Mayor disaster recovery pick up for vote

Resolution authorizing mayor to enter contract with Lambert Consultants was deferred at last meeting

MANDEVILLE — This is the Mandeville City Council’s published agenda for the next City Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 27th, at 6 p.m. At the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center. Council meetings are open to the public.

Paul Spitzfaden community center
3090 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, Louisiana 70448

Minutes:

Adoption of the May 13, 2021, regular meeting minutes

Reports and announcements:

• Proclamation for Pollinator Week, June 21 – June 27, 2021
• Proclamation for Raedan Stephens, 2021, Louisiana Student of the Year
  

Old business:

1. Adoption of Resolution 21-18: a Resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville authorizing the mayor of the City of Mandeville to execute a professional services agreement between the City of Mandeville and Richard C. Lambert consultants, LLC, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   See related story: UPDATE: Mayor disaster recovery pick vote delayed
   
2. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-13: an Ordinance for the city council of the City of Mandeville to amend Ordinance number 20-12, the capital budget of the City of Mandeville and for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
3. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-14: an Ordinance of the City of Mandeville levying and imposing taxes on property subject to taxation in the City of Mandeville, state of Louisiana, for the year 2021 in accordance with the provisions of article vii, section 23(b) and (c) of the 1974 Louisiana constitution and R.S. 47:1705 (b) (1) and (2). (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
4. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-17: an Ordinance for the city council of the City of Mandeville to amend Ordinance No. 20-13, the operating budget of the City of Mandeville and for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   

New business:

1. Approval of the special event and liquor application for the City of Mandeville Light Up the Lake, Sunday, July 4, 2021, from 6-8pm to be located on the lakefront between Coffee & Carrol streets. Request waiver of food and drinks on the lakefront for picnics from 10am – 9pm along with street closures – see map attached (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
   
2. Approval of the special event and liquor application for OLL Festival of the Lake, Friday November 5th thru Sunday, November 7th to be located at 312 Lafitte Street. Request street closures – see map attached (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
   
   
3. Approval of the special event and liquor application for the Mande Milkshakers Shakers and Shoes Sock Hop Saturday, June 12, 2021, from 5-9pm to be located at the Mandeville trailhead. (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
   
   
4. Approval of the special event and liquor application for St. Ann Wine Bar’s Wineaux de Mayo, Saturday, May 29, 2021, from 5pm – midnight to be located at 22 St. Ann Dr. Request approval for alcohol and music in the parking lot and extended hours outdoors until midnight. (Councilman Kreller, District II)
   
   
5. Approval of change order #1, effluent pump station modification A/E Project 2101a04, formerly No. 2001a03 in the increased amount of $32,100.00 for a total contract price of $208,200. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
6. Approval of change order #1, lift station 12 and 24 rehabilitation A/E Project No. 2101a03 formerly Project #1701a07 in the increased amount of $58,572.00 for a total contract price of $646,802. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
7. Approval of substantial completion of lift station 12 and 24 rehabilitation A/E Project No. 2101a03 formerly Project #1701a07 for a total contract price of $646,802. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
8. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-19: a Resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville authorizing travel expenses for historic preservation district commission member Jeff Bernard to attend the Keeping History Above Water Conference in Charlestson, SC, from June 13-15, 2021, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Zuckerman, At-Large)
9. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-20: a Resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville authorizing the mayor of the City of Mandeville to execute a cooperative endeavor agreement between the City of Mandeville and the Beau Rivage Homeowners’ Association (BRHOA) for the irrigation project for Lou’s lot; and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
   
10. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-21: a Resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville accepting the proposals for the sunset point restrooms project A/E Project No. 2101a05 and authorizing the mayor to execute a contract with the apparent lowest proposer BSD construction, LLC and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
11. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-22: a Resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville accepting the bids for the trailhead splash park rehabilitation project A/E Project No. 2001a02 and authorizing the mayor to execute a contract with the apparent lowest bid franchise horticultural services, inc. And providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
    
    

Public comment:

Finance report:

Projects in progress (status report):

Adjournment

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Council asks for more time to review contract details while expressing support for plan and firm

(This is the complete coverage story. You can read the original news flash from May 13, 2021, here…)

MANDEVILLE — A vote on Mayor Clay Madden’s pick for the city’s disaster recovery contractor was deferred for two weeks by the City Council after a round of tough questioning at its May 13, 2021, meeting.

Resolution No. 21-18, which would authorize the mayor to contract Richard C. Lambert Consultants LLC to manage the city’s disaster recovery efforts, was deferred on a 3-1 vote, with only District I Councilwoman Rebecca Bush against the delay.

Madden presented his case for authorizing the contract “as soon as possible.” He said he had reviewed existing disaster recovery plans for the city and found them lacking.

“Inconsistent, outdated and incomplete, I learned that the city has five emergency management plans which we found on our computer drive. I found them to be individually and collectively inadequate to meet our needs,” Madden said.

Madden said he believes it is important that Mandeville’s plans be coordinated with St. Tammany Parish’s plans, which currently they are not.

Madden said the project was competitively bid and reviewed by a committee he assembled, which included Clarence Powe, director of St. Tammany Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (OHSEP) and Dexter Accardo, the previous director of St. Tammany Parish OHSEP.

He said Lambert Consultants was the clear choice.

The mayor and City Attorney Elizabeth Sconzert would respond to numerous questions from council members during the debate period that followed.

Councilman at Large Jason Zuckerman picked over the wording of the contract pertaining to which items are fixed deliverables and how work would be requested, billed and paid, as well as what the specified spending caps really mean for the city in non-disaster years.

The contract in question is potentially worth as much as $3.875 million, if federal disasters are declared every year, or $251,000 if no disasters are declared over the next three years.

The so-called “caps” in the three-year contract stipulate that payments to Lambert Consultants in non-disaster years shall not exceed $99,000 in 2021 — the “planning year” — and $76,000 in each subsequent year.

But if there are presidentially declared disasters, those caps increase to $1.375 million and $1.25 million, respectively.

Councilman at Large Rick Danielson followed up on Zuckerman’s line of questioning by asking Sconzert about non-disaster years and what they would mean financially to the city. She said that if there are no disasters, no money would be spent, except in the first year of the contract, which is the planning year.

However, Richard Lambert and Ben Plaia, representing Lambert Consultants at the meeting, indicated there would be expenses every year of the contract, regardless of a presidentially declared disaster. Plaia said training, rehearsals and other tasks would be necessary every year of the contract to unsure a constant state of readiness.

The terms of the contract provide for numerous services, such as coordinating with FEMA and other organizations, training personnel, disaster rehearsals, as well as yearly reviews of the plan to ensure sub-contractors and other key personnel are still available and in place.

Zuckerman also took issue with entering a contract before the expected budget adjustment that would set aside the necessary funding.

Originally slated for a vote at the April 22nd meeting, that budget adjustment had to be delayed due to a “technical” issue and is now scheduled for the next meeting on May 27th.

But Sconzert said that with a resolution the council is only authorizing the mayor to get the process started and after consulting the budget director, there would be no problem in the two weeks before the budget adjustment is adopted.

The skeptics on the council seemed satisfied with the need or even the urgency to adopt a plan and a contractor, but instead they took issue with the timing.

Zuckerman said he only found out the contract was on the agenda over the weekend preceding the meeting. The official agenda was published Saturday, May 8th, along with the contract, leaving four business days to review and ask questions of the administration.

District III Councilwoman Jill McGuire said, “I don’t have a problem with the plan. I think it’s important … I just wish we would have had more time to have reviewed it… I’m just asking as a courtesy … I don’t want to hold anything up, but at the same time I want to make a good decision.”

McGuire said the Madden administration was very responsive in providing answers to her questions but that four days wasn’t enough time for her to be prepared to vote.

“There are a lot of constituents, they read up on this stuff, and they have questions, and it’s our responsibility to give them the information,” she added.

Like Zuckerman, McGuire said she’d be more comfortable voting on the contract at the same time as the accompanying budget adjustment, even though Sconzert insisted that part of the funding is already set aside.

Madden responded, “Out of respect — y’all respected me when I asked for two more weeks (to tweak his staff restructuring plan at the April 8, 2021, meeting) — I’d be happy to work with you over the next two weeks.”

Bush said she was ready to move forward, with hurricane season fast approaching. “I’m against deferment… I think we would be foolish not to proceed,” she said.

Before the vote, council members expressed strong support for Lambert Consultants, saying they were well-qualified for the job.

“I am familiar with Mr. Lambert’s firm… very qualified firm. I don’t have any issues with the firm whatsoever,” Zuckerman said.

Ultimately, the council as a whole wasn’t ready to act on the resolution. Zuckerman, Danielson and McGuire voted to defer the resolution until the May 27th meeting. District II Councilman Skelly Kreller is out on sick leave.

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After extensions and delays, the digital message boards are now illegal in Mandeville

Flash: Thursday, May 13, 2021, at 7:40 PM

MANDEVILLE — The City Council tonight (May 13, 2021) killed what would have amounted to a reprieve for some electronic signs in the City of Mandeville after they were outlawed five years ago and given a grace period which ended January 1st of this year.

Ordinance No. 21-02 would have amended existing city code adopted in 2015, which outlawed “Electronic Message Centers” starting January 1, 2021, after a five year amortization period. The City effectively extended the original January 1st deadline to May 1, 2021, as part of its COVID-19 accommodations.

This ordinance would have created an exception for signs whose digital components comprise 50% or less of the sign face surface, allowing them to operate until January 1, 2022. Those larger than 50% would be illegal.

Councilman at Large Rick Danielson, who introduced the ordinance, made a motion to withdraw his ordinance, and the council unanimously agreed.

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Some argue ‘electronic message centers’ never really left, enforcement resumes pending vote

Updated: Wednesday, May 12, 2021, at 4:27 PM: Clarifies suspended enforcement until after vote.

MANDEVILLE — Electronic signs could get new life in Mandeville if the City Council adopts a controversial ordinance which softens a city law adopted five years ago along with a grace period to phase out the signs, which ended January 1st.

Proposed Ordinance No. 21-02 would amend existing city code adopted in 2015, which outlaws all electronic signs — described in code as “Electronic Message Centers” — starting January 1, 2021. The so-called “amortization period” from 2015 until now allowed businesses who already owned such signs to write off their depreciation before shutting them down. However, a number of those signs are reportedly still in operation.

This new ordinance, if adopted by the City Council at its May 13th meeting, would create an exception for signs whose digital components comprise 50% or less of the sign face surface. Those electronic signs would be allowed to continue to operate until January 1, 2022. Those larger than 50% would have to shut down immediately.

The City effectively extended the original January 1st deadline to May 1, 2021, as part of its COVID-19 accommodations. Additionally, Mayor Clay Madden said in a statement that City Attorney Elizabeth Sconzert advised against sending out enforcement letters while there is pending legislation on the matter.

If the ordinance is rejected by the City Council, the mayor said the ban will be enforced immediately.

R&R Care Solutions, 1808 N. Causeway Blvd., Tuesday, May 11, 2021. This sign would not fit within the 50% rule proposed in the ordinance, and is in apparent violation, pass or fail. Mayor Clay Madden said in a statement, enforcement would resume immediately after the May 13th meeting vote. (Source: Mandeville Daily)

Editor’s Note: The proposed ordinance’s “50%” is referring to area, not dimensions. This means that a six-by-four-foot electric sign (area of 24 square feet) would only have to add a one-foot border or frame to become compliant. The one-foot border would make the outer dimensions eight-by-six feet (area of 48 square feet) making the original sign 50% of the outer sign face. See the illustration below:

The Mandeville Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously April 27th to recommend that the City Council not extend the grace period any further.

The commission did not return a recommendation on language in the proposed ordinance that would create a new carveout for electronic signs based on the portion of their structure that is actually signage. The commission also voted to recommend in favor of hiring a consultant to examine current signage codes in general, not just electronic signs.

According to city code, Appendix A, Division II, Section 10.3.2 (Item 17), an electronic message center is defined as:

“Electronic Message Centers or Digital Signs. An electrically activated, changeable sign with a variable message and/or graphic presentation capability that can be electronically programmed by computer from a remote location or at the sign. Also known as an EMC or digital sign, these signs typically use arrays of LED lights to create an illuminated message.”

Madden released a statement at the April 27th Planning & Zoning Commission meeting saying that he is against the new ordinance.

There were 11 signs permitted under the grace period which ended January 1st, two of which have been turned off. Five of the 11 are gas station signs. Of the nine remaining, seven would be allowed to continue operating under proposed Ordinance No. 21-02. This means that those seven fit within the 50% carveout in the proposal.

According to eyewitness reports, a number of the existing electronic signs continue to operate, which are technically in violation of city code, and could be cited by the City now that the May 1st COVID-19 extension has elapsed.

Next Meeting : The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 13th, at 6 p.m. at the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center located at 3090 E. Causeway Approach. The statewide mask mandate and social distancing will be observed.

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Council to vote on controversial electronic sign ordinance

Could give new life to signs that were to have been phased out by now

MANDEVILLE — This is the Mandeville City Council’s published agenda for the next City Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, May 13th, at 6 p.m. at the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center. Council meetings are open to the public.

Paul Spitzfaden Community Center
3090 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, Louisiana 70448

Minutes:

1. Adoption of the April 22, 2021, Regular Meeting Minutes
   

Reports and Announcements:

Old Business:

1. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-02: an ordinance for the city of Mandeville to enact a twelve-month amortization on section 10.5.3.11 electronic message centers or digital signs of the land use regulations of appendix a- comprehensive land use regulations of the city of Mandeville and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   Read meeting preview story concerning Ordinance No. 21-02…
   
2. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-03: an ordinance of the council of the city of Mandeville amending section 17-86 of chapter 17 of the city of Mandeville code of ordinances and section 5.1.15 of appendix a- comprehensive land use regulations of the city of Mandeville and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Zuckerman, At-Large)
   
3. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-06: an ordinance of the city council of the city of Mandeville to affect the annexation of a portion of ground in Section 45, Township 8 South, Range 11 East, St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana adjacent to Golden Shores subdivision, Section A, Sq 5, Lot 86a, into the corporate limits of the city of Mandeville, designating the property for purposes of zoning as a R-1, single family residential district and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   

New Business:

1. Approval of the special event application for the Recreation District #1 Father’s Day Fishing Rodeo to be held on Saturday, June 19, 2021, from 8am – noon at the sunset point fishing pier. Registration opens Friday, May 14, 2021. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
2. Approval of Change Order No. 1 Bayou Castine bulkhead repair A/E Project No. 2101A01, formerly No. 1801A08 in the amount of $77,590.00 (Councilman Zuckerman, At-Large)
   
3. Approval of substantial completion Bayou Castine bulkhead repair A/E Project No. 2101A01, formerly no. 1801A08 as of April 8, 2021, for the final construction cost of $999,814.00 (Councilman Zuckerman, At-Large)
   
4. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-16: a resolution of the city council of the city of Mandeville authorizing the mayor of the city of Mandeville to renew a professional services agreement between the city of Mandeville and Compliance Envirosystems, LLC, for Mandeville sanitary sewer evaluation and rehabilitation, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
5. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-17: a resolution of the city council of the city of Mandeville establishing procedures on how ordinances, with recommendations from the planning and zoning commission, are placed on the regular council meeting agendas and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
6. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-18: a resolution of the city council of the city of Mandeville authorizing the mayor of the city of Mandeville to execute a professional services agreement between the city of Mandeville and Richard C. Lambert consultants, LLC, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
7. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-13: an ordinance for the city council of the city of Mandeville to amend ordinance number 20-12, the capital budget of the city of Mandeville and for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
8. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-17: an ordinance for the city council of the city of Mandeville to amend ordinance number 20-13, the operating budget of the city of Mandeville and for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
9. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-14: an ordinance of the city of Mandeville levying and imposing taxes on property subject to taxation in the city of Mandeville, state of Louisiana, for the year 2021 in accordance with the provisions of article vii, section 23(b) and (c) of the 1974 Louisiana constitution and R.S. 47:1705 (b) (1) and (2). (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   

Public Comment:

Projects in Progress (Status Report):

Adjournment

Kristine Scherer, Council Clerk

City of Mandeville
3101 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, LA 70448
985-624-3145

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact, Kristine Scherer, Council Clerk, at 985-624-3145, describing the assistance that is necessary.

Date of Notice: May 7, 2021, 1:00 PM

Source: City of Mandeville Official Website

Walmart corporate says masks still required, but local Walmarts quietly drop enforcement

MANDEVILLE — The City of Mandeville is following the state and parish in dropping its COVID-19 mask mandate in all public buildings. Local businesses can still opt to require their customers to wear masks but few seem to be doing so.

Last week, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards announced the state was easing its mask mandate, having been in effect since July 2020, as Louisiana’s new cases of COVID-19 have continued to drop to record lows while the state vaccination rate is steadily climbing.

Almost immediately after the state’s announcement, St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper announced the parish would follow the state’s lead and no longer require businesses to comply. Mandeville’s announcement came shortly after Cooper’s proclamation.

According to reports, the only Mandeville area businesses keeping their mask requirements in place — at least for now — belong to national retail chains, like Walmart, Fantastic Sam’s and a few others.

Walmart released a statement to the Mandeville Daily declaring that Louisiana Walmart stores will continue to require masks:

“We serve millions of Americans every week and believe our policy of requiring associates and customers to wear masks in our stores has helped protect them during the pandemic, and we’re not lifting those measures at this time…”

However, the Mandeville Daily observed an apparent easing of mask enforcement since Edwards’ announcement at both the Walmart Neighborhood Market in Mandeville and Walmart Supercenter in Covington.

Shoppers not wearing masks were seen entering these stores without being prompted at various times of day on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, although store employees themselves did appear to still be following Walmart’s stated mask policy.

Witnesses have told the Mandeville Daily that before Gov. Edwards announcement, Walmart strictly enforced its rule: no mask, no entry.

This would seem to indicate an unofficial change in mask policy at local Walmarts, contradicting Walmart’s official statement for Louisiana.

Developing…

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Council will receive a negative recommendation on the red-hot issue, which could be voted on as early as May 13th

Released: Tuesday, April 27, 2021, at 7:49 PM
Updated: Thursday, April 29, 2021, at 6:47 AM

MANDEVILLE — The Mandeville Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously tonight (April 27, 2021) to recommend that the City Council not extend a grace period on electronic signs that was supposed to have expired January 1, 2021.

The commission did not return a recommendation on language in the proposed ordinance that would create a new carveout for electronic signs based on the portion of their structure that is actually signage. The commission also voted to recommend in favor of hiring a consultant to examine current signage codes in general, not just electronic signs.

Proposed Ordinance No. 21-02, introduced at the March 11, 2021, City Council meeting, would amend existing city code adopted in 2015 (sections 10.5.3.11(2) and 10.5.3.11(3) of the Appendix A – Comprehensive Land Use Regulation Ordinance (CLURO)), which outlaws all electronic signs — described in code as “Electronic Message Centers” — starting January 1, 2021. The so-called “amortization period” from 2015 until now was technically a grace period, which allowed businesses who already owned such signs to write off their depreciation before shutting them down. However, a number of those signs are reportedly still in operation.

The City posted a notice on its website in March 2021 that notified the public that enforcement of sign regulations had been “relaxed” as part of its COVID-19 accommodations. The statement reads, “the City will resume enforcement of the sign regulations beginning May 1, 2021.”

According to city code, Appendix A, Division II, Section 10.3.2 (Item 17), an electronic message center is defined as:

“Electronic Message Centers or Digital Signs. An electrically activated, changeable sign with a variable message and/or graphic presentation capability that can be electronically programmed by computer from a remote location or at the sign. Also known as an EMC or digital sign, these signs typically use arrays of LED lights to create an illuminated message.”

This new ordinance, if adopted by the City Council — possibly at the May 13th meeting — would extend that grace period while also creating an exception for signs whose digital components comprise 50% or less of the sign face surface. Those electronic signs would be allowed to continue to operate until January 1, 2022.

There were 11 signs permitted under the grace period which ended January 1st, two of which have been turned off. Five of the 11 are gas station signs. Of the nine remaining, seven would be allowed to continue operating under proposed Ordinance No. 21-02. This means that those seven fit within the 50% carveout in the proposal.

Editor’s Note: The proposed ordinance’s “50%” is referring to area, not dimensions. This means that a six-by-four-foot electric sign (area of 24 square feet) would only have to add a one-foot border or frame to become compliant. The one-foot border would make the outer dimensions eight-by-six feet (area of 48 square feet) making the original sign 50% of the outer sign face. See the illustration below:

Mayor Clay Madden submitted a statement that was entered into the record stating he is against the ordinance.

The Planning & Zoning Commission does not act on legislation. They can only make recommendations to the council on proposed ordinances and other issues.

According to eyewitness reports, a number of the existing electronic signs, which are technically in violation of existing city code, and could be cited by the City starting May 1st, continue to operate.

Below are several examples of electronic message centers contained in the City of Mandeville Planning & Zoning Commission media packet for the April 13, 2021 meeting:

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After debate and amendments, parking changes approved for General Pershing Street

MANDEVILLE — Mayor Clay Madden’s reorganization plan was voted down and parking changes on General Pershing Street were approved.

Old Business:

1. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-08: An ordinance of the City Council of the City of Mandeville adopting the job classification, position description, and pay scale for the positions of Director of Administration, and Grants and Contract Administrator, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Council Danielson, At-Large).
   
   Read full coverage of this agenda item here.
   
   Failed, 1-3 (Danielson: No, Zuckerman: No, Bush: Yes, McGuire: No, Kreller: Absent)
   
   
2. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-11: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting extended parking of motor vehicles along a portion of General Pershing Street, Square 46, lying between Lafitte Street and Girod Street, for any period of time longer than six (6) hours on all days, including holidays, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
   
   Amended to change “six(6) hours” to “eight(8) hours”. All in favor.
   Amended to change to “overnight parking” (instead of “eight(8) hours”) regardless of holidays or weekdays. All in favor.
   Amended Ordinance Adopted, 4-0 (Kreller: Absent)
   
   
   
   
3. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-12: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting parking of motor vehicles along that portion of Christian Court located in Woodstone Subdivision, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
   
   Adopted, 4-0 (Kreller: Absent)
   
   
   
   

New Business:

1. Approval of special event liquor license for El Paso Mexican Grill, Wednesday, May 5, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. to be located at 1461 North Causeway Blvd., no rain date. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
   Adopted, 4-0 (Kreller: Absent)
   
   
2. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-13: An ordinance for the City Council of the City of Mandeville to amend Ordinance No. 20-12, the Capital Budget of the City of Mandeville and for other matters in connection therewith. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   
   Withdrawn due to technicality; to be corrected and reintroduced at May 6th, 2021, meeting
   
   

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Council says ‘not right now’ to DOA; lack of details, recent referendum cited

Final Release: Friday, April 23, 2021, at 7:52 AM
Original Release: Thursday, April 22, 2021, at 8:14 PM

MANDEVILLE — The City Council voted down Mayor Clay Madden’s staff restructuring proposal, killing the idea of a director of administration post — for now — while giving the mayor a promise to work with him moving forward.

Several on the council went as far as to commend the mayor on the progress they’ve seen so far in his administration, promising to reassess the idea of a director-of-administration-type position as well as other potential changes if things continue to improve.

“Things are running so smoothly now at City Hall. Trilby (Lenfant) is doing awesome. Let’s come back in a year and see where we’re at then,” District III Councilwoman Jill McGuire told the mayor during debate.

Longtime former Council Member Trilby Lenfant has been filling the mayor’s executive assistant position on an interim basis, but the mayor previously expressed she has been forced to expand well beyond the traditional role of the executive assistant.

The mayor sealed the fate of his reorganization plan during his opening remarks to the council when, in a prepared statement, he spelled out the only change he would be willing to accept to the ordinance, effectively giving the council no choice but an all or nothing vote.

The City Council could have proposed amendments as long as the mayor would have agreed to them.

“The one change I am prepared to make if the council feels it’s necessary is a process that would eliminate the financial commitment for those positions. I would support that,” he read.

Madden highlighted one of his original reasons for proposing the director of administration post: “Passing this ordinance to create the director of administration position would just be formalizing what we’ve already been doing. I believe in what I’m proposing.”

He also said he had spoken with voters during the last two weeks — some were supportive, some expressed questions and concerns, while others had issues that were more “political in nature.”

After the mayor’s remarks, each member of the council took turns explaining what they liked and disliked about the plan.

As an elected representative, my job is to really analyze what’s being proposed and make decisions that are in the best interest of the city… What is it that we’re trying to fix?

— Councilman at Large Jason Zuckerman

Councilman at Large Jason Zuckerman kicked off the discussion period by expressing frustration at how divided the community had become on the director of administration issue.

“Many of the people I’ve spoken to … are enthusiastically for the proposal, many are adamantly against… And what I found is both sides seem to dismiss each other. That’s troubling to me,” said Zuckerman.

Zuckerman noted that the previous City Council voted to lower the mayor’s salary (while Donald Villere was mayor and before Zuckerman was elected), a change that was later ratified by the voters.

Zuckerman concluded his remarks by saying he could get behind the grants and contracts administrator position. “I would propose we move forward with what we can agree on… we could at least chip away at this … and that we can work together over the rest of your term. I very much enjoy working with you.”

District I Councilwoman Rebecca Bush, a staunch ally of the mayor on this issue, expressed continued support for the plan, reading a letter from one of her constituents into the record, which said in part that Mandeville has added roughly 2,500 residents and its budget has almost doubled in the last 10 years.

“Spending big money and managing large projects requires a more specialized governmental structure than a mayor, council and department heads,” she read.

McGuire indicated she might support such a proposal in the future. “I do feel that if we were to have a director of administration, it would allow you to do the stuff that needs to be done so that Mandeville is not reactive … I’m open to it eventually, but I cannot vote for it right now.”

Like Zuckerman, she cited the referendum last year to reduce the mayor’s salary as one reason for not getting on board yet.

Councilman at Large Rick Danielson told the mayor that when the two first talked about the idea of a restructuring ordinance, he was under the impression it would have more specifics.

“When we first talked, I really felt the plan should provide all of those details… the who, what, when, where, why, and how much. And we never really got that.” He told the mayor he would need to see more details.

Danielson did, however, reassure the mayor that he has the support of the council moving forward. “You have an incredible team. You have five council members that will do anything to work with you and your team.”

He concluded by echoing the positions of Zuckerman and McGuire, that he would be willing to support a contracts and grants manager only. “I do not see the need — right now — for a director of administration position, as it’s been laid out.”

The City Council voted down the ordinance without amendments, 3-1, with only District I Councilwoman Rebecca Bush voting in favor. District II Councilman Skelly Kreller is out on medical leave.

At the end of the night, Madden told the Mandeville Daily, “I respect the council’s decision. My administration will continue to move Mandeville forward with the tools that we have. I am confident we will exceed expectations. “

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Council says ‘not right now’ to DOA; lack of details, recent referendum cited

Final Release: Friday, April 23, 2021, at 7:52 AM

Read the FINAL RELEASE of this story here.

This was the original breaking news flash and is out-of-date.

Thursday, April 22, 2021, at 8:14 PM

ORIGINAL FLASH: Mayor’s restructuring plan rejected by council

Council says ‘not right now’ to director of administration, expressed support for grants and contracts administrator

MANDEVILLE — Mayor Clay Madden’s staff restructuring plan was rejected tonight as the City Council killed the idea of a director of administration post while giving the mayor a promise to work with him moving forward.

Several on the council went as far as to commend the mayor on the progress they’ve seen so far in his administration, promising to reassess the idea of a director-of-administration-type position as well as other potential changes if things continue to improve.

“Things are running so smoothly now at City Hall. Trilby (Lenfant) is doing awesome. Let’s come back in a year and see where we’re at then,” District III Councilwoman Jill McGuire told the mayor during debate.

Councilman at Large Jason Zuckerman added, “I would propose we move forward with what we can agree on, and then see if we can work together later to address these other things.”

The City Council voted down the ordinance 3-1, with only District I Councilwoman Rebecca Bush voting in favor. District II Councilman Skelly Kreller is out on medical leave.

I respect the council’s decision. My administration will continue to move Mandeville forward with the tools that we have. I am confident we will exceed expectations.

— Mandeville Mayor Clay Madden

Developing…

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Controversial director of administration post remains sticking point

MANDEVILLE — Mayor Clay Madden’s proposed director of administration post has drawn a lot of heat lately, prompting the new mayor to publish an open letter asking voters to get their council members behind the measure, which is up for a vote tomorrow night (April 22, 2021).

The proposal, first introduced at the March 25th meeting and then deferred at the April 8th meeting so the mayor could tweak the proposal, would add two new positions: a director of administration and a grants and contracts administrator.

The outcome of the vote is far from certain. The City Council has two options: vote on the plan as is, or vote on the plan with amendments. Any amendments would have to be approved by the mayor, he being the author of the ordinance.

The mayor could opt to ask the council to kill his legislation for him, instead of settling for a partial victory, where he could potentially see just the grants and contracts administrator advance while allowing the director of administration to be stripped out via amendment.

The two new posts were seemingly the mayor’s response to a recent efficiency audit, commissioned by the city late last year. The study recommended sweeping changes to the city’s organization chart and department processes.

The Mandeville Efficiency Study, prepared by Pyramid Consulting, LLC, and published January 20th, was requested by Madden upon entering office and approved by the City Council.

Critics of the mayor contend the director of administration post is unnecessary and would be a waste of resources. Some even suggested that the plan is a step toward a city-manager style government.

However, Madden told the Mandeville Daily in a recent interview that both Covington and Slidell have positions under their mayors called “chief administrative officer” (CAO) to whom all other directors report.

But Madden said his proposed director of administrator does not have the same authority as those positions, and would not be in charge of other directors.

The director of administration is somebody that will work in conjunction with the mayor and will have a supervisory role over projects, but not people.

— Mayor Clay Madden

He added, “I never wanted it to be a CAO, because that implies deputy mayor… which is higher than the other directors.”

Next Meeting : The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 22nd, at 6 p.m. at the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center located at 3090 E. Causeway Approach. The statewide mask mandate and social distancing will be observed. Read the agenda published by the City of Mandeville.

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Mayor’s plan to add two high-level positions up for vote

Council may amend restructuring proposal before a vote

MANDEVILLE — This is the Mandeville City Council’s published agenda for the next City Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 22nd, at 6 p.m. at the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center. Council meetings are open to the public.

Paul Spitzfaden Community Center
3090 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, Louisiana 70448

In order to comply with Governor Edwards Executive Order, masks will be required if you wish to attend the city council meeting. We also ask for you to please respect social distancing for everyone’s protection.

Minutes:

1. Adoption of the April 8, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes
   

Reports and Announcements:

Proclamation of the Mayor of the City of Mandeville to designate May 9-15, 2021, as Police Week.

Old Business:

1. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-08: An ordinance of the City Council of the City of Mandeville adopting the job classification, position description, and pay scale for the positions of Director of Administration, and Grants and Contract Administrator, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Council Danielson, At-Large).
2. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-11: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting extended parking of motor vehicles along a portion of General Pershing Street, Square 46, lying between Lafitte Street and Girod Street, for any period of time longer than six (6) hours on all days, including holidays, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
3. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-12; An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting parking of motor vehicles along that portion of Christian Court located in Woodstone Subdivision, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
   

New Business:

1. Approval of special event liquor license for El Paso Mexican Grill, Wednesday, May 5, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. to be located at 1461 North Causeway Blvd., no rain date. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
2. Introduction of ordinance No. 21-13: An ordinance for the City Council of the City of Mandeville to amend Ordinance No. 20-12, the Capital Budget of the City of Mandeville and for other matters in connection therewith. (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   

Public Comment:

Finance Report:

Projects in Progress (Status Report):

Adjournment

Kristine Sherer, Council Clerk

City of Mandeville
3101 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, LA 70448
985-624-3145

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact, Kristine Scherer, Council Clerk, at 985-624-3145, describing the assistance that is necessary.

Date of Notice: April 15, 2021, 1:00 PM

Source: City of Mandeville Official Website

Concedes changes to proposal are inevitable to please majority on council

MANDEVILLE — Mayor Clay Madden’s embattled restructuring plan will likely not survive a City Council vote in its current form, but the new mayor remains adamant that significant changes are needed at City Hall, some of which he says have already been implemented in an ad-hoc manner but still need to be formalized in the name of transparency.

However, critics of his proposal, including some on the council, have taken issue with one item in particular: the mayor’s call to create a new “Director of Administration” to address problems cited in a recent efficiency study.

Former longtime city council member Trilby Lenfant, who is filling the mayor’s executive assistant post on an interim basis, has taken on duties that were never considered part of the executive assistant’s job in previous administrations, Madden said.

This was necessary, he claims, to address a lack of project management and coordination among departments, problems that were later cited as “gaps” in organizational structure by the 2021 Mandeville Efficiency Study.

Conducted in late 2020, the study found that program and contract management responsibilities were being handled on an “ad-hoc basis” or “not performed at all.”

Madden says his restructuring proposal would merely formalize the actual role Lenfant is already fulfilling, giving her a more accurate job title and description. The mayor’s proposal would also include a boost in pay.

“I just always thought that position (executive assistant) could be doing more than just answering phones and doing the mayor’s schedule,” said Madden.

He said now his concern is that by having Lenfant continue to perform a much-expanded role beyond the official job description creates the appearance of impropriety. “I think the way I went about it (with a director of administration title) was the more transparent way because I’m saying this is what we really want to do.”

Madden did indicate, however, that the exact title of the new position was not all that important to him. “I sometimes think if we had just called it ‘operations manager’ would that have helped.”

“I did not think ever that we needed to bring in a new position that would be a boss of other directors. I just wanted an operations person that has a skillset higher than a person that answers phones,” he emphasized.

Madden said he took into consideration how other cities in our region are structured. Covington, he said, has a “chief administrative officer” (CAO) while Slidell has two such positions. “I never wanted it to be a CAO, because that implies deputy mayor… which is higher than the other directors.”

Hammond has a director of administration. “I liked what Hammond did, because it is under the direction of the mayor and not anyone else’s boss.”

And according to Madden, in 1987 the Mandeville City Council actually voted for an organization chart that included a director of administration. Each year, the council approves a new organization chart as part of its budgeting process.

For whatever the reason, the post was never filled and ceased to exist the next year with a new budget.

Madden’s restructuring plan, Ordinance No. 21-08, which was hotly debated at the April 8th council meeting before being deferred to April 22nd for a vote, has three basic parts.

First, the mayor wants to create a “Director of Administration” that will handle day-to-day operations and programs management, including coordination between the various departments. Essentially, this post would be an extension of the mayor, reporting directly to the chief executive yet not having authority over personnel, just projects.

Second, he wants to reduce the existing executive assistant post — currently held by Lenfant — to a role similar to a clerk or secretary, in both pay and responsibilities. Lenfant would be reassigned to the new director of administration position.

Finally, he wants to create a “Grants and Contracts Administrator” to do exactly what the name suggests. Madden told the Mandeville Daily this position should “more than pay for itself” as new revenue would be generated for the city. This part of the proposal isn’t meeting much resistance from the council.

The City Council could choose to amend Madden’s ordinance before the April 22nd vote, but the mayor would have to agree to those changes, else the ordinance would die, forcing the mayor to start the process all over.

Madden said he is pleased with the changes that are happening at City Hall so far, especially with morale, and he wants to keep the momentum. “I decided that because I knew that morale was low all over… I wanted to have a one-on-one meeting with every employee. I want to know every employee’s first name.”

Madden said he is almost finished with the one-on-one interviews and has learned a lot from the process. “The feedback that I’ve gotten from employees is that morale has gotten a lot better.”

Next Meeting : The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 22nd, at 6 p.m. at the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center located at 3090 E. Causeway Approach. The statewide mask mandate and social distancing will be observed. Read the agenda published by the City of Mandeville.

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Details reasoning behind two new top positions and plan to move city away from ‘antiquated’ model

MANDEVILLE — Mayor Clay Madden has released an open letter to the citizens of Mandeville on social media asking for their support getting his embattled staff restructuring plan adopted by the City Council.

Madden lays out his reasoning for the proposal, which includes the now-controversial “director of administration” position, which he argues came from the findings of the 2021 Mandeville Efficiency Study, conducted when he entered office. Critics of the plan say the new post is not justified by the recent efficiency report.

In an effort to keep the community informed, the Mandeville Daily’s policy is to report and publish such statements or letters from the chief executive when deemed appropriate. The issue is up for a vote at the April 22 council meeting.

Editor’s Note: The Mandeville Daily was granted a one-on-one interview with the mayor to discuss these issues and more. That story is in development and will be published shortly. To be notified of breaking stories, click the “Follow” button in the lower-right screen.

Here is the text of Mandeville Mayor Clay Madden’s open letter published on social media April 13, 2021:

Dear Friends,

As is common practice in government, new leadership often brings change to an existing organization. You may recall that I commissioned an operational efficiency audit shortly after taking office.

That report pointed out operational deficiencies in city government. The first seven months of my term have confirmed those and other deficiencies, such as lack of centralized contract oversight, lack of comprehensive emergency operations plans, lack of proper interdepartmental operations management, outdated technology, etc.

In addition to moving forward with updated financial software and other implementation actions, I have proposed to the council Ordinance # 21-08 which includes two new positions: a director of administration and a contracts/grants administrator.

The Director of Administration will operate under the direct supervision and authority of the Mayor and will basically be responsible for interdepartmental coordination and initiation and oversight of administrative projects.

I am committed to meet and exceed your expectations as an accessible and responsive mayor involved in your issues and concerns, and working closely with the city council to advance the goals/vision for the city.

As mayor and chief executive officer of the city I remain focused on providing you with an efficient and effective government that works for you, with an emphasis on addressing long standing, unresolved, big picture problems such as water management/flooding, traffic, getting empty retail back into commerce and others. Mandeville is in competition with other municipalities for big project dollars needed to address these and other issues.

Other local mayors, with Director of Administration positions already in place, are afforded more time and effort to compete for big project dollars. Mandeville must do the same and have an administrative structure that allows the mayor time to focus on the big picture and the future.

The position of Grants and Contracts Administrator will establish a position focused on actively seeking grant money, saving taxpayer money. Grant funding can provide for not only critical infrastructure projects but also beautification, parks, purchase of green space cultural arts , and other projects which will enrich our community. Additionally, this position will provide much needed centralized oversight of all city contracts, a weakness identified in the operations efficiency audit.

The addition of both of these proposed positions will come at no additional cost to taxpayers as we will realize a cost savings from eliminating positions deemed no longer necessary. In fact, the long term goal is to have the grants/contracts position pay for itself, as has been demonstrated in other cities.

The current antiquated business model at City Hall has not been working effectively. Doing things the same old way does not adequately address current and future needs and goals. Mandeville is overdue to realign our business model to meet our challenges. With my plan, we will be able to do new things, correct things needing to be fixed, focus on major issues affecting our city and quality of life, streamline operations, improve efficiency and integrate new technology that will overall allow my administration to better serve you.

I ask for your support for my plan . As taxpayers, less costly and more efficient government is something everyone should be expecting and demanding.

If you agree, I would appreciate you letting your city council members know you support my plan. As always, please do not hesitate to call, text or email me at 985-630-8578.

Recommends restructuring organization chart and procedures

Finds flaws in IT operations that put city at risk

MANDEVILLE — A recently released efficiency audit, commissioned by the city late last year, recommends sweeping changes to the city’s organization chart and department processes in a “rapid phased approach” as opposed to a chain of incremental adjustments over a longer period of time. The study also takes issue with how information technology services are handled by the city.

The Mandeville Efficiency Study, prepared by Pyramid Consulting, LLC, and published January 20th, was requested by at-the-time incoming Mayor Clay Madden and approved by the City Council.

Editor’s Note #1: We have chosen to provide reporting on the 2021 Mandeville Efficiency Study even though it was released in January, long before the Mandeville Daily began publication. This 2021 study has become part of the current story — having been mentioned as part of the official record both by council members and the public — regarding Mayor Clay Madden’s restructuring proposal, which is up for a vote at the April 22nd City Council meeting.

Editor’s Note #2: We will refer to the most recent “Mandeville Efficiency Study” as the “2021” study. However, it should be noted that this study was actually conducted in late 2020 immediately after Mayor Clay Madden took office and before any significant changes could take place. This study makes frequent reference to the “2010 City of Mandeville Operations Efficiency Study” which was actually published in early 2011. For purposes of clarity, this piece will refer to the most recent study as “the 2021 study” and the one conducted in 2010 as “the 2010 study.”

Restructuring organization and processes needed

The study recommends the organization chart and department processes for the city should be restructured, and done so together because they are so tightly integrated. A so-called “matrix” organizational structure for contract and program management should be adopted.

The study favors an upfront yet phased implementation of these changes instead of trickling them out over time. By announcing all the changes up front, the study suggests the city can deal with any blowback or issues all at once and then let the rollout proceed.

“Small adjustments to an organization chart actually take longer and are much more painful (emotionally and politically). Furthermore, a series of small changes keeps people in chaos… This is far more difficult for staff than one big change,” the report reads.

City lacks contract and program management

The study takes issue with how Mandeville manages programs and handles its contracts. It recommends establishing “management responsibility” for both programs and contracts.

This could be interpreted to mean creating new positions for each or both combined, or even assigning such responsibilities to existing staff. Both programs and contracts often span multiple departments.

Currently, Mandeville does not have a documented policy or procedure for managing programs. “… all projects are at best performed on an ad hoc basis and in many instances are not performed at all.”

As for contracts, the responsibility of initiating and approving contracts is split between the city attorney and purchasing; there is no structure in place to monitor the terms and fulfillment of contracts.

What’s more, the city has no formal documentation that follows the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s best practices recommendations for handling the life cycle of a contract, the study found.

Mandeville ranks lowest on CMMI scale

The study uses the Capability Maturity Model Integration scale for project management and contracting process areas developed at Carnegie Mellon University. It identifies Mandeville as being only at level one capability — “processes unpredictable, poorly controlled and reactive” — on the five-level scale, and that a “reasonable” target would be level two within two years.

The study identifies a number of operational “gaps” and lays much of the blame for Mandeville’s problems on poor structure, staffing deficiencies, and a lack of documented procedures. The study suggests these issues have led to poor morale and a lack of productivity, with the staff feeling generally overwhelmed.

Employee input shaped recommendations

These organizational recommendations were based largely on feedback from the workers themselves.

The authors of the study conducted employee surveys, interviewed department heads, and analyzed current operating procedures to paint a picture of how well Mandeville city government functions.

Small adjustments to an organization chart actually take longer and are much more painful (emotionally and politically).

— 2021 Mandeville Efficiency Study

Survey shows workers unhappy and not motivated

Of the 20 issues employees were asked about in the survey, being overworked, unhappiness and lack of motivation topped the list of problems, or “weaknesses.”

“People in the organization are happy and motivated” drew negative responses from 26 of the 38 workers completing the survey. “People are chronically overworked” also received 26 negative responses.

However, one of the more telling revelations was in what respondents identified as “strengths” in Mandeville’s organization.

Overwhelmingly, they believe they have the skills necessary to do their jobs, they know what those jobs are, and they’re producing quality work. Thirty of the 38 agreed that “Individuals have the skills and abilities to meet their assignments.” (See a complete table of responses at the end of this story.)

Focus groups reveal discontent with other areas

The authors of the study conducted five focus groups, whose purpose was to identify “opportunities for improvement.”

Participants told interviewers they needed better structure, better communication, better technology, better training, and enough people to handle the workload.

Department heads cite staffing levels, training

The heads of all five departments of the City of Mandeville – Finance, Planning, Public Works, Human Resources and Cultural Development – seemed to echo common themes or gripes at City Hall: the need for improved information technology as well as addressing staffing shortages.

An issue that was raised by the Human Resources director concerned the requirement that creating or changing civil service job descriptions (excluding police) requires that an ordinance be adopted by the City Council.

The study offered this as a possible explanation as to why department heads might be reluctant to update roles and responsibilities as changing times might demand.

Despite this, the authors of the study did find that overall job descriptions and job duties were well-maintained.

Lack of IT disaster plan raises red flags

Mandeville does not have an Information Technology department, and more importantly it does not have a “disaster recovery/business continuity plan,” which is a common term and best practice among organizations this size. Currently, IT is part of the Finance Department.

The 2010 City of Mandeville Operations Efficiency Study had recommended that a formal IT steering committee be established due to a lack of “formal IT governance process and communication forum between the various departments.”

The 2010 recommendations said that at a minimum the membership of such a committee should include the IT consultant, Finance Director, Public Works Director, Planning and Zoning Director and HR Director.

The city’s 2010 remediation response went so far as to set a timeline for the formation of the committee to be the second quarter of 2011. However, the 2021 report determined that as of today this committee does not exist and there are only annual budgeting discussions concerning IT with department directors.

Mandeville outsources much of its IT services. The 2021 report is critical of Mandeville’s practices in this area.

Background on Cyber Threats: A successful ransomware attack – where a bad actor tricks an employee into providing their internal network credentials – could potentially bring all electronic services to a halt. These attacks work by sending employees fake emails that look like legitimate communications from the IT staff or internal login screens. The unsuspecting user types in their password and then the entire network becomes compromised. It happens to companies all the time.

One of the primary recommendations of the 2021 study is to move to cloud-based services, which can offer some protection from attacks, but is no guarantee. It only ensures that if the organization is compromised, it would be possible to restore services, but not without potentially significant downtime.

No Internal Audit Program

Yet another issue the 2021 study identifies is that Mandeville still has no formal internal audit function, this despite the 2010 City of Mandeville Operations Efficiency Study recommendation that the city implement one.

The 2021 Mandeville Efficiency Study points out that even though there is an ordinance from 2008 (amended in 2010) that establishes an internal audit committee, no such committee exists today. The study concludes that this ordinance — 08-39 — is likely still active and enforceable should the current City Council wish to reactivate this internal audit committee.

The Mandeville Daily could not find record of the internal audit committee being codified. There is an existing “Financial Oversight Committee” in City Code Section 18, Article I, established in 2012 by Ordinance No. 12-20, but this does not appear to be the same committee referenced in the 2021 study.

Typically, after ordinances are passed, they are codified and placed into the city code, arranged by subject area. That does not appear to be the case with the internal audit committee.

Editor’s Note #3: Glen Runyon, the managing director of Pyramid Consulting, LLC, the firm that conducted the 2021 study, was appointed in 2009 to a seat on this very same internal audit committee, the Mandeville Daily has learned. (He also had applied to fill the post of interim mayor after the Eddie Price resignation in 2009, but Edward “Bubby” Lyons was picked for that five-month post instead.) This editor’s note is made as part of standard full disclosure to the reader.

Recommendations made to departments

The study makes numerous recommendations to policies and procedures relating to the Planning, Finance and Public Works departments.

Source: The Mandeville Efficiency Study, released January 20, 2021.

Related: Mayor requests, receives two weeks to tweak restructuring plan…

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’Follow’ us to receive updates and get notified the instant breaking reports are posted

MANDEVILLE — The Mandeville Daily provided record-fast yet accurate coverage of the latest City Council meeting. Within hours of the April 8th meeting, we posted a “FLASH” update with the lead and basic narrative, followed the next morning by the complete story. Other outlets didn’t publish until at least Saturday.

With the Mandeville Daily, you don’t have to wait days to learn what happens at the City Council meeting. And moving forward, we hope to respond even faster. The internet provides the means to keep the reader expeditiously informed.

If you’d like to be notified of flashes and stories, use the “Follow” feature in the lower-right corner of this screen. (You will be asked to confirm via your email inbox afterwards.) It’s that easy. You’ll get notified the minute we publish. Also, bookmark us at MandevilleDaily.News.

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Council delays action on measure after contemptuous debate over reason for deferral request

Final Release: Friday, April 9, 2021, at 12:19 PM

MANDEVILLE — The City Council voted to defer action on Mayor Clay Madden’s now controversial proposal to add a new director of administration position to handle day-to-day operations for the city.

The proposal, first introduced at the March 25th meeting, would add two new positions, the other being a grants and contracts administrator, but that post is not the one meeting resistance from some on the Council as well as the public.

The restructuring proposal had been scheduled for a vote at last night’s (Thursday, April 8, 2021) meeting, but when the item came up for consideration Madden instead asked the council to defer action on the measure for two weeks so that he could potentially tweak the plan.

Madden said he had received last-minute feedback from certain parties which could have an effect on the proposal, and he wanted time to take those concerns into account before final action. “My desire is to have y’all vote at the next meeting. Good, bad, or indifferent, I want it to be voted on.”

This seemed to frustrate District II Councilman Skelly Kreller who demanded to know “Why? Why do you want to defer suddenly now?” Madden refused to say exactly who he had talked to that prompted him to ask for the delay, only that it occurred later in the week and he thought it important enough to make this request.

Kreller kept pressing Madden for details. “All of this was dropped on us today, or last night… And we always talk about transparency.”

Madden fired back at Kreller, “As you know I was on the council for eight years and I don’t believe I ever voted against a deferral when the mayor or another councilman simply wanted … additional time.“

If you’re against it, vote against it. I’m asking for another two weeks out of respect.

— Mayor Clay Madden

Some in attendance shared Kreller’s sentiment. Local Eric McVicker, 603 Tops L Drive, addressed the Council with prepared remarks in which he urged that the Council vote on the matter as publicly advertised.

McVicker said that adding a director of administration post is a step toward turning Mandeville into a city-manager form of government.

He added that only 4% of the voters in the primary election last summer voted for a candidate who would favor a city-manager type government for Mandeville. “We deserve better. And we expect better,” he concluded.

In the July 11 election, Chad Bordelon, the only candidate to run on the platform of turning Mandeville into a city-manager government, received just 4% of the vote.

Several Mandeville politicos rose in opposition to deferring the vote.

Jeff Lyons, who ran unsuccessfully for the District III Council seat in 2016 and who is the son of a former Mandeville mayor, expressed sharp criticism for the mayor’s plan: “He wants to tweak the position just to make it more palatable. He’s adding another layer of supervision that’s totally unnecessary.”

Michael Pulaski, who lost the District II Council seat to Kreller in the July 11 election, only addressed the merits of the deferral itself, doubting there would be enough time to change the ordinance by the next meeting. The city charter requires a vote within 30 days of introducing an ordinance.

It sure seems like a lot of these negative opinions may be really rooted in old political grudges and not based on what’s good for the city.

— Janet Smith, Mandeville

However, a number of those in attendance expressed strong support for Madden’s proposal. Janet Smith, 1164 Rue Chinon, said she believes his plan reflects filling the “gaps” found in a recent efficiency report.

Smith is referring to the comprehensive Mandeville Efficiency Study, prepared by Pyramid Consulting, LLC, which was published January 20. It cites numerous deficiencies and recommends restructuring the organization chart and department processes, among other things.

“It sure seems like a lot of these negative opinions may be really rooted in old political grudges and not based on what’s good for the city,” she added.

At the end of debate, Councilman at Large Rick Danielson, District III Councilwoman Jill McGuire and Madden discussed the technicalities involved in making revisions to an ordinance already up for a vote while still meeting the requirement for public advertisement. Generally, they agreed that as long as the changes were minor, the current ordinance could be amended and voted on at the next meeting.

Otherwise, the current ordinance would have to be voted down and the mayor would have to start the process over. McGuire pointed out that if no action is taken, the ordinance is automatically adopted, and therefore it must be voted down and not just withdrawn.

Madden’s insistence on moving forward with the current ordinance as opposed to scrapping it now could indicate that a majority on the Council would be satisfied with only minor changes, allowing the ordinance to be adopted on April 22.

Further indication of how the findings in the efficiency report are related to the mayor’s restructuring proposal came at the end of the meeting in what at first seemed to be an unrelated discussion.

Glenn Runyon of Pyramid Consulting, LLC, who conducted the efficiency report for the city, raised concerns that software recently approved as part of an amended budget, based on recommendations found in the efficiency report, would be wasted if Madden’s proposal were to be rejected.

Councilman at Large Jason Zuckerman disagreed and pressed Runyon to specify which software would only be used for either of the new positions in Madden’s proposal.

Ultimately Runyon conceded that the software is needed regardless, suggesting, however, that a new position would be needed to train or manage those who would use that software.

The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 22.

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Vincent Liberto memorial, waste water testing results, tax renewals, traffic citation report round out long agenda

MANDEVILLE — This is a summary of the remainder of the items on the agenda for the Mandeville City Council meeting held on April 8, 2021. Moving forward, these “The rest of the story” pieces will provide you, the reader, an account of action taken on each item on the agenda, in the order in which it appeared. Consider this an agenda “scorecard.”

Reports and Announcements

Mayor Clay Madden and Police Chief Gerald Sticker revealed plans for a permanent Vincent Liberto memorial to honor the fallen officer as well as the status of the makeshift memorial near the site of his murder near the intersection of Highway 190 and Highway 22.

Madden said the plans include a permanent marker with American and U.S. Marine Corps flags near the top of the overpass, which will be renamed the “Vincent Liberto Overpass.”

The mayor and Sticker said they wanted the public to understand that the makeshift memorial is going to be respectfully dismantled over time as the new plans move forward, and not to be alarmed by the changes.

More to follow on this story.

Presentation

Waste Water Treatment Plant Audit

Presentation by Curtis Environmental regarding the Waste Water Treatment Plant Audit. Followup discussion regarding the traffic/noise issue.

The Council voted unanimously to accept.

Read full report

Traffic and Noise Issue Followup

Police Chief Gerald Sticker gave a followup report on traffic and noise citations during 2020.

More to follow on this story.

Old Business

1. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-04: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville to rezone Lots 15 and 16, Square 51, being 820 Lamarque St., City of Mandeville, St. Tammany Parish, State of Louisiana, from R-1, Single Family Residential District to B-1, Neighborhood Business District; and providing for further matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

2. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-08: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville adopting the job classification, position description, and pay scale for the positions of director of administration, and grants and contract administrator, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)

Deferred: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: no; McGuire: yes

Read the complete story.

3. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-09: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville to acquire a lease for the Mandeville Department of Motor Vehicles Office and for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

This renews the lease of the DMV located at 1715 North Causeway Blvd. for another five years.

New Business

1. Approval of the substantial completion of the Fire District 04 Station 42 Warning Signs… A/E Project No. 2101A02 as of March 19, 2021 in the amount of $28,400.00 (Councilman Kreller, District II)

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

2. Approval of the substantial completion of TO#3, 2018 Roadway & Drainage Maintenance Contract… A/E Project No. 1801A02 as of March 3, 2021 in the amount of $551, 936.53 (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

3. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-05: A resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in the City of Mandeville, State of Louisiana, to authorize the renewal of special taxes therein; making application to the State Bond Commission in connection therewith; and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

This is a resolution authorizing the special election to renew two millage taxes, or ad valorem taxes, providing revenue for operating and maintaining the police department. The City will authorize the maximum allowed, which is customary, but only levy a portion of that amount.

Currently, the maximum authorization for the maintenance and operations ad valorem tax is 5.08 mils but the City is currently only assessing 1.44 mils. And the salary and benefits maximum is 3.38 mils but only 0.94 is being assessed.

The Mayor asked the city to renew the same maximum rates again, but pointed out, and the Council seemed to agree, that based on revenue projections the city may actually collect even lower amounts than what is being collected now.

Councilman at Large Rick Danielson also mentioned that council would like to consider lowering the city sales tax rate as well.

More to follow on this story.

4. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-13: A resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville Proclaiming April 8, 2021 as “Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Day to Support and Celebrate Monarch Conservation” (Councilman Kreller, District II)

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

5. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-14: A resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville confirming the city attorney’s appointment for assistant city attorney (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)

Adopted: Danielson: yes; Zuckerman: yes; Bush: yes; Kreller: yes; McGuire: yes

This resolution confirms the appointment of Laurie M. Pennison as the assistant city attorney to City Attorney Elizabeth Sconzert.

6. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-06: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville to affect the annexation of a portion of ground in Section 45, Township 8 South, Range 11 East, St. Tammany Parish, 86A, into the corporate limits of the City of Mandeville, designating the property for purposes of zoning as a R-1, single family residential district and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
   

This ordinance will now move to the Planning and Zoning Commission for their recommendation.

7. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-10: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville revoking the dedicated portion of Monroe Street between Lamarque and Foy streets in accordance with the legal description and survey prepared by Randall W. Brown & Associates dated October 11, 2019; Declaring that portion of street as surplus and no longer needed for city use; disposing of that portion of street at public sale; authorizing the mayor to execute all necessary documents; and designating the property for the purposes of Zoning R-1 Single Family Residential District, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
   

This motion was withdrawn by District III Councilwoman Jill McGuire do to a change in plans by the property owners.

8. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-11: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting extended parking of motor vehicles along a portion of General Pershing Street, Square 46, lying between Lafitte Street and Girod Street, for any period of time longer than six (6) hours on all days, including holidays, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
   

This ordinance will be discussed at the next meeting April 22, 2021.

9. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-12: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting parking of motor vehicles along that portion of Christian Court located in Woodstone Subdivision, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
   

This ordinance will be discussed at the next meeting April 22, 2021.

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Topping a long agenda, the proposal initially met resistance when introduced last month

MANDEVILLE — The City Council will consider final passage of the mayor’s staff restructuring plan, including the addition of two new high-level positions. The proposal met resistance from some on the council when the measure was introduced last month.

On the heels of several high-profile departures at Mandeville City Hall filled during the opening months of his administration, Mayor Clay Madden faced backlash at the March 25th meeting from at least one council member over adding the two positions.

The positions — “Director of Administration” to head daily operations and “Grants and Contracts Administrator” to oversee contracts and grant-writing — would be appointed by the mayor. Madden plans to tap his acting executive assistant Trilby Lenfant to fill the would-be administration director post.

District II Councilman Skelly Kreller argued against the need for the positions during the nearly-four-hour meeting, which would assume a number of the duties historically handled by the mayor while reducing the role of the new executive assistant moving forward.

According to Madden, the city stands to see a net savings of $174,483 by the change, including the compensation for the two proposed positions.

The director of administration is somebody that will work in conjunction with the mayor and will have a supervisory role over projects, but not people.

— Mayor Clay Madden

Other members of the council had mixed reactions. Councilman-at-Large Rick Danielson suggested Madden hold off on the proposal until a planned salary survey is completed, while District I Councilwoman Rebecca Bush expressed support for the measure.

More About Trilby Lenfant: Trilby Lenfant is currently serving on an interim basis as Mayor Clay Madden’s executive assistant. Ms. Lenfant is a former Mandeville City Council member who ran unsuccessfully for mayor in 2010. She previously served in St. Tammany Parish President pat Brister’s administration.

Meeting Details: The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 8th, at 6 p.m. at the Paul Spitzfaden Community Center located at 3090 E. Causeway Approach. The statewide mask mandate and social distancing will be observed. Read City Council Meeting Agenda – April 8, 2021 for the complete agenda.

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Mayor’s plan to add two high-level positions up for vote

Zoning changes, lease proposal for DMV also up for votes

MANDEVILLE — This is the Mandeville City Council published agenda for the next City Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 8th, at 6 p.m.

Read the meeting advance: Mayor’s plan to add two high-level positions up for vote

Paul Spitzfaden Community Center
3090 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, Louisiana 70448

In order to comply with Governor Edwards Executive Order, masks will be required if you wish to attend the city council meeting. We also ask for you to please respect social distancing for everyone’s protection.

Minutes:

1. Adoption of the March 25, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes
   

Reports and Announcements:

Presentation:

Presentation by Curtis Environmental regarding the Waste Water Treatment Plant Audit. Followup discussion regarding the traffic/noise issue.

Old Business:

1. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-04: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville to rezone Lots 15 and 16, Square 51, being 820 Lamarque St., City of Mandeville, St. Tammany Parish, State of Louisiana, from R-1, Single Family Residential District to B-1, Neighborhood Business District; and providing for further matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
2. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-08: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville adopting the job classification, position description, and pay scale for the positions of director of administration, and grants and contract administrator, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
3. Adoption of Ordinance No. 21-09: An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville to acquire a lease for the Mandeville Department of Motor Vehicles Office and for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
   

New Business:

1. Approval of the substantial completion of the Fire District 04 Station 42 Warning Signs… A/E Project No. 2101A02 as of March 19, 2021 in the amount of $28,400.00 (Councilman Kreller, District II)
2. Approval of the substantial completion of TO#3, 2018 Roadway & Drainage Maintenance Contract… A/E Project No. 1801A02 as of March 3, 2021 in the amount of $551, 936.53 (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
3. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-05; A resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in the City of Mandeville, State of Louisiana, to authorize the renewal of special taxes therein; making application to the State Bond Commission in connection therewith; and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
4. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-13; A resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville Proclaiming April 8, 2021 as “Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Day to Support and Celebrate Monarch Conservation” (Councilman Kreller, District II)
5. Adoption of Resolution No. 21-14; A resolution of the city council of the City of Mandeville confirming the city attorney’s appointment for assistant city attorney (Councilman Danielson, At-Large)
6. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-06; An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville to affect the annexation of a portion of ground in Section 45, Township 8 South, Range 11 East, St. Tammany Parish, 86A, into the corporate limits of the City of Mandeville, designating the property for purposes of zoning as a R-1, single family residential district and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
7. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-10; An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville revoking the dedicated portion of Monroe Street between Lamarque and Foy streets in accordance with the legal description and survey prepared by Randall W. Brown & Associates dated October 11, 2019; Declaring that portion of street as surplus and no longer needed for city use; disposing of that portion of street at public sale; authorizing the mayor to execute all necessary documents; and designating the property for the purposes of Zoning R-1 Single Family Residential District, and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
8. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-11; An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting extended parking of motor vehicles along a portion of General Pershing Street, Square 46, lying between Lafitte Street and Girod Street, for any period of time longer than six (6) hours on all days, including holidays, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilwoman McGuire, District III)
9. Introduction of Ordinance No. 21-12; An ordinance of the city council of the City of Mandeville prohibiting parking of motor vehicles along that portion of Christian Court located in Woodstone Subdivision, establishing penalties for violation thereof and providing for other matters in connection therewith (Councilman Kreller, District II)
   

Public Comment:

Projects in Progress (Status Report):

Adjournment

Kristine Sherer, Council Clerk

City of Mandeville
3101 E. Causeway Approach
Mandeville, LA 70448
985-624-3145

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact, Kristine Scherer, Council Clerk, at 985-624-3145, describing the assistance that is necessary.

Date of Notice: April 1, 2021, 1:00 PM

Source: City of Mandeville Official Website