Minutes November 20, 1990CITY OF DENTON'CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
November 20, 1990
The Council convened into the Work Session at 5:15 p.m. in the
Civil Defense Room.
PRESENT:
Mayor Castleberry; Mayor Pro Tem Boyd; Council
Members Alexander, Ayer, Gorton, Hopkins and
Trent.
ABSENT: None
1. The Council convened into the Executive Session to
discuss legal matters, real estate, and personnel/board
appointments (considered an appointment to the Electrical Code
Board).
2. The Council received a status report from the '2499
Task Force regarding the work of the Task Force and considered
additional funding for the environmental impact statement for
Highway 2499 from FM407 to FM2181.
Rick Svehla, Deputy City Manager, stated that the Task Force
Members from Denton, Bill Utter, Jerry Cott, and Ann Houston,
were in attendance to update the Council on the latest
developments.
Bill Utter reviewed the history of the project. He stated that
at the last meeting, the five entities had agreed to urge the
Highway Department to adopt proposed Route 4. The five
entities in the project included the County of Denton, the City
of Denton, the City of Cornith, the City of Highland Village
and the City of Copper Canyon. The consultant on the project
had stated that additional money was needed for archeological
and historical data and water quality and biotic information
for the study. The cost would be between $20,000-~30,000. All
of the other entities had stated that they did not have any
additional funding available to help with the additional
costs. The Denton members of the Task Force were recommending
the Council authorize the Task Force to proceed with a firm
estimate from the consultant on the same funding basis as
before. This would mean funding would be provided by the
County at 50%, the City of Highland Village at 25% and the City
of Denton at 25%.
Council Member Gorton stated that in the future the City may
need to look at the funding agreement and may contribute more
as it would impact the City more than 25%. There may be
volunteer funds available from the residents of the City.
Utter expressed a concern that the route was ending at FM2181.
He felt it needed to continue to the proposed Loop 288
extension.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 2
Council Member Trent asked what was the time frame for the
completing the environmental impact study.
Utter replied March of 1991 would be when they went to the
Highway Department.
Council discussed the proposal to continue the project to Loop
288, whether extending the project would hasten the Loop 288
project and funding arrangements.
Consensus of the Council was to agreed to continue with the
Task Force recommendations.
3. The Council received a report regarding roof
conditions on various City buildings and considered giving
staff appropriate direction.
Steve Brinkman, Director of Parks and Recreation, stated that
there were 20 buildings in the City complex. Last year, a roof
consultant was hired to look at those buildings and determine
the condition of the roofs and a time frame for re-doing the
roofs. The study allowed the City of take a methodical
approach to repair roofs and also allowed the City to plan and
budget for long-term funding obligations.
Bruce Hennington, Superintendent of ~uilding Operations, stated
that the City needed a preventative maintenance program and the
roof area was a good place to begin. Staff performed an
in-house study in 1989 but it was missing information in some
areas: (1) there were only building plans for 8 of the 20
buildings, (2) knowledge of materials and kind of roof deck,
(3) age of roofs and estimate if worth repairing, (4) visual
aids on the conditions of roofs, and (5) how to budget for the
repairs. Armko Industries performed a roof study in October of
1989 which included (1) a total inspection of every roof
including measurements and drawings of the roofs, (2)
determination of existing conditions of the roofs, (3) building
and/or roof designation on shop drawing as required, (4)
project cost estimate, (5) photographs of the roofs and (6)
establishment of roof priorities if applicable.
The roofs on the Municipal Building and Central Fire Station
were in need of immediate attention. The Municipal Building
roof had a cement deck with another roof over it. There was
water between the two roofs. When the roof was previously
repaired, the wrong materials were used. It was proposed to
tear the roof off completely and install a new roof. The total
cost of this roof would be $131,868. This cost included
$137,372 for the repair, $16,995 to remove outdated unused
electrical panels, and $5,000 for deck replacement if needed.
In addition, ~27,499 would be reimbursed from the Federal
Government due to damage occurred in the 1990 rains.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 3
The project would take 35-40 days to complete with a new roof
guaranteed by the material manufacturer for 15 years.
The Central Fire Station was scheduled for major repair in 1990
and replacement in 1998. However, last winter's cold
temperatures destroyed the roof's integrity and was now
unrepairable. The cost of this project would be $48,369. Both
of these projects would qualify for Certificate of Obligation
funding due to the fact that these would not be maintenance
projects but rather a total tear-off and new installation.
Staff was recommending that both roofs be replaced in the
1990-91 budget year. Total cost would be $180,236. Staff was
investigating the advantages of combining this Certificate of
Obligation sale with others that would come later in the year.
Lloyd Harrell, City Manager, stated that staff was seeking
authorization to proceed with the project which would include
bringing to Council a proposal to issue Certificates of
Obligation in the amount of approximately $200,000 to do both
of the roofs. At the same time, bring formal bids.for the
projects in order to begin the project.
Consensus of the Council was to proceed with staff
recommendation.
4. The Council received an update regarding the GIS
System.
Gary Collins, Director of Information Services, presented the
milestones of the GIS System. He stated that the remaining
tasks were to evaluate conversion RFP's, recommend a conversion
vendor, complete the pilot project, complete conversion of land
base and parcel maps, complete building of overall data base
with existing automated files and start implementation of
analytical applications.
Members of the GIS Task Force (Roger Rose, Mike Keeton, Paul
Lehrer, and Scott Sires) presented aspects of the GIS system
including AML Program structures, future projects, the use of
the GIS system and a demonstration of the capabilities of the
system.
The Council then convened into the Regular Session at 7:00 p.m.
in the Council Chambers.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 4
PRESENT: Mayor Castleberry; Mayor Pro Tem Boyd; Council
Members Alexander, Ayer, Gorton, Hopkins and
Trent.
ABSENT: None
Pledge of Allegiance
The Council and members of the audience recited the Pledge of
Allegiance.
2. The Council considered approval of the minutes of the
Special Call Sessions of October 23, 1990 and October 30, 1990.
Gorton motioned, Alexander seconded to approve the minutes as
presented. Motion carried unanimously.
The Mayor presented a proclamation for "United Way Week".
Yard of the Month Presentations
The Mayor presented Yard of the Month presentations for
November to:
George and Peggy Roach
Chris Lathem
First State Bank
Mayor Castleberry presented the Texas Downtown Association
Award for best public/private venture - Center for the Visual
Arts.
Public Hearings
A. The Council held a public hearing and considered
adoption of an ordinance approving an increase in the current
taxicab rates.
John McGrane, Executive Director for Finance, stated that the
public hearing and proposed ordinance was in response to the
current fluctuation in the oil prices which had an affect on
gas prices in the area. The local taxi companies approached
the City about increasing the rate. The prior ordinance was
written so that every rate change had to be approved by
Council. The proposed ordinance set a sliding scale for the
rate and gave the City Manager the authority to set the rate in
accordance with the price of gas the companies were paying.
council Member Gorton asked if it would be po~i~e that one
company would be charging one rate and another company charging
a different rate·
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 5
McGrane replied that the rate was a maximum and any amount
below that could be charged.
Mayor Pro Tem Boyd asked if periodic checks would be made for
lowering the rates.
McGrane replied yes that the Risk Manager would determine
whether an increase or decrease was warranted based on the
records of the companies.
Mayor Pro Tem Boyd stated that fuel was not the only basis for
expense for the cab companies.
McGrane replied that at this point, only the fluctuation of oil
prices was a deciding factor. Other factors should come before
the City Council.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
No one spoke in favor.
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-180
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTONt TEXASt AMENDING
SECTION 26-52 (a) OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO PROVIDE
FOR THE AUTOMATIC ADJUSTMENT OF TAXI RATES BASED UPON
FUEL COSTS; REQUIRING OWNERS TO KEEP RECORDS OF FUEL
COSTS; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY IN THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT
OF ~500.00 FOR THE VIOLATIONS THEREOF; AND PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Hopkins motioned, Trent seconded to adopt the ordinance. On
roll voter Trent "ayes" Alexander "ayet" Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "nays" and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried with a 6-1 vote.
B. The Council held a public hearing and considered
adoption of an ordinance rezoning Lot 1, Block 1, Shelly
Addition located on the south side of Highway 380 (University
Drive) approximately 350 feet west of its intersection with
Loop 288 from WAr Agricultural District to "GR" General Retail
Service District. (The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommended approval.)
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 6
Frank Robbins, Executive Director for Planning, stated that
~ ? ~is was a request for rezoning which the Planning and Zoning
Commission had unanimously approved as it was in accordance
with the Denton Development Plan policies. In 1973 the City
Council approved the rezoning of the site from Agricultural
district to Commercial district, however, no ordinance was
passed or approved, thus making an invalid rezoning. The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the
rezoning to the General Retail Service District in order to
accommodate the use of an auto parts store.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Rob Raynor, representing Tom Fours Realtors, stated that they
were working with the developer to build a Parts Plus
Automotive Center on the site. He requested Council approve a
General Retail zoning for the property.
Council Member Gorton asked if the detailed site plan and plat
would come before Council.
Robbins replied that the property had been recently platted and
had been before the Planning and Zoning Commission. The
Council would not see a detailed plan for the site.
Council Member Gorton expressed concern about repairs being
done on the site. He wanted to be sure that any repairs were
not done on the street side nor would there be temporary
storing of vehicles on site.
Reynor replied that this was strictly a parts store and that no
repair work would be done on-site.
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-181
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, PROVIDING
FOR A CHANGE FROM AGRICULTURE (A) TO GENERAL RETAIL
(GR) ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION AND USE
DESIGNATION FOR LOT 1, BLOCK 1 OF THE SHELLY ADDITION
LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF HIGHWAY 380 (UNIVERSITY
DRIVE), AS IS MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED HEREIN;
PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY IN THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF
$2,000.00 FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 7
Hopkins motioned, Alexander seconded to adopt the ordinance. On
roll vote, Trent "aye," Alexander 'aye," Hopkins "aye,' Gorton
'ayet' Ayer 'aye,' Boyd 'ayet' and Mayor Castleberry 'aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
C. The Council held a public hearing and considered
adoption of an ordinance amending Article 17 of Appendix
B-Zoning of the Code of Ordinances relating to signs; providing
for the creation of a Sign Board of Appeals to hear appeals,
variances, and special exceptions; providing for an alternative
method of measuring sign height; amending provisions for
special exceptions; amending Article 23 of Appendix B-Zoning to
delete authority of Board of Adjustment to hear cases involving
signs. (The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended
approval.)
Frank Robbins, Executive Director for Planning, stated that the
proposed ordinance changed (1) measuring the height of a sign,
(2) created a Sign Board of Appeals, (3) added "ground' as a
possible view obstruction, and (4) repealed the Board of
Adjustments' powers pertaining to Article 17. He stated that
the current method of measuring the height of a sign was from
the curb line. The sign may be in a valley below the curb but
would still be measured from the curb. If the sign were on a
slope, the height of the sign would still be measured from the
curb line. The proposed way to measure the height of the sign
would be either the higher of measuring from the curb or
measuring from the ground to the tallest part of the sign. If
the sign were on a hill, it would be measured, under the
proposed ordinance, by measuring from the ground as opposed to
the going down to the curb. The second part of the ordinance
dealt with appeals, variances, and the Sign Board. The Board
would consist of five members appointed by the City Council.
Robbins detailed the powers and duties of the Sign Board. He
stated that the application fee for a variance would be $100
and all others would be ~50.
Council Member Ayer questioned the language "hear and decide"
in relation to the powers of the Board.
Debra Drayovitch, City Attorney, stated that that wording
tracked the language for the Board of Adjustment from the state
legislature.
Council Member Ayer questioned the language on page three
relating to variances in which it stated "application provided
by the City". He assumed the City would not be completing an
application for a variance, it would merely be supplying the
form.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page~8
City Attorney Drayovitch replied that the wording could be
clearer if the words "on a form" were inserted.
Council Member Trent asked if a definition of "natural" ground
were in the ordinance.
Robbins replied that it was not in language of the special
exception section.
Council Member Trent stated that if that was the interpretation
meant by the ordinance, he would suggest including it in the
ordinance for clarity. He asked if the wording of the
ordinance had been presented to members of the business
community who might be in a position to use the ordinance in
the future.
Robbins replied that approximately 30-40 people had reviewed
the ordinance and perhaps more.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Jerry Cott, Chair-Government Relations Committee-Denton Chamber
of Commerce, stated that they endorsed this part of the sign
ordinance. He stated that the proposed ordinance had been
widely thought through. It was only the first part. They, at
the Chamber, believed that the sign ordinance that was being
worked on was the most anti-business ordinance that the Council
had ever produced and were trying to change it. They were
responsible citizens who wanted to live in a beautiful
community but at the same time, needed to do business. They
were terribly restricted by the sign ordinance as it now
existed. They endorsed this ordinance. They did not endorse
it at Planning but with the help of the Mayor and City Attorney
were pointed to parts of the City Charter which allowed the
ordinance to work. They looked forward to the second part of
the revisions.
A1 Lissberger stated that the "natural" grade would be
effective to stop abusers trying to get around the height
restrictions. He stated that at times, fill may become the
natural grade. He stated that foundation should be considered
in some cases at "natural" grade.
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 9
Council Member Alexander questioned the process with the Board
of Adjustment.
Robbins replied that an appeal would be made at District Court
regarding a decision of the Board of Adjustment.
Council Member Alexander' asked if either party could appeal to
the District Court.
City Attorney Drayovitch state~ that three parties had the
right to appeal: (1) the person making the appeal, (2) the
neighbors affected by the decision, and (3) the City.
Council Member Gorton asked if the Court of Record would
displace the District Court.
City Attorney Drayovitch replied that an appeal would still go
to the District Court.
Discussion continued with concerns regarding powers of the
Board dealing with meeting days and times, compelling
attendance at the meetings and the possibility of making
changes at a later date when the second part was considered.
Council Member Alexander asked why a separate Sign Board was
needed and why the Board of Adjustment was not used.
Robbins replied that this was a specialized issue while the
Board of Adjustment dealt with a broad area of issues. This
was a narrow interest subject with the need of people who had
expertise in signs.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-182
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, AMENDING
ARTICLE 17 OF APPENDIX B-ZONING OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCE RELATING TO SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR THE
CREATION OF A SIGN BOARD OF APPEALS TO HEAR APPEALS,
VARIANCES, AND SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS; PROVIDING FOR AN
ALTERNATE METHOD OF MEASURING SIGN HEIGHT; AMENDING
THE PROVISIONS FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS; SETTING FEES
FOR APPLICATIONS TO THE SIGN BOARD OF APPEALS;
AMENDING ARTICLE 23 OF APPENDIX B-ZONING TO DELETE THE
AUTHORITY OF THE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT TO HEAR CASES
INVOLVING SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR A MAXIMUM PENALTY IN
THE AMOUNT OF ~2,000.00 FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF;
PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 10
Trent motioned, Hopkins seconded to approve the ordinance with
the following amendments: (1) Page 3, 4.(a) "application on a
form provided by the City", (2) adding the word "natural" to
ground description.
Jerry Cott stated that there needed to be a perception of
fairness to the business person in getting a hearing if he/she
felt that he/she had not been treated correctly. What was
trying to be done was to make it very easy to get an appeal to
the Board and very difficult to put one over on the Board.
Council Member Alexander felt that it might be very difficult
to fill a Sign Board with totally objective people on this
topic. Whereas, a Board of Adjustment, with a whole range of
subjects, might be easier to appoint and to get objective
decisions relating to signs. He felt that a Sign Board might
become too specialized.
Cott replied that he hoped the Board would be made up of people
who had no background in signs. That would be the best kind of
Board to have.
Council Member Hopkins stated that the Board could not be made
up of sign people due to a conflict of interest.
City Attorney Drayovitch replied that the potential conflict
would come when that particular business person had a matter
which would be coming before the Board.
Council Member Trent asked if there would be a time limit on
the Appeal Board. Would it cease to exist when the revisions
of the ordinance were completed.
Cott replied that the ordinance would be constantly changing.
He felt that the first year, the Board would be very busy and
would be slower in later years.
Mayor Pro Tem Boyd felt that a definition of "natural ground"
should be included and proposed the following wording:
"natural ground level shall include fill necessary to return
the site to level before acts of erosion or other natural acts".
Mayor Castleberry asked if that would be an acceptable addition
to the main motion.
Council Member Trent replied yes.
Council voted on the main motion. On roll vote, Trent "aye,"
Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton "aye," Ayer "ayet" Boyd
"aye,' and Mayor Castleberry "aye." Motion carried unanimously.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 11
D. The Council held a public hearing and considered
approval of a variance to Article 4.04, Section 3, Paragraph 1
of the Subdivision and Land Development Regulations relating to
the dedication of thoroughfare right-of-way. (Property located
at 1507 Mingo, northwest of Mingo's intersection with Ruddell -
(The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval.)
Frank Robbins, Executive Director for Planning, stated that
this application was made by A & L Construction, Co. for a
variance on the design standards for thoroughfares. The
applicant was requesting not to be required to dedicate a 10'
right-of-way but provide an easement for drainage, utilities
and a sidewalk in its place. The applicant met all of the
requirements for the variance which included (1) granting the
request would not violate any master plans - Mingo Road could
be constructed as a four-lane undivided street within the
existing 50'right-of-way if a 10' sidewalk, drainage and
utility easement were dedicated, (2) the special or peculiar
condition upon which the request was based relate to the
topography, shape or other unique physical features of the
property which were not generally common to other properties -
a 10' right-of-way would leave only 15' between the existing
townhomes and the right-of-way which would be undesirable to
the residents and cause monetary damage to the property, (3)
the special or peculiar conditions upon which the request was
based did not result from or was not created by the owner's or
any prior owner's action - as a result of ordinance revisions
made since 1983 when the townhomes were built, the condition
had occurred.
Council Member Gorton asked if adjacent property would be in a
similar situation.
Robbins replied it would be a similar situation if it needed to
be platted at a later date.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
A1 Lissberger stated the property had been started prior to the
regulations regarding right-of-way. It would be detrimental to
the rental of property in that area if the regulations were
enforced. He felt that an easement would satisfy the needs of
the City.
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 12
Boyd motioned, Ayer seconded to grant the variance based on the
conditions presented by the Planning and Zoning Commission: (1)
Since the proposed easement was equal in size to what the
dedication would be, the granting of the request would not
infringe on the City's ability to implement the Denton
Development Plan, (2) the location of an existing structure and
its front door very near the right-of-way, if dedicated, was a
condition not common to other properties being platted, and (3)
the owner began the development in 1983 prior to the
requirement to plat and dedicate right-of-way, but was not
affected by regulations enacted since that time. On roll vote,
Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins ~aye," Gorton "aye," Ayer
"aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye." Motion carried
unanimously.
E. The Council held a public hearing on the proposed
annexation of 1367.12 acres located east of and abutting I35W
at the intersection of Allred Road, west of Bonnie Brae and
abutting and south of Hickory Creek. (Second Hearing)
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Mike Reynolds, H. S. Miller, stated that they were involved
with 450 acres of the annexation and were in favor of the
annexation. He expressed desire to.~ave annexation and zoning
done at the same time.
Ron White, Perot Group, stated that they were involved with the
remainder of the annexation. He also asked for simultaneous
annexation and zoning for active marketing of the property.
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
Consent Agenda
Ayer motioned, Gorton seconded to approve the Consent Agenda as
presented. Motion carried unanimously.
A. Bids and Purchase Orders:
1. Bid #1154 - Brochures for Parks and
Recreation
2. Bid #1166 - Electric Meters, Current
Transformers, Meter Sockets
3. Bid #1172 - Vibrating Roller
4. Bid ~1153 - Bell, Mingo & Scripture Drainage
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 13
5. Bid #1159 - Heritage Oaks Roofing
6. Bid #1168 - Tree Trimming
B. Plats and Replats
Consider the preliminary plat of the
Greenwich Village Townhomes Addition, Lot 1,
Block 1. (The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended approval.)
6. Ordinances
A. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
accepting competitive bids and providing for the award of
contracts for the purchase of materials, equipment, supplies or
services. (5.A.1. - Bid #1154, 5.A.2. - Bid #1166, 5.A.3. -
Bid ~1172)
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-183
AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING COMPETITIVE~BIDS AND AWARDING A
CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT,
SUPPLIES OR SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF
FUNDS THEREFORE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Gorton motioned, Ayer seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
B. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
accepting competitive bids and providing for the award of
contracts for public works or improvements. (5.A.4. - Bid
#1153, 5.A.5. - Bid #1159, 5.A.6. - Bid #1168)
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-184
AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING COMPETITIVE BIDS AND PROVIDING
FOR THE AWARD OF CONTRACTS FOR PUBLIC WORKS OR
IMPROVEMENTS; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS
THEREFOR; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Hopkins motioned, Gorton seconded to adopt the ordinance. On
roll vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 14
C. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
approving payment of the City of Denton's share of the annual
administrative fee for participation in the Upper Trinity
Regional Water District; and authorizing the expenditure of
funds therefor. (The Public Utilities Board recommended
approval.)
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 9~-185
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, APPROVING
PAYMENT OF THE CITY OF DENTON"S SHARE OF THE ANNUAL
ADMINISTRATIVE FEE FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE UPPER
TRINITY REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT; AUTHORIZING THE
EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS THEREFOR; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Boyd motioned, Ayer seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
D. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
approving an agreement between the City of Denton and the Upper
Trinity Regional Water District providing for interim
wastewater treatment services. (The Public Utilities Board
recommended approval.)
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-186
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY
OF DENTON AND THE UPPER TRINITY REGIONAL WATER
DISTRICT PROVIDING FOR INTERIM WASTEWATER TREATMENT
SERVICES; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Trent motioned, Alexander seconded to adopt the ordinance. On
roll vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
E. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
approving an amendment to the interim wastewater disposal
contract between the City of Denton and the City of Argyle
extending the contract term to June 30, 1991. (The Public
Utilities Board recommended approval.)
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 15
Bob Nelson, Executive Director for Utilities, stated that this
ordinance would extend the time frame for the current contract
with the City of Argyle.
Council Member Ayer asked for the reason for the extension.
Nelson replied that the progress of the project had not been as
fast as they thought when Argyle first entered into the
contract.
Council Member Ayer asked how long the extension would be.
Nelson replied that it would be extended to June 30, 1991
bringing seven trucks per week to Denton.
Council Member Ayer expressed concern that the contract would
be continued to be extended as Argyle initially did not want to
sign a contract with the Upper Trinity Regional Water District.
Nelson replied that the prior action taken by Council was a
contract with the Upper Trinity Regional Water District which
allowed Argyle to bring the waste into Denton's system. Argyle
had already signed the contract with the Upper Trinity Regional
Water District.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-187
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY
OF DENTON AND THE CITY OF ARGYLE PROVIDING FOR INTERIM
WASTEWATER DISPOSAL SERVICES; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ayer motioned, Boyd seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "ayet" Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
F. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
amending Chapter 12 of the Code of Ordinances relating to
notice, abatement, and the levying of the cost of abatement
against property where the owner thereof fails to keep the
property free-of garbage, trash, rubbish, high grass and weeds
or fails to clear a migratory bird roost, as required by
Chapter 12; providing for appeals from assessment; and
providing a severability clause.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 16
Cecile Carson, Administrative Analyst, stated the the proposed
ordinance would enable the City to recover the costs associated
with the removal of trash, debris or garbage when the owner
failed to keep the property free of this material. Currently a
trash and debris violation was only enforceable, after proper
notice to the property owner, with a written citation. While
the citation was being processed through the court system, the
trash and debris violation remained on site. Information
related to notice, recovery of costs, and assessment of an
administrative fee had been combined into one section which
covered grass and weeds, trash and debris, and migratory
birds. The amendment placed all the related sections together
since the procedure was the same in each case.
Mayor Pro Tem asked if the cost included the $80 administrative
fee plus the cost of clearing the property.
Carson replied yes.
Council Member Ayer stated that a lien would be placed on the
property only if there was no compliance after the 10 day
notice. That still did not solve the problem of a repeat
offender.
Carson replied that some community service groups were donating
hours to clean up areas of repeated offenses and those who
could not afford to clean up the property themselves.
City Manager Harrell stated it was investigated for the
possibility of some kind of shortened procedure for repeat
offenders. The problem encountered was the necessity, by law,
to give proper notice to abate a nuisance prior to the City
having the authority to do so itself. Staff had been unable to
come up with an alternative so as to handle these repeat
offenders.
Council Member Hopkins felt that it was not fair to place a
lien on a property after only a 10 day notice. A property
owner could be on vacation and not receive the notice in a
timely manner and return 'to find a lien on his property.
Council Member Ayer stated that there was a longer time frame
than 10 days before the lien was actually placed on the
property.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 17
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-188
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, AMENDING
CHAPTER 12 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES RELATING TO
NOTICE, ABATEMENT, AND THE LEVYING OF THE COST OF
ABATEMENT AGAINST PROPERTY WHERE THE OWNER THEREOF
FAILS TO KEEP THE PROPERTY FREE OF GARBAGE, TRASH,
RUBBISH, HIGH GRASS AND WEEDS OR FAILS TO CLEAR A
MIGRATORY BIRD ROOST, AS REQUIRED BY CHAPTER 12;
PROVIDING FOR APPEALS FROM THE ASSESSMENT; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
Alexander motioned, Ayer seconded to adopt the ordinance. On
roll vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "nay," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye,~ Boyd "aye,~ and Mayor Castleberry ~aye."
Motion carried with a 6-1 vote.
G. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
approving a contract between the City of Denton and the City of
Bowie for the sale of power and energy.
Bob Nelson, Executive Director for Utilities, stated that this
contract was similar to the ones wi~h~ Farmersville, and College
Station. It was a 10 year contract to begin in January of
1992. This was a full requirements contract and could provide
Bowie the option to become a member of the Texas Municipal
Power Agency of another joint action entity created by one or
more of the Texas Municipal Power Agency Cities. Denton's
share would be in the range of $156,000 to $286,000.
Council Member Trent asked when the rates would go down as a
result of these sales.
Nelson replied that they were currently looking at that with a
possibility of a slight reduction. Caution was needed with the
cost of natural gas. If gas prices remained stable, there was
a good possibility of a decrease.
Council Member Ayer asked what impact the contracts would have
on the timing of the next generating facility to be constructed
by TMPA.
Nelson replied that the smaller contracts did not have a large
impact. Approximately 130 megawatts were being sold with the
current contracts and the recent study completed stated that
there was approximately 100 more megawatts that could be sold
without any adverse impact on the rates.
City of Denton City Council MinUtes
November 20, 1990
Page 18
Council Member Ayer asked how far the City could go as a
private organization in signing contracts to sell power to
other cities without being accused of competing with the
private sector.
Nelson replied that the whole electric utility industry was
going through a tremendous turmoil. He felt that in the future
there would be energy companies, companies which would only
build power plants, etc.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 90-189
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AN
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DENTON AND THE CITY OF
BOWIE FOR THE PURCHASE OF FIRM POWER AND ENERGY; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Gorton motioned, Boyd seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "ayet" and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
7. Resolutions
A. The Council considered approval of a resolution
authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement between the City
of Denton and County of Denton for the provision of library
services.
The following resolution was considered:
NO. R90-060
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AN
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DENTON AND COUNTY OF
DENTON FOR THE PROVISION OF LIBRARY SERVICES; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Ayer motioned, Alexander seconded to approve the resolution.
On roll vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye,"
Gorton "aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry
"aye." Motion carried unanimously.
Be
appointing
Authority.
The Council considered approval of a resolution
members to the North Texas Higher Education
265
266
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 19
John McGrane, Executive Director for Finance, stated that there
was an error in the proposed resolution in that the Places
indicated should be Place 2 and 4.
The following resolution was considered:
NO. R90-061
A RESOLUTION APPOINTING MEMBERS TO THE NORTH TEXAS
HIGHER EDUCATION AUTHORITY; AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
Hopkins motioned, Alexander seconded to approve the resolution
with the noted correction regarding Place numbers. On roll
vote, Trent "aye," Alexander "aye," Hopkins "aye," Gorton
"aye," Ayer "aye," Boyd "aye," and Mayor Castleberry "aye."
Motion carried unanimously.
Miscellaneous matters from the City Manager.
Lloyd Harrell, City Manager, presented the following items:
A. Mark. McDaniel, Budget Officer, formally presented
the Council with the 1990-91 budget. He reviewed the various
sections of the budget. Those sections included the addition
of a map in the document, major budget changes, a reader's
guide, supplemental information such as CIP information, grant
budget and a subject index and cross index.
Controller.
Harrell introduced Cathy DuBois, the City's new
9. There was no official action taken during the Work
Session Executive Session.
10.
New Business
The following items of New Business were suggested by Council
Members for future agendas:
A. Council Member Trent. stated that the City Manager
had formed a Transportation Task Force and felt that was a step
in the right direction.
11. The Council did not meet in Executive Session during
the regular meeting.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:17 p.m.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 20, 1990
Page 20
ci~ S~.C~TARY
CITY OF DENTONt TEXAS
3318C