HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-02-14 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing Meeting of the La Porte City Council minutes
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING MEETING
OF THE LA PORTE CITY COUNCIL
February 14,2005
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Alton Porter at 7:00 p.m.
Members of City Council Present: Councilmembers Chuck Engelken, Tommy Moser, Barry
Beasley, Mike Clausen, Howard Ebow, Mike Mosteit, Louis Rigby and Mayor Alton Porter
Members of Council Absent: Peter Griffiths
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 Clark Askins, Police Chief Richard Reff, Assistant City Secretary Sharon Harris, EMS
Chief Ray Nolen, Director of Planning and Community Development Wayne Sabo, Parks and
Recreation Director Stephen Barr, Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson, Paramedic III
Lisa Camp and City Secretary's Office Secretary Susan Turner
Others Present: Dottie Kaminski, Barbara Norwine, Deputy Director Economic Development
Division of Harris County Nancy Powell, Sue Gale Mock Kooken, Bob McClure, Eric Breaux,
Rebecca Streety, Parker Johnson, Al Clay and other citizens and students
2. Reverend Dan Chappell of Fairmont Park Baptist Church of La Porte delivered the invocation.
3. Mayor Alton Porter led the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. A. Council to consider approval of the Minutes of the January 22,2005 Special Called City
Council Retreat Meeting of La Porte City Council and the Minutes of the January 24,2005
Regular Meeting and Workshop Meeting.
B. Council to consider approval of two ordinances: an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to
execute an Industrial District Agreement 2000-IDA-72 and with MRTS 225, LTD. and
Ordinance 2005-2807 authorizing the City Manager to execute a Water Service Agreement
with MRTS 225, LTD.
C. Council to consider approval of an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into an
agreement with Dana Tank Container, Inc. to extend the terms of its previous Water and
Sanitary Sewer Service Agreement through December 31, 2007.
D. Council to consider authorizing the City of La Porte expenditure in the amount of$24,107.35
for the Texas Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School program grant, using
existing Capital Improvement Project funds earmarked for Trail Implementation design and
construction.
Motion was made by Councilmember Rigby to approve Consent Items as presented. Second
by Councilmember Engelken.
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14,2005
Page 2
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
5. PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND CITIZENS AND TAX
PAYERS WISHING TO ADDRESS COUNCIL ON ANY ITEM POSTED ON THE AGENDA
Citizen Bill Scott of 1802 Lomax School Road, La Porte, Texas spoke about the Board of
Adjustments. At the last Council Meeting, a Councilmember asked if the Board of Adjustments
is liberal in its decisions. That question is a good start, but I want to make it very clear that the
evidence I have presented and will be presenting over the coming months is not about liberal
Board of Adjustments decisions; it is about the Board of Adjustments Chairman repeatedly
violating the law, repeatedly violating the sworn oath to uphold the law, repeatedly violating the
standards of fairness required of a Chairman, and he did all that and more in just one Board of
Adjustments Hearing held on June l, 2000 and it was about the feedlot. Then he topped it all off
by signing the pile oflies that the City calls findings-of-fact and conclusions of law. At five
minutes a session it will take several Council sessions to present the hard evidence that proves
what I say, so let's get started.
Violation Number 1: The law governing the Board of Adjustments is City Ordinance 99-2319,
Section 4 of that law states that the Public Hearings are generally conducted in the following
manner: Proponents of a measure speak first; opponents speak second; and then proponents give
rebuttal and summation.
There is a very strong reason for that order of speaking. Any of you that have been involved in a
debate or the court system know that the second speaker has a huge advantage of knowing all of
the first speaker's evidence before he has to speak, so he knows what he can get away with and
what he cannot. Analogy is a card game, where one player has to play his cards face up, like the
first speaker and one gets to hold his cards to his vest, like the second speaker. That's a rigged
game; isn't it? To make up somewhat for the second speaker's huge advantage, the first speaker
gets a final rebuttal and summation.
That did not happen in the June 1 sl hearing; your Board of Adjustment Chairman, Sidney Grant,
reversed the written order of the law and of the agenda and made me, the opponent, speak first
and present all of my evidence, so the feedlot group could see all of my evidence and know what
lies they could tell, and lie they did.
One of the feedlot proponent's star witness, the barn manager, lied several times on major issues
and we will go into the details of that in the future. He lied in his speech, twice he exposed
himself as a liar with his own statements and your board chairman tried to laugh it off and brush
over the barn manager's self exposed lies, and these were major ones. The Lomax mafia lied
about the facts and slandered me for over two hours; I made many pages of notes to rebut their
statements, but when I got up to speak, your Board of Adjustment Chairman limited me to seven
minutes. I had to speak without my notes, and your Chairman spent part of my seven minutes
attempting to harass me like he was the attorney for the feedlot group. Just before he limited me
to seven minutes, your Chairman told the feedlot owner, Bobby Blackwell, twice, that he could
have all the time to say all he was going to say, and again I quote, "I'm going let you say all you
want to say."
How would you like to be abused by that obvious double standard, Council. If you think you can
excuse the blatant injustice and law violations committed by your Board Chairman with Item 4.7
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14, 2005
Page 3
of your law, then you better study 1.1, and you better study "Robert's Rules of Order" regarding
changing the agenda. One more item, the final summation that I was supposed to have to
somewhat making up for having to go first, your Board Chairman gave that to the feedlot group
also. How many times am I going to have to rub your noses in this filthy, crooked corruption
before you correct it? That goes for the Councilmembers that have been here for awhile, not the
new ones.
6. Open Public Hearing - Mayor Porter opened the Public Hearing at 7: 12 p.m.
Review by Staff - Director of Planning and Community Development Wayne Sabo provided an
overview of Ordinance 1501-DDDD and SCUP #05-001 for permitted use of off-site parking.
Public Input: There was no public input.
Recommendation of Staff - By unanimous vote, P&Z recommends approval ofSCUP #05-001.
The Public Hearing was closed at 7:15 p.m.
7. Council to consider approving Ordinance 1501-DDDD and SCUP #05-001 for permitted use of
off-site parking.
Director of Planning and Community Development Wayne Sabo presented summary and
recommendation and answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: ORDINANCE 1501-DDDD and SCUP #05-001-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA
PORTE, CHAPTER 106, MORE COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS THE ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE, BY GRANTING A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT SCUP #05-001 FOR THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS
FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: 0.28 ACRE, LOTS 13-16, BLOCK 652, TOWN OF LA PORTE,
JOHNSON HUNTER SURVEY, ABSTRACT 35, LA PORTE, HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS,
FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEVELOPING OFF-SITE PARKING FOR DNV PETROLEUM
SERVICES, INC; MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS OF FACT RELATED TO THE SUBJECT;
FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ebow to approve Ordinance 1501-DDDD and SCUP #05-
001as presented bv Mr. Sabo. Second by Councilmember Beasley.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
8. Open Public Hearing - Mayor Porter opened the Public Hearing at 7: 18 p.m.
Review by Staff - Director of Planning and Community Development Wayne Sabo provided an
overview of Ordinance 1501-EEEE and SCUP #05-002 for permitted development of Underwood
Business Park in a Planned Unit Development.
Public Input: There was no public input.
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14, 2005
Page 4
Recommendation of Staff - By unanimous vote, P&Z recommends approval of SCUP #05-002.
The Public Hearing was closed at 7:23 p.m.
9. Council to consider approval of Ordinance 1501- EEEE and SCUP #05-002 for permitted
development of Underwood Business Park in a Planned Unit Development.
Director of Planning and Community Development Wayne Sabo presented summary and
recommendation and answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: ORDINANCE 1501-EEEE and SCUP #05-002 - AN
ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE,
CHAPTER 106, MORE COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF LA PORTE, BY GRANTING A SPECIAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT #05-
002 FOR THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: .::!::208
ACRES (ALONG OLD UNDERWOOD ROAD SOUTH OF STATE HIGHWAY 225 AND
UPRR) IN THE ENOCH BRINSON SURVEY, ABSTRACT-5, LA PORTE, HARRIS
COUNTY, TEXAS FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEVELOPING BUSINESS PARK PHASE I OF
THE PROJECT IN A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) ZONE; MAKING CERTAIN
FINDINGS OF FACT RELATED TO THE SUBJECT; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE
OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Moser to approve Ordinance 1501-EEEE and SCUP #05-
002 as presented by Mr. Sabo. Second by Councilmember Engelken.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
10. Council to consider approval of an ordinance establishing Guidelines and Criteria Governing Tax
Abatement Agreements.
Assistant City Manager John Joerns presented summary and recommendation and answered
Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: ORDINANCE 2005-2809 - AN ORDINANCE
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE BY REPEALING
ARTICLE V GUIDELINES AND CRITERIA GOVERNING TAX ABATEMENT
AGREEMENTS BY THE CITY OF LA PORTE, SECTIONS 66-140 THROUGH 66-152 AND
ADDING ARTICLE V GUIDELINES AND CRITERIA GOVERNING TAX ABATEMENT
AGREEMENTS BY THE CITY OF LA PORTE, SECTIONS 66-140 THROUGH 66-151
INCLUSIVE; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Clausen to approve Ordinance 2005-2809 with Alternate
Page 7 as presented by Mr. Joerns. Second by Councilmember Mosteit.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14,2005
Page 5
11. Open Public Hearing - Mayor Porter opened the Public Hearing at 7:31 p.m.
Review by Staff - Assistant City Manager John Joerns provided an overview of an ordinance
designating a 12.156 Ac tract as La Porte Reinvestment Zone "A".
Public Input: There was no public input.
Recommendation of Staff - Harris County's Nancy Powell spoke in favor of the proj ect as
presented.
The Public Hearing was closed at 7:35 p.m.
12. Assistant City Manager John Joerns presented summary and recommendation and answered
Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: ORDINANCE 2005-2810 - AN ORDINANCE
AUTHORIZING THE DESIGNATION OF CITY OF LA PORTE REINVESTMENT ZONE
"A"; MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN
MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Rigbv to approve Ordinance 2005-2810 as presented by
Mr.Joerns. Second by Councilmember Beasley.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
13. Council to consider adopting a resolution replacing the zoning map with a new GIS based official
zonmg map.
Director of Planning and Community Development Wayne Sabo presented summary and
recommendation and answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: RESOLUTION 2005-02 - A RESOLUTION
ADOPTING A NEW OFFICIAL ZONING MAP FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE, HARRIS
COUNTY, TEXAS; REPLACING THE PREVIOUS OFFICIAL ZONING MAP DATED
MARCH 24, 2003; MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT;
FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETING LAW; AND PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
Motion was made by Councilmember Engelken to approve Resolution 2005-02 as presented by
Mr. Sabo. Second by Councilmember Ebow.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
14. Council to consider approval of the amended Investment Policy.
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14, 2005
Page 6
Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander presented summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: RESOLUTION 2005-03 - A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS, AMENDING AN INVESTMENT POLICY
CONFORMING TO ALL STATUTES GOVERNING INVESTMENT OF THE CITY OF LA
PORTE'S FUNDS, INCLUDING, BUT NOT BY WAY OF LIMITATION, THE PUBLIC
FUNDS INVESTMENT ACT, CHAPTER 2256, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE; FINDING
COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND SETTING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE THEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Engelken to approve Resolution 2005-03 as presented by
Ms. Alexander. Second by Councilmember Ebow.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
15. Council to consider approval of the amended Fiscal Year 2004-2005 Budget as presented.
Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander presented summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: ORDINANCE 2004-2762-C - AN ORDINANCE
APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF LA PORTE, TEXAS,
FOR THE PERIOD OF OCTOBER 1,2004 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30,2005; FINDING
THAT ALL THINGS REQUISITE AND NECESSARY HAVE BEEN DONE IN
PREPARATION AND PRESENTMENT OF SAID BUDGET; FINDING COMPLIANCE
WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ebow to approve Ordinance 2004-2762-C as presented by
Ms. Alexander. Second by Councilmember Mosteit.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
16. Council to consider approval of Ordinance 2005-93-1950-A amending ordinance 93-1950.
Assistant City Manager Cynthia Alexander presented summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark, Askins read: ORDINANCE 2005-93-1950-A - AN
ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 46, SECTION 46-1, "CITY MARSHAL", OF THE
CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE; CONTAINING A REPEALING
CLAUSE; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH
THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Moser to table Ordinance 2005-93-1950-A as presented by
Ms. Alexander. Second by Councilmember Rigby.
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14, 2005
Page 7
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
17. Council to consider approval of Ordinance 2000-IDA-20-A: Occidental Chemical Corporation
Industrial District.
Assistant City Manager John Joerns presented summary and recommendation and answered
Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney read: ORDINANCE 2000-IDA-20-A - AN ORDINANCE
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION BY THE CITY OF LA PORTE OF AN INDUSTRIAL
DISTRICT AGREEMENT WITH OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL CORPORATION; FOR THE
TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 2004, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2007; MAKING
VARIOUS FINDINGS AND PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT; FINDING
COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Clausen to approve Ordinance 2000-IDA-20-A as
presented by Mr. Joerns. Second by Councilmember Engelken.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
18. Council to consider confirming appointment of Larry Cox to the Civil Service Commission with a
term expiring on September 30,2007.
Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson presented summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read: ORDINANCE 2005-2811- AN ORDINANCE
APPOINTING MEMBERS OF THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION; PROVIDING A
SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; CONTAINING A REPEALING CLAUSE; FINDING
COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Rigby to approve Ordinance 2005-2811 appointing
members to the Civil Service Commission as presented by Ms. Sampson. Second by
Councilmember Beasley.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
19. Council to consider approving appointments to the Chapter 172 Employee Retiree Insurance and
Benefits Committee.
Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson presented summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
City Council Regular Meetin~ J Public Hearing - February 14, 2005
Page 8
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins read - ORDINANCE 2004-2782-D - AN ORDINANCE
APPOINTING MEMBERS TO VARIOUS BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES,
OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; CONTAINING A
REPEALING CLAUSE; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW;
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Beasley to approve appointments to Chapter 172 Employee
Retiree Insurance and Benefits Committee as presented by Ms. Sampson. Second by
Councilmember Clausen.
Councilmember Ebow motioned a correction to the ordinance on Section 4 that he was appointed
to the Fiscal Affairs Committee in 1998 instead of 2004.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
20. Council to consider approving request to replace previous ordinance regarding drug and alcohol
abuse.
Human Resources Manager Sherri Sampson presented summary and recommendation and
answered Council's questions.
Assistant City Attorney Clark Askins - ORDINANCE 2001-1708-B - AN ORDINANCE
ADOPTING A "DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE POLICY"; ADOPTING A "COMMERCIAL
MOTOR VEHICLE SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY"; AND ADOPTING "PROCEDURES
FOR COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLE WORKPLACE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING
PROGRAM"; REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 2001-1708, AND ORDINANCE NO. 2001-
1708-A; CONTAINING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE
OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Motion was made by Councilmember Rigby to approve Ordinance 2001-1708-B as presented by
Ms. Sampson. Second by Councilmember Clausen.
Ayes: Beasley, Engelken, Moser, Mosteit, Clausen, Porter, Ebow and Rigby
Nays: None
Abstain: None
21. Administrative Reports
City Manager Debra Feazelle reminded Staff, Mayor and Council of the Bay Area Municipal
Inspectors Association on Tuesday, February 15,2005 at Evelyn Kennedy Center from 8:30 a.m.
until 4:30 p.m.; Mayor Porter reminded Council of the Small Business Workshop on Tuesday,
February 15,2005, at City Hall Council Chambers at 6:30 p.m.; the Harris County Mayor and
Council Dinner on Thursday, February 17,2005, at Deer Park Battleground Clubhouse at 6:30
p.m.; and Casino Night by the Bay on Friday, February 18, 2005, at Sylvan Beach Pavilion at
6:30 p.m.
22. Council Comments
Clausen, Rigby, Beasley, Moser, Ebow, Engelken, Mosteit and Porter had comments.
City Council Regular Meeting I Public Hearing - February 14,2005
Page 9
23. 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
NEGOTIA TIONS)
551.073 - (PROSPECTIVE GIFT OR DONATION) - MEET WITH CITY ATTORNEY AND
CITY MANAGER TO DISCUSS PROSPECTIVE GIFT OR DONATION TO THE City of La
Porte
551.071 - (LEGAL MATTERS) - MEET WITH CITY MANAGER AND CITY ATTORNEY
ON LEGAL MATTERS
551.074 - (PERSONNEL MATTER) - MUNICIPAL JUDGE'S EVALUATION
551.074 - (PERSONNEL MATTER) - CITY MANAGER'S EV ALUA TION
Council retired to Executive Session at 8: 16 p.m. and the Regular Meeting reconvened at 9:50
p.m.
24. Considerations and possible action on items considered in Executive Session.
25. There being no further business to come before Council, the Regular Meeting and Public Hearing
was duly adjourned at 9:51 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
~Mi/I~AaztI
Martha Gillett, TRMC
City Secretary
Passed and approved on this 28th day of February 2005,
~~S~~dL-
Mayor Alton E. Porter
E
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: 2-28-05
Bud2:et
Requested By: M ROllZP.
Source of Funds:
Department: Fire
Account Number:
Report: x Resolution:
Ordinance:
Amount Budgeted: $650,000.00
Exhibits: Sutphen Proposal
Amount Requested: $650,000 00
Exhibits: Additional Equipment List
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
Fire Department staff worked with the Sutphen representative and priced out a new 70 + aerial platform quint
through the Austin Buy Board. The Buy Board bid out the apparatus and guarantee prices for the term of the bid,
which allowed us to price out the apparatus we needed without going out for bids. Some of the equipment needed
to place the apparatus in service was not available through Sutphen, which is listed on the "Additional Equipment
List" and can be purchased locally.
Fire department staff recommends the purchase of the aerial tower through the Austin Buy Board in the amount of
$636,924.56. Staff also recommends the purchase of the additional equipment needed to place the new apparatus in
service in the amount not to exceed $13,075.44
t1
/" - ~
(){ f
Ae ion Required bv ouneil: . " d
Approve or deny purchase of aerial truCk4 rr" ·
1$ 7 j-o (]lJi) .
FeazeIJe, City Manag
eJ-dd-()S
Date
,7 ......,
\
FAMILY OWNED
SINCE 1890
PROPOSAL
To The:
La Porte Fire Department
Attn: Chief Mike Boaze
124 South 2nd St.
La Porte, TX 77571
Date: February 2, 2005
FOR YOUR REVIEW:
We hereby propose and agree to furnish the following fire fighting apparatus upon your
acceptance of this proposal:
/-'
i\~ ,.
One Sutphen Heavy Duty 70+ Aerial Platform Quint Complete for the Sum
of .......................... .................................. ....................................... $636,924.56
*Should customer elect to remit 25% down ($159,231.14) within 30 days of issuing a
purchase order, you may deduct $5,604.94 from the above bid price.
Which has been manufactured completely in accordance to the following proposal and delivered
approximately 9-11 months after approval of contract, subject to delays from all causes beyond
our control. Unless accepted within 30 days from this date, the right is reserved to withdraw this
proposal.
;!
'''-. .'
.:..--..
Sutphen Corporation
7000 Columbus-Marysville Road Amlin, OR 43002
Tel 614 889-1005 Toll Free 800 848-5860 Fax 614 889-0874
Web www.sutphen.com Email sutphen@sutphencorp.com
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT TO PLACE NEW
AERIAL IN SERVICE
. 1000 Ft. ofNeidner 5 inch fire hose, 10 sections @ $525 ea. $5250
plus shipping
· Akron 1 % inch nozzle, model 1723P, 2 @ $585ea. $1170
. Akron 2 12 inch nozzle, model 2730, 1 @ $830 ea.
. Akron Model 1736P nozzle, 1 @ $670
· Motorola Model CDM1250 radio w/hd microphone with amplified
speaker, 2 @ $750 ea. $1500
. Super Vac. 220v smoke ejector, 1 @ $3000
Total additional funds: $12,420, plus estimated freight charges of $380,
for a grand total of $12,800
January 11, 2005
BAY AREA HOUSTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
LA PORTE SURVEY RESULTS
Executive Summary
La Porte is viewed as a community with a moderately skilled, slightly higher than
working class community with an industry emphasis on chemicals production and
warehouse/distribution companies.
Nearly all respondents were familiar with La Porte's business infrastructure (highway,
seaport, airport access) and were generally aware of a community college presence near
La Porte.
La Porte scored average (but leaned towards better than average) on the overall business
climate, workforce & land availability, school district, and quality of life. City services
were ranked a strong average rating.
The perceptions change slightly as per the location of respondents. This report breaks
down the results of the surveys from those responding from Houston, those responding
from Texas (outside of Houston), and those responding outside of Texas.
While La Porte has done a good job of raising awareness locally, there are many
opportunities to address La Porte's positive traits on local, state and national levels.
Of the 65 surveys mailed from our office, 27 were received for a 42% return rate.
Houston Respondents
Our organization received ten surveys from consultants in Houston.
Nearly all respondents believed chemicals and plastics manufacturing was the dominant
industry leading the economy of the city with warehouse/distribution a close second.
Ties for a distant third and fourth place results came from retail and
tourism/entertainment as driving economic factors.
All but one respondents knew about La Porte's access to deepwater seaports, major
airports, and highways. Respondents indicated that La Porte possesses a moderately
skilled workforce with a slight majority having attained a high school diploma.
Respondents believed that a major part of La Porte's business population is occupied by
national firms with regional and international firms coming in a close second.
All eight out often respondents voted La Porte as a business-friendly community that
worked with all types of businesses with two respondents saying they were not sure.
Compared to other cities, La Porte ranks:
Business Climate
Workforce Availabili
vailable Land/Offices
School District
Quali of Life
Avera e
Avera e +
Avera e +
Avera e +
Avera e +
All but one respondent possessed 7+ years experience in the consulting field.
Texas Respondents
Our organization received nine surveys from consultants in Texas (excluding Houston).
While a majority of respondents believed chemicals and plastics manufacturing was the
dominant industry leading the economy ofthe city, a large percentage of the remaining
respondents did not know the major industries of La Porte.
Additionally, a majority of the respondents knew La Porte had deepwater seaport access,
major highways, and access to a major airport. Additionally, responses indicate that La
Porte is perceived to have an even range of businesses in the community: from
small/local companies to regional, national and international.
Respondents unanimously stated that La Porte is a business friendly community with a
moderately skilled workforce with an average income and high school graduation rate.
Respondents indicated that they were familiar with college presence around La Porte only
by a slim margin. Likewise, a nearly even amount of respondents rated the workforce
availability, available land/office, and school district as either average or simply
unknown.
A majority knew about La Porte's access to a deepwater seaport, a major airport, and
major highway infrastructure. Respondents indicated that La Porte possesses a
moderately skilled workforce, yet surprisingly a majority was unaware of the nearby
community college.
Compared to other cities, La Porte ranks:
Business Climate Avera e
Workforce Availabilit Avera e
vailable Land/Offices Avera e
School District Avera e
Quali of Life Avera e
Of the nine respondents, all but one possessed 7+ years experience in the consulting field.
National Respondents
Our organization received eight surveys from consultants across the nation (excluding
Texas). Ofthe eight, five had definitely heard of La Porte, two had not and one was
uncertain.
As with the local and statewide respondents, a majority believed chemicals and plastics
manufacturing was the dominant industry leading the economy of the city.
The reaction to the city's characteristics varied dramatically. Many indicated they knew
La Porte had deepwater port access, but slightly less knew of La Porte's highway access
and even less know La Porte was within 30 minutes of a major airport.
A majority agreed that La Porte is a business friendly community with a moderately
skilled workforce with a high number possessing a high school degree and above average
household income.
Compared to other cities, La Porte ranks:
Business Climate
Workforce Availabilit
vailable Land/Offices
School District
Quali of Life
Of the eight respondents, all possessed 7+ years experience in the consulting field.
City of La Porte
Interoffice Memorandum
To:
Mayor and City Council
From:
Debra Brooks Feazelle, City Manager
Date:
November 22, 2004
Subject:
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
The attached survey is in process with our contract with BAHEP. Also, attached is the list of contacted
site locators.
We hope to have the results of the survey by January 2005 and plan to utilize the information in our future
marketing efforts.
Just a heads-up on our economic development initiatives.
DF:db
Attachment
c: John Joerns
Cynthia Alexander
,
---:::==::-."<7'
(lBAY AREA
\c\\HOUST )N
~ Economic P~rtnership
Date
<<Suffix>> <<FirstName>> <<LastName>>
<<Title>>
<<Company>>
<<Address>>
<<City>>, <<State>> <<Zip>>
RE: How well do you know the City of La Porte, Texas?
Dear <<Suffix>> <<LastName>>:
If a client were to ask you about La Porte, Texas... what would you say? My name is Marie
McDermott and I am an economic developer in Bay Area Houston. One of my responsibilities is
to collect data and assess the perception of the City of La Porte from industry experts, like you.
The survey is painless, has zero calories, and (once returned to our office in the postage paid
envelope) will net you a check for $25.00.
Your input is greatly needed and r d like to ask if you would take a few moments to complete the
enclosed survey to help the City of La Porte assess their image.
Thank you in advance for taking a few moments to complete and return this survey. Make sure
you check your mailing address on the survey so your check won't get lost in the mail. I look
forward to working with you on this project and others.
~m;J~y, O~fJ
i J I
/ ~ \ .. -
, / 14~,- ~fJr
Nfarie McDermott, C.E.D.
Vice President - Recruitment
r'~: \ L_ (1~\ ~
~lvo:\-(~. ..~_
Alton E. Porter
Mayor, City of La Porte
2525 Bay Area Boulevard Suite 640 Bay l\rea Hou5ton Texa577058
Voice: 281.4865535 Fax: 231.486.5068 www.bayareahou5ton.com
,,-,-~
_---w
"'~\BAY AREA
i\HOUST_.lN
~::"":::::,,' Economic Partnership
How well do you know...
The City of La Porte, Texas?
· Have you heard of La Porte, Texas?
DYes
o No
o I think I have.
· In your opinion how would you rate the City of La Porte, Texas compared to other cities?
Worse than Average
Average
Better than
Average
Business Climate
Workforce Availability
Available Land/Offices
School District
Quality of Life
City Services
· What are some of the major industries that are thriving in the City of La Porte? Check all that apply.
o Livestock
o TourismlEntertainment
o Retail
o Don't Know
o ChemicalslPlastics Manufacturing
o Warehousing/Shipping
o EducationlResearchlDevelopment
Did you know the following about the City of La Porte?
· The City of La Porte has direct access to a major deepwater port.
DYes
o No
· The City of La Porte has major highway infrastructure, railroad and good access to interstate highways.
DYes
o No
· The City of La Porte is within 30 minutes of a major airport.
DYes
o No
What do you think of the following comments about doing business in the City of La Porte?
· The City of La Porte industrial parks are occupied by:
o Small, locally-owned businesses
o Regional businesses
o National businesses
o International businesses
· The City of La Porte is a business friendly community and makes it easy to set up and conduct business.
DYes
o No
· The City of La Porte workforce is:
o Low skilled
o Moderately skilled
o Highly skilled
· The City of La Porte is supported by a main community college campus and upper level universities in
the area.
DYes
o No
· The percentage of population (18 years and older) that attain at least a high school diploma.
o 60%
o 70%
o 80%
· The median household income is:
o $20,000 - $30,000
o $30,000 - $40,000
o Above $40,000
Now we'd like to ask two quick questions about you:
· How long has your company been practicing in this field?
o Less then 1 year
o 1 - 3 years
o 4 - 6 years
o 7+ years
· Is this contact information correct?
((Company>>
((Address>>
((City>>, ((State>> ((Zip>>
Thanks for your participation!
en
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III
a..
-
-
-
I. City of La Porte Survey
La Porte is viewed as a community with a moderately skilled, slightly higher than
working class community with an industry emphasis on chemicals production and
warehouse/distribution companies.
La Porte scored average (but leaned towards better than average) on the overall business
climate, workforce & land availability, school district, and quality of life. City services
were ranked a strong average rating.
II. Current Projects in La Porte
Cathy - 39 new jobs
Gathering - Unknown
Pepper - 200 new jobs
Office - 50 new jobs
Wildfire - 10 new jobs
Apostrophe 4 new jobs
Advantage - 25 new jobs
Allinone - Unknown
Shredder - 45 new jobs
Aplenty - 20 new jobs
III. Proposals Submitted for La Porte
Project Namaste
Project Cook
Project Shepard
Project Shirane
IV. Communications
Web site - Information about the City of La Porte and what they offer is
prominent throughout the BAHEP website. Recent news, statistics, tax
information, and profiles are hosted as well as a link to the La Porte
homepage. Information on the website includes Census data, tax information,
business zones, school districts, and incentive programs. The BAHEP website
receives 2000-3000 unique visitors each month.
Print Material- The City of La Porte has been included on all BAHEP print
material since it has joined. This includes recognition of membership on
BAHEP postcards, newsletters, the Business to Business page, and the
Business Development Update. BAREP is also proud to have enclosed the
new Regional Marketing Packet which includes a City of La Porte profile.
La Porte was included on the Continental Airlines Video which aired on
48,000 international and domestic airline flights in 2004. This video highlights
the key elements of the region and was viewed by over 5 million people. A
copy on CD has been included.
Participation in La Porte's Marketing Material- La Porte has collaborated
with BAHEP's Marketing Director, Tina Laningham, on several projects. This
includes work with La Porte on the upcoming visit with the First Lady of
Texas, and the Regional Marketing material.
V. BAHEP represented La Porte in the following trade
shows and events in 2004:
MD & M / Plastic West - January
BioHouston Annual Meeting - January
Scottish Development Tradeshow - February
Texas China Conference - April
Commercial Expo - April
TEDC Conference - April
Union Pacific Conference - April
Offshore Technology Conference - May
IT & Communications (ITEC) - May
CoreNet Global Conference - May
Bio 2004 - June
Offshore Communications Conference - September
VI. La Porte is invited to join BAHEP on the following
trade shows in 2005:
Informex Trade Show - January, Las Vegas, NV
Poly Olefins Conference - February, Houston, TX
Texas Safety Association Conference - March, San Antonio, TX
International Assets Managers Council - March, Charleston, SC
Government Procurement Expo - April, Houston, TX
Offshore Technology Conference - May, Houston, TX
Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce Technology Expo - May, Houston, TX
Houston Technology Center - May, Houston, TX
Offshore Communications - June, Houston, TX
Citizens for Space Exploration - June, Washington, DC
Bio 2005, June, Philadelphia, P A
West Houston Chamber of Commerce Technology Expo - June, Houston, TX
Texas Association of Mexican-American Chamber of Commerce - June,
Corpus Christi, TX
League City Chamber Business Expo - September, League City, TX
Houston Technology Showcase - September, Houston, TX
International Assets Managers Council - September, Corpus Christi, TX
CoreNet Global November, San Antonio, TX
VII. Meetings with Mayor and Staff
BAHEP President Jim Reinhartsen met with Mayor Porter on October 13,
2004 to meet and discuss the future of La Porte and collaboration with
BAHEP.
BAHEP regularly hosts General Membership meetings and other events that
La Porte is invited to attend. A membership listing has been included in this
packet.
BAHEP hosts numerous committees and groups that La Porte is invited to
participate in. A list is included in this packet.
VIII. NASA's Space Alliance Technology Outreach
Program (SATOP)
BAHEP continues to operate the award winning Space Alliance Technology
Outreach Program in La Porte and all of Bay Area Houston. SATOP has assisted 37
small businesses in the Bay Area Houston region this year. The program offers small
businesses up to 40 hours oftechnical assistance from NASA and its contractor's best
engineers free of charge. This program gives the Bay Area Houston region a unique
advantage over competitive regions and helps foster small business development. More
information is included with this packet.
TheB
re SUIl
-)Iume 62, NO. 69
'Serving The DaJwl:ttJ/i:~A.rea Since 1947:
SUNDAY, AUGUST 29, 2004
6 Pages - SO Ce
Economic Developftleflt Is A
'Vital Ingredient' In La Porte
(Editor's Note: The following is
La Porte City Manager Debra
Feazelle's quarterly column in this
newspaper, outlining various
aspects of city government.)
By DEBRA FEAZELLE
Special To The Sun
Economic development is a vital
ingredient to any community's
success. Boosting economic devel-
opment creates jobs by generating
new industry and retaining existing
companies to expand.
La Porte's economic conditions
have seen an impact from the
national downturn. The city is
making every effort to take a con-
servative stance to cushion the
effects of the economic slowdown.
Diversifying the revenue stream
that has traditionally relied on the
petrochemical industry is a major
initiative of the city. We are
focusing more than ever on busi-
ness recruitment and tourism
development.
The City has expanded its partners
to include The Alliance (formally
known as Southeast Economic
Development) and Bay Area
Houston Partnership for economic
development and marketing ser-
vices. The majority of cities across
Texas rely heavily on sales tax as a
major contributor to their revenues.
La Porte only receives about 8
percent of our revenues from sales
taxes. This is a very small percent-
age, compared to 36 percent from
property taxes and 29 percent from
in-lieu of taxes we collected in
2003.
Recruiting new businesses would
ease the burden on property taxes,
which in turn would allow the
property tax base to remain constant
while improving city services to our
citizens.
The city council has determined
that revitalization of downtown is
an integral part of the city's
economic development efforts, and
a way to diversify the revenue
stream. by enhancing the shopping
opportunities downtown, both exist-
ing and new. We are currently in the
process of submitting an application
into the Texas Main Street Program.
Acceptance into this program will
open the door for possible grants,
low-interest loans for business
owners, and professional revitaliza-
tion assistance from the state.
The new downtown revitalization
coordinator is working diligently
meeting with individuals and
groups alike explaining what Main
Street is all about and determining
their immediate needs.
We are working diligently to
improve the image of our
community and services. City
council wishes to offer a vigorous,
diversified economy that is based
upon a pro-growth business
environment. We are focusing on
offering a full spectrum of retail,
health, transportation, and business
services that meet the needs of the
community.
It is important for the business
world to know the City of La Porte
is a business-friendly community.
We must entice businesses to
consider our community by selling
our key benefits -- i.e. affordable
housing, quality schools, recreation-
al amenities, and low crime rates.
We look forward to providing
quality services to our community.
We will work hard to recruit quality
businesses that will serve our
community well. Boosting our
economy will in turn boost our
tourism development. An increase
in tourism development will
increase patrons to our local
hoteVmotels and increase our sales
tax revenue. A spurt in economic
development is a chain reaction to
great things. The future of La Porte
is bright and the possibilities are
endless.
The Online News Station
Page 1 of 1
Gulf Coast E-news
A Publication of Guichy News Service
September 27, 2004
Harris County Precinct Two Economic Summit
The Second Annual Harris County Precinct 2 Economic Summit will be held from 7:30
a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, October 15 in the student center baUroom at San Jacinto
college Central at 8060 Spencer Highway in Pasadena. About 300 participants are
expected to attend.
Harris County Precinct Two Commissioner Sylvia R. Garcia, the Bay Area Houston
Economic Partnership, the Bay town/West Chambers Economic Development
Foundation, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region and the San Jacinto College
District are hosts of the summit.
Garcia will speak on the topic "Paving the Plan for Smart Growth."
liThe demographics are quickly changing in Precinct Two and we must begin to plan for
these changes," Garcia said. "This summit will provide all Precinct Two stakeholders a
venue to share opportunities and challenges we are facing as they pertain to economic
development. "
The summit's keynote speaker is Dr. Timothy Hopper, senior economist for the Federal
Reserve Bank of Dallas. His topic is "Returning To Growth."
Dr. Bill Lindemann, San Jacinto College chancellor, and Dr. Ken Black, University of
Houston/Clear Lake professor of decision sciences, will share the stage - focusing on
the area's demographics in relation to education. A question and answer session will
follow.
The summit is free of charge. Reservations must be made by Friday, October 1.
Contact Harriet Lukee at (281) 486-5535 or email athi=lrri.~t@QqY9r~9bQLI$t()n.com.
Gull Coast E-news is a publication of Guidry News Service, with offices at 1818 Church In Galveston, covering
posted public meetings In Galveston County, Jefferson County and Harris County. For additional Information, or to
order a free, one-week complimentary subscription to Gulf Coast E-news, email News@guidrYPews.com.
Telephone (409) 763-6397 (763-NEWS)
For photos and recordings of meetings and special events, visit The Online News Station at WWW.9Llidrynews.cQm.
http://www.guidrynews.com/04GCEN/Harris/27104.htm
9/28/2004
The Online News Station
Page 1 of 1
Gulf Coast E.news
A Publication of Guidry News Service
September 23, 2004
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Houston Mayor Bill White was the featured speaker at a general membership meeting
of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership on Wednesday.
"We have worked with a lot of mayors," said BAHEP President Jim Reinhartsen, who
introduced White. "The local mayors understand the importance of bonding together,
because they are all here together, but until Mayor White showed up on the scene we
really did not have a Houston mayor who understood the importance of the entire
regional concept of economic development."
"The Houston metropolitan area leads this state in job growth," White said, adding that
Houston is leading all major cities in the United States in job growth.
White called upon the elected officials from other area municipalities to support state
and federal legislation to return gasoline tax and property tax revenue to the Houston
region for transportation improvements.
He pledged continued support for the manned space program.
"I'm supportive, and will take my cue from you whenever I can, on things that we can
do for the expansion of the aerospace complex," White said. "I was excited the day
that I read President Bush's announcement of a new vision for NASA."
General Jefferson D. Howell Jr., the director of Johnson Space Center, presented a
model of a space shuttle to White, in recognition of his support for the program.
"Something that most of the people in this area know that I normally say when I get
an opportunity, very sincerely, is that it is great to be alive in Houston," Howell said.
"Since you have been our mayor, I can say that with much more authority and
confidence. "
Gulf Coast E-news is a publication of Guidry News Service, with offices at 1818 Church in Galveston, covering
posted public meetings in Galveston County, Jefferson County and Harris County. For additional information, or to
order a free, one-week complimentary subscription to Gulf Coast E-news, email News@guidrynews.com.
Telephone (409) 763-6397 (763-NEWS)
For photos and recordings of meetings and speCial events, visit The Online News Station at www.guidrynews.com.
http://www.guidrynews.coml04GCEN/BayAreaHoustonEconOrrllcPartnership/26704.htm
10/1/2004
PASADENA
~ITIZ]
It's Tuesday,
October 26, 2004
-UP,BNSF must be on track
- Ot" ... I. .. " T 1.'-
_Wl_D raIl p_ans oy f'JOV$ ---~
By SYDNEY IGLEHEART
CItizen Reporter
House Majority Leader Tom
DeLay and Houston Mayor Bill
White met with the rail companies
-and officials from the Surface
Transportation Board to find a
solution to the controversial San
-Jacinto. Rail line p(Oposed for the
Clear,Lake area.
"After nearly two . years, the
companies have agreed to move
-forward... we have created a plan of
lction," DeLay said.
That plan asks that Union
-?acific and Burlington Northern
~anta Fe decide what will happen
with the San Jacinto Rail line by
...,Nov. 15.
In September of this year, dur-
.ng a visit Withe Area
Houston Economi . Allian ,White
-laid that he has ''Wor 00 on (the
'a,il . is~ue) every<hlY" and sees a
solution on the horizon.
_ DeLay said after a lawsuit
lrought by Clear Lake halting the
.:onstruction of the rail line, the
two companies were intending to
-legotiate a solution to community
md industry concerns. However,
according to DeLay, "nothing was
~etting done."
"Both companies have pres-
sures they must deal with, and both
.l1ad good ideas for solving the
,roblem;' DeLay said. "They also
.:now that I have legislative options
that I can use to solve the prob-
.....~m."
The plans for the construction of
the 13-mile rail line in southeast
...!fouston were announced in
mgust 2001 by San Jacinto Rail
Limited. After the announcement,
citizens and elected officials cried
out in opposition to the proposed
rail line.
San Jacinto Rail Limited justi-
fied the construction saying it
would "create competitive rail ser-
vice for plastics and chemical
industry shippers in the Bayport
Industrial Distri(;t."
Th~,propOSed line - would _ be.
o~J)y.BNSF and would run
just southbfEllington .Field and
extend to the end of the Bayport
Industrial District, just east of
State Highway 146. Some residents
said the trains carrying chemicals
would be too close for collifort.
The estimated construction cost
of the project is $80 million, which
includes construction of six public
road crossings, including an over-
pass for Red Bluff Road, to handle
traffic safely.
Representatives of communities
and organizations within the pro-
ject area expressed interest in hay.
ing an Environmental ImpaCt
Statement prepared for the project.
San Jacinto Rail and. BNSF fully
supported this request and had no
objection to an EIS.
The statement revealed "no sig-
nificant impact on the human envi-
ronment."
One solution to environmental
concerns would be for UP to allow
BNSF to access UP's rail for their
own transportation. However, with
competition fierce between the two
rails this has caused the lengthy and
difficult negotiation.
"It's up to those two parties...1
would prefer not to (use my legal
options)," DeLay said.
The proposed San Jacinto Rail line has area residents concerned abou
the new rail's environmental impact.
EVAL to stre~~ Pasadena plant
as demand for resin multiplies
HOl!ston,8usinessJourllill
BY JENNIFER DAWSON
HOUSTON BUSINESS JOURNAL
'1r
Week of October 29-November 4, 2004
EVAL Company of America plans to
start construction Dec. 1 on a local
plant expansion that carries a price tag
of$150 million.
The Pasadena plant operated by
EVAL Company of America, or EVALCA,
makes a versatile resin used in a variety
of aoolkll.tiom;, For instance, the EV.A..L
resi~ 'is used to coat food pa'ckages and
keep oxygen out to preserve freshness.
Once the new production' line in
Pasadena is finished in March 2006, the
plant will double its capacity - from 53
million pounds to 104 million pounds of
the ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer
resin per year.
Nicole Herms, an EVALCA marketing
executive, says the decision was made
to increase the plant's capacity in order
to meet a growing worldwide demand
for the resin, which is only produced by
one other competitor.
"If we didn't do this expansion, it would
definitely limit the growth of the (resin):'
Herms says. "The market would be con-
strained by capacity. not by actual appli-
cations. It's growing so aggressively:'
EVALCA estimates the demand for its
resin is growing by at least 10 percent
per year.
PLANTING SEEDS
Nobuya Tomita, EVALCXs president,
says Pasadena was chosen from among
the company's three plant sites world-
wide for this expansion
because Americans are
more accepting of new
products.
"It's muc'h easier in
this country to intro-
duce a new product,"
Tomita says.
Other reasons for the
local'expansion include Tomita
a skilled work force and
'tax abatement from Harris County
Commissioner's Court. Tomita says the
abatement will save EVALCA $91,000 a
year for 10 years, beginning in 2006 when
the new plant line becomes operational.
The tax abatement, which has received
tentative approval, is expected to face a fi-
nal vote by Harris County Commission-
er's Court some time in November.
David Turkel, director of Harris Coun-
ty's community and economic develop-
ment department, says the abatement
is expected to be approved, possibly as
eady as Nov. 9.
"We're not anticipating any prob-
lems," Turkel said. "We've reviewed it,
and it meets all the county guidelines.
This department plans to recommend
approval to Commissioner's Court:'
Paul Chavez of the Bay Area Houston
Economic Partnership, which worked
with EVALCA on the project, says EVAL-
Cf\s decision to add afourthproduction
line will have a positive impact on the lo-
cal economy.
l'he expa....lsion is 6Apected to add 25
employees to the firm's 94-person em-
ployment base, he says. The jobs carry
salaries of $55,000 to $94,000 per year,
according to Chavez.
"Por this industry, 25 jobs is a lot:' he
suys. "This is going to create high-pay-
ing jobs that are within an industry
that's continuing to grow in this region.
It's smart growth for the area:'
Anotherlocal company will cash in on
the project after being selected to handle
the construction work. A joint venture
between Houston~based S&B Engineers
and Constructors and JGC of Japan has
been tappedtoconstructthe new line.
JAPANESE TIES
EVALCA is a wholly owned subsidiary
ofKuraray Co., which is based in Osaka,
Japan. The firm established a local pres-
ence in 1983.
EVALCXs parent company opened a
new research and development facility
next to the Pasadena plant in April ,of
this year. That center is shared by EVAL-
CA and a sister subsidiary, SEPTON
Company of America.
The Kuraray Research and Techriical
Center USA, which cost $8.5 million to
build, employs a dozen EVALCA per-
sonnel and a handful ofemplo~~~1
SEPTON and Kuraray. "'.'\": 5h"
The R&D center is the company's on-
lysuch facility olltslde~ofJapan.
Kuraray claims to be the first in the
world to develop and commercialize the
EVALresin, a process it began in 1972.
In addition to food packaging, the
resin is used as a barrier t<? fuel vapors in
plastic fuel tanks in automobiles. EVAL
is also used in floor heating pipe sys-
tems, chemical bottles, cosmetics, wall-
paper and balloons.
Kuraray manufactures EVAL resin in
three locations - at the Pasadena plant,
in the firm's Okayama plant inJapan and
in EVAL Europe N.V. in Belgium, which
is also undergoing an expansion.
Once the two expansion projects are
complete, the company will have a global
capacity of 180 million pounds per year. .
jdawson@bizjournals.com . 713-960-5935
.-,.. ,C 0 ,I:: 'U f'1.,'N - .
Bay Area Business In Brief
Cities Update Regional Economic
Development Plan
p.v TINA LANINGHAM
Elected officials and eco: d 'p-
ment professionals from nine ClUes ahu tWO
counties within Bay Area Houston gathered
for RED CAP day to review the year within the
realm of the Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership's strategic plan, The red caps
signified Regional Economic Development:
Communication, Alignment and Partnership.
The five-year plan was developed by munici-
pality and business leaders in 2002 and has .
been updated annually.
Participants of the August workshop at
Marker 1 .Marina included representatives
from Friendswood, Houston, Kemah, La
Porte, League City, Nassau Bay, Pasadena,
seabrook, Webster, Galveston County and
Harris County.
strategic Priorities
Group facilitator Dr. Glenn Freedman
reminded municipality leaders that the strate-
gic pIan identified economic development
priorities as business expansion, fetenuou,
recruitment and creation. However, he said,
the recent series of focus groups within target
industries concluded that less focus should
be spent on recruitment and a greater focus
on leadership and advocacy.
Economic Drivers
Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership President Jim Reinhartsen said
the purpose of the event was to identify how
to grow regionally. He told the group that if
one city struggled, all the cities would strug-
gle. Likewise, if one city became successful,
all cities would benefit.
Jim Reinhartsen identified three eco-
nomic drivers that could have significant
impacts on the region over the next ten years.
First, America's Vision for Space Exploration,
which would generate new hum space
flight programs at NASA Johnson Space
Center. The second would be the emergence
of Ellington Ficld as a loint Reserve Base.
The third would be the bio corridor develop-
ing in Bay Area Houston as a result of the
Galveston National Laboratory currently
llilder construction at the University of Texas
Medical Branch (UTMB).
Jim Reillhartsen said the UTMB
Galveston National LaboratOlY could have an
economic impact on Bay Area Houston equal
to that of NASAJohnson Space Center and that
each city within the region would have oppor-
tunities to recruit business to the bio corri-
dor.
The Bio Corridor
Friendswood City Manager Ron Cox
told the group that cities in the region need-
ed an umbrella organization like the Bay Area
Houston Economic Partnership to provide
advocacy and attract bio companies to the
region. The smaller cities, he said, could
then gain access to businesses they otherwise
would not have had.
{){-!---, 2011 (
Friendswood Economic Development
Coordinator Karen Capps agreed. She com-
mented that Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership has excelled at keeping all the
cities informed of the status of UTMB,
Johnson Space Center and Ellington Field.
Nassau Bay City Manager John Kennedy
said an urban planning team was in the
process of developing "redevelopment"
plans. He said even though Nassau Bay was
"built out," it had the infrastructure in place
to attract the emerging biotechnology indus-
try. Kennedy reported that the City of Nassau
Bay was trying to position itself to be the per-
fect location for what's to come with UTMB.
He said the city had installed fiber optics and
soon would have freeway access witl! !.~e new
NASA Bypass.
Regional Approach
Harris County Commissioner Sylvia R.
Garcia and Galveston County Commissioner
Ken Clark di.'im:;:;eu overall trends in their
respective counties. Garcia said that Precinct
1\vo was "leading the pack" among other
precincts in HarriS County for the provision
of tax abatements.
Commissioner Clark said North
Galveston County was experiencing tremen-
dous residential growth and that the trend
could continue for the next five to eight years.
He said that in League City alone, 1,500 to
1,800 homes were being built per year, which
created critical infrastructure needs, like
transportation, for Galveston Collilty.
Clark added that the regionalism creat-
ed by Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership had improved Galveston County's
bond ratings.
The elected officials and economic
development professionals who attended
agreed that regionalism was necessary to
achieve the unique economic development
goals of the individual cities.
For more irJormztion about t.~c Bay
Area Houston Economic Partnership, visit
www.bayareallOuston.com.
Bay Area Houston is an economi-
cally and internationally diversi.fied, high-
tech region that is home to NA&4 Johnson
Space Center and numemus industries
including aerospace, information technol-
ogy, biotechnology, maritime and specialty .
chemical.
Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership is a nonprofit organization
that promotes the growth of the Bay Area
Houston region through the retention,
expansion and recruitment of target
industries.
~"
"B 1\'1 7\ -R' 'E' 1\
( f \ ' t/.;;\i l-'\,..' . 1-\
( '\ \,HOi1 1ST,,' ) 1\ f
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~ Dist:over)fulrSpace
Explore '\bur Opportunities
c_ -
COLUMN
r
Bay Area Business In Brief
Workforce Preparing For
Fuel Cell Technology
B Y T I l\j ALP, i'J I f'J G H A 1'1
Thanks to the Bay 1 .'IrF'" 'n
Economic Partnet'ship's Spal:e Alli..iice
Technology Outreach Program (SA TOP) ,
the state of Texas is prepared to train a
workforce in the emerging field of fuel cell
technology.
Like most inventions at NASA, fuel cell
technology began making its way into the
business world when it became apparent
that it could have numerous applications
on Earth. Automobile corporations and
energy giants began researching and devel-
oping the energy efficient technology,
which was originally invented to provide an
efficient means of power on the moon and
later, for the sp:I(~P shIlttle,
In the state of Texas, educators had
the foresight to know that unless there was
a skilled workforce within the state, Texas
would not benefit from the fuel cell tech-
nology market that was soon to come.
Hence, experts were recruited from 3.&~und
the nation and a consortium was formed to
develop a curriculum for the Texas
Department of Education.
Texas State Technical College contact-
ed SATOP and requested that a NASA fuel
cell technology expert assist with develop-
ing the curriculum. SATOP matched United
Space Alliance Engineer Mark Welch with
the project.
WeIch, a fuel cell engineer for the
Space Shuttle Program, participated in a
two-day workshop that included a panel of
the nation's leading fuel cell experts.
Together, they outlined the technical skills
and general requirements for training fuel
cell maintenance technicians. The two-day
event was held in Houston and hosted by
Waco's Texas State Technical College. The
College utilized a Carl Perkins Leadership
Grant from the TeXllS Higher Education
Coordinating Board to fund travel expenses
for the 14 pioneering fuel cell technology
experts who came from California, lllinois
and New York. The workshop participants
succeeded in identifying the tasks and com-
petencies required of fuel cell technicians.
Utilizing the framework created by the
workshop participants, members of the
newly formed Texas Fuel Cell Consortium
began the task of developing the curricu-
lum to train future fuel cell technicians.
Members of the Texas Fuel Cell Consortium
included representative from Dallas County
Community College District, Del Mar
College, Lamar Institute of Technology,
North Harris Montgomery Community
College District, Southwest Texas Junior
College. St. Phillip's College and Texas State
Technical Colleges in Harlingen and Waco.
NASA Engineer Harry Erwin, a full-
time SATOP advisor, continued offering
--
-
-
-
IV/IV. 2.00't
technical assistance for fuel cell technology
by serving on the consortium throughout
its duration. Welch and Erwin were able to
provide much needed insight to the physics
of fuel cell technology, The greatest contri-
bution was their ability to translate com-
plex processes into simple, everyday lan-
guage so they could be understood by lay-
men.
The Texas Department of Education is
scheduled to finalize the curriculum some-
time next year. In the mean time, coUeges
around the state have begun building fuel
cell labs in preparation for the courses that
could be developed.
This is Ll1e first time SATOP has
worked with an entity other than a small
business. Its mission is to help small busi-
nesses, but in this case, the workforce must
be trained before the technology can be uti-
lized. Once Texas has a workforce that is
slilllcd in fuel cell technology, small busi-
nesses will begin building products that
will run on fuel cells.
Bay Area Houston is an economically and
internationally diversified, high-tech region
that is home to NASA Johnson Space Center
and numerous industries including aero-
space, information technology, biotechnol-
ogy, maritime and specialty chemical.
Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership is a nonprofit organization
that promotes the growth of the Bay Area
Houston region through the retention,
expansion and recruitment of target indus-
tries. Visit www.bayareahouston.com.
AboutSATOP
The NASA-funded Space Alliance
Technology Outreach Program (SATOP)
provides small-businesses with free tech-
nical assistance through the u.se of the
u.s. Space Program, as well as aerospace
contractors, NASAfield centers, universi-
ties and colleges. These organizations
join SATOP as Space Alliance Partners,
which donate time and expertise to help
SATOP speed the transfer of space tech-
nology to the private sector. Platinum
level Space Alliance Partners include 4fT
& Associates, Lockheed Martin, TEAM
Specialty Products, and The Boeing
Company, For more information about
SATOp, or to request technical assistance,
please visit www.SpaceTechSolutions.
com.
-~>
(/(\ BAY AREA
.~~\HO~ST~) N
~,::'-:;, Dlscover Your Space
Explore Your Opportunities
l'
eB
re SUI
Economic Summit
~p+~~ 2PI, 2-00<'
Oct. 15 At.Sao Ja~
Some 300 participants are expect-
ed to attend the second annual
Dallas. His topic is ''ReturniJ)gTo
Growth." .
Ha...rris CountY Precinct 2 Eccnornic
Summit set for '/::50 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 15 in the student center
ballroom at San Jacinto College
Central The summit is free of
charge.
Keynote speaKer w,ill be Dr.
Timothy Hopper, senior economist
for the Federal Reserve. ~ank of
J.T~'r>rt co r"nn"''i:;-D'''A'';'~"'''''' "
..............A....u ..................L.i.I,.J .... .........""'................._ u
Commissioner Sylvia R. Garcia, the
Bay Area Houston ECOD.oriric
Partnership, the BaytownlWest
Chambers Economic. DeveIQPD1~D.t
Foundation, the Economic AUillrice
Houston Port Region and the. San
Jacinto College District are hosting
the summit. Garcia will speak on
the topic "Paving the Plan for Smart
Growth. ..
'The demographics are quickly.
changing in Precinct 2 and we must
begin to plan for these cfuinges~"
Garcia said. "This summit will pro-
vide all Precinct 2 stakehOlders a
venue to share opportunities and
challenges we are facing as they
pertain to economic development."
Dr. Bill Lindemann, San Jacinto
College chancellor, and Dr. Ken
Black, University of HoustOlllClear
Lake professor of decision sciences,
will share.. the stage:: focusingot'Fthe
area's demographics. in relation to
education; A question and imswer
session willfolfow. Lindemimnis
also serving as an economic .c;luster
group leader and will give an eCo-.
nomic report about education and
workforce.
Prior to . lunch, participants Will
break up into cluster groups to<lls-
cuss a legislative agehda andgthl.te-
. gic plans for the. economic success
of Precinct 2. Afterward, each facil-
itator will spends about 10 minutes
sharing feedback on the information
collected from the cluster groups.
The summit begins with a break:-
fast at 7:30 a.m. and a buffet lunch
being served at 11 :45 a.m. Anyone
interested in participating must
RSVP the Bay Area Houston
Economic Partnership by Friday,
Oct. 1. To RSVP, contact Harriet
Lukee at (281) 486-5535 or e-mail
at hatTiet@bavareahouston.com.
***
THURSDAY
SEPTEMBER 30,2004
HOUSTD~~~~!~~k!
iilnriUlll__~n~~
Economic summit
S1-"'ed -... C'.~1'1 Tac
lell ell t.:Jeu J'
The.second annual Harris
County Precinct 2 Economic
Summit is set for 7:30 a.m.-2
.. p.m. Oct. 15 in the student
center ballroom at San Jacinto
College Central, 8060 Spencer I
Highway in Pasadena.
The summit is free.
Keynote speaker is Timothy
Hopper, senior economist for
the Federal Reserve Bank of
Dallas.
Precinct 2 Commissioner
Sylvia R. Garcia, the Bay Area
Houston Economic .
Partnership; the Baytown/West. .
Chambers Economic
Development Foundation, the
Economic Alliance Houston
Port Region and the San Jacinto
College District are hosting the
summit.
Prior to lunch, participal1ts
will break up into groups to
discuss a legislative agenda and
strategic plans for the economic
success of Precinct 2.
Anyone interested in
. participating must respond to
the Bay Area Houston
Economic Partnership by
Friday.
For reservations or more
information, call Harriet Lukee
at 281-486-5535 or
e-mail at
harriet@bayareahouston.com
SephA'Vl~:1-bY -"301'2001+
~mttb :!Selt-ttllingtnn ~er
P"DP.;ri~I"" ? "Rt-~ftt\i.,ip~1I,1IPnt.i2,,~.
.... .. """"......"".., .. ~,""v....v.........."" ....,U.. ,.Il'.&" .....,t.J'''''..,
Some 300 participants ''This summit wilL provide
are expected to attend the all Precinct 2 stakeholders
second an.nual, Hartis' a venue toshareopportuni-
County Pre"Cind;2 ties and challenges we are
~d~~~~~)11fl!~~~~~~"~';~~~:~m~ d~:~O~:~' to
a.iji. t02p,ni.i;in the student.,:; Dr. Bill Lindemann, San
center ballroom at San 'Jacinto College chancellor,
. .J.aQmtl:h,C.!ljJ..ege CentraJ..,,~and Dr. Ken Black,
campus. The' campus isi"~UniversityofHouston-
located at 8060 Spencer.Clear Lake professor of
Highway in Pasadena. The decision sciences, will
sunitnit is free. ..\.share the stage focusing on
,Thesunitnit.'s ,.leeynote i,;the area'srlemographics in
speaker iSJ.)r. Timothy",,,relation to education. A
Hopper, sem,~~ .~()pomist;;;question-and-answer ses- '
for the Fedci' erve ".sion will follow.
Ballkoftt icis'i.: Lindemann is also'serv-
''R,eturiili{f. ... ,..r. ';);,ingasfaneconomic cluster
HarrisCo@ty'PredncC:.groupleader and will give
2 ConiliiiilsioJiei'TSylvia R.;~;an economic report about
H~q~a,.;:;,,;l~wa.~du~~Y~n~nd V/o~kforc~..
.HO~stQll ..,Plp.tt"ii'i'".pti(}r to lunch~ I>~Cl-
'~S!#p',:,the; .;3;, . ,. .@W~~t~pantswiil break' into Clus- .
dHfambers Economic De~2:teli!groups to discuss a leg-
VelQpment ,F'ounda.tion,the;;~sliuive agenda and strate-
Economic AW~c;~ ..HO!-ls-:.gic plans for the economic
ton. Port Regiofil-li.'ilfitl.ithe~":$uccess of Precinct. 2.
San Jacin~R..G,oMPg$PJs-;.~te~ard. ea<;h facilitator
trict are hosting the sum-: will spend about 10 tnin-
mil. '. utes sharing feedback on
Garcia wilIspeak on thelfuilittheinformation collected
topic "PaviQg,tb,~Planfordrom th.e cluster groups.
Smart Growth." Also reporting on clus-
"The demographics are ',ter groups are Jeffery Carr,
quickly '. . ch~ging' in United Space Alliance
Precinct 2, and we must director of communica-
begin to plan for these tions, for aerospace; Dr.
changes," Garcia.~~d. Ben Raimer, UTMB-
Galveston vice president
for community outreach,
and Bob Ellis, Wyle
Laboratories vice presi-
dent, for bioscience; Dr. S.
Jeffery Ackerman, San
Jacinto Methodist Hospital
president and CEO, for
heaithcare; John Rocco,
East Harris County
Manufacturers Association
chairman, for petrochemi-
cal; Robert Taylor, CDC
Houston Inc. vice presi-
dent, for retail; Jordy
ToIlet, Gl'eater Houston
Convention & Visitors
Bureau president, and
Pamela Summers, Bay
Area HoustonConverition
& Visitors Bureau execu-
tive director, for tourism;
andpr.Caiol LeV/is, Tex.as
Southeflrrrfii\1etsity direc-
tor and associate profess0r.
CTTR, for transpo11ation.
The suniinitbegins withþa breakfast at 7 :30 a,m. A
buffetlunch will be served
at 11:45 a.m.
Anyone interested in
participating must RSVP to
the Bay Area Houston
Economic partnership by
Friday, Oct. I. To RSVP,
contact Harriet Lukee at
281-486-5535 or e-mail
harriet@bayareahouston.
com.
Tli.MltI!Il'''CII_II~S' . · 1
. .eentlne PL:J
~ ~,.R~.",~~", _v~.... ~'.-' ._~1."('Jf:!!~!!Ii?JL~.!.~'''''
-h~~~:_ ........___,..~~~"'..""'......_.__... --~~-~" ,,''''-:
'1150101
San Jacinto Central site of
Precinct 2 Economic Summit .;~
Sottle 300 participants are
expected to attend the second
annual Harris County Precinct 2
Economic Summit set for 7:30
a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 15 in the stu-
dent center ballroom at San
,Jacinto College Central.
The college is located at 8060
Spencer Highway in Pasadena.
The summit is free of charge.
Keynote speaker is Dr.
Timothy Hopper, senior econo-
mist for the Federal Reserve
Bank of Dallas. His topic is
"Returning To Growth.~'
Co-hosting the summit are
Harris County Precinct 2
Commissioner Sylvia R. Garcia,
the Bay Area Houston Econoinic
Partnership, the BaytownlWest
Chambers Economic Develop-
ment Foundation, the Economic
Alliance Houston Port Region
and the San Jacinto College
District. Garcia will speak on
"Paving the Plan for Smart
Growth."
"The demographics are quick-
ly' changing in Precinct 2 and we
must begin to plan for these
changes," Garcia said; "This
summit will provide all Precinct .
2 stakeholders a venue to share
opporti:UJi.tl~s and challenges are
facing as they pertain to econom-
ic development."
Dr. Bill Lindemann, San
Jacinto College chancellor, and
Dr. Ken Black, University of
Garcia
Houston/Clear Lake professor of
decision sciences, will. share the
stage focusing on the area's
demographics in relation to edu-
cation.
A question and answer session
will follow. Lindemann is also
serving as an economic cluster
group leader and will give an
economic report about education
and workforce.
Prior to lunch, participants will
break up into cluster groups to
discuss a legislative agenda and
strategic plans for the economic
success of Precinct 2. Afterward,
each facilitator will spend about
10 minutes sharing feedback on
"''', I
the information collected . from . ".,
the cluster groups. r\~
Also reporting on clusterj:.
groups are: Jeffery Carr, United :.>
Space Alliance direct9~Qfcol,ll- 'I;
mUIllcations, fur a~ry&pace,;" ,~~. j\~-
Hen Raimer, UTMB-Galveston "
vice president forcommo.nity .(~
outreach, and Bob., Ellis, Wyle '..I"
Laboratories vice president,. fol' ,...
bioscience; Dr. S. Jeffery It,
Ackerman, San Jacinto ..d ~
Methodist Hospital president and ~!
CEO, for healthcare; John Rocco, 'J:
East Harris County
Manufacturers Associationchair-' :.i:
man, for petrochemical; Robert l b ~
Taylor, CDC Houston, Inc. vice ,,;,
Pl'esident, for retail; Jordy Tdllet, .Ii
Greater Houston Convention & L.
Visitors Bureau president, arid . "
Pamela Summers, Bay Area ~!"
Houston Convention & Visitors ",
Bureau executive director, for ""
tourism; and Dr. Carol Lewis, .,ji
Texas Southern U:niversity direc'~ {-
tor and associate professor- 'c
CTTR, for transportation. 'h"'
The summit begins with a .; '):
breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and a buf-' 'I"
fet lunch being s~hred at 11:45 ....:.
-r
a.m.
Anyone interested in partici- :'1.
pating must. RSVP the Bay Area ~
Houston Economic Partnership'
by Friday, Oct. I. To RSVP, con~ ~''i
tact Harriet Lukee aL281-486-.'l
5535 or e-mail at '
harriet@bayareahouston.com. ;: (
,'.1J'<<liljfd/1:k:?l'rogress
l~,;~'~,r,',>:-,':~, ~ ~..:;-',:, :'.- T~:' ..':'::._~" ~" ~~;D;.';n;;-i~"";;';7;;:;;~';;;;;'Si~;
ii" ; (; ,
_/ "_' / .....1-. / C-' (l
. r t
.."s"..... ". .'. rt.'....'..' \\'t....b" , ti f
' roa · . gro' . v' .'. OCUS 0 '
C1 ~ ..... . '.. . ·
,......, .. . .'.n"....,..p ~....~Y1n....
uJ "-' eco.u.u.....'-' I3U..U.U.I.I..
From Staff Reports
Some 300 participants are
expected to attend the upcoming
Harris County Precinct 2
Economic Summit set for 7:30
a;ln. to 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15 in
the student center ballroom at
San Jacinto College Central. The
summit is free of charge.
The summit's keynote speaker
will be Dr. Timothy Hopper,
setiior economist for the Federal
Reserve Bank of Dallas. His
topic is "Returning To
Growth."
Harris County
Precinct 2
Commissioner Sylvia R.
Garcia, the Bay Area
Houston Economic
Partnership, the
Bay town/West
Chambers Economic
D e v el 0 p men t
Foundation, the Economic
Alliance Houston Port Region
and the San Jacinto College
District are hosting the summit.
Garcia will speak on
the topic "Paving the
Plan for Smart
Growth."
"The demographics
are quickly changing in
Precinct 2 and we must
begin to plan for these
changes," Garcia said.
'This summit will pro-
vide all Precinct 2
stakeholders a venue to share
opportunities and challenges we
Garcia
.S~.MMIT".gtf~7\'
.'" .".""
".~~.:~~">~-"~"" ',. ,': " '-,- '<...~.::,.~~
,..,,~;)t.
. - ' ' . ',',' ,.,' '.. ,';'~
.__.,.__.,'-c.,;"^",,,;._'_;;"'.~.,:.A ..
..,_._..._....., ,_ ...,H".,
_.,...wu.,......~....,..> .... ..,of'
.t:'1 '. ." 'J'I':\ " . ~ -"1"-;."
'~~~i,~~-..~ ,~:,~:,"'i;~;,:;;;,:, ~L..:',,-~:,:~.::,'~~::_.~.:"...}:.+:;:. ,f';:~
"Priqr to lunch, participants
'vviH'bttak up into cIuster~QUps.
c,tOdiscussa>legisIauveV"; ,. , . ii' .
and strategic plans for the e
.. nomic success of Precinct
facilitator will
'. '~.'nutes sharing
feedback on the information coI~
lected from the cluster groups.
Also reporting on cluster
groups are: Jeffery Can, United
Space Alliance director of com-
munications, for aerospace; Dr.
Ben Raimer, UTMB-Galveston
vice president for community
outreach, and Bob Ellis, Wyle
Laboratories vice president, for
bioscience; Dr. S. Jeffery
Ackerman, San Jacinto
Methodist Hospital president and
"Sltn'
J~cinto College chancellor, and
Dr.. KenJ3Iack,.{jniversity of
Houston/Clear'Lake professor of
deCision scienceS', will' also make
presentations, focusing on the
area's demegraphics in relation
to education. A question and
answer session will follow.
Lindemann is also serving as an
economic cluster group leader
and will give an economic report
about education and workforce.
CEO, , . fOrl1f:althcare; . John
.'- '_: ":.L.,<;,:.",."'!..,;,:,,.;,,:;: -i::_: " ' , "-"".":-,-,t::'~:'~:::
,Roscc:t!< . .'East.Harris Cotfnty , ;
. :Mmiufactul'ers Association chair- :;
'0-' '~::r":""':',,_,,, -', " , " '.' ,',: -.::-: .
an, for petrochemical; Robert',
}tIol', Cq. l;lustOti; Inc:~-\Ii~-- ,
presid~l'lt,: , ,tail;]
Greater Houston C(f..
Visitoj'sBtir~all president, and "1
Pamela Summers, aay Area '"
Houston Convention:.~ Visitors H
Bureau executiv(: director; for ·
tourism; and Dr. Carol Lewis,,'
Texas Southern University direc-...
tor and associate professor-
CTTR, for transpOltation.
The summit begins with a~
breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and a buf":
fet lunch being served at 11:45'
a.m.
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:r.h~.p'as(tiJ~na Citizen,
Economic Summit yields collaboration
HalTis County Commissioner
Sylvia R. Garcia held the second
annual Precinct 2 Economic
. Summit on Oct. 15'at San Jacinto
College Central Campus. The
event was attended by more than
250 industry leaders and elected
officials from Precinct 2.
United Space Alliance
Director of Communications &
Public Relations Jeffrey Can' said
it was vital that public and private
entities work together to estab-
lish the relevance. of aerospace in
precinct 2 in education, industri-
al growth and development,
homeland security and. small
business development.
UTMB Vice President for
Community Outreach Dr. Ben
Raimer reported that the top
issues for the biotech industry
were research and development
and closing the gap in knowledge
between research and market.
Raimer said the knowledge gap
could be closed by collaborating
with community partners to help
researchers effectively communi-
cate with venture capitalists.
San Jacinto College District
Chancellor Dr. William
Lindemann reported that 60 per-
cent of the population did not
have a college education or entry
level skills to get into major
industries. He noted that compe-
tition was not in surrounding
communities or surrounding
states, but in India, Cl>ina and
other countries that were benefit-
ing from the global economy.
Dr. S. Jeffrey Ackerman
reported that health care would
require much more collaboration
in the future than ever before.
He said the legislative agenda for
the health care industry of
Precinct 2 included renewal of .
the FQHC incubator, creation of
'SU':'d.~"Ootober24'" 'OftAe."". '
" ,...~~:
a bill that would equitably dis-
tribute the cost of caIing for the
uninsured among all hospitals
and surgery centers and support-
ing legislation that. would
improve access and affordability
of medial insurance coverage.
East Harris . County
M ~nllf~ctllrp.r'>: Association
Chairman John Rocco reported
that the petrochemical industry
was experiencing an unprece-
dented globally competitive cli~
mate. Rocco said the recent cre-
ation of an Industrj Task Force
could help preserve and stabilize
Precinct Two's petrochemical
industry and plan for its future.
He said the task force would
gather data utilizing industry
expertise, and then build a link
between the community and
industry. The grassroots support
could then address local, state
and federal legislative issues.
CDC Houston Vice President
Robert Taylor reported that the
retail industry was alive and well
in Precinct 2. He said all of the
components needed for healthy
retail expansions were in place.
Those components included
wealth in the aI'ea, land growth,
an outdoor environment, support
of municipalities and ethnic
ili'versity: .....
Greater Houston Convention
and Visitors Bureau President
and CEO Jordy Tollett reported
that the tourisn{ industry could
benefit from leveraging resources
for regional branding efforts and
improved public transportation.
Texas Southern University
Associate Professor Dr. Carol
Lewis reported that a regional
transportation system was need-
ed that was cost effective and
efficient for both people and
goods.
Garcia said smaI't economic
growth would need continued
collaboration in the future.
"Take pride in Precinct Two,"
said Garcia. "We have all of the
economic engines in place.
Remember, partnerships produce
results."
e...-.......
. " .,'
.. ..
ItlzeD'"
... ... .. .... ...... e.... ......i.. .~...
,', , '._..;' "c"
. ......- -. -..
- . _ '_ .'.._.......:;.".".,.".;..._<.1."'...,.,:_.'..
. , - , , ',' -' -. '. :' ~ ';'-"f'X,' ,,~',~:~J.uC::~~;~';_:i.:
-we're Where}Qu Are
Page-18A THE CITIZEN, Wednesday, October 27, 2004
'W'-;" .,-.' . , .._h:' -....:
Harri$CQUnty.e~li;1iSSi()rler'Syr .., .. :':".I~~!ia~Qlit.th~':'flJtureWith6aYA'f~al,
Economic Partnership PrEJsidentJim aser-riSan Jacinto College ChanceIl6rE>'r:W
Lindemann, Economic Alliance PresiJan Lawler and ". BaytownlWestChambers.
Economic Development Foundation President Mike Shields, from left, at economic sum
hosted at San Jacinto College in Pasadena.
Page18A THE CITIZEN, Wednesday, Oct~~: ,2004
Summit principals work
to help area's economy
The many facets that drive the
Bay Area Houston economy
came together when Harris
County Commissioner hosted the
second annual Precinct 1\vo
Economic Summit on the San
Jacinto College Central Campus
in Pasadena.
As Garcia sees it, smart eco-
nomic growth needs continued
collaboration by representatives
of the various engines that drive
an economy.
"In the next 90 days," she said,
"I watlt our newly appointed
Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy
Committee to take the informa-
tion from this Summit and sub- .
mit a strategic plan and legisla-
tive agenda.
"We have a clear under-
standing of where we are. We
have the relevant research and
analysis of the demographics and
economic data.
"We now need to use this in- _ Dr. S. Jeffrey Ackerman
. formation to pave our plan for who reported that healthcare
smart growth and to make our would require much more col-
action plan. We must turn our laboration in the future than ever
potential into' reality," she con- before.
tinued. _ East Harris County Manu-
Garcia encouraged the eco- facturer's Assodfltion Ch!ljrm!l.n
nomic development organiza- John Rocco, who reported that
tions to continue working to- the petrochemical industry Was
gether. "We have all of the eco- experiencing an unprecedented
nomic engines in place. globally competitive climate,
Remember, partnerships produce Rocco said the recent creation of
results," she added. a., Industry Task Porce could
Principals in the sumtnit in- help preserve and stabilize
cluded:- Precinct 1\vo's' petrochemical
- United. Space Alliance Di- industry and plan for its futuie.
rector of Communications & _ CDC Houston Vice Presi-
Public Relations Jeffrey Carr, dent Robert Taylor who reported
who said it was vital that public that the retail industry was alive
and private entities work together and well in Precinct 1\vo and that
to establish the relevance of aero- all components needed for
space in education, industrial healthy retail expansions were in
growth and development, home- place. Those components in-
land security and small businesscluded, wealth. in the'area, land
d~eloprneJlt.' ,.{" ". . th d' .
:.'.;.C.'.....arr'~..;:,a..........J. .1. .'.I'h...... grow ,an out oor.envlronment,
( 1."'1f1t support of mUnicipaIW~!l . and
HoustOlf"'~c:;otlO ethnic, ,diversity. .' . ":. '.
had"created""fu' e s" for. grass-
ro... Gts.' e.'fti...o.rt. S ....th.. at yielded. leg' _., -Greater Houston, C,bnven~
tiOn '. and Visitors Bureau: Pr~si-
islatiVe/ agen<Iils fon.;JSCand dent and CEO Jordy ~oI1e~ 're-
~ni1ltt~~jIMwith 'both the, ported that the tourismi':hl:'ttustry
9iti.~etts fo.t.Space E~p.!oratjon,could benefit from leve~g:ifig're-
an..w. the.... ...Ell.lOgton FIeld... Task...... '. .....'. ........~. '.' . 'al'. '.'b... ..'..,..!I.:'..!J....!........ ,':.'J.f
FI' ';". .~: .l:; ..' .... ., .s?l.Jrces; 10~ regIOn; :~af~~ng \0 -
!Of~t. .' ,1t;., .' ". ,~9~~d;)Inpr()x~~i;p~~1.q.r'trans-
; .. ~B Vice Presld~nt for'ortati6Jr'~ V""i1,'. <?+'; ,
Cont. mu. riity Outreach l)rij\;. 1'.':.",.. Ben. p. ' . ...........'...... ..,,~. ,,:.. .;, ... .;: C:".,"'" . '.,
. ' . -: ~.~ ;. "". fIe ' iSalW'the ;
~~:e;o;e~:::e~i~:~t~n~';is:; is.f.I....ath....ti..Ve.;.....~;ta. gt etidahi!lb..~.....;. .';'.". '. ".;.".'.;."'.'.'. .....d. I
() . . ..e~jl e pro I I~On;!~~,~~P.-
were research and development '. .... ''''.i\\'rti'' d' .';'.....t.}i... '..'h
and closing the gap in knowl- Ulg;.a.~'ie SlOg.. ;~'f.Wbt;e
ed b t h d "'. state, Tollett s. qa,cy; Wl;IS
ke~e R~:::~~~s~~ kna:WI~~;rieed~t6encoura~8.~~st#*e to
gap could be closed by collabo" .n?J~r.~~~ f;lo~~l'~~uplU,1cy,~ax
. .th.' '. ra~:\and,;,to,!;f"1i . . ht
rating WI commumty partners, .. ...>.:<..':...,.<.:....,,:.,. ';C'. . :.:::S
to help. researchers effectively,\re'S?~~S't? Y~P.~;ii'\~i.L, t.~.; .. ~n
communicate with venture cap_\.JaclOt~ Monum~~tli" ... .
italists. . . . !exas Southern UmversIty
_ San Jacinto College Dis- Ass~clate Professor Dr, Carol
trict Chancellor Dr. William LewI~, who reporte.d. that a. cost
Lindemann, who reported that effective ~nd effiCIent regIOnal
60 percent of the population did transportatlonsy.~~e~.~~~,l1eed-
not have a college education or ed for bo~h p~()pl~;~~~~qt)~~..
entry level skills to get into ma- She saldtQel~gI~~~IV~jll~nda
jor industries. He felt competi- for transportatIOn I~al"ded .a
tion was not in surrounding sales tax cap, ensu~IDg\Harr~s
communities or surrounding County would. rece~v~:.'tS,i'~~JF
states but in India China and share of:ttlitisportatI~m lfl.ol1~!'
other ~ountries that ~ere benefit- assistance. with local initia1;iyes
ing fr~m the global economy. and a regional task force for tnick
safety and traffic flow.
-age14A THE CITIZEN, Wednesday, November 17 , 2004
_Businessmen get preview
of next legislative session
.....ay MARY ALYS CHERRY
Cnizen Stall
ing.
Speaking to members of Bay
Area Houston Economic Part-
nership last Wednesday, he and
Sen. Mike Jackson talked about
the next session and the prob-
lems they face, especially with
The last session of the Texas
Legislature was both historic and
hysterical, State Rep. Larry
-raylor says. But now comes. the
big challenge - school financ-
Marv Hartman, Joan McKinney and Pastor Osorio, from left,
were among the many at the Bay Area Houston Economic
""partnership meeting at. Space Center Houston last
i/Vednesday.
-"'aces in the crowd at the Bay Area Houston Economic
'artnership meeting at Space Center Houston last
Nednesday included banker Gary Farley, State Rep. Larry
faylor and Ralph Howard.
school finance.
'We've really got to do some-
thing:' he told the crowd.
"We've reached that moment in
time when everyone agrees (the
school financing system) is bro-
ken."
Further, he believes education
needs to include more and more
technology. "We've got to bring
in more technology." Already, he
continued, "NASA is worrying
about where its future space sci-
entists and astronauts are commg
from.
"We all knew we had to fix
it," he said, adding that the
Legislature will probably have to
change the tax strUcture.
Mnd urn""" tnopthpr
~.__~w .. ---"'; ---10-.---'--
"Any change rHQi ~OIUIj folks
but we all need to be in this to-
gether. Please understand we
. have some tough decisions and
realize this will be for everyone:'
he said, going on to add, "And
we're going to need your support
. and your prayers."
Giving some possible exam-
ples, he mentioned that only one
business in six was paying fran-
chise taxes. Thi~ could be a tar-
get, he explained.
If the sales tax is raised a
penny, that would bring in $1
billion, Taylor said. But, if prop-
erty taxes were cut in half - as
many' desire - it would take $6
billion to make up the shortfall,
he pointed out.
School equity impossible
Senator Jackson said just as
the tax strUcture poses a prob-
lem, "It's impossible to achieve
equity in the schools. You just
can't do it. The state is just too
diverse."
He suggests that everyone
needs to keep up with the Leg-
islature, which will bc dealing
with lots of big issues - the un-
constitutional school finance
problem, the 300,000 to 400,000
additional students in Texas
schools, workers compensation.
insurance rates, etc.
He expects a major rewrite of
the workers compensation law
and the lowering of property
tues.
But, he warned, "If we move
to lower the' taJI;, we have to
maki: it uP some other way:'
Galveston County Commissioner, irom leit, drops by to say heHo to Randy Hall, Lea!
Mayor Jeff Harrison and Economic Development Director Doug Frazior at Bay Area I
Economic Partnersh.!p meeting :;:t SP::lCC Center H~R.iston. GllIZun pnoios oy Mal)
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Chairman Dr. Bill Staples, right, goes over the
program with State Sen. Mike Jackson at last
Wednesday's meeting at Space Center
Houston.
~ontinental Airlines' Ellen Lapointe, left, chats
vith Katrina Starling during Bay Area Houston
:conomic Partnership meeting.
Houston City Councilwoman Addie W
and State' Rep. Larry Taylor talk ab,
upcoming legislative session during B,
Houston Economic Partnership meeti
Wednesday at Space Center Houston.
Mary Proudy, right, and Lynda Guid
share a light moment at Bay Area I-'
Economic Partnership meeting.
,...~
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- House passes $ 388B spending bill.
WASHINGTON:
"W'" . 11 ,0 CI.
Legtslanon rerns rn
- domestic programs
The Associated Press
Republicans' whisked a
$388 billion spending bill
through the House on Sat-
- urday, a mammoth measure
that underscores the domi-
nance of deficit politics by
,- curbing dollars for every-
thing from education to en-
vironmental cleanups.
Lawmakers approved the
- measure by a bipartisan.344-
51 margin as they worked
over the weekend during
_ their postelection session.
Though not in doubt, pas-
sage was taking longer in
the Senate. Senators who
- support abortion rights op-
posed a plan that would
make it easier for health
care providers to decline to
- provide abortions or offer
counseling and referrals.
From its tight domestic
_ spending to the. Democratic-
backed ptovisionson over-
time and other issues that
were dropped, the bill is a
-monument to the GOP's raw
power in controlling the
White House and Congress.
The measure itself is an
- imposing monument: the bill
and an explanatory report,
completed near midnight
-Friday, were about 14 inches
tall, leaving many law-
makers baffled about its pre-
cise contents.
- Even President Bush's ini-
tiatives were not immune to
cuts as the bill's GOP chief
_authqrs heeded his demands
to control spending.
Gone was his request for
development of new nuclear
weapons.
His budget
for the
Ameri-
Corps vol-
unteer
program
was sliced
by 12 per-
cent. The
$2.5 billion
he wanted.t6 aid countries
adopting democratic prac-
tices was reduced by $1 bil-
lion. .
"I'm very proud of the fact
that we held the line and
made Congress make
choices and set priorities,
because it follows our phi~
losophy," said House Ma-
jority Leader 'Ibm DeLay, R-
'Iexas, during House debate.
Passage would crown the
lame-duck session of Con-
gress, which began Tuesday,
and send lawmakers home
until January. They also
were hoping to pass a com-
promise bill reorganizing
U.S. intelligence agencies.
Also enacted during the
postelection session was an
$800 billion increase in the
government's borrowing
limit. The measure was yet
another testament to record
annual deficits, which
reached $413 billion last
year and are expected to
climb indefinitely.
While the spending bill
was one of the most austere
in years, it had something
for everybody, including
thousands of home-district
projects worth several bil-
lion dollars:
It $335,000 to protect sun-
flowers in North Dakota
from blackbird damage.
· $60 million for a new
courthouse in Las Cruces,
N.M.
Tom Delay
· $225,000 t.o study cat-
fish genomes at Alabama's
Auburn UniverMity.
· a potential present for
Bush himself, $2 million for
the government to buy back
the presidential yacht Se-
quoia. The boat was sold
three decades ago.
Despite complaints the bill
was too stingy,' most De-
mocrats supported it. They
helped write it and included
many projects for them-
selves. They knew that the
alternative - holding
spending to last year's levels
~ would be $4 billion
tighter.
"It is totally inadequate
to meet the nation's needs in
education, . health care and
. the environment," said Rep.
David Obey; D-Wis. "It falls
so far from meeting our in-
vestment obligations for the
future that it could only be
brought to the floor by the
majority party after the
election; ,~
The measure was a com-
pendium of niIiebillsthat
Republicans found. too.' con-
tentiousto. complete before
the Nov. 2 elections. The leg-
islation covers al:tnost every
domestic agency and de-
partment, plus foreign aid.
The FBI, the Securities
and Exchange Commission
arid NASA got healthy in-
creases. But education grew
by less than 2 percent. The
Environmental Protection
Agency grew by 3.5 percent.
Overall, the:irin.ebills the
measure combmed,:wcre just
2 percent larger than last
year's versions. ~'foreign
aid alfd defense 8pe6,ding are
omitted, the remaining do-
mestic progranisgrew by
arourid 1 percent...: .
Sunday
November 21, 2004
Vol. 162, No. 225
..h.. ~_
ill!. :JU
~
...
www:gaivnews,com
e
.' .
Itlzeo
we're Where YOu Are
...,;';. ~
;:",',-....- ,
State money seals deal
Funds net big returns for business development
By MARK EVANGELISTA'
Citizen Staff
If Phil Wilson was a private
fund manager, his $181 million
in investments would have
returned a profit of over 300 per-
cent.
But as the deputy chief of
staff for Gov., Rick Perry, he
oversees econo.mie development
and, the "deal-closing" capabili-
ties of the Texas Enterprise
Fund.
Wilson told members of the
Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership on Wednesday that
the fund could be used to estab-
li&h'acfBttonghold in the biotech-
n610gy industry, just as it was
used to secure a Toyota truck
manufacturing plant in San
Antonio.
Of the six industry clusters
identified in a study which
includes biotechnology, all of
them exist within Bay Area
Houston, said BAHEP spokes-
woman Tina Landingham.
Wilson said that the emerging
biotechnology industry centered
aropnd UTMB has benefits for
the whole region and the state.
"What you've got in south-
east Texas, through UTMB, UT-
Health Science Center, M.D.
Anderson, Lexicon" "and
Cyberonics, manfacturing"drug
testing - you've got a "huge
patient pool,"
Wilson said that the potential
goes beyond the state and up
against the medical science jug-
gernauts across the nation.
"We can compete with the big
centers like Boston, California,
San Francisco, the Mayo Clinic,"
he said.
The University of Texas M.D.
Anderson Cancer Center creates
opportunities' for research and
expansion of biotechnology, said
Wilson.
"When people find out they
have cancer, one of the first
places they go is to M.D.
Anderson," he said.
"What we need to do is lever-
age off that and make a smart
strategic pltll1,th'at<:m~~~.r;
grow the biotech industrY here,'
andl~lieve we'have'achanceto
do that in a lot of ways, reaIIyto
become the Third Coast."
B.efore the. funds, Cll9 be
awarded, the governor, lieu-
tenant governor and the speaker
of the. house must unanimously
agree to support the ulie of the
fund for each specific project.
Communitie.s like HO,uston
and The Woodlands used the
fund to get Citgo and Huntsman
Chemicals respectively to relo-
cate within its boundaries.
A
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Appropriation
Requested By: Wa n a
Source of Fonds:
Agenda Date Requested:
Account Number:
Department: Plannin2
Amount Budgeted:
Report: _Resolution: _Ordinance:_
Amount Requested:
Exhibits:
1. GIS Presentation
Budgeted Item: _YES ~O
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
During the last three years, the Planning Department's Engineering Division has dedicated much
of its resources toward furthering the City's GIS implementation goals. Within this time, the
Division's Engineering Technician Supervisor and Engineering Specialist have assumed the
additional roles of GIS manager and GIS technician to ensure continued progress and success of
the program. However, as the City's GIS program continues to expand and evolve, the time
dedicated by the Engineering Division staff continues to increase. In order to address these
increasing demands, the Planning Department proposes the establishment of an independent GIS
division to work exclusively in the program.
By creating an independent GIS division, the City realizes several benefits: the timeframe for GIS
development will be reduced; service to citizens and developers will improve through greater
accuracy and reliability of mapping; the City's economic development initiatives will benefit
through the increased ability to map site-specific data for potential development opportunities; the
efficiency of City staff will improve through enhanced access to geographic mapping and data
In order to facilitate the creation of a GIS Division, two new positions are proposed: GIS Manager
and GIS Technician. The following presentation will provide Council with information regarding
the current status and future plans for the City's GIS Division.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends that Council acknowledge actions necessary to facilitate the creation of a GIS
Division of the Planning Department and continue future funding at same operational level.
Action Required of Council:
Acknowledge movement to improve and create a GIS Division within the City's Planning
Department. Acknowledge proceeding at appropriate speed to respond to Fall City Council
Retreat for improvements.
Approved for City Council Agenda
rJili~{0-p 4a~
Debra B. Feazelle, City Manager
c2 -:J 3 --OS
Date
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MEMORANDUM FOR RECORD
PLANNING DEPARTMENT REORGANIZATION
AND
GIS DIVISION IMPLEMENT A TION
FEBRUARY 7, 2005
TO: City Manager
From: Director of Planning and Community Development
OBJECTIVE: To reorganize the staffing within the Planning Department to provide for a more
efficient and cost effective organization, to update key positions within the Department in scope and
responsibilities, to create the GIS Division within the Department per Council directive, and to
mitigate the cost of creating the GIS Division.
FACTS BEARING ON THE ISSUE:
CURRENT ORGANIZATION
Raoning Director
Secretary OJ
Deputy Fre Marshal
Seaetary II
Community Se/\/ice
lnspectx> r
· The Department transitioned from an interim (contract) Director to a salaried City employee.
· The Department Secretary position has had a significant change in duties during the transition
period of two (2) Directors in nine (9) months.
· The City Planner Position is vacant.
· The Planning Coordinator position has become largely clerical in nature primarily dealing with
packet preparation /reproduction, public notices and postings.
· The Building Official's position is now responsible for the supervision of 8 personnel who
have city-wide impact.
· The Chief Inspector's position, in relation to the Building Official and the Division as a whole
now acts in a "Deputy" Capacity.
· The Department had been directed to form a GIS Division to take full advantage of emerging
technologies.
DISCUSSION (Department Reorganization):
1. When the Director's position was converted to a salaried City employee, a savings (including
benefits) of$1,704.08 in budgeted salary was realized.
2. The Department Secretary, in recent history and during the transition of two Directors in nine
months, has assumed additional duties. These include budgetary responsibilities and providing
independent guidance to five (5) Division Managers; making independent decisions impacting the
entire Department and, as part of the reorganization, will assume direct supervisory
responsibilities for clerical staff. This position is also responsible for taking minutes and
administrative support for Planning and Zoning Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Large
Lot Committee, and on call support for the Fire Code Review Board, the Building Codes Appeal
Board and the Main Street Committee.
3. A vast amount oftime is spent by the Planning Coordinator performing clerical functions. These
include filing plats/plans, Special Conditional Use Permits and rezoning applications; packet
preparation for Council, Commissions and Boards; the posting and publishing of public notices,
meetings and hearings; and the logging in of planning applications and collecting associated
review fees. These duties have a significant impact upon more important tasks of plat/plan
reviews, developer assistance meetings, strategic planning and ordinance reviews. It is our
opinion that the clerical function associated with this position prevents the employee from
performing more critical duties and should be separated out.
4. The Building Official provides supervision for 8 personnel and now adds staff support to the
Building Codes Appeal Board. The Building Official also makes independent decisions that have
a city-wide impact including code and ordinance interpretation. In our review of the pay grade
structure for the City, it was noted that positions with similar authority and little or no supervisory
capacity, were graded higher on the pay scale. It is our opinion this position should be re-graded.
5. In-line with increasing responsibility within the Building and Inspections Division, the Chief
Inspector has assumed additional duties commensurate with a Deputy position. Given the recent
demands in code enforcement, building demolition, and increased emphasis on customer service,
the Chief Inspector has increased supervisory duties and citizen contact. By re-grading this
position to Deputy Building Official, the Division can increase the level of customer assistance
and citizen contact without negatively impacting the time and efforts of the Building Official.
2
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR REORGANIZATION:
1. Eliminate the Secretary III position of the Department Secretary (Pay Grade [PG 11]) and create
the position of Office Coordinator (PG 15) Job Description at Enclosure 1. (Efficiency)
2. Eliminate the City Planning Coordinator Position (PG 20) and transfer the qualified incumbent
into the vacant City Planner Position (PG 29). (Cost Effectiveness)
3. Create and post a Secretary II position (PG 9) to replace the City Coordinator position. This
position will report to the Officer Coordinator. (Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness)
4. Reclassify the Building Official from PG 26 to PG 29, equal to the City Planner Position.
(Equity).
5. Eliminate the Chief Inspector position (PG 22) and transfer the qualified incumbent into a newly
created Deputy Building Official position (PG 25) Job description at Enclosure 2. (Efficiency
and Customer Service).
RECAP--PROPOSED REORGANIZATION (WITHOUT GIS)
Planning Director
C~y Ramer
Fire Marshal
D..pul:y Fi r.. Marmal
S "cretary II
Corrrnunity Swvicil'
Inspector
FISCAL IMPACT: NET SAVINGS (INCLUDING BENEFITS): -$25,302.08
3
DISCUSSION (GIS):
The creation of the GIS Division is essential for full application of emerging technologies. The
methodology to form the Division is discussed through the use of the power point presentation listed at
Enclosure 3. The Division will consist of 2 new positions as discussed in the enclosure. These positions
will be created as a separate entity reporting to the Planning Director. The cost of creating this division is
mitigated by the Department's reorganization as previously discussed. Job Descriptions are attached at
Enclosure 4. Human Resource's justifications are listed at Enclosure 5.
FISCAL IMPACT:
. Creation of the GIS Division: $33,386.00 (Engineering Specialist position remains vacant)
. Net savings from Department Reorganization: $25,302.08.
. Net cost to create GIS Division: $8,083.92
4
B
REQlJ~ST FOR CITY COUNCIL AG~NDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: Fehruat:}' 21,2005
Appropriation
Requested By' Michael Dnlhy A~~t nirednr ofFinal1ce
Source of Funds:
Department: fiBanee
Amount Budgeted:
Report:
Resolution:
Ordinance:
Amount Requested:
Budgeted Item: YES NO
Exhibits: Presentation
Exhibits:
Exhibits:
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
The City of La Porte's meter reading system is outdated. We currently rely on meters that are over ten
years of age. As more and more demands are placed on budgets, governmental entities are being forced
to seek ways to stretch our budgets. Automation of our meter reading system will provide our utility fund
with increased revenue through reallocation of resources and accurate water usage measurement and
billing.
415-
&MA) ..
Action Required bv Council:
Approved for City Council Agenda
d-r)d-05
Date
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REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: Februarv 28. 2005
Appropriation
Requested By: Wayne Sabo
Source of Funds:
N/A
Department: Planninl!
Account Number: N/A
Report: _Resolution: _Ordinance: -X-
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Amount Requested: NI A
Exhibits:
A. Ordinance for IDA
B. Industrial District Agreement
c. Area Map
Budgeted Item: _YES -X.-NO
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
Mr. Ashley Madray and Mr. Jason Willingham, developers of "Gas Innovations" have filed
a request with the City for execution of a new Industrial District Agreement (IDA).
The purpose of the new agreement is to include a 1.420 acre deannexed tract which
occupies the south portion of their site into a new updated agreement reflecting the
additional tract and the new owners (Madray & Willingham). The northern portion of site
is currently under an IDA with "Tom M.R., Inc." (Re: 2000-IDA-09).
Staff recommends approval of an Industrial District Agreement which reflects the addition
of a 1.420 acre tract and new owners of the site.
Action Required bv Council:
Consider approval of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a new
Industrial District Agreement with Mr. Ashley Madray and Mr. Jason Willingham to include
a 1 .420 acre deannexed tract of their site. ~ _I c/- -0 5.
d-~-eS
Date
Auuroved for City Council Ae:enda
Debra B. Feazelle, 'City Manage
EXHIBIT "A"
Ordinance for I.D.A.
ORDINANCE NO. 2000-IDA-73
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION BY THE CITY OF LA PORTE OF
AN INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT AGREEMENT WITH ASHLEY HADRAY AND JASON
WILLINGHAM D/B/A GAS INNOVATIONS, FOR THE TERM COMMENCING JANUARY
1, 2001, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2007, HAICING VARIOUS FINDINGS AND
PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT, FINDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE
OPEN MEETINGS LAW, AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE:
Section 1.
ASHLEY MADRAY AND JASON WILLINGHAM D/B/A GAS
INNOVATIONS have executed an industrial district agreement with the
City of La Porte, for the term commencing January 1, 2001, and
ending December 31, 2007, a copy of which is attached hereto,
incorporated by reference herein, and made a part hereof for all
purposes.
Section 2. The Mayor, the City Manager, the City Secretary,
and the City Attorney of the city of La Porte, be, and they are
hereby, authorized and empowered to execute and deliver on behalf
of the city of La Porte, the industrial district agreement with the
corporation named in Section 1 hereof.
Section 3. The city Council officially finds, determines,
recites, and declares that a sufficient written notice of the date,
hour, place and subject of this meeting of the City Council was
posted at a place convenient to the public at the city Hall of the
City for the time required by law preceding this meeting, as
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government
Code; and that this meeting has been open to the pUblic as required
by law at all times during which this ordinance and the subject
matter thereof has been discussed, considered and formally acted
upon.
The City Council further ratifies, approves and confirms
such written notice and the contents and posting thereof.
section 4. This Ordinance shall be effective from and after
its passage and approval, and it is so ordered.
PASSED AND APPROVED, this ____ day of January, 2005.
CITY OF LA PORTE
By:
Alton E. Porter
ATTEST:
Martha A. Gillett
City Secretary
APP~tV~
Knox W. Askins,
city Attorney
2
EXHIBIT "B"
Industrial District Agreement
NO. 2000-IDA-73 ~
~
STATE OF TEXAS ~
~
COUNTY OF HARRI S ~.
INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT AGREEMENT
This AGREEMENT made and entered into by and between the CITY
OF LA PORTE, TEXAS, a municipal corporation of Harris County,
Texas, hereinafter called "CITY", and ASHLEY MADRAY AND JASON
WILLINGHAM D/B/A GAS INNOVATIONS, hereinafter called "COMPANY",
WIT N E SSE T H:
WHEREAS, it is the established policy of the city Council of
the City of La Porte, Texas, to adopt such reasonable measures from
time to time as are permitted by law and which will tend to enhance
the economic stability and growth of the City and its environs by
attracting the location of new and the expansion of existing
industries therein, and such policy is hereby reaffirmed and
adopted by this City Council as being in the best interest of the
City and its citizens; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to its policy, city has enacted Ordinance
No. 729, designating portions of the area located in its
extraterritorial jurisdiction as the "Battleground Industrial
District of La Porte, Texas", and Ordinance No. 842A, designating
portions of the area located in its extraterritorial jurisdiction
as the "Bayport Industrial District of La Porte, Texas",
hereinafter collectively called "District", such Ordinances being
in compliance with the Municipal Annexation Act of Texas, codified
as section 42.044, Texas Local Government Code; and
WHEREAS, Company is the owner of land within a designated
Industrial District of the City of La Porte, said land being
legally described on the attached Exhibit "A" (hereinafter "Land") ;
and said Land being more particularly shown on a plat attached as
Exhibit "B", which plat describes the ownership boundary lines; a
site layout, showing all improvements, including pipelines and
railroads, and also showing areas of the Land previously annexed by
the City of La Porte; and
WHEREAS, city desires to encourage the expansion and growth of
industrial plants within said Districts and for such purpose
desires to enter into this Agreement with Company pursuant to
Ordinance adopted by the City Council of said City and recorded in
the official minutes of said city:
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the
mutual agreements of the parties contained herein and pursuant to
the authority granted under the Municipal Annexation Act and the
Ordinances of City referred to above, city and Company hereby agree
with each other as follows:
FINAL DRAFT: February 24, 2000
I.
city covenants, agrees and guarantees that during the term of this
Agreement, provided below, and subject to the terms and provisions
of this Agreement, said District shall continue to retain its
extraterritorial status as an industrial district, at least to the
extent that the same covers the Land belonging to Company and its
assigns, unless and until the status of said Land, or a portion or
portions thereof, as an industrial district may be changed pursuant
to the terms of this Agreement. Subject to the foregoing and to
the later provisions of this Agreement, City does further covenant,
agree and guarantee that such industrial district, to the extent
that it covers said Land lying within said District and not now
within the corporate limits of city, shall be immune from
annexation by city during the term hereof (except as hereinafter
provided) and shall have no right to have extended to it any
services by City, and that all Land, including that which has been
heretofore annexed, shall not have extended to it by ordinance any
rules and regulations (a) governing plats and subdivisions of land,
(b) prescribing any building, electrical, plumbing or inspection
code or codes, or (c) attempting to exercise in any manner whatever
control over the conduct of business thereon; provided, however,
any portion of Land constituting a strip of land 100' wide and
contiguous to either Fairmont Parkway, State Highway 225, or State
Highway 146, shall be subject to the rules and regulations attached
hereto as Exhibit "C" and made a part hereof; and provided,
however, it is agreed that City shall have the right to institute
or intervene in any administrative and/or judicial proceeding
authorized by the Texas Water Code, the Texas Clean Air Act, the
Texas Health & Safety Code, or other federal or state environmental
laws, rules or regulations, to the same extent and to the same
intent and effect as if all Land covered by this Agreement were not
subject to the Agreement.
II.
In the event that any portion of the Land has heretofore been
annexed by City, Company agrees to render and pay full City ad
valorem taxes on such annexed Land and improvements, and tangible
personal property.
Under the terms of the Texas Property Tax Code (S.B. 621, Acts of
the 65th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 1979, as amended), the
appraised value for tax purposes of the annexed portion of Land,
improvements, and tangible personal property shall be determined by
the Harris County Appraisal District. The parties hereto recognize
that said Appraisal District has no authority to appraise the Land,
improvements, and tangible personal property in the unannexed area
for the purpose of computing the "in lieu" paYments hereunder.
Therefore, the parties agree that the appraisal of the Land,
improvements, and tangible personal property in the unannexed area
shall be conducted by City, at City's expense, by an independent
appraiser of city's selection. The parties recognize that in
making such appraisal for "in lieu" paYment purposes, such
appraiser must of necessity appraise the entire (annexed and
unannexed) Land, improvements, and tangible personal property.
2
Nothing herein contained shall ever be interpreted as lessening the
authority of the Harris County Appraisal District to establish the
appraised value of Land, improvements, and tangible personal
property in the annexed portion, for ad valorem tax purposes.
III.
A. On or before April 15, 2001, and on or before each April 15th
thereafter, unless an extension is granted in accordance with the
Texas Property Tax Code, through and including April 15, 2007,
Company shall provide city with a written description of its Land
and all improvements and tangible personal property located on the
Land as of the immediately preceding January 1st, stating its
opinion of the Property's market value, and being sworn to by an
authorized officer of the Company authorized to do so, or Company's
duly authorized agent, (the Company's "Rendition"). Company may
file such Rendition on a Harris County Appraisal District rendition
form, or similar form. The properties which the Company must
render and upon which the "in lieu of" taxes are assessed are more
fully described in subsections 1, 2, and 3 of subsection D, of this
Paragraph III (sometimes collectively called the "property") i
provided, however, pollution control equipment installed on the
Land which is exempt from ad valorem taxation pursuant to the
provisions of Sec. 11.31 of the Texas Property Tax Code is exempt
from ad valorem taxation and "in lieu of taxes" hereunder. A
failure by Company to file a Rendition as provided for in this
paragraph, shall constitute a waiver by Company for the current tax
year, of all rights of protest and appeal under the terms of this
Agreement.
B. As part of its rendition, Company shall furnish to City a
written report of the names and addresses of all persons and
entities who store any tangible personal property on the Land by
bailment, lease, consignment, or other arrangement with Company
("products in storage"), and are in the possession or under the
management of Company on January 1st of each Value Year, further
giving a description of such products in storage.
C. On or before the later of December 31, 2001, or 30 days from
mailing of tax bill and in like manner on or before each December
31st thereafter, through and including December 31, 2007, Company
shall pay to city an amount "in lieu of taxes" on Company's
Property as of January 1st of the current calendar year ("Value
Year") .
D. Company agrees to render to city and pay an amount "in lieu of
taxes" on Company's Land, improvements and tangible personal
property in the unannexed area equal to the sum of:
1. Fifty-three percent (53%) of the amount of ad valorem
taxes which would be payable to City if all of the
Company's Land and improvements which existed on January
1, 2001, and each January 1 thereafter of the applicable
Value Year during the term of this Agreement, (excluding
amounts payable pursuant to subparagraph 2, below), had
been within the corporate limits of City and appraised
3
each year by City's independent appraiser, in accordance
with the applicable provisions of the Texas Property Tax
Code; and
2. (a) On any Substantial Increase in value of the Land,
improvements, and tangible personal property
(excluding inventory) dedicated to new
construction, in excess of the appraised value of
same on January 1, 2000, resulting from new
construction (exclusive of construction in
progress, which shall be exempt from taxation), for
each Value Year following completion of
construction in progress, an amount equal to Thirty
percent (30%) of the amount of ad valorem taxes
which would be payable to city if all of said new
construction had been within the corporate limits
of City and appraised by city's independent
appraiser, in accordance with the applicable
provisions of the Texas Property Tax Code.
(b) A Substantial Increase in value of the Land,
improvements, and tangible personal property
(excluding inventory) as used in subparagraph 2(a)
above, is defined as an increase in value that is
the lesser of either:
i. at least Five percent (5%) of the total
appraised value of Land and improvements, on
January 1, 2000; or
ii. a cumulative value of at least $3,500,000.00.
For the purposes of this Agreement, multiple
projects that are completed in a Value Year can be
cumulated to arrive at the amount for the increase
in value.
(c) If existing Property values have depreciated below
the Property value established on January 1, 2000,
an amount equal to the amount of the depreciation
will be removed from the calculation under this
subparagraph 2 to restore the value to the January
1, 2000, value; and
3. Fifty-three percent (53%) of the amount of ad valorem
taxes which would be payable to City on all of the
Company's tangible personal property of every
description, located in an industrial district of City,
including, without limitation, inventory, oil, gas, and
mineral interests, items of leased equipment, railroads,
pipelines, and products in storage located on the Land,
if all of said tangible personal property which existed
on January 1, 2001, and each January 1 thereafter of the
applicable Value Year during the term of this Agreement,
had been within the corporate limits of City and
appraised each year by the City's independent appraiser,
4
in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Texas
Property Tax Code.
with the sum of 1, 2 and 3 reduced by the amount of City's ad
valorem taxes on the annexed portion thereof as determined by
appraisal by the Harris County Appraisal District.
IV.
This Agreement shall extend for a period beginning on the 1st day
of January, 2001, and continuing thereafter until December 31,
2007, unless extended for an additional period or periods of time
upon mutual consent of Company and City as provided by the
Municipal Annexation Act; provided, however, that in the event this
Agreement is not so extended for an additional period or periods of
time on or before August 31, 2007, the agreement of City not to
annex property of Company within the District shall terminate. In
that event, City shall have the right to commence immediate
annexation proceedings as to all of Company's property covered by
this Agreement, notwithstanding any of the terms and provisions of
this Agreement.
Company agrees that if the Texas Municipal Act, Section 42.044,
Texas Local Government Code, is amended after January 1, 1994, or
any new legislation is thereafter enacted by the Legislature of the
State of Texas which imposes greater restrictions on the right of
City to annex land belonging to Company or imposes further
obligations on city in connection therewith after the annexation of
such land, Company will waive the right to require City to comply
with any such additional restrictions or obligations and the rights
of the parties shall be then determined in accordance with the
provisions of said Texas Municipal Annexation Act as the same
existed January 1, 1994.
V.
This Agreement may be extended for an additional period or periods
by agreement between City and Company and/or its assigns even
though it is not extended by agreement between City and all of the
owners of all land within the District of which it is a part.
VI.
A. In the event Company elects to protest the valuation for tax
purposes set on its said properties by city or by the Harris County
Appraisal District for any year or years during the terms hereof,
nothing in this Agreement shall preclude such protest and Company
shall have the right to take all legal steps desired by it to
reduce the same.
Notwithstanding such protest by Company, Company agrees to pay to
city on or before the date therefor hereinabove provided, at least
the total of (a) the total amount of ad valorem taxes on the
annexed portions, plus (b) the total amount of the "in lieu of
taxes" on the unannexed portions of Company's hereinabove described
property which would be due to City in accordance with the
5
foregoing provisions of this Agreement on the basis of renditions
which shall be filed by Company.
When the City or Harris County Appraisal District (as the case may
be) valuation on said property of Company has been so finally
determined, either as the result of final judgment of a court of
competent jurisdiction or as the result of other final conclusion
of the controversy, then within thirty (30) days thereafter Company
shall make paYment to City of any additional paYment due hereunder
based on such final valuation, together with applicable penalties,
interests, and costs.
B. Should Company disagree with any appraisal made by the
independent appraiser selected by City pursuant to Article II above
(which shall be given in writing to Company), Company shall, within
twenty (20) days of receiving such copy, give written notice to the
City of such disagreement. In the event Company does not give such
written notice of disagreement within such time period, the
appraisal made by said independent appraiser shall be final and
controlling for purposes of the determination of "in lieu of taxes"
paYments to be made under this Agreement.
Should Company give such notice of disagreement, Company shall also
submit to the City with such notice a written statement setting
forth what Company believes to be the market value of Company's
hereinabove described property. Both parties agree to thereupon
enter into good faith negotiations in an attempt to reach an
agreement as to the market value of Company's property for "in
lieu" purposes hereunder. If, after the expiration of thirty (30)
days from the date the notice of disagreement was received by City,
the parties have not reached agreement as to such market value, the
parties agree to submit the dispute to final arbitration as
provided in subparagraph 1 of this Article VI B. Notwithstanding
any such disagreement by Company, Company agrees to pay to City on
or before December 31 of each year during the term hereof, at least
the total of (a) the ad valorem taxes on the annexed portions, plus
(b) the total amount of the "in lieu" paYments which would be due
hereunder on the basis of Company's valuations rendered and/or
submitted to city by Company hereunder, or the total assessment and
"in lieu of taxes" thereon for the last preceding year, whichever
is higher.
1. A Board of Arbitrators shall be created composed of one
person named by Company, one by City, and a third to be
named by those two. In case of no agreement on this
arbitrator in 10 days, the parties will join in a written
request that the Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court
for the Southern District of Texas appoint the third
arbitrator who, (as the "Impartial Arbitrator") shall
preside over the arbitration proceeding. The sole issue
to be determined in the arbitration shall be resolution
of the difference between the parties as to the fair
market value of Company's property for calculation of the
"in lieu" paYment and total paYment hereunder for the
year in question. The Board shall hear and consider all
relevant and material evidence on that issue including
6
expert op1n10n, and shall render its written decision as
promptly as practicable. That decision shall then be
final and binding upon the parties, subject only to
judicial review as may be available under the Texas
General Arbitration Act (Chapter 171, "General
Arbitration", Texas civil Practice and Remedies Code).
Costs of the arbitration shall be shared equally by the
Company and the city, provided that each party shall bear
its own attorneys fees.
VII.
city shall be entitled to a tax lien on Company's above described
property, all improvements thereon, and all tangible personal
property thereon, in the event of default in payment of "in lieu of
taxes" payments hereunder, which shall accrue penalty and interest
in like manner as delinquent taxes, and which shall be collectible
by city in the same manner as provided by law for delinquent taxes.
VIII.
This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon
City and Company, and upon Company's successors and assigns,
affiliates and subsidiaries, and shall remain in force whether
Company sells, assigns, or in any other manner disposes of, either
voluntarily or by operation of law, all or any part of the property
belonging to it within the territory hereinabove described, and the
agreements herein contained shall be held to be covenants running
with the land owned by Company situated within said territory, for
so long as this Agreement or any extension thereof remains in
force. Company shall give City written notice within ninety (90)
days, with full particulars as to property assigned and identity of
assignee, of any disposition of the Land, and assignment of this
Agreement.
IX.
If City enters into an Agreement with any other landowner with
respect to an industrial district or enters into a renewal of any
existing industrial district agreements after the effective date
hereof and while this Agreement is in effect, which contains terms
and provisions more favorable to the landowner than those in this
Agreement, Company and its assigns shall have the right to amend
this Agreement and City agrees to amend same to embrace the more
favorable terms of such agreement or renewal agreement.
X.
The parties agree that this Agreement complies with existing laws
pertaining to the subject and that all terms, considerations and
conditions set forth herein are lawful, reasonable, appropriate,
and not unduly restrictive of Company's business activities.
without such agreement neither party hereto would enter into this
Agreement. In the event anyone or more words, phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs, sections, articles or other parts of this
Agreement or the application thereof to any person, firm,
7
corporation or circumstances shall be held by any court of
competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unconstitutional for any
reason, then the application, invalidity or unconstitutionality of
such words, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section, article
or other part of the Agreement shall be deemed to be independent of
and separable from the remainder of this Agreement and the validity
of the remaining parts of this Agreement shall not be affected
thereby.
XI.
Upon the commencement of the term of this Agreement, all other
previously existing industrial district agreements with respect to
said Land shall terminate.
ENTERED INTO effective the 1st day of January, 2001.
~~
Title: (or{ -se~
Address: / ! ot:) e. ~ 2- z.s
L _fJ-~7Y 5~1
D/B/A GAS INNOVATIONS
ATTEST:
CITY OF LA PORTE
By:
Alton E. Porter
Mayor
City Secretary
A~tJ. ~
Knox W. Askins
City Attorney
City of La Porte
P.O. Box 1218
La Porte, TX 77572-1218
By:
Debra Brooks Feazelle
City Manager
CITY OF LA PORTE
604 West Fairmont Parkway
La Porte, TX 77571
Phone: (281) 471-1886
Fax: (281) 471-2047
8
nEXHIBIT An
(Metes and Bounds Description of Land)
o
INDu~iRIAL DISTRICT TRACT
METES AND BOUNDS DESCRIPTION
2.5013 ACRE TRACT
ENOCd BRINSON SURVEY, A- 5
LA PORTE, IP.RRIS COUNTY, TEXAS
Being a 2.5013 acre tract of land and being all of that
certain 1.421 acre tract as conveyed by deed dated April
14, 1997, to Teens of Youth, recorded under Harris County
Clerk's File No. S404378, and all of that called 25,000
square feet tract of land as conveyed by R. G. Florance to
G. M. Ragsdale and W. Al Pardoe, by instrument recorded
under Harris County Clerk's File No. C813759, and all of
that certain Tract 1, as conveyed to R. G. Florance by
instrument recorded in Volume 5451 at Page 65 of the Harris
County Deed Records, dated March 11, 1964, all situated in
the Enoch Brinson Survey, A-5, La Porte, Harris County,
Texas, said 2.5013 acre tract being more particularly
described as follows:
BEGINNING at a 5/8" iron rod found for the Northwest
corner of this 2.5013 acre tract, said point being also the
Northwest corner of a called Tract 1, as conveyed to R. G.
Florance by deed dated March 11, 1969, recorded in Volume
5451 at Page 65 of the Harris County Deed Records, and
being also the Southwest corner of a 3.80 acre tract as per
H.C.A.D.. File No. 064-222-000-0014 in the name of Carson C.
Neal;
.-
Thence, North 89 degrees 58 minutes 03 seconds "East, .
. "
coincident with the North line of the said Tract 1, . and" the
25,000 square foot tract, and being also the Soutn line of
the said Neal 3.820 acre tract, a distance of 531.68 feet
to a disturbed 5/8" iron rod found for the Northeast corner
of the said 25,000 square foot tract, and being also the
Southeast corner of the said Neal 3.820 acre tract, and
being a point in the Northwest right-ofway line of Texas
State Highway No. 225;
PAGE 1 OF 3
.~ECfn/EO
JAN ~ 7 2005
Thence, South 50 degrees 33 minutes 43 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of the said 25,000
square foot tract, and being also the Northwest right-of-
way line of State Highway 225, a distance of 157.55 feet to
a punch mark in concrete found for the Southeast
corner of the said 24,000 square foot tract of land, and
being also the Northeast corner of the said 1.420 acre
tract;
Thence, South 50 degrees 36 minutes 38 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of the said 1.420 acre
tract and the Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State
Highway No. 225, a distance of 272.06 feet to a 5/8" iron
rod with cap set for corner, from which a 1 1/2" iron pipe
was found North 06 degrees 15 minutes East, 1.48 feet;
Thence, South 64 degrees 11 minutes 13 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of the said 1.420 acre
tract, and the Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State
Highway No. 225, a distance of 212.71 feet to a Texas
Department of Transportation concrete monument with cap
found for the Southwest corner of the said 1.420 acre
tract, said point being the point of intersection of the
Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State Highway No. 225
with the East right-of-way line of Strang Road;
Thence, in a Northerly direction, coincident with the East
right-of-way line of Strang Road, and following a non-
tangent curve, said curve having a Delta angle of 13
degrees 16 minutes 48 seconds, a radius of 38.00 feet, for
a curve length of 8.81 feet, and a chord length of 8.79
feet, said chord having a bearing of North 06 degrees 42
minutes 43 seconds West, to a 5/8" iron rod found for
corner;
PAGE 2 OF 3
Thence, North 04 degrees 49 minutes 05 seconds West,
coincident with the East right-af-way line of Strang Road,
and the West line of the said 1.420 acre tract, a distance
of 88.30 feet to a 5/8" iron rod with cap formd for corner,
from which a Texas Department of Transportation concrete
monument with cap was formd North 78 degrees 52 minutes
East, a distance of 0.45 feet, and a 3/4" iron pipe was
formd South 04 degrees 35 minutes East, a distance of 3.23
feet;
Thence, North 00 degrees 01 minute 53 seconds East,
coincident with the West line of the said 1.420 acre tract,
and the East right-of-way line of Strang Road, a distance
of 168.28 feet to a 5/8" iron rod formd for the Northwest
corner of the said 1.420 acre tract, and being also the
Southwest corner of that said Tract 1;
Thence, North 00 degrees 02 minutes 11 seconds East,
coincident with the West line of the said Tract 1, and
being also the East right-of-way line of Strang Road,
a distance of 100.00 feet RETURNING TO THE POINT OF
BEGINNING.
PREPARED FROM A SURVEY MADE ON THE GROUND ON DECEMBER 9,
2004."
H. CARLOS SMITH,
JOB NO. 3551-04
JANUARY 6, 2005
PAGE 3 OF 3
00
RBXHIBIT BR
(Attach Plat reflecting the ownership boundary lines; a
site layout, showing all improvements, including
pipelines and railroads, and also showing areas of the
Land previously annexed by the City of La Porte.)
-EXHIBIT en
Page 1 of 2
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Any portion of Land constituting a strip of land 100' wide and
contiguous to either Fairmont Parkway, State Highway 225, or State
Highway 146 shall be subject to the following rules and regulations
pertaining to new signage, screening, driveways and median
crossovers. These rules and regulations shall apply after the
effective date of this Agreement when Company develops or
constructs improvements on vacant Land described in Exhibit "A"
which is adjacent to Fairmont Parkway, State Highway 225, or State
Highway 146.
1. Any sign erected in said 100' strip of land shall be subject
to the following provisions:
. One freestanding identification sign shall be permitted
for each side of an industrial establishment that fronts
on an improved public right-of-way.
. Freestanding identification signs for single tenant
buildings shall not exceed 150 square feet in area.
. One freestanding identification sign for identifying
multiple businesses is allowable at the intersection of
improved public rights-of-way.
. Freestanding identification signs for multiple businesses
shall not exceed 350 square feet.
. Freestanding identification signs shall not exceed 45
feet in height.
. Minimum setback for sign construction shall be ten (10)
feet from property lines.
2. When Land adjacent to said 100' strip is developed, the
initial 50' of said strip beyond any existing pipeline
easement contiguous to either Fairmont Parkway, State Highway
225, or State Highway 146 shall be screened by one of the
following techniques:
a) Leaving in place existing trees, vegetation, underbrush,
etc. to provide a thorough and effective visual screening
of the development. Existing trees shall, together with
other vegetation and underbrush, create a continuous
visual screen.
b) The use of earthen berms with approximately 3: 1 side
slopes, 50' wide at the base and 8' high. The berms may
be landscaped with a combination of trees, shrubs, and
ground cover. All berms and landscaping will be
maintained by the property owners.
nEXHIBIT en
Page 2 of 2
c) A screening plan, to be approved by the city, that
includes a combination of trees, shrubs, and ground cover
that after 5 years growth will be at least 20 feet in
height and shall, together with shrubs and ground cover,
create a continuous visual screen. Provided, however, in
public utility easements or rights-of-way, the vegetation
shall be installed and maintained in a manner which is
acceptable to the public utility company, and does not
interfere with the operation and maintenance of the
public utility facilities.
For items band c above, the actual length of required
screening along the roadway will be equal to the length of the
new development that is parallel to the roadway. Screening
shall not be required for new development that is to the rear
of or behind existing facilities.
In all cases the 50' strip, along the entire roadway frontage,
shall be dedicated as a landscape easement and shall be kept
free from any improvements except for approved driveway access
and identification signs.
For cases of new development or improvements where a 50'
landscape easement is not available or practical, Company
shall meet with City to determine a suitable landscaping
alternative.
3. Driveways opening from said strip of land onto State Highway
225 or State Highway 146 shall be subject to the rules and
regulations of the Texas Department of Transportation and
provisions of the city's Code of Ordinances, whichever is more
restrictive.
Driveways opening from said strip of land onto Fairmont
Parkway shall be subj ect to the rules and regulations of
Harris County and provisions of the City's Code of Ordinances,
whichever is more restrictive.
4 . Driveways opening from said strip of land onto Fairmont
Parkway shall be approved by the City and may require the
installation of separate acceleration/deceleration lanes.
5. Installation of a median crossover on Fairmont Parkway shall
be subject to the approval of both Harris County and City.
EXHIBIT "c"
Area Map
REQl.J~ST FOR CITY COUNCIL AG~NDA ITEM
ApproPriation
Agenda Date Requested: February 28. 2005
~"'edBY'W~
Department: Plannine:
Source of Funds:
N/A
Account Number:
N/A
Report: _Resolution: _Ordinance: -X-
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Amount Requested: N/A
Exhibits:
A. Petition for Deannexation
B. Ordinance for Deannexation
C. AreaMap
Budgeted Item: _YES -X-NO
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
Mr. Ashley Madray and Mr. Jason Willingham have filed a petition with the City for
deannexation of a 1.420 acre tract ofland in the Enoch Brinson Survey, Abstract 5, which
comprises the southernmost portion of the "Gas Innovations" development at 18005 S.H. 225
(see Exhibit "c" - Area Map). Currently, Gas Innovations' site is divided into two separate
jurisdictions: the Battleground Industrial District on the north and La Porte city limits on the
south. The company's plan is to unite both tracts under an Industrial District Agreement (IDA)
within the Battleground Industrial District.
Gas Innovations' development calls for utilization and expansion of the existing office and
warehouse facility located on the previously deannexed tract (Re: Ord. 1540 - 4/1987) which is
under a current Industrial District Agreement with the City (Re: 2000-IDA-09 - Tom M.R.,
Inc.). Plans for the tract to be deannexed consist of surface paving and installation of above-
ground storage tanks to support the company's operations. As a result, the tract to be deannexed
gains economic value only when combined with the industrial district tract as part of a larger site
unified and placed under an updated Industrial District Agreement (IDA) with the City.
Additionally, Gas Innovations' developers propose a 642' extension of the City's public water
main distribution system from its northernmost boundary at S.H. 146 to its southernmost
boundary at Strang Road. The company's sanitary sewer main will be privately maintained. At
a future date, Council will be asked to consider execution of a Water Service Agreement, a
Sanitary Sewer Service Agreement and a Utility Extension Agreement with the company to
facilitate the water main extension and utility service.
Staff recommends approval of the applicant's petition for deannexation as submitted.
Action Required bv Council:
Consider approval an ordinance authorizing the deannexation of a 1.420 acre tract out of the Enoch
Brinson Survey, A-5.
cJ-~~-{)~
Date
EXHIBIT "A"
Petition for Deannexation
January 13, 2005
Hon. Mayor & City Council
City of La Porte
City Hall
La Porte, Texas
Dear Sir/Madam:
We, the undersigned, as the record owners of the real property
situated in the City of La Porte, being a 1.420 acre tract as
described on Exhibit "A" attached hereto, do hereby request that
the 1.420 acre tract of land be disannexed from the corporate
limits of the City of La Porte, so that the same may be included in
an Industrial District Agreement between the undersigned, doing
business as Gas Innovations, and City of La Porte.
The subject property is located in the City of La Porte's
Battleground Industrial District.
Yours very truly,
~
Willingham
d/b/a Gas Innovations
.;00
D~~~EXATION TRACT
METES AND BO~~S DESCRIPTION
1.420 ACRE TRACT
ENoed BRINSON SURVEY, A-5
LA PORTE, FJffiRIS COill'ITY, TEXAS
Being a 1.420 acre tract of land and being the same 1.421
acre tract as conveyed by deed dated April 14, 1997, to
Teens of Youth, recorded under Harris County Clerk's File
No. S404378, situated in the Enoch Brinson Survey, A-5, La
Porte, Harris County, Texas, said 1. 420 acre tract being
more particularly described as follows:
BEGI1'.1NING at a 5/8" iron rod found for the Northwest
corner of this 1.420 acre tract, said point being also the
Southwest corner of a called tract 1, as conveyed to R. G.
Florance by deed dated March 11, 1969, recorded in Volume
5451 at Page 65 of the Harris County Deed Records, and
being a point in the East right-of-way line of Strang Road;
Thence, North 89 degrees 58 minutes 03 seconds East,
coincident with the South line of the said Tract 1, at a
distance of 220.95 feet, pass a 1/2" iron rod found 0.12
feet South 12 degrees 51 minutes East, continuing North 89
degrees 58 minutes 03 seconds East, coincident with the
South line of that certain tract called 25,000 square feet
as conveyed to G. M. Ragsdale and W. Al Pardoe by
instrument recorded lh~der Harris County Clerk's File No.
C813759, for a total distance of 410.05 feet to a punch
mark in concrete found for the Northeast corner of this
1.420 acre tract and being also a point in the Northwest
right-of-way line of Texas State Highway No. 225;
Thence, South 50 degrees 36 minutes 38 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of this 1.420 acre tract
and the Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State Highway
No. 225, a distance of 272.06 feet to a 5/8" iron rod with
cap set for corner, from which a 1 1/2" iron pipe was found
North 06 degrees 15 minutes East, 1.48 feet;
PAGE 1 OF 2
00
EXHIBIT nAn
00
Thence. South 64 degrees 11 minutes 13 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of this 1.420 acre
tract, and the Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State
Highway No. 225, a distance of 212.71 feet to a Texas
Department of Transportation concrete monument with cap
found for the Southwest corner of this 1.420 acre tract,
said point being the point of intersection of the Northwest
right-of-way line of Texas State Highway No. 225 with the
East right-of-way line of Strang Road;
Thence, in a Northerly direction, coincident with the East
right-of-l<1ay line of Strang Road, and following a non-
tangent cUrve, said curve having a Delta angle of 13
degrees 16 minutes 48 seconds, a radius of 38.00 feet, for
a curve length of 8.81 feet, and a chord length of 8.79
feet, said chord having a bearing of North 06 degrees 42
minutes 43 seconds West, to a 5/8" iron rod found for
corner;
Thence, North 04 degrees 49 minutes 05 seconds West,
coincident with the East right-of-way line of Strfu!g Road,
and the West line of this 1.420 acre tract, a distance of
88.30 feet to a 5/8" iron rod with cap found for comer,
from which a Texas Department of Transportation concrete
monument with cap was found North 78 degrees 52 minutes
East, a distance of 0.45 feet, and a 3/4" iron pipe was
found 'South 04 degrees 35 minutes East, a distance of 3.23
feet;
Thence, North 00 degrees 01 minute 53 seconds East,
coincident with the West line of this 1.420 acre tract, and
the East right-of-way line of Strang Road, a distance of
168.28 feet returning to the POINT OF BEGINNING.
PREPARED FROM A SURVEY MADE ON THE GROUND ON DECEMBER 9,
2004.
SMITH, TE:{AS REGISTERED PUBLIC SURVEYOR NO. 1228
JOB NO. 3551-04
JANUARY 6, 2005
PAGE 2 OF 2
EXHIBIT "B"
Ordinance for Deannexation
ORDINANCE NO. 2005-
AN ORDINANCE DISANNEXING CERTAIN TERRITORY HERETOFORE ANNEXED TO
THE CITY OF LA PORTE, PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE, FINDING
COMPLIANCE WITH THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW, AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE HEREOF.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE:
Section 1. The territory described on Exhibit "A" which is
now entirely located within the corporate limits of the City of La
Porte, Texas, by prior annexation ordinances of the City of La
Porte, is hereby disannexed from the corporate limits of the City
of La Porte, and, after the effective date of this Ordinance, shall
not constitute a part of the corporate territory of the City of La
Porte.
section 2. Nothing herein contained shall affect the validity
of the remaining portion of the Ordinance or ordinances under which
the hereinabove described territory was originally annexed, and it
is the intention of the City Council of the City of La Porte that
only the above described territory shall be disannexed from the
corporate limits of the City of La Porte, Texas.
Section 3.
The City Council officially finds, determines,
recites, and declares that a sufficient written notice of the date,
hour, place and subject of this meeting of the City Council was
posted at a place convenient to the public at the City Hall of the
City for the time required by law preceding this meeting, as
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government
Code; and that this meeting has been open to the public as required
by law at all times during which this ordinance and the subject
matter thereof has been discussed, considered and formally acted
upon.
The City Council further ratifies, approves and confirms
such written notice and the contents and posting thereof.
ORDINANCE NO. 2005-
PAGE 2
section 3. This Ordinance shall be effective from and after
its passage and approval, and it is so ordered.
PASSED AND APPROVED, this ____ day of
, 2005.
CITY OF LA PORTE
By:
Alton E. Porter
Mayor
ATTEST:
Martha A. Gillett
city Secretary
APP~~*~
Knox W. Askins
City Attorney
.,00
~~fu~EXATION TRACT
METES AND BOD1IDS DESCRIPTION
1.420 ACRE TRACT
ENOCn BRINSON SURVEY, A-5
LA PORTE, F.ARRI S COUNTY, TEXAS
Being a 1.420 a~re tract of land and being the same 1.421
acre tract as conveyed by deed dated April 14, 1997, to
Teens of Youth, recorded under Harris County Clerk's File
No. S404378, situated in the Enoch Brinson Survey, A-5, La
Porte, Harris County, Texas, said 1.420 acre tract being
more particularly described as follows:
BEGI!\1NING at a 5/8" iron rod found for the Northwest
corner of this 1.420 acre tract, said point being also the
Southwest corner of a called tract 1, as conveyed to R. G.
Florance by deed dated March 11, 1969, recorded in Volume
5451 at Page 65 of the Harris County Deed Records, and
being a point in the East right-of-way line of Strang Road;
Thence, North 89 degrees 58 minutes 03 seconds East,
coincident _with the South line of the said Tract 1, at a
distance of 220.95 feet, pass a 1/2" iron rod found 0.12
feet South 12 degrees 51 minutes East, continuing North 89
degrees 58 minutes 03 seconds East, coincident with the
South line of that certain tract called 25,000 square feet
as conveyed to G. M. Ragsdale and W. Al Pardoe by
instrument recorded under Harris County Clerk's File No.
C813759, for a total distance of 410.05 feet to a punch
mark in concrete found for the Northeast corner of this
1.420 acre tract and being also a point in the Northwest
right-of-way line of Texas State Highway No. 225;
Thence, South 50 degrees 36 minutes 38 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of this 1.420 acre tract
and the Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State Highway
No. 225, a distance of 272.06 feet to a 5/8" iron rod with
cap set for corner, from which a 1 1/2" iron pipe was found
North 06 degrees 15 minutes East, 1,48 feet;
PAGE 1 OF 2
00
EXHIBIT IIAII
00
Thence. South 64 degrees 11 minutes 13 seconds West,
coincident with the Southeast line of this 1.420 acre
tract, and the Northwest right-of-way line of Texas State
Highway No. 225, a distance of 212.71 feet to a Texas
Department of Transportation concrete monument with cap
found for the Southwest corner of this 1.420 acre tract,
said point being the point of intersection of the Northwest
right-of-way line of Texas State Highway No. 225 with the
East right-of-way line of Strang Road;
Thence, in a Northerly direction, coincident with the East
right-of-way line of Strang Road, and following a non-
tangent curve, said curve having a Delta angle of 13
degrees 16 minutes 48 seconds, a radius of 38.00 feet, for
a curie length of 8.81 feet, and a chord length of 8.79
feet, said chord having a bearing of North 06 degrees 42
minutes 43 seconds West, to a 5/8" iron rod found for
corner;
Thence, North 04 degrees 49 minutes 05 seconds West,
coincident with the East right-of-way line of Strfu!g Road,
and the West line of this 1.420 acre tract, a distance of
88.30 feet to a 5/8" iron rod with cap found for corner,
from which a Texas Department of Transportation concrete
monument with cap was found North 78 degrees 52 minutes
East, a distarlce of 0.45 feet, and a 3/4" iron pipe was
found South 04 degrees 35 minutes East, a distance of 3.23
feet;
Thence, North 00 degrees 01 minute 53 seconds East,
coincident with the West line of this 1.420 acre tract, and
the East right-of-way line of Strang Road, a distance of
168.28 feet returning to the POINT OF BEGINNING.
PREPARED FROM A SURVEY MADE ON THE GROUND ON DECEMBER 9,
2004.
PAGE 2 OF 2
SMITH, TEXAS REGISTERED P1JBLIC SURVEYOR NO. 1228
JOB NO. 3551-04
JANUARY 6, 2005
City of La Porte
Interoffice Memorandum
Date:
February 23, 2005
To:
Mayor and City Council
Debra Feazelle, City
From:
John Joerns, Assistan
Subject:
Additional Information for February 28 Council Agenda
Item 12 B&C: Gas Innovations Request
Attached is additional information related to workshop item 12 ~ C for the February
28 agenda.
There is further information on:
../ History I Background
../ Expansion Plans
.,/ Existing I Projected Tax I In Lieu Revenue
../ Tracts remaining in the City Limits
JJ/ml
c: Cynthia Alexander, Assistant City Manager
TO:
City of La Porte Planning Department
INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM
February 23, 2005
ctor
FROM:
RE: Gas Innovations D
OVERVIEW:
Mr. Ashley Madray and Mr. Jason Willingham have filed a petItIOn with the City for
deannexation of a 1.420 acre tract of land in the Enoch Brinson Survey, Abstract 5, which
comprises the southernmost portion of the "Gas Innovations" development at 18005 S.H. 225
(see Exhibit "C" - Area Map). Currently, Gas Innovations' site is divided into two separate
jurisdictions: the Battleground Industrial District on the north and La Porte city limits on the
south. The company's plan is to unite both tracts under an Industrial District Agreement (IDA)
within the Battleground Industrial District (re: Madray & Willingham IDA agenda request).
Gas Innovations' development calls for expansion of the office and warehouse facilities located
on its deannexed tract (Re: Ord. 1540 - 4/1987) which has a current Industrial District
Agreement (Re: 2000-IDA-09 - Tom M.R., Inc.). Plans for its city limit tract (requested to be
deannexed) consist of paving, fencing, detention and installation of above-ground propane
storage tanks to support the company's operations. As a result, the city limits tract gains
substantive value when combined with the industrial district tract as part of a larger site unified
under a new Industrial District Agreement (IDA) with the City.
RESPONSE TO CONCERNS:
Development of Gas Innovations' site presents an issue that is unique to its area: the
consolidation of all of its properties under a single jurisdictional and taxing entity. Therefore,
the company's desire is to unite the entire site under a single Industrial District Agreement with
the City.
In 1987, the previous owner of Gas Innovations' industrial district property (Tom M.R., Inc.)
petitioned for deannexation of the 1.079 acre site due, in part, to the fact that City utilities were
not available. In 1997, the City invested $67,763 to extend water and sanitary sewer mains
across S.H. 146 (south of the Fred Hartman bridge) to facilitate utility service to properties in the
city limits as well as the Battleground Industrial District. Acquiring service from these utilities
will require the developers to construct a 642' extension of the City's water main from its
northernmost boundary at S.H. 146 to and through its southernmost boundary at Strang Road.
Pg.2
The sanitary sewer service will be privately maintained. At a future date, Council will be
asked to consider execution of a Water Service Agreement, a Sanitary Sewer Service Agreement
and a Utility Extension Agreement with the company to facilitate extension of the water main
and utility service.
Gas Innovations' total site equals 2.5 acres. 2004 tax records show the total value of the
industrial district property (1.079 acs.) to be $101,710. 2004 IDA revenues from this property
were $134.00. The company's property within the city limits (1.420 acs.) is valued at $46,420.
2004 City taxes received from this property were $329.58. Total tax revenue in 2004 from the
entire site (with no additional improvements) was $463.58.
The company's current plan for expansion calls for the investment of an additional $345,000 in
building and site improvements. $155,000 will be allocated for improvements to its industrial
district property. $190,000 of improvements will take place on its city limit property.
Therefore, an estimate for the value of the fully-developed site is $493,120.
By unifying all of Gas Innovations' properties (with proposed improvements) under a single
industrial district agreement, it is estimated that the City will receive total annual revenues of
$1,292. This figure represents an initial increase of $828 per year through the end of the current
IDA term (12/31/07). Upon renewal ofthe company's IDA for the 2008 term, the City will
realize an additional $563 in revenue from the company for a total of$1,855 per year.
FROM:
City of La Porte Planning Department
INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM
February 22, 2005
Brian Sterling, ETS
RE:
Gas Innovations D annexation - Additional Information
1.) Attach Petition
· attached
2.) How much acreage in previous deannexed site (Ord. 1540. 4/87)?
. 1.079 Acres
3.) What is value of deannexed tract?
· 12A = $93,400 (Land: $9,000 + Improvements: $84,400)
· 12B = $8,310 (Land: $8,310 + Improvements: $0)
· Totalfor both previously deannexed tracts = $101,710
What is the revenue from IDA?
· $134.00 (2004 Tax Receipts for Tracts 12A & 12B - per KPffax)
What is proposed cost of expansion of warehouse and City tract?
· $155,000 improvements proposedfor Tracts 12A & 12B (Industrial Dist)
· $190,000 improvements proposedfor Tract 12 (City Limits)
4.) What type of above-ground tanks?
· LPG Tanks - designed at 250 psig working pressure; Products to be stored
include non-odorized propane, butane, isobutene and propylene.
5.) Why does this only have (gain) value when combined with IDA?
· Tract 12 (city limits) has a total assessed value of$46,420.
· Tracts 12A & 12B (industrial district) has a combined value of $1 01,700
· Total assessed value of combined tracts = $148,120
· 2004 City tax receiptsfor Tract 12 (city limits) = $329.58
· 2004 City tax receiptsfor Tracts 12A & 12B (Industrial Dist) = $134.00
· Total 2004 tax receipts for all G.L property = $463.58
· G.L proposes a total of $345,000 of improvements for the site
· Est value of combined tracts wi proposed improvements = $493,120
· Est annual tax receipts from IDA wi G.L (current term) = $1,292.12/Yr.
Pg.2
. Increase in tax receiptsfrom G.L wi IDA (2000 term) = $858.54
. Est annual tax receipts from IDA wi G.I (2008 term) = $1,855. 61/Yr.
. Increase in tax receiptsfrom G.L wi IDA (2008 term) = $1,392.03
By consolidating G.L 's tracts under an IDA, the City realizes additional tax revenues
as highlighted above.
6.) Map:
The proposed deannexation looks larger than 1.42 acres?
. 1.42 acres co"oborated by HCAD tax records & H. Carlos' survey of site
Do they own all of this area?
· Yes. Madray & Willingham own Trs. 12, 12A & 12B (see HCAD facet map
attached)
7.) Background / History
Recall that for 1 st deannexation, part of argument was no city services? - confirmed
In 1997, City spent $32,132.68 for waterline & casing and $35,630.46 for sewer line and
casing; to make utilities available.
8.) Properties to the north
Owners & taxable values & revenues:
. 23.9736 Acs. (Modern Group) =
. 2.7500 Acs. (Debra L. Howser) =
. 3.8200 Acs. (Carson C Neal) =
$478,870 (Land wi no improvements)
$164,570 (Land + improvements)
$229,680 (Land + improvements)
How much in city limits left?
· 30.5436 Acres left in the area bounded by Strang, S.H. 225 & S.H. 146
Info for the equity issue - i.e. fairness to the other tracts
Gas Innovations' operations are currently confined to its industrial district
property (Trs. 12A & 12B) on which the company's main offices and warehouse
facilities are located. The company's plans for expansion of their business is
contingent upon unifying the existing industrial district site with a 1.420 acre
tract (owned by the company) but located within the city limits. The city limit
tract is integral to the company's expansion plans and will support the office and
warehouse operations with paving, fencing and storage tanks.
The company's situation is unique due to the fact that its property is divided by
two (2) independent taxing and jurisdictional entities. As a result, the owners
wish to combine all tracts comprising their site into a single updated Industrial
District Agreement with the City.
J\5 INN
TICNS
18005 E. Highway 225 La Porte, TX 77571
February 22, 2005
Mr. Brian Sterling
City of La Porte, TX
Via ernai1: sterlingb@ci.1a-porte.tx.us
Dear Mr. Sterling:
This letter is to give you the details of our expansion plans in the Industrial District portion of our
site as well as the proposed improvements on the total site, including value estimates, and a listing
of above ground storage tanks and their respective contents.
Our company serves the industrial gas distnbution companies, such as Praxair, Air Products,
Mathes on- TRIGAS, Air Liquide America, Airgas, and the many independently owned businesses
in this industry. We have four product lines. These include the nationwide distnbution of Kobel co
Welding of America's line of welding wires, the distribution of propylene as an alternative to
acetylene for heating and cutting steel, the re-qualification of DOT cylinders every five or ten years
as mandated by the United States Dept of Transportation, and the distnbution and supply of some
specialty gases.
Our proposed improvements to the property currently zoned in the Industrial District are estimated
as follows:
1.
2.
3.
site improvement including water and sewer access
paving, driveways, culverts, etc
steel building and installation
Total hnprovement to Industrial District portion
$ 5,000
$ 90,000
$ 60.000
$155,000
Our proposed improvements to the property currently zoned in La Porte, TX are estimated as
follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
site improvement, including water and sewer access
fencing of site, landscaping exterior, etc
water detention, site improvement
paving site, driveways, culverts
tank installations
Total hnprovement to the undeveloped property
$ 5,000
$ 5,000
$ 10,000
$ 90,000
$ 80.000
$190,000
The above ground storage tanks we propose to install are referred to as liquefied petroleum gas
(LPG) tanks. In laymen's terms, these are propane tanks. They are designed at 250 psig working
pressure. The products that will be stored in these tanks include non-odorized propane, butane,
isobutane, and propylene. These products will be packaged into twenty-five gallon and larger
cylinders.
If you have any other questions or issues, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely yours,
Gas hmovations
Ashley Madray
Phone 281-471-2200 . Fax 281-471-2201
EXHIBIT "c"
Area Map
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