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Bi-Monthly: September 2006

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING

RIVER OAKS CITY COUNCIL

                    SEPTEMBER 12, 2006

 

MEMBERS PRESENT                                                     STAFF PRESENT

MAYOR HERMAN EARWOOD                                                CITY SECRETARY LINDA RYAN

COUNCILMEMBER CLINT WILLIAMS                                      POLICE CHIEF DAN CHISHOLM

MAYOR PRO TEM STEVE HOLLAND                                       FIRE CHIEF BILL CREWS

COUNCILMEMBER LEONARD WATSON                                   PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MARVIN

COUNCILMEMBER R R “BOB” MINTER                                              GREGORY

COUNCILMEMBER JOANN GORDON                                        ASST CITY SECRETARY ANGIE HARRIS

CITY ATTORNEY BETSY ELAM                                               

                                   

 

CALL TO ORDER AT 7:04 PM BY MAYOR EARWOOD; QUORUM PRESENT

 

COUNCIL MEMBER GORDON GAVE THE INVOCATION.  COUNCILMEMBER MINTER LED THE PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE UNITED STATES AND TEXAS FLAGS

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND BILLS PAYABLE:

 

1. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 29, 2006

 

Council Member Gordon moved to approve meeting minutes from August 29, 2006.  Motion seconded by Council Member Williams.  All voted “Aye.”

 

2. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF BILLS PAYABLE FOR PERIOD ENDING SEPTEMBER 12, 2006

 

Council Member Minter moved to approve payment of bills for period ending September 12, 2006.  Motion seconded by Council Member Williams.  All voted “Aye.”

 

            PERSONAL APPEARANCES REQUIRING COUNCIL APPROVAL/ACTION:

 

3. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF SONNY PARTOVI’S REQUEST TO INSTALL A SUBDIVISION SIGN ON RIVER OAKS BLVD MARKETING THE PARK ADDITION TOWNHOMES

 

PWD Gregory explained that Sonny Partovi, developer for “The Park” townhomes is requesting to place a 4’ X 8’ sign at the intersection of River Oaks Blvd and Roberts Cut Off to advertise sale of the townhomes.  The City’s sign ordinance states that no signs can be placed in this area.  However, an allowance was made in the Sign Ordinance authorizing the City Council to approve variances pending proper procedures.  Council Members discussed/agreed that more information is needed, that CVS Pharmacy be contacted about placement of the sign on/near their business, and that Mr. Partovi address the Council personally when requesting exceptions to City Ordinances.

 

Council Member Williams moved to consider approval of Sonny Partovi’s request to install a subdivision sign on River Oaks Blvd marketing the Park Addition Townhomes, pending additional information regarding the sign and Mr. Partovi’s attendance at a future Council meeting to request an exception to the Sign Ordinance.  Motion seconded by Council Member Watson.  All voted “Aye.” 

 

            ITEMS REQUIRING COUNCIL APPROVAL/ACTION:

4. CONSIDER APPROVAL TO INSTALL SECURITY SYSTEM IN THE COMMUNITY CENTER

 

River Oaks is under contract until 2008 with ADT Security Systems for service at the Booster Station property on Harrisdale.  With that station removed from the system, and no continuing need for security there, PWD Gregory recommended to Council that the contract address with ADT be transferred to the Community Center, where security is needed.  An installation fee of $968.00 and an annual service charge of $828.00 to maintain the security system at 5300 Blackstone were presented to Council for their approval.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve installation of ADT’s Security System in the Community Center and maintaining an annual service charge at that location.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

5. CONSIDER ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION IN ACCORDANCE TO THE WEST NILE VIRUS (WNV) SURVEILLANCE AND RESPONSE PLAN

 

PWD Gregory updated the Council on recent West Nile Virus (WNV) actions taken by the City in order to protect River Oaks citizens from WNV.  Numerous violations of the Nuisance Ordinance have been cited by City Staff where citizens are allowing stagnant water to accumulate on their property.  The City’s intent is not to punish citizens by issuing citations for violations, but rather to educate them so that mosquitoes are less likely to have breeding sites.  Recent tests of areas have resulted in “negative” readings for WNV within the City, but education needs to continue.

 

Council Member Williams moved to continue with current surveillance and response plans regarding West Nile Virus (WNV) in the City.  Motion seconded by Council Member Gordon.  All voted “Aye.” 

 

6. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 742-06 AFFIXING AND LEVYING MUNICIPAL AD VALOREM TAXES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2006-2007

 

Mayor Earwood stated that Public Hearings had been held on August 22nd and August 29th to continue the Municipal Ad Valorem Taxes for FY 2006-2007 at a rate of $0.782700 per $100.00 of assessed taxable property value.  No public comments, questions or objections were raised during the Public Hearings.

 

Council Member Gordon moved to approve Ordinance No. 742-06 affixing and levying Municipal Ad Valorem taxes for Fiscal Year 2006-2007, continuing the rate of $0.782700.  Motion seconded by Council Member Williams.  All voted “Aye.”

 

7. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF POLICE CHIEF’S REQUEST TO PURCHASE DEPARTMENT DUTY RIFLES

 

Police Chief Chisholm stated that he would like to see a shotgun and a rifle in each River Oaks PD Patrol Car to aid in better service and protection of River Oaks and community citizens.  A new semi-automatic weapon will become available in October that will adequately meet the needs of the Department.  The Patrol Officers have expressed a desire in purchasing the weapons and Chief Chisholm recommended a “reimbursement to City” payroll deduction for those officers unable to purchase the weapon outright.  PC Chisholm assured Council that these weapons would be purchased for Full Time Paid Commissioned Peace Officers only and would not include Reserve Officers or staff members.   [Weapon purchase DOES include Reserve Officers; however, they must purchase them “up front” and paid in full as the City has no way to “payroll deduct” for expense].

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve Police Chief Chisholm’s request to purchase Police Department Duty Rifles from Reserve Funds for $25,000.  Motion seconded by Council Member Watson.  All voted “Aye.”

 

8. DISCUSS/CONSIDER APPROVAL TO AMEND THE PERSONNEL MANUAL TO ALLOW PART TIME EMPLOYEE’S HOLIDAY PAY TO BE CALCULATED AT A “RATE OF TWO TIMES THE EMPLOYEE’S REGULAR HOURLY RATE OF PAY”

 

PC Chisholm requested this item be placed on the Agenda due to inconsistencies in paying part-time dispatcher when they work on a holiday.  Part-time employees who work the day of or shift before or after a holiday have “traditionally” been paid at a rate of two times their regular hourly rate of pay.  The City’s Personnel Manual, however, only reflects policy on holiday pay for full-time employees.  Staff was directed to amend the Personnel Policy Manual as discussed and return to Council for final approval.

 

CORRESPONDENCE-ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

9. MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL AND/OR DEPARTMENT HEADS MAY MAKE ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESENT CORRESPONDENCE AT THIS TIME

 

STAFF REPORTS (PRESENTED TO COUNCIL AS CORRESPONDENCE – STAFF AVAILABLE FOR DISCUSSION/QUESTIONS):

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT:  REPORT ON 2006 PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD; AUCTION OF SEIZURE VEHICLES ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2006 (this item not addressed during this meeting).

 

Police Dispatcher Penny Loyd was honored as one of the 2006 Public Safety Telecommunicators of the Year Award.  Police Officer Bruce Mosley will be honored Friday, September 15th at the Texas Rangers baseball game as River Oaks’ Police Officer of the Year.  Castleberry ISD’s Homecoming Parade is scheduled for Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 6:30 PM.

 

Fire Chief Bill Crews presented each Council Member with a River Oaks Fire Department T-shirt.  He informed Council that Blake Tatum would also be honored at the Texas Rangers game as River Oaks’ Firefighter of the Year.  The old 1303 Mack Fire truck would be in the upcoming Russ Martin Heroes Parade.  He thanked the Council for the Department’s new Class A Uniforms, stating that the Fire Department personnel are very proud of them.

 

Council Member Minter inquired about the status of the gas station on River Oaks Boulevard that burned.  PWD Gregory reported that a site plan was due to be presented to Council on September 26th.  The owner plans a gas station/mini-mart for that location.

 

Mayor Pro Tem Holland inquired whether citizens in the community were planning another meeting about gas drilling in the City.  Mayor Earwood stated that more information would be forthcoming but emphasized that the City of River Oaks is not responsible for informing residents/homeowners about mineral rights on their property.  The City is, however, continuing to investigate mineral rights and all other information associated with the Community Center, the City-owned property at 5300 Blackstone.  City Attorney Elam said that Attorney Bryn Meredith, in her law firm, was knowledgeable about gas drilling issues and could be available to discuss issues with the Mayor and Council Members.  Council Members directed Staff to contact Mr. Meredith prior to the next City Council meeting in order to insure that the City has adequate understanding of gas drilling laws.

 

No further action was taken.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

 

10. AT THIS TIME, ANY PERSON WITH CITY RELATED BUSINESS MAY SPEAK TO THE COUNCIL.  IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, THE CITY COUNCIL MAY NOT DELIBERATE OR TAKE ACTION

 

No further action was taken.  

 

WORKSHOP:

 

11. FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PLANNING

 

Council Members discussed future development of River Oaks at length, with City Attorney Elam being asked to present information at the September 26th meeting on the following:  1) Tax Abatements; 2)  EDC Incentive Agreements; and 3)  380 Agreements.  CA Elam will draft a Tax Abatement Resolution for review and will be more prepared in a more organized, structured workshop.

 

ACTION FROM WORKSHOP:

 

12. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF ANY ACTION FROM WORKSHOP

 

No further action was taken.

 

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

 

13. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 551, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE; THE COUNCIL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION(S) FROM TIME TO TIME ON ANY POSTED AGENDA ITEM TO RECEIVE ADVICE FROM ITS ATTORNEY AS PERMITTED BY LAW DURING THIS MEETING.  THE COUNCIL MAY CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING:

  1. Section 551.071 Pending or contemplated litigation or to seek advice from attorney
  2. Section 551.072 Discussion regarding possible sale, lease or acquisition of real estate
  3. Section 551.074 Personnel matters
  4. Section 551.076 Deliberation regarding security devices

 

No further action was taken.

 

RECONVENE:

 

14. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF ANY ACTION FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

No further action was taken.

            ADJOURN:

 

15. ADJOURN

 

Council Member Williams moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:35 PM.  Motion seconded by Council Member Watson.  All voted “Aye.”

 

APPROVED:

 

                                                                                    ___________________________________

                                                                                    Herman D. Earwood, Mayor

ATTEST:

 

____________________________________

Linda A. Ryan, City Secretary

 

 ______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING

RIVER OAKS CITY COUNCIL

                    SEPTEMBER 26, 2006

 

MEMBERS PRESENT                                                     STAFF PRESENT

MAYOR HERMAN EARWOOD                                                 CITY SECRETARY LINDA RYAN

COUNCILMEMBER CLINT WILLIAMS                                       POLICE CHIEF DAN CHISHOLM

MAYOR PRO TEM STEVE HOLLAND                                        FIRE CHIEF BILL CREWS

COUNCILMEMBER LEONARD WATSON                                    PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MARVIN

COUNCILMEMBER R R “BOB” MINTER                                               GREGORY

COUNCILMEMBER JOANN GORDON                                        ASST CITY SECRETARY ANGIE HARRIS

CITY ATTORNEY BETSY ELAM                                               

                                   

 

CALL TO ORDER AT 7:00 PM BY MAYOR EARWOOD; QUORUM PRESENT

 

FIRE CHIEF CREWS GAVE THE INVOCATION.  POLICE CHIEF CHISHOLM LED THE PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE UNITED STATES AND TEXAS FLAGS

 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND BILLS PAYABLE:

 

1. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 12, 2006

 

Police Chief Chisholm requested that minutes be corrected for Agenda Item 7, last sentence, to read:  “PC Chisholm assured Council that these weapons would be purchased for Full Time Paid Commissioned Peace Officers only and would not include Reserve Officers or staff members.  [Weapon purchase DOES include Reserve Officers; however, they must purchase them “up front” and paid in full as the City has no way to “payroll deduct” for expense].”

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve meeting minutes from September 12, 2006 as corrected.  Motion seconded by Council Member Watson.  All voted “Aye.”

 

2. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF BILLS PAYABLE FOR PERIOD ENDING SEPTEMBER 26, 2006

 

Council Member Gordon moved to approve payment of bills for period ending September 26, 2006.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

            PERSONAL APPEARANCES REQUIRING COUNCIL APPROVAL/ACTION:

 

3. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A REQUEST FROM CITIZENS SHIRLEY BLOOMFIELD AND SHIRLEY WHEAT REQUESTING A FUTURE WORKSHOP TO DISCUSS ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN RIVER OAKS

 

Citizens Shirley Wheat (5400 Dartmouth) and Shirley Bloomfield (5109 Langley) addressed City Council Members with their concerns about illegal immigrants residing in River Oaks.  Information was shared with Council regarding Texas Cities, such as Farmers Branch, and other US cities like Hazelton, Pennsylvania, that are actively imploring the US Government to “crack down” on illegal immigration.  Topics offered by Mss. Wheat and Bloomfield included:  certificates of occupancy being issued to possible non-US citizens, use of “Matricula Consular”* Identification Cards in River Oaks to establish services instead of Texas Drivers License and Social Security cards, and the idea that policing of illegal immigrants should begin at the municipal level.  Mayor Earwood suggested to Mss. Wheat and Bloomfield that Council Members needed time to absorb the information presented to them.  No further action was taken.

*Matricula Consular Cards are issued by the Government of Mexico and therefore are not subject to the same stringent identification guidelines as those issued in the US, i.e. Valid State Drivers License and Social Security Cards.

 

            ITEMS REQUIRING COUNCIL APPROVAL/ACTION:

PUBLIC HEARING:

 

4. PUBLIC HEARING:  SITE PLAN APPROVAL OF LOTS 1A & 2, D.B. MCDONALD SUBDIVISION OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 5060 RIVER OAKS BLVD IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 25 OF RIVER OAKS ZONING ORDINANCE # 600 AS ADOPTED AND AMENDED

 

Mayor Earwood opened the Public Hearing at 7:24 PM.  PWD Gregory presented the Site Plan for 5060 River Oaks Blvd with a two-story mini-mart planned for the property.  All aspects of the Site Plan were in compliance with City Ordinance to construct the 2,448 square foot building, replacing the tire shop/gas station that burned several months ago.  Citizens David and Bridget Kaska, 5040 Ohio Garden, addressed Council Members with their concerns about the appearance of the mini-mart planned for the property.  The Kaskas are twenty-three year residents at their current address and are anxious to have a business near their home that looks nice and includes landscaping.  The owner assured the Kaskas and Council Members that the business would be a welcome change/addition to the City, one that River Oaks citizens would be proud of.  With no further comments/questions, Mayor Earwood closed the Public Hearing at 7:40 PM.

 

ACTION FROM PUBLIC HEARING:

 

5. ACTION FROM PUBLIC HEARING:  CONSIDER APPROVAL OF SITE PLAN OF LOTS 1A & 2, D.B. MCDONALD SUBDIVISION OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 5060 RIVER OAKS BLVD IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 25 OF RIVER OAKS ZONING ORDINANCE # 600 AS ADOPTED AND AMENDED

 

Mayor Pro Tem Holland moved to approve the site plan of Lots 1A & 2, D.B. McDonald Subdivision, otherwise known as 5060 River Oaks Blvd in accordance with Section 25 of River Oaks Zoning  Ordinance # 600 as adopted and amended.  Motion seconded by Council Member Williams.  All voted “Aye.” 

 

6. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR CONTINUED PARTICIPATION IN FORT WORTH’S ENVIRONMENTAL COLLECTION CENTER HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE PROGRAM FROM OCTOBER 1, 2006 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2007

 

This ongoing program is beneficial to River Oaks and it was recommended that participation be continued.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve the Interlocal Agreement with Fort Worth for the Environmental Collection of Household Hazardous Waste from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.  Motion seconded by Council Member Gordon.  All voted “Aye.”

 

 

7. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF COMMUNITY CENTER BOARD RECOMMENDATION TO ALLOW BOBBY DORAN TO PROVIDE PLUMBING CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER AT NO CHARGE IN RETURN FOR WAIVING TRAINING FEES FOR CITY EMPLOYEES

 

PWD Gregory explained that upcoming continuing education classes for Plumbers is scheduled for the Community Center and that waiving rental fees in exchange for training fees would significantly and positively impact the City’s budget.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve the Community Center Board’s Recommendation to waive rental fees for upcoming continuing education classes in exchange for charging training fees to City employees.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

8. CONSIDER APPROVAL TO PURCHASE, INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SECURITY SYSTEM IN THE COMMUNITY CENTER THROUGH 2009

 

While this item was brought to Council at the September 12th meeting, ADT’s (the security system) view of the transfer of service from 301 Harrisdale to 5300 Blackstone is that it is considered “new” service and falls under different guidelines.  Discussion followed with Council’s concern that owning the system might limit maintenance in the future and recommended leasing the system; the lease, however, would extend through 2009 instead of 2008 as originally presented.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve the lease of ADT’s Security System in the Community Center through 2009.  Motion seconded by Council Member Gordon.  All voted “Aye.”

 

9. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF REQUEST OF PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE, JACK JOHNSTON, FOR PAYMENT OF 50 HOURS OF UNUSED ACCUMULATED COMPENSATORY LEAVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 5.04(d) OF THE PERSONNEL POLICY MANUAL

 

CA Ryan stated there was no viable reason to turn down the request for payment of the compensatory hours earned; the employee has earned the time and is eligible for compensation.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve a request by employee Jack Johnston for payment of 50 hours of unused accumulated compensatory leave.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

10. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 604-06 AMENDING THE EMPLOYEE POLICY MANUAL; REVISING SECTIONS 1.05 “DEFINITIONS,” 4.03 “COMPENSATION FOR OVERTIME WORK,” 5.01 “HOLIDAYS,” 5.04 “COMPENSATORY LEAVE,” AND 13.12 “SEPARATION PAY”

 

This item is part of a continuing effort to streamline and update the Employee Personnel Manual.  Part Time Police Department Dispatchers who are called in to work on holidays was of particular concern; this item provides for their ability to earn holiday pay at a rate of two times their regular rate of pay.  Council Members agreed that Section 4(d) “Separation Pay,” should be revised to strike…”no monetary payment shall be made unless the employee leaves the employment of the City in good standing…”  Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is clear that all earned compensatory time must be paid whether in time off or compensation paid.

Council Member Williams moved to approve Resolution No. 604-06 amending the Employee Policy Manual as stated and corrected.  Motion seconded by Council Member Gordon.  All voted “Aye.”

 

11. CONSIDER APPROVAL TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL TABLES AND CHAIRS FOR THE COMMUNITY CENTER

 

Purchase of these items was not currently in the budget.  With increasing rentals and usage of the facility, additional tables and chairs have become necessary.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve the purchase of 14 6-foot tables and 110 chairs at a cost not to exceed $3,000.  Motion seconded by Council Member Watson.  All voted “Aye.”

 

12. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF THE RESIGNATION OF JACK ALLEN AS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS

 

Mayor Earwood had accepted Chairman Jack Allen’s resignation from the Zoning Board of Adjustments (ZBA) due to conflicts in his schedule which prohibit his attendance on or chairmanship of the ZBA.

 

Council Member Gordon moved to approve the resignation of Jack Allen from the ZBA.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

13. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF MAYOR’S RECOMMENDATION FOR THE APPOINTMENT OF A CHAIRMAN TO THE ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS

 

Mayor Earwood stated his intention to replace the vacated ZBA position with River Oaks Citizen Ron Tovar.  Council Members agreed that no action was needed for this item as appointment to the Boards was at the discretion of the Mayor.  No further action was taken.

 

14. CONSIDER APPROVAL/ADOPTION OF AN OFFICIAL CITY OF RIVER OAKS FLAG (PROTOTYPE AVAILABLE TO COUNCIL MEMBERS)

 

Mayor Earwood asked Council to approve a flag with the City’s Logo so that support of special events, i.e. deaths of citizens, could be shown without having to seek State or Federal approval.

 

Council Member Gordon moved to adopt the presented flag as the Official City of River Oaks Flag.  Motion seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Holland.  All voted “Aye.”

 

15. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A LEASE OR PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR NEW BUNKER GEAR AS REQUESTED BY FIRE CHIEF BILL CREWS

 

Fire Chief Crews addressed Council with his request for 45 bunker gear units to replace their eleven-year-old gear, which has never been inspected/upgraded.  The average life expectancy for bunker gear is five years.  All reserve sets have been depleted and would be replenished with the 45 units ordered.  City Attorney Elam expressed her concerns that quotes must be presented for new bunker gear, due to the high cost.  If the supplier is a Single Source, the Fire Chief would need to present the Department’s request as a “Best Value” supplier, writing specifications for the gear.  Using an Intergovernmental Purchasing Program would eliminate the need for acquiring quotes.  Fire Chief Crews will return to Council with additional information/quotes.  No further action was taken.

 

16. CONSIDER APPROVAL AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH ROBERT D. LOYD FOR THE PURCHASE OF LOT 2A1, FOREST ACRES ADDITION OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 5201 OHIO GARDENS (REAR)

 

Mayor Earwood updated CM Watson regarding the purchase of this property, as he was not in attendance during the Executive Session in which discussion occurred.  Anticipated use of the property would benefit the Public Works Department by allowing an area for stockpiling of sand/gravel and/or other street repair materials and for heavy equipment storage.  Proposed purchase price is $35,000 with $20,000 payable at the time of purchase and $15,000 when budgeted for Fiscal Year 2007-2008.  An adjacent property is of interest to the City but will require additional information as the owner resides in California.

 

Council Member Gordon moved to approve authorizing Mayor Earwood to enter into a Contract with Robert D. Loyd to purchase the property located at the rear of 5201 Ohio Gardens.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

17. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 743-06 AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH CASTLEBERRY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT (CISD) FOR THE SALE OF CITY PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS BLOCK 5, LOTS 8 & 9 IN THE DOYLE-HEAD 2ND FILING OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 301 HARRISDALE

 

Mayor Earwood reiterated CISD’s intention to purchase the property at 301 Harrisdale, a City-owned property recently used for a water storage tank station.  The anticipated purchase price of $17,500 is expected to offset the cost for removal of the tank.

 

Council Member Gordon moved to approve Ordinance No. 743-06 authorizing Mayor Earwood to enter into a Contract with CISD for the sale of City-owned property located at 301 Harrisdale.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye,” with the exception of Council Member Williams who voted “Nay.”  Motion Passes.

 

18. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 605-06 ELECTING TO BECOME ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN GRANTING TAX ABATEMENTS AND ADOPTING GUIDELINES AND CRITERIA FOR GRANTING TAX ABATEMENT IN REINVESTMENT ZONES

 

City Attorney Elam explained that the Resolution sets the stage for tax abatement incentives in River Oaks, allowing the City flexibility in granting abatements to new businesses.

 

Council Member Williams moved to approve Resolution No. 605-06 electing for River Oaks to become eligible to participate in granting tax abatements and adopting guidelines and criteria for granting tax abatements in reinvestment zones.  Motion seconded by Council Member Gordon.  All voted “Aye.”

 

CORRESPONDENCE-ANNOUNCEMENTS:

 

19. MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL AND/OR DEPARTMENT HEADS MAY MAKE ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESENT CORRESPONDENCE AT THIS TIME

 

STAFF REPORTS (PRESENTED TO COUNCIL AS CORRESPONDENCE – STAFF AVAILABLE FOR DISCUSSION/QUESTIONS):

 

  1. FIRE DEPARTMENT
  2. POLICE DEPARTMENT (TO INCLUDE MUNICIPAL COURT ACTIVITY)
  3. PUBLIC LIBRARY
  4. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT [TO INCLUDE CODE COMPLIANCE, INSPECTIONS, SANITATION AND WATER]
  5. FINANCE – SALES TAXES
  6. COMMUNITY CENTER BOARD MINUTES
  7. PARK BOARD MINUTES

 

Mayor Pro Tem Holland inquired whether the recently moved house onto a property on Yale Street had been properly permitted.  PWD Gregory stated that the placement of the house is currently within City Ordinance guidelines but suggested that zoning amendments currently being reviewed might include changes to moving structures onto existing properties.

 

CM Gordon expressed concern about high grass in the City, specifically on Inspiration Lane, and requested that enforcement of the junk vehicle Ordinance be increased.  She also thanked Mayor, Council and Staff for the recent “Get Well” flowers she received.

 

Fire Chief Crews updated Council on the recent injury to Firefighter Ryan Dissinger while on a mutual aid call in Saginaw.  Mr. Dissinger’s injuries were not as severe as originally anticipated and that he was “on the mend.”  Chief Crews also reinforced his decision to disallow Fire Truck rides unless citizens are inside the cab using seatbelts; the liability for the City prohibits continued practice of this tradition.

 

No further action was taken.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

 

20. AT THIS TIME, ANY PERSON WITH CITY RELATED BUSINESS MAY SPEAK TO THE COUNCIL.  IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, THE CITY COUNCIL MAY NOT DELIBERATE OR TAKE ACTION

 

No further action was taken.  

 

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

 

21. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 551, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE; THE COUNCIL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION(S) FROM TIME TO TIME ON ANY POSTED AGENDA ITEM TO RECEIVE ADVICE FROM ITS ATTORNEY AS PERMITTED BY LAW DURING THIS MEETING.  THE COUNCIL MAY CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING:

  1. Section 551.071 Pending or contemplated litigation or to seek advice from attorney
  2. Section 551.072 Discussion regarding possible sale, lease or acquisition of real estate
  3. Section 551.074 Personnel matters – (1) Expansion of Fire Chief Crews’ duties; (2) Amendment to City Administrator Ryan’s current employment agreement
  4. Section 551.076 Deliberation regarding security devices

 

Council Member Gordon moved to convene in Executive Session pursuant to Sections 551.071, 551.072 and 551.074 at 9:10 PM.  Motion seconded by Council Member Minter.  All voted “Aye.”

 

RECONVENE:

 

22. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF ANY ACTION FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

Mayor Earwood reconvened Regular Meeting at 10:04 PM.

 

            ADJOURN:

 

23. ADJOURN

 

Council Member Williams moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:05 PM.  Motion seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Holland.  All voted “Aye.”

 

APPROVED:

 

                                                                                    ___________________________________

                                                                                    Herman D. Earwood, Mayor

ATTEST:

 

____________________________________

Linda A. Ryan, City Secretary

 

 

 
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