Min 04/07/1992 1
Wichita Falls, Texas
Memorial Auditorium Building
April 7, 1992
Items 1 & 2
The City Council 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.
Michael Lam - Mayor
David Farabee -
Terrance E. Loughry -
Angus Thompson - Councilors
Paul Hughes -
J. W. Martin -
Don Kirkham
James Berzina - City Manager
Gregory Humbach - City Attorney
Wilma J. Thomas - City Clerk
The invocation was given by Rob Mangum, Christ United
Presbyterian Church.
Item 3a
Terry McGuire, Transportation Department, was honored as
Employee of the Month for April. Mayor Lam presented him with a
plaque, City of Wichita Falls pin, a check, bus tickets, and
tickets to a theatre and dinner.
Mayor Lam presented proclamations for National Library Week
and Week of the Young Child.
Item 4
Moved by Councilor Thompson that minutes of the meeting
held March 17, 1992 , be approved.
Motion seconded by Councilor Farabee.
Councilor Loughry noted that the makers of the amended
motion and the second were reversed in Item 7a, Page 889.
The motion, with correction, carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
2
Items 5a-7g
Item 7f was moved to the regular agenda.
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that the consent agenda be
approved.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham.
Nays: None
Item 5a
RESOLUTION NO. 52-92
RESOLUTION APPROVING REFUND OF OVER-PAYMENT OF
PROPERTY TAXES ON ACCOUNT #0055-026-0000
Item 6a
RESOLUTION NO. 53-92
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION AND AUTHORIZING
FINAL PAYMENT TO THE CONTRACTOR FOR THE LANDFILL SOIL
LINER VIII and WET CELL I PROJECT
Item 7
Minutes of the meetings of the following boards and
commissions were received.
a. Library Advisory Board - February 25, 1992
b. Wichita Falls Wichita County Public Health Board -
February 28 , 1992
C. Planning and Zoning Commission - March 11, 1992
d. Board of Electrical Examiners - March 12, 1992
e. Zoning Board of Adjustment - March 18 , 1992
f. Traffic Safety Commission - March 4, 1992
Item 7f
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that minutes of the meeting of
the Civil Service Commission be received.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes.
Councilor Kirkham commented on the wording of the
discussion on the executive session, stating it appears the
decision was made before they voted on the motion.
Councilor Loughry commented on the nepotism policy
concerning waivers. Mr. Berzina explained that the nepotism
policy has been affirmed by the Supreme Court. Regarding
Councilor Kirkham' s question, Mr. Humbach explained that the
Commission was advised that no action could be taken in
executive session.
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that receipt of minutes be
delayed until corrections have been made.
Motion seconded by Councilor Loughry, and carried
unanimously.
3
Item 8a
A public hearing was opened on use of revenue sharing funds
in the amount of $12 , 000 for street median improvement. Jack
Murphy explained that the Highway Department will cost share
with the City on this project at Old Jacksboro Highway near
Central Expressway.
No one else desired to be heard, and the hearing was
closed.
Item 9a was withdrawn from the agenda.
Item 9b
ORDINANCE NO. 23-92
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 14-84 OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS IN
ORDER TO UPDATE THAT SECTION OF THE CITY ELECTRICAL
CODE
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that Ordinance No. 23-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson.
Mr. McKinney explained that the ordinance allows for the
use of 14 gauge wiring approved by the National Electrical Code.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 9c
ORDINANCE NO. 24-92
AN ORDINANCE REZONING APPROXIMATELY 138 ACRES OF LAND
PRESENTLY ADDRESSED AS 4310 & 4340 SEYMOUR HIGHWAY,
WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, TO CANYON TRAILS PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT (PUD 92-04) ZONE
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that Ordinance No. 24-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes.
Mr. Bonnett commented that they are looking at drainage
very carefully in this area.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham.
Nays: None
4
Item 9d
ORDINANCE NO. 25-92
ORDINANCE MAKING AN APPROPRIATION IN THE GENERAL FUND
FOR ADDITIONAL GRANT REVENUE FROM THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT
OF HEALTH AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
CONTRACT ACCEPTING SAME
Moved by Councilor Farabee that Ordinance No. 25-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Kirkham, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 9e
ORDINANCE NO. 26-92
ORDINANCE WAIVING SECTION 22-1(a) ( 9 ) AND SECTION 22-4
OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO PERMIT SIGNS AND
CONSUMPTION OF BEER DURING AN EVENT TO BENEFIT THE
KIDNEY FOUNDATION BY THE RUNNER'S CLUB MAY 16, 1992 IN
HAMILTON PARK
Moved by Councilor Hughes that Ordinance No. 26-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Martin, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 9f
ORDINANCE NO. 27-92
ORDINANCE WAIVING SECTION 22-1(a) (3 ) , SECTION 22-
1(a) ( 5) , SECTION 22-1(a) ( 9) , SECTION 22-3 , and SECTION
22-4 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES AND SECTION 5420 OF THE
ZONING ORDINANCE TO PERMIT VEHICLES ON GRASS,
OVERNIGHT CAMPING, SIGNS, USE DURING CURFEW HOURS, AND OWN
THE SALE AND CONSUMPTION OF BEER DURING THE CHILI
EVENT PROPOSED BY THE JAYCEES JUNE 17-21 , 1992 IN
JAYCEE PARK
Moved by Councilor Thompson that Ordinance No. 27-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Martin.
Mr. Murphy confirmed that overnight camping is for security
and the vendors.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
5
Item 9g
ORDINANCE 28-92
ORDINANCE WAIVING SECTION 22-1 (a) ( 9) OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES TO PERMIT SIGNS DURING A FUN RUN EVENT BY
THE M.S.U. BRANCH OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION, APRIL 11 , 1992
Moved by Councilor Farabee that Ordinance No. 28-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Martin.
Councilor Kirkham expressed concerns about the size of the
signs and the spray paint they want to put on the roads and
streets, pointing out it is illegal to paint city streets.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 9h
ORDINANCE NO. 29-92
ORDINANCE WAIVING SECTION 22-1(a) ( 9) OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES TO PERMIT SIGNS DURING THE TEXAS JUNIOR
SUPER SECTIONAL AND CHAMPIONSHIP MASTER TENNIS
TOURNAMENT JUNE 6-13 , 1992 IN HAMILTON AND WEEKS
TENNIS CENTERS
Moved by Councilor Martin that Ordinance No. 29-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Farabee, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item l0a
RESOLUTION NO. 54-92
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS AUTHORIZING
AN INTERLOCAL COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF
ELECTRA TO ADMINISTER THE CITY OF ELECTRA'S HEALTH AND
DENTAL PLAN
Moved by Councilor Farabee that Resolution No. 54-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson.
Councilor Loughry asked who picks up the cost if there is a
bad accident, and Mrs. Stricklin explained it will be the City
of Electra. Their Council will develop an Employee Benefit Fund
for their umbrella.
6
Item 10a cont'd.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Thompson, Hughes,
Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: Councilor Loughry
Item 10b
RESOLUTION NO. 55-92
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS AUTHORIZING
AN INTERLOCAL COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF
ELECTRA TO ADMINISTER THE CITY OF ELECTRA'S WORKERS'
COMPENSATION PROGRAM
Moved by Councilor Hughes that Resolution No. 55-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Kirkham.
Councilor Martin noted this is an excellent program to work
together with other cities to hold down costs.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 10c
RESOLUTION NO. 56-92
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WICHITA FALLS DETERMINING THE NECESSITY FOR
ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY FOR PHASE III OF THE HOLLIDAY
CREEK PROJECT, APPROVING THE APPRAISAL, SETTING JUST
COMPENSATION, AND AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OR CONDEMNATION
Moved by Councilor Martin that Resolution No. 56-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Kirkham, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 10d
RESOLUTION NO. 57-92
RESOLUTION RENAMING DOWNTOWN PARK TO BUD DANIEL PARK.
Moved by Councilor Martin that Resolution No. 57-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson.
Item 10d cont'd.
Councilor Martin noted that he agrees with the idea of
letting people smell the roses while they are alive. Councilor
Kirkham proposed a dedication ceremony.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 10e
A proposed ordinance was presented amending Section 22-
91(e) of the Code of Ordinances so as to authorize the sale of
concessions by private renters of the softball complex;
providing for inclusion in the Code; providing for a repealer
clause; and finding and determining that the meeting at which
this ordinance is passed is open to the public as required by
law. A motion was made by Councilor Thompson, and seconded by
Councilor Kirkham, for its passage.
Jack Murphy explained that only twelve dates are available
for outside tournaments. He stated this is a request of a
citizen to try to encourage more use and tourism. Last year
they only had two private rentals.
Mr. Berzina explained that when the complex was opened
operation of the concession stand was discussed quite a bit. It
seems kind of silly to spend the money we did on the concession
stand, and have a trailer pulled up there. Discussion centered
around promoting this facility outside the City, through the BCI
and trade journals. Councilor Kirkham stated there are only two
or three tournament teams in Wichita Falls, and that we need to
promote the local tournaments. Further study was recommended on
this proposal.
Moved by Councilor Martin that this item be tabled for
further study.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Loughry, Thompson, Hughes,
Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: Councilor Farabee
Item 10f
RESOLUTION NO. 58-92
A RESOLUTION FROM THE CITY COUNCIL TO THE CITY OF
WICHITA FALLS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
CONTRACT WITH Y.M.C.A. FOR THE USE OF CERTAIN
BALLFIELDS AND MAINTENANCE
Moved by Councilor Hughes that Resolution No. 58-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Martin.
8
Item 10f cont'd.
Discussion was held on continuation of this program by the
Y.M.C.A. Mr. Berzina explained that they want maintenance on a
higher level than we maintain other parks.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item lOg
RESOLUTION NO. 59-92
A RESOLUTION FROM THE CITY COUNCIL TO THE CITY OF
WICHITA FALLS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
CONTRACT WITH Y.M.C.A. FOR THE USE OF CERTAIN
BALLFIELDS AND MAINTENANCE
Moved by Councilor Farabee that Resolution No. 59-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilor Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 10h
RESOLUTION NO. 60-92
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
CONTRACT WITH DOUG MATHIS TO OPERATE CONCESSION STAND
IN JAYCEE PARK
Moved by Councilor Farabee that Resolution No. 60-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Martin, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 10i
RESOLUTION NO. 61-92
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WICHITA FALLS AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE
AN ENCROACHMENT TO JOE PISTOCCO AUTO SERVICE
Moved by Councilor Farabee that Resolution No. 61-92 be
passed.
9
Item 10i cont'd.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes.
Councilor Loughry commented on the City regulations about
signs on the right of way. Mr. Humbach explained the law
concerning encroachments on public property.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Thompson, Hughes,
Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: Councilor Loughry
Item 10j
RESOLUTION NO. 62-92
A RESOLUTION REVERSING THE DISAPPROVAL OF A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT A
CARPORT WITHIN THE FRONT SETBACK AREA AT 4209 PROTHRO
AVENUE, WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS (C-92-10)
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that Resolution No. 62-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Loughry.
William Barnes, 4209 Prothro, addressed his request before
the Planning and Zoning Commission, with three members absent.
He suggested that either carports not be allowed, or that the
applicants be treated differently when they meet the
requirements.
Jennie Andrews, 4204 Prothro, opposed the carport.
Councilor Loughry mentioned attendance problems with these
Commissions. Mr. McKinney pointed out that five affirmative
votes are needed to grant a conditional use permit. Seven
members were in attendance, but only four affirmative votes
where received. He further stated that Mr. Barnes knew that
notification to neighbors would be given. He could have
appeared at another meeting by paying $50. 00 for the cost of
notifying the neighbors.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson, Hughes,
Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: Mayor Lam
Item 10k
A proposed resolution was presented waiving service fee
provision of Resolution 159-90 for Utility Collections and Water
Distribution and Maintenance Divisions of City Water account 06-
030-06591-5. A motion was made by Councilor Martin, and
seconded by Councilor Hughes, for its passage.
Councilor Martin noted that he does not see that they
should be charged a fee. Mr. Werner explained the process
involved. He stated they encouraged her to wait and not put a
stop payment on it. When it went back to the bank the stop
10
Item 10k cont'd.
payment was like an insufficient check. Councilor Martin noted
the City had already received its money.
The motion failed by the following vote.
Ayes: Councilor Martin
Nays: Mayor Lam, Councilors Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, and Kirkham
Item 101
RESOLUTION NO. 63-92
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO MAKE
APPLICATION TO THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN
DEVELOPMENT FOR HOPE III FUNDS AND AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO ACT AS THE CITY' S CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER IN ALL MATTERS PERTAINING TO THE CITY' S
PARTICIPATION IN THE HOPE III PROGRAM
Councilor Farabee stated that he will abstain from voting
on this item because he serves on the board of Habitat.
Councilor Thompson also noted his abstention because he is
President of Jerusalem Community Development Board.
Moved by Councilor Hughes that Resolution No. 63-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Martin, and carried by the
following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilors Loughry, Hughes, Martin,
and Kirkham
Nays: None
Item 10m
RESOLUTION NO. 64-92
RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE FEDERAL AVIATION
ADMINISTRATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONDUCTING A
FEASIBILITY STUDY OF KICKAPOO AIR PARK
Moved by Councilor Thompson that Resolution No. 64-92 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes.
Harold Hawkins, 5502 Hooper, opposed the request to fund
this study, stating that a deed restriction provides that it be
used only as an airport for the next twenty years, and that the
City, County and School will lose tax money if the City
purchases it. He suggested that the Council contact the Tax
Appraisal District to take a look at the appraisal of the
hangars at Kickapoo Air Park. He stated a conference room and
restaurant are needed at Municipal Airport. He also stated that
Aviation Advisory Board Members have a vested interest.
Councilor Loughry stated he feels we need to put together a
business plan on this. He read a statement supporting such a
plan to determine the need for this facility.
11
Item 10m cont 'd.
Councilor Martin pointed out that this study would in no
way commit the City to the purchase of any airport. The
feasibility and environmental impact need to be determined.
Councilor Thompson supported a feasibility study and a business
plan.
Councilor Farabee noted that feasibility studies have been
made on such projects as Lake Wichita and the public library,
stating this study certainly does not commit him to buy it.
Councilor Kirkham noted that his primary concern is the
neighborhood around Kickapoo. Just extending the runway alone
will be a great expense. The study we are talking about should
point out these things. He would like confirmation of his own
ideas.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilor Farabee, Thompson, Hughes,
Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: Councilor Loughry
Item lOn
RESOLUTION NO. 65-92
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO
A CONTRACT WITH WORLDWIDE CONCESSIONS, INC. FOR
CATERING AND CONCESSION SERVICES AT THE ACTIVITIES
CENTER
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that Resolution No. 65-92 be
passed, changing the name to Worldwide Concession, Inc.
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson.
Councilor Martin inquired if the Lions Club would still be
able to use the kitchen, but not the equipment, at the County
Fair, and Mr. Dockery explained they will be able to do so as
long as it does not interfere with the concessionaire.
The motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lam, Councilor Farabee, Loughry, Thompson,
Hughes, Martin, and Kirkham
Nays: None
The City Council recessed at 10 : 45 a.m. , and reconvened at
11 : 05 a.m.
Item lla
Vernal Huffines of Mathis, West, and Huffines, presented
the 1991 audit report for acceptance by the Council. He
presented an overview of the report, complimenting the fiscal
responsibility of this body, and the financial staff. Mayor Lam
12
Item lla cont'd.
expressed their appreciation for the firm' s service to the City
of Wichita Falls.
Item llb
Mr. Berzina reported that they are ready to recommend to
the Council to proceed with the third phase of the Holliday
Creek project. Plans and specifications have been furnished,
and the City has to give their consent to proceed with the bids.
Mr. Bonnett noted that their approval will authorize the
City Manager ' s signature on the document to proceed with plans
and specifications under the terms of the amendment, and go for
bids.
Mayor Lam noted that the City of Wichita Falls has reviewed
the design with the Corps of Engineers, and are ready to proceed
with bids. The amount of money involved will determine whether
we accept the bids. If bids are more than twenty percent over
the estimate, the Corps cannot proceed without our consent. If
they are under twenty percent, they can proceed. This design
will assure the safety of the citizens of Wichita Falls.
Discussion continued on various aspects of the project,
with Councilor Thompson expressing concerns about future
problems on the East Side. Mr. Berzina pointed out that the
size and width of the channel dictated the height of the
spillway.
The City Council cast a unanimous vote to authorize the
City Manager to proceed with the third phase of Holliday Creek.
Item llc
Discussion was opened on lapsed leases at Lake Arrowhead
under the 25-year option renewals for 1992. Some of these
leases were not renewed in the time specified by the leases, and
a decision needs to be made. About 20 leases are involved.
Annual payment of the rent is another matter to be addressed.
Councilor Martin asked about the Lake Arrowhead plat not
being filed in Clay County, and Mr. Humbach pointed out that we
are not selling these lots, and a plat is not required to be
filed.
James Kellett addressed dates of leasing and the leasing of
expired lots. He also noted illegal transfers by a seller who
did not actually transfer it, but subleased it instead.
Virgil Wilson, 4645 Brookdale, stated that he inadvertently .:
let his lease lapse for non-payment, stating this was an
oversight on his part, but he did not want to lose the lease.
Bill Miller stated that he lives at Lake Arrowhead. He
thought he was purchasing a lease from an individual, but it was
not legally transferred. He would like to have a proper lease
on this property.
Charlie Wilson, 4516 Lockwood, noted lots nearby that the
City had taken back which were in a bad state of disrepair. He
requested the City to clean up this type of property.
Gene Goodier stated he is one of those whose lease has
lapsed due to an oversight of non-payment in 1991. He stated
13
Item 11c cont'd.
that he had notified the Park Department of his new address in
1990. He requested that he not lose his home, stating he is
willing to pay a higher lease rate.
Don McLaughlin asked if lapsed leases could be renewed,
stating he would like to lease one next to him.
A lengthy discussion continued with various council members
expressing their thoughts and concerns. Councilor Hughes
pointed out that the taxpayers in Wichita Falls are required to
pay for new paved roads out there, and he does not think it is
fair to the citizens to give the leaseholders a $48 a year
lease, with no taxes being paid to our city. Mr. Humbach
explained that a judgment will shortly be entered giving us
until December, 1994, to put in a double penetration road. He
expects it to cost up to $340,000 to do this. We do not have
any tax revenues from the lake, and we need to provide for some
of these costs.
Councilor Martin felt the City has gotten itself into this
position because the situation was not properly policed in the
past. A time frame to renew was suggested, but nothing should
be leased past the second 25-year furthest point. He emphasized
r_ that the notice which will be going out will be the last notice
which they will receive.
Approaches to be considered include: 1) those
approximately 20 lessees who have failed to notify the City of
their option to renew for the next 25 years, 2 ) leases which
have lapsed by error, and 3 ) property we take back and re-lease,
or not re-lease.
Moved by Mayor Lam that any current lease that has lapsed
this year under the present renewal option, and the owner of
lease comes in within a 90-day period after expiration and
desires to renew that lease due to error on their part, that
they catch up on the lease payments and pay $150 for a one-time
inspection charge and Code Enforcement will go out and inspect
that lot, and if it is something we still want as tenants, that
they pay that lease and it be renewed under the same terms and
conditions they had at the existing rate, and the same length of
time they had.
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson, and carried
unanimously.
Consideration was given to the leases which have lapsed for
non-payment. Mayor Lam suggested that the Council address a new
lease rate and charge a $150 fee to re-lease them, and that the
rate be addressed every five years.
Moved by Mayor Lam that the staff work on guidelines and a
recommended schedule and come back with a lease structure that
would accurately reflect our existing costs not to exceed $1200
a year lease payments, which would apply to lapsed or new
leases.
Motion seconded by Councilor Farabee.
Harold Hawkins suggested a pro rata share for the
leaseholder. James Kellett suggested that outside people be
involved in setting rates. Betty Murphy clarified discussion on
Lake Arrowhead regarding the tax burden of Wichita Falls.
Virgil Wilson clarified that this matter will be back on the
April 21 agenda.
The motion carried unanimously.
14
Item lld
R. W. Wiest, 900 Reynolds, appeared regarding demolition,
mowing, and other liens at 205 Brook. Following discussion on
the problem, it was recommended that Mr. Dockery continue
working with him for a resolution of the matter.
Gene Douglass, attorney for Mr. Bob Gordon, appeared in
regard to a matter for study condemning land for a drainage
easement or ditch on Corrigan Street as part of the Holliday
Creek project. The property lies on the East Side of Dodge
Street, and a local flooding problem has been caused here.
Following a discussion of the particulars, Mr. Bonnett was
requested to bring back a report.
Gene Robinson, 4504 Ernest Circle, stated that he owns a
convenience store with a gas island at the corner of Seymour
Highway and Barnett. He complained about a flea market
beginning behind his property. He stated merchandise is left
outside and uncovered. He presented a video of the area.
Further discussion continued, with Mr. McKinney noting it is a
very unsightly situation. It was thought that the man who
operates this flea market is a roofer. Mr. Robinson asked that
this situation be reviewed.
Betty Murphy, 101 Lakewood Drive, appeared regarding being
double taxed by Wichita County. She asked if the City could
force the County to reimburse them for some of their expenses.
She also wanted to know how the City of Wichita Falls is
reimbursed for the interlocal agreements.
Mayor Lam explained that the County is a level of
government that has the right to tax. Mr. Berzina explained
that we don' t get into interlocal agreements unless it is to our
advantage. He addressed various agreements in which we
participate.
Skip Kolter, 4304 DeHaven, appeared as an employee of the
Wichita Falls School District and representing Project Vote. He
asked for the Council ' s permission to use the Mayor' s race on
May 2 , 1992 , for students to vote at the City' s official polling
places on election day for a school election. Mr. Humbach and
Mrs. Thomas explained that under the provisions of HB 2395 , the
governing body is required to formally call the student
election, and it has to be done in accordance with state law.
The time has long passed for doing this. The Council informed
him that under the law they cannot authorized it.
Charlie Wilson, 4516 Lockwood, addressed derelict
structures at Lake Arrowhead on City property. He handed out
pictures of one of the lots.
Mayor Lam explained that in the City, if property is
condemned, the owner has to pay for it. We do not have the
funds to do this. This is a good argument for the City not to
get into any type of lease agreement. Councilor Martin noted
that less than a year ago he went on a video taping session. At
the present time we cannot go back to our taxpayers for a tax
increase. He hopes we can later clear it up.
15
Item lld cont'd.
Mr. Berzina explained that we only have a certain number of
dollars to spend, and if it is his decision he will spend the
dollars here. If there is a pollutant problem to the lake, that
is another matter. We plan to take care of those here first.
Frankye Durkee, 1010 Harding, complained that the roads in
Lakeview Cemetery need to be paved. She also mentioned Williams
Park being blocked off.
The City Council recessed for lunch at 2: 15 p.m. , and
reconvened at 3 : 00 p.m.
Item lle
Councilor Martin asked that the Public Information Office
stage a dedication for the Bud Daniel Park, with all city
officials, police, and law enforcement people, for a date yet to
be named.
Councilor Hughes asked for a staff recommendation on the
softball complex as to whether we are going to treat it as a
park or as a facility.
Councilor Kirkham asked Mr. Humbach to explain our role in
cable television rate setting.
Mr. Humbach explained that the City is a franchisor for the
cable company the same as the telephone company, etc. This
( franchise expires in 1994 . In 1984, we lost the right to
regulate rates. A cable committee has been meeting to assist
the staff in forming a new franchise. He hopes that by the time
the franchise expires we will again have the right to regulate
rates. He encouraged the citizens to write their Congressmen
and Senators to put the matter into the hands of the citizens.
He and Troy Jensen are staff liaisons.
Councilor Kirkham asked Mr. Bonnett about certain water
valve failures. Mr. Bonnett explained they have discontinued
using that valve until the casement problems can be cleared up.
He also mentioned the manhole cover project on Broad and
Holliday. Mr. Bonnett explained they will soon be starting that
work.
Mayor Lam asked Major Davis to check into a problem that
Blanche Walton, 802 Marconi, is having. Also, LaVerne Smith, on
Abby Street, has some type of a drainage problem, and he asked
Mr. Bonnett to look into it. Bob Parker was also requested to
investigate a street light at Village Glen.
Councilor Kirkham asked Tom Edmondson to check into a dog
situation around Covington and Clovis.
16
Item llf
Mr. Berzina passed out information on providing access into
the Bonny Homes area. The Highway Department does not have it
on their list of things to do. There is also a memo on the
Kenley Lane sewage problem.
Mr. Bonnett reported that Midwestern Parkway will be closed
on Saturday between Campus and Maplewood to cut in a storm
sewer.
Jan Stricklin gave a report on the dispatchers regarding
pay and turnover. Since November 19, 1991, to now we have only
had three dispatchers leave, and all of them were at our
request. They have found some very satisfied individuals with
their training and doing their job. Councilor Hughes commented
that it appears that her recommendations are working well in
this area. Councilor Kirkham noted that the 9-1-1 Board has
asked for a tour of the dispatch area, and it will be on April
23 , after 5 : 00 p.m.
Item llg
The City Council recessed into executive session at 3 : 15
p.m. , according to Article 6252-17, Sections 2(e) and (g) , VACS.
The meeting reconvened at 3 : 25 p.m.
Item llj
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that Carolyn Sanders be
appointed to the Museum and Art Center Board of Trustees for a
term to expire May 1, 1994 . (Replacing John Hampton)
Motion seconded by Councilor Thompson, and carried
unanimously.
Item llk
Moved by Councilor Kirkham that Bud Burch be reappointed to
the 9-1-1 Communications Board for a two-year term to expire May
15 , 1994 .
Motion seconded by Councilor Hughes, and carried
unanimously.
The City Council adjourned at 3 : 30 p.m.
PASSED AND APPROVED this the / y of
1992 .
Michael Lam, Mayor
ATTEST:
Wilma J. Th mas, CMC/AAE
City Clerk