2000-04-03 CC MinutesCITY OF FARMERS BRANCH
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
APRIIL 3, 2000
COUNCIL CHAMBER
CITY HALL
7:30 P.M.
The following members of the City Council were present:
Mayor Bob Phelps
Mayor Pro Tern Jim Robbs
Councilmembers Bill Moses
Paul Walden
Charlie Bird
The following member of the City Council was absent:
Calla Davis
1
The following members of the City Administration were present:
City Manager
Assistant City Manager
Assistant City Manager
City Attorney
City Secretary
Economic Development Director
Director of Community Services
Director of Planning
City Engineer
Director of Equipment Services
Director of Finance
Director of Parks & Recreation
Library Director
Police Chief
Fire Chief
Director of Public Works
Assistant to the City Manager
Assistant to the City Manager
Traffic Engineer
Recording Secretary
Richard L. Escalante
Linda Groomer
John Burke
John Boyle
Cindee Peters
Norma Nichols
Michael Spicer
Kaizer Rangwala
Jerry Murawski
Don Moore
Charles Cox
Jeff Fuller
Mary Jane Stevenson
Jimmy Fawcett
Kyle King
Mark Pavageaux
Margaret Somereve
John Roach
Dave Davis
Suzanne Reynolds
Volume 83, page 27
Mayor Phelps called the City Council Meeting of April 3, 2000 to order
at 7:30 P.M. The meeting was televised.
A.1 INVOCATION.
Reverend Reggie Mayo, single leader of Farmers Branch Church of
Christ gave the invocation and Acting City Manager Janna Benson led
the pledge of allegiance to the flag.
A.2 INTRODUCE STUDENT GOVERNMENT DAY PARTICIPANTS AND
PROCLAIM APRIL 3, 2000 AS W. T. WHITE STUDENT GOVERNMENT
DAY IN FARMERS BRANCH.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Monday, April 3,
2000, is W. T. White High School Student Government Day at the City
of Farmers Branch. Twenty students from the high school are serving as
counterparts to the Mayor, City Council, City Manager, City Secretary
and Department Heads. These students will actually "run" the City for a
day.
Mayor Phelps, the City Council, and city staff introduced their
counterparts and presented the students with a certificate and a gift bag.
Mayor Phelps also introduced Ms. Lotty Repp sponsor of the W. T. White
High School Student Government Day participants and presented her and
Acting Mayor Bijana Morijanovic with a proclamation.
A.3 PRESENTATION OF HONORARY CITIZEN AWARD TO POTSDAM
UNIVERSITY STUDENT DANIELA POHL, GERMAN EXCHANGE INTERN
WITH THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH MANSKE LIBRARY.
Mayor Phelps presented the following information. Daniela Pohl is
visiting the City of Farmers Branch as an Exchange Intern to the Farmers
Branch Manske Library during the month of April. Daniela is a student at
Potsdam University in Germany and this exchange was established
through the Farmers Branch Sister City relationship with Garbsen,
Germany. Daniela also participated in Student Government Day today
with the students from W. T. White High School.
Mayor Phelps and the City Council presented Daniela Pohl with a
certificate of honorary citizenship and a gift bag, which included
momentos from the City of Farmers Branch.
Volume 83, page 28
A.4 PRESENTATION BY THE NORTHWEST FAMILY OUTREACH TO THE
CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH IN RECOGNITION OF CHILD ABUSE
PREVENTION MONTH.
Ms. Vicki Moulas with Northwest Family Outreach was not present.
A.5 PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARDS.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented a 15-year employee service award
to Steve Irick of the Fire Department.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented a 15-year employee service award
to Roy Smallwood of the Public Works Department.
A.6 PRESENTATION OF BOARD APPLICATIONS.
There were no applications presented.
J
A.7 REPORT ON STUDY SESSION ITEMS.
Student Mayor Morijanovic gave a brief summary of the items
discussed in Study Session prior to the regular meeting.
Student Mayor Morijanovic asked Student Police Chief to present
information on Crime Watch.
Student Police Chief Mackey stated there was discussion in the Study
Session regarding the reorganization of Crime Watch. He explained
before they can proceed with the reorganization they need to identify
volunteers. He asked if anyone was interested in volunteering for the
Crime Watch Program to call Chief Fawcett at 972-484-3620, ext.
303.
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B. CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING AS CONSENT ITEMS AND TAKE THE
APPROPRIATE ACTION B.1 - B.4.
Student Mayor Morijanovic 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.
Volume 83, page 29
A motion by Student Mayor Pro Tern Perez, seconded by Student
Councilwoman Young, all voting "aye," amended item B.1 (minutes of
3/20/00 item C.1) and withdrew agenda item B.2.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, seconded by Councilman Moses, all
voting "aye," amended item B.1 and withdrew agenda item B.2.
A motion by Student Mayor Pro Tem Perez, seconded by Student
Councilwoman Young, all voting "aye," approved the Consent Agenda as
amended.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, seconded by Councilman Moses, all
voting "aye," approved the Consent Agenda as amended.
B.1 APPROVED MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH
20, 2000 AS AMENDED.
B.2 WITHDRAWN.
CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2000-042
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
CLARIFICATION AND NUNC PRO TUNC AGREEMENT OF TAX
ABATEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS AND EWING 8 JOINT
VENTURE - CENTURA I AND TAKE APPRROPRIATE ACTION.
B.3 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2000-059 ACCEPTING A
SIDEWALK AND UTILITY EASEMENT AT THE SOUTHWEST
CORNER OF VALLEY VIEW LANE AND WEBB CHAPEL ROAD
DONATED TO THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH BY T.W.
KINCHELOE FOR THE WEBB CHAPEL ROAD SIDEWALK
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.
B.4 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2000-060 ENDORSING THE
DALLAS-FORT WORTH CLEAN CITIES TECHNICAL COALITION.
C.1 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST OF INSITE FARMERS
BRANCH LIMITED PARTNERSHIP TO AMEND AN EXISTING SPECIFIC
USE PERMIT TO ALLOW TIRE BALANCING AND ROTATION AND
AMEND THE ASSOCIATED SITE PLAN AND CONCEPT PLAN RELATIVE
TO THE EXISTING CAR SPA CAR WASH AND SERVICE FACILITY
LOCATED AT 3690 BELTLINE ROAD AND WITHIN THE PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT NO. 23 ZONING DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE
ACTION.
Volume 83, page 30
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. On
September 7, 1999, CarSpa, Inc. was granted a Specific Use Permit for
a car wash, gasoline service station, detailing, lube and minor repair
center, and a cafe to be located at the southwest corner of Beltline Road
and Marsh Lane. The facility is now open and operating in compliance
with the existing Specific Use Permit.
The applicant is seeking amendment of the existing Specific Use Permit
and site plan to add a proposed tire balancing and rotation use, and to
change several features of the approved site plan, including accessory
buildings, lighting and signs.
The applicant is also seeking to amend the existing PD-23 concept plan
to reflect the proposed changes on the site plan. The overall
architectural scheme and site layout of the project have not changed.
On February 28, 2000, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed
and unanimously recommended approval of the petition subject to the
site plan file-dated March 13, 2000, and including the following
conditions:
1. A maximum of 2.5 foot-candles of light shall be allowed at
property boundary lines.
2. The proposed pylon signs shall have a white background.
3. The applicant shall construct all sidewalks indicated on the site
plan before a final certificate of occupancy is issued for the
property.
4. Kiosk buildings "to be constructed at a future date" on the car
wash queuing-lane islands shall be constructed of the same
materials, have the same architectural appearance, and be of the
same colors as the CarSpa main building.
5. The gasoline canopy facade and support poles shall be solid white
exclusive of permitted signage.
6. All operations are subject to the plan of operation, file-dated
February 15, 2000.
7. All automobile repair operations and tire balancing and rotation
shall be conducted inside the building.
8. Paint and body repair work is prohibited.
Volume 83, page 31
9. Any customer vehicle kept on-site during hours in which the
facility is not open to the public shall be stored indoors.
10. Outside storage of any equipment or junk, trash and debris or
other material shall be prohibited.
11. All parking and maneuvering surfaces shall be paved with concrete
and striped in accordance with the City of Farmers Branch
engineering standards, prior to the issuance of a certificate of
occupancy.
Student Mayor Morijanovic opened the public hearing.
Mr. Jim Nutley, Insight Real Estate Development, 1791 Hereford Drive,
El Algonguinto, Illinois, 60102, was present representing the owner of
CarSpa. He stated he would be available to answer any questions of
the Council.
Mr. Nutley stated in reference to the canopy lights at the station that it
is a safety issue for their patrons. He referenced the following: the
monument signs that will incorporate signage for the new development
adjacent to the car wash; the menu boards are the same as the drive
through restaurant across the street; the pump toppers are the same as
other stations; and the wave effect on the canopy was eliminated. He
asked that the red Conoco sign be approved as recommended by the
Planning and Zoning Commission.
A motion by Student Councilman Rose, seconded by Student
Councilwoman Cehic, all voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
A motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by Councilman Moses, all
voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
Student City Manager Benson asked if the lighting could be decreased
and still maintain safe lighting levels because it seemed to be a bit
excessive.
Mr. Nutley stated most service stations have the same light fixtures
and patrons feel safe when it is well lit. He stated that reducing the
lighting would be a disadvantage when competing with other stations
in the area.
Student Councilman Cehic asked if it was a 2-'/2 foot candle.
Volume 83, page 32
Mr. Nutley stated that under the canopy it is greater than 2-%2 foot
candle. The 2-%2 foot candles are along the perimeter of the property.
Student Councilman Rose commented that he had used the services at
the CarSpa and was very pleased. He stated he was confused and
asked if the applicant was in agreement with the conditions requested
by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Mr. Nutley stated he was in agreement with the eleven conditions
presented by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Student City Manager Benson asked if the menu board would block
anything.
Mr. Nutley replied the menu board was behind the car wash drive
through entrance sign.
Student Mayor Morijanovic asked staff to make the presentation they
made during Study Session.
Mr. Michael Spicer, Director of Community Services, stated the
applicant has incorporated some of the recommendations presented by
the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr. Spicer outlined the status of
the signage of the property.
Mr. Spicer commented that light readings from adjacent stations were
lower than the lighting at the CarSpa.
Mr. Kazier Rangwala, Director of Planning, stated at the present time
the City of Farmers Branch does not have an ordinance or regulation on
lighting. In the absence of any written regulations the City refers to
other surrounding cities and their regulations.
Mr. Rangwala also stated to allow more than what is recommended by
staff would cause a glare that may impact drivers on Marsh Lane and
Beltline Road.
Councilman Walden asked Mr. Rangwala, if in his opinion, the
recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission on the 2-%2
foot candle on the perimeter effectively deals with the glare. He stated
the lights might cause a distraction or glare to the motorists.
Mr. Rangwala stated the Planning and Zoning Commission approved 2-
%2 candlelight that is shielded. Also, some light may reflect on the
white building and cause a glare.
Volume 83, page 33
Councilman Walden asked if there was a disagreement between the
Community Services prospective and the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
Mr. Rangwala stated there is no disagreement on the perimeter lighting.
There is some disagreement on the lighting under the canopy. The
Planning and Zoning Commission approved 100-foot candles and staff
recommend 40-foot candles under the canopy and 25-foot anywhere
else.
Mr. Spicer presented photographs and gave the Council a detailed
overview of the signage.
Mr. Spicer requested clarification on the hours of operation from the
applicant.
Mr. Nutley stated he is not totally familiar with the hours of operation
but believes the gasoline and the convenience store operation is 24
hours.
Mr. Spicer asked for that clarification for the record.
Councilman Moses stated he is impressed with the CarSpa but is
confused about the lumination and asked if the lumination across the
street was the same.
Mr. Spicer replied the lumination across the street is significantly less.
Mr. Nutley commented the same number of fixtures are at both
locations and presented photographs for the Council to review.
Councilman Moses stated the four corners is the best he has seen in
the past 20 plus years and would not want to penalize CarSpa for what
should be on the corner.
Mr. Nutley commented he would like to check the Planning and Zoning
Commission minutes in regard to the foot power of lighting on the
backside of the property.
Mayor Pro Tern Robbs asked if this item could be sent back to the
Planning and Zoning Commission if the Council did not approve.
Mayor Phelps replied the Council could approve or deny the
recommendations as they deemed necessary.
Volume 83, page 34
Mr. Escalante stated the Council could accept the recommendations or
modify the recommendations of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Councilman Walden stated he is still having a problem with the
lumination. He asked Mr. Nutley if there were fewer light fixtures with
the same wattage as the station across the street.
Mr. Nutley replied yes, under the canopy.
Mr. Walden asked Mr. Spicer if he agreed with that.
Mr. Spicer replied that his staff did not think that was correct and
deferred the question to Mr. Rangwala.
Mr. Rangwala replied the establishment across the street is a gasoline
station, the CarSpa is a gasoline station with a car wash facility. The
two canopies at CarSpa essentially result in more light bulbs.
Mr. Escalante stated there should be an amendment to the ordinance to
include hours of operation.
Mr. Spicer stated staff has no problem with the hours of operation,
they want consistency with the application.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Student Councilman
Rose, seconded by Student Councilwoman LaMotte, all voting "aye,"
adopted the following captioned Ordinance No. 2525 approving the
specific use permit and the associated concept and site plans, file-dated
March 13, 2000 with the conditions recommended by the Planning and
Zoning Commission and to include hours of operation.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Bird,
seconded by Councilman Moses all voting "aye," adopted the following
captioned Ordinance No. 2525 approving the specific use permit and
the associated concept and site plans, file-dated March 13, 2000 with
the conditions recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission
and to include hours of operation.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS,
REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 2504 AND AMENDING THE
COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS, AS HERETOFORE AMENDED FOR A
SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR A GASOLINE SERVICE STATION AND
CAR WASH WITH SITE PLAN APPROVAL FOR DETAILING, A
Volume 83, page 35
LUBE FACILITY WITH MINOR AUTOMOBILE REPAIR, A TIRE
BALANCING AND ROTATION FACILITY, A CAFE, AND A RETAIL
AREA IN THE SAME ESTABLISHMENT LOCATED AT 3690
BELTLINE ROAD, AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF BELTLINE
ROAD AND MARSH LANE AND WITHIN THE PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT NUMBER 23 (PD-23) ZONING DISTRICT;
PROVIDING FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY OF FINE NOT TO
EXCEED THE SUM OF TWO THOUSAND ($2,000.00) DOLLARS;
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
C.2 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST OF COMET NEON
ADVERTISING COMPANY AND BARNETT SIGNS ON BEHALF OF
TETCO STORES L.P. TO AMEND THE ASSOCIATED SITE PLAN FOR
THE EXISTING SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR THE MOBIL TETCO
GASOLINE SERVICE STATION LOCATED AT 13995 MIDWAY ROAD
AND WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT NO. 64 ZONING
DISTRICT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. The
applicant is proposing an amendment to the existing specific use permit
and the associated site plan. The proposed changes consist of
modifications to the monument and building wall signs, and to
landscaping materials.
The existing land use is consistent with the recommendations of the
comprehensive plan and is compatible with the surrounding area.
The proposed changes will not affect the overall operational
effectiveness or the architectural integrity of the developments.
The proposed specific use permit, if approved, will repeal the previous
approved specific use permit ordinances.
The Planning and Zoning Commission, by unanimous vote, recommends
approval of Ordinance No. 2528 approving the specific use permit,
including the associated site plan file-dated March 6, 2000, with the
following conditions:
1. Maintenance of the proposed pavers at each drive approach shall
be the responsibility of the property owner.
2. All convenience store windows shall be of tinted glass with dark
bronze aluminum frames.
Volume 83, page 36
3. A lighting plan shall be submitted and subject to Staff approval
prior to issuance of an occupancy permit.
4. Ordinances 1344 and 2468 are hereby repealed.
5. The applicant shall install the approved plant materials consisting
of crape myrtles and photinias along the west property line and
not construct the landscape berm.
Student Mayor Morijanovic opened the public hearing.
Mr. Neven St. Romaine, 517 Cornstalk Road, Rockwall, Texas,
representing the Barnett Sign Company was present. He stated that
Barnett Signs adheres to all the recommendations by Planning and
Zoning Commission and made himself available to answer questions of
the Council.
A motion by Student Councilwoman LaMotte, seconded by Student
Councilman Rose, all voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
A motion by Councilman Walden, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, all
voting "aye," closed the public hearing.
Mayor Phelps asked the applicant if he had a problem with the five
recommendations made by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Mr. St. Romaine replied he did not have a problem with the
recommendations.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Student Councilwoman
LaMotte, seconded by Student Councilman Rose, all voting "aye,"
adopted the following captioned Ordinance No. 2528 approving the
specific use permit and associated site plan, file-dated March 6, 2000,
including recommended conditions for approval.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Walden,
seconded by Councilman Bird, all voting "aye," adopted the following
captioned Ordinance No. 2528 approving the specific use permit and
associated site plan, file-dated March 6, 2000, including recommended
conditions for approval.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS,
AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS, AS HERETOFORE
Volume 83, page 37
AMENDED; SO AS TO GRANT A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR A
GASOLINE SERVICE STATION WITH A CAR WASH AND
CONVENIENCE STORE LOCATED AT 13995 MIDWAY ROAD,
THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MIDWAY ROAD AND SPRING
VALLEY ROAD AND WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT NO.
64 (PD-64) ZONING DISTRICT; REPEALING ORDINANCE
NUMBERS 1344 AND 2468; PROVIDING FOR INJUNCTIVE
RELIEF; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR A
PENALTY OF FINE NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF TWO
THOUSAND ($2,000.00) DOLLARS; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
C.3 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER THE REQUEST BY SOUTHWESTERN
BELL WIRELESS FOR A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR A MOUNTED
ANTENNA SYSTEM ON THE MUNICIPAL WATER TOWER LOCATED
AT 3723 VALLEY VIEW LANE WITHIN THE R-2 ZONING DISTRICT
AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. The
applicant is requesting permission to install a mounted antenna system
on the existing municipal water tower located adjacent to the Farmers
Branch Justice Center. The proposed antenna system includes nine
antenna panels to be grouped in three sets of three antennas. The
proposed antenna system will be the third antenna system on the City's
water tower.
The proposed antenna panels will be alternately spaced between the
AT&T panels, which already exist as the topmost row of antennas on the
water tower. The antennas will be mounted approximately 100 feet
above ground level consistent with the height of the AT&T antennas.
The proposed antennas will match the size and shape of the existing
antenna panels and match the color of the water tower.
An equipment building is also proposed at the base of the water tower
near its southwestern side. The proposed equipment building will be
constructed of split-face concrete block to match the existing Nextel and
approved AT&T equipment buildings and will be painted the same color
as the Justice Center's limestone wall.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommends approval
of the specific use permit, including the associated site plan file-dated
February 23, 2000, subject to the following conditions:
1. The equipment building's exterior finish shall match the color of
the Farmers Branch Justice Center screening wall fronting Valley
Volume 83, page 38
View Lane, the exterior walls shall be split-face masonry block,
and the building shall have a flat roof, unless otherwise approved
by City Staff.
2. Southwestern Bell Wireless or subsequent owner of the antenna
system and equipment building, shall remove the wireless
communications antenna, associated equipment building, and all
appurtenances within ninety (90) days subsequent to such time
that the antenna and equipment building become obsolete and the
use is abandoned.
Student Mayor Morijanovic opened the public hearing.
Mr. Skip Ogel, Southwestern Bell Wireless, 15660 Dallas Parkway,
stated he was in agreement with the Planning and Zoning
recommendations and would be available to answer any questions the
Council may have.
Mr. John Wells, 13521 Heartside Place, asked if the City obtains
revenue from Southwestern Bell for antennas placed on City property.
Student Councilwoman Benson replied yes.
Mr. Wells asked what amount.
Ms. Margaret Somereve, Assistant to the City Manager, stated
Southwestern Bell will be paying the City $1,500 a month for space on
the water tower. The lease agreement is a companion item on this
agenda.
Mr. Wells asked if it was competitive with the other cities.
Ms. Somereve replied yes.
A motion by Student Councilman Cehnic, seconded by Student Mayor
Pro Tern Perez, all voting "aye, closed the public hearing.
A motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, all
voting "aye, closed the public hearing.
Mr. Escalante stated there are two benefits to this agreement. The first
is compensation, which has been discussed; and the second is
aesthetics, and this request does away with the need for antennas on
monopoles.
Volume 83, page 39
Student Councilman Rose asked how many antennas could be mounted
on the water tower.
Ms. Somereve replied the water tower could accommodate several
more antenna panels, however, the real problem is the lack of space for
the associated equipment buildings on the ground.
Student Councilman Rose asked how many equipment buildings are
there now.
Ms. Somereve replied this request represents the third building, leaving
no room for any additional buildings.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Student Councilwoman
Cehic, seconded by Student Councilman Young, all voting "aye,"
adopted the following captioned Ordinance No. 2527 approving the
specific use permit and its associated site plan, file-dated February 23,
2000 and subject to the conditions recommended by the Planning and
Zoning Commission.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Moses,
seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, all voting "aye," adopted the
following captioned Ordinance No. 2527 approving the specific use
permit and its associated site plan, file-dated February 23, 2000 and
subject to 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, AS HERETOFORE
AMENDED, SO AS TO GRANT A SPECIFIC USE PERMIT FOR A
CELLULAR COMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA SYSTEM AND AN
EQUIPMENT BUILDING WITHIN THE ONE FAMILY RESIDENCE-2
(R-2) ZONING DISTRICT AT 3723 VALLEY VIEW LANE;
PROVIDING FOR CONDITIONS OF OPERATION; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY OF FINE
NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS
$2,000.00); PROVIDING FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
D.1 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2000-062 AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH
SOUTHWESTERN BELL WIRELESS FOR CERTAIN SPACE LOCATED AT
3723 VALLEY VIEW LANE FOR A MOUNTED ANTENNA AND TAKE
APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Volume 83, page 40
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information.
Southwestern Bell Wireless has requested to lease space on the water
tower on 3723 Valley View Lane for a mounted antenna along with an
area on the City's property for the auxiliary equipment building.
Southwestern Bell's antennas will match the AT&T antennas, which are
the three sets of three panels highest on the tower. Southwestern Bell
will be placed at the same level as the AT&T antennas.
A lease was negotiated and agreed upon between Southwestern Bell and
the City of Farmers Branch. The lease is for five years with two optional
additional five-year renewal periods for $1500 per month with a 15%
increase after each five-year term.
A specific use permit request to allow the installation of the cellular
antennas to the water tower is a companion item on this agenda.
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Resolution No. 2000-
062 authorizing the City Manager to execute the lease agreement with
Southwestern Bell Wireless for mounted antennas on the water tower
and certain area on the property for the auxiliary equipment facility at
3723 Valley View Lane.
There being no discussion, a motion by Student Mayor Pro Tern Perez,
seconded by Councilwoman Young, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution
No. 2000-062 authorizing the City Manager to execute the lease
agreement with Southwestern Bell Wireless for mounted antennas on the
water tower and certain area on the property for the auxiliary equipment
facility at 3723 Valley View Lane.
There being no discussion, a motion by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, seconded
by Councilman Walden, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2000-
062 authorizing the City Manager to execute the lease agreement with
Southwestern Bell Wireless for mounted antennas on the water tower
and certain area on the property for the auxiliary equipment facility at
3723 Valley View Lane.
D.2 CONSIDER LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS AT HOLIDAY PARK AND
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. This
item was placed on the agenda at the request of the W.T. White High
School students as part of Student Government Day.
Volume 83, page 41
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain reviewed the
recommendations for improvements to Holiday Park. The recommended
improvements include additional trees, picnic tables, a swing bench and
additional landscaping.
Councilman Walden asked if there would be irrigation improvements.
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain replied there is existing
irrigation in the park.
Councilman Walden asked if the irrigation covers all the green space.
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain replied yes that it does cover
all the green space.
Councilman Walden stated he enjoyed the wildflowers and asked if there
be more wildflowers in this improvement area.
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain explained they would like to
keep the west side of the park as wildflowers and the east side as an
area for walking.
Student Mayor Pro Tern Perez asked if the Parks and Recreation budget
would allow for this type of program.
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain replied it would take $8,000
to implement this program.
Mayor Phelps stated the proposed park is beautiful. Funds are not in the
budget; it would have to be budgeted before improvements could be
made.
Student City Manager Benson asked if this had been discussed with the
residents near by.
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain replied they do plan to
discuss this item with residents and business owners.
D.3 CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 2000-049 DESIGNATING
CHASE BANK OF TEXAS, N.A. AS THE CITY'S DEPOSITORY BANK
AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
DEPOSITORY CONTRACT AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. The
term of the City's depository contract with Chase Bank of Texas, N.A.
Volume 83, page 42
will expire on April 30, 2000. The City has had an excellent relationship
with Chase Bank during the past contract.
Requests for proposals were advertised and sent to five banks operating
in Farmers Branch. Proposals were received from Bank One of Texas,
N.A. and Chase Bank. Proposals were evaluated based on the following
criteria:
A. To find a bank that is both capable of providing banking services
and willing to be attentive to the City's money matters.
B. To maximize the total dollars earned by the City on account
balances in order to be prudent and effective custodians of the
taxpayers' financial resources.
C. To maintain a good working relationship with the depository bank.
D. To adequately compensate the depository bank for services
provided and to allow a reasonable profit to be earned, subject to
competitive forces in the marketplace.
E. To seek a bank that supports the local business and residential
community.
F. To find a bank that is willing to actively support the City's
Neighborhood Renaissance efforts.
Based on the criteria used to evaluate the proposals, both banks are
capable of providing direct banking services to the City. The two
primary differences between the proposals were cost and community
reinvestment. Bank One proposed the lower cost of $15,312 annually
compared with Chase Bank's proposal of $32,520. Chase Bank's
community reinvestment performance on a regional and local level was
clearly superior to Bank One's. Support of the business and residential
community was given primary importance in the bank depository
selection process.
The 1999-2000 adopted budget contains $35,000 for depository
services. Actual cost will be based on the level of activity each month.
Staff recommends adopting Resolution No. 2000-049 designating Chase
Bank of Texas, N.A. as the City's depository bank and authorizing the
City Manager to enter into a three year depository contract with optional
automatic renewals for a period of two years.
There being no discussion, a motion by Student Councilman Rose,
seconded by Student Councilwoman LaMotte, all voting "aye," adopted
Resolution No. 2000-049 designating Chase Bank of Texas, N.A. as the
City's depository bank and authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
Volume 83, page 43
three year depository contract with optional automatic renewals for a
period of two years.
There being no discussion, a motion by Councilman Bird, seconded by
Councilman Walden, all voting "aye," adopted Resolution No. 2000-049
designating Chase Bank of Texas, N.A. as the City's depository bank
and authorizing the City Manager to enter into a three year depository
contract with optional automatic renewals for a period of two years.
D.4 CONSIDER ADOPTING ORDINANCE NO. 2507, A DROUGHT
CONTINGENCY PLAN, AND TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. This
proposed Ordinance is to be used in times of major regional drought or in
the event the City of Farmers Branch or the City of Dallas system
experiences equipment failures, or is not able to maintain adequate levels
of water storage for fire fighting purposes.
The City previously initiated Stage One of the proposed Drought
Contingency Plan, at the request of the City of Dallas. Because of
conditions at Lake Tawakoni and the continued drought condition, the
City of Dallas has informed its water customers that it has initiated Stage
Two-Water Watch effective Wednesday, March 29. Under Stage Two,
citizens are encouraged to reduce water usage and to restrict washing or
rinsing of vehicles to commercial car washes, or to the use of a bucket
and container, using a hand held hose with a positive shut off nozzle.
The ordinance consists of four stages and each stage can be
implemented when required by the City Manager of Farmers Branch or by
notification to the City from the City of Dallas.
The Director of Public Works recommends adopting Ordinance No. 2507
adopting a Drought Contingency Plan.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Student Councilwoman
LaMotte, seconded by Student Councilman Rose, all voting "aye,"
adopted the following captioned Ordinance No. 2507 Drought
Contingency Plan.
Mr. John Wells, 13521 Heartside Place, commented he had not heard
anything about the irrigation systems and asked if it was under the plan.
Mr. Mark Pavageaux, Director of Public Works, stated under Stage II
Water Watch there is a section that the city encourages a five-day
watering cycle. Mr. Pavageaux explained the five-day watering cycle.
Volume 83, page 44
Mr. Escalante stated this is the same formula that is being proposed
throughout the Dallas service area.
Student Councilman Rose asked what kind of chemical was spilled was
in Lake Tawakoni.
Mr. Pavageaux explained it was a gasoline pipeline spill and referred the
question to Stacy Wright to answer questions about the chemicals.
Mr. Stacy Wright, Environmental Specialist, provided scientific
information concerning the gasoline spill at Lake Tawakoni and stated the
chemical was Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE). MTBE is an oxygenate
added to gasoline to increase combustion efficiency thereby reducing air
pollution. Reformulated gasoline is approximately 11 percent MTBE by
volume.
Student Councilman Rose asked if the City would have to ration water
this summer if there is no more rainfall.
Mr. Wright replied he spoke with Dallas Water Utility and they had no
definite plans as to when the water would be acceptable for distribution.
He further stated that Explorer Pipeline is expected to remediate the
MTBE contamination and may enter the Voluntary Cleanup Program
administered by the TNRCC.
Mr. Wright also stated based on information provided by Dallas Water
Utility that contamination of MTBE at those levels would provide a taste
and odor problem to persons who consume the water.
Student Councilman Rose asked what effect would this have on Farmers
Branch landscaping.
Student Parks and Recreation Director Rain stated watering once every
five days would have a catastrophic effect on existing landscape
throughout the City of Farmers Branch.
Councilman Walden asked if there is a reasonable estimate on how long
the clean up would take.
Mr. Wright stated there is no good estimate at this time. In 30 days
with more analytical data collection, staff will have a better idea.
Councilman Walden asked what effect the recent rainfall would have on
the watershed and lake levels considering Lake Tawakoni is off line.
Volume 83, page 45
Mr. Pavageaux explained the recent rains have provided enough water to
maintain the current level but have not resulted in any increase in water
levels. He stated further that the rain has not filled up any reservoirs.
Mr. Escalante reviewed the impact of the drought and the environmental
problems and how this situation would impact development and
businesses in the City of Farmers Branch. He also stated that this item
would be discussed at a future Study Session meeting.
Councilman Walden asked if the water consumption plan allocates
medians versus fields and is this in compliance with the spirit as well as
the letter of the proposed ordinance.
Mr. Escalante stated it probably is not, and this needs additional
discussion because the public will look at what the City is doing. For
example, the citizens could drive down the street and see that medians
are being watered, after the City asked them not to water their lawns. It
could create a lot of problems for the City.
Mr. Escalante stated he knows what the public thinks about the medians
and knows they want them to remain beautiful. He suggested Council
adopt the proposed Ordinance. He stated discussion would continue
with Council to see what options and alternatives are available. He also
stated this is an issue for the homeowners and business community
alike.
Councilman Walden stated he would like to see these alternatives
investigated. He stated the City wants to conserve the overall usage and
feels the problem will not get any better. He also suggested effective
communication to the residents be a part of the plan.
Mr. Escalante stated Farmers Branch is unique because it has not had to
ration water. If the City asked the residents and businesses to
voluntarily cut back, they would. He also stated informing the public
would be an important public relations component of the plan. Further,
this item will return on the Study Session at a future date.
Mayor Pro Tern Robbs stated there are two issues being discussed
water shortage and MTBE. He gave a brief history about MTBE, which
was a replacement additive for tetra ethyl lead. He hopes an alternative
chemical can be found for replacement in the future that is not as
dangerous or as bad on the environment.
Volume 83, page 46
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Walden,
seconded by Councilman Moses, all voting "aye," adopted the following
captioned Ordinance No. 2507 Drought Contingency Plan.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS
ADOPTING A DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN; PROVIDING
DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING TRIGGERING CRITERIA FOR
INITIATION AND TERMINATION OF DROUGHT RESPONSE
STAGES; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY NOT TO
EXCEED THE SUM OF ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($1,000.00)
FOR EACH OFFENSE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
D.5 CONSIDER ESTABLISHING A SCHOOL-COMMUNITY RELATIONS
COMMITTEE AND MAKE APPOINTMENTS, INCLUDING A CHAIRMAN
AND VICE CHAIRMAN, ESTABLISH STAGGERED TERMS, AND TAKE
APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. In
August of 1997 the City Council established the Educational Task Force
comprised of residents interested in the quality of education in the
Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District. Last December
the City Council accepted the recommendation of the Task Force that it
should be dissolved, and a new committee should be formed with
staggered terms of office.
Under this proposal, the School-Community Relations Committee would
assist the Council in matters related to the Carrollton-Farmers Branch
Independent School District. Appointments made to the new committee
would be for 1, 2 and 3-year terms in order to establish the three-year
staggered terms. A Chairman and Vice Chair of the committee are
proposed to be appointed by the Council.
The following residents responded to the Mayor as being willing to serve
on the committee:
Scott Meischen
Mark Gregory
Mariellen Gregory
Burns-Hastings
Debra Marshall
Pam Binford
David Merritt
Barry Webster
Sharon Williams
Johnny Marshall
Ruth Yost
Jane Cowser
Frank Shor
Robert Hernandez Betty
Jim Barrett
Marsha Murry
Lloyd Yost
Volume 83, page 47
Mr. Jim Barrett, 341 1 Gatwick, presented and reviewed a handout to the
City Council. The handout details the importance of this committee and
their ability to monitor the activities of the School Board.
Mr. Barrett emphasized the importance of fair and equitable education
opportunities for the students in Farmers Branch. He briefly outlined
recent plans to expand or add additional educational facilities at R. L.
Turner and the addition of a new high school in the western part of the
district.
Mr. Barrett thanked the Council for the active part they have played in
watching after the school children in Farmers Branch. He emphasized
how important it is for this committee to watch how the funds are spent
in the district, especially the schools in the southern end of the district.
He also urged the Council to take action to form this committee.
Ms. Shirley Call, 2832 Bay Meadows, asked if there is a limit to the
number of committee members. She stated she would like to volunteer
her services. She also appreciated the support shown by the City
Council at the recent school board meeting in trying to make an equitable
solution for the location of a school in Farmers Branch.
Student Mayor Morijanovic stated those on the list would be on the
committee and would welcome her participation on this committee.
Mayor Phelps stated the Council wanted to appoint the committee and
select a chair and vice chair and the terms of the members were to be
determined. Mayor Phelps stated Frank Shor agreed to act as chair and
he suggested that Jim Barrett serve as vice chair.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Student Councilman
Cehic, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Perez, all voting "aye," established
a School-Community Relations Committee, appointing members serving
staggered terms; a chairman Frank Shor for a three year term; a vice
chairman Jim Barrett for a three year term, and invite Shirley Call to be
on the committee.
There being no further discussion, a motion by Councilman Moses,
seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, all voting "aye," established a
School-Community Relations Committee, appointing members serving
staggered terms; a chairman Frank Shor for a three year term, a vice
chairman Jim Barrett for a three year term, and invite Shirley Call to be
on the committee.
Volume 83, page 48
D.6 CONSIDER APPOINTMENTS TO THE PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE LIBRARY BOARD AND
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
Student Mayor Morijanovic presented the following information. The
following members of the Planning and Zoning Commission have a term
that will expire on May 1, 2000:
David Merrit
5/1/00
Stan Armstrong
5/1/00
Joe Patterson
5/1/00
The following members of the Library Board will expire:
Lorraine Blair
5/1/00
Diane Graifemberg
5/1/00
Gloria Aguilar
5/1/00
Carla McGee
5/1/00
Ruby Neely
5/1/00
J
Mayor Phelps stated he had not contacted these board members and this
item would be placed on the next agenda.
D.7 CONSIDER COUNCIL TRAVEL REPORTS AND REQUESTS AND TAKE
THE APPROPRIATE ACTION.
There were no travel reports or requests.
MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENT
Mayor Phelps stated that Student Mayor Morijanovic has done a
marvelous job tonight. She is from Bosnia and has been in the United
States for only one and a half years and has conquered the English
language.
Councilman Bird complimented all the students for doing an excellent
job.
Mayor Phelps stated the students have had a long day and Council
appreciates all their hard work.
Councilman Moses stated all the students have done an excellent job and
his counterpart is also from Bosnia.
Volume 83, page 49
Mr. Escalante stated that in addition to the students on the Council, the
department heads have worked diligently during the day. He stated this
Student Government group has been one of the best and complimented
the student's instructors. He also stated he would be happy to work
with any of this great group of young students.
Student City Manager Benson stated that on behalf of the W.T. White
students they wanted to thank the City for the opportunity to participate
in Student Government Day.
D.8 CITIZEN PARTICIPATION.
Mr. John Wells, 13521 Heartside Place, stated there were several items
he would like to discuss with the Council. (1) Citizens by Rawhide
Creek are looking forward to a jogging/path trail. He asked Council
when it would be completed. (2) In the alley for Golfing Green in the
2700 to 2800 block there are many abandoned metal cable
connections boxes that need to be removed. He stated he called the
Telephone Company and they stated they did not belong to them. He
feels the City should take action on this issue. Work has been done on
the telephone poles and a lot of materials end up on the ground. He
presented a bag of cable materials to the Council and stated this is very
dangerous and someone could get hurt.
Mr. Michael Bruer, 2815 Reedcroft, stated when he inquired at the City
last week about the policy on speed bumps he was told there was no
policy in effect for acquiring speed bumps in their neighborhood.
Mayor Phelps stated before tonight there was no policy enforced.
There was discussion on speed bumps at the Study Session meeting
this afternoon. He stated this item would be brought back to the
Council.
Mr. Escalante stated this item would be on the next City Council
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 5:59 P.M. AND CONCLUDED AT 6:29 P.M. FOR
THE 7:30 P.M. GENERAL SESSION. TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE CHAPTER
51 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.
Volume 83, page 50
E.1 a DISCUSS PENDING AND CONTEMPLATED LITIGATION -
TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 551.071
1. CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH - CARROLLTON-FARMERS
BRANCH INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL SITE
SELECTION.
Mayor Phelps stated Staff and the City Attorney were present to discuss this
item with the City Council.
E.2 CONSIDER NECESSARY ACTION ON ITEMS DISCUSSED IN THE
EXECUTIVE SESSION.
Mayor Phelps reported the City Council was updated on litigation. No
action was necessary.
F.1 ADJOURNMENT.
A motion by Student Councilman Perez, a second by Student
Councilwoman Cehic, all voting "aye", adjourned the City Council
meeting of April 3, 2000 at 9:59 P.M.
A motion by Mayor Pro Tern Robbs, a second by Councilman Walden,
all voting "aye", adjourned the City Council meeting of April 3, 2000 at
9:
Mayor
City Secretary
Volume 83, page 51