1977-02-21 CC MinutesCITY OF FARMERS BRANCH
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES OF A REGULAR. MEETING
February 21, 1977
The following City Council members were present:
Mayor George G. Grimmer
Mayor Pro Tem Bill Binford
Councilmen: John Dodd
Fred Johnson
Ken Quevreaux
The following City Council member was absent:
Councilman W. R. Linn
Councilman Linn's absence was recognized as an excused absence because
he was in the hospital.
The following members of the City
City Manager
City Attorney
City Secretary
Director of Staff Services
Secretary
Administration were present:
Paul M. West
Ray Hutchison
J. W. Wade
Glenn Moore
Ruth Ann Parish
Mayor Grimmer called the City Council meeting of February 21, 1977 to
order at 7:30 p.m. .
AGENDA ITEM NO. 1. -INVOCATION.
J. W. Wade gave the invocation.
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Johnson, all voting
"aye", declared an emergency and placed the following item on the agenda:
Agenda Item 15.A. - Consider Resolution Requesting the U. S. Postal
Service to Revise the Zip Code Boundaries and Establish Independent Post
Office for Farmers Branch.
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER. CHANGE REQUEST.
Mayor Grimmer announced that Mr. Logan Wright representing the request
in Agenda Item 8 (Specific Use Permit request for a Sonic Drive-In Restaurant),
had made a request that his item be placed at the beginning of the meeting
in order that he may leave to catch a plane for Oklahoma tonight.
A motion by Councilman Johnson, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting
"aye", replaced Agenda Item 8 to be considered after the approval of the
minutes.
Vol. 27, Page 117
AGENDA ITEM NO. 2. - APPROVAL OF MINUTES - February 7, 1977.
After consideration, a motion by Councilman Quevreaux, a second by
Councilman Binford, all voting "aye", approved the minutes of the City
Council meeting of February 7, 1977, as submitted.
ITEM CHANGE - AGENDA ITEM NO. 8. -PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER.
REQUEST OF SONIC DRIVE-INNS FOR A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR. A
DRIVE-INN RESTAURANT IN AN LR.-2 ZONING DISTRICT. PROPERTY
LOCATED ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF JOSEY LANE IMMEDIATELY
NORTH OF THE VICKER.'S SERVICE STATION.
Mayor Grimmer opened the public hearing to consider a request for a
Specific Use Permit to operate a Sonic Drive-Inn Restaurant to be located
on the east side of Josey Lane, north of Cooks Creek Drive and immediately
north of the Vicker's Service Station.
Mr. Logan Wright was present in behalf of the request.
Mayor Grimmer stated that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended
the Specific Use Permit be granted with the following two conditions:
1. A screening fence be placed around the refuse container.
2. Landscaping be required on the property in the areas noted
on the site plan dated February 14, 1977.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak
in favor of the request? No one spoke.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak
in opposition of the request? No one spoke.
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all
voting "aye", closed the public hearing.
Mr. Wright answered questions proposed by the members of the City
Council. Mr. Wright's answers concerned the following information:
The Sonic Drive-Inn is a franchise and is owned by four individuals.
Mr. Wright is the land-lord and one of the partners in the business.
A computerized market survey was taken on the proposed location and
proved very favorable. The anticipated investment of the business
to be built will be $140, 000. 00 on the land and $40, 000. 00 on the equip-
ment. The anticipated revenue is approximately $320, 000. 00 annually.
Patrons are to stay in their cars and no loitering will be permitted on
the premises. The manager will be trained to enforce the loitering policy
and if there are any problems the company will hire a security guard for
the location. Mr. Robert Dawson, who is in his late 401s, will be one
of the owners and manager of this particular restaurant. The hours of
operations are proposed to be: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM Sunday thru
Friday, and, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturdays. The business is aimed
toward family business. The drive-in is designed for outside car service
Vol. 27, Page 118.
with no inside eating facilities. The food will be served in disposable
containers and Left on the tray for employees to place in the trash
containers. The facility is designed so that traffic can circle around the
building. A request has not been presented to any nearby city for this
particular Sonic Drive-Inn facility.
Mr. Wright stated that there are approximately 40 drive-ins in Texas
and all facilities are staying open and making a profit.
Councilman Binford stated that he did not feel that this type of business
would be appropriate in this area. He is concerned about the loitering
on the premises and the trash problem it could create.
After more discussion, Councilman Johnson made a motion to approve
the request for a Specific Use Permit for a Sonic Drive-Inn Restaurant
on Josey Lane with the two conditions as recommended by the Planning
and Zoning Commission concerning: (1) a screening fence be placed
around the refuse container; and, (2) landscaping be required on the pro-
perty in the areas noted on the site plan dated February 14, 1977, by
adopting the following captioned Ordinance No. 1127:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS
AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, AS HERETOFORE AMENDED,
BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR A RESTAURANT
-WITH DRIVE-IN SERVICE IN AN LR-2 ZONING DISTRICT LOCATED
ON THE EAST SIDE OF JOSEY LANE 160 FEET NORTH OF THE
NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY OF COOKSCREEK PLACE; PROVIDING
A PENALTY OF FINE NOT TO EXCEED THE SUFI OF ($200. 00)
FOR. EACH OFFENSE AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Councilman Dodd seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3 to 2. The vote was: Councilman Quevreaux
and Councilman Binford voting "nay", and, Councilman Johnson and
Councilman Dodd voting "aye", with Mayor Grimmer voting "aye"
breaking the tie.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 3. - RECOGNITION OF SCOUT TROUPS
Mayor Grimmer recognized and welcomed Girl Scout Troup No. 133 and
Boy Scout Troup No. 433 who were present for the meeting.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 4. -PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD
Mayor Grimmer presented a five year service award to Douglas R. Redmon
of the Fire Department for his employment with the city.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 5. - INVITATION TO THE MEMBERS OF THE CITY
COUNCIL TO RIDE IN THE CLEAN-UP CAMPAIGN PARADE.
Mayor Grimmer extended an invitation rto tare members of the City Council
from the City Administration to ride in a parade scheduled for Saturday,
March 19, 1977 at 11:00 AM. The parade will kick off the Farmers Branch
Annual Clean-up Campaign. The Council will ride in a small train being
provided by Central Bank & Trust Company.
Vol. 27, Page 119.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 6. -CONSIDER. WATER. RATE ADJUSTMENT
TO COVER. ADDITIONAL CHARGES IMPOSED BY THE CITY OF
DALLAS.
City Manager Paul West explained that the City of Dallas adopted a
water rate ordinance increasing the water rates of the suburban cities
and because of this the City Administration has studied and prepared
some considerations to cover these additional charges. Mr. West
explained that at the last City Council meeting a chart was displayed
showing the Council what the effect the increased rates will have on the
city's water revenues and what the position of the city would be at the
end of this fiscal year. Mr. West stated that the chart was in error
at that time. A corrected chart was displayed and discussed by Mr.
West. The actual cash balance of 10/1/76 was a deficit of $59,461.88.
The actual revenues thru 2/1/77 are $455,167. 96. The actual expend-.-
ture thru 2/1/77 is $519,252.08. The actual cash balance as of 2/1/77
is a deficit of $123, 456.00. The estimated revenues for Feb., 1977
are $119, 200. 00. The estimated revenues for the balance of the year
are $1, 314, 690.00. The estimated expenditures for Feb., 1977 are
$144,100.00. The estimated expenditure for the balance of the year
is $1,287, 569. 00. The estimated cash balance as of September 30,
1977 is a deficit of $121,325. 00.
Mr. West presented three rate- proposals for the Council's consideration.
Proposed Rate # 1 Ordinance is basically an increase of $..12 per
` 1,000 gallons over the present rate. The city anticipates a
rate increase from the City of Dallas in excess of 09 per
1, 000 gallons. This ordinance will produce an estimated
increase in revenues of $123,056. 00 during the period March 1,
1977 thru September 30, 1977.
Proposed Rate #2 Ordinance is basically an increase of $.15 per
1, 000 gallons over our present rate. We estimate this rate will
increase our revenues by $125, 822. 00 during the period March 1,
1977 thru September 30, 1977.
Proposed Rate #3 Ordinance is basically an increase of $4. 00
per month on the minimum charge and an increase of 10 per
1, 000 gallons over the present rate. This rate is estimated
to produce an additional $129, 049.00.
Transparencies were displayed showing the comparisons of the various
rates.
Mr. West recommended Rate #3. Mr. West explained that either one
of the three rates will provide the necessary money to break even at
the end of this fiscal year, provided the usage consumptions are
estimated correctly.
Vol. 27, Page 120.
In discussion, it was pointed out by J. W. Wade, Finance Director, that
out of 7, 500 water connects approximately 1, 000 fall in the minimum or
below usage category.
Mayor Grimmer stated that provisions were needed to increase the water
revenues because already the operations such as the water tower
maintenance and customer services have been omitted,from the water
account.
City Manager stated that if the city did win the water rate case and
receive reimbursement from Dallas, these funds are anticipated to
be spent for the waterline replacement program, customer services
operation, and maintenance on the elevated storage tank.
Councilman Dodd stated he desired Rate #1 which is the least increase.
Councilman Binford stated that Rate #3 would effect the small user more.
Councilman Johnson stated he would like to see if Rate #3 could be
considered on the standpoint of retaining the $3. 00 minimum on the
first 2000 gallons and then charge $1. 025 per gallon for the next 8, 000
gallons which would produce exactly that $11.20 rate for 10, 000 gallons.
Councilman Dodd made a motion to adopt the following captioned
Ordinance No. 1130 with Rate #1 as discussed;
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS,
AMENDING SECTION 1 OF ORDINANCE NO. 1114, SETTING FORTH
THE MONTHLY RATES OR CHARGES FOR SERVICE BY THE WATER.
WORKS SYSTEM OF THE CITY FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF RESI-
DENTIAL DWELLINGS, BUSINESSES OR. COMMERCIAL ESTABLISH-
MENTS OR. COMBINATION THEREOF WHEN SUCH COMBINED
UNITS ARE TO BE CHARGED SEPARATELY FOR SERVICE;
AMENDING SECTION 2 OF ORDINANCE NO. 1114, THE
MONTHLY RATES OR CHARGES FOR SERVICES FURNISHED
BY THE SANITARY SEWER. SYSTEM FOR EACH BUSINESS,
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENT SHALL BE
BASED ON THE GALLONS OF WATER. USED AND WITH AN
ADDITIONAL $2.50 FOR EACH 50,000 GALLONS OR. PARTS
THEREOF USED; AMENDING SECTION 3 OF ORDINANCE NO.
1114, PROVIDING DISCOUNTS FOR. SINGLE BILLINGS; AND
PROVIDING THAT ALL OTHER PORTIONS OF ORDINANCE
NO. 1114 SHALL REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT.
Councilman Quevreaux seconded the motion.
After some discussion of having the rates reviewed September 1, 1977,
Councilman Dodd amended his motion to include, that the water rates
be reviewed by the Administration on September 1, 1977 to see if they
are as equitable or more equitable than what is proposed at this time.
Councilman Quevreaux who seconded the motion, accepted the amendment
to the motion.
Vol. 27,.Page 121.
The motion carried 3 to 2.
The vote was: Councilman Johnson and Councilman Binford voting "nay",
Councilman Dodd and Councilman Quevreaux voting "aye" with Mayor
Grimmer voting "aye" breaking the tie.
Mayor Grimmer stated that by adopting this ordinance the City Council
does not in any way agree to accept the rates the City of Dallas has
imposed by their ordinance.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 7. -PUBLIC HEARING: TO CONSIDER. REQUEST
FOR. ELECTRICAL RATE INCREASE BY TEXAS POWER. AND LIGHT
COMPANY.
Mayor Grimmer opened the public hearing to consider the request for
electrical rate increase by Texas Power & Light Company.
Mr. Charles Page, District Manager of Texas Power & Light in the
Farmers Branch office located at 14400 JoseY Lane, presented a request
for an electrical rate increase. In his presentation, Mr. Page stated
it was the objective of TP & L to assure the citizens of Farmers Branch,
not only to have adequate electric service now, but in the future and
that the citizens receive the service at a reasonable cost. Mr. Page
stated that TP&L is faced with problems which could have massive effect
not only on the liability of service in the future but also the cost of that
service, Mr, Page stated that TP&L's problem primarily centers
around fuel, not only in price but in availability also. Mr. Page stated
that the reason for the request for an increase is to support the
construction program of switching over from this fuel. He stated that
the Railroad Commission thru Docket 600 instructed them to get away
from using oil or gas in the future in their generators.
Mr. Page explained that after all their lignite is committed then they
must convert oil and gas to coal or whatever other fuel would be available
and at this point probably nuclear in the near future.
Mr. Page displayed and discussed slides concerning the following topics:
Fuel Costs of Texas Power & Light Company
Estimated Cost Savings to Customer from Use of Lignite
PerCent of Total Energy generated by Lignite
Total Projected Energy
Cost of New Generation Plant Facilities
Air Pollution Control Costs
TP&L Annual Construction Expenditures
Investment Per Customer
Times Earned Fixed Charges (Interest Coverage)
Embedded Interest Cost
Return on Average Book Value of Common Equity
Annual Construction Expenditures
Vol. 27, Page 122.
Mr. Page stated that TP&L is also seeking some accounting changes
that will help increase the internal generation of funds. The three
changes consist of eliminating allowance for funds during construction;
will increase their depreciation rate; and, will normalize taxes.
Mr. Page stated that if TP&L is to continue service to its people as it
has in the past, TP&L must have an increase in revenue.
He stated that TP&L had two choices; 1. ask, the customers to keep
their plant in action by granting this increase; 2. stop construction
and let the continued price of gas go on and put in a cost of fuel adjust-
ment.
Mr. Page requested the Council to study the request for the increase
very carefully.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the auidence wishing to
speak in favor of the request? No one spoke.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the auidence wishing to
speak in opposition to the request. The following spoke:
Mrs. Carol Dingman, 3605 Tanglewood Circle, opposed the request
for the increase and requested the Council to wait to grant any increase
to TP&L until the Public Utility Commission rules on TP&L rate in
unincorporated service areas. Mrs. Dingman gave figures on percentages
of various types of water users if the increase is granted. She compared
the rates of that of the Texas Power & Light Company, Dallas Power
& Light Company and the Texas Electric Service Company. She pointed
out that Texas Power & Light rates were the highest. Mrs. Dingman
presented the following items for consideration of study:
1. Proposal for an enterstate Electric Utility System
2. People Pricing - where customers pay a higher rate for
electricity at peak times.
3. Level Payment Plan - monthly equal payments
4. Exclusion of advertising, club dues, charity donations and
public information from the rate base.
Mr. Roger McMahon, 3332 Arawak, reviewed information from
Standard & Poors. He asked the Council to study all information available
before making a decision of raising the rates.
Mr. Basil Weaver, 2948 Primrose Lane, asked what were the profits
of Texas Utilities and how much of this profit comes from Farmers Branch.
How much of this construction cost going to be for Farmers Branch.
Mr. Page answered the questions that had been asked. Mr. Page stated
that the rates and all the material backing up the request are on file at
his office and at the city hall for the viewing of anyone who wishes to do so.
Vol. 27, Page 123.
After more discussion of the Council desiring to receive the study by
the Touche Ross and Company, which is being conducted through the
Texas Municipal League, on the Texas Po«vcr & Light rate increase
request, Councilman Binford made a motion that the public hearing
be continued for a review and analysis by and a recommendation of
the City Manager, and that the City Manager in connection with
such review is authorized to require that such other information be
furnished as he shall deem necessary on both a system-wide and an
allocated basis; and, that during period of such review the suspension
of rates ordered by this Council at the January 17th meeting shall be
continued and that the final public hearing on this matter shall be held
and conducted by this Council at a regular or special meeting to be
held not later than May 2nd, 1977.
Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The motion carried with
all voting "aye".
AGENDA ITEM NO. 13 -REQUEST FOR. DISCUSSION AT THIS TIME.
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Binford, all voting
"aye", approved the request of Mr. Don Hammond to discuss at this time
the request of Central Bank for site plan approval.
CONSIDER. REQUEST OF CENTRAL BANK AND TRUST COMPANY
FOR. SITE PLAN APPROVAL FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED NEST
OF JOSEY LANE AND SOUTH OF VALLEY VIEW LANE.
Mr. Don Hammond of Central Bank & Trust Company presented a request
for site plan approval for an addition to the bank. Mr. Hammond stated
the bank would like to increase their building at 12875 Josey Lane by
adding an approximate 19, 000 sq. ft. two story building. He stated that
the addition would be on the south and west side of the existing building,
and that the exterior will be coordinated with that of the new drive-in
facility.
Mr. Hammond stated that Central Bank has purchased additional property
to the north of the bank for additional parking. The existing parking area
south of the bank will be used for customer parking and the employee
parking will be to the north of the auto bank.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the site plan be
approved.
After a brief discussion, a motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Council-
man Quevreaux, all voting "aye", approved the site plan as submitted by
Central Bank & Trust Company for the property at 12875 Joseyy Lane.
Vol. 27, Page 124.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 9. -PUBLIC HEARING: TO CONSIDER. REQUEST FOR.
SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR LAWN MOWER AND/OR BICYCLE SALES,
SERVICE AND REPAIR. IN AN LR.-2 ZONING DISTRICT. REQUESTED BY
DAVID SALISBURY FOR THE PROPERTY AT 14000 JOSEY LANE.
Mayor Grimmer opened the public hearing to consider a request for a Specific
Use Permit for a lawn mower and/or bicycle sales, service and repair use
in an LR-2 Zoning District. The location is at 14000 Josey Lane.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the Specific Use Permit
be granted with the condition that a screening fence be installed and maintained
as shown on the site plan.
Mr. David Salisbury was present in behalf of his request . He stated that
he was agreeable to the condition of the recommendation of the Planning
and Zoning Commission.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak
in favor of the request? No one spoke.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to
speak in opposition to the request? No one spoke.
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all
voting "aye", closed the public . hearing.
After some consideration, a motion by Councilman Quevreaux, a second
by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", adopted the following captioned
Ordinance No. 1128:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS,
AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH AS HERETOFORE AMENDED
BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR. A LAWN MOWER.
REPAIR. AT 14000 JOSI~(LANE IN A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
DISTRICT NO. 3 ALLOWING LR.-2 USES; PROVIDING FOR
SPECIAL CONDITIONS; PROVIDING A PENALTY OF FINE NOT
TO EXCEED THE SUM OF ($200. 00) FOR. EACH OFFENSE AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
iI
Vol. 27, Page 12 5-
AGENDA ITEM NO. 10-PUBLIC HEARING: TO CONSIDER. REQUEST
FOR. SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR AN INSIDE PAPER SORTING AND
BAILING FOR. RECYCLING USE IN A LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ZONING
DISTRICT. REQUESTED BY HOYT MATISE REAL ESTATE COMPANY
FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 14041 DISTRIBUTION WAY.
Mayor Grimmer opened the public hearing to consider a request for a
Specific Use Permit for an inside paper sorting and bailing for recycling
use in a Light Industrial Zoning District for the property located at
14041 Distribution Way.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the Specific Use
Permit be granted with the two following conditions:
1. Interior doors between buildings be closed in a suitable manner.
2. A door be cut into the front of the building so that delivery of
paper by autos and pick ups will be accepted inside the building.
Mr. Dick Getter who will be the operator of the facility was present in
behalf of the request.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to
speak in favor of the request? No one spoke.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to
speak in opposition to the request? No one spoke in opposition.
Mrs. Carol Dingman, 3605 Tanglewood Circle, asked Mr. Getter if they
would take paper and magazines from individuals if brought to the facility.
Mr. Getter stated that they would welcome anyone who wished to contribute
their papers.
A motion by Councilman Quevreaux, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting
"aye", closed the public hearing.
IF
Vol. 27, Page 126.
After some discussion and of Mr. Getter assuring the Council they
would keep the papers off the streets, a motion by Councilman Quevreaux,
a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", adopted the following
captioned Ordinance No. 1126, as recommended by the Planning and
Zoning Commission:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS,
AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF FAR.NIER.S BRANCH AS HERETOFORE AMENDED,
BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR. A PAPER.
RECYCLING PLANT LOCATED AT 14041 DISTRIBUTION WAY
IN A LIGHT INDUSTRIAL ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS; PROVIDING A PENALTY OF FINE NOT
TO EXCEED THE SUM , OF ($200. 00) DOLLARS FOR. EACH
OFFENSE AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 11. PUBLIC HEARING: TO CONSIDER. AMENDING
SECTION 9-502 OF THE CITY ZONING ORDINANCE "SPECIAL FRONT
YARD R.EGULA TIONS .
Mayor Grimmer opened the public hearing to consider amending Section
9-502 of the City Zoning Ordinance, "Special Front Yard Regulations".
Mayor Grimmer gave the following information from a memo to the City
Council from the City Administration:
The Planning and Zoning Commission has held a public hearing to consider
amending Section 9-502 of the city zoning ordinance by adding a paragraph
to read as follows:
In the R.-1, R.-2, R.-3, R.-4, R.-5, R.-6, D-1 and D-2 zoning
districts, no building, structure, fence or paved parking area
shall hereafter be located, erected or placed in the required
front yard unless allowed by other ordinances of the city.
Driveways, circular driveways, landscaping, shall be allowed
within the required front ,yard.
The proposed amendment will require uses such as churches, kindergartens,
etc. which are located in residential zones to maintain a front yard similar
to residential homes. The amendment will not allow paving of front yards
for parking, but will allow driveways, circular driveways, landscaping,
groundcover and other items allowed by city ordinances within the required
front ,yard.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to
speak in favor of the amendment to the zoning ordinance? No one spoke.
Mayor Grimmer asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to
speak in opposition to the amendment to the zoning ordinance ? No one,s poke.
There being no one wishing to speak on this consideration, a motion by
Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting "aye",
closed the public hearing.
Vol. 27, Page 127
There was Council discussion of the definition of front ,yard. City
Manager stated that the definition of the various zoning districts was
described in the zoning ordinance.
Mr. Basil Weaver, member of the Planning and Zoning Commission,
stated he believed the ordinance was proposed because of objections
raised when a church on Webb Chapel provided parking facilities in
in front of the church.
After some discussion that the ordinance would prohibit certain structures
being placed in front ,yards, a motion by Councilman Binford, a second
by Councilman Johnson, all voting "aye", adopted the following captioned
Ordinance No. 1129:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS,
AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH AS HERETOFORE AMENDED; BY
.AMENDING SECTION 9-502, BY ADDING PARAGRAPH (M),
TO RESTRICT BUILDINGS, STRUCTURES, FENCES AND
IMPROVED PARKING FROM BEING BUILT OR. MAINTAINED IN
THE FRONT YARD IN R-1, R-2, R.-3, R.-4, R.-5, RT-6, D-1 AND D-2
ZONING DISTRICTS; PROVIDING A PENALTY OF FINE NOT
TO EXCEED TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS ($200.00); AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 12. -CONSIDER AMENDING THE BUILDING CODE
TO REQUIRE AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS IN ALL
BUILDINGS THREE (3) STORIES OR MORE IN HEIGHT.
The following information was given to the City Council in a memo from
the City Administration:
On November 1, 1976 a public hearing was held to consider the proposed
amendment. Since that date a committee of developers and city staff
have met with representatives of fire protection, architectural, insurance
and construction industries. A compromise proposal has been agreed
upon.
The committee recommended that the building code be amended to read
as follows:
Approved automatic extinguishing systems shall be installed
in all multi-story buildings three (3) stories or more in height;
except, that buildings classified as office buildings will be
exempt from the requirement when less than fifty-two (52)
feet in height and/or when less than five (5) stories in height.
The fifty-two (52) foot height limitation shall not include
penthouses and parapet wails.
Mr. Fritz New of Baldwin Harris expressed appreciation to the City Council
Z for having had the opportunity of serving on the committee with the city
staff to come up with a workable solution which the committee feel will
be acceptable to any developer.
Vol. 27, Page 128.
After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Binford, a second
by Councilman Dodd, all voting "aye", adopted the following captioned
Ordinance No. 1124:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS
AMENDING THE BUILDING CODE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS
BRANCH BY AMENDING CHAPTER. 38, FIRE EXTINGUISHING
SYSTEMS, OF THE 1973 EDITION OF THE UNIFORM BUILDING
CODE BY AMENDING SECTION 3802(b), AUTOMATIC FIRE
EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS WHERE REQUIRED BY ADDING
PARAGRAPH NUMBER. 12, REQUIRING APPROVED AUTO-
MATIC EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS TO BE INSTALLED IN
ALL MULTI-STORY BUILDINGS THREE (3) STORIES OR.
MORE IN HIEGHT; EXCEPT, THAT BUILDINGS CLASSIFIED
AS OFFICE BUILDINGS WILL BE EXEMPT FROM THE
REQUIREMENT WHEN LESS THAN FIFTY-TWO (52) FEET
IN HEIGHT AND/ OR. WHEN LESS THAN FIVE (5) STORIES
IN HEIGHT. THE FIFTY-TWO (52) FOOT HEIGHT LIMITA-
TION SHALL NOT INCLUDE PENTHOUSES AND PARAPET
WALLS; PROVIDING FOR. A PENALTY OF FINE NOT
EXCEEDING TWO HUNDRED ($200. 00) DOLLARS FOR,
EACH OFFENSE, AND CREATING AN EMERGENCY.
After more discussion, Councilman Johnson requested the City Manager
to contact the property owners and/or operators of the two non conforming
(in the height regulation just adopted) buildings existing in Farmers
Branch, and discuss the safety and encourage volunteer compliance of
this new amendment to the building code.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 14. -CONSIDER. RESOLUTION OPPOSING PROPOSED
LEGISLATION TO INCREASE THE WEIGHT OF CONCRETE TRUCKS ON
PUBLIC HIGHWAYS.
Mayor Grimmer gave the following information from a memo to the City
Council from the City Administration:
The present legal load limit for the tandem axle of a truck or trailer
is 32000 lbs. Legislation has been proposed which would increase this
limit to 44000 lbs. on the tandem axles of trucks hauling transit-mix
concrete. Loads of this magnitude are far above those used in the
design of city streets. It is not reasonable to raise our design standards
to accommodate such loads.
After some discussion, a motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by
Councilman Johnson, all voting "aye", adopted Resolution No. 77-013
which opposes proposed legislation that will permit an increase in the
legal load limit of trucks operating on city streets.
Vol. 27, Page 129.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 15. -CONSIDER. RESOLUTION CONCERNING
FINANCING OF THE SOUTHWESTERN INSTITUTE OF FORENSIC
SCIENCES CRIME LABAR.ATOR.Y.
The following information was given to the City Council from the City
Administration:
The Dallas County Commissioners have notified the Mayors of all Dallas
County cities announcing a new policy which involves charges for tests
made in the Crime Lab effective March 1, 1977.
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Binford, all
voting "aye", adopted Resolution No. 77-012 which opposes fees to be
charged to cities for tests made in the Crime Lab that has been proposed
the County of Dallas.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 15.A. -CONSIDER. RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE
U. S. POSTAL SERVICE TO REVISE THE ZIP CODE BOUNDARIES AND
ESTABLISH INDEPENDENT POST OFFICE FOR. FARMERS BRANCH.
Councilman Dodd requested that this item be placed on the agenda.
Councilman Dodd read Resolution No. 77-014, which had been prepared
by the City Administration for consideration, requesting help from
Representative Collins, Senator Tower and Senator Bentsen to encourage
the United States Postal Service to change the boundaries of zip code
area 75234 to coincide with the city limits of Farmers Branch.
After some discussion of making a change in the resolution to read
"one or more zip codes" instead of "zip code area 75234", a motion
by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting
"aye", adopted Resolution No. 77-014 with the change as discussed.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 16. -CONSIDER. AUTHORIZING THE ADVERTISEMENT
FOR BIDS FOR. FENCING MATERIALS.
The following information was given to the City Council in a memo from the
City Administration:
Plans for the construction of two daylight 60 foot baseball-softball fields
at Pepper Park are substantially complete. These fields will be back to
back with concession and bleacher area, to provide adequate tournment
type baseball-softball facilities. The estimated cost of fencing for the
backstops and outfield fencing will be approximately $5, 000.
A motion by Councilman Binford, a second by Councilman Dodd, all voting
"aye", authorized the City Administration to advertise for bids for fencing
materials for Pepper Park.
Mr. Drew Humbert requested the city to spend the money for fixing the
grounds for ball fields instead of buying fencing.
Mr. John Glasschroeder stated he feels that lighting the fields is the most
needed priority rather than the fencing.
Vol. 27, Page 130.
Mayor Grimmer asked if either one had made their desires known
to the Sports Council and/or the Parks and Recreation Board.
After more discussion of Mr. Humbert and Mr. Glasschroeder making
their requests known to the Parksand Recreation Board, a motion by
Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Johnson, all voting "aye",
rescinded the action of the City Council on the previous motion of
advertising for bids for fencing materials for Pepper Park; and,
referred this question to the Parks and Recreation Board for their
recommendation.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 17. -DISCUSS CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATES
FOR. MARCH.
After discussion of the possibility of four members of the City Council
attending the National League of Cities meeting in Washington during
the time of the next regular Council meeting, a motion by Councilman
Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all voting "aye", set the
date of March 21 as the only meeting date in the month of March.
OTHER. COMMENTS.
Mr. John Glasschroeder questioned the Athletic Facility Policy whereas
in order to participate on Farmers Branch athletic fields, a player must
live in, work in, go to school in, or go to church in Farmers Branch.
Mr. Glasschroeder wanted to know how the city intends on enforcing
this policy, at what point is an athletic organization in compliance,
and does it have to be 10016 or what ?
Mr. Drew Humbert also questioned the policy enforcement.
The Council discussed with Mr. Glasschroeder and Mr. Humbert the
procedure they are following at this time in regards to this policy.
There was discussion among the Council members of requesting the
Parks and Recreation Board to study this policy and recommend
alternative solutions; Also the Administration to study the policy.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 9. - ORDINANCE CORRECTION.
Attorney Ray Hutchison informed the Council that in Agenda Item No. 9,
the Ordinance No. 1128 adopted did not accomplish the items in the request
of Mr. Salisbury. The ordinance adopted simply authorizes lawn mower
repairs. Mr. Hutchison corrected the ordinance to accomplish the request
of Mr. Salisbury.
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all
voting "aye", reconsidered and corrected Ordinance No. 1128.
A motion by Councilman Dodd, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all
voting "aye", adopted the following captioned Ordinance No. 1128 as
corrected:
Vol. 27, Page 131.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH,
TEXAS AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH AS
HERETOFORE AMENDED BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE
PERMIT FOR. A LAWN MOWER. AND/OR. BICYCLE SALE,
SERVICE AND REPAIR. SHOP AT 14000 JOSEY LANE IN
A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 3 ALLOWING
LR -2 USES; PROVIDING FOR. SPECIAL CONDITIONS;
PROVIDING A PENALTY OF FINE NOT TO EXCEED THE
SUM OF $200. 00 FOR. EACH OFFENSE AND DECLARING
AN EMERGENCY.
MAYOR. GRIMMER. ANNOUNCED THAT THE ITEMS ON THE AGENDA
FOR. THE GENERAL SESSION HAD BEEN CONCLUDED. AFTER. A
SHORT RECESS THE COUNCIL WILL RECONVENE FOR. ITEMS IN
THE EXECUTIVE SESSION. THE MEETING WILL RECONVENE
INTO GENERAL SESSION AFTER. THE ITEMS HAVE BEEN DISCUSSED
IN THE EXECUTIVE SESSION.
Mayor Grimmer explained that Article 6252-17, Section 2 of the Open
Meeting Law provided that such items as personnel matters, land
acquisition and pending and contemplated litigation may be discussed
in closed session.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 18. - EXECUTIVE SESSION
a. Discuss Personnel Matters
City Manager Paul West discussed the personnel procedure for the
scheduling, lighting and maintenance of the athletic fields.
d. Discuss Land Acquisition
Attorney Ray Hutchison presented an offer from the Attorneys of
Robert Moses for the 30' x 104' right-of-way needed for finishing the
paving of Alpha Road.
d. Discuss Pending and Contemplated Litigation
City Manager Paul West gave a status report on the Water Rate Case.
THE MEETING RECONVENED INTO GENERAL SESSION.
"d. Action of Council on the discussion of Land Acquisition in Executive Session.
A motion by Councilman Quevreaux, a second by Councilman Johnson, all
voting "aye", authorized the City Manager to execute such contracts that
may be necessary to accomplish the offer of Robert Moses for the
needed right-of-way for the paving on a portion of Alpha Road, as indicated
in the letter dated February 11, 1977 from the attorneys of Robert Moses.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 19. ADJOURNMENT.
A motion by Councilman Binford, a second by Councilman Quevreaux, all
voting "aye", adjourned the City Council meeting of February 21, 1977 at
11:15 P.M..
Vol. 27, Page 132.
Ma or Geor e G Grimmer
City Secreta.r,y
J
Vol. 27, Page '133.