Members of the Houston City Council discussed GIS maps for its utility system, the quadplex project and a sales tax continuation during a meeting Monday, Dec. 16.
COUNCIL CONSIDERS GIS MAPS
Todd Dablemont, Benton & Associates out of Rolla, discussed Geographic Information System (GIS) maps with the council. Dablemont explained that most information could be put into a GIS map, including electric, water and wastewater infrastructure. It helps with asset management, retaining employee knowledge and easy access. The cost would be about $40,000 upfront and an annual cost of under $1,000. It would take the company fewer than six months to assemble, Dablemont believes.
DECISIONS MADE ON QUADPLEX PROJECT
A company to use for a drone topography survey and project management for a quadplex on Thomasville Road were decided. Archer-Elgin Engineering of Rolla will be used for the topography survey. Mid State Pipeline of Belle was chosen for project management. The company is nearing completion of a $4 million sports complex in Belle that features two baseball fields, two softball fields, an indoor infield, two basketball courts, batting cages, a golf simulator, a gym and concession area. The city will now engage in conversations with both companies to negotiate their services.
The council earmarked about $160,000 in remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to be used for the GIS and quadplex projects. Governmental agencies must have the funds allocated by Dec. 31.
CONTINUATION OF QUARTER-CENT SALES TAX TO APPEAR ON BALLOT
The city’s quarter-cent sales tax related to transportation needs expires June 30, 2025. The council voted to place it on the April municipal election ballot, as it believes the program is needed to continue street maintenance. Annually, the city has selected streets for an asphalt overlay. The measure would extend the tax for another five years. The city has five sales taxes: a one-cent tax for parks, police and fire; a one-cent general tax; a quarter-cent tax for transportation; a quarter-cent tax for utility work; and a use tax on online and out-of-state purchases. The transportation tax was first approved in a vote in April 1990.
OTHER MATTERS
- Two draft budgets were presented to the council – one with the current $1,000 health insurance deductible and one with an increase to $1,500. The council agreed to have the increased deductible version presented for approval on Monday, Dec. 30.
- The council approved a Memorandum of Agreement with SeniorAge Area Agency on Aging for delivery of food to senior citizens. The agreement will be reevaluated yearly.
- A review of the 2023 routine city audit will be heard at the council’s first January meeting.
- Up to $30,000 was approved for the police department to acquire 11 new Tasers. Revenue will come from a law enforcement sales tax.
- The council will move forward in discussions with Benton & Associates for work on a sewer line, sidewalk curb at U.S. 63 and First Street and electrical engineering at the Industrial Park.
- Members agreed to place a historical marker in a new location. It was at the hospital turnaround before the facility expanded parking. The marker is currently in possession of the county.
- Lloyd Wells, administrator, will present a new building permit fee structure that would use flat rates instead of a formula during the next meeting.
- The council approved an early payment of fourth quarter fire department payroll. Fire department personnel said it is standard to receive the payment early to help with Christmas expenses.
- City employees will work until noon on Christmas Eve. City hall will be closed at that time.
- A water main leak near Simmons Bank was fixed early Monday (Dec. 9).
- Kevin Buck, economic developer, gave a brief update on his work. Buck believes he has seen growth in the areas he was tasked with improving – housing, jobs, education for adult learning and festivals.
- Buck also stated that Oliver Amick’s housing development on Oak Hill Drive near Plainview Drive will come back to the city for plat changes. The development will lose one house site and readjust a portion of the road due to a body of water becoming too large.
- Mayor Viki Narancich asked council members if they would like to seek a state audit. Ward I Alderman Sam Kelley stated there was no reason for the audit. The estimated cost of a state audit was reported to be $150,000. The mayor believes the city would pay the expense if somebody else requests it by petition.
Ward II Alderman Tim Ceplina and Ward III Alderwoman Angie Gettys were absent from the meeting. The meeting adjourned into closed session at 7:43 p.m. related to disciplinary matters.