HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN 03.28.2000 CC-RThe City Council of the City of Georgetown, Texas, met in Regular Session on the
above date with Mayor MaryEllen Kersch presiding.
Council Present: ;Council Absent:
3
Charles "Hors" Burson, Charlie Barton, 3AI1 present
Ferd Tonn, Lee Bain, Shorty Valdez,
Susan Hoyt, Clark Lyda
Staff Present:
George Russell, Assistant City Manager; Marianne Banks, City Attorney; Sandra Lee,
City Secretary; Micki Rundell, Acting Finance Director; Verna Browning, Director of
Community Services; Jim Briggs, Director of Community -Owned Utilities; Pablo
Holguin, Director of Employee and Organizational Services; Ed Barry, Chief of
Development Services; Randy Morrow, Director of Parks and Recreation; Tom Yantis;
Director of Information Resources; Clyde von Rosenberg, Chief Long -Range Planner;
Scott Ingalls, Chief Planner of Current Planning; Tom Bolt, Development Planner; Jim
Babcock, Development Technician; Mark Miller, Street Superintendent; Mike Mayben,
Energy Services Manager; Andy Hesser, Parks Manager; Terry Jones, Purchasing
Director; Murray Blackman, Assistant to the City Manager
Called to order at 5:35 p.m.
A Discussion with the Century Plan Housing Element Working Group of options for manufactured housing
ordinance changes, such options to include a new zoning category called High Density Residential -- Verna
Browning
Working Group Chair Joe Warren presented to Council two options regarding ordinance recommendations.
Tom Nichols, John Gavurnik, and Jim Kaufman, spoke to Council regarding specific issues of the new
zoning category, High Density Residential (HDR) zoning, including entry features, site buffers, landscaping,
street curbing, utilities, parking, skirting and roof pitches.
B Update on City staffs review of the proposed Urban Design amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, the
Subdivision Regulations and the Sign Ordinance -- Clyde von Rosenberg and Ed Barry
Barry gave
Council an update, saying staff has spent a considerable amount of time trying to address
the
identified issues
and
has prepared options to be presented to the Council. He
spoke of having invited
the
committee and other
interested citizens to review the options this week before
presentation to Council
at
the April 11
Meeting.
Russell noted that staff is requesting a special meeting on Monday, April 10, to
present the
options to Council in detail, along with a workshop presentation at
the Council Meeting on
April
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 1 of 11 Pages
11.
Executive Session
Recessed to Executive Session at 6:25 p.m.
C Sec.551.071 consultation with attorney
D Sec.551.072 deliberation on real property
- Acquisition of property for City use
- Easement for water line
- Lot for Habitat for Humanity
E Sec.551.074 personnel matters
- Process for selecting City Manager
- Salary for City Secretary
F Sec.551.086 deliberation regarding economic development
- Waterpark
Regular Session
Called to order at 7:26 p.m.
Mayor Kersch welcomed the audience and gave a brief overview of Council Meeting procedures.
G Action from Executive Session
Motion by Hoyt, second by Lyda to accept the bid of $3,000 from Habitat for Humanity for the lot at 1006
Scenic. Approved 7-0.
Motion by Hoyt, second by Bain to set the City secretary salary at $39,000 beginning April 3, 2000, with a
review at six months. Approved 7-0.
H Comments from Mayor regarding the following items:
- Proclamation for Public Health Week to be presented to Lettie Lee
Kersch read and presented the proclamation to Lettie Lee, the City of Georgetown's representative
to the Williamson County and Cities Health District.
- Announcement of vacant citizen -at -large position on the Convention and Visitors' Bureau Board
Kersch announced that the position is vacant.
Citizens Wishing to Address the Council and Responses from Councilmembers and/or Staff, if appropriate
- John Costello opposing the placement of the proposed regional airport at Robert Gray Airfield in Killeen
Mr. Costello was not present.
J Consideration of approval of the minutes for the Regular Council Meeting on March 8, 2000 -- Sandra D.
Lee
Kersch called Council's attention to a memo from the City Secretary concerning a clarification that she had
requested be added to the minutes regarding the presentation made by John Weber at the Workshop item
on the proposed development of The Rivery. Council agreed with the suggested clarification.
K Consideration and review of the proposed minimum fine schedule for Class "C" Misdemeanors falling
within the Municipal Court's jurisdiction, with an effective date of April 1, 2000 -- Randy Stump, Cathy Leloux
and Micki Rundell
L Consideration of an award of bid for a 2000 4 -wheel drive mower to Georgetown Farm Supply in the
amount of $29,983.00 -- Terry Jones and Micki Rundell
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 2 of 11 Pages
M Consideration of an award of annual bid for janitorial supplies to various bidders in the estimated annual
amount of $16,550.00 -- Terry Jones and Micki Rundell
N Consideration
of
an award
of bid
for lighting
the San Gabriel River Park III Trail to Cherokee Construction
in the amount
of
$80,000 --
Terry
Jones and
Randy Morrow
O Consideration of a resolution revising the current City of Georgetown Investment Policy -- Laurie Brewer
and Micki Rundell
P Consideration
of a resolution
appointing
two new boardmembers to the Georgetown Village Public
Improvement
District No. 1
-- Marianne
Banks
O Consideration of a reimbursement to Georgetown Hospital for the extension of the City's 72 -inch West
22nd Street Stormwater Trunk Line through Georgetown Hospital's property in the amount of $130,000.00 --
Jim Briggs and George Russell
R Consideration of a contract amendment dated March 6, 2000, to the contract between the City of
Georgetown and Roming, Parker and Kasberg, L.L.P. for Preliminary Engineering Report for the Drainage
Improvements from the intersection of 9th and Elm to the intersection of 4th and Ash in the amount of
$16,000.00 -- Mark Miller and Jim Briggs
S Consideration of a contract amendment dated February 22, 2000, to the contract between the City of
Georgetown and Camp, Dresser and McKee Engineering to provide professional services related to the
surveying, engineering, design, bidding, and general construction services for Country Club Road from
North San Gabriel River to Williams Drive in the amount of $89,300.00 -- Mark Miller and Jim Briggs
T Consideration of an amendment to the existing professional services agreement between the City of
Georgetown and Camp, Dresser and McKee Engineering to provide professional engineering services
related to the Old Town Wastewater Collection System Improvements in the amount of $37,800.00 --
William Adams and Jim Briggs
U Consideration of an amendment to the existing professional services agreement between the City of
Georgetown and Camp, Dresser and McKee Engineering to provide professional engineering services
related to the Serenada Wastewater Service Master Plan and Design of Phase One Wastewater
Improvements in the amount of $76,700.00 -- William Adams and Jim Briggs
V Consideration of an intergovernmental agreement with Williamson County Road and Bridge to perform
drainage work -- Mark Miller and Jim Briggs
W Consideration of a long-term airport ground lease with Richard O. Morrison for approximately 9,900
square feet of airport property -- Travis McLain and Verna Browning
X Consideration
of a
long-term
airport ground lease with Signal Peak Enterprises of Texas, Inc. for
approximately
one
(1) acre of
unimproved airport property -- Travis McLain and Verna Browning
Y Consideration of the assignment of Joe Minarovic's Airport Land Lease to Microfusion -- Travis McLain
and Verna Browning
Z Consideration of approval to advertise for construction bids for a new replacement airport terminal
building -- Travis McLain and Verna Browning (pulled by Burson - See Regular Agenda)
AA Consideration of a letter of support for a grant application from ARGIL, Inc. to the Department of
Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services for establishing a Center for
Independent Living in Williamson County -- Verna Browning
BB Consideration of an amendment to the agreement between the Brazos River Authority (BRA) and the City
of Georgetown for the construction and operation of the Williamson County Raw Water Line -- William
Adams and Jim Briggs
Lyda asked for more detail on the item. Briggs told Council that all participants were being asked to
formally adopt the amendment and said the payment schedule has been specifically crafted to be lower at
the beginning with an increased payment amount at the end. When asked by Lyda, William Adams
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 3 of 11 Pages
provided a copy of the finalized agreement that had been received early in the day. Lyda asked to be able
to read the document before voting on it.
This item was pulled for action later in the meeting. Council was provided with a copy of the
agreement.
CC Consideration and possible action to waive the requirement for a Detailed Development Plan and
associated Building Permit Fees for Section 1, Block A, Lot 1, also known as Village Elementary School
located at 400 Village Commons Boulevard -- Tom Bolt and Ed Barry
DD Consideration of a Third Revised Concept Plan of 1029.12 acres in the Joseph Fish, Mary Ann Lewis,
Leroy Lord and William Roberts Surveys, known as Georgetown Village Planned Unit Development,
located 1.5 mile east of Williams Drive on Shell Road -- Wendy Walsh and Ed Barry
EE Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the City Attorney to issue a Quit Claim Deed to be filed
abandoning a twenty (20) foot public utility easement in Horizon Commercial Park, Block C, Lot 1 - 81
located between Quail Valley, High Tech, Tower, and Texas Drives -- Jim Babcock and Ed Barry
FF Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the City Attorney to issue a Quit Claim Deed to be filed
abandoning a ten (10) foot public utility easement in Horizon Commercial Park, Block E, Lot 2, located on
Quail Valley Drive east of Texstar Drive -- Jim Babcock and Ed Barry
GG Consideration of a resolution to authorize a License to Encroach into a ten (10) foot public utility easement
in Sun City Georgetown, Phase 1, Neighborhood One, Tract D, located at 91 Del Webb Boulevard, east of
the entry house -- Jim Babcock and Ed Barry
HH Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the City Attorney to issue a Quit Claim Deed to be filed
abandoning a ten (10) foot public utility easement between Erin Acres, Lot 1 and a portion of Lot 2, located
at 1207 Hutto Road -- Jim Babcock and Ed Barry
II Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the City Attorney to issue a Quit Claim Deed to be filed
abandoning a twenty (20) foot public utility easement in a Resubdivision of Wood Ranch, Section 5, Lot 5
and 6, located at 1500 West University Avenue -- Jim Babcock and Ed Barry
Motion by Tonn, second by Barton to approve the Consent Agenda with the correction being made to the minutes
and Item BB being moved to the Regular Agenda. Approved 7-0.
JJ Consideration and discussion of the Annual Report from The Georgetown Project -- Verna Browning
Browning noted to Council that the City has a funding agreement with the Georgetown Project and a part of
that agreement is an annual report. She introduced Barbara Pearce, Executive Director of The Georgetown
Project. Pearce introduced Board Members Tom Nichols, Rachel von Minden, Sherry Babcock, and Ken
Hull. Chairman Nichols thanked Council for their support of The Project and stated that the $140,000
funding ($70,000 from the City of Georgetown and $70,000 from local donations) has seen a return of $1.7
million to the children and youth of the community. Barbara Pearce gave Council an overview of the
accomplishments for the Georgetown Project. She noted that The Project acts as a link for community
organizations for the benefit of children and youth of Georgetown. Rachel von Minden, Student
Representative to The Georgetown Project, told Council that The Project is making a difference for youth in
Georgetown, and has helped youth see that adults really care. Sherry Babcock, Secretary of The
Georgetown Project, thanked Council for their continued support and gave Council a brief history of The
Project activities. Ken Hull, Board Member of The Project told Council about the collaboration between the
business communty and The Project.
Kersch announced that Items SS through WW are being deferred to the April 11 Council Meeting at the request of
the applicants.
Z Consideration of approval to advertise for construction bids for a new replacement airport terminal
building -- Travis McLain and Verna Browning (pulled by Burson)
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 4 of 11 Pages
Lyda asked if there had been an extension to the deadline for the grant. Browning said it is likely the State
would approve an extension, if requested. Tonn asked and Browning confirmed that $50,000 has been
obligated in the contract with the architectural firm, White, Dolce, Barr, to plan and construct the building.
Clark Thurmond, 1002 Walnut, showed a floor plan and conceptual drawing for remodeling the existing
terminal building at a savings of $85,000 rather than building a new building at a cost of $400,000. Kersch
asked about visibility of the airport from the new building as compared to the existing building. Browning
responded that she and the airport manager feel the visibility is not an issue. Burson asked what would
happen to the existing building under the plan as presented by Browning. Browning replied that the old
building would be demolished and the new building erected on that space. Barton confirmed with
Thurmond that the control tower in the conceptual drawing is not included in the proposed cost. He
suggested that some of the grant money could be used if it is determined that a tower should be built. Tonn
said the waiting area in the remodel design would not work because all of the underground wiring for the
runway lights would be covered over by the proposed lobby. Hoyt questioned the configuration of the office
space, asking how the rounded design would incorporate the furnishing of the offices and difficulty roofing
that portion. At Hoyt's question, Advisory Board Chair Rex Cloud gave a history of the deliberations which
led to planning a replacement terminal building.
Lyda said he had attended the Airport Advisory Board where the Board voted 4 to 3 to do the new building.
He said he feels that the historic building should be retained because pilots across the state associate the
building with Georgetown. He said he thinks the new design looks like a "fire station" and he thinks the
project is "grant driven" in order to use grant money.
Motion by Burson to defer. Lyda suggested asking Thurmond to bring back a more detailed proposal and
perhaps show it to the architects that have already been hired to see if a comparison could be made. Bain
confirmed that the grant would have to be extended. Hoyt confirmed with Browning that the architect had
found that the walls are crumbly and the building leaks. Hoyt asked that the motion be specific as to when
the item would be brought back to Council. Barton asked if Thurmond's proposal was to remodel the
existing building due to obvious restoration that is needed or to just add extra space to it. Thurmond said
he assumes that a mechanical update and repairs would also be done. Tonn said there is a lot of damage
in the building, saying the windows and roof would need to be repaired. He confirmed with Thurmond that
the figures for renovation are probably not high enough, but other figures in the proposal were probably too
high. Hoyt asked that all the possibilities be investigated as to cost. Browning suggested bidding out both
concepts to find out for sure how much they would cost and how they would compare, saying it might cost
some more in architectural fees. Lyda asked to make sure that the current architects were willing to do a
comparison of the two proposed projects.
Motion by Burson, second by Lyda to defer this item until the end of May, with the proposed remodeling
plan to be reviewed by the architectural firm hired to do the new building and a detailed cost estimate
brought back to Council.
Motion by Bain, second by Lyda to amend Burson's motion by requesting that the state extend the time on
the funding to six months. Approved 7-0.
Kersch asked for a vote on Burson's original motion as amended. Approved 7-0.
Browning asked that the Airport Advisory Board be publicly thanked for the time they have put into the
effort.
KK Consideration and possible action on the Texas Capital Fund Agreement on behalf of Georgetown
Waterpark, Ltd. -- George Russell
Russell said there were a number of contingencies addressed by Council at the meeting on January 11. He
offered to play a tape of that portion of the meeting if Council wanted to hear the discussion on the motion.
He gave a brief history of the process which had been requested by the Council on January 11. He said a
letter was sent to the Texas Department of Economic Development (TDED), asking them to respond on a
number of issues. He reviewed the issues and the responses from TDED. He said basically, TDED said
they "look to the City to be responsible and comfortable with the application." Russell said the financial
information was given to Garry Kimball of First Southwest, the City's financial advisor, as directed by the
Council. He read the letter from Kimball, which stated the financial information was not sufficient to
substantiate an ability to fund the project. Bain said he recalled that the Council had asked the staff to
make the decision. He said, therefore, he questions whether Council has the authority to take action on this
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 5 of 11 Pages
agenda. Kersch noted that if the Council accepts the recommendation from the staff, then Council needs to
take action as posted.
Banks responded to Bain that what the Council was approving on January 11, was a contract subject to
certain conditions being met and George has reported that the conditions did not get met. Russell noted
that the financial arrangement, as proposed on January 11, no longer exists. He said subsequent to that
the developer contacted an underwriting company to broker a $20 million loan. He said the requirement to
have the information provided in 60 days was not met. Banks said the Council could request another item
on a future agenda. Russell said the Texas Capital Fund Grant is still viable unless the City turns it back,
saying if it goes forward, the City has to make sure that all the jobs that were promised in the application
must be available by August, 2001.
Barton asked if the developers who received other grants had been asked to follow this procedure and was
told they had not been asked to provide proof of financial ability. Lyda said he feels the difference is that all
the other grants were for existing, operating businesses and this is a business that doesn't exist. Hoyt said
she thinks also that the difference is because they have to participate in the cost of the road construction.
Lyda said the TDED will terminate the grant by March 31, 2000, if the remaining items have not been
provided to the State. Russell noted that some of the items that had been requested earlier have not been
provided. He said he recalled, in talking to TIDED, that they do not need to have all of those items in hand"
by March 31. Burson asked if the County will do the land swap. Russell confirmed that the County has
signed an agreement pending the result of this item by Council.
Rick Reed, attorney representing Georgetown Waterpark, Ltd., reviewed with Council that the road would
be good for the Waterpark and also would be good for the community. He noted that Council had heard
from Paul Nuckholls of the Candle Factory and from Dr. Parker regarding the road being critical to their
businesses. He said it would benefit the County in their efforts to build an exposition center, and noted that
the road would provide emergency vehicle access to the residents on the hill above. He said the road has
been a part of the City/County road development plan for a long time. He said the road would not be able
to be built for some time without the funding from the grant. He spoke of having submitted the financial
information that was requested. He said he doesn't think "independent due diligence" has been done. He
said he would hope that the City would find a way to get the project done by asking the financial advisor to
do the "due diligence" and determine that the lender is viable.
Kathryn Heidemann, P. O. Box 281, said no new contract was supplied to the Library. She questioned the
March 21, 2000, date of the letter from Kimball. She said the citizens should be allowed to see the contract.
Russell said the contract on January 11 was approved 4-3 with contingencies. He said the item tonight
does not concern a contract. She confirmed that if the Council goes forward, there will be a contract which
the Council will consider and it will be provided for public view.
Jim Dillard, 1404 Maple Street, said he thinks the City should budget and build the road if the road is
important to the City. He said if the Council approves this item tonight, the citizens will remember when
they vote.
9:18 p.m. recessed to Executive Session -- 9:28 p.m. returned to Open Session
Kersch announced that Council needed to take Items QQ and RR at this time in order to take action before 10:00
p.m. because interest rates were "locked in" until 10:00 p.m. (Action on Item KK resumed after completion of
Item RR below.)
QQ Second reading of an ordinance authorizing the issuance of the City of Georgetown, Texas Combination
Tax and Utility System Limited Revenue Certificates of Obligation, Series 2000 in an amount not to
exceed $1,450,000, approving an official statement and other matters related thereto -- Micki Rundell
Rundell noted that this is the second reading for the Certificates of Obligation for the Country Club
alignment and the Rivery Bridge. Financial Advisor Garry Kimball told Council the interest rates are good
until 10:00 p.m. tonight. He distributed booklets to the Council of the details of the bond transactions. He
said he estimated interest rates of 6.05% and 6.15% for the two deals for the 20 -year term and actually
ended up with a 5.57% and 5.55% for the two deals which he feels are excellent rates. He said that the
City should see an upgrade in the bond rating next time the City goes to the bond market. He said he
recommends both deals (Items QQ and RR). Rundell read the caption only on second reading.
Ken Evans, 711 University, said he distrusts and disagrees with the use of certificates of obligation. He
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 6 of 11 Pages
said he feels certificates of obligation are a convenient dodge for using the public's money without the
public's permission.
Motion by Bain, second by Barton to approve Ordinance No, 2000w18. Approved 5-2. (Lyda and Burson
opposed)
RR Second reading of an ordinance
authorizing
the issuance
of the City of
Georgetown, Texas Utility System
Revenue Bonds, Series 2000 in
an amount
not to exceed
reminder system in
$4,320,000 --
Micki
Rundell
Rundell explained that this ordinance would authorize bond money for electric system improvements, water
system improvements and completion of the funding for the Pecan Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Rundell read the caption only on second reading. Motion by Lyda, second by Barton to approve
Ordinance 2000-19. Approved 7-0.
9:42 p.m. recessed -- 9:50 p.m. returned to Open Session
Kersch announced that item KK would be resumed at this time.
Motion by Hoyt, second by Lyda to terminate the Capital Fund Grant between the State and the City of
Georgetown regarding Georgetown Waterpark, Ltd. Approved 6-1. (Barton opposed)
Kersch asked if Council wished to continue the meeting this evening or recess and return tomorrow evening. It was
determined that Council would handle Items LL and MM then recess and return tomorrow evening at 6:00 p.m. with
the beginning of the public session to start at 7:00 p.m.
LL Report and update on the Code Enforcement process and activity - George Russell, Anthony Lincoln,
Tom Yantis, Dave Hall
Yantis explained to Council that this item is a follow-up on the streamlining of the code enforcement
process from November. He said through random audit calls the City has received feedback that citizens
are still not satisfied with customer service. He said he feels it was a lack of follow-up by staff and will be
rectified. He noted that the City needs a software program to allow the connectivity between City
departments. Kersch asked about the response from dispatchers "after hours" and on weekends. Yantis
noted that staff needs more training. Russell said the uninformed response that occurred on weekends was
due to the turnover in the dispatcher positions. He said staff is being cross -trained to handle code
enforcement.
MM Consideration of authorizing the purchase of software from JPH International for management of the
City's code enforcement process -- Tom Yantis
Yantis told Council that this software is needed to help the City's code enforcement process meet the goal
of good customer service. Dan Donovan of JPH International in Canada and Yantis explained the software
to Council. Russell said staff is asking Council for permission to enter into a lease/purchase contract for
this software. Lyda asked what the Building Inspectors think about the software. Dave Hall said he is
already thinking of additional ways to use the software such as the tracking of certificates of occupancy.
Jim Brown, 117
Randolph, warned
Council
that because it has
repeating reminders, it may be aggravating
for employees to
use. Yantis noted
that the
reminder system in
the software can be adjusted, if necessary.
Motion by Barton, second by Lyda to move forward with the lease/purchase of the software. Approved 7-0
The meeting was recessed at 10:48 p.m. to be resumed at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 2000.
6:20 p.m. resumed Executive Session -- 7:27 p.m, resumed Open Session
BB Consideration of an amendment to the agreement between the Brazos River Authority (BRA) and the City
of Georgetown for the construction and operation of the Williamson County Raw Water Line -- William
Adams and. Jim Briggs
Briggs noted that he has visited with Micki Rundell and the financing is set up where the City is not
penalized with heavy rates early in the schedule. He said staff recommends approval, saying Round Rock
and Jonah have approved their portions of the contract. Motion by Bain, second by Tonn to approve the
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 7 of 11 Pages
Kersch announced that there was a request to speak on Item KK which was handled last night. She suggested that
the speaker should register with the City Secretary prior to the next Council Meeting if he wanted to speak to that
issue.
G Action from Executive Session
Motion by Hoyt, second by Bain to accept the following rates for compensating the City for use of rights of
way by telecommunications providers. The costs will be divided among three categories of lines --
residential, commercial, and point-to-point -- based on a ratio of 1 to 3.5 to 7. This will create approximate
monthly rates of $.70 for residential lines, $2.45 for commercial lines, and $4.89 for point-to-point lines.
Approved 6-0. (Valdez abstained)
Motion by Hoyt, second by Bain to purchase a utility easement consisting of approximately 1.5 acres from
Tanner Ranch, Ltd. Approved 7-0.
NN Consideration of funding for lighting of the athletic complex through Certificate of Obligation Bonds or
through Government Capitol Corporation in the amount of $500,000 -- Ben White and Randy Morrow
Morrow told Council this is the alternative funding plan, and after investigating several other options, the
Parks and Recreation Board is suggesting this funding for putting in the lighting at the athletic complex. He
said they are expecting to be contacted for state and national softball tournaments. He said the Board feels
it is more important for efficient use of the facilties to light the existing fields than build additional fields.
Kersch said although she is very much in favor of the project to light the athletic complex, she feels the
project should have been planned and budgeted in advance. Bain agreed with the need to plan ahead, but
doesn't feel the City should have built the fields and not enabled them to be used because of the lack of
lighting. He said recreation projects for the citizens are very important and not always revenue producers.
Bain asked and Morrow confirmed that this was all the Parks and Recreation Division would be asking for in
the near future. It was determined that property taxes would probably need to be raised by approximately
4/10 of 1 cent or about $3. Morrow estimated that in about five years, the lighted fields would pay for
themselves.
Lyda said when the project came before Council several months ago, that the total amount should have
been approved at that time. Motion by Valdez, second by Hoyt to approve issuing the certificates of
obligation. When asked, Terry Jones said that if the low bidder holds his price the project would not have to
be re -bid. Approved 6-1. (Lyda opposed)
00 Consideration of
direction
to staff
concerning request for
disannexation of approximately 9.2 acres of
commercial
land
known as
Embree
Subdivision
--
Marianne
Banks
Banks explained that a subcommittee of the Council had met with Mr. Embree and recommends that this
property be disannexed. She said that if the Council voluntarily disannexes the propety, they can re -annex
again in three years if they so desire. She said that if forced by the State to disannex due to a petition from
the applicant, the City would not be able to annex the property again for ten years.
Barton noted that the property had been annexed in December of 1996, at the same time as Berry Creek
Subdivision and the Vogler Tract. He noted that the Vogler tract was disannexed because it was mistakenly
included in the annexation. He noted that Embree is asking to be disannexed due to no service from the
City having been provided except police protection. He noted that there were serious issues that the City
needs to consider.
Motion by Barton, second by Valdez to deny disannexation of the property.
8:13 p.m. recessed to Executive Session -- 8:29 p.m. resumed Open Session
Barton asked to withdraw his original motion. As the second to the motion, Valdez, granted permission to
withdraw.
Motion by Barton, second by Valdez to direct staff to prepare an ordinance for disannexation of the
Embree Subdivision. Approved 6-0. (Bain abstained)
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 8 of 11 Pages
PP Consideration and possible action on the appointment of citizens to the Downtown Business District
Steering Committee for the purpose of drafting design guidelines for the Downtown Business District and
determining approximate dates for completion of the district guidelines -- Tom Bolt and Ed Barry
Bolt read the names of the people who had indicated interest in serving on the Committee. He noted that
David Draeger indicated he would not be able to serve at this time. He read the following names as
proposed members: Renee Hanson, James Dillard, Bill Lindstrom, Gordon Baker, Steve Doering, Joann
King, David Hays, Clark Lyda, Tom Nichols, Joyce Perry, Gabe Sansing, Virginia Stubbs, Ed Lee and Clair
Easley with John Montgomery and Roy Headricks, Jr. as Alternates. He said it is estimated that the
Committee will need at least three or four months to bring back the information to the Council. Kersch
asked if parking issues would be part of the proposed guidelines. Bolt said the Committee would look into
how to handle some of the parking issues. Lyda suggested including the request that the Committee bring
back a strategy for dealing with parking, including the existing exemptions in the historic district, off-site
parking, and "fee -in -lieu -of' parking.
Motion by Bain, second by Burson to approve the list of citizens as read by Bolt. Approved 7-0.
Councilmember Barton left the dais.
SS First Reading of an Ordinance to amend the Century Plan for River Hills, Section 4 and The Rivery,
Lots 1, 2 and 3, from Intensity Levels 3, 41 5 and 6 to Intensity Level 5, to be know as The Rivery, Phase 1,
located on IH35 and Rivery Boulevard -- Scott Ingalls and Ed Barry
This item was deferred to the April 11 Council Meeting.
TT First Reading of an Ordinance to Rezone River Hills, Section 4, from RM -3, Residential -Office and
Service District to C-1, Local Commercial; and a 43.99 acre portion of The Rivery, Lot 1, from C -2A,
Commercial First Height Restricted to C -2A, Commercial First Height, removing the prohibition against
residential use, or any more restrictive district -- Scott Ingalls and Ed Barry
This item was deferred to the April 11 Council Meeting.
UU Consideration of a
Concept Plan for
River Hills,
Section 4,
and The Rivery, Lot 1 and to be known as
The Rivery, Phase
1, located on IH35
and Rivery
Boulevard -- Scott Ingalls and Ed Barry
This item was deferred to the April 11 Council Meeting.
VV First Reading of an Ordinance to Rezone Rivery Subdivision, Lots 2 and 3, from C -2A, Commercial First
Height Restricted to C -2A, Commercial First Height Restricted to allow multifamily residential, and C-213,
Commercial Second Height, or any more restrictive district, to be known as The Rivery Park, located on
South IH35 along the proposed Rivery Boulevard -- Scott Ingalls and Ed Barry
This item was deferred to the April 11 Council Meeting.
WW Consideration of
a Concept
Plan for Rivery Subdivision, Lots 2 and 3, to
be known as The Rivery Park,
position and
located
on South
post which was recently vacated by Jerry
Holland --
IH35
along
he returned to the dais.)
voted in
the proposed Rivery Boulevard -- Scott Ingalls
and Ed Barry
This item was deferred to the April 11 Council Meeting.
XX Consideration of
the appointment of two people to the Housing Authority
to fill the
Stone Haven resident
position and
the
citizen -at -large
post which was recently vacated by Jerry
Holland --
Mayor Kersch
Kersch asked Council
to approve Gonzalez and
Warren.
Motion by Lyda, second by Bain to approve the
recommended
business owners
people.
vacated by
Approved
7-0.
(Barton
he returned to the dais.)
voted in
the affirmative when he returned to the dais.)
YY Consideration of the appointment of one
person
to the Main
Street Advisory Board to fill the post
representing downtown
business owners
recently
vacated by
Judy Lester -- Mayor Kersch
Kersch asked Council to
approve Daniel Vasquez.
Motion
by
Bain, second by
Lyda to approve the
appointment of Vasquez.
Approved 7-0. (Barton
voted in
the
affirmative when
he returned to the dais.)
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 9 of 11 Pages
ZZ Consideration and possible action on the selection of a newspaper for official publications -- Terry Jones
and Micki Rundell
Jones reviewed the bulk rates requested by Hoyt as submitted by each of the newspapers. He called
Council's attention to one correction to the Austin American Statesman figures saying paid circulation for
Williamson County changed to 33,000 for daily circulation and 46,000 for Sunday circulation. Hoyt
explained that this discussion originated in the Budget Workshop last year in an effort to reach the most
citizens regarding public notices. Barton suggested giving the same ordinance to each newspaper and
have them estimate the cost to publish. Burson said the Williamson County Sun supports local public
activities and reaches the same number of Georgetown residents as the Austin American Statesman. He
suggested supporting the local newspaper. Hoyt said the circulation of the Statesman is larger. Lyda said
he is personally familiar with the Sun having given the Palace Theatre $25,000. They have also contributed
to the Caring Place and were one of the original contributors to the Georgetown Industrial Foundation. He
said they employ local people. Hoyt said the public notices for each city in the Statesman are always
provided in the Metro/State section of the Austin American Statesman. She said there have been recent
mistakes in the local newspaper, and since they are only a twice -a -week newspaper, mistakes can mean
quite a delay for the City business. Jones also noted that if the mistake is not noticed by the city staff, legal
ramifications could occur if opening bids for which notice was not given. Bain asked if the City has an
official newspaper now. Banks said her understanding is that the City designated the Sun as the official
newspaper, as required by State law, many years ago.
Ramona Navarrette, 2002 Pine Street, said lower-income people do not have a subscription to the Austin
American Statesman, but many will buy the Williamson County Sun.
Gene Fowler, representing the Austin American Statesman, told Council he lives in Georgetown, coaches
Little League baseball and has a family history in small town newspapers. He said Cox, who owns the
Statesman, is very involved in the local community. He said they are not asking for the official designation,
but were pleased to respond with circulation figures.
Motion by Burson, second by Lyda to designate the Williamson County Sun as the City of Georgetown
official newspaper. Bain said he appreciates the fact that reporters for both newspapers attend the Council
Meeting and appreciates the response to the City's request for bids. He said he thinks of the local paper
handling the local publications. He said he also thinks it is productive for staff to also advertise in the Austin
American Statesman and feels that whatever newspaper is chosen, the City should continue to advertise in
both. Hoyt feels it has been important to have looked at the price comparisons. Lyda said he believes if we
have had problems with the Sun, the City should first try to resolve those problems before abandoning the
tradition of using the Sun as the official newspaper. Kersch said she relies on the legal notices in the
Williamson County Sun, but she is glad to have competition between the newspapers. Approved 4-3.
(opposed by Valdez, Hoyt, and Barton)
Kersch asked Barton for his vote on the Items XX and YY. He voted in the affirmative.
AAA Discussion of the upcoming 2000/2001 Annual Operatinig Plan/Budget process -- Micki Rundell
Rundell distributed the suggested plan and reviewed the plan with the Council, saying the goal is to make
the process more open to the citizens. Kersch thanked Rundell for her response to the requested changes
in the process. Barton asked how the Council would prioritize the items to be budgeted. Rundell
responded that the 15 policy areas in the Century Plan will still be the "backbone" of the budget document
and time will be designated for the Council to set priorities. Kersch suggested a public meeting to allow
citizens to ask questions of staff regarding the budget. Barton asked Yantis if there were software within
the Georgetown system to help Council prioritize the budget. Kersch noted that Southwestern has it.
Russell said Southwestern is developing it but it probably won't be ready for this budget. Russell said
because this is a different process, it may take longer than in the past. Russell said it will be the first time
the staff has brought to Council an unbalanced budget and Council will balance the budget. Lyda thanked
Rundell and Russell for developing this new process that will allow citizens an opportunity to be educated
on the budget process. Hoyt said it is very important to get the word out about this new process and she
hopes the citizens will participate.
BBB Consideration of setting a joint meeting with the GISD Board of Trustees in order to discuss items of
mutual interest -- MaryEllen Kersch
Council determined to meet with GISD on Thursday, April 27, 2000. Subjects to be discussed will be
gathered from Council for the posting.
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 10 of 11 Pages
gathered from Council for the posting.
CCC Consideration of participation by Council in the City of Georgetown First Annual Red Poppy Festival
Parade on April 15, 2000, and the Williamson County Sheriffs Posse Rodeo Parade on May 27, 2000 --
MaryEllen Kersch
Kersch asked for Council to be polled by memo to determine their participation.
Motion by Lyda to adjourn at 9:48 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 PM.
ayor MaryEilen Kersch
City Council Meeting Minutes/March 28, 2000
Page 11 of 11 Pages
Attest:
City Secretary Sandra Lee