HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/17/1997 City Council MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
HELD ON
MARCH 17, 1997
The Regular Session of the City Council of the City of The Colony, Texas, was called to order
at 7:38 p.m. on the 17th day of March, 1997, at City Hall with the following Council roll call:
William W. Manning, Mayor Absent
Bill Longo, Councilmember Present
Mary Watts, Councilmember Present
David Stanwick, Councilmember Present
Wilma Avey, Councilmember Present
John Dillard, Councilmember Present
David Kovatch, Councilmember Present
and with six present, a quorum was established and the following items were addressed:
INVOCATION - John Bell, Col.ony Park Baptist
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. CITIZEN INPUT
Sam Fitzgerald, Manager of Hidden Cove Park, invited everyone to the park for the
annual Easter Egg Hunt to be held March 29 at 10:00 A.M.
Arvin Yandell, 7100 Hanna Cr. commended those Councilmembers who voted against
reducing the parking to 1.7 spaces per unit on Austin Ranch Development. He commented that
our city's proximity to the lake creates boat and other water recreational vehicle parking needs.
2. PRESENTATION OF EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION AWARDS
Margaret Burkett, Personnel Director, introduced various employees and presented them
with awards for length of service. Tony Johnston, Finance Dh'ector, then reported to Council the
special efforts of Charrnyne Crowe and Susan Easley, who saved the City a large amount of
postage costs by bar coding utility bills in order to meet new requirements of the U.S. Post
Office. This bar coding was necessary to continue receiving a discounted rate of postage. Mr.
Johnston applauded them for their hard work and presented each of them with a gift certificate
for dinner for two at Zydeco's.
3. RECEIVE PRESENTATION FROM THE TEXAS ELKS STATE ASSOCIATION
Jud Good, Texas Elks State Association, reported to the Council that The Colony has been
chosen as a possible site of a new lodge for their charitable organization. He continued by
explaining the criteria by which the organization judged our city and the requirements of their
membership. Mr. Good pointed out the various activities supported by the Elks including support
of the war against drags, various scholarships awarded, care of the elderly and support of the Boy
and Girl Scout organizations. He asked the Council for a resolution on a future agenda to
support their efforts. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard then asked the Council for a consensus and
instructed Patti Hicks, Interim City Manager, to prepare a resolution for this purpose.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Pro-Tem Dillard asked the Council if any items were to be pulled from the
Consent Agenda and read the caption of each item,
Councilman Watts requested that items A, E, and F be pulled from the Consent Agenda.
B. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF A TEMPORARY
CLERK IN THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE
Motion to authorize hiring temporary clerk - Stanwick; second - Kovatch, carried
with all members voting Aye.
C. CONSIDERATION OF RENEWAL OF A CONTRACT WITH COWLES AND
THOMPSON FOR THE COLLECTION OF DELINQUENT TAXES
Motion to renew contract with Cowles and Thompson for collection of delinquent
taxes - Stanwick; second - Kovatch, carried with all members voting Aye.
D. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 10-31 OF
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES RELATING TO THE REQUIRED NOTICES TO BE
MADE WITH REGARD TO IMPOUNDED VEHICLES
Motion to pass ordinan.:e to amend Code of Ordinances relating to impounded
vehicles - Stanwick; second - Kovatch, carried with all members voting Aye.
G. CONSIDERATION OF DESIGNATING REPRESENTATIVE TO THE
REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION COUNCIL
Motion to designate representative to Regional Transportation Council - Stanwick;
second - Kovatch, carried with all members voting Aye.
H. CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTANCE AND AWARD OF BDS FOR THE
MOWING OF PARKS WITHIN THE CITY, AND APPROVAL OF AN ORDINANCE
AUTHORIZING CONTRACTS FOR SAME
Motion to award bids for mowing of parks and pass ordinance authorizing contracts
- Stanwick; second - Kovatch, carried with all members voting Aye.
I. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF AN AGREEMENT WITH FIRST
SOUTHWEST TO PROVIDE CONTINUING DISCLOSURE SERVICES
Motion to approve agreement with First Southwest to provide disclosure services -
Stanwick; secoud - Kovatch, carried with all members voting Aye.
Councilman Watts stated that there was some confusion with the motion made appointing
the Interim City Manager and wanted to discuss Item E prior to approving the minutes.
F. CONSIDERATION OF MOVING THE DATE FOR THE FIRST REGULAR
COUNCIL MEETING IN APRIL TO THE SECOND MONDAY OF THE MONTH.
Councilman Watts commented that regarding Item F, if Mayor Manning was the only one
not able to attend the April 7 Council Meeting, she saw no reason to postpone the regular
meeting. Patti Hicks, Interim City Manager, stated she had planned to attend Denton County Day
on April 7, however, if the Council chooses to have the regular session, she will have to cancel
her registration. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard then asked for a motion to approve Item F.
Motion to approve Item F to postpone regular session to April 14 - item failed for lack of
motiou.
E. CONSIDERATION OF RATIFICATION OF THE SALARY INCREASE FOR
THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER
Councilman Avey stated that her understanding of Ms. Hicks' contract was that she would
step in as City Manager if the City Manager is not available. Ms. Hicks corrected Councilman
Avey by explaining that Ms. Hicks' job description states that she will serve as City Secretary
and Director of Administrative Services. One of the duties of the Director of Administrative
Services is' to fill the position of City Manager when it is vacant. Councilman Avey then stated
that the contract does not call for a salary increase to assume that position. Ms. Hicks responded
that her contract was for the City Secretary/Director of Administrative Services position. Mayor
Pro-Tem Dillard pointed out that Ms. Hicks had previously served as Interim City Manager and
had received the salary of the City Manager and this request was not without precedence.
Councilman Avey stated her understanding was that Ms. Hicks' contract has been renewed since
the last time she served as Interim City Manager and does not include a salary increase. Ms.
Hicks responded that her agreement had been amended since 1994 and had never mentioned the
position of City Manager. One of the purposes of Ms. Hicks' position of Director of
Administrative Services is so she can step in and serve as City Manager in the absence of that
person. Councilman Avey then clarified that Ms. Hicks knew that with the salary she was
currently receiving it may require her serving as City Manager. Ms. Hicks responded that she
did know that, however, it was customary that she would receive the salary of the City Manager
if she was serving in that position. Councilman Avey, referring to the Employee Personnel
Manual, stated that the only step-up pay allowed was for public safety employees and that when
Ms. Hicks served as City Manager early in 1996, she did not receive the increased salary. Ms.
Hicks explained that Johnny Smith, former City Manager, was hospitalized for a prolonged
period, and the City Attorney advised that an official appointment be made since Mr. Smith's
return was unknown. Mr. Smith was able to return to his position a few weeks later and Council
did vote to give Ms. Hicks a bonus for her services.
Councilman Watts commented that this subject should have been addressed in Executive
Session since it is a personnel issue.
Cathy Wood, 4909 Avery Ct., stated that she previously spoke before the Council
regarding the. resignation of Johnny Smith and reiterated that the Council's job was to lead the
City into prosperity and actively represent the majority of the citizens of The Colony. She
further stated that employees of the City desired a good working relationship with the City
Council, however, employees need to be able to respect and trust the elected officials and this
Council has created a sense of insecurity and uncertainty on the part of City staff. At the last
regular session, the vote was taken to appoint Ms. Hicks as Interim City Manager. Mayor
Manning asked if everyone understood that included a salary increase. All of the council
responded that they understood. Ms. Wood's question now is why is this issue being addressed
again? Ms. Wood, in a conversation with the Texas Municipal League, learned that the general
opinion was that if the person being appointed as Interim City Manager had the basic
qualifications of the position, i.e. city experience, longevity, knowledge of City, should be paid
a salary commensurate with the low end pay scale of City Manager candidates. Ms. Wood felt
that Ms. Hicks has all the qualifications required and stated that a former City Secretary had
assumed the Interim City Manager position and had been paid an increased salary. Ms. Wood
further stated that this Council has not conducted business on a professional level recently and __
that they will be held accountable for their actions.
Michael G. Alianell, 5628 Terry St., stated he was disturbed that this item was once again
on the agenda and that a lawsuit would be damaging to the City. He mentioned the possibility
of a discrimination lawsuit and asked that they do the right thing and award the salary to
whomever is performing the difficult position of City Manager.
Mayor Pro-Tem Dillard again read the caption for Item E and asked for a motion.
Councilman Watts asked for a ruling of the City Attorney. If the contract does not require
additional pay to accept additional responsibilities, and the Council votes no, could there possibly
be a discrimination lawsuit. Jotm Hill, City Attorney, stated that Ms. Hicks base salary would
be enough to cover the new position, however, a precedence has been set and a discrimination
suit is always a possibility on a number of grounds. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard then asked Mr. Hill
if the Council can approve a salary increase for any employee. Mr. Hill responded that was
correct. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard then asked Ms. Hicks if she had any intentions of suing the
City. Ms. Hicks responded that she had no intentions of suing the City and further stated she
also knows that not every member of the Council thinks she is capable of assuming the position.
Councilman Stanwick then added that he had worked with enough companies to know that if you
mistreat your employees, you won't have a company -- or a government -- anymore. He further
stated that the City government relies on the staff to run efficiently and get the .job done and that
it's a matter of equal pay for equal work.
Motion to approve the ratification of the salary increase - Stanwick; second - Kovatch;
carried with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Stanwick, Kovatcb, Dillard
No - Longo, Avey
Abstain - Watts
A. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL
MEETING HELD MARCH 3, 199'/
Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard then asked Councilman Watts if she wanted to continue
discussion regarding the minutes of the meeting held March 3. Councilman Watts said she did
not see in the minutes where Councilman Avcy asked that the motion be repeated or clarified
and, addressing comments made regarding a reason why this issue was put back on the agenda,
further stated that any Councilmember could request any item be put back on an agenda with the
agreement of three other Councilmembers. Councilman Watts feels it is important to note that
Councilman Avey did not seem to understand the motion at the time. Councilman Stanwick read
from the minutes on page 8 that clearly states, "It was the consensus of City Council that the
motion also included increased salary." Councilman Avey stated that the minutes did not reflect
Lhat she had asked that the motion be repeated. She further stated that Ms. Hicks had also
yequested clarification of the motion. It was Councilman Avey's understanding that the motion
was only to appoint Ms. Hicks as Interim City Manager and made no mention of the increased
salary.
Motion to table approval of minutes of meeting on 3/3 - Watts; second - Avey; carried with
all members voting Aye with the exception of Kovatch who abstained.
. 5. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH "SAM AND ALICE" FOR THE OPERATION OF THE
CONCESSION STAND AT HIDDEN COVE PARK
Mayor Pro-Tem explained that Mr. and Mrs. Fitzgerald had withdrawn their proposal.
6. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS
TO BE USED TO DEVELOP A CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN UNDER WHICH
IMPACT FEES FOR WATER, WASTEWATER AND ROADWAY PURPOSES MAY
BE IMPOSED
Sam Chavez, City Planner, explained to the Council that 30 days have passed since the
public hearing held on February ~7, 1997. The report, Land Use Assumptions for Impact Fees,
has since been revised to include the recently annexed property located at the southern most
section of the city, approximately 75 acres. He explained that revisions had been made to Plates
i, 2, 3, and 4 to show the additional acreage. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard asked if the Council
delayed this item, what would the impact be7 Mr. Chavez responded that the process would have
to be started again resulting in another two month delay. He further stated that the City is
already a year behind amending the impact fees and The Colony is well behind surrounding
cities. Councilman Kovatch would like to postpone this item until after discussion of Item 9.
Discussion followed regarding the purpose of the report. Councilman Watts als0 asked if
addressing Item 9 first, would jeopardize the plan. Mr. Chavez responded that it would not.
Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard proceeded stating this item would be addressed later.
7. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE
POLICY POSITION ON STATE LEGISLATIVE ISSUES FOR THE 75TH SESSION
OF THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE
Motion to approve - Kovatch; second - Stanwick; carried with all members voting Aye.
8. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE POLICY
POSITION ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE ISSUES FOR THE 105TH CONGRESS
Motion to approve - Kovatch; second - Longo; carried With all members voting Aye.
9. REVIEW AND CONSIDERATION OF THE TRANSPORTATION STUDY FOR THE
STEWART CREEK PENINSULA
Sam Chavez, City Planner, explained that the Planning and Zoning Commission had held
several worksessions with the initial study providing seven alternatives for the realignment of the
proposed extension of Etheridge Dr. Following the initial worksession, alternates 8, 9, 10, and
11 were formulated by the residents and Hunter Associates and presented to the Commission on
,. January 14, 1997. Alternates 12, 13, revised 4, and revised 7 were formulated and presented to
-- the Commission on February 11, 1997. Based on public input, Planning & Zoning Commission
recommended only alternatives 4 and 7 revised. Mr. Chavez continued by further explaining
alternatives 4 and 7 revised. Mr. Hal Jones, Hunter Associates, gave a brief presentation of
alternatives 8 through 13. He concluded stating that in his professional opinion, a bridge
connecting the south end of the peninsula to Lewisville tying in to S.H. 121, will be the greatest
relief from the standpoint of traffic up and down F.M. 423. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard summed it
up by stating what Mr. Jones is recommending is to go ahead with the thoroughfare plan with
revision 4 and 7, which is the Planning & Zoning Commission's recommendation. Mayor Pro-
Tern Dillard asked if any homes were being displaced with this particular revision to the
thoroughfare plan. Mr. Jones responded that there were not. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard pointed
out that extensive work had been done with the Commissioner's Court and a consultant is
working on this with development on Wynnewood Peninsula to try and get funding of some kind
for the bridge. He urged that citizens write elected officials at the county level and state level
to try to accomplish this. Lengthy discussion followed regarding the widening of North Colony
Blvd. and other alternatives. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard stated that no solution was going to please
every resident of the peninsula. Alternatives such as bridges are terribly expensive and would
require a bond election to be voted on by residents from all over the city. The citizens must
compromise to alleviate the traffic problem. He further explained that the City does not have
the money to immediately make a major change. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard stated that approving
the traffic study was a way to get the process moving. Sam Chavez, City Planner, added that
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the cost of alternative 13 was approximately $2.5 million, alternative 4 was $666,000, and
alternative 7 was $ I. 13 million. Mr. Chavez stated the only way to fund one of these was a bond
election. There is the possibility of grants, however, the City would have to match those funds.
James Fee, 7113 Elliot Ct., discussed some of the alternatives and suggested taking
alternatives that are not useful off of the thoroughfare plan.
Lori Smith, 4501 Larner, spoke regarding alternative 4. She stated that all the traffic will
spill onto Lamer since all other streets are closed and there are numerous children in that area
trying to get to schOol.i'.. ·
Rick Campbell, 4413 Queen Ct., suggested that impact fees be reassessed and the City
should look at F.M. 423 as the problem and not North Colony Blvd. We need to relieve traffic
from the peninsula to S.H. 121, but we ;'teed to look at the dollars and the welfare of the citizens.
He stated the City should not take away assets such as greenbelts to alleviate the problems of
misguidance of the past.
Gerald Odum, 4509 Inman, stated he has lived in The Colony since 1983. He feels the
extension of Keys is the least expensive but will impact the most homes. He is concerned with
crime and the amount of children playing in the area. He also asked the Council to consider
future lawsuits.
Brent Glenn, 4505 Queen Ct., stated his residence backs up to a greenbelt. He is opposed
to a road built behind Queen Ct. He presented a petition signed by over 120 residents also
stating opposition to any extension through or behind Queen Ct. He added that some alternatives
in the transportation study do not meet the city's own objectives.
Brad Gerleman, 4625 Queen Cr., discussed the options of a proposed bridge and
suggested that City staff and Council contact some major businesses to encourage their
development of available land in order to help fund new roads.
Christina Keahl, 46t2 Queen Ct., concerned about the neighborhood children, the noise,
the cost involved, the displacement of homes, etc. She blamed the Council for poor planning in
the past creating this problem today.
John Pinchot, 4338 Newton, commented that alternative 13 goes through his backyard.
He said there was a misconception that no one lives on Newton and that going through the park
would have minimal impact. Alternative 7 would create the loss of on-street parking. He is
concerned about safety since the park attracts children and these solutions create a negative
impact on property values. He believes pocket parks are successful and doesn't want to lose any.
He would recommend going from the southwest end of North Colony behind homes to S.H. 121.
Bernetta Henville-Shannon, 4156 Ballard Tr., stated that a bridge is required for all of the
alternatives except three. Alternatives 4 through 6 down Ballard Tr. goes through school
property. She feels government should not take homes and suggested the Council balance growth
with the quality of life.
Susan Chiniewicz. 4300 Queen Ct., states that her property is affected by all but one
alternative and prefers a bridge across the lake. She suggests the Council make a decision for
the long term.
Alisa Green, 4417 Queen Cr., said her property was affected by alternative 9 and 10. She
apologized to the Council for the shortsightedness of the citizens who built homes on the
peninsula without first asking where the roads would be built. She commented that we cannot
change mistakes of the past. She is concerned with the safety of children in the area. Her
concern is that the City needs a long term solution and, unfortunately, the taxpayers are going
'-', to have to pay the price since the taxpayers didn't force the Council to do their job in the past.
She suggests the Council not select a band-aid solution and sees no solution except for a bridge
away from everyone's property.
O. T. Hall, 4440 Lamer, suggests that North Colony Blvd. be made into six lanes - four
outgoing in the morning, 4 incoming in the evening. He said real estate agents have convinced
residents that roads would not be built.
Linda Westrick, 4501 Keys Dr., commented that a retaining wall is needed since the
traffic is horrible at the comer of Keys and North Colony Blvd. She then polled the Council
regarding their longevity on Council and stated that none of them had created the problems. She
further stated that Heron Cove on the souih was the perfect access but it was taken off of the
thoroughfare plan in order to build a few houses. She asked that Heron Cove be put back on the
plan. She doesfft feel impact fees will be any help and says citizens will have to pay for
someone else's mistakes since property values are impacted now.
Sherrie Breaux, 4404 Lamer, states the problem is getting traffic off of F.M. 423 and onto
S.H. 121 so another outlet is needed. Lamer is the only street open to F.M. 423 and traffic will
double. She suggests building a bridge and getting citizens out to $.H. 121.
Joan Knudsen, 4109 Durbin Dr., doesn't understand the interest in building a bridge since
it will take a long period of time and cost a tremendous amount of money to the taxpayers.
Debra Mills, 4305 Newton, opposes the alternative down Newton and asks the Council
to think of the children. She stressed that a band-aid solution not be chosen.
Robin Hull, 5952 Sandhill Ct., apologized to residents that they were not notified of this
meeting. She explained that in the morning and evening, Lamer is used as the outlet onto F.M.
~, 423 and speeding is a terrible problem. She added that wherever a bridge is built, consider
-...} emergency services hampered by current traffic problems. She asked that a hasty decision not
be made.
Rick Hill, 4428 Lamer, did not wish to speak but wanted his comments in the record.
He is opposed to options involving displacement of personal property. He is in favor of a bridge
off the southern end of North Colony Blvd. extending to S.H. 121.
Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard explained that there were two issues to address tonight. One is
the amendments to the thorough{'are plan and the other to look at the impact fees or land use
assumption plan. Sam Chavez briefly explained roadway impact fees, water and sewer fees, and
how service areas are detemfined.. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard asked Mr. Chavez that since there
has been a recommendation by P&Z, if he was asking for approval tonight on the thoroughfare
plan. Mr. Chavez said that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended alternative 4
revised and 7 revised.
Councilman Avey asked Sam Chavez if an amendment is suggested to the thoroughfare
plan, isn't a public hearing required. Mr. Chavez responded that this is the public hearing.
Councilman Avey corrected that this item was not posted as a public hearing. Councilman Avey
suggested that the Council cannot take action on amending the thoroughfare plan tonight. Mr.
Chavez said that was not the direction for tonight and further stated that impact fees could be
delayed or we could move ahead the best we can. Councilman Avey then repeated that Council
could not make any changes to the thoroughfare plan until there is a public hearing and any
decisions tonight are not actually going to change the plan until the public is notified of a public
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hearing.
Councilman Watts then made a brief presentation using an aerial map explaining the
alternatives. She explained the problem with entering SH 121 with the only access from the
peninsula being Standridge where citizens will have to make a right turn. The question was
posed why there couldn't be an intersection at that point. Ms. Watts responded that it wasn't in
the State's Highway Plan. Hal Jones interjected that there were plans to put an overpass at
Standridge and it was in their schematic design. Councilman Watts further explained the
possibilities of a bridge connecting Stewart Peninsula to Wynnewood Peninsula. Discussion
followed regarding funding of such a bridge and other options. She also stated it was her intent
to approve the impact fees tonigl't.
Councilman Avey spoke regarding school traffic on Lamer. She noted that alternative
4 revised may reduce the number of trips made on Lamer for school traffic. Councilman
Stanwick reiterated that the recommendation'is for alternative 4 and 7 with a request that more
detailed smdies:'be completed, especially along the North Colony alternative 7 revised. He
recommen'~ts that Council limit the alternatives to 4 and 7 revised and 14 (the bridge connecting
the peninsulas) and alternatives 9 and 11 for detailed analysis. He suggests that Council review
detailed analysis and costs involved and then prioritize.
Motion to accept alternatives 4 and 7 revised, 14 (bridge from west side of North Colony
south to SH 121), 9 and 11 tbr further analysis and future review and postpone
amendments to the thorm~ghfare plan until prioritizing of the Council - Stanwick; motion
failed for lack of second.
i Mayor Pro-Tem Dillard asked if anyone else had any ideas they would like to put into
-." a motion. Councilman Watts noted that Councilman Avey had been holding her hand up to
speak but had not been recognized. Mayor Dillard clarified that he was asking for a motion
based on the Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation to call for a public hearing
regarding alternatives for 4 and 7 revised. No motion was received. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard
then suggested the item be tabled for future study. Councilman Avey suggested that a work
session be held with the residents since no decisions could be made without further details
considered. Ms. Avey stated a Saturday would be preferable to allow the citizens and council
ample time to discuss the matter at length. Iris. Hicks noted that it had been difficult lately
scheduling meetings when all the council could be present.
Motion to hold a worksessiou regarding the trausportation study ou Saturday, April 19-
Avey
Councilman Watts clarified with Mr. Chavez that postponing action tonight on item 9 did
not have an impact on item 5. Mr. Chavez said the thoroughfare plan could be amended any
time. Councilman Stanwick noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission, staff and
consultants have been meeting for the last two or three months and all opinions and comments
from consultants and the residents have been heard. He noted that there was no point hearing
it all again. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard explained that worksessions are for Council and staff to
work on ideas and plans and are open to the public, however, public input is not normally
allowed. Mayor Pro-Tem Dillard then asked for a second to the motion.
Second - Longo later withdrawn at Councilman Kovatch's request; second with the request
that Coulmilman Avey amend the motion to make the meeting a special session - Kovatch
Councilman Kovatch asked if the public could be heard at a special session. Mayor Pro-
Tern Dillard responded that it would be at the mayor's discretion. Councilman Avey explained
that she had attended the Planning and Zoning Commission meetings and listened to what the
residents had to say and she feels these alternatives are not what they wanted. Councilman Avey
feels we need to hear the residents' thoughts.
The motion carried with the following roll call vote:
Aye - Longo, Watts, Avey, Kovatch
No - Stanwick, Dillard
Councilman Watts commented that the meeting will be a month away and would like to
receive an estimate of the costs cf engineering studies required for alternative 7 and the length
of time required. She also requested an estimate of the costs involved in the study of the
ingress/egress off the peninsula. Councilman Watts would like to look at the entire package at
one time. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard then directed Ms. Hicks to schedule the special session.
Mr. Chavez asked for clarification on Councilman Watts' request for estimates. Mayor __
Pro-Tem Dillard responded that the Council needs to know what all the studies are going to cost
the city. Engineering fees have already cost the city an enormous amount of money. Mayor Pro-
Tern Dillard suggested that Mr. Chavez and Councilman Watts meet after the meeting regarding
these estimates.
6. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS
TO BE USED TO DEVELOP A CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN UNDER WHICH
IMPACT FEES FOR WATER, WASTEWATER AND ROADWAY PURPOSES MAY
BE IMPOSED
Motion to approve - Longo; second - Stanwick, carried with all members voting aye.
10. CITY MANAGER AND STAFF REPORTS
Ms. Hicks reminded the Council of the "Tour of Two Cities" scheduled for March 26.
A special session has been scheduled or March 31 for board appointments, solid waste and
recycling proposals, and Austin Ranch parking requirement request. Since Councilman Kovatch
has a conflict at 8:00 P.M. Ms. Hicks asked the Council if the meeting could begin at 6:00 P.M.
The Council agreed to that time. A Budget Retreat has been scheduled for April 5 at the Senior
Center. Questionnaires previously handed out need to be returned to Tony Johnston, Finance
Director, by the end of this week. The Volunteer Appreciation Dinner is Saturday night, March
22, at the Senior Center.
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Tony Joh.nston distributed a list of vehicles reported to the Council regarding the auction
of vehicles on April 5. Discussion followed regarding individual vehicles. The decision was
made to keep a van currently used by the Facilities Maintenance Dept. Councilman Longo
suggested selling the van and purchasing a trailer. The first option is to purchase a vehicle for
the Fire Chief. Mayor Pro-Tem Dillard suggested the van be kept and the option of the trailer
be reviewed.
Sam Chavez advised the Council of two Specific Use Permits coming before Council, one
for Chevron and the other for Shell both for the sale of beer and wine. The Specific Use Permit
request for Goody-Goody is slated for May. Eckerd Drugs has withdrawn their Specific Use
Permit request as the project is on hold.
Councilman Avey asked for an update on a skating rink. Mr. Chavez responded that the
original property being considered has been determined to be too small. The developer is still
looking for a location. Councilman Longo asked for an update on Braum's. Ms. Hicks
responded that the project is waiting on a left-turn lane to be constructed. Mr. Chavez noted that
he calls them at least once a month, and he has been assured that they are still coming.
Van Morrison, Fire Chief, reported on a booster truck used for grass fires. The vehicle
is 17 years old and no longer safe. There are also two additional old vehicles needing to be
taken out of service. He noted :his was an alert to Council of upcoming needs. Discussion
followed regarding Fire Department vehicle needs. Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard recommended that
Tony Johnston bring additional ideas and emergency funding to possibly purchase new vehicle
to the Budget Retreat on April 5.
With no further business to address, Mayor Pro-Tern Dillard adjourned the meeting at
11:18 P.M.
APPROVED:
~ 5~l~r ,~May-~r Pro-;rein -
A
WEST:
/r~,ha-n.~ D~vlin, Deputy City Se~re}-ary
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