HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/06/1997 City Council 006382
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MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
HELD ON
JANUARY 6, 1997
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 6th day of January, 1997, at City Hall with the following Council roll call:
William W. Manning, Mayor Present
Bill Longo, Councilmember Present
Mary Watts, Councilmember Present
David Stanwick, Councilmember Present
Wilma Avey, Councilmember Present
John Dillard, Councilmember Present
Dave Heiman, Councilmember Present
and with seven present, a quorum was established and the following items were addressed:
INVOCATION - Mark Kirby
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. CITIZEN INPUT
Mayor Manning asked that all speakers be shown the same courtesy.
Joyce Fulco, 4712 Clover Valley, asked if the storage buildings being built along F.M.
423 will be bricked over the metal. Mayor Manning said he believed so.
David Heiman, 5949 Fox Dr., asked when the capital improvements committees, set up
to review items to be placed on a future bond issue, would be brought back together. Johnny
Smith advised the committees were not dis-banded, just put on hold until the Comprehensive Plan
is complete, then the committees will make recommendations based on that plan.
Lois LeBlanc, 5312 Rice Dr., gave the council some suggestions: 1. P&Z should not give
personal opinions about proposed council action on certain issues; (2) need to target heating cases
for SUP's in a certain length of nme.
Dan Byme, 5201 Gibson, said he has heard about development coming here for years and
has heard the Mayor warn us about our bad reputation. He hopes The Colony will try to get
quality development. He said the council is elected to lead not to bicker. Mr. Byme doesn't
want liquor stores on Hwy. 121, stating he came from a city with very strict zoning laws and he
finds it hard to believe the city can govern signs but can't say no to liquor stores on 121. This
is the last area north of Dallas to be developed and asked the council to do their job right...stop
fighting and get on with leading.
Officer Mark Phillips, The Colony Police Department, presented Joshua Paisley with a
certificate of recognition for his honesty and thinking of others. Before Christmas, Joshua found
a $100.00 bill in the grocery store. On his own, he turned in the money because he thought the
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person who lost it probably really needed it.
3. CONSIDERATION OF ACTION TO BE TAKEN AS A RESULT OF THE REPORT
RECEIVED FROM WORTH BLAKE REGARDING THE ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
At the December 16, 1996, council meeting, Mr. Worth Blake presented the above report.
Action regarding his recommendation was postponed until this meeting. Council may take action
at this time. Mr. Blake could not be at the meeting due to inclement weather. No action taken.
4. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL
MEETINGS HELD NOVEMBER 18, DECEMBER 16, 19, AND 27, 1996
Council meeting minutes have been prepared for the council review and approval.
Councilman Avey asked the November 18, 1996, minutes be voted on separately.
Motion to approve the November 18, 1996, nfinutes - Dillard; second - Stanwick, carried
with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Longo, Watts, Stanwick, Dillard, Manning
No - Avey
Abstain - Kovatch
Motion to approve the nfinutes of December 16, 19 and 27, 1996 - Stanwick, second
Dillard carried with all members voting Aye.
5. PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE ANNEXATION OF 75.1288 ACRES OF LAND
CONTIGUOUS TO THE COLONY AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED
BELOW
GENERALLY LOCATED IN THE SOUTHEAST PORTION OF THE CITY
BOUNDED ON THE EAST BY THE BURLINGTON NORTHERN RAILROAD,
THE SOUTH AND WEST BY THE TOWN OF HEBRON, AND THE
NORTH BY THE CITY OF THE COLONY
The City has been petitioned by Henry Billingsley to annex the above described property.
The Town of Hebron is to take action at their fn'st council meeting in January to disannex said
property. This is the first of two required public hearings. The second public hearing is
scheduled to be held on January 13, 1997.
Mayor Manning opened the public hearing. Councilman Watts noted this is the first
public hearing and it was stated the second public hearing will be January 13, 1997. Mayor
Manning closed the public hearing.
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13. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORING A ~DEVELOPER'S AGREEMENT WITH
FARRELL PROPERTIES PROVIDING FOR THE REIMBURSEMENT TO FARRELL
PROPERTIES FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION AND
INSTALLATION OF OVERSIZED WASTEWATER LINE ALONG MEMORIAL
DRIVE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $30,062.69
This is the first of the developer's agreements to be entered into by the city and various
developer's along Memorial Drive. By this agreement the city agrees to reimburse Farrell
Properties a portion of their share of the cost to install oversized wastewater lines. The funds
will be taken from Impact Fees. The City Attorney has reviewed the documents, prepared the
agreement and recommends approval.
Motion to approve the agreement as written - Kovatch; second - Dillard.
Councilman Watts clarified that impact fees will reimburse the city for this so the city
will not be bearing the cost of development.
Motion carried with all members voting Aye.
12. CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTANCE AND AWARD OF BIDS FOR THE
PURCHASE OF A CHIPPER FOR THE RECYCLING PROGRAM AND APPROVAL
OF AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING CONTRACT FOR SAME
The city has received a grant with which to purchase the above named chipper. There
was one bidder, Equipment of Texas, Inc. and staff does recommend award of the bid to that
company for a purchase price of $21,672.72. Pat Dunlap addressed the council advising the
chipper will immediately be used for approximately 1,000 Christmas trees which are already on
site. It will also be used for the spring clean-up and other projects.
Motion to award the bids to Equipment of Texas, h~c. as recommended and approve the
ordinance as written - Stanwick; second - Dillard, carried with all members voting Aye with
the exception of Councilman Watts who voted No.
6. DISCUSSION OF A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL REGARDING THE
ALLOWABLE NUMBER OF BEVERAGE AND/OR LIQUOR STORES WITHIN THE
STATE HIGHWAY 121 CORRIDOR AND ANY APPROPRIATE ACTION TO BE
TAKEN AS A RESULT OF THE DISCUSSION
Councilman Kovatch, "A number of you have contacted me about your concerns with the
121 corridor and this issue. I appreciate the input and I would like to see it continue. And what
I'd like to is to .... you know the basic issue here is whether we say yes or no and how firm a legal
ground are we on and what is right for the city, O.K. What I'm going to propose that we do at
this point is attempt, one last time, because five is not acceptable to me either, talk to the
developers because that is the firmest and legal way. This is not about being afraid to run off
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and take on the liquor stores. The issue is whether or not the State has acted in it's capacity to
prevent us from doing so. And if we decide not at any point in time, to any of the liquor stores,
the fact of the matter is, we are going to go to court over it and we will probably go at least two
or three levels. I don't have a problem with doing it, I want to make sure that everyone is aware
that's what's going to happen and that it is probably going to cost us, the attorney fees, probably
anywhere from 50 to several hundred thousand dollars to take care of that. And we may or may
not win. We don't know for sure. Our attorneys have given their opinion on whether or not our
ordinances since they pre-date the legislatures action in 1987, on whether or not they're to
actually, we're going to be able to enforce them and whether or not the court will overturn them.
Obviously, the liquor store companies supporting the liquor stores have a different take on the
issue than our city attorneys. So what I'd like to do, I'd like to put at this time, is one thing let's
take one last shot at it, and spend the next week doing so. Bring this item, 7,8, and 11 all back
~Monday night and if we have made no progress I'm prepared to recommend that we do what we
need to do. I don't want you to get the impression that we're trying to stall you so that you won't
come back next week, I hope you do. I will tell you that after this meeting I will come back in
here and make myself available for as long as you want to talk. Or until like 6:00 a.m. when
I have to go to work. But that's, I mean we have tried in the past to negotiate with the property
owners on voluntary deed restrictions, deed covenants as were mentioned earlier, in writing are
the most assured way of firmly resolving the issue and resolving it permanently. If we can do
that, that not only saves us from having to go to court, it also is a lot firmer ground, because we,
it's possible that we may lose, but we may win, I don't know. The attorneys have, obviously,
they're not going to guarantee. At that point, I think it would be prudent, I know it's not going
to be very popular this evening, but I think I would be derelict in my duty if I didn't try one last
time. I don't think a week is going to hurt us. A week from now, we will still be at this exact
point, and we can still take the exact same actions'.
Motion to postpone items 6, 7, 8 and 11 until January 13, 1997.
Mayor Manning, "You're leaving out 9 and 10"? Councilman Kovatch said, "Well, I
guess the issue I've, what I've heard, and you guys, those of you here tonight may correct me.
But what I have consistently heard in the last three public meetings is that the...Oops, let me re-
phrase that, 6,7,8 and 10. 9 and 11 are the convenience store permits to sell beer and wine and
I have consistently heard for the last three meetings that that's not at issue, the issue is the
package, the liquor store or the beverage store, so I don't think that is an issue and those
two can go on and be discussed tonight and be acted on tonight. The other four is what we
would like to give us one more week to try get us on firmer ground legally and see what we can
come up with. If we can't come up with a better solution, next week we will have these four
items and we will be able to act on them just as we would be able to act on them right now.
We lose no ground by waiting a week".
Mayor Manning, "So you're making a motion then to postpone 6, 7, 8 and 10. Is there
a second to that motion? There being no second..." Councilman Dillard, 'Tll second". Mayor
Manning, "I'm sorry. The motion on the floor is to postpone those four items until next Monday,
is that correct"? Councilman Kovatch, "Yes, the 13th". Mayor Manning, "Ms. Avey".
Councilman Avey, "Are we planning on having a work session between now and then or just --
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discuss it at that time"? Councilman Kovatch, ~'.What the actions will be taken, the Mayor will
step in with the property owners and talk to them and discuss the issue with them and see if we
can come up with a better arrar.gement using a covenant, a deed covenant, that covers the
property from, that covers pretty tnuch the entire 121 corridor, under one covenant, which would
have to be agreed to by all the property owners. And if they all agree to it and they all put it
down it is my understanding that they would all have to agree in order for it to be lifted. One
property owner could not lift it unilaterally. And the city could not lift it. And we would be
looking at negotiating not just a number but also the specific location of where the beverage
stores would go if there were any". Mayor Manning, "Let me suggest to you that we do this on
the 20th rather than the 13th in order to make certain that we've got adequate time and because
there are a lot of people who've watched the council meetings on cable and would be precluded
from doing so we did on the 13th". Councilman Kovatch, "Oh, the 13th will not be televised9.
O.K. we'll amend it to the 20th". Mayor Manning, "Is that O.K. with you"? Councilman Dillard,
"That's frae". Mayor Manning, "Ms. Watts.".
Councilman Watts, "If I could ask the city attorney, do we not have to have public
hearings and take action on a public hearing within a given amount of time". Pete Eckert,
"Within a reasonable period of time, Ms. Watts, I don't think two weeks is certainly unreasonable
as Mr. Kovatch has suggested". Councilman Watts, "O.K.". Mr. Eckert, "You have to act on
it within a reasonable time otherwise we go back through a re-advertising process". Councilman
Watts, "But there is not a defined time"? Mr. Eckert, "No, no". Councilman Watts, "O.K. Mr.
Kovatch, I believe Mayor Manning has already worked with the developers and if we are not
going to do another work shop, and if his "best shot" resulted in 5 liquor stores on 121 when I
believe the majority of the residents want no liquor stores, I think this issue ought to be
addressed tonight once and for all. Putting it off a week or two weeks is not going to accomplish
any better results on the 121 corridor. If I may also ask the city attorney.. Deed covenants by
the property owners are something that the city cannot have any influence over whatsoever. It
is basically their word that they will make these covenants and keep them". Mr. Eckert, "Deed
restrictions are not normally enforced by the city because you have a comprehensive zoning
ordinance, but they can placed on the property by the property owner". Councilman Watts, "The
property owner can place the covenants on there and the property can change or remove those
covenants without consulting the City". Mr. Eckert, "Well, it depends on how they are worded.
They could be removed if there is a majority or by the property owner". Councilman Watts, "But
the city cannot control or influence". Mr. Eckert, "But they would be filed of record and
normally once deed restrictions are placed on the property they are not removed unless another
action takes effect, like they expire after a certain number of years, we would just have to look
at that issue". Councilman Watts, "So there's no guarantee, if the developers agree. So getting
an agreement from the developers in the next week or two weeks is really no permanent
guarantee". Mr. Eckert, "Well, it may be depending on how it's worded. I have not been
involved in the discussions up to this point. I would anticipate being involved in them in the
next few weeks".
Councilman Kovatch, "If I did not feel comfortable that it would not be permanent, then
it's not...I'm looking for a permanent solution". Councilman Watts, "I think most of us are".
Councilman Kovatch, "And even a council action tonight, is not a permanent solution". Mayor
Manning, "Ms. Watts you still have the floor". Councilman Watts, "I would still like to see
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action taken on agenda item 6". Mayor Manning, "Is there further discussion? Anyone else care
to discuss this? The motion on the floor is to postpone items 6, 7, 8 and 10 until our meeting
on the 20th in order that we can try to get some restrictive covenants placed on the property
voluntarily by the property owners. Ms. Avey". Councilman Avey, "Who would be involved
in these discussions? Are we going to make it a part of the motion that .... " Councilman
Kovatch, "If you would like to". Mayor Manning, "Right now we're dealing with tabling these
issues". Councilman Avey, "But between now and then we are talking about negotiating with
the developers and I think council has a right to discuss who they would like involved, if this
motion passes". Mayor Manning, "We will take that up as a separate issue". Councilman Watts,
"If I could". Mayor Manning, "Ms. Watts".
Councilman Watts, "I'd like to use my overhead at this time, if I may. It's part of further
discussion". Mayor Manning, "O.K., keep it to the topic, if you will please".
Councilman Watts, "Over the weekend I was reviewing my Oath of Office, and yes, this
does pertain to this issue. When we came in tonight, there was a lelter on our dais from our city
attorney to Edward Walts, one of the developers, and it says 'in summary, we believe the
ordinances of the city that were adopted prior to June 11, 1987, relating to the zoning process
for the sale of alcoholic beverages and a beverage store are not pre-empted and that the city
council retains the right to exercise its legislative discretion in reviewing the application for a
specific use permit'. Our city attorney is advising us for the ~econd time, in writing, that this
council has the legislative authority to just say no, period, to liquor stores on 121. In reviewing
my Oath of Office this weekend, and I'll read it,
'I, Mary Blair Watts, do solemnly swear, that I will faithfully execute the duties of
Councilman Place 2 for the City of The Colony, Denton County, of the State of Texas, and will
to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and laws of the United
States and of this State, so help me God.'
"The Constitution starts out, 'We, the people.' This is our city Charter, the preamble starts
out, 'We, the people of the City of The Colony, believing in modem government to meet modern
needs while maintaining responsiveness to the desires of the residents, (repeated) maintaining
responsiveness to the desires of the residents, and of our community as a whole, do adopt this
charter as the basic foundation of our city govemment. We charge them to preserve the freedoms
and independence which have been enjoyed by our city since its incorporation in 1977,
undisturbed by conflict of commercial or political interests.'
Councilman Watts, "This is a commercial interest that is being discussed tonight and we
the people of the City of The Colony, and I consider myself one of the people of the City of
The Colony. I was elected by the people, at large, to represent them undisturbed by conflict of
commercial or political interests. I think it's evident even if you just look out here without
anyone speaking that they know in two weeks or one week or two days it's not going to change.
The majority of these people want you (council) to vote no and if you vote to delay this and in
two weeks if you vote for these liquor stores, you are in violation of your oath of office."
Councilman Dillard said, "Eighteen years ago this city was dry." At this point the
audience advised they could not hear. Councilman Dillard continued, "Thank you, I appreciate
you pointing that out to me. Eighteen years ago the people of this city turned out in mass to vote
this city wet." Again, the audience said they could not hear. Councilman Dillard continued, 'Tm
speaking as loud as I can speak. The will of the people was heard, we are a city that is wet.
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Liquor is allowed in this city, it's legal. If you want to change this, you need to get together a
group that wants to have a city wide election, that will have to be run by the county, and try to
vote it No. It's as simple as that. But as long as we are wet, these people have a right to do
business. I represent Place 5 and when I talk to my constituents in Place 5, it's six to one in
favor of free enterprise and building capitalistic businesses on 121 that bring in revenue. It's as
simple as that. At this point, the Mayor had to call the audience down. Mayor Manning, "I
won't tolerate this. I've asked you to be courteous to these speakers. You're courteous to ones
that are speaking to the way you'd like to hear it. Do not be discourteous to those who speak
otherwise, or Yll clear the chamber and I don't want to have to do that. You will decide that."
Councilman Dillard continued, "Mr. Mayor, there's 24,000 people in this city and I don't
believe the people in here represent the majority. We have a point of order, there is a motion and
a second, we need to go ahead and take the vote on tabling these items."
Mayor Manning, "Is there further discussion? Ms. Hicks we are going to do a roll call
vote, if you will please poll the council? Aye vote postpones items 6, 7, 8, and 10".
The motion failed with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Dillard, Kovatch, Manning
No - Longo, Watts, Stanwick, Avey
Mayor Manning, "The motion fails, we will continue discussion of the resolution".
Councilman Kovatch, "Mayor would you like me to, well I would like to..the resolution I don't
know if you need to read it all". Mayor Manning, "Let me read the preamble on the agenda.
Item 6 is discussion of a 'A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE
COLONY, TEXAS FULFILLING ITS RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT THE GENERAL
WELFARE OF THE CITY PROPOSING AS A GUIDELINE A LIMITATION ON THE
NUMBER OF BEVERAGE STORES ALONG THAT PORTION OF THE CITY KNOWN AS
THE "STATE HIGHWAY 121 CORRIDOR"'
The following persons addressed the council expressing their opposition to the sale of
alcohol along S.H. 121.
David Bayliss, 4001 Heron Cove, stated he is opposed to convenience stores as well as liquor
stores.
Roy Winegar, 5500 Slay, read a letter, which had been given to the council prior to the meeting.
(See Attachment "A"). The letter explained that some persons in the audience were wearing
green signs opposing the issue of liquor stores on Highway 121 and it expressed various reasons
why liquor should not be sold at all along 121.
Harley Wallis, 4636 Archer, opposed liquor stores and asked the council to have a vision for the
future for the city.
David Spofford, 4325 Newton, opposed to liquor stores, stated just because we are wet we don't
have to build them anywhere a developer wants.
Gary McClure, 4925 Roberts, opposed to the sale of liquor for off-premises consumption along
121 because it is the front door to our community and asked if we want to be the City by the
Lake or the city behind the liquor stores?
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Bob Cmwford, 1109 Wood Heights, Lewisville, asked the council to vote no to the liquor stores
and shared the story of how his daughter, son and grandchild were killed by a drank driver on
121 in 1993.
Tommy Jackson, 5705 Trego, asked the council not to allow one more liquor store. He asked
the council to consider what they hear at this meeting and vote responsibly.
Carole Arrington, 4113 Gardner, asked the council to vote against any more beer and liquor
stores in the city. Don't let The Colony be known as "Booze Alley".
Carl Adkins, 4624 Archer, decided to speak after reading a letter from Centennial Stores about
their investment in The Colony and that is why their request should be approved. He said he has
an investment in The Colony too and wonders how much his taxes will be missed if he leaves.
Floyd Romero, 5857 Baker, asked the council to drive around the metroplex and look at the areas
around liquor stores and, if they approve, to go ahead and vote for it. He said the council needs
Mayor Manning clarified that an Aye vote will postpone items 6, 7, 8, and 10.
The motion failed with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Dillard, Kovatch, Maiming
No - Longo, Watts, Stanwick, Avey
Mayor Manning read the caption of the resolution as follows and then opened the floor
to public input.
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE COLONY,
TEXAS FULFILLING ITS RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT THE GENERAL
WELFARE OF THE CITY PROPOSING AS A GUIDELINE A LIMITATION
ON THE NUMBER OF BEVERAGE STORES ALONG THAT PORTION OF
THE CITY KNOWN AS THE "STATE HIGHWAY 121 CORRIDOR"
The following persons addressed the council expressing their opposition to the sale of
alcohol along S.H. 121.
David Bayliss, 4001 Heron Cove, stated he is opposed to convenience stores as well as liquor
stores.
Roy Winegar, 5500 Slay, read a letter, which had been given to the council prior to the meeting.
(See Attachment 'A'). The letter explained that some perscns in the audience were wearing
green signs opposing the issue of liquor stores on Highway 121 and it expressed various reasons
why liquor should not be sold at all along 121.
Harley Wallis, 4636 Archer, opposed liquor stores and asked the council to have a vision for the
future for the city.
David Spofford, 4325 Newton, opposed to liquor stores, stated just because we are wet we don't
have to build them anywhere a developer wants.
Gary McClure, 4925 Roberts, opposed to the sale of liquor for off-premises consumption along
121 because it is the front door to our community and asked if we want to be the City by the
Lake or the city behind the liquor stores?
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Bob Crawford, 1109 Wood Heights, Lewisville, asked the council to vote no to the liquor stores
and shared the story of how his daughter, son and grandchild were killed by a drank driver on
121 in 1993.
Tommy Jackson, 5705 Trego, asked the council not to allow one more liquor store. He asked
the council to consider what they hear at this meeting and vote responsibly.
Carole Arrington, 4113 Gardner, asked the council to vote against any more beer and liquor
stores in the city. Don't let The Colony be known as "Booze Alley".
Carl Adkins, 4624 Archer, decided to speak after reading a letter from Centennial Stores about
their investment in The Colony and that is why their request should be approved. He said he has
an investment in The Colony too and wonders how much his taxes will be missed if he leaves.
Floyd Romero, 5857 Baker, asked the council to drive around the metroplex and look at the areas
around liquor stores and, if they approve, to go ahead and vote for it. He said the council needs
to be like David with Goliath and fight the giant.
Pam Leyerle, 4244 Fryer, said she is opposed to liquor stores and asked the council to vote and
get it settled tonight.
Walter Leyerle, 4244 Fryer, distributed pictures of liquor stores along 1-35 in Dallas and noted
that there is nothing around them. He opposes liquor stores along 121.
Jackie Rector, 4133 Durbin, along with her son, opposed liquor stores on behalf of her family
and her church. We tell children to say no to drugs but our city is saying alcohol is O.K.
Melinda Preston, 4121 Durbin, opposed to liquor stores, she wants a family community.
Connie Hudson, 5913 Carroll, said if the council votes yes they will be opposing what the people
want.
Jerry_ Sebastian, 7033 Northpointe, liquor stores will not give us a community to be proud of.
Bruce Scofield, 4517 Newport, pastor of First Baptist Church, representing himself, not every
person in his congregation, opposed to "drowning the city" by adding liquor stores on 121.
Craig Sloan, 5416 Baker, asked if Centennial will pay for added law enforcement, make
contributions to alcohol assistance agencies (AA), etc. Opposed to liquor stores on 121.
David Greer, 4164 Ballard, commended Bill Longo for his integrity over the last 6 months and
told Councilman Dillard he should be ashamed of himselfi Asked for hands to support him
(Dillard). Wanted to know how police officers feel about this issue.
Hillary Kamen, 7508 Lakeland, said we don't need anymore liquor stores in this town.
Laura Bickerstaff, 4908 Arbor Glen, moved here to get away from Dallas atmosphere; drank
driving, crime, gang activity.
Mayor Manning, "The issue before us is a resolution of the city council of the City of The
Colony regarding the allowable number of beverage and/or liquor stores within the State
Highway 121 Corridor and any appropriate action to be taken as a result of the discussion. We
will now discuss the content of this resolution and I presume you care to speak Mr. Stanwick".
Councilman Stanwick, "A couple of things, and I want to add some probably somewhat
unpopular thoughts, but I want to express both sides of the issue. There were quite a few
comments that we were going after liquor stores, that we were rushing into something, that we
were encouraging it. And all we've done up to this point is hear from someone who wants to
open it. They have come to us. I would love to see us be more proactive in going after those
things that we want to see on 121. That hasn't happened up to this point. I also want to caution
against making this an extreme issue. That you're either anti-liquor or that you're pro-liquor.
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I think it's unanimous that nobody is pro-liquor, however, you have to be somewhat neutral, this
is a legal business. I don't necessarily have a problem with alcohol and I enjoy a drink every
once in a while. I've heard mentioned the family values and although I agree that alcohol does
contribute to.. it's an easy out for someone who has a problem to begin with. And if it weren't
alcohol it would be drugs or it would be something else. Those people who have a problem
would fred an outlet. Alcohol is just one means of doing that. However, I want to point out,
if we are going to talk about family values, how many of you shop at Blockbuster where they
sell video games of Mortal Combat and rent movies like '91/2 Weeks' or anyone of a dozen "R"
rated movies. How many of you go to Eckerds and get ginseng or caffeine diet pills or any one
of a number of over the counter drugs that you can get. I realize that alcohol is a drug but in
moderation and everything in moderation is not necessarily bad. If we are going to mention
places, I've heard Harry Hines, I've heard Stemmons. I also want to mention Beltline Road
between the tollway and Josey Lane. If you drive up and down Beltline you will find beverage
stores on Beltline, and I would almost dare you just driving down Beltline to try to count them.
Because you can't. There are so many other businesses surrounding the liquor stores. There's
a Payless Cashway directly across the street from a Centennial. And I would almost dare you
to try to drive down Beltline and try to find the Centennial. There's a sign out front, but with
the sign ordinances that Farmers Branch has or Addison, whichever city that's in, the landscaping
and the way the building is situated. Eventually along 121 will be developed out and two
businesses will not make a difference. They'll be hidden from view. Finally, I think it's also
unanimous that nobody wants to see a row of 'anything' out on 121. I don't want to see a row
of fast food places on 121. I don't want to see a row of dry cleaners or a row of retail stores or
a row of anything. I want to see a variety out there. We've got to start somewhere and I wish
we were staring with a Loews or a Wal-Mart or anything else, but nobody else is out here staring
it. Again, they have come to us. We're not rushing into anything. We can deny it and that's
frae. I don't know what they'll do regarding a law suit or not. But again, remove the thought
of liquor, if there were any other business coming in, we would be embracing them with open
arms if it were any other business...video store, if it were a retail, if it were a market or anything.
Alcohol, I don't believe anybody is pro-alcohol, but you can be neutral. I don't believe it is as
much of a negative as many people believe it to be".
Mayor Manning, "Mr. Longo". Councilman Longo, "Sitting up here as a councilperson
who has to vote on a lot of important issue, I find if I listen to emotions, friendship, personalities
or pressure and not the facts, can only lead to trouble. So I want to throw some facts out tonight
and why I'm going to vote a certain way, if we ever get to it. There's been remarks made about
deed restrictions. I bought my house in 1974, Fox and Jacobs had deed restrictions this long.
I couldn't put a clothes line up because somebody would see it from the street. I drive through
this city and I see a lot of monstrosities and I wonder what happened to the deed restrictions that
were supposed to safeguard my home. Developer's promises. I sat on the council...IBM...they
blew...they came to The Colony and said I am going to buy a 1000 acres of land from Fox and
Jacobs over by Paige and all. IBM said we won't purchase the land until you close that street
that runs from Paige past Pizza Inn and Larry's to 121. At that time, we only had two roads out
of The Colony and they weren't very good. That was 423 and Paige. IBM flew people from Los
Angeles to sit down with me and showed me beautiful pictures of what they were going to do
with that land. IBM said we are not in the land holding business, we are going to build. I don't --
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know what they built down there, or maybe in my age, I can't see very well but I don't see the
canvass that they promised me when I voted to close that road that the citizens needed to get out
of The Colony. This past week my phone has been ringing. I have not received one phone call
saying vote yes for liquor stores. I've gone out on the internet. I've requested people give me
feedback. I am trying to get the facts. One person turned around and sent me an E-mail letter
and said I love my booze stores, I love booze, but for God's sakes not on 121. In 1995 the
traffic count shows that we had 65,000 vehicles traveling east and west on 121, 65,000. I've sat
out there with a police officer and seen cars going by at 80-90 miles an hour, 10:00 o'clock at
night, 11:00 o'clock at night. 423 and 121 in a 24 hour period, 24,000 cars at that intersection,
in a 24 hour period. They say the sales tax will allow us to do a lot of wonderful things. The
police department has one of the highest budgets in our budget and their under manned and
nobody's going to tell me that we have enough police officers out there. And I don't want the
Police Chief to get up and say yes I'm alright because he's got to look at the council, his bosses.
But we are under manned in the police department. The fire department has 4 people on duty.
They are under manned. We are going to develop some land, the Billingsley tract, there's so
much development going on we are under manned in all departments. And I don't think the sales
tax from 5 liquor stores are going to satisfy the needs. And I would also like to remind some
people when I first started it was only two, we've got up to 5 and I want to know when it's going
to end. So that's my facts."
Mayor Manning, "Mr. Kovatch". Councilman Kovatch, "A couple of things, I asked you
not to mistake deliberate consideration with limited vision. I also have sat on the EDC for the
last month with Craig and with Councilperson Watts and we all share the view that we need to
start beating the bushes and some of us have done so. For me it has never been about what I
would like, it's been about what [ thought could be done. Unfortunately the State has made it
a cloudy issue for us. For that you need to talk to your State legislators about changing that.
They's really tied cities' hands. We don't not know if this will sail or not in court. I'm perfectly
willing to give it a try. I put this resolution on the agenda so the council would make a public
statement on the issue. This has been for me a deliberating of the pros and cons, which is one
of the reasons I kept wishing it would be tabled, so that we could be sure it was done and done
right the first time. Sorry, I wrote things down then I went and put them in order as the order
I want to say them and now I can't find them. The sales tax has never been an issue with me,
it wasn't about that. I do want you guys to remember two things actually. There are probably,
what, Chief would you say there's 300 people in this room"? Chief Joe Clark, "Probably about
150". Councilman Kovatch, "I want to remind you that on May 4, 1996, 569 residents showed
up in the last municipal election. And you guys are almost 25% of that, so please remember that
May 3 of this year. And remember one thing what this council can do the next council can
undo. And with that I'd like to read the resolution if possible and introduce it as a motion".
Mayor Manning,"If you want to read it into the record you're welcome to". Councilman
Kovatch, "As long as nobody's saying anything because I'd like for them., there's no copy for
everyone". Mayor Manning, "There's no motion at this point in time". Councilman Kovatch,
"O.K. Iql just read it into the record then and we'll take a look at it.
This is: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE COLONY,
TEXAS FULFILLING ITS RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT THE GENERAL WELFARE OF
THE CITY PROPOSING AS A GUIDELINE A LIMITATION ON THE NUMBER OF
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BEVERAGE STORES ALONG THAT PORTION OF THE CiTY KNOWN AS THE "STATE
HIGHWAY 121 CORRIDOR"'
WHEREAS, the City Council acknowledges the responsibility it has in describing the City
of The Colony to the world; and
WHEREAS, the City Council concurs with the vision of the Board of Directors of the
Economic Development Corporation (EDC) regarding the kind of image the EDC wishes to
achieve; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes the special circumstances surrounding the "State
Highway 121 Corridor" as defined by the "Development Guidelines for the State Highway 121
Corridor" that were developed by the Planning and Zoning Commission and adopted by this
council on July 1, 1996; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that although the "State Highway 121 Corridor"
is a small portion of the city (less than 1,000) acres), it contains the two (2) most important
entrances to our city (out of only three [3] total); and
WHEREAS, the City Council shares the EDC's concern that the image of the "State
Highway 121 Corridor" directly reflects the reputation of the City of The Colony; and
WHEREAS, the City Council also shares the EDC's desire to attract businesses along the
"State Highway 121 Corridor" which are complimentary to fulfilling the goals and the vision
statement contained within the Economic Development portion of the Comprehensive Plan for
the City of The Colony; and
WHEREAS, the City Council further shares the desire of many of its fellow citizens to
limit the number of beverage stores along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" as expressed during --
public meetings on December 2, 16, and 19, 1996, as well as January 6, 1997; and
WHEREAS, the City Council believes that numerous "beverage stores"; as defined in the
City of The Colony Code of Ordinances; engaging in liquor sales for off-premises consumption
along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" would be extremely detrimental to the City of The
Colony for the following reasons:
1. Numerous beverage stores along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" would create
an image that The Colony's sole purpose is to provide liquor to the surrounding communities.
2. Numerous beverage stores along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" would inhibit
the City of The Colony from protecting its youth. These youth make up almost half of the city's
population and the age-group that is most susceptible to engaging in the illegal consumption of
alcohol attend The Colony High School which is located close to the "State Highway 121
Corridor".
3. Numerous beverage stores along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" would
adversely effect the composition of businesses that would fill the corridor due to the fact that
some of the business that the would like to attract would not locate in a development that
contains a beverage store.
4. Numerous beverage stores along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" would cause
a decrease in property values along the corridor and inhibit the ability of property owners to
develop property with the corridor.
5. A decrease in property values along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" would
indirectly cause a decrease in property values in the remainder of the City of The Colony. --
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6. That the occurrence of any or all of the previously stated adverse effects would
have a severe negative impact on the ability of the City of The Colony to meet its financial
obligations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF THE
COLONY, TEXAS:
Section 1. For reasons stated above, the City Council hereby finds that it is reasonable
and prudent, for planning purposes, to establish a guideline that the number of beverage stores
along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" be limited to no more than 0 .; provided, however,
that the goals and objectives stated herein shall not serve as an endorsement for any beverage
store, but that each applicant for a specific use permit for a beverage store shall be governed by
the ordinances, rules and regulations of the City.
Section 2. That the City Council hereby directs the City staff to inform those persons
interested in locating a beverage store along the "State Highway 121 Corridor" the terms of this
Resolution.
Section 3. That the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of The Colony shall
act in accordance with this resolution.
Motion to approve the resolution with the number of liquor stores allowed as zero -
Kovatch.
Mayor Manning, "Mr. Dillard". Councilman Dillard, "I want to thank y'all for all coming
out here and to point out something to y'all that I think you've overlooked. One, you've attacked
me. Why? You don't know my intentions. Most people don't even know me. Some of you do.
I going to work hard for this city to try to build a better city, help develop zoning, help with
development to make this a better place to live. You can sit there and judge me if you wish, but
remember what the scripture says about judging your fellowman. What we stand to lose when
we go to court. But if you remember the meeting we had the other night it wasn't talking about
how we can avoid litigation, it's how we're going to defend ourselves. We will lose. We'll lose
because the State is going to regulate this particular situation because the State laws aren't clear.
We can treat this business, whether we want it or not, just any other business, whether it's a
shoe store, a toy store, or a liquor store. I really don't want a liquor store on 121. I don't want
it at the entrance of our city. I don't frequent the liquor stores here nor do I drink in my home.
But the bottom line is we have control at this time. Our Special Use Permits allow us to develop
standards that most businesses cannot meet. We stand a chance if we lose in court, and I say
if, because when you go to corn% you never know. We will lose those Special Use Permit
requirements. The State will sa5 you guys have goofed it up, we're going to regulate this and
those guys can build whatever they want and how many they want to build, and your stands don't
apply. We have a similar case in Dallas, it's Cinemark vs Dallas. I think back a year or two.
The theater wanted to build on a piece of property it owned and wasn't allowed to. They sued
the City of Dallas and received millions of dollars in settlement. Bottom line is..legal business,
legal zoning, they passed all the requirements the City of Dallas placed on them. The City of
Dallas lost in court. Now hn concerned for the welfare and financial being of this city and the
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citizens. We can't afford litigation. If you're willing to pay for it, fine. But you're talking about
a minimum of several hundred thousand dollars if we're successful. If we lose I have no idea
how high it could go. Am I scared of litigation, you darned right. Because it effects the bottom
line and that comes in as tax dollars. My concern, one, loss of revenue, not from the liquor
store, but loss of revenue because we don't see the volume of growth out there because of the
nature of our attitude. Two, we lose in court, we lose the control of location and appearance of
liquor stores. Three, once we've lost that we can't control the number, we can't control the
location and we can't control the appearance. Right now with only two or three companies
willing to build at the standards we require. If that's gets changed for any reason, we're up the
creek. We will get store fronts that look like crap, that look like just what Wally showed. I
know Wally. He went to a great deal of trouble to get those pictures and that's what we'll get.
Right now we are trying to maintain control. My concern is once we've lost that we get Harry
Hines. So my intentions are to control the mess we have. This man wants zero, that lady wants
zero. What's the right number. If the State dictates to us..we say we want zero, the State says
oh you can't have zero, you can have as many as these people want. We have lost".
Mayor Manning, "Mr. Kovatch". Councilman Kovatch, "Mr. Eckert, what_should we go
to court over the liquor issue and lose on the Specific Use Permit would the Specific Use Permit
be declared invalid as it applies to liquor stores or as it applies to every business. It's my
understanding that the State law says we can't restrict liquor stores anymore than we restrict any
other business. So as long as we are restricting all the other businesses in a similar fashion, are
we on legal ground in this area, to uphold the SUP, maybe not for the liquor stores, but, maybe
not for denying the liquor stores, as long as comply with all the restrictions that we place on
every other business". Mr. Eckert, "Mr. Kovatch, as I have stated to the council before, we're
really talking about the application of your zoning ordinances and how they deal with beverage
stores, that were enacted, those ordinances that were in place prior to the cut off date in 109.57.
And we have indicated to you that those ordinances, one your comprehensive ordinance was
adopted in the late 70's and amendments to that all occur, except the 1000 foot rule, which came
in after 87, we've advised you that it is probably not enforceable for the sheer fact that it was
enacted after June 11, 87. But prior to the time those specific use requirements were in place.
It has been our position that they're governed by, the application is governed by any, just like any
other application on any other type use that might require a SUP. The SUP requirements in this
State are zoning, are in fact, some Texas cases have so held. You asked the question, what if
we lose. The question is whether the pre-emptive effect of 109.57 will let us apply those
ordinances and if we can, then it's just like any other zoning case. I mean, this council has not
over the last many years that I have been associated with it, granted every zoning request. You
haven't turned down every one either. But ifs to be examined on a case by case basis and by
using the Specific Use Permit process you are allowed to take into consideration the adjacency
and compatibility issues that we have talked about. Now that would be the issue as I see it.
Whether we can apply those provisions of our ordinance. If we can't and the court so holds then
we nm the risk". Councilman Kovatch, "Wait a second, it would be two issues; one whether
or not we can apply it to liquor stores and two, the separate issue would be whether we could
just throw it out altogether. As long as we apply it to everyone in all my knowledge it would
still be applicable". Mr. Eckert," That's correct."
Mayor Manning, "Ms. Avey". Councilman Avey, "It was just answered, thank you".
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Mayor Manning, "We have a motion on the floor but there is no second. Is there a second to
the motion for this resolution"? Councilman Watts, "Can we have a synopsis of the resolution"?
Councilman Kovatch, "The last portion of it basically is that we would resolve to.. that no
beverage stores on State Highway 121, we would instruct the city staff to inform anyone coming
in for the application process that this is the council's position on it and that we would request
that the Planning and Zoning Commission not only be informed but act in accordance with it".
Mayor Manning," Ms. Avey". Councilman Avey, "Sorry there is one question. Pete if this
resolution is passed would it have any effect on the case being for or against"? Mr. Eckert,"As
indicated to you in the past or when Mr. Kovatch talked about the resolution a couple of weeks
ago is that it needs to be used as a guideline only. And that it cannot be specifically applied in
any particular case because that will stand on it's on merit. And because if you try to apply it,
it of course has a post 1987 effect". Councilman Kovatch, "I'm simply looking for a public
statement, because unfortunately, if we made it a regulation, I talked to Mr. Hill and Mr. Eckert
about that. If we made it a regulation and said the Planning and Zoning Commission had to do
this and the council had to abide by this then it would be pre-empted by the State alcohol law
and be thrown out. So that's the reason it's not a... Did anybody have trouble heating that, well
that's a first. O.K. the resolution is just a guideline because that is all it can be. Unfortunately
if I was to introduce it as a quote unquote law of the city or city ordinance it would be pre-
empted by the State's law from 1987 since it was passed after, so there's no way I can put
together a resolution to order the city staff to do it, and order the Planning and Zoning and the
Council to abide by the resolution. We can only submit it as a guideline. It is intended as a
public statement and then later on down with the other agenda items we can continue to act on
it".
Councilman Dillard, "I don't agree with some of the things stated in this particular
resolution, but because of the concerns that we have over litigation, we have got to establish a
standard. You've gone to a great deal of trouble and I commend you for putting that together
so we will have something to stand on in court and for that purpose, I may not necessarily
support what he is stating there, but I will second his motion".
Mayor Manning, "Ms. Watts". Councilman Watts, "I would like to point out that during
public hearing any person that addresses council that is a citizen of The Colony is in effect
establishing testimony that the city attorney needs and can use to defend what we have talked
about here tonight. Any time you see a public hearing being posted about zoning or a public
hearing addressing anything, be it local, or city or statewide, please attend the public hearing
because that is something the law, a judge would recognize as testimony and is taken into much
greater consideration than a resolution and you people coming out to these public hearings, this
however is not a public hearing. When you did attend the public hearings and that testimony was
created, you the people have done a greater service to an attorney than this council can by
resolution. There are many public hearings coming up. There are Planning and Zoning signs up
and down Paige from Morningside Elementary to the City of Carrollton. All of that is up for
re-zoning and there are public hearings that are going to held, there have to be two and you need
to attend those public hearings and understand how all of that undeveloped land is up for
consideration. Part of the problem in one of these developments in particular was zoned Business
Park. If you read our Code of Ordinances, that basically says it's an office building and can only
have support businesses in it and a full fledged 6000 square foot liquor store would not
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necessarily be a support business to an office building. However, an overlay zoning called a
Planned Development was put over that which then did allow all of that area to be susceptible
to a Specific Use Permit, which is a third layer of zoning. So zoning issues are extremely critical
to this city in the future and anytime, I don't care where you live, if you hear of a public hearing,
if you see a white zoning sign on the side of road. Find the date and attend that public hearing
to create the testimony which the attorneys need to deal with any issues you want them to do
from a legislative standpoint. I am very pleased to hear the resolution to just say no as we have
asked our children to do. My fear was that there would be a vote to approve the store tonight,
one or two or ten. And my fear is that will result in a wet/dry election and those people who
have invested a million and a half to get this far, before that election took place, may invest six
million to build their building only to be voted out by the people and unfortunately where the
majority of these people are simply saying no more liquor stores if a wet/dry election is forced,
then all of the people who own liquor stores in this town will be forced out of business. And
I don't think that's what anybody wants. So I am truly pleased with this motion to limit the 121
Corridor to zero stores. He did however point out it is a resolution, we have four more agenda
items that will require a vote by this council as to whether to approve beer and wine or beverage
stores, they are two separate issues, and so each time this is addressed, you will need to count
on your Councilmembers to vote appropriately".
Mayor Manning, "Further discussion? It's been moved and seconded that we pass the
resolution as read with a zero in the blank, Ms. Hicks if you will please poll the council".
Motion carried with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Longo, Watts, Avey, Kovatch
No - Stanwick, Manning
Abstain - Dillard
7. DISCUSSION OF AMENDMENT(S) TO THE STATE HIGHWAY 121 CORRIDOR
GUIDELINES REGARDING THE ALLOWABLE NUMBER OF BEVERAGE AND/OR
LIQUOR STORES WITHIN THE STATE HIGHWAY 121 CORRIDOR AND ANY
APPROPRIATE ACTION TO BE TAKEN AS A RESULT OF THE DISCUSSION
FOR THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT 9 (PD-9) FOR THE (BP) BUSINESS PARK
DISTRICT LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE INTERSECTION OF
STATE HIGHWAY 121 AND PAIGE ROAD; AND RELATED SITE PLAN
Mayor Manning, "Again, Mr. Kovatch, this was your item. There doesn't appear to be
anything in the back up". Councilman Kovatch,"No, at this point I would just like to refer to the
resolution and ask the Planning and Zoning to add any appropriate documentation to the
Corridor guidelines. I ran out of words". Mayor Manning," O.K., so you're not recommending
that we take any action on this item tonight"? Councilman Kovatch,"No". Mayor
Manning,"Does anyone else care to discuss this or present anything on this item. We will then
move to Item 8".
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8. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE
ZONING ORDINANCE AND ESTABLISHING SPECIAL USE PERMIT NUMBER 59
PROVIDING FOR A BEVERAGE STORE UPON PROPERTY CURRENTLY ZONED
FOR THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT 9 (PD-9) FOR THE (BP) BUSINESS PARK
DISTRICT LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE INTERSECTION OF
STATE HIGHWAY 121 AND PAIGE ROAD; AND RELATED SITE PLAN
Motion to deny the special use permit request - Kovatch; second - Watts, carried with the
following roll call vote:
Aye - Longo, Watts, Avey, Kovatch
No - Stanwick, Dillard, Manning
9. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE
ZONING ORDINANCE AND ESTABLISHING SPECIAL USE PERMIT NUMBER 60
PROVIDING FOR THE SALE OF BEER AND WINE FOR OFF-PREMISE
CONSUMPTION UPON PROPERTY CURRENTLY ZONED FOR THE PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT 9 (PD-9) FOR THE (BP)BUSINESS PARK DISTRICT LOCATED
AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE INTERSECTION OF STATE HIGHWAY
121 AND PAIGE ROAD; AND RELATED SITE PLAN
Councilman Kovatch, "A quick question for the city attomey. The legal ground for this
is different because we've already approved the S&S, is that correct? Or should we say again,
we approved one but we are not going to approve anymore? The concern I have, is if we go
forward in this direction, we may also be looking at turning down Albertson's and the
ramifications of some of those possibilities. It's a little different argument and because we have
already let one in we may not be standing on firm legal ground". Mr. Eckert, "Well you have
allowed beer and wine SUPs before, but in the context of applying the comprehensive ordinance,
and it's amendments prior to '87 each stands on its own merit. That's what I have indicated to
the council in the past. So I don't know that the granting of one Mr. Kovatch is necessarily
pertinent. It's certainly an issue that the council needs to discuss. Again, it's an SUP and it
needs to be examined on it's own merits not the previous one or anyone before it".
Motion to approve the special use permit for the sale of beer and wine for off-premises
consumption - Dillard; second - Stanwick carried with the following roll call vote:
No - Longo, Watts, Avey, Kovatch
Mayor Manning, "We need a reading on this Pete. Do we need a motion to deny since
the motion to approve failed"? Mr. Eckert, "The council has spoken on the issue". Mayor
Manning, "So the SUP is denied because the motion to approve failed".
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10. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF THE
COLONY AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE AND
ESTABLISHING SPECIAL USE PERMIT NUMBER 62, PROVIDING FOR A
BEVERAGE STORE UPON PROPERTY CURRENTLY ZONED FOR THE (BP)
BUSINESS PARK DISTRICT LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST INTERSECTION
OF STATE HIGHWAY 121 AND F.M. 423/MAIN STREET; AND RELATED SITE
PLAN
Motion to deny the special use permit for a beverage store - Kovatch; second - Watts,
carried with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Longo, Watts, Avey, Kovatch
No - Stanwick, Dillard, Manning
11. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF THE
COLONY AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE AND
ESTABLISHING SPECIAL USE PERMIT NUMBER 63, PROVIDING FOR THE SALE
OF BEER AND WINE FOR OFF-PREMISE CONSUMPTION UPON PROPERTY
CURRENTLY ZONED FOR THE (BP) BUSINESS PARK DISTRICT LOCATED AT
THE NORTHWEST INTERSECTION OF STATE HIGHWAY 121 AND F.M.
423/MAIN STREET; AND RELATED SITE PLAN
Councilman Avey,"Can we separate the site plan and the SUP, is that possible"? Mayor
Manning, "I suppose we can, I'm not sure the business owner would agree really care if you
approved the site plan without the SUP". Jeff Stone, "Actually I would, I'd like that". Mayor
Manning, "Would you, O.K.. In that case we will take up the site plan fa'st. We've had the site
plan, now this is the convenience store and the gas station". Councilman Kovatch, "If you can
separate them, I'll make a motion to approve the site plan".
Motion to approve the site plan - Kovatch; second - Dillard.
Councilman Avey, "The approval of the site plan is not, Ym sorry. The approval of the
site plan fa'st is not saying that we are going to say yes to the SUP, or we still have our options
open"? (Options are still open) Councilman Stanwick, "My understanding is that the site plan
is only required for the SUP otherwise we don't require a site plan just as normal preliminary
platting, final platting. The only reason we require a site plan here is due to the SUP, is that
correct"? Mr. Chavez, "That's correct". Councilman Stanwick, "So it doesn't really matter
whether we approve or not the site plan, because it is not part of the normal process anyway".
Mr. Chavez, "That's correct, this particular property is not in the Planned Development District.
The Planned Development District requires site plan approval. Councilman Stanwick, "So even
if we deny the SUP, he is still free to develop anything else he wants to out there within the
other constraints, but we don't have to approve his site plan outside of the SUP process". Mayor
Manning," We need to be cautious, however, because if we have a motion to deny the SUP, the
way this is written, it combines the two, wo we need to be cautious, I think, because I think the
council is then going to deny the site plan". Mr. Smith, "Does the city have any liability in court
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if we approve one and not approve the other"? Mr. Eckert, "Well you're approving the site plan
separate from the SUP. What we are checking, I've asked Sam to check is to see if anywhere
on the site plan is some liquor related uses, which you might approve without realizing it". Mr.
Smith, "I'm just concerned for the city's position in a court of law, if we're going to deny the
SUP, can approving the site plan have a negative impact of the city"? Mr. Eckert,"No it's not
going to effect it one way or the other. Sam have you checked that"? Mr. Chavez, "Yes, I have.
I don't have a copy of the site plan. What council could do is amend staff stipulations to
stipulate that the sale of beer and wine and/or liquor will not be allowed". Mayor Manning,
"And any references to the sale of beer and wine should be removed from the site plan itself'.
Councilman Kovatch, "Yd like to withdraw my motion". Councilman Avey, "Sam, I have a copy
if you want to look at it". Mayor Manning, "Mr. Stanwick, I believe still has the floor".
Councilman Stanwick, "O.K. Yd like give...I guess it was Centennial that we did earlier...number
8 and 9...If the same logic holds true that the reason we're separating out the SUP and the site
plan is to allow them to continue to developing without the SUP, I don't know, but I want to give
them the same courtesy and the same option of proceeding with the site plan. I don't know if
you're in the business of doing speculative development, but if you want to build the building
to try to recover some of that, I want to give you the same courtesy and the same option of
separating those out". Mayor Manning, "I was going to go back to that to see if you wanted
to do that". Councilman Kovatch, "I guess with saying regardless if we, without the Specific
Use Permit we haven't approve the final plat right"? Councilman Kovatch, "So all they have
to do is come forward with the final plat". Mayor Manning, "The final plat has been approved".
Councilman Kovatch, "So then tonight, denying the SUP and therefore the site plan has no effect
on the final plat, since the site plan is only required by the SUP". Councilman Stanwick, "That's
my point". Councilman Kovatch, "So if doing that, so we really, we don't need to do anything.
We need to treat this the way we treated the earlier one and if they wish to go ahead and develop
the property according to the building plan, they can continue to do that". Mayor Manning,
"Well, let me ask Pete then. If we deny this, the way it's written, which says that we are
considering approval of an SUP and approval of the related site plan, if we deny, the way this
is written, do we then deny the site plan"?. Mr. Eckert, "You deny the site plan because it's
required of an SUP for a convenience/beverage store. I believe Sam you indicated that it's not
needed if there is no application for an SUP for a beverage store, is that correct"? Mr. Chavez,
"That's correct". Mr. Eckert, "Yes, it's not needed so they can proceed". Mayor Manning, "So
they can use the site plan that they have already proposed"? Mr. Eckert, "That's right".
Councilman Kovatch, "Point of order, I'd like to remind you once again the folks in the back
can't hear us".
Mayor Manning, "So that means the people with Centennial, if they so choose to go
forward with the convenience store, knowing that they can't sell anything there other than cokes
and gasoline, they are welcome to do that". Mr. Eckert, "That's correct". Mayor Manning, "item
11 again, we do not have a motion on the floor at this point in time. Do we have a motion on
this item"?
23
006401
Ratified 2/24/97
Motion to approve the request - Kovatch; second - Dillard carried with the following roll
call vote:
Aye - Stanwick, Dillard, Manning
No - Longo, Watts, Avey, Kovatch
Recess 10:20 p.m.
Reconvene: 10:35 p.m.
14. GENERAL DISCUSSION REGARDING THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CITY
ATTORNEY AND CONSIDERATION OF ANY APPROPRIATE ACTION TO BE
TAKEN AS A RESULT OF THE DISCUSSION
Councilman Kovatch asked when the city went out to bid for city attorney services last
and stated 'he thought it would be in the best interest to go out for bid for that purpose. Mr.
Smith advised you can't go out to bid for that type of service. Councilman Kovatch asked how
to go about looking at other firms and Mr. Smith advised we could seek RFP's.
Motion to request proposals for city attorney services to be complete within 60 days -
Kovatch.
Mr. Smith asked what services would be included. Councilman Kovatch said the full
spectrum of services provided currently. Councilman Longo said he is uneasy making any
changes now since the city has some potential problems. He suggested sitting down with Cowles
& Thompson and trying to work out any problems that may exist.
Councilman Stanwick said he is happy with Cowles & Thompson and with the city
attomey Pete Eckert and with John Hill. He said they do a good job of tag teaming and support.
Councilman Watts agreed with Councilman Kovatch stating she thinks what he wants is
to identify the options. She said she doesn't understand how legal representation is structured
in the city. Councilman Watts asked for an explanation of who (in. the firm) represents the city
and how.
Councilman Avey agreed that a def'mition of areas and who covers them is needed. She
also wants to know if the city can go to other fkms for services.
Motion died for lack of a second.
Mr. Eckert said he would be happy to work with Mr. Smith and prepare the information
the council has requested.
Councilman Watts and Councilman Kovatch thanked Mr. Eckert and John Hill for their
patience in the liquor issue.
15. CITY MANAGER AND STAFF REPORTS
Reminder of the Special Session on January 13, 1997.
10:45 p.m. --
24
006402
Ratified 2/24/97
16. EXECUTIVE SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY SECTION 551.071 OF THE LOCAL
GOVERNMENT CODE, REGARDING PENDING LITIGATION, TO-WIT:
A. RICHARD KAMEN, DEBRA AND DANIEL FOESHER et al., PLAINTIFFS,
v. CITY OF THE COLONY, TEXAS, DEFENDANTS,
Case No. 4:96CV335
11:14 p.m. Reconvene in open session
At this time Mayor Manning advised the council that he has asked Councilman Kovatch
to serve as council liaison to staff with regard to the city manager search. He clarified that Ms.
Hicks will continue to serve in the capacity of the liaison with Dr. Geisel. Any requests from
council regarding the search should go through Councilman Kovatch.
With no further business to address, Mayor Manning adjourned the meeting at 11:20 p.m.
APPROVED:
William W. Manning, i(I~-yor ~~
ATTEST:
Patti ,~. Hicks, TRMC, City' Secretary
25
~-~][/~"~' i~J "AT?ACHMENT A"
Janua~/3, 1997
CITY SECRETARY PLEASE DISTRIBUTE TO TltE MAYOR AND EACtt COUNCIL
MEMBER BEFORE THE L4~TIARY 6. ~997 CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
Dear Mayor a~d City Cotmcil,
Se. amd in the audience ton/ght, wmfi.t~ the fluoresc~t gree~ signs, are same at/zens who
oppose the issue of liquor stores on Highway 121. We othaose any 1/quor stores on H~hway
121.
We feel that:
- The Cotmcil has the legislative author/tv tn "Ju~c my No to hqua' stores on Highway 121"
and we asree with the d.ty attorney, ewen if it c.'msc~ i/~gation. A few dollars now for
t/~a'tim/s t~s expemve than m/iiions for a cure.
- Lkl uor revenues are h~es and h~.daches. $i00,000 of lkl, uor sales to 8ene~ata $1,000
of tax revenues never equaled the pric~ of one I/re and the heartache it causes.
- The argume~l; of liquor s'ton~ for revenue or nothing is not valid. Hopefully we will start
to am'act such businesses as build/n8 supply centare and movie th_~a'es_ ~ also
revenue.
Liquor ki!tq whether il; ks bought in a lm-.ckase -stare, ~~ ~ a ~~[, b~,
co~ w~e ~ m a ~b~m of ~y of ~me. D~ ~ ~ty d~
· e fi~ ~d ~~ d~e ~ed by
- ~ m ~ve ~ w~ mn~m ~ ~bum m ~ d~ ~H ~d ~ dm~e.
~O ]~'r ~ ~ + .....
- a~ ~he ~n~i ~,t ~r,,~ c~ .... ~' !t w~ ~ mom ~ ~o+~,u~i' our
- Liq~ ~ ~ hom~ ~ a ~lt of ~di~o~.
- ~mr ~ s~ ~ o~ c~d~ "Itg ok ~d ~ol m d~" ag a time wh~ ~ey ~
sup~ m "Jm ~y No m drags ~ ~qu~["
- ~ m wo~d be our front d~ welcome m~ f~ ~ md
- ~ m ~ ~e wm~ ~ of b~. Why ~ wo~d ~~ ~y
oa ~ ~. We ~ wh~ we ~
- !fiquor stores would p~vemt busimesse~ without high 5c~_'_m! liabilities from loc~ in our
commumty, such as those in No~th Plano aad Nc~th Can~oiltom.
- Liquor stores att,-~ drivers from dry commlmities who ar~ wanting to purchase ii~uor.
This camtes congestion t~at would no~ be preseat except to purchase li~ uor. Th~s adds to aa
overcrowded and already dangerous highway. The risk of death and pt~.xmx~y dam~e is
increased whe~ a driver is ~mder the influemce 8oing to a liquor ztore or comsaimed wkile
drivi~ from a liquor store.
- IJqucr stores here would create a hub of distribution for ~m3umdi~j dry communities that
do not want the albatross of hquo~ in their community.
-Lm. uor razzes contribute to and increase the risk of being killed or maimed by a drunk driver
on the state ~ mo~t deadly lake near a m~a~stically deadly highway. This ~roblem is eve~
more compounded ia a state that is str~gliag aga~n~ l~;~in~ smt~ wit~ DUIs.
- Liquor stores will hetp to cream a name for this city. Not a name you and I, in the future,
want to he a part of. Our houmdari~ will be f~ll of death and d~vzuc~ion from the decay
within, not a city with life and hope.
Conti~ui~ to do the same stupid thins in this comm~l~ity, as has bee~ tried ixl other ~_
comm~ties of America, amd expect~ differeml~ remxlts on ~ issue would be a good
de/mit, ion of insanity.
The oaly answer is "No" and deep dor,~n we should each ic~ow
SL~ce~iy,
Concerned Citizens Against Liquor on Highway 12i
Written by Roy Winegar, Citizen Place 3
VOT
FOR LIQUOR STORES ON 121.
I LIVE IN
PLAC
NAME:
ADDRESS: