HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/15/1995 City Council00568'
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
HELD ON
MAY 15, 1995
The Regular Session of the City Council of the City of The Colony, Texas was called to
order at 7:30 p.m. on the 15th day of May, 1995, at City Hall with the following Council roll
call:
William W. Manning, Mayor Present
Bill Longo, Councilman Present
Mary Blair Watts, Councilman Present
Kay Hardin, Councilman Present
Rob Burchard, Councilman Present
John Dillard, Councilman Present
G. David Heiman, Councilman Present
and with seven present, a quorum was established and the following items were addressed:
1. PI.EDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. CITIZEN INPUT
This item is set aside for citizens to address the City Council regarding items which
are not posted on the regular agenda. There was no citizen input.
3. MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS
DECLARING MAY 20 - 26, 1995 AS NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK
Mayor Manning read the proclamation in it's entirety. It will be mailed to the
United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.
DECLARING MAY 27 - JUNE 4, 1995 AS NATIONAL AQUATIC WEEK
Mayor Manning read the proclamation in it's entirety. Pam Nelson, Parks &
Recreation Director accepted the proclamation.
4. CONSIDERATION OF A JOINT RESOLUTION CITY COUNCIL ENDORSING
THE PROPOSED PARTNERSHIP OF LAW ENFORCEMENT,
SENIOR/RETIRED LEADERSHIP AND CITY GOVERNMENT TO FOSTER
A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY APPROACH FOR REDUCING CRIMES AGAINST
THE COLONY'S SENIOR CITIZENS
The Colony Police Department, Senior Citizens, AARP and the City of The Colony
have formed a TRIAD. The Senior Citizens and AARP members are volunteering their
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time to the police which will increase efficiency and greatly enhance communications
between the police and the community. Representatives from the law enforcement and the
seniors' groups were present. Mayor Manning read the Joint Resolution in it's entirety.
Caption as follows:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE COLONY,
TEXAS ENDORSING THE PROPOSED PARTNERSHIP OF LAW ENFORCEMENT,
SENIOR/RETIRED LEADERSHIP AND CITY GOVERNMENT, A TRIAD,,
WORKING TOGETHER TO FOSTER A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY APPROACH FOR
REDUCING CRIMES AGAINST THE COLONY'S SENIOR CITIZENS
Mr. Dick Weaver said this group was formed in 1988 for the seniors to work with
police departments to help reduce crime. This TRIAD is one of only 10 in the Texas.
Three candles were lighted to represent the three groups. Chief Stewart advised the group
was formed by the National Sheriff's Association and the National Police Chiefs Association
and said it will help the police department greatly. He noted the seniors have skills that will
be very helpful.
Motion to approve the resolution as written - Dillard; second - Heiman, carried with a
unanimous roll call vote.
5. CONSENT AGENDA
' Mayor Manning summarized the items on the consent agenda.
A. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE
COUNCIL MEETINGS HELD MAY 1, 3, AND 8, 1995
Motion to approve the minutes as written - Heiman; second - Dillard, carried with
a unanimous roll call vote.
B. CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTING A GRANT FROM
SOUTHWESTERN BELL IN THE AMOUNT OF $4248.34 FOR USE BY THE
COLONY MUNICIPAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
The above grant was awarded for the purchase of a copy machine and color printer
to assist in the economic development efforts of the City. The equipment will be
housed at the Chamber of Commerce. There are no matching funds required.
Motion to accept the grant - Heiman; second - Dillard, carried with a unanimous
roll call vote.
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C. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO RESOLUTION 95-12
ESTABLISHING AGENDA PREPARATION PROCEDURES
This item is being placed on the agenda in order to amend Section 7 relating to the
reconsideration of an item within six months from it's original date of consideration.
Currently the resolution requires one signature from the prevailing side. It has been
suggested that wording be added to allow a councilmember elected or appointed
since the item was originally considered to also make such a request.
Motion to accept the grant - Heiman; second - Dillard, carried with a unanimous
roll call vote.
6. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE MASTER
THOROUGHFARE PLAN FOR THE CITY OF THE COLONY
The City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission met in a joint session
on May 3, 1995 and both approved the Master Thoroughfare Plan. This ordinance is the
formal adoption of the plan by the council as is required by law.
Mr. Sam Chavez, City Planner pointed out the changes on the May 3, 1995 plan from
the 1989 plan. Councilman Burchard noted for the record that Standridge Drive will have
two lanes in The Colony and two lanes in Lewisville.
Motion to approve the ordinance adopting the thoroughfare plan - Burchard; second -
Dillard, carried with the following vote:
Longo - Aye; Watts - Aye; Hardin - Aye; Burchard - Aye; Dillard - Aye; Heimau - Aye;
Manning - Abstain.
7. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO THE LEASE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF THE COLONY AND THE CLUB FORE SPORT
CENTER
Mr. Smith advised the original request from Club Fore was for a minor change in
Section 7, but in subsequent discussions with Mr. Chip Jones, it was determined the entire
contract needs to be reviewed. Mr. Jones did indicate he would like to get this minor
change made and then address the other items. Mr. Jones said in Section 7 "other party"
should have read "I'he Colony". Due to a misunderstanding the amendment presented at
this meeting was to change "other party" to "Club Fore".
Mayor Manning suggested re-working the whole agreement and Mr. Jones did not
object.
Motion to postpone this item to the June 5, 1995 meeting - Heiman; second - Hardin,
carried with a unanimous roll call vote.
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8. RECEIVE PRESENTATION FROM THE COLONY BAY DEVELOPMENT
GROUP
Mr. Smith said the official position of the city right now is that we want a marina but
not in The Colony sleuth area.
Norman Becker with The Colony Bay Development Group addressed the council,
stating that the group wants to place in The Colony, a first class facility designed to be
customer oriented and community friendly. He said they will ensure that whatever is built
will be good for the city and the developer. He said there will be an upscaie restaurant,
public fishing pier, banquet hall and meeting facilities, etc. He said studies show that there
is a need for this type facility on Lake Lewisville and that it is not financially feasible in any
other location on the lake.
Mr. Becker said he believes The Colony Bay Marina can be the keystone to
development of the "City by the Lake" with many benefits to the City. He said this is a
great idea, a great project and it is a win-win situation for both the city and the developer.
He said if the council feels it would be good for the entire city and the council agrees to
enter into a lease agreement with them, then The Colony Bay will seek permits from the
Corps. He said they cannot take further steps until the project is endorsed by the City.
Mayor Manning asked if a lease is needed or just formal council action indicating
support. Mr. Becker said he believed a formal document such as a lease or other
instrument would be sufficient.
Councilman Hardin quoted a letter dated May 1, 1995 from the Corps of Engineers
that states a marina will not be allowed in this area and asked Mr. Becker what part of the
letter indicated that the Corps can be approached. Mr. Becker said he believes that if they
are in partnership with the City they will then have cooperation from the federal offices and
the Corps will be approachable. He said all things are possible if you enter through the
right channels.
Councilman Watts said she thinks the City needs to decide first if they want this
marina and then the Corps must decide. She said Congressman Dick Armey has said he will
help us if we decide to go forward. Councilman Watts went on to express several concerns
regarding the Corps of Engineers actions regarding this project and their protectionist
attitude toward existing marinas.
Further discussion regarding an environmental impact study, zoning, negative impact
on the city, etc. Also noted were the benefits of this project to the youth of the community
in the form of providing jobs and youth oriented activities.
Also discussed was the amount of boat traffic already in this area and the increased
traffic projected if the marina is built. Mr. Becker stated that controls are needed in this
area whether this marina is built or not. Councilman Hardin stated this is not a safe area
and that she has no problem with a marina but she does not want one in this location.
Further discussion followed regarding patrolling the water.
Councilman Longo requested a work session with The Colony Bay and the Corps and
Councilman Dillard said that won't solve anything, noting that the council needs to decide
if the city wants the marina or not. Mayor Manning said if the council wants a marina and
The Colony Bay gets permission from the Corps, then a work session will be needed.
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Councilman Dillard agreed and directed the City Manager to place an item on the
June 5,1995 agenda authorizing a letter of intent or a resolution saying that the city wants
this marina in the City of The Colony in a location acceptable to the Corps of Engineers;
further stating that if The Colony Bay can convince the Corps of this location, then we will
negotiate a lease with The Colony Bay subject to approval by the Corps.
Gary Herman, 5048 Lake Shore addressed the council. Reading from a prepared
document he expressed many concerns about this marina, stating it should be in an area
where it will not impact the City of The Colony. (See Attachment "A")
Don Blackwood representing Crow-Billingsley Developers and a resident of The
Colony said he has talked with several major developers regarding this project and they all
indicate a marina would be a great benefit to the City because it will bring people into the
city who spend money. He believes this will be a quality project and it will attract quality
people. He said the city must get behind this project if they want it to happen, noting that
if this group was presenting this project in other cities, such as Plano or Frisco, the council
would be fighting to be sure it became reality. There are lots of positives with this project.
Joe Agnew, 5301 Nash, said the city is in a unique position of sending a message to
developers that we are willing to work with them. He said The Colony Bay may not get this
accomplished, but the city needs to show them that we are willing to work with them. He
said he is very much in favor of this project and believes it would make the bay much safer
than it is now.
Mike Lynch, 4921 Roberts, said the bottom line is, "Does The Colony want to make
another run with Dick Armey". He said The Colony has no political clout.
9. CONSIDERATION OF APPROPRIATE ACTION IN REGARD TO THE
POSSIBLE DONATION OF THE DENTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT
CENTER TO THE CITY OF THE COLONY
There have been several discussions regarding the Denton County Government
Center being donated to the City for use by the senior citizens' group. The Council
discussed that possibility and other options at this time. Councilman Longo said he is
president of the group requesting this building and that he has checked with the attorney
to ensure there is no conflict of interest on his part.
Denton County Commissioners have indicated they will give the building for the
specific use of the senior citizens and they will vote at their May 30, 1995 meeting. City
Staff recommends having an architect check the building so we will know if it is structurally
sound and a good investment for the city. Some studies show this building may have the
same problem with water that the Library has.
Discussion followed regarding the request from the county that the building be used
exclusively by the senior citizens and the city's great need for meeting space for all citizens.
It was noted that according to the current proposal from Commissioner Wilson, if the
building is ever used by any other group, it will revert back to the County. Councilman
Dillard suggested a work session after the Commissioner's meeting on May 30.
Further discussion regarding who would pay for the $180,000 in estimated repairs and
Councilman Burchard noted if all taxpayers have to pay for the repairs, then ail taxpayers
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should be allowed to use the building. Councilman Longo said the latest information from
Commissioner Wilson says the building will be given to city for 15 years at a cost of $1.00
per year, but agreed a work session is needed because there are a lot of questions.
Councilman Heiman asked if a study has been done to find out the cost of
constructing a new building for the use of the seniors and other groups. He suggested a
study be done to compare those costs with the cost of renovating this building.
Mayor Manning said he has indicated previously that he will help make this
(donation of the building) happen if it is feasible because he believes we need to do
something for the senior citizens.
Councilman Hardin agreed that the seniors need a facility but said no other building
is for exclusive use of any one group. Mayor Manning said as cities mature they begin to
support their senior citizens.
Further discussion regarding the costs for repairs, possible grants for this type facility,
etc. Councilman Longo said information regarding a grant is supposed to be forwarded
from Commissioner Wilson. Councilman Watts noted that there are reasons why senior
citizens need their own place. Councilman Burchard said if the city tells the county we want
the building be used for a civic center, not a senior center, they (county) will still give the
building to us. He said everyone has needs and everyone needs to share. The city needs
to find the best way to use the facility.
Mike Lynch, 4921 Roberts said he asked Commissioner Jacobs about this project and
she know nothing about it. Commissioner Wilson told him that there is not a grant, but the
project has always been a loan from the USDA.
Councilman Dillard said most dialect regarding this project has been between
Commissioner Wilson and the senior citizens and that the council needs to get involved.
He said the intent is noble and the city needs to be sure it is a sound investment.
10. ELECTION OF MAYOR PROoTEM AND DEPUTY MAYOR PRO-TEM
Pursuant to Section 2.10 of the Charter and Resolution No. 93-24, the city council
will elect a Mayor Pro-tem and a Deputy Mayor Pro-tem.
Mayor Manning opened the floor for nominations for Mayor Pro-tem. Councilman
Longo nominated John Dillard. There were no further nominations.
Motion to elect by acclamation - Burchard; second - Longo, carried with a unanimous roll
call vote.
Mayor Manning opened the floor for nominations for Deputy Mayor Pro-tem.
Councilman Heiman nominated Rob Burchard. There were no further nominations.
Motion to elect by acclamation - Heiman; second - Dillard, carried with a unanimous roll
call vote.
11. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE COLONY MUNICIPAL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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The City Council will at this time consider making an appointment to fill the Council
Representative position on the above named board. This position was vacated when Mr.
Toby Pollard resigned his Place 2 Council seat.
Motion to appoint Mary Blair Watts to the vacant position - Dillard; second - Burehard
carried with a unanimous roll call vote.
12. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTING A VOTING REPRESENTATIVE TO THE
NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENT'S GENERAL
ASSEMBLY
Each year following the general election of officers, the Council is requested to make
a designation to the above named assembly.
Motion to appoint John Dillard as the voting representative to N.C.T.C.O.G.- Burehard;
second - Heiman carried with a unanimous roll call vote.
Mayor Manning appointed Councilman Longo to serve on the Metrocrest Hospital
Committee.
13. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENTS TO THE NEWLY CREATED
FINANCE COMMITTEE
The City Manager and the Finance Director have requested that the Mayor appoint
a Finance Committee to work directly with staff in budgetary and financial considerations
of the city. This committee will be comprised of the Mayor, two councilmembers, staff and
the city's Financial Advisor. The Mayor will formally make those appointments at this time.
Mayor Manning asked if there were any objections to the proposed structure of the
committee. Hearing none, Councilman Heiman and Councilman Burchard volunteered to
serve on this committee.
Tony Johnston said the first meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. on June 5, 1995.
14. DISCUSSION OF STANDING COMMITrEE AND ADVISORY BOARD
LIAISON APPOINTMENTS
Motion to discontinue the council liaisons to the four advisory boards - Longo.
Councilman Longo stated that when he sat on council before, there were problems
with liaisons due to the influence they sometimes have over the board.
Motion seconded - Dillard
Mayor Manning agreed stating he was not sure the liaisons serve a purpose and he
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believes they may cause the board members not to be open. Councilman Burchard said he
understands, but stated councilmembers can attend any board meeting anyway and that he
is not sure of the benefit to the council and asked if there is any benefit to the board.
After brief discussion, the vote was taken as follows:
Motion carried with the following roll call vote: Longo - Aye; Watts - Aye; Hardin - No;
Burchard - No; Dillard - Aye; Heiman - Aye; Manning - Aye.
15. CITY MANAGER AND STAFF REPORTS
1. Work Sessions need to be scheduled on several items.
2. Brush pile is gone and the site will no longer be used for that purpose.
3. The Police Department is reviewing city facilities for security needs.
4. Ms. Harlan reported that four Requests for Proposals have been received for the
feasibility study for the proposed golf course on Wynnewood Peninsula. The EDC will
review the proposals and bring a report to council on June 5, 1995.
5. Tom Cravens reported the specifications for the wastewater treatment
improvements are in the process of being prepared. We are on the June agenda with the
Texas Water Development Board for a one million dollar loan.
- 6. Bids have been advertised for the resurfacing of Stewart Creek Park Road.
7. Sam Chavez reported that he has met with Marcie Diamond regarding the
development standards and they have established a preliminary plan. The next step will be
a joint work session with Council and P&Z. He is gathering residential standards from
other cities. He said there had been some questions regarding whether it is appropriate for
Richard Ferrara Architects to prepare the Hwy 121 development standards in light of his
involvement with the Dal-Mac development along that highway. Mr. Smith said the council
did authorize an agreement and they need to decide if they believe this is a conflict or not.
Mr. Smith went on to say he is sure this firm is capable as are other firms. Mayor Manning
expressed concern over the "fox watching the henhouse" syndrome. Councilman Burchard
said he appreciates the concern but noted that Mr. Ferrara has made suggestions above
what the city ever considered and that he thinks Mr. Ferrara will be able to differentiate
between the city project and the developer's project. Mr. Chavez said he sees no problem
with working with Mr. Ferrara and noted that he is really serving as the facilitator and the
city makes the final decision. Mr. Smith said we will watch the process closely.
8. Patti Hicks handed out the 1995 update of the Goals and Objectives Document.
9. There is a work session on May 17 to discuss the charter amendment proposals.
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10. Mayor Manning asked Ms. Hicks to prepare a proclamation to be presented to
The Colony High School Band recognizing their recent honor in being named by the John
Philip Sousa Foundation. It will be presented May 18, 1995 at a ceremony at the High
School.
10:31 Recess
16. EXECUTIVE SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY SECTION 551.074 OF THE
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE RELATING TO APPOINTMENT,
EVALUATION, REASSIGNMENT, DUTIES, DISCIPLINE, OR DISMISSAL, TO
WIT:
A. ADVISORY BOARDS
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS AND APPEALS
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD
LIBRARY BOARD
11:17 Reconvene
17. CONSIDERATION OF ANY APPROPRIATE ACTION TO BE TAKEN AS A
RESULT OF THE EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Manning noted that all advisory boards had been discussed in the executive
session and stated that Mr. Steve Tolen, P&Z member had requested to have any concerns
about his place on the board to be discussed in open session.
Councilman Longo said he is concerned with Mr. Tolen and that he believes his
usefulness may have been destroyed due to action during the recent election campaign.
Councilman Longo said the election day actions which were directly related to Mr. Tolen's
article in the newspaper were very questionable. Councilman Longo said he is not
suggesting a purge of the board, but that P&Z is very important and the council needs to
be sure they are receiving good decisions from them. He said he needs to be able to count
on Mr. Tolen.
Mayor Manning said he has known Mr. Tolen a long time and that he is an extremely
negative person. He stated that Mr. Tolen caused the demise of Sail Fair.
Councilman Burchard said we may not agree with Mr. Tolen's vote or what he wrote
in the paper, but asked if he performs well on P&Z.
Mayor Manning said he believes that staff would say he is not doing a good job.
Councilman Heiman said he has a problem with the fact that Mr. Tolen put his title (P &
Z Commissioner) in the paper, but he does not think he should be removed from the board
just to purge, but that we need to know if he is not doing his job properly.
Councilman Hardin said asking for too much information is not "not doing his job".
She said she doesn't want board members that just agree with staff.
Councilman Longo said he wants to know if Mr. Tolen will work for the City,
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referencing the article in the newspaper, which indicated Mr. Tolen's distrust of city staff.
Councilman Longo asked if the city will come first or Mr. Tolen's personal opinion.
Councilman Burchard said he is looking forward to working with the new council and
that it is time for the city to reconcile. Councilman Heiman said he needs to hear specific
complaints about Mr. Tolen.
Councilman Longo said again, he wants to know if Mr. Tolen can put aside his
personal differences (and do a good job).
Mayor Manning asked Mr. Smith share any specific concerns he may have. Mr.
Smith said he did not appreciate being called a liar in the newspaper article by Mr. Tolen
and that he considered it very unprofessional that Mr. Tolen had not even given him (smith)
the courtesy of a phone call or visit to verify any facts.
Councilman Dillard said he has major concerns with the newspaper articles but noted
that Mr. Tolen was a major player in the recent joint work session.
Mayor Manning said the council has the responsibility to appoint board members that
have the same basic goals as the city council and if it is found they do not then the council
should remove them from the board.
Councilman Burchard disagreed and said members should be appointed based on
qualifications.
Councilman Longo said he has not asked that Mr. Tolen be removed.
Mr. Smith said he has a problem with individual board members tasking staff unduly.
He said he has a problem with Mr. Tolen professionally and personally because he quoted
me (Smith) and accused me (Smith) without even talking to me.
At this time, Mr. Tolen addressed the council. He said he doesn't think anyone on
P&Z would think his performance is bad. He said he asks questions and he doesn't rubber
stamp anything. Mr. Tolen said in regard to the recent campaign, that he had some
questions regarding ethics because of his own standards. He said he doesn't appreciate
being called a liar and that he doesn't recall calling Mr. Smith a liar. He said the council
knows that he has concerns about disclosure and that if they want him off P&Z then to
remove him. He said he will come forward whenever he has questions and if asking too
many questions is a problem on P&Z then to let him know.
Mr. Smith asked Mr. Tolen why the thoroughfare plan was not tabled when it was
determined they (P&Z) did not have enough information. Mr. Tolen said they did not have
enough information to disapprove what had been done on June 7, 1994.
Mr. Tolen said he had no control over his title being put in the paper. He said when
you make a statement to the paper, they just use your title. He said if the council feels he
cannot serve The Colony then they should vote their conscience and remove him (from
P&Z). He said he was concerned with the Mayor's land purchase some time ago, and stated
that no one's hands are clean in this election.
Councilman Burchard asked if Mr. Tolen, as a member of P&Z, would keep the city
first and foremost and Mr. Tolen said, "Always".
Councilman Longo said this can be let go once, but if there are more problems then
he will questions Mr. Tolen's actions again.
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Councilman Hardin asked Councilman Longo if he was asking Mr. Tolen not to
further his investigation. Councilman Longo said he wants him (Tolen) to put the city first. No action was taken on this item.
With no further business to address, Mayor Manning adjourned the meeting at 11:50
p.m.
APPROVED:
William W. Manning,
ATFEST:
Patti A. Hicks, TRMC, City Secretary
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ATTACHMENT "A"
CITY COUNCIL - 5/15/95
On Oct. 10. 1994 council voted 6-1 to ask the Corps of Engineers
to allow a marina in The Colony, to be placed North of The Colony
Cove. (Once. of course, the 5-year moratorium is lifted). I
call your attention to some of the reasons council made this
decision a few short months ago. These reasons are stiil very
valid today:
1. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have put a 5 year
moratorium on any new marina projects to be put on Lake
Lewisville. It therefore appears this exercise tonight
is only an exercise in futility. According to
statements made to council on Oct. 10. 1994 bY Mr. Mike
Ench. Manager of Operations at the Army Corps of
Engineers for the Ft. Worth District. the reasons for
the moratorium are several. They included concerns
about overcrowding, carrying capacity and safety. Mr.
Ench pointed out the three existing marinas already
operating on the lake are not operating at capacity and
that all three have the necessary space and financial
capability for expansion, allowing them to keep Dace
with any short-term demand. Mr. Ench also expressed
safety concerns regarding another marina in The Colony
Cove. and pointed ~o a survey done by The CorDs
indicating that lake users would be better served by
future development on the Northern end of the Lake.
Mr. Ench further stated that one of the things the
Corps looked at in deciding where any future marina
might be placed is the ~inancial effect it would have
on other existing establishments, particularly those in
close proximity. When asked if the moratorium co,lid De
cut short, he replied the Corps would have to first
exhaust all of the existing possibilities -- that
primarily being the maximum expansion of the three
existing facilities. Mr. Ench*s comments are a matter
of public record. I would urge the newly elected
council members to review them. Mr, Becket Guoted from
the Final Study done by the Army Corps of Engineers.
I would like to do the same tREAD FROM ~TU£Y )
2. If The Colony is going to pursue recreation to attract
tourist dollars and business from the surrounding area.
it would seem to make good sense for the recreational
facilities to be consolidated into one area. The Dar]<
recently acquired and now known as Hidden Cove Park is
within our city's Northern most boundaries. With over
700 acres of land. it would be the obvious Diace for
such an endeavor. With the large amount of undeveioDed
land and shoreline acreaoe, this area could be turned
into a recreation area which would allow not only a
marina (when the moratorium is lifted), but also would
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allow space for family oriented activities such as
water sports, amusement park, picnic and camping areas
where other visitors could come with their families.
These endeavors, together, would only use a small
portion of the available land. leaving room for future
expansion or other recreational endeavors.
3. I must agree with Mr. Ench. that to allow a marina to De
built in The Colony Cove would only lead deterioration
of the new marina as well as Pier 121 Marina. as both
businesses cut prices in an effort to attract new
customers and keep old ones. If the profits are not
being made, the grounds and structures will soon fall
into disrepair. As ail of you are quite aware, there
is presently no marina competition on the Northern end
of the lake.
4. You all know the safety problems associated with the
building of a marina in The Colony Cove. This is one of the
main reasons council was willing to consider a marina at a
location other than this site. Your first and foremost
concern in considerinq any planned development, whether iT
be a marina or another type of business, should be the
safety and the protection of human life of the residents of
this city and others using the properties. The current
overcrowding of this cove is obvious. When you
consider those to be stored in the proposed dry dock
area. the addition of 600-800 boats on this cove will
create a traffic jam in the narrow channel next to Pier
121 the likes of which may only be surpassed by the
closing of two lanes on 1-35 at rush hour. This
project would increase the number of boats in this cove
to over 2,000. These numbers do not take into
consideration boat traffic attracted from other parts
of the lake to patronize the two marinas. Remember
folks, cars have brakes, boats don't. Since some of
you were not on council when this project came up
previously. I brought a few aerial photographs with me
tonight. You can see what it looks like when you try
to get the current traffic past the narrow channel next
to Pier 121 Marina on any nice week-end. Can you
imagine adding an additional 300 - 60' yachts? These
pictures of The Colony Cove were shot last summer.
Since that time. Pier 121 has added additional boat
slips, adding even more traffic to the mix. You need
to consider that as more people move to the Northern
Dortion of the metroplex, the number of boats and
demand for recreation on the Northern end of the lake
can only increase.
5. Another reason council voted for a marina North of The
Colony Cove was due to the increased traffic on our city
~eets and in ou~ neighborhoods which a marina, res~auran~
and bar will most assuredly bring. Council should also
consider the increased amount of alcohol and drug
related instances these type of businesses bring. Do we
want intoxicated people driving through our neighborhoods
where our children play?
We also ~et into a ~uest~on os what the cost of tnis ~roject
will be to the taxpayers. I believe Mr. Becket stated
a few months a~o that once the marina was up and
runnin~, the city tax revenue would be approximately
$95.000 a year. In order to come up with th~s figure.
he is apparently including the City's share of property
ad valorem taxes and sales tax on Slid rental. Ad
Valorem will amount to $56,000.00/year. Marina income
from slip rental will amount to around $918.000.00 for
300 slips at 90% capacity tavera~e slip rental at
$3,400.00/yr.). Sales tax income for the city will
only amount to $9,180.(30. ?oral income to the c~t¥
from sales tax and ad valorem will be only $65,180.00.
leaving a $29.820.00 short fall. in order to Get to
the projected $95,000 figure, the marina would have to
do an additional $3 Million in sales from the
restaurant, alcohol, and supplies.
If this project goes throuoh, we are looking at hiring
at least 4 additional police officers for two shifts.
additional patrol cars. boat maintenance and insurance
plus benefit packages and equipment for the h~red
personnel. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to
understand $95.000 wilt not Qo that far.
I would suggest we are looking at a cost to the tax payers
more in the neighborhood of $200,000.00 a year. Does anyone
really believe the restaurant and sale of alcohol and
supplies are goino to oenerate an additional $13-1/2 mili~on
in sales'? Because that is what it will take to make uD
the difference. Th~s does not take into account the
indirect costs of this project. There will obviously
be more alcohol and drug related instances. What about
our limited jail space, the extra trips to Denton
transporting prisoners, the added liability exposure
and the increased exposure of our teenagers to drugs
and alcohol.
City council, look around you at Arlington. ~rand Prairie and
even Las Vegas. These cities have been able to reap the tax base
brought to them by recreational oriented businesses, yet still
have been able to maintain the quality of life their residents
demand. It is done by controlled development--Dy putting ail the
recreation oriented activities in one end of town where they
belong, and where they do not affect its citizenry..
00570i
Hidden Cove Park represents a way for The Colony to do the same
thing. It is an ideal location in which to allow recreation, yet
not interfere with the quality of life our citizens expect to be
maintained by this council.
In closing. Ladies and ~entiemen of council. I urge you not to
take any action on the developers' request. This council should
tell these developers the same thing they were told last October.
which was we would be happy to consider their proposal ~or a
marina project in The Colony when the CorDs of Engineers li~t the
5 year moratorium, but only if they agree to building such marina
at a location North of The Colony Cove--preferably at Hidden Cove
Park.
At that time council should demand to be shown how the city w]li
actually reap benefits in this endeavor and not leave its tax
payers stuck with the bill. Council has already made the right
decision in this matter. I strongly urge you to let tha~
decision stand.