Min 10/07/2008 426
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Wichita Falls, Texas
Memorial Auditorium Building
October 07, 2008
Item 1
The City Council of the City of Wichita Falls, Texas met in regular session on the
above date in the Council Chambers of the Memorial Auditorium Building at 8:30 o'clock
a.m., with the following members present.
Lanham Lyne - Mayor
- Councilors
Glenn Barham -
Michael Smith -
Rick Hatcher -
Jim Ginnings -
Charles Elmore -
Dorothy Roberts-Burns -
Darron Leiker - City Manager
Bill Sullivan - City Attorney
Lydia Ozuna - City Clerk
Mayor Lyne called the meeting to order.
Item 2a
Chaplain Richard Munsell, Sheppard Air Force Base, gave the invocation.
Item 2b
Mayor Lyne led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Item 3a
Mayor proclaimed the week of October 6-12, 2008 as "Financial Planning Week
in Wichita Falls" and encouraged citizens to work toward their financial goals and take
advantage of the Financial Planning Association. Mr. Gary Silverman, representing the
Financial Planning Association, accepted the proclamation.
Item 3b
Mayor proclaimed October 10, 2008 as "Wichita Theater Centennial Day in
Wichita Falls" and congratulated Dwayne and Lisa Jackson, General Managers, and
Jeral and Rowena Jackson Dwayne's parents who were instrumental in keeping Wichita
Theatre alive. Dwayne and Lisa Jackson accepted the proclamation and thanked the
City for their support.
Item 3c
Mr. Leon Edgett III, Parks and Recreation Maintenance Worker, was recognized as
Employee of the Month for October 2008. Mayor presented Mr. Edgett with a plaque, a
check, and restaurant certificates.
Item 4
No one signed up to speak under comments from the public.
427 ,
Items 5
Minutes of the September 16, 2008 regular meeting, were approved with one
correction.
Items 6
City Manager gave a briefing on the items listed under the Consent Agenda.
Moved by Councilor Hatcher that the Consent Agenda be approved.
Motion seconded by Councilor Smith and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Items 6a-6d
Minutes of the following Boards & Commissions were received.
(a) 4B Sales Tax Corporation, May 13, 2008
(b) 4A WF Economic Development Corporation, August 18, 2008
(c) Business Park Assoc. Development Review Board, August 13, 2008
(d) Park Board, August 28, 2008
Item 7a
ORDINANCE NO. 63-2008
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 37-2008
DECLARING CERTAIN STRUCTURES AS DANGEROUS BY
ALLOWING EXTRA TIME TO REHABILITATE 100 CLEVELAND TO
CITY COUNCIL; FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING
AT WHICH THIS ORDINANCE WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE
PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Elmore that Ordinance No. 63-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Barham.
Moved by Councilor Elmore to amend the proposed ordinance by inserting the
following numbers in the blanks in Section 1: 30 days granted to obtain a Restoration Building
Permit and 120 additional days for substantial completion, and 120 days from issuance of the
permit. Section 1 would read as follows: "Additional time in the amount of 30 days to end at
the end of the business day is granted to the property owner of 100 Cleveland to obtain a
Restoration Building Permit, substantial progress shall have been accomplished 120 days
after the above date, and complete restoration be accomplished by the end of the business
day 120 days from issuance of the permit. Failure to complete timeframe requirements will
result in the demolition of the structure, without further notification. Upon rehabilitation of
structure, the demolition order shall become void.
Motion seconded by Councilor Roberts-Burns and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Main motion as amended carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
' ,428
Item 7b
ORDINANCE NO. 64-2008
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA FALLS,
TEXAS, MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO THE SPECIAL REVENUE FUND
FOR STATE HEALTH SERVICES GRANT FUNDING IN THE AMOUNT OF
$6,357 RECEIVED FROM TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS AND AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER ACCEPT SAME; FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT
THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS ORDINANCE WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO
THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Roberts-Burns that Ordinance No. 64-2008 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Elmore and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 7c
ORDINANCE NO. 65-2008
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER 26 OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES, "BUSINESS REGULATIONS," BY THE ADDITION OF
ARTICLE X, "MULTI-HOUSING," TO SAID CHAPTER; PROVIDING A
REPEALER CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR INCLUSION; FINDING AND
DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS ORDINANCE
WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Barham that Ordinance No. 65-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hatcher.
Councilor Ginnings suggested changing the word "may" to "shall" in
Section 26-842 (d).
Councilor Ginnings requested that the Police Department provide reports
before and after to see how this is working.
Moved by Councilor Smith to amend the proposed ordinance by replacing
the word "may" to "shall" in Section 26-842(d). That sentence would read "A prior
owner shall advise the police official that he no longer holds any ownership
interest in the property."
Motion seconded by Councilor Hatcher and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Main motion as amended carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
429
Item 7d
ORDINANCE NO. 66-2008
AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF DEED
RESTRICTIONS PROHIBITING THE USE OF DESIGNATED
GROUNDWATER FROM BENEATH THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT
2522 IOWA PARK ROAD, WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, 76306, TO
FACILITATE CERTIFICATION OF A MUNICIPAL SETTING
DESIGNATION (MSD) OF SAID PROPERTY BY THE TEXAS
COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY (TCEQ) PURSUANT
TO THE TEXAS SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL ACT; AND PROVIDING
FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ORDINANCE.
Moved by Councilor Roberts-Burns that Ordinance No. 66-2008 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Barham and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 8a
RESOLUTION NO. 132-2008
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE APPLICATION OF IOWA PARK
ROAD, L.L.C. TO THE TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY FOR A MUNICIPAL SETTING DESIGNATION AT 2522 IOWA
PARK ROAD, WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS.
Moved by Councilor Ginnings that Resolution No.132 -2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Smith and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 8b
RESOLUTION NO. 133-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, APPROVING AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
INCENTIVE AGREEMENT WITH OLD DOMINION; FINDING AND
DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS RESOLUTION
WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Hatcher that Resolution No. 133-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Ginnings and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
' 430
Item 8c
RESOLUTION NO. 134-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, APPROVING THE 2008-2009 BUDGET OF THE
WICHITA FALLS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION;
FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS
RESOLUTION WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS
REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Roberts-Burns that Resolution No. 134-2008 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hatcher and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
City Council recessed at 9:30 a.m. and reconvened at 9:45 a.m.
Item 8d
This item was postponed until the end of this meeting.
Item 8e
RESOLUTION NO. 136-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, AWARDING GRANTS FROM THE HOTEUMOTEL
FUND FOR ARTS AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION PURPOSES TO
TWELVE LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS; FINDING AND DETERMINING
THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS RESOLUTION WAS PASSED
WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Elmore that Resolution No. 136-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Smith.
Mrs. Elizabeth Yeager, Arts Commission Chair, expressed concern about
the decrease in funding. She informed that the Arts Commission is working with
Convention Visitors Bureau to promote the arts around the state. She expressed
appreciation to Councilor Smith for his support.
Mayor suggested looking at moving the crepe myrtle in Jones Park to
another location.
Motion carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
431
Item 8f
RESOLUTION NO. 137-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, AUTHORIZING AWARD OF BID FOR DEMOLITION,
CLEARING AND CLEANING OF VARIOUS HAZARDOUS
STRUCTURES TO NATIONWIDE DEMOLITION IN THE AMOUNT OF
$36,865.05; GARRETT DEMOLITION IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,994.00;
AND ZAC CORPORATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,200.00; FINDING
AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS
RESOLUTION WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS
REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Elmore that Resolution No. 137-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hatcher and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 8g
RESOLUTION NO. 138-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, AUTHORIZING AWARD OF BID FOR CONCRETE
CRUSHING TO JP ENVIRONMENTAL IN THE AMOUNT OF
$87,500.00; FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT
WHICH THIS RESOLUTION WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE
PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Roberts-Burns that Resolution No. 138-2008 be
passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Smith and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 8h
RESOLUTION NO. 139-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, TO AWARD BID AND CONTRACT FOR THE 2008
ALLEY REHABILITATION PROJECT (CWF08-530-05); FINDING AND
DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS RESOLUTUION
WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Hatcher that Resolution No. 139-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Elmore and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
' 432
Item 8i
RESOLUTION NO. 140-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 2 TO THE
CYPRESS WATER TREATMENT PLANT 10MG CONCRETE GROUND
STORAGE TANK PROJECT, CWF06-544-06 IN THE AMOUNT OF
$46,057.53; FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT
WHICH THE RESOLUTION WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE
PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Barham that Resolution No. 140-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Elmore and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 80
A proposed resolution was presented to approve Change Order No. 2 for the
Jasper Water Treatment Plant New 5 Million Gallon Clearwell Project.
Moved by Councilor Roberts-Burns that proposed resolution be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Barham.
Council expressed concern that this was a new tank and we should have
been delivered a leak proof tank. City Attorney will look into this situation and this
will be brought back to Council.
Moved by Councilor Hatcher that this item be tabled.
Motion seconded by Councilor Roberts-Burns and carried by the following
vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
Item 8k
RESOLUTION NO. 141-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 4 FOR 2008
STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT(CWF08-100-04); FINDING AND
DETERMINING THAT THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS RESOLUTION
WAS PASSED WAS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Hatcher that Resolution No. 141-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Smith and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
433
Item 9a
Health Director Lou Franklin reminded everyone that the annual Flu Clinic
will be held this Saturday at the J.S. Bridwell Agriculture Center. The Police
Department will also be there to provide VIN number etching for vehicles. This
will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. October 11, 2008.
Dave Clark reported on the first of two Federal Government Bailout
Schemes and informed that our City did not receive CDBG allocations. The good
news is we have not had very many foreclosures here in Wichita Falls nor in most
Texas cities.
City Clerk Ozuna informed citizens that the upcoming election was being
conducted by the County Clerk's Office and anyone needing a mail ballot or any
information regarding that election could contact the County Clerk's Office at 766-
8100.
Item 9b 1
Councilor Roberts-Burns asked that staff look into the pothole at Tulsa and
Neff Streets.
Councilor Roberts-Burns reminded everyone that the Race for the Cure
would be this Saturday down town.
Councilor Elmore asked anyone that is interested in participating in the
downtown mural projects to contact him at 855-0303. You do not have to be an
artist to participate.
Councilor Elmore informed that they now have an organization "Save Our
Bridge" to save the bridge at Behrens's Landing. Anyone interested in helping
contact him or Councilor Hatcher.
Councilor Elmore mentioned their tour through the Cypress Water
Treatment Plant and sampling the Reverse Osmosis water. He suggested that
the City bottle this water. It is very good water.
Councilor Barham referred to bottling the Reverse Osmosis water and
asked that staff do a study or inquire on the cost and expense for the City to take
this project on.
City Manager informed that the previous City Manager, Jim Berzina, had
some people approach him about this but the issue is the cost of the plastic
bottles. Those that are successful are those who have a bottling plant, like Coca
Cola next to their plant. He did not think that was something staff wants to get
involved in.
Councilor Barham felt staff should inquire about it.
Councilor Barham asked if we had an ordinance that prohibits blowing
grass clippings onto the street and who enforces that. City Manager replied that it
is not actively enforced because we do not have the staff to be out there enforcing
this when violations occur. This falls under Code Enforcement.
Councilor Barham stated that the problem is in the commercial locations
like United and Sam's. City Manager commented that we can check the phone
book and a letter could be sent out to these folks reminding them that it is illegal.
Councilor Hatcher commented that there are a lot of people who do that but are
not in the phone book. It will be difficult to get all of them.
Councilor Hatcher was glad to see the Alley Rehab Project rolling.
Councilor Hatcher encouraged folks to participate in the Race for the Cure
this Saturday.
Councilor Hatcher asked for an update on the crossing guard issue at
West Foundation. Mr. John Burrus informed that they had met with Ben Shelton
from the WFISD and we already have the crossing guard put out there.
' 434
Item 9b(1) continued
Councilor Ginnings asked if the mowing and maintenance of medians and
shoulders on Kell and the trash detail were a shared responsibility with TXDOT
and the City.
City Manager replied that technically that entire right of way maintenance
is TXDOT's responsibility but we have taken a lot off their shoulders because we
have asked them to allow us to landscape, so we will mow around the trees and
irrigation spouts etc. Our standard of maintenance is high and folks passing by
wonder why the City only mows one portion and not the other. Trash pick up is
TXDOT's responsibility. I asked Jack Murphy to make contact with TXDOT about
a week ago to have the City bid on their mowing jobs because it is done by State
contract. If we could bid, it would be in our best interest because it would look
better and it may be in TXDOT's best interest because it would be cheaper since
we are already mobilized there. Larry Tagmire, with TXDOT, was going to check
with Austin to see if that could be done.
Mr. Jack Murphy informed that we spend more time in litter pickup than
mowing and it is costly to pick up litter.
Councilor Ginnings proposed a person designated by TXDOT and one by
the City; create a plan, like what the City Manager just mentioned, and implement
that plan. He suggested that a report be submitted whenever there is a glitch. He
liked the City Manager's approach for us to take it over and be paid for it.
Councilor Ginnings brought up the pigeon trash stating that it pollutes
Harold Jones Park and the areas under the overpass; it is intolerable and we are
going to have to do more in that area. Additional funds are needed to accelerate
this program. He suggested furnishing some plans to outside contractors to see
how that works.
Councilor Ginnings asked if Council was opposed to him requesting from
4B Board to create a trail access at the end of Rhea Road. There was no
opposition expressed by Council.
Councilor Ginnings would like to start a discussion on the assessment of
abandoned filling station sights and other sights within the City limits, or at least
see a list to see what we might do to get these cleaned up.
Councilor Smith had an opportunity to ride the new American Eagle ATR
planes and encouraged citizens to look at that travel option. However, they have
already had two cancellations and we need to watch their cancellations. Also, the
reduction of flights and poor time schedules are a problem. Skylark Van has
opened new service to DFW and that tells us that American Eagle is missing a
market. We really need to talk to the American Eagle representative to express
our thoughts about scheduling and an additional flight. They do not seem to be
concerned about their clients in Wichita Falls. The new aircraft is really good. I
hope people will give that a try.
Mr. John Burrus informed that American Eagle's Representative Dale
Morris is scheduled to be here October 21. Also, we have a new station manager
in the local market and will encourage him to come as well. We are aware of the
cancellations but excited with the cooperation of the new station manager. There
are some missed opportunities and I applaud Skylark for their initiative to seize
upon that.
Councilor Smith mentioned that the public still needs information on the
water and sanitation rates, and he asked that staff provide them the ten-city
comparison chart and get it out to the media as well. He asked that it be placed
on the City Channel and website so the citizens can better understand the reason
for those rates to be increased. Mr. Dockery informed the he is placing a note in
this month's water bills giving reasons for the increases.
Councilor Smith asked that staff check the need for a stop sign where the
new apartment complex is located east of Holiday Creek off Southwest Parkway;
it is a new cement road off Southwest Parkway east of Taft.
Councilor Smith requested that a study be done to see if the street
sweeper could be scheduled more often in the downtown area.
435
Item 9b(1) continued
Councilor Smith reminded that the green curbside carts are for organics.
Some folks are using these for trash cans and that is defeating the purpose of the
use for two different carts.
Councilor Smith asked what would be done with the concrete on the Alley
Project now that we have the concrete crusher, and if it could be recycled. Mr.
Schreiber replied that it will be taken to the landfill but they will look into the
possibility of reusing it.
Mr. Schreiber commented that they received an inspection at the
composting facility last week and were cited for having an alleged violation; the
green yard waste is contaminated with inorganic material. He asked the citizens
to help by keeping recyclables in the recycle cart and garbage and trash in the
trash cart. This will help us at the landfill and keep us in compliance with TECQ
regulations out there.
Councilor Barham suggested charging a minimal fee for the compost
instead of giving it away, and if they bring their water bill they can get it free.
Mayor Lyne agreed with Councilor Barham's suggestion to charge for the
compost.
Mayor Lyne received calls on the deterioration and trash at Oakmont
Street where they are doing a lot of construction. Contractors are leaving a lot of
trash, those contractors need to be held more responsible for that. It is becoming
a real issue for people in that area.
Mayor Lyne informed that Taft Road between Southwest Parkway and Old
Lake Road has become a cut-through street. Also, the two entrances need to
have trees trimmed back in the area of Shepherd's Glen.
Mayor Lyne expressed concern about political sign violations; what are we
doing about that, signs on trailers cars, etc. Mr. Dave Clark informed that if Code
Staff see signs in the right of way they remove them. We have been working with
Legal in regards to what we can and cannot do. Some candidates are playing
games with that; there are some fine lines as to whether there are signs on
vehicles and it is unfortunate that is going on. We are responding to those calls
when there is a violation. City Manager added that Traffic Control Staff and Parks
Staff know that if signs are on public right of way they are to remove them.
Councilor Elmore invited everyone to attend the City View Home Coming
Parade on Wednesday at 6 p.m.
Mayor Lyne referred to the pigeon problem and commented that he was
glad we were already talking to Larry Tagmire about it although most of that
comes from their structures. Mayor stated that if we need to we can go to Austin
because TECQ will find a reason why we have to clean up the pigeon waste. It
should not be our responsibility to take care of that but we may have to end up
doing that. The State runs their budget by collecting fees from violators. That is
pollution and it runs off to sanitary and water sewer areas, and it is just nasty.
Mayor Lyne reminded everyone that tonight is National Night Out in
recognition of the Neighborhood Watch Programs. He encouraged citizens to get
together out doors and share a good time. Take advantage of that and meet your
neighbors. If you do not have a Neighborhood Watch Program contact us.
Mayor Lyne asked Mr. Bob Sullivan if the facility fees at the MPEC and the
Coliseum were going to cause a loss of business there. Mr. Sullivan replied that
they do not anticipate any negative impact. The facility fee and concession food
prices are significantly lower than most other coliseums in the region, and we
have had no resistance.
City Council recessed at 11:00 a.m. and reconvened at 11:20 a.m.
Councilor Elmore announced the sale of"Save our Bridge" t-shirts.
' 436
Item 9b 2
City Council discussed the possibility of a long term contract to purchase
electricity by CAPP.
City Attorney provided background information on CAPP and presented a
video that explained the electricity contract with Lumina Energy. CAPP is a group
of 120 member cities and we joined together and purchase electricity together.
As customers we spend several million dollars a year in electricity. Since 2002
we have gone out for annual or two year contracts through the normal bid
process. For the last six months or year the CAPP Board has looked at the
possibility of buying electricity under a long term agreement. They have spent the
last several months negotiating with Lumina Energy, which is the successor to
TXU, and negotiated a long term 24 year agreement to purchase electricity. They
are now going to the member cities asking if they want to participate in this long
term agreement. The video will give a description of the process and what the
general terms are. There is a November 5 deadline for those cities to decide if
they want to participate and if they do not we can continue doing what we are
currently doing, going out for annual or two year contract through the bid process.
City Council viewed the video.
Following the video, City Attorney informed that there are 120 cities
dealing with this issue and to date ten cities have approved the contract; the
majority will deal with this today or next week. We will provide Council with what
those other cities decide as we receive the information.
Mr. Jim Dockery provided financial information about what we have
experienced over the last seven years since deregulation came into play. In FY
2002 the City spent $2.8 million on all of its electricity costs and today we are
looking at $5.9 million. What is being contemplated here is the City's debt service
or what we would be paying on an annual basis for 60% of our load would be $1.2
million. Our debt service will be about $1.2 million but we are paying $5.8 million
or$5.9 million in cash every year under the natural gas pricing structure. The
other 40% will still be out for the market to get current pricing. We are diversifying
between coal and natural gas and that debt service is much smaller. We are
anticipating that in the first year or two of this agreement that we can see our cost
for electricity drop in the $1 million range. It is a fairly significant impact to our
budget immediately and it does stabilize future budgets of not having to increase
costs so substantially that we cannot do anything but pay for electricity. I am
highly in favor of this agreement.
Councilor Barham commented that according to Mr. Dockery 60% of our
power would be coming from this contract and 40% from the open market, and he
wanted to know why they are not doing 100% of the City's contract.
City Attorney replied that they determined that the base need of the cities
that is stable and that we know is going to be there and I am guessing that there
was a reluctance to go out and prepay for electricity without an absolute
assurance that you would need it. Mr. Dockery added that it gives your two
sources and is diversifying your portfolio, and will leave some wiggle room.
Mayor asked for clarification that we would be paying so much per kilowatt
hour once the contract is signed and then also paying for debt obligation on top of
that service. Mr. Dockery replied that the debt service is calculated into the
kilowatt per hour.
Mayor stated that essentially we are going to front the money whatever it
is they need then pay for it over the next 24 years. City Attorney stated that that
was correct. Lumina Energy has some obligations to clean up some of their
existing plants and some of this prepayment may be used to meet those costs.
Councilor Ginnings stated that it certainly was unique; we are fronting
money to build some electric capacity and then we are going to receive a lower
rate in our price. There was an indication in the video that if gas goes up electric
rates goes up but you are talking about coal fired plants and price of coal is very
stable. I am not aware of any contractual relationship between the price of gas
and the price of electricity where coal generated plants are producing the
electricity. It is tied to the market and what the market will bear. I thought that
was an erroneous conclusion if it was a conclusion. Projections are difficult at
437
Item 9b(2) continued
best but to project for 24 years is not worthy of discussion because it is impossible
to do that. I have no confidence in these wild predictions. The savings that have
been quoted by CAPP have been a little more than $17 million and they are now
predicting billions and there is no way unless fuel continues to accelerate at the
price it has over the past two or three years that you can ever realize that kind of
savings.
Councilor Ginnings' main concern is surrendering the City's taxing
authority and control to this entity. We are saying we are going to give you this
money and we expect you to be able operate and make this happen just like we
projected. When they talk about risks and we have a first mortgage on the assets
of Lumina, I do not understand how Lumina who had a $46 million debt going into
it and $26 million of that was secured by major investment banks that are not
even in existence right now. And we can turn around and have a first lien on
those same assets and I do not understand how you can do that and how the
people who hold that debt when we show up and tell them we want a first lien
also. That may happen but I do not understand how that can happen under the
contract law that exists today.
Councilor Ginnings asked Council to keep in mind how Lumina came into
being. A group of very smart intelligent people created this entity and bought out
TXU. Whereas, do you buy the operating expertise and determination to serve the
public along with that? But this was just a value created enterprise that I would
not under any circumstances bet 24 years of my future on it. We have to live in
the economic environment that exists. There are methods to hedge your liability
by transferring it to somebody else. But in effect, buying electric plants or any
other kind of primary generating asset does not appeal to me for the City. I have
listened, read, and thought and I have no disrespect for the people that put this
together and are recommending it. I respect the opinions of the staff and I know
you are highly in favor of it.
Councilor Ginnings stated "Do not ever think that anyone can predict 24
years down the road". Be very careful how we obligate our control over the taxing
ability and taxing base of our City to outsiders.
Councilor Barham commented that in the video they stated that the price
of coal has been very stable but in today's national political climate coal
production may be shut down. What would happen if that occurs? City Attorney
replied that it was mentioned in the comments that there is a need for these plants
to run and without them a ton of people in Texas would be without electricity. In
terms of political issues, these plants have to run because that is the source that
creates electricity.
Mayor stated that he has a hard time going into a 24 year contract and
that is his biggest reservation. Councilor Ginnings and I have been in the energy
producing business for quite some time and we have seen and felt the
fluctuations both positively and negatively. When Lumina came onto the market
and bought out TXU, the first thing they did was cancel seven coal plants that
were scheduled to be built, because of a large group in the metroplex and south
of the metroplex. Much like coal being shut down it may be that the coal
technology becomes so good that coal is reasonable. We bring the coal we burn
in Texas primarily from Montana and Wyoming, and we have a lot of coal in east
Texas. It is hard for me to think that bid ought to come every 24 years. I like
locking in a price but it is hard to do. We do need to look at this very closely and
find out more. Most councils are discussing it today and in the next couple of
weeks. There are a lot of unknowns that we have seen prices go up and down in
this market and recently up. One reason we have so many natural gas plants is
because it was forever at $2/mcf. You did not make money on it but you had to
sell it. At times we flared all our natural gas; it was an un-saleable product. We
do have a lot of natural gas in our country if allowed to produce it and a lot of coal
in our country if allowed to use it. It is hard for me to say that prices will continue
to escalate up as technology changes. If you drop back 24 years from where we
are today nobody would have predicted we would be where we are. I am
reluctant to support the contract.
'. • ' 438
Item 9b(2) continued
Mr. Dockery stated that the 60% that we would be locking in, even at the
end of the 24 years, the price we would be paying is two or three cents less than
what we are paying today, and the price initially of 5.6 cents is half of what we are
paying today. The price of fuel would have to go below what it is today
significantly in order for this to be a bad deal. It is 24 years and who knows what
the future holds and that is the reason why we are looking at 60% and keeping
some flexibility on that 40%.
Councilor Smith asked if there was an exit clause. Mr. Sullivan replied in
the negative. It is a firm 24 year commitment for them and for us.
Mayor said that as we gather more information we will pick that up.
Items 10 and 11
City Council went into Executive session at 12:06 p.m. as authorized by
Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code and Section 551.074 of the
Texas Government Code.
City Council reconvened at 12:20 p.m.
Mayor announced that no polls or votes were taken during Executive
Session.
Item 12a
Moved by Councilor Ginnings to appoint Mr. Elvin Dudley to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment, Place 7, with term to expire December 31, 2008.
Motion seconded by Councilor Hatcher and carried by the following vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings,
and Elmore
Nays: None
Item 12b
No action was taken on the Arts Commission.
Item 12c
Moved by Councilor Elmore to appoint Mr. Steven Young to the Library
Advisory Board, Place 2, with term to expire July 31, 2010.
Motion seconded by Councilor Roberts-Burns and carried by the following
vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings,
and Elmore
Nays: None
Item 12d
Moved by Councilor Hatcher to appoint Mr. Ben Filer to the Park Board,
Place 9, with term to expire December 31, 2010.
Motion seconded by Councilor Ginnings and carried by the following vote.
439
Item 12d continued
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings,
and Elmore
Nays: None
Item 8d
RESOLUTION NO. 135-2008
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WICHITA
FALLS, TEXAS, ENDORSING FUNDING APPLICATIONS TO THE 4B
SALES TAX BOARD FOR THE FIRING RANGE, TRAIL EXTENSION
AND PARK LAND ACQUISITION; FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT
THE MEETING AT WHICH THIS RESOLUTION WAS PASSED WAS
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AS REQUIRED BY LAW.
Moved by Councilor Barham that Resolution No. 135-2008 be passed.
Motion seconded by Councilor Roberts-Burns and carried by the following
vote.
Ayes: Mayor Lyne, Councilors Barham, Smith, Roberts-Burns, Hatcher, Ginnings and
Elmore
Nays: None
City Council adjourned at 1:20 p.m.
PASSED AND APPROVED this day of 2008.
M O TEM
ATTEST:
Lydia Ozuna
City Clerk
NOTICE OF MEETING
Regular Meeting Of The Mayor And City Council Of The City Of Wichita
Falls, Texas, To Be Held In The City Council Chambers Of The Memorial
Auditorium, 1300 Seventh Street, On Tuesday, October 7, 2008 Beginning
At 8:30 A.M.
City Council: Mayor Lanham Lyne, Councilors Glenn Barham, Michael
Smith, Dorothy Roberts-Burns, Rick Hatcher, Jim
Ginnings, and Charles Elmore.
1 . Call To Order
2. (a) Invocation: Colonel Richard Munsell
Chaplain, Sheppard Air Force Base
(b) Pledge Of Allegiance
3. Presentations
(a) Proclamation — Financial Planning Week — Gary Silverman,
Financial Planning Association
(b) Proclamation - 100th Anniversary Of The Wichita Theater —
Jackson Family
(c) Employee Of The Month - Leon Edgett III, Parks & Recreation
4. Comments From The Public To Members Of The City Council
Concerning Items That Are Not On The City Council Agenda. People
Wishing To Address The Council Should Sign Up Prior To The
Meeting Commencing. A Five Minute Time Frame Will Be Adhered
To For Those Addressing Their Concerns.
5. Approval Of Minutes Of September 16, 2008 Regular Meeting Of The
Mayor And City Council.
CONSENT AGENDA
6. Receive Minutes
(a) 4B Sales Tax Corporation, May 13, 2008
(b) 4A WF Economic Development Corporation, Aug.18, 2008
(c) Business Park Assoc. Development Review Board, Aug. 13, 2008
(d) Park Board, August 28, 2008
City Council Agenda
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Page 2
REGULAR AGENDA
7. Ordinances
(a) Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 37-2008 Declaring Certain
Structures As Dangerous By Allowing Extra Time To
Rehabilitate 100 Cleveland (Council Bill #204)
(b) Ordinance Making An Appropriation To The Special Revenue
Fund For State Health Services Grant Funding In The Amount
OF $6,357 Received From Tarrant County, Texas And
Authorizing The City Manager To Accept Same (Council Bill
#205)
(c) Ordinance Amending Chapter 26 Of The Code Of Ordinances,
"Business Regulations," By The Addition Of Article X, "Multi-
Housing" (Council Bill #206)
(d) Ordinance Amending Chapter 106 Utilities, Article XI Entitled
Municipal Setting Designations by Adding the Prohibited
Potable Use of Groundwater Beneath 2522 Iowa Park Road
(Council Bill #207)
8. Resolutions
(a) Resolution to Support Iowa Park Road LLC Apply for Municipal
Setting Designation (MSD) from the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) (Council Bill #208)
(b) Resolution Approving An Economic Development Incentive
Agreement With Old Dominion (Council Bill #209)
(c) Resolution Approving The 2008-2009 Budget Of The Wichita
Falls Economic Development Corporation (Council Bill #210)
(d) Resolution Endorsing Funding Applications To The 4B Sales
Tax Board For The Firing Range, Trail Extension and Park
Land Acquisition (Council Bill #211)
(e) Resolution Awarding Grants From The Hotel/Motel Fund For
Arts And Historic Preservation Purposes To Twelve Local
Organizations (Council Bill #212)
(f) Resolution Authorizing Award Of Bid For Demolition Of
Hazardous Structures To Nationwide Demolition, In The
Amount Of $36,865.05; Garrett Demolition, In The Amount Of
$14,994.00; And ZAC Corporation In The Amount Of $2,200.00
(Council Bill #213)
City Council Agenda
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Page 3
(g) Resolution Authorizing Award Of Bid For Concrete Crushing Of
Approximately 10,000 Tons Of Concrete Rubble To JP
Environmental In The Amount Of $87,500.00 (Council Bill #214)
(h) Resolution To Award Bid And Contract For 2008 Alley
Rehabilitation Project (CWF08-530-05) (Council Bill #215)
(i) Resolution To Approve Change Order No. 2 To The Cypress
Water Treatment Plant 10 MG Concrete Ground Storage Tank
Project, CWF06-544-06 (Council Bill #216)
(j) Resolution To Approve Change Order No. 2 For The Jasper
Water Treatment Plant New Five Million Gallon Clearwell
Project, CWF07-544-18 (Council Bill #217)\
(k) Resolution To Approve Change Order No. 4 For The 2008
Street Rehabilitation Project (CWF08-100-04) An Addition Of
$42,126.09. The Purpose Is To Balance Out Final Quantities
For Final Payment Due To Overruns On Contract Items
(Council Bill #218)
9. Other Council Matters
(a) Staff Council Discussion
Discussion of possible long term contract to purchase electricity
by CAPP
(b) Discussion Of Items Of Concern To Members Of The City
Council.
10. Executive Session To Deliberate The Purchase , Exchange Or Lease
Of Real Property As Authorized By Section 551 .072 Of The Texas
Government Code
11 . Executive Session To Consider Qualifications Of Possible
Appointees To The Zoning Board of Adjustment As Authorized By
Section 551 .074 Of The Texas Government Code
12. Open Session:
Appointments To The Following Boards And Commissions:
(a) Zoning Board of Adjustment
(b) Arts Commission
(c) Library Advisory Board
(d) Park Board
13. Adjourn
City Council Agenda
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Page 4
Wheelchair or handicapped accessibility to the meeting is possible by using the
handicapped parking spaces and ramp located off the east parking lot on the
Sixth Street entrance. Spanish language interpreters, deaf interpreters, Braille
copies or any other special needs will be provided to any person requesting a
special service with at least 24 hours notice. Please call the City Clerk's Office at
761-7409. Wireless Listening System devices are available at the City Manager's
reception area or you may call 761-7404 for inquiries.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that the above notice of meeting was posted on the bulletin board
at Memorial Auditorium, Wichita Falls, Texas on the day of
2008 at o'clock (a.m.)(p.m.).
City Clerk