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Min 03/05/1987 455 Wichita Falls, Texas Memorial Auditorium Buildinq March 5, 1987 Items 1 & 2 i 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. Charles Harper Mayor Sandy Goff Charles Thomas (I Ruth Ann Allred Ronald Buffum - Councilmen Lindsey Walker (Delayed until 9:00 A.M. ) Don Kirkham James Berzina City Manager H. P. Hodge City Attorney Wilma J. Thomas City Clerk Fred L. Werner Chief Accounting Officer The invocation was given by John Ward, First Community Church. Charles Harper, Mayor, read a poem pertaining to Blessed are our Enemies. Item 3 Councilman Buffum made a correction in the minutes of February 17, 1987, in Item 12a, stating that the motion to table was made by Councilman Thomas, and seconded by Councilman Kirkham. Moved by Councilman Goff that the minutes of February 17, 1987, as correc- ted, be approved. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum, and carried unanimously. Item 4a - 8a Items 5a, c, d, e, 6b, and 7h, were moved to the regular agenda. Moved by Councilman Kirkham that the consent agenda be approved. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum. Item 4a Paul Joseph Craig, a Fire Department employee, was honored as Employee of the Month for March. Charles Harper, Mayor, presented him with a plaque, City of Wichita Falls pin, and two tickets each to a theatre and dinner. Item 5b The bid for an annual supply of batteries was awarded to the Battery Center of Wichita Falls, in the amount of $9,701.76. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas , Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None 1 456 Item 6a RESOLUTION NO. 32-87 RESOLUTION APPROVING EASEMENT TO TEXAS ELECTRIC SERVICE COMPANY FOR ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LINE FOR RED CROSS FACILITY Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7a Minutes of the meeting of the Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals held December 18, 1986, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7b Minutes of the meeting of the Board of Directors of Tax Increment Financing Reinvestment Zone Number One held January 26, 1987, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7c Minutes of the meeting of the Plumbing . Advisory Board held January 29, 1987, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7d Minutes of the meeting of the Board of Directors of Tax Increment Financing Reinvestment Zone Number One held February 6, 1987, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7e Minutes of the meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission held February 11 , 1987, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7f Minutes of the meeting of the Board of Electrical Examiners held February 12, 1987, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None Item 7g Minutes of the meeting of the Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals held February 19, 1987, were received. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: None 457 Item 8a Moved by Councilman Allred that a refund of taxes paid erroneously by First Federal Savings and Loan, be approved in the amount of $754.71 . Motion seconded by Councilman Goff, and carried unanimously. Item 5a Moved by Councilman Thomas, for discussion, that the bid for five 72- inch ride on rotary lawn mowers be awarded to 6aldwaltes of Texas-, Inc. , Fort Worth, in the amount of $36,355. Motion seconded by Councilman Allred. Councilman Thomas noted that these lawn mowers cost $7,271 each, stating that he is always complaining about the amount of lawn mowers we purchase, and at this cost it is a justifiable complaint. Robert Parker stated that these are replacement mowers. They are increas- ing the capability of these mowers by replacing them with commercial mowers, with a diesel engine. They will have a life of four to five years, and after that they use them for other things, such as moving some equipment. These are 27 horsepower mowers. The motion was carried unanimously. Item 5c — — Moved by Councilman Thomas, for discussion, that the bid for two front mounted 5-inch rotary mowers be awarded to Bunt Equipment, Wichita Falls, in the amount of $11,680. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum. Robert Parker explained the reason for the purchase of these mowers for the cemeteries. They updated these mowers from residential strength to industrial strength, with diesel engines. They plan on a life of three to five years for this equipment. This replaces the last two residential strength units. The motion was carried unanimously. Item 5d Moved by Councilman Buffum, for discussion, that the bid for three 35,000 GVW trucks, in the amount of $111 ,369.75, be awarded to Northgate International , and to Hodges Tire and Truck, Inc. , in the amount of $115,220, for two 55,000 GVW trucks for the Sanitation Department. Motion seconded by Councilman Thomas. Councilman Buffum asked several questions concerning both of these bids, and the specifications. Mr. Parker stated that the White truck is 68 cents per mile cheaper to operate than the Mack. The motion was carried unanimously. Councilman Walker arrived at this time. 1 458 Item 5e Moved by Councilman Thomas, for discussion, that the bid for three side loading packer bodies be awarded to EMCO, in the amount of $66,960, and to Pak-Mor, in the amount of $63,800 for two front loading packer bodies. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum. Councilman Thomas stated that he did not like the word "probably" in the comments of Mr. Hodge pertaining the acceptance of the bid. Mr. Parker explained the exceptions to the bid, stating that they are all positive. Mr. Hodge stated that he would say that you probably have the right bid. He thinks it is all right. Councilman Walker asked about the external control on the trucks. Mr. Parker explained how they unload at the transfer station. Pak Mor and EMCO have changed this to be hydraulically operated from the inside. The motion was carried unanimously. Item 6b RESOLUTION NO. 33-87 RESOLUTION APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH WICHITA COUNTY FOR USE OF PUNCH CARD VOTING SYSTEM AT MUNICIPAL ELECTION Moved by Councilman Thomas that Resolution No. 33-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Allred. Councilman Kirkham desired that everyone should know that we are leasing this equipment from the County. He also asked if every city polling place will be using this equipment? Mrs. Thomas explained that they would, but that she was not aware of what the City View Independent School District would be using for their election. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 7h Moved by Councilman Allred, for discussion, that minutes of the meeting of the Zoning Board of Adjustment held February 18, 1987, be received. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum. Councilman Allred noted that an item was tabled in these minutes concerning fences, and they are asking for city council input of a decision they made earlier on fences. They also request the Council to reconsider that ordinance. Councilman Allred asked if the Council would be willing to reconsider the fencing ordinance? Charles Harper, Mayor, stated that he would be willing to reconsider it if they have some other choices. Councilman Allred desired documentation of the opinions of these board members , along with the number of phone calls they have received on this ordinance. Councilman Buffum asked if there is any restriction in the number of times that a variance can be heard before the board? Roger McKinney stated that there is no criteria on the number of times, or the length of time in between. Rezoning has a one-year waiting period. A variance can come back every time. Mr. McKinney feels this is an area where it could be looked at. Unless there is a change, there would seem not to be a reason to go back. Any appeal from the Zoning Board of Adjustment would go to the courts. The motion was carried unanimously. 459 Item 9a ORDINANCE NO. 13-87 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1204.2(a)(2) OF THE PLUMBING CODE CONCERNING TESTING OF BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES Moved by Councilman Goff that Ordinance No. 13-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Kirkham. Mr. Berzina explained the reason for this request, stating that it can be checked earlier than five years, if necessary. Councilman Thomas stated that is on lawn sprinklers and outside water usage. Plumbers favor this , and it is quite an expense. Councilman Walker asked what constituted a problem? Councilman Thomas explained that we passed an ordinance so that everyone puts this system in. We would not need to check it until the time they were installed. They are known to stop up with calcium, corrosion, etc; so they needed to be checked. The plumbers feel they only need to check them every five years. It is quite expensive to check. They had very few failures last year. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 9b ORDINANCE NO. 14-87 AN ORDINANCE CLOSING, VACATING, AND ABANDONING A FIVE (5) FEET WIDE RIGHT-OF-WAY STRIP OF P.B. LANE, WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS Moved by Councilman Buffum that Ordinance No. 14'-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Allred, and carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 9c ORDINANCE NO. 15-87 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 29-91 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS BY CORRECTING SUBPARAGRAPHS (Q) AND (AR) , WHICH ESTABLISHES PRIMA FACIA MAXIMUM SPEED LIMITS ON CERTAIN STREETS Moved by Councilman Allred that Ordinance No. 15-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Goff. Robert Parker explained that this is an update of the speed limits on Kell , as a result of a study with the highway department. The change on Maplewood corrects a typographical error. The motion was carred by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilman Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None 460 Item 9d ORDINANCE NO. 16-87 AN ORDINANCE WAIVING THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE INSTALLATION OF IMPROVE- MENTS ON NUNN STREET ADJACENT TO LOTS 2 THROUGH 6, BLOCK 4, PARK VILLAGE ADDITION UNDER SECTION 7 OF ORDINANCE 2118 Moved by Councilman Kirkham that Ordinance No. 16-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Walker. John Paul Jones appeared as Minister of Unity Baptist Church, recommend- ing that this street be closed. The street is only shown on the plat. It is not on the ground. Property owners are opposed to this street being put in. If it were put in it would only go to the end of their property, and there is no one else to be served by it. The Planning Board gave them a variance, rather than closing the street. They want to be able to build, without going to the expense of paying for development of this street. They plan to build an educational building. It was recommended that they put all the property into one lot. Mr. Berzina stated that Planning and Zoning is merely asking that the street not be closed, in case it is needed later, but that they be given a waiver of putting the curb and gutter in at this time. He believes the City would pay for the street construction -if it, is done `later. Councilman Buffum confirmed this discussion, stating that there are very few East-West streets in this area, and the Planning and Zoning Commis- sion did not want to relinquish this property. Mr. McKinney stated that the street immediately to the East is Covington. Councilman Kirkham stated that this would be the only connection if it ever came through. They do not have any emergency access except North-South. Mr. Berzina stated that they would not be required to put up money at this time. Councilman Allred asked about his plans for access from the street to this new facility? Mr. Jones stated that there is a gravel or dirt road there, which they use. Councilman Thomas wanted to make him aware of the rules on set backs off Nunn Street. Mr. McKinney explained the requirements of a 25-foot setback from the street if it is ever put in. Charles Harper, Mayor, stated that this waiver would allow them to get a building permit. Mr. Jones stated that if the city wanted to put the street in, they would not object, and they would be willing to pay their part. They just do not want to have to put up any money. Charles Harper, Mayor, explained that they would not be required to put up any money at this time. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 9e ORDINANCE NO. 17-87 A FLOOD HAZARD PREVENTION ORDINANCE, PROVIDING FOR FLOOD PLAIN DEVELOP- MENT PERMITS, PROVIDING FOR STANDARDS FOR CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT TO REDUCE FLOOD HAZARDS, PROVIDING FOR VARIANCES, AND PROVIDING PENAL PROVISIONS Moved by Councilman Buffum, for discussion, that Ordinance No. 17-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Goff. 461 Item 9e, Cont'd. ) Councilman Thomas asked for a clarification. Mr. McKinney explained that it would be left at or one foot above the flood plain. Councilman Thomas asked why we are doing this now, instead of waiting for new maps? If this changes, people are going to be upset because they did not know it. He thinks Planning may get a lot of heat out of it later. Mr. McKinney stated that any restudy of the flood plain would go through public hearings. He would prefer right now one foot above. It will cost more initially, but he believes the cost will be recouped in time by a decrease in insurance rates. He stated that there is a provision for variances in the ordinance if the one foot above causes some problems. Councilman Thomas stated that it could create a problem for the neighborhood, and the Planning Department, for raising a house one foot above the others in the neighborhood. He also asked if we would affect the homes around that by runoff? Mr. McKinney explained that if development occurs in that flood plain, you may not get an encroachment. The one foot elevation would provide a safeguard. Charles Harper asked about the flood plain being raised one foot above his house, stating that the water cannot drain across, and in the 1982 flood, it lacked one inch getting into his house. This problem has not been solved. He noted that there are a lot of houses on Amherst that will get flooded if something is not done out there. Mr. McKinney stated that this ordinance recognizes that there is a flood plain, and provides standards to ensure development in that area. The major problem being considered in that area is the type of drainage they have placed on that site. If they build one foot above the flood plain, they have just dumped all that water on the other houses. Charles Harper, Mayor, stated that he thinks we are doing wrong. He does not think that someone should be able to come in and build a dam behind houses which have been there for 25 years. Councilman Thomas stated that that has happened to him for the last twenty years. Councilman Kirkham asked about people elevating the property, and causing the water to flow down on others? Councilman Buffum noted that if a person has a dwelling, and they want to build on, they would have a stairstep because it would have to be higher, for substantial improvement. He also asked if he had a basement, would he have to put the floor one foot above the flood plain? Mr. McKinney stated that he would. Mr. McKinney stated that our old ordinance allows construction to begin at one foot or above flood plain. This ordinance would require it to be built one foot above the flood plain. Councilman Kirkham asked what generated this change? Mr. McKinney stated that FEMA made some changes, and required it to be incorporated in ordinances by April 1 . The one foot above is not a requirement, but is a strong recommendation. Councilman Thomas stated that the thing that worries him is that we will have homes all over town higher than others because we are so flat. There is not that much difference in the elevation in the city. He would like to see the new elevations on the flood plain and floodway. Mr. McKinney stated that letters were sent to all involved in the develop- ment industry. They have not received a great deal of input except at that hearing. Councilman Buffum stated that a concern is infield lots. Our flood plain should be shrinking. Mr. McKinney stated that it only applies to areas in the 100-year flood plain. Mr. Bonnett stated that it will probably be two years before they have the data to establish public hearings. The Corps is the contractor to FEMA for the study. The motion failed by the following vote. Ayes: Councilmen Walker and Allred Nays: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Buffum, and Kirkham Moved by Councilman Thomas to reconsider the ordinance. Motion seconded by Councilman Kirkham, and carried by the following vote. 462 Item 9e, (Cont'd. ) Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: Councilman Walker Moved by Councilman Thomas that the ordinance be amended to change Article 5, Section B(1) and (2) and all places to read at base or one foot above. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum, and carried unanimously. Moved by Councilman Thomas that the ordinance, as amended, be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman goff, and carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Buffum, and Kirkham Nays: Councilmen Walker and Allred Item l0a RESOLUTION NO. 34-87 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BID OF BOWLES CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOR INSTALLA- TION OF SEWER FACILITIES TO SERVE ATTEBURY GRAIN ELEVATOR Moved by Councilman Goff that Resolution No. 34-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Walker, and carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Walker, Allred, and Kirkham Nays: None (Councilman Buffum was out of the room. ) Item 10b RESOLUTION NO. 35-87 RESOLUTION DETERMINING NECESSITY FOR ACQUISITION OF UTILITY EASEMENT IN MORNINGSIDE PARK ADDITION, APPROVING APPRAISAL OF PARCEL #324, SETTING JUST COMPENSATION, AND AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OR CONDEMNATION Moved by Councilman Goff, for discussion, that Resolution No. 35-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Thomas. Councilman Goff asked if this irrigation system has been disturbed in the park? Jack Murphy stated that they have not discussed it, but it will be repaired and replaced. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None The City Council recessed at 11 :10 A.M. The meeting reconvened at 11 :30 A.M. 463 Item 10c RESOLUTION NO. 36-87 RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH THE NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION Councilman Kirkham noted that he will abstain from all discussion because he is a member of the North Central Texas Officials Association. Moved by Councilman Thomas that Resolution No. 36-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Goff, and carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Walker, Allred, and Buffum Nays: None i Item 1Od RESOLUTION NO. 37-87 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO UTILIZE GENERAL REVENUE SHARING FUNDS FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSTRUCTION IMPROVEMENTS TO SELECTED AREAS OF THE SHEPPARD ACCESS ROAD MEDIANS Moved by Councilman Walker that Resolution No. 37-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Kirkham. Mr. Berzina pointed out the nature of this project. In the future, he would like to irrigate the first two blocks from the Iowa Park Road that have curbs on them. This particular project is further North of there. This is only a project of about 1400 lineal feet. They will only curb the inside of the median. There is no drainage except for a cross-over pipe at one of the intersections. At this point they have no plans to do more than is shown on this plan, but, hopefully, find funds to irrigate the two medians . He wanted to report that some of them felt that in three to five years they would do the other, but this is not the case. The three blocks near Scott Street are not on this plan, but they want to draw up the plans to irrigate this later. Mr. Bonnett stated that there will be a change in the drainage, and it will be evident to the casual observer of additional water on the pavement, but the other problem will not be changed. Councilman Kirkham asked if entrance to the softball complex (when it is built) will be beautified? Mr. Murphy stated that there will not be anything in the median. Councilman Kirkham noted that the entrance would not be close to a paved cross-over. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 10e RESOLUTION NO. 38-87 RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE WICHITA COUNTY 9-1-1 COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT FOR THE PERIOD FROM OCTOBER 1 , 1986, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 1987 Moved by Councilman Allred that Resolution No. 38-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Kirkham. 464 Item 10e, (Cont'd. ) Sidney Smith appeared as Director of Communications for the 9-1-1 Communications District. He stated that they have attorneys on retainer. They are supposed to have this in place in eighteen months. Councilman Walker noted that the twenty-seven cents on telephone bills will start in April . Councilman Thomas stated that when the new map is made, they will be able to pinpoint exactly where the call came from. The fee could be adjusted lower after it is in operation. It could go down to nineteen cents. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 10f RESOLUTION NO. 39-87 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS AND RECREATION DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT, INCORPORATED RELATING TO MANAGEMENT OF THE WEEKS PARK MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE Moved by Councilman Thomas, for discussion, that Resolution No. 39-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Kirkham. Mr. Berzina stated that this is not on the fees, but a change in the contract. Mr. Barrett stated that they feel as time goes by it will be to our advantage. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item lOg Discussion was held on a proposed resolution authorizing Recreation Development and Management, Inc. , to increase fees at Weeks Park Golf Course. A motion was made by Councilman Thomas, for discussion, and seconded by Councilman Buffum, for its passage. Laverne Tidwell , 4649 Briarwood, stated that they have been paying fifty cents for park trail fees for several years. This was supposed to have been a fee to pay for the trails. It seems they should have been paid for years ago. Personal carts are not allowed to be used here, even though they helped pay for it. She stated that the yardage markers were pulled up. They now have only 150 yard markers. She does not know why they want to raise their fees because people go to Henrietta and Archer City to keep from paying these fees. The fees in Wichita Falls are already higher than the others. They are comparable to private clubs. She knows of no other large company that comes in and expects to make a profit the first year. We should not be compared to the metroplex area. she also mentioned a pile of dirt on Number 4 in the middle of the fairway. He told her that he thought it was supposed to be a mound. She stated that the greens are not in good shape at all . They have a lot of weeds. Three greens are fertilizer burned. Not being able to use private carts have driven so many people to walk, which makes the playing very slow. Both men' s and women' s tee boxes on Number 15 hole are moved way back. The women can hardly reach the hole from the tee box. 465 Item 10g, (Cont'd. ) Councilman Buffum stated that if the quality of the course were improved, it would bring the golfers out, and it would generate more revenue. Mrs. Tidwell stated that they played on three temporary greens all of last year. i Councilman Thomas asked about the clubhouse. Mrs. Tidwell stated that they had no complaints about it, but she did not like the food. Councilman Thomas stated that he had heard complaints about closing the restaurant. area, and moving drinks to the pro shop. Councilmen Thomas and Buffum mentioned the condition of the greens. Councilman Thomas noted that we have provisions of renegotiating this. We gave them until July 1 to bring it up to standards. After that time we might consider an increase in fees. He is disappointed in the golf course. He saw them trimming the trees when they should have been taking care of the greens. Winston Klepper, 4616 Lake Park Drive, appeared as President of the Men' s Golf Association. He stated that he agreed with Mrs. Tidwell . He noted that personnel changes have been made in the snack bar. The contract requires RDM to present fees from ten similar cities in making a rate increase request. Eight of eleven are municipal courses in the Dallas area, andthey are comparable to Wichita Falls. He suggested that the City council not approve this request. Arbitration procedures should be followed. He suggested that former councilman Bill Drake would be a good person to represent the City. Mrs. Ozuna uraed utmost care in food handling, stating that she does not play golf. Marty Streiff appeared as President of RDM, stating that the City had been losing $50,000 to $80,000 annually on the golf course operation. He mentioned damage to the greens during the tornado, and again in the 1982 flood. Since March, 1986, the deficit has been reduced, and this year they will be paying the City $50,000 or more. They have spent $175,)00 on the course. They rebuilt 14 greens. They believe that if the same individuals were asked again, they will say it is significantly improved. Everything cannot be rectified in one year. The reason they propose an increase in fees is that revenues do not meet the expenses. They have a five-year plan to continue to do capital improvements. Teaching junior golf is part of these plans. He noted that eighteen courses in Texas have higher fees than Wichita Falls. It costs the same to maintain a golf course in Wichita Falls, as in other cities. The fifty cent fee tacked on was established before they took over the contract. The Men's Golf Association requested that they waive the fifty cent fee. They are asking that fees be increased, and eliminate the fifty cent charge. They have proposed a discounted fee for the seniors. The daily fee would be increased by fifty cents. There is no change in the weekend rate. He noted that River Creek is not the same type of course as Wichita Falls. They feel that the Weeks Park Golf Course has . significantly improved. He addressed other complaints which had been 'Made. The weeds will go out very soon. He stated that it was not their plan to rebuild fourteen greens, but they saw that they were not properly constructed. They had planned to operate eighteen holes by about the first of March. They were not able to plant these greens until June, and they did not have enough growning time. The food service was cut down in the winter months. They were losing money. The yardage markers were in very bad condition, and were taken out. New ones will be put back in soon. They also plan to have a qualified agronomist on site soon. He believes the revenue increase is justifiable. It has to be where revenues meet expenses. Councilman Thomas stated that he visited with many golfers who are not senior citizens, and asked them why they are not playing. They said it was because of the condition of the golf course. A lot of the irrigation was paid for by the City. He asked Mr. Streiff if he pays Mr. Anderson a fee to come over and consult with him? Mr. Streiff stated that it is a very modest fee. Councilman Thomas stated that they have rebuilt these greens more in the last three years than some others have in the last thirty years. He further noted that every time the Council has been involved is after the fact. He believes if we had a meeting at the golf course they would have more positive comments. Councilman Buffum noted that he appreciated Mr. Streiff coming up here. He appreciated the problem of cash flow. The Country club also went through some extensive renovations. The people who play out there say that it has gone down because of the condition of the course. We have not had a greens- keeper since Decmeber 4. He stated that he lives across from Number 11 . He wonders if we should let the course mature? Mr. Streiff stated that the 466 Item 10g, (Cont'd. ) fees were not where they felt they should be a year ago. They feel the proposed fees are very fair. They anticipated some decreased revenues. Councilman Kirkham asked Mr. Streiff if he lives here, and Mr. Streiff stated that he lives j n Dallas,, but that he:, comes up_ _here _once a month. Councilman Kirkham asked 'for the rationale- in the difference in-fee increases stating that it appears you are penalizing the week day player more than the week-end player. Mr. Berzina stated that Mr. Streiff is absolutely right when he says that we have to reflect back to when he started. He doesn't know what the answer is, whether we fix the course and raise the fees, or raise the fees to fix the course. Fees can go to arbitration. He remembers when they could not mow the grass because of the weeds. It takes time to address all of these things. He believes it is a mistake to think we could do it immediately. He is satisfied with the way they are addressing this. The City was involved in rebuilding these front nine greens, and some were built wrong. Mr. Streiff needs a full time professional greens- keeper. Councilman Thomas felt that we should wait until July 1 to raise the fees because he will have a significant loss before then. He feels he has come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. A gentleman appeared, stating that he is a senior who plays here. One of the reasons some of the golfers left was because they could not use their private carts. They are paying $150 annually for playing five days a week. Most of the golfers understood that the cost of building cart trails would be completed this year, and it was not a part of the membership fee. If fees were raised to $225, that will be a fifty percent increase, and they think they will lose golfers. He feels they should wait until the course. is in better- shape-before fees are raised. Councilman Allred asked Mr. Murphy if they have any recommendations from the Park Board? Mr. Murphy stated that perhaps they should be more involved in monitoring it. No complaints have reached his office. Councilman Allred feels that this board should give the Council some recommendation on the fees. Edward Barrett stated that there is a certain amount of limited time (45 days) to ask for a fee increase. There is no provision in the contract for us to go back to the Park Board for this. An arbitration board consists of one member appointed by the City, one by them, and these members shall select a third member acceptable to both. Charles Harper, Mayor, suggested that we go to arbitration, but not go to arbitration - get some people to sit down and talk about this. He suggested that someone who plays should be involved in the negotiation. Jean Malone stated that she plays a couple of times a week. She wonders what will be done about the restrooms? The one on Number five is completely unusable. Councilman Walker stated that when he first came on the Council , there was a lot of talk about getting the City out of subsidizing. He knows that there will be a problem when you raise fees. No business can continue to try toimprove a situation that is bad without raising fees. Whatever we do, we have to be fair with people. You are always going to run people off because they can get the best deal . If you get the course in good shape, they will come back. We need to work. at what is best for the people who play, and those who opera't'e"it. Some negotiation should be done to work it out. He urged everyone to look upon it as if they were running the business, and be fair. Mrs. Harry Kincaid, 1038 Crescent Lane, stated that she knows RDM has been thrown a curve this year. She stated that prices are too high in the coffee shop. She does not see that the services have improved, but have deteriorated. Cart fees have been raised, and the green fees have driven some away. She would prefer that people be allowed to use their carts, rather than raise the fees. 467 Item 10g, (Cont'd. ) I Moved by Councilman goff that this matter be tabled until March 17, 1 to allow time to negotiate it. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum, and carried unanimously. Mr. Berzina asked if there would be any objection to involving some people from these organizations? The Council agreed that they should be involved. Charles Harper, Mayor, stated that they are not trying to make it hard on Mr. Streiff. Item 13a David Pogue, Cardiologist, and President of the American Heart Association, presented a request pertaining to the Clean Air Indoor Act regarding no smoking in public buildings. He stated that he is aware of the recent regulations imposed by Beverly Hills. The American Heart Association has as one of its goals to have a smoke free generation by the year 2000. They have not done legislative type efforts in the past, but he believes this is a very beneficial thing to do. Charles Harper, Mayor, favored a work session to talk about it. Councilman Kirkham suggested that an ordinance be drawn up for their review. Councilman Allred was in favor of a work session. Dr. Pogue stated that probably more people die with heart disease and stroke from smoking, than with cancer. Moved by Councilman Buffum that a work session be held on this matter. Motion seconded by Councilman Goff. Councilman Kirkham asked who will write the ordinance? Charles Harper, Mayor, stated that the Council will have input, and direct the staf to write it. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Walker, Allred, and Buffum Nays: Councilman Kirkham Dwaina Richardson, Bill Daniel , and Kay Dozier were recognized in the audience as supporting this matter. Item 10h RESOLUTION NO. 40-87 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING GRANT APPLICATION TO GOVERNOR'S OFFICE, CRIMINAL JUSTICE DIVISION FOR POLICE COMMUNITY SERVICES OFFICER PROGRAM Moved by Councilman Goff that Resolution No. 40-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum. Police Chief Harrelson stated that money is available in Austin for 100 percent funding of this program. They will hire non-officer personnel to do these close proprty checks. They could hire five part time employees , and they would be working an average of twenty hours a week. Calls are heaviest between 2:00 P.M. and midnight. They have talked to retired persons groups who are interested. This will supplement this service during peak hours. Police officers will still be doing it. Councilman Walker asked what kind of responsibility we will incur? Chief Harrelson stated that it would be no more than with any other city employee. They are going to be pushing hard to get neighborhood watch programs started again. 468 Item 10h,(Cont'd. ) The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item lla RESOLUTION NO. 41-87 RESOLUTION TO AWARD BID FOR THE HARVARD STREET CONSTRUCTION PROJECT Moved by Councilman Allred that Resolution No. 41-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum. Councilmen Thomas and Buffum asked some questions about the paving of this street, and the quality of asphalt and concrete construction. The motion was carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 12a RESOLUTION NO. 42-87 RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT LAKE ARROWHEAD VARIABLE FREQUENCY DRIVE PROJECT AND AUTHORIZE FINAL PAYMENT Moved by Councilman Thomas that Resolution No. 42-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Goff, and carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None Item 12b RESOLUTION NO. 43-87 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION AND AUTHORIZING FINAL PAYMENT TO THE CONTRACTOR FOR COMPLETION OF THE KINGSTON-JAMAICA DRAINAGE PROJECT Moved by Councilman Thomas that Resolution No. 43-87 be passed. Motion seconded by Councilman Goff, and carried by the following vote. Ayes: Charles Harper, Mayor, Councilmen Goff, Thomas, Allred, Buffum, Kirkham, and Walker Nays: None 469 Item 13b Vernal Huffines, of Mathis, West, Huffines and Company, Certified Public Accountants, presented the audit report to the Council . He stated that Charles Salter and Randy Greenway were involved with the audit on a daily basis. He mentioned substantial changes in record keeping in Central Services and the Court system. Moved by Councilman Allred that the audit report be received. I Motion seconded by Councilman Goff, and carried unanimously. Charles Harper, Mayor, noted that he had received a letter regarding the recently adopted rules of procedure for the City Council . He stated that people have the same access to the Council as they always have. They just have some rules how to do it. Councilman Thomas noted that we have a new marshal who is a certified peace officer, asking about a firearm for protection? Mr. Berzina did not want to be put in a position of a shootout over a traffic ticket. The marshal can call for a police officer, if needed. Councilman Kirkham stated that he would not work under that situation a minute without some protection. Charles Harper, Mayor, agreed with the City Manager. Mr. Berzina believes that police officers should be serving difficult warrants. Councilman Buffum noted the added effort of the police officers in patrol- ing the area where the recent rapes occured. Chief Harrelson urged people out there to get involved. Robert Parker stated they are trying to get guard lights for a lower rate. Councilman Buffum noted that a meeting will be held tonight on the detoxifi- cation center. This will be followed by a recommendation to the Texas Alcohol and Drug Commission. He also noted that he and his wife would co-chair the Easter Seal telethon on March 7-8. Councilman Kirkham mentioned an article about he and Councilman Walker being out of town this week. That gave him quite a bit of concern about what was going on in the City, stating that this is not good for the safety of his wife and his home. Councilman Walker concurred. Charles Harper, Mayor, requested an ordinance be reviewed on parking of heavy trucks in the street at night in residential areas, and parking in yards and over-size vehicles. Charles Harper, Mayor, requested that the water retention ordinance be put on an agenda. Georae Bonnett stated that Secretary Dawson has advised that we are receiving funds for all railroad relocations from the federal government. There seems to be some concern with the method of calculating offsetting credits. Charles Harper, Mayor, stated that getting these funds for bridges is the result of a visit to Washington in January by Councilman Buffum and Mr. Bonnett. 470 Items 13c,d The City Council recessed into executive session at 1 :02 P.M. , according to Article 6252-17, Section 2, Paragraph (e) , of the Revised civil Statutes. The meeting reconvened at 4:15 P.M. Moved by Councilman Goff that the following board appointments be made. a. Firemen and Policemen Civil Service Commission - Grady Rose, term to expire March 1 , 1990 (replacing Dr. Garcia) b. Building board of Adjustments - Ted Litteken, term to expire December 31 , 1988 (replacing Kyle Rose) Motion seconded by Councilman Buffum, and carried unanimously. A work session was scheduled for March 16, at 1:00 P.M. , on the smoking issue, and at 4:00 P.M. on March 25, on capital improvements. The City Council adjourned at 4:30 P.M. PASSED AND APPROVED this I�Vll-lday of 1987. i 1. Coles Harper, Mayor ATTEST: _-� �t.-C12 Wi ma J. Tomas, CMC, City Clerk