Min 12/06/1977511
Wichita Falls, Texas
Memorial Auditorium Building
December 6, 1977
Items 1 & 2
The Board of Aldermen of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas, met in regular session
on the above date in the Council Room of the Memorial Auditorium Building at 8:30
o'clock A.M. , with the following members present.
J. C. Boyd, Jr. Mayor
Hardy McAlister
Fred E. Bassett
Carol Russell X Aldermen
Ray Ashbrook X
W. E. Ryle
Jerry Mathis
Gerald Fox City Manager
H. P. Hodge, Jr. City Attorney
Gerald Carlson Chief Accounting Officer
Wilma J. Thomas City Clerk
The invocation was given by Ed Millican, Chaplain at Wichita Falls State Hospital.
Item 3
Moved by Alderman Russell that minutes of the meeting held November 22, 1977, be
approved.
Motion seconded by Alderman McAlister, and carried unanimously.
j Item 4a
The public hearing was opened on demolition of hazardous structures.
Melvin Moss, of Housing Code Enforcement, requested that the property at 412
Bluff be temporarily removed from the ordinance because the owner passed away on
November 29, and they are in the process of appointing an executor of the estate.
No one else desired to be heard.
ORDINANCE NO. 3259
ORDINANCE CLOSING HEARING AND FINDING CERTAIN BUILDINGS AND/OR STRUCTURES TO
BE DANGEROUS; COMMANDING PROPERTY OWNERS TO REPAIR, VACATE, OR DEMOLISH SAID
BUILDINGS AND/OR STRUCTURES WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS
ORDINANCE AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that Ordinance No. 3259 be passed, deleting the
property at 412 Bluff.
Motion seconded by Alderman McAlister, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
Item 5a
Proposed appropriation ordinances were presented establishing a fund for
auditorium/activities center. The City Manager explained the projected costs and
expected revenues. This new fund would account for all revenues and expenditures
attributable to the operation of the Municipal Auditorium and the new Activities Center.
The $18,500 presently budgeted in the general fund as revenue would be changed to the
Auditorium-Activities Center Fund. Hotel-motel occupancy tax, revenue received from
the sale of fixtures and furnishings of the Dillard Building, and interest on investing
monies in the fund would also be placed in this account. This estimate would total
165,000 in projected revenues. Expenditures are estimated at $52,069. From the
present Auditorium Services budget, a total of $25,573 would be charged to the
Auditorium-Activities Center Fund. This would be made up primarily of the Auditorium
Manager's salary, and operating costs. $3,330 would be transferred from the Building
Maintenance Department for janitorial overtime and fringe benefits, and $1,325 would
512
Item 5a, cont'd.
be transferred from the special items fund to support the salary increases for those
two positions, which will go into effect on January 4, 1978. A total of $30,228 would
be transferred from the General Fund and charged to the Auditorium-Activities Center
Fund.
Alderman Bassett made some inquiries concerning the interest, stating that he
would like to use some of the interest for furnishings, or on the building itself.
Both Aldermen Bassett and McAlister noted that the money could be reallocated at any
time. Alderman Mathis clarified that we are paying the interest to Sikes Senter
rather than placing it in escrow.
J ORDINANCE NO. 3260
ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 3241, WHICH ADOPTED THE BUDGET AND MADE
ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 1977-1978, TO REDUCE APPROPRIATION
AND ESTIMATED REVENUES FOR BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND AUDITORIUM SERVICES.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that Ordinance No. 3260 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ryle, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3261
ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 3241, WHICH ADOPTED THE BUDGET AND MADE
ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 1977-1978, TO INCREASE APPROPRIATION
AND ESTIMATED REVENUES AND TO ESTABLISH AUDITORIUM-ACTIVITIES CENTER FUND.
Moved by Alderman Ryle that Ordinance No. 3261 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
v'Item 5b
A proposed ordinance was presented making appropriation for CATV consulting
services and other printing and supplies, in the amount of $7,500.
ORDINANCE NO. 3262
AN ORDINANCE MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO ACCOUNT NUMBERS
LISTED BELOW, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Moved by Alderman Bassett that Ordinance No. 3262 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
Item 6a
A proposed ordinance was presented regulating signs adjacent to the roadway.
ORDINANCE NO. 3263
ORDINANCE ADDING SUBSECTION (14-2) TO SECTION 7-15 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES,
DEFINING AN ON-PREMISE SIGN AND AN OFF-PREMISE SIGN; AND ADDING SUBSECTION
18) TO SECTION 7-15 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, REGULATING THE LOCATION,
STRUCTURE AND SIZE OF GROUND SIGNS.
Moved by Alderman Ashbrook that Ordinance No. 3263 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell.
Alderman Ryle wondered what would happen if two businesses were at the same
address? Ernest Lillard stated it would be handled on a case by case basis. In all
probability if the property were big enough for two businesses it would be big enough
for two signs.
513
Item 6a, cont'd.
The motion was carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None (Alderman Bassett was out of the room.)
Item 6b
A proposed ordinance was presented determining the necessity for the 1977
Community Development paving program, approving plans, and authorizing the advertising
for bids.
ORDINANCE NO. 3264
AN ORDINANCE DETERMINING THE NECESSITY FOR THE ORDERING AND PROVIDING FOR
THE IMPROVEMENT OF PORTIONS OF AVENUES, STREETS AND PUBLIC PLACES IN THE
CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, DESIGNATED AS THE 1977 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ASSESSMENT PAVING PROGRAM, APPROVING THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS PREPARED
BY THE CITY ENGINEER, AND DIRECTING THE ADVERTISING FOR BIDS, AND PROVIDING
SUNDRY OTHER MATTERS INCIDENT THERETO.
Moved by Alderman Ashbrook that Ordinance No. 3264 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ryle.
Alderman Russell inquired into the location of Collard Street, and whether it
could be placed in this program? Mr. Lillard stated that it is closer to town than
this project. It was also not in the public hearing on Community Development, but it
is definitely on the list for next year's program. It was pointed out that an
appraisal will be made by our Tax Department prior to the hearing. He feels this
will be a very good test of our assessment procedure.
Alderman Mathis inquired if we could do Collard Street out of revenue sharing
funds and reimburse it out of CD funds? The City Manager stated that it could be
presented to the Council as a general revenue sharing contract. Mayor Boyd inquired
concerning a problem on Ft. Worth Street. Mr. Lillard stated that it is a matter of
getting the equipment on that particular section to remove the existing paving matter.
A feasibility study of Collard Street was requested by the next council meeting.
The motion for passage of Ordinance No. 3264 was carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
Item 6c
A proposed ordinance was presented setting refuse rates on certain properties
abutting alley paving projects.
ORDINANCE NO. 3265
ORDINANCE SETTING REFUSE RATES ON CERTAIN PROPERTIES ABUTTING ALLEY PAVING
PROJECTS.
Moved by Alderman Ryle that Ordinance No. 3265 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
Item 6d
A proposed annexation ordinance was introduced.
ORDINANCE NO. 3266
AN ORDINANCE EXTENDING THE CITY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS,
BY ANNEXING CERTAIN LANDS ADJACENT TO THE TERRITORIAL LIMITS OF THE CITY OF
WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, WHICH LANDS ARE DESCRIBED IN THIS ORDINANCE.
Moved by Alderman Ryle that Ordinance No. 3266 be introduced.
514
Item 6d, cont'd.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: Alderman McAlister
v Items 6e & f
Discussion was held pertaining to a franchise with Southwestern Bell Telephone.
The City Manager explained that Ordinance No. 3214, which was adopted on September 6,
1977, extended the franchise ordinance term four years, and increased the gross
receipts payment to the City from two to three percent. Southwestern Bell disagreed
with these methods, and although we believe this action to be essentially correct, it
is suggested that Ordinance No. 3214 be repealed; that an order be entered refusing to
renew Ordinance No. 2138 for a 4-year period; and adopt a new franchise ordinance
imposing a three percent gross receipts tax, have a term of five years beginningOctober1, 1977, include two successive five-year options of renewal at the option of
the City, and providing for acceptance by Southwestern Bell within 60 days. This action
should clear up any technicalities.
Mr. Joe Ewen appeared as District Manager of Southwestern Bell Telephone in
Wichita Falls. He stated that all of these ordinances have an effect on the ability
of Southwestern Bell to hold down telephone rates in Wichita Falls. He stated that
the City Manager had readily admitted that the present two percent gross receipts
offsets the city's cost. He noted that every business has experienced increased costs.
In the last six months they have announced plans to close the business office in this
area in an attempt to hold the expense line here. They are undertaking to centralize
business accounts into one office. They have also recently announced that they will
be closing the operator force in Wichita Falls in May 1979 because it was not
operating at sufficient profit to justify its existence. They have taken steps to hold
down telephone rates. He requested that the Council join with him in that effort
by keeping the gross receipts at two percent rather than the three percent proposed.
City Manager Gerald Fox stated that he did not know whether he admitted as
readily as Mr. Ewen stated that the gross receipts tax offsets our costs, but he did
say that it is very difficult to assess these costs. If it is fair to charge a three
percent gross receipts for gas and electricity and CATV, that it would seem just as
fair to impose this same gross receipts to Southwestern Bell Telphone Company. Mr.
Ewen stated that no towns in the Wichita Falls area are collecting more than two
percent. Southwestern Bell pays four percent in Ft. Worth and Dallas, and this is the
highest that he is aware of in the state.
The City Manager pointed out that the City received less revenue from street
rental in 1977 than it did in 1976. The state utility commission reduced the local
charges, but increased their revenue. The difference between the two and three
percent would amount to a $21,000 increase in cost to Southwestern Bell.
vORDINANCE NO. 3267
ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3214, WHICH ALLOWED THE EXTENSION OF
ORDINANCE NO. 2138 FOR A PERIOD OF FOUR YEARS; REFUSING TO RENEW ORDINANCE NO.
2138.
Moved by Alderman Ryle that Ordinance No. 3267 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3268
AN ORDINANCE WHEREBY THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, AND THE SOUTHWESTERN
BELL TELEPHONE COMPANY AGREE THAT THE TELEPHONE COMPANY SHALL CONTINUE TO
ERECT AND MAINTAIN ITS POLES, WIRES, ANCHORS, CABLES, MANHOLES, CONDUITS,
AND OTHER PLANT CONSTRUCTION AND APPURTENANCES ALONG, ACROSS, ON, OVER,
THROUGH, ABOVE AND UNDER ALL PUBLIC STREETS, AVENUES, ALLEYS, PUBLIC GROUNDS
AND PLACES IN SAID CITY, UNDER REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS AND THAT THE CITY
SHALL RECEIVE AN ANNUAL PAYMENT AND THE RIGHT TO USE CERTAIN FACILITIES OF THE
TELEPHONE COMPANY, ALL AS HEREIN PROVIDED.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that Ordinance No. 3268 be introduced.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ryle.
515
Item 6e & f, cont'd.
Alderman McAlister stated that he does not see any cost justification for
increasing the gross receipts unless there are some reasons to use this money in the
communication area for improvements. The City Manager stated that it is very difficult
to make an interpretation for the land which the city provides for all utilities to
provide the service. He pointed out that the City spent between eight and nine
million dollars on Kell Freeway for accommodating the utility companies.
Alderman Bassett stated that he agrees in principal with what Alderman McAlister
has said. He stated that he has 21 telephone lines coming into his office. Recently,
the City knocked the lines out with a dumpster, and they remained out for one and
one-half days. The telephone company worked around the clock to repair this damage.
No one billed the City or anyone else for this repair. They will be asking for a rate
increase in the future. If we pass this ordinance they have a real good tool with it
to work in making this request. If we keep the gross receipts at two percent, we
have a real good tool to use in not allowing the request. We need to document a good
reason for needing the money. We have not done this. He noted that they have done
things to hold their expenses in line. Here we are without any justification raising
the tax approximately $21,000. Ultimately it will come back to the people's pocketbook
who can afford it the least.
Alderman Ashbrook stated that he felt it would be fair to charge all utility
companies the same, and he is surprised that Southwestern Bell is not happy with
some of the concessions they had previously made. He feels all utility companies should
be treated the same.
The motion for introduction of the ordinance was carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen Russell, Ashbrook, Ryle, and Mathis
Nays: Aldermen McAlister and Bassett
Item 7a
A proposed resolution was presented raising the assessment rate for alley paving.
RESOLUTION NO. 2054
RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 1906 WHICH ESTABLISHED A POLICY GOVERNING
PAVING OF ALLEYS.
WHEREAS, Resolution No. 1829 adopted a policy concerning alley paving procedures
and Resolution No. 1864 amended that policy and established payment procedure in
accordance with Resolution No. 1596; and, Resolution No. 1906 amended section No. 1,
paragraph A of Resolution No. 1864 establishing the rates to be charged for alley
paving; and,
WHEREAS, the prices of paving materials have changed since the passage of
Resolution No. 1906 making it necessary to increase the rate charged for alley
paving.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF ALDERMEN OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, THAT:
Resolution No. 1906 is hereby amended so that where the rate is established at
2.00 per foot, it be changed to $2.50 per foot and where the rate is established
at $2.25 per foot, it be changed to $2.82 per foot. Resolution No. 1829 and Resolution
No. 1864 shall remain in force except as previously amended and as changed by this
resolution.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that Resolution No. 2054 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, and Mathis
Nays: None (Alderman Ryle was out of the room.)
Item 7b
A proposed resolution was presented authorizing proposals to property owners on
the Kell Freeway project.
RESOLUTION NO. 2055
RESOLUTION APPROVING APPRAISAL OF PROPERTIES ON KELL FREEWAY RELOCATION AND
AUTHORIZING THEIR PURCHASE OR CONDEMNATION.
516
Item 7b, cont'd.
WHEREAS, it is necessary to acquire the properties hereinafter described for
construction of the listed project in the 1967 Capital Improvements Program, and,
WHEREAS, such properties have been appraised by appraisers employed by the State
Department of Highways and Public Transportation and the amount of the values as
determined from the appraisals have been studied by the Board of Aldermen, and copies
are now in the possession of the Director of Public Works and/or Assistant CityManager.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF ALDERMEN OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, THAT:
Section No. 1 The project and properties to be purchased by Warranty Deeds areasfollows:
Kell Freeway - Project 52-380
Warranty Deed
Lot 8, Block 16, I. Jalonick Addition
Lot 5, Block 3, I. Jalonick Addition
Block 35, I. Jalonick Addition
Lots 1 & 2, Block 6, I. Jalonick Addition
Lot 10, Block 16, I. Jalonick Addition
Combined total of values approved in this resolution 133,250.
Section No. 2 The values of such properties are hereby approved and the City
Manager is hereby authorized to purchase in the name of the State of Texas or the City
of Wichita Falls, by Warranty Deed such tracts of land as shown on the project right-
of-way map. The authorized price to be paid for such tracts is State approved values
as determined from appraisals made by real estate appraisers employed by The State
Department of Highways and Public Transportation.
Section No. 3 In event the City Manager is unable to purchase any such tract
for such approved value, he is hereby authorized and directed to cause to be instituted
condemnation proceedings to obtain such tract in the name of the State of Texas or
the City of Wichita Falls.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that Resolution No. 2055 be passed.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Aldermen McAlister, Bassett, Russell, Ashbrook, and Mathis
Nays: None (Alderman Ryle was out of the room)
Item 8a
Bids were considered on a three-wheel truck for the golf course. It was
that the alternate bid be awarded to Colonial Motor Company in the amount
of $3,190.00.
Moved by Alderman Russell that the bid be awarded as recommended.
Motion seconded by Alderman McAlister, and carried unanimously.
Item 8b
Bids were considered on alley containers. It was recommended that the low bid
be awarded to Brillhart Body Containers in the amount of $249,872, for 1,358 containers.
Moved by Alderman Ashbrook that the bid be awarded as recommended.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ryle.
Ernest Lillard explained that he had been to the factory of Brillhart. It is small,
but they do good work. Customers he talked to have said that they are well pleased
with the containers they received, and have not been late on a delivery, yet.
The motion was carried unanimously.
517
Item 8c
Bids were considered on alley container collection units. Pak-Mor Manufacturing
Company submitted the only bid in the amount of $89,953.38, which included a trade-in.
Bid requests were sent to other manufacturers who could meet specifications, but none
were received.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that the bid be awarded to Pak-Mor Manufacturing Company
in the net amount of $89,953.38.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried unanimously.
Item 8d
Bids were considered on a three-wheel scooter for the parking meter department.
Watson Distributing Company submitted the only bid in the amount of $4,186. Two other
vendors submitted No Bids.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that the bid be awarded to Watson Distributing Company
in the amount of $4,186.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett, and carried unanimously.
v
Item 8e & f
a}
Bids were considered on automobiles and trucks for various departments.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that the bid be awarded to Baggett Bridwell for 18 police
cars in the amount of $100,209.67 (The low bidder did not meet specifications on the
carburetor, battery, and rear axle ratio.)
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell.
Larry Slack appeared as General Manager of Moore Ford Company. He stated that
in most cases their vehicles exceed specifications, and their bid was lower. They
bid some exceptions. The City Manager pointed out that a specification meeting was
held prior to putting bids out, and only two dealers showed up--Baggett Bridwell and
Kidwell GMC. Moore Ford had an opportunity, but they did not come. Police Chief
Harrelson stated that this is the first year that we have used four-barrel carburetors.
They have found them more economical. Alderman Bassett asked if it is worth $3,600 to
get a four-barrel carburetor. Chief Harrelson answered that it would not be worth it
on gas savings alone, but better acceleration results also.
City Attorney H. P. Hodge stated that he does not understand why we have a place
for exceptions on the bid form. He confirmed that Alderman Mathis is correct in
that we cannot appease Mr. Slack unless they throw out all bids. The Purchasing
Agent noted that Moore Ford did not meet specifications. Baggett-Bridwell met and
exceeded all specifications. Moore Ford was notified of the specification meeting.
The City Manager stated that specifications are for a purpose. If they want to bid
an alternate they could have submitted it that way, but they did not.
The motion to award the bid to Baggett Bridwell was carried unanimously.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that the low bid for three staff cars be awarded to
Morgan Dodge in the amount of $14,428.41.
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell, and carried unanimously.
Moved by Alderman Mathis that the low bid for one 6,000 GVW van be awarded to
Kidwell GMC in the amount of $5,738.60.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ryle, and carried unanimously.
Discussion was held on eight one-half ton pickups. Morgan Dodge bid a 59 amp
alternator in lieu of the 60 amp unit called for in the specifications. John Kidwell,
of Kidwell GMC, assured the City that he could meet all specifications. He bid a 61
amp alternator. Morgan Dodge could have bid a 63 amp, and would have been higher than
his bid if they had done so.
Moved by Alderman Bassett that the lowest bid meeting specifications be awarded
to Kidwell GMC in the amount of $31,578.80 for 8 one-half ton pickups.
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell, and carried unanimously.
518
Item 8e & f, cont'd.
Moved by Alderman Ashbrook that the low bid for two 3/4 ton pickups be awarded tovKidwellGMCintheamountof $8,549.60.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett, and carried unanimously.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that the low bid for two 9,000 GVW trucks be awarded
s' to Kidwell GMC in the amount of $9,306.32.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett, and carried unanimously.
Moved by Alderman Russell that the low bid for a 10,000 GVW truck be awarded to
Kidwell GMC in the amount of $7,838.
Motion seconded by Alderman McAlister, and carried unanimously.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that the lowest bid meeting specifications be
awarded to Kidwell GMC for three 15,000 GVW trucks in the amount of $19,680.
Motion seconded by Alderman Mathis, and carried unanimously.
Moved by Alderman Russell that the low bid for four 23,000 GVW trucks be awarded
to Kidwell GMC in the amount of $29,180.
Motion seconded by Alderman McAlister and carried unanimously.
Item 9a
vi
Permission was requested to advertise for bids for an articulated wheel type
loader for the Utility Equipment Services Department.
Moved by Alderman Bassett that authority be granted to advertise for bids as
requested.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ryle, and carried unanimously.
Item 9b
Permission was requested to advertise for bids for a backhoe with front end
loader for Water Distribution Department.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that authority be granted to advertise for bids, as
requested.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett, and carried unanimously.
v/ Item 10
Moved by Alderman Mathis that minutes of the meetings of the following boards and
commissions be received.
a. Park Board - November 29, 1977
b. Aviation Advisory Board - November 23, 1977
c. Mayor's Commission on the Status of Women - November 3, 1977
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell, and carried unanimously.
y Item lla
Ernest Lillard gave a report of the findings of the two appraisers for the CityViewHeightsAssessmentPavingProgram. Only one change was made, and that was in
the assessment for Samuel Gibbs for Lot 1, Block Q, which was reduced $412.10. Letters
have been sent to the property owners involved, indicating the results of this reappraisal.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that the recommendations of the two appraisers be
accepted.
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell, and carried unanimously.
519
v Item llb
Discussion was held on the petition for de-annexation of Lake Arrowhead.
Frank Douthitt appeared representing the petitioners in this matter. He stated that
they are prepared to give additional information showing that a majority of the
registered qualified voters have signed the petition. It was decided that the City
Clerk, City Attorney, and Mr. Douthitt would recess to the Conference Room to study
the additional information. The Assistant City Clerk recorded the minutes as the
Council continued their agenda items.
Item llc
Moved by Alderman Ashbrook that Bill Gowan be appointed to the Charter Revision
Commission to replace J. Walter Friberg, and that Alderman McAlister replace former
Alderman Bill Gowan on the Commission as the Council representative.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett and carried unanimously.
The City Manager asked for any suggestions that the Council would like the Charter
Revision Commission to look at and consider for possible changes. Alderman Mathis
stated he would like to see laws that are obsolete be taken off the books. Mayor
Boyd stated he would like the phrase "Board of Aldermen" changed to "Council" with a
provision for the females to be addressed as councilwomen. Mr. Fox suggested looking
into the requirement of adopting the budget at the beginning of the fiscal year.
Item lld
Angus Thompson appeared for the Community Action Corporation requesting funding of
12,000. City Manager Gerald Fox explained the actual funding was for $20,000, but
because the CAC's fiscal year was different than the City's, $12,000 would be appropriated
by this Council and the remaining $8,000 would be appropriated by next year's council.
Alderman Russell suggested the $12,000 be appropriated out of the money received
from the auction at the Dillard building. The City Manager stated even though there
are no restrictions on the $30,000 received from the auction, he suggested not using
the money for any project other than the Dillard building.
Alderman Ryle stated we should not bind next year's council to approve the $8,000
and the CAC not receive the money because the next council does not agree with this
council. We should expend the $20,000 at this time.
Alderman McAlister was opposed to funding this out of the general revenue sharing
fund. It should be funded out of operating funds of the tax base of the community.
Moved by Alderman Ryle to fund the $12,000 out of the general fund, and an
ordinance be prepared for consideration at the next meeting.
Motion seconded by Alderman Russell, and carried unanimously.
Alderman Bassett clarified that we are not making any promises for the $8,000
for next year.
Item lle
Rick Gearheart appeared representing D & D Sign Co. , & other sign companies
regarding the sign ordinance that had been passed earlier in the meeting. He objected
to Section 2(i) & (j) of the ordinance, stating this would cause problems to future
businesses as well as to present businesses for the people who want to modify their
signs. The main concern is the individual merchant. He is trying to attract as much
business as possible. One business he is dealing with needs a 3-sided sign because of
the business location. The City Manager stated this provision would not prevent
that. Ernest Lillard stated we are addressing problems we have seen occur, and are
trying not to let happen again. The main thing is that we are interested in not
having a structure that will obstruct the view.
Mayor Boyd suggested that Rick Gearheart's group get together and write a letter
with their exceptions and modifications, and send it to Mr. Lillard. Ernest Lillard
stated this ordinance could be a matter of interpretation, and he would be glad to
reduce to writing the interpretation on the various questions Mr. Gearheart may have.
Mr. Gearheart was agreeable to this.
520
Item lle, cont'd.
Alderman McAlister asked if this ordinance takes into consideration the large signs
the oil companies have. Ernest Lillard stated that location is immaterial to them
because they are so high. Oil companies are after the height instead of front location.
Alderman McAlister inquired concerning the continuous left turn study implementation.
Ed Ilschner stated they are presently involved with a traffic signalization construction
program at this time. They have already set their priorities; however, when this is
completed they will begin the continuous left turn study.
Alderman McAlister requested the Traffic Department take a look at the traffic f` ,
signal at Midwestern Parkway and Hampstead. When traveling east the green arrows
shows an option of going straight or turning right; however, there is nostreet to the
right, only a park. Ed Ilschner stated he was not aware of this, but he would look into
it and have it corrected.
Alderman McAlister brought up the subject of the no parking signs on Avenue K and
Old Seymour Road. Even though this had been defeated earlier, the traffic volume is
very heavy. He suggested a time frame of having no parking signs put there. He also
asked that Avenue K across Kemp be looked at since it, too, is heavily traveled. Ed
Ilschner stated another study would be done and then taken to the Traffic Commission.
Alderman Mathis inquired about the status on McGrath Creek. Ernest Lillard
J
stated they are about 90% through, after having one crew and sometimes two crews
working on it. About 60 days remain to finish the project. Mayor Boyd asked if we
could do it all over again, would we do it in-house. Mr. Lillard stated considering
cost, there could be no other way except in-house.
Alderman Mathis inquired about the delay in completing the playing surfaces at
Hamilton Tennis Center. Bill Hursh, Director of Parks, stated the contractor,
Timmins-Anderson, estimated 69 days to complete the project, which will be up December24. He stated he was not pleased with the delay, either.
Alderman Russell offered her congratulations to those concerned on the completion
of the paving of the 1100 block of Buchanan Street between 9th and 10th.
Alderman Russell asked if funds were available for the mural at the airport and if
a tentative agreement had been made with the person she had recommended.
Ed Ilschner reported he had been working with Mahlon Hill, Building Maintenance,
and the airport manager. The funds are available in the maintenance account. They
plan to contact the person that was recommended this week and discuss an agreement.
The City Manager stated he has contacted the Backdoor Theatre and has discussed a
possibility of murals in other buildings.
Alderman Russell asked if any contact had been made with the State Highway f'
Department on the possibility of utilizing some of the parkway. The City Manager
stated it had been assigned to the staff. Ed Ilschner stated this has been discussed
with them. Bill Hursh, Director of Parks, stated he had been in contact with them byletter.
Alderman Ryle requested the Traffic Department look into the speed limit on Taft
in front of the University. Even though it is posted at 30 MPH, you still practically
get run over.
Alderman Ryle stated he believed the Arts Commission has been sidestepped, and
would like to see some recommendations from the staff for proposed membership, and
getting some community involvement, and also some guidelines to be administered, and
then decide on the budget.
Alderman Ashbrook reported on the Mayor's appointment of he and Alderman Ryle to
look into the liability of the City concerning Skateboard Hill. They have decided the
City is not liable. They also checked into the broken water main at 1700 Taylor and
521
could not see where the City is liable. It was Alderman Ashbrook's understanding
that most of these people probably have insurance. Alderman Ryle stated he had
discussed no-fault insurance with the City Attorney and was told it could be bought,
but would be very expensive, and not a viable option.
Alderman Ashbrook requested an executive session to discuss personnel matters.
Item lib, cont'd.
1 A Mayor Boyd inquired how we have the right to protect our territory if we do not
have control of the property? The City Manager stated that the key is that we own the
property, whether it is in the city limits or not.
The City Attorney explained that our choices are to take affirmative action to
de-annex, or not to take any action. If within three years after annexation the City
has failed to provide services equal to other parts of the City, they can petition for
de-annexation. After that, they can go into court.
Mr. Douthitt stated that a previous council agreed to put a water system out
there.
ORDINANCE NO. 3269
AN ORDINANCE DECLARING CERTAIN TERRITORY EXISTING WITHIN THE CORPORATE
LIMITS OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS AS NOT SUITABLE OR NECESSARY FOR CITY
PURPOSES; DESIGNATING SUCH TERRITORY AND DISCONTINUING THE SAME FROM AND
ELIMINATING THE SAME AS A PART OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS; PROVIDING THAT
SUCH ORDINANCE SHALL NOT AFFECT THE RIGHT AND POWER OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS TO PROTECT ITS WATER SUPPLY; PROVIDING FOR A REPEALER; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Moved by Alderman McAlister that the ordinance be accepted, and move for disannexation.
Motion seconded by Alderman Bassett.
Alderman Mathis stated that twelve years ago he was opposed to annexation of
Lake Arrowhead. He now has some questions about it. Will we create another Lakeside
City? He would like to look at it closer before he is ready to vote. Alderman Ashbrook
stated that he feels the same way. Perhaps we may be hasty, and wonders if it would
be in the best interest of the citizens to do it today. Maybe we should have a work
session.
Alderman Bassett feels that we have made some commitments which we have not met.
City Manager Gerald Fox disagreed with Mr. Douthitt's comment that some city council
had promised them a water system. There has been no definite commitment to put it in.
An engineering study made several years ago indicated it would cost from $200,000
to $800,000 to put it in. We are talking about a half million dollars to install
it. Even if we did put in the water system the total cost of it would be paid for
over a five-year period by the people who live out there. Alderman Ryle feels we may
be a little bit hasty. The City Manager suggested that we place this ordinance on
the December 20 meeting, and the same purpose could be accomplished before January 1.
A substitute motion was moved by Alderman Ryle that action on this matter be
postponed until the December 20 meeting, and that the staff provide a list of reasons
for both annexation and de-annexation for them to consider.
Motion seconded by Alderman Ashbrook, and carried unanimously.
The Board of Aldermen adjourned at 1:25 P.M.
i
PASSED AND APPROVED this _ ) day of i L ce/[,.. 1977.
4/4/ 172/24—Z.A(***- .'
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MA OR
ATTEST:
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