MINUTES OF MEETING
OF
BOARD OF ALDERMEN
THE TOWN OF ANDERSON, TEXAS
June 16, 2011
State of Texas
County of Grimes
The Board of Aldermen of the Town of Anderson met in regular open session in the American Legion Building in Anderson, Texas, at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 16, 2011. Present were Mayor Gail Sowell, Mayor Pro-Tem Erna Freeman, Aldermen Joe Boudreaux, Tom Johanson, Daryl Alford, Alderwoman Carol DeBose and Attorney Angela Davis. City Attorney John DeMille was absent.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Guests present at the meeting included Cindy Bell, Chester Finke, Marty Thomas, Dorothy Holtkamp, Janeth Nevill, Donna Kott-Hejny, John Freeman, and Barbara Szymczak. Some employees of Kott’s Café were also present.
Several members of the Grimes County Master Gardners were present to discuss the proposed Anderson Main Street Project with members of the Board. A report of their meeting of June 14 was presented to members. They plan to install planters, with self-watering systems, up and down Main Street. The city was to pick up the cost of the plants. Marty Thomas spoke for the group and advised members of the Board of the degree of work which will be required to get the lines placed, meters installed, etc. The plan includes both sides of Main St. Inasmuch as the main street is a state highway a problem could be “red tape” in securing approval. He will provide a design and present it for approval at the next meeting. The design will include all requirements of the state.
First order of business was consideration/discussion of possible ordinance on no smoking in restaurants within the city limits. Many visitors spoke of their feelings regarding the issue. Mayor Sowell explained that she was approached about the situation by a concerned citizen and was only bringing it to the attention of the council. Donna Kott-Hejny, representing Kott’s Café, indicated that another restaurant in town did not allow smoking; she felt that she preferred to post a “smoking establishment” sign at the front entrance of the restaurant—giving possible patrons an opportunity to choose to come in or not. She felt that an ordinance would be “singling out” her restaurant only. Alderman Boudreaux, and Alderman Alford indicated that in their opinion a sign would be sufficient—no ordinance was required at this time.
Motion by Alderwoman Freeman to approve the minutes of the May 18, 2011 meeting, as presented, was seconded by Alderman Alford and all members present voted in favor of the motion.
Mayor Sowell asked members to consider/approve hiring Paul Malek to oversee the schedule and progress of restoration being performed on the Bill Bean property. She said his charge would be $350.00 or under. Mr. Malek has received a copy of all information required to allow his review on a monthly basis. He can then report to City Attorney DeMille. Alderman Alford made a motion to accept Mr. Malek as the City’s representative in this matter. Motion was seconded by Alderwoman Freeman. All members present voted in favor of the motion.
Attorney Davis reviewed the condemnation process on the Alex Terrell Estate. She had reviewed the heirship names available in 1989—the last record she could find. She is ready to post required information in 7 states and counties. Costs may range from $60.00 to $120.00 for each posting. Alderman Boudreaux asked if we could proceed after a required period of time has passed. Mrs. Davis indicated that 30-45 days should be enough time to hear from any heirs with interests in the property. If no contact is made, then the city may proceed.
Mayor Sowell asked members to review the previous agreement the city had with Anderson Water co. Inc. with a possibility of making some slight changes to the original. Members discussed the wording of the contract and Alderwoman Freeman suggested that the contract be revised or an addendum added to secure the city’s approval of applications for new taps—especially if they are for other than a single dwelling. Attorney Davis will prepare the new contract and it will be reviewed at the July meeting.
A discussion was also held on the list of street names and the map provided from 911. Several discrepancies were noted and will be reviewed by the Mayor and 911 Coordinator Kathryn Dornak.
Mayor Sowell asked Council members to consider and approve payment of invoices currently due and payable. Alderwoman Freeman made a motion to pay all invoices. Alderman Alford seconded the motion; all members present voted in favor of the motion.
Mayor Sowell addressed issues pending in the city as well as progress on current projects:
The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.