CITY OF WINDY HILLS

Minutes of Regular Council Meeting

August 12, 2019

The Council and Officers of the City of Windy Hills met at the Sojourn Community Church, 2501 Rudy Lane, at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Davis called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:  The following were present:

MINUTES:

Councilwoman Greer moved to approve the minutes of the July 8, 2019 Council meeting; seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg and approved unanimously.

FINANCIAL REPORTS, APPROVAL OF BILLS:

The financial reports for July, 2019 were moved for approval by Councilwoman Rademaker,  seconded by Councilman Blue, and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman Rademaker moved to approve the July bills, totaling $38,360.23 and was seconded by Councilwoman Greer.  The motion passed unanimously.

RESIDENTS’ COMMENTS/CONCERNS:  None.

MAYOR’S REPORT:  Mayor Davis reported that the sanitation contract has had a few hiccups, which was to be expected, but the Ecotech staff have been very patient and accommodating.  She stated that the office will have “in boxes” for each council member and staff.  All mail/documents pertaining to a particular area will be placed in the mailbox.  It will be placed on top of the file cabinet.  She also asked each council member to check the website pertaining to their area, to see if the information is correct.  She gave an example of the previous sanitation rules were incorrect and specifically contradicted our ordinances.  She also reminded everyone to use their Windy Hills email addresses which would protect them from having their personal emails subject to Open Records search.

She further reported that the Audit contract has been signed and the auditors are working on the ’18-’19 documents.  She stated the she and Councilwoman Rademaker met to review the year end financials, which Councilwoman Rademaker will discuss in her report, and all council members have received a detailed copy of their area’s expenses from ’18-’19 for their review.

Mayor Davis also reported that she met the Mayor of Worthington Hills at the Federal Reserve meeting and he told her that he liked our Rental Ordinance and they “borrowed” it for their city.

The July Police report:  129 hours of Police support.  The report was formatted in an “unusual” way and it took her 2 hours to convert it into a usual format.  There were 23.6 hours of house watch including 5 hours of early morning patrol. Upon her request a mobile radar unit was deployed to Two Springs.  Radar monitoring resulted in 2 tickets on Ambridge, 1 on Rudy at Highfield, and 5 warnings.  One young man on Foeburn was admonished to fix his noisy motorcycle and to stop riding too fast.

There were 5 parking violations.  There were 3 suspicious males on Rudy, and upon completing his house watch, the officer found one of the males hiding in the bushes but the individual fled and the officer was unable to catch him.  There was a reported burglary on Wicklow.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Code Enforcement:  Steve Teaford asked if there were any questions/comments pertaining to his report for July.  There were no comments.

City Maintenance/Windy Hills Green/Newsletter/Tree Board – Councilwoman Greer:  Councilwoman Greer reported that she met with Mike Hayman and inspected the Green and addressed some other issues.  The following are the results of this meeting:

• The main leader of the Dawn Redwood is broken and Mike Hayman will supervise Adam to correct the problem.
• Mike Hayman recommended that the Christmas tree get a 4 hour watering, which Adam will do shortly. He stated it looks healthy and has new growth.
• Mike Hayman recommended that the canopy trees be “limbed up” to 8 feet which will allow people to walk under them. Martha Davis and Councilwoman Greer worked on this project for 2 hours and finished most of the trees on the West side of the Green.  The big Hollies and some of the trees near Rudy Lane remain to be done.  They also removed growth on the bases of all the trees.
• The Appalachian Red Bud will be replaced.
• The newly planted Magnolia near the sundial has a water bag, which has been filled initially and will be filled on a weekly basis.
• The viburnum in the middle of the Green should come out.
• Mike Hayman will prune the three zelkovas himself. He plans to supervise Adam’s crew to heavily prune trees that need pruning in winter.
• There is a red maple near Rudy with one trunk that is dead with a dangerous branch. He recommends that we have that part of the tree removed.  He thinks the tree will probably live another 10 years.
• Mike Hayman would like to plant a new tree north of the path where the bench is closest to the parking pad to provide shade to people sitting on the bench in the afternoon.
• He would like plant another Norman Fir directly beyond the parking pad.
• The sundial is being repaired.
• Mike was concerned about the newly planted Zelkova on Westport Rd., near Foeburn because of the drought. He put 10 gallons of water on it and Councilwoman Greer and Martha Davis added another 10.  Councilwoman Greer will add a water bag to that tree and Adam will add water to it weekly through October.

Councilwoman Greer also reported that the Faye Ellerkamp sign should not have been placed at an evergreen due to their growth upwards and outwards.  This would mean the memorial sign would have to be moved every couple of years.  These evergreens cannot be limbed up as it would look disfigured.  She suggested the Ellerkamp family choose another tree and place a new sign at that tree.

Councilwoman Greer’s Tree Board report included:  Caroline Westfall evaluated the City planted trees on Ambridge.  Councilwoman Greer is meeting with Adam Vogelsang to discuss what they can do to remedy the problems, including pruning.  There is a dying tree on Ambridge that Andy Smart of the Plant Kingdom is going to examine and try to figure out what is killing it.  The Ambridge work will come out of Tree Board funds.  The next Tree Board meeting is September 5.

She also looked into the disfigured shrub (due to the Victoria Place paving) and reported that it is on the right-of-way, but was planted there by the owner to stop drivers from driving through his yard when they went around the circle.  She suggested that the City replace it.

The next newsletter deadline is September 10.

Electronic Newsletter – “The Breeze” – Councilwoman Myers:  Councilwoman Myers stated that the Breeze newsletter is in residents’ homes within 3 days of the reporting deadline and the printed newsletter is in the residents’ homes within 10 days of the reporting deadline.

Community Caring/Welcome to Windy Hills – Councilwoman Spencer:   Councilwoman Spencer reported there were 5 new residents.  She also reported that she is starting on the Christmas decorations.

Finance – Councilwoman Rademaker:  Councilwoman Rademaker reported that she and Mayor Davis had reviewed the finances and stated that they are in good shape.  Councilwoman Spencer stated that FEMA is a good resource for the City to use in cases of emergencies.  It was reported that the City has reached out to FEMA in the past, but the Governor has to declare a “State of Emergency” before the City can request funds from FEMA.

Public Works – Councilman Blue:  Councilman Blue reported that all paving (circles on Victoria Place and Jonlyn Ct and the entire Old Stone Lane) is complete.  The potholes were also repaired with the exception of one he recently discovered and will report to LIBS.  He also reported the manhole cover on Ambridge is repaired.  He stated the hole at the Green is a Louisville Water Co issue.  They have placed a cone and tape around the area.  The curb at Foeburn has been repaired.  The hole in front of a drain at Coach Gate has been reported to MSD.  There was a drainage issue at new construction on Kinglan and has been reported to Metro Louisville.  Councilman Blue has contacted MSD regarding the asphalt collapse at the bridge on Rudy Lane.  He will continue to find the proper department to repair the pavement.  He also thanked the Mayor and Councilwoman Greer for helping him on a complaint that had been received.  He stated the speeding monitor on Two Springs did not seem to be working and reported it to Graymoor/Devondale Police.  He also received a complaint regarding noisy neighbors and referred it to Code Enforcement Officer, Steve Teaford.

In regards to Recycling and Garbage:  Councilman Blue commended Ecotech on the excellent job they are doing in the City and appreciates the immediate attention they give to any issue brought to them.  They have placed recycling stickers on all green containers with yellow tops to help alleviate the problem of mixing waste and recycling in the recycling container.  He suggested an article in either or both of the newsletters to remind residents not to put trash in the recycle bin.

Councilman Blue made a motion to repair the drainage issues on Windy Way and Highfield at a cost up to $1,890.  His motion was seconded by Councilwoman Greer and passed unanimously.

Ordinances/Community Standards – Councilwoman Trachtenberg:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg reported that the Committee met in July, and Councilwoman Rademaker and Code Enforcement Officer, Steve Teaford ran the meeting in her absence.  She stated the Council will vote on the Community Standards Resolution in the “New Business” section.

Ordinance appeal – Kitty Hawk:  Councilwoman Rademaker stated that Ms. Reise did not realize she needed an application to re-do her driveway.  Ms. Reise was at the Friday Caucus meeting and stated she would get a letter from her contractor to verify that she just paved over her existing driveway and had not expanded it.  The Council received the letter from her contractor and Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to drop the complaint and grandfather the driveway dimensions.  Councilwoman Myers seconded her motion and it passed unanimously.  It was determined that the application would be put on the front page of the City’s website so it would be more noticeable and accessible to the residents.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None

NEW BUSINESS:

Resolution #1, Series 2019/2020 – Community Standards:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg made a motion to approve the Community Standards Resolution and was seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker.  The motion was approved unanimously.

Resolution #2, Series 2019/2020 – Code Enforcement Salary:   Councilwoman Greer made a motion to approve the Resolution regarding the Code Enforcement Officer’s Salary (increasing it to $30 per hour) and was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The motion was approved unanimously.

Other:  None

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:  Attorney Hodge reported that the lawsuit regarding Metro waste services has been resolved in favor of the suburban cities.  In summary, it gives the suburban cities a voice in the decisions and will continue to have their own contracts.  Basically, reserving the Cities’ rights relating to waste services.

Comments/Questions to the Council as a Whole:   None

Councilwoman Greer moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:40 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Myers and the motion passed unanimously.

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CITY OF WINDY HILLS

Minutes of Regular Council Meeting

July 8, 2019

The Council and Officers of the City of Windy Hills met at the Sojourn Community Church, 2501 Rudy Lane, at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Davis called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:  The following were present:

MINUTES:

Councilwoman Greer moved to approve the minutes of the June 10, 2019 Council meeting; seconded by Councilwoman Myers and approved unanimously.

FINANCIAL REPORTS, APPROVAL OF BILLS:

The financial reports for June, 2019 were moved for approval by Councilwoman Rademaker,  seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg, and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman Trachtenberg moved to approve the June bills, totaling $34,347.45 and was seconded by Councilwoman Myers.  The motion passed unanimously.

PUBLIC HEARING ON SPENDING ROAD AID FUNDS ON CITY PAVING:  Attorney Hodge stated the Public Hearing is not a Town Hall meeting and the residents have the privilege to have input at the beginning of the meeting.  He also stated that the Caucus meeting is held to discuss the City business issues but there is no voting done at that meeting.  Voting only happens at the City’s Council Meeting.  He then announced that the City would be dispersing Road Fund money for paving in Windy Hills and asked if anyone had any comments.  Councilwoman Spencer stated that the Road Fund monies are from the State.  Resident Martha Davis stated that there were a number of pot holes on Old Stone.  It was reported that the roads to be paved are Old Stone – which the roads would be closed for a few hours while being done, the Victoria Place circle, and the Jonlyn Court circle and pot holes that have been designated to be repaired.

BOBBY LEE (ECOTECH PREPRESENTATIVE):  Bobby Lee with Ecotech introduced himself, stating that Ecotech is a local family owned business for 21 years.

Other points that he made were:

• Waste Management employees did not lose their jobs due to Ecotech taking over Windy Hills
• Responses are done in a timely manner
• Yard Waste is the same as with Waste Management – tree limbs in 4′ bundles
• 3 can garbage limit
• Recycle needs to be brought to the curb
• Boxes have to be broken down so the recycling can lid will shut
• Bulk items will be picked up three times per year and residents need to call to schedule a pick-up
• They offer one “cleanout” per year, but ask that the resident call in advance.
• They ask that all shredded paper be placed in a clear bag.
• He had recycle and yard waste stickers available for residents and the leftover stickers would be available in the City’s office.

RESIDENTS’ COMMENTS/CONCERNS:  None.

MAYOR’S REPORT:  Mayor Davis reported that the July 4th celebration was a resounding success thanks to Councilwoman Myers and her committee of volunteers.  She recognized that the picnic and parade were a tremendous undertaking, that is often taken for granted, it takes a great team with superb leadership, and she thanked Councilwoman Myers and the volunteers again.  She also thanked all the Windy Hills’ businesses and friends who donated door prizes.

The June Police report:  111 hours of Police support.  There was a dispute between neighbors to which the police responded and no further action was required.  Radar monitoring resulted in no tickets.

Mayor Davis thanked the Windy Hills team for all their hard work during the very busy month and stated how she appreciated everyone’s efforts.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Finance/Ordinances:  Councilwoman Rademaker pointed out that the City’s Interest Income has increased approximately 300%.

Code Enforcement:  There were no comments/questions regarding the Code Enforcement’s report.  Councilman Blue made a motion that the Police only perform 30 days house-watch per house per year.  His motion was seconded by Councilwoman Myers.  Councilwoman Rademaker stated that some residents are over using this privilege, which takes the Police attention away from other issues.  The motion passed unanimously.

Community Caring/Health & Fitness/Welcome to Windy Hills:   There were 3 new residents.  Councilwoman Spencer reported that the Tai Chi program has taken place four times in June (twice in the parking lot and twice in the arcade due to rain).  She stated that a few people have dropped out of the program due to the extreme heat.

Windy Hills Green/City Maintenance/Newsletter/Tree Board – Councilwoman Greer:  Councilwoman Greer reported that the Tree Board has received an overwhelming number of requests for new trees and they now have a waiting list for the tree giveaway program.  She stated the Arborist has reported some tree issues with trees on Ambridge.  She stated that new chips have been added to the pathway on the Green, the shrubs by the benches have been pruned as well as the bush on the Howard property.  She also reported that she is making arrangements for the sun dial on the Green to be repaired.

Public Works:  Councilman Blue reported that he is working on the drainage issue on Highfield and at Windy Way.  He further reported that Brownsboro Landscaping has painted yellow paint 30 feet on Ambridge (at both ends).  He stated that MSD has been of no help in getting the hole on the Green repaired but he will continue to work on getting the issue corrected.  He received a complaint about dirt pouring down the street and has contacted the builder to correct the issue.  He has also called Metro regarding the roadway at the bridge on Rudy Lane (where it is starting to collapse).

Ordinances/Community Standards – Councilwoman Trachtenberg:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg reported that the Committee did not meet in July, but is meeting on Wednesday July 10.

4th of July Picnic and Parade and Newsletter – Councilwoman Myers:  Councilwoman Myers reported that the 4th of July picnic and parade was a huge success and stated that all the volunteers showed up and thanked everyone involved.  She stated the highlight for her was to see the pictures that Ed Bridge had taken of all the happy, smiling faces.  She stated the Breeze will be out by the end of the week (July 12th).  She is planning on the Breeze being sent out once a month soon after the meetings.  The deadlines coming up for the Breeze articles are July 12 and August 14.  The next deadline for printed newsletter will be September 10.  The Mayor thanked Martha Davis and Joyce Bridge for their help with the Picnic.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  None

NEW BUSINESS:

Paving Bid Review and Vote:  Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to accept the Paving bid from LIBS paving, being the lowest bid.  Councilwoman Trachtenberg seconded her motion and the LIBS paving bid was accepted by unanimous vote (subject to proof of insurance).

Good Neighbor Award:  Councilwoman Rademaker, Councilwoman Greer and Mayor Davis presented a Good Neighbor Award to resident Martha Davis for her work and dedication as the Ethics Chair for six years.

Other:  None

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:  None

Comments/Questions to the Council as a Whole:   Highfield Rd. resident, Faye Gardner stated that the drainage issue still has not been addressed.

Councilwoman Greer moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:54 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg and the motion passed unanimously.

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CITY OF WINDY HILLS

Minutes of Regular Council Meeting

June 10, 2019

The Council and Officers of the City of Windy Hills met at the Sojourn Community Church, 2501 Rudy Lane, at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Davis called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:  The following were present:

MINUTES:

Councilwoman Greer moved to approve the minutes of the May 13, 2019 Council meeting; seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg and approved unanimously.

FINANCIAL REPORTS, APPROVAL OF BILLS:

The financial reports for May, 2019 were moved for approval by Councilwoman Trachtenberg,  seconded by Councilman Blue, and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman Rademaker moved to approve the May bills, totaling $47,580.17 and was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The motion passed unanimously.

RESIDENTS’ COMMENTS/CONCERNS:  Resident Faye Gardner addressed the Council with her concerns regarding draining issues at Rudy Lane and Highfield.   A Wexford Place resident addressed the Council with her concerns regarding on-street parking.

MAYOR’S REPORT:  Mayor Davis reported that she and the Clerk, Sandy, met with Bryan Slade and Bobby Lee from Eco-tech.  It was a good meeting and Bryan suggested some corrections to the waste services info for the website.  She also stated that she received a call from a distraught Windhurst resident regarding the new garbage collection contract saying that she and her neighbors were told by Waste Management personnel that the contract price was the same and the level of service would not continue at the same level.  Mayor Davis explained the bid process and that there was a $24,000 difference in the bids and the service would be the same with an increase to weekly recycle pickup.

Mayor Davis also reported that an Indian Ridge resident who removed a tree on the advice of our city arborist, has requested that the city reimburse her for part of the cost of the tree removal.  She explained to her that is not the policy, per the ordinance, but the city would provide a replacement tree.  The resident stated the removed tree was not diseased and expensive to remove.  The Mayor stated she would submit a request to the Tree Board but there was no guarantee that she would be reimbursed.

Financially we will end the fiscal year in good shape.  The city has collected more than the budgeted municipal insurance tax monies, interest revenue, and parking fines have increased.  Overall expenses have been within the budgeted amount.

The May police report: 34.43 hours of house watch devoted to 5 houses.  One house that has been on house watch for 4 1/2 months stopped in the middle of May.  Two houses have been on house watch for 2 plus weeks, one for a month, and a house on Grassy Fork has been on for 8 weeks.  There were 50 hours of radar and enforcement with 6 courtesy citations.  Follow up to the previous month’s report:  per a resident’s request, the police deployed a mobile radar unit on Indian Ridge at Kitty Hawk.  No results yet.  There was a complaint about a house on Wicklow having too many cars but the residents were not in violation of the parking ordinance.  The officer conveyed the info to the Wexford resident who had complained.  There were 2 parking citations issued in Wexford Place, one for the Wicklow house but it was a car parked the wrong way.  There was also a report of a man found asleep on the Green with his pants down.  There were 3 complaints about a solicitor for Vivint.  She had the proper permits but was escorted out of Wexford Place based on a resident’s complaint.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Finance/Ordinances:  Councilwoman Rademaker reported that she has been working with the Mayor on the end of year review of the previous budget.

Code Enforcement:  Steve Teaford reported the City has 57 rentals and he is working on inspection of these properties.

Community Caring/Health & Fitness/Welcome to Windy Hills:   There were 4 new residents.  Councilwoman Spencer reported that Tai Chi practiced on the Green twice in May.  Due to the unevenness of the Green they tried the parking lot at Stock Yards Bank and may meet at the Brownsboro Arcade during the hot summer months – the Tai Chi instructor will pay the required insurance).  Councilwoman Spencer also met with Mike Hayman on the Green to assess the number of trees removed and new plantings.  She also reviewed how many trees were available for memorial/commemorative contributions (she distributed a map of the Green).  She expressed an interest in exploring a Conservation Easement for the Green.

Windy Hills Green/City Maintenance/Newsletter/Tree Board – Councilwoman Greer:  Councilwoman Greer reported that she cut the suckers off the trees on Ambridge.  She also reported that new mulch had been laid on the path on the Green and the Tree Board has an article in the newsletter offering a canopy tree to the first 15 residents who apply.  In regards to the newsletter, she and Councilwoman Myers have compared prices/services and have used a new printer to handle the newsletter.  This new printer can handle the typesetting, printing and mailing instead of out sourcing each service.

Public Works:  Councilman Blue reported that he has received a bid on the drainage issues at Highfield and Windy Way.  He is also getting a bid on painting no parking lines on both sides of Ambridge.  He stated that he will look at the benches on the Green and try to solve the problem with the growth of the bushes.  He also has called MSD again regarding the sinkhole on the North West side of the Green.  He also reported that there is an overgrown bush in the neighbor’s yard at the northwest point of the green that is growing over the sidewalk…he has referred this issue to Councilwoman Greer who is in charge of the Green.  He reported that he has received a bid from Libs paving to repair the pot holes in the city and paving on some other streets in the City.

Ordinances/Community Standards – Councilwoman Trachtenberg:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg reported that she has done some research on the Conversancy of the Green issue.  She also stated the Community Standards Committee is finished with their recommended resolution and will be reviewed and considered at a future meeting for a vote.

4th of July Picnic and Parade and Newsletter – Councilwoman Myers:  Councilwoman Myers reported that the newsletter was in the mail.  She reminded everyone to please RSVP for the picnic and to bring chairs and encouraged everyone to eat outside as the inside tables would be for the handicapped and elderly only.  She also stated the signs will be put in place.  The Moon Dogs Band will play again this year as well as having Haywood Dairy ice cream.  She said there will be children’s activities  and a representative from Ecotech will be there.  

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Ordinance No. 8, Series 2018/2019 – Ad valorem Taxes – 2nd Reading:  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to have Ordinance No. 8, Series 2018/2019 read into record and was seconded by Councilman Blue.  The motion passed unanimously.    Attorney Hodge read the Ordinance into record.  Councilman Blue made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 8, Series 2018/2019 and was seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker.  The unanimous vote was as follows:

 Ordinance No. 9, Series 2018/2019 – 2019/2020 Budget – 2nd Reading:  Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to have Ordinance No. 9, Series 2018/2019 read into record and was seconded by Councilwoman Greer.  The motion passed unanimously.    Attorney Hodge read the Ordinance into record.  Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 9, Series 2018/2019 and was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The unanimous vote was as follows:

 Ordinance No. 10, Series 2018/2019 – Vacant House Ordinance 2nd Reading:  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to have Ordinance No. 10, Series 2018/2019 read into record and was seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker.  The motion passed unanimously.    Attorney Hodge read the Ordinance into record.  Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to approve Ordinance No. 10, Series 2018/2019 and was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The unanimous vote was as follows: 

NEW BUSINESS:

Other:  Mayor Davis presented the “Mike Skelton Golden Paperclip Award” to Councilman Blue and Councilwoman Myers for all of their hard work and dedication on the Sanitation Bid Process and Recycle gathering information.

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:  None

Comments/Questions to the Council as a Whole:   None

Councilwoman Greer moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:12 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker and the motion passed unanimously.

__­_____          __________________                                                ­­­­­_______________________

CITY OF WINDY HILLS

Minutes of Regular Council Meeting

May 13, 2019

The Council and Officers of the City of Windy Hills met at the Sojourn Community Church, 2501 Rudy Lane, at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Davis called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:  The following were present:

MINUTES:

Councilwoman Greer moved to approve the minutes of the April 8, 2019 Council meeting; seconded by Councilman Blue and approved unanimously.

FINANCIAL REPORTS, APPROVAL OF BILLS:

The financial reports for April, 2019 were moved for approval by Councilwoman Rademaker,  seconded by Councilman Blue, and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman Trachtenberg moved to approve the April bills, totaling $42,605.56 and was seconded by Councilwoman Myers.  The motion passed unanimously.

RESIDENTS’ COMMENTS/CONCERNS:  Resident Ralph Williams addressed the Council, complimenting them on the article on dogs.  He also warned the Council and asked if an article could be published about companies pushing “reverse mortgages” to the residents of Windy Hills.  Resident Jim Ising complimented the City on publishing the new electronic newsletter “The Breeze”.  Resident Staci Farris, of Windsong Way, addressed the Council concerning the lack of street curbs on her street, which is causing drainage issues.

MAYOR’S REPORT:  Mayor Davis reported that the property at 623 Rudy Lane was on the Planning and Zoning Board agenda regarding a requested building limit line variance to complete an addition.  Mayor Davis attended and spoke at the public hearing on May 6.  The variance was granted.  She discussed with the homeowner her concern that their rendering showed a larger addition than the site plan and if they followed through on the larger addition, we would follow up with Metro.  The homeowner said they didn’t think they would.

The April police report: Total of 102 hours. Radar – 18 1/2 hours divided between Ambridge, Rudy, Foeburn, and Coach Gate/Brownsboro, and Indian Ridge resulting in 6 citations, 2 warnings, and on several days the fastest speed was only 3-4 miles over the posted limit.  We had received a request from a Foeburn resident and we complied with the request, but the police report indicated that the vehicles’ speed did not exceed 28 miles/hr.  An Indian Ridge resident requested radar enforcement, which the police checked on two days.  Mayor Davis asked Chief Thronberry to transfer the enforcement from Brownsboro Rd. to Indian Ridge to see if there is a problem.  The police continued to issue several parking citations and the Mayor will send out follow up letters to those who have not paid.

The Mayor also reported that she and Councilwoman Rademaker have been working on the budget which we be discussed and have first reading tonight.  The Mayor thanked Councilwoman Rademaker and Councilman Blue for representing the City at the sanitation bid opening since she was at the Zoning hearing.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

 Finance/Ordinances:  Councilwoman Rademaker reported that they have finished the budget including the Sanitation bid.  She also reported the they moved money from Stock Yards Bank to First Financial – including checking and CDs.

Code Enforcement:  Steve Teaford reported the City has 55 rentals, which is an increase of 7, some have failed the inspection, and he will follow-up with them.

Community Caring/Health & Fitness/Welcome to Windy Hills:   There were 7 new residents.  Councilwoman Spencer reported that on May 11, they had 18 participants in the new Tai Chi program and the next one will be on May 25th.  She also reported that she will be meeting with Mike Hayman to discuss how many trees are available for commemorative gifts.

Windy Hills Green/City Maintenance/Newsletter/Tree Board – Councilwoman Greer:  Councilwoman Greer reported that the Arbor Day celebration was postponed from Sunday, April 14 to Tuesday, April 16, because of rain.  The Tree Board raffled 5 fruit trees.  She also reported that Caroline Westfall had evaluated some trees on Indian Ridge to determine if they needed attention.  The Mayor will send out letters to those whose trees needed to be removed or attended to.  She stated that a newsletter article will announce that the Tree Board will offer a free tree for the first 15 residents who apply.  They will be planted in the fall.  The next newsletter will be out in June, and the first electronic newsletter was sent on April 25.  Councilwoman Myers reported that it was sent to 744 emails, 468 of which were opened, 69 bounced back, and 1 unsubscribed.  The Breeze will be sent out in between the quarterly newsletters.  Councilwoman Greer also reported that the water has been turned on at the Green and chips will be added to the path.  She also stated the sinkhole will be repaired and flowers had been planted.

Public Works:  Councilman Blue reported that the light pole on the northwest corner of the Green and the stop sign on Old Stone have been repaired.  He also reported that a dead deer and a tree limb were removed from the Green by Brownsboro Lawn Care.  He reported that he is working on a possible hazardous waste pickup after the new waste services contract is settled.  He reported that the drainage issues on Highfield and Windy Way are being investigated.  He said MSD said it is not their issue but he is still pursuing them to fix it.

Ordinances/Community Standards – Councilwoman Trachtenberg:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg reported that the Community Standards committee is presenting the Vacant House Ordinance tonight for first reading. She also reported she is working on the 2020 new property update.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:  None

NEW BUSINESS:

Waste Services Bid:  Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to accept Ecotech’s bid for twice weekly trash pickup, once weekly recycle pickup, and once weekly yard waste pickup for 9 months of the year and bi-weekly during December, January, and February.  Ecotech will provide large recycle rolling cans with lids for recycling but will not provide trash cans.   The motion was seconded by Councilwoman Greer and passed with a vote of 5 Ayes and one abstaining vote by Councilman Blue.  Councilwoman Myers stated that the Sanitation Committee tried to meet the needs of most people in the City.  Mayor Davis and Councilwoman Rademaker thanked Councilwoman Myers and Councilman Blue for their work on the Committee.

Ordinance No. 8, Series 2018/2109 – Ad Valorem Taxes – 1st Reading:  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to have the Ordinance read by Attorney Hodge for the first reading and was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The motion passed unanimously, and Attorney Hodge read Ordinance No. 8 into record.

Ordinance No. 9, Series 2018/2109 – 2019/2020 Budget – 1st Reading:  Mayor Davis read the following statement: As your Mayor, I am tasked with preparing and presenting the budget.  Your Mayor Pro Tem, Marianne Rademaker, and I have been working on this budget since February.  We attended the Jefferson County League of City January meeting about budget requirements and preparation to ensure state compliance.  You will be happy to know that we are in FULL compliance. Tonight we will have a first reading, where we will have questions and comments without any action.  In June, we will have a second reading and formally act on the budget.

Items of note for the budget:  based on assessments, we are forecasting a 2% increase in the property tax revenue which is within the 4% increase allowed by law. We are also projecting a 100% increase in interest revenue from our general fund CDs and checking account. We are projecting the other revenue to be flat.

One of the biggest variables is the municipal insurance premium tax.  We tried to be conservative in the projection because the amount collected can vary widely due to purchases of large life insurance policies and the taxes collected on said policies. Fiscal year 2017-18 we collected a record amount of municipal insurance premium tax revenue but quite frankly the 2018-19 revenue is lagging behind the projection.

On the expenditure side, we increased the budget for General government by 3% based on inflation, maintaining the City website, and preserving city standards including code enforcement, rental registry, etc.  I would like to note that donations to not-for-profits are not included in this budget.

The cost of our public safety provided by Graymoor-Devondale will increase by 4.3% beginning July 1.  The biggest increase will be on the Sanitation costs.  There is a projected 22% increase in sanitation costs, which is primarily the cost of recycling.   Our residents OVERWHELMINGLY favored a city-wide weekly recycling program and I am pleased that we are able to provide this without raising taxes.

On the Road Aid Fund part of the budget, we are projecting a 500% increase in interest income with other revenue flat.  We did not increase the budget for 2019-20 road fund expenditures.

I am pleased to announce that the tax rate will again be .17 per $100 with a 40% discount if paid during October, 2019.

Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to have the Ordinance read by Attorney Hodge for the first reading and was seconded by Councilman Blue.  The motion passed unanimously and Attorney Hodge read Ordinance No. 9 into record.  Councilwoman Spencer asked about including Not-for-profit donations and Attorney Hodge stated the budget could be amended if needed.

Ordinance No. 10, Series 2018/2019 – Vacant House Ordinance – 1st Reading:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg made a motion to have the Ordinance read by Attorney Hodge for the first reading and was seconded by Councilman Blue.  The motion passed unanimously and Attorney Hodge read Ordinance No. 10 into record.

Other:  Councilman Blue reported that he will be meeting with LIBS paving regarding fixing pot holes on Old Stone and repaving the circle on Victoria and Jonlyn.

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:  No

Comments/Questions to the Council as a Whole:   Resident, Mike Skelton asked if the street on Windsong was privately owned verses City of Windy Hills-owned, that he seemed to recall it is privately owned and the City would not be responsible for the curbs.  He said it could be determined by looking up a map on LOGIC.org.

Councilwoman Greer moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:49 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker and the motion passed unanimously.

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CITY OF WINDY HILLS

Minutes of Regular Council Meeting

April 8, 2019

The Council and Officers of the City of Windy Hills met at the Sojourn Community Church, 2501 Rudy Lane, at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Davis called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:  The following were present:

MINUTES:

Councilman Blue moved to approve the minutes of the March 11, 2019 Council meeting; seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman Trachtenberg moved to approve the minutes of the March 8, 2019 Special Council meeting; seconded by Councilman Blue and approved unanimously.

FINANCIAL REPORTS, APPROVAL OF BILLS:

The financial reports for March, 2019 were moved for approval by Councilwoman Greer,  seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg, and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman  Rademaker moved to approve the February bills, totaling $44,463.84 plus $400,000 transferred to open new checking account that was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The motion passed unanimously.

RESIDENTS’ COMMENTS/CONCERNS:  Resident Jim Ising addressed the Council, complimenting them on their work since taking office.  He also thanked the Council for the bench placed on Rudy Lane.  He stated the trees along Ambridge are budding out and very pretty.  He mentioned that Brightside Cleanup will be on Saturday, April 13 and he asked for any volunteers to help out.

Resident Carl Schultz also addressed the Council stating that there are seven pot holes on Old Stone Lane that need to be addressed.

MAYOR’S REPORT:  Mayor Davis reported that she and Metro Councilwoman McCraney had lunch on March 19.  They discussed Metro’s budget situation and how to maintain close cooperation between Metro and the City.  She stated the there is little financial help available from Metro due to the current budget situation.

Update on “Corn” property – no records could be found regarding this parcel.  She has been placed on the email list for Metro Planning and zoning and is receiving notifications and agenda for all their meetings.

Property at 623 Rudy Ln. – requested a building limit line variance to complete an addition.
She will attend public hearing on May 6.  She thanked Steve Teaford for the additional info regarding this property.

Police Report:  Total of 99 hours. Radar was 18.5 hours evenly divided between Ambridge and Rudy resulting in 2 citations, 6 warnings, and the fastest speed was only 1 – 3 miles over the posted limit.  Beginning on July 2019, the fee will increase by $2/hr ($200 monthly or $2,400 annually).  The police also issued several parking citations and she will send out follow up letters to those still unpaid.

She also reported that she and Steve Teaford worked on the debris situation at 726 Indian Ridge.  2 letters were sent with no response.  After approval from attorney Hodge, she had the debris removed which the resident will be charged for the removal and a fine.  They actual violated 3 ordinances, regarding refuse (2 charge $50/day and one $500/day).  We will be fining them $50/day for 45 days for a total fine of $2,250.  If it is not paid within 10 days, we will file a lien.

She also reported that she signed the Verizon contract which was returned to Verizon with all the pertinent documents.  The $2,500 check was cashed which covered the legal expenses.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Finance/Ordinances:  Councilwoman Rademaker reported that the City has opened a new CD at First Financial Bank.

Code Enforcement:  Steve Teaford reported that he is beginning the rental inspections.

Community Caring/Health & Fitness/Welcome to Windy Hills:   There were 3 new residents.  Councilwoman Spencer reported that Tai Chi will be on Saturdays at 9:30 with a charge of $4/session paying for 10 sessions in advance.  She also stated she is working on a map of the Green to determine which trees are available to be purchased as memorial gifts.

Windy Hills Green/City Maintenance/Newsletter/Tree Board – Councilwoman Greer: Councilwoman Greer reported that three trees were purchased through the resident tree program.  She also reported that she and Councilwoman Myers have been working on the digital newsletter which will be sent out the following week.  She stated that they are also looking into possibly changing printers/mailers to reduce the cost of printing and mailing the quarterly newsletter.  She also reported that Arbor Day will be on Sunday, April 14 but rain is forecast and will be moved to a different date if they have to cancel due to the weather.

Public Works: Councilman Blue reported that he called Safe-T-Co to repair the flexible guard that is down at Ambridge and Rudy entrance.  He also stated he has called Libs paving to repair pot holes.  He introduced a representative from Best Equipment who addressed the Council with information regarding trash cans/totter equipment.  He can provide the City with 96 or 60 gallon cans that have a 12 year warranty.  They can also add our City’s logo on the cans.  They would take approximately 5 to 6 weeks for delivery.

Ordinances/Community Standards – Councilwoman Trachtenberg:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg reported that the Community Standards committee will be meeting again on April 17  at 4:30 to discuss the Vacant Home Ordinance.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

 Waste Services Update – Councilwoman Myers:  Councilwoman Myers reported on the results of the Waste Services survey, stating that they had a 56% return on the survey.  In summary, 71.3% prefer weekly recycling and 56% prefer twice weekly trash pickup with a strong expression of the need for rear door service and more adequate recycling bins.

NEW BUSINESS:

Budget:  Councilwoman Rademaker reported that she and Mayor Davis have been working on the budget, which is finished with the exception of the Sanitation area and property tax area (still waiting on the preliminary taxes to be received and the Waste Services bids to be received).

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:  Attorney Hodge reported that he verified that the City’s Uniform Financial Information Report (UFIR) had been prepared by the City’s CPA.  Councilman Blue reported that he will not be voting on the Waste Services contract due to the nature of his business being so closely related to the same industry.

Comments/Questions to the Council as a Whole:   Resident, Adam Vogelsang stated that he thought that back door waste pickup is important to the City and hopes it continues.  Resident Mike Skelton stated that he could hardly hear any of the information during the meeting due to the loud music in the adjoining room.  He also asked what the specifications were for the Waste Services bid.

Councilwoman Greer moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:49 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker and the motion passed unanimously.

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CITY OF WINDY HILLS

Minutes of Regular Council Meeting

March 11, 2019

The Council and Officers of the City of Windy Hills met at the Sojourn Community Church, 2501 Rudy Lane, at 7:00 P.M.  Mayor Davis called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:  The following were present:

MINUTES:

Councilwoman Greer moved to approve the minutes of the February 11, 2019 Council meeting; seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg and approved unanimously.

FINANCIAL REPORTS, APPROVAL OF BILLS:

The financial reports for February, 2019 were moved for approval by Councilman Blue,  seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg, and approved unanimously.

Councilwoman  Rademaker moved to approve the February bills, totaling $46,664.61 that was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The motion passed unanimously.

RESIDENTS’ COMMENTS/CONCERNS:  None

MAYOR’S REPORT:  Mayor Davis stated that she and former Mayor Jim Ising attended the JCLC meeting where Bill Dieruf was honored for his leadership of the Jefferson County League of Cities and his new role as the President of the KY League of Cities.  She stated she networked and learned about the proposed Metro Insurance Tax and Bonnie Jung, Mayor of Douglas Hills furnished her with a template to use to create the Windy Hills proposed Insurance Ordinance.  She also  stated that she talked to Metro Councilwoman McCraney’s assistant, Julie Brackett and set up a lunch with Councilwoman McCraney.  Mayor Davis will be happy to share any concerns or issues with the Councilwoman  and to let her know.  She thanked Councilwoman Myers and Councilman Blue for their work on the Waste Services focus groups and surveys.  She also thanked Councilwoman Rademaker for her help with the City’s finances and banking.  She provided an update on the “Corn” property, stating that she has contacted Savannah Darr at the Louisville Forward office who is researching the property for us.  Ms. Darr will also be contacting the state to research the historic aspects of the property.

Police Report – Graymoor/Devondale patrolled for 99 hours.  Seventeen hours, divided evenly between Ambridge and Rudy, was spent on Radar. This resulted in 2 citations, 6 warnings and on several days the fastest speed was only 1 – miles over the posted limit.   There was on theft reported – Rudy Lane, 2 reports of suspicious teen activity on Regency (teens lived there) and no overnight parking violators were reported.  Two houses remain on “heavy” house watch – Highfield and Brookview.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Finance/Ordinances:  Councilwoman Rademaker reported that she, the Mayor and Clerk Moore went to 1st Financial Bank to open up a new checking and sweep (Money Market) accounts, transferring money from our current checking account at Stock Yards Bank.  The reason this decision was made is that 1st Finance offers much better interest rates on the accounts.

Code Enforcement:  No report.

Community Caring/Health & Fitness/Welcome to Windy Hills:   There were 4 new residents.  Councilwoman Spencer reported that Tai Chi flyers will be placed in paper boxes in mid March with practice beginning on April 6.  This meeting will also include an organizational meeting to establish a regular schedule and meet the instructor.  She is also preparing an updated map of the Green in anticipation of commemorating graduations, etc. with signs for the un-named trees.

Windy Hills Green/City Maintenance/Newsletter/Tree Board – Councilwoman Greer:  Councilwoman Greer reported that the tree from Echo-Tech was planted on Kaelin.  She also reported that Arbor Day will be on April 14 from 2pm to 4pm.  The newsletter deadline will be on May 15.  She stated that she is comparing prices of mailing and printing of the newsletter to possibly save some mailing costs.  She reported that the next Brightside Cleanup will be on April 13.  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to purchase new Arbor Day banners at a cost not to exceed $200.  Her motion was seconded by Councilman Blue and passed unanimously.

Public Works:  Councilman Blue thanked Adam Vogelsang for the excellent job he did on the snow removal this season.  He also stated the mulch looks really good.  He also reported that he may need to get bids on filing pot holes.  He is preparing the Waste Services Bid Specs in preparation of the bidding process.

Ordinances/Community Standards – Councilwoman Trachtenberg:  Councilwoman Trachtenberg reported that the Community Standards committee will be meeting again on March 20 to discuss an Ordinance on vacant properties.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Waste Services Update – Councilwoman Myers:  Councilwoman Myers reported that the survey was mailed and responses have been great.  The focus group is preparing the results of the survey and a report will be provided.

Ord #5, Series 2018/2019 Second Reading and Approval:  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to have Ordinance #5 read into record.  Her motion was seconded by Councilwoman Rademaker and  passed unanimously.  Attorney Hodge read the Ordinance regarding the Municipal Insurance Tax into record.  Councilwoman Trachtenberg made a motion to approve Ordinance 5, Series 2018-2019 and was seconded by Councilman Blue.  The Ordinance was approved unanimously by the following votes:

Ord #6, Series 2018/202+ Second Reading and Approval:  Councilwoman Myers made a motion to have Ordinance #6 read into record.  Her motion was seconded by Councilman Blue and  passed unanimously.  Attorney Hodge read the Ordinance regarding Encroachment Permits into record.  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to approve Ordinance 6, Series 2018-2019 and was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg.  The Ordinance was approved unanimously by the following votes:

NEW BUSINESS:

Approval of Verizon Bid:  Councilwoman Greer made a motion to have Attorney Hodge read Resolution #2, Series 2018/2019 to accept the Bid from Verizon.  The motion was seconded by Councilwoman Trachtenberg and passed unanimously.  Attorney Hodge read the Resolution into record.  Councilwoman Rademaker made a motion to accept Resolution #2, Series 2018/2019 and was seconded by Councilwoman Myers.  The motion was approved unanimously.

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:  None

Comments/Questions to the Council as a Whole:   None

Mayor Davis thanked Councilwoman Rademaker for all the work she has done on working on the budget and City’s finances.  She presented her with the “Mike Skelton  Golden Paper Clip” award.

Councilwoman Greer moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:35 P.M., seconded by Councilwoman Myers and the motion passed unanimously.

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