2003-09-22 CC MinutesCity of Farmers Branch
City Council Regular Meeting Agenda
City Hall Plaza
13000 William Dodson Parkway
Farmers Branch, Texas
Monday, September 22, 2003
7:30 P.M.
The following members of the City Council were present:
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tern
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem
Councilmembers
Bob Phelps
Paul Walden
Bill Moses
Charlie Bird
Ben Robinson
Junie Smith
The following members of Administration were present:
l__J
Interim City Manager
John Burke
City Secretary
Cindee Peters
Assistant to the City Manager
Margaret Somereve
Assistant to the City Manager
John Roach
City Attorney
John Boyle
Fire Chief
Kyle King
Police Chief
Jim Fawcett
Library Director
Mary Jane Stevenson
Director of Communications
Tom Bryson
Director of Public Works
Mark Pavageaux
Director of Community Services
Michael Spicer
Director of Equipment Services
Don Moore
Director of Parks and Recreation
Jeff Fuller
Director of Economic Development
Norma Nichols
Recording Secretary
Suzanne Reynolds
The following member of Administration was absent:
Assistant City Manager
Linda Groomer
Mayor Phelps called the City Council meeting of September 22, 2003, 2003 to
order at 7:30 p.m. The meeting was televised.
i
A.1 INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
Councilwoman Smith presented the invocation and led the pledge of allegiance.
Volume 82, page 15
A.2 PROCLAIM OCTOBER 2003 AS "FIRE PREVENTION MONTH".
Mayor Phelps proclaimed October 2003 as "Fire Prevention Month" in Farmers
Branch and presented the proclamation to Fire Chief Kyle King.
A.3 CONSIDER ACCEPTING A $1,000 DONATION FROM THE WAL-MART
FOUNDATION TO BE USED IN THE CITY'S YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP
PROGRAM AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The Wal-Mart Foundation
donated $1,000 to the City of Farmers Branch to be used in the City's Youth
Scholarship Program. The Wal-Mart Foundation annually provides funds to
community organizations that benefit residents in the cities where Wal-Mart is
located. Mr. Danny Diaz, a representative for the local Wal-Mart, presented a
check for $1,000 to the City to be used for The Youth Scholarship Program.
The Scholarship provides recreation opportunities to youths who live in Farmers
Branch and who might otherwise not have access to programs such as local youth
athletic leagues and scouting programs. The Program has been in effect for a
number of years and has provided thousands of dollars in scholarships to local
youths. All the funds for the Youth Scholarship Program are raised through
grants and donations.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, seconded by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem
Moses, all voting "aye," accepted the donation of $1,000 from Wal-Mart.
A.4 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD.
Mayor Phelps presented a 5-year employee service award to Ines Fernandez-
Onate of the Finance Department.
A.5 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARD.
Mayor Phelps presented a 15-year employee service award to Bob Bull of the
Parks & Recreation Department.
A.6 PRESENTATION OF BOARD APPLICATIONS.
There were no applications presented.
A.7 REPORT ON STUDY SESSION ITEMS.
Mayor Phelps and the City Council gave a brief summary of the items discussed
in Study Session prior to the regular meeting.
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B.0 CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING AS CONSENT ITEMS AND TAKE THE
APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps stated consent items are items that are to be considered and action
taken 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 the consent
items is established in order to speed up discussion for those items that need more
time for discussion.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, seconded by Councilman Bird, all voting
"aye," approved the Consent Agenda as submitted.
B.1 APPROVED MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF
SEPTEMBER 8, 2003.
B.2 APPROVED THE REQUEST BY GOOD FULTON AND FARRELL
ON BEHALF OF CRESCENT REAL ESTATE FUNDING II, L.P. FOR
SITE PLAN TO ALLOW A DRIVE-THROUGH BANKING FACILITY,
3.08-ACRE TRACT LOCATED AT 14001 DALLAS PARKWAY,
WITHIN PLANNED DEVELOPMENT 42 ZONING DISTRICT.
B.3 APPROVED THE REQUEST BY MURRAY GOLDENBERG FOR A
SITE PLAN AMENDMENT AND A VARIANCE TO ALLOW FIVE
SIGNS INSTEAD OF TWO SIGNS, 8.8 ACRES LOCATED AT 1601
VALLEY VIEW LANE, WITHIN PLANNED DEVELOPMENT 77.
B.4 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2003-107 GRANTING AN EASEMENT
AND RIGHT OF WAY TO ONCOR TO PROVIDE ELECTRICAL
SERVICE FOR THE NEW PUMP STATION AT WICKER AVENUE.
B.5 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2003-111 ENTERING INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS FOR
PROVIDING PHASE 1 WIRELESS E94-1 SERVICES.
B.6 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2003-106 AUTHORIZING THE
INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH
TRAVELCLICK FOR THE STARCITE PROGRAM.
B.7 ADOPTED RESOLUTION 2003-114 AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO PURCHASE COMPUTER NETWORK
COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT FROM NEXTIRA ONE
UTILIZING THE STATE OF TEXAS CATALOG PURCHASING
PROCEDURES FOR AUTOMATED INFORMATION SYSTEMS.
Volume 82, page 17
B.8 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2003-113 APPROVING THE
PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT TRAFFIC SIGNAL CONTROL
SYSTEM SOFTWARE FROM SIEMENS ITS.
B.9 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2003-121 AWARDING BIDS FOR
GYMNASTICS EQUIPMENT FOR THE FARMERS BRANCH
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER.
B.10 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2003-102 AWARDING THE BID FOR
THE ASBESTOS ABATEMENT AND BUILDING DEMOLITION OF
ANGELO'S RESTAURANT AT 2425 VALLEY VIEW LANE.
B.11 ADOPTED VARIOUS RESOLUTIONS FOR SUBMITTAL TO THE
TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE FOR THEIR CONSIDERATION AT
THEIR ANNUAL CONFERENCE.
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-122 SUPPORTING THE PASSAGE
OF ENABLING LEGISLATION FOR PHOTOGRAPHIC RED
LIGHT ENFORCEMENT.
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-123 SUPPORTING THE CURRENT
TAX LAWS OF THE MAXIMUM AVERAGE ANNUAL
PERCENTAGE INCREASE IN THE APPRAISED VALUE OF A
RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD FOR AD VALOREM TAX
PURPOSES.
C. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-124 SUPPORTING THE PASSAGE
OF ENABLING LEGISLATION FOR STATEWIDE MUTUAL
AID OF FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES.
D. RESOLUTION NO. 2003-125 OPPOSING ANY CHANGE IN
THE INTRA-STATE SALES TAX SOURCING IN THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STREAMLINED SALES AND
USE TAX AGREEMENT.
C.1 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION.
John Oechsner, 3509 Brookline Lane, stated several years ago he presented the
Council with photographs, a study, and data on an area that was developing in
Dallas, the Knox Henderson area. He suggested Farmers Branch should do the
same. He read an article from the Dallas Morning News regarding the expansion
of the Knox-Henderson area.
John Wells, 13521 Heartside Place, stated the Friday editions of the Dallas
Morning News are absent any Farmers Branch news. He stated the residents in
his neighborhood are interested in the news from City Hall.
Volume 82, page 18
C.2 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST OF WOLVERINE ASSET
MANAGEMENT, INC. FOR REPLAT APPROVAL OF GLAZER ADDITION
AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Glazer Addition is located at
2000 Diplomat Drive and is the site of Glazer's Wholesale Distributors. The
proposed plat consists of one lot totaling 25.211 acres at the northwest corner of
Senlac Drive and Diplomat Drive.
The property is being platted to combine two lots and to dedicate utility
easements and fire lane access easements.
Texas Local Government Code requires that a public hearing be conducted for all
replats that do not vacate a preceding plat of a subdivision or portion of a
subdivision. The public hearing provision provides interested parties and citizens
an opportunity to be heard but does not require written notification.
The Glazer Addition is zoned PD-22 and is consistent with the Texas Local
Government Code and with City requirements for final plat approval.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approving the request of
Wolverine Asset Management, Inc. for the replat of Glazer Addition.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing.
A motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern
Walden all voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilman Robinson, seconded by
Councilwoman Smith, all voting "aye," approved the replat of Glazer Addition.
C.3 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST BY BILL BAUMAN ON
BEHALF OF FIBERTOWER/ AT&T WIRELESS FOR A SPECIFIC USE
PERMIT FOR COLLOCATION OF TWO MICROWAVE DISH ANTENNAS
MOUNTED ON THE PENTHOUSE OF THE R. H. D. HOSPITAL LOCATED
AT 7 MEDICAL PARKWAY WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
NUMBER 18 ZONING DISTRICT, AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The two proposed microwave
dish antennas will be mounted near the top of the north and south facades of the
hospital's penthouse and the associated equipment cabinet will be located on the
roof adjacent to the penthouse.
The proposed antennas, equipment cabinet, and all appurtenances will be painted
the same color as the hospital building.
Volume 82, page 19
The proposed antenna system complies with all PD-18 zoning standards.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
requested Specific Use Permit and associated site plan with the following
condition:
The owner of the two microwave dish antennas shall remove the antenna system
and all appurtenances including any associated equipment cabinets within ninety
(90) days subsequent to such time that the antennas become obsolete and/or the
use is abandoned.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing.
Ward Wilson, 5601 Legacy Drive, Plano, was present representing AT&T
Wireless and FiberTower seeking approval for agenda items C.3 and CA. He
stated he would be available to answer questions of the Council.
A motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by Councilman Robinson, all voting
"aye," closed the public hearing.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Walden, all voting "aye," adopted the following captioned
Ordinance No. 2742:
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 COLLOCATION OF TWO MICROWAVE DISH
ANTENNAS ON THE PENTHOUSE OF THE R.H.D.
HOSPITAL LOCATED ON A 5.6 ACRE TRACT AT 7
MEDICAL PARKWAY WITHIN THE PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 18 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.
CA PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST BY BILL BAUMAN ON
BEHALF OF FIBERTOWER/ AT&T WIRELESS FOR A SPECIFIC USE
PERMIT TO COLLOCATE TWO MICROWAVE DISH ANTENNAS ON AN
EXISTING 78-FOOT TALL MONOPOLE TOWER LOCATED AT 13850
DIPLOMAT DRIVE WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 22
ZONING DISTRICT, AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Volume 82, page 20
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. There is an existing
monopole antenna tower located on the rear side of the T.D. Industries
manufacturing/warehouse property located at 13850 Diplomat Drive. The
monopole tower currently supports antenna systems for AT&T and Nextel and
there are associated equipment buildings for each system located at the base of the
tower.
The applicant's proposal includes adding two microwave dish antennas to the
monopole and one equipment rack inside the applicant's existing equipment
building.
The proposed antenna system complies with all PD-22 zoning standards.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
requested Specific Use Permit and associated site plan with the following
condition:
1. The owner(s) of the monopole, the two existing antenna systems mounted on
the monopole, and the two proposed microwave dish antennas shall remove
their respective antenna systems and all appurtenances including the
monopole and any associated equipment buildings or cabinets within ninety
(90) days subsequent to such time that the antennas and/or monopole become
obsolete and/or the use is abandoned.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing.
A motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, seconded by Councilwoman Smith,
all voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilman Robinson, seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Walden, all voting "aye," adopted the following captioned
Ordinance No. 2741.
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 COLLOCATION OF TWO MICROWAVE DISH
ANTENNAS ON AN EXISTING 78-FOOT TALL MONOPOLE
TOWER, LOCATED ON A 9.0 ACRE TRACT AT 13850
DIPLOMAT DRIVE, WITHIN THE PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 22 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
Volume 82, page 21
INJUNCTIVE RELIEF; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
C.5 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST BY DUKE
CONSTRUCTION, LP ON BEHALF OF MARX VENTURES LLC FOR A
SPECIFIC USE PERMIT TO ALLOW OUTSIDE STORAGE FOR A TRUCK
HAULING AND STORAGE COMPANY, INCLUDING VARIANCE
REQUESTS TO PLACEMENT OF OUTSIDE STORAGE AND SCREENING
WALL HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS, ON A 3.72-ACRE TRACT LOCATED AT
13700 SENLAC DRIVE WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
NUMBER 22 ZONING DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The applicant seeks to
construct a new 29,950 square foot office/warehouse building for a truck hauling
and storage business that transports personal property. A private truck scale is
also proposed on site.
An approximate 44,681 square foot paved area is proposed to accommodate the
outside storage of a maximum of ten trailers and a maximum of ten tractors
associated with the proposed business.
The proposed application also includes variances for placement of outside storage
and screening wall height requirements.
In 2002, a specific use permit application for a similar use on the subject property
was not approved. The concerns expressed at the City Council meeting included
ineffective screening of the outside storage and potential for trucks queuing on
Diplomat Drive due to insufficient on-site truck queuing area.
The proposed improvements are significant as compared to the application
submitted in 2002. In the proposed application:
• Truck access is available via existing drive approaches and mutual access
easements with the adjacent property to the north;
• The application provides for better on-site circulation including sufficient area
to accommodate on-site truck queuing;
• All other activities are located behind the screening wall; and
• The proposed outside storage will not be visible from pubic streets due to the
height of the proposed screening wall and the extensive landscaping being
proposed.
At the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, in response to the need for
additional parking by neighboring properties, the applicant offered to evaluate the
possibility of providing additional voluntary parking, in excess of minimum
zoning requirements, along the north side of the proposed building.
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The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
proposed specific use permit request, including the requested variances, with the
following conditions:
1. The property shall be replatted with the necessary fire lane and utility
easements and setbacks as prescribed by the PD-22 ordinance.
2. Any signage shall be subject to review and approval by city staff.
3. Outside storage shall be limited to vehicles and shall be restricted to those
areas noted on the site plan as "Designated truck parking" and no other
equipment, supplies, or commodities of any kind shall be stored outside of
the building.
4. The site shall be operated in accordance with the plan of operation.
The Commission was also unanimously favorable to the applicant
potentially providing additional voluntary parking on the north side of the
proposed building.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing.
Brian Straley, Duke Construction representative on behalf of Marx Ventures,
5495 Belt Line, Dallas, gave a brief presentation on the specific use permit
application.
Jeff Thornton with Duke Realty Corporation, property owner in the Valwood Park
with two buildings adjacent to the Marx Venture site, stated as a property owner
in the park he believes the Marx Venture would be a positive addition to the park.
A motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, seconded by Councilman Bird, all
voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
Mayor Phelps asked the applicant if he were in agreement with the four
recommendations required by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr.
Thornton replied yes, they were in agreement with the recommendations.
Councilman Robinson stated he was delighted to see the return of Marx Ventures
and complimented Duke Construction Company for the new proposed design.
Mayor Pro Tem Walden echoed Councilman Robinson's comments and verified
with staff that the landscaping would be irrigated.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Robinson, seconded
by Councilwoman Smith, all voting "aye," adopted the following captioned
Volume 82, page 23
Ordinance No. 2740 approving the specific use permit, including the requested
variances, with the conditions recommended by the 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 FOR OUTSIDE STORAGE FOR A TRUCK
HAULING AND STORAGE COMPANY INCLUDING VARIANCES
TO PLACEMENT OF OUTSIDE STORAGE AND SCREENING WALL
HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS, ON AN APPROXIMATELY 3.72-ACRE
TRACT OF LAND LOCATED AT 13700 SENLAC DRIVE AND
WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 22 (PD-22)
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.6 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST BY MR. ASLAN
RAFIZADEH ON BEHALF OF ALAN AUTO SERVICE FOR AN
AMENDMENT TO AN EXISTING SPECIFIC USE PERMIT TO ALLOW
TIRE REPAIR AND BATTERY INSTALLATION, IN ADDITION TO
EXISTING AUTOMOTIVE TUNE-UP OPERATIONS AT 14000 JOSEY
LANE, WITHIN PLANNED DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 3 ZONING
DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. There is an existing
automotive tune-up business on the subject property. A specific use permit was
approved on December 4, 1978 allowing automotive tune-up operations.
The applicant seeks to amend the existing specific use permit to allow tire repair
and battery installation. Approval of a specific use permit is required for tire
repair and battery installation uses within the Planned Development Number 3
zoning district. The applicant also intends to perform state inspections at this
location; a specific use permit is not required for state inspections.
Proposed improvements to the site include bringing the existing awning
substructure, signage, sanitation screening and landscaping into compliance with
zoning requirements.
Key features of the plan of operation include: tire repair and new battery
installation in addition to tune-up and state inspection operations; no storage of
tires on site; and hours of operation shall be 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Volume 82, page 24
No cars will be left outside the building at night. All work will be done inside the
shop and there will not be any activities outside the building. There shall be no
outside storage or display of merchandise for sale.
By limiting the automotive repair activities as proposed by the applicant, the
proposed use remains compatible with the Comprehensive Plan recommendation
to allow uses that provide a service need to the residents of the City.
Written opposition to this request has been received from an owner of property
comprising more than twenty percent of the area within 200 feet of the subject
property. Consequently, this request can only be approved with a super majority
vote by the City Council, that is, at least four votes in favor of the request.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
proposed specific use permit request with the following conditions:
A final landscape plan including plant varieties and sizes shall be
reviewed and approved by staff, prior to the installation of plant materials
and the proposed landscape improvements shall be installed prior to
issuance of a certificate of occupancy to allow tire repair and battery
installation.
2. The sanitation screening enclosure, monument sign and awning
improvements shall be subject to review and approval by staff prior to
issuance of a building permit, and shall be constructed prior to issuance a
certificate of occupancy for tire repair and battery installation uses.
Mayor Phelps opened the public hearing.
Aslan Rafizadeh, 14000 Josey Lane was present to respond to questions of the
Council.
A motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, seconded by Councilman Robinson,
all voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
Mayor Phelps asked the applicant if he agreed with the two recommendations
required by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr. Rafizadeh replied yes.
Mayor Pro Tem Moses asked Mr. Rafizadeh if he would be doing State
inspections and on what year vehicles. Mr. Rafizadeh replied that he would be
doing State inspections on all models of vehicles.
Mayor Pro Tem Walden asked if the property was going to be irrigated. Tina
Firgens, Senior Planner replied that the site plan provides for an "irrigation
system."
Volume 82, page 25
There being no further discussion, a motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem. Moses,
seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, all voting "aye," adopted the following
captioned Ordinance No. 2739 approving the specific use permit request, with the
conditions 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 TIRE REPAIR AND BATTERY
INSTALLATION USES IN ADDITION TO EXISTING AUTOMOTIVE
TUNE-UP OPERATIONS, ON AN APPROXIMATELY 0.36 ACRE
TRACT OF LAND LOCATED AT 14000 JOSEY LANE AND WITHIN
THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 3 (PD-3) ZONING
DISTRICT; AMENDING ORDINANCE 1224; 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 APPROVING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-086 AUTHORIZING THE
INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A GROUND LEASE
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE DALLAS STARS LP AND THE CITY OF
FARMERS BRANCH FOR AN ICE SKATING AND CONFERENCE
FACILITY AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The City of Farmers Branch
entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Dallas Stars on April 21,
2003, to construct an ice-skating and conference facility on the former Word of
Faith property adjacent to Interstate 35. The Dallas Stars agreed to lease the
facility for 25 years. The cost of the arena is estimated to be $9,000,000. Bond
financing for $9,100,000 will be issued in the spring of 2004 to cover the cost of
the building and the project manager fee of $100,000.
The building will be 95,000 square feet with two NHL regulation size ice
surfaces, team locker rooms, skating pro locker room, concession area, 3,500
square foot retail pro shop, and a Dallas Stars ticket outlet. Included in the arena
is an 11,000 square foot second floor that will serve as a Farmers Branch
conference facility. This area has four divisible meeting rooms and a grill/sports
bar. The second floor provides a viewing area that overlooks both ice surfaces.
The ice surface will be open to the public at specified hours during the week and
weekend.
The Stars have estimated that the Farmers Branch hotels will be able to book
approximately 8,000 room nights annually for ice skating tournaments and
hockey events resulting in additional room revenue of $560,000 to the Farmers
Branch hotels. It is estimated that the City will receive an additional $40,000
Volume 82, page 26
annually in hotel motel receipts due to the increase in room nights from the ice
arena and conference facility. The City will have priority in booking the second
floor of the facility (11,000 square feet) and will receive 60% of the revenue for
any conference or group booked by the City's convention and tourism staff on the
second floor or any other area of the facility.
The City will lease the facility to the Dallas Stars pursuant to a rate of $600,000
annually for the first five years. From the sixth year to the twenty-fifth year, the
rate will be $660,000 annually. The Dallas Stars will also establish an escrow
account to guarantee lease payments in the amount of $600,000, and the account
will be held by the City.
The $600,000 annual rental for the first five years was agreed to in the
Memorandum of Understanding; however, staff anticipates that the lease amount
will not cover the total debt service. Staff has estimated that the difference could
be as low as $30,000 or as much as $55,000 annually depending on the interest
rates at the time of the bond issue. There are sufficient monies in the 2003-04
Budget, Non-Bond Convention Center Fund to cover the cost until the lease
amount increases to $660,000 annually.
The Dallas Stars will be responsible for all costs of operating, insuring, managing
and maintaining the facility. Completion of the arena is anticipated in September
2004. A companion item D.2 is on the agenda for Council consideration of a
Design/Build agreement with Centex/HKS and a Chapter 380 economic
development program.
The Director of Economic Development recommends approval of Resolution No.
2003-086 authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute a ground lease
agreement with the Dallas Stars LP for an ice-skating and conference facility.
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses asked who would be responsible for the security
of the building when it is completed. Interim City Manager John Burke replied
the Dallas Stars would operate the building completely, including security.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by
Councilman Robinson, all voting "aye," approved Resolution No. 2003-086
authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute a ground lease agreement with
the Dallas Stars LP for an ice-skating and conference facility.
D.2 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-105 ESTABLISHING
ADDITIONAL COMPREHENSIVE POLICY STATEMENTS FOR LOCAL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS INCENTIVES PURSUANT
TO CHAPTER 380, TEXAS LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE AND
AUTHORIZING THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
DESIGN/BUILD CONTRACT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF FARMERS
Volume 82, page 27
BRANCH AND CENTEX/HKSII, LLC AND TAKE THE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The City entered into a
Memo of Understanding with the Dallas Stars on April 21, 2003 to construct an
ice-skating and conference facility in the area south of Valley View Lane and east
of Interstate 35. If the Ground Lease Agreement with the Dallas Stars is approved
at this meeting, the City desires to hire Centex Construction Company and HKS
to design/build the facility.
Centex Construction Company and HKS Architects have constructed and/or
designed all of the Dallas Stars ice-skating areas in the Metroplex, including those
in Duncanville, Euless, Frisco, and the American Airlines Arena. The Farmers
Branch facility will utilize the same design as the Duncanville StarCenter with
minor modifications. It is preferred to utilize these same two companies in order
to meet the deadline of September 2004. Chapter 380 of the Texas Government
Code will give the City authority to hire Centex and HKS in order to expedite the
project and to effect cost savings.
Chapter 380 is Economic Development legislation that authorizes municipalities
to offer a wide range of incentives to promote local economic development. It is
anticipated that the experience of Centex and HKS in the design and construction
of all of the existing Metroplex Stars Centers will result in a project that will be
completed on time and within the budget.
Construction cost combined with the $100,000 for the project manager will not
exceed $9.1 million. A project manager will supervise the project to insure that
the project will be completed on time and to insure that cost savings will be
realized. While that individual will report to the Dallas Stars, City staff will meet
with the project manager on a weekly basis during the construction phase to
oversee the process. A separate project manager contract is being prepared and
will be reviewed by the City Council in October of 2003.
The Dallas Stars ice-skating and conference facility is expected to be completed
by September 2004.
Councilman Robinson asked if the project manager agreement should be decided
on before the construction agreement is signed. Interim City Manager John Burke
replied it would not make a difference at this point and hopefully the constructor
manager would be on board in the next month. The meetings with staff should
begin in October. Councilman Robinson asked if the City knows what the
agreement contains. Mr. Burke replied it is very broad.
Councilwoman Smith asked if HKS is Howard K. Smith, Architects. Someone
from the audience replied yes.
Volume 82, page 28
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem. Walden, all voting "aye," approved Resolution No. 2003-105
establishing additional comprehensive policy statements for local economic
development and business incentives pursuant to Chapter 380, Texas Local
Government Code and authorizing the Interim City Manager to execute a
Design/Build construction contract by and between the City of Farmers Branch
and Centex/HKS H, LLC.
D.3 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-120 APPROVING
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT NO.4 WITH AMERICAN REALTY TRUST,
INC. AND INCOME OPPORTUNITY REALTY INVESTORS, INC. FOR
SUMP AND LAKE IMPROVEMENTS NORTH OF I-635 AND TAKE
APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. On December 21, 1998, Tax
Increment Financing District No. 1, known as TIF No. 1, was approved by the
City Council to fund public street, sidewalk, drainage, water, sanitary sewer, and
enhancement improvements on the west side of the City.
Development Agreement No. 4 is proposed for the fourth improvement, which is
sump and lake improvements north of I-635. A portion of TIF No. 1 is located
north of I-635 and is protected from flooding from the Elm Fork of the Trinity
River and adjacent creeks by the Valwood Improvement Authority levees. There
is a sump system, consisting of a large lake and channels, which collects storm
water that falls within the land protected by the levees and conveys the water to
the river via either sluice gates or pumps. The sump system needs to be enlarged
to accommodate increased runoff from new development. The proposed
improvements will include edge and bank treatments to make the lake an amenity
for the development.
American Realty Trust, Inc. and Income Opportunity Realty Investors, Inc.,
collectively, is the developer of the property adjacent to the proposed sump and
lake improvements. The developer has proposed to advance the City funds for the
improvements. Development Agreement No. 4 has been negotiated with the
developer that provides for the City to design and construct the improvements
with the developer advancing the funds. In general the agreement provides the
following:
• The City awards all contracts and makes all purchases in conformance with
State law and City policy.
• The developer advances the funds before awarding any contract or making
any purchase.
• The developer will be reimbursed for the actual funds advanced in an amount
not to exceed $3,000,000 plus a maximum of 6% interest per year from the
TIF fund. Such reimbursement will only be made after there is a minimum of
$1,000,000 in the TIF fund after exclusion of all required expenditures.
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With the exceptions of the project description and the maximum amount of
reimbursement, the provisions of Development Agreement No. 4 are the same as
those contained in Development Agreement Numbers 1, 2, and 3, which were for
Wittington Place, Mercer Parkway, and Chartwell Place respectively.
There being no discussion a motion by Councilman Robinson, seconded by
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2003-
120 approving Development Agreement No. 4 with American Realty Trust, Inc.
and Income Opportunity Realty Investors, Inc. for sump and lake improvements
north of I-635.
DA CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-115 AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO APPLY FOR AND ADMINISTER THE FISCAL 2003
FEDERAL BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE BLOCK GRANT AND
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The Federal Bureau of Justice
Assistance makes funds available to local law enforcement agencies in the form
of a non-competitive block grant. The amount of the grant is based on a formula
that takes into account current and past crime rates, population and other factors.
The City of Farmers Branch is eligible for $12,750.00 in funds through this
program. These funds may be used to purchase law enforcement equipment and
pay overtime for specific projects related to local law enforcement. The City is
required to match the grant with the amount of $1,417.00. The Chief of Police
has proposed taking the required amount of $1,417.00 from the seized funds
account for this match.
The Chief of Police proposes to use the grant funds for assisting in the
replacement of aging mobile laptop computers in the marked patrol vehicles. In
addition, the funds will be used to purchase law enforcement equipment that will
enable the Police Department to enhance its ability to reduce crime and assure
public safety.
Before the funds are released to the local agency, a resolution must be passed by
the City Council authorizing the City Manager to apply for and administer the
grant. Additionally, provisions of the grant require that the public be made aware
of and have input on the proposed use of the grant in a City Council meeting.
The grant is designated for use during the 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 budget
years.
The Chief of Police recommends adopting Resolution No. 2003-115 authorizing
the City Manager to apply for the Federal Bureau of Justice Assistance Block
Grant.
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There being no discussion, a motion by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, seconded by
Councilwoman Smith, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2003-115
authorizing the City Manager to apply for and administer the fiscal 2003 Federal
Block Grant offered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance.
D.5 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-097 AWARDING BIDS
FOR FURNITURE AND RELATED ITEMS AND REJECTING FIVE BIDS
FOR FURNITURE ITEMS FOR THE NEW FARMERS BRANCH
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Construction of the new
Farmers Branch Community Recreation Center is on schedule for opening in
January 2004. The City advertised for bids for 87 furniture pieces and related
items. Furniture items include desks, credenzas, bookcases, chairs, and tables;
related items include wall clocks, coat racks, trashcans, and dollies for moving
and storing tables. Because of the variety of items on the bid, the specifications
were written such that bids would be awarded based on the low bid meeting
specifications for each item. Bids were submitted by 10 vendors and opened on
July 31, 2003.
Staff recommends rejecting bids on items 44, 66 - 68, and 83. These items can
be purchased at a later date. Palmer Snyder Furniture Systems was low bid on
Items 74-76, but did not meet specifications. The next low bidders on items 74 -
76 met specifications, and staff recommends awarding those bids to the low
bidders meeting specifications.
Staff recommends awarding bids on 82 items to the low bidders meeting
specifications for a total amount of $114,859.97 and rejecting bids on five items.
The Non-Bond Capital Improvement Program Budget includes $538,000 for
purchase of furniture and fixtures, which includes these items as well as exercise
and gymnastics equipment.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilwoman Smith, seconded by
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2003-
097 awarding bids to the following vendors in the following amounts: Southern
Aluminum for $5,840.64; KI for $2,358.18; The Spencer Company for $6,520.72;
Wilson Office Interiors for $67,226.77; Palmer Snyder Furniture Systems for
$450; TUSA Office Solutions for $6,895.16; bkm Total Office of Texas for
$23,588.50; and Business Interiors for $1,980; for a total cost of $114,859.97 and
rejecting bids on five furniture items.
D.6 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-117 AWARDING BIDS
FOR EXERCISE EQUIPMENT FOR THE NEW FARMERS BRANCH
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
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Mayor Phelps presented the following information. On September 3, 2003, bids
were opened on 51 different pieces of cardio and weight equipment for the new
Recreation Center. Bids were divided into five categories: cardio equipment,
circuit weight machines, free weights and equipment, cardio theater system, and
spin bikes. Bid documents were written so that bids would be awarded by
category so that all equipment within that category would be of the same
manufacture and design; bidders were therefore required to bid on all items in a
category in order to be considered for that category. Eight vendors submitted
bids.
Some vendors bid on only selected items within a category, and some bid
alternate items that had not been pre-approved. Those bids do not meet
specifications and staff is, therefore, recommending to award to the low bidder
meeting specifications.
Staff held an equipment fair at the old Recreation Center on July 29 and 30, 2002
with various pieces of cardio and circuit weight machines available for interested
people to try. Four potential vendors came to the fair and were instructed to
bring treadmills, elliptical walkers, stationary bikes, and chest machines. People
voted on their preferences and the preferred types of equipment are the equipment
specified in this bid.
The total of low bids meeting specifications and recommended for award is
$193,589. Funds, in the amount of $538,000, are available in the Non-Bond
Capital Improvement Program Fund for the purchase of furniture and fixtures
including these items.
There being no discussion, a motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, seconded
by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2003-117
awarding bids for exercise equipment for the new Farmers Branch Community
Recreation Center to the following vendors in the following amounts: FitCo
Fitness Center Outfitters, Inc. for $178,219; BodyWorks Fitness Equipment, Inc.
for $8,500; Quality Fitness for $6,870 for a total of $193,589.
D.7 CONSIDER APPOINTMENTS TO THE HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
AND RESTORATION BOARD, THE PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD,
AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, seconded by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem
Moses, all voting "aye," reappointed Josephine Goodson, Roy Morales David
Martinez and Joan Abbey to the Parks and Recreation Board.
D.8 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2003-116 TO NOMINATE A
CANDIDATE FOR ELECTION TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
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DALLAS CENTRAL APPRAISAL DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. The Texas Property Tax
Code provides for the election of a five-member Board of Directors to govern the
Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD) and represent each of its five
constituent governmental agencies. Three of these agencies, the City of Dallas,
Dallas Independent School District (DISD), and Dallas County, are each allowed
to appoint one member to the board. The remaining two agencies, comprised of
suburban cities and towns other than Dallas, and suburban independent school
districts served by DCAD, other than DISD, are each allowed to nominate one
candidate to serve on the board.
Entities wishing to nominate a candidate must do so by official resolution by
October 15, 2003. A slate of all the nominees will be prepared by DCAD for each
city to vote on by official resolution by December 15, 2003. The Chief Appraiser
will declare winners by January 1, 2004.
To be eligible to serve on the board, an individual must be a resident of DCAD
and must have resided in the district for at least two years immediately preceding
the date the individual takes office. Members of the board serve two-year terms
beginning on January 1 of even numbered years with no term limitations.
Mr. Bill Binford of Farmers Branch is currently serving on the DCAD Board of
Directors, has previously served on the DCAD Arbitration Review Board, and has
expressed interest in continuing to serve on the DCAD Board of Directors.
A motion by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses, seconded by Councilman Robinson,
all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2003-116 nominating Bill Binford to the
Board of Directors of the Dallas Central Appraisal District.
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.
Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Moses stated he attended the Senior Board Meeting on
Thursday, September 18th
Mayor Phelps stated on September 8th he attended the Senior Breakfast at the
Senior Center. On September 9th he and John Burke attended the Metroplex
Mayor Meeting. On September 10th at noon he attended the Platinum Club
luncheon at Dallas Christian College, and at 5:30 p.m. he attended a reception
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downtown at the Dallas County Commissioners Court. On September 12th he
attended the Farmers Branch Back to School Breakfast at R. L. Turner High
School. On September 13th was the Old Car Show at the conference center
parking lot. On September 15th he attended the Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting. On September 16th he, Mayor Pro Tem. Walden and Councilman Walden
met with the City Judge, and at 7 p.m. he attended a meeting regarding Mallon
Park. On September 17th he attended Branch Out, at noon he attended the Senior
Cookout, and at 4 p.m. he attended the Metrocrest Chamber Board Meeting.
MAYOR PHELPS ANNOUNCED THAT THE ITEMS ON THE AGENDA FOR THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION WERE DISCUSSED IN THE 4:30 P.M. WORK SESSION.
MAYOR PHELPS EXPLAINED THE CITY COUNCIL CONVENED INTO
EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:30 P.M. AND THEN CONCLUDED AT 7:09 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 ACQUISITIONS - TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 551.072.
Discuss sale, lease or trade of City owned real property in Branch Crossing at
2655 Mount View Drive.
Mayor Phelps explained that Staff was present to discuss this item with the City
Council.
E.2 DISCUSS PERSONNEL MATTERS - TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 551.074.
Discuss Interim City Manager evaluation and take appropriate action.
Discuss Municipal Court Judge evaluation and take appropriate action.
Mayor Phelps explained that Staff was present to discuss this item with the City
Council.
F.1 CONSIDER NECESSARY ACTION ON ITEMS DISCUSSED IN THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION.
Mayor Phelps called for necessary action on items discussed in Executive
Session.
A motion by Mayor Phelps, seconded by Councilmembers Bird, Moses, Walden,
Robinson, and Smith, all voting "aye", approved a 2% salary increase for Interim
City Manager John Burke.
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Mayor Phelps stated staff updated City Council on land acquisition and no other
action was necessary in Executive Session.
F.2 ADJOURNMENT.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tem Walden, seconded by Councilman Moses, all voting
"aye", adjourned the City Council meeting of September , 2003 at 8:53 p.m.
n
Bob Phelps, Mayo Cindee Peters, City Secretary
0
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