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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-13-2018 Work Session Meeting MinutesSTATE OF ALABAMA ) ( COUNTY OF BALDWIN ) ( The City Council met in a Work Session at 4:30 p.m., Fairhope Municipal Complex Council Chamber, 161 North Section Street, Fairhope, Alabama 36532, on Monday, 13 August 2018. Present were Council President Jack Burrell, Councilmembers: Jimmy Conyers, and Kevin Boone, Mayor Karin Wilson, City Attorney Marcus E. McDowell, and City Clerk Lisa A. Hanks. Councilmembers Jay Robinson was absent. Council President Burrell called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. The following topics were discussed: • The Discussion of Lodging Tax was the first item on the agenda. Revenue Manager Jennifer Olmstead explained what other Cities and Towns in Baldwin County and some in Alabama were charging for lodging taxes. Council President Burrell commented we need to collect lodging taxes from short-term rentals. Planning Director Wayne Dyess explained where short-term rentals are allowed and that R-2 is the problem for illegal operations. Councilmember Brown questioned the percentage of increase. Ms. Olmstead replied it would be a three percent increase. Mr. Dyess mentioned boutique hotels looking to locate in Fairhope. Councilmember Conyers said it good the money is not coming from citizens. Councilmember Brown said he was good with this and it is in line with others. • The Discussion on Fairhope Substation Relocation was next on the agenda. Operations Director Richard Peterson explained the need to relocate and purchase a 200' by 400' parcel of land. He stated there is a risk of substation being damaged by the equipment or debris. Council President Burrell commented the risk is already there while painting the water tank. The City Council questioned the need to move it right now, capacity and placement, mini-substation, relocation and equipment; etc. Mr. Peterson said it makes sense to relocate for long-term planning; and suggested a new cell tower and moving off the water tank. Mr. Peterson suggested meeting with Lance Junkin from Stewart Engineering. Council President Burrell and Councilmember Boone are to meet with Mr. Peterson and Mr. Junkin to discuss further. • Council President Burrell questioned the painting of the water tower. Mr. Peterson said he contacted the insurance company and a claim is on file. City Attorney Marcus McDowell explained the termination clause and we are required to send a 30- day notice of termination. The consensus of the City Council is to terminate and call the bond. • City Treasurer Michael Hinson gave an overview of the BBVA Procurement Card Program Ordinance which is on the City Council agenda for its first reading. Council President Burrell questioned the credit limit. Mr. Hinson replied this program is in real time and limit can be increased; and this ties into the Compass program Net Payments.