JENNINGS  Minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting Telemeeting Via Zoom Video April 25, 2022 Regular Council Meeting' 7:00 p.m.  Thet twot thousand four hundred and thirty-third meeting of the. Jennings City Council was held on  Monday, April 25, 2022, at 7:00p.m. via Zoom Video.  A. SWEARINGIN  1. Newly Elected and] Re-elected City Council Members Swearing In.  Deletra Hudson, City Clerk, administered the Oath ofOffice for Allan Stichnote, Jane Brown, Dr.  Kimberly Morton, and] Lorraine Clower. B. REGULAR MEETING  1. Call to Order- Ther meeting was called to order at' 7:03 p.m.  2. Roll Call,  Council members present: Allan Stichnote, Yolonda Fountain Henderson, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, Dr. Kimberly Morton, Gary. Johnson, Lorraine Clower, and. Joseph Turner.  Council member(s) absent: none. 3. Approval of the. Agenda  Alsoj present: Mayor Yolanda. Austin; Deletral Hudson, City Clerk; and Sam Alton, City Attorney. Ont thei motion madel by Councilman' Wilson, seconded by Councilwoman: Brown, the City Council  approved the agenda for the meeting. All in favor; none opposed. 4. Approval of the minutes from the Regular Meeting of March 28, 2022.  Ont thei motion madel by Councilman Stichnote, seconded by Councilman Wilson, the City Council approved the minutes from thel Regular Meeting ofMarch 28, 2022. Councilman Johnson opposed. Roll call: Allan Stichnote, Terry Wilson, Lorraine Clower, Joseph Turner; Dr. Kimberly Morton Councilman Johnson asked for a correction to be made on page 6. Commented that he asked if Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that she asked about Alexandria Place and had asked Sam Alton, City Attorney, stated that councilmembers could submit their corrections to the Councilwoman Clower requested that it be in the minutes, that she received a phone call from Mayor Austin telling her whatt to say ands she wondered how the City employees arel being treated. Councilwoman Clower had also stated that she worked for the people, not the mayor.  abstained; Yolonda Fountain! Henderson and Gary Johnson opposed. there could be a collective effort to clear debris from the road.  about a $2000 check that was written. minutes ahead oft the City Council meeting.  Page 1of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Mayor Austin requested that councilmembers would submit their corrections to the City Clerk 5. Approval of the minutes from the Special City Council Meeting of April 13, 2022. Oni ther motion madel by Councilwoman Brown, seconded by Councilman Wilson, the City Council approved the minutes from the Special City Council meeting of April 13,2022. Roll call: Allan Stichnote, Yolonda Fountain) Henderson, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, Dr. Kimberly Morton, Gary Councilwoman Fountainl Henderson requested a correction bei madet to the minutes of the Special City Council Meeting of April 13,2022. The correction was thei misspelling ofl her name, Yolonda CPRESENTATION OF PETITIONERS, REMONSTRATIONS, COMPLAINTS, AND 1.Comments by the public. (Please sign in. Comments arel limited to 3 minutes. See Decorum Corine Caldwell, 2525, Shannon Avenue, stated that she had lived in the City since 1997 and it seemed difficult for residents of. Jennings toj participate in the City Property Auction. She stated that not everyonel has access to a computer and there was poor communication from the City. Mayor Austin informed! Ms. Caldwell that the auction had begun on Monday, April 25, 2022. Ms. Caldwell stated that shel had been trying to acquire 26081 Kinamore Drive. Mayor Austini informed Ms. Caldwell that 26081 Kinamore Drive was not on the list ofproperties for auction. Reynal Caldwell, 2525 Shannon. Avenue, asked about the City property auction, and whether the Mayor Austin explained the auction process. She stated that the auction brochure would be available the following day at the: front desk ofCity Hall or could be found on the City website. Clarence Britton, no address, provided, asked the City Council, how could residents listen to the Cityt to get stuffo done andi ifthe City Council could not get anything done amongst themselves. He stated that the City Council continues to discuss that there are yards that need to be cut, and the Mr. Britton asked what thep purpose was oft the new City) Hall. Hes statedt that the City was spending money ons something that wasi not needed right now. He statedt that] hel livedi int the City for 40 years and] loved livingi in. Jennings, buti iti isl like a war zone now. Nothing was being done abouti it; some Mr. Britton wanted everyone tol be voting for the right person for the City Council, not crooks. He stated that most of the council members were crooks. He had been in the City for 40 years. He announced that he would be running for City Council during the municipal election in 2023. Mr. Britton stated thati ifhe could not get any answers from the council members, then he would go to Councilman Johnson did not agree with the way the meeting was limited by social distancing guidelines from the City. Mayor Austin asked that Mr. Britton provide his telephone number to Nancy Sparks, 7223 Sapphire Avenue, thanked former Councilwoman Rose Eichelberger and another woman for assisting in an issue. Someone pitched a few items out on the lawn of 7221 Sapphire Avenue, whichl had been vacant for 20 years. She asked for over three years, how could shej purchase thel home and havei it demolished. She appreciated that someone had gotten back to  before the City Council meeting.  Johnson, Lorraine Clower, and. Joseph' Turner.  Fountain Henderson not Yolanda Fountain) Henderson.  REQUESTS Ordinance.)  properties were for sale orl held for large businesses to acquire.  residents receive the same prompting to get on the list.  were trying to do something about it.  the Attorney General. the City Clerk.  her.  Page 2of15  Prepared by Khianna Wardl DeGarmo    Mayor Austin asked that Ms. Sparks provide hert telephone number to Schonal McClellon, Director of Housing, for her to follow up. Schona stated that she was the other woman that Ms. Sparks Pat Taylor, 9257 Catalina Drive, stated that the City's communication needed improvement. There was a community cleanup on Saturday, April 23, 2022, and she did not find out about it until the' Thursday before. She expressed her concern regarding communication about meetings Ms. Taylor expressed her concern about the safety of residents in the City of Jennings. She suggested thej placement of1 more speed bumps or signage. She stated that she was told to contact the St. Louis County Department ofTransportation butl had not been able to get al hold ofanyone. Mayor Austin stated that several people in City Hall have been working to spread the word by email or text message. She stated that information she wanted to make sure that the City had Ms. Councilman Wilson informed Ms. Taylorofaf feature ont the City website thati ifs shev were tos submit her email address on the list to1 receive updates from the City website, when the City posts to the website, she will receive an email notification. He encouraged residents to continue to check the marquees for information. Ms. Taylor stated that it was difficult to read the marquees at times. Councilman Wilson agreed but stated that the City will continue trying to get information out to Councilwoman Brown stated thati it was thet top priority of council members to get residents ont the Mayor Austin asked for the streets for speed bump placement. Ms. Taylor suggested the 9200 Marietta. Beck, 54761 Hodiamont4venue, congratulated the new and re-elected councilmembers. Shet thanked Schona. She also suggested that the councilmembers focus on the big business ofthe City, not the little things. Ms. Beck commented on the poor audio quality of the in-person and Zoom City Council meeting. She stated that she would not be able to attend the whole meeting Christina Rosado Shelton, 7029 Idlewild. Avenue, stated that shel had been a resident of Ward 3 for almost 20 years. She had three points of concern: lack of police presence, lack of citations issued, and how ist the $2 million of the American Rescue Plan Act funds distributed to the City Ms. Shelton stated that regarding thel lack of police presence was declining, and Ward 3 needed more patrols. Shes stated that because ofthel lack ofpolice presence therel had been an uptakei in the playing of1 loudi music, hearing gunshots all the time, ands seeing people in the streets. Ms. Shelton also expressed concern over the issuing of citations. She noticed the parking of commercial trucks, buts she does not see any citations beingi issued to the property owners. Shel has noticed that people are fixing their cars at their houses, cars parked, and big furniture on their Ms. Shelton expressed concern over the beginning of Spring that could be the start of problems Ms. Shelton asked how is the $2 million being distributed. She asked if some of the funds were being given to residents. She suggested that the funds be used to demolish abandoned homes, distributed fori repairs tol homeowners, utility assistance, and road maintenance. Ms. Shelton also commented that the audio was muffled and she could not hear anything during Councilwoman Clower responded to Ms. Shelton, asking that she contact her to discuss their concerns. Shes stated that she was trying to find a solution for the demolition ofhomesi in Ward 4.  spoke to.  and activities to residents.  Taylor's contact information.  residents and get more creative with getting the word out.  contact list.  block ofCatalinal Drive area.  duet to the poor audio quality.  being handled.  lawns, ands some: residents have not pulled in their trash cans from the street.  with grass being cut.  the meeting.  Page 3of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Alice Wilson, 8860 Old Lucas and Hunt Road, congratulated the new and re-elected councilmembers. Shei introduced herselfas aj part oft the. Jennings Youth Commission. Ms. Wilson took ai moment toi inform those in attendance of the Youth Commission's upcoming events: Family Fit Camp on Saturday, May 21,2022, from 2j p.m. to 4 p.m. at] Rodney Epps Park, 55571 Hamilton Avenue. Attendees willl be working out with music, and food, and the event is for all ages. The event was hosted by the Grind Hard Foundation, whose focus was to expand involvement. Thes second event was thel Family Picnic atI Lions Park on. June 11,2022, from 2p.m. Ms. Wilson informed the council members that they should receive a copy of the flyer by text Councilmember's Reports (Reports are limited to 10 minutes. See Decorum Ordinance) Councilman Stichnote thanked everyone who voted for him in Ward 1. He welcomed re-elected Councilman Stichnote reported that he had received complaints about potholes atl Buzz Westfall. Hei received a request for 'Nol Parking' signs on the east side of] Pohlman Lane. He also receiveda request for speed bumps on Glade Avenue, near Dever Drive, and on Huiskamp Avenue. Capt. Mann gave a brief report. Crimes against persons were up about twenty-four percent. He reported that the City had seen its second homicide of the year on. Lillian Avenue. He stated that the police were pursuing a person of interest. Crimes against property are down twenty-three percent compared to last year. He stated that there was an uptake in larcenies. He encouraged residents tol lock their doors and not to keep any valuables in their cars. Crimes against society Councilwoman Clower remarked on the comment regarding the lack of police presence from Ms. Shelton, that she did nots seej police] presencei in' Ward 4 as well. Shei recalled ani incident of gunshots heard on' Wilborn Drive. She asked what could be done, and shes suggested that morej patrols could discourage bad behavior. She asked about] police car GPS ift there was a way to find out if police officers had beeni in Ward 4 and1 how tot track that. Capt. Mann explained the: shifts ofofficers. He stated that! he gets requests for street] patrol every week. He gave an example ofhow patrol requests are met, how they can stack up and there were only so many hours in a day to meet the City's Councilwoman Clower stated thei new contract only had four officers on duty and asked ift there werei more officers on duty at a1 time inj previous police contracts with the City. Capt. Mann stated thatl he didi not know what thej previous contracts had stated. He explained what a beat meant and Councilman Johnson expressed concern over the tracking speeding on the citation report. Capt. Mann stated that! he wouldl havet to analyze thei report on a deeper level. Councilman Johnson asked where the City Council should look fori information on speeding citations. Capt. Mann stated that Deletra Hudson, City Clerk, stated that there were: some comments left in the Zoom chat regarding only four officers in all of. Jennings at a time. Capt. Mann stated that the contract states that there should be four officers on duty for each shift, and there were three shifts. That did not include Deletra stated that there was another comment from Zoom, that police staffing seemed too light, and there needed to be an external analysis. Capt. Mann stated that CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies) assesses the department every four years and St. Louis County Police Department has a competent Research & Analysis Unit. He stated that it Deletra stated that another question was left in the Zoom chat about the police shifts and if they overlap. Capt. Mann stated thes shifts. Another question in the Zoom chat asked if there was one officer per ward. Capt. Mann explained that beats, police patrol territories, do not correspond  to6p.m. There willl be al DJ, games, and barbeque for an all-ages event. message. She encouraged those listening toi invite their friends and family.  councilmembers back and Councilwoman Morton.  increase with traffic stops and are evidence of those stops.  demands.  how] patrol officers were assigned.  that information should be found ini thel Municipal Court Report.  special units from St. Louis County.  comes down tot the cost tol hirer more officers fori more shifts.  Page 4of15  Prepared byl Khianna Ward DeGarmo    directly with wards and that he keeps ai map: in his office to consult. He offered to show the map to council members. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that she would like to view the Councilman Wilson asked what the average patrol area size was in municipalities similar to the City of. Jennings. Capt. Mann suggested going by a City's call volume and explained the factors that affect reporting and call response. He recommended that residents report what they see when Deletra stated another question from Zoom, asking ifresidents could see a visual representation of officer coverage per shift and their times and what was the officer to citizen ratio compared to other cities. Capt. Mann stated thati in his experience, a city could never have too many officers. Hea announced that there would be a' Town) Hall meeting on May 26, 2022, at 6j p.m. at Gary Gore Community Center, where there will be aj presentation and a question & answer segment. Councilwoman Clower statedt thatt the City Council wasi informed byl Lt. Schafer att the March: 2022 City Council meeting thatt the contract cannot! be changed. Shes stated that accordingt to the contract, there are: four (4) officers on duty at ai time. Capt. Mann stated that there are other units constantly in the City of Jennings assisting and providing mutual aid in addition to the basic contract. For example, Highway Safety, Special Response, Tactical Operations, and K-9 units. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson welcomed Councilwoman Morton and others that have returned to the City Council. She expressed her willingness to help Councilwoman Morton in She reported that there was a free gas giveaway, which she was in line for but she was turned away. It looked likei it was organized. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that she found that Mayor Austin was aware of the free gas giveaway and didi not inform the council members. Shej promised residents that ifs she were aware of any functions liket that, she would inform them. She stated that there was another free gas giveaway the weekend before but there was an hour Councilwoman: Fountain Henderson thanked those who came tot thet townl hall meeting to discuss the ARPA funds hosted by St. Louis City and St. Louis County. Shes stated tol Mayor Austin that she was appalled that citizens were turned away fort the council meeting because it was limited to seat twelve attendees, yet at the Groundbreaking Ceremony there were many people in Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that it was heartbreaking that she and Councilman Johnson were denied attendance at the City's ARPA meeting by Mayor Austin. She stated she reviews her City Council meeting packet before attending the meeting. She typed up what she had to say before the City Council meetings and she noticed that not everything was in the minutes, yet she believed they should be included. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that shel had asked at thel last meeting about Alexandria Place that did not end up in the minutes in which the City Attorney stated he was not aware in 2017. She stated that shel hadi information Councilwoman Fountain Henderson attended the cleanup event, and she was informed that the information about the theme had been distributed. Shes stated that she didi not get the email about thet theme. Shei remarked thatt the cleanup event could haveb been better organized, yet the cleanup stayed in Ward 2 and al littlei in Ward1. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that Ward 4 Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that as of May 20, 2022 students would be out of Councilwoman Fountain! Henderson stated that Essential Workers Day was. April 26, 2022, at 10 Councilwoman Fountain Henderson announced a tentative cleanup event. With the help of Officer McCrary and another St. Louis County officer, they are attempting to host a large cleanup. She stated that the City needed tol havel better communication with its residents.  map.  they occur, asi itl helps thel Policel Department.  any way.  wait to find out the location.  attendance.  regarding Alexandria Place.  needed the cleanup the most.  school.  a.m., which willl be celebrated atl McDonald's, 8983. Jennings Station Road.  Page 5of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that she attended the dedication service for Marlon Owens on March 31,2022, atl Missionary Baptist Church, 5300 Helen. Avenue. She announced Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated that a speed bump was needed on Shannon Avenue. She thanked the residents that attended the meeting. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson Councilman Wilson stated that he was under the weather. He addressed the resident comment about members oft the City Council being crooks. He stated that he takes it offensively. He stated that he would love to have more dialogue about how the City could do better and improve communication. Councilman Wilson stated that with the attitude that nothing will ever change, Councilman Wilson recognized those who participated in the cleanup, the Firel Department, and the Police Department. He observed that ai few areas that were cleaned up are dirty again. He witnessed someone throwing a whole dinner out their car window. He stated that no littering Councilman Wilson thanked Schona for helping to resolve the situation with the fence behind Councilman Wilson informed everyone that there are many jobs available in the City. He stated that the jobs need to be promoted more publicly. He encouraged residents to spread the word. He also encouraged residents to use the City website, where a lot ofinformation can be found. Councilman Wilson thanked Jim Maixner, Public Works Department, for the removal of the speed bumps along Ada Wortley Avenue. He askedi ifthe speed bumps that were removed were able tol be used for other areas that are on the list for speed bump placement.. Jim stated that they will be used for other areas waiting on the list. Councilman Wilson stated to Capt. Mann that it would be appropriate to get a traffic study on the 92001 block of Catalina Drive. He thanked the residents who attended the meeting and he looked forward to serving the Councilwoman. Brown thanked those who attended the meeting. She welcomed Councilwoman Councilwoman Browni thanked those who attended the cleanup event on Saturday, April 23, 2022. She: statedt that there was good comradery at the event. Sher received a comment froms someone: that they were disappointed that not many more: residents turned out. Councilwoman Brown thanked the first responders who came out to the event: the St. Louis County Community Outreach Unit, North County Fire &1 Rescue Protection District, as well as students from Jennings Senior High School, andt the Public Works Department. Shes stated that they covered all that could be done and Councilwoman Brown reported that Kellie Shelton, Economic Development Coordinator, is contributing to the City's beautification plans. She announced that there will be another opportunity for residents tol bei involved int thel beautification process andi reminded them that there aret three community gardens. She stated she hadt the contact information for thosei interested to get involved. Councilwoman Brown promised to keep residents updated on the beautification Councilwoman Brown reported the Urban League had the pleasure of serving 425 families for a food giveaway on March 29, 2022. She stated thatt the information was ablet to get out and people were ablet tot take advantage of thee event. One oft the volunteers mentioned that enjoyed being able Councilwoman. Morton thanked alll her supporters and thanked council members for welcoming  that there will be a dedication for Pastor Leonard Dennis.  commented that the residents could be packed into the Council chambers.  nothing will change. He invited Mr. Britton tol have additional dialogue.  signs do not deter people from littering.  thel Urban League.  residents oft the City of. Jennings.  Morton and welcomed Councilwoman Clower back.  were not ablet to do the whole City in threel hours.  progress.  tog givel back andt that they returned to assist in this giveaway.  her with open arms.  Page 6of15  Prepared by Khianna WardI DeGarmo    Councilwoman Morton reported that shel has heard residents wanting speed bumps and potholes to be filled. She has heard concerns about vacant homes, ordinances, and high grass and will Councilwoman Morton has heard feedback about the need for morej police presence. Councilwoman Morton asked if the Recreation Department bus could help residents by transporting them to doctor visits. She stated that she would work ons some] proposals ofhow that Councilwoman Morton expressed gratitude for the food pantries and reported that she had been taking somet toi residents. She stated that the City needs tot think about howt tol helpi residents with Councilwoman Morton announced that there has been some brainstorming about al block party Councilman Johnson responded tol Ms. Sparks regarding 5224 Apricot Avenue being turned in tot thel Building Department on March 23, 2022. He stated that he drives through the City, ward- by-ward, and makes note of concerns. He thanked Ms. Sparks for bringing up the address. Councilman Johnson announced that the Community Cupboard on West Florissant Avenue and Hamilton Avenue at the JETS (Jennings Educational Training School) will be hosting a food Councilman Johnson reported that residents not bringing their trash cans in from the street is becoming aj problem in Ward 3. He suggested that tagging the trash cans would help. He was Councilman Johnson also reported that therel have been residents parking on their grass. He has been submitting the information to the Building Department and Capt. Mann. He stated that it was like a domino effect and may occur more often. He was sure that it was a violation of an Councilman Johnson thanked. Jim and Public Works for the dumpster during the Saturday, April 23,2022, cleanup event. He stated that there were about three truckloads to clean up the ward. Councilman Johnson stated that there was a list of events happening in Ward 3, and for more Councilman Johnson stated that thel business on Carl Avenue and West Florissant Avenue has become a junkyard. He went to the West Florissant Avenue side of the property and along Carl Avenue, the cars parked there looked as though they need to go to a scrapyard. Councilman Councilman Johnson thanked the Youth Commission. He reported that he attended the Easter Her reported that there was a Ward 31 meeting, andi it was good to come together.  give that list and notes to Schona.  can happen. limited income.  in Ward 3, inviting other wards toj participate.  distribution on May 13, 2022.  opent to assistingi in tagging thet trash cans.  ordinance in the City of Jennings.  He stated that hel had about 20j peoplel helping in Ward3.  information to reach out tol him.  Johnson asked what kind of business license they had. Egg Hunt at] Koeneman Park on April 9, 2022.  Councilman Johnson stated that there was a Town Hall meeting about the distribution of ARPA funds. He stated that there was $2 million allocated and its uses were voted on. He stated he made thep publica aware thatt the uses could be changed to ensure the funds ares spent the right way. Councilman Johnson stated that only thirteen percent of the first part of the allocation is going tor residents in the form of $40,0001 for thel Ring Doorbell program, $96,000: for internet access, an additional $96,000 on broadband, $75,000 for demolition of 5 houses, and the rest of the funds are going to small businesses and nonprofits. He inquired how many nonprofits have supported or attended the Recreation Department or Youth Commission functions.  Page 7of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Councilman Johnson asked thati regarding the City property auction, how ist the City ablet tol limit bidders to those who are in good standing with the City of Jennings. He stated that he did not disagree but wanted to know how it was going to be enforced without an ordinance to state sO. Sam stated that he would like to review the code to see what the vacant property registration Councilman Johnson stated that when someone applies for an occupancy permit, one: must have their taxes current andi insurance ont the property. He askedi ift that could be enforced. Sam stated Councilwoman Clower requested that her report be recorded verbatim. She thanked everyone Councilwoman Clower stated that the 4th Ward has the most issues. She stated to Jim- grass cutting. Last week, thel Public Works came on the 5400b block ofl Helen Avenue, but twelve other vacant houses are needing tol be cut, side-by-side and across from each other. She asked him, as the Public Works Director, why they were not all cut at the same time. She knows that there needs tol be greater work donel but these properties havel been sitting on Helen Avenue for years. That paperwork should be done in order to see the effect of Public Works. Councilwoman Clower asked fort the 5400b block ofHelen Avenue, the 5300block ofJ Janet Avenue, and the 5400 block of Hodiamont Avenue. With the way iti is going, you will never see the effect. Councilwoman Clower spoke with Stevel Pokorney, STS Car Care, aboutt tires on] Lillian Avenue. Councilwoman Clower: reported trash dumping on Garesche Avenue. She requested two Public Works men drive around Ward4 4because ofa additional dumping, that does not havet to go through Councilwoman Clower reported that the streets are beyond patching. She named Hodiamont Avenue, Janet Avenue, and Hamilton Avenue. She stated that those streets are beyond patching. Councilwoman Clower stated that the 4th Ward is dealing with vacant houses lined up side-by- side. They have been sitting there for years and need to be torn down. She stated that the street they are located on has potholes. Thisi is what the 4th Wardi is dealing with andi is crying for help. Councilwoman Clower stated that there is a property located that she will be getting to Ms. Shelton. 5447 Helen Avenue, the porch was detached from thel house andi is vacant. She stated that it should be an emergency demolition. Why it was not demolished, she does not know. She has been trying to get to Ms. Shelton. Councilwoman Clower stated that a resident had sent a letter tol Mayor. Austin. She cannot confirm that but its should be done with the. ARPA funds. Councilwoman Clower stated regarding the ARPA funds, the mayor had committed 51 homes to bet torn down. She stated thati it was ani insult to residents. She stated that residents are concerned about demol houses that need to bet torn down in Ward 4. Councilwoman Clower stated that there are about 3001 houses that need to be torn down, and residents are crying out. It needs to be a priority. Shes statedt thati it was ani insult to get money from the ARPA: funds but yet givei residents 4001 Ring Doorbells andi money toi nonprofit organizations. Those nonprofit organizations do not livei in the City of. Jennings, yet residents are crying out for things to get done. The committee Councilwoman Clower stated that people have called their councilmembers regarding their Councilwoman Clower stated she was looking at the report of Standing Committees that was already set by thei mayor. She stated that it was not voted on by the committee. She stated that thei mayor is not listening toj people, and shei is not listening to the council members. Councilwoman Clower askedi how long will residents ini the 4th Ward going tol have to deal with the same: issues year after year. Itl has to stop. Itl has to stop. When you walk out that door, what do you see. Trash, vacant homes, high grass. When is it going to stop, this City needs help.  states. He stated that the City could reserve the right to1 reject the bidder.  thati it could be enforced.  for coming tot the City Council meeting and supporting her in the election.  He said that he would pick them up. thel Building Department.  was set up by the mayor.  complaints, yet as the councilmembers, they cannot get anything done.  Councilwoman Clower passed photos of vacant homes around thei room.  Page 8of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Councilwoman Clower asked Schona to get with Kellie to discuss 54471 Helén Avenue, where thes side oft thel housei is detached. Shes statedt thati it was a safety issue and should be an emergency demolition. That's what the 4th Ward is dealing with. Councilwoman Clower suggested that the City canj put $10million: intot the General Revenuel Fund. That way we can: issue out some money and get something done. She stated that fivel houses approved for demolition is an insult. Mayor Austin stated that Kellie would like to respond. Kellie stated that since she started in March 2021, shel had been working on the demolition! list. She compiled al list from 20151 to 2021 that had been demolished, and the list was distributed to the council members. The list shows Kellie stated that she completed the demolition list for 2018-2019, which came from residents, the Building Department, and Public Works. She stated that there are 341 houses on the list. She stated that she has allocated funding for each of the houses on the list. Kellie stated that the bidding for the 2020 funds has been completed. She stated that those houses will be down by Kellie stated that the City just received the 2021 funds from St. Louis County. She stated that the City was getting ready to go into the bid process. She stated there is some capital allocated from the ARPA funds and emergency funds. She stated that all 341 houses on the demolition list Councilman Johnson inquired about thei funding sources oft the properties torn down in the past, where did the funds come: from, andi ifthe funds were strictly used for City property demolitions. Kellie stated that regarding the 2015-2021 demolitions that were done, she does not have al list ofwhere the funding had come from. She estimated that most ofthe properties torn down within that period came from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). She stated that from Kellie explained the application process and disbursement frequency. She explained that not all of the grant funds are allocated for demolition. The funds are used for other projects like the Garesche! Street] Improvement; program andt thel homei repair program. Councilman. Johnson asked ift the CDBG funds were ever distributed to developers. Kellie stated that CDBG was used for developers in the past. She stated that the City has never allocated all of the funds toward demolition, which she was aware of. She explained that there are multiple uses for the CDBG funds but the City of Jennings has primarily applied them to three uses: demolition, street Councilwoman Clower stated that homes 2015 to 2021, the majority of thel homes that need to be demolished arei in the 4th Ward. She stated that there are about 3001 houses to be demolished int the 4th Ward. She stated thel homes that were torn downi int the last report, only one was in the 4th Ward. Councilwoman Clower stated that if you look at the environment of the homes that were demolished and published in the newsletter, the area was beautiful. This is how they're doingi it; thisi is how they're doingi it. Councilwoman Clower stated that she went to each one of thel homes in the newsletter, and the whole environment is beautiful. She stated that she was trying to get thel homes torn down in Ward 4 and' Ward 3. She asked why they are not] put in the fund for the houses to be torn down. She asked why are thej people still crying out. She asked why they are saying that people want thei money to go to nonprofit organizations. Kellie stated that on the list 34 properties need to be demolished. She stated that a form was given to the councilmembers, where they can fill in the addresses of possible houses to be torn down and submit the form online. Kellie stated that it will come directly to the Economic Development Department. She stated the verification process upon receipt of the form, before being added to the list of! properties for demolition. Councilwoman Clower stated that she had spoken tol Myra Randle, Economic Development Specialist, multiple times and submitted al list. Shes stated that it was on the list but for what year or what demolition it was on, shel hadi noi idea. Councilman Turner stated that before he came councilperson, he decided that he would not be a councilperson. He stated that the Holy Spirit told him to sign up. Councilman Turner found out that no one elsel had run for councilperson: for Ward 4.1 He asked why he was there. He stated  that most of the demolished houses havel beeni in' Ward 4.  May 2022.  have funding sources so thel houses can be torn down.  2018 to 2019t thati it was funded by CDBG from St. Louis County.  improvement, and home repair.  that the response he received was that he was accountable to God.  Pageg 9of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Councilman Turner focused on trying to find out what the City Council was about. Hei received al Newly Elected Official packet. He stated that council members can take ai more involved role in the City. He also wondered about the role oft the mayor. He stated he realized ift they did what Councilman Turner stated that the council meeting should not be a place where residents and councilmembers bicker, back and forth. He stated that as a resident before he was on the City Council, he never called City Hall for anything. He did call his council members and it would get done. Hel hadi not received any calls and he offered his service to the: residents. Councilman Turner stated that he was led by God to pray for thosei inj positions of authority. He stated that one receives authority by being submitted to authority. Hes stated that hel livedi in Ward 4and he could telli residents some stories ofl how things have changed. Councilman Turner recommended that residents don't get bent out of shape about what the City ofJennings was doing andi not doing. He stated that onei must never call God about how big your problems are, always tell your problems how big your God is. He stated that it makes all the difference in the world. Councilman Turners stated that the City, councilmembers, and residents  he was scheduled to do, then they needed to do better.  want the same thing. 4.MAYOR'S REPORT  Mayor Austin welcomed: re-elected councilmembers and newly elected, Councilwoman Morton. Mayor Austin stated that thanks to department heads and all their staff, who have been working very! hard. She stated that the City of. Jennings is looking for employees ini most departments. She stated that the employment opportunities were listed on the City Hall bulletin board and the City Mayor Austin reported that there was aj pre-bid conference for the new City Hall and Community Center on April 19, 2022. Shes stated that bids are due on May 3, 2022, at 2 p.m. and the sealed Mayor Austin stated that the Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the Recreation Department and Youth Commission on April 9, 2022, was a success. She thanked the Parks and Recreation Director, Willie Brandon. Shei informed everyone that manyj jobs need fillingt thei in the Parks andi Recreation Mayor Austin reported that on April 26, 2022, St. Louis County essential workers will be Mayor Austin: reported that the City Property Auction list went out that day, April 25, 2022. She stated that the sealed bids willl bei received until Friday, May 6, 2022, at 3 p.m. She recommended thatt the City website be consulted for morei information. Mayor Austin stated that the auction will bel held on May 17,2022, in the City Council Chambers at 10 a.m. She stated that the Cityl had 37 houses for auction: 3in Ward 1,4in Ward2,1 11 in Ward 3, and 19 in Ward 4. Mayor Austin stated that since the City has been hosting property auctions, 2201 houses have been sold between 2018 and 2021, and 541 houses sold outside the property auction. She stated that 2741 houses havel been Mayor Austin expressed her concern regarding some individuals thatl havel LLCS, have purchased houses, and1 have not paid the fee for the Vacant Property Registration to the City. She explained thei frequency of thei fee payment if someone does not begin work on the houses. She stated that the City has beeni investigating and has been placing liens on the properties that have not been in compliance. Mayor Austin stated that those individuals that are on that list will not be able to Mayor Austin stated that the City hadt three (3) community gardens, the Clifton-McLaran Garden, Hodiamont Garden, and Belle Garden. She stated that they have been in the City for about 301 to 40 years that these gardens have existed yet there was no documentation for Clifton-McLaran Garden and Hodiamont Garden. Mayor Austin stated that a resident began a garden on City  website. Mayor Austin asked residents to encourage others to apply.  bids willl be opened at 2:30 p.m. that day.  Department.  celebrated at 10 a.m. at the McDonald's at 8983. Jennings Station Road.  sold across the City of. Jennings.  participate in the 2022 Property Auction.  Page 10of15  Prepared by Khianna Wardl DeGarmo    property, known as Belle Garden. Shes stated that there was ai resolution to ensure that the gardens Mayor. Austin stated that her Administrative Assistant, Verna Charles, acts as al liaison between residents and department heads andi is in the officel Monday through Friday, from 9a a.m. to 1p.m. On the motion made by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilwoman Clower, the City Council approved the monthly departmental reports. All in favor; none opposed.  arel listed within the City.  D.I MONTHLYI DEPARIMENTAL REPORTS  E.R REPORTS OF COMMITTEES  1.9 Ways and Means & Public Safety Committee Councilman Wilson stated that there was a joint committee meeting for Ways and Means & Public Safety and Public Works and Building committees that began at 5:30 p.m. He stated that there was aj presentation from Joell Aguirre, Republic Services, who informed the City that there was 80j percent contamination of recyclable materials. He stated that he requested that the residents be informed of the $0.65 increase. Councilman Wilson stated that as the Chairman he felt that the community needed more time to be educated about recycling and make a change. He stated that there should be more discussion Councilwoman Fountain Henderson suggested that it be added to the marquee not to add plastic bags in the recycling. Councilman Wilson thanked her for the suggestion. Councilwoman Morton 2.1 Public Works & Building Committee - Councilman Johnson reported that there was a joint committee meeting. He stated that this would be his last report as Chairman. He stated that there was a discussion oft the grass-cutting contract. Councilman Johnson stated that the committee has discussed and voted ont thei forming ofar request for proposal for grass cutting services, whichi isin Councilman Johnson stated that the discussion oft the residential tree limb service was tabled due to al lack of information. He stated that there was a discussion of the Public Works Director's qualifications. Hes stated that the committee reviewed the active speed bump list to ensure that the 3.1 Parks & Recreation Committee Councilman Stichnote stated that there was no meeting. He announced that there will be ar meeting on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at City Hall. He stated that Ken Keitel, Terraspec, will be present to discuss the satellite park. Councilman Stichnote also 4.P Policy and Ordinance Committee- - Councilman Turner reported that there was no meeting. 5.1 Municipal League- Councilman Wilson stated thatt there was anl Executive Board meeting. He stated that he was recommended to serve ont thel Executive Board for another two terms. He stated that it will be discussed for approval at the next General Assembly meeting which will be Thursday, April 28, 2022, in Overland at 6 p.m. Councilman Wilson invited fellow councilmembers to attend. Hes stated that the followingi issues willl be discussed att the meeting: the budget, the congressional: map, and al billt that exempts food from State and] Local sales tax, which could be debated. Councilman Wilson stated that the Municipal League was opposed tot the bill. 6.1 Planning Commission - Councilman Johnson stated that there was no meeting.  before ai fee should be applied to residents. suggested thati ita alsol be on thei recycling bin.  process. He stated that $30,000 was allocated for ten (10): yards per ward.  committee was in accord.  stated that the committee would also discuss the dead trees in the park.  7.1 Economic Development Board-There was no meeting. 8. Youth Commission - There wasi noi meeting. 9. Senior Commission -There was ai meeting. F.LEGAL BUSINESS (Proposed Ordinances)  Page 11 of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    1. AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE APPROVAL AND EXECUTION OF THE POLICE SERVICE AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF JENNINGS On the motion for the first reading made by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman Councilman Johnson stated that when) Lt. Schafer presented the contract at thel March City Council meeting, he had made suggestions of something that should be stricken from the contract. He points out wheret the contract states thatt the City wouldi receive the same: services as unincorporated St. Louis County. Councilman. Johnson asked Capt. Mann to explain the meaning of that because unincorporated St. Louis County brings to mind areas like Castle Point and Green Valley. He Sami recalled that the City Council approved the agreements and thate evening the City Council was just passing the ordinance. He stated that the terms of the contract had been approved and cannot be changed. Councilman Johnson stated that both he and Councilwoman Clower were told by] Lt. Schafer that the contract could be changed. Sam stated that the terms of the contract for the ordinance were already agreed upon. At the time ofi renewal, ift the City would liket to go back to the table with St. Louis County, it could be addressed then. Councilman Johnson stated that the contract does not go into effect until. June 1, 2022. Sam advised that should the City make any changes now, sendi itl back to St. Louis County, andi ifthey do not agreet tot the contract change, the City of Jennings could bel left without polices services. Councilman Johnson asked ifthe City could amend any ordinance. Sam stated yesi ift there were enough votes in favor. Councilman Johnson asked ift the City could not strike from the contract or amend the nine-year term. Sam advised against such action at that time because the City would risk St. Louis County not agreeing to its Councilman Fountain Henderson stated that she was under the impression that Lt. Schafer would return to the City Council. She recounted a recent experience with the St. Louis County dispatch wheres she was put onl hold. She was asked by dispatch ifs she wanted a callback, and she affirmed thats she did wanta ac call back. Councilwoman Fountain Henderson stated thats she never didi receive Councilman Wilson stated that at the March City Council meeting when the contract was approved, the contract change should have been made at that time. He stated that they were On the motion made by Councilman Stichnote, seconded by Councilman Wilson, for the second Bill #26791 became Ordinance #26151 by the following roll call vote oft the councilmembers, voting in favor: Allan Stichnote, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, and Joseph Turner; Yolonda Fountain Henderson and Gary Johnson opposed; Dr. Kimberly Morton and Lorraine Clower abstained. 2. AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE APPROVAL AND EXECUTION OF THE POLICE SERVICE AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF JENNINGS AND ST. LOUIS COUNTY, MISSOURI FOR THE DESIGNATION OF A COMMISSIONED POLICE OFFICER TO THE CITY OF JENNINGS FOR A On the motion for the first reading made by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman Councilman Johnson asked where the funds for the additional police officer were coming from. Mayor Austin stated that the additional police officer contract would1 be paid fromt the ARPA funds. On thei motion made by Councilman Stichnote, seconded by Councilman Turner, for the second Bill #26801 became Ordinance #26161 by the following roll call vote ofthe councilmembers, voting in favor: Allan Stichnote, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, and Joseph Turner. Yolonda Fountain  ANDS ST.LOUIS COUNTY, MISSOURI.  Stichnote for Bill! #2679. Sam didt the first reading oft the ordinance.  stated that those areas do not look good.  terms.  ac call back.  approving the ordinance only at the City Council meeting. reading. Sam didt the second reading oft the ordinançe.  PERIOD OF ONE YEAR.  Stichnote for Bill #2680. Sam didt the first reading of the ordinance.  reading. Sam didt the second reading oft the ordinance.  Page 12of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Henderson, Dr. Kimberly Morton, Gary Johnson, and Lorraine Clower opposed. Mayor Austin  votedi in favor.  G. UNFINISHED BUSINESS H. NEWI BUSINESS  1.M Mayor's announcement oft the appointments ofStanding Committees Mayor Austin announced the appointments of Standing Committees.  Ways and Means & Public Safety Committee: Terry Wilson, Chairperson, Allan Stichnote, Dr. Public Works and Building Committee: Jane Brown, Chairperson, Yolonda Fountain Henderson, Parks and Recreation Committee: Allan Stichnote, Chairperson, Jane Brown, Gary Johnson, and Policy and Ordinance Committee: Joseph Turner, Chairperson, Allan Stichnote, Terry Wilson, Dr. Council Representative to the Municipal League is Councilman Terry Wilson. Council Representative to the Planning Commission is Councilwoman Kimberly Morton, which must be 2.4 Approval of the Council Representative. Appointment: to the Planning Commission Ont thei motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman Stichnote, the City Council approved the appointment of Councilwoman Kimberly Morton as Council Representative to the Planning Commission. Gary Johnson opposed. Roll call!: Allan Stichnote, Fountain Henderson, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, Dr. Kimberly Morton, Lorraine Clower, and Joseph Turner. Gary  Kimberly Morton, and. Joseph' Turner. Gary. Johnson, and Lorraine Clower.  Lorraine Clower. Kimberly Morton.  approved by the City Council.  Johnson opposed.  3.4 Approval of the Election of the President. Pro Tem  Ont thei motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded1 by Councilman Stichnote, the City Council approved the recommendation oft thee election of Councilwoman Brown as the President Pro Tem. Yolondal Fountain! Henderson: and Gary. Johnson opposed. Roll call: Allan Stichnote, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, and Joseph Turner. Yolonda Fountain Henderson, Lorraine Clower, and Gary  Johnson opposed; Dr. Kimberly Morton abstained. 4. Approval of an appointment toi the Planning Commission term duet to expire inl May 2025. Alli in favor; none opposed. 5. Approval of an appointment to the. Board of Adjustments duet to expire in April 2025. Alli ini favor; none opposed.  Ont thei motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilwoman Brown, the City Council approved thei recommendation ofl Rosel Eichelberger to thel Planning Commission for an unexpired  Ont thei motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman Stichnote, the City Council approved the recommendation. of Cassandra Hunt to the Board of Adjustment for a 3-year term 6.1 Resolution for Community Gardens-Belle. Avenue Garden, Hodiamont.venue Garden, and On the motion made by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilwoman Clower, the City Council approved thei resolution for three community gardens - Belle Avenue Garden, Hodiamont  Clifton-McLaran Garden  Avenue Garden, and Chifton-McLaran Garden. Alli in favor; none opposed.  Page 13of15  Prepared by Khianna Wardi DeGarmo    7.Approval oft the monthly bills for payment.  On the motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman Turner, the City Council  approved the monthly bills forj payment. Alli ini favor; none opposed.  I.MAYOR'S CLOSING REMARKS  Mayor Austin thanked those who attended thei meeting in person, those who attended via Zoom,  andt those who havei remained until the end oft thei meeting.  J.CLOSED SESSION, LEGAL. AND PERSONNEL (RSMO 610:021-3)  On April 25, 2022, ont the motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman Turner, the City Council approved a closed sessioni for Personnel (RSMO610:021-3)6 by the following roll call vote of councilmembers voting in favor: Stichnote, Fountain Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and' Turner; none absent; none opposing nor abstaining. Also, present were Mayor Yolanda Austin; Sam Alton, City Attorney; and City Clerk, Deletra  Hudson.  PERSONNEL The following actions were taken:  a. Hire Building Department Administrative Assistant II  Ont the motion madel by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilman. Johnson, the City Council voted tos approve the hiring recommendation from Schonal McClellon, Director ofHousing, tol hire Maxine Curry as the: full-time. Administrative Assistant II pending all pre-employment screening tests. Thei motion was approved by the following roll call vote: Stichnote, Fountain Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and' Turner; none: absent; none opposing nor abstaining. Ont thei motion madel by Councilwoman, Fountain Henderson, seconded' by Councilwoman Morton, the City Council voted to approve the hiring recommendation from Schona McClellon, Director of Housing, to hire Le'Shonda Valentine as the Alternate full-time Administrative Assistant II pending all pre-employment screening tests. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote: Stichnote, Fountain. Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and' Turner; none  absent; none opposing nor abstaining.  b. Hire] Building Department Permit Clerk  On the motion made by Councilwoman Fountain Henderson, seconded by Councilman Wilson, the City Council voted to approve the hiring recommendation from Schona McClellon, Director ofH Housing, tol hire Brandy Stonecipher as the full-time Permit Clerk pending all pre-employment screening tests. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote: Stichnote, Fountain Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and Turner; none absent; none opposing  nor abstaining.  C. Hire Recreation Department Administrative Assistant  On the motion made by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman Stichnote, the City Council voted to approve the hiring recommendation from Willie Brandon, Parks & Recreation Director, tol hire Rita Ellison as the: full-time. Administrative Assistant pending all pre-employment screening tests. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote: Stichnote, Fountain Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and Turner; none absent; none opposing  nor abstaining.  d. Hire] Part-Time Parks Laborer  Ont thei motion madel by Councilwoman Fountain Henderson, secondedl by Councilwoman Morton, the City Council voted to approve the hiring recommendation from Willie Brandon, Parks & Recreation Director, to hire Elvis Slayton as the part-time Park Laborer pending all pre- employment screening tests. Thei motion was approved by the following roll call vote: Stichnote,  Page 14of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo    Fountain Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and Turner; none absent; none  opposing nor abstaining.  e. Hire Part-Time Public Works] Laborer  On the motion made by Councilwoman Fountain Henderson, seconded by Councilman Wilson, the City Council votedt to approve thel hiring recommendation from. James Maixner, Public Works Director, tol hire] James Gordon ast thej part-timel Public Works Laborer pending allj pre-employment screening tests. The motion was approved by the following roll call vote: Stichnote, Fountain Henderson, Wilson, Brown, Morton, Johnson, Clower, and Turner; none absent; none opposing  nor abstaining. K. ADJOURNMENT  On the motion made by Councilman Wilson, seconded by Councilwoman Fountain Henderson, the City Council voted by roll call votes ofthe following council members to adjourn the meeting at 10:16 p.m.: Allan Stichnote, Yolonda Fountain Henderson, Terry Wilson, Jane Brown, Dr. Kimberly Morton, Gary. Johnson, Lorraine Clower, and. Joseph' Turner; none absent; nonec opposed  nor abstained.  Approved: Attest:  yblanda Austin, Mayor Yh Bhede  Deletra  Hudson, City Clerk  Page 15of15  Prepared by Khianna Ward DeGarmo