CITY OF ST. MATTHEWS
Council Meeting Minutes
January 14, 2025
A meeting of the St. Matthews City Council was held in-person on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Richard Tonini. The following people were present:
MAYOR
Richard J. Tonini
CITY COUNCIL
Councilmember Bernie Bowling Councilmember Tim Holland
Councilmember Sarah Landes Councilmember Mary Jo Nay
Councilmember Frank Flynn Councilmember Amy Olson
Councilmember Nathan Hernandez Councilmember Jackie Vanetti
OTHER OFFICIALS
Chief Barry Wilkerson – St. Matthews Police Department
Kenan Stratman – St. Matthews Public Works Director
Judi Kassebaum – St. Matthews City Clerk
Jack Ruf – St. Matthews Planning and Zoning and Code Enforcement
Kylie Newby – St. Matthews Human Resources Generalist
OTHER ATTENDEES
Josh Suiter – CEO, St. Matthews Chamber
Kate Leitner – Manager of the Eline/St. Matthews Branch of the Library
Bruce Deck – Resident
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was accomplished followed by the roll call vote of attendance. Councilmember Bowling was absent.
A motion was made by Councilmember Nay to approve the minutes from the December 10, 2024, council meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Olson.
Upon Voice Vote: (7-0 -1) the motion carried.
PUBLIC MEETING COMMENTS
The mayor called upon Kylie Newby to introduce herself. Kylie introduced herself as the new HR Generalist of St. Matthews. She gave some background information on her schooling and career and then shook hands with each councilmember.
Kate Leitner, Manager of the Eline/St. Matthews Branch of the Louisville Free Public Library gave the following report:
· Cozy Writing Workshop: Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm EST
· Movie Discussion Group: Thursday, January 16, 2025, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST Gladiator
· Friends of the Library Meeting: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 ,10:00 am – 11:30 am EST
· Night Owls Book Discussion: Tuesday, January 21, 2025, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm EST
· D&D at the Library: Thursday, January 23, 2025, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm EST
· English Conversation Club: Every Week on Mondays, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
· WAGS – Read with a Dog: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 10:30 am – 11:30 am EST
· Storytimes: Wednesdays 10:15 Baby & 11:15 Toddler; Thursdays 10:15 Preschool & 11:15 Family
· The library will be closed on Monday Jan 20 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
· Books and Brews: LFPL’s Winter Reading Program for Adults continues through the end of February
· Stephani Carter, fulltime Children’s Library Assistant at St Matthews since 2013 is transferring to an adult Library Assistant position at the Main Library. Her last day at St Matthews Library will be Friday 1/17/25.
Josh Suiter, CEO St. Matthews Chamber of Commerce gave the following report:
· Ribbon cutting on January 23 at Inn at Woodhaven, celebrating 172 years
· Chamber annual dinner on February 20 at the Olmstead. Theme will be the 1950’s as the Chamber celebrates its 50th anniversary. They will roll out a new brand and 501 3c status.
Bruce Deck, a resident of Sir Lancelot Ln, spoke to the council about the snow plowing on his street. He was unhappy with the job done and was able to speak to Kenan before the meeting about this issue. Kenan explained to him that inexperienced employees were using the plow for the first time and there were some equipment issues also. Mr. Deck agreed that more training was needed for the employees but found it unacceptable that 4 feet of snow was left. He reported the pass by the truck was no better as it did not widen the lane. The Mayor agreed there was not much opportunity for the employees to practice plowing as there has not been much snow until this event. The Mayor disagreed with Mr. Deck’s assessment of the roads, as St. Matthew’s road were clean compared with Metro roads that were covered in ice. The works department only had 2 employees experienced in snow plowing. Councilmember Hernandez agreed that Sir Lancelot Ln was not as clear as other St. Matthew’s roads. Councilmember Vanetti asked about the safety of that area of the City. Mr. Deck explained that with a single clear lane, cars had to move over for oncoming traffic. Mr. Deck explained he cleared the area in front of his mailbox and that of two of his neighbors. Councilmember Holland appreciated hearing both sides and agreed more training is needed. He advised that anytime there is a problem or something to be addressed, call in the office and let us know. Mr. Deck said that in this instance he spoke with Councilmember Hernandez before he could call the office. Councilmember Nay appreciated Mr. Deck letting the council know and said this record snowfall gives the City an opportunity to improve and commended Mr. Deck for helping his neighbors. Councilmember Landes agreed this was an opportunity for training. The Mayor said he would have a truck go down the street the next day.
PENDING BUSINESS
There was a discussion about the nominees for the Code Enforcement Board. John Singler said the alternates will start with a 3 year term. Each of the board members would have a staggering term to begin. Councilmember Hernandez asked for clarification if the council was advising the Mayor or appointing the members. John said the council confirms the Mayor’s appointments. The councilmembers took turns saying which nominees they would choose. At the next meeting municipal orders will be presented with the Mayor’s appointments.
NEW BUSINESS
Municipal Order No. 25-01 Relating to the Arterburn Phase III, Exterior Renovation
John Singler read the order. Kenan Stratman said the bid was on Tuesday and Derek Engineering had the lowest bid at $181,485. Other bids went as high as $253,807. The architect thought the project would cost around $181,000. Currently the budget for the project is $120,000. The scope increased to include more stone than the original scope. Although St. Matthews has not used Derek Engineering, references from Douglas Hills and Middletown were positive. The timeframe is not exact because of weather but hope to be finished by April 1. The cedar planks will be covered by stone veneer and the bricks will be painted.
A motion was made by Councilmember Nay to approve Municipal Order 25-01 and the motion was seconded by Councilmember Holland.
Upon Voice Vote: (7-0) the motion carried.
A discussion was held on the production companies to produce the 75th anniversary celebration for the City. Councilmember Vanetti stated HB Productions focused more on festivals. Councilmember Olson agreed and stated she had worked with Splendid Events on producing galas, adding the HB Productions had experience with bands. Councilmember Holland brought up HB has more relationships and band presence. Councilmember Flynn mentioned HB Productions knows more about drones, festivals, and talking with bands. Councilmember Nay thought HB would be better at this type of event, but Splendid Events could possibly be a better choice for a future different type of event.
A motion was made by Councilmember Nay to approve HB Productions for the production company for the 75th anniversary and the motion was seconded by Councilmember Holland.
Upon Voice Vote: (7-0) the motion carried.
Discussion continued as to who would carry the ABC license and the types of bands who would perform. It was decided the City Clerk would contact the companies to let them know who was awarded the project and another caucus meeting would be held to go over more details.
The Mayor announced that annual Financial Disclosures were at each councilmember’s seat and they should be completed and turned in by the end of the month.
EXPENDITURES
Councilmember Nay made a motion to approve the expenditures listed and have checks drawn on the city’s treasury in the amount of $809,324.12. Councilmember Flynn commented on the LG&E expense being higher than normal. This was due to 2 months of bills being on the list. He also requested information regarding Steadfast Electric having such a high bill. Kenan Stratman informed the council that electric work needed to be done and a property the city owns, and the public works shop in addition to replacing GFI receptacles at Brown Park.
The motion was seconded by Councilmember Olson.
Upon Roll Call Vote: (7-0) the motion carried.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
· Councilmember Hernandez asked if there was an update on the status of committees. The Mayor said no.
· Councilmember Olson announced there were no January Outstanding Neighbor of the Month nominations.
· Councilmember Flynn remind the council of Trinity High School’s all school assembly on Thursday to celebrate the football team’s state championship. Councilmembers Holland, Vanetti, and Nay said they would go and present the school with a proclamation and sign.
· The chief mentioned a new officer would be hired soon. Anyone wanting to experience the police training simulator should contact Officer Armstrong.
CITY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
There was no City Attorney’s report.
MAYOR’S REPORT
There was no Mayor’s report.
ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Holland made a motion to adjourn the regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Olson.
Upon Voice Vote: (7-0) the motion carried, and the meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Richard Tonini, Mayor
Judi Kassebaum, City Clerk
| January 14, 2025 | |||
| BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE MAYOR DRAW WARRANTS on the City Treasury, | |||
| counter-signed by the City Clerk authorizing payment of the below listed invoices: | |||
| A+ Paper Shredding, Inc. | Police/Admin.-Service Contract – Shredding | $153.50 | |
| All Occasions Event Rental | Admin. – Miscellaneous | $833.95 | |
| Anderson’s Sales & Service | Works – Supplies & Materials | $79.15 | |
| Air Hydro Power, Inc. | Works – Repairs & Maintenance | $256.18 | |
| AT&T | All – Telephone Service | $8,421.26 | |
| AT&T | Police Contract Services-Investigative | $70.00 | |
| Awards Center | Police – Supplies & Materials | $61.95 | |
| Bachman Auto Group | Police – Capital Expenditure – Truck | $45,599.90 | |
| BMS, LLC | All – Insurance Addendum | $162.75 | |
| CDW-Government | IT – Service Contracts/Warwick Cameras | $2,129.99 | |
| Charter Communications | IT – Service Contract | $250.31 | |
| Cintas | Works – Supplies & Materials | $926.30 | |
| Coca Cola Bottling Co., Consolidated | Admin. – Supplies & Materials | $282.39 | |
| DC Elevator | Works – Maintenance Agreement | $258.30 | |
| Dean Dorton | Admin. – Final Payment on Audit | $6,500.00 | |
| Delta Dental of Kentucky, Inc. | All – Dental Insurance (2 Months) | $12,330.00 | |
| Dining With Gabor & More | Admin. – Miscellaneous | $13,553.00 | |
| Enterprise Fleet Management | Police – Vehicle Leases | $13,842.04 | |
| E-Z Construction Company | Works – Capital Improvements – Trinity | $37,927.53 | |
| Fed Ex Freight | Works – Supplies & Materials | $184.00 | |
| First Financial Bank | All – Multiple | $3,053.07 | |
| Flock Safety | Police-Service Contract-Software/Cameras | $27,800.00 | |
| Galls | Police – Uniforms/Equipment | $5,582.27 | |
| Gannett Indiana-Kentucky LocaliQ | Admin. – Legal Notice | $205.10 | |
| Grainger | Parks – Brown Park – Supplies & Materials | $179.29 | |
| Great American Financial Services | Admin./Police – Service Contract Copies | $238.04 | |
| Guardian Insurance Company | All – Long/Short/Life Insurance | $11,188.69 | |
| Hartlage Fence Company | Works – 169 St. Matthews Ave | $2,541.00 | |
| HDR Engineering, Inc. | Works – Misc. & Trinity Project | $11,169.72 | |
| Home Depot Credit Services | Works – Supplies & Materials | $2,541.69 | |
| IdentoGo | Police – Fingerprinting – Lori Carnes | $20.00 | |
| Interstate All Battery Center | Police – Supplies & Materials | $357.15 | |
| Kathy Williams Creative | Admin. – Newsletters | $1,500.00 | |
| Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Ins. | All – Workers Comp. Installment | $12,315.99 | |
| Kentucky League of Cities, Inc. | Admin. – 2025 Member Dues | $6,887.00 | |
| Kentucky League of Cities Ins. Services | Police – Adding Vehicle to Coverage | $1,106.21 | |
| Kentucky Municipal Clerks Assoc. | Admin. – 2025 Dues | $90.00 | |
| KIPDA Clerks Association | Admin. – 2025 Dues | $50.00 | |
| Labor Works | Works – Service Contract | $3,581.76 | |
| Leonard Brush & Chemical Co. | Works – Supplies & Materials | $1,154.40 | |
| LG&E | Works – Electric/Gas | $70,368.13 | |
| Louisville Water Company | Works – Water Services | $2,549.77 | |
| Lynn Imaging | Works – Trinity Hills Ditch Project | $369.00 | |
| Manning Equipment, LLC | Works – Supplies & Materials | $74.00 | |
| Miller Company | Police/Admin. – Service Contract – Copies | $321.93 | |
| MPI Printing | Police – Printing | $1,267.00 | |
| NAPA Auto Parts | Works – Supplies & Materials | $389.76 | |
| Norton Healthcare | Police – Contract Services/Medical | $1,620.00 | |
| PNC Bank | All – Multiple | $2,719.50 | |
| Porta Kleen | Parks – Portalets | $760.00 | |
| Premier Fleet Graphics | Police – Vehicle Main. – Body | $255.00 | |
| Qk4 | Parks – C. Center Bathroom | $5,000.00 | |
| Quality Inn | Police – Training/Travel | $1,092.00 | |
| RCS Communications | Police – Repairs & Maintenance – Radio | $96.63 | |
| RES Kentucky LLC | Parks – Capital Improvement-Draut Park | $5,925.00 | |
| Rumpke | Works – Garbage Contract | $130,595.58 | |
| Saf-Ti-Co | Works – Football Champions Sign | $269.50 | |
| Schiller | Works – Warwick Park | $14,842.15 | |
| Security Pros, LLC | Works – Monitoring | $1,215.46 | |
| Security Systems, Inc. | Works – Monitoring | $38.00 | |
| Singler & Ritsert | Admin. – December Attorney Fees | $873.80 | |
| Stephens & Lawson PSC | Admin. – December Services | $2,240.00 | |
| St. Matthews Ace Hardware | Works – Supplies & Materials | $129.04 | |
| St. Matthews Area Ministries | Admin. – Qtrly. Payment Program Support | $7,500.00 | |
| St. Matthews Chamber of Commerce | Admin. – Qtrly. Payment Program Support | $18,750.00 | |
| St. Matthews Exterminating | Parks – Pest Control | $163.00 | |
| Steadfast Electric | Parks/Rental Property-Repairs & Main. | $10,210.36 | |
| Studio Kremer Architects | Works – Capital Improvements – C. Center | $2,187.50 | |
| T-Mobile USA, Inc. | Police – Contract Services-Investigative | $100.00 | |
| Tires Plus Total Car Care | Police – Vehicle Main. – Routine | $1,079.04 | |
| Total Office Products & Service | Police – Office Chairs | $2,193.79 | |
| Trans Union | Police – Contract Services/Investigative | $136.20 | |
| Valvoline | Police/Works – Vehicle Main.-Preventative | $1,365.91 | |
| Verizon Wireless | All – Telephone Services | $3,351.93 | |
| Welders Supply Company | Works – Supplies & Materials | $32.78 | |
| Wex Bank | All – Gasoline | $14,520.56 | |
| Willis Klein | Works/Police – Supplies & Materials | $241.99 | |
| Yesworx | IT – Software Hosting/Support | $2,000.00 | |
| MAPS | |||
| Morton Salt | Works – Salt | $11,737.80 | |
| Hall Contracting of Kentucky, Inc. | Works – Resurfacing Streets | $254,488.43 | |
| Reimbursements and Payments | |||
| Austin, Elizabeth | Admin. – Contract Services | $400.00 | |
| Doyle, Lisa | Police Reimbursement Postage | $32.00 | |
| Hayden, Sean | Police – Reimbursement Training Expenses | $150.55 | |
| Hilliard, Jason | Police – Reimbursement Duty Footwear | $160.00 | |
| Huber, Adam | Police – Reimbursement Training Expenses | $127.15 | |
| TOTAL | $809,324.12 | ||
