Price jumps for asphalt work

Members of the Houston City Council approved a bid Monday for its annual asphalt overlay program.

The cost per ton went up significantly over last year, and only a single bid was received. Pace Construction Co. bid $84 a ton. Last year, the low bid from APAC was $67.95 a ton, but it had an asphalt plant established in the area. If the city moves forward on its intended projects, the cost would be $193,113, well above what was budgeted.

Tona Bowen, city administrator, said she’s reviewed spending from 2013-2017 and determined about $96,000 had not been spent and perhaps could be used to fill the gap. Shoppers pay a quarter-cent sales tax that is earmarked for transportation needs. Last year, about $180,000 was collected.

Following a council discussion, the city will likely go forward with its planned work, citing concerns about the longevity of a quarry east of Houston and the availability of materials.

In other matters, members:

—Heard that MoDOT will launch highway striping on June 1 in the region, and markings on South Sam Houston Blvd. are set for a new coat of paint sometime. The city has received some complaints about the visibility during rainy weather and at night.

—Authorized closing a portion of downtown Houston for a fund-raiser to benefit Christos House, a women’s shelter, if merchants agree.

—Learned that a new police car has arrived and is being outfitted.

—Heard Bowen report on a school safety meeting held at the Houston School District.

—Were told that developer David Arthur has sent a copy showing he has engaged an engineering firm to help with installing sewer lines at his South U.S. 63 development. Earlier, the city decided to contribute materials to the project, but will require the developer to install it, per city ordinance.

—Okayed the Houston Rural Fire Association using the city’s purchasing power should it decide to buy vehicles or equipment. Mayor Don Tottingham said the association has been good to work with the city, and Houston firemen appreciate their assistance when needed. There will be no cost to the city.

—Heard a report from Bowen on the need to develop a mission statement for the city and work with the council and employees to develop a vision for the community. The discussion came as the city is studying revamping its website. Bowen said she had met with Rocket Digital, a local firm, that provides numerous digital services to help navigate in a world that is increasingly turning online for information.

—Said design work continues on a building at the east industrial park near the chamber fairgrounds.

—Learned about procedures used to issue business licenses.

—Decided to keep the city’s UTV-golf cart ordinance without adding four-wheelers, which will mirror state law.

FIRE DEPARTMENT NEEDS

A delegation of firemen told the Houston City Council on Monday that the department needs a new fire truck and some of its breathing equipment is nearing the end of its use cycle.

The city has a ladder aerial truck and a Freightliner vehicle that has experienced mechanical issues and despite efforts to make repairs, issues still continue. The latter was acquired in 1995 after the city saved funds for the purchase and voters approved in August 1995 a temporary quarter-cent sales tax.

Issues with the Freightliner have required the use of the ladder truck more and could reduce the life expectancy of the fleet’s top vehicle, it was predicted. A 1965 truck — still on site — is utilized for hose and water needs, but won’t pump sufficiently.

{{tncms-inline alignment=”left” content=”<p>Houston’s oldest fire truck dates to 1965. Looking for Houston history? Check houstonherald.com/archives.</p>” id=”b5f0ebac-b84d-479e-8cd3-1e4bbbf8d78e” style-type=”question” title=”Did You Know?” type=”relcontent” width=”half”}}

It is estimated that a new truck would cost about $750,000.

Additionally, some breathing apparatus is nearing the end of its life cycle. A schedule of expiration dates was presented to the seven-member council.

The council will study the issue. A group — ISO — assesses the city’s fire department and its water capabilities to determine a rating. That, in turn, affects insurance rates.

Firefighters also described an acute shortage of volunteers — especially during the daytime. It’s an issue facing all municipalities, they said. Those attending said youth programs are also available, and they would welcome anyone who can pass a background check to join and begin training.

The city expressed appreciate to the volunteers.

Houston’s oldest fire truck dates to 1965. Looking for Houston history? Check houstonherald.com/archives.