Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MINUTES APRIL 09, 2002 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL April 9, 2002 7:00 A.M. STATE OF IDAHO, ) County of Madison ) SS. City of Rexburg ) Present were the following: Mayor:Bruce Sutherland Council Members:Paul Pugmire Nyle Fullmer Donna Benfield Marsha Bjornn Shawn Larsen City Clerk:Marilyn Wasden Finance Officer:Richard Horner PFC:John Millar City Attorney:Stephen Zollinger Pledge of Allegiance Mayor Sutherland stated this special meeting had been called for the purpose of discussing and making a decision concerning the Five County Detention Center which the City, Madison School District and Madison County would like to keep in this area. Reed Sommer, Madison County Commissioner, stated the Commissioners met and are interested in what the City is willing to do to help with this project as well as Madison School District. Discussion on the City property located between Walters Ready Mix and the City shop being available to build the detention center. The land is valued between $15-20,000. This property could be donated depending on the ability of Madison County to supply in-kind county usages and possibly some fill for the Louisiana Pacific property. Jeff Thomas, Superintendent of Madison School District stated the district is short of cash funds, but there could be a use of plant facility funds, providing transportation and in-kind things rather than cash. The district is really strapped for cash but the latest word from the Board was they would like to cooperate in every way but they are limited in cash funds. John presented a proposed site layout for the building on the property. Discussion on the layout, the possibility that the County agree to 1000 man hours over 3 years, figured at 1 $50.00/hour for a total sum of $50,000, and the School District donate $25,000 toward sprinkler systems, etc over the next three years. In the absence of the Road and Bridge Department and Commissioner Passey, Reed stated that he and Roger will have to make the decision. Superintendent Thomas felt it was a workable situation and would present this to the School Board. If the Louisiana Pacific property were finished it would benefit the entire community not only the City, keeping the facility in Rexburg will also benefit everyone. Paul remained unconvinced it was the right thing for the City to do. He understands the County and School District financial situation, understands the variable quality of service to the kids which is the most persuasive part of this plan, then the aspect of jobs staying in Rexburg but there is little definitive indication that employees would either move to St. Anthony or Rexburg. He questioned if this was the best use of this ground. The Comprehensive Plan exercise has not been reviewed, he has an idea for the use of this ground and he feels this ground is best used as a park complex. He feels that discussion cannot be done by close of business today in order to take a proposal back to the Detention Board. Discussion of sprinkler system would be for the Louisiana Pacific property and a land swap of the land between the High School and the Medical Center. Reed asked that Paul keep in mind that these are not just County kids, they are also City kids. The County is trying to work out a compromise that will work for everyone. All the kids need this facility and this is being driven by Judge’s actions, not just wants. One concern of the Rexburg Police Department is if this facility is moved to St. Anthony it takes more man power and particularly two police officers to transport a female juvenile which is an extensive commitment on the part of the City. Sheriff Klingler expressed his feelings that it is unfortunate that the City and County got involved late in the situation. St. Anthony already proposed the land, they will give the sewer and water. He does not want to lose the facility we have, the facility will enhance the community. He sees a huge opportunity for the City and the entire community, it is better for the kids, but it is also beneficial to the City and the County. The responsibility of transportation is a huge responsibility. The best interest of the kids would include all the different entities, the hospital, college, larger police department, and the jail. His office will help continue to furnish food because this is a valuable program. Roger explained that financially maybe the County is not better off having it here, but the way he sees it working is it benefits all three entities, maybe not a benefit to each individually but a benefit to all as a whole. There are advantages to have it, if there are not we should not pursue it. Discussion. Nyle viewed this property as a less desirable place for a park, it is located by the gravel pit, wastewater plant with the shop in between. He feels this is a great opportunity to help upgrade 2 the Louisiana Pacific property. Donna stated Madison County has the largest population base for the five counties, a greater number of kids than anyone else, the growth of the County will naturally follow the City and she feels there is long term people benefit being able to keep it local. Discussion. Dr. Thoms felt the suggestion of donating over the next three years is in line with constraints. He would like to meet with the School Board, he feels it is a good facility to help Madison High and Central High School kids. Discussion of presentation to School Board which he will do. Nyle made a motion to move forward with transferring this land and accepting in-kind service of $50,000 from Madison County and $25,000 from the School District over next three years. Donna seconded motion. All voted aye, none opposed. Discussion of front foot fees of approximately $10,000 for this site. Shawn made a motion to not throw front foot fees into the mix at ths point, seconded by Paul. All voted aye, none opposed. Meeting adjourned. ________________________________________ Bruce Sutherland, Mayor _____________________________________ Marilyn Wasden, City Clerk 3