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1975-08-04 CC MinutesCITY OF FARMERS BRANCH CITY COUNCIL MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING August 4, 1975 All members of the City Council were present: Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Councilmen: George G. Grimmer W. R. Linn John Dodd Bill McClung Ken Quevreaux Bill Binford Members of the City Administration present were: City Manager Paul M. West j City Attorney Doug McCallon Director of Staff Services Glenn Moore Secretary Ruth Ann Parish ' Mayor Grimmer called the City Council meeting of August 4, 1975 to order at 7:30 P.M. . AGENDA ITEM NO. 1. - INVOCATION. Mayor Pro Tem Linn gave the invocation. AGENDA ITEM NC. 2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES - July 28, 1975. After some consideration, a motion by Councilman Binford, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", approved the minutes of the City Council meeting of July 28, 1975, after the following correction was made: on Page 45, in the 5th paragraph, let the second sentence read "The .motion carried, with Councilmen Binford, Linn, and Dodd voting It aye AGENDA ITEM NO. 3. -HEAR PRESENTATION BY THE CIVIC LEAGUE ON THE SCULPTURE THEY WISH TO DONATE TO THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH. Mrs. Montie Larkin and Mrs. Vickie- Larsen, on behalf of the Civic League Organization, stated that with part of the money from the 1975 Charity Ball, the Civic League would like to donate a sculpture in celebration of the Bicentennial to be placed in the fountain in front of the Walter E. Manske Memorial Library. This concept has been presented to the Farmers Branch Bicentennial Commission and has been approved. It has also been presented to the Library Board and has received their approval. The Civic League will pay for the sculpture, the wiring of a spotlight and the shipping of the sculpture to the location. The Civic League requests that the city help by providing the labor needed to install the sculpture and the wiring and the foundation preparation. Vol. 24, Page 57. Mrs. Larkin stated that the Civic League is pleased to be able to contribute a fine sculpture to the city for its beautification and hope that future gener- ations will appreciate the 'Landing Eagle' symbolizing freedom and will be reminded of our great national heritage. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", accepted the donation of the sculpture by the Civic League, and authorized a letter by the Mayor from the Council expressing the Council's appreciation to the club. AGENDA ITEM NO. 4. -CONSIDER GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF THE TREASURY ADDITION. LOCATED ON MIDWAY ROAD. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: The property located at the intersection of the north frontage road of I. H. 635 and Midway Road is presently platted as a one lot subdivision and known as Treasury Addition. This includes those areas as Steak & Ale, (Existing) and Vincent's Seafood Restaurant, (to be built). Approval of the general development plan is requested in order to conform with provisions of the subdivision ordinance requiring replatting when resubdivision occurs. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman McClung, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", approved the General Development Plan for Treasury Addition replat. AGENDA ITEM NO. 5. - CONSIDER GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF CENTRAL BANK AND TRUST COMPANY. LOCATED AT 12875 JOSEY LANE. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: The contract iArhich,has been presented for consideration provides for the installation of the required public improvements on a tract of land owned by the Central Bank & Trust Company. This land is not platted at this time. The property will be platted and public improvements installed according to the provisions of the contract, prior to the issuance of building permits. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting "aye", authorized the City Manager to execute the contract for the installation of the required public improvements on a tract of land owned by Central Bank and Trust Company. AGENDA ITEM NO. 6. - CONSIDER GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF VINCENT'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANT. LOCATED ON MIDWAY ROAD. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: The contract which has been presented for consideration provides for the installation of the required public improvements on a tract of land located approximately 395 feet north from the intersection of I. H. 635 north frontage road and Midway Road on the west side of Midway. This tract is presently platted as a portion of Treasury Addition, The property would be replatted and public improvements installed by the new owner, according to the provisions of the contract, prior to the issuance of building permits. Vol. 24, Page 58. Mr. Richard Wallace and another representative of the architect firm were present representing the owner and the developer. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", approved the general development plan and authorized the City Manager to execute the contract with Vincent's Seafood Restaurant. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7. -CONSIDER. REQUEST FOR CIVIC AND PHILAN- THROPIC USE. REQUESTED BY THE GIRLS SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: The Farmers Branch - Carrollton Softball League plans a garage sale to raise funds for their organization. The league is requesting permission to use the city property at the north corner of Marsh Lane and Valley View Lane, for the garage sale. The league proposes to hold the sale on Saturday August 8, 1975, from 8 a, m. to 6 p.m. Tables will be set up on the property for sale items. No foods or concession stands will be located on the property. The league requests that the customers be allowed to use the parking area at the west side of the Police Station for parking. Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience who wished to speak in favor or in opposition to this request. No one spoke. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Binford, a second by Council- man Dodd, all voting "aye", adopted Resolution 75-028 which approved the request of the Farmers Branch-Carrollton Girls Softball League for the temporary use of the property at the northeast corner of Marsh Lane and Valley View Lane. AGENDA ITEM NO. 8. - DISCUSS THE CHARGE OF 25~ FOR THE NEW LIBRARY CARDS. REQUESTED BY MRS. JOAN HOLLIDAY. Mrs. Joan Holliday, 14424 Hague, read a prepared statement to ask the City Council to change the policy that was agreed upon to charge a 25~ fee for the new plastic library cards. These cards will soon be issued to the library patrons when the new computer system for book circulation goes into effect. She feels that although the charge is a minor one, and that the majority of the citizens of Farmers Branch would probably be able to pay for this fee, it is the principal of the city serving the citizens that is involved here. She made statements of Dallas and the surrounding cities not having the charge for their library cards. She made statements concerning the founding of free public libraries. Mrs. Holliday again asked the Council to reconsider the decision and make this truly and in principal the Farmers Branch Public Library, and not a private one and not a service for profit, but a service for the people. Councilman Dodd read a statement opposing the charge for library cards. Councilman Dodd made a motion to repeal the 25~ charge for the initial issuance of library cards, but leave the $1. 00 charge for those cards that are lost. Vol. 24, Page 59. Councilman Dodd's motion died for the lack of a second. Councilman Linn stated that he feels the charge is too small because of the value of being received for the services rendered. He stated that this is in his opinion. Councilman McClung stated that he concurred with Councilman Linn. He stated he believed the 25( is a reasonable fee. He stated that the Farmers Branch Library was founded many years ago by concerned citizens who felt the need for a library. The Civic League requested $25. 00 per person to purchase books which started the Farmers Branch Library. He stated that he hesitated in comparing the City of Farmers Branch with any other city in the United States. He stated the City of Farmers Branch is a total community and makes its own decision and he made the motion that the 25~ fee stand. Councilman Dodd stated that he did not think that it was wise for the city to start an escalation - the people have given gifts to the Library on the basis it is a free library and they do realize that value of the knowledge. Councilman Linn stated that he looks at it a little differently. He looks at this as not a source of revenue but as a charge to participate. After more discussion, Councilman McClung rescinded his motion. Those who spoke against the 25~ charge from the audience were: 1. Mr. Bob Chronister 14412 Sunrose Farmers Branch 2. Mr. Drew Humbert 2 917 Ermine Way Farmers Branch 3. Mr. John Glasschoeder 3322 Arawak Farmers Branch 4. Mr. James Holliday 14424 Hague Farmers Branch 5. Mr. Bob Carnes (gave same address of Mr. Chronister) 14412 Sunrose Farmers Branch Mayor Grimmer stated that there had been sufficient discussion on this item and no action had been taken so therefore the Council would move on to the next item. The 25~ charge would remain in effect. Vol. 24, Page 60. AGENDA ITEM NO. 9. - CONSIDER ACCEPTANCE OF FIRE LANE EASEMENT FROM BROOKHAVEN OFFICE PARK. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: A fire lane easement dedication has been requested by the developer of Brookhaven Office Park in order to more adequately provide access for-fire protection for existing buildings. The necessary parking restrictions can be enforced in a dedicated easement. After a brief discussion, a motion by Councilman Binford, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting "aye", accepted the easement dedication from Brookhaven Office Park. AGENDA ITEM NO. 10. - DISCUSS SETTING CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATES FOR MONTH OF SEPTEMBER. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Quevreaux, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", set the date of September 15, 1975, as the criy City Council meeting date for the month of September, unless there are emergency items that have to be brought before the City Council before the first meeting in October. AGENDA ITEM NO. 11. - CONSIDER APPROVING MASTER PLAN FOR ATHLETIC COMPLEX. City Manager Paul West stated that several different plans are being presented to give an idea of the concept for athletic facilities which was previously approved by the City Council. Mr. West stated that the Administration recommends Plan A, because it makes the most efficient use of all available space at the proposed complex site. The complex includes Cox Park, Field and Culpepper property, Vivian Field and Farmers Branch Elementary School properties. Mr. West stated this is the master plan or a long range plan which would take a period of years to complete, -and with an estimated cost of $1, 300, 000. 00. Mr. West stated that most of the facilities are multiple purpose facilities. There was discussion on who worked up these plans. City Manager Paul West stated that the Administration is not asking for schedules of particular facilities on the plan but, a plan for the implementation and a starting point. Mr. Drew Humbert commended the city on the adoption of a master plan to work with. He stated that he was with the Soccer Association, and soccer has been growing by leaps and bounds and he believes the city will need more soccer fields in the future. He stated the need for more soccer fields. There was discussion of restroo.m facilities on the proposed plan. Mr. West stated that the A dministration is going to recommend that restroo.m facilities be of portable type facilities and be moved off the field when not in use. Vol. 24, Page 61. There was discussion on the size of the soccer field. Mr. Glasschroeder stated that he would like to see a target date of completion set for different facilities. He ask if the City could set goals for completion. After more discussion, a motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Council- man Dodd, all voting "aye", approved Plan A of the Master Plan for the Athletic Complex. AGENDA ITEM NO. 12. - CONSIDER ORDINANCE NO. 1067 RELATING TO DISPOSAL OF TREE, BUSH OR SHRUB CLIPPINGS OR CUTTINGS. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: Ordinance No. 1067 is being presented for consideration would require a person other than the owner or the city who trims, cuts or clips any tree, bush, shrub or parts thereof to dispose of, at their own expense such clippings or cuttings, and not place it for collection by the Sanitation Division of the City of Farmers Branch. Mr. West stated that the ordinance is being considered because of tree cutting companies who are cutting the trees and placing them on the sidewalk for the city to pick up, rather than hauling them off. The city has one piece of equipment to pick up these large stacks of cuttings from trees and it is all the city can do is try to keep the requests of the homeowners fulfilled. There was discussion of various utility companies trimming trees and of their responsibility of disposing the trimmings. There was discussion of the property owner being responsible for the tree trimmings that had grown on their property and of the city providing for the pick-up service regardless who trimmed the trees. Mr. West stated that the reason the ordinance was presented was that it would take a load off the Sanitation Division. After more discussion, Councilman Quevreaux made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1067. Councilman Linn seconded the motion. The motion failed 3 to 2, with Councilmen Dodd, McClung and Binford voting "nay", and with Councilman Quevreaux and Linn voting "aye". AGENDA ITEM NO. 13. - CONSIDER AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF ADDISON ON THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF SIGNAL LIGHTS AT BROOKHAVEN CLUB DRIVE AND MARSH LANE. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: In 1973 the City Council authorized entering into an Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Addison for the installation of traffic signals at Marsh Lane and Brookhaven Club Drive. The City was not successful in getting Addison to execute the agreement; however, because of the dire need for the signal light, the City of Farmers Branch installed the light without an agreement. Vol. 24, Page 62. Since Addison has hired a new City Administrator they have executed a revised contract. The contract is being presented .for consideration for the construction and maintenance of signal lights at Brookhaven Club Drive and Marsh Lane. After a brief discussion, a motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Council- man Quevreaux, all voting "aye", authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with the City of Addison on the construction and maintenance of signal lights at Brookhaven Club Drive and Marsh Lane. AGENDA ITEM NO. 14. - CONSIDER REVISING AWARD MADE FCR GYM EQUIPMENT. Mayor Grimmer gave the following information: The totals on the bid tabula- tion sheet given at the last meeting were incorrect for the gym equipment. The individual prices for equipment were correct and the bid total should have been as follows: Vaughan and Associates in the amount of $2, 271. 76 Stephens Sporting Goods in the amount of $2, 561. 00 KSI Equipment, Inc, in the amount of $2, 670. 00 Vaughan and Associates was still the low bidder and involves increasing the approved expenditure by $490. 10. The figure approved by the Council for Stephens Sporting Goods in the amount of $765. 00 was correct. After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Council- man Dodd, all voting "aye", awarded the bid for the gym equipment to Vaughn and Associates for items # 1, 4, 5 and 6 in the amount of $2, 271. 76. MAYOR GRIMMER ANNOUNCED THAT THE ITEMS ON THE AGENDA FOR THE GENERAL SESSION HAVE BEEN CONCLUDED AND THERE ARE ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION IN EXECUTIVE SESSION. Mayor Grimmer explained that Article 6252-17, Section 2 of the open meeting law provided that such items as Personnel Matters and Land Acquisition may be discussed in closed session. AGENDA ITEM NO. 15. - EXECUTIVE SESSION. a. Discuss Personnel Matters Appointments to the Dangerous Building Board of Appeals were discussed. An appointment to the Library Board was discussed. b. Discuss Land Acquisition There was discussion on plans for property abutting Irondale Street and of the abandonment of Irondale Street. THE MEETING WAS OPENED BACK INTO GENERAL SESSION. Vol. 24, Page 63. A motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting "aye", reappointed Felix G. Ferrante, Thomas M. Prince and Nicholas Korba, Jr, to serve on the Dangerous Building Board of Appeals for a term to expire August 15, 1977, conditioned upon their acceptance of the appointment. A motion by Councilman Linn, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting "aye", appointed Cynthia Stanaland to serve on the Library Board for a term to expire May 6, 1976, conditioned upon the acceptance of the appointment. ADJOURNMENT. A motion by Councilman Quevreaux, a second by Councilman Linn, all voting "aye", adjourned the City Council meeting of August 4, 1975 at 9:55 P. M. . Ma or orge C. 0 immer City Secretary J. W. Wade Vol. 24, Page 64.