Town Of Abita Springs

Recycle will be picked up every Tuesday. If you have not signed up for recycle and have not received a recycle bin, please call Town Hall at (985)892-0711.

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

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

Mayor Fitzmorris introduced Allison Hopkins Penzato who is running for District Court Judge.

Mayor Fitzmorris introduced Major Tim Lintz with St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Office. Major Lintz introduced Lt. Chuck Smith and advised he will now be over the Abita Springs district.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:
CAHILL STREET ORDINANCE: Alderman Dugas made a motion to table, seconded by Alderman Patterson.
RULES, REGULATIONS AND RENTAL FEES ORDINANCE: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing. Alderman Campbell explained the Ordinance would allow rental fees and rules to be set by Resolution and voted on by the Council. Alderman Dugas mentioned setting fees and rules by Resolution was suggested from the Town Attorney. Alderman Lemons described the process of setting fees and regulations by Resolution. Alderman Lemons made a motion to close, seconded by Alderman Edmiston.
MINIMUM LOT SIZE AMENDMENT ORDINANCE: Mayor Fitzmorris opened the Public Hearing and explained the intent of the Minimum Lot Size Ordinance. Alderman Dugas noted it is consistent with the layout for future demographics. He also noted it is a way to deal with economy and growth. Alderman Lemons expressed support of the Ordinance and noted density of homes allowed would not change. Discussion followed on new developments are required to have sidewalks. Alderman Dugas made a motion to close, seconded by Alderman Campbell.

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 June 17, 2008 regular monthly meeting, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT:0

Alderman Dugas motioned to accept the March 2008 Financial Reports, seconded by Alderman Lemons, Vote YEAS: 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 and a resident complemented the STPSO on a job well done.

FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT:
A Representative from Fire District #8 gave a brief summary of all calls. He also suggested that before burning all residents should pick up a copy of the Burn Ordinance that is available at the Fire Department. He mentioned the Fire Department is looking for volunteers 18 years of age and older.

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 & FRIENDS OF THE PARK:
Alderman Campbell thanked everyone that helped with the playground and expressed how proud she was of the community and playground. Alderman Lemons commented on the work accomplished and thanked the 90 to 100 people per day working on the playground. Donata Henry also thanked everyone and encouraged all to volunteer and join Friends of the Park. Alderman Patterson reported the Water Feature should be completed soon. Alderman Edmiston and other citizens commented on all the help received from Friends of the Park, Board members and people that volunteered from out of town. Mayor Fitzmorris noted he was proud of the community and to be a part of it.

ENGENEERING PROJECT REPORT:
Mr. Franklin Kyle/Kyle Associates reported the sidewalks were going to be delayed a few months but this would be an opportunity to get more sidewalks. Mayor Fitzmorris expressed disappointment of delay but was glad to hear additional sidewalks may be available. Discussion followed on which side of the street the sidewalks would go and if sidewalks would interfere with trees and roots. Mr. Brad Nobles/Kyle Associates mentioned that the Landscaping and Lighting for the roundabout is still being worked on and the information has been submitted to Enhancement Development.

Alderman Dugas motioned to alter the order of business moving Coastal Waste Resolution to the top of old Business, seconded by Alderman Patterson. Vote YEAS: 5, Alderman Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0.

OLD BUSINESS:
Mayor Fitzmorris introduced Mark Fridge and Cindi Fisher from Coastal Waste. Mayor Fitzmorris explained the purpose of a rate increase and noted that residents have contacted the Utility Department regarding recycling. Representatives from Coastal Waste answered questions from residents regarding the recycling procedure acceptable items, bins, etc. Aldermen and residents expressed their support and objections to recycle and increasing rates at length. Alderman Lemons made a motion to increase rates and allow for recycle, seconded by Alderman Edmiston vote was YEAS: 4, Campbell, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 1, Dugas. Mayor Fitzmorris noted that recycling will start September 1, 2008 and advised all residents who were interested in participating to contact the Utilities Office.

Alderman Campbell made a motion to table the Cahill Street Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Dugas. Vote YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0
Alderman Campbell made a motion to adopt the Rules, Regulations and Rental Fees Ordinance, seconded by Alderman Lemons, Vote YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0
Alderman Dugas made a motion to amend the Minimum Lot Size Ordinance as read and noted, seconded by Alderman Patterson. Vote YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0
Alderman Dugas made a motion to adopt the Minimum Lot Size Ordinance as amended, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote: YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT:

NEW BUSINESS:
Alderman Campbell read and commented on Rules and Regulations on Public Properties. Alderman Lemons expressed his disagreement on closing the road going into the park. Discussion followed on safety, filling water jugs accessibility, parking, green space and the master plan for the trailhead/park.
Alderman Campbell made a motion to accept the Public Property – Rules & Regulations Resolution, seconded by Alderman Patterson. Vote YEAS: 4, Campbell, Dugas, and Patterson, NAYS: 1, Alderman Lemons, ABSENT: 0
Alderman Campbell made a motion to accept the Public Property – Rental Fees Resolution, seconded by Alderman Edmiston, Vote YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0
Alderman Edmiston made a motion to accept the Verizon Wireless Resolution, seconded by Alderman Campbell, Vote YEAS: 5, Campbell, Dugas, Edmiston, Lemons and Patterson, NAYS: 0, ABSENT: 0

Alderman Patterson motioned to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Campbell.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED THIS 15th DAY OF July 2008.

________________________ _______________________
Jennifer Oalmann, Town Clerk Louis Fitzmorris, Mayor
TC MINUTES 7-08

I would like to take this opportunity to give you an update on the park and address some concerns that have recently developed.

First, I would like to thank the “Friends of the Park” organization and the scores of volunteers that helped create our wonderful playground. When given the opportunity I tell people how blessed I am to be Mayor of a town where it’s residents care and are so passionate about their community. I also want to recognize and thank the many people outside our community that have volunteered their time not only to the playground but the museum as well. I want to thank the Ladies Progressive Club’s donation of the archway to the Trailhead/Park and McMath Construction for the brick columns.

I am happy to announce that the water feature in the park is near completion. This will be an exciting, and I believe popular, addition to the Trailhead/Park. However, once the water feature comes on line an unfortunate consequence will be that vehicular traffic will be restricted inside the park. There will be access for emergency vehicles or events but otherwise vehicles will not be allowed in the park. I understand that parking and access is a concern, but I believe these issues are being addressed. In the past year approximately fifty (50) new parking spaces have been added with more being planned in the near future. There will be approximately twenty (20) parking spaces dedicated to the Trailhead/Park on Main & Holly Street.

When the master plan for the Trailhead and Park was developed by the Park Committee there was an understanding by all those involved that the park was going to undergo a substantial change. A change for the better. A pedestrian and family friendly environment was envisioned and is now coming to fruition. The current parking lot inside the park will become green space. This addition along with the playground and water feature and the future amphitheater where the pavilion was once located will make our park and trailhead the envy of the parish. There will also be walking trails in the future.

It is also important that we provide a safe environment for our children. That is why it is necessary to eliminate vehicular access inside the park. Safety for our children outweighs convenience for parking.

I would also like to address a concern in regards to access to the water. It has been a tradition in Abita Springs to provide free water to those outside Abita. Most people get their water from the Lion Head Fountain in the park. The water will still be available in the park but the town plans to put another water source at the “little gazebo” by the traffic circle for easier access.

Once again I want to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to all the people involved in making our trailhead and park such a success.

Respectfully,

Louis Fitzmorris
Mayor

Parking is available at the entrance of the Park along Main Street, Holly Street, and Railroad Avenue. Due to the construction of the Water Feature and the safety of the Park visitors, traffic and parking is no longer allowed in the gravel area at the north end of the Park near the Playground.

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