City Council - Regular Meeting

Hey, what's going on, man? What's going on, sir? Been coming up. You been stepping your game or what's going on? Still ain't got no money in my pocket, though.

who the players are. Oh yeah.

I think trying, right? How many things we got today?

Did you bring them down? You guys are great.

I didn't I did not. I ain't got a call back yet.

I'm still trying. He's not too

I have That's the

what I said. Okay. Thank you very It was funny. I saw you. I say he got the He's

Mother. Miami Vice. unanimous could have been whatever.

But were there some That's

corn. I said it feels like you Oh, that's my favorite color. Look, I I appreciate you.

Really? Okay, cool. Hey Tom, you all right? Hey ladies.

Good afternoon everyone. Welcome to the Shreport City Council meeting. This meeting is now called to order. I'm going to ask Pastor Don Taylor to come and give the invocation and I'm going to ask uh Councilman Jackson to lead us in the pledge. Would everybody please stand

Lord, we come before you with thanksgiving in our hearts, thanking you for this day we never seen before and thank you for everything that's occurring here on today. We pray for your guidance still Lord. Lord God, we thank you for this council, dear Lord. We thank you for the city government and what they are doing for our city. And we pray, dear Lord, that what we do today will be pleasing in your sight. And we truly thank you for it in Jesus name. Amen. Amen. Amen. Let's all flag and recite with me. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Madame clerk, will you please call the role? Councilwoman Taylor,

present. Councilman Brooks, here. Councilman Toferrell, here. Councilman Butcher, here. Councilman Jackson, here. Councilman Green, I may. And Councilwoman Bowman, present. Is there a motion to approve the minutes of the administrative conference Monday, March 9, 2026, and the city council meeting, Tuesday, March 10, 2026? Second. Okay. Good lord. So moved by Councilman Green, second by Councilman Jackson. Any discussion? Let's vote.

And this passes with seven. Does any council member have any awards, recognition or distinguished guests not to exceed 15 minutes? Madam Chair, I do. Okay. Um Councilman Jackson,

I want to acknowledge all the dignitaries in the house and all the potential honores today. I did ask madam chair to go first and happy that she allowed me to go first. Um there's a uh some people in the audience today that I feel like always put everybody first but themselves. So, I wanted to take the opportunity to make sure that they get they just do as well. I'm going to ask the ladies of best 13 to come to the podium for me today. Thank you so very much for this opportunity, Mr. Jackson. To our mayor, to Mr. Dor and to all the councilmen that are here, thank you so much for this opportunity. We are best 13. We are a nonprofit grassroot organization and we work well with the youth and it's with the communities and we're here today because it's women's history month and we want to make sure that we acknowledging all the great work that our women are doing in our city. Today we stand in gratitude to honor two phenomenal women. Councilman Tabitha Taylor and Councilman Ursula Bowman. Women who do just what do just not hold titles but carry purpose. Women who just don't speak but they create change. Women who just don't show up but they stand up for their community every single day. Councilman Taylor, your leadership reflects strength, vision, and you deserve to get all the flowers that you deserve today. You remind us that presentation matters, and when you lead, you lead with grace. Miss Ursula Bowman, we also want to acknowledge you. You are a woman with poise. You hold many titles, and you carry it well.

Women just don't speak, but you create the change. You create the communities and you get the job done. You both are a pillar, a connector, and a true example of service and action. Together, we both represent. You both represent what it means to lead with heart, integrity, and purpose. On behalf of Best 13 and the community, we honor you today. CLAP

because both of you women are appreciated and we thank you so very much for everything you have done for the city of Shreport. You guys I I look forward to working with you and having a prosperous future and you guys are unstoppable. Thank you. OKAY. SO, if we also would like to recognize four other women who sit on this council who work diligently. They work hard. They get the job done when you don't see it. They're unstoppable as well. And we just want to recognize these ladies. Miss Jacqueline White Miss Tanya Bowman. Miss Tanya Bowman is a council analyst. Jacqueline White is a city attorney auditor. And Lynette Stewart

is also plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity, efficacy, and professionalism of the city. Thank you ladies so much. If you would come down and receive your awards.

I'm sorry. Look, we have one more lady, Miss Tara Bradford. She's the assistant to the mayor. Thank you. Thank you. Can they come down? Come down and receive your award. Thank you. I couldn't tell you earlier.

Okay. Miss Bradford Taylor. Yeah, that's Jaclyn White story. Oh, that is so nice.

Which way do you want us to turn? This way. This is so Oh my god.

Thank you. Thank you so much. Thank you, man. I love you.

Can I do mine, too? Did you know about this? My lips are sealed. I know. Um, congratulations, Madam Chair, Madame Vice Chair, um, Miss White, Miss Bowman, Miss Stewart, and, uh, Miss Bradford. Um, I did, uh, not have anything to do with this. Um, this was 100% on best 13. So, congratulations to that organization. I was simply assisting, but welld deserved. Thank you. Thank you so much. We were recognizing everybody else. Right, Councilman Green.

Thank you. I just like to recognize two of my heroes that's here today. This is uh Mayor Neil Nash and Mrs. Mayor Treo. Would you all just stand up?

You can stop the frowning, Dr. Robertson. You know we love you. Cut it out. Cut it out. Okay. Any other counsel? Thank you all and I really appreciate all that you all do and uh also Miss uh Mayor Tal, thank you for celebrating my birthday with me on the same date yours is. All right. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Okay. You're welcome. So, today we have many special guests in the room, but we have some extremely special guests who are young people that set a record that was transformative for the Cooper community. So, I'm just going to DO I don't know why y'all sitting down. Believe in the G. Believe in the G. The semi-finals championship run that you all created created a aura in the Cooper Road community that was so transformative that it had us crying for days simply because we found something. You all produced something that brought our community together. We hear about things that sometimes are not so pleasant, but we wanted the world to know you all are the game changers. We have sat in our seats who reside in the Cooper community and beyond who no longer live there, but are Cooper kids such as myself and prayed for this hope that this change. And watching you all in Lake Charles did everything to me. I thought I was going to get put out the stadium cuz I forgot you just can't say stuff to the river, you know, whatever they call themselves. But it was so impactful what you did. And you could feel and you could see the burning desire of you all wanting to bring this championship home. And so it was so important to individuals in the

community that they wanted to bring you and give you a hero's welcome. So, we got on that phone with Lola and Angela and Irma and Angela over here and Tasha and everybody to make things happen. I called Patrick. I called Cedric Glove. I was like, listen, we really have to make this happen again. And do we have any police escorts? So, I want to take this time to thank Chief Wayne Smith, Captain Southern University Chancellor Dr. Gant and Captain Ivy. I want to thank Representative Daryl Joy and the Louisiana State Police Department. Anybody that I'm missing for police because what they did is provided them a hero's welcome. They had the most monumental escort that I almost couldn't drive because it was so impactful lining up the streets of MLK. And what you saw was every entity of law enforcement escorting them in from Lake Charles into their community to their school. And this was done for you. Everything about what we're doing is for you. You. You. You. Don't let anybody else. It's all about you. It's all about you. Coaches. Thank you. Thank you so much. Coach Wiggins, Coach Harris, your team, to the principal. I forgot to call the principal that day and tell him what we was doing. I said, "Oops, big mistake on my part." But let me tell you something. Your team, your school is the uniter that we have because education is highly important. But education and discipline means everything to the parents who are

the parents of these amazing eight young men. Great job. Great job. GREAT JOB. SO, WE HAVE SOME little gifts for you today. And so, Madame Clerk, I will ask for you to please read the resolution. A resolution recognizing the Green Oaks High School boys basketball team for its historic season. Whereas the Green Oaks High School boys basketball team achieved a historic milestone by advancing to the Louisiana High School Athletic Association State Semifinals, ending a 43-year drought from the program. Whereas entering the playoffs, the 11 seated Green Oaks Giants began their journey with a first round overtime victory over Manny High School and continue their historic run with the upset over the Rayville High School, a heavily favored higher seated opponent. And whereas in the quarterfinal round and one of the most thrilling games, the Giants secured a victory in front of a packed home crowd while competing with only seven players embodying the next man up mentality. Whereas the playoff performance advanced the Giants to their first state semi semifinals appearance where they battled to the end in a close game but came up short to Madison High School by a score of 49 to 46. Whereas the accomplishments of the 2026 Green Oaks extended beyond the final score, reflecting hard work, unity, restoring a program, inspiring the next generation, and authoring one of the most memorable playoff runs in program history, reminding the community what Green Oaks and the Cooper stand for. Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of the city of Shreport in regular session convene that it does hereby recognizes Quantavia Sanford, Larry Nichols, Javvante Dean, Deluring and Benjamin

Josh Telus, Cyrus Wilson, Jakaria Smith, Keshan Williams, Jamarcus Jones, Messiah Theas, head coaches Demetrius Wiggins, assistant coaches Carl Harris, Brian Nichols, Dwight Anthony, and congrat Congratulate them for their historic season. No, no, no, no, no. We're not finished. We're not finished. We're not finished. We're not finished. We're not finished. And we're not finished yet. Claudell, I know you being a parent, you have your chest stuck out with Q on the front row uh actually having this amazing surprise on his birthday. So, everybody tell Q happy birthday.

But I I want you to know, not only did your um championship run hit the city of Shreport and the state of Louisiana, it also reached the federal level. So, here today is Quentyn Aught on behalf of Congressman Cleo Fields that want to actually present YOU ALL. WITH accommodations from Cleo Fields, Congressman Cleo Fields. So, yep, they heard about you all the way in Washington.

Most definitely. Good afternoon to everyone, to the mayor, your staff, councilwoman, council men, and to the staff of the city council. Today is a magnificent day to shed light on greenos basketball. Can we get a round OF APPLAUSE? SO, Congressman Cleo Fields, well, first I want to say Councilwoman Tabitha Taylor called my phone and said, "We have to honor these young men, honor these coaches." And so, I called Congressman Fields. I told him what's going on. He said, "Let's do it. Let's get it down from DC and let's honor these young men." So, I would like to give a congressional commendation that says that Demetrius Wiggins outstanding leadership as a head coach of the Green Oaks basketball program, guiding the team to a historic 2026 playoff run in a state semi-final appearance for the first time in 43 years. This achievement reflects Coach Wiggin's dedication to discipline, perseverance, and the continued success of Green Oak student athletes. signed by Congressman Cleo Fields, member of Congress, sixth congressional district.

Amen. So, what we would like to do is what we like to do is I would like to present each one of you with a congressional commendation from DC. And so, I'm going call you guys one by one. So, first, can I have coach Demetrius Wiggins, head coach? Can I have assistant coach Carl Harris?

Can I have assistant coach Brian Nichols?

Yes, sir. Can I have assistant coach Dwight Ampy? Can I have Messiah Theas?

Can I have Jammarcus Jones?

Can I have Keshan Williams? Gosh, man. Congratulations, man. Can I have Jakora Smith?

Yes, sir. Almost done. Josh, tell us.

Can I HAVE CYRUS WILSON? CAN I HAVE Delorean Benjamin?

Can I have Larry Nichols?

Two more. Javvante Dean. Got you, man. Last but not least, we have Quantavia Sanford.

Congratulations. Thank you guys for letting us present those. You're welcome. Most definitely.

So, they can go back and take their seat. I have one last thing for you all. Just one more thing. Not only did your story make city, state, and national news pretty much touch internationally as well, just so you all will know that. So, Angela, I think you had a small request, Miss Robertson. So, I'm asking to ask Dwayne if he would queue up these screens so you can listen to somebody tell your story.

They counted them out from the start. Number 11 seat, low expectations on Cooper Road. Pressure Bills do first round overtime. Set the top. Second round on the road against a team that only lost all year. moment. The great backy.

This wasn't just a run. This was great. This was the link. This was roll. Wow. Lord have mercy. So, I just want you to know the impact you had on all of us.

Wow.

You are somebody special. And I wanted the world to know just how special you are and who and how special the Cooper Road really is. Welcome to District A. All the parents, please stand up. All of those who work together for these interview, all y'all on the second row, stand up. Now, I'm going to ask all of my council members as well as the mayor to please join us as we take a picture. Now, you can come up here and take a picture. Let's come up to the front.

Council members, I need you all to level for the first level. Congratulations, Councilwoman Taylor. You want to go up there? Yeah. Pull C Taylor in the middle. Okay. You want them up here? You want the council members up here? Up here. Upstairs. Okay. Guys, step take one step back for me from three steps back in the background. There you go. Madam Taylor, Madam Cherry, if we can get you in the middle.

Make sure you're in the window, guys, so we can see everybody. Come right here. Yep. Here. Right here. Come right here. Uh-uh. Right here. Yep. Right there. I can't I can't jump, man. Yep. There you go. Good, coach. Coach, scoot to the this right. Yep. Mhm. No, you stay right there. You stay. Yeah, coach. Right. There you go. Make sure everybody in the window. All right, you're good.

Two more times. We want

congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations. Oh my goach.

Eight players. Most of them have 18 or 20 just a team. Okay.

Put me in co.

Wow. green.

Hey everybody, this was the birthday boy right here y'all. We'll see y'all next see y'all NEXT YEAR. ALL RIGHT.

NOW, the council would like to honor the amazing ladies of Aphacappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. And for this part, I am asking Tariq Bradford along with the original director to come on down and introduce your women. Listen because I don't want to get the order incorrect. Okay. But thank you all so much for embracing our city. Madame Chair, Madame Vice Chair, members of the council, Mr. Mayor All assembled. I am Tar T. Bradford. In the paid job, I'm chief of staff of Mayor Arsenal. But right now, I'm a constituent. I'm a member of Alpha Cappa Alpha Sority Incorporated.

Former South Central Regional Director. There was only two of us to serve from this great city. Dorothy Johnson, who's deceased, and myself. I would like to introduce you to our South Central Regional Director, Dr. Sean Simmons, who held from the great state sometimes of Texas by way of Houston, but she has long, long roots in Louisiana. So, Dr. Simmons, yes, thank you. Look, Lincoln Parish to be exact. Um, I was born in Baton Rouge, but my maternal side of the family is from Lincoln Parish. So,

well, thank you, uh, Madame Chair and members of the council for this recognition on behalf of our sisterhood. Mr. Mayor, it's always good to see you and thank you, um, for your continued support with this conference. Let me say the city of Shreport has been a great partner. you all have rolled it out for us from the first invitation to come um to the city from the mayor and the tourist bureau to working with the convention center. Let me just say how grateful I am for you all. I saw where Miss Bradford went live on TV as the workers were cleaning and um and please uh let the property standards team know how much we appreciate their effort in making the city clean. And there's nothing like having your house clean for guests.

Yes. And we are here. About 6,000 of us will show up.

Madam Chair, we have the two casino hotels in your district full. I know this right. Councilman Brooks, we are ready to hit everything in District B from the Hilton to the convention center, restaurants, shops downtown to include the Red River District. Yes, Vice Chair Bowman, Pines Road Hotels are full.

Thank you. and Councilman Green, many of our members will arrive at the Shreveport airport in your district. Councilman Jackson, Telly Faroh, and Butcher, we have and others will Google all that is to know about Line Avenue, Yuri Drive, East 70th Street, and all the eeries and shops in between and in the area. I want to personally thank you all um and for everything that you all have done to make this possible. And I want to invite you to attend the public meeting that's going to be held on Thursday. Um it'll start at 6:30, but we want you there early on time, 6 o'clock, where we will recognize our partnership together and showcase what we have been able to accomplish and what we will be doing in this region. And I can't think of a better way to end Women's History Month by having the city filled with professional women, ladies who are coming to serve and make an impact.

Amen. And don't forget, we wear pink, but we spin green. I know. That's right. Madam Chair, I do want to recognize the the chairman of uh the planning committee and she is here. We want her to say a few words and then also recognize all the ladies locally who have worked so hard to make sure that this conference comes off um without a hitch.

And after they finish, we definitely want to make sure that um we read your resolution into the record cuz we don't want to get beat up by Tori. Yes, ma'am. Candace. Good afternoon. Good afternoon. My name is Dr. Candace Webert and it was an honor to serve as the 94th South Central Regional Conference General Chairman. A year ago, I traveled to Little Rock and I invited over 4,000, it was just a crowd right at 4,000 women to Shreveport and I promised them that they were going to come to a city they won't forget.

Yes, Lord. I would like to thank the council. I would like to thank the mayor and his staff. Everything that my team of 91 women have asked for or needed, the supports have been there without question. Once again, the success of this conference is thanks to each of you and your support. And Mr. Mayor, I hope that you are pleased with the outcome of our work. And anytime you need me, feel free to give me a call. I'm open to other opportunities. Thank you. Ladies, you all stand. Please stand.

No, you can't leave yet. Can't leave yet. Madame clerk, will you please read the resolution into the record?

A resolution recognizing the 94th South Central Regional Conference of the Alphacappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Whereas Alphacappa Alphacappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, founded in 1908 at Howard University, is the oldest Greek letter organization established by African-American college educated women with over 390,000 members in more than 1,115 chapters across 15 nations and territories. Whereas the sorority was founded on a mission of five bas basic tenants which have maintained unchanged since its inception. To cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards. To promote unity and friendship among college women. To study and help alleviate alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social stature. To maintain a progressive interest in college life and to be service to all mankind. Whereas Alphacappa Apple Sority Incorporated is led internationally by President and CEO Danita Anthony Reed and South Central Region established in 1924 comprises more than 19,000 members across Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas, and New Mexico under the leadership of Dr. Shan Emerson Simmons, the 27th South Central Regional Director. Whereas members of the South Central region will gather in Shreport, Louisiana from March 26 to 29th, 2026 for the 94th South Central Regional Conference theme, the real deal, betting on service with sisterhood featuring inspiring workshops, meaningful sisterly exchange, opportunities to celebrate collectively achievement, collective achievements, and activities that allow members to reconnect, recharge, and recommmit to their mission of service and leadership. Whereas with over 6,000 registered attendees and thousands of social delegates, the members of the Alpha Cappa Alappa

Sorority Incorporated will paint the city pink and green, generating significant econom economic impact and community engagement. Now therefore, be it resolved by the city council of the city of Shreport in regular session convene that it does hereby recognizes and welcome the 94th South Central Regional Conference of Appa Alpha Sorority Incorporated to the city.

Amen. Thank you. I'm trying to find out who I gave your resolution to. I think I gave it to one of the guys. But we want to come down and make sure that we take a picture with you all us and the council and the mayor, please. Thank you very much for your kind words. I appreciate Oh, okay. Sure. Turn this way.

Yes, he won't. So good to stand the side of somebody I'm taller than that's a whole mess. Make sure you get the tall people. You got it. You got it. Uncle got it. One more. One more.

All right. One more. Hey, right here. We got the M. We got Oh, we got We got channel. They want some love.

Get a good side. Now we all

Thank you so much. Take a picture. So, um, Chaz McNeely, if if if y'all want to go, Yeah, you can. See you later.

Congratulations. Thank you. Don't worry, I'll get you all the video cuz I Congratulations.

Welcome back. Hello. Uh good afternoon. Good afternoon.

Uh chairwoman and members of the council. Uh Mr. Mayor. Um I wanted to come before you all today to talk about and provide an update on the status so far of the Louisiana legislative session. Um, as you all likely know, it it recently started a couple weeks ago and this year is a long session uh that that goes into, you know, concludes u in the beginning of of June. And so, um, at this point in time, u, the session has been a little slow. Uh, we'll see bills really pick up and action kind of move more swiftly after Easter, uh, which is customary for a longer session like this. Um, so I have a report here for you. Um, just keep in mind that bills are still being filed and they will be filed until next Tuesday. So, um, I'll make a a supplement to this that includes additional bills that were filed as well um that I'll share with with the city. And, um, you know, in the past, I know I've come before you all either after session or at the end. Um, we don't have uh positions on bills at this time for the city. I wanted to come early and kind of put this stuff on your radar. Okay.

Um, again, because most bills are not going to move much until after Easter. Okay. So, thank you.

Uh, yes, ma'am. So, um, on the first page, uh, what I did is I just talked about I put all the information about capital outlay. So HB2 is the um construction budget for the state and um I listed you know the projects that appear in that bill that are to the city of Shreveport. Um those um are listed here. This is in the initial version of the bill. So what typically will happen or what will happen is the House Ways and Means Committee will mark that bill up and then it will go to appropriations. There's there's two amendment opportunities in committee where these projects could be plused up or other projects could be added and then it goes to the House floor for further action. Um sometime in May the Senate will take up the money bills and um we expect there'll be a surplus of some nature that gets recognized at that point uh where at that time would you know the city could receive additional funds for projects as well. So, we've got kind of a multi-month process here of trying to go through and and secure funds. Um, I would encourage each of you to talk to your legislators about the submissions that were made um and advocate for projects that you have in your districts that you'd like to see uh proceed. Are there any questions about sh the original version of the bill u relative to what's in the report? Um, James Green, you have any questions, Miss Magne?

No. Okay. Okay. Um, and I did go ahead and list other entities other than the city that are that have money in the pro in the in the bill as well. So, as an example, state office buildings, um, you know, LSUS, LSU med school, uh, the port, projects of that nature, just for your awareness to see what all, you know, the governor put in his original version of the bill. Have you seen anything in the bills that are listed that are critical to Shreport Parish that we should be aware of? Do you have any, Mr. Mayor, that of are concern to you? Well, I mean,

I don't I don't know that I'm well suited to decide which projects are the most critical for the city, but I know that last year um a late capital outlay request uh came in from the city because Senator Jenkins, Senator Bass, and Senator Presley asked the city to do it for the airport expansion, and y'all received some cash last year for that.

Um you know, that is here. that cash is is still with the city, but I know that there's a desire to have additional funds put in there this year. So, like right now they have P5, so we would want to get P5 is not real money, so we would want to get some additional funds there this year. Um, I know that's a priority for people in economic development and for the Sky West facility and stuff like that. So, I mean, I guess the answer is there are constituencies for every project. uh and uh you know as far as uh it's it'd be my objective to get as much funds as we can for any of the projects that were submitted. Madam Chair. Okay.

Certainly the legislators also have opinions about which projects are most important to them.

Chance on the uh on the uh Senate Bill 170. Explain that to me. So Senate Bill 170 by Senator Presley um does two things. It first of all it deals with the port of Catabosure and it basically establishes certain uh qualification requirements to to be eligible to serve on the port board and then it makes those appointments subject to the state senate confirmation.

Wow. So, that is a bill that that he filed. Um, so I'm flagging that for y'all's y'all's awareness. Okay. Yeah, Mr. Chance, on that bill, is that only for Ketau or is it for other ports as far as New Orleans um port Baton Rouge or is it just KTO? I believe it's a local bill, which would mean it's just about you guys, but I will verify that. It says uh commissions of the cat Bose report. Okay. Yeah. Let me look at the actual text to make sure that I give you the correct information. Yes. Okay. Councilman Green.

Yes. It is it's limited to the Kado uh Bojer Commission. Okay. Councilman Green. Yes. Ex. Would you explain bill uh 674?

Yes. So, um, Representative Tammy Phelps has filed this bill and, um, as you all are likely aware, um, for different economic development, uh, projects that are, uh, coming to the state and this bill is not unique to Streetport Moer. It's a statewide bill, but, um, it's very common for the comp the potential company to sign a non-disclosure agreement with the state economic development um, agency. And um it's also somewhat common for council members to sign um an NDA, legislators to sign. What this bill aims to do is um give the state legislature whose district it's in um a much more robust involvement in the negotiations that take place between the state and andor the local. Like if a locals are doing a pilot, right? like the state legislator whose district it's it's in would have a seat at the table in those conversations.

So, how does that how does that empower local? Well, I would say it empowers the state legislature or whose district it's in. But nothing for local.

Well, if let me let me ask this on this question. What Councilman Green is a ask asking what Council Green is asking is that it appears that that takes away our local power and in trusting us to be able to make decisions because I would think that we don't report to the state and that we are all elected. We're elected by the people. So when we make decisions then the mayor brings an economic development project then are you not trusting the wherewithal of this body which is a question that I posed to her

because it is if that you are stepping on or impeding our powers of what the people elected us for to be able to do because I would think at the same time that the department um that Louisiana economic development if it's some huge project that they will share share with their legislature what is coming in their district because that sounds like that then it's the responsibility of the mayor or this council to ask you you know or provide you what is happening now as professional courtesy we like to talk I talk to my legislator and say hey this is what we have coming into our district I think that's a matter of professional courtesy and respect at that point to make you to give you that level of awareness But I also feel at this point that if I have to tell you what I'm doing at the local level, then you should tell us what you're doing at the state level and I don't need to hear from you. You see what I'm saying? I need for that to be clear on that part because it is if you are stepping on our powers to be able to fully execute our job. Is that every economic development project or is that just the ones that just affect the local? Should I tell you when a gas station coming? And I'm I'm just asking those questions because it can be and I'm not actually being funny, but it could be just that simplistic of what it is that I'm mandated to tell you because that sounds like a mandate if you are turning this into a law. Am I off course? Mayor Snow.

No, ma'am. Madam Chair,

go ahead. Also, it's kind of like for instance the data center that came. It started in the state, but until it got to be a real situation, we had no knowledge of it unless we read the bill that they was giving to credits and all of that. So, nobody from the state contacted us to say, "Okay, this is what we're doing and will y'all buy into it or whatever." They just did it. And then when it came to us, of course, we had to bite most of the bullet. People still talk about us, but nobody shared the information with us. It was just bam on our step. So my question would be, if in fact you want that to happen one way, let it be a two-way street before you send something to the state or approve something to come to the state, come to us and see if we want it. see if it's going to what what kind of uh backlash will it cause us. So, not just to prove it there and then when it comes here, nobody from there comes up here to stand at that podium to say that it started with us.

Correct. Nobody showed up to say it started with us. We took all the fire. We still taking all the heat about the us, but it's going to benefit the state. It's going to benefit the city. So, I just think it ought to be a two-way street. Yes, sir. There there will be and there is a good amount of opposition to this bill from a variety of different entities. The economic development community Yeah. in the state as opposed to these types of bills. Um, local government generally would oppose bills like this. Um, so for the reasons that y'all are y'all are talking about, I actually thought this bill was pulled.

Yeah, that's what I was going to ask. She may not intend to run it. Uh but it is still I mean it's it's still it has not been in my opinion it's not pulled right because that means anybody else can bring it up right. Okay. Hold on one second. I mean I think for the record um the city has enough business to take care of and the state has enough business they need to take care of. I think everybody needs to tend to their business because we have a lot of state issues that fall on the city as as far as the city. We have issues as well, but I feel like the city needs to take care of their business and the state needs to take care of their business. Yes, ma'am. Thank you. So, that's what I would like for you to advocate when you go there.

So, here's here's my take on it. I think economic development should be a holistic approach that includes both the state, parish, and the city depending on where it's at. But I think that if it's something in the city of limits of Shreport, I think that Mr. Sabbo under the administration of the mayor should be where this starts and then NLP or whoever else and then bring the state in. But I don't think that necessarily we need to be running to the state every time we have something. I think a lot of it stems from maybe them not knowing about certain meetings that were going on or announcements or something like that. But I also I feel very strongly uh and Senator Presley's a friend of mine and I respect but I feel very strongly about that as well. If if you're taking the appointment away, the mayor appoints

I don't how many of you appoint to the port mayor? Two or three. It's either two or three. I don't recall.

So the mayor appoints some, the parish commission appoints some, Boer Parish, Boer City. That is taking that out of local. I think it actually kind of circumvents I don't want to say authority, but our involvement as a council in that and says you're not you're not good enough to approve this person. We're going to have to make them go through a Senate confirmation. So, I I I I strongly oppose both of these these bills. And I just I just heard about Senator Presley's about two or three days ago. I did know about Representative Phelps and and I strongly disagree with it as well because what we need to be doing is working all together. But I think that economic development for Streetport has never come from south of Alexandria. Right.

And and it needs to be the mayor, the city council, the parish commission. uh that's who needs to be working on this upfront. And I think just going to get a rubber stamp from a representative, of course, like Councilwoman Taylor said, if we have a big something big coming here, we need to we need to let them know what's going on, but we need help with our infrastructure. We need help with our water and sewage. We need all we don't need them micromanaging what we're doing at a local level. We need also we need a a fence out at uh at the fairground. Council, I do know about that. I've had several people talk to me about that. Councilman,

hey, Chance, and I agree with what Councilman Butcher said, but I have a simple question on House Bill 674. How do How does this benefit the city? How does it benefit the city? Yeah. I mean, I don't know that I would say it does benefit the city. That's what I thought. Thank you. Yeah. Um, and point of clarification, Councilman Butcher, uh, because I just looked at the Presley bill, just to clarify, it doesn't take away the city's appointment authority. What it does do specifically is it makes them subject to Senate confirmation, which is unusual, right? That's what I'm saying. I mean, it's subject to council,

but Right. Right. And then the other thing it does just for your awareness is it um it says that the the mayor must pick people who have a economic development, transportation, logistics or commercial real estate background. So it does two things, but that takes the authority from the mayor who's been doing it. And I think we've got a very robust port. There's nothing wrong with the port of Port Boer and it's been working like that. And I'm I know you're just the messenger. I'm not I'm not I'm just saying it just doesn't make sense to me to take that authority away from the mayor and we're going to send it to Baton Rouge for people that are south of Alexandria making decisions about who goes to our port.

Well, and as you can see through the various McCormick bills, they're, you know, there's certainly at least a few legislators who are unhappy with the way the things that are going on at the port, you know, based on the bills that were filed. Well, if you drive down to South Streetport, I think about 50% of what's going on down there is because of production that's going on with the port. So, I I would I would strongly disagree with that, but CR.

Yeah. So, we've talked about it for however long, but what does it we we tore the stadium down, fairgrounds looking nice, send Councilwoman Bowman's district, but what does it take for us to get a fence? because when visitors come into our city, it's like a gateway. But that old fence been there, I mean, what does it take?

So, um, assuming that the fence is in DOTD right away, and I think that it is, um, they would they would have to permit a fence and somebody would have to pay for the fence. Um, that somebody could be any number of folks. It could be a a state funded fence. It could be a philanthropically funded fence. Um, I do know that, um, I've recently had conversations with y'all's committee of 100 who has trying to figure out how to resolve this issue and find a funding source for it. Um, and in fact, I know they're in talks with DOT trying to figure out how to address it. Um, and I believe they're they may be even meeting with them like next week uh, to talk about it. So, there are efforts underway to try to to do that. Um, so I can definitely keep you all updated on what I hear with that.

Thank you. Yes, sir. I know um that we have some capital outlay projects that we submitted um for our districts that are still priority five. Do you know how aggressive uh our legislators are on those projects that uh represent both of our districts? So, are you referring to the late file the um because I know

No, I'm actually looking at those that are priority five. One of the things that um was asked for for University Park subdivision improvements um we looked at some other I don't see them on here, but I looked at some other things for um Allenale as well. just some of those particular uh projects that need to that are

priority five which means they're just out there really um there's no real movement on it and so do we see anything that u that is specific to our respective districts I know that we asked for um such as improved lighting and things of that particular magnitude um that we have there cuz When we when we look at this, we look at having a cohesive relationship, a collaboration with our state officials as well as our federal officials. Um because you're representing the same area. So my constituents are your constituents as well. And I don't want us to be in a position where we're constrained. I'm not looking for the mayor to be constrained about the decisions that he already have to deal with us on the council. You don't need to deal with 50 million other people, too. Wouldn't you agree, Mr. Mayor? You already deal with us. We enough.

He don't have to say it. I said it. Well, one thing too about these that uh the late filings did did we get the Southern Loop and I49 lighting in that? So, the the benefit of of a of filing, even a late filing, is that it receives an e courts number. It's a it's a project that's put into the the state system. And so whether it shows up in the governor's original version of the bill or not, it's still there to, you know, if the legislature sees fit to fund it, they can. I think I'm I think I'm asking more of of Mr. Morgan and uh capital outlay projects that we turned in.

Yeah. Did do we know if the Southern Loop uh lighting got put in that? Mhm. Yes, sir. It has. Okay. Thank you. Okay, Madam Chair, one of the things that that y'all need to be aware of is one of the ways that we've had the best luck getting funding is, as Chance noted, there is a likely state surplus.

There will be a supplemental appropriations bill put together. We have been somewhat successful in getting some projects like the ones y'all submitted. you know, depending on which legislator is is interested in them. We quite seldom don't get the amount of money in full we ask for, but we've had a lot better luck getting that. The capital ally money so often gets stuck in P5 and never moves as you well know for University Park. Okay,

supplemental appropriations are much easier to secure and spend and they you know and the reason is because this the capital outlay funding is it's bonds and so it deals with the state's debt capacity and all these different things and so if you are able to secure funds through this other bill called the supplemental appropriations bill it does make life easier and we as Mr. Dark said we we try to do that every year. That typically, you know, we don't know how that's going to go until the end of session typically.

So, I would ask of the administration just for future when those when it's time for those capital outlay requests to to come. We all send the council notification so we'll be able to discuss what uh specific things that we're looking at, you know, regarding our districts and to make sure that we're on the same page when we do that. Okay. you have anything else?

Um, just that I'll have a supplement to this um to this submission that I can share. Um, I'd say I'll probably have it done before Easter. Like I mentioned, Tuesday is the last day. Um, there are also a couple uh bills that I accidentally omitted on here that I just wanted to mention. Um, you know, Senator Jenkins has a bill that um makes some changes to the downtown development authority. Is it under the same oposes as we're seeing?

Um, let's see. SB78. So, SB78 by Jenkins. It appears to add a one member to the board who has a background in urban planning, land use planning, commercial real estate development. That's all it does. It adds a member who has that type of background. Okay. No, no Senate confirmation. And then um urban planning is good. I'm sorry.

Urban planning is good. And then um I do see a bill by that I meant to mention also Senator Seaball. Senator Seaball has a bill that uh replaces one swaps out a downtown development district member from district 37 to district 38 which I would assume would be giving his district an appointee on the board. Is 37 who's this 37? Is that the old I don't think it exists anymore. That was

Yeah, is that the old peacock district? Or it could be a technical cleanup bill, too, because the districts got moved around. It's 38 now took Peacock. Yeah. Yep. So, but I'll um I'll we'll scrub through all 2,000 bills that get filed and uh we'll make another submission to you all and um happy to discuss as we go through the session. Um happy to communicate and uh hope we have as much ultimately get as much state funding as we can for Shreport. Most definitely. If you and if we need to come and speak to committee then let us know.

What I'd like to do I will and what I'd like to do as well is um uh I know cat day is coming up this year and I know that was really productive last year, right? So um we'll make sure that as we approach that we really have clarity for everyone who comes to make sure that they know what to advocate for as well. let us know in plenty of time. When is that? April when when that date's going to be. Is that April 7th? April 15th and April 15th through Oh, great day, man. I won't be Okay. Yeah. All right. Um nice to be with you all. Um thank you and we'll talk again. Okay. Soon. Just let us know when you need to come back. Yes, ma'am. Okay. Thank you.

Mayors, do you have any awards recognition or distinguished guest not to exceed 15 minutes? Madam Chair, I wanted to let you know that uh one of the uh two of the people that are before you for confirmation are present. One of them was here before Linda Bernaki to the airport authority and but Renee Carr who was unable to be here a couple of weeks ago. Okay. Uh is here. She is an appointee. You stand up, Miss Carr. Hi, Miss Carr. She's an appointee to the personnel board. Okay. Do you have any communications of the mayor relative to city business? No ma'am.

Okay. Does any member have any should I ask this question since they in training have any con concerns for property standards? Oh, thank you. Okay. Mr. Jean provided a master plan committee report on yesterday. Everyone should have received a budget to actual financial report. Yesterday public hearing there is none. Madam clerk, will there be any legislation to be added today? No, ma'am. Today we're here public comments on agenda items only. You have three minutes um to speak. Please state your name and address for the record and might madam chair madam vice chair would take u control of this part of the agenda.

First one is Sammy Mirs. So Sammy, you are honorary basketball player today, huh? Yes. And I also found something that was lost and found.

Okay. Thank you. Sammy Mirs, 1133 South Point Parkway, apartment 111, Shriport, Louisiana 71105. Today I'm speaking on three resolutions, 928, 929, and 9:30. I would like for April 2026 to be recognized as Autism Acceptance Month. Please vote yes on this resolution. I also want the Green Oaks High School boys basketball team that I was sitting with earlier as an honorary member for their historic season to be recognized just as well. Please vote yes on this if you would please. It'd be appreciated. And finally, I'd like to rec I'd like for the 94th South Central Regional Conf Yeah. Conference of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated to be recognized as well. They did a good job today. These people all deserve to be recognized and I'd like for all of these to be voted on. Yes, it'll be appreciated. And the one thing I know is not on there, but I must say this. I celebrate 41 years as a church member at Springs of Grace Baptist Church on St. Patrick's Day of last week.

Congratulations, sir.

Thank Thank you, Sammy. Thank you, Ashley David. Good afternoon, Councilman. Good afternoon. I filed an appeal two weeks ago to attempt to reverse I need your name and address for the

I'm sorry. Ashley Davided, 126 Centinary Circle, um South Highlands. I filed an appeal two weeks ago to reverse the MPC's granting of a special use permit for Southern Stop Market to be located at 3100 Highland Avenue. My appeal is in part supported by the passing of ordinance 46 of 2025 on June 10th. This ordinance added two subp paragraphs to the Shreport UDC section 6.1 JJ in regards to beer and wine sales. they are. Will this location be compatible with the residentially zoned property near the proposed location and two the proximity to the other establishments that sell alcohol? Compatibility is defined in the Ox Oxford diction dictionary, excuse me, as a state in which two things are able to exist or occur together without problems or conflict. I can assure you there are serious compatibility issues with an establishment selling any type of alcoholic beverages that is located only feet from residential properties, much less a block or two from two CO parish schools. The mere existence causes petty crime, drug sales, littering, property crimes, crimes related alcohol misuse, and vagrancy. This list is certainly not all inclusive of many other issues that these establishments contribute to our neighborhoods and sense of safety. I have yet to find one piece of research that indicates placing such an establishment next to neighborhoods will do anything to affect positive change in the neighboring residence and property value. The proximity clause must and should be considered according to the new ordinance. In this specific area encompassing the 300, 400, and 500 blocks of Kings Highway, there are already three establishments in which to purchase beer and wine. In addition, the Highland liquor store, which was granted a special use permit by the MPC in 2019 to sell all types of alcohol, including beer and wine. We all know the

population of Shreport as a whole is shrinking. We've not had an influx of residents moving into Highland or South Highlands area in the last 15 to 20 years. On the contrary, a number of homes in Highland that existed only 10 to 15 years ago are now burned to the ground, in complete disrepair, or have been taken over by squatters. What a shame. We can do better as a city and a community. Our area of Shreport is historical in nature and a natural route for many that visit our area. What they see may have them believing the city is given up when they travel down King's Highway. Property standards are not enforced. Our police are overworked, understaffed, and not to mention woefully underpaid. Why would our governing body that is tasked with planning and zoning actively choose to add another establishment that will undoubtedly strain the resources we have in our area? The decisions that they make should protect the safety and sense of peace that we deserve and the school children attending Creswell and Bird deserve. Gas stations by nature have many environmental concerns that must be considered. Underground tanks leaking and airborne toxins that have well been scientifically proven to cause many negative health effects including

I apologize but your time is expired. Okay. Yes. Will she have another will she have another opportunity during the the appeal to speak? Yes. She can. Okay. We'll just sit down. Keep going. If you'll come back we we we get Okay, that's fine. I only have another paragraph at most, but then you can you can elaborate on it during the during the appeal. Okay, got it. Thank you. Thank you,

Miss Andy Billy. Um, esteemed members of uh the city council, greetings. My name is Dr. Andia Austinine Billy. I am a professor at St. College. My address is 521 Atkins Avenue. Um, and I live about 30.7 feet from the proposed site with my husband who is an attorney and our two young boys ages 9 and six. I want to start by noting that several neighbors who opposed this project were not able to speak uh the last time, including me. I was out of town for a conference. I'm out of breath. Um, I am here to respectfully but firmly oppose the uh development of a gas station with a alcohol store at this location. I speak not only as a resident but as a parent, a professional and somebody who loves to walk and I walk this neighborhood daily. Um the reality is that this project is not compatible with a residential area and the proposal is also unnecessary. There are already two gas stations uh within like less than a mile and um high school and college and the community does not need another one. This is not a matter of convenience. It's overconentration and it it comes at the expense of those of us who live here. Um so um also the environmental and quality of life um is significant. Bright lights noise, constant activity would disrupt the peaceful character of our streets. Um family who lived here deserve to enjoy their homes without feeling that every day uh brings more risk and more

stress. I also want to address the process in itself. Um I'm not sure how you all come to your decisions, but I'm frustrated and um frankly angry at the fact that we're having to fight this. Um, the developer lives in Texas from what I I understood, not in Louisiana. And yet, his interests seem to be placed above the voices of the families and community members who will bear the consequences. So, it's a matter of fairness and respect for the people who live here. Zoning decisions should protect the safety, stability, and well-being of our neighborhoods. They should not be influenced by convenience for commercial developers especially those who have no stake in our community beyond profit. So this project in my view fails that standard for all these reasons the risk the safety the environmental and quality of life impacts the overconentration of similar businesses and frankly the harm to property values. I urge you to please, please, please, please go back to your previous decision and sustain that decision. Thank you so much for your time in careful consideration. I really appreciate y'all. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Chair. This concludes public comments. We have the following executive appointments to consider today. Personnel Human Resources Board of Wow and Renee Carr, Shreport Airport Authority, Linda Bernaki. So move a motion. Second. So moved by Councilman Butcher, second by Madame Vice Chair. Any discussion? Let's vote.

And this passes with seven. Congratulations and thank you for your service to the city of Shreport. There are no items under consent agenda for introduction or to be adopted. Madame clerk, please proceed to regular agenda legislation. Resolution 15 recognizes Mariah Don Hester. And there's a request for this to be postponed. So move for postponement. Second. So move for postponement by the chair, second by madam vice chair. Any discussion? Let's vote.

And this passes with seven. Resolution 23 authorizing the adoption of the city of Shreport train updated public transportation agency safety plan. So moved by Councilman Green, second by Councilman Brooks. Any discussion? Let's vote. And this passage with seven resolution 24 authorizing a merit to execute an energy state agreement between the city of shreport and the department of transportation and development. So move so moved by councilman Talifer. Second

second by councilman Jackson. Any discussion? Let's vote. And this passes with seven. Resolution 25 giving city council approval for the mayor to pay premiums and execute documents in connection with the purchase of insurance for city buildings, facilities, and activities for the period beginning April 1st, 2026. There is one amendment. This amendment contains the updated negotiated prices for the city's insurance coverage beginning April 1st, 2026. The total has been reduced approximate by approximately 400 13,600 from what it contained in the original resolution said it's been reduced. Yes. Okay.

Move on amendment. So So move on amendment uh by Councilman Jackson, second by Councilman Talifero. Is there any discussion? Let's vote. This passes with seven. So move on the motion as amended by Councilman Jackson, second by Councilman Ber. Any discussion? Let's vote. Okay, this passes with seven.

Resolution 26, authorizing the mayor of the city of Shreport to execute a cooperative endeavor agreement between the city of Shreport and the Cattle Parish Sheriff's Department to operate a comprehensive domestic violence service center. Move to withdraw. Move to withdraw by Councilman Ber. Second.

Second by Councilman Brooks. Discussion. actually have a statement from the sheriff. He simply stated that he appreciated the council's interest in helping to strengthen services for victims in our community are affected by domestic violence at this time. However, the sheriff's office will continue moving forward with this original plan for the domestic violence unit um without financial assistance from the city of Shreport. And while we are um dealing with our findings, our commitment to collaboration remains the same. We will continue working closely with the SPD and all regional law enforcement partners to support public safety and to ensure victims of domestic violence receive the protection and the services that they deserve. Will all those that were in support of this please stand for domestic violence. Thank you so much for your presence and attendance today uh in this report council meeting but this item has been withdrawn. vote

and this passes with seven. Resolution 27 authorizing the city of Sheport, Louisiana purchasing agent to reject all bids received for Stoner Avenue rehabilitation rebid IFB 26002. So moved. Second. So moved by Councilman Ber, second by Councilman Talifero. Any discussion? I have a question. Yes, Mr. Park. Was this the bridge that came in? Yes, sir. Yes, sir.

Let's vote. And this passes with seven. Resolution 28 recognizing April 2026 as autism accept acceptance month. So move. Second.

So moved by the chair. second by Councilman Green. Discussion. I actually want to invite all of you all out to the bridge on April 2nd at 7:15 is an event hosted by myself and the big cheese. If you don't know who the big cheese is, that is my son. Um that we will be lighting up the Bakowski Bridge of Lights Blue. It is a fun event that is free to the public. But it's not oftent times that many autism families have the opportunity to be out without judgment. This is a judgment zone. So, we ask you to wear your fabulous shirts, however it is that you design it for your loved one, and come on up out. And so, we have some little cheerleaders going do a little cheer.

Um um and then at that point, then we will watch the bridge light up blue for World Autism Day. Madam Chair, yes. Will you have the the water the fountains going? The fountains don't start until May 1st. Cuz I want So that mean you want to run through the water? I wanted to challenge Councilman Brooks to come and be with me in the water. We can do that May 1st. And this passes with seven. Madam chair. Yes.

I'm a little off balance. This is the first time in history of the council that I know of that uh Mr. Craig Lee didn't have any public comments. I'm a little Amen. I'm a little

Thank you. Resolution 29 recognizing the Green Oaks High School boys basketball team for its historic season. Yay. So moved by the chair, second by Councilman Jackson. Thank you all so much for the support of Green Oaks today. It's been really exhilarating. Um so moved. Any more discussion? I think not. Let's vote.

This passes with seven. Resolution 30 recognizing the 94 South Central Regional Conference of Alpha Cappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. So move. I think Tari probably want to move on this from the audience. Uhhuh. So moved by the chair. Second. We got your vote. Second by Councilman Crane. Any discussion? Let's vote. And this passes with seven. Madame Clerk, would you proceed with the introduction of resolutions not to be adopted prior to April 14th, 2026?

Resolution 31, authorizing the donation of the Streetport Police Surplus Property, specifically retiring one police kine. Resolution 32, authorizing the mayor of the Streetport, authorizing the mayor of Streetport to execute an amended cooperative endeavor agreement with the Streetport implementation and redevelopment authority. Resolution 33 authorizing the mayor to execute a letter of agreement with SMG to extend and amend the management agreements for the Streetport Convention Center and the Streetport Municipal Auditorium and resolution 34 ordering and calling inspection election to be held in the city of Shreport, state of Louisiana to authorize the levy of a special tax in the downtown development district making application to the state bond commission in connection therewith.

So move on introduction. Second. So move on introduction by the chair, second by councilman butcher. Madame clerk, would you proceed with introductions of ordinances to be adopted prior to April 14, 2026? We'll do it now. Uh, ordinance 32 amending chapter 26 of the Streetport code of ordinances authorizing the conversion of adjudicated property to tax lean certificates pursuant to LA revised statute 47 colon 2201 authorizing donations to land banking and redevelopment authorities providing procedures for the city of shreport.

So move on introduction second. So move introduction by Councilman Green, second by Councilman Butcher. These items just real quick. Okay. U Mr. Edwards, is this pertaining to the change of the law as far as you don't have a tax sale deed anymore? You have a Is that what this is? That's what it's pertaining to. Yes. And um um the prior adjudication process is still um sort of valid in terms of the properties that were already adjudicated, but going forward there will be a process starting It's for property from the 2026 tax year, which will not be until the It won't be active until 2027, right?

Because of the statuto time, right? But, um, um, it allows for tax sale certificates, tax lean certificates, um, instead of the tax adjudication, which should allow for, um, um, more marketable, more insurable, cleaner title on the back end. is the is the uh process. I I that's what it pertains to. Okay. So, this at some point I would like for us to have a discussion about getting these adjudicated properties back in on the tax roles and maybe this

this helps us. Uh I know the mayor and I have discussed self-funded title insurance for quite a while. I know Sierra's doing some things, but um I just think that there's a lot of opportunities out there for a lot of a lot of vacant properties right now that have been adjudicated that could really uh there would be investors that would want to come in and and redevelop these properties into middle income and uh housing uh for homeowners. So, I think that's uh you know, the gentleman that came yesterday was talking about affordable housing and I I I disagree with pretty much everything else he said, but I did agree with that. So, uh, we do need to start looking at that.

And I think it's been a long discussion that we've had as it relates to this. And so, now we do want to make sure that we have some movement for sure on it. I know it's been a plan. I know it's been overwhelmingly discussed. And so I just want to make sure that we have a plan of execution uh on that to get that done in each neighborhood that needed because the purpose of the purpose for us has always been that when a house is torn down in this dilapidated state then we revitalize that area by building new housing there so we can bring uh that that property back into commerce. It's not to just to leave the lot empty. we want you to actually be able to purchase that lot and rebuild on it. So that is how we actually improve on neighborhoods and so we want to make sure that houses are attainable for individuals to be able to purchase. I would like to see us do uh Chairman Taylor, similar to what we did with uh with the domestic violence and possibly have a roundt of some sort, Mayor to discuss with Sierra and bring everybody together at the, you know, to the table. Of course, we'd notice it. Uh Mr. Edwards, we're we'd all be there.

Um but um I I think that that would be a good start. I think that it was very productive in the domestic violence realm. There were a lot of things that people learned. Uh, so I would like to to to see us try to set something up like that, whether it be the administration or the council, but in the next few months, let's have a round table and discuss this. Yeah, we can do that and then we'll have another u domestic violence followup for sure. Thank you. Okay, these items have been introduced. If there is no more discussion, madam clerk, please proceed with ordinances on second reading and final passage. Ordinance 11, amending the 2026 public safety special revenue fund budget. Move to withdraw. Second order withdrawal by Councilman Butcher, second by Councilman Jackson. Any discussion?

Yes, ma'am. Madam Chair. Council Ber,

you know, I I don't want people to think um that the city of Shreport is done with domestic violence. Um I think the plan that was put together by the sheriff was a was a very good plan. Um, and I unfortunately think that outside forces got involved and um, it's it's just a shame because we have so many victims of domestic violence in our city. We have, you know, a huge human trafficking issue. We have a huge sexual assault issue. If you look at our crimes, those are the things that are going up. I think this plan was comprehensive and good for uh, the citizens. Um I just think that um we can't let this stop here.

Correct,

Madam Chair. We have to continue to look forward and look at ways to go and whether that's in a public safety meeting me or the mayor presenting us a plan, which I would love to see what your plan is. Uh I had a long conversation today with uh with Miss Harris, the director of um Project Celebration. There's some issues there. She acknowledged those issues. Um, but I'm not ready to give up on them and I want to make that public to them and to their employees. They do good work. They just have a few hiccups. But I'm going to be honest with you, who in today's times are not having hiccups as far as finances go. We're, you know, a gallon of milk is $6 a gallon now in some places. Gas is $4 a gallon. I mean, we all have issues and we should be working through them. But the work that they do and have done fill in a void for many many years is good work and we can always improve on that. Um I think that at some point we really need to sit down and revisit this with Sheriff Whitehorn. um he took the ball and ran with it when a lot of us were just running around uh not knowing what we were going to do. And uh to his kudos, he and his staff stepped up, came up with a plan, and was ready to execute it.

And um I I I thank him. I I thank uh Chairwoman Taylor and Councilman Tofero for for working so hard on this. And it's very sad to me that we're at a place now where we've we've pulled this piece of legislation. So I'm I'm tasking the rest of the council along with the mayor and everybody else involved in Shreport, the police chief, let's come up with something that we all can agree on. Let's let's come up with something because you know tonight I hate to check my email at 2:00 to see that a woman lost her life to domestic violence cuz we're going to see it. All seven of us sitting up here, the mayor, CEO, and the police chief. It's sometime in the next month, we are going to see a death from domestic violence in the city of Shreport.

And so time is of the essence on this. So whatever everybody wants to do, I'm here. I'll listen. I'll do whatever. We'll fund. We'll sit back. We won't fund whatever we want. You know, whatever we can do to get it, but let's do it right this time. involve Project Celebration, North Streetport Business Association, sororities like that we're here today. Let's involve everybody in the community and get this problem fixed because another life is going to be lost in the city of Streetport and I pray for that. Pray for agreeing.

Madam Chair, I I just like not I'm not doing this on behalf of the council. I'm not doing this on behalf of the city of Shreport. I'm doing it on my behalf. I'd like to just apologize to uh Sheriff White Horn that um it's in the scripture that when I would do good, sometimes evil is present. But I also would like to define service as not caring who gets the credit. Correct?

And sometimes we live in a world that it's okay if I do it or if I get the credit. Do for people what you want to do because it is right. Not expecting anything in return.

Not even expecting them to say thank you because you never know where they are in their life. But you do it because you care, you love, and you're a servant. So, thank you, Mr. White Horn, uh, for your effort. I apologize that there are people that beat up on you for taking it or wanting to take it or have a desire to do good, but always know they killed Jesus. Thank you, Madam Chair.

Thank you. Um, I will add this. Since 1997, Louisiana has been one of the top states, top five states that are affected by domestic violence. And as you sit in this chamber right now, you probably know somebody who has that African-American women are 35% more likely to be in a domestic abuse situation and majority of the time those are the ladies that are killed. Those with disabilities, um 70% of those individuals are often affected by abuse and sexual assault. And if you're a woman with a disability, then your chances are three times higher. I think when you lose sight of the victims and take your mind off of who it is, but you lose sight of the victim, then you don't understand that particular world that these individuals have to go in. This was so hard that it did not have to be this hard because as we sit in this chamber, there is a woman or a child that is being beaten or sexually assaulted right now as we sit. And that's the reality that we live in. All we wanted to do was to make sure and to ensure that services were in place under one roof for one year until we got our stuff together. And our stuff is still not together. So, I'm in full support of the sheriff. I agree with you, Councilman Butcher, that you can pull everyone together, but the focus has to be on the victim. Absolutely.

Thank God is somebody thinking about this on their heart and wanting to do this. But when you hear because you won't get these messages that we get to know we arrested 10 people or that there were 10 people that were affected by sexual assault or domestic violence. because you may be in a safe place and then maybe again you're not. But as we see here that I will be in full support of the sheriff until we get our stuff together. I don't believe in sending people places and it is not together. Not as serious as an issue as domestic violence when people die. It's the most dangerous situation for our first responders to enter into because here you have somebody that simply say they are loving somebody to death and we want to make sure that everything that we do is impactful. And so I'm going to make this request to not at to not at the substation on North Market ask and tax this and say that this is a domestic violence center until it is actually a domestic violence center. That does not need to happen. That is in my district and until it is my name will not be associated with that. For the police work that are done and for those first responders that are there, yes, I support them wholeheartedly. But when it comes to children, when it comes to women, when it comes to seniors, when it comes to the dis this uh those that are disabled, that is not a game for me. And you just can't arbitrarily go and give somebody a pamphlet, let them walk out the door and go back home to the person that's abusing them. It is real trauma. It is real trauma. And so, no, Councilman Ber, I won't let it go. And it's unfortunate that we are here because all the only thing that you're trying to do is to help with the crisis that we are facing in Shreport, Louisiana with more than 30% of our homicides being domestic violence related.

So with that being said, then we can vote. Madam Chair. Yes, Councilman Salifer.

Yes, ma'am. Thank you so much. I'm gonna u Excuse me. You know, this is a this is a very sensitive topic as we all know. no matter if you're sitting up here um on the council or you're in the audience. And those of us that have worked with domestic violence victims understand the need and understand the pain and suffering that goes along with interviewing and helping a domestic violence victim. So therefore, we on this shoe um believe strongly in prayer in prayer for our city. So I'm going to ask Father Paul Martin. We're going to put him on the spot, but he knows that I do this quite frequently with him. And um I'm going to ask him to come up here and and and pray over us, pray for our discernment, pray for uh the best resolution that we can possibly arrive at, and um for for the people that matter most, and that's the victims of domestic violence.

Thank you. Thank you, Council.

Father Paul, since since I consider you my personal priest, uh I felt like that you were up for the task. Dear heavenly father, we just uphold those who are burdened with the government here in Shreport. Lord, you pray your presence be with them that you unfold them in your loving arms. Be very present to them as they seek your counsel that your Holy Spirit might speak to each one and having done so might accomplish your purpose for Shreport and for those who are abused. We just uphold them to you in their in their hurt and in their uncertainty that they might find consolation in your loving arms. or I pray it in Jesus name. Amen.

Amen. Amen. Thank you. Thank you, Father Paul. There is no other discussion. And unfortunately, I'm sorry. Motion is to withdraw.

We won't stop fighting. I promise you that. And this passes with seven. Madam clerk on this 25 amending a 2026 water and sewage enterprise fund budget. So moved. Second.

So moved by Councilman Butcher, second by uh Madame Vice Chair. Any discussion? Let's vote. That passes with a 70 vote. Okay. Thank you. Ordinance 26 amending the city of Shup, Louisiana 2026 capital projects fund budget. So move second.

So moved by Councilman Ber, second by Councilman Jackson. Any discussion? Let's vote. and this passes with seven. Ordinance 27 amending the city of Shreport 2026 economic development district F district special revenue fund budget appropriating the funds authorized herein. So move second. So moved by Councilman Green, second by Councilman Jackson. Any discussion? Let's vote.

This pass with seven. Ordinance 28, amending the city of Shupport, Louisiana 2026 capital projects fund budget appropriating the funds authorized herein. There is one amendment. This amendment reflects a requested update that will allow for 2,500,000 to be added to the municipal auditorium restoration program I mean project. The ceiling renov renovation design is complete and far as ready to bid on the project. The funds are being moved from the Hurst coliseum renovation project which is not ready to bid u currently. So move on amendment

second. So move on the amendment by Councilman Jackson second by Councilman Ber. Any discussion? Let's vote. And this passes with Evan as amended. Second. So moved on the motion as amended by Councilman Jackson, second by Councilman Brooks. Any discussion? Let's vote. This pass with seven ordinance 29 to amend chapter 26 article 56 division 3 concerning construction management to risk project contact methods contact methods.

So move. So moved by Councilman Green. Second. Second by Councilman Ber. Any discussion? Let's vote. This pass with seven ordinance 30 to amend report code of ordinance section 26-210.21 subsection B to authorize use of monies generated through the city prosecutor's pre-trial diversion program for the public safety fund in addition to program administration. So moved. So moved by Councilman Butcher. Second.

Second by Councilman Brooks. Any discussion? Vote.

And this pass with seven. Madam Clerk, is there any other table legislation to be removed from the table today? No, ma'am. We have We have no Before you move on, we had some requests to speak. They guess I thought they was in the NPC. They set them down there, but they are all on the appeal at the end of the agenda. We can

only appeal. Okay. Yeah. All right. Um, we have no property standards or appeals to consider today. We have the following MPC case to consider today. Case number 26-HC appeal by Ashley David for special use permitting site plan. Um, 3100 Highland Avenue, Southwest Corner, Kings Highway and Highland Avenue. Gas station and retail sales of alcohol, beer, and wine. Are we call it to order? Yes. So, it's now been called to order. Where do we proceed from here? You can normally you'd call up the applicant and then the um the appellant

and then the request and then and then the request to speak. Okay. Will the applicant please come to the mic?

Are you the applicant? Ashley David, is she

here? Good afternoon. Jeff Spikes, 4740 Richmond Avenue, Shriport, Louisiana, 71 716. I'm here representing uh Mr. Omar Ali on uh the 3100 Highland development. Um this is more than just a gas station with beer and wine sales. It's a mixeduse one-off development that is uh designed sight specific for the neighborhood. Uh we've been through uh two neighborhood participation meetings and various other meetings getting to this point. first meeting didn't go our way. Uh we were trying to put uh it was we were trying to reszone uh so that we could have the building on the back of the site. We completely pivoted. We had another neighborhood participation meeting. We got a lot of comments from the neighborhood and stakeholders which we implemented into the project. A lot of things were done to uh get get ourselves aligned with uh the NP the NPC the UDC regulations, the current master plan. Uh we completely flipped the site. We uh there's a lot of cues from the neighborhood. I don't know if you've seen the renderings, but we've done a lot of things to make this fit in with the neighborhood safer. We eliminated all pedestrian vehicular interaction on on the way into the site. Put the buildings at the at the intersection of Kings and Highland uh facing the street uh just 7 ft from the street, which is as close as we can get it based on UDC guidelines. Um it's again, it's it's it's not a liquor store. It's not just about alcohol sales. That is an ancillary component as is the gas pumps. We reduce the gas pumps from 8 to six. We feel like it's a quality devel development that was designed to fit with the neighborhood. Um there are no uh pedestrian or there are no vehicular in uh ingress or egress out of the site other than on King's Highway. That was a direct comment from the neighborhood. Another one of the residents who you might hear from today said that 10:00 is bedtime for most reasonable people. We

think that's reasonable. So, our hours are 6 to 10. It's going to be a mixeduse. There's going to be a brunch/c coffee shop uh juice bar restaurant. There's going to be a sit down dinner style restaurant with outdoor seating. Yes, outdoor seating works. If you go by drip uh about 7:00 tonight, you'll notice that. Um I've had that argument a couple times. So, I mean, we feel like we've we've done a yman's job of designing a quality uh development that responds to as many of the neighborhood concerns as we could possibly address. That's where we are. So, I I'll take questions. I know I'm I'm probably close to my end of my time. Oh, Madam Chair. Yeah. Um Mr. Spikes, do you have any Do you have any renderings of the building? I do.

Do you have enough to pass out? Uh I can just pass them down everybody. Can you put them under? Sorry. This this is a shot looking This is from the corner of Kings at Highland. Uh this is the outdoor dining I mentioned. Uh we we we like I said, we took cues from the neighborhood.

Anyway, this is this is how the street. It looks just like you. Oh, thank you. That's nice.

So anyway, that's the rendering of the building from the street. This is a site plan. Uh top of screen is Atkins. Bottom of screen is uh I'm sorry, I've got to I've got to turn around. Top of screen is Kings Highway. Bottom of screen is Atkins. You'll notice the big green uh landscape buffer that we left at the back. You'll also notice this red line is a brick wall that is there that we're uh keeping along this neighbor's uh uh residence uh that side even though their driveway and that wall are on our property. That's an agreement we made because we're trying to be good stewards of the environment that's already there and try to leave as much as we can. this red line also around the perimeter uh that that that represents uh the C1C2 break in the property. That's where we uh added our first major pedestrian access. And then these other uh these other brakes that you see in the building, those are actually breezeways that we cut into the building. Uh which is also includes covered walk along both uh street corridors. Uh we in incorporate a ride share uh location and also are trying to align with the uh road diet that uh uh the uh um that is is coming down from the centinary uh corridor. Uh so kind of kind of trying to pre-esign in in expectation of growth for the area.

So Jeff on the on the left hand side as you're looking at this that would be where family dollar is correct. Yes. And then south part is the old Dawn's parking lot. Correct. I'd assume. And then so from Kings Highway, you're going to see the back of the building. Is Is that right?

Uh from Kings Highway. No, that's that's the thing. The we fronted the building to Kings Highway. We had it flipped to where the building was at the back of the site. So we pushed everything. So that's that's you know, we we're down on building square footage. were down on uh you know developable area, but we heard that the neighbors didn't want the neighbor that didn't want the building back closer to the neighborhood. We shoved it all the way. So there's a there's a front and we're basically having we're having to build, you know, four sides of this building as a presentable front because we've got a front Kings Highway. Uh so you're not going to just be looking at a wall going down Kings Highway.

No, you're No, that's No, you'll see, you know, you'll see this that's that's looking from Kings Highway. And then we'll also mimic this same language on the interior of the building as well. So it's it's it's it think of Strongs uh you know the uh Centary Hardware that is the style we mimic. That's why you see the one and a half story. That's why you see the red brick that we borrowed from Atkins. Uh that's what some of the detailing we borrowed from the Highland Center uh because that's one where one of the neighborhood participation meetings was and I saw a couple of the ideas there the awnings and things that thought you know it we're we're we're not just a you know a big national conglomerate coming in to shove a Murphy's down your throat. It is a sight specific response to what the neighborhood what we see in a neighborhood. So getting in and out of this thing on that other side,

right, is that going to be a problem if you've got people getting gas? That's your only entrance and exit right there. Right. Right. I mean that that you know that's just we we we're making that exit and entrance is as wide as we can make it. But what we heard in a neighborhood meeting is we don't want any any vehicular access back out on Highland because of the cutthroughs. I agree with that. But but I also think that if you've sat there at 5:00 during the I mean traffic backs up all the way to that to that family dollar. I just am concerned people trying to get gas. I watched a guy yesterday almost get hit trying to pull into the uh into the Circle K to the left from that area.

I don't know if if you're going to make a left turn out of there, it could be problematic.

I I get it. Um that's you know the gas pump is an ancillary thing. we needed to make a successful development, but it's not the entire use. It's got to be a mixed use. It's not only about the gas. It's not only about the beer and wine. There are two sitdown restaurants. Um there there's and it's and and the hours is another thing. I we keep getting compared to other gas stations on on this this stretch. We're we're not trying to be that kind of a spot. It's it's going to be tied into the true crime uh center. I've already talked to uh the client and a few other stakeholders in the city. We're we're okay with There are some security concerns. We're going to have 24-hour surveillance even though it's going to be shut down from 10 to 6. Um, you know, we've we've responded to everything we can and and and we've tried to uh you know, the lighting we're we're putting only uh 15 to 20 foot uh pole lighting in uh only where it's needed. We're not putting the big, you know, 30 40 foot uh lights. We're going to have uh we're doing actually two and a half times a landscape buffer on the back of the site.

I mean, I I look, it looks horrible there right now. I went by there the other day and there was a homeless person sleeping in the where the old movie theater part used to be down there at the bottom. It looks awful. My concern is the the gas station part of it. Honestly, um if it were just going to be restaurant and you know maybe a shop or two in there, I I would and I look to I'll preface whatever Councilman Brooks and what Councilman Talifero because it's both it's it's on the line for them. I always try to respect them because they have more of a they know what their constituents want. But I do frequent that area a lot. And uh I I think that you know I I I think that what y'all did at at uh you know Sweetport up there was a was a definite benefit. It was a similar situation. The building looked great and look at what we've got there now with Drip Donuts. So So I agree with that. I'm but I am a little concerned of people coming in and out of a gas station. And then my second concern is we've got a from what I understand from what everybody's told me. that met with a gentleman that's that's proposing this. He operates a a nice business for all that I've heard, but and Councilman Talifer and I were talking about this. We you know what is what if he sells it and then what do you end up with? Because the Circle K's used to be nice when they were owned by Circle K and now you drive up there and you can't get a gallon of gas because they're out of gas. So that's what one of my concerns is and but you know we can't speculate what's what's going to happen and we can't really legislate what the future looks like but I have to tell you that is in the back of my mind.

Um a couple things stipulations there are some some stipulations that we've already agreed to. We're willing to make those deed restrictions and since you brought up Sweetport I actually brought up a neighborhood participation meeting because I asked in one of those meetings what would the neighborhood support? Would it be an ice cream shop? Because when I moved to Shreveport in 2001, my wife moved here in O2. My first house is at 627 Gladstone and I drove by that cleaners until it shut down. And then me and my wife with our bare hands renovated that piece of junk that was sitting there vacant for 5 years of us living there and we turned it into something and then it didn't make it. So now, yeah, there is a drip there, but we already had a shot to have an ice cream shop and it didn't make it. So what are we going to do? What are we going to do here? How many how many how many developments are we going to let go by? Holland Liquor, since it was mentioned, I had the opportunity to put in a proposal to expand that guy's building, but the neighbors were so upset about it. And I had so many friends that were living in that neighborhood. I said, I can't live in this neighborhood and represent a guy that's going to do this. So I refused to work on that project. So here we are. We've got people behind me that own that piece of property that are here to say no because they don't have the imagination to do what this guy's doing with his property. So that's my thing. I'm a business owner. I'm a Shreport resident. I taught all three of my kids to ride their bikes right there on the center track at Bird before they shut it down and it won't let the public use it because, you know, we're not that's that's where it is.

So yeah. No, no. And and look, I I I appreciate what you've done in that corridor. you and I have worked on projects together, but those are those are my concerns that I'm hearing. I hear you. You know, yeah, those are concerns. So, yes. Um, C Jackson, with with respect to the residents here that are opposing this. Um, I do applaud the developer for at least going back to the drawing board and trying to find a win-win for the neighborhood. Um, my question is with the changes you made to your renderings, have you gathered any support from that area based on your conversations from your from your meetings?

Yeah. And then actually the second neighborhood meeting, we had a lot of people that were excited about the coffee, the exclusive coffee that was going to be at the coffee shop. Everyone at the end, the the tone was completely different at the end of that meeting. And so I thought, okay, you know, here we go. We, you know, we've got some people that are okay with this. some of the people that were naysayers before, but it's hard to get people to come and, you know, speak in in in favor of it. Uh it's it's a lot easier to get people to come speak, you know, against it.

I understand. Um but from the renderings, it to me it doesn't look like a gas station. Um uh I'm assuming it's going to cost about $3 to5 million. And from a real estate point of view, that usually brings up the property value in the area when you're getting that type of development um close around your house. Um, uh, respect to Councilman Brooks. I like it. Um, I welcome those type of developments in in in my area. Um, so I I I still defer the Councilman Brooks, but it it's it looks exciting. Thank you. I It's better than what's there right now. I promise you that. Thank you,

Madam Chair. Councilman Telero. Jeff, how many changes have you made on behalf of the um of our constituents uh at the neighborhood meetings and how many meetings have we had? So, uh we've had two neighborhood participation meetings, but before both of those, I met with uh Reform Shrivefeport and other other stakeholders, the Highland Restoration Association President. Who did you meet with?

Uh Chris Lion and uh Mr. Moran, forgive me, I can't remember his first name. Uh I met with uh Miss Russell uh who was who's the head of the uh Highland Restoration Association. Um that was for the first one and then the second one was a little bit less a as the as the meetings go on the attendance seems to get uh a little bit a little bit you know less but in those meetings we heard you're not in line with you know the smart growth uh uh aspects that we need to be and so I mean I I

and who who brought those up? Uh well the NPC uh we also met with the NPC uh and asked them hey you know what what are we doing you know what what can we do to help but uh several actually the the main the main ones uh that we uh heard we we heard in the NPP meeting when the neighbors that that that attended that meeting the majority of these these comment the the the changes were made in response to that it was and how how I estimate how many neighbors were at that meeting

32 people were at that first meeting yes sir And I think about 33 to 34 were at the second meeting. And I I think we had I've got a list of about 12 or 13 changes. But when you as you as you know uh if you've ever looked at a site plan, when you change one thing, it's kind of like a, you know, it's a ripple effect. And so, you know, getting trying to figure out, you know, okay, we only we only want to, you know, in and out on Kings Highway. Okay. You know, I got to redo the auto turn and and we're, you know, we're over we're we're we're had, you know, have have to have paving for that. And you know we got so I mean it was at least 10 or 12 but you know like I said it was you know the pedestrian access there was a lot of concern about the uh interaction between the vehicles and uh the the pedestrians which is why you know I cut the breezeways in to make it to where you cannot intersect with a vehicle if you don't want to. I mean you can get right into the site through the breezeways without without having to worry about that. We added bike racks. We moved the dumpsters uh from the back of the site up to the front of the site because I I I hear the dumpsters at Southfield at 5:30 every other Thursday. So, I mean, I get it, you know. Um so, we did that. Um and I mean, and and you know, to the to the point of even, you know, okay, how can you how can you, you know, uh make sure that this is going to happen? Well, you know, we we've got a way to enforce it. So, I mean, we we've it's it's a lot. We basically re re we basically uh just flipped the entire site design to the point of you know again we're down

once you flipped that site design did you have another meeting? Uh yes we had uh we had the uh the second design meeting. Yes. At that site was I mean meeting with a community? Yes. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. And how many were in attendance there? That was the it was at that 334.

Yes sir. I mean is and I'm going to ask is anybody in the audience attended both these meetings or one I don't need you to Okay. All right. That's cool. I appreciate that. Thank you. Um and based on I mean this is a factf finding mission because we don't take this decision lightly. So based on what is being presented by Mr. with by Jeff. Um Jeff, did you make did you make all the changes to support the acceptance of those in attendance to the best of your knowledge? Did I make all the changes to support?

Well, you know, my point is that you you took the time to hear from the constituents for the people have buyin in that area, right? And from my understanding based on your your statements is that you took it back and reworked just about the whole floor plan so to speak to accommodate the wishes of a majority of the people that were attending these meetings. Is that a fair assessment? Yes, sir. Yes. And at the MPC meeting, how many people were there? Was it was it full?

Uh no. the MPC meeting uh was actually uh quite a bit less I feel than this the the zoning uh meeting. It was it was you know probably at least I don't know half but I mean it was you know there was still opposition at that meeting but yeah we we we did all this to to up the quality of the project to better to to to address the concerns and and and it was you know all done uh you know it's it's going to cost more to do this but my my owner's committed to making this a quality development for the neighborhood. Again we're not just trying to come in I mean he could have walked away after that first one and said you know what this is going to cost a lot more money. I I don't want to do it, but we're still here. You know, we're still trying to make something happen. Um, you know, several other people have tried. Uh, you know, uh, it's it's just going to sit there and, you know, be a hole in the ground if we don't, you know, get on board with something.

Um, just for Thank you. Just for my knowledge, how much How much of your revenue in a store or a complex such as this is directly related to me gassing up my car? I mean, how much money do we make? Can Can I I I I don't I don't I don't do pretty You're not the Yeah. I mean, uh,

I was just curious because I think I think maybe I'm mistaken, but I think maybe the contention is maybe it's the gas pumps and not necessarily maybe it's the gas pumps that seems to be a stickler here because of the traffic and so forth and so on. And maybe I'm just guessing. I don't know. I like the design. I like the design when I first heard about it and saw it. Um, obviously it's I I appreciate everything that y'all have done to make it part of the architecturally make it part of the neighborhood. Um, I am concerned about the entry and exits um onto Kings Highway um and the congestion the traffic and I'm sure that traffic engineering has weighed in on on this as well.

Yes. And has they ma have they made and Chris Lions have they made any suggestions on how this could be better served? Chris isn't a traffic engineer but yes we've traffic but he's the devel he's the shreport he's the guy that's doing the shreport uh revitaliz you know the whole centinary Kings Highway. Yeah.

But yes, we we we've I mean the engineer uh gave us gave his recommendations on the width of that drive and the radius and we yielded to those recommendations and again we've everything every comment we've you know heard from you know the public other than you know remove the gas station we've tried to uh you know uh yield to uh and and we we've you know had some comments back from the site plan review uh dealing with that and other things and yeah we've we've tried to you know at the same time as we were modifying to flip the site and do the other things we were also moving these other things around that we were being asked to you know on the you know the city the city permit uh side of things as well. So yeah seen it

and I'll one more question then I'll yield to other council members. So, in your opinion, do you feel uh that you've addressed a majority, if not every concern that could prohibit the construction of this project based on the the feedback that you've received from the constituents or the people that attended these meetings? I I feel like we I feel like we did. I I I even threw in a dog park, but I heard that they didn't want a dog park, so I pulled that back out because everybody said it it wasn't it wasn't a thing. Yeah, we were just Yeah, I do I do feel like we've we've done everything we can. Every every comment that we can

So, what percent what percentage of the people attending mentioned the gas pumps at all? Um, was that was that something that was say that man, I like it. I like everything, but those pumps got to go. I mean, we don't want gas. Say again. Yeah, I would I would I would say yeah, most most of them uh most of them didn't like the gas pumps, but we reduced the gas pumps. I will say that we did reduce them. There's six six was eight.

I mean, but it's like saying, you know, I want a Burger King with no Whopper. You know, you can have the uh you know, Whopper Jr., but you know, so I mean, it's it's one of those things that this is what the purpose of develop this this is what his his business is. Um and so that's kind of what the development is built on. Gas stations are within, I don't know, between Line Avenue and Yuri Drive on Kings Island.

Fuel stations only. There are uh three uh if you consider Exxon, but I mean Exxon is typically blocked by the LSU golf cart and the red Jeep. So, you typically only get about, you know, two pumps there on a good day. I can't get my truck in there to get diesel because it's not there's not enough room. And and I use him for my, you know, my mechanic works. I mean, you know, I I think DJ's a great guy, but I just I can't, you know, can't get my truck in there. But that's again, it's it's, you know, we're we're we we've responded to as many as we can, and it it's, you know, it's it's vital to his business and what percentage had some issues with the the alcohol sales.

Um, I mean, I don't honestly I I didn't take a poll. I mean, I I mean, you you'll you'd know. I mean, they would be very boisterous about. Yeah. I mean, those are typically the, you know, I would say at least half I would I would say. Yeah. Okay. I'm sure it's more, but again, I didn't count I didn't count heads. All right. I'll yield for now, Madam Chair. Thank you, Council Brooks. Yeah. No, we'll wait for everybody else to finish answering their question, then we getting ready to move. So, request for those. Okay.

So, we ask for those that are in favor of those that are against. We still got to hear the appellent. Okay. Okay. And you can always bring up Mr. Okay.

Mr. Jean. Yes. Will come up. And then if you have any questions for Mr. Okay.

Thank you.

Miss Ashley, you want to read that last paragraph?

Sure, I'll go ahead and finish that. Um, I believe I had just started. Um, gas stations by nature have many environmental concerns that must be considered. Underground tanks leaking and the airborne toxins that have well been scientifically proven to cause many negative health effects, including some cancers. Is it really necessary to add another location to purchase fuel given there is already two gas stations located on the strip of Kings Highway within four blocks of each other? It's it seems to be at this time. This seems to be what's the easiest development at this moment in time. If our city can fix the crime problem, the property standards issues, and work to attract new industry, I truly believe this corner will not be empty. But it has to start there. It's a bottom up problem. If we have a thriving city and a thriving community and we're all working together, I don't know who might want to buy that corner lot, but it's going to be a lot more attractive if it's not been polluted with gas tanks at that point. And that's what I have to say.

Mr. Deve, yes. Um, do you like the way the building's laid out other than the pumps? And I think the pumps are pretty hidden. The I do not live directly behind, but from my point of view, I do not think the building layout is terrible at all. Um, does it does it does it go with the Yeah, I think so. of Kings Highway Island. I I think so. I I I Chris Lions is probably better at speaking what Kings Highway is going to look like hopefully very soon. And we're near apparently we're nearing the roads. It may be one lane each way and a turning lane in the middle. Correct.

So I don't know how that conflicts with that. But as far as the overall appearance of the building, I have no issues with that. We welcome restaurants in the neighborhood. We I believe mo all of our neighbors support Fat Calf and Stron and you know Drip we we support those. We all live there. I mean whatever we and I can't speak on behalf of my neighbors but I believe if you had a restaurant that wanted to sell alcohol with dinner, nobody's going to oppose that. It's it's the packaged alcohol beer and wine and and you can call one alcohol and one beer and wine. You can drink just as much to cause an issue and drinking a little bit of the other. And just to speak to uh Miss Taylor, domestic violence a lot of times starts with alcohol and drugs. We are at an atrisisk neighborhood already. There's a lot of domestic violence arrest between Highland and that area. We see it all the time. I just don't know why we're exposing our children, our families to more of this. And I'm not a tea totler. I like a nice cocktail with dinner myself. That I'm not stating that. But it's saturated at this point.

When we know better, we do better. Councilman tell and we know better. I'm sorry. Yes, ma'am. Let me let Councilman Brooks I'm sorry, you had the floor. Go ahead. You had the floor. Oh, thank you. My apologies. So, Mr. Vid, you and I have spoken on this matter. Uh, if this development did not have the gas station and beer and wine, you would not be opposed to it. Me personally, no. But you can let the the neighbors close to speak, but me personally, no. As far as it affects the tenants that I can speak on behalf of that I have in that area, which is about 80 tenants. No, we would not oppose that.

You sent me a list of stipulations that if we were to pass this, you would like to see implemented. Yes. Um I forwarded those to the architect and I believe he has agreed to almost all of them. Is that correct, Jeff?

All of them. Um and then we have I guess I should bring Mr. Gan up and give a little history on this has already been the lady that spoke that lives on Atkins. We did not vote on this the first time, ma'am. This was voted on by the MPC. So, we would we're we're here to either confirm their vote. They voted yes or we're here to deny it. So, we have not ever heard this case. Um, Mr. Jean, would you come up, please? Do you want me to stay up? Do you want me to sit down? Just sit on the front row, probably. Okay. Mr. Jean, you and I met Friday at length over this particular issue.

Yes, sir. some of the concerns in the neighborhood and and I agree with them. We tell these business owners, you have to close at 10 p.m. You can't empty the dumpster between other than 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. But then when they do it, when they get open and they disregard these stipulations, I'm concerned with, and I know I heard at the NPP meeting, so are some of the neighbors, they're concerned with what enforcement do we have? Well, we can actually revoke certificates of occupancy if these stipulations aren't followed. Uh we can we can also site when instances like the the dumpster pickup is happening and things of that nature. Eventually that could go all the way to uh the court and I think uh Mr. Jordan is here

uh he can speak in detail of of exactly how that works, but in general that's what we're able to enforce it. Yes, because this is not a straight zoning case. This is a special exception use. We can put stipulations and enforce them. They're zone they're already zoned properly. They just need the special

they're zone properly. Way this works is that is that when we lay out the use matrix, if we thought that the gas station wasn't wasn't appropriate at all, it wouldn't even be in there for but it said but we have a special use. We say okay if you have a properly designed site plan that mitigates the issues with this use with then it can be approved and that that is what the process went through and as you heard there's quite a number of changes now I want to address the meet the number of meetings I think that's people get a little confused about that there was uh at the parking lot area of the old dons was zone B1 which was became C1 and then it was then the first request was to change that from C1 to C2, which would allow the gas station or the entire development to be pulled back towards the neighborhood. When we looked at his staff, we did, I've heard the term before, commercial creep. We're taking away from the corridor and getting it back in the neighborhood. We were opposed to that. Uh that ended up getting denied at the MPC level. It came to this body and you also denied it. Matter of fact, you're actually the one that made that decision to deny. So, it seems like to the public that this has been in front of us twice, but the gas station as a use, although we knew that was what is in use was, but that actual decision on the use didn't come just be came from front of the uh MPC at the last meeting that we had. So, that that's where some of the confusion is because that all we already denied the gas station. with the gas station as a particular use was not in front of the NPC till this last meeting.

So the the the back half of the lot that's closest to Atkins, yes, it's zone C1. It's C1 and parking area they have denied changing it to C2. That's correct. And now they've moved the development all to the C2 portion. Yes. Which which has a pathway which is this special use permit which is in I believe you and I looked at a map Friday. Isn't Isn't almost all of Kings Highway from Yuri to Line Avenue, isn't it almost all zone C2?

Yeah, the majority of because that that's a that's a commercial corridor. So, that's a corridor uh zoning that that we want to you have a significant amount of traffic. You want to have those types of businesses. But the more autocentric uses and things of that nature that you would see in in in C3, they require a a special use permit. A drive-thru, for example, would be one as well. And there's not a drive-thru in this development. Correct. No. There may have been some talk about it in the early stages, but it's not in this this rendition at all.

And the rendering that they have submitted to that your panel voted on, it has to be built exactly that way. Well, yes, because it's the exterior elevations are part of the site plan and yes, it needs to be built exactly the way it's been shown. There's some minor, you know, sometimes when you get into construction, there's some minor tweaking you have to do and we can do that administratively, but but but nothing major. You can do some, you know, if you find you have to move it a foot or two, they're allowed to have something like that. That's that's common with construction. But as far as like it has to be substantially the same as as what's presented. Okay. These these additional stipulations that Miss Devid has requested, how would we go about getting them

when you on the record so to speak? If you if you were if you were so inclined to uphold the decision of the MPC, you can add those stipulations. You have you have you can you can either uphold, you can modify or you can you can uh overturn. So those are your three choices. So you could you could add those stipulations. Would it be considered modify or approve with stipulations? Prove with stipulations. Stipulations.

Yes, there are stipulations associated with it. What that these are pretty much the same that the the board but the record wasn't really clear what they were. So when I wanted to make sure that this record was clear when it came in front of you, that's why I had that handout so that you could see the exact You already have a list of stipulations that Yes. they're bound to she Mr. Vid has asked for a few extra. Well, I think I think there was there were there was an agreements, but I don't I don't know as far as actual stipulations. Those are the only ones that I handed out of the ones that I'm We could add the stip and Ashley, that's what you sent to me, right? That list. I'm sorry. that driving and I didn't respond, but

yes, you you as a body can add stipulations from what you hear at this hearing and they would be and they would be enforced by the MPC. Yes. Yes. Does that that the stipulations that she sent us does that that that still includes the fuel being there though, correct? Right. We Yes. Okay. Uh, madame vice chair, can I speak? Um, Mr. Jean, um, NPC approved this 6 to1, correct? I think it was might have been 4 to1, I believe. That might have been the vote. Four to one. I think that was the vote.

Can you just kind of summarize what all went into that decision? Just just a summary of you guys' expertise. What are you What are you looking for? because they're appealing to this body and we do try to, you know, respect the NPC's process and the vote. So, I do do want you to state for the record what all went into you saying we felt like this was good hearing the neighbors um pros and cons.

So, what you want to look at anytime doing any kind of special use is what kind of potential impact would this use have in on this surrounding property that is dissimilar zoning. So you have you have residential zoning that's around there. You you want to look at what kinds of things could could potentially be an issue. So we looked at traffic. There's one example. Uh, one of the biggest issues that were brought up in the in the first meeting, even though it wasn't a site plan hearing, it was a it was zoning, but we we took that in consideration that this could be the way it was designed, could be a cut through so that traffic could go in from Kings Highway, cut over, get in, get it go down Highland, and then drive through Atkins. And we did not think that that was appropriate. So, that is one of the mitigation items that staff uh suggested. As a matter of fact, uh Jeff came as a prior to that meeting and asked for our advice. And that was one of the first things out of my mouth was we need to get rid of that driveway on Highland because that's going to set up some problems for the neighborhood where it makes it incompatible. So, we also looked at the locations of the of the of the trash. We talked about not only design related but operational type issues as well because that can be controlled and that's what you'll see in some of your the stipulations. So we said we need to get this the the garbage dumpster away as far away from the residential as we possibly can and then we in addition to that we need to put a stipulation that it only can be p picked up at certain hours so we don't disturb the neighbors. So those were the kinds of things we looked at. We looked at the locations of the uh the way that this is cited now with the plans that we know are coming forward with redoing the corridor is to make sure that the buildings relate to the street and they're not relating shoved back in

where their backs are to the to the residence. So basically they came up with a design where you actually have a 360 view of everything that looks pleasant. You don't have really have a back on this building and so it relates very much to the street. It's very predestinary scale. Pedestrian scale. It's it's comfortable that you can walk to and things of that nature. So, those are all the kinds that we things that we looked at. Many of which was already proposed from Jeff after he had heard all the comments in the first first MP meeting and tried to incorporate in his plan. So we're trying to see what kind of these imp what impacts there might be and and see if we could would minimize those through the the quality of the site plan and in addition to that put a couple of stipulations that deal with the operational aspects where on the site plan is the dumpster when you would be right here.

Okay. up against the basically up against the family dollar. Yeah. Right there. Yeah. Madam Chair. Yes, sir. I'm sorry. What is your name again? Ashley. Miss Ashley. Um I understand the pumps the gas is the issue giving the restaurant, coffee shop, ice cream parlor. Um that's not a equal tradeoff for the gas. for you, for us? No, I for the for the neighborhood, for anybody that's supposed

they live right behind it. But no, I I mean I that makes no sense to me. I mean, I I like I said, I welcome development, but it's got to be the right thing on the backs of the neighbors that live right behind it. And the gas pumps simply aren't yet. I mean, they're not. Yeah. Okay.

And I will say just I just want everybody to picture in their mind with one ingress and one egress to this location when that tanker truck is sitting on Kings Highway and you get a school bus brakes don't work. Somebody slams the brakes in front of it. Whatever. You've got a major environmental issue when it hits the back of that thing. And we already know the traffic is a nightmare at that location. I live right down the street. I'm up and down it all the time. It's going to be a problem. I would think probably when this gets a little bit farther down the line, traffic and engineering is probably going to come back and say that one ingress and egress isn't going to work. But who who am I? I'm just guessing it's not real safe.

I probably missed this in this part of the discussion. I'm sorry I had to step outside. um is removing the gas pumps on the table. I don't believe so. No. We had spoke at the last neighborhood participation meeting and he said it's you know gas pumps, beer and wine or nothing. He can't do the development without it. Jeff, do you have any comments on that? If if it was not a gas station, would the development go through? Uh, no.

That's um I I think you understand the position that they in um because they're not saying that they are against development at all. But I do think that it does pose a problem um because of the transportation issue on this street and seems not just to be a problem for them, but it's the consistent question that the council has as well. Um and we know how crowded Line Avenue is. We see it with um what is it? South Highlands for the school when you see all the people lined on the street as well. You see it with the Circle K on line avenue and uh Puremont when you turn and you have that particular traffic there. So those are major issues um in that particular area. I think it's hard to ignore because the development looks extremely uh promising. It's a beautiful development and I think that we like more of having outside restaurants because the way that our city is growing, but um I know the developer says no that that he would not uh want to do that part, but does he not think that in that particular area where there seems to be so Holland is a different kind of neighborhood in our city? It is um unique in its setup. It's probably one of the most diverse areas within the city of Shreport. Um where you see walkability, where you see individuals in the community, um loving to be outside, um loving to be able to mingle with one another, all of those things that we have. Would you consider again and tell him that this is for the

council if this is okay with you, Mr. Brooks, Councilman Brooks, if he would rethink the gas station component of it. I'm I'm asking I can't make that decision because I know I know you can't, but is it is it a total no for you? Hey, can tell how are you? I'm good. You step up a little bit.

Yeah, thank you. So the we did a visibility study on the project and took me about four months almost just to get back the report and everything else. Well visibility goal there will make sense and economic for us for our development for our mortgage and etc. whatever sustained pretty much for the development. So it's going to be very hard for us not to get the fuel part aspect in there because for the branding and the restaurant the whole the whole thing it's it's a unique concept how they do it. So it's pretty much like out outskirts like when you go to Dallas, Houston, Austin, all these other area that's how everything is looking in when you go into the cities that's what you see everywhere. So I'm from originally from Shreport. I've been here and lived here for 22 years. So I'm actually invested instead of investing in Dallas or Houston or Austin, I came back here to invest back into my city as well. So it's not just uh I've been in the Highland area for over 18 years. So when they say that I haven't been in this area, I don't know what it is. Uh I've been here. So, it's it's going to be hard without the g without the gas,

right? And I own we own breakfast brunch places. We're going to have a breakfast and brunch place there. It's going to be uh breakfast and lunch. And we're going to have actually a cajun restaurant there as well with the gas station as well. So, the gas station as well, it's going to have a juice bar. It's going to have a salad bar when people go into it. Organic products, all that stuff, too. It's not just another ordinary Circle K which means as well which means essentially that you're going to have more traffic at the gas station. Yeah. When you say that and that's why I'm asking. Yeah. Yeah. But just want I just want to get a little feel so know exactly what the project was going there. I the project seems to be it seems to be amazingly beautiful

the component for them in which I totally understand what it's saying because it's not an area that is not um non busy. Yeah, it's it's it's it is I know you you live over there. When we drive through there, this is what we see. Um so I don't know, you know, again, before you brought the project that they have the meetings and all that. I'm thinking that they did with neighborhood participation meetings. I probably missed that part. Um forgive me for that.

Um but I'm just I'm just thinking pretty much along those lines. seriously for what you what is already there and then just that congestion level as the city grows you're going to have growth. Um but when they're looking at it in a residential neighborhood too it it can be it can be quite challenging.

Yeah. Well the good thing they did their homework they did their research on traffic engineers and all that stuff. So they see it was how the width of how how how big we're going to make the entrance and all that stuff for the cars to go in and everything else. So they pretty much they did their own they did their work on it but for us to allow to have there as well. How many people signed the petition? And when we were at the first uh al so when first so one of the bill uh one of the MPC board members was at the meeting so they heard exactly what the people were saying everything what they want. Everybody there was excited. So excited and everything else. So 75% of the people that were there, they're not here as well.

Okay. And chair, I would like to say one more thing, Madam Chair. Um, Councilman Butcher's right. It's it's an eyesore to say the least. The way it sits right now. I think I had to have property standards asked him to mow it half a dozen times or more last spring and summer. It's been a homeless encampment on a couple of occasions. So, I I'm really torn on this. I Mr. V did bring up a really good point, though. What if traffic engineering comes back and says you can't just have the one entrance on Kings Highway? Is there anybody from traffic engineering here?

They can weigh in on it. because I think that's critically important, you know, because it is of how it's situated and you can't say that nothing is going to happen there. We've seen stuff happen all the time, you know, in that area. And so, in going in and again, how busy that area is off of Kings Highway, it is busy. even that little exon on the corner.

Sometimes it can create a traffic nightmare where the high school is. And so I'm just I'm just looking at and visualizing um when I drive that way and then what I see at various times of the day um because you know that's circle K right there. I wish we could have the egress on other side allow us to. We even co we gave that up just to make them happy as well. Madam, there there was an answer, but you know, I'm sorry. We we did everything what they just real quick. Um could we we compromised could we do similar to what we did on the LB road situation because we had a question on the traffic? We requested that the developer give us a traffic study. That's what I was going to Could we remand it back to NPC

um subject to a traffic study?

Yeah, that's what I was going to It was my question, Mr. Jean. Was a traffic study actually done? No, it it it didn't meet the warrants for tra for traffic studies from what I understand, but um we did run it by the traffic engineer and he only had a few he had a remark about the width of the driveway, but I thought not he didn't have a problem with one single access. Uh actually, yes, it one of the comments actually was a little too wide. Let's make a little narrow. But that is actually a permitting issue that we get into later on into detail. But as far as conceptually the way it's all laid out, the one driveway works and that and it did go through a traffic engineering. We always send all of these out for comments to all the departments and and that was the one comment they gave us and we it was included in our report.

Wh why did you say a traffic study was not done? It didn't meet the requirements. they you have to have so many trip generations and things of that nature before it gets triggered. Um and but as far as I know there wasn't one that was required at this point. Now if you wanted to remand it back to be to look at that traffic issue obviously we can do that we can you know have a traffic study that that's something that you can do. So far

madam chair thank you. Um it this is this is what I'd like to see. Um and and I know we're going we're vacasillating back and forth and I know that there was an original cut to exit on the other side. In other words, not on Kings Highway but in the into the residential area on Highland. On Highland. Yeah. Yes. Okay. And that was part of the original deal, original concept. Correct. Yeah. That wasn't ever officially in front of us, but yes, that was but it was nixed by the constituents in that area. That was one of the comments.

So, you redesigned it to exit only entrance exit on Kings Highway to basically to appease their concerns about exiting into a residential area. Correct. Yes. And this was in an effort to get the more commercial activity towards that corridor instead of the neighborhood. And they were acceptance of that. They were accepting that. The applicant accepted that. Okay. Yes.

Because I see nowhere I I didn't see I got the list just like everybody else of um the requests and the concerns of Miss Davidid and it in nowhere in it says anything about the concerns over the gas pumps. So, I'm presuming that it was it was where the vehicles would be exiting after they got gas into the residential area.

Well, that that was the problem. Anytime you have a commercial development and you're you're going to put traffic onto a local street, which even though that's probably a more of a minor collector possibly, but it's still local. Uh it has a significant amount of traffic, but still you would have the potential of that traffic coming out on a taking a right turn going around the corner going through Atkins going back up to the other intersection and that more than likely would have happened and we were trying to prevent that traffic from going into that neighborhood.

Oh, I agree. I I wouldn't want it either. I mean, if I was over there, I wouldn't want it pouring out or dumping into a residential area where I got to go left to Kings and a right, you know, back into the Highland area. I mean, it would be convenient, you know, if I didn't if I could get that, right? But I understand the concerns of the residents in that area, right? Um I think I think I'm still I would like traffic engineering's opinion, you know, so we can put that to rest. Okay.

You know, um and um you know, therefore if it we have to remand it back to MPC. So when a traffic somebody has another idea when a traffic impact study is done what the primary focus is to see if there's any kind of mitigation needs to happen to the roadway to make sure that roadway is functioning properly and they're saying and it's not really whether or not the driveway is allowed or not. It's whether or not you some mitigation might need to take place. That's what that's what mainly Let me let me ask just a real quick question and then I'm done. Uh, could you do somewhere down a left turn out on the Highland with a pork shop or something that you can only turn to the left where it's still in that commercial in that commercial district by the nail shop?

Left turn, left turn only. I'm not I'm not a traffic engineer. I just I've been around it enough to know I can tell you that pork shops if they have to be designed properly or people cheat all the time. So you have to it's possible that we would need to get an a traffic engineer to weigh in on that. Well, I think that's what we need to do then. We had that actually we take it back out because we heard nothing on but I've got the traffic engineer. Okay. All right. I think we have other people that need to hold on hold on hold on hold on. We got Hold on. We're gonna let you speak. gets to pop up every time like a jackaloupe.

No, no, no, no. Don't do that. Don't do that. You're going to have your opportunity to speak. We're going to give you that. But if you want us to make informed decisions, then we have to hear what is going on. Exactly. You're going to get an opportunity to speak. Madame vice chair just said that. You're going to get that and you're going to get that probably in the next two minutes. So, just hold tight. Just hold tight. Just hold tight. No, Marcus can't do that. This is not his meeting. This is our meeting. Okay. So, just hold tight. I understand that you upset by everything that you've heard.

Madam Chair, Marcus, can you explain the way this goes, the the procedure? I mean, I understand that they've been waiting, but there is a procedure similar to a court hearing. Is that correct? um somewhat but the the difference and I think the confusion is that uh MPC has a different method of public comment than the city council. NPC does public comment upon each um agenda item

one at a time. The city council typically does public comment at the beginning of the meeting for everything on the agenda and then runs through the agenda. That was I believe the reason why there is confusion about the cards and I think that that's uh the reason why there's confusion about the process that's taking place right now. But it's just a difference in how we do public comment. Public comment has to be done prior to voting on any matter, but it does there's no prescribed procedure for how it takes place. And I think that that's where the confusion is coming um from. So, this is basically what we're doing is we're hearing the the applicant, then we're hearing the appellant, then we will hear public comments, and we can ask them questions. So, that's why they're popping up is because we're asking them the questions. And we may ask y'all questions during public comment. I just don't want

y'all to be angry and think that we're we're we're not not hearing you, cuz we are. And but we have there's seven of us that are about to make a vote that's going to impact everybody. and we have questions that we need to be asking. So, um once once we get through this part of the procedure that we've done, I've been here eight years. This is the way we've done it for eight years. Right or wrong? Correct. Um once we get done with that, then we'll hear y'all. We may have questions for y'all as well. And then we'll vote. So, don't don't talk out of order. It should I don't I don't want to just wait until we get done the chamber. Then we'll then we'll let you

just hold tight. this I order. Just hold tight because it's not an MPC meeting. You need anything else for me? I think I'm ready for public comments. Okay. Yes. Fine. We're done. Have a seat. Yeah. First public comment is John Atkins.

My name is uh John Bakin the third. Uh my address is 235 Kings Highway, Streetport, Louisiana. And uh the brass tax we we own two blocks of Kings Highway and a portion of Atkins and everything around Drift which we've restored. So we have a we have a vested interest in the neighborhood invested interest in the neighborhood increasing in its viability increasing in commerce increasing in value and uh I uh am partners with Ashley Devid and I'm kind of the boots on the ground of the organization doing maintenance everything else and I'm also the one that has to deal with the transients and the homeless and the crime and uh we've had our trash cans set on fire at the apartment complex on Kings Highway twice almost engulfing a car and would have blown the car up of ejected a man from underneath a building on Kings Highway that was living there and that is a contingent of crime and vagrancy that is creeping through Highland and I'm sure yall are aware of is is a major problem and we I don't have a problem with this development whatsoever except for the gas and the liquor and the wine and the cigarettes and and any other thing you put under vice. But unfortunately, that is a draw for the people of the north side. And it's hard to to improve a neighborhood when you're fighting something like that, which as y'all well know on every Circle K in town is a fight,

especially the one on on on uh on Gilbert and Kings Highway.

And that is what I'm trying to avoid. And that's uh pretty much the I mean y'all all know about uh the density of the gas stations and and this would be a very close density of gas stations more dense uh even than the length of seven miles of uh of Yuri Drive. So it's that in itself it's not needed needed but the main thing is crime transiency and trying to keep that line of Kings Highway where where the problems in Highland of which there are many and parts of Highland are great but I'm trying to keep that from moving further south and that's pretty much it. Thank you sir.

Thank you. Thank you so much, Miss Pam Todd.

Hi, my name is Pam Todd and I reside at 503 Atkins Avenue. And I just had a couple questions before my time began. Is the person who's speaking supposed to identify themsel and their address? The um business developer did not. And I wanted to know if we could have him do that before I proceed. Yes, ma'am. We can. We we just need your name and address for the record. 326 Eastoner. Okay. Shreport, Louisiana. Thank you. Okay. This isn't part of my testimony, but this is what I wanted to say on behalf of the residents I spoke to. I would like to set the record straight about some inaccuracies that occurred.

Okay. One second. She's talking. Let her speak, please. No. Just what I'm saying to you all is please stop talking. Let her speak. I know my time's going. Hold on one second. I'm going to give you your time back. Just do that because I don't want to have to put anybody out this chamber. So, respect her time. And she sat there patiently and respected everybody else's. Okay.

Well, what I would want to correct first isn't my time. Just some severe inaccuracy. The developer stood before the NPC and he said, "Hi, my name is Omar Ali and I reside at 134 Eagle Bend Way." When I went back and listened to the tapes, I heard that and he also said at the meetings, "I live in the Haven." My friend who's a real estate agent did a property search and whether it was him or his father, somebody by the last name Sami Ali owned that property in Eagle Bend Way in the Haven sold it in 20121 to the business that he presently owns. They sold it in 2022 to a doctor who was here for four years who has since sold that property in February, y'all can check all the public records, February 13th of this year to another doctor who is stationed at the Ashner Highland. So we have been presrs under false pretenses. As you notice today, he did no longer say he lives in the Haven at 134 Eagle Bin Way. He's given the address on Stoner, which I assume, I don't know, I assume is the other gas station that he's building on Stoner Avenue. So, just let the record reflect that there has not been full transparency in any any of this since day one. He presented himself that he's one of us. Also, the property was never sold. He did not buy it. I showed proof at the MPC that there was a deed transfer. Mr. Ali, Mr. Awad, the man who's owned the property that y'all had problems with for the last 10 years, wouldn't clean up his property, wouldn't get the asbestos after the building burnt down. He still owns it as a business partner with Mr. Ali and another gentleman out of Texas. And I think that when you make your decision, I think that's very important that you can see some discrepancies on what's going on here. Another thing on the record I'd like to request um to be

corrected is Mr. Chris Lions came and spoke in front of the NPC 10 minutes. He represented all of us against. He used the 10 minutes time to say why everything about this was a bad idea. He was not for it. The lady from the Highland Neighbor Association, Miss Charlotte, she spoke against it. The lady from the Gladstone Neighborhood Association spoke against him. So when every no one came to the second meeting and so when I called Miss Charlotte and I said, "Hi, Miss Charlotte." I didn't call her. I texted her. I did call her. She didn't answer. I texted her. I said, "Are you going to come speak?" And she said, "No, we're under the understanding that all of you on Atkins Avenue are for it." And I said, "Absolutely not. I've talked to all 10 of my neighbors. I have their signatures. We're against it."

Y. So anyway, so just we're not for this. So I wanted to actually present these signatures. Okay, Mr. Ty, your time is expired. Just go ahead and present it to her. Madam Chair, um so if if um again I'm going to ask the same question that we asked Miss Atkins since she is the you know the petitioner here. Would would you be opposed to it if it did not have gas?

I'm not I I don't look at Mr. Ali as an enemy at all. So if I'm presenting it like that, I I apologize. That's not what I do see the enemy is gasoline and alcohol sales in an area that were fragile to begin with and were oversaturated. It's not just from Yuri Drive to King's Highway. It's within a threeb block radius. Two gas stations, three alcohol, if you count Brooksh, three alcohol in liquor establishments. That's what we're opposed to. put a whole you develop that whole property in a U-shape and put restaurants and put boutiques, put shops, put what we we'll support you 100% because I love local ownership. I love to support local. So let some person come and rent a space out from him. We'd be happy to shop there. We just don't need that. And our how they say they think maybe 50% we're all opposed for all of us are opposed to it. Okay.

All of us. Well, let's if you don't mind give that to her. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Graham Todd.

Graham Todd 503 Atkins. So obviously married to Pam Todd. It's our house on the corner that would look at all of this and has been looking at it for the last 10 years. My concern, Madame Chair, and with the city attorney was that Mr. Spikes was allowed to just pop up without being asked a question, Mr. Ber, and just start speaking. That was my concern about procedure. That's why I was very concerned about how that was happening. I understand there was an appellant and there was an applicant, but he was not asked a question. He just spontaneously provided information while the MPC was speaking. There's been a lot said, but fundamentally what this is about is about whether the MPC engaged in planning. We've heard talk about Mr. Lions and other people talking about the plan for Kings Highway to narrow it down to one lane each way with a center lane. Why would it make sense if if we're engaging in planning to add another gas station within actually a two block really a oneb block area because it's from Highland to Gilbert. It would be another gas station and a fourth location selling beer and wine. There is no shortage of gas that anybody has identified and there is certainly not a shortage of beer and wine that anybody has identified. the plan for the the frontage and the way it looks that makes a lot of sense. Restaurants actually thrive in this area. Madam chair, as you said, I was about to tear up when you were talking about our neighborhood

because when you look at the area where Key Mexico is and you know what Louder Baking has done and Docs and how they're redoing uh Maryland's Place and Johnny's Pizza, everybody wants to hang out. And then Fat Calf, look how that place has turned around. I may be found on that patio from time to time. And you'll get your time. You'll get your time. I'll join you. I love it. I mean, my wife's, you know, she knows that's my favorite place to go pretty much, right? Key Mexico.

That's all that's all we think. Guess what? Did work there for 50 years and was almost world famous was Don Seafood, a restaurant. People came from New Orleans is my understanding. My my wife's father lived in New Orleans and would come up. He now lives in Arkansas.

That place was famous. We can do that. Again, when the applicant said that the gas station was ancillary, you just heard that it is actually fundamental. It is the fundamental piece of what's going in here. And then the next piece is beer and wine. That is what the gas station brings people in. Book of Common Sense. The beer and wine has anybody knows this in business has the highest margin of profit. That's what makes the profit to support those other things. You bet. Those other things are great. But other businesses have demonstrated that good communityoriented restaurants make the area thrive.

A month ago, Shreport announced Amazon. A ginormous victory, unheard of in decades for this city. Incredible. This is not fitting with that plan of how we want to turn around Kings Highway where all of these 500 plus workers are going to come. They're not coming to visit a gas station. They want to come tell when you talk about shreport what do they say food that's the first thing restaurants good no one wants to drink gas thank you very much for your time thank you ma'am I apologize I was just feisty procedure I understand yes ma'am especially when you're talking about your it's my house it's been my kids are raised there yes sir

they've gone to one they both went to magnet seminary they both went through ls sciences one is now a speech path apologist. The other one just managed to be a doctor here, to stay here as a doctor. They both own houses here. We now own three houses in our family. We came here as a military. We changed and made this place. That's what we're fighting for. Sorry. I totally understand that. Don't apologize. Thank you. Don't apologize. Thank you so much. Appreciate it. And congratulations on that for your daughter.

London Todd. Uh, hi. My name is London Todd. I live at 602 London. Sorry, it just made me tear up. Um, I'm really here just kind of speaking on behalf of myself personally. I don't have anything prepared. Um, so I bought a house on Lyndon Street, four streets away from this. I did grow up with my parents at Atkins Avenue. Um, obviously this means a lot to a lot of the people that live in that area that we are very against it. Um, my mom wanted me to read off some of the stuff she didn't get to say. So, in the home that I grew up in until I moved away four streets away a couple years ago, um this property, she went out and measured it with a little tape measure. Um it it'll be 29.5 ft away from their house. Um this lovely couple sitting on the third row, it'll be 30 ft away from their house. Dr. Billy, uh it'll be 30.7 ft away from her house. And like the list goes on. Um at the end of the day, like I love South Highlands. I bought a house in the area. I grew up in that area. Like my dad just said, I just matched here for residency to hopefully still train here um and practice here as an adult. And like I plan on having kids in the next couple years. And unfortunately, it would definitely make me feel less comfortable sending them to the grandparents house when it's like so close to an area that we know would potentially down the line have downstream effects that could negatively affect them, whether it's like crime or late hours or we all know what gas stations potentially bring. Um we've all kind of reiterated that. So, I'm thinking about my future family and um I don't know. I think we all take a lot of pride in the area that we live in and I recommend South Highlands to a lot of medical students coming in. Like it's oversaturated with with students that go to LSU and set and whatnot. And I think that it will not bring anything positive to our area, especially as a young person who plans on living there for the next hopefully sever several decades. So, that's kind of all I wanted to say. Thank you.

Congratulations. Thank you. Congratulations on your match. And you're still going to be playing the piano and singing. Correct. I will. Not as much as I do, but yes. Hopefully still. Thank you guys. Hunter Todd. Y'all just had a whole Todd family, huh?

Hi. Um, my name is Hunter Todd. I live at 5730 Lovers Lane, Shreport, Louisiana. Um, there is actually a sober house on Atkins Avenue. I'm sure my mother measured it. Um I don't have the distance, but it is next door to Dr. um Augustine Billy's uh residence. And so I'm going to guess of maybe 50 70 feet. So it's a sober living home for those who are recovering from alcohol addiction. So a man who is living there could not take off work to come. Um but he wrote a letter and he asked for us to read it. So I'm just going to read that for him. His name is Josh Wood. It says, "To whom it may concern, I'm writing to formally express my strong opposition to the proposed construction of a wine and beer gas station near our sober living home. Our residence is a structured recovery environment that provides individuals in early sobriety with a safe, supportive place to rebuild their lives. Many of us are working hard every single day to maintain long-term recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders. Stability, routine, and reduced exposure to triggers are critical components of that process. Placing a retail establishment that prominently sells alcohol directly across from a sober living home creates a significant and unnecessary risk to the health and well-being of the residents. Early recovery is a vulnerable time. Proximity to alcohol sales increases temptation, impulse access, and environmental triggers that can jeopardize sobriety and undermine the progress residents have worked so hard to achieve. Beyond the impact on current residents, this decision could also discourage future individuals seeking recovery housing in our community. Sober living homes are an asset to the city. They reduce relapse, decrease strain on emergency services, promote employment, and help individuals become productive taxpaying members of society. We respectfully request that

the city consider the public health implications of this proposal and deny approval for an alcohol retailer in such close proximity to recovery residents. Protecting vulnerable populations and supporting recovery efforts strengthens our entire community. Thank you for your time and consideration. Josh Wood, 533 Atkins Avenue. Thank you. Thank you so much. Oh, thank you, Mr. Anan. And I couldn't read your last name. Sorry. What's that? She says, "I couldn't read your writing." Your last name.

Good afternoon, Madam Chair and members of the board. My name is Ian Karns. I live on 507 Atkins Avenue with my wife Patricia. Live next door to the Todd tribe. Um we've been there for almost 25 years. Uh we moved in while Dons was still a thriving restaurant. That was one of the reasons we moved there. Back in the day, Kings Highway was a busy street with lots of restaurants and bars. You could eat at Joe's. You could go to Merurls. Those probably 10 different places. You could go to Morrison's Georgees Georgees and put a Mar. Anyway, I love the design.

We all do. And I've been to all of the meetings. And I guess when you go to a meeting, it's like watching a boxing match.

You think your guy won, but the other guy actually beat him. And I don't recall people liking the design. The second meeting we went to, we thought it was a done deal. The gas station get voted down. So, there was no reason really to get into it with Mr. Ali. Uh, we love we love the design. Take out the gas and the liquor. We'll go there all the time. We'll stop cooking at the house. But right now, we never go to a gas station for dinner. Do any of you guys? I mean, it's not something you do. I mean, gas stations are quick in and out. It brings in the wrong element, if it's okay to say that. And I just don't think it brings anything to the community. As you can see, we've got a a wonderful street or neighborhood. We all know each other. We all know each other's kids. There's a sense of community over there. And it's something that the city should be building on. And I think a commercial gas station like this would look great on I20 somewhere, not in a not in the middle of a neighborhood. Thank you for your time.

Thank you so much, Madam Chair. That concludes public comments. Okay. Where do we proceed from here since we've concluded with public comments? I believe now you it would be to discussion and a vote. Any further discussion? Councilman Brooks.

I think I'd like to motion today to um I kind of agree with Councilman Talifero. I'm concerned about the one entrance in and out. I'm also concerned well I'm opposed to the entrance on Highland. So if the one entrance doesn't work then this this this development doesn't work. So I'd like to remand it back for a traffic study second. So motion on the table is to remind remand this particular case back to the MPC

planning commission. It has been motioned by Councilman Brooks, second by Councilman Jackson. Is there any other discussion? So, attorney Tanner, can you tell the audience what does that mean? So, if if that vote passes, I believe I don't know if it would make it to the next MPC uh meeting. I think Mr. could clarify that as far as the timeline, but it would go back to the NPC for another public hearing and public vote uh based on the instructions that you would give to the NPC. So, in this case, a traffic study um and it would go uh back for a vote at the MPC and then come back to council.

Mr. Morgan, is traffic a part of your come up, please? And madam chair, while he's coming up, um, Councilman Brookke, can we also include the stipulations um that Miss Ashley presented for for NPC to consider those as well? Of course. How long does it take for a traffic study to be done?

Right now, we don't have a traffic engineer. It's on the agenda for you guys to go ahead and vote on one. So, that would probably take up to a month. But, we do have engineers in place that can take the responsibility of a traffic engineer. That was going to be my concern if we send it back. Um, and I was just talking to Stephen about it. Maybe uh we should put a traffic engineer on the MPC board before it goes before council so all of that be approved before it comes to put on the agenda and we'll have all that in the situation. Now, I do have a concern with the one entry. That is a big factor. It has to meet a certain uh radius before to turn onto ongoing traffic. And I believe DOTD has to approve it as well. Am I correct? Not not on this one. Forest Kings Highway, but I am concerned about the one entryway. Um, other than that, I don't see any oppose on what's going on, but I don't believe the one entryway will will work for him. Uh, and you oppose the Highland entry, which that leads. It could it it's a possibility that could happen because you know the uh Circle K in the area has the entry into the neighborhood off of Kings Highway as well. So we can look into it do the traffic study. U but I say it may have it may take a month or so being that we don't have a actual traffic engineer on staff. Madam

chair I'm asking this question real quick. So, the um traffic engineer position that you're looking at hasn't been sent to the clerk yet? Yeah. Yes, it's on it's on the agenda. It's on there a won't be voted on. The traffic engineer will not be voted on until April 14th. April 14th because the council will be off for three weeks. At that time, what Mr. Morgan is saying is he would want an engineer to attend the MPC correct meeting. um that would take place with the third Wednesday in April. Will that be enough sufficient time to be on the agenda or will it lay over to May?

At least May because we still have to have a study. Okay. So, it would be May to at least have a study at that time after the engineer has been confirmed. Correct. Now, granted that the engineer is already on staff. We just we just switching the position. So we we could speed it up if if that's if that poss if that's possible. Um because he's already on staff. He's he's working as an assistant engineer. He's just moving to traffic engineer. Okay. So what we what we required the Elvie Road people to do is they paid for their own traffic study and our Is that not correct, Mr. Jean? Correct.

They had to pay for their own traffic study and our engineer approved or denied what that study came back as. That's correct. Yeah, that's correct. So, are you asking that Mr. Ali to pay for I'm not I'm I'm just I don't want to do it for one person and not do it for the other one. That's That's up to the MPC. I think developers spend all that money and then you didn't approve it. Yeah. Well, we did that on Elby Road, right? Mr. Jane, traffic studies are typically paid for by the applicant. It's their burden to show that that that works. Okay. So that that what would happen is that it gets prepared and then it gets reviewed by the traffic engineer to make sure that everything is is proper.

And I think y'all at that point since we didn't have one, y'all contracted it out for somebody to review that. We we we still have someone on track on staff that looks into it. It's just not a contin situation because we don't have someone to look at them all day long. But if it's something like this, we have engineers on staff to be able to to look at it. So it won't it won't take a long process as you thinking. I'm just letting you know that we are working on the traffic engineer process, Mr. Brooks. What's your thought process? I'm sorry. What's your thought process? I'm sorry motion.

Okay, there you go. So um the traffic study has to be conducted uh during this particular process. Well, we're not looking at I'm going to say looking at May, possibly be June, just depending on how all everything falls into place once you get those particular results back. So, I'm just going to say that to be safe. We've already made a motion, sir. You'll have to ask us after the meeting.

Didn't I say we already made the motion? Don't worry, we'll get somebody to speak to you afterwards for sure. Okay. All right. So, it's been motioned and second. Discussion is closed. So, we remain this back to the MPC with the traffic study along with the stipulation that Ashley Miss Ashley included there and we'll wait a wait for those particular findings. That closes discussion. Okay. Mr. Tanner, I don't believe there is an actual vote. Need to vote. Okay. So, we don't have to vote. So, so just I just want to make sure Okay. So, yeah, make sure y'all have it all in the record. Okay.

And you'll have the list of stipulations that Mr. V. We need to send that to them, I guess. Okay. All right. If there's nothing else, this meeting is a jar. We got to vote. Oh, she said we got to vote. I thought you just said we have to vote. We had to. Okay. That's what we'll get ready to do. Okay. So, it's nothing else. Let's vote. My computer is shut down. I Okay, that passes with a seven to remain. Okay, ma'am. We still have the rest of the agenda to go through. What's the other the agenda?

We got a clerk's note and then Tanner has to read something for the record as well. And if you guys have any additional comments. We don't have any additional comments. I got one additional comment. You have one one one. I would like to see us, and I meant to say this while we were talking about domestic violence, I would like to see you as the chairwoman come up with a uh uh domestic violence and sexual assault committee, okay, that works on this and have somebody from the administration as well involved in that. And um you pick whoever you want, but I I think that for it to be collaborative. Um we should have a few council members, some people from the public and things like that.

Karen Barnes would be one that I choose. Okay. For sure. Okay. We'll we'll we'll work on that. Okay. Thank you for making yourself available for that. Okay. So may also now is not here. Are there any appeals madam clerk? No ma'am. Okay. Are there any reports from officers board and committees? Are there any reports from boards officers and committees? No ma'am.

Okay. Madam clerk, is there a clerk's report? The following level appointment was received from the mayor's office on March 18th, 2026 and is subject for confirmation on April 14th, 2026. City traffic engineer Robert Taylor. Okay.

And now Tanner has something he needs to read. Notice is hereby given in accordance with section 19.1 of title 42 of the Louisiana revised statutes of 1950 as amended that the mayor and city council of the city of Shreport state of Louisiana the city acting as a governing authority of the city at its regularly scheduled meeting on April 14th 2026 at its regular meeting place government chambers of government plaza 505 Travis Street Treeport Louisiana at 3 p.m. discuss and consider adopting a resolution ordering and calling calling an election to authorize a special ad valerum tax on property subject to taxation within the downtown development district upon approval by the qualified voters of the city of Shreport and if passed for such tax to be levied thereafter

he's been waiting for 45 minutes to do that. Mayor Russell is not here. Does any council member have any additional comments? Executive session none. And if there is nothing else, it's made in the jar. Help you.