted landscape plans are being looked at for the Round a Bout and Sidewalk construction should start around April 28, 2008.

Alderman Dugas motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Patterson.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED THIS 15th DAY OF APRIL 2008.

________________________ _______________________
Jennifer Oalmann, Town Clerk Louis Fitzmorris, Mayor

TC MINUTES 4-08

The following minutes were taken from the regular monthly meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen on March 18, 2008 at the Town Hall in Abita Springs.

Alderman Patterson gave the Invocation and Alderman Campbell led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

Mayor Fitzmorris called roll and present were Alderman Campbell, Alderman Edmiston, Alderman Lemons and Alderman Patterson

LT. ESSURE/STPSO:
Mayor Fitzmorris welcomed Lt. Fred Escher. Lt. Escher is a resident of Abita Springs. He has been with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office for 8 ½ years. Lt. Escher is certified in Crime Prevention. Discussion followed regarding his previous experience.

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
Representative from Fire District #8 reported on the calls for the month. He mentioned the Annual Crawfish Boil is set for May 3, 2008.

TOWN MARSHAL REPORT:
Town Marshal Joe Candilora gave a recap for the month. He commented on items that were closed and items still open.

PARK COMMITTEE:
Mr. Gowland thanked the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for all of the work completed. Mr. Gowland gave an update advising the Trailhead is almost complete. They are working on a few final touch up’s. Ms. Cognivich reported on the success of the Jazz Brunch. She recapped on how wonderful the experience was and thanked everyone for their participation. She commented on how beautiful the Quail Farm was and they wanted to make the Jazz Brunch an annual event. Alderman Lemons reported on Friends of The Park discussing fund raisers and new members. Alderman Patterson discussed some of the proposals that have been received for the water feature.

OLD BUSINESS:
Alderman Campbell made a motioned to introduce the FEMA Trailer Resolution requesting and requiring the removal of all FEMA trailers, seconded by Alderman Edmiston. Vote YEAS: 4 Campbell, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 1 Dugas

Brad Nobles with Kyle & Associates advised that McDonald Construction will start the Sidewalk Project on March 31, 2008 and Kapco Diversified, LLC will start the South Utility Project next week.

NEW BUSINESS:
Alderman Campbell made a motion to introduce an Ordinance Changing a Portion of Historic Commercial Zoning to C2 Zoning, seconded by Alderman Lemons.
Alderman Campbell made a motion to introduce an Ordinance changing a portion of Historic Commercial Zoning to Residential/Commercial Overlay Zoning, seconded by Alderman Lemons.

Mayor Fitzmorris discussed trade marking the Logo for the Town of Abita Springs. He mentioned he has already spoken with an Attorney recommended by Edward Deano, our Town Attorney. There is a $2500.00 retainer fee. Discussion followed on why the Town should proceed with Trade marking the Logo. Alderman Campbell motioned to allow Mayor Fitzmorris to move forward with this, seconded by Alderman Patterson.

Mr. Cognivich and the VFW Post 8720 would like to donate a flag and a flag pole to the Trailhead. Mayor Fitzmorris thanked the VFW for their donation.
Alderman Campbell discussed the Whole Town Garage Sale scheduled for March 29, 2008 and the Abita Opry activities that will be on March 24, 2008. Discussion followed on the Town website.

Mayor Fitzmorris motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Patterson.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED THIS 18th DAY OF MARCH 2008.

________________________ _______________________
Jennifer Oalmann, Town Clerk Louis Fitzmorris, Mayor

TC MINUTES 3-08

The following minutes were taken from the regular monthly meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen on February 19, 2008 at the Town Hall in Abita Springs.

Alderman Lemons gave the Invocation and Alderman Patterson led the Pledge of Allegiance.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

Mayor Fitzmorris called the roll and present were Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson.

Alderman Campbell made a motion to accept and waive the reading of the January 15, 2007 regular monthly meeting, seconded by Alderman Lemons, Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0

Alderman Dugas motioned to accept the October 2007 Financial Reports, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0 and ABSENT: 0

LT. CARDINALE’S/STPSO:
Lt. Cardinalie announced his retirement date is March 10, 2008. Lt. Cardinalie mentioned that Officer Revere will be the new Deputy in town. Major Sharp with the STPSO advised they will replace Lt. Cardinalie with a suitable person and thanked him for his 20 years on the force. Captain Lintz, the District Commander with the STPSO, gave an annual report and commented on our safe community. Mayor Fitzmorris and the Board of Aldermen thanked Lt. Cardinalie for a job well done and stated that the STPSO has exceeded our expectations.

TOWN MARSHAL REPORT:
Town Marshal Joe Candilora gave a recap for the month. He commented on items that were closed and items still open.

PARK COMMITTEE:
Mayor Fitzmorris reported that the Longbranch Building and the Pavilion are almost complete. Alderman Campbell thanked Abita Pharmacy for the donation of $5,500.00 to Friends of the Park. She commented on the design from Learning Structures for the playground equipment and noted that there are a few minor changes. Alderman Lemons commented that Friends of the Park will have a table at the Jazz Brunch with a sign up sheet for volunteers and will also be selling bags, t-shirts, etc.

Mayor Fitzmorris noted the Push Mow Parade was a success and thanked Mary Davis, Michelle Kelsey and all of the volunteers for their hard work.

OLD BUSINESS:
Alderman Patterson motioned to introduce the Resolution authorizing the Mayor to negotiate, authorize and execute a contract for sidewalks in the Town of Abita Springs, seconded by Alderman Dugas Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0

Alderman Dugas motion to add the South Utility Extension Resolution to the agenda, seconded by Alderman Campbell. Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson NAYS:0 ABSENT: 0

Alderman Dugas motioned to adopt the South Utility Extension Resolution, seconded by Alderman Edmiston Vote YEAS: 5 Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0

NEW BUSINESS:
Mayor Fitzmorris commented on the situation regarding gas pressure. He noted that we are servicing the gas lines and apologized for any inconvenience. Discussion followed regarding the service that is being done.

Alderman Dugas motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Patterson.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED THIS 19th DAY OF FEBRUARY 2008.

________________________ _______________________
Jennifer Oalmann, Town Clerk Louis Fitzmorris, Mayor

TC MINUTES 2-08