CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Regular Meeting April 14, 1955 10:00 Α.Μ. Council Chamber, City Hall 298 298 The meeting was called to order with Mayor McAden presiding. Roll call: Present: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Absent: None Present also: W. T. Williams, Jr., City Manager; Doren Eskew, City Attorney; Reuben Rountree, Director of Public Works. Invocation was delivered by REV. C. E. HILL, University Church of Christ. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Councilman White moved that the Minutes of April 7th be approved. The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None MR. ARCH BRASWELL presented a petition for paving Grover Avenue from North Loop Boulevard to Koenig Lane. (Signed by 40 property owners) He stated that Harris S. Wilder, Jr., for whom he was acting as agent, did not feel that he should give the land (approximately 3/4 of an acre) and pay for the paving also; that he was willing to pay for one-half of the paving and give the land, or he would take $1,500 for the land and pay for the paving. Mr. Braswell said that Mr. T. N. Porter had stated the school would go along with its part of the paving. The City Manager was asked to check with all the people concerned and give the Council a report in two weeks. (April 28th) MR. DAVID TISINGER displayed a picture of Exposition Boulevard, filed a copy of the transcriptof the hearing before the Council on March 31st, and urged the Council to construct sidewalks on this thoroughfare. He outlined the sources of the heavy traffic. Besides urging the Council not to translate this situation into the same class of appeals that all the other schools are making, this being more serious than other situations for the school children, he asked the Council to consider the older people living CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 299 299 in the community, unable to go anywhere because there were no sidewalks. He believed the situation to be worse than that on South 1st, East Live Oak and other locations. MR. AMOS HEROLD reminded the group that in his part of the city, the owners put in their own sidewalks. One lady spoke for the beauty of the city, and asked that the city consider the beauty of Austin as well as the safety. MR. VOLLIE S. WILLIAMS, 802 Wayside Drive, was interested in paving Wayside, and drew attention to the fact there were two other streets involved there where there were no sidewalks and asked the Council to take these streets into consideration also. MRS. HOLLAND SHIELDS, MRS. T. J. ARCHER and others asked that the sidewalks be put in. MR. TRAXEL STEVENS asked that a policy of the city putting sidewalks on streets leading to the schools be adopted and he asked that Maplewood and 38½ Streets be included for the Maplewood School children. The City Manager stated he recognized the problem existed at Casis but that it was no more acute at Casis than at other schools; that a portion of Exposition Boulevard had a gravel walk along the East side, and displayed a picture of children not walking on it. A gravel walk had been constructed on the north side, but was overgrown with grass and weeds, because the children had not used it. He displayed pictures of streets leading to Zavalla; Robert E. Lee, McCallum High, Florence Brooks School, Govalle, Wm. B. Travis, Molly Dawson, Rosedale and others, showing children walking in the streets where there no sidewalks leading to those schools. He stated these problems were prevalent throughout the city. He referred to his Memorandum of this date listing the cost of constructing 34.1 miles of sidewalks to be $277,000.00. He stated there were 133 miles of sidewalks constructed at the expense of the property owners, and at no time had the city expended money for the construction of sidewalks. To assess sidewalks creates an increased cost of the construction, and he stated the law was plain on assessing the costs to the property owners, and hesaw no reason why the property owners on Exposition and the other streets could not construct sidewalks at their own expense just as the other people had done. He stated there was never a bond issue for the purpose of paving sidewalks; no item providing for them in the budget; no tax has been levied for that purpose, and the City has no funds available for that purpose. He suggested that the property owners proceed as they started. MRS. R. C. REDFIELD asked that the sidewalks be constructed by next September, and referred to the savings the City had in its municipal golf course, the property being furnished by the University. Councilman Long could not agree with the City Manager. The pictures he showed bore out the fact that sidewalks were needed on the main thoroughfares leading to the schools. The City Council designated the thoroughfares and they were different from the usual streets. She suggested adopting a policy by which the city would pay 1/2 of the costs of the sidewalks; and since millions of dollars were spent for welfare and health in this country, she could not see why $200,000 couldn't be spent to protect the children walking to school. As to where the money would come from, Councilman Long suggested that if the schools were separated from the city, there would be $100,000 a year paid to the City and that could be set up for planning for sidewalks in the future. She did not favor building sidewalks for every street, but those like Exposition, South Ist, etc. Councilman White agreed that this was a good cause, and there was no doubt but what some places were worse than others, but they were all over the city. He believed a policy would be adopted in the future, but he could not vote today for this project and leave the others out. Councilman Pearson stated the problem was vere serious, and the first he knew of the seriousness was when mothers of children at Molly Dawson were going to refuse to let their children Beofhängedafrom Fulmoreiuntil the city cleared the :: 300 300 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS streets so that the children could walk up the streets. He suggested as a safety factor that the school system recommend to the City the areas that need clearing on the sidewalk property, and possibly a gravel walk could be arranged; and on the main areas have signs and insist that the children use the walks. He believed the children sometimes preferred walking in the streets to using the sidewalks. He suggested getting this recommendation from the schools, clearing the area and approaching the matter from the most economical manner possible, and permitting the property owners to put in permanent sidewalks if they wanted to; otherwise, the city would make a walkway for the children. MRS. CARL EDWARD BOCK noted the dangerous traffic hazard from 35th to Casis School. Councilman Thompson read a note from Mrs. Shields about this same area. He noted that some cities in their subdivision ordinances not only required pavement but construction of sidewalks before the subdivisions were approved. He agreed that possibly there should be city participation on certain streets approaching the schools, using the advice of the school board as to which streets should be provided with sidewalks; but he wanted to know more about the whole problem. The City Attorney read the ordinance regarding the shrubs and plants on the area between the property line and curb line. Councilman Thompson stated it was his understanding the State would pay their part of the paving, and the property owners could be assessed for the sidewalks in this coming paving program, in that section. After a study of this, he believed he would favor city participation comparable to its participation in Boulevards to provide for sidewalks. MR. ASHLEY suggested making property owners set back far enough from the property lines and providing even dirt sidewalks. After more discussion, Councilman Pearson suggested a meeting with the School Board to discuss this over-all problem and get their recommendation which main traffic arteries are carrying the most children and then try to come up with an answer. Councilman Pearson moved that the School Board be asked to meet with the Council on April 28th, at 2:00 P.M. to very definitely pursue this problem. The motion, seconded by Councilman Long, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THAT CERTAIN ORDINANCE PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS, JULY 17, 1941, AND RECORDED IN ORDINANCE BOOK "L", PAGES 152-174, INCLUSIVE, OF THE ORDINANCE RECORDS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, WHICH ORDINANCE WAS AMENDATORY OF THAT CERTAIN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING ZONING REGULATIONS AND DISTRICTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 301 301 APRIL 23, 1931, AND RECORDED IN BOOK "I", PAGES 301-318, INCLUSIVE, OF THE ORDINANCE RECORDS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, THE AMENDATORY ORDINANCE HEREBY CHANGING THE USE DESIGNATION FROM "B" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "C" COMMERCIAL DISTRICT ON THE WEST 64 FEET OF LOTS 16, 17, AND 18, BLOCK 1, OUTLOT 73, DIVISION "D", FRUTH ADDITION, IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; ORDERING A CHANGE IN THE USE MAPS SO AS TO RECORD THE CHANGE HEREBY ORDERED; AND SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that The the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THAT CERTAIN ORDINANCE PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS, JULY 17, 1941, AND RECORDED IN ORDINANCE BOOK "L", PAGES 152-174, INCLUSIVE, OF THE ORDINANCE RECORDS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, WHICH ORDINANCE WAS AMENDATORY OF THAT CERTAIN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING ZONING REGULATIONS AND DISTRICTS IN ACCORDANCE WITH A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL APRIL 23, 1931, AND RECORDED IN BOOK "I", PAGES 301-318, INCLUSIVE, OF THE ORDINANCE RECORDS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, THE AMENDATORY ORDINANCE HEREBY CHANGING THE USE AND HEIGHT AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FROM "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT AND FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT AND "C" COMMERCIAL DISTRICT AND SECOND HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "GR" GENERAL RETAIL DISTRICT AND SIXTH HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT ON LOT 1, LESS THE WEST 25.79 FEET, OUTLOT 60, DIVISION "B", R. A. SMITH SUBDIVISION, IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN, 302 302 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS = TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; ORDERING A CHANGE IN THE USE AND HEIGHT AND AREA MAPS SO AS TO RECORD THE CHANGES HEREBY ORDERED; AND SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman White moved that the ordinance be passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Mayor McAden introduced the following Ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH PARK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH PARK DEVELOPMENT COMPANY; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 303 303 The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH HIGHLAND PARK WEST DEVELOPMENT COMPANY; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. 304 304 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS = Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH JAMES T. PEAL AND JOE DAYWOOD; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the mule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH A. ROY THOMAS AND E. C. THOMAS; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 305 315 The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH NELSON PUETT; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AN ORDINANCE ENTITLED: "AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN CONTRACT WITH PARKLAND HOMES, INCORPORATED; PROVIDING FOR THE APPROPRIATION OF MONEY PAID TO THE CITY OF AUSTIN UNDER SUCH CONTRACT AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY," WHICH ORDINANCE WAS PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON MARCH 10, 1955, BY AMENDING SECTION 1, THEREOF, SO AS TO SUBTITUTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION FOR PARKLAND HOMES, INCORPORATED, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 306 306 The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that The the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. motion, seconded by CouncilmanThompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 3.21 OF CHAPTER 3, AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1954, PERTAINING TO THE LICENSING OF DOGS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Long moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Long moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Long moved that the ordinance be finally passes. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 307 307 Councilman Pearson offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) WHEREAS, the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company is now establishing a fifth division for its operations in the State of Texas; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin and its trade territory are in the new division; and WHEREAS, the Company has not yet selected the site of the headquarters for the new division; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is the seat of the State Government and is the largest City in the new division; and WHEREAS, facilities for the headquarters of the new division could readily be obtained by the Company in the City of Austin; and WHEREAS, the rapid development and expansion of business and industry in the City of Austin will continue to make it the location in which most of the Company operations in the new division will occur; and WHEREAS, because of its churches, schools, recreation, residential areas and general beauty, the City of Austin is the ideal place for the three hundred employees of the new division to reside and to rear and educate their families; and WHEREAS, the people of the City of Austin are proud of the civic-minded employees of the Company who now reside here and will extend a genuine and cordial welcome to the employees of the new division if they are located here; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin would be appreciative of the addition to its growth and development which would occur if the headquarters of the new division is located here and would give the Company fair and equitable treatment in connection with the operations of the new division; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That Southwestern Bell Telephone Company be, and it is hereby cordially invited on behalf of the City of Austin to locate the headquarters of its new division in said City, and that copies of this resolution, signed by the Mayor of the City and attested by the City Clerk, be sent to the Company's General Manager in the City of Dallas and to its President in the City of Saint Louis, Missouri. vote: The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 308 308 Councilman Thompson offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That W. T. Williams, Jr., City Manager of the City of Austin, be and he is hereby authorized and directed to enter into a Power Line Crossing Agreement with Texas and New Orleans Railroad Company for the erection and mainten- ance of a high tension electric power line, carrying 12,500 volts, to cross railroad company's property and over its Austin to Llano Branch main tract, in Anderson Lane, at Engineer's Station 372/96, Mile Post 8.50, in accordance with the terms and provisions of said agreement, as exhibited to the City Council by the City Manager; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to place andkeep an executed copy of said agreement in the permanent files of the City Clerk's Office. vote: The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The City Manager submitted the following: "Following is a tabulation of the bids received at 10:00 A. M. Tuesday, April 12, 1955 for the construction of a Sewage Holding Tank at Canterbury Street easterly of Mildred Street. "Hardin Construction Company William Bros. Constr. Co., Inc. Maufrais Bros. E. L. Wyche Rex D. Kitchens Constr. Co. City's Estimate $160,011.20 164,478.25 167,215.60 167,711.00 184,435.98 $178,040.00 "I recommend that Hardin Construction Company with their low bid of $160,011.20 be awarded the contract for this project." Discussion was held on the construction of a sewage holding tank at Canterbury Street. Councilman White inquired about the wage scale. The City Manager stated that the type of workmanship was comparable to bridge construction, and the wage scale was set at that rate--the same type of construction used in the South 1st Bridge, on which there was considerable steel work; the same type used by the Highway Department in the construction of the new Freeway Bridge. Councilman Thompson inquired about the city's conforming to the state laws relating to the wage scale, and the City Manager stated it was, and explained the nature of the work and how the wage scale was established CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS 309 300 Councilman Thompson offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) WHEREAS, on April 12, 1955, the City of Austin received bids for the construction of a Sewage Holding Tank at Canterbury Street easterly of Mildred Street; and, WHEREAS, the bid of Hardin Construction Company in the sum of $160,011.20 was the lowest and best bid therefor, and the acceptance of such bid has been recommended by the Director of Public Works of the City of Austin, and by the City Manager; Now, Therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That the bid of Hardin Construction Company, in the sum of $160,011.20, be and the same is hereby accepted, and W. T. Williams, Jr. City Manager of the City of Austin is hereby authorized and directed to execute a contract on behalf of the City of Austin with Hardin Construction Company. vote: The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Councilman Long stated regarding her vote that she would like to know if other cities are building these, and how they were classified. She inquired about evidence over the country being available to substantiate this classification. The City Manager submitted the following: "Following is a tabulation of the bids received by the Purchasing Agent in his office on Thursday March 24, 1955 for the furnishing of raw sewage agitation equipment for the Canterbury Sewage Holding Tank. "Infilco Inc. $16,800.00 Walker Process Equipment Co. No bid The Dorr Company No bid The Chavigny Company No bid San Antonio Machine & Supply Co. No bid "I recommend that Infilco Inc. with their bid of $16,800.00 be awarded the contract for furnishing this equipment. "The installation of this equipment is included in the specifications for the construction of the Canterbury Sewage Holding Tank for which bids are to be received April 12, 1955." Discussion was held on the contract for furnishing raw sewage agitation equipment for the Canterbury Sewage Holding Tank. Only one company bid, and there were letters from three other companies stating they were unable CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 310 310 to bid as they did not manufacture or handle this equipment. Councilman Thompson asked that Tips Engine Works be contacted to see if they could manufacture this equipment. After a check with that Company on the specifications, and the company's stating they would have to buy patent rights, and do engineering design, and their promise to get a letter to Mr. Brush stating their inability to bid, Councilman White offered the following resolution and moved its añoption: (RESOLUTION) WHEREAS, bids were received by the City of Austin on March 24, 1955, for the furnishing of raw sewage agitation equipment for the Canterbury Sewage Holding Tank; and, WHEREAS, the bid of Infilco Inc. in the sum of $16,800.00 was the lowest and best bid therefor, and the acceptance of such bid has been recommended by the Director of Public Works of the City of Austin, and by the City Manager; Now, Therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That the bid of Infilco Inc. in the sum of $16,800.00 be and the same is hereby accepted, and W. T. Williams, Jr., City Manager of the City of Austin is hereby authorized and directed to execute a contract on behalf of the City of Austin with Infilco Inc. vote: The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The City Manager submitted the following: "Following are the bids received by the Purchasing Agent in his office at 2:00 P. M., April 5, 1955 for the purchase of the one pneumatic-tired front end loader. Prices shown are net bid after trade-in and cash discount. Bidder Equipment Bid "Ingram Equipment Co. Ferguson Tractor with $4,468.36 Attachment Jess McNeel Machinery Corp. H. W. Lewis Equipment Co. Dulaney Service Co. Hough Model HAНС 4,926.00 Tractomotive TL-10 5,096.00 M & M Tractor with Attachment 6,609.97 "The loader offered by low bidder (Ingram Equipment) does not meet our specifications and is inadequate in general and in many particulars. Capacity is only 15 cubic feet (minimum of 18 cubic feet required), and engine horsepower is only 27 (minimum of 34.5 required). "The Hough loader offered by next low bidder (Jess McNeel Machinery Corp.) does meet our minimum specifications as does the Tractomotive loader bid by H. W. Lewis Equipment Co. A comparison of these two is given below. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 311 311 Net Price Bucket Capacity Engine Horsepower Engine Displacement Max. Dumping Height Weight Shipment Front Tires Rear Tires Hough HAHC $ 4,926.00 18 cu. ft. 34.5 H.P.@2200 rpm 133 cu. in. 7'-7½" 7,760 Lbs 30 days 12:00 x 24 6 ply - 7:50 x 15 - 6 ply Tractomotive TL-10 $ 5,096.00 21 cu. ft. 63 H.P.@ 1800 rpm 226 cu.in. 8-0" 11,400 Lbs. 15 days 13:00 x 24 - 8 ply 7:50 x 16 - 8 ply "I recommend that we purchase the Tractomotive loader from H. W. Lewis Equipment Co. as per their net bid of $5,096.00. We are trading in a 1942 International Tractor with Ottawa loading attachment." Councilman White offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) WHEREAS, bids were received by the City of Austin on April 5, 1955, for the purchase of one pneumatic-tired front end loader; and, WHEREAS, the best bid received that met minimum bid specifications was submitted by the H. W. Lewis Equipment Co. in the sum of $5,096.00; and the acceptance of such bid has been recommended by the Director of Public Works of the City of Austin, and by the City Manager; Now, Therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That the bid of H. W. Lewis Equipment Co. in the sum of $5,096.00 be and the same is hereby accepted, and W. T. Williams, Jr., City Manager of the City of Austin, is hereby authorized and directed to execute a contract on behalf of the City of Austin with H. W. Lewis Equipment Co. vote: The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Councilman Pearson offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: THAT the City Council of the City of Austin hereby approves the property situated on the west side of North Lamar Boulevard as a private gasoline plant consisting of a 550 gallon tank and electric pump for the sole purpose of servicing their own motor equipment, and from which no gasoline is to be sold, which property is leased by Alamo Boiler & Machine Works, and is the unplatted 100 foot front out of the Abed Gonshe 3.1l acre tract, of the City of Austin, CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 312 312 Travis County, Texas, and hereby authorizes the said Alamo Boiler & Machine Works to operate a private gasoline plant consiting of a 550 gallon tank and electric pump for the sole purpose of servicing their own motor equipment, and from which no gasoline is to be sold, subject to the same being operated in compliance with all the ordinances relating thereto, and further subject to the foregoing attached recommendations; and the Building Inspector is hereby authorized to issue an occupancy permit for the operation of this private gasoline plant after full compliance with all the provisions of this resolution, and said permission shall be held to be granted, and accepted subject to all necessary, reasonable and proper, present and future regulations and ordinances of the City of Austin, Texas, in the enforcement of the proper police, traffic and fire regulations; and the right of revocation is retained if, after hearing, it is found by the City Council that the said Alamo Boiler & Machine Works has failed and refused, and will continue to fail and refuse to perform any such conditions, regulations and ordinances. (Recommendations attached) "Mr. W. T. Williams, Jr. City Manager Austin, Texas "Dear Sir: "Austin, Texas April 14, 1955 "I, the undersigned, have considered the application of Alamo Boiler & Machine Works, through their agent R. V. Durden, for permission to operate a private gasoline plant consisting of a 550 gallon underground tank and pump for the sole purpose of servicing their own motor equipment and from which no gasoline is to be sold, upon property located on the west side of North Lamar Boulevard, which property is designated as the unplatted 100 foot front out of the Abed Gonshe 3.11 acre tract, in the City of Austin, Travis County, Texas, and locally known as 8150 North Lamar Boulevard. "This property is located in a "C" Commercial District and I recommend that this permit be granted subject to the following conditions: "(1) That the gasoline tank and pump shall be of an approved type and shall bear the label of the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., and that all tanks and pumps shall be installed in compliance with the Ordinance governing the storage and handling of gasoline. "(2) That all tanks and pumps shall be located not nearer than 10 feet to the property line and so located that cars stopped for the purpose of unloading or receiving gasoline or other supplies shall not in any way obstruct the free passage of traffic on either the sidewalk, street, or alley. "(3) That "NO SMOKING" signs shall at all times be prominently displayed and no person shall be permitted to smoke on the premises where gasoline is handled or stored. "(4) That all fees shall be paid and a permit secured from the Building Inspector's Office before any installation work is started, and that no equipment shall be placed in operation until after final inspection and approval of same. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS "Respectfully submitted, (Sgd) J. C. Eckert Building Inspector" 313 313 The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Councilman Pearson offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: THAT the City Council of the City of Austin hereby approves the property situated on the west side of Guadalupe Street as a private gasoline plant consisting of a 1000 gallon tank and electric pump for the sole purpose of servic- ing their own motor equipment, and from which no gasoline is to be sold, which property is leased by Covert Automobile Company, and is Lot 4, Block 22, of the Original City of Austin, Travis County, Texas, and hereby authorizes the said Covert Automobile Company to operate a private gasoline plant consisting of a 1000 gallon tanks and electric pump for the sole purpose of servicing their own motor equipment, and from which go gasoline is to be sold, subject to the same being operated in compliance with all the ordinances relating thereto, and further subject tothe foregoing attached recommendations; and the Building Inspector is hereby authorized to issue an occupancy permit for the operation of this private gasoline plant after full compliance with all the provisions of this resolution, and said permission shall be held to be granted and accepted subject to all necessary, reasonable and proper, present and future regulations and ordinances of the City of Austin, Texas, in the enforcement of the proper police, traffic and fire regulations; and the right of revo- cation is retained if, after hearing, it is found by the City Council that the said Covert Automobile Company has failed and refused, and will continue to fail and refuse to perform any such conditions, regulations and ordinances. (Recommendations attached) "Mr. W. T. Williams, Jr. City Manager Austin, Texas "Dear Sir: "Austin, Texas April 14, 1955 "I, the undersigned, have considered the application of Covert Automobile Company, through their agent Doug Scales, for permission to operate a private gasoline plant consisting of a 1000 gallon underground tank and electric pump for the sole purpose of servicing their own motor equipment and from which no gasoline is to be sold, upon property located on the west side of Guadalupe Street which property is designated as Lot 4, Block 22, of the Original City of Austin, Travis County, Texas, and locally known as 208 Guadalupe Street. "This property is located in a "C-2" Commercial District and I recommend that this permit be granted subject to the following conditions: CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 314 314 "(1) That the gasoline tanks and pumps shall be of an approved type and shall bear the label of the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., and that all tanks and pumps shall be installed in compliance with the Ordinance governing the storage and handling of gasoline. "(2) That all tanks and pumps shall be located not nearer than 10 feet to the property line and so located that cars stopped for the purpose of unloading or receiving gasoline or other supplies shall not in any way obstruct the free passage of traffic on either the sidewalk, street, or alley. "(3) That "NO SMOKING" signs shall at all times be prominently displayed and no person shall be permitted to smoke on the premises where gasoline is handled or stored. "(4) That all fees shall be paid and a permit secured from the Building Inspector's Office before any installation work is started, and that no equipment shall be placed in operation until after final inspection and approval of same. "Respectfully submitted, (Sgd) J. C. Eckert Building Inspector" The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE PERPETUALLY VACATING AND CLOSING ALL OF THAT PORTION OF MONTVIEW STREET WHICH LIES NORTH OF WHITE ROCK DRIVE, EXCEPT THE NORTH TWENTYFIVE (25) FEET AND THAT CERTAIN PORTION OF WHITE HORSE TRAIL WHICH LIES WEST OF BURNET ROADUTO AN CERTAIN POINT EAST OF ITS INTERSECTION WITH WYNOΝΑ AVENUE, IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; AND SUSPENDING THE ORDINANCE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF AN ORDINANCE ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Pearson moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman Pearson moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 315 315 carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. Mayor McAden introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE PERPETUALLY VACATING AND CLOSING THAT CERTAIN PORTION OF A PUBLIC STREET KNOWN AS THE CIRCLE WHICH LIES NORTH OF ACADEMY DRIVE, IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; RETAINING PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT THEREON; AND SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF AN ORDINANCE ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS. The ordinance was read the firsttime and Councilman White moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman White moved that the rule be suspneded and the ordinance passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The ordinance was read the third time and Councilman White moved that the ordinance be finally passed. The motion, seconded by Councilman Pearson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. The Council had before it the following: REPORT OF SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE GREATER EAST AUSTIN DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE This subcommittee was appointed by the Chariman of the Greater East Austin Development Committee for the purpose of determining ways and means by which the substandard housing presently existing in this city may be eliminated as completely as possible and by which the recurrence of such substandard housing may be prevented in the future. It is the opinion of this committee that the City of Austin, in common with virtually every other city in the country, has before it no more acute CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 316 316 problem than that of eliminating substandard housing and providing machinery which will make it unnecessary for future generations to be plagued with the same problem. Literally, we think the eyes of the world are upon American cities and our free enterprise system, and, working together, they are called upon to demonstrate that they can do what they have not done in the past, that is, provide decent homes for our people at a cost which they can reasonably be experted to pay. In approaching its task, your committee has recognized that slums are incalculably expensive and that this city is presently annually subsidizing its slum areas. Slums not only rob the city of adequate taxes and require great expenditures of public funds as they breed crime, disease, fire dangers, and other hazards inseparably connnected with slums; they also rob the city of the contribution of future citizens who have learned to live without hope or ambition. Furthermore, unchecked blight fans out in all directions, planting in healthy areas the seeds of decay. It is our opinion that, supported by an aroused public, a comprehensive program can be initiated, encouraged and developed which will bring housing within the City of Austin to an acceptable minimum standard and will forestall the future extension of blighted areas. This program, in our opinion, must be a co-ordinated four-phase effort, as follows: (1) Conservation and improvement of existing neighborhoods and communities presently in good condition,, but susceptible to blight in the absence of planned action. (2) Housing law enforcement and rehabilitation of structures to achieve minimum standards of health, safety, and utility in areas or neighborhoods of partial blight. (3) Slum clearance and urban redevelopment for the rebuilding of deterioated areas which are beyond sound and economical rehabilitation. (4) Stimulation of new housing by aiding and co-ordinating resources to encourage the production of new dwelling units in quantities and within the means and needs of families in various economic groups. The accomplishment of this program will call for complete cooperation between the city, state and federal governments, private enterprise, and the general public. In this connection, you attention is called to the fact that Texas cities are presently handicapped in waging total war against the slums because the State of Texas has not enacted the necessary legislation to enable the cities of this state to participate in the slum clearance and urban redevelopment program provided by the federal government in the Housing Act of 1954. It is believed that no city in this country has undertaken a program under (3) above, slum clearance and urban redevelopment, except pursuant to the Housing Act of 1949 or the Housing Act of 1954. It is not the purpose of this committee to pass upon the merits of the federal government's program for slum clearance and urban redevelopment or upon the usefulness of that program to Texas cities; however, it is believed that the governing bodies of our Texas cities, operating close to the people, can be trusted with the additional powers necessary for them to avail themselves of this program, if in their judgment, it is desirable CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 317-317 for their communities. Without such enabling legislation, Texas cities are deprived of one weapon which could otherwise be added to their arsenal as they struggle against an unrelenting foe. While we recognize that the problem of substandard housing is, and should be, the primary responsibility of the local communities, it is our opinion that, in meeting this problem, Texas cities should have available to them this additional power, if the governing bodies thereof conclude that its exercise is desirable. We, therefore, recommend that the Greater East Austin Development Committee make known to the City Council that it favors the enactment of state legislation which will authorize Texas cities to participate in the program provided by the Housing Act of 1954. However, this committee believes that it was created primarily for the purpose of making recommendations with reference to (2) above: "Housing law enforcement and rehabilitation of structures to achive minimum standards of health, safety and utility in areas or neighborhoods of partial blight." In studying this question, your committee has undertaken to study the programs of other cities, particularly Texas cities, which are presently in operation, and we have undertaken to study the present ordinances of the City of Austin. From this study, it is our conclusion that enforcement is the great barrier to the accomplishment of an effective municipal program of housing improvement. It has been the constant hope of this committee that the net results of its efforts would not be simply to add one more ordinance which is not enforced and probably not enforceable. At the present, the City of Austin has numerous ordinances which, in one way or another, affect the problem of substandard housing. Generally, all of the following ordinances are involved in a program of housing improvement: the building code, the fire prevention code, the sanitary code, the plumbing ordinance, and the electric ordinance. Further, on September 21, 1950, the City of Austin adopted a general housing ordinance prescribing minimum standards for dwelling units to be occupied in the city. It is believed that these ordinances, if effectively enforced, with no changes, would be adequate greatly to improve the housing conditions in our city; however, they can and should be materially strengthened. In pointing out the lack of enforcement of our present ordinances, the committee does not intend or imply any criticism of city departments or personnel. It is our opinion that the present ordinances do not provide adequate enforcement machinery of sufficient personnel. The problem of housing improvement cuts across city departments of our city government. Virtually every department of the city government is in some way involved in the problem. It probably presents a situation proving the accuracy of the old adage that "Everybody's business is nobody's business". While your committee does not believe that the evil with which we are confronted can be successfully eradicated by the passage of ordinances or the creation of departments, it is the firm conviction of the committee that the responsibility for elimination and prevention of substandard housing must be concentrated. Your committee, therefore, recommends the passage of a comprehensive housing ordinance for the City of Austin which shall be in lieu of, but, generally, shall have the same objectives as, the present housing ordinance passed September 21, 1950. We recommend that this ordinance create a department CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS = 318 318 to be known as theDepartment of Housing Improvement and Slum Prevention which shall be headed by a director who shall have department head status. Generally, this department shall be charged with the enforcement of the comprehensive housing ordinance and with the task of co-ordinating the efforts of all other departments which are necessarily concerned with the problem. Such ordinance, we think, further should establish a Citizens' Housing Advisory Committee of not less than fifteen members to be appointed by the Council, each member to serve two years, with a provisionffor staggered terms so that one-half of the members, or as near that as possible, shall retire each year. The experience of other cities has indicated that the services of such an Advisory Committee are invaluable. In their efforts to improve housing conditions, all cities have learned one certain lesson, which is, that real progress cannot be made by a community following a program of spasmodic fits and starts; rather, a continuous, militant persistence is required. A strong Citizens' Advisory Committee, apparently, has proved to be the most effective means of keeping a community aware of its problem and determined to preseverein its solution. The comprehensive housing ordinance, in the opinion of your committee, must fix minimum standards which shall be sufficiently high to insure decent housing for our people, and, at the same time, such standards must be realistic in the sense that they will be supported by the community and will be attainable by private enterprise at a cost which is reasonable. Your committee does not feel qualified to state specifically what those minimum standards should be, and, for this reason, we do not submit a formal ordinance fixing such standards. Originally, it was the hope of your committee that a comprehensive housing ordinance could be enacted which would be complete in itself so that every requirement pertaining to housing would be contained in the housing ordinance; however, it is the opinion of the committee, that the housing ordinance probably should make reference to the ordinances dealing with building, fire prevention, sanitation, plumbing, and electric installations, with the provision that structures not complying with those ordinances shall be substandard. This would mean that as the referred to ordinances are strengthened in the future, they would automatically become a part of the housing ordinance without the necessity of amendment of the latter. Further, following this procedure will prevent the possibility of conflicts arising between the housing ordinance and the other ordinances mentioned. It is believed that the standards set out in the present housing ordinance of 1950 would prove generally acceptable, as far as they go, except that the minimum area of dwelling units fixed therein at 240 square feet is doubtlessly inadequate. Further, the minimum standards fixed in that ordinance do not deal with those houses which, because of age and dilapidation, have become unfit for habitation. In connection with the minimum standards to be fixed in a housing ordinance, we have been advised that the ordinance of the City of Corpus Christi has been effective in giving strength to that city's commendable effort toward housing improvement, and we recommend that a study of that ordinance be made by the whole committee, along with the present Austin housing ordinance, before final minimum standards be determined for Austin. As hereinabove indicated, it is the opinion of your committee that the fixing of minimum standards alone is a small part of the task of eliminating substandard houses; in fact, as above pointed out, the present ordinances of the City of Austin already fix minimum standards under which an acceptable program of housing improvement could be effected if adequate enforcement machinery could be provided, Therefore, we 319 OLU CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS = recommend that the comprehensive housing ordinance must contain strong and effective enforcement machinery, if the City of Austin expects to make real progress toward the elimination of substandard housing. Assuming that the city has an ordinance which fixes minimum housing standards which are acceptable to this community, what can be done to give those minimum standards force? First of all, as a substandard house becomes vacant, the housing ordinance must provide that it shall not be reoccupied until a certificate of occu- pancy has been issued thereon by the Department of HousingImprovement and Slum Prevention. Likewise, no city utilities should be provided until such certificate of occupancy has been issued on the premises. It will be noted that the housing ordinance of 1950 provides for the issuance of certificates of occupancy, but it does not provide by whom such certificate shall be issued, and, apparently, the certificate of occupany provision of the ordinance has not been relied upon. However, we think it is not sufficient to attack substandard houses only as and when they become vacant; rather, we recommend that the housing ordinance provide machinery by which substandard houses which constitute a menance to the health, morals, safety or general welfare, of its occupants or of the public, shall be declared to be public nuisances and shall be ordered vacated, repaired or demolished. Your committee finds that there exists in Austin many substandard houses which have remained vacant for months and years, but which constitute fire and health hazards and which materially damage the areas in which they are located. Provision should be made by which demolition of such premises may be forced, if they are not made fit for occupancy within a reasonable time. In other words, your committee concludes that it is not enough simply to vacate substandard houses. It is our opinion, further, that the housing ordinance should provide that the owner of a substandard house in the city shall be cited to appear and show cause why such building should not be declared a substandard building and why he should not be ordered to vacate, repair or destroy such building as the circumstances require. The housing ordinance of the City of Corpus Christi hereinbefore referred to, sets out the detailed procedure which is followed in that city and which, your committee is informed, is working effectively. We recommend that the comprehensive housing ordinance for Austin embrace similar procedures to the end that the city authorities shall be empowered, insofar as legally possible, not only to ferret out substandard houses, but also to effect their repair or demolition. The Corpus Christi ordinance provides for hearings upon such citations before a Building Standards Commissionccomposed of three members appointed by the Council, with the fire marshal, the building inspector and the chief sanitary officer as ex officio non-voting members of the Commission. We recommend that such a Commission be established by the housing ordinance for the City of Austin with such Commission having the sole responsibility of hearing claimed violations of the housing ordinance with the Commission empowered, after hearing, to order repair or demolition of the building involved as the facts require. Under the procedure herein contemplated, the director of the Department of Housing Improvement and Slum Prevention shall be charged with the duty of locating substandard houses in the city and, if voluntary compliance with the housing ordinance cannot be effected, then the director shall issue citation for appearance before the Building Standards Commission. Based upon the experience CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 320 of other cities, your committee believes that, if the Housing Improvement Department initiates vigorous inspections and enforcement in limited areas of the city where the evil is the greatest voluntary compliance will be the rule rather than the exception; but it is essential that the owners of substandard property in the city realize that compliance must be had and that the city and the community are possessed with both the power and the disposition to secure compliance Your committee is not unmindful that the recommendations herein contained constitute, in some instances, strong medicine, but we are firmly convinced that our community is confronted with a malignancy which requires something more than a soothing sedative. Further, it is our opinion that a real effort toward housing improvement will be supported by the citizenship of this community and that the time to make the effort is at hand, because the evil, if ignored, will become worse rather than better, and because the supply of decent housing is greater than it has been for many years. Every contact which your committee has had with the public strongly evidences a keen awareness on the part of our people to the problem and a high resolve that something can and must be done to meet it. There is no good reason for this community to despair simply because the task is big, because other cities are proving that the challenge can be met and that the rewards are far-reaching. In conclusion, this committee acknowledges its indebtedness to numerous persons who have evidenced interest and given assistance in our work. Particularly, we acknowledge the support given by the Austin Homebuilders Association and the Austin American-Statesman, and we covet the continued interest of these groups and all other citizens of Austin as we make common cause to eradicate an evil which must not survive in this great community. Councilman Long moved that the report of the Greater East Austin Development Committee be accepted. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Councilman White moved that the following ordinance be introduced and ordered published in accordance with Article 1, Section 6 of the Charter of the City of Austin: AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXTENSION OF CERTAIN BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN ADDITIONAL TERRITORY CONSISTING OF 0.478 OF ONE ACRE OF LAND, SAME BEING OUT OF AND A PART OF THAT CERTAIN TRACT OF LAND OUT OF THE SANITAGO DEL VALLE GRANT IN TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS, WHICH SAID ADDITIONAL TERRITORY LIES ADJACENT TO AND ADJOINS THE PRESENT BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, IN PARTICULARS STATED IN THE ORDINANCE. The motion, seconded by Councilman Long, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Pearson, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None 321 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS = At this point Councilman Pearson left the Council Meeting. Mayor McAden brought up the following ordinance for its first reading: AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXTENSION OF CERTAIN BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN ADDITIONAL TERRITORY CONSISTING OF TWO (2) TRACTS OF LAND, EACH BEING OUT OF AND A PART OF HIGHLAND PARK WEST, SECTION 4, A SUBDIVISION OF A PORTION OF THE T. J. CHAMBERS SURVEY IN TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS, THE TRACT OF LAND HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED AS NO. 1 CONTAINING 15.2 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AND THE TRACT OF LAND HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED AS NO. 2 CONTAINING 0.18 OF ONE ACRE, MORE OR LESS, WHICH SAID ADDITIONAL TERRITORY LIES ADJACENT TO AND ADKOINS THE PRESENT BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, IN PARTICULARS STATED IN THE ORDINANCE. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Long moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent: Councilman Pearson The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Long moved that the ordinance be passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent:Councilman Pearson Mayor McAden brought up the following ordinance for its first reading: AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXTENSION OF CERTAIN BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN ADDITIONAL TERRITORY CONSISTING OF 12.14 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, OUT OF THE GEORGE W. DAVIS SURVEY IN TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS, WHICH SAID ADDITIONAL TERRITORY LIES ADJACENT TO AND ADJOINS THE PRESENT BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, IN PARTICULARS STATED IN THE ORDINANCE. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Long moved that the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden None Absent: Councilman Pearson CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 322 The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Long moved that the ordinance be passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden None Absent: Councilman Pearson Mayor McAden brought up the following ordinance for its first reading: AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXTENSION OF CERTAIN BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN ADDITIONAL TERRITORY CONSISTING OF 44.0 ACRES OF LAND, MORE OR LESS, OUT OF THE JAMES TRAMMEL SURVEY NO. 4, IN TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS, WHICH SAID ADDITIONAL TERRITORY LIES ADJACENT TO AND ADJOINS THE PRESENT BOUNDARY LIMITS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN, IN PARTICULARS STATED IN THE ORDINANCE. The ordinance was read the first time and Councilman Long moved that The the rule be suspended and the ordinance passed to its second reading. motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent: Councilman Pearson The ordinance was read the second time and Councilman Long moved that the ordinance be passed to its third reading. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent: Councilman Pearson Councilman Long offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) WHEREAS, the South Austin Optimist Club has submitted a proposal for the construction of a Little League Baseball Field on the southwest corner of Zilker Park fronting on Robert E. Lee Road; and, WHEREAS such proposal has been considered and it is deemed a feasible and worthwhile addition to the recreation program of the City, Now, Therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That such proposal be and the same is hereby approved and the South Austin Optimist Club is hereby authorized to construct a Little League Baseball Field on the site above referred to, the exact location of such field to be designated by the Department of Public Works of theCity, and to operate such CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 323 323 field under the supervision and direction of the Recreation Department of the City in the manner set out in said proposal, the permission and authority herein granted being subject to the following terms and conditions: vote: (a) The operation of such field shall be subject to termination by either the City of Austin or the Club at the end of any calendar year, and all sales of advertising on baseball field fence shall be limited to the current year in which such advertising is sold. (b) The type of all such advertising shall be subject to the approval of the City of Austin. : (c) During the period of operation of such field by the South Austin Optimist Club, the Club shall carry public liability and property damage insurance insuring the City of Austin against any claims whatsoever resulting from such operations and the use of the land of the City in connection therewith to the extent of $1000.00 property damage and $5000.00/$10,000.00 public liability. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following Ayes: Noes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden None Absent: Councilman Pearson voting 'aye' by proxy No action was taken on the request of Duplex Advertising Company for sign locations on North Lamar, south of Koenig Lane. Councilman Long moved that the Council meet on Wednesday, April 20th, instead of April 21st, San Jacinto Day. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent: Councilman Pearson The Council received the report from the City Planning Commission regarding a proposed Northwest Park at Austin Memorial Park. The Council laid this report on the table until the following week for clarification. (Recorded in Minutes of April 20th) Councilman Long moved that this Council invite the two new members elect to sit in on the Council Meetings from now until they take office, if they please, to get caught up on the agenda and that a letter be sent to them of this invitation. The motion, seconded by Councilman White, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor Mcåden None Absent: Councilman Pearson 324 324 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Councilman White offered the following resolution and moved its adoption: (RESOLUTION) BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That the application of the Austin National Bank to construct and maintain a night depository upon and under the sidewalk area on the west side of Brazos Street, north of East 5th Street in Block 56 of the Original City of Austin, Travis County, Texas, in the manner and at the location indicated by the hereunto attached drawing, be and the same is hereby granted, and the Building Inspector is hereby authorized to issue a permit for the construction of such night depository, subject to the following conditions: (1) Said improvements shall be constructed and maintained in compliance with all ordinances relating thereto, (2) The permit shall be issued and accepted subject to all reasonable police, traffic, fire, and health regulations of the City of Austin, now existing or hereafter adopted, (3) The repair or relocation of any and all utilities in the vicinity due to the construction and maintenance of said depository shall be done at the expense of the Austin National Bank, (4) The Austin National Bank will indemnify and save harmless the City of Austin from any and all claims against said City growing out of or connected with the construction or maintenance of said depository, and (5) The City of Austin may revoke such permit at any time and upon such revocation the Austin National Bank, or its successors or assigns, shall remove said night depository from the sidewalk area and shall restore the sidewalk to a normal and safe condition with adequate vertical and lateral support, and will pay all costs and expenses attendant therewith. vote: The motion, seconded by Councilman Long, carried by the following Ayes: Councilmen Long, White, Mayor McAden Noes: Absent: Councilman Pearson Councilman Thompson CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 325 325 The Navigation Board met with the Council. Mr. Forest Pearson, Chairman, listed the problems on the lake and the duties that are to be performed by the Navigation Board. The boat inspection features had been worked out through the Patrolman, City Manager, Tax and Police Departments. He submitted two items which would require Council action: (1) An educational program to acquaint the people withthe fact that there are rules for operation of craft on the lake, and for the Council to insert in the ordinance under "Commercial Boat Operators" that they shall display such signs or placards or rules or resume of the pertinent parts of the ordinance. The persons renting a boat then would have information that the rules applied and that the lake patrolman was there to see that they did apply. (2) The charging of a $2.50 fee for registering a private boat, thereby attaching importance to the privilege of operating boats on the lake; and when that privilege is abused, the license could be withdrawn. In this connection, Councilman White suggested a public hearing of the boat operators to get their reaction. The City Attorney was interested in the mechanics of revocation--by conviction of two or three offenses, or by the Board, or by the Council. The City Manager explained the licensing process for the boats; that the ordinance covered enforcement of people operating the boats, but what was necessary was to cover boats when they became unsafe. After more discussion, the Council set a public hearing on the 28th of April. The City Manager announced that a study of lighting the Interregional Highway and north and south Lamar, had been made and developed far enough to proceed with the joint venture of the Highway Department for lighting the Interregional Highway from 19th Street north. It is a policy of the Highway Department to provide for one-half of the cost of construction, and one-half of maintenance and operation of boulevard lights, and there will be the usual form of contract on that. The city's part willbe out of bond money. He stated the Highway would not participate on Lamar. The City Manager displayed a map of Brentwood Terrace, Frank Pease Subdivision, and explained a little paving problem that had presented itself. He recommended that the same policy which the Council had adopted on boundary streets be applied, the subdivider paving his part and buying the paving certificates on the other three lots, which would have to be assessed. He would also pay the city's cost on these three lots. This recommendation was for the Council's information. Councilman Long moved that the BEN HUR CIRCUS be granted permission to display an exhibit in front of the Stephen F. Austin Hotel for the purpose of making ticket sales for the Circus, as submitted. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden None Absent: Councilman Pearson CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 326 326 The City Manager submitted the proposition of acquiring Lot 128, Northfield Addition, for a drainage ditch, extending northward from the intersection of North Loop and Chesterfield Avenue for about 4 Blocks--then westward across several lots. The remaining property is on the corner of Nelray Boulevard and Chesterfield Avenue. MR. WALLACE RAMM will sell this for $7,500.00. The Tax Department carries the property at full market value of just under $6,900.00. The City Manager recommended that this property be purchased. Councilman Thompson moved that this property of Mr. Ramm's be bought as recommended by the City Manager. The motion, seconded by Councilman Long, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent: Councilman Pearson The City Manager submitted the proposition of acquiring right-of-way for extension of Oltorf Street from the Railroad row to Bently, displaying a map of two pieces of property--one owned by E. G. FUCHS, the other by CORA PASCHALL. Mr. Fuchs offered to sell his property for $4,500.00; or if he kept the house, $700 less. Mrs. Paschall offered to sell her property for $3,150.00 or if she could keep the house, $400 less. It was recommended that either of these offers be accepted. Councilman White moved that the City Manager be instructed to buy both pieces of property and let the owners keep the houses, or deal with them which ever way that suited the administration. The motion, seconded by Councilman Thompson, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmen Long, Thompson, White, Mayor McAden Noes: None Absent: Councilman Pearson A report from the Traffic Engineer on justification of a traffic light on East 7th and Lydia was read. (On file under TRAFFIC) The traffic Engineer did not recommend a light at this location. After discussion, Councilman White moved to have a light put in at 7th and Lydia. The motion, seconded by Councilman Long, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmen Long, White, Mayor McAden Councilman Thompson Absent: Councilman Pearson The Council received notice that the following applications for change of zoning had been referred to the Plan Commission and weresset for public hearing May 19, 1955: P. O. BROWN MOSES KOURI 5810 Woodrow Ave. 1401-03 Koenig Lane To From "A" Residence 1st H&A "LR" Local Retail 6th Height and Area 1405-07 Airport Blvd. From "A" Residence 1st H&A 3101-03 East 14½ St. To "GR" General Retail 1st Height and Area CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS = JAY H. BROWN 3131-35 Lamar; 907-15 West 32nd 327 327 From "C" Commercial 1st H&A To "C-1" Commercial 1st H&A E. B.CALVIN ALLAN H. LEISTICO C.C. LINSCOMB & WIFE To "0" Office 1st H&A Intersection of Inter- From "A" Residence 1st H&A regional Highway & Mariposa Drive 1015-1017 East 38 3805-07 Harmon 2006 South Lamar From "A" Residence 1st H&A To "C" Commercial 1st H&A From "C" Commercial 2nd H&A To "C-1" Commercial 2nd H&A There being no further business the Council adjourned at 3:50 Ρ.Μ. subject to the call of the Mayor. ATTEST: City Clerk APPROVED Mayor