Minutes November 5, 1996182
CITY OF DENTON CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
November 5, 1996
The Council convened into a Closed Meeting on Tuesday, November 5,
1996 at 5:45 p.m. in the Civil Defense Room of City Hall.
PRESENT: Mayor Miller; Mayor Pro Tem Brock; Council Members
Beasley, Biles, Cott, Krueger, and Young.
ABSENT: None
1. The Council considered the following in Closed Meeting:
Ao Legal Matters -- Under TEX. GOV'T CODE Sec. 551.071
B. Real Estate -- Under TEX. GOV'T CODE Sec. 551.072
C. Personnel/Board Appointments -- Under TEX. GOV'T CODE
Sec. 551.074
The Council convened into a Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 5,
1996 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall.
PRESENT: Mayor Miller; Mayor Pro Tem Brock; Council Members
Beasley, Biles, Cott, Krueger, and Young.
ABSENT: None
1. Pledge of Allegiance
The Council and members of the audience recited the Pledge of
Allegiance to the U. $. and Texas flags.
2. The Council considered approval of the minutes of August 20
and August 27, 1996.
Brock motioned, Beasley seconded to approve the minutes as
presented. On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye",
Krueger "aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye".
Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Miller presented the following proclamations:
Key Club Week
National Business Women's Week
Mayor Miller presented Yard of the Mouth A~:ards to:
June Donowho
Katy and David Dawson
Mr. and Mrs. Coy Stinson
Taco
A1 and Helen Houdek
Downtown Business Award - The Chestnut Tree and the Garden
Gate
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Page 2
3. Citizen Reports
A. The Council received a citizen report from Dessie Goodson
regarding SPAN.
Ms. Goodson stated that she went to the trolley stop at the Bank
today and all of the routes were running late. There were people
waiting and who were left running late. She had trouble with the
routes she was using with routes running late. She could not get
demand response service as required from the Texas Department of
Transportation. She felt that the late running of the buses must
stop as there were no places to sit nor shelters to keep out of the
weather. She questioned the location of some of the routes and the
places of some of the stops. The drivers did not wear their seat
belts and one regularly ran through a red light.
4. Public Hearings
A. The Council held a public hearing in accordance with
Chapter 26 of the Parks and Wildlife Code to obtain public comment
concerning the proposed exchange of approximately 13.06 acres in
Abstract 616 and 1007 out of South Lakes Park for approximately
5.105 acres in Abstract 185 near Evers Park from the Denton
Independent School District for the purpose of facilitating the
construction of a middle school on the 13.06 acres out of South
~Lakes Park.
~Ed Hodney, Director of Parks and Recreation, stated that this
public hearing was to receive public comments on the proposed
conversion of 13.06 acres out of South Lakes Park for the propose
of developing a new middle school at that location. State law
required that prior to the conveyance of land, the City Council
must determine that there was no feasible or prudent alternative
for the use or taking of that park land and that all reasonable
planning had been exercised to minimize harm to the park. That
determination would take place after this public hearing. It was
the intention after the public hearing to bring an ordinance and
other documents to Council on November 19th for consideration.
Also in accordance with State law the public hearing was advertised
in the Denton Record-Chronicle on four consecutive Sundays. Should
the Council approve the conversion of this 13 acre site, the DISD
planned to construct a new middle school with parking and roads as
required, tennis courts and various landscaping improvements. The
DISD would also construct recreational improvements on what would
remain as park land. Those facilities would be available for City
progra~ing and general public use after school hours and on
weekends and holidays. Another requirement of State law was that
the City receive land of equal value in exchange for the land to be
converted. The DISD was proposing to acquire and convey to the
City a 5.105 acre tract of property located at Evers Parkway and
Windsor Drive. Advantages of this proposal were that the DISD
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Page 3
would have a new middle school in a location in which it was
needed, no park facilities would be disturbed with the building of
the middle school, and the five acre tract the City would receive
would be developed with two new ball fields which were called for
in the existing CIP. He felt the exchange worked well for both
taxing entities.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Doug Chadwick stated that the Park Board was developing a strategic
plan which would be presented to Council at a future date. The
Park and Recreation Mission Statement was to enrich the lives of
all Denton citizens through environmental enhancements and a
diverse offering of recreational, educational and cultural
services. When this item was first presented to the Board in 1995
there were many questions dealing with drainage, access, utilities,
security and programming. There were two public meetings regarding
this issue and he felt that the Board had dealt with most of the
issues raised in the public meetings. He felt that the proposal
was a win-win situation for both the DISD and City. The Board was
comfortable with the value of the properties involved in the
exchange and comfortable with the program aspects which would be
enhanced with this arrangement. The Parks and Recreation Board
endorsed and recommended the Council's consideration of this
proposal.
Dr. Albert Thomas, Superintendent - DISD, stated that they were
excited about the growth possibility of the City and the continued
cooperation between the City and the DISD and with the two
universities. Both entities were involved in the design of the
facility. He too felt it was a win-win situation for the DISD and
for the City. He thanked the City for the cooperative effort
between the City and the DISD on the issue
Rick Woolfolk stated that the location selected was favorable to
the population growth on the District. Safety was a concern of the
DISD. The intersection of Teasley Lane and 1-35 was a better
intersection than Lillian Miller and 1-35. This process would
speed up the CIP process of the City and would provide new ball
fields in thc City. He encouraged the Council to support the
project.
The Mayor closed the public hearing. He stated that Council would
take action on this item on November 19, 1996.
D. The Council held a public hearing and considered adoption
of an amendment to Section 34-115 of the Code of Ordinances
relating to access to arterial and collector streets for single
family and two family lots and adoption of appendices A-8 and A-9
relating to circular driveways. (The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended approval 6-1.)
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November 5, 1996
Page 4
185
Rick Svehla, Deputy City Manager, stated that this was a proposed
amendment to the City's subdivision rules and regulations and as
such a public hearing must be held before the changes were adopted.
The Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation allowed for
circular driveways for single and two family residences located on
collector or arterial streets. Those would be existing homes or
platted lots. The amendment was the result of a request from an
existing lot on an arterial street.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
No one spoke in favor.
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
Council Member Cott asked why the amendment addressed only old
plats rather than all plats.
Svehla stated that new developments were generally on arterial or
collector streets and were platted so as to not have access or
access which met certain criteria. This amendment dealt with old
plats and already developed lots. There were certain specific
spacing requirements on arterials and collectors between driveways.
This would allow that to be altered to allow for a forward kind of
movement for access.
The following ordinance was considered:
96-241
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, AMENDING ARTICLE
III ENTITLED "REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS AND GENERAL DESIGN
STANDARDS" OF THE SUBDIVISIONAND LAND DEVELOPMENT CHAPTER OF
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, BY
AMENDING SECTION 34-115 RELATING TO ACCESS TO ARTERIAL AND
COLLECTOR STREETS; BY ADOPTING APPENDIX A-8 AND APPENDIX A-9
RELATING TO CIRCULAR DRIVES ON SINGLE AND TWO-FAMILY LOTS;
PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE;
PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY NOT TO EXCEED~$500.00 (FIVE HUNDRED
DOLLARS) FOR A VIOLATION OF THIS ORDINANCE; AND DECLARING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Young motioned, Brock seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "nay", Krueger "aye", Young
"aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried with a
6-1 vote.
C. The Council held a public hearing and considered adoption
of an ordinance to rezone 3.753 acres to a Commercial Conditioned
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 5
(C[c]) zoning district. The subject property was located southeast
of Lindsey Street, adjacent to the south side of 1-35E. (The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 5-0.)
Frank Robbins, Director for Planning and Development, stated that
this was a rezoning as a consequence of a settlement among three
parties; the City, the neighborhood and the landowners. The
conditions were from the agreement. The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended approval.
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. 96-242
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, PROVIDING FOR A
CHANGE TO THE COMMERCIAL CONDITIONED (C[c]) ZONING DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION AND USE DESIGNATION FOR 3.753 ACRES OF LAND
LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF 1-35E, APPROXIMATELY 350 FEET
SOUTHEAST FROM ITS INTERSECTION WITH LINDSEY STREET, AND MORE
PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT 1, ATTACHED HERETO AND
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE HEREIN; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY IN
THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF $2,000.00 FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Brock motioned, Biles seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Young
"aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried
unanimously.
D. The Council held a public hearing and considered adoption
of an ordinance amending the detailed plan for Planned Development
149. The subject property was located on the northeast corner of
Frame and Uland Streets. (The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommended approval 5-1.)
Frank Robbins, Director of Planning and Development, stated that
this was an amendment to an existing Planned Development. There
would be the ~ame number of unit~ and ~ame ~quare footage as the
previously planned development but the location had been moved.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
No one spoke in favor.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 6
187
No one spoke in opposition.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
The following ordinance w~s considered:
NO. 96-243
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, PROVIDING FOR AN
AMENDMENT TO THE DETAILED PLAN OF LOT 1, BLOCK A, JOHN C.
JOHNSON ADDITION NO. 2, A 1.419 ACRE TRACT LOCATED ON THE
NORTHEAST CORNER OF FRAME STREET AND ULAND STREET; PROVIDING
FOR A PENALTY IN THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF $2,000.00 FOR
VIOLATIONS THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Cott motioned, Krueger seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Young
"aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried
unanimously.
E. The Council held a public hearing and considered adoption
of an ordinance to rezone 42.815 acres from the Light Industrial
(LI) and Agricultural (A) zoning districts to the Multi-Family 1
(MF-1) zoning district. The subject property was located between
Spencer and Loop 288, approximately 300 feet east of Colorado.
(The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 6-0.)
Frank Robbins, Director of Planning and Development, stated that
the applicant had amended the petition to add conditions to the
proposal. There were two reply forms returned in opposition. The
total area within 200 feet in opposition was 31.85% which required
a super majority of the Council for approval. The conditions
proposed by the applicant included a 200 foot setback from the
power lines and a condition that there would be no more than 208
units built in the total area of the property. That was probably
the lowest density of multi-family dwellings in Denton. According
to the Denton Development Plan, the property was in a special
purpose area with no intensity allocation. The plan encouraged
multifamily development in a special purpose area. The Planning
and Zoning Commission recommended approval.
Council Member Krueger asked if the ingress/egress for the property
was only from Spencer.
Robbins replied correct.
Council Member Krueger asked about a traffic impact analysis.
Robbins replied that one was not required due to the low density of
the proposal.
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
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Page 7
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Marvin Myers stated that he was the developer of the site. He had
been in the housing development business for many years with a fine
reco~d of developments. He had an excellent relationship with
every community he had built in and tried to be the same in Denton.
He felt that the density of the development would make it very
attractive for the residents of Denton. He developed, built and
managed his developments.
Carol Ann Ganzer indicated support for the project through a
speaker card.
Woodrow Graham stated that he was in opposition for the rezoning of
the property due to the location of the property. Me questioned
placing hundreds of families in this location which was in the
middle of light industrial zoning and next to the City's power
plant. Spencer Road was the only access to the proposal and there
were many problems with Spencer Road. High tension wires would be
in the front yard of this development. The property needed to be
light industrial and not family. He owned 42 acres next to this
property. He bought his property to be next to a light industrial
area and not a residential area. There were many other places more
suitable for this development.
Council Member Cott asked if Graham had property near the proposal.
Graham replied yes that he owned the Denton Golf Center. He felt
the area was not a safe environment for children with a power plant
near by and with the golf center in the area.
Barbara Adkins stated that she was in opposition to the rezoning
due to the addition of traffic to the area. The road was narrow
with no sidewalks for children to walk to school. She was in favor
of this type of housing but not in this location. There were other
locations which would be safer and securer for families.
N. Alex Beckley stated that he lived in Dallas but was part of the
family living on Spencer Road and was concerned about what
developed in the area. The traffic going on Spencer and Loop 288
would be a tremendous burden and capital expenditures would be
excessive. There were no areas for walking on Spencer Road.
Spencer Road was considered a country road and cars travelled like
that on that road. He understood that there would be many three
bedroom apartments in the proposal. Spencer Road was a difficult
road to travel on.
Council Member Cott asked if Mr. Beckley own property in the area.
Beckley replied that he owned part of the neighboring property
along with his daughter and son.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 8
189
Mr. Myers was allowed a five minute rebuttal. He felt that if the
property were developed as it was currently zoned, it would create
more of a traffic problem than the proposal. He had met with City
staff early in process and with the Planning and Zoning Commission
and each time it was suggested that when he went through the plat
process, there would be a possibility of his having to contribute
to the widening of Spencer Road and to pay with others for a stop
light at Spencer and Loop 288. He could understand the objections
to the proposal. Ne went out of his way to meet with the owner of
the golf course who had suggested three objections to the
development. One was that the golf course was a land holding for
future development and he did not want to spend a lot of money. If
Myers developed the site, Graham would have to contribute to a
drainage correction. Second was the possibility of Graham's having
to share in the widening of Spencer Road. The third was that
Graham's lights would shine on the apartments which would be a
problem. Myers had gone out of his way to satisfy those
objections. Ne had indicated to Graham that he would work with him
on the widening of Spencer and would assume most of the cost. He
would also move some of the units away from the golf course's
lights.
Robert Johnson with Myers Development stated that apartments on
Colorado Courts and existing single family homes on Colorado and
San Jacinto were closer to the power plant than the proposed
apartment units would be.
The Mayor closed the public hearing.
Council Member Beasley stated that there were two ordinances in the
backup materials. Staff was recommending the one with conditions.
Robbins replied correct.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 96-244
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, PROVIDING FOR A
CHANGE FROM THE LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (LI) AND AGRICULTURAL (A)
ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATIONS AND USE DESIGNATIONS TO THE
MULTI-FAMILY 1 CONDITIONED (MF-1 [c]) ZONING DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION AND USE DESIGNATION FOR 42.815 ACRES OF LAND
LOCATED BETWEEN SPENCER ROAD AND LOOP 288, EAST OF THE
RAILROAD TRACKS; PROVIDING FOR A~PENALTY IN THE MAXIMUMAMOUNT
OF $2,000.00 FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Brock motioned to adopt the ordinance as it was less intense than
the current zoning. Something would have to be done with Spencer
Road no matter what was built on the property. There was a concern
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 9
on how children in the area would be able to get to school. She
did feel that it was an appropriate use of the property.
Krueger seconded the motion. On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock
"aye", Cott "aye" , Krueger "aye" , Young "aye", Biles "aye" and
Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried unanimously.
5. Consent Agenda
Biles motioned, Brock seconded to approve the Consent Agenda and
the Consent Agenda Ordinances. On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock
"aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion
carried unanimously.
A. Bids and Purchase Orders:
e
Bid $1952 - Distribution Transformers
Bid #1889 - Ambulance
Bid #1943 - City-County Day Nursery
Renovation Project
P.O. ~70307 - IBM
P.O. #70308 - Ameritech Library Services
P.O. #70826 - IBM
Kitchen
Be
Check Requisitions
1. American Public Power Association
2. Upper Trinity Regional Water District
Contracts
Se
2.
3.
4.
Denton Black Chamber of Commerce
Denton Festival Foundation
Denton Historic Landmark Commission
Denton Amphitheater Association
Consent Agenda Ordinances
A. NO. 96-245
AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING COMPETITIVE BIDS AND AWARDING A
CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT, SUPPLIES OR
SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS THEREFOR; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.A.1. - Bid #1952)
NO. 96-246
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 96-120 RELATING TO THE
AWARD OF BID NUMBER 1889 FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN AMBULANCE;
PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS THEREFORE; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.A.2. - Bid ~1889)
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 10
191
C. NO. 96-247
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. (5.A.3. - Bid #1943)
D. NO. 96-248
AN ORDINANCE AWARDING A CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF
MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT, SUPPLIES OR SERVICES BY THE STATE;
PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS THEREFORE; AND
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.A.4. - P.O. $70307,
5.A.6. - P.O. #70826)
E. NO. 96-249
AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FOR
PURCHASES OF MATERIALS OR EQUIPMENT WHICH ARE AVAILABLE FROM
ONE SOURCE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF STATE LAW
EXEMPTING SUCH PURCHASES FROM REQUIREMENTS OF COMPETITIVE
BIDS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.A.5. - P.O. #70308)
F. NO. 96-250
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS AUTHORIZING THE
EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF PAYMENT BY THE CITY
FOR ANNUAL DUES TO THE AMERICAN PUBLIC POWER ASSOCIATION
(APPA); AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.B.1.)
G. NO. 96-251
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS AUTHORIZING THE
EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF PAYMENT BY THE CITY
FOR ADMINISTRATIVE FEES AND PARTICIPATION TO THE UPPER TRINITY
REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT (UTRWD); AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE. (5.B.2.)
Consent Agenda Resolutions
A. NO. R96-064
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 1997 BUDGET OF THE
DENTON BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX
FUNDS, PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 351 OF THE TEXAS TAX CODE; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.C.1.)
B. NO. R96-065
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 1997 BUDGET OF THE
DENTON FESTIVAL FOUNDATION FOR HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX FUNDS,
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
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Page 11
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 351 OF THE TEXAS TAX CODE; AND PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.C.2.)
C. NO. R96-066
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 1997 BUDGET OF THE
DENTON HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION FOR HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX
FUNDS, PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 351 OF THE TEXAS TAX CODE; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.C.3.)
D. NO. R96-067
· A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 1997 BUDGET OF THE
DENTON COUNTY AMPHITHEATRE FOR HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX FUNDS,
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 351 OF THE TEXAS TAX CODE; AND PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (5.C.4.)
SA. The Council received a report regarding recommendations from
the Sales Tax Task Force.
Bill Utter, Chair-Sales Tax Task Force, stated that the Task Force
met for six weeks to discuss the proposal. There were 32
individuals on the Task Force with an average of 22 individuals
attending per meeting. On October 21st there were 29 members
present at the meeting. The first question was how much of a sales
tax to recommend to the City Council. On the proposal of ½ cent,
28 members were for the proposal with one in opposition. The
second question was whether to have a 4A or 4B corporation with 15
in favor of 4A and 12 in favor of 4B. On the question of whether
to have a combination 4A/4B, there was one vote in favor, one
abstention and twenty seven no votes. The Task Force's
recommendation to Council was to hold an election on January 18th
for a ½ cent designated for 4A.
BB. The Council received a report regarding a minority report from
the Sales Tax Task Force.
Neil Durrance stated that the minority report was prompted by
several factors. The report was based on the fact that the
Committee did not reach a con~en~u~ on the type of tax to offer and
the amount of tax for either a 4A or 4B. It was the minority's
report recommendation that the City would be ill-advised at this
time to present a 4A 1/2 cent sales tax. It was felt that the
options had not fully been discussed with regard to the amount of
tax and the differences between 4A and 4B. The minority report
included four areas for further recommendation, consideration and
study. There should not be a tax without accountability, there
should not be a tax without further consideration of safeguards and
protection, there should not be a further tax without protection of
the public good by proper controls on an economic development
corporation and that the tax should be studied further for possible
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 12
193
regressivity. The minority report recommended that this matter
should be taken under advisement and clarity of approach should be
received prior to presentation to the public. It was felt that it
was a public duty that a clarity of approach with predictable
results should be achieved and the basis of economic growth should
be based on a tax which could be seen as predictable with
predictable results and accountable through the City government and
its elected officials.
Bill Utter stated that he was surprised that the minority report
indicated that there was no consensus on the issue. In the final
analysis there were 23 votes for the recommendation and 6 against
the recommendation. He felt that that was a consensus.
$C. The Council held a discussion and gave staff direction related
to the Sales Tax Task Force reports.
Bill Patterson felt that the sales tax election and the need to
call the sales tax election for the4A sales tax was primarily due
to the need to look at jobs and job creation in Denton. Research
done for the Denton Record-Chronicle by an outside firm indicated
that only 39.4% of residents in Denton worked in Denton. There was
a need to take that into consideration. He also believed that a
consensus was formed and all were in favor of the sales tax. He
also had a concern with the low number of people who grew up in
Denton and then returned to Denton to work. A well directed and
funded economic development program would lead to enhanced quality
of life and a better chance to have more successful projects. More
corporations meant more corporate employees and more corporate
giving. There was some concern expressed about the funding. Of
the $3.6 million budget, $1.8 million would be for infrastructure
needs.
Priscilla Sanders stated that she supported economic development
and that it would be good for Denton. She questioned where Denton
would be without corporate neighbors such as the Campus Theater and
the United Way. She supported 4A as it was the purest form of
economic development. Fifty percent of the shoppers in Denton were
from outside Denton and were the ones paying the sales tax. She
asked the Cuuncil to make a decision which would be best for
Denton.
Don White stated that he served on the task force studying this
issue. The minority report expressed concern about studying this
issue more. The Vision group studied the issue, the Chamber studied
the issue, the EDTC studied the issue and the task force studied
the issue. The issue did not need to be studied more for a
conclusion. 4A was what was needed for Denton. For a quality
business to come to Denton and for a better Denton, he asked the
Council to support the majority task force and their recommendation
for a 4A.
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 13
Bill Giese stated that he was one in the minority on the task
force. He felt the citizens of Denton should have an opportunity
to vote on a sales tax for economic development. Most members of
the task force were in favor of some level of public spending for
economic development. The unresolved question was whether section
4A or 4B should be the authorization statute. Scott Joslove from
the Attorney General's Office stated that infrastructure
improvements could not be financed from 4A money unless it related
to specific economic development projects. 4B funds could be used
for general infrastructure needs such as arterial streets and
related improvements. Denton's streets were inadequate for
expected growth. If 4B funds were not available, improvements would
have to be financed through property taxes. 4A funds could be used
for economic development projects and related activities. The
Council must approve the budget and projects but the economic
development activities must be directly related to economic
development. 4A funds could not be diverted to other public needs.
If 4B were used, other projects not directly related to economic
development were allowed. A 4A ballot proposition was dictated by
State statutes. A 4B ballot proposition could be tailored to
Denton's needs.
Salty Rochelle stated that he was asked to serve on the sales task
force but declined due to business restraints. It was recommended
that the sales tax task force investigate other cities, both pro
and con, regarding the sales tax. He felt these efforts were made
and achieved to balance goals. It was suggested that the task
force work from ground zero regarding understanding the issue. He
understood that ground zero was never reached. The pros and cons
discussed were never committed to, long and short term
ramifications were not allowed to flow, committee bonding was not
attempted or achieved and constructive dissention was not
tolerated.
Fred Gossett stated that he was ready to start on a 4A sales tax to
support economic development. The Denton Chamber of Commerce
unanimously approved a formal resolution which confirmed public
support of the 4A sales tax.
Elinor Hugh£J stated that the Leagu~ of Women Voters undertook a
study of the sales tax. The League supported economic development
and the expenditure of tax dollars on economic development. Many
of the activities the City was already involved in such as
marketing, promotion and cooperative efforts with the Chamber;
technical support and specific promotional efforts; development
and maintenance of City owned infrastructure suitable for the
effective conduct of business such as adequate water and energy. A
balanced program of municipal services provided by City government
which made Denton a community with an attractive quality of life
such as public safety, cultural and recreational activities, etc.
was recommended. Finally, judicious and limited use of tax
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 14
195
incentives which were already in place for business and industry
such as tax abatements and enterprise zones. The second half of
the League's consensus was in opposition to the proposed half cent
sales tax for economic development. Some reasons for opposition
included the proposed half cent sales tax would be designated only
for economic development and could not be allocated to other areas
of municipal services which had a higher priority in any given
year. Adding an additional half cent sales tax for economic
development at this time would bring Denton's municipal sales tax
to the maximum allowed by State law meaning that Denton would not
be eligible to increase sales tax to fund other options such as
transportation or crime prevention. A separate economic
development corporation to spend sales tax revenue removed control
of public money one step further away from public sight and
control. The sales tax was a regressive tax which would tax low
income individuals at a higher rate than wealthy ones individuals.
The half cent sales tax increase was an extremely large increase
amounting to a 33% increase in sales tax collected and a 16.7%
increase in overall municipal taxes collected when property and
sales taxes were added together.
Janice Parks stated that she had found great opportunities in
Denton. If there were jobs in Denton, there would be people in
Denton. Jobs were needed in Denton. She was a low income bracket
individual who could benefit from jobs in Denton. She was in favor
of a 4A % cent sales tax. Under 4A, there would be money for
projects for streets and drainage which would help her neighbors in
southeast Denton. This tax would enhance the pre-existing jobs in
Denton.
Joe Dodd felt that the committee failed the mission it was to do.
They were suppose to, in large numbers, support the sales tax, bond
together and raise the money and run the campaign to get the tax
passed. However, it was a 50-50 split and there was no great
committee to get the work done as the Council wanted. He felt this
was already a dead issue as anyone against new taxes would not like
this tax. Anyone against the ability of the committee to sell $80
million in bonds without voter approval, would not like this
program. Some people in Denton were simply against any growth in
Denton. The people in favor of a 4B and against 4A would not be
supporters. The people who were for a 4A but not this economic
development corporation to be in charge would be against the issue.
There were also those individuals who were for growth but who were
against the way some of this issue was handled.
Council Member Cott stated that there were plenty of people in
plenty of numbers who were for growth.
Dodd replied that being for growth or for the election were not the
same things.
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 15
John Baines stated that one's experience and history would
determine his position on the sales tax issue. He was in favor of
4A. The issue for him with 4A was opportunity and the opportunity
to bring in good jobs for Denton. He felt fortunate he was able to
work and learn good work ethics. Many children these days were not
able to get good jobs. 4A was a beginning for attracting good jobs
and 4A was an opportunity for good corporate citizenship and an
opportunity to make the City of Denton even better.
Warren Searls stated that he was in favor of 4A in order to make
Denton even greater. He was pleased to serve on the sales tax task
force. If there were disturbing moments during the proceedings of
the task force, they were expressions of distrust for the City
Council and for some of the Council's appointees. He was disturbed
about the attacks on the members of the committee. The Council had
the right to amend the Economic Development Corporation's Articles
of Incorporation to replace any member at will and had budget
approval and oversight. Ne asked the Council to trust themselves to
express in public their position on this issue.
Tony Clark stated that he was in support of the 4A sales tax. One
reason for the citizens to support this tax was the fact that
Denton relied heavily on the property tax for its tax base. The 4A
tax would allow Denton to compete with neighboring cities for
quality jobs and help redistribute the existing tax base.
Bill Utter stated that as Chair of the task force, he did his best
for the city. There was nothing brought out in this meeting in
opposition that was not discussed during their meetings. The
minority opinion asked Council to disregard the committee's report
and study and consider 4B.
Mayor Miller stated that Items $C and 9A would be discussed
together.
Mayor Pro Tem Brock stated that she had remarks which were directed
very strongly toward the Economic Development Corporation Board and
noted that no member of the Board was present at the Council
meeting. She thanked the task force and EDC Board for the number
of hours given to this issue. She would vote for an election on
January 18th on the ½ cent sales tax under 4A. There appeared to
be loud support for that issue and she wanted the citizens of
Denton to make the decision. She did have some reservations and
concerns regarding the issue. She was sorry that the
recommendation was just for 4A as there were many problems with
that. It could not deal with drainage problems and streets as it
would not directly be for economic development. The reports the
Council received were well done but still there were many
questions. There were two questions in the majority report she
wanted to address. One was the need for the expanded tax base and
other was the need for jobs. Richard Hayes spoke of the
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 16
disappropriate ratio of commercial to residential tax base. That
ratio, at times, was distorted. It could be dealt with in several
ways such as a moratorium on residential building. Residential
building brought in children who needed schooling. New industries
brought in new people. When more people were brought in, there was
more need for housing and children in school. The second issue was
the need for jobs. Only a hugh city could provide a hugh variety
of jobs. Denton was not just a community in which people went out
to work. At Peterbilt, 82% of its employees did not live in
Denton. Another issue was the fact that people came to Denton as
it was a great place to live. She was hearing two themes - people
wanted smaller government and lower taxes. This proposal was a
hugh increase in taxes and was not smaller government but rather
expanded government. There was a need to build a consensus, trust
and unity in the community if that was what it wanted. There was
a tendency in Denton to divide issues with "us" and "them" which
was wrong. There was a need to pull together. The EDC Board went
to Harlingen and Brownsville to view their programs. She suggested
that the EDC Board use other expertise which was in Denton. She
asked the EDC to have their board meetings video taped and
televised so citizens could see who were the members. She felt it
was necessary to bring the various factions of the City together
for unity.
Council Member
academic people
versa.
Cott stated that relations were two ways. The
needed to reach out to the community and visa
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 96-252
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS,
CALLING A SALES AND USE TAX ELECTION TO BE HELD WITHIN THE
CITY ON JANUARY 18, 1997, TO ADOPT A SALES AND USE TAX FOR THE
PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF NEW AND EXPANDED BUSINESS
ENTERPRISES AT THE RATE OF ONE-HALF OF ONE PERCENT;
DESIGNATING VOTING PLACES AND APPOINTING ELECTION OFFICIALS;
PROVIDING FOR BILINGUAL NOTICE OF THE ELECTION; ORDERING THAT
AN ELECTRONIC VOTING SYSTEM BE USED; MAKING ADDITIONAL
PROVISIONS FOR THE CONDUCT THEREOF, AND OTHER PROVISIONS
RELATING THERETO; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (As
recommended by the majority of the Sales Tax Task Force.)
Young motioned, Krueger seconded to accept the task force
recomm%endation on the ~ c~nt ~al~ tax and to call a January 18th
election classified as 4A.
Council Member Beasley asked if the ballot would indicate a 4A tax.
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 17
City Attorney Prouty stated no that a proposition for 4A tax was
set by the State statute. The notice of election indicated 4A
sales tax election.
Council Member Beasley stated that she would vote for this proposal
as it would be a benefit for Denton to vote on the issue. She
hoped there would be a large voter turnout for the election.
Council Member Krueger stated that the reason the EDC was not
present was that the Council was not receiving a report from them.
At their last report, the EDC recommended a 4A and before that the
Vision Cabinet recommended 4A as did the Fantus study. It was time
to let the voters decide the issue.
Council Member Biles stated that this issue had many for and
against on Council. It had gone through the Vision process, Fantus
and many other areas of consideration. Council had an easy
decision as to whether or not to trust the citizens to make a
deciSion. It was not for Council to make the decision. It was the
citizen's vote. He voted to send the issue to a task force as
citizens were needed to concentrate on this issue. Projects for 4A
and 4B were very similar. There was a need to take time to educate
the public on what the issue was really about.
Mayor Miller stated that there had been some comments about putting
labels on individuals due to a different Point of view. He urged
all to look at the issues and not make a generalization on that.
There were two aspects to this issue - what was the economic
development program and how would it be funded. Council approved
$200,000 for the Economic Development Board for this budget year.
Council indicated a willingness to fund economic development for
this fiscal year. He felt there was a need to have specifics on
how the money was going to be spent. He wanted to assure citizens
that no tax dollars would beused in promoting the election. The
City could only provide factual information regarding the sales tax
election.
Council Member Cott called the question.
On roll vo~ a, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye",
"aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye".
carried unanimously.
Motion
9. Ordinances
A. Item A was considered with Item 8C.
B. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance whereby
the City of Denton, Texas, and GTE Southwest Incorporated agree
that, for the purpose of operating its telecommunications business,
the Telephone Company shall, construct, erect, build, equip, own,
City of Denton city Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 18
maintain and operate in, along, under, over and across, the
streets, avenues, alleys, bridges, viaducts, and public grounds of
the City, such posts, poles, wires, cables, conduits and other
appliances, structures and fixtures necessary or convenient for
rendition of telecommunications services in said city and for
conducting a general local and long-distance telephone business,
prescribing the conditions governing the use of public rights-of-
way for the Telephone Company's telecommunications business,
prescribing the quarterly compensation due the City under this
ordinance, providing the right of the City to use certain
facilities of the Telephone Company; specifying governing laws;
providing for assignment; prescribing the term and effective date
of said agreement; providing for notice; providing for binding
effect; providing that the ordinance be cumulative; providing for
governmental immunity; providing for consent and acceptance;
providing for severability; providing for choice of law and venue;
finding and determining that the meeting at which this ordinance is
passed is open to the public as required by law; providing for
future contingencies, providing for repeal of conflicting
ordinances; providing for release of all claims under prior
ordinances; providing for alternate dispute resolution; and
providing for method of acceptance.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 96-253
AN ORDINANCE WHEREBY THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, AND GTE
SOUTHWEST INCORPORATED AGREE THAT, FOR THE PURPOSE OF
OPERATING ITS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUSINESS, THE TELEPHONE
COMPANY SHALL, CONSTRUCT, ERECT, BUILD, EQUIP, OWN, MAINTAIN
AND OPERATE IN, ALONG, UNDER, OVER AND ACROSS, THE STREETS,
AVENUES, ALLEYS, BRIDGES, VIADUCTS, AND PUBLIC GROUNDS OF THE
CITY, SUCH POSTS, POLES, WIRES, CABLES, CONDUITS AND OTHER
APPLIANCES, STRUCTURES AND FIXTURES NECESSARY OR CONVENIENT
FOR RENDITION OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES IN SAID CITY AND
FOR CONDUCTING A GENERAL LOCAL AND LONG-DISTANCE TELEPHONE
BUSINESS, PRESCRIBING THE CONDITIONS GOVERNING THE USE OF
PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY FOR THE TELEPHONE COMPANY'S
TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUSINESS, PRESCRIBING TF~ QUARTERLY
COMPENSATION DUE THE CITYUNDER THIS ORDINANCE, PROVIDING THE
RIGHT OF THE CITY TO USE CERTAIN FACILITIES OF THE TELEPHONE
COMPANY; SPECIFYING GOVERNING LAWS; PROVIDING FOR ASSIGNMENT;
PRESCRIBING THE TERM AND EFFECTIVE DATE OF SAID AGREEMENT;
PROVIDING FOR NOTICE; PROVIDING FOR BINDING EFFECT; PROVIDING
THAT THE ORDINANCE BE CUMULATIVE;' PROVIDING FOR GOVERNMENTAL
IMMUNITY; PROVIDING FOR CONSENTAND ACCEPTANCE; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CHOICE OF LAW AND VENUE; FINDING
AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS ORDINANCE IS
PASSED IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BYLAW; PROVIDING FOR
FUTURE CONTINGENCIES, PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF CONFLICTING
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 19
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS UNDER PRIOR
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR ALTERNATE DISPUTE RESOLUTION; AND
PROVIDING FOR METHOD OF ACCEPTANCE.
Biles motioned, Young seconded to adopt the ordinance with GTE and
set the access line street rental fee in Section 8A of the
franchise at the amount of $1.42 per month or $17.00 per year for
each residential access line and $2.00 per month or $24.00 per year
for each business access line.
Joe Dodd stated that Council had indicated that if it raised ad
valorem taxes 6%, the would be run out of the City. That was
obviously not true because when the pole fee was raised for the
City electricity, it was close to a 16% ad valorem and no one was
run out of town when that happened. A Council Member explained to
him that collecting the 4% surcharge on top of electricity would
make it easier for the City to stick it to GTE. The Council Member
did not use those words, that was his interpretation. That was
about raising the pole fee. GTE did not pay that, it collected
that. Expanding the tax base meant getting new people to pay the
taxes. This was not how to expand the tax base.
Mayor Miller stated that he had spoken with Melvin Willis, General
Manager - GTE, who indicated that if GTE decided to pass this along
to the customers, the allocation would be as indicated in the
ordinance with residential and business lines.
Council Member Beasley stated that as a government, the City had to
charge a franchise fee to use the City's right-of-way. W~at the
utility did about passing that rate to their users was up to them
and not up to the City. As a responsible City government, it was
necessary to charge a consistent rate to all of the entities who
used the City's right-of-way.
On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger
"aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion
carried unanimously.
C. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance
authorizing ~he City Manager to execute a public transportation
contract and subsequent amendments with the Texas Department of
Transportation for funding public transportation.
Joseph Portugal, Assistant to the City Manager, stated that
approval of this ordinance would approve the contract for the next
grant year with the Texas Department of Transportation.
The following ordinance was considered:
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 20
NO. 96-254
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PUBLIC
TRANSPORTATION AGREEMENT AND SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS WITH THE
TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR FUNDING PUBLIC
TRANSPORTATION; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Biles motioned, Beasley seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Biles
"aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried unanimously.
D. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance amending
Ordinance No. 82-09 to change the name of the Data Processing
Advisory Board to the Information Services Advisory Board.
Kathy DuBose, Executive Director for Finance, stated that the
ordinance would change the name of the Data Processing Advisory
Board to the Information Services Advisory Board to be more
reflective of the duties of that Board.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 96-255
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 82-09 TO CHANGE THE NAME
OF THE DATA PROCESSING ADVISORY BOARD TO THE INFORMATION
SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Beasley motioned, Brock seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Biles
"aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried unanimously.
E. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance ordering
a special election to be held in the city of Denton, Texas, to fill
a vacancy in Place 2, on January 18, 1997, and, if a run-off
election is required, on February 15, 1997, for the purpose of
electing a Council Member to Place 2 of the City Council on the
City of Denton, Texas; designating voting places and appointing
election officials; providing for bilingual notice of the election;
providing notice of the filing deadline for a place on the special
election ballot; ordering that an electronic voting system be used;
and making additional provisions for the conduct thereof.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 96-256
AN ORDINANCE ORDERING A SPECIAL ELECTION TO BE HELD IN THE
CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS, TO FILL A VACANCY IN PLACE 2, ON
JANUARY 18, 1997, AND, IF A RUN-OFF ELECTION IS REQUIRED, ON
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City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 21
FEBRUARY 15, 1997, FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING A COUNCIL
MEMBER TO PLACE 2 OF THE CITY COUNCIL ON THE CITY OF DENTON,
TEXAS; DESIGNATING VOTING PLACES AND APPOINTING ELECTION
OFFICIALS; PROVIDING FOR BILINGUAL NOTICE OF THE ELECTION;
PROVIDING NOTICE OF THE FILING DEADLINE FOR A PLACE ON THE
SPECIAL ELECTION BALLOT; ORDERING THAT AN ELECTRONIC VOTING
SYSTEM BE USED; AND MAKING ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR THE
CONDUCT THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Biles motioned, Young seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Young
"aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried
unanimously.
F. The Council considered adoption of an ordinance amending
Ordinance No. 94-183, as amended, by amending Section 2.6 of the
Council Rules of Procedure by authorizing the Consent Agenda which
may contain more than one subject to be approved by one motion of
the City Council; providing a savings clause; and providing for
retroactive effect.
The following ordinance was considered:
NO. 96-257
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 94-183, AS AMENDED, BY
AMENDING SECTION 2.6 OF THE COUNCIL RULES OF PROCEDURE OF THE
CITY COUNCIL BY AUTHORIZING THE CONSENT AGENDA TO BE APPROVED
BY ONE MOTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE;
PROVIDING FOR RETROACTIVE EFFECT; AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
Biles motioned, Young seconded to adopt the ordinance. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Young
"aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried
unanimously.
10. The Council received a report, held a discussion and gave
staff direction regarding requests for proposal for a utilities
management study as previously directed by Council.
Bob Nelson, Executive Director of Utilities, stated that several
months ago staff came before Council with a concept on how to
accomplish a management study required by the City Charter. The
agenda back-up materials contained a request for proposal for that
study. The study would be divided into two basic sections. One
was a general management section and the other was a comparative
analysis section. The general management section would cover a
review of the organization and how it was structured. Because of
some competitive issues, the study would include a competitive
analysis section to study each one of the business components of
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 22
the organization. There was a provision in the study that if, in
the course of either the general management study or the
comparative analysis study, the consultant found a particular
operating unit or units which appeared to not be meeting comparable
costs and if was not possible to restructure, the issue would be
brought back at the May interim report and Council could expand the
scope of work. In approximately five - six weeks a pre-proposal
conference would be held. After selection of a firm, interim
reports would be made in March, April, May and June with a final
report in July of 1997.
Mayor Miller asked that if a firm was conducting the management
study would it be eligible to be a bidder for contracts for
portions of the business.
Nelson replied that if a firm was doing the study, it should be
precluded from bidding on outsourcing activity.
City Attorney Prouty stated that there would be a problem in that
the firm doing the study would have an advantage over other
bidders.
Mayor Miller suggested that that condition be included in the
request for proposal.
City Attorney Prouty stated that that could be added to the
ordinance which would preclude a successful bidder for the study
could not bid on any outsourcing contracts.
Council Member Biles suggested some type of limitation on that
provision.
Biles motioned, Brock seconded to adopt the ordinance subject to
the City Attorney drafting a provision on a three year limitation
on outsourcing. On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott
"aye", Krueger "aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller
"aye". Motion carried unanimously.
11. The Council received a report, held a discussion and gave
staff direction regarding the Dentom Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's
request to have their hotel occupancy tax funding allocation
reconsidered.
A. The Council considered approval of a resolution approving
the fiscal year 1997 budget of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for
hotel occupancy tax funds, pursuant to Chapter 351 of the Texas Tax
Code.
Tomasa Garcia requested reconsideration of this item. She
requested the Council reconsider its decision of providing the
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce $1,000 and not the equal amount which
2O4
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 23
was provided the Black Chamber of Commerce which was $5,000. The
Hispanic Chamber was requesting equal funding. The response the
Hispanic Chamber received from city Manager Benavides to their
request for an explanation was that they were not present at the
City Council meeting. She felt this was a communication problem.
Had the Hispanic Chamber known of the urgency that their presence
would be contingent on receiving equal funding, they would have
attended the meeting. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was working
hard since its organization in February. The Hispanic Chamber
attended area meetings to determine how to set up a chamber. The
Hispanic Chamber was requesting funding equal to the Black Chamber
of Commerce. The Council needed to be willing to communicate with
the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Council Member Cott asked for the number of members in the Hispanic
Chamber.
Garcia replied the Chamber had 39 members.
Council Member Young asked what kinds of projects were anticipated
by the Hispanic Chamber.
Garcia replied that their major event was the recent rodeo. The
members would be attending quarterly meetings throughout the State
of other Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, holding a city-wide
Hispanic Christmas party, attending the State conference, attending
the national conference, and participating in the bilingual Denton
County job fair.
Mayor Pro Tem Brock asked how much money the Hispanic Chamber
received last year.
Garcia replied that they did not receive any funds last year.
Mayor Pro Tem Brock stated that the Hispanic Chamber did have an
opportunity to apply last year.
Garcia replied that they had three days notice last year to do the
proposal.
Council Member Biles stated that he did not perceive this as a
language barrier or a Communication problem but rather a lack of
familiarity of a complicated process. Each year the Council
received a large number of requests for funds and each year many
organizations did not receive funding. One criteria the Council
wa~ looking for in the organizations was continued growth. The City
budget was adopted in October and there were certain laws which did
not allow the changing of the budget. If the Council rearranged
items in the budget, it might then be accused of favoritism from
those organizations which did not receive funds.
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 24
Garcia stated that last year the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was
established in February. Shortly after that the Black Chamber was
established. The Black Chamber applied for funding the first time
last year and received $5,000.
Council Member Biles stated that Council's hands were tied and was
not able to change the budget due to State law.
Garcia stated that she had received calls on why the Black Chamber
received $5,000 and the Hispanic Chamber only received $1,000.
Instead of dividing the community, the Council should be uniting
them with similar amounts of money.
Council Member Beasley stated that she had reviewed the Hispanic
Chamber's application and questionnaire. Many things which Garcia
mentioned at this meeting as projects for the Hispanic chamber were
not included in the questionnaire. She based her decision on what
would bring guests to Denton. The Hispanic Chamber's application
mentioned only quarterly meetings. The Black Chamber of Commerce
presented projects such as the Black Music and Art Ethnic Festival.
That was what she based her vote on.
City Manager Benavides stated that the application and the items
mentioned at this meeting involved attending conferences which were
indirect projects. The Hispanic Chamber needed to concentrate on
projects which would generate tourism in Denton. Last year the
Hispanic Chamber was not ready to submit an application and this
year they did and received $1,000. The City needed to provide more
technical support to emerging organizations to help them better
tailor their applications. He recommended that Council leave the
funding as outlined in the budget.
Council Member Cott felt that there was no comparison between the
Black and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Just because they were
ethnic groups did not mean that they had some comparability.
Garcia indicated that she was stating that the Black Chamber was a
minority Chamber as they were. The Hispanic Chamber's goals were
similar to the Black Chamber's goals and funding should be the
same.
Mayor Miller stated that the City's funding was not to support a
Chamber of Commerce. The funding was to promote tourism. It was
not appropriate to reopen the budget at this point in time.
The following resolution was considered:
NO. R96-068
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 1997 BUDGET OF THE
DENTON HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR HOTEL OCCUPANCY TAX
FUNDS, PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 351 OF THE TEXAS TAX CODE; AND
2O6
City of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 25
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Brock motioned, Biles seconded to not change the funding and
approve the resolution as presented. Staff would work with the
organizations for the next budget year to them help through the
process. On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye",
Krueger "aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye".
Motion carried unanimously.
12. The Council considered approval of an annexation schedule with
regard to the proposed annexation of 11.40 acres located south of
Robinson Road and east of Nowlin Road. (A-74)
Young motioned, Beasley seconded to approve the schedule. On roll
vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye", Krueger "aye", Young
"aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye". Motion carried
unanimously.
13. Consider nominations/appointments to City's Boards and
Commissions.
Alan Nelson was nominated by Mayor Pro Tem Brock at a previous
meeting. On roll vote, Beasley "aye", Brock "aye", Cott "aye",
Krueger "aye", Young "aye", Biles "aye" and Mayor Miller "aye".
Motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Miller nominated Wylie Cunagin to the Plumbing and Mechanical
Code Board.
Council Member Beasley nominated Henry Rife to the Building Code
Board.
Council Member Young nominated Fran Morgan to the Library Board.
14. Miscellaneous matters from the City Manager.
City Manager Benavides stated that two of Denton's submissions to
the Texas Downtown Association Awards were finalists. The City
would be receiving a second place award for Keep America Beautiful
award.
15. There was no official action taken on Closed Meeting Items.
16. New Business
There were no it=m~ of New Business suggested by Council Members
for future agendas.
17. The Council did not continue the Closed Meeting from the
earlier session.
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city of Denton City Council Minutes
November 5, 1996
Page 26
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:15 p.m.
N~P~R WALTERS
Y SECRETARY
CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS
ACC0034D
CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS