August 2021 Council Meeting Minutes

FRIENDLY URL: Nixa.com/council-minutes/2021/August

PAGE TITLE: August 2021 Council Meeting Minutes

TAB 1 TITLE: Summary

Nixa City Council held 2 regular meetings and a Nixa Alliance meeting in August 2021.

The first meeting was on August 9th.

The second meeting was on August 23rd.

The Nixa Alliance meeting was on August 25th.

Select the tab to see the minutes for the meeting you wish to review.

Video recordings of council meetings may be found on our youtube channel.

BUTTON: View Recorded Meetings (links to: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofNixa/ )

BUTTON LIST (3):

Mayor & Council (links to Mayor & Council page)
Transparency (links to Transparency page)
Search Council Records (links to Search Council Bills page)

TAB 2 TITLE: August 9, 2021

TAB 3 TITLE: August 23, 2021

TAB 4 TITLE: August 25, 2021

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

Regular Meeting of the Council Members of the City of Nixa, Missouri

Nixa City Hall August 9, 2021 7:00 p.m.

The regular meeting of the Nixa City Council was called to order by Mayor Brian Steele. Attending was Council Members Shawn Lucas, Justin Orf, Aron Peterson, Darlene Graham and Amy Hoogstraet. Jarad Giddens was absent

The pledge of allegiance was given.

Visitors:

Nicole Liljenquist was not in attendance.

Jeff Belcher, 203 S. Ellen, discussed the possibility of another mandate coming into place. Belcher addressed the cancellation of National Night Out due to COVID. Belcher discussed the summation Hoogstraet provides after each Council meeting and feels he directed no hostility towards Hoogstraet as she had stated. Belcher played a segment from the previous meeting.

Mayor Steele replied to Belcher’s comments, and Hoogstraet did as well.

Chamber of Commerce Director, Chris Russell, announced the new Experience Nixa app. This is a communication tool to support Chamber members and Nixa. This is a great way to communicate with the community. The goal was to have it ready before the new teacher’s luncheon and that goal has been met. This will also be beneficial for events held in Nixa to keep the community apprised of what is going and when and where. The community will have the opportunity to submit their events.

Ron Sanders, 976 Glen Oaks Dr., discussed rational thought. Sanders reflected the practice of natural immunity and now is no longer considered part of herd immunity. How can that be rational without understanding why that decision was made. People will regret the irrational thoughts and decisions of the past year, but it may be too late.

Presentations:

Ryan Owens from Enterprise Fleet explained the lease program to Council. Staff has explored the option of a lease program with Enterprise Fleet Management instead of purchasing vehicles. The lease program will provide the opportunity to replace the City’s aging vehicles, lower maintenance and repair costs and add long-term savings for the City. This option was researched for the Police Department and Public Work’s vehicles. Realizing the potential savings Owens was asked to provide this information to Council about expanding the program to include other departments. Liles added staff is looking for direction from Council due to the time of year as budget discussions are being held. Mayor Steele directed staff to proceed with the lease program option for the City.

Ordinances (First Reading and Public Hearing; No Council Vote Anticipated):

Council Bill #2021-081

Establishing and Levying Taxes on Real Property in the City for the 2021 Tax Year was presented. Assistant City Administrator/City Clerk Cindy Robbins reviewed the yearly real estate tax levy. In order to set the tax levy, the City is required to post a legal notice of levy hearing, hold a public hearing and pass an ordinance authorizing the levy. The deadline for final certification by the County Clerk is August 31, 2021. The anticipated rate will be provided by the Missouri State Auditor’s office later this month, last year’s rate was 0.3246. If the proforma from the State Auditor’s Office indicates a different tax levy from last year, an amendment to the ordinance will be presented at the second ordinance reading on August 23, 2021. If approved the ordinance and required documents will be submitted to the Christian County Clerk’s office. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed.

Council Bill #2021-082

Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Appropriate Funding for Enterprise Resource Planning Consultation Services was presented. Finance Director Jennifer Evans explained the budget amendment for funding for a new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) consultation service. The current system has been in place for ten (10) years with ongoing issues. Staff would like to explore options that can be used in other departments. This is a large project to encounter and hiring a consultant to assist with the process is important. Baker Tilley, the City’s current Municipal Advisor offers an ERP consultation service. The cost of an ERP consultation services offered by Baker Tilly is $70,500.00 and represents anywhere from 7-8% of the estimated cost of a new ERP system. The needs analysis, RFP creation and vendor selection process will likely take up to five (5) to six (6) months to complete so the cost of the ERP system itself will be proposed in the 2022 budget. Staff recommends approval of the budget amendment to appropriate funds as an ERP consultant. Orf asked if the current system in place caused the issues at the Utility Department, Evans stated yes. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele added he has spoken to County Commissioner Phillips, and he may be interested in this program as well so there may be an opportunity to share the cost.

Council Bill #2021-083

Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Provide Funding for the Community Center Roof Renovation Project was presented. Parks and Recreation Director Matt Crouse explained the request for a budget amendment and contract award for the community center roof. As part of the CIPs for 2021 a roof renovation and restoration for the flat roofs at the community center was included. Four (4) bids were received for the project. All the bids came in over budget with the low bid at $112,342.00. The budget for the project was allotted for $100,000.00 and will now require a budget amendment for project completion. Crouse is requesting a budget amendment in the amount of $12,342.00. The roof repair will provide ten (10) to fifteen (15) years of coverage. A resolution will be brought back at the August 23rd meeting for approval. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the hearing was closed.

Council Bill #2021-084

Approving the Preliminary Plat of the Walker Estates Subdivision Generally Located at the Southeast Corner of the Intersection of Main Street and Tracker Road and Authorizing Certain City Officials to Take Actions Upon the Filing of a Final Plat was presented. Planning and Development Director Garrett Tyson provided a summary of the developmental process to Council. The preliminary plat for the Walker Estates subdivision located at the Southeast corner of Main Street and Tracker Road with a combination of R-3 multi-family, R-1 Single Family and General Commercial zoning. The total acreage is 28.17 with plans for twenty-five (25) single family lots, two (2) multi-family lots with about ninety (90) dwelling units, one (1) general commercial and two (2) common areas. The common areas will be maintained by the association of the property owners. The lots created will be served by public utilities. The City has plans to improve and widen Main Street so rather than have the developer construct improvements an arrangement has been made with the developer to move the value of improvements to Tracker Road instead. The Tracker Road improvements will include widening to a three (3) lane to the East to the Walker Woods Subdivision. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, David Garrett with Toth and Associates 1550 E. Republic Road is available for questions. Graham voiced her concern of Mandy Lane being close to the Tracker Road stoplight. Garrett added there is a plan to modify Main Street which included dropping the hill about six (6) to ten (10) feet which will help the sight visibility. With no further questions the public hearing was closed.

Council Bill #2021-085

Approving the Preliminary Plat of the Walker Woods Subdivision Generally Located at the Northeast Corner of the Intersection of Main Street and Tracker Road and Authorizing Certain City Officials to Take Actions Upon the Filing of a Final Plat was presented. Tyson stated this is for the Walker Woods Subdivision. This is for a combination zoning of General Commercial (GC) and Single Family (SF) containing fifty-four (54) single family residential lots. Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval of the preliminary plat presented. Mayor Steele asked if this area has plans for multifamily or just single family. Tyson added only residential land use is Single Family (SF). Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, Sanders voiced his concern regarding the high traffic on Main Street and asked if there are plans to create bigger arterials into Springfield. With no further comments the public hearing was closed.

Council Bill #2021-086

Rezoning the Real Property Generally Located at the Southeast Corner of the Intersection of South Nicholas Road and West Tori Drive from Neighborhood Commercial District to R-4 Residential District was presented. Tyson explained this is a request to rezone 1.2 acres located at the intersection of South Nicholas Road and West Tori Drive from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to R-4 Residential. R-4 zoning permits the development of residential housing at almost 5 ½ dwelling units per acre. The site has immediate access to public utilities and infrastructure to support this type of development. This type of development does require Type C broken screen to be present which is a visual obstruction between zoning districts, at this location the plan is to plant trees. Planning and Zoning Commission approved the request for rezoning. Tyson explained the procedure about notifying residents in the area concerning the rezoning. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed.

Ordinances (Second Reading and Public Hearing; Council Vote Anticipated):

Council Bill #2021-071

Accepting the bid of BuildTec Construction, Inc. for the Well House #1 Improvement Project and Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute a Contract for Same was presented. Assistant Public Works Director Travis Cossey explained the bid award and contract authorization with BuildTec Construction, Inc. for the demolition and construction for Well House #1. The well house #1 is located at 209 St. Louis St. and is in extreme disrepair. The well house contains the original 25,000-gallon ground storage tank that served the City until construction of Tower #1 on the property 1961/62. The structure has deteriorated to where the roof of the structure is being supported by the original storage tank. The contractor will be responsible for demo and removal of the existing building and storage tank along with the construction of a new well house. The new well house will be constructed to include a disinfection room to accommodate the City’s chlorine and fluoride injection programs. The construction project is identified in the 2021 CIP for $400,000.00. The City received three (3) bids ranging from $324,000.00 to $397,332.00. The low bidder, BuildTec Construction provided a bid that was under the budgeted amount. Staff recommends awarding the contract to BuildTec Construction to authorize demo and construction of a new well house at Well #1. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve, and all Council members voted aye. Lucas made a motion to approve Council Bill #2021-071 with Hoogstraet seconding and Orf, Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet and Lucas voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-073

Calling for Special Election on November 2, 2021, to Submit to the Qualified Voters of the City the Question of Whether to Recall Mayor Brian Steele, Authorizing the City Clerk to Do All Things Necessary or Convenient to Submit Said Question; and Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Provide Funding for Said Special Election was presented. Robbins explained the final reading of Council Bill #2021-073 for an election to recall Mayor Brian Steele. In addition, the ordinance includes a request for a budget amendment of $15,000.00 for anticipated costs for the election. The amount requested is based on the election from April 2021. If the costs exceed the requested $15,000.00 another budget amendment will be requested to cover the costs. If the ordinance is approved, Robbins will send the ballot information to Christian County because the certification deadline for the November election is August 24, 2021. Mayor Steele asked if there are funds budgeted for the ballot initiative. Liles stated it would be an educational campaign for the public to inform them of the ballot initiative and that can be done via social media. Public Information Officer Drew Douglas explained he has budgeted $1,000.00 that can be used for printing or purchasing Facebook ads to assist in educating the public. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve, and all Council members voted aye. Orf made a motion to approve Council Bill #2021-073 with Peterson seconding and Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet, Lucas and Orf voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-074

Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Appropriate Funding for Fence Portion of the City’s Dog Park Project was presented. Crouse reviewed the request for a budget amendment for funds needed to complete the fencing at the dog park. During the 2021 budget preparations the carry over funds had been allocated for the dog park creations were left off. These are funds needed to complete the fencing at the dog park. Four (4) quotes were received for the project and a requested budget amendment in the amount of $45,925.00 to award Diamond Fence, LLC. with this project. Mayor Steele asked for a proposed date to open, Crouse stated it could be September or October, and weather could play a part in delays. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve, and all Council members voted aye. Lucas made a motion to approve Council Bill #2021-074 with Graham seconding and Hoogstraet, Lucas, Orf, Peterson and Graham voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-075

Accepting the Bid of K&B Equipment, LLC for the Adjustment of Certain Sewer Utility Access Points; Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute a Contract for Same; and Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Provide Funding for Same was presented. Cossey explained this ordinance is for a bid award and contract authorization to provide sewer capacity upgrades. Approval would authorize expenditures of funds needed to adjust sewer manhole heights along the East Highway 14 corridor for MoDOT’s highway improvements. The need to adjust the manholes was not known during the preparation of the 2021 budget and so it was not included as a CIP request. During the final preparation of the Highway 14 expansion MoDOT brought the issue to the City’s attention. The low bidder K&B Equipment is currently working on the waterline relocation project on Highway 14. To proceed with the project staff is requesting a budget amendment for $60,000.00 along with the bid award to move forward with the improvements to K&B Equipment. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve, and all Council members voted aye. Lucas made a motion to approve Council Bill #2021-075 with Graham seconding and Hoogstraet, Lucas, Orf, Peterson and Graham voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-076

Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Appropriate Funding for an Outstanding Invoice for Maintenance Work on Water Tower #5 was presented. Assistant City Administrator/Public Works Director Doug Colvin reviewed the history of the maintenance work on Tower #5. In April of 2014 the City solicited bids to complete maintenance and inspection work for Water Tower #5. Utility Services Co. was awarded the bid to complete interior inspection, painting and touch up on the rest of the tower. The contractor completed the work, left the job site but failed to meet the standards the City expects. City crews had to follow up with cleanup such as removing a sand pile left from sandblasting the interior bowl and other job site cleanups. In addition, the Utility Services Co. did not provide an inspection report as required by the contract specifications or an invoice for the work completed. In October 2015 Milton Dickensheet former Water Quality Superintendent had numerous conversations and emailed with the company asking for the report and final invoice in the amount of $43,340.00. Dickensheet also sent a certified letter requesting the report and final invoice. The City carried the funds in the 2015 budget anticipating closure of the project and receipt of the invoice and report, neither of these happened. May 4, 2021, the City received a request from USC for final payment of the outstanding invoice. USC finally sent an invoice dated October 2015 with an after the fact report. The report does not meet the requirements originally set, but the City has been advised to make the payment. Due to this not being carried over in the budget since 2015, staff is requesting a budget amendment for the invoice to close out the file. Hoogstraet asked if an explanation was provided as to why it has taken seven (7) years to receive a bill. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve, and all Council members voted aye. Peterson made a motion to approve Council Bill #2021-076 with Hoogstraet seconding and Lucas, Orf, Peterson, Graham and Hoogstraet voting aye on roll call vote.

Resolutions (Public Hearing and Council Vote Anticipated):

Resolution #2021-081

Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute a Contract with the Christian County Business Development Corporation of Their Continued Services in Promoting Economic Development within Christian County was presented. Liles provided a brief history of the City’s business relationship with Show Me Christian County. August 2016, the City entered a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the City of Ozark and Christian County in establishing and operation of Christian County Business Development Corporation now known as Show Me Christian County. The original MOU contained a contribution of funding to SMCC for $25,000.00 per year. In 2020 President/CEO Andrea Sitzes requested an additional investment from the City. The City Council allocated a total of $50,000.00 to be invested into SMCC for 2021 budget year and asked staff to prepare a new agreement with SMCC. Staff has created a one (1) year agreement with SMCC that will include a scope of services to be performed by SMCC. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments,

Kent Ward 201 W. State St. asked why the investment for SMCC has doubled. Liles added SMCC is offering more services and with the growth they have had new employees are needed therefore additional funding is required.

Russell added money is being spent out of the City’s budget but if a major manufacturer came to this area, it would be beneficial to Christian County as a whole. With no further comments the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion. Peterson made a motion to approve Resolution #2021-081 with Orf seconding and all Council members voting aye.

Resolution #2021-082

Accepting the Bid of D&E Plumbing and Heating, Inc. for Certain Stormwater and Drainage Improvements Located Along Cherry Street and Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute a Contract for Same was presented. Cossey explained the contract with D&E Plumbing and Heating for stormwater improvements from Rice St. to 309 Market St. This was identified as a 2021 CIP, this improvement is the first (1st) phase of a project that will include improvements from Rice St. north through the JTSD campus, under Market St. and ending at 307 N. Market. Future phases will be completed as funding becomes available. The three (3) bids received were from D&E Plumbing, K&B Equipment and Excel Excavating. D&E submitted a low bid of $257,910.00, and if approved funding is available and within the allocated amounts. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments. With no further comments the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion. Graham made a motion to approve Resolution #2021-082 with Hoogstraet seconding and all Council members voting aye.

Mayor and Council Member Reports:

Liles informed Council staff is working on getting the Home Rule Charter Review Committee back together, an ordinance will be brought back at the next Council meeting.

Lucas had been contacted regarding mosquito fogging and was asked if the material used is safe. Lucas has spoken with members of staff regarding the spraying and has been assured it is safe. Lucas wanted the question noted in the minutes so the citizen who contacted him knows that it was discussed at the Council meeting. Colvin provided a brief explanation of the product used for mosquito spraying.

Hoogstraet added she is in favor of the City’s mosquito spraying.

Mayor Steele added Graham will be presenting her liaison report at the next Council meeting and there is a Nixa vs. Ozark blood drive on August 19th at the Bridge Church.

Liles received an update on vaccinations from Dr. Peak, currently 41.4% of Christian County citizens have initiated vaccinations and 34.9% are fully vaccinated. Over the last seven days 1,819 doses have been administered.

At 8:47 p.m. Peterson made a motion to move into Executive Session. The City Council is anticipated to hold a closed executive session under section 610.021 RSMo. The session is to be closed pursuant to sections 610.021 (2) & (12) as the discussion related to the leasing, purchase, or sale of real estate and documents and discussion related to a negotiated contract. This closed session, records related thereto, and any votes taken by the Council shall be closed pursuant to section 610.021, particularly sections 610.021 (2) & (12). The Council shall stand adjourned at the end of the executive session with Lucas seconding and Orf, Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet and Lucas voting aye on roll call vote.

Adjourn:

The Council adjourned at the end of the executive session at 9:18 p.m.

…………………………………………………………………..

Regular Meeting of the council Members of the City of Nixa, Missouri

Nixa City Hall August 23, 2021 7:00 p.m.

The regular monthly meeting of the Nixa City Council was called to order by Mayor Brian Steele. Attending was Council Members Shawn Lucas, Justin Orf, Jarad Giddens, Aron Peterson, Darlene Graham, and Amy Hoogstraet.

The pledge of allegiance was given.

Consent Agenda:

Mayor Steele called for a motion on the Consent Agenda. Giddens made a motion to accept the Consent Agenda as presented, items a through b, with Peterson seconding and Orf, Giddens, Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet, and Lucas voting aye on roll call vote.

Service Awards:

Mayor Steele recognized officer Ronald Hilburn for his five (5) years of service to the City. Deputy Chief Chad Tennis presented information about Hilburn’s dedication to the Police Department. Hilburn is the current K-9 officer. During his five (5) years with the Police Department, he has received the following awards: Officer of the Year, Life-Saving Award, Award of Merit, Drug Enforcement Officer of the Year, and DWI Officer of the Year. Hilburn consistently represents service, courage, integrity, pride, and professionalism, which are the Department’s core values.

Visitors:

Mark Anderson, 101 S. Main Street, presented information about Creeping at the Crossroads. This will be the fourth (4th) year for the event, which will take place on October 30th, 2021. Anderson is requesting to have parts of Main Street and Elm Street closed as well as the use of the City’s parking lot. The event will start at 4 p.m. on the 30th and last until 11 p.m. There will be a live band and beer garden in the City’s parking lot. The focus this year is on local businesses and vendors. A highlight of this year’s event will be the costume contest for animals, children, and adults.

Philip Dowden, Evangel’s Associate Director of Athletics, introduced himself to Council. He is excited about Evangel’s agreement with Nixa High School to use their field to bring six (6) home football games to Nixa this year.

Jeff Belcher, 203 S. Ellen, discussed the Home Rule Charter Changes. He also spoke about voter turnout and presented information he received from the Christian County Clerk’s office.

Ron Sanders, 976 Glen Oaks Dr., discussed the swiftness in which Council is moving forward with changes to the Charter. He also spoke about voting and getting more people to show up to the polls to vote

Councilwoman Hoogstraet responded to the visitors. She agreed that voter turnout is low. She stated that an election is a moment; however, elected officials serve every constituent regardless of how many votes they received or who voted for them. She discussed that the MML requirement for triggering a recall is 25%. She also noted that any changes made to the Home Rule Charter are done by a vote of the people.

Presentations:

Anna Evans, V.P. of Business Retention and Expansion for Show Me Christian County, presented the Monthly Staff Report. She discussed Project Eli and how SMCC is helping this business apply for an SBA loan. Evans also spoke about workforce challenges and that SMCC now has a V.P. for workforce development, Mark Wallace. She discussed the need for robust and well-maintained infrastructure. She thanked Cindy Robbins for being a part of the recent SMCOG meeting. This group is to help discuss an economic recovery action plan. She welcomed Jenn Torres to SMCC as their new administrative assistant. She also briefly gave an overview of the new Chmura database SMCC recently purchased. This database will allow SMCC to look at things like workforce availability, salary projections, and industry trends.

Brent Hubbard, President of Mercy Hospital, presented a COVID-19 update to Council. With him to answer any questions was Gregory Ledger Mercy’s, Chief Medical Officer. Hubbard started his presentation off by thanking Council for their service to the community. Next, he gave information about the Delta variant. The Springfield area was the first (1st) in the nation to deal with this variant which is 60% more contagious indoors and 40% more contagious outdoors than the Alpha variant. He showed information about hospital projections. He stated the first surge of COVID-19 had an average age of hospitalization of about 80 years old, and with this second surge, an average age of hospitalization of about 63 years old. He gave data on vaccinated vs. unvaccinated rates regarding disease, hospitalization, and death incidences. He presented information on the Springfield area, including data from Lebanon, Cassville, Aurora, and Mt. View. Currently, there are 110 patients with COVID-19; 73 are infectious and 28 noninfectious. There were 173 patients a month ago. There were 59 deaths in August, which averaged about three (3) deaths a day. Since July 1st, if you were a patient in the ICU, you had about a fifty-three percent (53%) chance of dying of COVID-19. There are currently 20 patients in the ICU, with 16 of them on a ventilator. Hubbard gave a Christian County specific update. He said since January 1st, 2021, there have been 12,385 COVID-19 cases in the county, with 365 reported cases August 13th – 20th. There are currently 21 county residents hospitalized in Springfield. There have been 131 county residents that have died from COVID-19. The county has the second (2nd) highest vaccination rate in the area with 33,000 residents or 37% compared to the state with 51.5%. Council asked questions about the projection data as to why the rates went down, considering vaccination rates are still low. Hubbard discussed positivity and hospitalization rates corresponding. Ledger commented that the infectivity rate, or the number of people who test positive, is around 18- 20%, and that number needs to be below five percent (5%) to stop the spread. He stated that their projections only go through September, and they don’t know what the data will look like for this fall yet but are updating projections weekly.

Ordinances (Frist Reading and Public Hearing; No Council Vote Anticipated):

Council Bill #2021-087

Establishing a Charter Review Commission to Review the City’s Charter and Recommend any Proposed Amendments Thereto was presented for first reading. City Administrator Jimmy Liles stated he has reached out to the previous commission to see if they were willing to serve again, and all but three (3) could serve again. He is recommending to Council 3 replacement members for that committee. The citizens serving District 1 would be Andrea Long, Randall Bettis, and Matt Lander. Serving District 2 would be Sarah Bader, David Larsen, and Kent Ward. Serving District 3 would be Athena Fitts, Mark Hartsock, and Tony Manasseri. The committee would have one (1) year to bring Council any recommendations. Council asked questions on how staff would ask the committee to look at sections that could need updating and if there would be public hearings at the committee meetings. Liles responded that when the committee asks questions, staff gives input based on those questions. Liles also stated that the committee could elect to have public hearings. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments.

Ron Sanders, 976 E. Glen Oaks Dr., questioned the committee’s checks and balances. He also asked how the names for this committee were picked. He discussed how good ideas come about. He asked if the public could come and talk at the Home Rule Charter Committee meetings. Council responded that the Council is following the guidelines set out in the Charter itself, that there are multiple steps for checks and balances to review the changes to the Charter. They also stated that the people serving on the committee are people who had served the community before or volunteered in the community before. Nick Woodman, City Attorney, responded that the committee is a public governmental body, and the meetings would be open to the public.

Jeff Belcher, 203 S. Ellen, questioned the committees checks and balances. He asked what the criteria was to be on this committee. Belcher questioned the recall process. He also questioned why the change to the Charter was urgent. Council responded that there were many requests to bring back the charter review committee and that there was no urgency as it was a year-long process to amend the Charter.

Sandy Karnes, 622 N. Maplewood Hills Rd., has concerns about the direction of current events. Karnes stated she would like to be more involved and asked Council to do the right thing.

With no further comments made Mayor Steele closed the public hearing.

Council Bill #2021-088

Transferring the Nixa Municipal Court to the Associate Division of the Christian County Circuit Court was presented for first reading. Liles stated that the Municipal Court had undergone an Office of State Court Administrator (OSCA) review and was in good shape; however, there were a few concerns about OSCA recommendations that staff was not comfortable with. These concerns included financial oversight that does not meet city policies and supervision of court personnel. He stated that last year the court lost $40,000 and was on track for loss this year. He said that if the court were to transfer to county, there would be no more need for prisoner transport liability or a need for a bailiff. Liles also stated that the City would still collect fines and that the court fee would go up from $12 to $15 dollars. He stated that staff had already had meetings with Judge Johnson and Circuit Clerk Barb Stillings regarding the move. Stillings had concerns about her staff being able to handle the caseload and requested that Ozark and Nixa split the cost of a court clerk with an estimated expense of around $20,000 each year. Liles stated that there is current municipal court staff whose positions would terminate at the end of the year, but staff is trying to find them jobs within the City to transfer to. Council asked questions about what would need to change in the Home Rule Charter to make this court transfer. Liles stated that the Charter currently states that we must have a municipal judge, and if the move happens, there would be no need for a municipal judge. He also stated that a change that would allow Council to choose whether they would want to bring back a municipal court in the future, depending on legislation or growth in the City, would be needed. Woodman stated his concerns are that if a Council in the future wanted to bring the courts back, a change to the Charter would have to happen to give that flexibility as long as they complied with OSCA. Council asked questions about Judge Harris. Liles then listed other cities within the county that have already transferred their municipal courts. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments.

Ron Sanders, 976 E. Glen Oaks Dr., discussed issues with moving the municipal court to the county. He questioned how many votes the judge received during the election. Sanders stated that there should be an oversight committee for supervising the judge. He also questioned how many people would travel over to county to view court. Council responded that the City doesn’t supervise the judge.

Jeff Belcher, 203 N. Ellen, discussed issues with moving the municipal court to the county. He also addressed issues with lack of staffing as well as issues with COVID-19 vaccines and staffing. Council responded that it is their responsibility to defend every person, especially those that cannot defend themselves.

With no further comments made Mayor Steele Closed the public hearing. A five (5) minute recess was taken at 8:30 p.m. The meeting was called back to order at 8:39 p.m.

Ordinances (Second Reading and Public Hearing; Council Vote Anticipated):

Council Bill #2021-081

Establishing and Levying Taxes on Real Property in the City for the 2021 Tax Year. Assistant City Administrator and City Clerk Cindy Robbins presented information on the 2021 tax levy. She stated it is required to pass an ordinance, publish a legal notice, and have a public hearing to set the tax levy. Robbins stated that last year the tax levy was .3246, and this year the new tax rate will be .299. She asked Council to amend the ordinance to the new percentage. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments.

Ron Sanders, 976 E. Glen Oaks Dr., commented that lower taxes is a good idea.

With no further comments, the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to accept the ordinance as amended. Graham made a motion to amend the ordinance to include the new tax levy vote of 0.299 with Giddens seconding, with all voting aye. Giddens made a motion to approve ordinance #2021-081 as amended with Peterson seconding and Giddens, Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet, Lucas, and Orf voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-082

Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Appropriate Funding for Enterprise Resource Planning Consultation Services. Liles stated at the last meeting that Jennifer Evans, Finance Director, stated a need for new software to help with budgeting as well as utility billing. The software currently being used is 10 years old and does not interface well. Staff recommends using Baker Tilly, the City’s financial advisor, to make a Request for Proposal (RFP) and help choose a new service. The cost of using Baker Tilly is in line with the service they would be providing. Council asked a question regarding how many departments would be using this software. Liles responded that all departments would be using the software as it is what is used to budget. Staff would also try to integrate the new software with the software the departments are currently using. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve the ordinance. Peterson made a motion to approve ordinance #2021-082 with Orf seconding and Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet, Lucas, Orf, and Giddens voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-083

Amending the 2021 Annual Budget to Provide Funding for the Community Center Roof Renovation Project. Matt Crouse, Parks Director, said the City went out for bids to repair, replace, and restore a portion of the flat roof on the Community Center. All bids received did come in over budget, with the lowest bid being $112,342. Crouse is asking Council for a budget amendment of $12,350. Council asked if money for this project was in the building fund. Staff responded that yes, it could be. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve the ordinance. Lucas made a motion to approve ordinance #2021-083 with Hoogstraet seconding and Graham, Hoogstraet, Lucas, Orf, Giddens, and Peterson voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-084

Council Bill #2021-085

Approving the Preliminary Plat of the Walker Woods Subdivision Generally Located at the Northeast Corner of the Intersection of Main Street and Tracker Road and Authorizing Certain City Officials to Take Certain Actions Upon the Filing of a Final Plat. Tyson stated this was a preliminary plat approval. This subdivision was roughly 28 acres with 54 R-1 zoned lots, two (2) G.C. zoned lots and four (4) common areas. Council asked questions about sinkhole boundaries. Tyson discussed the sinkhole guidelines for building. Council then asked questions about street and intersection improvements to Main Street. Tyson discussed the improvements that would happen to Main Street. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments.

Alan Hines, 812 E. Kings Mead Cir., asked questions about how long with would take to have the updates to Tracker finished. Council responded that portions of Tracker will be improved with this development and that as sections of Tracker are brought into the City, they will also be improved. Most road improvements will occur before homes are built.

Ron Sanders, 976 E. Glen Oaks Dr., cautioned Council against traffic circles.

With no further comments, the public hearing was closed.

Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve the ordinance. Giddens made a motion to approve ordinance #2021-085 with Orf seconding and Lucas, Orf, Giddens, Peterson, Graham, and Hoogstraet voting aye on roll call vote.

Council Bill #2021-086

Rezoning the Real Property Generally Located at the Southeast Corner of the Intersection of South Nicholas Road and West Tori Drive from Neighborhood Commercial District to R- 4 Residential District. Tyson stated that this is approximately one point two (1.2) acres that is requested to be rezoned from G.C. to an R-4 District. This lot is located within Glen Oaks 2nd Addition Subdivision. Tyson also explained that it only has one (1) access point off of Nicholas, limiting how many units can be built. The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously voted to approve this rezone. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve the ordinance. Orf made a motion to approve ordinance #2021-086 with Lucas seconding and Orf, Giddens, Peterson, Graham, Hoogstraet, and Lucas voting aye on roll call vote.

Resolutions (Public Hearing and Council Vote Anticipated):

Resolution #2021-083

Accepting the Bid of Four Signals and Construction, LLC. For Certain Pedestrian Improvements Located at the Intersection of Main Street and Aldersgate and Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute a Contract for the Same. Travis Cossey, Assistant Public Works Director, presented information about a bid award for the installation of an ADA compliant push button signal crosswalk at Main and Aldersgate. This is a CIP project, and this portion of that project is the sidewalk, crosswalk, and signal hardware. City staff was able to complete the concrete work for the ramps and sidewalk. Council asked questions regarding which side of Aldersgate the signal would be located on. Cossey responded that it would be located across Main Street to the North side of Aldersgate. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steele called for a motion to approve the resolution. Peterson made a motion to approve Resolution #2021-083 with Graham seconding and all Council members voting aye.

Resolution #2021-084

Accepting the Bid of Guarantee Roofing, Inc. for Certain Improvements to the Roof of the XCenter and Authorizing the City Administrator to Execute a Contract for the Same. Crouse stated that this resolution was to accept the bid for fixing the flat roof at the XCenter. Council questioned if the roof was still going to be a flat roof. Crouse responded that yes, it would still be a flat roof. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Stelle called for a motion to approve the resolution. Hoogstraet made a motion to approve Resolution #2021-084 with Lucas seconding and all Council members voting aye.

Resolution #2021-085

Authorizing the City Administrator to Apply for and Accept Grant Funding Provided by the Missouri Department of Public Safety. Tennis stated this was a non-matching grant. Police Department is asking for overtime money as well as money to develop training. They are asking for $299,999.20. Council asked if there really was a high rate of child sexual abuse in Nixa. Tennis responded that Christian County and Nixa had a high level of reports of these crimes, but that doesn’t mean we have more; it just means we have a great hotline system and reporters. There has been an increase in these reports during COVID-19. Mayor Steele opened the public hearing for comments, no comments were made, and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Steeled called for a motion to approve the resolution. Giddens made a motion to approve Resolution #2021-085 with Lucas seconding and all Council Members voting aye.

Liaison Report:

Darlene Graham presented her liaison report on the Police Department. She stated the Police Department started as a marshal’s office and was made a Police Department in 1972. Since its start, it has been in three (3) different locations. Currently, the Department has three (3) police clerks. Joe Campbell became Chief in 2019. The Department currently has 49 officers, and it takes almost 30 weeks to fill a vacancy. She also stated that it takes $6,661 to fully equip a new officer. Graham went on to present information on K-9 Jack and K-9 officer Hilburn. She gave information on the Police fleet. Graham stated that cars are in operation 2184 hours per year. She noted that there is a need for additional officers due to community growth; however, dispatch times are faster despite the community’s growth. She discussed the new automated reports that are available online that the public can use. She discussed crime prevention methods, like the exchange spot and the 9 p.m. routine. She presented information about ride alongs. Next, she presented information about the Police Academy, which takes 15 citizens for 11 weeks and teaches them Police procedures. She then gave information about what the Police Academy alumni do for the Department.

Mayor and Council Member Reports:

Liles told Council he anticipated the first payments of the ARPA funds should have been deposited today but would verify with the Finance Department. He also reminded Council about the Nixa Alliance Meeting Wednesday the 26th at 6:00 p.m. He stated that city offices would be closed on September 6th, and the Planning and Zoning meeting would be held on September 7th because of that closure.

Hoogstraet asked out the outcome of the blood drive. Mayor Steele said Nixa won 37-21. Drew Douglas, Communications Director, stated that he had to draw a new winner’s name for the prizes and would announce the winner soon.

Hoogstraet brought up a citizen concern asking for installation of a traffic light at Highway 14 and 14 Park Place. Doug Colvin, Public Works Director, said this project would be happening in conjunction with the MoDOT widening of the East portion of Highway 14. There would be turn lanes but no signal.

Adjournment:

Giddens made a motion to adjourn at 9:33 p.m. with Lucas seconding and all voting aye.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Nixa Alliance Meeting

Nixa City Hall, 715 W. Mt. Vernon 6:30 p.m. August 25th, 2021

The quarterly joint/Nixa Alliance Meeting of the Nixa City Council, Nixa School Board, Nixa Fire Department, Christian County Commission, Show Me Christian County, Christian County Ambulance District and Nixa Chamber was called to order by Mayor Brian Steele. City Council members that were in attendance included Aron Peterson, Shawn Lucas, Darlene Graham, Jarad Giddens, Amy Hoogstraet and Justin Orf. Also attending was Jimmy Liles, Nick Woodman, Cindy Robbins, Doug Colvin, Drew Douglas, Matt Crouse, Garrett Tyson, and Joe Campbell.

Steele welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending the meeting. Dinner was served and following the dinner, each of the entities provided information of common interest.

Starting the evening off, Nixa Public Works Director and Assistant City Administrator Doug Colvin gave a quick transportation project update. Colvin provided the group with a list of current transportation projects and their status, completed projects and future projects. Next up, Assistant City Administrator/City Clerk Cindy Robbins addressed the group with information on the recall petition and upcoming election. This special election will be held November 2, 2021. Parks and Recreation Director Matt Crouse updated the group on the new dog park and its anticipated opening. City Administrator Jimmy Liles provided information on the American Rescue Plan Act Funds and potential uses. And finishing off the City’s topics was Planning and Development Director Garrett Tyson supplying information on development activity within the city limits.

Fire Chief Lloyd Walles, Nixa Fire District, provided the group with information and an overview of the Regional Fire Academy, the General Obligation Renewal and fire fighter recruitment and retention efforts.

Chris Russell, Nixa Chamber of Commerce, informed the group on the new Chamber App-Experience Nixa, the 2021 Sucker Days event and Sky-High 4th of July Fireworks event, the 2021 Total Resource Campaign, the 4X4 Brewery ribbon cutting and Evangel Football coming to Eagle Stadium

Linda Daugherty, Nixa School Board President furnished key dates for the Nixa Public School and information on the Century Elementary ribbon cutting. Dr. Kevin Kopp supplied information on the Espy FEMA Shelter project and process and provided an update on the Aetos Center for the Performing Arts.

Christian County Commissioner Ralph Phillips announced that the County had received the State Award for Best Practices, gave an update on the Riverside Bridge, and briefly discussed the Downtown Ozark Revitalization Project. Phillips also gave information on the ARPA funding, county-wide development, the upcoming use tax ballot initiative, and the County’s Comprehensive Plan.

Andrea Sitzes, Show Me Christian County provided an update on the exciting project coming to Nixa, gave an overview of SMCOG projects and other regional efforts.

With there being no further discussion, the meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.