Committee Meeting Information

July 9, 2007
Room 302 Wyoming Capitol
Cheyenne, Wyoming

Committee Members Present

Representative Pete Illoway, Chairman

Senator Jayne Mockler, Chairman

Senator Tony Ross

Senator Michael Von Flatern

Representative Dan Dockstader

Representative Marty Martin

 

Committee Members Absent

None

 

Legislative Service Office Staff

Dan J. Pauli, Director

Mark Quiner, Assistant Director, Administration

Joy N. Hill, Associate Research Analyst

Others Present at Meeting

Please refer to Appendix 1 to review the Committee Sign-in Sheet
for a list of other individuals who attended the meeting.

 

 


Call To Order

Representative Illoway called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m.  The following sections summarize the Committee proceedings by topic.  Please refer to Appendix 2 to review the Committee Meeting Agenda.

 

Approval of Minutes

Minutes from the April 19, 2007 Committee meeting were approved with one change.  The minutes need to reflect that Senator Von Flatern did not attend the April 19, 2007 meeting.  Motion carried

 

Artwork Donation Policy and Administration of Program

Ms. Lili Francuz, Wyoming State Museum, presented working drafts of the brochure and Memorandum of Understanding (Appendices 3 and 4).  Senator Mockler indicated that there were issues that needed to be addressed regarding which duties will be the responsibility of LSO and the State Museum.   Ms. Francuz indicated that the initial contact for those wishing to donate artwork should be the State Museum since the chairman of the artwork selection committee will not always be the same individual.

 

Senator Mockler commented that the goal of this program is that LSO will own artwork accepted through this program and that the Museum will maintain and manage the artwork, since LSO is not equipped to be in the business of art curation.  The Chairman indicated that a final draft needs to be provided at the next Committee meeting if there is agreement on the terms of the MOU.  The Chairman further noted that there is an existing policy adopted by Management Council (Appendix 5) which is not reflected in the MOU.  The Chairman commented that the MOU prepared by the State Museum staff was written using an old draft of the artwork donation policy, and needs to be re-written to reflect the language adopted by Management Council. In addition, the final MOU must be reviewed by Management Council, and if approved, then LSO can sign it.   Dan Pauli, LSO, indicated he is unclear as to what "maintain and manage" artwork means and who would carry the insurance coverage for the artwork.  Senator Mockler indicated that this MOU should reflect that LSO will be the owner of the artwork and handle the associated paperwork, but will not "maintain or manage" the artwork.

 

Commission of Past Governor’s Portraits

Ms. Francuz indicated that the Museum has received 37 applications from artists from 10 states interested in painting the governor's portraits, which will be reviewed by the selection committee.  The First Lady has designated family representatives for this project, including Katherine Boswell and Paul Hickey, and one more needs to be named.  The Committee members so far include, Carmen Bria a conservator out of Lander, and a member needs to be appointed from the Select Committee on Legislative Facilities.  Once all members have been chosen, they will need to elect a chairman.  The Committee nominated and approved the appointment of Senator Mockler to the selection committee.

 

The Chairman commented that after the selection committee meets a decision will be made regarding who will be painted first, then the subsequent order of governors will follow.   Mr. Roger Joyce, Wyoming State Museum, indicated that they will contact the Ross family to inquire as to whether or not they are interested in donating the portrait of former governor William Ross.  The Chairman commented that the appropriation for this project will cover five governors, and that the Committee will need to ask for additional funds from the Legislature to continue painting the remaining governors.  Ms. Francuz indicated that the director of the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, Milward Simpson, suggested that it would make sense to consider painting those governors that are still alive as well.  Representative Martin suggested waiting until the selection committee meets so they can determine what additional funding they may need to complete the other portraits.

 

Blue-Book Update

Mr. Roger Joyce, Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, provided an update of the Blue Book project (Appendix 6).  He indicated that there had been some problems with the original editors and still have a couple of items to complete.  Senator Mockler commented that this has been a much larger project than originally anticipated and would like to have it completed by the time session begins in February.  Mr. Joyce further indicated that they have a database of individuals who have purchased previous sets, and that they have received inquiries from individuals who would like to purchase sets.   Mr. Curtis Greubel, Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, commented that they would like to prepare and send out brochures promoting the Blue Book prior to sending out a mass mailing of purchasing cards, as they may have to adjust the number of books printed if more orders are received for compact discs.

 

Legislative Historian

The Chairman commented briefly on the research prepared by LSO Research staff regarding national trends toward employing specific legislative historians (Appendix 7).  Mr. Roger Joyce indicated that he believes having a legislative historian is a good idea, but questioned whether or not LSO wanted to have a specific legislative historian under its auspices.  The Chairman indicated that LSO is likely not suited to have such a position, but that a state historian may be more practical.  Mr. Joyce stated a position like that would be more suitably housed in State Archives, where an individual performing legislative historical research could also perform other state government historical research tasks as well.  However, a larger problem is obtaining an additional full-time equivalent position to perform such duties.   The Chairman inquired as to whether or not the state archivist could work with whomever necessary to gather legislative information. Mr. Joyce suggested that would not be a problem. 

 

Administration and Information Re-organization

Rich Cathcart, Department of Administration and Information (A&I), discussed the re-organization of A&I, which blended Construction Management with Trades and General Services Divisions.  Mr. Cathcart commented that prior to the re-organization they were short-handed, but that after the re-organization, they were able to re-write some of the job descriptions to pick up the slack created by several vacancies.  The Chairman asked if the re-organization will have an impact on any of the Committee's projects.  Mr. Cathcart indicated that there should not be any impact to the Committee.

 

Skylight Renovation and Chamber Lighting Project

Sylvie Rupp, Department of Administration and Information, informed the Committee that they have formally contracted with Glen Garrett, AIA, and Hefferan Partnership Lighting Design.  Ms. Rupp provided the Committee with a summary of the kick-off meeting held by Glen Garrett with the subcontractors for the skylight project, and the project's timeline (Appendix 8).  At the kick-off meeting, Ms. Rupp noted that General Services Division staff suggested some additional work to consider while installing the new lighting in the House and Senate Chambers, including a moveable catwalk platform ($18,500), chandelier winches ($21,000), and emergency lighting ($19,300).  Overall, these additional items bring the project budget approximately $40,000 over budget if all suggestions are included.  Ms. Rupp indicated that these suggestions could be designed in the plans and included on the bid documents as alternates to the contract, but would not automatically be included in the construction.  The Committee commented that the Senate canister lights should be updated.  Ms. Rupp state she would work on getting a quote to change the Senate canister lights.  It was the consensus of the Committee to include the additional items mentioned in the bid documents.  The Committee discussed the possibility of asking for an additional appropriation during the upcoming Legislative Budget Session in order to complete this project. 

 

Update on Long-Term Space Planning Study and Capitol Renovation

Ms. Rupp updated the Committee on the progress of the space planning study and the timeline for the renovation of the Capitol (Appendix 9).  She informed the Committee that the consultant has met with the remaining Capitol occupants for Phase II of the space study, which should be complete July 30.  She indicated that the consultants will not make recommendations because of the need to consult with Management Council and legislative leadership.  Ms. Rupp also indicated that she would like to have the consultant's contract extended to Sept 30, 2007 to accommodate meeting with Management Council and State Building Commission members regarding the space study and offered the afternoon of August 6, 2007 as a potential meeting date.  Ms Rupp commented that so far, none of the elected officials have indicated an interest in not having an office in the Capitol, with the exception of the Department of Education which does not currently have any office space in the Capitol.  Rich Cathcart commented that the decisions made, i.e. who leaves the Capitol, if anyone, will dictate how the new building, to be situated on the St. Mary's property purchased by the state, will be designed.

 

Planning Consultant for On-Going Projects

Jo Haley, TDSi, was chosen through an RFP process to providing planning consultation services for additional projects directed by the Committee.  Consulting projects will be assigned through a work order process.

 

Update on Furnishing Projects

Jo Haley, TDSi, updated the Committee on the various furnishings projects requested by the Committee.  Design for furniture for Room 302 will begin in September and installation will take place in March 2008 after Session. Ms. Haley showed the Committee beginning design drafts for the main table in Room 302.

Ms. Haley discussed the furnishings installed in the LSO main office and the Senate supervisor's office.  There are some warranty pieces and some slight damage to some of the pieces that she will have fixed.

 

Senator Mockler updated the Committee on the progress of the design of the Senate breakroom.  Several of the staff expressed some concern with the design, so it is likely the breakroom will not be completed prior to the 2008 Session.

 

Artwork Security System

Marc Thayer and Ron Haun of Corporate Protective Services discussed with the Committee the problems that were experienced with the artwork security system at the beginning of the 2007 Session (Appendix 10).   Mr. Thayer and Mr. Haun informed the Committee that a new computer was built specifically for the system and they installed a new back up system, which should prevent multiple wireless devices from causing the system to trigger false alarms.  They also commented that there were some communication problems with the server and the security tags affixed to the alarmed artwork, but believe those problems with the system have been resolved as well.  Some of the security tags were not property positioned on the artwork and has been addressed, as well as the sensitivity adjusted.  Mr. Haun indicated that he, or another CPS representative, will be present in the Capitol during the 2008 Session for the first week or so in the event problems arise with the system again.  The Chairman commented that when the new WiFi system is installed in the House and Senate chambers this year, CPS needs to be contacted so they can be involved with respect to addressing any concerns that may arise with the artwork security system.

 

Capitol Security System

Lt. Scott Minyard, Wyoming Highway Patrol, put together a list of important security concerns he has identified with respect to the Capitol (Appendix 11).  Lt. Minyard indicated that there is a duress alarm in the Governor's office as well as on in the Secretary of State's office.  These alarms notify at the trooper desk at the Capitol and at the Wyoming Highway Patrol dispatch center.  In addition, pursuant to procedures, available troopers are to be dispatched to the site of the alarm.  He commented that he would like to have one duress alarm installed in each of the chambers, most likely at the desks of the Speaker of the House and the Senate President.  LSO has budgeted $5,000 for these duress alarms.  Lt. Minyard further discussed with the Committee that the security cameras around the Capitol were upgraded to a modern digital camera system inside and outside the building.  In addition, plain-clothed troopers come in to the Capitol frequently to do walk-arounds, which are unscheduled.

 

 The Committee inquired as to the frequency of fire drills during the interim and session.  Lt. Minyard recommended two fire alarms:  one during the interim and one during session.  The Chairman commented that Management Council will need to approve fire drill recommendations by Lt. Minyard.

 

The Committee also inquired as to the necessity of locking the basement doors of the Capitol during business hours.  Lt. Minyard indicated that there has been much resistance from the Legislative and Executive Branches concerning locking those doors and that it is an issue of access for the public.  

 

Other Projects

Joy Hill, LSO, updated the Committee on the progress of various other projects initiated by the Committee. 

ü      Touchless faucets have been installed in the restrooms on 2nd floor outside of the House and Senate Chambers;

ü      Basement carpet issues have been resolved by using cement glue to secure the tiles that were coming loose;

ü      Plastic cups with grippers have been installed on the historic benches to keep them from sliding;

ü      2007 House and Senate composites have been hung;

ü      Equipment for the medical station has been installed; however, the privacy screen still needs to be installed.  This will be done by A&I prior to the beginning of Session.

ü      K2 Audio provided a draft of bid documents which need to be reviewed by A&I.  The House and Senate systems are scheduled to be done by the end of December, and tested throughout January to ensure they are ready for the Session.  In addition, the sound system for Room 302 will be done after the 2008 Session at the same time the furniture is installed.

 

The Chairman indicated that he would like to have the IT cabinet moved from the hallway on the House side during the interim.  The Committee further discussed moving ahead on the composite narratives project by having them reviewed by the State Museum.

 

Other Business

Historic Capitol Foundation Preservation Board

Dan Pauli, LSO, discussed the memo prepared by LSO Research regarding tax deductions for donations of art to the State (Appendix 12) and that the Preservation Foundation is not needed for artwork donations.  He further discussed a letter provided to LSO from former Senator Jim Applegate (Appendix 13) concerning the history of the Foundation and his recommendation that the Foundation be dissolved, or at the very least, appoint new people to the Board of Directors for the Foundation.  Mr. Pauli further indicated that it may be appropriate for this Committee report to recommend the dissolution of the Foundation to Management Council.  The Committee agreed that a recommendation should be made to Management Council that the Foundation be dissolved.

Committee Room Photographs

Senator Mockler informed the Committee that some of the photographs in the Senate President's office, as well as other rooms, will be changed.  She further commented that she would like to add two more Stimson photos to the LSO main office.  The Chairman indicated that if there is money, she should go ahead and add the photos.

 

The Committee discussed having another meeting early to mid November to discuss the Select Committee on Legislative Facilities budget before the beginning of the budget session in February.

 

Meeting Adjournment

There being no further business, Chairman Illoway adjourned the meeting at 2:45p.m.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

 

Representative Pete Illoway, Chairman

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Appendix

 

Appendix Topic

 

Appendix Description

 

Appendix Provider

1

 

Committee Sign-In Sheet

 

Lists meeting attendees

 

Legislative Service Office

2

 

Committee Meeting Agenda

 

Provides an outline of the topics the Committee planned to address at meeting

 

Legislative Service Office

3

 

Artwork Donation Policy and Administration of Program

 

Copy of the Artwork Donation Policy brochure

 

Wyoming State Museum

4

 

Artwork Donation Policy and Administration of Program

 

Memorandum of Understanding Between the Wyoming State Museum and the Legislative Service Office

 

Wyoming State Museum

5

 

Artwork Donation Policy and Administration of Program

 

Wyoming Legislative Artwork Donation Program document approved by Management Council

 

Legislative Service Office

6

 

Blue Book Project

 

Update of Blue Book Project

 

Wyoming State Museum

7

 

Legislative Historian

 

Research Memo from LSO, 07RM029 "Current Use of Legislative Historians in Other States."

 

Legislative Service Office

8

 

Skylight Renovation and Chamber Lighting Project

 

Update of the skylight project and timeline

 

Department of Administration and Information

9

 

Update on Long-Term Space Planning Study and Capitol Renovation

 

Update of Capitol Complex Facilities Schedule

 

Department of Administration and Information

10

 

Artwork Security System

 

Memo from CPS to LSO concerning status of the artwork security system

 

Corporate Protective Services

11

 

Capitol Security System

 

Update on Wyoming State Capitol security measures and improvements and future initiatives

 

Wyoming Highway Patrol

12

 

Other Business – Historic Capitol Foundation Preservation Board

 

Research Memo from LSO, 07RM029 "Charitable Deductions for Donating Artwork or Cash to the State."

 

Legislative Service Office

 

13

 

Other Business – Historic Capitol Foundation Preservation Board

 

Letter from former Senator James Applegate concerning the future of the Historic Capitol Preservation Board

 

Former Senator James Applegate

 


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