2005-06-11 CC MinutesCity of Farmers Branch
_ City Council Regular Meeting Agenda
City Hall Plaza
13000 William Dodson Parkway
Farmers Branch, Texas
Monday, July 11, 2005
7:30 P.M.
The following members of the City Council were present:
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tem
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem
Councilmembers
Bob Phelps
Charlie Bird
Ben Robinson
Junie Smith
Tim O'Hare
Bill Moses
The following members of the Administration were present:
City Manager
Linda Groomer
Assistant City Manager
Mary Jane Stevenson
Assistant City Manager
Greg Vick
City Attorney
Doug Conner
City Secretary
Cindee Peters
Assistant to the City Manager
John Roach
Director of Economic Division
Norma Nichols Reed
Finance Director
Charles Cox
Director of Public Works
Mark Pavageaux
Director of Community Services
Michael Spicer
Director of Parks and Recreation
Jeff Fuller
Police Chief
Chief Fawcett
Deputy Fire Chief of Operations
Ronnie Inman
Library Director
Danita Barber
City Engineer
Jerry Murawski
Director of Communications
Tom Bryson
Director of Equipment Services
Don Moore
Recording Secretary
Suzanne Reynolds
Mayor Phelps called the City Council meeting of July 11, 2005 to order at 7:30
p.m. The meeting was televised.
A.1 INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
Councilman Moses gave the invocation, and Scout William Lancaster from Troop
No. 874, who is working on his Communications Badge, led the pledge of
allegiance.
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A.2 PROCLAIM JULY 11, 2005 AS APPRECIATION DAY FOR THE
DOUBLETREE HOTEL DALLAS NEAR THE GALLERIA.
Mayor Phelps explained that the Doubletree Hotel Dallas/Farmers Branch was the
host caterer for the Meeting Professionals International, Inc. May event at the Dr
Pepper StarCenter in Farmers Branch. They generously donated their staff time
and labor, offered tremendous discounts on their fantastic meal and served over
200 meeting industry professionals with excellent quality food and service. The
Doubletree Hotel went "above and beyond" to ensure that the first event on
covered ice at the City's new Dr Pepper StarCenter was a huge success.
Mayor Phelps read and presented a proclamation to General Manager John
Yeung, Director of Sales Sharon Butler and Director of Catering Fran Challahan
with a proclamation proclaiming July 11, 2005 as "Appreciation Day for the
Doubletree Hotel Dallas."
A.3 PRESENT PROCLAMATION TO MARGARET COMPTON CELEBRATING
HER 25 YEARS OF VOLUNTEER SERVICE TO THE MANSKE LIBRARY
AND HER 2005 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM THE
NORTHEAST TEXAS LIBRARY SYSTEM.
Mayor Phelps stated that Margaret Compton began volunteering for the Manske
Library in 1980. Over the years, she has helped with many major projects
including the periodic inventory of the library collection and bar coding materials
in preparation for the conversion from the old card catalog to the online system.
She regularly processes new materials for checkout to the public, mends books in
need of repair and helps with shelving the materials.
She is an excellent seamstress and has sewn costumes, puppets, stuffed animals,
wall hangings and pillows for the Library's Youth Services area. Margaret has
also created crafts and games for children's programs. One year, she even made a
wedding gown for a library employee!
Margaret averages about 15 hours per week volunteering at the Library and
cheerfully takes on any task given her. She regularly brings homemade treats for
the staff and makes dozens of cookies and other items to help with the Friends of
the Library semi-annual book sales, at which she works as a cashier.
Margaret and her husband, Jud, are world-class benefactors for the Library with
many gifts throughout the years of toys and books for young patrons to enjoy.
When she spots a need, Margaret is always there to donate materials to augment
the Library's collection.
Margaret was honored as the 2005 Northeast Texas Library System Volunteer of
the Year for cities serving a population over 12,000 at an awards ceremony on
June 15. The Northeast Texas Library System is one of 10 regional library
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systems that serve public libraries in Texas. Manske Library is a member of the
Northeast Texas Library System along with approximately 200 other public
libraries in the region. The System members noted that Margaret's amazing
energy, talent and commitment are truly inspirational to the library staff, her
fellow volunteers and the Farmers Branch community.
Mayor Phelps read and presented a proclamation to Margaret Compton
celebrating her 25 years of volunteer service to the Manske Library and for her
2005 Volunteer of the Year award from the Northeast Texas Library System.
A.4 CONSIDER PROCLAIMING JULY AS PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH
IN FARMERS BRANCH AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. In conjunction with the
nationally recognized observation of July as Parks and Recreation month, the
Parks and Recreation Department requests that the City Council proclaim July as
Parks and Recreation Month in Farmers Branch. The City of Farmers Branch,
along with over 4,000 other cities across the nation, will celebrate this special
occasion with activities to help citizens enjoy this month. In addition to usual
classes, leagues, and activities, the department will feature the following events:
• July 1, Independence Celebration was held at the Senior Center
• July 3, Independence Day event was held at the Historical Park with a
concert and fireworks
• July 15-23, Farmers Branch Little League Tournament
• July 28-30, Prime Time Sports National Basketball Tournament
• July 22-24, King Tut Soccer Tournament
• July 23, Senior Volleyball Play Day Tournament at the Community
Recreation Center
• Numerous Summer Funshine Program and Senior Center participant field
trips.
Mayor Phelps read and presented a proclamation to Margaret Young, Parks and
Recreation Board Chair representing the Board.
Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Fuller announced that they had just received
notice that Ms. Young had been selected to receive the prestigious Ralph C.
Wilson Award at the National Recreation and Parks Association Conference in
San Antonio in October.
A.5 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD - LANE HENDERSON OF THE
FIRE DEPARTMENT - 15 YEARS.
Mayor Phelps presented a 15-year employee service award to Lane Henderson
with the Farmers Branch Fire Department.
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A.6 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD - TONY DERRICK OF THE PARKS
AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT - 10 YEARS.
Mayor Phelps presented a 10-year employee service award to Tony Derrick with
the Parks and Recreation Department.
A.7 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD - PAUL MATTSON OF THE
COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT - 5 YEARS.
Mayor Phelps presented a 5-year employee service award to Paul Mattson with
the Community Services Department.
A.8 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD - HECTOR LOPEZ OF THE
PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT - 5 YEARS.
Mayor Phelps presented a 5-year employee service award to Hector Lopez with
the Parks and Recreation Department.
A.9 PRESENTATION OF BOARD APPLICATIONS.
There were no applications presented.
A.10 REPORT ON STUDY SESSION ITEMS.
Mayor Phelps and City Council gave a brief summary of the items discussed in
Study Session.
B.0 CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING AS CONSENT ITEMS AND TAKE
APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps stated consent items are items that are to be considered that may
not need discussion individually. Any member of the City Council or the
audience may request to withdraw any item from the consent items and place the
item before the Council for full discussion. The concept for consent items is to
speed up discussion for those items that need more time for discussion.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bird, seconded by Deputy Mayor Pro Tern
Robinson, all voting "aye," approved the Consent Agenda as submitted.
B.1 APPROVED MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 13,
2005.
B.2 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2005-080, IMPLEMENTING THE
NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
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B.3 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2005-085 APPROVING A PARTIAL
RELEASE OF COVENANTS TO A DEVELOPER'S CONTRACT
RELATIVE TO THE GREAT INDOORS ADDITION.
B.4 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2005-088 AWARDING BIDS FOR THE
ANNUAL PROCUREMENT OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL MATERIALS
AND EQUIPMENT.
B.5 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2005-070 NOMINATING ESSILOR
USA AS AN ENTERPRISE ZONE PROJECT.
C.1 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION.
There was no citizen participation.
C.2 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER ADOPTING ORDINANCE NO. 2821
APPROVING THE REQUEST BY LINDA HADDOCK FOR A SPECIFIC USE
PERMIT TO ALLOW A BEAUTY SHOP AND A 63 SQUARE FOOT
MONUMENT SIGN AT 13545 WEBB CHAPEL ROAD, WITHIN THE
OFFICE ZONING DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The subject property is
improved with a 4,700 square foot, one story building. The existing building was
previously used as a medical office. Proposed improvements to the property
include replacement of the existing monument sign with a larger, updated
monument sign and installation of eight additional trees in front of the building.
The proposed monument sign is comparable in size with nearby existing
monument signs along Webb Chapel Road. The additional trees will bring the
site into conformance with current zoning standards. No exterior changes to the
building are proposed.
The beauty shop use and the monument sign both require approval of a specific
use permit in the Office zoning district.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
requested specific use permit, including the associated site plan drawings.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing.
John Wells, 13521 Heartside Place, expressed his concerns regarding the
proposed 63 square foot monument sign.
Mayor Pro Tem Bird commented the sign was comparable to existing signs in the
area.
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A motion by Councilman Moses, seconded by Councilwoman Smith, all voting
"aye," closed the public hearing.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bird, seconded by
Councilman O'Hare, all voting "aye," adopted the following captioned Ordinance
No. 2821 approving the specific use permit, including the associated site plan
drawings 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 FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS, BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC
USE PERMIT TO ALLOW A BEAUTY SHOP AND A 63 SQUARE FOOT
SIGN LOCATED AT 13545 WEBB CHAPEL ROAD WITHIN THE
OFFICE (O) ZONING DISTRICT; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY OF FINE NOT TO EXCEED THE
SUM OF TWO THOUSAND ($2,000.00) DOLLARS; PROVIDING FOR
INJUNCTIVE RELIEF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
C.3 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER ADOPTING ORDINANCE NO. 2822
APPROVING THE REQUEST BY NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS FOR A
SPECIFIC USE PERMIT TO ALLOW AN APPPROXIMATE 18-FOOT
EXTENSION OF AN EXISTING 90-FOOT TALL MONOPOLE TOWER, THE
ADDITION OF 12 ANTENNA PANELS AT A HEIGHT OF 99 FEET AND AN
ASSOCIATED 230 SQUARE-FOOT EQUIPMENT SHELTER AT THE BASE
OF THE TOWER, LOCATED AT 14400 JOSEY LANE AND WITHIN THE
LOCAL RETAIL-2 ZONING DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. This application proposes
installation of an 18-foot extension to the existing monopole tower, 12 antenna
panels in a triangular array at a height of 99 feet, and the addition of an associated
equipment shelter at the base of the tower. The subject site is within the
approximately one-acre TXU service center compound at 14400 Josey Lane.
There is an adjacent, existing Verizon Wireless antenna system with 9 triangular-
configured antenna panels on a 90-foot tall monopole tower and an associated
equipment shelter at its base.
The trees and shrubs designated on the approved landscape plan for the existing
Verizon Wireless antenna system provide visual screening of the subject site from
residential properties and public view. However, the current landscaping on site
does not conform to the approved landscape plan due to spaces within the rows of
shrubs, likely caused by death and non-replacement of the shrubs. There is no
automatic irrigation system for the existing landscaping.
The application proposes to replace the missing plant material and add 15 live oak
street trees along Hollandale Lane and 3 live oak street trees along Josey Lane to
compensate for the additional height of the monopole and to help foster an
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increased urban ambiance for the neighborhood adjacent to the site. An automatic
irrigation system is also being proposed.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
proposed specific use permit, including the associated site plan drawings, with the
following conditions:
1. Within sixty days of approval of this specific use permit and before issuance
of a certificate of occupancy for operation of the proposed antenna
installation, the landscaping materials and irrigation system shall be installed
in accordance with the landscape plan and the improvements inspected by
staff.
2. The owners of the monopole, attached antenna systems, equipment cabinets,
and all associated appurtenances, at such time that any of those items become
obsolete and/or abandoned, shall remove said items within ninety days of
receipt of written notice from the City.
Since the Planning and Zoning Commission hearing, the applicant learned of a
federal permitting requirement that may likely add more time for installation of
landscaping and irrigation. Therefore, condition number 1 has been modified
with a mutually acceptable flexible compliance format. The amended condition
number 1 is:
1. Before utility release for operation of the proposed antenna installation, the
landscaping materials and irrigation system shall be installed in accordance
with the landscape plan and the improvements inspected by staff.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing. No comments were presented.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bird, seconded by Councilwoman Smith, all voting
"aye," closed the public hearing.
There being no discussion, a motion by, Councilman Robinson seconded by
Councilman O'Hare, all voting "aye," adopted the following captioned Ordinance
No. 2822 approving the specific use permit including the associated site plan
drawings, and repealing Ordinance No. 2770, with the conditions recommended
by the Planning and Zoning Commission and with the conditions recommended
by the Planning and Zoning Commission as amended by staff.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH,
TEXAS, AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH,
TEXAS, BY REPEALING ORDINANCE NUMBER 2770 AND
BY GRANTING A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT TO ALLOW AN
18-FOOT EXTENSION TO AN EXISTING 90-FOOT TALL
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MONOPOLE TOWER, COLLOCATION OF TWELVE
ADDITIONAL CELLULAR ANTENNA PANELS TO BE
MOUNTED AT A HEIGHT OF 99 FEET ON THE TOWER
AND A 230 SQUARE-FOOT EQUIPMENT SHELTER AT THE
BASE OF THE TOWER LOCATED ON AN
APPROXIMATELY 1.03-ACRE TRACT AT 14400 JOSEY
LANE, WITHIN THE LOCAL RETAIL-2 ZONING DISTRICT;
PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING
A PENALTY OF FINE NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF TWO
THOUSAND ($2,000.00) DOLLARS; PROVIDING FOR
INJUNCTIVE RELIEF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
D.l CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-090 AWARDING AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO CONTRACTS
FOR EMPLOYEE AND RETIREE INSURANCE AND BENEFIT
PROGRAMS, INCLUDING HEALTH, MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT, DENTAL,
LONG-TERM DISABILITY INSURANCES AND HEALTH SAVINGS
ACCOUNT AND FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT/SECTION 125
ADMINISTRATION AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The City offers a competitive
employee benefits package. The plan currently provides core insurance benefits
including: major medical, life and accidental death & dismemberment, long-term
disability, and flexible spending accounts. Employees are responsible for paying
a portion of the coverage and the City also offers a number of other optional or
voluntary coverages that employees may elect at their cost. Contracts for the
employee benefits package expire on September 30, 2005.
An employee committee was used to formulate recommendations to the City
Manager for major medical insurance (for employees and retirees under age 65),
dental care and long-term disability benefits. The committee consisted of
representatives from each department and their recommendations were submitted
to the City Manager and endorsed for presentation to the Mayor and Council.
A total of 20 proposals were received and opened for six lines of insurance
coverage and third party administration services. The coverage and third party
administrative services proposals were for: major medical, Medicare supplement,
dental, and long-term disability coverages, and for the administration of Health
Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending /Section 125 Accounts.
Staff recommends:
• UnitedHealthcare as the major medical insurance provider and Health Savings
Account administrator for employees and retirees under age 65;
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• American Association of Retired Persons, or AARP, for Medicare supplement
coverage;
• Guardian as the dental care insurance provider;
• Jefferson Pilot as the long-term disability provider; and
• MGIS continuing Section 125/Flexible Spending administration with the
current carrier.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilwoman Smith, seconded
by Councilman Moses, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2005-090
authorizing the City Manager to enter into contracts for employee benefits with
United Healthcare, American Association of Retired Persons, Guardian Life
Insurance Company of America, Jefferson Pilot, and MGIS.
D.2 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-087 APPROVING A
MASTER AGREEMENT AND A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH
DALLAS COUNTY RELATIVE TO THE VALLEY VIEW WIDENING
PROJECT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The widening of Valley View
Lane from Nicholson Road to the bridge over the Elm Fork of the Trinity River is
budgeted in the 2004-05 Capital Improvement Program, DART Local Assistance
Program Fund. The estimated cost is $2,520,000. The street is presently a four-
lane divided thoroughfare. The project proposes to make Valley View Lane a six-
lane thoroughfare by adding one new inside lane in each direction. The addition
of the new lanes will reduce the median width from its current thirty-three feet to
thirteen feet, which is the typical median width throughout the City. Dallas
County has proposed to provide $520,000 for the project.
In order for Dallas County to provide funding, two agreements are proposed.
They are a Master Agreement and the Project Supplemental Agreement. The
Master Agreement sets forth the general provisions for Dallas County to
participate in any eligible transportation improvement. The Supplemental
Agreement establishes the specific provisions associated with the widening of
Valley View Lane from Nicholson Road to the Elm Fork of the Trinity River.
The DART Local Assistance Program was originally created in 1989 to return to
DART member cities a portion of the sales tax collected in each city to make
eligible mobility improvements. Between 1989 and 2004, DART allocated over
$23,000,000 in funds to Farmers Branch that have been used to help fund many
projects such as widening Midway Road and the reconstruction of Josey Lane,
Valwood Parkway, and Brookhaven Club Drive. The last year for the DART
LAP program was 2004.
Pending approval of the agreements by the City Council, the Valley View
Widening project is scheduled to begin in October 2005 and be completed in
twelve months.
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There being no discussion, a motion by Councilwoman Smith, seconded by
Councilman O'Hare all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2005-087
approving a Master Agreement and a Supplemental Agreement with Dallas
County relative to the Valley View Widening project.
D.3 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-078 AWARDING THE BID
FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF MERCER PARKWAY FROM VALLEY
VIEW LANE TO 300 FEET EAST OF LUNA ROAD TO TISEO PAVING
COMPANY AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Mercer Parkway is a new
street to be constructed from the President George Bush Turnpike ramps at Valley
View Lane to 300 feet east of Luna Road. The construction is budgeted in the
amount of $3,295,000 in the 2004-05 Amended Capital Improvement Program,
Tax Increment Financing District No. 1 Fund. Mercer Parkway will ultimately be
constructed east to Harry Hines Boulevard.
On May 24, 2005 four bids were received and opened for the Mercer Parkway
paving, drainage, and utility improvements from Valley View Lane to 300 feet
east of Luna Road. All bids received met specifications. Tiseo Paving Company
submitted the lowest bid in the amount of $2,842,317.80. The contract time is 270
calendar days. Tiseo Paving Company has provided qualifications and references
for similar work. Tiseo Paving Company satisfactorily completed the
reconstruction of Valwood Parkway between Josey Lane and Webb Chapel Road
in 1993.
Under the provisions of Development Agreement No. 2 with American Realty
Trust, Inc., approved by the City Council on March 1, 2004, American Realty
Trust, Inc. must advance the funds for the construction of Mercer Parkway plus
ten percent contingencies before the construction bid is awarded. The City has
received $3,126,549.58 from American Realty Trust, Inc., which satisfies the
requirement. The landscaping, irrigation, and streetlight installation will be
contracted separately.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilman Moses, seconded by
Councilwoman Smith, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2005-078
awarding the bid for the construction of Mercer Parkway from Valley View Lane
to 300 feet east of Luna Road to Tiseo Paving Company in the amount of
$2,842,317.80.
DA CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-084 APPROVING AN
AGREEMENT WITH PBS&J FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR NINE
SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENTS AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
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Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Funds for utility replacement
and improvements are provided in the 2004-2005 Capital Improvement Program
Non-Bond Utility Fund. There is a total of $1,637,946 available in the budget to
replace nine sanitary sewer lines. The 35- to 45-year old sanitary sewer lines
experience occasional backups that require frequent cleaning and maintenance.
The sanitary sewer lines to be replaced are in easements at the following
locations:
• Between Pyramid Drive and Birchlawn Drive from Josey Lane to Longmeade
Drive
• Between Cloverdale Lane and Ridgeoak Way from Goldendale Drive to the
dead end
• Between Damascus Way and Myra Lane from Webb Chapel Road to Eunice
Street
• Between Morningstar Circle and Ridgeoak Way from dead end to second
manhole west
• Between Danny Lane and Leta Mae Lane from Tom Field Road to Ford Road
• Between Hollandale Lane and Old North Road from Heartside Place to
Joanna Drive
• Between Windmill Lane and Hollandale Lane from Heartside Place to Joanna
Drive
• Between Wicker Avenue and Wasina Drive from Bee Street to Dennis Lane
• Between Danny Lane and Farmers Branch Lane from Tom Field Road to Ford
Road
An engineering service agreement to design the replacement of the nine sanitary
sewer lines has been negotiated with PBS&J for a total amount not to exceed
$141,220. This amount is within an acceptable fee range for similar projects.
PBS&J was selected based upon their experience in designing utility replacements
using the pipe bursting method, which is the replacement method for all nine
sanitary sewer lines.
The design will be completed in approximately 180 calendar days. Construction
is tentatively scheduled to begin in summer of 2006 with a twelve-month
duration. Meetings will be held with the residents towards the end of the design
of the improvements.
There being no discussion, a motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Robinson,
seconded by Councilman O'Hare, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2005-
084 authorizing the execution of an agreement for engineering services with
PBS&J for the design of sanitary sewer lines in the amount not to exceed
$141,220.
D.5 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-083 APPROVING THE
PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF FIBER OPTIC COMMUNICATIONS
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CABLE, CONDUIT AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL
COMMUNICATION PROJECT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The Traffic Signal
Communications Project is included in the City's Capital Improvement Program
budget in the amount of $400,000. The project provides for the installation of
conduit and fiber optic cable and equipment connecting numerous City facilities.
The purpose of the project is to provide high speed, high capacity voice and data
communication. The fiber optic communication system will enable the City to
eliminate the use of costly, leased high-speed communication lines, called T-1
lines, that are now in use.
On November 15, 2004, bids for the installation of conduit for fiber optic cable
were rejected because the prices were more than twice the amount of funds
allocated for the conduit installation. When the bids were rejected, staff
committed to evaluating the project's scope and alternative procurement methods
to get the project within budget.
The evaluation identified that the City was eligible to procure the materials and
installation services through the State of Texas Catalog Information System,
which allows the State to certify an entire catalog as meeting competitive bid or
quote requirements.
Quotes for the installation of conduit were requested from three vendors identified
in the State of Texas Catalog Information System for the installation of conduit,
and three responded. Quotes for the installation of optical fiber cable and
equipment were requested from the same three vendors and two responded.
Henkels & McCoy, Inc. provided the low quote for both the conduit installation
and optical fiber cable and equipment installation in the total amount of $282,733.
Henkels & McCoy, Inc. has provided adequate references for similar fiber optic
communication system installation.
There will be additional expenditures to procure materials and services to connect
each City facility to the fiber optic communication system.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilwoman Smith, seconded by
Councilman Moses, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2005-083 approving
the purchase and installation of the fiber optic conduit, cable and equipment from
Henkels & McCoy, Inc. in the total amount not to exceed $282,733.
D.6 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-086 AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO PURCHASE ONE REPLACEMENT 31-FOOT AERIAL
LIFT BUCKET TRUCK AND ONE REPLACEMENT ASPHALT
COMPACTOR AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
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Mayor Phelps presented the following information. A 1995 aerial lift bucket
truck and a 1996 asphalt compactor were scheduled for replacement in the 2005-
2006 Budget. However, both have experienced major mechanical failures in the
past six months. The aerial lift truck can no longer be certified for use due to the
condition of the boom lift assembly and the asphalt compactor rear drum has
failed. Staff determined that early replacement of these units has become
necessary for Engineering and Public Works to continue to provide needed
services.
Funds in the amount of $65,000.00 for the aerial lift bucket truck and $34,000.00
for the asphalt compactor were requested and approved in the 2004-2005 Mid-
Year Budget.
The State of Texas Municipal Purchasing Regulations allows agencies such as
Councils of Governments to create cooperative purchasing programs. The North
Central Texas Council of Governments does not have a cooperative purchasing
program. The City of Farmers Branch entered into an interlocal agreement with
the Houston-Galveston Area Council of Governments, or HGAC, and Buy Board
to purchase vehicles.
Staff developed specifications for these replacement units and found they were
available and could be purchased from HGAC and Buy Board vendors utilizing
cooperative purchasing agreements. A HGAC quote for the replacement 31-foot
aerial lift bucket truck meeting specifications in the amount of $65,827.75 was
received from Philpott Motor Company. A quote for the replacement asphalt
compactor meeting specifications was received from Buy Board vendor Holt
Tractor Co., Texas in the amount of $34,300.
Staff recommends purchase of one 2006 aerial lift bucket truck meeting
specifications from Philpott Motor Co. and the purchase of one asphalt compactor
meeting specifications from Holt Tractor Co., Texas. The total of both purchases,
including options and fees, is $100,127.75. The additional $1,127.75 in needed
funds for these purchases is available in the 2004-2005 Fixed Asset Fund and the
Fixed Asset Fund budget will be adjusted at year-end to reflect the bid amount.
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Robinson asked how the Fixed Asset Fund is adjusted for
the additional expenditure over budget. City Manager Linda Groomer confirmed
that the adjustment is made from the Fund Balance in the Fixed Asset Fund.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman O'Hare, seconded by
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Robinson, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No.
2005-086 awarding the quotes for the purchase of the two replacement vehicles.
D.7 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2005-089 REJECTING BIDS
FOR ANNUAL CONTRACT FOR OFFICE SUPPLIES AND VARIOUS
TONER CARTRIDGES; AUTHORIZING PURCHASES OF OFFICE
SUPPLIES AND VARIOUS TONER CARTRIDGES UTILIZING A TARRANT
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COUNTY COOPERATIVE PURCHASING PROGRAM CONTRACTOR, AND
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Bid requests for the purchase
of office supplies and various toner cartridges were sent to twelve vendors and
four bids were received.
The items in this bid were based on estimated quantities of items frequently
utilized by all City departments and items issued from the City office supply
storeroom by the Purchasing Office. Each department annually budgets for office
supplies and various toner cartridges for their department, with frequently used
items being obtained from the storeroom and other items obtained directly
through discounted catalog purchases. Vendors were also requested to submit a
discount percentage from catalog pricing for items not specifically priced in the
bid or stocked in the storeroom. Contract pricing includes next day delivery to all
City departments. The office supply and equipment account budgets for all
departments include $383,100 in funding for traditional office supplies as well as
for small equipment, such as computers and printers.
The low bidder was Corporate Express in the amount of $71,705.68, with
discounts off of catalog pricing of 65% for non-schedule office supplies and 45%
for non-schedule toner cartridges. The bid price was based on 80 highly used
items that were outlined in the bid schedule. The difference between the bid
amount and the budgeted amount of $100,000 is for items in the office supply and
equipment account that are not basic offices supplies such as printers, scanners
and file cabinets. The budgeted amount of $100,000 was based on historical
annual purchase information provided by the City's current office supply vendor.
Bid pricing was then compared to the Texas Local Government Purchasing
Cooperative, or BuyBoard, and the Tarrant County Cooperative Purchasing
Program contract pricing. The low bidder, Corporate Express, is also the
BuyBoard and Tarrant County contractor. Corporate Express offers a 65%
discount off of catalog pricing for the BuyBoard contract and discounts from 65%
to 80% off of catalog pricing for the Tarrant County Cooperative Purchasing
Program contract. The City of Farmers Branch has entered into interlocal
agreements with BuyBoard and Tarrant County for the purpose of cooperative
purchasing.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilman O'Hare, seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem. Bird, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2005-089 rejecting all
bids for the annual contract for office supplies and various toner cartridges and
purchasing said items utilizing the Tarrant County Cooperative Purchasing
Program contractor in an estimated annual amount of $100,000.
D.8 CONSIDER APPOINTMENTS TO THE SCHOOL-COMMUNITY
RELATIONS COMMITTEE, THE COMMUNITY WATCH COMMITTEE
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AND THE SENIOR ADVISORY BOARD, AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
There were no appointments to the School-Community Relations Committee nor
to the Community Watch Committee.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bird, seconded by Deputy Mayor Pro Tern
Robinson, all voting "aye," reappointed Helen Bowling, Jeanne Sawyer, Elva
Zombola, Jimmie May and Peggy Pyle to the Senior Advisory Board.
D.9 CONSIDER COUNCIL TRAVEL REPORTS AND REQUESTS AND TAKE
APPROPRIATE ACTION.
There were no travel reports or requests.
D.10 PRESENTATION OF COUNCIL COMMITTEE AND ORGANIZATION
REPORTS.
Mayor Pro Tern Robinson stated the Sister City Group from Germany will be
arriving in September and the City is in need of 13 more host families. He
encouraged residents that are interested to call Traci Leach at 972-247-3131.
Mayor Pro Tem Robinson also stated the City has activities planned for the days
and several evenings.
Councilwoman Smith reported on the Metrocrest Hospital Authority meeting she
attended on June 21St
MAYOR PHELPS ANNOUNCED THAT THE ITEMS ON THE AGENDA FOR THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION WERE DISCUSSED IN THE 4:00 P.M. WORK SESSION.
MAYOR PHELPS EXPLAINED THE CITY COUNCIL CONVENED INTO
EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 5:58 P.M. AND THEN CONCLUDED AT 6:30 P.M.
TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE CHAPTER 551 OF THE OPEN MEETING LAW
PROVIDES THAT SUCH ITEMS AS PERSONNEL MATTERS, LAND
ACQUISITION AND PENDING AND CONTEMPLATED LITIGATION MAY BE
DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION.
E.1 DISCUSS LAND ACQUISITION -TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION
551.072.
Discuss Farmers Branch Keenan Cemetery.
Mayor Phelps explained that staff was present to discuss this item with Council.
E.2 DISCUSS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES - TEXAS
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.086.
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Discuss and deliberate economic development incentives for businesses the City
is conducting economic development negotiations with.
Mayor Phelps explained that staff was present to discuss this item with Council.
F.1 CONSIDER NECESSARY ACTION ON ITEMS DISCUSSED IN THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION.
Mayor Phelps stated that staff updated Council on items in Executive Session and
no action was necessary.
F.2 ADJOURNMENT.
A motion by Councilman Moses, a second by Councilwoman Smith, all voting
"aye," adjourned the City Council meeting of July 11, 2005 at 8:43 p.m.
Bob Phelps, May r Cindee Peters, City Secretary
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