HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-28-11 Regular Meeting, Public Hearing and Workshop Meeting of La Porte City Council 7
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested February 28, 2011 Appropriation
Requested By Mayor Rigby Source of Funds:
Department: City Council Account Number:
Amount Budgeted:
Report: Resolution: Ordinance: X
Amount Requested:
Exhibits: Ordinance
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits:
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
Discuss and consider appointment of a Redistricting Committee. The Redistricting Committee appointed will
recommend a plan to City Council based on the 2010 Census as discussed during the Workshop Meeting held on
February 14, 2011.
• ion Required by Council:
Consid .r - •pr• ving a o,l inance appointing a Re districting Committee.
A s i• d mime e uncil A enda
FA- of (.11 �l
Ron Bottoms, ity Manager Date
ORDINANCE NO. 2011 -3322
AN ORDINANCE APPOINTING A RE- DISTRICTING COMMITTEE, AND
ESTABLISHING ITS POWERS AND DUTIES; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE
OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE:
Section 1. The City Council of the City of La Porte hereby
appoints the following residents of the City of La Porte to a Re-
Districting Committee, to -wit:
Chairperson: Charles Harrington
District 1: Nolan Allen
District 2:
District 3:
District 4: Mark Follis
District 5: Paul Berner
District 6:
Position A: Charles Montgomery
Position B:
Alternate 1:
Alternate 2:
Alternate 3:
The Chairman shall appoint alternates as required to establish
a quorum at any meeting.
Section 2. Following publication of the 2010 Federal Census,
the Re- Districting Committee shall conduct an investigation and
determine the population of the City, and the population of each of
the districts from which district Councilpersons are elected. Each
such determination shall be based upon the best available data,
including, but not limited to, the 2010 Federal Census. Each such
determination shall be reported by the Re- Districting Committee to
City Council, which shall express the results of such determination
in an ordinance, which shall be a final determination for purposes
of the Home Rule Charter of the City of La Porte. After any such
determination, if the distribution of population among the various
districts is determined by City Council to be materially
unbalanced, the Re- Districting Committee shall, following public
notice and an opportunity for public input, recommend to City
Council the establishment of new boundaries for the election of
district Councilpersons.
Section 3. The City Council officially finds, determines,
recites, and declares that a sufficient written notice of the date,
hour, place and subject of this meeting of the City Council was
posted at a place convenient to the public at the City Hall of the
City for the time required by law preceding this meeting, as
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government
Code; and that this meeting has been open to the public as required
by law at all times during which this ordinance and the subject
matter thereof has been discussed, considered and formally acted
upon. The City Council further ratifies, approves and confirms
such written notice and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 4. This Ordinance shall be effective from and after
its passage and approval, and it is so ordered.
.p
PASSED AND APPROVED, this day of r eJ Y , 2011.
CITY;�� POR
By: 4i11,
iii R. *.g. , Mayor
2
A K ,psT:
P atrice Fogart
City Secretary
APPROVED % - :
e(.1 ,
Knox W. Askins
City Attorney
3
A
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: 2 -28 -11 Budget
Requested By: Kenith Adcox Source of Funds:
Department: Police Account Number:
Report: X Resolution: Ordinance: Amount Budgeted:
Amount Requested:
Exhibits: Draft Ordinance — Amending Chapter 70 "Traffic &
Vehicles" of the Code of Ordinances, Adding New Budgeted Item: YES NO
Article IX "Regulation of Golf Carts"
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
On January 24, 2011, the Police Department received direction from City Council to draft an
ordinance that, if subsequently approved by Council, would allow for the use of golf carts within
the City of La Porte, under certain conditions. It was recommended that a committee be formed,
consisting of both citizens and staff members, to make recommendations to City Council relating
to the regulation of golf carts within the City of La Porte. The attached draft ordinance
represents the recommendations of the committee and Council's input relating to these
recommendations is now requested.
Action Required by Council:
Provide guidance relating to committee recommendations in relation to the attached draft Ordinance
amending Chapter 70, "Traffic and Vehicles ", of the Code of Ordinances, Article IX "Regulation of Golf
Carts ".
- I rov ' fo Ci ncil A enda
4, fe,
Ron Bottoms, City Manager Date
ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE, CHAPTER
70 "TRAFFIC AND VEHICLES" BY ADDING A NEW ARTICLE IX, "REGULATION
OF GOLF CARTS," REGULATING THE USE OF GOLF CARTS ON PUBLIC
STREETS OR HIGHWAYS WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS; CONTAINING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS
LAW; PROVIDING THAT ANY PERSON VIOLATING THE TERMS OF THIS
ORDINANCE SHALL BE DEEMED GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR AND UPON
CONVICTION SHALL BE FINED IN A SUM NOT TO EXCEED TWO HUNDRED
DOLLARS ($200.00); PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION
HEREOF; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Texas Transportation Code, Section 551.404 specifically provides that a
municipality may, under certain conditions, allow for the operation of a golf cart on a street or
highway; within its jurisdiction; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that, in allowing for the use of a golf cart on a
street or highway, it is necessary to regulate the operation of golf carts in the interest of public
safety, while in the corporate limits of La Porte, Texas;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LA PORTE, TEXAS, THAT:
SECTION 1. FINDINGS OF FACT.
The facts and matters set forth in the preamble of this Ordinance are hereby found to be true and
correct.
SECTION 2. AMENDMENT TO THE CODE.
The La Porte City Code, Chapter 70 "Traffic and Vehicles ", is hereby amended by adding a new
Article IX "Regulation of Golf Carts" as follows:
"ARTICLE IX. REGULATION OF GOLF CARTS
Section 70 -303. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases when used in this article shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning.
Ord. No.
Page 2
"Golf Cart" as referenced hereafter, shall have the meaning assigned by the V.T.C.A.,
Transportation Code § 502.001(7), as it exists or may be amended, and includes a motor vehicle
designed by the manufacturer primarily for transporting persons on a golf course. The term, as
used herein, shall include a specific restriction that a permitted golf cart shall have an attainable
top speed of not greater than 25 mph. Specifically excluded from this definition are those
motorized conveyances commonly referred to as ATV's, NEV's, four- wheelers, mules and
gators.
"Golf Cart Registration Permit" shall mean a privilege granted upon compliance with terms of
this article to legally operate a golf cart upon a public highway, or parking area within the
corporate boundaries of the City of La Porte for the term that the permit was issued.
"Operator" shall mean the person operating and having physical control over the golf cart. An
operator must carry a valid Texas Drivers' License.
"Golf Cart Registration Permit Decal" shall mean a certificate for attachment to a golf cart
identifying the golf cart as permitted by the city and giving an expiration date.
"Owner" shall have the meaning assigned by the Texas Transportation Code, § 502.001, and
shall mean the person who has legal title to the golf cart, has the legal right of possession of the
golf cart, or has the legal right of control of it.
"Public Highway" shall have the meaning assigned by the Transportation Code § 502.001(18),
as it exists or may be amended, and includes a road, street, way, thoroughfare, or bridge:
a. that is in the state;
b. that is for the use of vehicles;
c. that is not privately owned or controlled; and
d. over which the state has legislative jurisdiction under its police power.
Section 70-304. Operation of Golf Carts Permitted.
Pursuant to the Texas Transportation Code, Section 551.404, operators are permitted to operate a
golf cart on public highways within the corporate limits of the City of La Porte providing that the
public highway has a posted speed limit of not more than 35 miles per hour and all other
requirements contained within this Article are met.
Section 70 -305. Required Equipment Regulations.
a. Every golf cart operated within the City of La Porte shall be equipped with the following
equipment which shall be operational at all times:
1. headlights;
2. tail lamps;
3. reflectors;
4. parking brakes;
Ord. No.
Page 3
5. rearview mirror(s);
6. a slow moving vehicle emblem clearly visible in daylight or at night from the light of
standard automobile headlamps at a distance of at least 500 feet as provided for in
§547.703 of the Transportation Code..
b. Every golf cart powered by a gasoline engine shall at all times be equipped with an exhaust
system in good working order and shall comply with all state, federal and city regulations,
including but not limited to Section 34 -94 et. seq. ( "Noise ") of this code.
c. Golf carts which have been altered to allow them to travel at speeds greater than 25 mph are
prohibited on any public highway in the City of La Porte.
Section 70-306. Operation Regulations.
a. All operators of golf carts shall be licensed to operate a motor vehicle as provided by the
Texas Transportation Code and shall carry a valid Texas Drivers' License and proof of
insurance for the golf cart, while operating the golf cart.
b. All operators of golf carts shall abide by all traffic regulations applicable to vehicular
traffic when using any public highway in the City of La Porte.
c. Golf carts shall not be operated on public sidewalks at any time.
d. Golf carts shall not be operated on a public bike trail, unless the section of bike trail is
directly adjacent, and runs parallel, to a public highway with a posted speed limit that
exceeds 35 miles per hour. When operating on a bike trail, golf carts must yield the
right -of -way to bikes and pedestrians.
e. A golf cart may not cross a street or highway with a posted speed limit of more than 35
mph, unless the crossing occurs at an intersection.
f. All golf carts are entitled to the full use of a lane on the public highway and no motor
vehicle shall be operated in such a manner as to deprive any golf cart of the full use of a
lane.
g. The operator of a golf cart shall not overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the
vehicle being overtaken.
h. No operator shall operate a golf cart between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines of
rows of vehicles.
i. Golf carts shall move to the right and yield the right of way to faster moving vehicles.
Ord. No.
Page 4
j. No person may ride in the lap of the driver or any other occupant of a golf cart.
k. The maximum seating of a golf cart shall be limited to the seating capacity as designated
by the manufacturer; and all occupants operating or riding in/on a golf cart must occupy a
designated seat and remain seated at all times while the golf car is in motion.
1. Children under the age of ten years must be properly restrained by a seat belt. Seat belts
must meet American National Safety Institute (ANSI) standards; and
m. Golf carts may not pull or tow any person, vehicle or equipment.
Section 70 -307. Exceptions.
a. Golf carts owned and/or operated for official government purposes by the City of La Porte
or any other governmental entity are exempt from regulation by this code.
b. Golf carts used while evacuating persons during a declared emergency are exempt from
regulation by this code during the declared emergency and for 72 hours after the emergency
unless otherwise ordered by the City.
Section 70 -308. Registration Permit.
Before any golf cart may be operated on the streets and highways of the City of La Porte, it must
be registered with and provided a permit by the City of La Porte Police Department.
Registration must be up -dated annually and the fee for registration shall be $35, which covers
administrative and inspection costs. The city registration permit process includes the following:
a. The applicant shall complete the city - supplied registration permit application which shall
contain the:
1. Name and physical and mailing address of the applicant owner.
2. Location where the vehicle is regularly stored overnight.
3. Model, make and golf cart ID number.
4. Current Driver's License information of owner.
5. A statement that the applicant has been furnished a copy of this ordinance and that he
or she agrees to comply with all conditions contained in this ordinance and to any
local, state or federal laws governing the use of golf carts.
6. A statement that the registration permit holder and any user shall indemnify and hold
harmless the City of La Porte, Texas for any and all civil liability associated with
said registration and that the permit holder and user waive any and all rights to sue or
allow subrogation by insurance company.
7. Any other information that the city may reasonably require.
Ord. No.
Page 5
b. The registration permit application shall be:
1. Accompanied by the annual permit fee of $35.00.
2. Accompanied by proof of financial responsibility consistent with the minimum
requirements of the Texas Transportation Code for the operation of motor vehicles.
A copy of the certificate of insurance shall be attached to the application.
3. Accompanied by a copy of the applicant's Texas Driver's license.
4. Signed by the applicant/owner.
c. Upon receipt of the completed application and permit fee, a member of the police
department shall make arrangements to inspect the golf cart for adherence to this ordinance.
d. When the inspector has approved the vehicle, the annual permit decal shall be issued to the
owner. The decal shall be immediately affixed to the front panel of the driver's side of the
golf cart so as to be clearly visible.
e. The registration permit shall be effective for one year from the date of issuance or until such
time as revoked for non - compliance or when the golf cart is transferred to a new owner.
Section 70 -309. Revocation of the Registration Permit.
The registration permit may be revoked if:
a. The owner or operator of the golf cart fails to abide by the rules and regulations of this
ordinance, including failure to maintain liability insurance.
b. The owner or driver of the golf cart fails to abide by the traffic laws of the State or the City of
La Porte and/or operates the golf cart in an unauthorized area, or uses a wireless communication
device in a school zone during restricted school hours, in violation of State Law.
Section 70 -310 Registration Permit Is Not Transferrable.
The city registration permit is not transferable. Upon transfer of ownership to a another person
who intends to operate the golf cart in La Porte, the new owner must register the golf cart in
his/her name and pay the required permit fee as outlined in this ordinance.
Section 70 -311. Penalty
This Ordinance is hereby incorporated into and made a part of the La Porte City Code. Any
person who shall violate any provision of this Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined in an amount not more than Two Hundred
Dollars ($200.00) per offense. Neither allegation nor evidence of a culpable mental state is
required for the proof of an offense defined in this section."
Ord. No.
Page 6
Section 4. Open Meetings The City Council officially finds, determines, recites, and declares
that sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of this meeting of the City
Council was posted a place convenient to the public at the City Hall of the City for the time
required by law preceding this meeting, as required by the Open Meeting Law, Chapter 551,
Texas Government Code; and that this meeting has been open to the public as required by law at
all times ruling which this ordinance the subject matter thereof has been discussed, considered,
and formally acted upon. The City Council further ratifies, approves and confirms such written
notice and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 5. Severability. Should any section or part of this ordinance be held unconstitutional,
illegal, or invalid, or the application to any person or circumstance for any reasons thereof
ineffective or inapplicable, such unconstitutionality, illegality, invalidity, or ineffectiveness of
such section or part shall in no way affect, impair or invalidate the remaining portions thereof;
but as to such remaining portion or portions, the same shall be and remain in full force and effect
and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are declared to be severable.
Section 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective fourteen (14) days after its
passage and approval. The City Secretary shall give notice of the passage of this ordinance by
causing the caption hereof to be published in the official newspaper of the City of La Porte at
least once within ten (10) days after the passage of this ordinance, in accordance with the
provisions of Chapter 52, Texas Local Government Code, and the City of La Porte Charter.
PASSED AND APPROVED on the first reading on the day of 2011.
By:
Louis R. Rigby
Mayor
ATTEST:
Patrice Fogarty
City Secretary
APPROVED:
Clark T. Askins
Assistant City Attorney
6
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: February 28, 2011 Budget
Requested By: Tim Tietjens for Chamber of Commerce Source of Funds:
Department: Planning Account Number:
Report: X Resolution: Ordinance: Amount Budgeted:
Amount Requested:
Exhibits: Letter from Chamber of Commerce
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits: Sample Farmers' Market Guidelines
Exhibits
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
The Chamber of Commerce has requested City assistance with organizing and administering a Farmers'
Market. As proposed, the market would be held monthly at the Five Points Plaza.
The Chamber would like this opportunity to present their request to Council.
Action Required by Council:
' : e a report from the Chamber of Commerce requesting assistance with the creation of a Farmers'
ark: .
A • ed A. enda
(„
Ron Bottoms, City anager Date
P.O. BOX 996 / LA PORTE, TEXAS 77572 -0996 / PHONE (281) 471 -1123 / FAX (281) 471 -1710
; 8 ) 117 g A 11
rl P 20
Pil
La Porte - Bayshore B J�1�l —
Chamber of Commerce
January 27, 2011
The Honorable Mayor Louis Rigby and Council
City of La Porte
604 W. Fairmont Parkway
La Porte, TX 77571
Dear Mayor Rigby:
Recently members of the Chamber's Small Business Committee met with Mr. Tim Tietjens and
Ms. Stacey Osborne of the City of La Porte to discuss the issue of the City organizing and
administering a Farmers' Market each month at Five Points Plaza. They noted that they thought
it would be possible and that they would present the issue to City Council. If Council gives
approval to move forward with holding a Farmers' Market, committee members have stated
that they would take turns assisting onsite during the events.
On behalf of the Small Business Committee of the La Porte - Bayshore Chamber of Commerce, I
am writing to encourage you to consider approval of holding a Farmer's Market at Five Points
Plaza on a regular basis.
Thank you for your consideration in this important matter.
Sincerely,
Colleen Hicks, IOM
President
•
Cc: Councilman John Black
Councilman Mike Clausen
Councilman Chuck Engelken
Councilman Daryl Leonard
• Councilman Jay Martin
Councilman Tommy Moser
Councilman Mike Mosteit
Councilman John Zemanek
/Mr. Tim Tietjens
Ms. Stacey Osborne
AEC-77
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE
UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
Establishing and Operating
a Community Farmers' Market
Forrest Stegelin, Extension Marketing and Agribusiness Specialist
Consumers today are expressing renewed interest in Proposed Timetable
buying food directly from the farmer or grower. At one Thefollowing timetable proposes a calendar ofactions
time, farmers' markets flourished. Over the years, with and activities that should be followed to establish a
improved transportation, improved storage facilities, and community farmers' market. Consider it a "things to do"
modern mass merchandising, local farmers' marketsslowly list or checklist.
disappeared.
Increasing transportation costs and consumers' new
awareness of the importance of fresh vegetables and fruit January • Gather a group of interested people
in the diet are creating new opportunities for marketing • Determine specific goals and tasks
local production to consumers through farmers' markets.
Furthermore, community leaders are realizing the February • Explore the mechanics of direct marketing
• Look for and settle on
economic opportunities and rewards of farmers' markets a and fund • Gain community support po and fund raising
in the realm of community (metro and non - metro) • Check into legalities
development. • Begin publicity to farmers
What is a community farmers' market? This form of (continue through May)
direct marketing is located in or near a community and
offers the market environment and market convenience March • Promote the farmers' market concept
where many sellers can sell their farm - origin products to
many customers. April • Market management and organization
This publication is designed to help community leaders,
policy- makers, consumers, and marketers establish and May • Begin publicity to consumers
manage a community farmers' market. (continue through September)
June • Open the fanners' market
ESTABLISHING A July • Promote the farmers' market (peak season)
FARMERS' MARKET August • Sponsor a special activity
Five topics need to be considered when establishing September • Organize and solidify farmer - consumer
a farmers' market: market feasibility; sponsorship of a association
farmers' market; creating a favorable environment; location
and site considerations; and marketfacilities. The planning October • Extend the marketing season with fall crops
stages are critical to the success of the operation, especially
when the farmers' market is a new market outlet to the November • Solicit and evaluate suggestions from
buyers and the sellers. farmers and consumers
December • Close market
AGRICULTURE • HOME ECONOMICS • 4 -H • DEVELOPMENT
Market Feasibility
Thoughts to Consider
• Usuallyenough supportfrom consumers and producers
develops as pmarketingapportunitiesbecomeapparent. "People don't plan to fail,
• Continued participation is assured if a balance between
buyers and sellers occurs when the market first opens.
• A half -dozen consistent, qual ity conscious sellers and they fail to plan.
100 regular shoppers justify a farmers' market. —Anonymous
The first step in planning and establishing a farmers'
market is to consider its economic feasibility. This involves
two critical segments: consumers and producers.
A community farmers' market has four concerns
regarding consumer preferences: good quality; adequate
quantities; reasonable prices; and conveniently located
facilities. Nearby roadside stands and pick - your -own farms
could reduce the demand for goods at the farmers' market.
Sponsorship
Research has shown that assuring an adequate number
of producers as sellers at a farmers' market is probably
more important than evaluating consumer numbers in Thoughts to Consider
planning the market. Five to ten producers providing a • Civic clubs and business and community organizations
variety of items over the entire local production season are are potential sponsors.
all that are needed to start a farmers' market. • Sometimes a city or county will provide facilities.
To keep these producers selling, average daily sales • Area development groups may also help.
exceeding $100 per producer are needed. With an average
daily sale to each customer of $10, 100 buyers must be Cooperation and community pride are the keys.
present each clay tosupporta minimum market. About25- Examples of this cooperation include sponsorship or
30 farmers are needed for best results during peak sales participation by:
periods, and these require more than 300 customers to local governments with county Extension staff;
• support them at the $100 per day sales level. • several local civic clubs, local banks, agricultural
Other factors to evaluate when considering market organizations, and public- minded businesses;
feasibility include: • local fairgrounds, if available;
• Percentage of population in and around community • producer cooperatives;
with gardens; • a public body providing facilities if a producer group
• Quality and prices at the local retail food stores; can be organized to manage and operate the market;
• Existence of other nearby farmers' markets; and
• Existence of nearby roadside stands and u -pick farms; • grants for developing markets from the Small Business
• Existence of wholesale merchants who sell to Administration, Save the Children Federation,
consumers; Appalachian Regional Commission, Tennessee Val ley
• Tastes and preferences of consumers; Authority, or Area Development District.
• Socio- economic mix of consumers;
• Production and marketing experience of potential Many farmers' markets have been developed by local
growers; governments in cooperation with the county Extension
• Consumer confidence in producers for providing safe, staff. This approach minimizes problems of site location,
quality products; funding, and zoning. Maintenance, policing, staffing,
• Attitude toward the market by government officials, insuring, and development of facilities can be a part of
human resource agency officials, commercial business regular governmental procedures. While operating funds
people, and the agricultural community; may be obtained from seller fees, developmental funds
• Expectations of the community (and are they come from public sources.
attainable ?); Perhaps the major disadvantages of public ownership
• Cooperativeness of producers with each other; and are political pressure to allow the use of the market
• Interest and support of various segments of the facilities for non - related purposes, lack of control by
professional agricultural community, such as Extension market users, and potential removal of the market in order
agents and special ists, FmHA, ASCS managers, county to provide other necessary public services.
agriculture committees, State Department of
Agriculture, and educational institutions. 2
Some groups (or individuals) who frequently should be involved or characterized by big trucks, fast-moving
contacted when planning a farmers' market include: materials handling equipment, stacks in
vehicular areas, early hours, perspiring
Who Should be Involved? Why? workers —aII of which may prove
distasteful or threateningto retail farmers'
County or city officials Site, funding, policing, staffing market shoppers. Adequate, wel (-
County Extension staff Technical information, leadership marked, weIt parking areas away
Area development district staff Funding applications, coordination from moving equipment gives the retail
Planning, zoning,
building code officials Facilities development customer more security.
Utility representatives Water, electricity, sewer, garbage Not much data exist about the
Highway department or impact of non - produce sales activities
city street department officials Entrances, traffic in farmers' markets, but flea markets or
Police representatives Security, traffic antique shows which operate regularly
Fire marshall's office Fire safety all year will likely swallow up a farmers'
FmHA office Grants, loans market in the immediate vicinity. A
ASCS county manager Federal ag program support farmers' market located on the road
Soil Conservation Service Site considerations towards a popular activity like a flea
Civic clubs and churches Support, funding market might be very successful if flea
Banks Operating loans, support
Agricultural organizations Support, funding market patrons stop to buy produce.
Local farmer co - ops However, it is likely that sharing
or other ag suppliers Materials at reduced cost buildings and parking will diminish the
Community Action Programs Support through anti - poverty programs impact of the farmers' market. Most
Local health department Health code considerations customers will either refuse to visit the
Tennessee Valley Authority Management support, funding market because of parking and walking
State Department of Agriculture Promotion, regulations, facilities distances, or will divert their major
Local produce dealers attention (and dollars)tothenon produce
and supermarket representatives Market coordination, goodwill, tech nical help
Local director of Manpower, inc. activities.
or CETA programs Labor Although it is possible that more
High school vocational customers would buy produce at the
agriculture teacher Educational help farmers' market if they were attracted by
Private groups involved in a flea market, the danger is that producers
local market development Assistance, support, promotion will lose control and the facility will
increasingly be operated for the benefit
of the non - produce segment. The best
Favorable Environment stalls will be continuously occupied by non - produce
sellers and soon all stalls will contain flea market sellers
Thoughts to Consider
who sell each day, while produce sellers will be consigned
g to outside areas in the back of the parking lot on the days
• Do not share a location with vigorous non - produce they share the market.
sales activities.
• The market may benefit from the proximity of a
wholesale produce area. Location and Site Considerations
• Farmers' market customers may not mix well with
commercial produce activity.
Thoughts to Consider
In some larger cities, such as Louisville, wholesale • Locate the market where it is convenient and close to
marketing districts exist. There may be some interest in buyers.
locating a farmers' market in the same vicinity. A farmers' • Locate it where sellers can reach it easily.
market is generally believed to be complementary to • Make sure the entrance and exit are not traffic hazards.
commercial produce wholesaling, but it is important to • Provide enough space for parking and traffic flow.
note that they differ in their kinds of activities, customers, • Choose a well - drained, relatively level site.
and facility requirements.
An advantage of having the two activities in proximity In selecting a location, it is more important to be near
is that it permits producers to contact wholesalers to sell the majority of customers than to be close to producers.
excess supplies and enables wholesalers to buy some of Closeness should be measured in terms of convenience as
their needs from farmers. Yet, the wholesale industry is well as distance. Studies show that most customers will
3
come from within a 15 -mile radius of the market. The • Provide a telephone (possibly a pay phone).
typical customer will not drive a long distance to reach the • Provide restrooms (for sellers and buyers).
market, while sellers will travel much farther. • Provide good lighting if open early mornings, late
Farmers' markets are characterized by considerable evenings, or around the clock. 1
foot and vehicular traffic. Paved or well- graveled drives • If possible, provide an on -site office.
and walkways are required for continuous operation over
five or six months. Sites which expose patrons to heavy City or county ordinances may affect the provision of
commercial or industrial activities should be avoided. it is manyof the items listed above. This is another reason why
beneficial to have a site with well-drained, fastdrying soil. regulatory agencies should be included in the planning
Steep slopes make it difficult to enter and exit stalls; and operation of a farmers' market.
they also create a hazard from parked autos; and they
make it much more difficult to display, load, and unload i
produce. In addition, building construction is harder on OPERATING A
steep slopes.
Publicly- sponsored farmers' markets placed in the FARMERS' MARKET
path of urban renewal projects or urban sprawl are likely
to be lost due to political pressure to use the land for a
higher - valued use. Obtaining a long -term commitment Managing a Farmers' Market
from a government body may be difficult in such cases.
Markets which remain accessible at night may become
littered or vandalized. Some means of locking -up the site, Thoughts to Consider
such as a chain across the drive, is desirable. However, • On -site guidance should be provided by a market
this means the manager will need to arrive at the site very manager.
early each morning to admit sellers. • A Board of Directors should develop pol icies consistent
Some customers of farmers' markets associate the with the by -laws and organizational goals.
market with rural openness. If so, then the market would
benefit from a relatively large site where only farm -type The farmers' market should have a Board of Directors
produce is seen, that is as free as possible from to provide overall direction and policy. The Board should
encroachment by other activities. This large site would be be composed of producers, consumers, government
especially beneficial for parking and roadways. officials, community leaders, agribusiness managers, and
Sites such as church or shopping center parking lots other individuals who can lend support and skills to
are suitable temporary location options. However, the managing the market. The broader the community 1
usual lack of shade and the high temperatures radiating involvement on the Board the greater the chances of
from paved or asphalt lots will cause produce quality to success, since experience shows that markets need to
deteriorate rapidly; customer and seller discomfort may have a community focus. Because the market is a business
also be experienced. organization, the composition and election of the Board
Sites served by utilities such as water, sewers, and members would be according to the by- lawsofthemarket.
electricity would allow installation of restrooms and Among its responsibilities, the Board of Directors
produce washing facilities at minimum cost. should:
Before committing the farmers' market organization • Establish policy concerning hours, days, and months
to a site, regulatory agencies involved in controlling land of market operation;
use and access need to be involved. Such agencies as
• Determine who may sell at the market;
zoning and land use planning boards, the highway
• fees Set for selling in the market;
department, the building inspection office, the fire Se fees f employees;
• marshal l's office, and the police and utility departments • Designate individuals who may act for the Board in an
may shed light on the suitability of a site.
emergency;
• Specify the responsibilities of the manager plus the
extent of the manager's authority;
Facilities • Make provision for careful accounting of resources
and funds; and
Thoughts to Consider • Assure that all governmental reports (state, local,
• Provide plenty of close -in parking. federal) are prepared and distributed.
• Provide well- defined parking spots.
• Provide for orderly traffic flow around market. To handle the managerial responsibility of most
( • Provide shelter from rain and sun, farmers' markets, onlya part-time manager may be needed
because the market may not operate every day. Due to
4
funding limitations, the manager may have to be chosen is almost impossible to police a farmer -only rule.
from among the regular market sellers, be a retired person The size of the market and the availability of an
offering services free or at low cost, or be a government adequate range of quality produce from local farmers may
official to whom market management responsibilities are affect the decision. Whatever the decision, the Board
added above other assigned duties. needs to impartially enforce the ruling until, after careful
An on -site manager is needed to: review and evaluation, the Board chooses to change it.
• Provide orderly parking by sellers (and buyers); Besides the political debate, experiences indicate that
• Maintain order and cleanliness; allowing resellers and other non - producers to operate in
• Collect seller fees; the market may cause the market to come under closer
Open and close the market grounds; surveillance by sales tax collection authorities, weights-
•
• Exercise supervisory control; and - measure regulatory agencies, and labor law enforcers.
Suddenly, all laws applying to retail sales become
• Record names and addresses of sellers; applicable.
• Develop an anonymous system for reporting sales by
each seller;
• Provide pricing and merchandising help to sellers; and Financing the Market Operations
• Confer with local l awenforcementofficia tsconcerning g p
authority to regulate behavior at the market and the
support available for accident investigation, traffic Thoughts to Consider
control, removal of unauthorized sellers, and control • Usually, seller fees are expected to pay operating
of disorders at the market site. costs.
Although some cities or counties may be willing to
Who May Sell at the Market? underwrite the establishment of a market, few will pay its
operating costs. In most situations money will need to be
Thoughts to Consider raised from market users to pay current expenses. Three
Reasonable policy must be established and applied methods are frequently used, all of which charge only the
•
seller.
consistently.
If a membership fee is charged, only members have
Generally, farmers' markets are attractive places at any right to sell on the market. This may permit a little
which to buy and sell produce. This encourages the niore controt since eligibitityto belong to the group can be
presence of non - producers who may buy produce and established more carefully. it also may exclude casual
offer it for resale at the farmers' market. Consequently, sellers who only have produce items to sell infrequently,
potential problems may arise with non - producers, peddlers, or for a short period of the season. For these sellers, the
"pi nhookers," and resellers. Since many of these marketers membership fee may be uneconomical or the membership
buy produce from other areas and offer it earlier in the application procedure troublesome.
spring and later in the fall, the money received for their Stall rental fees (by the day, week, month or season)
produce sometimes leaves the vicinity because the produce do permit anyone to use the market, but the better sites are
may not be locally grown and the sellers do not reside usually rented and occupied for the season by first -come,
first - served marketers. Commissions on gross sales are
nearby.
All of these factors lead to strong demands by resident hard to document because sales are usually cash and
producers for regulating who may sell on the market. This records are frequently sketchy. Commissions are usually
leads to a considerable managerial problem. The Board used when market employees sell produce for the grower.
has several policy options:
• only local farmers may sell; Hiring Employees
• only farmers may sell;
• farmers and non - farmers may sell.
Thoughts to Consider
Most markets find it difficult to exclude all non- • Wage and hour laws apply to retail marketing
farmers. Some community leaders may feel that it is not establishments.
wise to limit selling to bona fide producers. Reasons cited • Federal and state withholdings must be maintained.
include the notions that peddlers may assure more uniform • OSHA rules apply regarding safety.
supply and more attractive volume, and that a local • Job descriptions must be furnished to each employee.
producer with quality homegrown produce can effectively
( compete with the peddler. The bottom line is often that it
5
The Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Farm go home early (2 pm) to do farm work or chores, and then
Labor Task Force has several publications that can serve prepare another day's produce for sale at this market or
as resources on this topic. There is a one page, three -fold another farmers' market.
brochure, Agricultural Employment Guidelines, plus a Consumers typically do not shop early, and some
series of fact sheets, including Federal Farm Labor Laws consumers prefer two periods for sales: 7 to 10 am and 3
(IP -25) and Tax Requirements for Agricultural Employers to 6 pm; some may want noon hour sales if the market is
(IP-28). All of these materials are available from your local within walking distance of their employment site. With
county Extension office. these hours for the market, customers can purchase early
when there is awide selection of the freshest produce, and
also get produce for the evening meal on their way home.
Handling Supplies and Equipment The clays and general hours of operation, as wel I as the
months the market is open, should be widely advertised so
consumers can be assured of finding produce when they
Thoughts to Consider come to the market.
• Inventory all durable supplies and mark for
identification.
Some farmers' markets may furnish such items as Items to Sell in a Farmers' Market
tables, scales, tools, and waste containers to be used at the
market. Someone must be assigned the responsibility for Thoughts to Consider
this market property. Disposable supplies (bags, marking • Do sell fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, shrubs,
pens, tape, nails, light bulbs, etc.) furnished by the market Christmas trees, plants, honey.
need to be safeguarded and issued only as needed; records • Consider selling eggs, cheese, prepared coffee, pies
of issue need to be kept. Careful records of supply and cakes, jams, jellies, craft items.
disbursements and money collected should be kept in a • Do not sell home canned goods, fresh meat, antiques,
record designed for tax and other business purposes. or purchased items.
Health regulations pertain to three categories of items:
Periods of Operation (1) acceptable items —fresh produce and other raw
agricultural products sold by the producer. Sanitary
Thoughts to Consider cleanliness, proper weights and labels, and freedom
• Operate at least two days each week. from adulteration by agricultural chemicals would be
• Try to keep some sellers at the market al l day (hours of checked. No sales tax need be charged if sold by the
operation). original producer.
• Publicize days and hours of operation. Examples: fresh fruits, vegetables and melons, and
other raw agricultural products, including Christmas
The nature of the produce marketed at farmers' markets trees, cider, firewood, flowers, honey, potted plants,
dictates that, in most cases, the market should be open at shrubs and ornamentals, and vegetable and flower
least two days each week —once near the beginning and bedding plants.
once near the end of the week. Typically, smaller local (2) questionable items —items whose sale may be
markets open on Tuesday and Saturday (and Friday). This technically restricted by State or Federal law, but
allows Monday for harvesting, as well as catering to those which usually are not the subject of extensive law
who work outside the home and must process their food enforcement activity because they are unlikely to
on the weekend. Data indicate thevolume of salesdoubles present an extreme health or safety hazard. Some of
on Saturday compared to early week days. As the market these "processed or manufactured" items which include
grows, daily operation may become justified. major components that were purchased may expose
Consider the local situation when deciding days of the seller to liability for sales tax. Craft items fit intothis
operation. Is there a day when other activities in town category.
generate a large crowd, such as the livestock auction? Is Examples: baked breads, pies, cookies, jams, jellies,
there a day when customers have money and are thus pickles, eggs, and homemade cheese.
more prone to shop? (3) forbidden items —fresh meat and home canned foods.
Probably the most troublesome issue for a farmers' Local health departments may have tighter policies
market is the hours of operation. Producers typically like than either the State or Federal law requires, so a check
to arrive early (7 am), get the better sales stalls, sell their should be made with the local health department
1 produce before it is affected by rising daytime temperatures, before any questionable items are offered for sale.
6
In addition to following health regulations, follow Packaging and Grading
regulations about collecting sales tax. Sales tax must be
collected on all items sold by persons who did not produce Thoughts to Consider
them. This is a good reason to sell only farmer- owned, raw g
agricultural products grown by the seller. • Sell quality produce.
Pricing One advantage of the farmers' market is that most
customers come from the immediate vicinity of the market.
This permits the offering of ripe, ready -to -eat produce
Thoughts to Consider which might be rejected by wholesalers who would need
• Post prices. to receive it at a less- mature stage to permit handling and
• Price above wholesale, but usually below retail. shipping.
• Don't compete with other market sellers. Only good produce should be offered for sate at a
farmers' market, but clearly, it is unnecessary to offer only
Buyers patronize farmers' markets not only for high U.S. #1 grade as may be required with wholesale or
quality but also for economy. Statistics show quality is institutional markets. It is better for the seller to take any
more frequently cited as a reason for shopping at farmers' picked -over residual "junk" home than try to move it at a
markets than favorable prices. Since there are no bargain basement price; let the "undertaker" buy it as a
middlemen to pay, selling below retail still generates last resort. Price cutting games are won by the consumers,
greater profits to the grower than he or should would not by the producers.
receive from selling to brokers or middlemen buyers, Attractive displays with readable information are great
providing costs are carefully controlled. Sometimes, if helps in selling. In addition, follow these pointers:
quality and demand justify, pricing at or even above retail
• use contrasting colored items to call attention to each
may be appropriate. offering (examples: red peppers beside zucchini,
Where wholesale market price quotes are available unhusked corn beside carrots, bell peppers beside
by telephone, such as the Cincinnati market, a good plan yellow squash);
might be to add 10 to 15% to the wholesale price to • be sure produce is clean cl (no dirt);
establish the selling price. Prices may also be less of an • don'tdisplay items clean fects,suchasinsectdamage
obstacle if smaller -sized packages are available. If food
stamps are accepted, the level of prices will have less • or spoilage;
effect on sales. Will credit cards be accepted? use large bulk displays if possible; and
• Sellers at a farmers' market should be especially offer more than one package size.
careful not to engage in price wars with each other, or B sure containers are attractive and clean. When
consumers will expect it and wait. Establish a fair price selling by weight, be sure the package actually contains
and stick with it. The price cutter may sell out (at little or enough produce to meet the weight specified. Weight
no profit) and go home; regardless, fairly priced quality does not include the container.
produce will always sell.
A typical comparison of supermarket and farmers'
market prices in the Lexington vicinity during June to Building a Clientele of
September indicates: g
Farmers' Market Price Shoppers and Sellers
Item as % of Supermarket's
Thoughts to Consider
Tomatoes 68 • Sell consistent quality.
Summer Squash 62 • Be friendly and interested in customers.
Onions 63 • Establish policies helpful to sellers.
Potatoes 76
• Sell regularly and stay at the market.
Sweet Corn 68
Bell Peppers 73
Cucumbers 88 The best way for a seller to succeed in a farmers'
Beans 82 market is to develop repeat customers who return time
after time. When the seller sells regularly, preferably from
the same location, and comes each day or on the same
days each week, customers learn to associate the seller
with quality and concern and so patronize that seller
( repeatedly.
7
Success is not selling out quickly, but rather having Legal Concerns
enough produce to permit steady selling all day. Much is
lost by sellers who lose patience and leave the market
quickly. The most fruitful selling is done after the impatient Thoughts to Consider
sellers leave. • Provide liability insurance for market organization.
Friendliness with customers will open opportunities • Provide liability insurance for managment and
to suggest new uses for produce, thereby encouraging employees (bonding and workers' compensation).
more sales. Recipes, free samples, proper handling
guidelines, storage suggestions, and utilization procedures The Board needs to be advised on insurance needs
all show that the seller cares about the customer. After all, and other legal actions which can be taken to reduce the
it is the seller's produce, and there should be some pride market's liability. As a general rule, insurance is needed
and sense of accomplishment in delivering a quality which covers liability for accidents on the fanners' market
product to the market. site and liability for injury caused by using products sold
A clientele of sellers can be developed by: fairness in at the market. Everything from auto and pedestrian
dealing with each seller; making it conven ient to sel I in the accidents to vandalism needs to be considered.
market in terms of layout, times of operation, good facilities, Having each seller sign a form agreeing to release the
and parking; and, developing a faithful, growing customer market organization from any liability — although a good
group. Catering to low volume sellers maybe appropriate idea —will not completely bar liability claims in some
since most sellers produce on only a few acres. cases. Signs saying "Not Responsible for Accidents" may
cause patrons to be more careful, but these signs will not
Customers usually reduce the liability either. All farmers' market
employees, members of the Board of Directors, and the
on -site manager need to be covered by liability insurance.
Thoughts to Consider Sellers may be asked to provide proof of "product
• Be prepared to meet consumers' needs. liability" insurance. Product liability insurance is necessary
• Strive for regular, repeat business. because customers may have an allergic reaction or
• Set hours and days of operation with consumers in illness due to some chemical residue, product - acidity,
mind. food spoilage, or other food-safety related issue.
Money handling (fees, taxes, sales) procedures to
A careful study of potential consumers will help in ensure accountability should be established. Thought
planning the market for their greatest convenience. Some should be given to bonding employees of the market if
markets are not patronized by many potential consumers large sums are handled. A good accounting system will
because: hours of operation are too early; hours of market help eliminate any mishandling of funds, as well as
operation coincide with working hours (remember, more provide management insights for the Board of Directors.
than half of all women are employed outside the home; Payment of all market bills by check is highly
also, there is an increasing nurnber of single purchasers, recommended,
all of whom prefer to shop after work or on their lunch
hour); and, a considerable nurnber of potential customers
pay for food with food stamps or credit cards. Unless the Concluding Comments
market is able to accept food stamps or the individual
sellers can accept credit cards, those segments of consumers Farmers' markets are a viable, direct marketing activity
that provide ample variety, fresh quality, and reasonably
may not patronize the farmers' market.
Studies from Tennessee, Virginia, and Pennsylvania priced farm - raised commodities to consumers of all ethnic
indicate that customers give these reasons for shopping at and economic backgrounds. Shopping at a farmers' market
farmers' markets: is a delight for the senses —the medley of smells, tastes,
textures, and colors creates a memorable experience that
Why Customers Shop consumers enjoy returning to. However, if the market is to
at Farmers' Markets Percent be used profitably and efficiently, community leaders,
policy- makers, consumers, and producer - marketers must
Want fresher, better quality produce 46 work together in establishing and operating the community
Want cheaper price 74 farmers' market.
Want larger quantities 13
Enjoy the market 10
More variety 9
Know the farmer 5
Other reasons 3
Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, age. sex, religion, disability, or national origin.
Issued In furtherance of Cooperative Extension work. Acts of May 8 and June 30. 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department otAgriculture, C. Oran Little, Director of Cooperative
Extension Service. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Lexington, and Kentucky State University, Frankfort. Copyright ®1997 by the University of Kentucky Cooperative
Extension Service. This publlcation may be reproduced In portions or its entirety for educational or non -profit purposes only. Permitted users shall give credit to the author(s) and
include this copyright notice.
Issued 9 -92, 500 copies
10
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: February 28, 2011 Budget
Requested By: D. Wilmore Source of Funds:
Department: Planning Account Number:
Report: X Resolution: Ordinance: Amount Budgeted:
Amount Requested:
Exhibits: Highlight Memo on Inspection Division Activities
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits: January Activity Report
Exhibits
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
Attached is a staff report highlighting Inspection Division activities.
Action Required by Council:
' ceive .taff report
A r l C ouncil A ends
-1 7
t.t.
Ron Bottoms, City Manager Da e
Planning Department
Inspection Services
Memo
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Debbie S. Wilmore, Chief Building Official
CC: Ron Bottoms, City Manager and Tim Tietjens, Director of Planning
Date: 2/17/2011
Re: Highlight Memo on Inspection Division Activities
The following is our monthly report on some of the highlights of the Inspection Services
Division and our January Activity Report.
Assistance —10708 Bois D Arc
• Typically individuals apply for /receive electrical service on an existing home.
However, in this case the electric company refused to release the power without a city
inspection. Despite the lack of an electrical permit, staff scheduled a site visit to
evaluate the situation. The only issue identified was a missing dead front in the panel
and the owner was advised accordingly.
• Once the dead front was installed, the owner re- contacted us. We re- inspected the
panel and released the meter as a name change since a permit was not involved.
• The owner appreciated our help in fmding a solution to this unusual situation.
Assistance — 3814 Dolphin
• The situation involved (2) code enforcement cases (exterior storage as well as a
shipping container in the driveway). They continued to exist even after the house
became livable. Despite numerous phone calls /site visits, violations were not abated
and court was involved.
• During the court process, the exterior storage was resolved but the container remained.
Utilizing the court process and continued inter - action with the resident, the remaining
case was abated. While the resident disagreed with the regulations, he appreciated our
professionalism in the matter.
1
Highlight Memo Cont'd. Page 2
January Activity Report
• (4) New Residential Permits — Valuation is $424,307
9521 Belfast Rd. 725 S. Utah St.
9614 Carlow Ln. 11035 San Jacinto Dr.
• (1) New Commercial permit — Valuation is $550,000
10001 Porter Rd. — Build -out of Lease for Guzzler Manufacturing
• (325) inspections were performed — [December had (356)]
• (294) customer (counter) sign -ins — [December had (238)]
• (148) code enforcement cases — [December had (36)1
• Of the (148) cases, (63) or 43% were resolved in January
• Page 2
INSPECTION SERVIC S
ACTW TY REPORT FOR JA IJA.`RY,1, 2011 [ JANUARY; 1, 2011 's
NEW RESIDENTIAL PERMITS: 4
VALUATION 424,307
NEW COMMERCIAL PERMITS: 1
VALUATION: 550,000
INSPECTIONS PERFORMED: 325
SLABS 12
ELECTRICAL 63
PLUMBING 36
COVERUP 28
FINAL 56
FRAME 2
MISC. 128
CUSTOMER SIGN IN: 294
OPEN RECORDS REQUEST: 14
COMMERCIAL PROJECTS PENDING — NEW CONSTRUCTION OR
REMODELS OVER $50,000 9
DUROTECH — 3501 LUELLA BLVD —10 -219 — NEW COMMERCIAL
RAM DESIGN - 920 W MAIN - 10 -295- CLP ARCH
ACTION ENG & INSPEC — 317 N BROADWAY ST. — 10 -721 — NEW COMMERCIAL
S/P CONSTRUCTION — 9705 SPENCER HWY —10 -840 — NEW COMMERCIAL
FOLLIS CONSTRUCTION -11518 OLD LP RD 7 -D -10 -517 -BLDG FOR ELEV.
FOLLIS CONSTUCTION -11518 OLD LP RD — 10 -951 — PAVING AND DETENTION
KRAFTSMAN PLAYGROUND & PARK EQUIPMENT —10 -1303 — 3324 SOMERTON
DR. NEW SPLASH PARK
NORTH POLE ICE CREAM & COOKIES — 11001 FAIRMONT PKWY #B -10- 1534 -BLD
OUT
CLAY DEVELOPMENT —10001 PORTER RD. # 200 —10 -1844 BUILD OUT
TIRZ
NONE
1
CODE ENFORCEMENT
CODE ENFORCEMENT NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS, CASES
CASES January 2011
(COMMUNITY SERVICE) CITY INITATED CITIZEN COMPLAINT TOTAL
ALCOHOL CHECK 0 0 0
BASKETBALL GOALS 0 0 0
BLDG MAINTENANCE 1 1 2
BUILDING PLACEMENT 0 0 0
CAR FLYERS 0 0 0
COIN OPERATED 0 0 0
MACHINE
DANGEROUS 1 1 2
BUILDING
DEBRIS 5 9 14
EXTERIOR STORAGE 3 0 3
FENCES 2 0 2
FORWARD TO OTHER 1 4 5
DEPARTMENTS
GRAFFITI 0 0 0
HEALTH ISSUES 0 0 0
ILLEGAL DUMPING 0 0 0
ILLEGAL MOBILE 0 0 0
HOMES
JUNK VEHICLES 2 4 6
LIVESTOCK 0 0 0
MISCELLANEOUS 0 2 2
OFFICE TRLR 0 0 0
OFF SITE PARKING 0 0 0
POOLS 0 2 2
SCREENING REQUIRED 0 0 0
SECURING BUILDINGS 1 1 2
SEWAGE 0 1 1
SIGNS 19 0 19
SIGNS ON R O W 0 0 0
SUBSTANDARD 0 1 1
STRUCTURES
SHIP CONT. ACESRY 24 6 30
SHIP CONTAINERS 2 7 9
UNSAFE ELEC 0 0 0
UNSAFE PLBG 0 0 0
WTR/DRAIN STD 0 0 0
WEEDS 15 6 21
WK WITHOUT PERMIT 6 5 11
ZONING 11 4 15
BLD CODE VIOLATION 1 0 1
BLDG CODE -SANIT 0 0 0
HOUSE MOVING 0 0 0
ROW OBSTRUCT 0 0 0
ROW DAMAGE 0 0 0
TOTAL 94 54 148
2
TOTAL OF 148 COMPLAINT CASES
JANUARY 2011
TOTAL COMPLAINTS, CASES 148 100%
CASES RESOLVED 63 43%
CASES UNRESOLVED 85 57%
A. ALI
NEW MUNICIPAL
COURT CASES THIS MONTH 1
LAWSUITS IN PROGRESS
(NON- MUNICIPAL COURT CASES) CLIFF HALL (1)
DAN FRALEY
S:\Citv Plannine Share \04 - INSPECTIONS DIVISION\Inspections \Monthly Reports
08,09,10\2011 JANUARYMONTHLYREPORT.doc
3
Meeting Handout
La Porte Chamber of Commerce -Small Business Development Committee /La Porte City Council
Farmer's Market Workshop: February 28, 2011 — 6:00 pm
Objective: La Porte City Council approve a Farmer's Market at the 5 Points Center
Proposal: The Chamber will champion the effort and the City Park Staff will operate. 7
Background: There was an interest by La Porte citizens, growers and customers.
Our committee performed some research; thus, our request.
Many people visit Farmer's Markets in the surrounding cities.
Third Saturday has the least amount of competition.
Need at least 8 growers consistently.
Benefits:
Strong trend to purchase organic products because of health.
Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, & Poultry.
Increase in the cost of transportation is increasing the co of produce making
fresh agricultural products viable.
It supports our local growers which some use as ad y tional retirement income
Provides a "draw" and "one more thing to do" in a Porte for Tourism
Combined effort of Government, Community : nd Business
Utilize the 5 Points Center and introduces ose businesses to the community
Keeps Local Money in La Porte
O' erations:___ . hird- Saturday {tithe market open), 8 am — 1 pm, April — October
Chamber will provide volunteers.
Vendors /Products: No Seafood. No Prepared Foods. No Arts & Crafts.
Williams - Blackberry, Peas, Peppers, Other Vegetables, Brown Eggs
Holloway - Honey, Eggs, Tomatoes, and Other Vegetables
West — All Vegetables
Patterson — Honey
Dunham - Greens, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Peppers, Squash
Bricker - Apples, Oranges, Lemon, Limes, Grapefruits
Powers — Too nrto list
Thompson - Pickles �
Bennett - Grapes, Tomatoes, Peppers, Beans
Guy — Tomatoes and other vegetables
Keeney — Cabbage, Broccoli, Turnips, Watermelon, Okra, Onions
CONFLICT OF INTEREST AFFIDAVIT
THE STATE OF TEXAS $
COUNTY OF HARRIS §
I, 6 k V Ui EA1 , G LKd✓ as a member of the City of La Porte CQ+vv't i /it iA
, make this affidavit and hereby on oath state the following: I have a
substantial interest in a business entity or real property as defined in Chapter 171, Texas Local
Govt Code, and a vote is to be taken or a decision is to be made that will have a special
economic effect on this business entity or real property.
Tae agenda item on C� b4.40#0y, t¢ 20 1 r , affecting this business entity or real
property is: 14 a .1'1 1 g C4.) ---- Ceiv-f -dve deyer/tyy
COMPLETE (A) OR (B): (A) The business entity is (! e,M , e 2 ?o ff �,�ve+*tf (name); or
(B) The real property is located at:
I have a substantial interest for the following reasons: (check all which are applicable)
Ownership of 10% or more of the voting stock or shares of the business entity.
Ownership of 10% or more or $15,000 or more of the fair market value of the
business entity.
✓ Funds received from the business entity exceed 10% of gross income for the
previous year.
Real property is involved atxt I have an equitable or legal ownership of the
property with a fair market value of at least $2,500.
A relative of mine has a substantial interest in the business entity or real
property that would be affected by a decision of the public body of which I
am a member.
Upon filing of this affidavit with the City Secretary, I affirm that I will abstain from voting on any
decision involving this business entity or real property and from any further participation on this
matter by discussion or debate.
Singed this 19 day of Ig/3R_ ' ,Ly L 20 /o .
E. . 4.,..„,64,..A,.
.' Signature of Official
THE STATE OF TEXAS §
COUNTY OF HARRIS $
13e re me 'C,QRjQr on this day personally appeared
( . 9� /<c„ known to me to be the person whose name is subscrlbed to the
foregoing instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she executed the same for the purposes and
consideration therein expressed.
Given under my hand and seal of office this f day of j-.
( ) -
;�.W"." C TQGART
.21.... / •r r r
l i
= Notary Publi , State of
'' ' i * ti My Com Expires Y Texas i
atary Public in : , a /the Sta •. fins :. December 2E, 2013