HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-08-09 thru 2004-8-18 Budget Workshop Meetings minutes
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MINUTES OF THE BUDGET WORKSHOP MEETINGS HELD ON AUGUST 9 - 18, 2004
THE LA PORTE CITY COUNCIL
1. CALL TO ORDER
AUGUST 9, 2004
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Alton Porter at 6:00 p.m.
Mayor Porter advised the audience a presentation on Insurance Fund, Medical Benefits, Current
and Retiree Employees will be discussed on Wednesday, August 11,2004 at 6:00 p.m.
In addition, he noted the Addendum item of Council to receive report on the Redevelopment
Authority would be discussed Tuesday, August 10,2004 at 6:00 p.m.
Members of City Council Present: Councilmembers Peter Griffiths, Howard Ebow, Chuck
Engelken, Barry Beasley, Mike Clausen, Tommy Moser, Louis Rigby, Mike Mosteit and Mayor
Alton Porter
Members of Council Absent: None
Members of City Executive Staff and City Emoloyees Present: City Manager Debra Feazelle,
Assistant City Manager John Joems, City Secretary Martha Gillett, Police Chief Richard Reff,
Director of Public Works Steve Gillett, Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson, Lieutenant
Carl Crisp, Golf Pro Alex Osmond, Lieutenant Steve Deardorff, Sergeant Tammy McBeath,
Assistant EMS Chief Lisa Camp, EMS Chief Ray Nolen, Building Official Debbie Wilmore, City
Planner Wayne Sabo, Budget Officer Shelley Wolney, Fire Marshal Lorie Christensen, Secretary
Michelle Bedford, Assistant to the City Manager Crystal Scott, Fire Chief Mike Boaze,
Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Suggs, Assistant Fire Chief John Dunham, Assistant
Police Chief Aaron Corrales, Assistant Director of Finance Michael Dolby, Assistant City
Manager Cynthia Alexander and Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Barr
Others Present: Roy Myers, Barbara Norwine, Brian Lackey, Billy Harris, Kenny Martin, Jeff
Dalton, Paul Whitch:urch, Mellissa Phelen, Dwayne Spann, Ronnie Hean, Frank Fallbright, Bill
McBeath, Doug Dodson, Colleen Hicks, Delia Clause and a number of other citizens.
2. Mayor Porter delivered the Invocation.
3. Mayor Porter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. Workshop was called to order by Mayor Porter at 6:05 p.m.
The following budget items were discussed:
A. City Manager Debra Feazelle provided a General Overview of the 2004-2005 Budget.
B. Special Revenue Funds were discussed including the Community Investment Fund and
Hotel/Motel Tax Fund.
C. Internal Service Funds were discussed including Motor Pool Fund, Technology Fund and
Insurance Fund.
D. GENERAL OVERVIEW OF DEPARTMENTAL REQUESTS
City Council Budget worap Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - pag_
City Manager Debra Feazelle provided City Council with an overview of
Administration's departmental requests.
Council noted, questioned or requested the following items:
The total cost savings of the 19 positions proposed to be eliminated in the budget
Barry Beasley requested the history on the number of days of working capital
Louis Rigby asked what would the budget impact be if we froze 2000 and 3000 accounts
at the estimated expenditure amounts for this year or current year's budget whichever is less.
Howard Ebow noted concerns regarding the elimination of the Caretaker at the Seabreeze
Park. He noted it might be hard to enforce the ordinance for use by only residents and noted
the upkeep and maintenance might be impacted.
Peter Griffiths and Tommy Moser inquired about the Community Investment Fund. They
would like to see examples of how these funds are being expended.
A five minute break was taken from 7:452 until 7:48. There was no discussion of
business during the break.
Louis Rigby noted questions and discrepancies on page 7-1 with regards to grants. City
Manager Debra noted she would research the information and provide to City Council.
Louis Rigby noted discrepancies in the working capital of90-120 days. Debra Feazelle noted
the policies need to be updated.
Tommy Moser requested a copy of how tourism and economic deyelopment funds are being
expended.
Chuck Engelken noted concerns with this year's Fourth of July Event being for such a short
period of time.
Chuck Engelken inquired as to how the contingency funds are expended. Debra Feazelle
responded the funds are spent on extra projects Council requests throughout the year.
Chuck Engelken requested to know how many other cities have a booth at the annual TML
Conference.
Louis Rigby requested staff determine if there is a cancellation fee for the TML booth.
Chuck Engelken inquired as to how the hoteVmotel funds are expended.
Council requested a copy of the motor pool policy.
Mayor Porter requested a history on working capital.
Louis Rigby requested information on the City's catastrophic insurance coverage. Human
Resources Manager Sherri Sampson to provide information.
Council requested a copy of the vehicle report used for determination of replacement of
vehicles. .
City Council Budget worAp Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - paga
Tommy Moser requested a copy of the hours log on mowers.
Mike Clausen requested the year of the Gradall that is due for replacement in the upcoming
budget year.
Council requested a copy of the report showing information on maintenance of vehicles.
Mayor Porter requested the years of life of computers.
Barry Beasley requested to know what the $80,000 would be used for on communications. In
addition, he requested the number of Time Warner customers.
Mike Clausen requested to know the number of hits on the City's website.
Chuck Engelken requested to know how many personal computers the City has in inventory.
In addition, he wants to know how many replacements are scheduled for the upcoming year.
Barry Beasley requested the number of PAX machines in City Hall..
. Chuck Engelken requested the total number of city printers.
Louis Rigby requested the number of cell phones issued to city staff. City Council is to
receive a copy of the memo Louis Rigby received from the City Manager in regards to cell
phones.
Chuck Engelken requested a breakdown of who gets car allowances and the amount received.
Council requested a promotion and upgrade list.
The meeting recessed at 10:10 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 6:00 p.m. on August 10, 2004.
City Council Present: Mayor Alton Porter, Mayor Pro TemlCouncilmember At Large B Barry
Beasley, Councilmember At Large A Peter Griffiths, Councilmember District 1 Mike Mosteit,
Councilmember District 2 Chuck Engelken, District 3 Howard Ebow, District 4 Tommy Moser,
District 5 Louis Rigby and District 6 Mike Clausen.
Staff Present: City Attorney Knox Askins, City Manager Debra Peazelle, Assistant City Manager
John Joerns, Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander, City Secretary Martha Gillett,
Lieutenant Steve Deardorff, Patrol Officer Shennan Moore, Main Street Coordinator Debra Dye,
Assistant Pire Chief John Dunham, Assistant Police Chief Aaron Corrales, SergeantTammy
McBeath, Court Clerk Amy Bird, Planner Wayne Sabo, Pire Chief Mike Boaze, Assistant City
Secretary Sharon Harris, Public Works Director Steve Gillett, Budget Officer Shelley Wolney,
Police Chief Richard Reff, EMS Chief Ray Nolen, Secretary Michelle Bedford, Pire Marshal
Lorie Christensen, Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Suggs, Secretary Peggy Lee,
Engineering Supervisor Brian Sterling, Golf Pro Alex Osmond, Building Official Debbie
Wilmore, Interim MIS Manager Al Owens, Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson,
Assistant to the City Manager Crystal Scott and Lieutenant Carl Crisp.
Citizens and Others Present: Redevelopment Consultant David Hawes, Charlie Doug Boyle and
several Youth Advisory Council Members.
City Council Budget worAp Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - paga
Redevelopment Consultant David Hawes provided Council with an overview of the
Redevelopment Authority
Councilmember Griffiths recognized the Youth Advisory Council.
Emergency Management Jeff Suggs provided City Council with an overview of EMS's
department requests.
Louis Rigby requested the City staff approach LEPC about providing additional maintenance
support.
Chuck Engelken requested a list of items paid for in account 5007.
Main Street Coordinator Debra Dye provided City Council with an overview of Main Street's
division's requests.
Council requested that notations be made in the budget book when there is a split salary between
departments.
Tommy Moser noted there is no detail for line item 9997.
Human Resources Sherri Sampson provided City Council with an overview of Human Resources'
divisional requests.
Council requested to know how many students would be returning with the Summer Youth
Program.
Barry Beasley noted we may need to carefully review the Summer Youth Program due to budget
constraints.
Council wanted a trend history on accidents.
Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander provided City Council with an overview of
Purchasing's divisional requests. . .
City Secretary Martha Gillett provided City Council with an overview of the City Secretary's
Office's departmental requests.
It was the consensus of Council to cut the intern position but increase the part-time records
technician deputy clerk to full time. The additional funds will be cut to offset costs from the
training and seminar line item.
City Attomey Knox Askins provided City Council with an overview of the City Attorney's
departmental requests.
Council requested a spreadsheet on legal fees.
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City Secretary Martha Gillett provided City Council with an overview of Council's
departmental requests.
Mayor and City Council discussed the Council budget.
City Council Budget worAp Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - pag_
Louis Rigby noted to reduce his $6,000 travel amount to $2,000 and remove $1,200 for his
car allowance as he is not seeking reimbursement. .
Chuck Engelken requested his '$6,000 travel amount be removed due to budget constraints.
Mayor Porter, Mike Mosteit, Barry Beasley, Tommy Moser, Mike Clausen and Peter Griffiths
each wanted to reduce their travel budget to $2,000.
Assistant City Secretary Sharon Harris reminded Council the Mayor and Council dinners are
budgeted in the seminar/travelline item.
It was noted the cable in Mayor Porter's office would be removed. In addition, the council
requested staff remove a computer from the office that is not occupied by Mr. Ebow.
Council requested to what items were paid for in the 4019 account (Rental of Equipment).
Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen provided City Council with an overview of the Fire Marshal's
departInentalreques~.
Court Clerk Aimee Bird provided City Council with an overview of the Municipal Court's
departInentalreques~.
Council took a break from 8:20 until 8:28. The meeting reconvened and no discussions
were held while on break.
E. Public Works DepartInent.
Public Works Director Steve Gillett provided City Council with an overview of Public Works'
departInental reques~, including General Fund, Utility Fund, La Porte Area Authority and
Airport.
Louis Rigby requested a list of repairs and what will be cut due to budget restraints.
City Council requested a report on recycling.
Council requested to know why lease fees were so high in 4-17.
Tommy Moser requested true numbers on the cos~ of the Airport. How much goes to
General fund and how much revenue.
The meeting recessed at 9:53 p.m.
The meeting reconvened at 6:00 p.m. on August 11, 2004.
City Council Present: Mayor Alton Porter, Mayor Pro Tem/Councilmember At Large B Barry Beasley,
Councilmember At Large A Peter Griffiths, Councilmember District I Mike Mosteit, Councilmember
District 2 Chuck Engelken, Councilmember District 3 Howard Ebow, Councilmember District 4, Tommy
Moser, Councilmember District 5 Louis Rigby, Councilmember District 6 Mike Clausen.
Staff Present: City Manager Debra Feazelle, Assistant City Manager John Joems, Assistant City
Manager Cynthia Alexander, City Secretary Martha Gillett, Police Chief Richard Reff, Public Works
Director Steve Gillett, Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Barr, Assistant to the City Manager Crystal
Scott, Budget Officer Shelley Wolny, Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff. Suggs, Lieutenant Carl
City Council Budget worap Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - pag_
Crisp, Officer Kelley Green, Fire Chief Mike Boaze, Officer David Darby, Assistant EMS Chief Lisa
Camp, Secretary Michelle Bedford, Assistant Fire Chief John Dunham, EMS Chief Ray Nolen, Special
Services Superintendent Karen Beerman, Office Manager Marlene Rigby, Court Representative Carla
Fields, Officer Sherman Moore, Interim MIS Manager Al Owens, Golf Pro Alex Osmond, Human
Resources Manager Sherri Sampson, Assistant City Attorney Clarke Askins, Assistant Finance Director
Michael Dolby, Officer Tammy McBeath, Warrant Officer Nelson Thorpe, Lieutenant Carl Rise and
Human Resources Representative Nicole Hatter.
Citizens Present: Tim Bird, Sheila Moore, Dottie Kaminski, Kathy Hutton, Brian Lackey and a number
of citizens.
Human Resources Sherri Sampson introduced the Chapter 172 Board Members. Members
include herself, Human Resources Manager, Assistant Finance Director Michael Dolby,
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins, Citizen Pat Rothermel and Citizen Kim Meismer. Kim
Meismer and Pat Rothermel were not in attendance.
Item M was taken out of order as posted on the agenda to be discussed at 6:00 p.m. on
August 11, 2004. '
Human Resources Sherri Sampson provided the City Council with an overview of the
proposed in,surance changes and provided them with handouts.
Louis Rigby requested a copy of all Chapter 172 minutes.
Louis Rigby' requested information on other plans including healthy deficit, self funded, etc.
F. Emergency Services Department
Fire Chief Mike Boaze provided City Council with an overview of Emergency Services'
departmental requests.
Council wanted to know what was in line item 5004.
EMS Chief Ray Nolen provided Council with an overview of the EMS budget.
G. Police Department
Chief Richard Reffprovided City Council with an overview of the Police Department's
requests.
Chief Reff informed the Council he had gone to 12 hour shifts.
Council requested the City Manager to consider bringing the tax in lieu consultants for a
presented a future Council Meeting.
Barry Beasley requested a comparison be made on employee salaries.
Council requested to know what the 15,000 dollars was in the cleaning allowance budget.
Council requested a chart/graph on the Computer Internal Service Fund.
Council recessed for a break at 9:00 p.m. and reconvened at 9:05. There was no discussion or
action taken during the break.
City Council Budget worAp Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - paga
H. Parks and Recreation Department
Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Barr provided City Council with an overview of the
General Fund's and the Sylvan Beach Fund's departmental requests.
Council requested staff bring back a packages on pools. Packages to include the Fairmont
Pool, the Brookglen pool or both pools remaining open or closing.
Council requested the building improvements be reduced to $9,200.
The meeting recessed at 10:40 p.m.
The meeting reconvened on August 12, 2004 at 6:00 p.m.
Council Present: Mayor Porter, Mayor Pro Tern/At Large B Barry Beasley, District I Mike Mosteit,
District 2 Chuck Engelken, District 3 Howard Ebow, District 4.Tommy Moser, District 5 Louis
Rigby, District 6 Mike Clausen.
Absent: At Large A Peter Griffiths
Staff Present: City Manager Debra Feazelle, Assistant City Manager John Joerns, Assistant City
Manager Cynthia Alexander, Inspector Regan McPhail, City Secretary Martha Gillett, Fire Chief Mike
Boaze, Engineering Supervisor Brian Sterling, Building Official Debbie Wilmore, Planner Wayne Sabo,
EMS Coordinator Jeff Suggs, Public Works Director Steve Gillett, Parks and Recreation Director Stephen
Barr, Police Chief Richard Reff, Assistant Finance Director Michael Dolby, Interim MIS Manager Al
Owens and Budget Officer Shelley Wolny.
City Manager Debra Feazelle started the meeting off on a positive note reporting
the monthly sales tax is up by 28% over the same month last year.
She further reported she requested the LEPC to assist with maintena.nce and they will be
getting back with the City on this matter. .
In addition, she noted she lowered the City Manager's travel budget.
I. Golf Course
Golf Course Manager Alex Osmond provided City Council with an overview of the Golf
Course's departmental requests.
Mr. Osmond reported programs and specials he will be implementing to increase play at t
golf course.
In addition, he stated he continues to trim maintenance costs.
Council requested to know the number of bits on the golf course website.
Council requested the retirement line item be checked in the golf club house budget.
Mr. Osmond reported he cut two part-time positions and planned on having a seasonal
person for seven months of the year.
City Council Budget worAp Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - page
J. Finance Department
Assistant Finance Director Michael Dolby provided City Council with an overview of
Finance's departmental requests.
Council requested to know how many people pay on line.
Council requested the cost of using debit cards.
Council requested Finance to try and reduce their training budgets in the same manner as
other departments. .
Council requested the Utility Billing division to research new technology on reading meters.
They suggested they contact the City of Galveston.
K. Planning Department
Planner Wayne Sabo provided City Council with an overview of Planning's departmental
requests.
The planning department reduced its training and seminars budget.
Council suggested the position of Planning Director be reviewed for the upcoming budget
year. City Manager Debra Feazelle noted she had a meeting with Mr. Sabo to discuss options
for the department.
Council requested to know the process on collecting mowing fees.
Council requested .to know the number of open records requests. City Secretary Martha
Gillett to provide open records log.
Building Official Debbie Wilmore offered to reduce the planning review line item by 50%.
Tommy Moser requested a report on mowing of ditches.
The meeting was recessed for a break at 8:27 and reconvened at 8:38. There was no
discussion or action taken during the break.
L. Budget Recap
Discussion will be held under item N.
M. Insurance Fund, Medical Benefits, Current and Retirees
This item was discussed out of order and referenced
above in the minutes.
N. Budget Recap
City Manager Debra Feazelle provided City Council with an overview of the budget recap.
Mayor Porter noted that one of the major goals of this workshop was to save the positions
being eliminated in the budget.
City Council Budget worAp Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - page
O. Capital Improvements Projects
Assistant City Manager John Joerns provided Council with an overview of the Capital
Improvements Projects.
Council requested to know the amount of savings for the ISO program.
Emergency Services Jeff Suggs will contact the City of Tomball and request their savings
amount.
Brian Sterling provided an overview of the GIS program.
Council requested the second Marquee location be deleted.
Council recessed the meeting at 11:15 p.m.
Council reconvened the meeting on August 13, 2004 at 6:00 p.m.
Council Present: Mayor Porter, At Large A Peter Griffiths, Mayor Pro Tern/At Large B Barry Beasley,
District I Mike Mosteit, District 2 Chuck Engelken, District 4 Tommy Moser, District 5 Louis Rigby,
District 6 Mike Clausen.
Council Absent: District 3 Howard Ebow.
Staff Present: City Manager Debra Feazelle, Assistant City Manager John Joerns, Assistant City
Manager Cynthia Alexander, City Secretary Martha Gillett, Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Barr,
Public Works Director Steve Gillett, Assistant Finance Director Michael Dolby, Police Chief Richard
Reff, Budget Officer Shelly Wolny, Fire Chief Mike Boaze and Office Manager Marlene Rigby.
Item N discussions were continued. See attached spreadsheet for a list of suggested items to
be cut.
It was requested that Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson provide additional options
for the medical and retiree proposal.
The meeting recessed at 11:10 p.m.
The meeting reconvened on August 18, 2004 at 6:00 p.m.
Council Present: Mayor Porter, Mayor Pro Tern/At Large B Barry Beasley, At Large A Peter Griffiths,
District 1 Mike Mosteit, District 2 Chuck Engelken, District 3 Howard Ebow, District 4 Tommy Moser,
District 5 Louis Rigby and District 6 Mike Clausen.
Staff Present: City Manager Debra B. Feazelle, Assistant City Manager John Joerns, Assistant City
Manager Cynthia Alexander, Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins, Budget Officer Shelley Wolny,
Assistant Finance Director Michael Dolby, Officer Jerome McKown, Purchasing Assistant, Cherell
Daumer, Officer Mat Daumer, EMS Chief Ray Nolen, Assistant EMS Chief Lisa Camp, Mike Wood,
Office Manager Marlene Rigby, Police Chief Richard Reff, Public Works Director Steve Gillett, Interim
Planning Director Wayne Sabo, Assistant Fire Chief John Dunham, Building Official Debbie Wilmore,
Public Works Streets Rodney Cox, Emergency Services Coordinator, Jeff Suggs, Special Services
Superintendent Karen Beerman, Human Resources Kyle Jones, David Darby and Mathew Novosad.
City Council Budget worap Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - page
Citizens, Jim Van, Paul Hickenbottom, Dottie Kaminski and a number of citizens.
Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson provided an overview of the health insurance fund for the
City of La Porte employees and retirees. In addition, she provided a powerpoint presentation. A copy of
the presentation will be an attachment to the minutes.
Mayor Porter informed the group the purpose for the insurance discussion was to provide a number to
fund the insurance in the budget and not to decide on a plan this evening.
Louis Rigby inquired about the number of catastrophic incidents in the last three years.
Council requested a report on how many retirees who have retired have stayed on health insurance and
their ages. Sherry Sampson to provide report.
Council requested how many retirees have supplemental insurance.
Council requested to know the costs of claims for prescription drugs.
Chuck Engelken wanted to know the available amount required to be in fund balance by stop loss carrier.
It was noted the amount needed to be between $600,000 and $800,000.
Council requested a history on the fund balances for several years.
Council requested data on stop loss payments and how many times the policy has been used..
Council inquired as to what year the City did not have stop loss coverage.
Mike Mosteit requested to know a ten year history on supplements made from the general fund to the
health fund.
Louis Rigby wanted to know the total number of employees who did not file a claim all year for a
complete year.
Barry Beasley suggested a possible solution would be to have retiree's with 20 years of service pay the
same amount as employees.
Mayor Porter suggested a possible solution might be to look at different rates for those 65 years of age.
Council requested Sherri Sampson look at 20% scenario for the health insurance.
Louis Rigby suggested new hires pay a higher rate.
Mike Mosteit requested a report of the last ten years retirement statistics. Look at how many have
dropped retiree insurance after five years and ten years.
Council noted the City needs to become more active in legislation issues involving health care.
Council inquired as to what has been driving up the health care costs.
Mike Mosteit requested staff to look at other companies that offer supplemental for those over 65 years
old.
City Council Budget wor.op Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - pagA
Council requested to know what the City pays in supplemental claims.
Council requested the City Manager add $40,000 back to the Public Works Street Maintenance budget.
The City Manager noted she would request final numbers from the departments on their 2000 and 3000
series accounts.
The City Manager noted the $243,000 was reduced to $173,000.
Council suggested she delete the COLA and add back in funds for merit raises.
It was the consensus of Council to keep 90 days of working capital.
Tommy Moser noted if there was money he would like to see an improved mowing program with more
frequent mowing schedules.
5. Close Workshop Meeting and Reconvene Regular Meeting at 8:50 p.m.
6. Council Comments
There were no additional comments by City Council.
7. EXECUTIVE SESSION - PURSUANT TO PROVISION OF THE OPEN MEETINGS
LAW, CHAPTER 551.071 THROUGH 551.076, 551.086, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE,
(CONSULTATION WITH ATTORNEY, DELIBERATION REGARDING REAL
PROPERTY, DELmERATION REGARDING PROSPECTIVE GIFT OR DONATION,
PERSONNEL MATTERS, DELIBERATION REGARDING SECURITY DEVICES, OR
EXCLUDING A WITNESS DURING EXAMINATION OF ANOTHER WITNESS IN AN
INVESTIGATION, DELIBERATION REGARDING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
NEGOTIATIONS
551.071 (pOTENTIAL LITIGATION) Meet with City Attorney and City Manager regarding
potential litigation
551.074 (PERSONNEL MATTER) City Manager's EvaluationlPerfonnance
Council did not have an Executive Session.
8. CONSIDERATIONS AND POSSmLE ACTION ON ITEMS CONSIDERED IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
There was no action taken due to no Executive Session..
9. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before Council, the Special Called Regular Meeting and
Budget Workshop Meeting was duly adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
;
City Council Budget wor.op Meetings - August 9-18 2004 - pag.
1!l~Id)JJI/
City Secretary
Passed and approved on this 23rd day of August 2004
.~?.,k
Alton Porter, Mayor
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REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
PoJ;et
Agenda Date Requested: 8-23-04
Annl'Onriation
Requested By:
Department:
Souru of Funds:
Account Number:
Report:
Resolution:
Ordinance:
Amount Budgeted:
Esbibits: Public Bearing Notice
Amount Requested:
Esbibits: City Ordinance Article m Curfew for Juveniles
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Esbibits
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
In accordance with Section 370.002 of the Texas Local Government Code, Review of Juvenile Curfew Order of
Ordinance, the City of La Porte is required to hold a Public Notice concerning the ordinance every year. There are
three possible actions that may take place after the Public Hearing:
1. Continue the Ordinance as written.
2. Abolish the Ordinance.
3. Modify the Ordinance.
In the event there are some modifications to be made, the modified ordinance will be drawn up and brought before
Council on September 13, 2004 for approval. Ordinance # 93-1887 has been in effect since 1993. Section 42-73
prohibits any minor under the age of 18 to be out between the hours of 12 Midnight and 6 am on any day of the
week, and between the hours of 9 am. and 2:30 p.m. on any school day.
Staffrecommends continuance of Ordinance # 93-1887 as written.
Action Reauired bv Council:
Hear pros and cons during Public Hearing concerning Juvenile Curfew Ordinance and detennine what action, if any,
needs to be taken regarding the ordinance.
ADDroved for City Council Ae:enda
g-/~--t{
Date
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THE STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF HARRIS
CITY OF LA PORTE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
In accordance with sec 370.002 of the Texas Local Govt. Code, Review of
Juvenile Curfew Order or Ordinance, notice is hereby given that the City of La Porte will
conduct a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on the 23M day of August 2004, in the Council
Chambers of the City Hall, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas. The purpose
of this hearing is to review the Juvenile Curfew Ordinance and determine to continue the
Ordinance as it is written, abolish the Ordinance, or modify the Ordinance.
Citizens wishing to address Council pro or con during the Public Hearing will be
required to sign in before the meeting is convened.
CITY OF LA PORTE
Martha Gillett
City Secretary
This facility has disability accommodations available. Requests for interpretive
services at meetings should be made 48 hours prior to the meeting. Please contact City
Secretary's office at (281)471-5020 or TDD Line (281) 471-5030 for further information.
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LaPmte
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'--TiiE~~ YS!:!ORE SUN ~ _ SUNDAY, AUGUST 8, 21)04.0_ PAGE 5
---~_.._---~-"'=:':"'--_..,-_...--............. .......dr9(i ,^._PlUmiJ. ReoU8S1..~U.I!4-
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,THESTATEOFTEXAS -(MINUTES FROM AN'lWHEIE
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~T1CEOFPUBUC '\ . " YOU eURIlINftY OWN A 'ORD WlrH OnR 60K
- ~~H:'R~} MILE., WE WIL.. CHANGE YOUR 01.. lOR 'RII,'
In accordance BIA1IBNIW ~IJ""D l'U. MlWlllCo '1HD/IlWf:'''-=lI
FOR INFORMATION wilh sec 370.002 01 !he ZUI .-UDUd II" "ClIIIIIIID.llII. ISH .Ul
CONCERNING THIS BID, Texas.Looat-Oavt:-Cocl........dl1l .::-.::
PlEASE CONTACT SUS- 5RelllBwot Juwn/ls CurtlIIv ,. IUIfIH"",,'
AN KEllEY. PURCHAS- \Ontsror OntInaiJce;notlce
ING MANAGER. AT 281- is-har.aby_olven!hel lha'
470-6126. City 01 La Porte will con-
,ducl.a-publlc-he8rlng-SI
~\6:00 p.m. on the 23rd day
or AuguSl 2004, .in- Ihe
cOuncII-Chamllars-oi lIIe
City Hall. 604 West Falr-
NOTICE TO CREDITORS mont Perkway. La Pone.
Texas. The purpose 01
IhIs hearing Is 10 review
!he Jwenlle Cwfew Ordi-
nance snd determine 10
continue the Ordinance es
ftls written, abolish the Or-
dinance. or modIIy lhe' Or-
dInence.
3 lroom, .nJiiu.,
Carport, Close to
School, Newly
Remodeled,
Fenced Yard
$9OOIMonlh + Deposit
La Porte Area
281-935-9578
NolIce Is hereby
given Ihal original Lettera
Testamentary lor !he Es-
lale 01 ROSSIE MARIE
HARRIS. D_ased. were
Issued on August 3. 2004.
In Docket No. 348.738.
pending in Probale Court
No. 3 01 Harris County.
Texas, 10: JERRY LYNN
HARRIS. Independant Ex-
ecutor.
Chlzena wishing
to eddress Council pro or
con during Ihe Public
Heating will be required io
sign In belore Ihe meeting
Is convened.
!~ co___.
~I;~.'" AND FlEET
~ HEADOUMTERS
PRE-GI/llIfIISD SUPISRelSlfITISR
~f:~~A:'~~EDGE $159.....l1li. l' FORDF15OXLTSUPERCREW $17.995
'02 CHEVY CAVAUER $162 _.... '02 DODGE DURANGO SLT $18 995
-.....,..Elo.....CIlodlfoo.&I..CIaD .... ............._..1:lIlC>u...../I.AlJPvwtr .
'01 FORD EXPLORER SPORT $179,er.... '02 FORD EXPEDJnON EDDIE BAUER $22900
_.AlLfUWICll. AIoJs. AIl_ ..... VB. AMoflh,m. UII,. AIl'.s.AII.....l.. UJJes, O'iIl . .
'00 PONTIAC FtREBIRD $199 --" '02 AWRA S.5RL $25 999
-.AMiJUlI/CD.l......AIop.AIi.....low...... per....- _.AM.ftlllOl:ll_41:, Ta_.I/rf.Su_PlW.P... .
'91 MERCEO!!S S50SDL TURBO DII!S!!L $9500 '02 FDRD F250 XLT EXT CAa . $28 500
AII_.....AoI:. T...CrW...........lI11t,Woodgr;lOl .........__\1."'R1EtD.Alq~IIll...lClllpo......CIoD I
'02 FORD F150 XLT EXT CAB $15 850 '02 CHEVY 1Sao SILVERADO LS MUST GOI
AIII'..IN.fJl-.,:D._.IlIlI.AIlPo.... . --wICO.1llllU_ADo,1I
.
.
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AIMIIlm NtlASl.
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~ ClJ///$f.
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-...- _.. --- ---...--
AT 2963 N. 23RD
STREET. LA PORTE. TX
n571. THE CITY RE-
SERVES THE RIGHT TO,.
REJECT ANY AND/OR'
ALl BIDS. TO WAIVE'
ANY AND All TECHNI-
CAlITIES AND TO AC-
CEPT ANY BID OR PART
THEREOF. WHICH IN
THE OPINION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL, IS MOST
ADVANTAGEOUS TO
THE CITY.
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MISCELLANEOUS OFFENSES
~ 42-72
.,.
Sec. 42-36. Exceptions to article..
Sections 42-82-42-35 shall not apply to duly licensed peace officers; law enforcement officer
alias handgun licensees; and active judicial officer licensees.
(Ord. No. 95-2072, ~ 5, 10-23-95)
See. 42-37. Penalty for violation of arti~e.
Any person who violates section 42-33 or 42-34 of this. article, upon conviction in the
municipal court of the city, shall be subject to a fine for each offense in an amount established
by the t:ity and listed in appendix B of this Code.
(Ord. No. 95-2,072, f 7, 10-23-95)
State law reference-License to carry a concealed handgun, Vernon's Ann. Civ. St. art.
4413(2gee).
Sees. 42-38-4.2-70. Reserved.
ARTICLE In. CURFEW FOR JUVENILES
Sec. 42-71. Findings and determinations.
(a) The city council has determined that there has been an increase in juvenile violence,
juvenile gang activity and an increase in crime by persons under the age of 18 in the city.
Persons under the age of 18 are' particularly susceptible, because of their lack of maturity and
experience, to participate in unlawful and gang-related activities and to be victims of older
perpetrators of crime.
(b) The city has an obligation to provide for:
(1) The protection of minors from each other and from other persons;
(2) The establishment of parental control of and responsibility for their cbi1dren;
(3) The protection of the general publiC; and
(4} The reducti9n of the incidence of juvenile criminal activities.
(c) The city_council has detennined that a curfew for those under 18 years of age will be in
the interest of the public health, safety and general welfare, and will help to attain the
objectives of this section and will diminish the undesirable impact of such conduct on the
citizens of the city.
(Ord. No. 93-1887, f 1, 2-9-93)
See. 42-72. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
ETTU!rgency means an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that
calls for immediate action. The term shall include, but not be limited to, a fire, natural disaster,
vehicular accident or a serious medical condition of sudden onset.
.
CD42:5
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t 42-72
LA PORTE CODE
..,
"
Guardian means the person who, under a court order, is the guardian of the person of a
minor or the public or priva~ agency with whom a minor has been placed by a court.
_ Minor means any person under 18 years of age.
Parent means the natural mother or father or adoptive mother or father of a minor.
Public place means any place to which the public or a substantial group of the public has
access and includes, but is not limited to, streets, highways and the common areas of schools,
hospitals, apartments, houses, office buildings, transport facilities and shops.
(Ord. No. 98-1887, f 2(13.51), 2-9-93)
Cros~ reference-Definitions generally, f 1-2.
See. 42-73. Proh.J.1Jited acts; offenses.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any,minor to knowingly remain, walk, run, stand, drive or ride
about, in or upon any public plaCe in the city:
(1) Between the hours of 12:00 at night (midnight) and 6:00 a.m. on any day of the week;
or
(2) Between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. ~n any day on which classes are in
session in the La Porte Independent School District.
(b) It shall be unlawful for the parent or guardian having legal custody of a minor to
knowingly allow or permit the minor to be in viol~tion of the curfew imposed ill subsection (a)
of this section.
(Ord. No. 98-1887,12(13.52),2-9-93)
See. 42-74. Defenses to prosecution under section 42-73-
It is a defense to proseCution under section 42-73 that:
(1) The minor was accompanied by his parent or guardian;
(2) The minor was accompanied by an adult designated by his parent or guardian;
(3) The minor was on an errand made necessary by an emergency;
(4) The minor was attending a school, reIigiovs or government-sponsored activity or was
traveling to or from a school, religious or government-sponsored activity;
(5) The minor was engaged in a lawful employment.activity. or was going directly to or
coming directly from lawful employment;
(6) The minor was on the sidewalk of the place where he resides;
(7) The minor was on an errand directed by his parent or guardian;
(8) The minor was in a motor vehicle involved in intrastate or interstate transportation;
(9) The minor was engaged in, participating in or traveling to or from any event, function
or activity for which the application of section 42-73 would contravene his rights
pro~d by the state or United Sta~s Constitutions;
CD42:6
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MISCELLANEOUS OFFENSES
t 42-91
..
(10) The minor was married or had been married, or had disabilities of minority removed
in accordance with V:T.C.A., Family Code ch. 31; or
-(11) With respect to the hours between 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. only, that the offense
occurred during the school summer vacation break period of the school in which the
minor is enrolled; on a holiday observed by the closure' of classes in the school in which
the minor is enrolled; or that the minor has graduated from high school or received a
high school equivalency certificate.
(Ord. No. 93-1887, f 2(13.53), 2-9-93)
Sec. e75. Supplemental effect of article.
The provisions of this article are supplemental and shall be cumulative with all other laws
and ordinances applicable in any manner to juveniles.
(Ord. No. 93-1887, f 2(13.5">, 2-9-93)
Sec. 42-76. Enforcement of article.
Notwithstanding the penal effect of this article, the chief of police is encouraged to develop
alternative enforcement strategies, which may include, but need not be limited to, the return
of minors to their residences or schools, counseling with minors and their parents or guardians,
the issuances of warning citations to minors or their parents or guardians, or the referral of
instances that appear to also involve the violation of school attendance laws to those. officers
who are responsible for the enforcement of those laws. The enforcement strategies shall be
promulgated in writing to members of the police department so that this article may be
enforced in a uniform manner.
(Ord. No. 93-1887, f 2(13.~5), 2-9-93)
Sees. 42-77--42-90. Reserved.
ARTICLE N GRAFFITI-
See. 42-91: Definitions.
[The following words, terms and phrases, as used in this article, shall have the meanings
respectively ascribed to them in this section, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:]
Agent shall mean any individual employed by the City of La Porte, or a volunteer for the City
of La Porte, duly designated and authorized by the city manager to act on behalf of the City of
La Parle pursuant to the terms of this article.
.Editor's Dote-Sections 1-11 of Ord. No. 98-2214, adopted January 26, 1998, ad,dad
provisions to the Code, but did not specify manner of inclusion: Therefore, at the discretion of
the editor, said provisions have been.included as U 42-91--42-101 herein.
Supp. No.1
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REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: 8/23/04
Appropriation
Requested By: .Tpff Suggs
Source of Funds:
Department: ElRergeAcy l\hAllgelReAt
Account Number:
Report: X Resolution:
Ordinance:
Amount Budgeted:
Exhibits:
90 day report - power point
Amount Requested:
Exhibits:
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits:
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
I will need to present my first 90 day progress report at this time. This report will focus
on the mission, goals and progress made thus far in this new position. This report will
be done in power point for council and audience to review.
Action Required bv Council:
~
~~.
Approved for City Council Al!enda
~-/)-bc{
Date
Tk nP-Ift 90 O~
'e
,-
Jeff Suggs
Emergency Management
Coordinator
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. What is it?
Managing natural and man
made emergencies.
Preparing the public and
staff, mitigate problem
areas
. EMC - Coordinates all
efforts
~~:~::
~~~~s
Re'c~Yers
. Why do we need it?
. Hazards
. Natural
. Man made
r
. Building in risk zones
,
Emergency Management
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e
Focusing
Communication
Training
Awareness
Community outreach
Better relationships
Establishing La Porte
Emphasizing
The F
.
I
rSI
90 Days
Ren\~9ot~.ated FIRSTCALL contract for
citi~ one notification
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e
Worked with Purchasing to switch phone
ervice for better communications
Rewrote Basic Emergency Plan
. Corrected over 80 deficiencies with the plan
. Received Advanced status from State DEM
Major
Projects
e
-
Major Projects
nstallation of more Stream and weather monitoring
data instruments
.... .. --- .. -..
finalizing the Mitigation Action Plan
-
-
Communications / Awareness
. City employees
. Community
. Neighboring Municipalities
. Neighboring Industries
-
--
. City employees
· Worked with each department on new
emergency plan and their role (s)
Send out information alerts
Reff notification
.
.
Communications /
Developed with Chief
levels for incidents
Awareness
e
.
.
Use emai
others of
.
I
Restarted "225 corridor"
Emergency Managers
meetings w
.
I
th other
and cell phone to
ncidents
.
I
mmediately notify
e
. Neighboring Municipalities / County
· Using existing tools for help i.e.. Comm
Garcia's Office / Harris County OEM -
notification and communication issues
II surrounding agencies to assess
.
Communications /
Met with a
needs
Awareness
.
I
.
sSloner
Working on LEPC issues w
. Better / more participation
. Planning joint City / Industry dril n October
. Reestablishing La Porte with industry
-
.
I
th
oca
.
I
ndustry
e
.
.
Industrial Neighbors
· Active in CAC (Citizens
Communications /
.
i I
Working with ECHMA (East Harris County
Manufacturing Association) and the CEC-to
form better communications and reporting
documents
Advisory Counc
Awareness
)
· Senior program
· EAS radios n the pub
.
I
Ii
c
--
.
.
b
i I I
s
e
~h and Spanish)
Communications /
Awareness
--
e
.
City employees
- Started monthly EGC training
- Implemented documentation program
(RIMS) with Harris County
- Meet with departments on their Annexes in
the Emergency Plan
- Updating City buildings and employees for
emergencies, Le.. plans, contact people
- Updating city website and channel 16 for
.
emergencies
- Training on software programs Hurrvac,
Cameo, Marplot, Aloha and others.
Training
--
e
.
Training
Neighboring Municipalities
- Utilizing other EMC for our training
- Helping smaller Cities with their
Emergency issues
- Started Ad Hoc committee for other
LEPC's
.e
-
.
Community
- Senior Program (started)
- Teachers Program (Fall)
- Neighborhood Program (Fa
II
)
Training
.e
. Developed better communications with all Harris
County and the State DEM agencies regarding
prompt notifications and involvement from La
::: Ro~e
. La~ has been recognized as breaking
r~:cJ tr~ for correcting deficiencies within the
Emer]ency~lan, receiving Advanced status and
is used~ an example by the State DEM
--
. Working with the Harris County Health Dept. on
an inoculation center within one of our schools
and San Jacinto College
Other
.
I
mportan
I
.
I
ssues
,e
. Building shelter in place kits for all city buildings,
and training all employees to act to protect the
public - fall'04
. Writing grants for incident notification signs to be
~~d on the edge of city limits - fall'04
~rtm~nt lease and "welcome wagon"
inidr~tl~.(l documents; SIP, warning system,
etc. - feJI Olt
-
. Animal hea
- fall '04
Ith awareness and updates program
Future
--
e
Future con't
. Develop CERT's (Community Emergency
Response Teams) for the City through county
funding and help - spring '05
. Helping design an EOC building/area - ?
. Obtaining "air cards" for expanded
communications from the scene of an incident to
the EOC - fall '04
~.eloPing "natural disaster" section in the
Hor~~ spring '05
. D~Q;;h,g town meeting before hurricane
seaso s~ring '05
-
Emergency Management
Where do we go from here?
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DO WHATEVER NEEDED
TO PROTECT
HE PUBLIC
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QUESTIONS?
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MEETING HANDOUTS'
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Friday, August 20, 2004 10:58 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Trophy Club: tax increase absent from new budget
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Friday, August 20, 2004 8:12 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Trophy Club: tax increase absent from new budget
Posted on Fri, Aug. 20, 2004
Tax increase absent from new Trophy Club budget
By Dave Ferman
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
TROPHY CLUB - Town officials said the proposed 2004-05 budget of about $5 million is just
about the same as last year -- including, they're happy to report, no tax increase.
"We were able to increase services and give employees raises and keep the tax rate the
same," said Mayor Scott Smith. "I don't know how many cities around here can say that."
The proposed budget also includes taking $267,000 out of the general reserve "fund to make
up a shortfall.
"We're going to have to makeup some difference," said town financial analyst Jan
Woodruf~. The shortfall, she said, was caused by a variety of factors, including a droR in
house values and rising costs of salaries and insurance for town employees:
"Our medical costs went up 10 percent," she said. "It's happening allover the country
medical costs are high. We were told it would be more like 30 to 40 percent. It was a nice
surprise."
The transfer will drop the reserve fund 19 percent, from its current $1.407 million to
$1.140 million by September 2005, Woodruff said.
Trophy Club's 2003-04 tax rate of 43 cents per $100 of assessed property value will
probably stay the same when the Town Council votes on the budget, scheduled Aug. 30.
But Town Council member Susan Edstrom and former Ways and Means Committee chairman Neil
Twomey both question the amount of input the public has had into the process.
They both note that there were no spring budget workshops in 2004, as there have been in
past years.
"There's more work to do," Edstrom said. "We haven't had enough" public discussion so
people know what we're doing. We've started way too late."
The town's general fund expenses are expected to be $5,233,286, and revenue is anticipated
to be $4,966,200.
Included in expenses is an extra $100,000 that Smith and Town Manager Donna Welsh want to
take out of the general fund and set aside for future road repair.
One of the larger budget increases is in information systems, which is expected to grow
from $79,000 to $89,000. Smith said the money will be used to add software and other
features that will help the town run more efficiently.
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He also said that the town can expect to make more in sales tax from alcohol sales, which
were approved in a special election in May.
"I think everyone's pre'tty happy with the budget," said council member Beverly Foley.
"It's been a very good, easy budget to do."
Edstrom, who has frequently clashed with Smith and Foley over various issues, said the
extra $100,000 for road repair is not enough, calling it a "drop in the bucket."
Also, she has objected to money for several items, including storm water management fees,
being put into the general fund.
"They're being chunked into one big pot," she said. "If I'm looking at my bill and every
month.I'm paying for storm water management, I think it should be set aside for that. If
you collect for a specific purpose, it should be used for that purpose."
Trophy Club proposed budget
Proposed 2004-05 budget Percent change
Total budget revenue $5,380,722 2.1,
Total budget expenditures $5,779,556 1.2
General fund revenue $4,966,200 2.1
General fund expenditures $5,233,386 1.3
General fund reserves $1,140,503 -18.9
What it means to you
The Town Council is expected to keep the tax rate the same as in 2003-04: 43 cents per
$100 of assessed property value. The tax bill for the owner of an average-priced house
with no exemptions will be $807.68, compared with $823.16 in 2003, because the average
value of a home in Trophy Club has fallen from $191,206 to $187,611, according to the
Denton Central Appraisal District.
SOURCE: Trophy Club
How to participate
. If you have.questions
about the budget, contact finance director Roger Unger at (682) 831-4613. If you have
suggestions on the budget, call the Trophy Club main office at (682) 831-4600 or go to. the
town's W~b site, www.trophyclub.org.
. Speak to the Town Council: The Town Council is expected to vote on the budget on Aug.
30. There will be a public forum before the vote. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the
Svore Municipal.Building, '100 Municipal Drive.
STAR-TELEGRAM
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Friday, August 20, 2004 9:30 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Rowlett: $10 million in city projects still on table; council hears residents, is
reconsidering big-ticket jobs, tax hike
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 11:28 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Rowlett: $10 million in city projects still on table; council hears residents, is
reconsidering big-ticket jobs, tax hike
$10 million in city projects still on table
Council hears residents, is reconsidering big-ticket jobs, tax hike
06:38 PM CDT on Thursday, August 19, 2004
By STEPHEN TERRY / The Dallas Morning News
Though they informally agreed last week to delay more than $10 million in street and other
projects, Rowlett City Council members kept the door open Tuesday to funding them all.
Public notices will show a proposed tax rate of as much as 69.9 cents per $100 of assessed
value, 5.9 cents more than the rate that has been in place for six years.
"That includes the entire list of projects that were published," Mayor Shane Johnson said.
"We talked about a lot" of projects that need to be done. We need to leave ourselves the
latitude to carry out the will.of the people."
If the tax rate remained unchanged, the property tax bill of the average homeowner would
rise by $31, to $927, because the average home value has risen from $144,981 to $149,901.
If the rate were raised by 5.9 cents, the average bill would jump an additional $85, to
$1,012. The calculations take into account the $5,000 homestead exemption.
A council majority said last week that it wanted to defer some big-ticket projects for at
least a year to keep the tax rate down.
Council member Cindy Rushing cast the lone vote this week against publishing the tax rate
at 69.9 cents.
"We have done the budget," she said. "If we add anything to the capital improvement plan,
we can take it out of the general fund. I would rather see it come from there than have a
tax increase. There is room for adjustments in the budget."
Council member Steve Maggiotto noted that the published tax rate was not final.
"Most taxing districts will publish the maximum tax rate increase possible," he said. "The
rate can always be reduced after citizen input is considered."
A public hearing on the budget and tax rate is set for Sept. 7, and the council is to vote
on both two weeks later.
But the defining decision on this year's tax rate could be made a week earlier as the
council decides which big-ticket projects to include in a bond sale.
"If the majority of the council falls back to their decision Aug. 10, then we will only
need 2.9 cents," Mr. . Johnson said. "Even though we won't have a public hearing until Sept.
7, Aug. 31 will be a big indicator."
3
Mr. Maggiotto said any size t~~ate increase should be a con~n to residents at a time
when other taxing entities also are raising rates.
The Garland school district.is rooking at an increase of 6.29 cents per $100 valuation.
Officials of Dallas and Rockwall counties and the Rockwall school district say they don't
anticipate raising rates this year.
Tuesday night, several homeowners told the council they would like to see the
improvements, even if it means higher tax bills.
"The recent voting trend [of the council] is beyond comprehension," 22-year resident
Mike Shuptrine said. "We can't afford not to" do the projects in the capital improvement
plan.
He encouraged council members to "raise the taxes and spend the money - and do it before
it is too late."
Garrett Rice, a three-year Rowlett resident,. said taxpayers understood that the tax rate
would rise when they voted to sell bonds to add one fire station and relocate another.
Tommy Robnett agreed.
"The will of the people is to make improvements," he said. "People passed the bonds
knowing they were going to have to pay for it."
Mrs. Rushing said the council must decide which projects the city can afford.
"Some want the fire station, some Rowlett Road improvements," she said. "We need to
address some issues before we can get to others."
Mayor Pro Tern Becky Sebastian, who supported deferring the projects last week, said she
was open to reconsidering.
"I firmly believe we could have a higher tax rate," she said. "I am seriously looking at
all the items that were proposed to be deferred. It is never a done deal until the
citizens have spoken. And this gives us an opportunity to hear from citizens and do
background checks."
Mr. Johnson refused to. let three residents speak Tuesday because they hadn't. notified the
council of their intentions before the cutoff time. The mayor instituted the cutoff policy
this year to keep the public comment period from turning into open ~ebates among
residents.' .
One of the three who didn't get to speak was Laurieann Dygowski, who has openly opposed
raising the tax rate.
"You're afraid of what we are going to say," she shouted.
Mr. Johnson responded by asking that Mrs.. Dygowski be removed from the meeting.
The mayor said that once the resident comment period begins, no other residents are
a~lowed to request an opportunity to speak. '
Mrs. ,Sebastian said that everyone's opinion, "whether or not they speak at council
meetings, will be heard." .
"You have to weigh everyone's voice," she said. "You. have to look at e-mails, phone calls
and people you talk to at the grocery store, If you stay in tune with the city throughout
the year, you should have a feeling for how citizens feel."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Friday, August 20,20049:29 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Willow Park: tax rate may nearly double
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 11:22 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Willow Park: tax rate may nearly double
Willow Park tax rate may nearly double
By Jennifer Acosta-Scotti
Weatherford Democrat Reporter
WILLOW PARK -- Mayor Jim Poythress has proposed ra1s1ng the city's ad valorem tax rate by
10 cents this fall, an increase that would nearly double taxes for property owners.
If the proposal is approved by the City Council, tax rates would go from 12 cents to 22
cents per $100 valuation -- an increase of about 83 percent. Poythress said the city needs
additional revenue for the coming budget year, to avoid the current budget's shortfall.
Projections indicate that the city's 2003-2004 budget will end with a deficit of about
$6,000, Poythress said. "Deficit spending, however so slight, is not good business
practice," Poythress said.
Poythress blamed the shortfall on slower-than-expected sales tax gains and the city's
approval of a property-tax rate freeze for residents 65 and older. The city also lost
several thousand dollars this year when new businesses in Willow Park mistakenly.paid
taxes to Aledo and Weatherford.
According to Poythress, the new tax rate would raise property taxes for the average
homeowner from $187 to about $356. Poythress said he had hoped for a gradual tax increase,
but "the numbers don't support" a smaller hike.
"Do we decide to bury our heads in the sand, or do we pay for what we want?" Poythress
asked.
According to projections by Mayor Pro Tern Terry Skaggs, the city's $1.4 million budget
will have about $2,300 left over at the end of the next fiscal year. The 10-cent hike
would generate about $180,000 in additional revenue.
The city's budget has not yet been finalized. The council will meet again next month for
further discussion on it.
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Wolny, Shelley
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 2004 3:42 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Hillsboro: council struggles with water increases
For budget files
-----Original Message---~-
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 10:16 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Hillsboro: council struggles with water increases
Council Struggles With Water Increases
The Hillsboro City Council decided to go back to the drawing board with the 2004-05 budget
at a workshop held Tuesday night, August 17.
Council members will be looking for any cuts they might make to keep from increasing water
rates to a proposed overall 14-percent for 2005 and another 15-percent for 2006.
Under the proposed ra~e increases, which was suggested during recent community action team
meetings, a household that uses 2,000 gallons of water per month would receive no
increase.
City Manager Kevin Carruth indicated that the average residence uses about 6,000 gallons
of water at a monthly cost of $50.06. With the increase the bill would go up 7.4-percent
to $53.78 in 2005.and $57.76 in 2006.
The manager said that Hillsboro has not had an increase in water rates since 2002 and
actually had a slight decrease in rates in 2004.
Bill Sifford pointed out that a residence using 10,000 to 11,000 gallons of water would
see a $22 increase the first year.
"That's $20 worth of medicine I can't buy for my wife," said Sifford.
A household using 10,000 gallons of water would see a 31.2-percent increase, raising its
water bill from $59.86 to $78.51 per month..
Councilman Jim Moore expressed concerns over the impact that the rate hike would have on
economic development possibilities.
Community Development Director Jerry Barker assured the councilman that Hillsboro's water
and. sewer fees are below average.
Roland Tucker, who owns property at the North Texas Airstream Community and lives in the
700 block of Craig Street, said, "If I understand this correctly, I will have a 75-percent
increase in my water bill in the next two years. That really gets your attention."
Councilwoman Edith Omberg said, "If we tell John Doe that we're raising his water rates
14-percent .this year and 14-percent next year, you can kiss the bond i~sue goodbye."
The council hopes to put a $3.4 million bond issue in front of the voters in a February
election to pay for street improvements and other capital expenditures. "I think we need
to take all our previous assumptions and set them aside. Start over from scratch with a
zero-based budget," said Moore.
Councilman John Erwin said, "We have to spend what we need to, but I don't want to see us
spend a cent more than we have to."
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Hillsboro Mayor Will Lowran~ said, "This water rate just c~t fly. Water rates must be
kept to a minimum."
Council members chose to go through the 2004-05 proposed budget one more time to try to
solve the over one-quarter million dollar shortfall in the city's water and sewer
department before considering the rate hike.
Carruth said that transferring $75,000 into the general fund from an old self-insurance
fund that subsidized group health premiums would lower the city's tax rate to the eight-
percent roll-back rate of .719169.
The rate has remained at $.698676 per $100 valuation for the past two budget years.
The owner of a $50,000 home in Hillsboro will see property taxes increase from $349.34 to
$359.58 annually under the new proposed rate.
Another budget workshop will be held after the Tuesday, August 24, city council meeting.
Action taken by the council during the special session included approving bills to be paid
and passing a resolution to purchase a 2002-model 30-yard dump trailer for $21,000.
The city now owns a 1985 model dump trailer that is out of service and requires over
$3,600 in immediate repairs.
The trailer is primarily used to haul demolition and clean-up debris, sand and rock.
According to Carruth, four dump trucks would have to be used in place of the dump trailer.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:54 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Texas City: city faces sharp ~ike in health insurance
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 10:04 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-po~te.tx.us
Subject: Texas City: city faces sharp hike in health insurance
City faces sharp hike in insurance
By TJ Aulds
Texas City Sun
Published August 19, 2004
TEXAS CITY - Trying to balance a $33.9 million budget is tough enough, but figure in an
expected 15- to 25-percent hike in employee health insurance premiums, and the job gets a
bi t tougher '.
That's what Texas City commissioners are facing as they attempt to finalize the 2004~2005
city budget. City leaders were already faced with having to work with a deficit, but the
expected hike in health insurance costs added to the task.
City Finance Director Cheryl Hunter is predicting the city will have to payout more than
$270,000 for health insurance premiums in next year's budget. That compares to roughly
$227,000 the city _ expects to pay during the current. 'budget year.
Like many municipalities, Texas City provides health. insurance to its employees and
dependents via a self-insured policy. Texas City's plan does have some limitations, in
that coverage from the, city plan is limited to $60,000 per individual covered under the
plan.
In addition, the city contributes money to a ~stop loss" insurance plan that covers
medical expenses above the $60,000 covered under the city plan. It is the money paid,for
,'that stop loss coverage that the city expects will jump by almost 20 percent next fiscal
year.
The premium hike could be as much as 25 percent, however.
~We already have five people who have exceeded that $60,'000 mark," Personnel Director Mary
Jan Lantz told commissioners during a budget workshop Wednesday. ~We have already exceeded
$3 million in claims this year. And there are some catastrophic claims pending."
The city's health plan covers 720 people. That includes city employees and their
dependents.
Lantz estimates that next year, the city will 'have more than $5 million in health claims.
~You have a transplant or.a couple of cancer patients ,and that's what can drive it up so
quickly," she said.
The. impact on next year's budget aside, Mayor Matt Doyle'is concerned that under the
city's current insurance plan, costs may at some point get out of control and force the
city to make decisions it would rather avoid.
~We are in a health care insurance crisis in the city," said Doyle. ~We are going to have
'to look at some point at other alternatives., If that is an option."
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The city's options may be limited. According to Doyle and Hunter, health insurance
providers look solely at the previous year's claims to determine the cost of providing
coverage. Because the city already was paying out more in claims last year and is expected
to pay even more next year, finding a less expensive option may not be in the cards.
As far as insurance providers are concerned, Texas City. is "a risk" based on the previous
year's claims said Lantz.
With a 20 percent health insurance premium hike factored in, the city is projecting an
$385,000 budget shortfall next year.
But when all is said and done, the budget will be balanced even if the projected shortfall
remains, according to Doyle.
The city will cut back on its capital purchases, including a three-year phase-in instead
of complete redo of the police station's dispatch, and by using leases and proceeds from
loans to pay for major capital expenses, such as city vehicles and a rainwater pump
engine.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 2004 1 :53 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Deer Park: officials to consider tax hike
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 1.0:01 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Deer Park: officials to consider tax hike
Officials to consider tax hike in Deer Par~
By SYDNEY IGLEHEART,
Pasadena Citizen staff
08/19/2004
Deer Park will hold a public hearing to discuss a tax increase.
City Council voted Tuesday to call a public hearing on the proposed tax increase rate for
fiscal year 2004-2005.
The proposal will increase t.axes by two cents, from $.70/$100 to $.72/$100 which
represents a 4.83 percent increase over the effective tax rate.
"Over the last few years our general fund has been under pressure. from a decrease in
revenue from a.reduction in total property tax and industrial. property tax," said Ron
Crabtree, city manager of Deer Park.
He said. projections for next year didn't look any brighter, and in order to keep a
balanced budget and maintain the city's current levels of service, the tax increase was
necessary.
"This money will go tow!ird the general operations of the city," Crabtree said. "Shell's
recent reassessment of their land value is also a contributing factor to the tax raise."
Crabtree said he hasn't heard any comments or complaints about the proposed increase, but
hopes the public hearing will allow citizens to express their. thoughts and concerns.
In Pasadena, Dave Benson, executive assistant to the mayor, said there are no current
plans set forth to raise property. taxes.
"Our property tax is on~ of the lowest in the area...and the mayor plans on holding the
property tax rate steady," Benson said.
The public hearing regarding the Deer Park tax increase is scheduled to be held at City
Hall at 710 East San Augustine at 7 p.m. on Sept. 7.
10.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:52 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Katy: revenue windfall short-lived; city to return sales-tax funds to Houston, utility
districts
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 8:24 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Katy: revenue windfall short-lived; city to return sales-tax funds to Houston,
utility districts
Aug. 17, 2004, 10:27PM
Katy revenue windfall short-lived
City to return sales-tax funds to Houston, utility districts
By JUDITH HINDMAN
Chronicle Correspondent
Katy officials are sitting on a $400,000 windfall they won't get to keep.
Instead, they soon must return the money to the state, which then will send it to its
rightful owners - the city of Houston and several municipal utility districts.
Katy officials said the money in question has been placed in a special fund, and they
don't anticipate a negative impact on the city budget.
The unexpected cash flowed into Katy's coffers as a result of Houston's partnerships with
MUDs in unincorporated parts of west Harris County. The agreements allow Houston to levy
an additional 1-cent sales tax in the area and share half the money with the utility
districts.
However, businesses within some of the utility districts, particularly along Fry and Mason
roads, have a Katy address even though they are outside that city's limits.
As a result, the Texas State Comptroller's office has been erroneously sending the extra
1-cent sales tax to Katy.
"We've been getting sales tax from a lot of those businesses out there," Katy
Administrator Johnny Nelson said. "We don't know the exact number, but we're estimating
we've probably received somewhere around $400,000 more money than is ours."
And that's just about the amount of increased revenues that have flowed into Katy's
coffers in recent months.
City Treasurer Byron Hebert said the first big surge in sales-tax revenues came in
February when Katy's sales tax receipts were up 11.38 percent, or nearly $73,600 above
that of the previous year.
However, since that total monthly sales tax income of almost $720,500 was for the month of
December, city officials assumed that Christmas sales at Katy Mills must have been
particularly good.
"The January sales taxes (received in March) should have flattened out, but they didn't,"
Hebert said, giving city officials the first clue that somethin~ was amiss.
July alone had sales-tax revenues that were up nearly $60,000 and in June the revenues
11
were up more than $114,000.
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"That's when we caught it, when we started seeing these big numbers. And we" thought that
can't be right, either that or we're doing really well," Nelson said.
He said the mistake was compounded because only recently did the city receive a list of
businesses whose sales tax was going to Katy.
After reviewing the list, city qfficials gave the comptroller's office the names of
businesses outside city limits.
"They're going through that now and they should have a correct number for us soon, but 1
don't know when," Nelson said. "1 hope it's soon. We need to know exactly where we are
(financially) ."
Sales-tax receipts for the first seven months of 2004 show Katy ahead by 13.68 percent, or
$403,449. So far this year, Katy has received more than $3.35 million in sales-tax money.
Sales-tax revenues at this same time last year were $2.95 million.
Hebert said the city is putting the excess money into a separate account that will be
payable back to the state.
Because the $400,000 has been set aside, there should not be any adverse effect on Katy's
budget, he said. Additionally, the comptroller's office has said it will work with Katy to
minimize any potential negative effect, Hebert said;
As for the 2004-05 budget, which begins Oct. 1, Hebert" said the city is planning for about
a 2 percent increase in" sales-tax revenues.
He said that number is pegged to the Katy Mills mall's 2.3 percent increase in sales-tax
collections since October 2003.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:48 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Marshall: city t;:Ix rate not expected to rise
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 7:49 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Marshall: city tax rate not expected to rise
City tax rate not expected to rise
By JULIA ROBB
Special Projects Editor
Marshall News
Marshall's proposed $14.1 million general operating budget for 2005 represents a $850,000
increase over this year's operating budget, while the proposed $8.5 million water
utilities budget represents a $1 million increase, according to City Manager Frank Johnson
and Assistant City Manager Janet Cook.
The 49 cents per $100 property tax is expected to remain the same, they said.
The rising costs of utility operations, including chemicals used to treat the city's -
water, accounts for some of the increase in the water utilities budget, they said, but the
city will also spend $250,000" to upgrade Marshall's water lines as well as make an annual
$530,000 payment on the city's 2003 bond issue.
Payments will continue for the next 20 years.
The bond issue financed improvements to the city's sewer lines.
Johnson said the operating budget is rising due to increased costs. But the jump is also
due to an additional $125,000 in spending over this year's allocation for street
improvement and the $66,000 being spent on new police cars.
Commissioners also plan to give Marshall's library the $40,000 it needs to keep its
accreditation with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, Johnson said.
One of the criteria for library accreditation is funding and recent city budget cuts have
undermined the library's ability to meet the minimum funding requirements, Librarian Patsy
Harmon has said, explaining that a loss of accreditation would mean losing $168,000 in
free materials and free access to data bases.
Commissioners are also spending $113,000 on the seniority pay system for city police
officers and firemen.
Johnson said city commissioners made a commitment to establish seniority pay last year so
that senior employees would make more money than newer members to those departments.
The new system began in January, 2004.
In the past, officers of the same rank made the same salary no matter how long they had
been in the department.
Officials must also pay $191,000 to cover city health insurance costs. The fund is self
insured.
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Commissioners have asked a consultant to design a new health insurance plan for the city,
but Johnson said city officials are not sure what kind of insurance the consultant will
recommend.
Commissioners have decided to hire a city marshal, therefore added $66,000 for the
marshal's salary, operating costs and municipal court expenses.
The marshal will serve outstanding warrants, arrest those" with outstanding warrants and
bring defendants before the municipal court judge, Johnson said.
Commissioners also want the new marshal to create a community service program for
offenders, Johnson said, in order to prevent them serving time in city jail.
Johnson said commissioners want to close city jail permanently by reducing the "number of
prisoners and sending others to Harrison County Jail, but a proposed agreement with
Harrison County Sheriff's Office has not been finalized.
Johnson said although the proposed property tax rate will stay the same, higher property
appraisals will bring in about $350,090 in additional revenues.
Increased budget costs will also be covered by additional monies provided by city
ambulance service, he said, and a jump in city sales tax revenues.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:47 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Gladewater: city proposes 5-1/2 cent tax decrease
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 7:45 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Gladewater: city proposes 5-1/2 cent tax decrease
08-19: Gladewater propo~es 5-1/2 cent tax decrease
By PATRINA A. BOSTIC
Longview N~ws Journal
Gladewater is expected to approve a spending plan tonight with a 5-1/2 cent decrease to
the city's property tax rate, as well as salary increases, vehicle purchases and street
paving projects.
"I'm very pleased with (the proposed budget)," said City Manager Jay Stokes. "I'm happy
about being able to lower the tax rate. We're paving streets, and we are making some
capital purchases that are needed. We are providing for the match for several grants, and
we are able to give employees raises. I'm very pleased we are able to do all that in this
budget."
Even with the tax rate decrease, some property owners could pay more to the city because
of increased property values in Gladewater, which increased by $25 million this year to a
total of $266 million.
The average housing value increased 5.29 percent over last year, Stokes said. The tax rate
is expected to be lowered by 8.8 percent, from 62.2 cents per $100 in value to 56.7 cents
per $100.
The spending plan calls for all city employees to receive a 4 percent raise, while some
will get an additional 21/2 percent merit increase.
The city plans to collect $3.5 million in revenues in the fiscal year that begins Oct. 1,
up from $2.7 million Gladewater expects this year. Stokes said several items make up the
increase, including a Main Street Project loan of $425,000; increased tax revenue of about
$200,000; and homeland security grants of $147,000.
The city's municipal court revenues are expected to exceed $200,000. And the city
estimates it will receive $75,000 from land and timber sales and will use the funds to
pave city streets.
The city will purchase two new police cars and a dump truck, costing together about
$75,000, Stokes said. And the city will spend about $96,000 on street repairs.
On the Net:
City of Gladewater:
www.cityofgladewater.com
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:47 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Richardson: 4.73-cent property rate hike proposed to cover higher spending
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 7:40 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Richardson: 4.73-cent property rate' hike proposed to cover higher spending
. Tax increase part of budget
4.73-cent property rate hike proposed to cover higher spending
07:04 PM CDT on Wednesday, August 18, 2004
By SARAH POST / The Dallas Morning News
The proposed $138 million budget unveiled by Richardson officials this week includes a
higher property tax rate to cover a 4 percent increase in spending.
The recommended 4.73-cent tax rate increase would be the second in three years and cost
about $77 more per year for a home assessed. at the city's average value of $163,710. It
comes with a proposal to hire more police officers, pay public safety personnel more
competitively, and restore maintenance to parks and other city facilities.
"We think we'v. been' able to move toward a more acceptable position," City M~nager Bill
Keffler said of the tax rate increase.
The rate has been reined in over the last six weeks from a proposed 8.8-cent increase.
Last week; officials recommended a 5.83-cent increase but reduced it another 1.1 cents
after receiving greater-than-expected sales tax revenue and trimming about $500,000 in
expenses.
Mr. Keffler said the reductions are part of a more realistic schedule for filling vacant
non-public safety positions.
The proposed budget would set the property tax rate at 52.516 cents per $100 of assessed
value, with 34.9 cents for operations and maintenance and 17.6 cents for debt service. The
budget contains no money for 1997 bond program projects or new debt, and city officials
are' proposing no other rate or fee adjustments.
When'only non-personnel costs are considered - things such as contracts, maintenance and
supplies - t~e recommended 2004-05 expendi~ures are below 2001-02 budgeted levels.
The 2004-05 budget is highly focused on police and fire operations support. Some of the
highlights are:
$800,000 to replace two fire engines
. $500,000 to hire 18 police officers
. $2.3 million for compensation adjustments, 70 percent of it for fire and police
personnel
. $800,000 for employee health-care expenses.
Mr. Keffler said the budget does a good job of "balancing a backlog of expectations" and
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prioritizing employee compe~tion.
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Mayor Pro Tern John Murphy said the budget is too optimistic. Sales tax, now the city's
second-largest revenue source, is expected to decline again next year despite a recent
uptick.
"It's as unreliable as anything," he said. "And business personal property is not coming
back anytime soon, so we're relying on retail sales tax."
Council member Jim Shepherd agreed but said he would not support a higher property tax
rate than the one recommended.
"We need to accept a nominal tax rate increase now and plan for capital expenditures as
soon as the budget can stand it," Mr. Shepherd said. "We should be rejoicing that we can
take care of some very important needs in public safety and, with luck, next year we will
be able to look at capital e~penditures for things like roads and sewers."
The council is set to adopt the proposed budget and tax rate Sept. 27.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:46 PM
Wolny I Shelley
FW: Mesquite: shortfall leads to shuffle; property tax revenue less than expected; rate
increase proposed
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: .Thursday, August 19, 2004 7:38 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte;tx.us
Subject: Mesq~ite: shortfall leads to shuffle; property tax revenue less than expected;
rate increase proposed
Shortfall leads to shuffle
Property tax revenue less than expected; rate increase proposed
06:36 PM CDT on Wednesday, August 18, 2004
By KARI~ SHAW ANDERSON / The Dallas Morning News
Disappointing news about property tax revenue has forced Mesquite officials to do some
last-minute.shifting to meet spending priorities for the coming fiscal year.
Planners had expected to see about a 4.6 percent increase in property tax rolls after
appraisal protests were completed. Ins~ead, certified summaries submitted this month
showed a rise of 1.6 percent.
"Basically, we took a $643,000 hit to our budget over what we thought we were going to
ha~e," s~id City Manager Ted Barron.
Small shifts.made up most of the gap, but a tax rate increase of 4 cents per $100 of
p.roperty value is proposed to cover the rest, plus spending increases.
A public hearing and vote on the higher tax rate are scheduled for Sept. 7.
In all, the $88.6 million general fund budget for. 2004-05 is about $4.2 million greater
than the current fiscal. year's adopted budget.
Much of the. increase, about $2.7 million, would pay for enhanced fire and police
protection. In addition, $1.5 million of the 4B sales tax revenue has been pledged to
bolster public safety.
. Studies have shown that requests for police service have. grown faster than the population,
Mr. .Barron said.
"We've been adding about 2,000 residents each year," he said. That's a growth rate of 13.4
percent.
Meanwhile, the index for the most serious crimes has risen 15.7 percent, he said.
"We will be addressing needs that have been building over the last four years," Mr. Barron
said.
To do that, the city will add 11 police employees and expand the department's office
. space.
Six of the new employees will be patrol officers. Two will be communication operators, and
~n officer added to crime prevention will double that unit's staffing. Two civilian
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employees will be assigned ~the property room, which will4ltee up one officer assigned
there.
The department expansion will probably involve adding on to police headquarters, although
plans are still being developed.
Fire protection will be reinforced with seven new employees. Six will be assigned to the
new Station No.1, for which ground will be broken today. Station construction will be
financed with 4B sales tax money. The station will house a new aerial truck to help cover
the southern half of the city.
Mr. Barron said having that extra piece of equipment and beefed up staffing eventually may
save home and business owners money by improving the city's insurance rating.
Other key budget items include adding three code enforcement employees through the
Community Development block grant budget; pay raises of 2 to 5 percent for fire and police
employees, depending on rank; up to 3 percent merit raises for other city employees on
their anniversary dates; and a market pay adjustment for 194 city employees.
In addition to the possible property tax increase, water rates are going up.
Higher water and sewer service costs charged to the city prompted the 12.4 percent rate
increase, Mr. Barron said. For a home that consumes 10,000 gallons of water, the water and
sewer bill will increase by about $5.85 a month.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Thursday, August 19, 20041:46 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Murphy: 2004-05 tax rate to increase 2 cents
For budget files.
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 7:31 AM
To: a1exanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Murphy: 2004-05 tax rate to increase 2 cents
Murphy's 2004-05 tax rate to increase 2 cents
By Jon McMahan
Wylie News
Even though it's an early look, Acting City Manager Craig Sherwood proposed a property tax
increase from 44 cents to 46 cents to cover the city's debt and operating costs for 2004-
05.
The general fund - which is budgeted for $5.2M - is "flat compared to last year," Sherwood
said.
There was no real opposition from the 'council on' this proposed increase.
The utility fund will increase from $3.5M in '03 to $4.3M for '04-05. Water rates will go
up five cents.
The 2004-05 budgets, contain cuts in some of the general fund departments. They include
eliminating city jobs, downgrading others and reorganizing staff.
A budget work session is scheduled for Aug. 28 and a public hearing is set for Sept. 8
with a meeting scheduled to adopt the tax rate Sept. 20.
Also, at Monday's special meeting the audience of about 75 residents heard Mayor David
Trudeau and Mayor pro tem Kent Bogdan' speak for themselves about the petition submitted
recently to recall them.
In long prepared statements both officials denied misconduct or breaking city charter
rules.
Bogdan recapped the series of emails through early 2004 that indicated wrong doing on the
part of city staff, a lack of communicating to the council and other financial mis-steps
that resulted in five key city staffers losing their jobs.
"We had the courage, and unwavering desire to do what's right," he said in summary. "We
have no ulterior mot~ve than to make Murphy a better place to live."
Trudeau answered each of the petition'S allegations. He pointea out that the charter's
rules' may be open to more interpretation than originally designed.
He opposed the charter because "it didn't have enough checks and balances to avoid what
has happened," he said.
"It didn't represent Murphy and gave too' much power to the city manager."
The mayor said the council is now in ch~rge of the way Murphy ,will grow arid spend its
money.
20
"We are now in control of t~ city's finances that were ver~ut of
fix this $2 million shortfall," he said. "We will not let unethical
unchallenged. We are moving ahead encouraged that we will prosper."
control. We now can
behavior go
The subjects of the recall petition addressed the crowd under the agenda items "Public
hearings to permit Mayor and/or Mayor pro tem, who are the subject of the recall petition
submitted July 1, 2004, to present facts pertinent to the charges specified in the reca~l
petition, pursuant to section 6.06 of the Home-Rule Charter."
City Attorney Robert Brown told the crowd the hearing was "giving the opportunity for
David Trudeau and Kent Bogdan to given an un-interrupted statement."
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From:
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Subject:.
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 200410:23 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Paris: city backtracks on budget decision to close garage
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004'10:18 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Paris: city backtracks on budget decision to close garage
city will not close garage
By Danny Gallagher
The Paris News
Published August 17, 2004
.Interim City Manager and Public Utilities Director Terry Townsend announced Monday that
the city does not need to close its garage.
Not having regular access to a garage would be too expensive and less efficient for the
city of Paris, Townsend said.
"~t may not show. up publicly yet that we have the garage there," Townsend said, referring
to the 2004-2005 proposed budget. "But I don't believe we'd be as well off without it. It
would take a lot more time to get the vehicles ba.ck."
The proposal for reinstating the garage, however, could include two less mechanics along
with a number of other cuts in the garage's expenditure budget and budget cuts in five
other departments, Townsend added.
Townsend, several' department superintendents and Paris City Council members proposed
nearly $229,250 in budget cuts for public works, parks and recreation, municipal pool,
sanitation, streets and the garage department, including the return of a $50,000 grant to
develop trails along Lake Crook.'
Townsend also asked for several additions to expenditures, including $20,000 for electric
utilities for the parks and recreation department for lighting the sports complex. Members
of the council proposed a possible increase in sanitation fees.
Taxpayers could face a fee raise as high as 50 cents per month, under the proposal offered
by council members. The increase would allow the city to gain back a surplus the
sanitation department had three years ago when landfill fees were considerably lower.
"If you look back about 10' years ago, the' revenue was around $1.3 million and expenses
were around $1 million," District 6 Councilman Don Wilson said. "Now, we're still earning.
$1.3 million, but our expenditures'are up to $1.3 million. I think it's time we raise the
sanitation fee because the expenditures are rising but the revenue is not."
Finance Director Gene Anderson said current rates are $14 a month, and District 7
Councilman Jim Bell proposed a 50-cent increase for the proposed budget.
The Lake Crook. Trails development grant, which the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
approved for the city almost two years ago, would provide partial financial support for
8.6 miles worth of trails around Lake Crook.
Because the deadline'was so far off, the city put off spending money on the proj'ect
because of other concerns, Townsend said.
1
"If we start it, we have to~aintain it," Townsend told the4ltuncil.
recurring cost. We will spend some man hours out there."
"It's going to be a
For the parks and recreation department, Townsend proposed a total of $21,400 in cuts to
various funds, but he asked for $34,600 in additional spending, including $20,000 more for
electric utilities, which he predicted would be much higher than usual because of
additional lighting and a sprinkler system for the city's new sports complex on the north
side of Love Civic Center.
"We've tried really hard to keep them turned off," Townsend said. "If we don't need them,
we won't use them."
Wilson reiterated an earlier point about the city's past indebtedness.
"This goes back to what I said two or three meetings ago," Wilson said. "We've already
paid for the house, but we can't afford the electricity."
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From:
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Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 200410:03 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Hutto: city considers lower property tax rate, but spending to increase 30 percent
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:51 AM
To: a1exanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Hutto: city considers lower property tax rate, but spending to increase 30
percent
Hutto considers lower property tax rate
Proposed $7.4 million budget. would still be 30 percent above current spending
By Camille Wheeler
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
The Hutto City Council is moving toward approving a 2 1/2-cent property tax rate decrease
that would lower the tax bill for the owner of an average~value home by about $20 next
year.
. .
The city's proposed $7.4 million budget -- 30 percent larger than last year's approved
spending plan -- includes a 47.8-cent tax rate.
That figure is 4 1/2.cents above the effective tax rate, which is the rate needed to raise
the same. money. as last year, not counting new construction.
But Hutto, a rapidly growing.city of 8,000 people, is getting more than its share of
construction, including a 177,000-square-foot Home Depot scheduled to open in October and
a new-home building boom that shows no signs of slowing..
Consequently, the city expects a significant increase in property tax revenue next year,
City Manager Mel Yantis said.
The current tax rate of 50.3 cents per $100 of assessed value raised the tax bill for the
owner of an average-value home $175 last year.
The council set that 12-cent rate increase to cover debt from a$9.5 million street and
water bond improvement package.
"The way it looks, and what we are hoping is, we can go into the budget year actually
lowering (the tax rate) and make sure we're. moving in the right direction," Mayor Mike
Ackerman said Tuesday.
The budget. includes $43,500 for two new school resource police officers and $27,400 for
pay increases for about 18 of Hutto's 40 employees.
Home Depot is projected to produce about 40 percent of the $600,000 in sales tax money
Hutto expects to colle~t by the end of 2005.
cwheeler@stat~sman.com; 246-0008
Hutto budget at a glance
Proposed budget: $7.4 million, up 30 percent; last year's approved budget was $5.7
. million.
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Proposed 2004 tax rate: 47.8 cents per $100 of assessed property value.
Effective tax rate: 43.3 cents per $100 of property value.
This year's average tax bill: For the average-value home of $115,230, the tax would be
$552.
Last year's average tax bill: For the average-value home of $113,607, the tax was $572.
Major proposed changes: $1.3 million for new police cars, officers, communications
equipment; additional $43,500 for two new school resource police officers; and $475,000
for new maintenance equipment.
Public hearings: Sept. 7 and 15
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From:
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Alexander, Cynthia .
Wednesday, August 18, 20049:42 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Rockwall: tax rate unchanged in preliminary budget
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:14 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
.Subject: Rockwall: tax rate unchanged in preliminary budget
Tax rate unchanged in preliminary budget
05:58 PM CDT on Tuesday, August 17, 2004
By JUDY EVANS / The Dallas Morning News
Rockwall's 36-cent tax rate should hold steady for the seventh straight year, thanks to
rising sales tax revenue and a double-digit increase in the property tax base.
However, higher appraisals will still mean higher tax bills for many residents..
City Manager Julie Couch painted the rosier economic picture Friday.
"I'm not going to be overly optimistic," she told City Council members.during an all-day
budget meeting, "but next year should be a much better year.".
It.ls always difficult to find money to pay for the city's needs, but the job was made
easier this year by the improving economy, Mrs. Couch said.
"There were positions requested that were not funded," she said, "but our budget is based
on the belief that the economy is turning around and can optimistically continue to
grow. "
Her proposed. $15.56 million budget represents a-spending increase of $1.28 million, or 9
percent. The increase will be balanced by a revenue increase of $933,700, or 6.2 percent,
plus a surplus from the current fiscal year.
Mrs. Couch predicted that the housing market would remain strong, with a 10 percent growth
rate that would attract about 2,500 new residents. She projected a $400,000 increase in
sales tax revenue. Sales tax revenue would fund 42 percent of the budget.
The budget calls for a reserve fund of $6.6 million, almost five months of operating
costs.
But the goo~ news didn't come without a warning of things to come.
Mrs. Couch said the tax rate could jump 3 cents in 2005-06 to make payments on half. of $20
million in vo~er-approved bonds for street and drainage projects.
"That's a possibility,~ she said, "based on a very conservative estimate."
The money would. fund improvements to roads such as Clark Street, Industrial Boulevard and
Lakeshore Drive.
Mayor Ken Jones praised the work Mrs. Couch and her staff did on compiling the budget,
laughingly adding, "I.don't want to be the first mayo~ to raise the tax rate in all these
years." .
Mayor Pro Tern Tim McCallum said getting by without a tax rate increase is a "fantastic
3
sign" of the city's conserJltive leadership, growth and gootllanagement, especially when
some other area cities are raising their rates.
But he said officials should continue to scrutinize spending and be mindful of taxpayers'
priorities.
"That should be our magnifying glass," Mr. McCallum said. "We should never forget that
these are taxpayer dollars, not ours."
Council members suggested no immediate changes to the budget, but they will still be able
to do so after a public hearing Sept. 7. The budget is scheduled to be adopted Sept. 20.
It will take effect Oct. 1.
The increased spending is mainly for core services, such as beefing up law enforcement.
The budget calls for adding 17 employees to various departments and raising pay an average
of 3 percent to keep salaries competitive.
The city would also start an employee wellness program in conjunction with Rockwall ISO.
, '
"I think the budget addresses our needs - not all of them but a good majority of them,"
Mrs. Couch said.
Police and fire department initiatives would include:
. Five more police officers, two of whom wouldn't be hired until April 1.
. Upgrading one officer position to, sergeant.
. Hiring an analyst to track crime trends and patterns.
. Buying five Tasers, which can deliver an electrical shock to temporarily disable a
suspect.
. Hiring a fire inspector-educator around April 1 to work with the school district to
develop safety training at'the.schools.
Among the other new positions are an animal control officer and shelter attendant and a
municipal court clerk.
Funding is also included to beautify city grounds, medians, and park and city entrances
with plantings including tulips.
Mrs. Couch said the expected 10.5 percent increase in the property tax base is a good
indicator of an improving economy. Last year was the first time in 'seven years that the
city's tax base 'growth had fallen below 10 percent.
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Wolny, Shelley.
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:42 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW:. Beaumont: tax rate trimmed, bills higher
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:37 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Beaumont: tax rate trimmed, bills higher
Tax rate trimmed, bills higher
By RACHEL STONE
The Beaumont Enterprise
08/f8/2004
BEAUMONT - Despite a slight tax rate cut, property owners overall would pay 5.6 percent
more in city.taxes under a proposal the Beaumont City Council weighed Tuesday.
With property values rising, keeping the current tax rate of 67 cents per.$100 would have
put the city in danger of sparking a rollback election.
Under the city's proposal, the rate would be lowered to 66.4 cents, or just more than a
half penny.below the current rate.
The rate would be less than one-tenth of a cent below the rate the city could ch~~ge
without. risking a rollback election.
Most homeowners and businesses will pay. more to the city than last year because their
property values, set by the Jefferson County Appraisal District, increased, City Manager
Kyle Hayes said.
Under the current tax rate, the city will get about $28.3 million in property taxes this
financial year, which ends Sept.. 30.
The city would get about $29.8 under the proposal for next year, or $1.59 million more.
A $164.7 million city budget proposal released last week includes a 3 percent pay increase
for 790 civilian employees (those not in the fire or police departments, which are covered
under separate contracts) .
Mayor Evelyn Lord said the city needs the extra money for pay raises, and sewer and
drainage system maintenance.
"We need more money than we're going to get to do everything that needs to be done," she
said.
A public hearing on. the. tax rate is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 31.
In other action Tuesday, the City Council approved issuing $17 million in water revenue
bonds. The money will go toward sewer improvements.
RBC Dain Rauscher offered the lowest interest rate of 4.818 percent.
"We were very.pieased with the ra~e we were able to get," Finance Officer Max Dup1ant
said.
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From:
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Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:41 AM.
Wolny, Shelley
. FW: Baytown: residents denounce council pay
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:30 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Bay town: residents denounce council pay
Residents denounce Council pay
By Kristopher Banks
Bay town Sun
Published August 18, 2004
BAYTOWN - There was an expected decline in attendance for the second public hearing on
possible changes to the City Charter, but there still was active participation and deeply
diverse opinions.'
More than 20 came to hear about and speak upon possible amendments to the city's governing
document Tuesday. Charter Review Committee chairman Joe Floyd said Monday that he would
have been happy if a dozep showed.
The public forum was the second of four planned events hosted by the Charter Review
Committee to gauge opinion on some of the issues they are addressing. The first was Aug.
10. The committee was appointed in January.to review the Charter for possible changes.
The Charter, ratified in 1948, dictates how the city's government is set up, including the
powers of the city administration and of City Council.
The first crowd largely supported paying Council members, but the idea took a hit at this
hearing when two Council members said they were opposed to. the proposal. Councilman Don
Murray said he was elected.to a volunteer position and did not see the need to pay Council
members.
"I volunteer my time," Murray said. "I would not work any harder or do any more if I were
paid."
Murray said Council members usually were reimbursed for expenses, and that was all that
was necessary. Councilman Ronnie Anderson also said.he opposed paying Council..
Margie Hartrick said the city-manager system of government eliminated the need for a paid
Council.
"We have so many wonderful volunteers in to~n," she said. "I think it's worked out well."
Chris Christiansen, however, said paying Council members would ensure that they were more
responsive to the city's needs. He suggested paying Council members $500 per month and the
mayor $1,000 per month. . .
"It will .help ensure that Council looks to the future for the city and not just their
districts' immediate needs," he said.
Opinion on another issue,- however, did not change from the first meeting. The Charter
section mandating that the city ,staff each fire engine with four firefighters was among
the most heated. Everyone who spoke on the possibility of its repeal opposed it, just as
at. the first public hearing. So many attendees.wanted to speak against the repeal that
7'
committee chairman Joe Flo~cut off discussion.
.
The section was put into the Charter in 2002 with 63 percent of the vote. Some at the
hearing were against the idea of putting it back up for a vote only two years after it won
by a large margin.
"(City administration) didn't believe we knew what we were voting about, and we knew what
we were voting about," Reba Eichelberger said.
City administration and Council opposed the amendment in 2002. An administration report to
the committee recommended removing the amendment.
"The voters spoke pretty clear," firefighter Marshall Hutton said. "There's no doubt in
anybody's mind. The committee should recommend this doesn't go to a vote."
Tom Carr, president of the firefighters' union, said voters passed the amendment because
they were concerned about a reduction in service. Before the amendment passed, the city
staffed three firefighters to a fire engine. After a state law passed in 2001 requiring
two firefighters to be outside a burning building before two could be sent in, the city
had to send two fire engines to a fire to ensure four firefighters were present.
"The city was well-informed," Carr said. "This is an issue of reduced service."
Robert Carr, a retired firefighter, said the amendment should be viewed as positive.
"We should be yelling from the highest ceiling that we have four-man staffing, and we have
the best fire department in all of Harris County," he said.
Floyd said he had received several phone calls in support of and in opposition to
repealing the amendment, but Aaron Smith noted that only those who opposed it were
represented at the forums.
"If there are people for this, I think it's interesting that nobody shows up," he said.
Residents at the forum were on both sides of most issues, however. Supporters of adding
at-large members to Council said the new members would add broader perspective.
"When we only have single member districts, we tend to get people who are narrowly focused
on their own interests," Christiansen said.
Opponents, however, said the new members would dilute minority voice on Council. Council
had at-large members until 1992, after a u.S. Supreme Court ruled that minorities would
face great difficulty being elected at-large in Bay town. There is only one minority
Council member. .
"We should not add at-large members for the sole purpose of not diluting minority voices
in town," said Carl Burg. "With Lee College, they've been unable to add Hispanics to the
Board (of Regents) for years."
All Lee College regents are elected at-large.
On the subject of extending term lengths, Anderson said two years was not enough time to
learn the workings of government.
"I thought I knew city government, but it took two years just to figure out all the
acronyms," Anderson said. "A two-year term is not sufficient. It wasn't until my second
two-year term that I started to become effective."
Opponents, however, said keeping the term lengths short ensured that Council members were
kept accountable.
"Two-year terms are fine," Eichelberger said. "It's enough to get an appetite of what the
Councilman is going to do, and we .can vote them out."
Whether those terms should be limited was another issue. Eichelberger said keeping members
to three terms would deter members from becoming entrenched. Others, however, opposed term
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limits.
"I think voters should have that opportunity," said Margie Hartrick. "Let's don't take
that power away from voters."
Burg said the voters always can fire their Council members if they stop serving
constituents well.
"We al~eady have term limits," he said. "Every two years, Council can be voted out."
There was agreement, however, that the process of filling a Council vacancy should be
changed to. allow for a special election. Council currently has that power. District 3,
vacant since Mayor Calvin Mundinger took office in May, still is open because Council is
deadlocked between two candidates.
"It's a stupid position to be in. and I think it should be changed," Christiansen said.
There remained support for allowing Coun~il to meet in closed sessions, with the
stipulation that the Charter specify for what reasons they are allowed to meet. State law
allows government bodies to meet in closed sessions.
"If it's per state law, we can't adjust that," Burg said. "I think it needs to be
specific."
City Attorney Ignacio Ramirez .said another issue, requiring the city to post agenda.s on
the Internet, could be problematic.
"The problem with putting it in the Charter is that today it's the Web, tomorrow it will
be something else," he said. "You don't want to micromanage in your Charter. The Charter
is your Constitution."
The city currently posts agendas on its Web site, www.baytown.org.
Robert Carr added that the Charter could be more specific about the city manager's duties.
Burg said the Charter should allow only one recall attempt per a term.
There .are two more hearings. scheduled: Aug. 31 at Second Baptist Church at .500 E. James
Avenue and Sept. 14 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 1124 Beech.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 2004 10:05 AM
Wolny, Shelley
. FW: Killeen: council eyes last-minute budget items, five-year financial plan
For budget files .
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18; 2004 9:59 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Killeen: council eyes last-minute budget items, five-year financial plan
Killeen council eyes last-minute budget items
By Lisa Soule
Killeen Daily Herald
Killeen council members grappled for more than six hours with last-minute budget items in
a workshop Tuesday.
The council is set to consider approving the city manager's preliminary budget in next
week's council meeting, although the decision could be postponed legally.
Tuesday's discussion also focused on a five-year financial plan which projected the city's
tax rate based on history, trends and a proposed $60 million worth of capital improvement
projects voters approved in 2002.
The plan, presented by J. Mark Carpenter of the Dallas-based Maximus consulting firm,
showed two scenarios, including a worst-case situation.
The first scenario showed a 77-cent tax rate in the 2006-07 fiscal year, about seven cents
higher than the current rate of 69.9 cents. It also showed a decrease, to a 74-cent rate,
in fiscal year 2009-10.
The worst-case scenario showed a steeper hike, with a 90-cent rate in 2006-07, topping out
at 99 cents by the end of the decade.
"This is quite alarming," Councilman Dan Corbin said, but he noted a higher population
might mean more houses, upping both property tax and sales tax revenue.
Corbin encouraged changing some of the report's assumptions and including the higher
population expected to come with the recent announcement of 5,000 additional troops for
Fort Hood.
The city will be able to make those changes with software provided by the consultants.
"I'm neither happy nor dissatisfied with the numbers," Corbin said. "What we wanted was a
tool to help us make decisions."
City Finance Director Connie Green said the benefit of a financial plan is that it warns
the council of the challenges it will face when moving ahead with capital improve~ents.
The preliminary budget includes the first phase of the capital improvement plan with about
$16 million in projects.
"This is a wake-up call," said Councilman Fred Latham. "We will make these judgment calls
as they. come."
Council members discussed the city's pay plans, with Mayor Maureen Jouett advocating
increases for police and fire personnel.
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The council agreed to perform a market-based study of all plans, which will be returned to
the group by the end of the year.
The council would not back the mayor's recommendation to increase funding for the
Firemen's Relief and Retirement Fund.
Jouett urged members to raise the city's .match, making the city's contribution to the
firemen's fund equal to the city's contribution for other employees to the Texas Municipal
Retirement System.
Instead, council members backed the city manager's plan, which upped the city's match by 1
percent to make the pension system financially sound.
The council also reached a .consensus to study outsourcing the city's mowing operations,
custodial services, street maintenance and ambulance services. The group also agreed to
maintain the local option tax exemption of $20,000 per homestead for residents over the
age of 65.
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From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 200410:11 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Waco: city council okays budget, pay raises
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 10:07 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Waco: city council okays budget, pay raises
8/18/04
By PETER WALKER and MIGUEL LISCANO
Waco Tribune-Herald staff writers
The Waco City Council Tuesday unanimously approved a $202 million budget that includes a
pay raise for city employees and money for 49 new full-time positions but does not raise
taxes.
City Manager Larry Groth credited "the great economic growth with the tax base" for the
city's ability to hold taxes steady.
A vote on the tax rate, which is expected to remain at 69.97 cents per $100 appraised
property valuation, was set for Aug. 31. Although the rate is not expected to change, a
Waco homeowner with the average $76,000 taxable-valued residence will see a jump of about
$45 a year because of higher property vaiues.
The adopted budget included various increases to city fees, such as an rise in residential
utility bills to keep pace with rising operational costs and ongoing service improvements,
Groth said.
The base residential water rate will increase by $1.74, to $10.46. The garbage rate will
increase by 75 cents, to $12.70.
The higher fees for residential water and garbage should result in an increase of about 6
pe.r~ent., or $3.53, to the city utility bill for the average user of 8,000 gallons a month.
City Councilman Maurice Labens said he has heard scant concern about the rate increases
from residents.
"It hasn't been many and it hasn't been much," he said. "When you consider how many people
are affected, it'i not significant."
Labens described the increase as "modest."
The budget also includes more money for 11 new police officers - 10 patrol officers and
one detective. The new officers could cost the city up to $90,000 each in their first year
for salary, training and equipment.
The budget also granted a 3 percent pay raise for city employees, half a percentage point
more than originally proposed, and an increase in retirement benefits.
Currently, employees who put 6 percent of their wages toward a retirement benefit see the
city match with 12 percent. Under the new plan, if they contribute 7 percent, the city
would match with 14 percent. ..
Mayor Mae Jackson said she hopes the raise sent the message that the city's employees are
appreciated and that city does realize things are getting more expensive for them.
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"I think it's a small victory for the employees," she said. "I hope it says that this
administration and this council are doing all we can to keep our employees."
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From:
Sent:
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Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 20048:52 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Mineral Wells: council to air proposed budget, tax rate tonight
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 8:42 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.1a-porte.tx.us
Subject: Mineral Wells: council to air proposed budget, tax rate tonight
City Budget:
Council to air proposed budget, tax rate tonight
By Jerry Ambrose/
Mineral Index Staff Writer
The Mineral Wells City Council will conduct a public hearing tonight on a proposed 2004-05
annual budget of $18.3 million.
The meeting is at 6:30 p.m. at the City Hall Annex, 115 S.W. 1st St.
For the third consecutive year, authorities are holding the property tax rate at $0.61948
per $100 valuation, but because it is 4.8 percent above the effective rate of $0.59113,
state law requires a hearing. The hearing is open for public discussion.
City property valuation this year is $438.4 million compared to last year's $417.8
million.
Highlights of the budget proposal include:
€ A monthly sanitation fee for residential customers of $10.01 - a 25-cent increase per
household.
€ A 4 percent increase in water rates - the first rate increase since 2002.
€ A 4 percent cost of living increase for city employees - their first raise since 2002.
€ Addition of two full-time employees - a firefighter and a computer support specialist.
€ Dump trucks, tractors, pickups and other motorized equipment for the Public Works,
Water/Sewer and Parks and Recreation departments.
€ Two patrol cars and taser guns for the police department.
€ Bunker gear, pagers and hoses for the fire department.
€ An auxiliary power unit and upgraded fences at Municipal Airport.
€ $173,950 for water delivery improvements in the Pasadena Heights and Brazos Drive area.
€ $107,000 for utility replacement associated with the street improvement program.
€ $450,000 in airport improvements.
€ $80,000 to purchase the animal shelter currently leased.
As required by state law, a second public hearing is set for Sept. 7 before a council
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vote.
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From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 2004 8:36 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Bedford: council sets tax ceiling
For budget files
-----Original Message----~
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 8:35 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Bedford: council sets tax ceiling
Posted on Wed, Aug. 18, 2004
Bedford council sets tax ceiling
By John Kirsch
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
BEDFORD - The City Council agreed Tuesday night to set the tax rate no higher than 49.5
cents for next year's budget after earlier rejecting a proposal to set the ceiling at 75
cents.
The higher proposal came at the urging of Mayor Rick Hurt, who said the council needs to
raise enough money to handle all of the city's budget needs but conceded that his proposal
may not have been realistic. .
When Councilwo-man Alicia McGlinchey asked how Hurt arrived at that figure, he said: "I
just picked it out of the clear blue sky."
The council rejected Hurt's idea, then voted 5-2 to approve the 49.5-cent ceiling at the
urging of McGlinchey. Hurt and Councilwoman Pam Conley cast the two votes against.
The current rate is 38.9 cents. City staff members have officially recommended a 44-cent
tax rate but submitted a last-minute list of projects that could have boosted the rate to
52.9 cents. That rate is no longer on the table after Tuesday's vote.
Now, the council cannot set a rate higher than 49.5 cents for next fiscal year, though it
could set a lower rate.
McGlinchey said the 49.5-cent rate is needed to help solve the city's financial problems,
caused by lagging sales tax revenue.
More money is also needed to give city employees their first cost-of-living raise in two
years and to maintain city facilities, she told the council.
"The additional investment in our city is required this year," she said.
Former Councilman Danny McDowell urged the council to set the rate at 99 cents, saying
that it could prompt a debate about the city's direction.
"Exercise leadership and take. these steps. Be bold," McDowell said.
Resident Ralph Good took a more cautious approach, saying the council should look at ways
to foster new business that would generate revenue.
Officials have also suggesteq cost-cutting ideas, such as selling Sotogrande tennis
center, which they say is expensive to maintain.
Resident Lee Montz told the council that the center should remain .open.
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If the park is sold, he said, the money should be used to build a new center, perhaps at
Bedford Boys Ranch.
Hurt said he sympathized with Montz but will put public safety ahead of the tennis center
in budget priorities.
The official proposed budget for next year does not address the sale of the center.
The city's general fund budget would increase 9 percent next fiscal year under the 44-cent
tax rate proposed by city staff.
The most-expensive proposal under consideration for next year is an average 6-percent pay
raise for city employees.
Officials say the pay increase, which would cost an estimated $830,000,. is needed to
bolster morale and retain workers.
Top employees who have left in recent months include Bo Bass, the former deputy city
manager; Yvonne Rentschler, who was deputy recreation director; and Sherry Strayer, who
served as deputy director of tourism and special events.
Some city employees are trying to win public support for the budget, including the pay
raise.
Early Saturday morning, eight Fire Department employees gathered near Central Fire Station
to pick up 2,000 small blue fliers to distribute in Bedford neighborhoods.
The fliers stated that employees are facing their third year without a raise and that
police calls have sharply increased.
Mike Ross, a fire lieutenant who helped organize the effort, said the goal was to draw
public attention to the financial challenges the city faces.
He said the $150 cost of printing the fliers was paid by the firefighters association,
which he heads.
Other major new expenses next year include an increase in health insurance costs and the
hiring of four new pol~ce Department employees.
Bedford proposed budget
Adopted 2003-04 budget Proposed 2004-05 budget Percent change
Total budget revenue $45,076,030 $47,060i855 4.4
Total budget expenditures $45,216,458 $46,927,065 3.8
General fund revenue $21,354,449 $23,359,090 9.4
General fund expenditures $21,352,737 $23,333,667 9.3
General fund reserves $5,096,541 $5,121,964 0.5
Major new 2004-05 budget .items
.Average 6 percent employee pay raise $829,000
Employee health insurance $350,000
4 new Police Department employees $200,000
What it means to you
At. the proposed rate of 44 cents per $100 of assessed property value, the tax bill for the
owner of an average-priced house with no exemptions would be $656, up from $565 last year.
The average value of a house in Bedford is $149,168, up from $145,306 last year, according
to the Tarrant Appraisal District.
. Tentative budget calendar
4
Aug. 31: Public hearing an~irst reading of budget and tax4llte.
Sept. 14: Second and final readings of budget and tax rate.
SOURCE: City of Bedford
STAR-TELEGRAM
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Wednesday, August 18, 20048:33 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Hurst: water and sewer rates to rise' 7 percent; four percent raises in budget
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 2004 8:31 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Hurst: water and sewer rates to rise 7 percent; four percent raises in budget
Posted on Wed, Aug. 18, 2004
Water bills likely to rise in Hurst
By Adrienne Nettles
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
HURST _ City residents will see slightly higher water bills if the City Council adopts a 7
percent increase in,water and sewer rates.
The increase is part of the'city's proposed operating budget of $51.3 million. City
Manager Allan Weegar said the proposed rate is based on pass-through charges that Hurst
will absorb from Fort Worth and the Tarrant Regional Water District, the city's water and
sewer providers.
"This is just to meet expenditures," he said.
Mayor Pro Tern Larry Kitchens said he wished the council didn't have to consider the
increase.
"But mine are going up, too," he said. "When Fort Worth raises their rates, it doesn't
leave us much freedom."
The city has seen a steady decline in water reyenues because of ample rainfall, City
Finance Director Anita Thetford said.
At Tuesday night's meeting, the council discussed a proposed $26.5 million general-fund
budget that woul~ leave the property-tax rate unchanged at 49.9 cents in fiscal 2005.
The city expects a 4.4 percent increase in property-tax revenue from increased property
values, and a 4 percent increase in sales-tax revenue.
The ,council has proposed a' 4 percent across-the-board pay raise for the city's 380
employees. About 20 percent of, those employees will receive an additional 1 to 3 percent
market adjustment raises based on their pay 'grades.
The salary adjustments will help offset an increase in employee health insurance premiums,
which are expecte4 to triple. The city expects an increase of 39 percent, or $769,000, in
,the costs of its self-insured health insurance program, with'employees contributing
$222,000 of that amount.
Among other items to be'funded in the new fiscal year, which starts Oct. 1, are two patrol
officer positions~ and $240,000 in street and drainage improvements.'
Public hearing
A public hearing on the proposed budget is'set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Hurst City Hall,
1505 Precinct Line Road.
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ONLINE: www.ci.hurst.tx.us
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From:
Sent:
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Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Tuesday, August 17, 2004 8:58 AM
Wolny, Shelley .
FW: Waco: council poised to adopt $202 million budget
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, August 17, 2004 8:05 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Waco: council poised to adopt $202 million budget
8/17/04 Council poised to adopt $202 million budget
By MIGUEL LISCANO
Waco Tribune-Herald staff writer
The Waco City Council today is expected to adopt next year's $202 million city budget,
which includes a pay raise for city employees and money for about 49 new, full-time city
positions.
The council also will schedule a vote for Aug. 31 on the city's tax rate, which is
expected to remain steady at 69.97 cents per $100 appraised property valuation. City.
officials say the budget items are expected to pass without a hitch, as the council has
reviewed the issues in meetings throughout the summer.
"I expect it will be a fairly perfunctory thing," said Councilman Maurice Labens. "I
managed to get any questions I had left answered already, and so I don't have any
questions to ask on it. I don't anticip9-te any problem."
Although the tax rate is expected to remain steady, the average Waco homeowner - with
about a $76,000 taxable-valued residence - will see a jump of about $45 a year due to an
increase in appraisal. .
The budget includes various changes to city fees, such as an increase in residential .
utility bills to keep pace with rising operational costs and ongoing service improvements,
officials say.
If passed, the base residential water rate would increase by $1.74, to $10.46, and the
garbage rate would increase by 75 cents, to $12.70. Both fees are included in the same
monthly bill.
The higher fees for residential water and garbage would result in an increase of about 6
percent, or $3.53, to the city utility bill for the average user of 8,000 gallons a month.
The budget also includes money for 11 new police officers - 10 patrol officers and a
detective, which for the first year would cost the city up to $90,000 per officer for
salary, training and equipment.
"When you look at the number of officers we have available, and then the three shifts - 24
hours a day, seven days a week - we just.don't have enough patrol out on the streets to
give our citizens the protection they deserve," said Waco City Manager Larry Groth.
Groth said the new officers would. help solve that problem.
In addition, the budget grants a 3 percent pay raise for city employees, which is half a
percentage point more than Groth originally proposed, plus a hike in retirement benefits.
. .
Employees who' currently put 6 percent of their wages toward a retirement benefit - which
the city matches with 12 percent - would see. the rate changed to 7 percent of their
financial input matched 14 percent by the city.
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From:
Sent:
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. Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia .
Tuesday, August 17, 20048:57 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Round Rock: city manager says no room in budget for $9.8 million in firefighter requests
For budget fires
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, August 17, 2004 7:59 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Round Rock: city manager says no room in budget for $9.8 million in firefighter
requests
Round Rock firefighters'. requests called too costly
City manager says no room in budget for $9.8 .million in extras
By Camille Wheeler
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
ROUND ROCK -- City Manager Jim Nuse, frustrated with accusations from picketing,
firefighters who have turned up the heat in a battle to keep a fire station, says their
additional $9.8 million in budget requests over the next two years would raise the
property tax rate by about 20 cents.
"The budget can't support it," Nuse said, noting that" the firefighters' extra requests are
close to the $11.1 million in property tax revenue the city expects to receive next year.
"We. need an opportunity to grow into the programs financially," he said Monday. "I know we
. can get there."
The city's proposed $98.3 million budget includes a 3-cent property tax rate increase over
the current rate of 35.7 cents per $100 of assessed property value, one of.the lowest in
Texas.
The City Council plans to review the budget during its retreat Wednesday and Thursday at
the Texas.Disposal. Systems pavilion in Creedmoor, southeast of Austin.
Publicly, Round Rock's fire station debate has centered on whether to close Station No.2
downtown -- at 28 years, it's the city's oldest modern-era fire station -- and open a one
in North Round Rock, where city officials sayan expanding population is desperately short
of emergency services.
But juggling budget constraints and the needs of a fast-growing city remains the real
story, Nuse said. "Station No.2 is not the issue," he said. "It's not the disease; it's
the symptom.
"What is the best way to provide, fire service going into the future?"
Round Rock's proposed budget allots the Fire Department $8.3 million, including $288,000
for seven new firefighters. The city's projected 2005-06 budget also includes $8.3 million
for the department.
Billy Colburn, president of the Round Rock Association.of Professional Firefighters,
called Nuse' s t'ax rate comment "a scare tactic" and, said firefighters don't expect to
receive their extra requests immediately. The requests include a new ladder truck and
eventually equipping and staffing two new fire stations, including the proposed north
location.
"This needs to be done over three tq five years,." said Colburn, a member of the city's
3
fire service planning team.we fig,ure ,we need to ask for _and justify it now."
The conflict gained momentum Thursday when firefighters jammed a City Council meeting and
demanded that Round Rock's only downtown station remain open.
"The bottom line is that this plan .
Eggeling, a Central Station driver.
sacrifices safety for. dollars," said Rob
Mayor Nyle Maxwell said, "There is no question that your elected leadership supports our
firefighters.
"Drawing any sort of battle lines tonight or picket lines . . . would be premature. I
think we're moving way out in front of a very important issue."
An emergency service map shows that three other fire stations could cover the downtown
area, Nuse said. The Fire Department's 2003 report ranked Station No.2 fourth of five
stations in total calls received.
Colburn said firefighters are angry about a recent e-mail from interim Fire Chief Rocky
Garzarek to Nuse.
"The right thing to do is relocate station two to (the) northern portion of the city,"
Garzarek wrote.
Colburn said, "Our own fire chief is not fighting to keep a fire station here. Thereis
major turmoil in the Fire Department right now due to closed-door policy."
Garzarek defended the city, saying,the firefighters "chose to run out and get the
citizens' ear before we could bring them into the process."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Tuesday, August 17, 2004 8:55 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: La.Marque: city plans budget with new services, no property tax increase
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Monday, August 16, 2004 11:37 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: La Marque: city plans budget with new services, no property tax increase
By Scott E. Williams
The Galveston County Daily News
Published August 16, 2004
LA MARQUE - As the city prepares for a new budget year without a property tax increase, it
faces challenges in how to provide services, even with the influx of about $1 million a
year in tax revenues from a Super Wal-Mart and surrounding businesses.
. .
In budget workshops held over the past week, the city council planned to recommend adding
three new police officers and a new firefighter, and discussed a possible water rate hike
of about 15 percent. That would mean an increase of $6.42 for what City Manager Carol
McLemore called a median water. account using 5,000 gallons a month.
In the Feb.. 10, 2003, edition of The.Daily News, McLemore said that the. move of Wal-Mart
to La Marque from Texas City and .the.accompanying expansion of the store into a Super Wal-
Mart would generate seven figures in tax revenue. That would make what she called a "big
impact". on the city's $5 million budget.
On Friday, she told The Daily News that the increased revenues also came with increased
needs for services.
"A quarter of that million went to the La Marque Economic Development Corporation, and
we're having to spend more for increased police and other. services in that area," she
said. McLemore also said the retail area at FM 1764 and Interstate 45 was almost like. a
separate community from the rest of the city.
Most of the tax money, which she said even 18 months ago should not be considered a
windfall, would be absorbed when the city paid for the additional services the area
necessitated.
McLemore said the city would be sending residents a letter explaining the need for the
water rate hike and would schedule a public hearing on the matter.
"I realize it's easier to look in .hindsight, but the truth is, if we had raised rates
slightly over the course of the last few years, we wouldn't be having to look at this
now," she said..
Water rates have remained constant in La Marque since 1997.
Daniel Hernandez,. the city's finance director, said. cities have better bond ratings when
their utili.ties pay for themselves, instead of paying any losses out of its reserves.
~Plus, if you do that, your reserves are going to. run out quickly," he said. "And then
what?"
Utility holdings, such as plants and water lines, depreciate over the years and cost more
.s
to maintain as they age, H~andez said.
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That depreciation would leave the city's utility department with a deficit of nearly half
a million dollars, without a rate increase.
McLemore said the city was also paying for an ongoing capital improvements program that
would repave Cedar and Bayou drives, and improve drainage lines throughout the city.
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From:
Sent:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:44 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Greenville: budget does achieve some city goals
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Monday, August 16, 2004 10:06 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Greenville: budget does. achieve some city goals
Budget does achieve some city goals
By Brad Kellar/
Greenville Herald-Banner Staff
Monday, August 16, 2004 1:11 AM.CDT
Greenville City Manager Karen Daly can breathe a little easier, now that she has submitted
a proposed city budget for the 2004-05 fiscal year to the City Council. .
Daly was able to achieve several of the Council's goals, along with some of her personal
objectives, while including a small decrease in the property tax rate.
Employees would receive a 3 percent pay increase, new projects and personnel promotions
would help keep local residents safe and funds were found to pay for efforts to make
Greenville more attractive.
The budget also addresses some capital improvement needs, even as Daly raises some red
flags about what might be in store for the future.
First, the basics. Daly has proposed a $16.1 million operating budget for the year ahead,
paid for with a property tax rate of .799, reduced from the current .7992 rate.
This, despite a projected 20 percent rise in employee health care costs. Daly said the
budget absorbs the .increase and does not pass it along t~ workers,-despite the fund having -
already lost money for the past several years. .
"It -puts us back in the black," Daly said.
In exchange, all employees would undergo a mandatory health screening.
"The purpose is to look for major medical issues that could cause devastating health care
problems for the employee in the future," Daly said. "We want to try to-manage those and
get them into some managed care, to help them manage those diseasei."
The City of Greepville Code of Ordinances will be rewritten, Daly said, at the request of
city employees who found it .cumbersome to work with. .
"There comes a certain point when you have added and changed so many things that you just
have to take it, rewrite it and put it all back together," Daly said.
Every budget needs to account for routine repairs and maintenance and Daly said this year
is no exception.
She hopes to begin a pavement management system, to identify exactly what repairs are
- needed to local streets. Up to $800,000 in unused bond funds are being looked at to pay
for rehabbing about 30 streets next year.
There is money to pay for water line rehabilitation and for replacing a leaking roof at
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the Municipal Annex BUildi~
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Other building maintenance costs are going through the roof, literally. Daly said much of
the increase in the budget is for work needed at the existing Public Safety Building.
"What irks me the most is that we are going to spend a lot of money this next year just to
hold on until the new building is ready," Daly said.
Construction on a new police department and municipal court headquarters could begin this
fall, although the building is not expected to be completed until late 2005 or early 2006.
The cost of the project is also hitting home, as the debt for the $10 million in bonds
sold for the building and for other work won't be retired for about 20 more years, Daly
said.
"It's going to consume a lot of our debt for a while," Daly said.
Also creating red ink is the Paul Mathews Exchange Building. Daly discovered shortly after
she arrived last October that the leases being paid by the government agencies inside the
building would not cover the debt used to pay for its renovation.
To make matters worse, last year's budget underestimated the city's debt payment.
"I think last year the debt payment was about $200,000," Daly said. "This year it is
$412,000."
And while the Wright Park municipal golf course continues to be popular, the fees paid by
golfers still fall short of expenditures.
Daly said the situation was made even worse with the rainy start of summer this year, the
need for a new mower in next year's budget and payments on $462,000 in bonds sold in 2002,
which paid for improvements to the course.
"We don't have a lot of relief when it comes.to our debt side," Daly said. "It is just not
there."
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From:
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Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:43 PM
Wolny, Shelley .
FW:. Harlingen: pay raises will have to wait; some firemen, policemen to get longevity checks
For budget files .
---~-Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 2:04 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Harlingen: pay raises will have to wait; some firemen, policemen to get longevity
checks
City: Pay raises will have to wait
Some firemen, policemen to get longevity checks
By SERGIO CHAPA
and KEMBERLY GONG
Valley Morning Star
HARLINGEN - City officials told police and firefighters at a Wednesday night meeting that
they would have to wait until "next fiscal year" to receive a raise. .
City Manager Tommy Gonzales told the 45 police and firefighters in attendance they would
receive a one-time longevity paycheck in November instead. .
Ken Mitchell, the city's outgoing finance director, said police and firefighters would
receive $500 before taxes for every five years of service with a maximum of $3,000 for 30
years of service.
In the FY 2004-05 budget, that amounts to $99,896 in.seniority pay for cops and $111,688
for firefighters.
Gonzales said all other .ci ty employees would receive a 2 percent merit raise in the next:
fiscal year..
Before city officials can proceed with a pay study for police and firefighters, Gonzales
said they would have to hire a new human resources .director within the next four to six
weeks and stabilize city revenue streams.
"We are working on ways to bring in more revenue to pay for these things," he said.
The news was not well received by police and firefighters.
Police and Fire Association officials said as many as one-fourth of the city's 108
firefighters and 46 of 109 officers are not eligible to receive the longevity check.
"We're disappointed because the cost of living and health care costs have increased," said
Harlingen Firefighters.Association President Scott Bradwell. "We're going to continue to
lose trained and experienced firefighters until we become competitive with other Valley
cities."
Bradwell said the fire. department has lost eight men in the last two years to higher-
paying agencies.
"It puts us further behind with competitive pay with .other Rio Grande Valley cities," said
Sal Carmona, president of the Harlingen Peace Officer and Law Enforcement Association.
"They are getting. pushed further and further behind because of a lack of ~ay raises.".
Carmon said. the decision was disappointing because they endorsed Rick Rodriguez for mayor
3.
and Eddie Medrano for citY~iSSiOner based on their supp~ for police pay increases.
Rodriguez said the city tried to give police and fire fighters as much as they could.
"It's probably the most we could do with what money we had in the budget," he said. "It's
going to have to be a long-term solution, not a short-term fix."
Carmona said police would take the issue to voters next year in a referendum.
Firefighters Association Vice President Eddie Alvarez said although there has been no
formal dialogue between the two groups, they would consider cooperation in an effort for a
referendum.
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From:
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Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:43 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Killeen: mayor pushes for public safety pay raises
For budget files
-----Original Message----- ,
Sent: Thursday, August 12,2004 1:44 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Killeen: mayor pushes for public safety pay raises
Killeen mayor pushes for public safety pay raises
By Lisa' Soule
Killeen Daily Herald
While Killeen Mayor Maureen Jouett said she has always supported higher pay for public
safety workers, she has not been able to advocate for it in the past.
"Now I can push for it," Jouett said, noting her husband has retired as a deputy chief
from the Killeen Fire Department.' She said her public advocacy while her husband wa's on
the force may have been perceived as a conflict of interest.
"I feel really strongly about police and fire pay," Jouett said after Tuesday's council
meeting. The council had been discussing a list of budget issues during a workshop, which
was' cut short after Jouett suggested continuing the workshop discussion on television
after the regular meeting; "
Councilman Scott Cosper's motion to adjourn was followed by second, halted budget
discussions.
Besides the discussion of a l2-item list compiled by the city manager, Jouett said she had
her own list, which she delivered to the council at ,the workshop.
Increases in police and fire pay topped the mayor's list.
Jouett noted that non-civil service employees are classified by more than 50 different
levels. "There are only eight levels for police and fire."
The mayor's list also included upping the city's match for retirement pensions for police
and fire.
The West Bell County Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police has sent a payroll survey via
e-mail to the mayor and council members and suggested a pay' increase.
FOP President Frank Plowick said the plan, which would bring Killeen closer to the pay of
similar cities, would cost the city about $600,000.
While the mayor may be intent on pushing the issues through, some council members say it's
a belated effort.
"I think it's 'a little late to be bringing that' up since the preliminary tax rate has been
set," Cosper said. "It will be hard to fund a bunch of new programs it would have to'
come out of somebody else's budget.",
Councilman Dick Young agreed.
"Every dollar of the 69.9-cent tax rate is basically already committed," Young said. "If
5,
people want to bring forthtltOjects that cost money, we wil4ltave to draw down."
Councilman Ernest Wilkerson said he is open to looking into the matter.
"I think we've got to realize that the citizens of Killeen value their fire and police
protection," Wilkerson said. "They have stated it several times."
If an increase was approved, Wilkerson said the city may be able to scrub the budget in
order to come up with the funds.
Councilman Dan Corbin said he has not had an opportunity to study the issue.
"I do not have all the facts," Corbin said. "I am absolutely committed to not discussing
any issue until I have all the facts and have done all my homework."
City Manager David Blackburn said that although the preliminary tax rate has been set and
it cannot go higher, the council may make adjustments as it sees fit.
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From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:38 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Shenandoah: city moves to automate its utility meter reading process
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:22 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Shenandoah: city moves to automate its utility meter reading process
~ug. 11, 2004, 8:43PM
Shenandoah moves to automate its utility meter reading process System switch expected to
cut hours, expenses
By BOB HOWIE
Houston Chronicle Correspondent
Pending budget approval, the city of Shenandoah will spend $220,000 next year to automate
the city's utility meter-reading process.
Sometimes as many as four public works employees now spend two full days collecting data
from the city's 512 residential water meters.
What is taking as long as 64 staff hours to do .now can be done in about an hour by one
. person, after the automated meters are installed, said City Administrator Paul
Frederiksen. "If the council approves the expenditure, we will begin replaci~g~the meters
at no cost to. property owners during late fall and the winter," Frederiksen said. "This is
just part of our infrastructure operations and maintenance program, and it seriously
shortens the time it takes now to read the meters not to mention the data input time and
the increas~ in accuracy this system can achieve."
How it works
A water meter is fitted with a computerized communications module that talks to a device.
The device then transmits the data to a computer inside a truck driven near the meters.
The data collected inside the truck's computer is then downloaded into the city'.s
utilities billing computer.
All of this done in less than a few hours in a single day.
"The financial savings to the city is obvious and it also frees up our staff to do other
city business," Frederiksen said. "The system is also more accurate and the meters can
also transmit data as to their status; whether they need repair or replacement, thus.
allowing more efficient. management of our.water system billing." .
If City Council approves the expenditure, the money will be used to retrofit existing
residential water lines only. "The city now requires installation of (automated meter
reading)-capable meters in all new residential and commercial properties," Frederiksen
said. "So, we are already moving in the direction"of AMR capabilities at this time. We
will replace all meters citywide in the coming year if council approves the expenditure,
and I think the system will pay for the inve~tment in a very short period of time," he
said.
System benefits
As an example, Frederiksen pointed out the -existing method of reading water meters takes
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more than 500 hours a year~he new system will read the me~s in about 36 hours a year.
"That doesn't include the savings in manpower used by staff members who are inputting that
data," he said. "The data, too, coming out of the auto-downloads is more accurate as well,
leading to fewer mistakes in billing."
Adding the automated meter reading capability to the city isn't new to Shenandoah. The
Shenandoah Police Department and Municipal Court adopted an automated citation system some
time ago and both departments are realizing time savings as well as increased accuracy for
the court.
"We are expecting the same kind of time savings, convenience and accuracy in the utility
billing as we have in the court operation," Frederiksen said.
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From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:36 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Houston: cost of replacing ~ity-operated pool tops $1.2 million
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:17 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Houston: cost of replacing city-operated pool tops $1.2 million
Aug. 10, 2004, 9:01PM
Plans for Sagemont Pool are sinking
Cost of replacing city-operated pool tops $1.2 million
By RASHA MADKOUR
Copyright 2004 Houston Chronicle
It has been closed for the s~mmer and may not be reopened.
"It is going to be closed because it is beyond repair," said Houston City Councilwoman
Addie Wiseman.
"The city of Houston made a commitment to provide a new pool. at Sagemont Park."
The decision to construct a new pool was made in August 2003, Wiseman said, but "she
recently learned the parks department will not fund a replacement.
"I am adamantly opposed to that," Wiseman said. "The community is in need of a pool."
Last year, 5,976 people visited Sagemont pool, according to Houston Parks and Recreation
statistics.
Wiseman said she is strongly advocating. a permanent replacement.
"I am letting them (the city) know loud and clear that the community is not happy with it
(the decision)," Wiseman said.
"I tell them what is acceptable and what is not acceptable, and it's their duty to fulfill
it. II.
The city has agreed to hal't its plans for now, said Wiseman and Patrick T'rahan, a
spokesman for Mayor Bill White.
Officials will consult with constituents and take another look at the budget..
Parks Department spokeswoman Marene Gustin said. pools have a lifetime of"25 to 30 years.
"When their expiration date nears, the city. has two choices: to renovate or remove the
pool," Gustin said.
"Rebuilding 'costs between $1. 2-$1.5 million. Closing the pool costs $25,000. n
Wayne Stringer, president of American Pools, a Houston-based business, said renovation is
an endless cycle.
Among the components of pools that require replacement are the plaster, tiles and coping
. 3-
the trim around the
plumbing system and
pool -tltich have a lifespan of about
concrete deck, which last about 15-20
. years,
years.
as well as the
"This does not mean all the plumbing will go bad, or all the concrete deck will need
replacing. It's like a car, always little stuff breaking down," Stringer said.
Resident reactions
Some residents did not know the pool was to remain closed.
Darrell Martin, a Sageglen resident whose daughter and nieces attend Sagemont community
center during the day, said, "I think it's ridiculous.
"It should be open. There are other areas they can cut.
"The amount of property taxes we are paying today, we should be able to enjoy some of this
revenue."
His 14-year-old niece, Shanelle Martin, said she was "really disappointed" with the news.
"I had planned on swimming every day," said Shanelle, who has come to the Sagemont pool
every summer since she was 9 years old.
"I know everyone was looking forward to going swimming. It's a lot to miss."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia .
Monday, August 16, 200412:18 PM
Wolny, Shelley'
. FW: University Park'looks to cut tax rate for the 10th straight year; HP ay keep rate the same
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 11, 2004 1:10 AM .
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: University Park looks to cut tax rate for the 10th straight year; HP ay keep rate
the same
Stable rates belie higher taxes
Rising property values hitting homeowners in the wallet
06:41 PM CDT on Tuesday, August 10, 2004
By KRISTEN HOLLAND / The Dallas Morning News
University Park looks to cut its tax rate for the 10th straight year. And Highland Park
may keep its rate the same.
That doesn't mean homeowners in either community will be signing smaller checks, though.
Many.will pay more in taxes' because of rising'property values and because Highland Park
ISD's tax rate will stay at $1.61 per $100 valuation - $1.50 for maintenance and,
operations, the maximum allowed by the state, plus 11 cents for debt services.'
School district taxes make up about two-thirds of a homeowner's property tax bill in the
Park Cities.
Dr. Ben Coker, HPISD's assistant superintendent for business services, said that
homeowners will pay higher school taxes but that the district will collect less than last
year because of the state's school finance system.
"It looks' like we're getting a windfall because every single house in the district will be
paying about $500 more, but we're going to be half a million in the hole," he said.
"That's why we're in the courts."
Highland Park is part of a coalition of more than 300 Texas districts involved in a
lawsuit alleging that the state inadequately funds education and has created an
unconstitutional finance system. The trial began Monday.
The Legislature passed the school finance law in 1993 to maintain funding equity among
school districts. Disparaged by critics as the "Robin Hood" system, the law requires
districts deemed property-wealthy to give a portion of their tax revenue to the state for
redistribution to districts deemed property-poor.
The state received about $65 million from Highland Park ISD last year and will take more
than $69 million, nearly 70 percent of the district's tax revenue, in 2004-05.
- '
The 2004-05 school year's budget has yet to be approved, but school board members have
already made some tough cost-cutting decisions. Last spring, the board voted unanimously
to cut the elementary Spanish program to save money.
The situation surrounding city.taxes isn't as dire, but homeowners will see inc~eased
bills.
In Highland Park, the market value of an average. single-family home is $1,053,000
5
$30,000 more
according to
than last yea~The taxable value - $842,400 ~ about $24,000 greater,
figures the town received from the Dallas Central Appraisal District.
The appraisal district's figures are important because finance offices use them to prepare
tax rates and budgets for cities, school districts and county agencies.
Bill Pollack, Highland Park's finance director, said that the owner of that average home
would pay $1,937 - about $55 more - in town taxes if council members vote to keep the
property tax rate the same.
That total doesn't include the additional taxes owed to the school, community college and
hospital districts or the county. The total for that average home jumps to nearly $13,000
when just the school district taxes are added.
Residents can also expect increased bills for water and sanitary sewers under the proposed
budget. Mr. Pollack said that the average homeowner would pay an additional $8.06 a month
for water and $3 more a month for sanitary sewer usage.
The situation is similar in University Park, where the property tax rate may drop from
32.601 cents to 32.539 cents per each $100 of property valuation.
City finance director Kent Austin said the city has been able to reduce its property tax
rate because values keep inching up.
"Let's say the tax base goes up 10 percent," he said. "If we don't change our tax rate,
that means people are paying' 10 percent more."
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From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:08 PM
Wolny, Shelley,
FW: Harris County-Houston Sports Authority invited cash flow problem by relying on
assumption of ever-increasing tax revenue in unstable times
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:15 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Harris County-Houston Sports Authority invited cash flow problem by relying on
assumption of ever-increasing tax revenue in unstable .times
Houston Chronicle Editorial
Aug. 11, 2004, 9:45PM
'STADIUM DEBT
Harris County-Houston Sports Authority invited cash flow problem by relying on assumption
of ever-increasing tax revenue in unstable times.
Copyright 2004 Houston Chronicle
When government officials rely on ever-increasing tax revenues to balance their budget and
meet their obligations, they invite fiscal calamity. Former Mayor Lee Brown's
administration chronically overestimated city sales tax revenue.' Now the hotel and rental-
car taxes counted on to service stadium. bonds have gone south.
The Harris .County-Houston Sports Authority is not responsible for economic factors that
make the sale of $37.2 million in new bonds necessary. The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11,
2001 depressed travel worldwide. If all goes well, the bond sale will relocate financial
liability to out years when hotel and car-rental taxes should have climbed appreciably.
However, the authority is responsible for issuing around a billion dollars in stadium debt
on the mistaken proposition that tax revenues, on average, would rise 3 percent per year.
Over 2002 and 2003, the authority's tax revenues declined 10 percent.
Faced with the prospect of having its stadium bonds degraded to junk status, ,the authority
voted to issue more debt to ensure repayment of old debt that financed Minute Maid Park,
Reliant Stadium and Toyota Center.
Most of the hotel and car-rental taxes are paid by visitors. "The taxpayers of Harris
'County really aren't affected," Sue Millican, the author~ty's chief financial officer,
told the Chronicle.
Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Paul Bettencourt notes, however, that county
residents and business owners pay about half of all car-rental taxes and an estimated one-
third of combined hotel and car-rental taxes. Now local taxpayers will pay more to retire
stadium debt without getting more 'value for their money;
About $15 million in proceeds from the sale of additional bonds are to be used to boost
the'authority's cash reserves set aside for.making bond payments in economic downturns.
The authority hadn't been able to make -the required cash reserve increase because of the
decline in tax collections and might soon have had to dip into' the fund to make bond
,payments. (Insurance would payoff the bonds in the unlikely case of a default.)
But every new bond sale adds interest and principal to the debt. The more debt the
1
authority takes on, the motltthe financing of the new stad~ comes to resemble
the Astrodome. Though obsolete and seldom used, that facility still carries tens
millions of dollars in debt.
that of
of
The county's three fine new sports venues are wonderful assets. They contribute to
redevelopment of the central city. Without them, Houston would not have hosted this year's
Super Bowl or All-Star Game.
After those gigantic events, however, hotel and car-rental taxes should not be lagging.
Add the Sports Authority to the list of government agencies that underestimate cost and
overestimate revenue - a list that, unlike tax revenues, grows inexorably.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
. Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 2004 12:07 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Victoria: lower tax rate in city spending proposal
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:39 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Victoria: lower tax rate in city spending proposal
Lower tax rate in city's spending proposal
August 11, 2004
DAVID TEWES
Victoria Advocate
The Victoria City Council got its first look Tuesday at the proposed $84 million spending
plan for the upcoming budget year and it includes a lower property tax rate and raises for
the city's nearly 600 employees.
Council Member Philip Guittard said while review of the budget will continue for several
weeks, he's pleased with what he's seen in previous work sessions.
"From the .'meetings we've had so far, I think we will be able to do most of the things we'd'
like to do next year,". he'~aid.
Guittard said, for him, one of the most important thi~gs in the budget is a plan to give
city employees an average'raise of 3 percent based on job performance. That. raise would
not apply to .the 200 or so police officers and firefighters, most of whom are getting a
$2,000 a year increase in their base pay.
Guittard said the employees need pay raises for their own well-being and' economic
prosperity. But he said it also helps the city attract and retain employees.
The council is also looking at the possibility of having to raise how much employees pay
for their health insurance by $25 per month. The city .would also pay an additional $50 per
month for each employee under that proposal.
Employees currently pay $20 to $70 a month for health insurance, depending on the type of
plan they chose.
"We don't like it," J.l.ssistantCity Manager Charles Windwehen said. "But we're doing what
we can to offset those costs."
Human Services Director Charmelle Garrett said the health insurance numbers are subject t~
change and will be discussed in detail in a later meeting. She said the city staff is
trying to find ways to cut costs and the council could opt to have the city pick up mor~
of the increase to reduce the burden on employees.
The proposed budget also calls for dropping the city's property tax rate from 70 to 69
~ents for each $100 of property value. .Because residential property values increased this
year in the city an ave~age of 8 percent, most homepwners will still be paying a larger
tax bill"
"If we wind up with a tax rate of 69'cents, that ought to please the taxpayers," Guittard
said. "It's not a whole lot, but a penny saved is a penny earned."
3.
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e
In a special meeting prior to the budget workshop, the council voted to give the public a
chance to become involved in how its money will be spent in the 2004-2005 fiscal year that
begins Oct. 1.
The council called public hearings on both the lower tax rate and the budget for Aug. 31
at 5 p.m. in the council chamber.
4
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia .
. Monday, August 16, 2004 12:07 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Georgetown: tax increases to fund police, library; proposed sales-tax increase could
mean bigger tax burden for
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:42 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la~porte.tx.us
Subject: Georgetown: tax increases to fund police, library; proposed sales-tax increase
could mean bigger tax burden for
Tax increases in Georgetown to fund police, library
Proposed sales-tax increase could mean bigger tax burden for Georgetown
By Jennifer Barrios
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
GEORGETOWN -- Georgetown residents will see increased "library hours and more police
officers and firefighters on the streets if the proposed city budget passes Sept. 28.
Those new services, however, come at a cost. The city manager's proposed budget includes a
5.7 percent increase in property' taxes to pay ,for them.
That means, taking into account a slight increase in home values, the owner of a house
valued at the city average would pay $40 more in taxes next year.
"This is a very. modest tax increase," said Micki Rundell, Georgetown's finance director.
The proposed tax rate 'is about 2 cents more than the effective tax rate, or the rate that
would be needed if the council wanted to raise as much money as it did last year.
The money would pay for increased weekend hours for the Georgetown Public Library and the
hiring of an additional four police officers and three firefighters. All employees.except
firefighters and police officers would get a 2.5 percent raise. Firefighters and police
officers receive standard step pay increases, which also are being boosted for newer
officers. And for the first time, police officers would be eligible for certification pay,
which they could get for ,things like increasing their education.
Library Director Eric Lashley said that if the budget were to pass, starting in October
the library would stay open for three extra hours on Saturdays and for six hours on
Sundays. Currently, the library is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
"We've never had Sunday hours before, and it's been in our long-range plan for over 10
years," Lashley said. "We're excited about that."
Fire Chief Anthony Lincoln said the new firefighters would help raise staffing on fire
trucks and slightly. reduce the amount of overtime that the department pays.
In addition to. higher property taxes, homeowners will pay about $2.45 more a month for
water and garbage service, Rundell said.
For the most part, department budgets remained the same.
"Over the previous three years, we cut $3 million out of our budget!" Rundell said. "So
there's not a.lot left to cut."
5
The 2004-05 budget isn't th~OnlY place where Georgetown retltents may see a tax increase.
The Georgetown City Council discussed putting a quarter-cent sales-tax increase on the
Nov. 2 ballot, but postponed consideration of the item until December. By law, that money
could be used only to fund economic development in the city or to reduce the property tax
burden.
A budget workshop is scheduled for 2 p.m. today in the Georgetown City Council chambers.
jbarrios@statesman.com; 246-1150
The Georgetown City Council is also considering putting a quarter-cent sales-tax increase
on the Nov. 2 ballot, a proposal that was discussed at Tuesday's meeting. By law, that
money could only be used to fund economic development in the city or to reduce the
property-tax burden. A quarter-cent sales-tax increase woulp raise about $1 million, said
Laurie Brewer, Georgetown controller.
"It would go to help recruit businesses, it would help us with commercial property tax and
jobs, and it's a good use of that money," said Mayor Gary Nelon.
A budget workshop is scheduled for 2 p.m. today in the Georgetown City Council chambers.
Georgetown budget at a glance
Proposed budget: $108 million, up 4 percent from 2003-04
Proposed 2004-05 tax rate: 33.79 cents per $100 of assessed property value
Effective tax rate: 31.97 cents per $100
This year's average tax bill: For the average-value home of $163,751, the tax ,will be $553
(not including exemptions)
Last year's average tax bill: For the average-value home of $159,271, the tax was $513
(not including exemptions)
Major changes: Four new police officers, three new firefighters, increased weekend hours
for the library, a 5.7 percent property-tax increase, rate increases for utilities.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:06 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Paris: council could close one fire station
For budget' files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:52 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Paris: council could close one fire station
Council could close one fire station
By Danny Gallagher
The Paris News
Published August ll, 2004
One of the city's four fire stations could be facing the sharp end of the Paris City
Council's budget ax in the coming weeks.
But District 6 Councilman Don Wilson said, "Everybody doesn't need to panic," noting that
the Paris City. Council has a responsibility to ask questions and hasn't decided anything
yet. .
During a five-hour budget workshop Tuesday, council members discussed the possibility of
closing one station to help reduce a projected deficit in the proposed 2004-2005 budget.
When Mayor Curtis Fendley asked Fire Chief Ronnie Grooms about the effects of closing a
station, the chief said he would have to research the matter further. But Grooms noted it
would have an effect on the fire department's' response time to local emergencies.
"We can make it work with three stations," Grooms said. "But there's also the:option of
what to do to deliver a certain level of service for the city. We can't help that the
city's growing ....but.this won't help our response time."
Wilson noted that Station No.4, 'which sits across from Paris High School on Jefferson
Road, gets the least amount of calls compared to the three remaining stations' and was
built in a very remote location.
"It's completely stupid that we have it out there because there are not any homes 'out
there," Wilson said. "If you don't have enough rooftops, why put a fire station out there?
That's just common sense."
Grooms said Station No. 4 was needed to meet the growth of the city and to cover outlying
areas outside of Loo? 271.
"We have to be to meet our requirements with respectable times," Grooms said. "We needed
the best geographic loca'tions to get the one and a half mile lap."
',Grooms and council members say they will 'explore a possible alliance between volunteer
fire departments in nearby cities such as Reno and Hugo, Okla. in order to combine forces
in case more men are needed on the scene or another department can get to the scene of an
emergency quicker. than the other department..
,During budget deliberations, Grooms and the council agreed on $92,350 in proposed budget
cuts ip areas such as minor apparatus,. travel expenses, electric utilities,. buildings and
grounds and training.
7
One area that was not affec~d wasoverti~e, for which GrooJltbudgeted $300,000, according
to budget projections.
District 7 Councilman Jim Bell asked if there is a way to determine how much of that
overtime is drawn while employees are being trained.'
"There's got to be some way to track overtime that's due to training and put it in the
overtime budget," Bell said. "We can't stop a guy from calling in sick, but we have some
control when it comes to training."
Grooms also announced several ongoing and upcoming building projects for the four fire
stations despite his suggestion to cut the building and grounds fund by $17,000.
Station No. 3 is entering the second phase of a parking lot renovation project, Grooms
said, but he recommended that "if you need to cut it, we'll cut it."
Most of the stations' remaining repairs include some painting and new locks for doors that
aren't secure, Grooms explained.
Wilson concluded deliberations about the fire department's budget by saying the council is
still exploring all available options and that nothing is final.
"We're up here trying to ask all the questions we can ask," Wilson said. "And we've got to
put them all on the table to find the best solution."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:06 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Paris: CLEAT joins in battle against budget cuts
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:53 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Paris: CLEAT joins in battle against budget cuts
CLEAT joins in battle against budget cuts
By Danny Gallagher
The Paris News
Published August 11, 2004
paris' police officers are no longer alone in their battle to keep their job benefits
safe.
The Paris police Officers Association announced Tuesday afternoon that it would be
starting a citywide campaign to inform the residents and municipal employees about
proposed budget cuts to the police department and how it feels it could affect public and
officer safety.
The announcement was made on the .steps leading into City Hall.
Sam Owens, association president, said the campaign,is designed to make officers' concerns
known to the.people of Paris.
"We want to outline our concerns because this affects all city employees;" Owens said.
"But we've lost two grant positions that haven't been refilled so this is a public safety
concern for citizens as well. We'll address other issues. as well, and we'll keep our ears
'open and listen."
Dwight Tiller, membership development director of the Combined Law Enforcement
Associations of Texas, attended the press conference to offer .the state organization's
support for the campaign.
"Anytime officers are cut, it becomes a public safety issue," Tiller said. "Due to pending
budget process, it's' also become a staff management issue. We're here to provide support."
CLEAT and the association say they plan to monitor budget deliberations closely in the
coming weeks because Tiller feels they will have ~helargest effect on how many employees
stay in Paris and how many can be hired.
"It's hard to be competitive and get qualified applicants if they're cutting the overall
benefits package," he said.
Tiller also noted the PPOA and CLEAT will keep a sharp'eye on the budget process.
"We're going to monitor it closely," Tiller said. "We'll also see what they cut out of the
pension budget."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
SubJect:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:05 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Wichita Falls: water rates may rise; no tax hikes; no major changes to city services
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2004 1:58 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Wichita Falls: water rates may rise; no tax hikes; no major changes to city
services
Water rates may rise; no tax hikes
Proposed plan shows no major cuts or additions to city services
By Brent D. Wistrom/
Wichita Falls Times Record News
August 11, 2004
Water rates may rise and property taxes hold steady, according to Wichita Falls' 2005
preliminary budget.
The tightly-wound $118.8 million finance plan released Tuesday, does not cut or add any
city services, indicate major changes to municipal departments or give across-the-board
pay raises to city employees. Instead, the budget maintains current services and continues
the city's performance-based increases of up to 2.5 percent.
Topping changes that affect residents' pocketbooks is a proposed 5 percent water rate
increase to pay for operating costs at the new reverse osmosis plant and offset sagging
revenues caused by lower usage.
"We knew going into this year that we'd be bringing them online and there were going to be
those additional water operating costs," City Manager Jim Berzina said.
The increase is the third since 2001, when rates spiked by 43 percent in order to begin
paying for a $118 million bond for massive improvement projects to add Lake Kemp to the
city's water supply. When the bond was issued~ a water rate study called for an additional
19 percent increase over four years to pay for costs associated 'with the new plants.
Last year, residents saw an 8.5 percent increase and were projected to receive a 5 percent
increase this year and next year.
But changes discussed Tuesday could change how the water rates are structured, Mayor Bill
Altman said.
The city may consider adopting block water rates that would lock current prices for 10 to
15 percent of the city's smallest users. The re-structuring, discussed by City Council
members and water consultants Tuesday, would call for an across-the-board 7.5 percent rate
increase. The plan would also charge higher rates for residents who surpass certain
consumption levels.
Under that plan, there would be no rate increases next year, leaving the city with about 3
percent less in increases than proj~cted in 2000, Altman said.
"It doesn't mean I like it any more," he said. "But we're still below what the citizens
were told in 2000 was going to happen."
With the block rate plan, 'more than 5,000 low- and fixed-income residents would have a
flat rate, and others would see increases based on how much water they use, Altman said.
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"The feeling was we need to give some relief to those people," he said. "Those folks, more
than any other, are feeling a disproportionate increase on rising gas prices and rising
expenses."
If adopted, the plan would begin in October when the city adopts a 2005 budget.
Altman said next year he hopes to consider cutting the decreasing block rates that reduce
charges for businesses as their water usage goes up.
In two to four, years, Altman said the city may consider slowly implementing increasing
block rates for commercial customers, including many industries.
Slowly introducing the increasing block rates would allow time so "business can work into
budgets without shock affect," Altman said.
Health and gas prices soared,
but local economy improved
Overall, the city's new budget marks a 6.4-percent decrease from last year's final budget,
but that will likely change with the addition of grants and funding that carryover from
the last fiscal year. City Manager Jim Berzina said with those extra funds, the city's
budget will increase about 3.5 percent overall from 2003-04.
And, while revenue for some departments fell, the city's general fund, which covers
emergencies and one-time capital expenditures, got a boost from a stronger economy.
Sales tax collections steadily climbed'and are up about 4.3 percent from last year. The
improving economy and tight budget led the city manager to forecast another 1 percent
increase from the already growing sales tax base.
That pushes estimated sales tax collection revenues to $17.3 million.
The last time the city saw a sales tax decrease was 2002.
But, perhaps the most marked monetary change in an otherwise straightforward budget was
increased cost for health insurance premiums for city workers.
. .
The 2003-04 fiscal year saw health costs soar for cities and businesses across the nation.
Those costs, coupled with marked increases in fuel and steel prices, pushed many budgets
into the red.
In Wichita Falls, where city employees saw a 25 percent jump in their health'insurance
premiums, the city is now paying its part - $952,000.
Those increases showed up in almost all city departments' budgets. .
The city estimates its health plan will cost about $7 million, ,compared to $5.5 million
two years ago.
"Costs were just going through the roof," Berzina said. "That's probably the biggest curve
in the budget."
Employee premiums increased in May 2003, January 2004 and again in June 2004, climbing a
combined 41 percent, according to the city budget.
"I don't like te"1ling the employees we have to do this," Berzina said.'" if you can
provide health insurance you're'ahead of the game because there's more and more places
that can't do it."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
SubJect:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:03 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Bedford: council considers 36 percent tax rate boost
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Saturday, August 14, 2004 10:30 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Bedford: council considers 36 percent tax rate boost
Posted on Sat, Aug. 14, 2004
Council considers 36% tax rate boost
By John Kirsch
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
BEDFORD - The City Council is considering a last-minute proposal to raise the city
property tax rate 36 percent next year, even though members spent nearly six hours Friday
looking at a far smaller increase.
After years of cutting budgets, Mayor Rick Hurt said, the time has come to adequately fund
city services so Bedford can continue to be an attractive place to live.
"We need to step up and be counted," he said.
Councilwoman Alicia McGlinchey agreed that taxes need to be raised but said 52.9 cents per
$100 of assessed property value may be too steep.
"I don't think we should bite off all that much in one year," she said.
Most of the discussion in the work session at the Law Enforcement Center focused on the
44-cent tax rate officially proposed by the city -- a 13 percent increase from the current
rate of 38.9 cents.
Of the $1.7 million in additional, money generated by the 44-cent rate, $829,000 would pay
for an average 6 percent salary increase for city employees.
Deputy City Manager Steve Bass told the council that the raise is needed to reduce
turnover among employees and make salaries more competitive with those in neighboring
cities.
Other priorities identified in the budget include $350,000 to pay for higher insurance
premiums for city employees and $200,000 to hire three patrol officers and a detective.
Officials also want to fill four existing positions -- a code enforcement officer, a
records management clerk and two seasonal maintenance workers.
Officials propose to generate $500,000 in new funds by hiring a private firm to handle
billing and collection for ambulance services provided by the city. Beverly Queen,
director of administrative services, said the move would result in higher ambulance fees.
Near the end of the work session, Bass submitted a list of additional projects that would
boost the tax rate to 52.9 cents. Major items on the list include $400,000 to dredge the
lake at Bedford Boys Ranch and $100,000 to fix city f~cilities.
Bass said he submitted the list for the council's discussion, and he emphasized that the
city is officially recommending the 44-cent rate.
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Still, the 52.9-cent rate got strong support from Hurt, who said it would allow the city
to catch up with neighboring cities.
The council did not take official action Friday. On Tuesday, it will set. the highest tax
rate it will consider for next year's budget. The panel could approve a rate lower than
the one agreed to Tuesday, but it cannot go h~gher than that figure.
Bedford proposed budget
Adopted Proposed 'percent
2003-04 budget 2004-05 budget.Change
Total budget revenue $45,076,030 $47,060,855 4.4
Total budget expenditures $45,216,458 $46,927,065 3.8
General fund revenue $21,354,449 $23,359,090 9.4
General fund expenditures $21,352,737 $23,333,667 9.2
General fund reserves $5,096,541 $5,121,964 0*
Major new 2004-05 budget items
Average 6 percent employee pay raise $829,000
Employee health insurance $350,000
Four new police department employees $200,000
What it means to you
At the proposed rate of 44 cents per $100 assessed valuation, the tax bill for the owner
of the average priced house with no exemptions would be $660, up from $584 last year. The
average value of a house in Bedford is $149,168, up from $145,306 last year, according to
the Tarrant Appraisal District.
. Tentative budget calendar
Aug. 31; Public hearing and first reading of budget and tax rate.
Sept. 14: Second and final readings of budget and tax rate.
*Less than 1 percent SOURCE: "City of Bedford
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ONLINE: www.ci.bedford.tx.us
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:02 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Allen: budget retreat highlights 27 new positions, a positive outlook
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Saturday, August 14, 2004 10:39 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Allen: budget retreat highlights 27 new positions, a positive outlook
Allen retreats to budget talks
City Council highlights 27 new positions, a positive outlook
12:28 AM CDT on Saturday, August 14, 2004
By STELLA M. CHAvEZ / The Dallas Morning News
POTTSBORO - A day after learning the big news that their city had landed a new arts hall,
Allen City Council members retreated to a less eventful but more serene place for a
weekend full of budget talks.
The council began its annual budget workshop Friday afternoon in pottsboro, about 50 miles
north of Allen. Department heads and some staff also attended the session, which is being
held at the Tanglewood Resort Hotel and Conference Center.
City Manager Peter Vargas gave a couple of video presentations regarding the $91.7 million
budget and various new programs.
"Overall, I think the budget we presented to you is a growth budget," he said.
The meeting's tone was optimistic as officials discussed a host of new projects, including
a 54,000-square-foot library, phase two of Allen Station Park, a civic plaza next to City
'Hall and a senior center. -
The city's population is expected to reach 72,000 sometime next year - creating more
demand on services.
This next year's budget shows a minimal decrease in the tax rate. .It's expected to drop
from 56.1 cents per $100 of assessed property value to 56 cents per $100. The value of the
average single-family home in Allen is $184,259, a 2.3 percent increase from the previous
year. That means that under the proposed tax rate, the owner of an average home would pay
$1,032 in taxes.
Overall, property appraisals are up 7.9 percent.
The budget also includes the addition of 27 new full-time equivalent positions. In
contrast, last year's budget did not focus on adding more employees.
Mayor Steve Terrell said thirgs are looking up in Allen.
"It's more upbeat this year than last year," he said.
Last year the city reduced spending by 5 percent because sales tax revenue came in lower
than anticipated. The proposed budget for 2004-05 calls for a 10.6 percent increase in
spending.
.The largest staff increase will occur in the Library Services Department. The equivalent
of 7.5 full-time positions are being added to support the operation of the new building,
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which is slated to open in January.
The Community Services Department will add two custodian positions primarily to clean the
library.
The Building and Code Department will be adding an environmental health specialist to
assist with inspections, education and the monitoring of all eating establishments,
including day care centers and schools.
Firefighters will get a fire prevention specialist, who will help with fire
investigations, while police officers could see the addition of a criminalist in their
department. That person will work on crime scene investigations and do forensic lab w~rk.
The city has also added two new revenue funds to its proposed budget. One is designated
for fees collected at Chase Oaks Golf Club, which the city recently agreed to purchase for
$5 million. The other fund has been set up for grants that the city receives.
Officials say the city will be much busier in. the coming year.
"There's a lot of potential for'a lot of good .things to happen this next ~ear," council
member Ken Fulk said.
The city's work session ends Sunday at 2 p.m.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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To:
SubJect:
Alexander, Cynthia'
Monday, August 16, 2004 11 :59 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Grand Prairie: water rates to increase, but proposed city budget keeps property tax
steady for fifth year
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Sunday, August 15, 2004 1:23 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Grand prairie: water rates to increase, but proposed city budget keeps property
tax steady for fifth year
Water rates to increase
But proposed city budget keeps property tax steady for fifth year
05:09 PM CDT on Saturday, August 14, 2004
By STEPHANIE SANDOVAL' / The Dallas Morning News
Grand prairie residents and businesses would see an average 4.5 percent increase in their
water and wastewater bills under the proposed $155 million 2004-05 city operating budget.
But the property tax rate of about 67 cents per $100 of valuation would hold steady for
the fifth straight year under the plan, which includes funding to raise employee salaries,
build a new fire station in the Joe Pool Lake area, and hire five more firefighters.
The water and wastewater rate increases - the first since 1996 - stem from higher costs
from the city of Dallas, where Grand Prairie gets most of its water, and by the Trinity
River Authority, which treats the wastewater, city public works director Ron McCuller
said, adding that the rate increases "will affect everyone across the board."
The budget 'also includes money for major storm drainage improvements downtown, replacement
of two fire trucks and an ambulance, a new wireless computer network for police vehicles,
a new bus for the Grand Connection senior transit service, and funding for the salaries of
12 police officers previously covered by a grant.
"We had a great year," Deputy City Manager Tom Cox said. "I think that's especially true
when you compare cities across the Dallas and Fort Worth area. Grand Prairie is in good
shape."
Dallas, Mesquite, Richardson and other cities have proposed tax rate increases, while Fort
Worth city leaders announced last week that they would not raise taxes.
But hold on. Despite city officials' apparent ability to hold tight on property taxes,
Grand Prairie homeowners can still expect higher tax bills next year because of increased
property values and a proposed school district tax increase.
The average value of a home in Grand Prairie rose from $63,216 last year to $67,139 this
year, meaning the average homeowner will pay $450 in city taxes for the year, up from $424
this year.
And while most city employees are set to get raises during the next fiscal year, it
doesn't mean they're all happy about it.
"Oh, hell no," Grand Prairie Firefighters Association president Darrin Talley said of the
proposed spending plan.
Mr. Talley is upset that the new budget would give civilian employees an average of 4
percent performance-based pay increases effective April 1.
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police and firefighters would receive an average of 6 percent increases April 1. Those who
have not topped out in the pay range for.their rank would also receive 5 percent step
increases on their anniversary dates.
Mr. Talley said fire and ambulance personnel shouldn't have to wait until. April for
raises, when the budget year begins Oct. 1.
He said he has met with city managers and the mayor several times over recent months to
discuss .pay issues, particularly in light of recent surveys that show the city's civil
service salaries continue to fall below the average among the 10 cities in its competitive
labor market.
"We were told they were going to make concessions to bring us up to the median pay scale
among metroplex fire departments, as City Manager Tom Hart promised five years ago when he
took office," Mr. Talley said. "In the course of negotiations, they never once indicated
that for the second year in a row they would make our pay raise effective April l."
He said a 6 percent increase midyear is the equivalent of only a 3 percent increase for
the full year and has little effect in raising Grand Prairie salaries to competitive
levels.
"A handshake is still a handshake, and a man's word is his word," Mr. Talley said. "At
this juncture, I'd have to question [Mr. Hart's] word and his commitment."
Mr. Hart said Mr. Talley's comment was "one of the most disappointing things I've ever
heard an employee say."
He said that when struggling with balancing out unavoidable increased costs for employee
. insurance, worker's compensation and retirement benefits, he chose to eliminate 12
employee positions rather than reduce the proposed salary increases.
"The pay plan was 'important enough to" me.I made major. cuts in our budget," he said. "I
can't help but resent somebody making a comment like that. That just shows they don't
really have much understandirig of' what's going on."
He said he would be willing to consider a 3 percent increase starting in October; if
that's what the association prefers, but believes employees would make out better in the
long run with a 6 percent increase midyear.
"You wouldn't think'you'd need to be a rocket scientist to figure which way you'd be
better," Mr. Hart said.
Grand Prairie police Association president James Wallis said, however, that the 6 percent
increase midyear "is a good building'block toward getting us where we need to be."
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
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Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200411 :59 AM
Wolny, Shelley -
FW:. Irving: proposed budget plan would raises taxes, utility bills, but employees may not get
raises
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Sunday, August 15, 2004 1:25 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Irving: proposed budget plan would raises taxes, utility bills, but employees may
not get raises
Plan would raises taxes, utility bills
Employees wouldn't get raises; manager cites higher costs, tax base
06:42 PM CDT on Saturday, August 14, 2004
By ERIC AASEN / The Dallas M?rning News
The city would raise taxes and sewer and water rates, according to a proposed budget plan.
In addition, employees wouldn't receive pay raises, and a few could, face layoffs,
according to the plan submitted by City Manager Steve McCullough.
City Council members will discuss the budget Friday and Saturday. Residents will have a
chance to sound off during council meetings Aug. 26 and Sept. 16. .Council members plan to
approve a budget by late September.
City officials say that budget discussions won't be as difficult as last year. Some
council members aren't so sure.
For homeowners, the current tax rate per $100 of assessed valuation would jump from 53.28
cents to 54.79 cents under Mr. McCullough's plan. Taxes for the owner of a $104,000 home,
the city's average, would increase from $554 to nearly $570.
The city would also increase water rates by 4 percent and sewer rates by 9 percent. Rates
for the average house would increase about $15 a year, said David Leininger, the city's
financial services director.
The city is recommending a tax increase partly because of an eroding tax base, higher
employee health insurance costs and rising fuel and electricity costs, Mr. McCullough
said.
"It was the strong desire of management to avoid any tax rate increase at all for the
forthcoming year," he wrote in a memo.
In addition to tax and rate increases, department heads have identified about $2.2 million
in cuts.
The city will save money by dropping out of an agreement to jointly operate a campus
library with North Lake College. The city proposes to stop picking up trash at businesses,
but residential service wouldn't be affected, Mr. Leininger said.
Up to seven employees may face layoffs, but officials are trying to transfer them to other
city positions, Mr. Leininger said. In addition, 24 positions would remain vacant. The
city has a workforce of about 2,000 full-time and part-time employees.
The city wouldn't dole out raises under the $147 million budget plan. Employees received
18
raises in the spring, the first across-the-board increase in two years. Eligible employees
will still receive 5 percent step increases, which are based on performance and time
served with the city, Mr. Leininger said.
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The city plans to set aside $500,000 to adjust salaries depending on the results of a pay
study that will determine whether Irving workers earn adequate and competitive wages.
council member Lewis Patrick said that upcoming budget discussions may be just' as
difficult as talks held last summer.
He isn't surprised that'Mr: McCullough has recommended a tax hike.
"He doesn't have to run for re-election," Mr. Patrick said.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
SubJect:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200411:55 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Taylor: city will not raise tax levy
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Sunday, August 15, 2004 1:06 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Taylor: city will not raise tax levy
Taylor will not raise city tax levy
By David King
Taylor Daiy Press
Current tax rate proposed as cap for FY 2004-05
Taylor property owners won't be paying more than they currently are for city services next
year. They may even pay a little less.
Thursday the Taylor City Council adopted a property tax levy cap for the 2004-05 fiscal
year, which begins Oct. 1. The cap is equal to the rate levied this year - 74.875 cents
per $100 of assessed property value.
That means the council will not raise the property tax levy this year, even though the
city's commitment to paying for. its outstanding debt increased a little more than a penny.
That increase is due to bonds issued in 2003 and doesn't include the impact of more than
$5 million in bonds approyed by voters last November for a new fire station and library.
The goal for city staff during budgeting for the upcoming fiscal year was to hold spending
at a leve'l at which the property tax rate would remain the same or decrease slightly,
anticipating a higher debt service' commitment when bonds for the new buildings are issued
and a subsequent hike in. the amount taxpayers will have to pay to service the new debt,
City Manager Frank Salvato said.
Helping the city achieve that goal is an increase in sales tax revenue the city didn't
anticipate.
Better than expected local sales have bumped sales tax revenue about $176,000 above the
city's projection for the year with one month remaining. One-half cent of the sales tax is
committed to property tax relief. Salvato said the increase in that portion of the tax is
translating into about a 10-cent decrease in the amount of revenue the city has to collect
through property taxes on each $100 worth of local property.
Council members discussed several options before setting the cap. Most of the options
anticipate cutting the property tax rate.
The council will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting Tuesday, Aug. 24, to go
over the proposed rate and the $3.3 million budget it will help fund. The meeting begins
at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 400 Porter St.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16,200411:54 AM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Greenville: city budget ready for council
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Sunday, August 15, 2004 l2:59 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Greenville:.city budget ready for council
city budget ready for council
By Brad Kellar/
Greenville Herald-Banner Staff
Sunday, August 15, 2004 1:34 AM CDT
It wasn't easy, but city Manager Karen Daly has come up with a recipe for a balanced,
$16.1 million budget next year, a budget which includes a pay raise for all city employees
and a small cut in the property tax r~te to boot.
A new emergency notification system will help make local residents safer, while an
addition to the Code Enforcement division and funding fqr Keep Greenville Beautiful are
designed to. help make the city more attractive.
While the entree itself may sound delicious; a dish is only as good as its ingredients.
Daly went over the list for the Herald-Banner recently.
To start, the City of Greenville was able to reap the benefits of a 5.8 percent increase
in the ad valorem tax base this year.
What that means is there was enough increase in projected revenue to allow for a proposed
reduction in the property tax rate, from the current .7992 to .799.
But Daly is not predicting any increase in the city's other significant source of revenue;.
namely.. sales taxes.
"With sales taxes, we are budgeting being flat," Daly said. "We were allover the place
this last year. Some months we were ahead, some months. we were behind. There was no way of
being able to figure out what was going on."
On the brighter side of the street, Daly is expecting revenues from 'construction permits'.
to increase by about $30,000 in the coming year, mainly due to the boom in single family ,
housing.
"We are doubling our housing permits 'right now," Daly said.
The City Administration and the City.Council both had listed employee compensation as
their number one goai in the budget, as most municipal employees had not had any increase
in salary during the past two years. '
"I am going to recommend a 3 percent across the board pay increase," Daly said, even
though she admits. it was not her first choice in how to distribute the raises.
"I am a pay for performance advocate," Daly said.' "I want this to be considered more of a
cost of living 'adjustment for the past two years." ..
Dollars were likewise added to the budget for employee recognition.
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"We put some money back in for rewards in several different categories," Daly said.
Daly is also recommending the promotion of six fire department personnel to lieutenant,
noting it was the first thing employees in the department asked for when she arrived last
October.
"That would allow us to have lieutenants on both sides of town, every shift," Daly said.
The lieutenants would be the officers in charge at each fire scene. "It is a safety
issue."
Making the city safer was another top objective and Daly believes a proposed emergency
callback system will fit the bill.
"This is a system that allows the city to call 20,000 phones in 10 minutes," Daly said.
"It is an incredibly effective way of reaching a lot of citizens."
In the event of a major disaster, such as an approaching tornado, gas leak or even a
terrorist attack, the computer-guided system can reach residents in the immediate area of
the threat through instant messaging, e-mail, cell phones or at their home address.
Daly said the system, at a cost of approximately $5,000 per year, was also a more fiscally
attractive alternative, at least for now, to spending possibly hundreds of thousands of
dollars in trying t~ repair and replace the city's aging emergency warning sirens.
~he budget also includes funds for three new police department vehicles and a crime scene
van.
The number three goal in the budget was to make' Greenville a more attractive place to
live. While no new full-time employees were added to the budget, several part-time
positions were created, including one in the Code Enforcement Division.
Although all other community service agencies which had received funds from the City of
Greenville were dropped from the budget, Keep Greenville Beautiful is scheduled to reeeive
$5,000 from the sanitation fund, with another $5,000 coming from Independent Environmental
Services Incorporated and $2,000 from the tourism fund.
Daly said the organization is part of the effort to reach the goal of making Greenville
more attractive.
In Monday's second part, Daly explains that while the budget will cover the expected rise
in health care costs for city employees next year, those same employees would be expected
to get into better shape. And, while there were a lot of bright spots to point to this
past year, Daly said the city is going to be operating under mountains of debt for the
foreseeable future.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200410:06 AM
. Wolny, Shelley
FW: Alpine: council considers selling assets to make budget
For budget files'
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Sunday, August 15, 2004 1:22 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Alpine: council considers selling assets to make budget
Council considers sale' of gas corp.; city looking for $700K to make budget
By Betse Esparza / Associate Publisher
Alpine Avalanche
Alpine Mayor Mickey Clouse began a budget workshop Monday night by asking the council if
they were interested in the sale of Southwest Texas Municipal Gas Corporation. The city
owns 60 percent of the company, while the City of Marfa owns 40 percent.
"As they say, everything is for sale, except the family, if the price is right," said'
Councilman Avinash Rangra.
City Manager Karen Philippi said she would look into getting an appraisal.
"The buyer'price might not be the appraisal price," said Nancy DeWitt.
The council is scheduled to vote on whether or not to move 'forward at thei;. regular
meeting Monday. Also scheduled is a vote to instruct Philippi to look into the saie of the
old city hall building.
An outline of..the budget presented by city staff shows a $717,013 shortfall.
"This is where we think we, are, which is pretty dismal," s'aid Philippi. "We can't continue
to overspend."
Water and sewer revenues have "dropped off," she said, '''because of all the rain, I
suppose."
"If we are spending more money, let's start cutting expenses, even if we have to pray to
God that it not rain," said Rangra.
"It's becoming obvious that we need to find ways of increasing revenues," said DeWitt.
"Cut the fluff," said Katie Elms-Lawrence. "We have more time spent by administrative
staff decorating stupid floats. Just get back to the business of running a: business."
The council discussed a proposed five-year capital improvement plan, as proposed by city
staff, which,. for 2004-05, includes, but is not limited to, the following: .
* $20,000 to begin engineering process to implement impact fees
* $48,000 to replace 600 water meters
* $10,000 to e?gage a consultant to evaluate water wells and recommend a long-term ~ell
program
*.$60,000 for a back-Up power supply for the sewer plant
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* $250,000 to replace 4,300 ft. of deteriorating sewer lines throughout the city
* $50,000 to pave 21 blocks of unpaved streets
* $20,000 to present a plan to council to refurbish/repair/demolish recreation center
* $10,000 to engage a consultant to advise the council on the handling of the gas company
Rangra said the city can't dig a well for less than $23,000, which is the approximate cost
this year to transport water from wells in Jeff Davis County.
"I don't think we need to spend money on developing new water wells," he said. "I know we
have old water lines, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it."
"It may be good to consult about wells in the city limits," said Clouse. "We don't know
what is further down the road. I think it's something that really needs to be studied."
The council agreed that something needs to be done with the rec center.
"As far as [it) is concerned, I think we ought to de~olish it," said Rangra.
"There's probably no way to repair that building," said Anna Monclova.
DeWitt suggested waiting for upcoming recommendations from the city's recreation center
committee. "There may be grant money available," she said.
Philippi noted that the city was cited by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
seven times last year for power outages at the sewer plant.
"We don't want to live with what could happen if that power supply is not continuous,"
said DeWitt.
A budget workshop will be held tomorrow night from 7 to 9 p.m. Public hearings for both
the budget and capital improvements plan are scheduled for the Monday meeting.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia .
Monday, August 16, 2004 12:14 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Brenham: city con'siders $45 million budget for 2004-05
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 11, 2004.1:37 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Brenham: city considers $45 million budget for 2004-05
City considers $45 million budget for 2004-05
By ARTHUR HAHN/Managing Editor
Brenham Banner Press
Tuesday, August 10, 2004 1:39 PM CDT
A $45 million budget that will help build up the city of Brenham's cash reserves is being
considered by council members, who today kicked off what will be at least two days of
workshops. '
City Manager Terry Roberts gave a general overview on what the 2004-05 spending/revenue
document will contain, before various .departments began meeting with the council to review
their proj ected ~xp.endi tur~s. ,,"
Roberts said the revenue side of the proposed budget shows about $45 million, with
spending estimated at $44. 7 mil-lion .
That, he said, would put a .projected $329,000 into cash reserves that now total about
$400,000.
Roberts said bond rating agencies critical in determining how much interest the city
pays on any debt issuance -- strongly urge that a city have about two months of general
fund operating expenses available in cash.
In Brennam"s case, t~at .would be about $1.5 million, he told the council.
"We ought to be building that up, a little bit a a time," Roberts said.
The city does have somewhat ofa "cushion" with a balance of unrestricted funds totaling
about $6.75 million.
The city does operate five of its own utilities, and those departments make up 78 percent
of Brenham's tota~ budget, or about' $34 million, said Roberts.
And of that $34 million, $20 million comes from "source costs ... that we have little
. control over" from providers of electricity, natural gas and water, he added.
The general fund~ 'which includes a wide range of services, is projected to total about
$8.55 million. Property taxes make up less than a quarter of the general fund's projected
revenues, and each penny of taxes would generate about $69,000.
. .
Sales tax revenues are projected to bring in $2.8 million for the general fund, which is
also being subsidized with a $150,000 electrical department cash transfer and $200,000
from revenues of a special' sales tax.
That $200,000 transfer will, help offset an operating deficit at Blue Bell Aquatic Center.
1
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Roberts said $2 million in proposed projects have already b~ culled from
departments, with $1.5 million in projects being presented to city council
consideration.
various city
members for
That includes a proposal by Brenham Police Chief Gary Buchanan to add two officers to the
department during the new budget year, at a projected cost of $178,000 and a $50,000
transportation study for the public works department.
The city's current tax rate is 41.16 cents per $100 property valuation.
Roberts said the interest portion of the tax rate, used to payoff debt that has been
issued by the city, will total 13.11 cents for 2004-05.
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia .
Monday, August 16, 200412:13 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Cleburne: minimal change in tax rate expected
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 11, 2004 11:53 PM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Cleburne: minimal change in tax rate expected
8-11 'Minimal' change in tax rate expected
Cleburne Times Review
By Rob Fraser/Staff Writer
he city Council soon will hold workshops to review the fiscal year 2005 budget and make
determinations about the direction officials want to proceed, City.Manager Chester Nolen
said.
"We will try to adopt the budget probably at the first meeting in September [Sept. 14),"
he said.
Though the city originally filed the proposed budget using the same tax rate as last year,
71.19 cents per $100 of valuation, the proper notices have been posted to allow the
council to adopt a tax rate of .up to 78 cents.
"But I don't anticipate that happening," Nolen said. "Matter of fact, I think we will see
a tax rate of between $0.7119 and $0.72 -- a very minimal change in tax rate."
The council was scheduled to vote Tuesday night to hold a public hearing on the rate at 5
p.m. Sept. 7 at City Hall. The tax rate must be adopted three to 14 days from the meeting
date. .
Last year two budget workshops were held, Noien said. "I anticipate we might 'spend more
time [this year), because of having new members of the council, making sure everybody
understands .what's in the budget," he said.
Water and sewer rates are scheduled to'go up due to continuing improvements and in
financing improvements to the water and sewer system. Trash rates and solid-waste rates
will stay the same this year, Nolen said.
"I think in future years we will probably see some decline in those rate structures," he
said.
"We are anticipating are very mild to low increase in any sales tax; obviously, the loss
of J.C. Penney is going to change our sales tax a little bit, but we have other entities
online and coming in that we think will offset those," Nolen said. "We don't anticipate ~
10 or 20 percent increase. We are looking in the range of a 1 1/2 to.4 percent increase in
sales tax revenues over the next year."
No large personnel additions are expected this budget year, he said.' Last year the city
hired additional firefighters ~nd police officers.
3
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Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:15 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Beaumont: no tax increase, no services cut, 3 percent raises in budget
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 11, 2004 1:36 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Beaumont: no tax increase, no services cut, 3 percent raises in budget
Beaumont budget includes $2M revenue increase.
By: RACHEL STONE,
The Beaumont Enterprise
08/10/2004
BEAUMONT - A city budget proposed to take effect Oct. 1 includes about a $2 million
increase in tax revenues.
The city won't raise taxes, but expects a 1.5 percent increase in property tax revenues
because of higher appraisals, Beaumont City Manager Kyle Hayes said Tuesday.
The city won't cut services.
The proposed budget is approximately $164.8 million.
Budget writers expect to save about $1.2 million because of departmental cost reductions
and a high job vacancy rate.
The proposed budget allows for a 3 percent cost-of-living increase for city employees.
1
.
.
Wolny, Shelley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Alexander, Cynthia
Monday, August 16, 200412:15 PM
Wolny, Shelley
FW: Baytown: convention center cut under proposed budget
For budget files
-----Original Message-----
Sent: Wednesday, August 11, 2004 1:31 AM
To: alexanderc@ci.la-porte.tx.us
Subject: Bay town: convention center cut under proposed budget
Convention center cut under proposed budget
By Kristopher Banks
Bay town Sun
Published August 10, 2004
BAYTOWN The city's proposed budget would cut plans for a convention center and instead
put the money into sewer rehabilitation projects.
The convention center was $4 million of a $15 million bond project city Council approved
in May 1998, which also included funds for water and sewer repairs, the city jail and a
communications system.
The money has been in an account while the idea, due largely to changes in the economy,
has soured among Council members. Meanwhile, the city pays
more than $300,000 per year in, debt service.
The city may either payoff the debt or spend it on other projects, that were part of the
$15 million bond program. The city has severe problems with sewer capacity, with rainwater
leaking into cracked sewer pipes and overflowing the system. The city estimates it will
cost $200 million to fix the public'sewer lines.
Council also is looking.at cutting or paring'down live entertainment for city functions
next year.
The city has greatly increased live music this year, with the introduction of the Summer
Concert Series. The city has hosted three concerts in Bicentennial Park so far, with the
fourth and last on Friday.
But attendance at the concerts has been disappointing, with less than 100 people showing
up for two, according to Council and.~ity staff. About 800 showed up for a Coastliners
concert July 3.
The city also hosts live music during the July 4 celebration, usually getting a few
relatively big-name performers..
Mayor Calvin Mundinger and other Council members said they feel the city is spending too
much on live entertainment, and Council asked city staff to create a proposal that would
cut the July 4 entertainment down and reduce the Summer Concert Series to two concerts.
Keeping the Concert Series at four concerts would cost about $54,000 out of the hotel
occupancy tax, which is a tax on hotels that is supposed to only 'be used for promoting
tourism. .
Parks director Scott Johnson said the low attendance made the events hard to justify.
"It's beginning to g.et pretty to'ugh to spend that kind of money," Johnson said.
l'
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The same level of live entertainment at the July 4 celebration will cost about $52,000,
with a total of $129,000 on the entire event. Council asked city staff to examine paring
that number down to $100,000 for the entire event, focusing on live entertainment.
"We've got some big names, but they're not cheap," said Assistant City Manager Bob Leiper.
He said that the city could reduce the star power of the entertainers or reduce the number
of big-name performers.
Johnson said one possibility, along with cutting the number of big-name entertainers,
would be to begin the event later, which would cut down on staff time as well. Johnson
said some attendees who arrive at 1 p.m. this year complained there was nothing to do.
Some Council members questioned Council's role in making such decisions.
"Why are we telling them how to run the parks department?" Council member Ronnie Anderson
said. "It's micromanaging."
2
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STATE OF TEXAS )(
COUNTY OF HARRIS )(
CITY OF LA PORTE )(
CITY COUNCIL
2004-2005 BUDGET MEETINGS AGENDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN OF A SPECIAL CALLED REGULAR MEETING
AND WORKSHOP MEETING OF LA PORTE CITY COUNCIL TO BE HELD
AUGUST 9, 2004 THROUGH AUGUST 18 BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M. EACH
EVENING, UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS
OF CITY HALL, 604 WEST FAIRMONT PARKWAY, LA PORTE, TEXAS,
REGARDING THE ITEMS OF BUSINESS ACCORDING TO THE AGENDA
LISTED BELOW
The following items will be discussed in budget workshop meetings beginning on
Monday, August 9, 2004 through August 18, 2004. Meetings will begin each evening
at 6:00 p.m., unless otherwise posted, and will recess each evening at the conclusion
of each evening's business and adjourn once all business has been concluded. .
Business items will be discussed in the order they are listed on the Agenda. It may
not be necessary to meet for all specified days. Meetings will conclude when all
business has been discussed. Item M - Insurance Fund, Medical Benefits, Current
and Retirees will be taken out of order. It will be discussed on Wednesday evening
August 11, 2004 at 6:00 p.m. The Public Hearing for the 2004-2005 Budget will be
held on August 23, 2004 at 6:00 p.m. at which time the Mayor and City Council will
receive public input.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION - MAYOR PORTER
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. WORKSHOP
A. General Overview of 2004-2005 Budget (UNDER SEPARATE COVER)
B. SPECIAL REVENUE FUND OVERVIEW
Grant Fund - 7-1
Community Investment Fund -7-13
HotellMotel Tax Fund - 7-16
C. INTERNAL SERVICE FUND OVERVIEW
Motor Pool Fund - 6-3
Technology Fund - 6-21
Insurance Fund - 6-13
D. GENERAL OVERVIEW OF DEPARTMENTAL REQUESTS
Administration - 3-43
Emergency Management - 3-47
Downtown Revitalization - 3-49
Human Resources - 3-52
Purchasing - 3-59
City Secretary - 3-62
.
.
ADDENDUM TO MEETING NOTICE
The following item will be added to the 2004-2005 Budget Meetings scheduled from August 9 through August 18,
2004 in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas. The below item will be
discussed on August 10, 2004 at 6:00 p.m.
1. COUNCIL TO RECEIVE REPORT FROM THE LA PORTE REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY - A. PORTER
I hereby certify that I posted this Notice on the bulletin board located at a place convenient to the public in the
City Hall of the City of La Porte, 5:00 p.m. on the 5th day of August 2004, and that {1} said Notice was posted
for at least 72 hours preceding the scheduled time of the meeting; or {2} if this Notice was posted less than 72
hours but more than 2 hours before the meetina convened. I hereby certify that said meetina was called
because of an emeraency or uraent public necessity limited to imminent threats to public health and safety or
reasonable unforeseeable situations reauirina immediate action bY the City Council.
Witness my hand and the Seal ofthe City of La Porte, Texas, this the 5th day of August 2004.
CITY OF LA PORTE
~cf{Ut/
Martha Gillett, TRMC - :;'..'
City Secretary
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Legal- 3-65
City Council- 3-68
Fire Marshal- 3-11
Municipal Court - 3-55
E. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
General Fund - 3-81
Utility Fund - 4-9
La Porte Area Water Authority - 5-19
Airport - 5-13
F. EMERGENCY SERVICES DEPARTMENT - 3-15
G. POLICE DEPARTMENT - 3-23
H. PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT - 3-95
General Fund - 3-95
Sylvan Beach Fund - 5-3
I. GOLF COURSE
J. FINANCE DEPARTMENT - 3-71
K. PLANNING DEPARTMENT - 3-111
L. BUDGET RECAP
M. INSURANCE FUND, MEDICAL BENEFITS, CURRENT AND RETIREES
N. BUDGET RECAP
O. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECTS - ALL FUNDS - (UNDER SEPARATE COVER)
5. CLOSE WORKSHOP MEETING AND RE-CONVENE REGULAR MEETING
7. COUNCIL COMMENTS -Clausen, Rigby, Moser, Beasley, Griffiths, Ebow, Engelken, Mosteit and Porter
8. EXECUTIVE SESSION - PURSUANT TO PROVISION OF THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW, CHAPTER
551.071 THROUGH 551.076, 551.087, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE, (CONSULTATION WITH
ATTORNEY, DELIBERATION REGARDING REAL PROPERTY, DELIBERATION REGARDING
PROSPECTIVE GIFT OR DONATION, PERSONNEL MATTERS, DELIBERATION REGARDING
SECURITY DEVICES, OR EXCLUDING A WITNESS DURING EXAMINATION OF ANOTHER WITNESS IN
AN INVESTIGATION, DELIBERATION REGARDING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEGOTIATIONS)
551-071 (POTENTIAL LITIGATION) - MEET WITH CITY ATTORNEY AND CITY MANAGER REGARDING
POTENTIAL LITIGATION
551-074 (PERSONNEL MATTER) - CITY MANAGER'S EVALUATION/PERFORMANCE
9. CONSIDERATIONS AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ITEMS CONSIDERED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
10. ADJOURNMENT
If during the course of the meeting covered by this agenda the Council should determine that a closed or executive
meeting or session of the Council should be held or is required in relation to an item noticed in this agenda, then such
closed or executive meeting or sessions authorized by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government
Code; will be held by the Council at that date, hour and place given in the meeting notice or as soon after the
commencement of the meeting covered by the meeting notice as the Council may conveniently meet in such closed or
executive meeting or session concerning any and all subjects and for any and all purposes permitted by Sections
551.071 through 551.076, and 551.087 of said Open Meetings Law, including, but not limited to:
.
e
Section 551.071 - For the purpose of a private consultation with the Council's attorney on any subject or matter
authorized by law.
Section 551.072 - For the purpose of deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property.
Section 551.073 - For the purpose of deliberating a negotiated contract for a prospective gift or donation to the City.
Section 551.074 - For the purpose of deliberating the appointment. employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties,
discipline or dismissal of a public officer or employee or to hear complaints or charges against a public officer or
employee, unless the officer or employee requests a publiC hearing.
Section 551.075 - for the purpose of conferring with an employee or employees of the City, only for the purpose of
receiving information from the employee or employees or to ask questions of the employee or employees; provided,
however, that no discussion of public business or City policy that affects public business shall take place between the
members of the City Council during the conference.
Section 551.076 - To consider deployment, or specific occasions for implementation, of security personnel or devices.
Section 551.087 - To discuss or deliberate regarding commercial or financial information that the governmental body
has received from a business prospect that the governmental body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or near the
territory of the governmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting economic development
negotiations; or to deliberate the offer of a financial or other incentive to a business prospect described by
Subdivision (1).
THIS FACIUTY HAS DISABIUTY ACCOMMODATIONS AVAILABLE. REQUESTS FOR ACCOMMODA TlONS OR INTERPRETIVE SERVICES
AT MEETINGS SHOULD BE MADE 4B HOURS PRIOR TO THIS MEETING. PLEASE CONTACT CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE AT 281..471.
5020 OR TDD UNE 281471-5030 FOR FURTHER INFORM A TlON.
~~lIdM
Martha A. Gillett, TRMC
City Secretary
Posted._,.,>;~{~i;:;,,-t'-:. '.
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THE CITY COUNCIL HAS RECESSED
BUDGET WORKSHOP MEETINGS UNTIL
1iJ21LE1Y.L ON THE FOllOWING DATE:
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THE CITY COUNCIL HAS RECESSED
BUDGET WORKSHOP MEETINGS UNTIL
l/'/OD f,fVL ON THE FOllOWING DATE:
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--- ------- ---------~
,
p.o. BOX 996 1 LAPO JEXAS 177572-09961 PHONE(281)471' 31 FAX(281)471-171O
La Porte-Bayshore
Chamber of Commerce
2004-2005 SPECIAL PROJECTS
Included in the terms of the Hotel Tax Contract between the City of
La Porte and the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber are provisions for a
one-time contribution each year for a special project. In 2003-2004,
the speci~1 project was billboards promoting activities in the Ci.ty of ~a
Porte. No special projects were listed in the 2004-2005 Proposed
Budget because the Chamber does not yet have the needed
information on the subjects listed below.
1. On August 4 representatives of the La Porte-Bayshore
Chamber were invited by Councilman Griffiths and City
Manager Feazelle to attend a meeting with Russ
Kuykendall at the San Jacinto Monument on Thursday,
August 12. This meeting is in regard to a possible
collaboration with the San Jacinto Battleground and the
Battleship Texas to bring tourism to La Porte.
2. Former Councilman Meismer recently reported to the
Chamber's board of directors that the City of La Porte is
working with the Seabrook Music Association to bring
their Music Festival to La Porte. He indicated that if the
City is successful in this effort, it is anticipated that the
Chamber would participate in some manner.
Due to the lack of detail on the above subjects, the Chamber
requests the privilege to come back to Council at a later date to seek
funds if needed to participate in the projects.
;:
;;,~. ,t P.O. BOX 996 / LAPOR EXAS / 77572-0996 / PHONE(28l)471-
/ FAX(281)471-1710
La Porte-Bayshore
Chamber of Commerce
Prepared 08/05/04
HOTEL TAX PRESENTATION PACKAGE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. Budget - October 1, 2003 through September 30, 2004
B. Actual and Anticipated Income Statement - Oct. 1, 2003 through Sept. 30, 2004
C. Information regarding Sylvan Beach Festival Week-end
D. Information regarding Junior Golf Tournament
E. Information regarding Tourism Brochure
F. Listing of other Chamber activities that brought visitors into the City of La Porte
G. Proposed Budget for October 1,2004 through September 30,2005
H. Copies of advertising/promotional pieces for Main Street Christmas in La Porte,
and Sylvan Beach Festival
~)
,
~
La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce
Budget - Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund
October 1. 2003 through September 30,2004
For
40,000.00
Hotel Tax Revenue
e,
Expenses
magazines. radio. billboards
Activities - Newspapers
Sylvan Beach Festival & Main Street
14,000.00
Advertising/Promotion
to tourism
10% of Gen Op budget-minimum of 10% of staff time devoted
Approx
18.000.00
Administrative Fee
Registration for Texas Economic Development-Tourism Division workshop
120.00
Continuing Education
To secure higher profile Sylvan Beach entertainer to attract tourists to La Porte
3.500.00
Entertainment
Golf Course
Bay Forest
ity Brochures & Sylvan Beach Festival Brochures
Golf Championship qualifying tournament at
Doorway to Hospita
PGA Jr.
To host
2.000.00
2,380.00
Golf Expenses
Printing/Publications
Junior
e
40.000.00
Expenses
New Proposed Project
Billboard Expense
45 for six months
10 or
Expense for 14'x48' billboard on
20,000.00
60.000.00
Total Expenses
.'
La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce
Actual and Anticipated Income Statement - Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund
For October 1, 2003 through September 30, 2004
radio,
magazines
Activities. Business Today - Newspapers
Main Street
Sylvan Beach Festiva
billboards
40,000.00
185.00
13
(phone Inquiries
to tourism
time devoted
Approx 9% of Gen Op budget-minimum of 10% of staff
walk-ins, mailing info)
18,000.00
-
The Texas Economic Development-Tourism Division workshop date conflicted with scheduled
Chamber activities
0.00
to La Porte
Bay Forest Golf Course was unable to secure the booking for the PGA Jr. Golf Championship
qualifying tournament however, the Chamber volunteered to assist with the Bay Forest Junior Golf
Tournament on August 28 & 29
-
($285.00)
Sylvan Beach Festival & Area Attractions Brochures
Billboard lease and production of vinyl wraps
To secure higher profile Sylvan Beach entertainer to attract tourists
3,500.00
2,000.00
285.00
36,970.00
3,030.00
19,173.00
827.00
20,000.00
Hotel Tax Revenue
Expenses
Advertising/Promotion
Administrative Fee
Continuing Education
Entertainment
Junior Golf Expenses
Printing/Publications
Expenses
Rev Over Exp
Billboard proj Rev
Expenses
Rev Over Exp
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HOTEL OCCUPANCY RATES
SYLVAN BEACH FESTIVAL WEEK-END
FRIDAY & SATURDAY
APRIL 23 & 24, 2004
The leaders of organizations which host outdoor events understand that on
occasion the weather does not cooperate. The 2004 Sylvan Beach Festival was
officially declared a rain-out at approximately 12 noon on Saturday, April 24.
Throughout the afternoon there were alternating periods of damp, gloomy
weather and heavy rains. In an effort to salvage a portion of the festival, the
pageant finals and the headline entertainer were moved into the Sylvan Beach
Pavilion and admission was charged at the door.
In spite of these efforts, the Chamber's loss to date is approximately $35,000 and
the loss is expected to increase to approximately $40,000 by the end of 2004.
As the figures listed below illustrate, the weather caused occupancy rates to
decline significantly from the previous year.
Name
2003 Festival Weekend
Occupancy Rates
2004 Festival Weekend
Occupancy Rates
Best Western
Nick Desai
281-471-4040
61%
Info not available
Owner out of town
Comfort Suites
Cathy Montreuil
281-842-9200
98% & 94%
89.55%* & 58.21%
La Quinta Motor Inn
Kevin Smith
281-470-0760
93%
94%* & 61%
*On Friday, April 23, many rooms were reserved due to the car races in Baytown.
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2004 JUNIOR GOLF TOURNAMENT INFORMATION
In the summer of 2003, The La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce
Marketing & Tourism Committee worked with Bay Forest Golf Pro Alex Osmond
to host the Westfield Junior Golf Championship Tournament at Bay Forest Golf
Course. During the last budget process, plans called for the Chamber to again
assist in hosting the event, however Bay Forest was not successful in securing
the booking for the 2004 Westfield tournament.
In an effort to attract more participants, the Chamber has volunteered to assist
with the Annual Bay Forest Junior Golf Tournament which is scheduled for
August 28 and 29.
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TOURISM BROCHURE UPDATE
In 2003, the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce Marketing & Tourism
Committee approved the layout of an updated tourism brochure which included a
number of photographs highlighting attractions in the La Porte-Bayshore area.
Photos included: Bay Forest Golf Course, San Jacinto Monument, Houston
Yacht Club, Hartman Bridge, Sailboats on Galveston Bay, Little Cedar Bayou
Wave Pool, Pier on Galveston Bay, Sylvan Beach Festival Float, Battleship
Texas, Sylvan Beach Pavilion, Depot at Sylvan Beach, and the Statue of
Children and Seagull near the Depot.
With the cooperation of the three cities, La Porte ISO, and other area residents,
the Committee made the decision to use a design that coordinated with the
Economic Development Committee brochure.
The tourism brochure was printed in four-color process and it was suggested that
10,000 brochures should be purchased in order to reduce the per brochure cost.
Due to the number of brochures still on hand, we have determined that in the
future, we should order 5,000. It is anticipated that the brochures will be updated
prior to the summer of 2005.
"
Sept/Oct
Sept/Oct
Nov
Nov
Dee
Jan
Feb
Mar
April
April
April
It
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OTHER CHAMBER ACTIVITIES THAT BROUGHT
VISITORS INTO THE LA PORTE - BAYSHORE AREA
The Annual Salute to Industry Golf Tournament brings up to 288
golfers and numerous volunteers to Bay Forest Golf Course. In
addition, the Annual Salute to Industry Banquet brings up to 550
people to the Sylvan Beach Pavilion.
The Annual Steak Cookout brings approximately 200 people to the
Du Pont Employees Recreation Center located adjacent to La
Porte.
The Chamber's Membership Luncheon brings 100+/- people to the
Houston Yacht Club located in Shoreacres adjacent to La Porte.
Chamber President Colleen Hicks traveled to San Antonio to assist
in the City of La Porte's booth at the annual Texas Municipal
League Conference.
The Chamber worked with the City of La Porte and the Main Street
Association to plan and produce a bigger and better Christmas on
Main Street in La Porte event which included moving the
Chamber's Annual Holiday Open House to the Original La Porte
City Hall on 2nd Street.
The Annual Installation Banquet brings up to 400 people to the
Sylvan Beach Pavilion.
The Annual Casino Night brings over 400 people to the Sylvan
Beach Pavilion.
The Chamber's Membership Luncheon brings 100+/- people to the
Houston Yacht Club located in Shoreacres adjacent to La Porte.
The April Membership Luncheon honoring Partners in Education
brings over 200 people to La Porte High School.
The Annual Sylvan Beach Pageant brings approximately 700
people to the Sonja Angelo Theater located at La Porte High
School. (Friday)
It is estimated that, in good weather, the Annual Sylvan Beach
Festival brings approximately 20,000 people to the park. (Saturday)
-.;
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May
The Chamber's Membership Luncheon brings 100+/- people to the
Houston Yacht Club located in Shoreacres adjacent to La Porte.
May
The Chamber hosted the Gulf Coast Chamber Execs organization
at the original City Hall on 2nd Street. Approximately 25 Chambers
were represented.
June
The Chamber combined a Business by the Bay Expo with the
Annual Hamburger Cookout. The event was held at the Sylvan
Beach Pavilion with over 200 people in attendance.
Aug
The Annual New Teachers Luncheon brings over 200 people to La
Porte High School.
Aug
The Marketing & Tourism Committee will work with the Bay Forest
Golf Course to host the Bay Forest Golf Course Junior Golf
Tournament.
While a tourist is defined as "one who travels for pleasure," we're optimistic that
some of the visitors who came to La Porte for specific events either spent the
night at one of our area lodging establishments, stopped to buy gas or food and
beverages, or saw something that sparked their interest in coming back to the
City of La Porte.
"
La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce
Proposed Budget - Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund
For October 1, 2004 thru September 30, 2005
200)
($1
ncludes requested 3% Increase over 2003-2004
41,200.00
Hotel Tax Revenue
e
Expenses
radio. billboards
(phones
Approx 9% of Gen Op budget-minimum of 10% of staff time devoted to tourism
walk-ins. mailing info, etc.)
magazines
Activities - Newspapers
Sylvan Beach Festival & Main Street
14,000.00
18.000.00
Advertising/Promotion
Administrative Fee
Registration for Texas Economic Development-Tourism Division workshop
200.00
Continuing Education
To secure higher profile Sylvan Beach entertainer to attract tourists to La Porte
3.500.00
Entertainment
Cou rse
Golf
Bay Forest
Golf Championship qualifying tournament at
PGA Jr.
To host
2,000.00
2,800.00
700.00
Golf Expenses
Junior
-
ity Brochures & Sylvan Beach Festival Brochures
Expenses associated with attendance at TML Conference to work CLP booth
Doorway to Hospita
Printing/Publications
Travel
41,200.00
Total Expenses
0.00
Revenue
OverlUnderExpenses
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~ Chamber of Comm ree
Sylvan Beach F stival & Crawfish! Jam
~pr.11 4th ~ainol!t Dat~
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del featuring CHARLIE ROBINSON 8:30-10:00pln "3'0.
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PAGE 02/82
LA PORTE-BAYSHORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
009913809
PAID CK# 491
Houston
Monic Ingram
March 29. 20a4
Houston
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Segm8nt Start:
March 29.2004
ConlraCllShowing:
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Agency:
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Account Manager.
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2 005986 RoWlelt ES BOOft 510 Almeda Genoa FIN . 1 liouslon
3 0D4776 Edgebrook NS SOt! EIO Galveston FIE -1 Houston
4 005256 Howard N5 20ft WID Galveston FIE -1 Hooslor.
5 OQ5255 Howard 58 20ft WID Galveslon FIW - 1 Houston
6 004994 Gatv'eSlon WS 2&011 SlO Park Place FiN - 2 Ho~sIon
7 004993 Gatv'eston WS 280ft 510 Park Place F IS - 1 Houston
8 004372 Almeda Genoa NS 130ft EIO Furman FIN - 1 Houston
9 004837 ,~ldel:tl WS gOff SID Mascot FN - 2 Houslon
10 004838 Fidelity WS BOft SID "'.ascot F/S-1 Houston
11 005713 ML King ES 300ft N/O Read F/S - 2 Houston
12 004581 Calhoun WS 10ft NlO Salkin FIN - 2 Houston
13 005056 Grlggs 53 300ft E/O Bobby Lee FIE -1 Houston
14 !J04679 Crawford ES 5QII SID Capital FIS - 2 Houston
1S 004599 Carolina WS 100ft N,'C MC90wen FIN - 2 Houston
16 006026 Scoll ES 12011 SlO Bealon FIN -, Houston
17 006227 Travis ES 501t N/O T lUXIllo F IS - 1 !louston
18 004926 FM 519 NS 20ft WiO 1st Fl'",,'- , La Marque
t9 005329 Hwy 3 ES 300ft NJO Wallel FIN -1 T e~3S Cly
20 005D68 1-45 Gulf F rN'f WS 0.8m1 NIO FM 546 FIN. 2 Leag ue City
Markel SUmmllY
No. 01 Units
Avg. Showing DEC
T olal Showing DEe
IL
N
/oj
!II
II
N
~I
II
(Ii
N
N
!II
1/
N
f'i
II!
N
,,;
N
N
N
Scheduled
20
5.1
101.2
PH i113) 688-8651 - FAX (713) 951).0277
Page 1 of 2
April 2, 2004 - 9:57 AM
..
/
4-04 11:30A PAtlbEN~ CITIZEN
71.79782
PASADENA CITIZEH, Su"dlly, November 30, 2Cl~ 7A{
..r....,.... ....u...'mor.-. .-...-..-.-.;n')"""i1QIC.... -and '-',;ol\tiuIJC '-liinItIO'I,' hii~r-uiu, ia~ . ru~
^, .. 1I;;tchcr I w~1\ knQW "lin cquil'l,i11g l"lI)'iclf in order In be b\o:llC:1 (Iualifle.d tt.iI~hm 111111 a
illY "ill\:Qm'" i~ crilly II'~ the he lit etIu..:nlur j ",In. Hrlld 1I""e upportunir)' f~lr 1\11 10
lillfQCllun 1.11' Icc!nS II child SHirt childflSll ,III'" h;"chcr~ S\lI;~eecJ.
IIle b<<:t\U51: 01" Ilnl'nC Ilew ,k~CI'VC: the- lirl!1le Oppur\lmitic.'1 'lI11pll)rr.: COllgl'eu.'! ~-t's
owledt(c I hl&vC given 1\lm w ami rc:nlijl\$I"Ilt!\)II. mo.,,~ fotwurd fur th\1. children'~
t - nOlhinllllUI"JlG6WI thlltJuy l\ The rtdeL'nl.lu.luc~1 'lllce s.'\kc.
I,,:hio:r Il:ds. Yet, in reality, Ihe:: IItru.ctllr\'l Qf HC:ll(j Sl~l II1UliC Vkld Smith
lei" part or my Income b jUMt rcmnin Illld. inc1l.1rJc fundin; ~llilltlcnl&
FREE HYPNOSIS SeMINAR
STOP SMOKING & WEIGHT LOSS
Look and Feel Gwtfor the Holidays!
Hyrno1t. ~oru! Hypno-
; hns b~en i'e~ouf'lb:cd " tl.1-
l'I'~t4 by che AM'J\ sintc 1951,
oChing b tQ,ler, ..tel' or hilS II
Kller "",en. ralC. .
funClifl.g tOr thil nm Inl1r
'm~s from publiC: dontduns.
:J)'on.e l.Ic5irlng hypaolia can
lend' elthor ,~uJO" frn of
;if It . but it lnlXA:lt $9,99 do-
.Ci4111 whctl !lignin, in is -ppre-
..led. (M4ty bO 14" doctuctlbla.)
I vale cllltnt, \)II)' woll Uver $:tOO
;.ina chis mcUlOd.
Whatever YOU, PAst ~xpcrl.
'<l" WCrf willi wcfaht 101$ ~r
rinjna $Itlokins. an.,Ad OUt
m inar aDd )IOU C8f'1 Nop SD10k.
IJ anti/or ~Cl w~&l't plu. d~.
lati~aUy redu~. )'U\lr 8lrtu,
n,jQI\. an~il;ty :md pein.
, -
F:f.l ~FlIjM
You willlllwaY5 \,., Ir, tot3l
nmtrul w]llle under hypnuliis.
Thr(lu~h p<)sjl;iv\l ~u"r:811('fls
.nd Y~llr 'ubcon~pjnCJ:'l Olin\!.
>"<lll Will 01 im iruu\! yo~r ~ravine.s
fur c.:iUl\t"lIu flfltVOr tlPll)',
IMl!tl. fusl ill1d IiIttv food..
Ilcr Ute SU'llllon Cenor'l.
.."" .stlm.ted 40&,O[Jt p.Qplt
will Ille dvv tn In1f)kl"l ..d
.JOO.,OOO from beln~ ovcrweJah t
Qr Qbtst Ulls y"ar." DONtr
LE:r TlfAT im' J'Ollrl
Poriet tht d{~ll, putch~~,
ill'" all cf whlUo ver ~ls~ that you
tiqve tried .md IUl'Illu UI\1I'OWlll'
g(,,'UUJ '" Incl!
S,,,,1"8 I., Llmll#tJI
.HawWrtllltlll JfJ ""it. "IOf,
for MQre InfOtmario" Cull:
NHC(281)486-81J21
""We.,..lloldinK twcutlllilu", I
fOt yo", con"tnl4:n('t. 1'11111, bit
rlll~ '~f Ih~ fl,~, j(J perl/Jlt /1)
/)'1116 IIf '1IIi' urJ ft" u .~I/.'dlll
(jift (Wll11l1d nt UJ'~J JIISI fur
IIH(mdlIW/ltW
I ~OO lmll<.l3:00 pm ("r)
7;( 0 pm tu 9:00 JlUt
Monch,y, Dcec:mbur SUI
R""'ud'l Urn/led
IcW39 Gasr f:n:~WK~' (1-10)
(P.xil'Hill'J
CHA.NNt.:LV1~W, TX
1'uesdl&)'. I)e~(:trl b"I' 9tb
/folll/lty I"" E.,'prlttI.Y
2CO I Spom:ur Hlghwll}'
PASADF~NA, TX
,
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Com, Oill f1111il.nl~ I!lG nlllfua)' lI'lIYlll... Plwlr""mll'llt 11'11111 '''''.11. StI"lI eb"'J\ WIll hIl11\131i11l)1t 101
~lo1l1rwl ....d III w"' "'Il1O ., N1tclsll'lIlf lfolll \tie Norm 1'010 101 (;Icn elliU whu .Itlhi 1:1111. TO)'l dclnlllcS lIy
I~: ;=~o pm PlCtur.. With Sonia 6. _.~
(film donaled by La Pol18 Du Pont FeU) ~
5:00 pm-7:00 pm La Port..aay.hore
Chamber of Commerce Holiday Social
7:00 p~7:10 pm .
W"CO~.yor Norman Malone
7:10 pm-7:30 pm Songe bV aaker Jr. High Choir
7:30 pm-&;OD pm Christmas Tr.. L.lghtlng
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Come out and enjoy the holiday activities.
Refreshments will be available. Santa
Claus will be available for pictures and he
will bring a special treat from the North
Pole for each child who visits him. Toys
donated by New Ufe Foundation.
5:30 pm--8:00 pm Pictures with Santa
(film donated by La Porte Du Pont FeU)
5:00 pm-7:00 pm La porte-Bayshore
Chamber of Commerce HOliday Social
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r;;:.' ..' .', :,'((#:;donatedby~::.: .:.:}.:,'.~'. :'::' :~:.' ;
~j~': ..,: ,'::. '. . Du~.ont Feder~ Crec;li(Qrii~i';1Y -:, .
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l?':OO.pm - '7:00 pm L~ Po~te-Bayshor~'9.~~eI:::--:'~ .
~~~;~;,t~:i5;~'::, 'ij~,i
~/7,":30:poi:t,~ 8 mO;pm? Christmas tree LighMg:' I, .~.:: .':, .... .
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';~:,' '. ,': .~l;l;:r;9I1~." .f:r~~t~!iq.<<~~ O~;";':l .":' ':';'
t.~;:: '.' C'&i6['U .:t' 'Po'rti~'lf" 'h'ij"il.:;:~.:. "
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Supc;lay, NQveJnb~ 30,.~.OQ~;
..
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S15 en/,y lei belare Feb. 21 st, children under
12,55 Alter.that'dat" S20, and child,en
under 12, S1. Pocket pick up March S- 6, at
Free~. 4513 .Red.Bluff, Pasadena.
Sponsors -Wal-Mart SuperCenter-
'Southmore & Wal-Mart Stores; Int.- .
Fairmont, The Victor Group, Dr. lath-
leen Hansen, Air Con-ditioning Plus,
RohMax USA and Barwar lincoln Mer-
cury, liassic Ireations the Embr.oidel)'
Shop, Rohm and Haas Texas, Inc., Moon .
Credit Co., BEl Engineers, firsl Commu-'
nitr Banll, Waste M~nagement, Moon
Credit Carp., Road 10, Run'ner's World,
InkS pot Printing
~antact p.rsOIl. Kathy Morrison.
Phone: 281-487 -4201
Emoil: sarohshouse@flosh.he,
)fSNEt
":t~;ICE'
flRf'. !
flLD EHTEITAINME"T
p~PIXAR
rE "', INC.
t
e.
. .
48th Ann ual .
Sylvan Beach Festival &./:
. . Crawfish Jam . ~
La Porte, 'Texas '. ........ a-
Saturday, Ap'ril24; 2004 "9-
Gates open 9 am
Come enjoy the scenic Galveston Bay
and Historical Sylvan Beach Park
. . Parade. Food '. Crafts" Carnival
'. Cookoff . Car Show .-
. Crawfish Eating Contests . Pageants
. Live. ~ntertainment and More ! !
Sacred Heart Society of Little York Presents:
La Festa
Siciliana
Saturday & Sunday
April 24 & 25, 2004
816 E. Whitney Dr., Houston
Various 'attractions will provide continuous entertainmen't for all
ages including: Itali.an song and dance, con'temporary and popular
music, Bocce ball lessons and tournaments, games and fun for the
kids, face painting', and more. Ad~ission $3.00 per person.
Entertainment:
Saturday: The McClanahans 1 to 4 pm - The B-Sides 6 to 10. pm
Sunday: Doppelganger 2 to 6 pm .
For more information - Call (713) 692-0198
UKRAINIAN
EASTER' BAZAAR
"
. Sunday, April 4, 2004
. 11 :30 am - 5:00 pm' .
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Gregory Park
Crystal Beach
II
J Children's
Entertainment
THS Crab Legs Contest
~rtainment
vered Pavilion
- Rock & Roll - Music
(800) FUN SUN3
-
". .. .
-
nue'
[COUNTY
IODEO ~
i - 24 II ~
--\ l . '
. ~:~;~\~
uk, Hwy 6, i"~~j
ock ! -- i!-~1
1 Jmlli
ainment at its BI
lildren's Educatic
mtry Store, Petti]
,ore.
-
I opening for
.N - APRIL 16
opening for
ER - APRIL 17 .
, - APRIL - 18
f\Y -~APRIL 19
DA Y' - APRIL 20
APRIL 21
( - APRIL, 22
~PRIL 22 - 24
The Zydeco Players
Hamilton LO,onis
Macon Greyson
Charlie Robison
,~~
1:00
3:00
5:00
8:30
2:30 pm
4: 15 pm
6:30 pm
10:00 pm
Live Entertainment includes
Food. . Crafts .. Carnival
~ Car Show . Pageants
Parade
Come enjoy scenic Galveston Bay
and Historical Sylvan Beach Park
Cookoff
Saturday,
Gates
April 24, 2004
open 9 am
Sylvan Beach Festival
Crawfish Jam.
La Porte, Texa$
&
48th Annual
The Blood Mobile will be on
site from lOam 4 pm. For. more
information, please call the Alvin
Kiwanis Club at
(281) 585-6211
Admission is $6 at the gate,
children under 12/accompanied by
an adult are admitted free. Parking
is free, If you need further infor-
mation call 800 FUN-SUN3
-. -
minutes. An antique Auto. Show
will also be a part of the days
activities. A large variety of an-
tiques, classics, restorations, an,d
hotrods will be judged and awards
presented to the winners,
off, and lots more. The food is to
die for, especially all the different
varieties of Crab recipes, A giant
Carnivaf runs Thursday thru Sun-
9ay and there will be dancing un-
der the Pavilion.
...
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-:HOU$t01? --, G:alves~on -'1;J~y.Ai(~EJ. :.,~...tO:iJl!~g:"Te'
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tisin'fun d/lnn.g its
Founded ten rears ago, Back Bay Market in Old Seabrook
has now become a reiaxing piace to discover the quiet
charm of the area, as well as an exciting shopping tradition.
Don't miss Old Seabrook Emporium, which offers Lampe
Berger and oils, European soaps, fresh and dried herbs,
gard!:n accessories, candles, gifts, and more.
The Back Bay Boutique features shoes, accessories, and
such ladies fashions as CTG, Flax, Fresh Produce, CP Shades,
Jam's World, and Citron.
i\Iake plans to spend the weekend in Seabrook, where Back Bay
Bed & Breakfast Inn is a tavonte chOIce I.VlSlt UJUJlIJ.oaciebayimiuD1>>).
, . Monthly mark'ets"at Back Bay are held in a beautifuily-
$haded outdoor setting, surrounded b~' gift and antique shops.
Upcoming Spring l\farkers :Ire on March 13~14, April 10-11,
May 8-9 andJune 12-13. Discover collectibles, jewelry, clothing,
specialty foods, garden accessories, antiques and stained g!ass,
Saturday 9-5 & Sunday 11-5. (Vendor space available.) .
Additional upcoming events include: The May 8-9.Bead
Bazaar, which offers custom-made beaded jewelry, beading
~upplies and unique beads of all shapes and sizes.
1\lso on May 8-9, the Second Street Art Show & Sale
features original art by area artists in oils, watercolor, pen & ink.
photOgraph)', pottery and more. These shows ate held twice
~'early during the spring and aU~UmnP.'lllrkSts Jll: 1401 2nd
Street. '. .. .
Takil45 SDuth & fxit atl'lAJA &1. Go last tD H11:Y 146 ;8 ,"i) 1&
,TOSS H~ 146. GD 4 blDcks tD Hardu!}, turn right & gD 2 blocks tD
.lIb St. Call (281) 474-3869. Dr lollfm (817) 474-3869. .:.
..
Events set at
Old Seabrook,'s
Back lay Market
I- ~t 8~lJ~ t'3~
'uwI~~ ?~ "
il car show, and fabulous festival foods.
" Other fun includes a bayside
.' cook-off competition, the
...' crowning pageant for. Miss Sylvan
~. Beach, and fiunily events for all ages;
i..\9~ Concerts cover the gamut of
musical styles. and venues with
swamp pop, zydeco, bluegrass,
Antry-western, rhythm & blues, Tejano
.. other festive varieties. There's
something for everyone at the Crawfish Jam,
so come join the fun on April24!
Gatu DPm at 9:00 a111 Saturday. AdmissiDn:
IS,- smiors 12,- 1m if under tm years & oc((}mpanied
by all adult. FDr additiDnal illjormonDn, coli (281)
471-1123, Dr viritwww.laportechamber,org. .:.
laPorte-Bayshore
Chamber of Commerce
Admi~~ion - $5 - ~eniots $2
J:tee if Undet 10 yeat~ Accom~anied by Adult
Call fot mote info: (2~1) 471-112g
www.laportechamber.org
. J:arnily J:un
. Ctawfi~h ~ating Conte!:t
o J:ood
lot~ of live ~ntettainrnent
. Parade
. Pageant~
Att~ &. Ct8ft~ . Cook-Off
APRIL 24-,
. Camival
200~
~VL V AN BI;ACH ~~~TIV AL
And Ctawfigh Jam
!!!
1''''''''''''1' ......,.:'C.
~r;.~f.:.t ~*~.:'~
3(;;':,'.1 ~~~:;i'i~
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. . . . . . .
L~ rurle, I !!XliI:
Sylvan Beach Patk
~:nultlay
Gate!: Open 9am
..
e
. i
and unclassi:
Come visi
Capital of Nc
in the pride :
of Denton's
tradition, all !
weekend of
the entire fan
The Den
Foundation, ]
tion with the
aDef the Dall:
Am~rican Fc
. .<.~.
'.. S.lClIUls-"
e
.. azz up your schedule
., on April 23, 24 & 25
by attending the 241f:1 Annual
Denton Arts & Jaiz' Festivall
Beautiful art, grel;l~ music,
good food and m3D:Y varied
activities are in stoicdor the
whole family in Deluon,
~here Jazz is King!"i.
Celebrating the best of
Denton, festivities are set in
th~ heart of downtown, at
the 2Q-act;.e Civit:" ,Ce~~e'r'
DE~TO~ MT ~ 3AZZ ,FESTIVAl
GREAt MUSIC * GREAT FOOD * GREAT AI
historical flags that
lver Texas throughout
I be displayed along
)owntown Navasota
:ning Festival of Flags. ,
:day, April 24, 2004;
also include a parade
) Washington Avenue
~ A~sc~ptio~.,~ \Vill "..
-~-- '---
I (elebrate~
lme with a
II of flag~
Hometown Folks ..,( Festiv;
lmunity Celebrations '*( Traditions
Website: www.festivalsoftexas.com
+
Marc
:.'" "
".
,.
gf
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"
~12nE<' _ "'_~
~
JOS Bath St.. Seabrook. 281-414.9919
(IJw:"'''D~'_II..~
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SouthEast "."'''~ ;00=.. ~...~"""UP
LifeStyles ~Galy~ton Bax..
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To: From:
Businea.: ~ C,-yA.-rrA6A BayGroup, Inc.
Name: co {,t._ ~ ~PC~s Name; A~~ ~~A/.
Pax: 2. S' , 97/- 17/C>._ Fax: 281-474-1443 .
Phone: "'""'- Phone; 281-474-5875
Date: ~4~ ';t
Page t of L
Commentsl
- -
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Bav~ P.O. BOX 1032. SEABROOK, TX n686
t:_a...A" . UAVnl5^IIP.aA...^'.,.....^.......... ^^_.
Admission:
du't$ · $2 for. Senior Citftens
&. under FRE'i:. with ~duft
greets U.S. senator John Comyn
,cinto Colleges Central Campus. 2ndfrom
il/demann, San Jacinto College Chancellor.
e1t - Monte Blue - President of San Jacinto
mtral Campus. Photo by Jackie Welch
'Activities:
. . . '. .
Art$ .~. (,~tl$ lkx>ttts
i,a 'Porte Metro Go-"J'eMn
Sut:Koolltlittee Cook-off
Carnival . food Booths . Games
Ti''-tnsportation OispCay
PARADE AT 10 A.M.
:~~\ W. S
"""I
Entertainment includes the Zydeco Players
at 1 PM, Hamilton Loomis at 3 PM, and Macon
Greyson at 5 PM.
Always exciting for the crowd, the winners of
the Little Miss, Petite Miss, Future Miss, and Pre-Teen
Miss pageants, as well as, Miss Sylvan Beach 2004
wili be crowned on the main stage in the Sonja Angelo
Theater between 6:30 and 8 PM.
Capping off the day's festivities will be a con-
cert featuring Charlie Robinson at 8:30 PM at the park,
Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for senior citi-
zens, and free for children 10 and under accompa-
nied by an adult. The rain out date for the festival will
be Sunday, April 25. However, in case of rain, the
bands will be moved from the main stage into the Syl-
van Beach Pavilion and will playas scheduled. Please,
no pets, coolers, rollerblades, skateboards, or recre-
ational scooters, For more information, call the La
SaturdaY' ,April 24!t 200i
~glvan Beach P(l:rk - La Porte
Gates 'Open9atn
Rain Date: Sunday, April 25, 2004
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C7~ ~~
48th Annual Sylvan BeacbFestival
" .
, ,
& Crawfish Jam
. 1
The 48th Annual Sylvan Beach Festival and
Crawfish Jam, sponsored by the La Porte-Bayshore
,Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for Saturday,
April 24, with gates opening at 9 AM at Sylvan Beach
':-on Galveston"Bay. .
Th~ festival kicks off with a parade begin-
'nirig at 10 AM. Activities at the park begin immedi-
ately following the parade with many exciting things
to enjoy including live ent~rtainment, crawfish eating
contests for kids and adults: food, arts & crafts booths,
cook-offs, a carnival, a classic car show, pageant, and
much more.
mmm____m__m_-n~mmn~- ". The cook-off is coordinated by the La Porte
~~~~~~".""'~,~t",, j'~"'~""~,,~ mm_m_ - Metro Go- Texasn Sub-Committee. Teams will be
-----------------------------------------
==~;::=_n~== --- ___m_mn_: 'judged on brisket, ribs, beans, and chicken. And don't
~~~~,~~,~~,~:~~~~~,~~;;~~: ~~~:;;;;:;~~ ,ceo .fo'rget showmanship, The cookers always put on a
__mn_n__mmn_________nn___n_n_____nm______ . _ - great show.' .
_mn_nmmmm__ _m__ . ". Entertainment includes the Zydeco Players
'at 1 PM, Hamilton Loomis at 3 PM, and MacoA
=",:~m,= Greyson at 5 PM.
- , Always exciting for the crowd, the winners of
. !~:Utt1c M1~~, Petite Miss, Future Miss, arid Pre-Teen
Miss pageants. as well as, Miss Sylvan Beach 2004
wili'be crowned on the main stage in the Sonja Angelo
"Theater between 6:30 and 8 PM.
" Capping off the day's festivities will be a con-
___nm___ __nnn_nnmn___ . Ct;lrt featuring Chariie Robinson at 8:30 PM at the park.
, Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for, senior citi-
. zeiis, ,and free for ,children 10 and under accompa-
~1~'d hy -,,'" :;~,)t The:rain out date for the festival will
~i~;l""":':';i Ar'ril ~fi However, .in case ,of ra~i1_; the
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48th Annual
:yluan Beach festiual
S Crawfish Jam
Syluan Beach Park
Sponsored by:
The La Porte-Bayshore
Chamber of Commerce
.
SATURDAY, APRIL 24. 2004
Gates Open 9 A.M.
~~:::.::.::~ EVENiNG CONCERT
8:30 - 10:00 P.M.
FEA TURING
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SCHEDULED ENTERTAINMENT
Parade.............................................................. ................. .............. ................
Classic Car Show................................................... ..... ...... ..... ....... ......... ...........
The Zydeco Players ............................................ ........... .... ..... ................ ..........'
Diaper Derby ............................................. ........ ..... ..... ....... ......... .......... .... ... ..'
Announce Parade Winners .. ...... ... ......... ..... ..... ......;.............................................
Aerobatic Flight Demonstration by Debbie Rihn. 2003-2004 Women's
u.S. Nat'!. Aerobatic Unlimited Champion ..~.......................................................
Intro. of Pageant Contestants .......................... ............. .......... .................... ......
Hamilton Loomis............................................. ............. ................. ...................
Cook-Off Awards............... ............................. ......... ............ .................... ..........
Macon Greyson Band........................................ ........................ ............... ........
6:30.8:00 p.m.
Crowning of little Miss, Petite Miss. Future Miss, Pre-Teen ~
Introduction of 2004 Junior Miss
Crowning of Miss Sylvan Beach 2004
Charlie Robison .............................................. ....... .......... .......... ........... ...........
EVENTS
ADDITIONAL LOCAL A
Arts and Crafts Booths
La Porte Metro Go-Texan
Sub-Committee Cook-Off
Carnival · Food Booths · Games
Transportation Display
Train Depot I
100 Park J
Texas' American Ii
7 14 S. Bra
Bay fon!st Gc
20 I Bay Forest Driv1
Uttle Cedar Bayc
600 Little Cedar
Antiques 6 I
Main St
San Jacinto Battleground
Museum' M
3523 Battlegr.
"AREA ATTRACTIONS"
.
Johnson Space Center. NASA
2 101 Nasa Road One
Houston, Texas
Six Flags Astroworld
900 I Kirby
Houston, Texas
Houston Zoo
I 5 I 3 N. MacGregor
Houston, Texas
Museum of Natural Science
I Hermann Circle Drive
Houston. Texas
Admission Tc
9:00 a.m. - 10:OC
$:2 - Senior
Free. I 0 &0 unde
HER FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
. . . . .
'N BEACH BEAUTY PAGEANT & REVUE
Friday, April 23,2004
Sonja Angelo Theater
7 :00 p.m.
SYLVAN BEACH PARADE
Featuring
iss Sylvan Beach Contestants
10:00 a.m.
IUTDOOR EVENING CONCERT
Charlie Robison
Sylvan Beach Park
8:30 - 10:00 p.m.
ADMISSION To FESTIVAL
:: '::.:::_ -10:00 p.m. - $5.00
$2 . Senior Citizens
. -! 0 5 under with Adult
n out date for the FESTIVAL is
SUNDAY, APRil 25, 2004
::'::'.':~. !11 r~~p of rain, the BANDS will
ruin the main stage into the Sylvan Beach
"~':~~ PLAY AS SCHEDULED.
la Porte-Bayshore Chamber of
___1___ _____.0 _11_....._ __..,III". ""1111 a"ant~
........------ ~-.,... i -..--.. ..- --..---- ----
J or advertised, however, festival
-;;~ ;--:-~_~;-:~; the light tv ~hgiii~ or ~~~ce!
I or event without notice. No refunds
-' -. rpe;!rdlp~!l of circumstances. No pets,
.. -.. - t,rv';:,<ii"';' bicycles. rollerblades,
ls, or recreational scooters may be brought
___!___, ___.._..J_
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SYLVAN BEACH FESTIVAL
APRIL 24, 2004
EVENT. MAP
O.,beque
Cook-ocr
Area
\
\\...
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~.. .... - Bavshore Driv~
.
-.1 {._....._.._.._.._.._.._.._~
Playgroll
Area
Arts & Crafts
Area
Food Area
"""---
--
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Alley Theatre
offers playwrights
chance at fame
The Alley Theatre is seeking
scripts written by aspiring teen
plaYwrights ages 13 to 19 from
the Houston area for its Houston
Young Playwrights Exchange.
Plays must have no more than
six characters and must be one
. . ., 1..._ h""O~
Miss Sylvan Beach will be
crowned at 6:30 p.m. The
evening will end \Yith an outdoor
concert featuring, Charlie Robi-
son, 8:30 to 10 p.rn.
Admission is $5 for adults, $2
for senior citizens, and free for
children 10" and under accompa-
nied by an adult For more infor-
mation, call the Chamber of
Commerce at 281-471-1123.
The 48th Annual Sylvan Beach
Festival and Crawfish Jam,
sponsored by the La Port~-
B~yshore Chamber of Com-
merce, takes place 9 am. to' 10
p.m. Saturday at Sylvan Beach'
l'ark on Galveston Bay at Fair-
mont Parkway.
The parade, with aerobatics
pilot Debby Rihn-Harvey as
grand marshal. begins at 10 am.
at Fairmont and Broadway.
Rihn-Harvey, the highest ranked
female aerobatics pilot in the
United States, will perform an
aerobatics demonstration over
the bay at"2 p.rn.
Activities beginning after the
parade include a car show 11
a.m. to 4 p.m., live entertain-
ment, crawfish eating contests
for kids an"- adults, a cook-off,
carnival and pag~t. Vendors
will sell food and arts and crafts.
By REBECCA MAITLAND
Special to ThisWeek
ily with a terminally ill f;tther
or mother might need so~eone
to pick up a few groceries or
sit with the patient while family
members get out and go to a
show."
Volunteers say running an
errand or having an hour or
two away from home, might
seem like small things, but to
the family it means a lot
"When volunteers work with
us; they become part of our
family," Wilson said. "We not
only work together, we become
friends."
"We need volunteers in Pasa-
dena, La Porte, Garland, Deer
Park, Channelview, North
Channel and Baytown," Wuson
!:.~id.
Faces in the crowd
Many people today are
choosing to forego aggressive
medical care after a diagnosis
of a terminal illness. Instead,
they .return to the comfort of
their homes, to spend their last
months with friends and fam-
ily, instead of being hooked up
to tubes in hospitals.
When they go home, volun-
teers like Carol Youens with
"tIospice Care Team are there.
Hospice Care Team depends
on the co~unity to serve ter-
minally ill patients and fami-
lies. But this not-for-profit or-
ganization needs volunteers.
"U people in the community
have a few hours a week or
month, we could use their
help," said Judy Wllson, senior
volunteer coordinator for Hos-
pice Care. "For example, a fam-
She said each of her patients
are different, and each patient
has a different need. Yet, it is
good for all the patients to
know they will have someone
visit them.
Youens said once she had a
patient who loved chocolate
and so she always took her
something, either chocolate
pudding or a piece of chocolate
candy.
She also spoke of one patient
that did not talk, so Youens
talked to her.
"Sometimes just hearing
someone's voice can be com-
forting," she said. '
"As a volunteer, one of the
main keys is to let patients
know they are not forgotten,
that someone cares," the Ga-
lena Park resident said.
"My pati~i1ts' ;become my
friends and so I look forward
to seeing them," Youens said.
She added that no matter how
ill or how alert the patient is,
he or she knows or can feel
someone with them.
"Knowing someone is there
to visit them, that someone
cares, makes a difference in
their lives. I wish everyone
knew how much you get back
when you give a little time to
a terminally ill patient," YQuens
,..,,;1'1
on the patien
Hospice CaI J
vides medical q
scription met
charge, relie'
and patient 0
dens.
Youens has'
,,--- """'...~
. .
Hospice vq!u
gives her time
Center. .'
. Hospice volunteers are
needed in ,Pasadena, LaPorte,
Deer Park, Channelview,
North Channel and Baytown,
If a church or company is
interested in offering the'
volunteer training to their
members or employees, '
Hospice Care would provide
on-site training. For more
information, call Judy Wilson
at 800-545-8738 or Minnie
Rodriguez at 713-453-8862.
.. ..-::-...~
";~y.~~p
Chamber hosts
Sylvan Be~ch
Fest Saturday
Volunteer Carol Youens
helping terminal patien
od'~
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W.be.;1: April 24. Wh.ere: HouSton. Contad:
281,:479-243); .www.tpWd.stote.tx.us. Admis-
sion: Jree: '. :.:. -'~ . .
.' , . }.:::. (-.il. .,' .,
HeId~t the San Jacinto Battleground
Sta~.;Historic'Si~"lh:e ~t- will feature
livl_ng.)p,story. exhibits 'of Mexican and
~ 'anny.cainps;kidS' games, ~ mock
~ aI'CQaeoJogical dig.and:a l'e;-e~cqnent of
~e 'iS36 Texas Revolution .battle: :
':Nwi:UIM ARJ.<.isTWAL
.. t. .:.... . ". ::':'~~~-':'~~..;~:~'" .....:;~.~ -;
: When: April 24. W~ere: New Ulm. Con-
tad:. 979~992-3337. Admissio_n: free. .
. .' .
, . .;.".
Artwo~k for sh9w'and sale, and crafts,
are set for the fif~__ann~ event.
F.ESTIVAL'~~::'~LAGS.
When: April 24. Where: 'No~asota. Con-
tad: 936-825-~60q. .~!'1issic:>.!l: free. ....
. .::~"'/.:~'~~ ,::"\.' .:.... . .' .
Hundreds o( hil?toxic. flags will.be dis-
'played ijt historicil,l.d.9wQt,QWn Navasota,
along with live music,anpque tractors,
. ~tique ':~~a~~'.:%~~~~" ~~~~r,
, :..~:,:t;.~~i} 'S~~!S,~:~f~' - " .,",-' '.' .... '.
:SYLVAN::BEACH:'FESTIVAL' .
AMD:CRAWF.ISHr~AM"~ '~~-!:t-'::
:."~. :::.;:...... ~ ~ '\..(-.='", J:r.~-\!F.~\;~.:::~'.}:j.::':"":: ;r'i"~:';
: :V/hel.l: Aprl1'24. Where:. La.pp~..:C$?-!!t~c;t:
281-471-1123. wwW.lannrt~~kom8er;8",::ia_
.." ..I.....ht...~.\"..L....~~~~}-'.,., ..,..._..':.::t,,~.,.
mission:. $.5{:,$2'!seriiM;-"fie&fag'es-:.: TO:,q'fld .
.Y~~,:~~~~,~t~,,~.~~~I:~.: v" :f",.:' .~:. ".:.-".' ;::.:~.'\.-' .
.:.. The.48tli'aim~ .~ent \\Iii1 reatQre a INi-
'rade a Car shoW:, 'CrawfiSlr eatirig:<'oon-
. tests', crafts bo9~, a ~ok-off anp. ~ out':
'i~~~~~~~~~:~:";':~",: .:.t::,S~':::~'t ~/.~:~.:~.~ ~~:.:~..r1::
. ':RED...PO~PY~FESTIYAL.. .' "
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....; ,,'t. ...' . :.;:. ~'.~.~'.;. q, ::,,,r:. ~: .'~'~~ .
". .' Wh~f1: April .24"25.. Where: Georgefown.
.~!.~~~;~~
:.:j"l~:.~t .~~tp.e..9IROJ!1ing ,pf the
~jx)ppy~~ ~rget;O~ ~e (Ited :poppy
'Capit;3I ~orTexas. EY.eQtS::ipc1ud.~.a.pa"i
'.:.~4~.. ~ .;~~)I.ye~ ~ show, a children's
. "~"~i:tl(8.Ijd..-&afti;, and music by 'the
. genamy':Brothers, l~Uline' Reese, DyS-
funkshiufJunkshun :and Lonestar Blue-
. -'.. "Band .
"~@!J~l~~~;~,-~ ~~_'2.:.>' :,," ';' .-',
~. .'. .... .:. ~"'..'..'.. . :....... ~,.;.....~\:'..-"'#.....~i~..~~.;....
:', Whe'n:' t,;Prif "24:'WIief~~{Wills"p6iHW Co'ii~
"t" "d" ," i9-r..~<:i"8--'.---t.3" 'f'a-';'l-~l"'l' -T'r!;lf"l '''1'' -"Ii! - '>""''<l'd~ .i ;";:'1'/
a . J..:'.N~' '( -.,'.'- ,;'YfWW..myFWor '.com
. wp'bfa(ind~x,btml. Admission: fl"!!e.
.~.:;>.~ .... ~.>~. ....;....: '.,~ ~.;.;..~< ..~. '{ .:..~..:..:;~":.
: The town celebrates: birdi Witti.' eduCa-
tional programs, driVirig tours to bluebird
ne&Png:b.Q.x~:. art,s;. cri,Uts ,_and ;:games.
'&r~..a~ :,:_:.~'::': :. )" ::.' )~~.~: :.:"'<-'~
O.~;6tO.1l1:0N ~~n' :. ,.
... .~' . ,:} ... .!... I"'~ . I .:.. ~. ~ . .:.. '. '. . . . "'.
. ." Wi1;eri: April '25';' Where: 'Richmond. Con-
tad: . 281-342-2735. Admission: free.
';.~:!;'},r>. ...~..~.: :;'~":)"::~" :~~r:. .~;;'.~~:'. ;-
~.German singing aild. plusic groups,
ind.oor :.concert penormaitc~ ($2) and a
-baibeCue ,diJ)ner ($7).' '. '< . :.' ~
. . ~. .
. .
. H'~fsrUFF 'CHlil ..'
AND 8BQ COOK-OF':
.. .
'. ~WJ,e,,::A;riI2~. Wher.e: Coldspiing. Con-
tci~t:~. ?36-653:2184; www',coldsp.ring
~exo~.~rg: Admission: free. '..
. .
~ I.~ d. ~ ~ '_.'.:":.. . . 0.. ~ _: .::-":. .... .
.: ':13c;$.t~~ categ6Iie~::it1clude.:~, bar-
:J)~~~.t.W'$;' ~~en,'b~s; p~~y Marys
aQc,l "~tas. :AIsp" sb~p ',~de' Days
.ail.d~~,~~ijcal' &hops_ atOjJh!;l the court-
:house.'- " and Old ToWiLColds rin .
..;.;~~i~~:~. " ...' :... ~ ;:'~\.': ~". g:
.;HElbYAGE'GARDENERs:. - .
.!jjilNG 'GARDEN lOUR'
'{~~'~~l~~~tt ..... . "'.' <?< :-.. .'..:.'...,
.~:~b,~~t}iN!rJl ~l\~?$. '~_~9r;~:. '~nendswood.
~ofitQc;t:.;~el-992-4;43!3. Ad"!lsslon: $8; free
.~)N~~:t~ Y9un~er.." ::.....~ ;':'::'"
. :~e 'rhrough the Garden Gates tour
will feature six 'gardens and a plant sale
at ,the HeQtage Garden Center.
BLUEBIRD FESTIVAL
$\~ :~
. .. _ '. ~.. ..4 . . -... . . t..1: ..,jt~
H~~tS\;tllle~::~G~iieral SamH6uston' Foik
Fe~tival "K"oripi's the man. ancf his 'times.
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When: April 24. Where: Carthage. Con-
tact: '903"693-6634. Admission: $15 for
evening show.' -,. - .
Fr~e '-diytime. ~vents include live
bands; artS~and crafts and a Jim .Reeve~
souQd~aIi"kecontest, ,followed by ~n
ev~,~g tribute ~~:.
'14M :JACINTO' DAY
FESTIVAL' . .' .
.1...... .......--... ........w ~.""'''''~'&'''
JIM REIEVQ JAMBOREE
feature ~ryStal expert Maximilio'if-Ried'el
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'lmiif.:Date:'SOn'aa<~;"-A" rU,2S' '2004" -' "
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- ""'<"$:: "'..:;.~!i!.GT"":~"!.':':'.;J;'" .' .'- . M9~UD)ent Area .FederalCre(bt
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ADMISSION:
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STATE OF TEXAS )(
COUNTY OF HARRIS )(
CITY OF LA PORTE )(
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN OF A SPECIAL CALLED MEETING TO BE HELD AUGUST 2, 2004 AT 6:00 P.M. IN
THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF CITY HALL, 604 WEST FAIRMONT PARKWAY, LA PORTE, TEXAS, REGARDING
THE ITEMS OF BUSINESS ACCORDING TO THE AGENDA LISTED BELOW,
Next. Ord. 2004-2760
Next Res. 2004-13
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION - MAYOR PRO-TEM - BARRY BEASLEY
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING, AND WORKSHOP MEETING MINUTES HELD ON
JULY 26, 2004
5. CONSIDER APPROVAL OR OTHER ACTION REGARDING AN ORDINANCE DECLARING THE RESULTS
ON THE SPECIAL ELECTION HELD IN THE CITY OF LA PORTE ON JULY 24, 2004 FOR THE ELECTION
OF A MAYOR AND A COUNCILPERSON DISTRICT 6 (Ord. 2004-2760) - K. Askins
6. ADMINISTER OATHS OF OFFICE TO NEW COUNCILPERSONS - K. Askins
7. PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND CITIZENS AND TAX PAYERS WISHING TO
ADDRESS COUNCIL ON ANY ITEM POSTED ON THE AGENDA - (LIMITED TO FIVE MINUTES)
\
8. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS - D. Feazelle
MAIN STREET COMMITTEE PUBLIC HEARING - AUGUST 2, 2004 - 7:00 P.M. - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEW TEACHERS LUNCHEON - AUGUST 3, 2004 - 11 :45 A.M. - LA PORTE
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT CENTER
LOMAX DISTRICT MEETING (RURAL SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) - AUGUST 3, 2004 - 7:00 P.M, -
OLD LOMAX CITY HALL BUILDING
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT - AUGUST 3,2004 - 7:00 P.M, -10:00 P.M. - VARIOUS BLOCK PARTIES
SUMMER YOUTH LUNCHEON - AUGUST 6, 2004 - 11 :00 A.M, - 1 :00 P.M. - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
TML REGION 14 - FALL MEETING - AUGUST 6-7,2004 - GALVESTON, TEXAS
BUDGET WORKSHOP MEETINGS WEEK OF AUGUST 9, 2004 - 6:00 P.M. - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
BREAKFAST WITH THE STARS-AUGUST 11, 2004-7:00A.M, -SYLVAN BEACH PAVILION
NEWLY ELECTED CITY OFFICIALS' ORIENTATION - AUGUST 20-21,2004 - AUSTIN, TEXAS
9. COUNCIL COMMENTS -Mosteit, Clausen, Rigby, Moser, Beasley, Porter, Griffiths, Ebow and Engelken,
10. EXECUTIVE SESSION - PURSUANT TO PROVISION OF THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW, CHAPTER
551.071 THROUGH 551.076, 551.087, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE, (CONSULTATION WITH
ATTORNEY, DELIBERATION REGARDING REAL PROPERTY, DELIBERATION REGARDING
PROSPECTIVE GIFT OR DONATION, PERSONNEL MATTERS, DELIBERATION REGARDING
.
.
SECURITY DEVICES, OR EXCLUDING A WITNESS DURING EXAMINATION OF ANOTHER WITNESS IN
AN INVESTIGATION, DELIBERATION REGARDING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEGOTIATIONS)
551.074 - (PERSONNEL MATTER) - CITY MANAGER'S EVALUATION/PERFORMANCE
11. CONSIDERATIONS AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ITEMS CONSIDERED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
12. ADJOURNMENT
If during the course of the meeting covered by this agenda the Council should determine that a closed or executive
meeting or session of the Council should be held or is required in relation to an item noticed in this agenda, then such
closed or executive meeting or sessions authorized by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government
Code; will be held by the Council at that date, hour and place given in the meeting notice or as soon after the
commencement of the meeting covered by the meeting notice as the Council may conveniently meet in such closed or
executive meeting or session concerning any and all subjects and for any and all purposes permitted by Sections
551.071 through 551.076, and 551.087 of said Open Meetings Law, including, but not limited to:
Section 551.071 - For the purpose of a private consultation with the Council's attorney on any subject or matter
authorized by law.
Section 551.072 - For the purpose of deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property.
Section 551.073 - For the purpose of deliberating a negotiated contract for a prospective gift or donation to the City.
Section 551.074 - For the purpose of deliberating the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties,
discipline or dismissal of a public officer or employee or to hear complaints or charges against a public officer or
employee, unless the officer or employee requests a public hearing.
Section 551.075 - for the purpose of conferring with an employee or employees of the City, only for the purpose of
receiving information from the employee or employees or to ask questions of the employee or employees; provided,
however, that no discussion of public business or City policy that affects public business shall take place between the
members of the City Council during the conference.
Section 551.076 - To consider deployment, or specific occasions for implementation, of security personnel or devices,
Section 551.087 - To discuss or deliberate regarding commercial or financial information that the governmental body
has received from a business prospect that the governmental body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or near the
territory of the governmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting economic development
negotiations; or to deliberate the offer of a financial or other incentive to a business prospect described by
Subdivision (1).
THIS FACIUTY HAS DISABILITY ACCOMMODA TIONS A VAlLABLE. REQUESTS FOR ACCOMMODA TIONS OR INTERPRETIVE SERVICES
AT MEETINGS SHOULD BE MADE 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THIS MEETING. PLEASE CONTACT CITY SECRETARY'S OFRCE AT 281-471.
5020 OR TOO UNE 281471.5030 FOR FURTHER INFORMA TION.
,~iit~~
Martha A. Gillett, TRMC
City Secretary
Posted:
MINUTE. REGULAR MEETING AND WOR"OP MEETING
OF THE LA PORTE CITY COUNCIr'
July 26, 2004
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Pro Tern Barry Beasley at 6:00 p.m.
Members of City Council Present: Council members Chuck Engelken, Howard Ebow, Peter Griffiths, Tommy
Moser, Mike Mosteit, Louis Rigby and Mayor Pro Tern Barry Beasley
Members of Council Absent: None
Members of City Executive Staff and City Emolovees Present: City Manager Debra Feazelle, Assistant City
Manager John Joems, Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander, Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins, City
Secretary Martha Gillett, Public Works Director Steve Gillett, Assistant Finance Director Michael Dolby,
Interim Planning Director Nick Finan, Police Chief Richard Reff, Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson,
Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Suggs, Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen, Purchasing Manager Susan
Kelley, Building Official Debbie Wilmore, Fire Chief Mike Boaze, Assistant City Secretary Sharon Harris,
Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Barr, Assistant Fire Chief John Dunham, Office Manager Marlene
Rigby and EMS Chief Ray Nolen
Others Present: Sue Gale Mock Kooken, Charles Underwood, Colleen Hicks, Barbara Norwine, Mike Clausen,
Alton Porter, Sib Carpenter, Dave Turnquist, Carlos Martinez, Ellery LaCombe, Pete Frank, Bobbie Frank,
Fred Anthony, Robin French, Ed Fendell, Donna Fendell, Ann Hayes, Ryan Gillbert, Donna Wolf, Carol
Christian of the Houston Chronicle and a number of other citizens and students.
2. Reverend Wayne Spears of Fairmont Park Baptist Church delivered the invocation.
3. Mayor Pro Tern Bany Beasley led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. Mayor Pro Tern Beasley presented Bobbie Frank and a group of volunteers with a Proclamation in honor of
Habitat for Humanity's 10th year anniversary.
s. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Council to consider approval of Regular Meeting, Public Hearing and Workshop Meeting Minutes held on
July 12, 2004.
B. Council to consider award of Bid #04029 for Firefighter Protective Clothing to low bidder meeting
specifications, in the amount of $29,950.
C. Council to consider award of Sealed Bid #04030 for Liquid Chlorine to low bidder meeting specifications,
in the amount of $37,290.
D. Council to consider approval of an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement with
TexDOT for the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of SH 146 and Wharton Weems Blvd.
Councilmember Rigby requested discussions on item B.
Motion was made by Councilmember Griffiths to aoorove the Consent Agenda as oresented. Second by
Councilmember Mosteit. Motion carried.
Ayes: Engelken, Beasley, Griffiths, Moser, Mosteit, Rigby and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
City Council Regular Meeting an_rkShOP Meeting - July 26, 2004 - Page 2 e
6. PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND CITIZENS AND TAX PAYERS
WISHING TO ADDRESS COUNCIL ON ANY ITEM POSTED ON THE AGENDA - (LIMITED TO
FIVE MINUTES)
Mr. Ellery Lacombe of 3229 Canada Road, La Porte, Texas 77571 - Mr. LaCombe spoke on behalf of the
residents living on Canada Road. Mr. LaCombe advised City Council the residents do not want the name of
the street changed from Canada Road to East Boulevard due to the costs and inconvenience.
7. Council to consider approval for calling a Special Meeting on Monday, August 2,2004, to canvass votes from
the Special Election held on July 24, 2004.
Motion was made by Council member Griffiths to approve calling a Special Meeting to canvass votes from the
Special Election held on July 14.2004 to be held on August 2.2004. Second by Councilmember Mosteit.
Motion carried.
Ayes: Engelken, Beasley, Griffiths, Moser, Mosteit, Rigby and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
8. Council to consider taking action on recommendation for approval by Planning and Zoning for renaming
Canada Road to East Boulevard.
Interim Planning Director Nick Finan presented summary and recommendation and answered Council's
questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 2004-2746 - AN ORDINANCE RENAMING
CANADA ROAD TO EAST BOULEVARD IN DEER PARK; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
CONTAINING A REPEALING CLAUSE; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS
LAW; PROVIDING AN EFFECTNE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Engelken to deny Ordinance 2004-2746 changing the name of Canada
Road to East Boulevard as presented bv Mr. Finan. Second by Councilmember Rigby. Motion carried.
Ayes: Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken, Ebow, Moser, Rigby and Griffiths
Nays: None
Abstain: None
9. Council to consider approval of the recommended date of August 23, 2004, for the Public Hearing on the
City's FY 2004-2005 Proposed Budget.
Assistant Manager Cynthia Alexander presented summary and recommendation and answered Council's
questions.
Motion was made bv Councilmember Griffiths to approve the recommended date of August 23. 2004 for the
Public Hearing on the FY 2004-2005 Proposed Budget as presented by Ms. Alexander. Second by
Councilmember Engelken. Motion carried.
Ayes: Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken, Ebow, Moser, Rigby and Griffiths
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Addendum Item Considered - 1. Consider approval or other action regarding an ordinance approving
and authorizing a contract between the City of La Porte and First Southwest Company for Financial
Advisory Services - (2004-2759) - C. Alexander
Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander provided City Council with summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
City Council Regular Meeting an.rkShOP Meeting - July 26, 2004 - Page 3 e
ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY CLARK ASKINS READ: ORDINANCE 2004-2759 - AN ORDINANCE
APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING A CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA PORTE AND FIRST
SOUTHWEST COMPANY FOR FINANCIAL ADVISORY SERVICES; MAKING VARIOUS FINDINGS
AND PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT, FINDING COMPLIANCE3 WITH THE OPEN
MEETINGS LAW, AND PROVIDING AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEROF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Rigbv to aDprove the Ordinance 2004-2759 as Dresented. Second by
Councilmember Griffiths. Motion carried unanimously.
10. The Regular Meeting closed and the Workshop Meeting opened at 6:35 p.m.
A. Building Official Debbie Wilmore reviewed the findings of the Board of Inspection and requested
authorization for a Public Hearing date for the ten (10) structures being reviewed.
It was the consensus of City Council to move forward with scheduling a Public Hearing.
Councilmember Mosteit suggested staff consider having utilities turned off on these homes in order to
avoid fire and hazards.
B. City Manager's Administrative Assistant Crystal Scott and La Porte Independent School District's Dave
Turnquist discussed the billboard design for Phase III Display.
Colleen Hicks provided City Council with an overview and showed them examples of the billboard.
C. Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson reported on Chapter 172 Medical Board.
11. The Workshop Meeting closed and the Regular Meeting reconvened at 8:14 p.m.
12. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
The tentative Special Called Meeting to canvass will be Monday, August 2,2004 at 6 p.m. in Council
Chambers; the Main Street Committee Public Hearing will be held on Monday, August 2, 2004, at 7 p.m.;
the Chamber of Commerce New Teachers Luncheon is Tuesday, August 3, 2004, at 11 :45 a.m. at the La Porte
High School Student Center; the Lomax District Meeting (rural single-family residential will be Tuesday,
August 3, 2004, at 7 p.m. at the Old Lomax City Hall Building; National Night Out is Tuesday, August 3,
2004, from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. at various block parties; the Summer Youth Luncheon is scheduled for Friday,
August 6, 2004, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Council Chambers; TML Region 14's Fall Meeting will be
held on, Friday and Saturday, August 6-7,2004 in Galveston, Texas; the Budget Workshop Meetings will be
the week of August 9, 2004 at 6 p.m.; Breakfast with the Stars will be Wednesday, August 11,2004, at 7 a.m.
at Sylvan Beach Pavilion, and the Newly Elected City Officials' Orientation will be Saturday and Sunday,
August 20-21, 2004, in Austin, Texas.
Ms. Feazelle announced that Mr. Finan the Interim Planning Director has accepted a position with another
City. She thanked him for all his hard work and efforts while with the City of La Porte.
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmembers Engelken, Ebow, Mosteit, Moser, Rigby, Mosteit and Mayor Pro Tern Beasley had
comments.
14. EXECUTIVE SESSION - PURSUANT TO PROVISION OF THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW,
CHAPTER 551.071 THROUGH 551.076, 551-087, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE (CONSULTATION
WITH ATTORNEY, DELIBERATION REGARDING REAL PROPERTY, DELIBERATION
REGARDING PROSPECTIVE GIFR OR DONATION, PERSONNEL MATTERS, DELIBERATION
REGARDING SECURITY DEVICES, OR EXCLUDING A WITNESS DURING EXAMINATION OF
City Council Regular Meeting an.rkShOP Meeting - July 26, 2004 - Page 4 e
ANOTHER WITNESS IN AN INVESTIGATION, DELIBERATION REGARDING ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT NEGOTIATIONS)
551.071 - (Pending Litigation) - Meet with City Manager and City Attorney on Pending Litigation.
551-074 - (Personnel Matter) - City Manager's EvaluationlPerformance.
There was no action taken during Executive Session.
15. CONSIDERATIONS AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ITEMS CONSIDERED IN EXECUTIVE
SESSION
16. There being no further business to come before Council, the Regular Meeting was duly adjourned at p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
~IL /itu4
Martha Gillett, TRMC
City Secretary
Passed and approved on this 2nd day of August 2004
~.
Mayor Pro Tern Barry
July 24, 2004
07/30/200408:5(
Precincts Reporting.6 of 6 = 100.
Total
26 1.79%
523 35.97%
905 62.24%
,454 99,32%
0 O.Oook
10 0,68%
e'
273 59.35%
187 40.65%
460 99.35%
0 0.00%
3 0.65%
-
Cumulative Report - Official
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 1 of 1
Election
Early
Absentee
464 of 59,994 = 2.44%
Candidate
1
Total Number of Voters
I Party ~C
MAYOR, Vote For 1
.78%
40.71%
57.51%
-
99.59%
0.00%
0.41%
13
298
421
-
732
o
3
1.81%
30,92%
67.27%
-
99.03%
0.00%
0.97%
13
222
483
-
718
o
7
0.00%
75.00%
25.00%
100.00%
0.00%
0.00%
o
3
1
4
o
o
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
Kim H, Wakefield
Bruce Meismer
Alton E. Porter
CITY COUNCIL POSmON, DISTRICT 6, Vote For 1
Mike Clausen
Bruce Compton
55.08%
44.92%
99.16%
0.00%
0.84%
130
106
-
236
64.25%
35,75%
-
99.55%
142
79
221
o
1
33,33%
66.67%
100,00%
0.00%
0.00%
1
2
3
o
o
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
o
2
Precincts Voters
Counted I Total I Percent Ballots I Registered T Percent
1 I 1 T 100.00% 4631 9,9991 4.63%
0,00%
0.45%
'"
)uAcm
LfYl~
Precinct Report - Officia
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 1 of 6
Absentee
July 24, 2004
07/30/2004 08:52
Precincts Reporting 6 of 6 = 100.0
Total
Election
Total Number of Voters
I Party ,
0,93%
28.24%
70.83%
99.08%
0.00%
0.92%
2
61
153
2i6
0.00%
27.59%
72.41%
o
32
84
2
29
69
Precinct District
MAYOR, Vote For 1
Kim H. Wakefield
Bruce Meismer
Alton E. Porter
,e
-
o
2
0.00%
0.85%
o
1
0.00%
0.99%
0.00%
0.00%
o
o
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
July 24,2004
Precinct Report - Official
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 2 of 6
07/30/2004 08:52
Precincts Reporting 6 of 6 = 100.0
Total
1,464 of 59,994 = 2.44%
Candidate
Total Number of Voters
I Party ,
Election
Early
Absentee
2.27%
31.82%
65.91 %
10'0:'ffii%
1
14
29
44
e
-
0,00%
0.00%
o
o
0.00%
34.78%
65.22%
1'06:00%
0.00%
0,00%
o
8
15
23
o
o
4.76%
28.57%
66.67%
100.00%
0.00%
0.00%
1
6
14
21
o
o
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
o
o
o
o
o
o
Precinct District 2 (Ballots Cast: 44)
MAYOR, Vote For 1
Kim H. Wakefield
Bruce Meismer
Alton E. Porter
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
0Yl~
July 24, 2004
07/30/200408:52
Precincts Reporting 6 of 6 = 100,0
- :::J
Total
.
- -
- -
1 6.08%
1 3.70%
9 0.22%
'1 0:00% .
0 0.00%
0 0.00% .e
-
Precinct Report - Official
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 3 of 6
Early
-
-
-
3 3.49%
26 30,23%
57 66.28%
86 ~
0 0.00%
0 0.00%
1,464 of 59,994 = 2.44%
Candidate
Total Number of Voters
I Party ,
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
~b-
Precinct District
MAYOR, Vote For 1
Kim H. Wakefield
Bruce Meismer
Alton E. Porter
July 24, 2004
07/30/200408:52
Precincts Reporting 6 of 6 = 100.0
Total
--
e
3 1.15%
95 36.26%
164 62.60%
262 99.24%
0 0.00%
2 0.76%
Precinct Report - Official
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 4 of 6
Total Number of Voters: 1,464 of 59,994 = 2.44%
I Party , I Candidate Absentee , Early Election
- - - -
- - - -
Precinct District 4 (Ballots Cast: 264)
- - - -
MAYOR, Vote For 1
Kim H, Wakefield 0 0.00% 3 2.50% 0 0.00%
Bruce Meismer 1 100.00% 40 33.33% 54 38.30%
Alton E. Porter 0 0,00% 77 64.17% 87 61.70%
Cast Votes: 1 100.00% 120 mN m 99,30%
Over Votes: 0 0.00% 0 0.00% 0 0.00%
Under Votes: 0 0.00% 1 0.83% 1 0.70%
~
~
~
LfYlI
July 24, 2004
07/30/200408:52
Precincts Reporting 6 of6 = 100.0
- ::J
Total
.
- - .
- - .
6 2.05%
3 8.57%
4 9.39%
'3 9.66% .
0 0.00%
1 0.34% .e
e
Precinct Report - Officia
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 5 of 6
Absentee
: 1,464 of 59,994 = 2,44%
Candidate
Total Number of Voters
I Party ~
1.73%
33.53%
64.74%
99.43%
0.00%
0.57%
3
58
112
173
o
1
0.00%
0.00%
0,00%
~
0.00%
0.00%
o
o
o
o
o
o
294)
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
Precinct District 5 (Ballots Cast:
MAYOR, Vote For 1
Kim H. Wakefield
Bruce Meismer
Alton E. Porter
July 24, 2004
Precinct Report - Official
LA PORTE, TEXAS - CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS - SPECIAL ELECTION
Page 6 of 6
07/30/200408:52
Precincts Reporting 6 of 6 = 100.0
Total
Early
1,464 of 59,994 = 2.44%
Candidate
Total Number of Voters
I Party ~
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
CITY COUNCIL POSITION, DISTRICT 6, Vote For 1
Mike Clausen
Bruce Compton
0.84%
48.10%
51.05%
Rr.58Vo
0.00%
0.42%
2
114
121
237
o
1
0.46%
28.90%
70.64%
8.2OOZ
0.00%
1.80%
1
63
154
m
o
4
Precinct District
MAYOR, Vote For 1
Kim H. Wakefield
Bruce Meismer
Alton E. Porter
e.
e
0,00%
1,08%
59.35%
40.65%
99.35%
0.00"""
0.65%
o
5
273
187
460
o
3
55.08%
44.92%
99.16%
0.00%
0.84%
130
106
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.45%
o
1
o
1
2
3
o
o
Cast Votes:
Over Votes:
Under Votes:
.
.
STATE OF TEXAS )(
COUNTY OF HARRIS )(
CITY OF LA. PORTE )(
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN OF A REGULAR MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD JUNE 14,2004 AT
6:00 P.M. IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF CITY HALL, 604 WEST FAIRMONT PARKWAY, LA PORTE, TEXAS.
REGARDING THE ITEMS OF BUSINESS ACCORDING TO THE AGENDA LISTED BELOW.
Next. Ord. 2004-2744
Next Res. 2004-12
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. INVOCATION - REV. DAVID MORGAN - FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. PRESENT A TIONS/PROCLAMA TIONS
A. PROCLAMATION - EVELYN KENNEDY DAY - Mayor Pro-Tern, B. Beasley
B. PRESENTATION - DISTINGUISHED BUDGET PRESENTATION AWARD- FISCAL YEAR
BEGINNING OCTOBER 1,2003 - Mayor Pro-Tern, B. Beasley
5. CONSENT AGENDA -ITEMS ARE CONSIDERED TO BE ROUTINE, HOWEVER, ANY ITEM MAY BE
REMOVED FOR DISCUSSION BY A COUNCILMEMBER. AFTER DISCUSSION ANY ITEM MAY BE
PULLED FOR SEPARATE VOTE.
A. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING, AND WORKSHOP MEETING HELD ON MAY
24, 2004 - M. Gillett
B. CONSIDER AWARDING BID FOR POLICE UNIFORMS AND BODY ARMOR - S. Kelley
C. CONSIDER APPROVAL OR OTHER ACTION REGARDING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND
AUTHORIZING A RENEWAL AND EXTENSION OF THE WATER SERVICE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA PORTE AND GSL INVESTMENTS, INC.- (Ord. 2004-2744) - N.
Finan
.,
D. CONSIDER APPROVAL OR OTHER ACTION REGARDING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND
AUTHORIZING A RENEWAL AND EXTENSION OF THE WATER SERVICE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA PORTE AND TCP/GSL INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS - (Ord. 2004-
2745) - N. Finan
6. PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND CITIZENS AND TAX PAYERS WISHING TO
ADDRESS COUNCIL ON ANY ITEM POSTED ON THE AGENDA - (LIMITED TO FIVE MINUTES)
7. PUBLIC HEARING - DISCUSS RECOMMENDATION FOR REZONE REQUEST LOCATED IN THE 2100
BLOCK OF S. BROADWAY FROM R-1 TO NC AS REQUESTED BY APPLICANT F. CARRINGTON
WEEMS
OPEN PUBLIC HEARING
REVIEW BY STAFF
PUBLIC INPUT
RECOMMENDATION OF PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
.
.
8. CONSIDER APPROVING ORDINANCE TAKING ACTION TO REZONE 2.0 ACRES OF LAND LOCATED IN
THE 2100 BLOCK OF S. BROADWAY FROM R-1 TO NC AS REQUESTED BY APPLICANT F.
CARRINGTON WEEMS (Orc!. 1501-000 and R04-004) - N. Finan
9. PUBLIC HEARING - DISCUSS RECOMMENDATION FOR APPROVAL FOR SPECIAL CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT TO BUILD A MINI-STORAGE AND BUSINESS CENTER BY RANDALL JONES ON
APPROXIMATELY 9.16 ACRES TRACT OF LAND LOCATED IN THE 1200 BLOCK OF SOUTH 13TH
STREET BETWEEN WEST "K" AND "L" STREETS
OPEN PUBLIC HEARING
REVIEW BY STAFF
PUBLIC INPUT
RECOMMENDATION OF PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
10. CONSIDER APPROVING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO
BUILD A MINI-STORAGE AND BUSINESS CENTER BY RANDALL JONES ON APPROXIMATELY 9.16
ACRES TRACT OF LAND LOCATED IN THE 1200 BLOCK OF SOUTH 13TH STREET BETWEEN WEST
"K" AND "L" STREETS (Ord. 1501-PPP and SCU04-006) - N. Finan
11. PUBLIC HEARING - DISCUSS RECOMMENDATION FOR APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT FOR OFF-SITE PARKING FOR A RESTAURANT LOCATED AT 2219 UNDERWOOD ROAD
AS REQUESTED BY MELVIN WALKER
OPEN PUBLIC HEARING
REVIEW BY STAFF
PUBLIC INPUT
RECOMMENDATION OF PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
12. CONSIDER APPROVING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR
OFF-SITE PARKING FOR A RESTAURANT LOCATED AT 2219 UNDERWOOD ROAD AS REQUESTED
BY MELVIN WALKER - (Ord. 1501-QQQ and SCU04-009) N. Finan
13. PUBLIC HEARING - DISCUSS RECOMMENDATION FOR APPROVAL OF A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT (AMENDING SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT # SCU03-002) FOR 150 ACRES
ALONG SH146 FROM NORTHEAST CORNER OF MC CABE ROAD TO SOUTH OF BAYPOINT TOWN
HOMES AND WEST OF BAYFOREST GOLF COURSE AS REQUESTED BY JOHN HETTIG
OPEN PUBLIC HEARING
REVIEW BY STAFF
PUBLIC INPUT
RECOMMENDATION OF PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
14. CONSIDER APPROVING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT(AMENDING SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT # SCU03-002) FOR 150 ACRES ALONG
SH146 FROM NORTHEAST CORNER OF MC CABE ROAD TO SOUTH OF BAYPOINTTOWN HOMES
.--
.
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AND WEST OF BAYFOREST GOLF COURSE AS REQUESTED BY JOHN HETTIG - (Ord.1501-RRR and
SCU04-007) - N. Finan
15. PUBLIC HEARING - DISCUSS RECOMMENDATION FOR APPROVAL FOR RENAMING CANADA ROAD
TO EAST BOULEVARD
OPEN PUBLIC HEARING
REVIEW BY STAFF
PUBLIC INPUT
RECOMMENDATION OF PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING
16. CONSIDER APPROVING AN ORDINANCE RENAMING CANADA ROAD TO EAST BOULEVARD
CONNECTING WITH EAST BOULEVARD IN DEER PARK - (Ord. 2004-2746) N. Finan
17. CONSIDER AN EXCEPTION FROM A RESOLUTION TO ALLOW FILING AND ISSUANCE OF BUILDING
PERMIT FOR REMODELING AN EXISTING BUILDING AT 115 WEST MAIN STREET LOCATED WITHIN
THE MAIN STREET DISTRICT - N. Finan
18. CONSIDER APPROVAL OR OTHER ACTION REGARDING A RESOLUTION RENEWING, EXTENDING,
AND EXPANDING A MORATORIUM ON NEW CONSTRUCTION IN THE MAIN STREET AREA UP TO 180
ADDITIONAL DAYS - (Res. 2004-06-A) - N. Finan
19. CONSIDER APPROVAL OR OTHER ACTION REGARDING A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING
PARTICIPATION IN THE TEXAS MAIN STREET PROGRAM AND DESIGNATING THE CITY MANAGER
TO COORDINATE ALL PROGRAM ACTIVITIES- (Res. 2004-12) - D. Dye
20. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF OTHER ACTION REGARDING AN ORDINANCES AUTHORIZING THE
EXECUTION BY THE CITY OF LA PORTE OF AN INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT AGREEMENT, WATER
SERVICE AGREEMENT, AND SANITARY SEWER SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH AZTRON CHEMICAL
SERVICES, INC. FOR THE TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 1,2001, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31,2007
- (2000-IDA-70) (Ord. 2004-2747) - N. Finan
21. CONSIDER APPROVAL OR OTHER ACTION REGARDING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND
AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA PORTE AND THE AMERICAN MUNICIPAL
SERVICES CORPORATION, TO PERFORM COLLECTION ACTIVITIES FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE
MUNICIPAL COURT- (Ord. 2004-2748) - Judge Ditta
22. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS - D. Feazelle
.', CHAMBER ANNUAL HAMBURGER COOKOUT - JUNE 17,2004 -SYLVAN BEACH PAVILION - 6:30 PM
JUNETEENTH PARADE - JUNE 19,2004 -NORTH 8TH AND MAIN -10:00 AM
JUNETEENTH BAR-B-Q DINNER - SYLVAN BEACH PARK FOLLOWING PARADE
RUN -OFF DISTRICT 5 EARLY VOTING ENDING ON JUNE 15, 2004 - ELECTION DAY - JUNE 19, 2004
EARLY VOTING FOR MAYOR AND DISTRICT 6 SPECIAL ELECTION WILL BE HELD AT THE CITY HALL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS BEGINNING JULY 7,2004 AND ENDING ON JULY 20, 2004 FROM 8:00 A.M.-
5:00 P.M. AND ON SATURDAY JULY 10, 2004 AT CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS FROM 8:00 A.M. TO
5:00 P.M. - ELECTION DAY - JULY 24,2004
23. COUNCIL COMMENTS -Beasley, Griffiths, Ebow, Engelken, Mosteit and Moser and Young
24. EXECUTIVE SESSION - PURSUANT TO PROVISION OF THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW, CHAPTER
551.071 THROUGH 551.076, 551.087, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE, (CONSULTATION WITH
.
.
ATTORNEY, DELIBERATION REGARDING REAL PROPERTY, DELIBERATION REGARDING
PROSPECTIVE GIFT OR DONATION, PERSONNEL MATTERS, DELIBERATION REGARDING
SECURITY DEVICES, OR EXCLUDING A WITNESS DURING EXAMINATION OF ANOTHER WITNESS IN
AN INVESTIGATION, DELIBERATION REGARDING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEGOTIATIONS)
551.071- (PENDING LITIGATION) - MEET WITH CITY ATTORNEY AND CITY MANAGER TO DISCUSS
PENDING LITIGATION
25. CONSIDERATIONS AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ITEMS CONSIDERED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
26. ADJOURNMENT
If during the course of the meeting covered by this agenda the Council should determine that a closed or executive
meeting or session of the Council should be held or is required in relation to an item noticed in this agenda, then such
closed or executive meeting or sessions authorized by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Govemment
Code; will be held by the Council at that date, hour and place given in the meeting notice or as soon after the
commencement of the meeting covered by the meeting notice as the Council may conveniently meet in such closed or
executive meeting or session concerning any and all subjects and for any and all purposes permitted by Sections
551.071 through 551.076, and 551.086 of said Open Meetings Law, including, but not limited to:
Section 551.071 - For the purpose of a private consultation with the Council's attorney on any subject or matter
authorized by law.
Section 551.072 - For the purpose of deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property.
Section 551.073 - For the purpose of deliberating a negotiated contract for a prospective gift or donation to the City.
Section 551.074 - For the purpose of deliberating the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties,
discipline or dismissal of a publiC officer or employee or to hear complaints or charges against a public officer or
employee, unless the officer or employee requests a public hearing.
Section 551.075 - for the purpose of conferring with an employee or employees of the City, only for the purpose of
receiving information from the employee or employees or to ask questions of the employee or employees; provided,
however, that no discussion of public business or City policy that affects public business shall take place between the
members of the City Council during the conference.
Section 551.076 - To consider deployment, or specific occasions for implementation, of security personnel or devices.
Section 551.087 - To discuss or deliberate regarding commercial or financial information that the governmental body
has received from a business prospect that the govemmental body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or near the
territory of the govemmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting economic development
negotiations; or to deliberate the offer of a financial or other incentive to a business prospect described by
Subdivision (1).
THIS FACILITY HAS DISABILITY ACCOMMODA TIONS A VA/LABLE. REQUESTS FOR ACCOMMODA TIONS OR INTERPRETIVE SERVICES
AT MEETINGS SHOULD BE MADE 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THIS MEETING. PLEASE CONTACT CITY SECRETARrs OFFICE AT 281..m.
5020 OR TOO LINE 281471.5030 FOR FURTHER INFORMA TION.
Approved:
Martha A. Gillett, TRMC
City Secretary
Posted:
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NOTES FOR MAYOR
READ COMMENTS OUTLINE BELOW AT EACH MEETING BEFORE BEGINNING PETITIONS.
REMONSTRANCES AND TAX PAYERS WISHING TO ADDRESS COUNCIL:
CITIZENS PLEASE BE REMINDED EACH PERSON ADDRESSING THE COUNCIL SHALL STEP UP TO
THE PODIUM, SHALL GIVE HIS/HER NAME AND ADDRESS IN AN AUDIBLE TONE OF VOICE FOR
THE RECORDS, AND UNLESS FURTHER TIME IS GRANTED BY THE COUNCIL, SHALL LIMIT
HIS/HER ADDRESS TO FIVE (5) MINUTES. ALL REMARKS SHALL BE ADDRESSED TO THE
COUNCIL AS A BODY AND NOT TO ANY MEMBER THEREOF. NO PERSON, OTHER THAN THE
COUNCIL AND THE PERSON HAVING THE FLOOR, SHALL BE PERMITTED TO ENTER INTO ANY
DISCUSSION, EITHER DIRECTLY OR THROUGH A MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL. WITHOUT THE
PERMISSION OF THE PRESIDING OFFICER. NO QUESTION SHALL BE ASKED OF A
COUNCILPERSON EXCEPT THROUGH THE PRESIDING OFFICER.
COUNCIL WILL NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS OF THE CITIZENS DURING THIS PORTION OF THE
MEETING OR DURING THE COUNCIL COMMENTS PORTION OF THE MEETING.
THE CITY MANAGER WILL DIRECT STAFF TO FOLLOW UP WITH CITIZENS ON ANY
ADMINISTRATIVE OR OPERATIONAL ITEMS OR QUESTIONS RAISED DURING THIS PORTION OF
THE MEETING. .
PEOPLE WHO CALLED IN ADVANCE AND ARE ON THE AGENDA WILL SPEAK FIRST AND THEN
THOSE WHO SIGNED IN PRIOR TO THE MEETING
SPECIAL REQUESTS OR COMMENTS FOR MEETING:
THERE ARE NOT ANY CITIZENS SIGNED UP TO ADDRESS CITY COUNCIL
Reaular Meetina and Public Hearina on June 124. 2004
Council comments: Beasley, Griffiths, Ebow, Engelken, Mosteit. Moser and Young
c: City Manager
Assistant City Manager s
City Attorney
Csosharelcouncilinfo/citycouncilnotesformayor
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A
MINeS OF REGULAR MEETING AND W.SHOP
. OF THE LA PORTE CITY COUNCIL
May 24, 2004
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Pro Tern Peter Griffiths at 6 p.m.
Members of City Council Present: Councilmembers Chuck Engelken, Howard Ebow, Charlie Young, Tommy
Moser, Barry Beasley, Mike Mosteit and Mayor Pro Tern Peter Griffiths
Members of Council Absent: None
Members of City Executive Staff and City Employees Present: City Manager Debra Feazelle, Assistant City
Manager John Joerns, Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander, Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong,
Assistant City Secretary Sharon Harris, City Secretary Martha Gillett, Public Works Director Steve Gillett,
Judge Louie Ditta, EMS Chief Ray Nolen, Parks and Recreation Director Stephen Barr, MIS Manager Al
Owens, Purchasing Manager Susan Kelley, Police Chief Richard Reffand Assistant Fire Chief John Dunham
Others Present: Sue Gale Mock Kooken, Jim Schul, Mr. Griffiths, Mrs. Griffiths, Ana Griffiths, Peter Andrew
Griffiths, Sib Carpenter, Rusty Shepherd, Delia Claus, Gwenda Moser, Mike Clausen, Dottie Kaminski, Alton
Porter, Lester Quinn, Carol Christian of the Houston Chronicle, Roy Myers, Jack Christiana, Bruce Meismer,
Kevin Edmonds, Baker Odyssey of the Mind Team, Chuck Davis, Lester Quinn, Ann Hayes, and a number of
other citizens and students
2. Dr. Bobbye Worsham of Second Baptist Church delivered the invocation.
3. Mayor Pro Tern Griffiths led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS
A. Mayor Pro Tern Peter Griffiths presented the Baker Junior High Odyssey ofthe Mind Team with a
Prehistoric Five Proclamation in honor of their outstanding accomplishments.
B. Mayor Pro Tern Peter Griffiths presented Assistant City Secretary Sharon Harris with the National Small
Cities and Towns Day Proclamation.
C. Mayor Pro Tern Peter Griffiths presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Municipal Court Judge Louie
Ditta.
D. Mayor Pro Tern Peter Griffiths presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Assistant City Attorney John
Armstrong.
5. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Council to consider approval of the Regular Meeting, Workshop Meeting and Public Hearing Minutes held
on May 10,2004.
B. Council to consider awarding a bid to Brooks Concrete, Inc. as low bidder meeting specifications, to
provide a concrete connector pathway between the pedestrian bridge over Little Cedar Bayou and the
Recreation & Fitness Center, as provided in the bid documents.
C. Council to consider awarding Bid #04026 for plastic garbage bags in the amount of $64,400 for August
distribution.
D. Council to consider Bid #04025 for water and sewer supplies in the amount of $137,446.09.
E. Council to consider awarding for quotes for City Hall security items in the amount of $17,155.94.
City Council Regular Meeting and akShOP Meeting - May 24, 2004 - Page 2 e
F. Council to consider approval of an ordinance establishing speed limits during construction along a portion
of Fairmont Parkway within the corporate limits of the City of La Porte.
Motion was made Councilmember Engelken to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
Second by Councilmember Ebow. Motion carried.
Ayes: Engelken, Beasley, Griffiths, Mosteit, Young, and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
6. PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND CITIZENS AND
TAX PAYERS WISHING TO ADDRESS COUNCIL ON ANY ITEM POSTED ON THE
AGENDA
Lester Quinn of 1211 Bayshore Drive, La Porte, Texas 77571 spoke in regards to noise pollution, the budget
amendment for general CIP fund 015 and fund 005, and concerns with campaign contributions. Mr. Quinn
stated that we need more officers rather than a new police building and better salaries for police officers.
Bill Scott of 1802 Lomax School Road, La Porte, Texas 77571called and declined to speak at the meeting this
evening.
Delia Claus of808 South 2nd Street, La Porte, Texas 77571 commented on her police and drug concerns. Ms
Claus alleged she didn't receive any assistance after her assault; she also is concerned with the Permit
Department regarding the old police car on her property.
7. Council to consider approval or other action regarding a Resolution officially supporting the establishment of
Ellington Field as a joint reserve base.
City Manager Debra B. Feazelle presented summary and recommendation and answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: RESOLUTION 2004-11 - A RESOLUTION OFFICIALLY
SUPPORTING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF ELLINGTON FIELD AS A JOINT RESERVE BASE;
FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made bv Council member Engelken to approve the recommendation as presented bv Ms. Feazelle.
Second by Councilmember Ebow. Motion carried.
Ayes: Mosteit, Engelken, Ebow, Young, Beasley and Griffiths
Nays: None
Abstain: None
8. Council to consider approval or other action regarding an ordinance declaring the results of the election held in
the City of La Porte on May 15,2004.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong presented the summary and recommendation and answered Council's
questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 2004-2739 - AN ORDINANCE DECLARING
THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION HELD IN THE CITY OF LA PORTE ON MAY 15, 2004, FOR THE
ELECTION OF COUNCILPERSON AT LARGE, POSITION A; COUNCILPERSON DISTRICT 4; AND
COUNCILPERSON DISTRICT 5; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made bv Councilmember Engelken to approve the recommendation as presented bv Mr.
Armstrong. Second by Council member Beasley. The motion carried.
City Council Regular Meeting and .kShOP Meeting - May 24, 2004 - Page 3 It
Ayes: Engelken, Beasley, Griffiths, Mosteit, Young and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
9. Judge Ditta administered the Statement of Elected Officials and the Oaths or Office to Peter Griffiths,
Councilmember at Large' A' and Tommy C. Moser, Councilmember District 4.
10. Council to consider approval or other action regarding an ordinance appointing a member of the City Council
to serve as Mayor Pro-Tern of the City of La Porte, for the term expiring May 31, 2005.
Mayor Pro-Tern Peter Griffiths requested nominations. Councilmember Engelken recommended
Councilmember Beasley to fill the Mayor Pro Tern position through 2005.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 2004-2740 - AN ORDINANCE APPOINTING
A MEMBER OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO SERVE AS MAYOR PRO- TEM OF THE CITY OF LA
PORTE, FOR THE TERM EXPIRING MAY 31, 2005; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN
MEETINGS LAW; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Councilmember Engelken made the motion to apooint Councilmember Beasley as Mavor Pro-Tern. Second by
Councilmember Mosteit. Motion carried.
Ayes: Griffiths, Moser, Young, Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
11. Mayor Pro-Tern Peter Griffiths read the letter of resignation from Bruce Meismer City Council District 6 and
presented him with a plaque of appreciation for his service on City Council.
Mayor Pro Tern Beasley chaired the remainder of the meeting.
12. Council to consider approval or other action regarding an ordinance calling a special election ofthe City of La
Porte to fill the unexpired term of Councilperson District 6, calling a run-off election, if necessary.
Assistant City Attorney Armstrong provided summary and recommendation and answered Council's
questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 2004-2741- AN ORDINANCE CALLING A
SPECIAL ELECTION OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE TO FILL THE UN-EXPIRED TERM OF
COUNCILPERSON-DISTRICT 6; CALLING A RUN-OFF ELECTION, IF NECESSARY, DESIGNATING
ELECTION PRECINCTS AND POLLING PLACES, PROVIDING FOR THE USE OF ELECTRONIC
VOTING MACHINES, APPOINTING ELECTION OFFICIALS, PROVIDING FOR METHOD AND
DATES OF EARLY VOTING, PROVIDING FOR AN EARLY VOTING BALLOT BOARD, PROVIDING
FOR RETURN AND CANVASS OF VOTES OF SAID ELECTION, PROVIDING OF NOTICE,
PROVIDING FOR FILING DEADLINE AND FILING FEES FOR CANDIDATES, PROVIDING A
SAVINGS CLAUSE, FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW, AND PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Councilmember Engelken made the motion to approve Ordinance 2004-2741 as presented by City Attorney
Knox Askins. Second by Councilmember Griffiths. Motion carried.
Ayes: Griffiths, Moser, Young, Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
City Council Regular Meeting and _kshOP Meeting - May 24, 2004 - Page 4 e
13. Council to consider approving the amendment to Chapter 22, Article V. Peddlers, Solicitors and Canvassers.
Police Chief Richard Reff gave presentation and recommendation and answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 99-1356B - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 22, ARTICLE V. "PEDDLERS, SOLICITORS AND CANVASSERS", OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING
FOR A PENALTY OF A FINE NOT TO EXCEED FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($500.00) FOR-EACH
VIOLATION; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Councilmember Ebow made the motion to approve the amending of ordinance 99-1356B as presented by
Chief Reff. Second by Councilmember Mosteit. Motion carried.
Ayes: Moser, Young, Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken and Ebow
Nays: Griffiths
Abstain: None
14. Council to consider approval of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute Change Order #1 with
Vintage Contracting, Inc. for the Construction of the Bay Area Boulevard Trunk Sewer Project increasing the
contract price by $119,514.00.
Director of Public Works Steve Gillett gave the presentation and recommendation and answered Council's
questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 2004-2742 - AN ORDINANCE APPROVING
AND AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER NO.1 TO A CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA
PORTE AND VINTAGE CONTRACTING, INC., FOR THE BAY AREA BOULEVARD TRUNK SEWER
PROJECT; APPROPRIATING THE SUM OF $119,514.00, TO FUND SAID CHANGE ORDER; MAKING
VARIOUS FINDINGS AND PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT; FINDING COMPLIANCE
WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Councilmember Griffiths made the motion to approve Ordinance 2004-2742 as presented bv Mr. Gillett.
Second by Councilmember Ebow. Motion carried.
Ayes: Griffiths, Moser, Young, Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
15. Council to consider approval or other action regarding an ordinance establishing guidelines for the travel and
business expenses by City Council members to business meetings.
Councilmember Engelken gave the presentation and recommendation on behal f of the Audit Committee and
answered questions.
Assistant City Attorney John Armstrong read: ORDINANCE 2004-2743 - AN ORDINANCE
ESTABLISHING GUIDELINES FOR TRAVEL AND BUSINESS EXPENSES BY CITY COUNCIL
MEMBERS TO MEETINGS; PROVIDING AUTOMOBILE EXPENSE ALLOWANCES; FINDING
COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
HEREOF.
Councilmember Griffiths made the motion to approve Ordinance 2004-2743 as presented by Councilmembers
Engelken. Ebow. Beaslev and Griffiths. Second by Council member Moser. Motion carried.
Ayes: Griffiths, Moser, Young, Beasley, Mosteit, Engelken and Ebow
Nays: None
Abstain: None
City Council Regular Meeting and WkShOP Meeting - May 24, 2004 - Page 5 e
16. The Regular Meeting closed and the Workshop opened at 6:58 p.m.
A. Update on Beacon Project - Chairman Jim Schul provided Council with an overview of Beacon.
17. The Workshop Meeting closed and the Regular Meeting reconvened at 7:12 p.m.
18. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Ms. Feazelle informed City Council she attended the State of the County address today and there was a tribute
to the late Mayor Norman Malone.
Ms. Feazelle stated the Home Grant Closing is May 28, 2004 at 330 N. 5th Street.
Ms. Feazelle announced the Run-Off District 5 Early Voting will be held at the City Hall Council Chambers
beginning June 2, 2004 and ending on June 15,2004 from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday June 5, 2004
at City Hall Council Chambers from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Election Day is Saturday, June 19,2004.
Early Voting for Mayor and District 6 Special Election will be held at the City Hall Council Chambers
beginning July 7, 2004 and ending on July 20,2004 from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday July 10,2004
at City Hall Council Chambers from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Election Day is July 24, 2004.
19. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmembers Engelken, Griffiths, Beasley, Ebow, Moser, Young and Mosteit had comments.
20. EXECUTIVE SESSION - PURSUANT TO PROVISION OF THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW,
CHAPTER 551.071 THROUGH 551.076, 551-087, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE (CONSULTATION
WITH ATTORNEY, DELIBERATION REGARDING REAL PROPERTY, DELIBERATION
REGARDING PROSPECTIVE GIFR OR DONATION, PERSONNEL MATTERS, DELIBERATION
REGARDING SECURITY DEVICES, OR EXCLUDING A WITNESS DURING EXAMINATION OF
ANOTHER WITNESS IN AN INVESTIGATION, DELIBERATION REGARDING ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT NEGOTIATIONS)
551.072 - Meet with City Manager and City Attorney for the purpose of deliberating the purpose of
deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property
551.073 - Meet with City Manager and City Attorney for the purpose of deliberating a negotiated contract for
a prospective gift or donation to the City of La Porte
Council retired to Executive Session and the Regular Meeting reconvened at 8:33 p.m. There
was no action taken during Executive Session.
21. CONSIDERATIONS AN POSSIBLE ACTION ON ITEMS CONSIDERED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
22. There being no further business to come before Council, the Regular Meeting was duly adjourned at 8:34 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
t!I.~~~
City Secretary
~d a~~s 14. day of June 2004
~ Mayorpf:em
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REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested:
June 14.2004
Appropriation
Requested By:
Susan Kellev
Source of Funds: General Fund
Department: Administration/Purchasing
Account Number: Various Police Accts
Report: X Resolution:
Ordinance:
Amount Budgeted: $ 53,110
Exhibits:
Bid Tabulation
Amount Requested: $ 53,110
Exhibits:
Bidder's List
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits:
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
Advertised Sealed Bid 04023 - Police Uniforms & Body Armor was opened and read on May 3, 2004.
Bid requests were mailed to nine (9) area suppliers with seven (7) returned bids from six (6) vendors.
Bidders were asked to supply samples and Police Department staff determined low bid meeting
specifications was submitted as follows:
C & G Wholesale Section I - Police Uniforms $48,331.47
Section II - Uniform Jackets $ 1,700.00
Lone Star Uniforms
Section III - Body Armor
Grand Total
$ 8.400.00
558,431.47
Funds were budgeted in the various police accounts in the amount of$53,110. Expenditures of items will
not exceed the budgeted amount.
This is a nine percent (9%) increase over the bid two (2) years ago.
The contract is for one (1) year with an additional one (1) year renewable option period.
Staff Recommendation:
Award Bid #04023 - Police Uniforms and Body Armor to low bidders meeting specifications.
Action Required bv Council:
Award Bid #04023 - Police Uniforms and Body Armor in the amount not to exceed $53,110.
&-g-D~
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BIDDER'S LIST
SEALED BID #04023 - POLICE UNIFORMS & BODY ARMOR
CODE BLUE POLICE SUPPL V
5550 EAST EX FRWY STE L
BEAUMONT, TX 77708
CENTRAL POLICE SUPPL V, INC.
1410 WASHINGTON AVE.
HOUSTON, TX 77002
GALL'S INC.
2680 Palumbo Drive
LEXINGTON, KY 40509
LAWMAN'S UNIFORMS
5814 MILWEE BLDG A
HOUSTON, TX 77092
LONE STAR UNIFORMS
P.O. BOX 692304
HOUSTON TX 77269
C & G POLICE SUPPL V
1008 WIRT ROAD
SUITE 100
FAX: 713-681-2160
TROOPER SUPPL V, INC.
2900 SMITH ST STE 150
HOUSTON, TX 77006
TYLER UNIFORMS
228 S. ENGLEWOOD
TYLER, TX 75702
ADMIRAL LINEN & UNIFORM SERVICE, INC.
2030 KIPLING
HOUSTON, TX 77098
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
PO BOX 996
LA PORTE, TX 77572-0996
BAYSHORE SUN PUBLISH DATES:
APRIL 18, 2004
APRIL 25, 2004
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BID TABULATION - #04023 POLICE UNIFORMS & BODY ARMOR
CODE BLUE I!J&B.. LAWMAN'S
LONE STAR LONESTAR TROOPER C&G POLICE UNIFORM UNIFORM &
DESCRIPTION IQTY UNIFORMS UNIFORMS SUPPLY WHOLESALE SUPPLY CO EQUIPMENT GALL'S
SECTION I . POLICE UNIFORMS
1. MEN'S LONG SLEEVE SHIRT (Perfection Brand) (Fechheimer Brand)
A. NAVY 150 $45.25 $49.95 $45.00 $48.11 $48.28 $56.00 $50.55 NO BID
B. FRENCH BLUE 6 $28.50 $28.50 $39.75 $34.95 $34.70 $36.00 $36.35 NO BID
C. TAN 10 $28.50 $28.50 $36.50 $31.08 $32.20 $31.80 $32.75 NO BID
D. WHITE 10 $28.50 $28.50 $36.50 $31.08 $32.20 $31.80 $32.75 NO BID
ITEM #1 TOTAL $7,528.50 $8,233.50 $7.718.50 $8,047.80 $8.094.20 $9,252.00 $8 455.60 NO BID
2. MEN'S SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT (Perfection Brand) (Fechheimer Brand) NO BID
A. NAVY 280 $39.50 $45.00 $40.75 $43.21 $43.90 $51.00 $46.00 NO BID
B. FRENCH BLUE 10 $27.00 $27.00 $36.75 $30.96 $31.60 $32.75 $33.05 NO BID
C. TAN 20 $27.00 $27.00 $33.25 $27.23 $28.20 $29.20 $29.45 NO BID
D. WHITE 20 $27.00 $27.00 $33.25 $27.23 $28.20 $29.20 $29.45 NO BID
ITEM tI2 TOTAL $12,410.00 $13,950.00 $13,107.50 $13,497.60 $13,736.00 $15775.50 $14,388.50 NO BID
3. LADIES' LONG SLEEVE SHIRT (Perfection Brand) (Fechheimer Brand) NO BID
A. NAVY 15 $45.25 $49.95 $45.00 $48.11 $48.28 $56.00 $50.55 NO BID
B. FRENCH BLUE 2 $28.50 $28.50 $39.75 $34.95 $34.70 $36.00 $36.35 NO BID
C. TAN 4 $28.50 $28.50 $36.50 $31.08 $32.20 $31.80 $32.75 NO BID
D. WHITE 10 $28.50 $28.50 $36.50 $31.08 $32.20 $31.80 $32.75 NO BID
ITEM tI3 TOTAL $1,134.75 $1 205.25 $1,265.50 $1,226.67 $1,244.40 $1.357.20 $1 289.45 NO BID
4. LADIES' SHORT SLEEVE SHIRT (Perfection Brand) (Fechhelmer Brand) NO BID
A. NAVY 30 $39.50 $45.00 $40.75 $43.21 $43.90 $51.00 $46.00 NO BID
B. FRENCH BLUE 5 $27.00 $27.00 $36.75 $30.96 $31.60 $32.75 $33.05 NO BID
C. TAN 10 $27.00 $27.00 $33.25 $27.23 $28.20 $29.20 $29.45 NO BID
D. WHITE 20 $27.00 $27.00 $33.25 $27.23 $28.20 $29.20 $29.45 NO BID
ITEM tI4 TOTAL $2,130.00 $2 295.00 $2403.75 $2,268.00 $2,321.00 $2.569.75 $2,428.75 NO BID
5. MEN'S PANTS 400 $29.00 $29.00 $31.50 $31.50 $30.00 $31.50 $33.55 NO BID
ITEM #5 TOTAL $11,600.00 $11,600.00 $12,600.00 $12.420.00 $12,000.00 $12.600.00 $13.420.00 NO BID
6. "WESTERN" STYLE PANTS 100 $29.00 $29.00 $30.50 $31.93 $45.00 $38.00 NO BID NO BID
ITEM tI6 TOTAL $2,900.00 $2,900.00 $3,050.00 $3,193.00 $4,500.00 $3,800.00 $0.00 NO BID
7 LADIES' PANTS 100 $29.00 $29.00 $31.50 $31.05 $30.00 $31.50 $33.55 NO BID
ITEM #6 TOTAL $2,900.00 $2,900.00 $3.150.00 $3 105.00 $3,000.00 $3,150.00 $3 355.00 NO BID
8. MEN'S WORK STYLE PANTS NO BID
A. BROWN 20 $13.95 $13.95 $12.75 $16.50 $16.25 $14.75 NO BID NO BID
B. NAVY 10 $13.95 $13.95 $12.50 $16.50 $18.50 $14.50 NO BID NO BID
ITEM #7 TOTAL $418.50 $418.50 $380.00 $495.00 $510.00 $440.00 $0.00 NO BID
9. LADIES' WORK STYLE PANTS NO BID
A. BROWN 10 $13.95 $13.95 $13.75 $16.50 $16.25 N/A NO BID NO BID
B. NAVY 10 $13.95 $13.95 $13.75 $16.50 $18.50 $16.00 NO BID NO BID
ITEM #8 TOTAL $279.00 $279.00 $275.00 $330.00 $347.50 $160.00 $0.00 NO BID
10. RAINCOATS NO BID
A. LETTERING 20 $106.95 $106.95 $50.00 $7Q.43 $77.75 $51.50 NO BID NO BID
B. LETTERING OMITTED 20 $90.95 $90.95 $40.00 $67.43 $72.75 $45.50 NO BID NO BID
ITEM fig TOTAL $3,958.00 $3,958.00 $1.800.00 $2,757.20 $3,010.00 $1 940.00 $0.00 NO BID
11. GARRISON CAPS NO BID
A. WHITE COVER 10 $28.50 $28.50 $30.00 $33.04 $32.00 $38.00 NO BID NO BID
B. NAVY COVER 20 $28.50 $28.50 $27.75 $33.04 $32.00 $38.00 NO BID NO BID
ITEM #11 TOTAL $855.00 $855.00 $855.00 $991.20 $960.00 $1,140.00 $0.00 NO BID
SECTION I TOTAL $46,113.75 $48,594.25 $46,605.25 $48,331.47 $49,723.10 $52,184.45 NO BID NO BID
NO BID
SECTION II - UNIFORM JACKET 20 $90.00 $90.00 $85.75 $85.00 $61.75 $115.00 $98.00 NO BID
SECTION II TOTAL $1,800.00 $1,800.00 $1,715.00 $1,700.00 $1,235.00 $2,300.00 $1,960.00 NO BID
NO BID
opllon 1 $530.00 NO BID
SECTION III . BODY ARMOR 20 $420.00 $420.00 $535.00 $475.00 option 2 $498.00 $490.00 $637.35 NO BID
SECTION III TOTAL $8,400.00 $8,400.00 $10,700.00 $10,900.00 $10,640.00 $9,800.00 $12,747.00 NO BID
GRAND TOTAL $56,313.75 $58,794.25 $59,020.25 $60,931.47 $61,598.10 $64,284.45 $14,707.00 NO BID
Information reflects pricing only, and other factors may be considered during the evaluation process.
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REQltfT FOR CITY COUNCIL AGFA ITEM
Exhibits:
Resolution
Area Map
Application
Memo to CC
Appropriation
Source of Funds: N/A
Account Number: N/A
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Amount Requested: N/A
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Agenda n...lIoqueoled: 3~ .
Requested By: Nick Finan f;1..
Department: Planninl!
Report: _Resolution: -K-Ordinance: _
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
On February 9, 2004, City Council passed Resolution #2004-06. This placed a ISO-day moratorium on new
construction in the Main Street Development District. During the moratorium period, no new zoning permits,
building permits, or certificates of occupancy shall be issued. In addition, no letters of availability for utilities,
review or action by any City board, commission or department shall be authorized during this period.
The City received a request from Mr. Harold Carroll for an exception from this Resolution. The applicant wants
to lease and remodel an existing building located at 115 West Main Street for the purpose of automotive repairs.
The nature of remodeling would be to enclose an existing awning to allow an extra work bay. This enclosure
would impact the main structure, but the exterior will blend in with the overall building. The subject property is
zoned General Commercial (GC). The proposed use is permitted as per Code of Ordinances.
Staff recognizes that the requested exception would bring business back into a currently vacant building within
the Main Street District area. The moratorium does allow remodeling but no new construction. (Since this
proposal adds additional, usable floor space to the structure, the term 'remodeling' as it applies to this project, is
debatable. )
Staff has no recommendation to this exception at this stage, as there are no findings from the Main Street
District yet.
Action Required bv Council:
1. Consider an exception from a Resolution to allow filing and issuance of building permit for remodeling an
existing building at 115 West Main Street located within the Main Street District.
Aooroved for City Council Al!enda
~~Za~
ft -R-oL
Date
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RESOLUTION NO. ~ 004' - Oy,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CITY OF LA PORTE,
TEXAS, PLACING A MORATORIUM ON THE ACCEPTANCE FOR FILING AND THE
ISSUANCE OF BUILDING PERMITS AND ALL OTHER ZONING AND/OR
DE-VELORMEN:r-eERMLT-5.-F-DRJj,EW-CQN-S.tRUCIIQN_I~T.I:IE_MAItL.S..TBEET
DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT; P,ROVIDING THAT SUCH MORATORIUM SHALL EXPIRE
AFTER ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY (180) DAYS OR DISPOSITION OF ZONING CHANGE
PROCEEDINGS WITH REGARD TO SUCH DISTRICTS, WHICHEVER COMES FIRST;
PROVIDING FOR SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS IN THE EVENT OF HARDSHIP; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, there is developed and undeveloped land in the City of La Porte,
T~xas, the development of which may significantly impact City services, such as water,
sanitary sewer, traffic, sanitation, and fire and police protection; and
WHEREAS, the City of La Porte has not conducted a thorough review of its Main
Street Development Zoning and Planning regulations since 1987; and
. ,
WHEREAS, the City' Council of the City of La Porte desires to avoid the adverse
effe.cts further developm~nt without appropriate zoning and planning regulations may
have on the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of La Porte; and
'WHE~EAS, the City Council 'of the City of La Porte, in order to avoid any adverse
effects, to further the goals of the Comprehensive Plan update,. to provide' for orderly
future development and growth, desires to establish a period of time in which to complete
a review in regard to the, Main Street District development regulations; and '
. 'WHEREAS, continued refinement of development standards ensures
neighborhood and business co,mpatibility, minimizes in~mpatible elements between
abutting land uses and contributes to a higher quality of life; and
WHE~EAS, the' City's Comprehensive Plan Update made the following
recommendations:
. .
Provide an appropriate amount of land for various densities and types of
residential and commercial uses and ensure the ~ighest quality living
environment.
Seek to ensure that adjacent land uses are developed compatibly and
take measures to mitigate land use transitions with differing intensities.
Redevelop areas, such as Main Street, to enhance its natural character
and historic appeal.
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Evaluate the appropriateness of design standards that include
landscaping, screening, increa~ed lot sizes and setbacks, and other
methods to minimize negative effects among different land uses.
Determine appropriate residential densities for various areas within the
Gity-eA-tJ:te-basis-Qf-accessibility.,-utilit.)Lall.ailability.._top.aQIa phy_proximity-
to shopping areas, and other relevant factors.
'Update the Zoning Ordinance and Official Zoning Map to reflect
identification of various areas of particular densities.
. ,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY _THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF LA PORTE. TEXAS:
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of La Porte finds and determines that the
premises hereof are true and correct.
SECTION 2. The City Council further finds and determines that it is' in th~ best
. '
interests of the public health, safetY and gen~ral welfare of t~e citizens of the City to place
a moratorium on the a~ceptance. for filing and consideration, and the issuance of building
permits and all ot~er development and zoning p,ermits, for all properties in the Main Street' ,
Development District in the City for a period of one hundred eighty (180) days from 'the
d~te ~ereof, and such moratorium is hereby imposed. . For purposes of this moratqrium,
the term "Main Street Development District", 9r words of similar import, shall include, but
not be limited to development occurring within the area described in the document
attached to this Resolution as Exhibit "An.
SECTION 3. That there is hereby established a moratorium on the issuance of
any permits for ~nstruction of or reconstru~tion in the Main Street Development Dis~rict
within the City of La Porte, Texas for a peri,od of up to one-hundred eighty (180) days
from the date of passage of this Resolution.
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SECTION 4. Th~t during the moratori~m period no new zoning permits, building
permits (but only for new construction and not interior remodeling), or certificates of
occupancy shall be issued and no letters of availability for utilities, as well as formal
. .
review or action by any City board, commission or department shall be authorized for the
. Main Street Development District as described in Section 2 of this Resolution.
SECTION 5. This moratorium shall remain in effect for a period of one-hundred
eighty .(180) days or until fi.nal action is taken on any proposed zo~ing and/or subdivision
. .
regulation changes affecting the Main Street Development District, or until final action is
taken regarding amendment of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and Map, and
. . .
development regulations by the City Council, whichever Comes first.
SECTION 6. Any property owners subject to this morato~ium may apply to the City
C~uncil f?r an ex~eptio~ in the event th~t a hardship resu.lts from its application, and the
City Co~ncil is authorized to grant an exception to the moratoriur:n imposed by this.
Resol~tion o~ly when it finds that such hardship doe~ exis~. f!\ny exception so granted
shall not be a substitute for .enforcement of current zoning, development. or building
regulations., policies and procedures of the City of La Porte.
. .
SECTION 7. This moratorium does not apply to developments for which
administratively complete applications for zoning permits, building permits, special
. .
conditional use permits, or any other development permits have been completed and
filed with the City of La Porte prior to the passage of this resolution. In such event, the
applicant may ~mplete the. permit review process and development approval process
under existing City of La Porte regulation.s, policies, and procedures in connection with
the proposed application.
3
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SECTION 8. The moratorium on the acceptance for filing and the issuance of
building permits and all other development permits for new construction in the Main
Street Development Distri~ for shall expire on ~ ' 1 - of 2004 at 11 :59
p.m., Central Standard Time.
SECTION 8. This Resolution shall take effect immediately from and after its
passage, and it is accordin~ly so resolved. . .
. .' . ()jf-,
, ,DULY PASSED by the City Council of the City of La Porte, Texas. on the -r
daYOfm(U~(~
,2004.
APPROVED:
~#1~.
No an L. Malone, May r . . .
ATTEST:
LA '.
.1!1flt1liu4u#
Mart a Gillett, City Secretary
4
MAIN STREET AREA
EXHIBIT "A" to ORDINANCE #2004-06
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City Of La Porte Jlme 1. 2004
j Mayor Pro Tempore an Council ,< ,:'?f-:;':; ::~;;~;,;}
, I would like to lease an remodel an existing structure at 115 W e~t Ma~: T~'~ ;~~~~J{': i.t..:.: :i;"-
tis zone~ for automotive r 'pair. At this time the building is currently emptY, aD~' .Qo~ ;':;.f: .r.;>;.' "'d.::.>;:,.
~producmg any sales tax r venue, . . '.: .' :",;~:,';)~~'. ~;:;.'.:)....
~ Per the provisions ofSc lion 6, Resolution 2004.06 (Moratorium on the ~~~~t!.Q~.~~..' '~'. ". ':;:.
!filing and the issuance ofl,uilding permits and all other zoning and/or developn}en~ -:'::).t: . k . : . ....:.~.};..
ipennits for new constructIon in the Main Street Development Distri.ct), :we'~e1c. tm ';ilr::i~::',' 'l~~~.:~.
!exception to section 4 (thlt during the moratorium period no new zonfpg pemU~s> " ).,)>.:[;'. .
j~uilddin)g pemu11 'ts[but on!}lfor n1ew1S cWonsMtru~tion and not interior remodeling] ~ha1~'~' ~~:!~}~:t:-.' :'~!..,j~',:','~::':::.~..:,t.~.f.:i:.'.:.:.',
i1ssue to a ow our proJep at . am. . .:' .! ~" ..,; "<~~':r.~:. .
! I would like to enclose ~Ln existing awning to allow me an extra wQrk 1)ay. W~ " "i~ :"~<~~:: ; :<;';:::;..
~enclosure would im.pact 'Le stmcture in a minor way. The outside of the ~nclo.sure wi.1F,:~~.~., . .;; .', :1.:"
lblend in with the build.in . Drawings of this enclosure have been sub~tted to :W~y.~~.:~:~~.t .... \:.F"r.:~;..
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a 0,01 Y parmer. . :.;;~.:... .;;, ~':.:~:.:;'~ ':.' . .~.;..:: ...:. '.:
~he.ben.efits. of this proj ct would have ~ low impact on the ex~sting ~ui~ding;',:~.~~ r.~:!\.~:.;: '; ;:'-:.F.
bnngmg m needed tax do lars. and attractmg custon1ers and bUSinesses to the. propQ~~,:'": ~;:; .' T;~ " ;..::.:
iMain Street District. La Pfrte Hardware is moving from Main Street, ~4.. takilig :~l #l~~~;~:',~ '~.r.:'. ~ ..;:: .
Icustomers wi!h them. ThiI automotive repair shop would compensate for .SQ~~~9..~~~>.;:.t ~:'.. . .."_; 'l.~<:'::,;:,:"
Icustomers bemg lost. . ,"\ r. ';..i :;.).i~::: .': ::-'::4;; , :
I Please consider this req est being asked of you, I would to thank the La ~o~ .~JWig' >'1;;'.:. ':;>.~':;t~:'
I'department and Wayne Sf' City Planner for all their help with this pro)cCt" :"f;:r!Ti~[ ,;;i:~:!!; ,
, i Harold Carroll ';,\,;:;~::;~::;1 ':':,~~Hii:;(
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Citv of La POl1e
ji;sluuhsllecl1892
Memo
To: Mayor Pro- Tem and City Council
Debra Feazelle, City Manager
John Joems, Assistant City Manager
From: Nicholas Finan, Interim Planning Director
Date: June 4th, 2004
Re= Request by Mr. Carroll for 115 Main St
As outlined in a previous agenda item, the committee charged with making a recommendation on the
Main Street District is still formulating regulations. While the committee has discussed and has
formulated several regulations to recommend, it has not considered strict architectural controls or
limited the type of activities.
Mr. Carroll has submitted plans to enclose the canopy at 115 Main Street. It has an existing vacant
service station. Mr. Carroll plans on creating a drive thru bay under the existing canopy, thus changing
the foot print and increasing the amount of enclosed area. The current moratorium prohibits the new,
exterior construction.
Mr. Carroll, in accordance with the ordinance, is requesting an exception. At this time he has not
defined his hardship.
It appears the committee does not intend on extending any architectural requirements at this time. The
committee had made it clear they do not intend on limiting the current allowable commercial activities,
except commercial storage.
Staff is not in a position to make a recommendation since there has been no conclusion reached by the
committee and the Planning and Zoning Commission has not had an opportunity to review or comment
on the Main Street District.