CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Regular Meeting July 31, 1975 1:00 Ρ.Μ. Council Chambers 301 West Second Street The meeting was called to order with Mayor Friedman presiding. Roll Call: Present: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell Absent: None The Invocation was delivered by MR. PAUL PARKER, Trinity Presbyterian Church. 34 PET DAY Councilmember Hofmann read and then presented a proclamation to Ms. Nettie D. More, proclamining August 1, 1975, as "Pet Day" in recognition of the unique contributions of pets to the residents of the City and urged all citizens to join the Council in recognizing their dedication. Ms. More thanked the Council for honoring the children and the love they have for their pets. COAST GUARD DAY Councilmember Linn read and then presented a proclamation to Petty Officer D. L. Ballard, proclaiming August 4, 1975, as "Coast Guard Day" and urged all the citizens to take recognition of the 185th anniversary of the United States Coast Guard. Petty Officer Ballard thanked the Council for recognizing the Coast Guard and noted that the Coast Guard would continue to serve the citizens of Austin by teaching water safety, promoting boating safety, and helping citizens on area lakes and making them as safe as possible. ! CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS. July 31, 1975 SPURETTES WEEK Mayor Friedman read and then presented a proclamation to Vera Castro, Spurettes Coach, and Rhonda Foster, member of the team, proclaiming the week of August 1-7, 1975, as "Spurettes Week" and encouraged all residents to join the Council in supporting the Spurettes as they represent Austin in defending their title as Texas Amateur Athletic Federation Junior Girls' Champions, and in their first trip to the Amateur Softball Association national playoffs on August 7-10. Ms. Castro thanked the Council. PRESENTATION Mr. Robert Hawk, President of the Old Spaghetti Warehouse Restaurant Company, appeared before the Council to make a presentation. He noted that the restaurant would be opening on Monday and presented the Council with the world's largest loaf of San Francisco sour dough bread. He also presented the Council with square taken from the building. He invited everyone to the pre-opening festival on August 1. mails that had been encased in plastic that had been EXECUTIVE SESSION ITEM Mayor Friedman announced that the Council had been in an Executive Session earlier in the day, but no final action was taken due to the request for postponement to submit names for appointments to the Joint City-Legislative Committee. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council approve the Minutes of July 24, 1975. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino Noes: None POSTPONEMENT OF HEARING ON AMENDMENT TO FIRE CODE The Council had before it a public hearing to amend the Austin Fire Code pertaining to Blasting Regulations. City Manager Davidson noted that several representatives of the Associated General Contractors who had been working on this proposal were out of the City and had requested a pestponement of at least two weeks to complete their review of the ordinance. He stated that the staff had no problems with this request. Councilmember Linn submitted that she was ready to vote today, but Councilmember Trevino had no objection to the request for postponement. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 790 Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council postpone consideration of the amendment to the Austin Fire Code until August 21, 1975, at 8:00 p.m. motion, seconded by Councilmember Lebermann, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Trevino, Mayor Friedman Noes: Councilmember Linn The POSTPONEMENT OF HEARING ON AMENDMENTS TO WRECKER ORDINANCE The Council had before it a public hearing on amendments to the Wrecker Ordinance; however, Councilmember Lebermann asked that this be postponed for one week in that he needed additional time to put these amendments in final form. Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council postpone consideration of The amendments to the Wrecker Ordinance until August 7, 1975, at 2:30 p.m. motion, seconded by Councilmember Hofmann, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell Noes: None RELEASE OF EASEMENTS Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing release of the following easement: The north twenty (20.00) feet of the Utility Guy Wire Easement six (6.00) feet in width centered on the south twenty-five (25.00) feet of the common lot line between Lots 187 and 188, TARRYTOWN NO. 6, also locally known as 2401 Tower Drive. (Requested by Mr. B. G. Gorin, Trust Officer, Austin National Bank, on behalf of Mrs. Edna G. Johnson, owner.) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmember Himmelblau Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing release of the following easement: The east ninety (90.00) feet of the Public Utility Easement that covers the rear seven and one-half (7.50) feet of Lot 3, Block "B", NORTHWEST HILLS, NORTHWEST OAKS-II, also locally known as 4000 Pebble Path. (Requested by George Murray, owner.) CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXASJuly 31, 1975 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmember Himmelblau Noes: None 791 PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council select the firm of FREESE & NICHOLS, CONSULTING ENGINEERS, for professional engineering services for the following Capital Improvements Program Project for the Public Works Department: Model Cities Area Street Improvements (1975-76) Community Development District No. 12- C.I.P. Projects Nos. 6237 2, 7537 2, 4037 2, and 5037 2. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann Noes: None SOILS INVESTIGATION AND ENGINEERING TESTING SERVICES The Council had before it the selection of soils investigation and engineering testing services in connection with the following Capital Improvements Projects: 1. Spicewood Springs Road from Balcones to western City limits C.I.P. Project No. 6223 0. - 2. Stassney Lane from Congress to Manchaca C.I.P. Project No. 6229 0. In response to Councilmember Linn's question, City Manager Davidson stated that these projects had been approved for the current year's program. Mr. Al Eldridge, Construction Management Director, further reviewed this by stating that the Council would be presented with a preliminary report within the next week, with the construction taking place in early 1976 and taking about one year to complete. City Manager Davidson pointed out that it would be required that the Council not only vote to include this in the coming year's Capital Improvements Program, but also to award the contract. Councilmember Linn pointed out that the City was in a financial bind, and the expansion and widening of the streets would be a fairly expensive item. She felt that perhaps the City should postpone the letting of these contracts for testing until the project was actually approved or disapproved. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 Mr. Eldridge noted that this testing was needed in order to have any meaningful discussion with the engineer to determine what to do with the project at all. He submitted that this would be stopping the project "cold" without being able to do any testing. 792 Councilmember Linn suggested that if the Council should vote against the project later on, the money spent for these tests would have been lost. Mr. Eldridge explained that the information would always be available whenever the City wanted to go ahead, even if it were 20 years from now. Mayor Friedman asked if there was any problem in holding up until the completion of the Capital Improvements Program review, and Mr. Davidson hoped the Council would go ahead with this. He pointed out that Spicewood Springs Road served a newly annexed section, and the residents were expecting the City to come through with the project. He also pointed out that it was a hazard at the present time. He noted that Stassney Lane would have 6-foot sidewalks on either side of the street and had been recommended by the area residents. Mr. Davidson hoped the Council would go ahead and stated that by waiting until the review of the Capital Improvements Program, there would be dedelay of 30 to 60 days and would be stopping some of the engineering work already underway. Mayor Friedman did not feel this was such a long time, and Mr. Davidson submitted that if no work was underway at all, he would agree 100 percent; however, there was already an engineering contract; and the engineer would be held up with his work on the existing contract. Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council select the firm of TRINITY ENGINEERING TESTING CORPORATION for soils investigation and engineering testing services in connection with the aforementioned C.I.P. Projects. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: Councilmember Linn CONTRACTS AWARDED Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: GRAYBAR ELECTRIC COMPANY, INC. 7434 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, Texas 3/4" Guy Wire, 5,000 feet Item 1 $5,039.10 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contracts: Bid Award: - Supervisory engineering service, spare parts, and equipment rental for disassemble, inspection, and repair of turbine generator units, including boilers and auxiliaries. WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CORPORATION For Unit No. 2 at Holly Power Plant and Units Nos. 5 and 6 at Seaholm 1455 West Loop South Power Plant - Estimated cost: Houston, Texas $100,510.00 GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY 4219 Richmond Avenue Houston, Texas For Unit No. 4 at Holly Power Plant and various other suppliers for support parts - Estimated cost: $35,000.00 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION 1609 Shoal Creek Boulevard Austin, Texas Amendment to upgrade disk storage units and extend Extended Term Lease Plan, Computer Peripheral Equipment, Data Systems Department Items 1 and 2 $3,980.00 per month The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION 1609 Shoal Creek Boulevard Austin, Texas - Amendment to Term Lease Plan, Computer and Peripheral Computer Equipment, Data Systems Department Items 1 through 6 $23,737.00 per month The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Ayes: Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 194 Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: ACME VENDING SERVICES, INC. 609 East 7th Street Austin, Texas To authorize the City Manager to exercise an extension of the Food, Drink and Tobacco Products Concession for two years, Jimmy Clay Memorial Golf Course The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: WRIGHT OIL COMPANY 301 South Medina Street San Antonio, Texas Antifreeze, permanent type for various vehicles and equipment, Vehicle and Equipment Services Department. Item No. 1; 1,200 gallons at $3.06 Item No. 2; 2,750 gallons at $3.06 Total $12,087.00 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: TERRY EDWARDS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 11607 North Lamar Austin, Texas West 38th Street Improvements at Austin State Hospital, C.I.P. Project No. 6260 0 $43,021.29 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: EXIDE POWER SYSTEM 3554 West T.C. Jester Houston, Texas - Substation Batteries and Chargers, Electric Department. Item 1; 3 ea. @ $3,753.00 Item 2; 3 ea. @ $ 710.00 Total $13,389.00 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS- July 31, 1975 795 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution awarding the following contract: WATER EQUIPMENT DIVISION OF DATALIGHT, INC. 125 Irving Street Framingham, Massachusetts Feedwater Analyzer Equipment for Decker Unit #2 $98,875.00 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn Noes: None CONTRACT FOR OPERATION OF HEALTH VAN Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving a contract with Austin-Travis County Health Department for operation of the Mobile Health Van. Contract period will be from May 1, 1975, through April 30, 1976. Contract amount will be $20,000 of Community Services Administration funds. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino Noes: None GRANT APPLICATION TO AREA AGENCY ON AGING Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the Area Agency on Aging in the amount of $6,087. Total amount of contract will be $11,152, including an in-kind contribution of $5,065 by Parks and Recreation Department. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Linn, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS July 31, 1975 796 GRANT APPLICATION TO GOVERNOR'S COMMITTEE ON AGING Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the Governor's Committee on Aging for $14,650 enabled by Title VII of the Older American's Act. Total amount of grant will be $17,062, including an in-kind contribution of $2,412 by Parks and Recreation Department. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell Noes: None REINSTATEMENT OF SHUTTLE ROUTES Councilmember Linn moved that the Council adopt a resolution reinstating the South Riverside Drive, North Riverside Drive and Royal Crest University of Texas Shuttle routes from 15th Street to Martin Luther King, Jr., Boulevard. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmember Himmelblau Noes: None DEDICATION OF LAND FOR PEDERNALES STREET Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing dedication by the City of certain land for street right of way to be known as Pedernales Street: 2,567 square feet of land out of Outlot 24, Division A. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Linn, carried by the following vote: Councilmembers Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmember Himmelblau, Hofmann Ayes: Noes: None ACQUISITION OF LAND FOR WEBBERVILLE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acquisition of certain land for Webberville Service Center (water) Improvements in connection with improvements to Webberville Road: All of Lot 1, Block 2, Lincoln Place (Benjamin G. Lopez et al). The motion, seconded by Councilmember Hofmann, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: None _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 ACQUISITION OF LAND FOR WEBBERVILLE ROAD BRIDGE Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acquisition of certain land for Webberville Road Bridge at Boggy Creek: 9,167 square feet of land out of Lot 2, Zaragosa Park Addition, an Unrecorded Subdivision out of Outlot 35, Division A (Clifton Townsend et ux). The motion, seconded by Councilmember Hofmann, carried by the following vote: Councilmembers Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: None Ayes: ACQUISITION OF LAND FOR TENTH STREET RIGHTOOF WAY IMPROVEMENTS Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acquisition of certain land for Tenth Street rightoof way improvements: 1,447 square feet of land out of Lot 3, Block 9, Subdivision of Outlot 5, Division Z. (Capital National Bank and Harry D. Pruett, Jr., Trustees) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Hofmann, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: None 797 ACQUISITION OF LAND FOR MOPAC EXPRESSWAY The Council had before it the acquisition of certain land for MoPac Expressway. City Manager Davidson stated that in response to the Council's inquiries, he had distributed a memorandum indicating that the Highway Department and appropriate federal agency had provided clearance for the City to complete acquisition of the right of way for MoPac. Mayor Friedman pointed out that the acquisition of this property did not mean the City had to go ahead with the project. Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acquisition of certain land for MoPac Expressway: 1.35 acres out of Lot 2, Westover Hills Plaza (Austin Paper Company) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: Councilmember Linn CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 798 Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acquisition of certain land for MoPac Expressway: 0.89 of one acre of land out of the James P. Wallace Survey No. 18 (First City National Bank of Houston) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: Councilmember Linn Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acquisition of certain land for MoPac Expressway: 402 square feet of land out of Lot 19, Block A, Balcones Terrace (C. L. Reeves) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann Noes: Councilmember Linn AMENDMENT TO PERSONNEL POLICIES The Council had before it the amendment to Personnel Policies to allow payroll deductions for employees' association dues or fees, as proposed by Councilmember Linn. Motion Councilmember Linn moved that effective September 1, 1975, Section 5.18 of the Personnel Policies would be amended to read that "Upon the execution by an employee of proper forms prescribed by the City Manager, regular deductions shall be made from any such employee's paycheck for savings or payments on loans to the Austin Municipal Federal Credit Union, for City taxes, for approved insurance premiums, for membership dues and fees of the Communications Workers of America, Austin Association of Professional Firefighters Local 975, and the Austin Police Association, or for any other purpose approved by the City Manager. Provided, all costs of initiating the system for all of the above deductions for membership dues and fees paid to the named employee associations, plus all operational costs of same, shall be at the expense of each union or association. Mayor Friedman seconded the motion. Councilmember Lebermann pointed out that the motion had enumerated several organizations, and he assumed the motion meant that it was including but not limited to these organizations. He suggested that Councilmember Linn was "singling out" an organization and choosing a union for the City employees. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 799 The following appeared in regard to the Motion before the Council: MR. WALT STUECK, Executive Director of the Austin Citizens League, stated that at a recent meeting the League had agreed to oppose the initiation of dues checkoff in that they did not believe it would be beneficial to the City for the following reasons: 1. He suggested that there was little doubt that the strength the union could gain and maintain would be greatly enhanced by union dues checkoff; therefore, a strong union will have a strong bargaining position in the future in negotiations with the City. He did not believe it was compatible for the City to assist the union and weaken their bargaining position. 2. Expenses involved would be defrayed by the union, but he felt it was very possible that in the future this could be changed if the unions were strong. 3. He suggested that the costs were probably incidental to the cost that would accrue in the future in that unions must justify their existence and have done so through the increase in benefits and wages. At a time when it was difficult to come by taxpayer money, he felt that the demands for an increase would not appear to be justified. 4. Demands by City employees should be negotiable. He quoted from an article in the July 25 issue of the Wall Street Journal, which cited examples of strikes by public employees. He felt that a strike would not cause an inconvenience but drastic consequences. He submitted that in almost all states, strikes by public employees were prohibited by law. In conclusion, Mr. Stueck asked that the Council refrain from assisting the unions in expanding their power. MR. W. A. DARTER stated that he was a former City employee and had never seen the time when employees had to organitze or form themselves into a union of any kind to get their share of the revenues. He did not want to see the Council vote for checkoff in that he believed it made the Council a party working for the union. MR. BRUCE PETTY, City employee at Decker Power Plant, suggested that it was a violation to recognize the union in the City of Austin. He felt that the City employees were making pretty good wages compared to "civilian life." He indicated that there were a lot of City employees who were not aware this was on the agenda for discussion and asked the Council to consider this and not "dive" into it today. MS. HELENA HARDCASTLE felt that this would be a serious mistake and felt that the motion was extremely shortsighted from every point of view. She also felt that the Council had no right to specify to which union, if any, municipal employees should belong. She suggested that basically this was an effort to raise the rates and prices at a disadvantage to the citizens of Austin and placing the Council in a very hazardous position of limiting what they could - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS. July 31, 1975 do in the future. She hoped the Council would definitely decide it was improper and illegal and altogether inappropriate to endorse union checkoff, which would encourage illegal activity. MR. T. O. PARSONS, 9909 Parkfield Drive, appeared as a representative of C.W.A. and recommended the passage of the motion before the Council. He commented that Councilmember Linn had worked diligently to help determine the needs of the City employees. He felt that since the City had allowed for payroll deductions to the Credit Union, it was only right that this be extended to those who would choose to voluntarily join an employee's association. He pointed out that C.W.A. had indicated its desire to go an extra step to pay the cost of this extra service. He stated that they represented 2,200 in Austin and Travis County. He noted that those employees who chose to join would determine their dues, union officials and bylaws. He asked that the Council pass this resolution. MR. GENARO HERNANDEZ felt that the City employees should choose the union to which they wanted to belong. He was in support of dues checkoff but suggested that the reference to the C.W.A. be omitted to let the employees choose their own. MR. JAMES SHEAR urged the Council to think this over very carefully before allowing unions to come into municipality in the City. DR. I. B. HELBORN, Professor of Management at the University of Texas, appeared to make observations which he hoped would be helpful. He noted that his opinions were based on two assumptions: 1. While checkoff is the immediate concern, the long-range likelihood was that there would be a collective bargaining relationship. 2. Nothing he would say would be in the nature of an answer because he felt there were not any. He felt that there were two issues involved: 1. The issue of whether or not the City was going to grant checkoff rights to an organization. 2. If granted, the manner in which those rights would be implemented. He wanted to see Austin be different in that he did not want to repeat past history and repeat the mistakes that had been made. He pointed out that one mistake that had been made throughout the United States was to set up a situation where checkoff and other rights had been granted to more than one employee group. He felt that it was not wise to grant checkoff rights to more than one organization, and he suggested that this did not shut off other organizations for the purpose of representing an employee for grievance procedures. He recommended dues checkoff for only one organization in that he felt it was important for the stability of the relationship between the union and the Council. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS. July 31, 1975 801 As an alternative, he suggested that it would be better to grant both unions the right rather than simply grant one the right without having polled the employees. He indicated that there was a precedent for holding an election, and it was his reading of the law that an election confined to checkoff did not violate the current State law. MR. DON MCCULLER, Area Director of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), felt that dues checkoff should be passed for the employees of Austin. He listed some of the cities in Texas that had granted dues checkoff to his organization and noted that they represented over 11,000 public employees in the State. He stated that he was in support of the Council's making dues checkoff available to all the City's employees; however, he felt it was unfair for the Council to be asked to make the decision as to which organization the employees might belong. He felt that the employees themselves should make that choice by voting. If this was not possible, he suggested that dues checkoff be granted for the City employees and let this apply to any organization. MR. MAX LADUSCH, Business Manager fot the International Brotherhood of Electric Workers Local Union No. 520, was interested in fair treatment to all unions and suggested that the employees should decide which union should be represented. He felt that the fair and just thing to do would be to include both contesting unions or hold an election. To show the Council that there was an interest in both unions, he showed the Council the cards that had been signed by employees indicating an interest in AFSCME. MR. TIMOTHY BURIS, former City Emplyee, stated that his purpose in appearing was to ask the Council to evaluate what the union had to offer and what Austin had to offer for the total population along with its minority population. He stipulated that the first thing shouldbbe fair treatment in employment. He stated that he could never remember any black person retiring as a department head, and he hoped the City and the union would consider the possibility of putting minority people in top positions and training them. He also hoped there would be more minority people to apply for positions. MR. PAUL G. GRAY, 3301 Northland Drive, appeared as the Vice President of C.W.A. for District 12 Office, addressed himself to the background of C.W.A. in Texas and noted that they had been in existence since 1938 and represented 2,200 dues-paying members of the taxpayers in Austin and Travis County and represented more than 44,000 employees in Texas. He agreed that there should be only one union to represent the employees of the City; however, he stressed the fact that C.W.A. had no quarrel with the freedom of an election for the employees to express their preference. He pointed out that the National Labor Relations Act Board had been in existence since 1936 and had developed a staff and procedures to handle the complexity of such an election. He pointed out that it would require the concurrence of the Attorney General and permission from the Governor to conduct such an election. CAPTAIN A. C. FROHNAPFEL, President of the Austin Firefighters Association, welcomed this chance to have dues checkoff in that they had been trying to do so since 1947. He requested that the motion be passed. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 802 MR. R. M. DIXON suggested that there were two issues involved: 1. The type of operation the City conducts with its public employees with respect to unionization and the need for such an effort on the part of the employees. 2. This is a land of laws and not of men. In response He pointed out that this question had been submitted to the Attorney General on two different occasions as to employees' rights to join unions. to a question with regard to the rights of employees of a county hospital to be represented by a union which did not claim the right to strike or bargain, Attorney General's Opinion No. M-77 (dated May 18, 1967) stated that public employees had the right to present grievances concerning their wages, hours, of work, or conditions of work through a labor union that did not claim the right to strike or bargain collectively. He also referred to Opinion No. H-422, which stated the same. He suggested that there should not be an equalizingoforce between the City and its employees, and he felt there should be a policy operated by the City in that a strike would shut down all facilities and would bring pressure from the people. MR. JIM RUSTAN, City employee in the Power Production Department, felt that if it came to the matter of choosing a union, the employees at least had the dignity of a choice. Council. MR. LOUIS HERTZFELDT appeared in opposition to the motion before the MR. IRISH MATTHEWS, representing the C.W.A., thanked the Council for considering dues checkoff and pointed out that they were offering a local group of people who had been in Austin for 20 years. MR. CHUCK CALDWELL, 8017 Greenslope, appeared as the Legislative Representative for AFSCME and asked for a chance for democracy to work by allowing the employees to have a choice. MS. OBIE CONNALLY asked about discounts for City employees by various merchants throughout Austin. MR. DON CUMMINGS felt that the employees should have the right to determine if they want any union whatsoever. In response to Mr. Hertzfeldt's question as to the need for dues checkoff, Councilmember Linn stated that this was for the welfare of the people of Austin to be better people, to be better paid, and have better conditions. In response to Mr. Hertzfeldt's comment that this motion suggested unionization, Mayor Pro Tem Snell pointed out that dues checkoff would only be made available to those who wanted to use it. In response to Mr. Petty's suggestion that this was illegal, Mr. Richard Tulk, Assistant City Attorney, noted that anyone had the right to join any association he wanted; and the State Statutes provided that the City may collect dues out of the payroll. However, he pointed out that the Statutes CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 803 prohibited collective bargaining for contract purposes but did recognize setting up a checkoff system. In response to Councilmember Lebermann's question, Dr. Helborn reiterated that it was his recommendation that the City make the choice of one organization. He pointed out that in making the choice, the City was clearly shutting off the opportunity for certain employees to have dues checkoff for the organization they preferred. He submitted that it was easier to administer one agreement with one set of clauses and requirements. He suggested that the longer-range implications of checkoff should be considered. He further recommended that it was important that the organization be the choice of the employees then confirmed by the Council. Councilmember Lebermann remarked that he would feel uncomfortable to make the choice and asked how to test the will of the employees. In reply to this question, Dr. Helborn suggested the following: 1. Trying to gain the pulse of the employees. 2. Counting authorization cards. 3. Conducting an election. Councilmember Lebermann asked about whether or not there should be a minimum of union members in order fortthat union to be identified for checkoff. Dr. Helborn pointed out the following: 1. Dallas grants checkoff rights to at least 2 groups of municipal employees. In order for the union to qualify for checkoff rights, it must have a minimum number of employees who want checkoff. 2. San Antonio grants rights for more than one group and does not require any minimum. It was his opinion that some reasonable minimum would provide some stability and a workable relationship and some control which he felt the City had a right to expect. He stated that he would not like to see the City get into a situation where checkoff was granted on a department-by-department basis to various organizations because that was what had happened in other cities and suggested that it made the City's administrative proeedures and responsibilities more difficult. Councilmember Lebermann asked if it was Dr. Helborn's suggestion that the Council select an organization for the City employees or first permit them to enter into some kind of situation where they indicate they would like to join. In connection with this, Dr. Helborn felt that there should be some kind of indication from the employees and suggested that for the Council to pass the motion in its present form would be to do so in the most political sense. He also felt that it would be a bad precedent to set. In response to Councilmember Himmelblau's comments in connection with the fact that no policies or procedures had been established to deal with management, it was noted that this would probably be presented to the Council next week for consideration. Dr. Helborn suggested that both were components of the total package and felt that it made more sense to put the total package together instead of doing it piecemeal. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 804 Mayor Friedman felt that there was no reason to have a management procedure until there was checkoff and felt that one thing should be decided at a time. Councilmember Trevino commented that his position on dues checkoff was well known as well as his position in regard to what organization he felt close to. However, he noted that many employees had indicated an interest in another organization; and the Council had repeatedly stated that they were a Council for the people. Substitute Motion Councilmember Trevino moved that a secrateballot election be held and supervised by an appropriate impartial agency to allow the City employees themselves to determine which union they want to be put on checkoff, with the cost of the election to be borne by the unions themselves and guidelines to be set by the Council. Councilmember Hofmann seconded the substitute motion. Amendment to Substitute Motion Councilmember Linn offered an amendment to Councilmember Trevino's substitute motion whereby the City Attorney or someone would work on appropriate guidelines to insure the election was held fairly and the regulations were followed and that it was orderly. Councilmember Trevino accepted the friendly amendment to his substitute motion. Ms. Hardcastle asked why an election should be held if the Council should decide on dues checkoff. She suggested that there just be a checkoff to whatever particular union the employee might desire. Mr. Stueck felt it should be more democratic, and there should be a third option as to whether or not an employee would desire to join either union. Roll Call on Amended Substitute Motion Roll call on Councilmember Trevino's motion, Councilmember Hofmann's second, showed the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Hofmann, Himmelblau, Lebermann, Linn*, Trevino Noes: Mayor Friedman* The amended substitute motion carried by a 6 to 1 vote *Councilmember Linn prefaced her vote by stating that she wanted to make it clear that she felt the best position at this time would be for the Council to go ahead and designate C.W.A. However, she did not want any employee to feel that it was any intention of the C.W.A. to force a choice, and it was not her intention. She pointed out that C.W.A.'s representatives were here and they had talked to her, and this was the only reason this resolution was before the Council. She was sure that C.W.A. would work in order to have a fair election in Austin. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 *Mayor Friedman prefaced his negative vote by stating that if the Council was going to allow checkoff, the decision to be made would have to avoid the problems of other cities. He felt the clearest way to do this was to designate one body, and the way to best preserve the economic viability of this City and still respond to the wishes and needs of its employees would be to do it in a fashion that would specify not only no collective bargaining but that employees' representatives that can discuss matters are unified. He felt that an election was hard to vote against, but he noted that he had some prior experience with what happens after a vote has been taken and people are dissatisfied. He pointed out that he had told representatives of AFSCME that after he introduced his motion 4 years ago for checkoff and it was defeated, they had no right to leave the employees "stranded." He noted that this Council represented fairness to all the citizens and the City employees, and it did not necessarily mean the same thing. Не suggested that calling for an election was not necessarily in the best interests of this community. He felt that one designated agency would have been fair, and this was why he voted "no." The Council recessed at 3:30 p.m. He Mayor Pro Tem Snell called the meeting to order at 3:50 p.m. suggested that it was appropriate that at this time the Council should decide whether or not there would be dues checkoff. Councilmember Lebermann felt that the election should be held first and at the same time give Ms. Andrea Beatty, Personnel Director, time to work up her implementation package of the whole concept. Councilmember Linn saw no reason to delay a vote in view of the Firefighters Union and the Police Kaseciation. Councilmember Lebermann suggested that the motion could address itself to these two groups with regard to voluntary dues checkoff. Councilmember Linn suggested that a third group should also be included, whereby it would be the City employees' union so designated by the election. MS. DEAN ARMSTRONG, Vice President of Austin AFL-CIO and a member of C.W.A., commented that for many years the firefighters and police had been asking for dues checkoff. Regardless of the union specified, she felt it was most important to proceed with dues checkoff so that these organizations could benefit from it. In response to Councilmember Linn's question as to whether or not the Council should include a section that would indicate whether or not they were going to allow for the designated employees' union, City Manager Davidson pointed out that the decision for the third organization to receive dues checkoff would still have to be made by the Council at a later date. However, he suggested that someone in the City needed to be designated to be responsible for the conduction of this election. =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 806 Motion Councilmember Linn moved that the Council pass a resolution amending Section 5.18 of the Personnel Policies to read as follows: "Upon the execution by an employee of proper forms prescribed by the City Manager, regular deductions shall be made from any such employee's paycheck for savings or payments on loans to the Austin Municipal Federal Credit Union, for City taxes, for approved insurance premiums, for membership dues and fees of the Austin Association of Professional Firefighters Local 975, the Austin Police Association, and the City employees' union so designated by the established election and Council action, or for any other purpose approved by the City Manager. Provided all costs of initiating the system for all of the above deductions for membership dues and fees paid to the named employee associations, plus all operational costs of same, shall be at the expense of the union or association." Deductions will become effective after the last pay period in August and upon completion of the arrangements to pay for the cost of services. The election procedure and election shalldbe supervised through the City Attorney's office." The motion, seconded by Councilmember Trevino, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell Noes: None HEARING SET ON CODE OF ETHICS ORDINANCE Councilmember Linn moved that the Council set a public hearing for October 16, 1975, at 7:00 p.m. on an ordinance establishing a Code of Ethics for the City of Austin; providing standards of conduct; requiring the filing of Financial Activity Statements; creating an Ethics Review Commission; providing penalties; and providing a severability clause. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor ProeTemn Sunilor Councilmember Himmelblauember Noes: Noner blau Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Mayor Friedman ΑΡΡΟΙΝΤΜENT OF FIRM TO PERFORM ANNUAL AUDIT The Council had before it the appointment of an independent firm to perform the annual audit for the current year ending September 30, 1975. Motion Councilmember Linn moved that the firm of Seidman & Seidman be appointed to perform the annual audit. Mayor Pro Tem Snell seconded the motion. CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS July 31, 1975 807 In response to Mayor Pro Tem Snell's question, Councilmember Linn noted that there was one minority person in Austin in a managerial position of the 4 firms in Austin. Councilmember Lebermann suggested that the Council not ignore the professionalism, and it was necessary to bring the best talent in to perform this audit. He felt it was important to continue with the present firm (Main Lafrentz & Co.) at least one or two more years. He felt that they had done an excellent job and had the expertise. He also pointed out that they had 23% women at the local level. Substitute Motion Councilmember Lebermann moved that the firm of Main Lafrentz & Co. be appointed to perform the annual audit. Councilmember Himmelblau seconded the substitute motion. In response to Councilmember Hofmann's question, it was noted that this firm was completing thetruthird year as the auditor selected by the Council. City Manager Davidson stated that normally it was recommended that every 3 or 4 years there be a change made, but there was nothing "magic" about this period of time. He did not believe the Council should endlessly reapprove the same firm, but he noted that it was extremely important. Roll Call on Substitute Motion Roll call on Councilmember Lebermann's substitute motion, Councilmember Himmelblau's second, showed the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmembers Lebermann, Himmelblau Councilmembers Linn, Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmember Hofmann Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Mayor Friedman The substitute motion failed to carry by a 2 to 4 vote. Substitute Motion Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the firm of Peat Marwick Mitchell & Co. be appointed to perform the annual audit. Councilmember Lebermann seconded the substitute motion. Councilmember Himmelblau pointed out that she was looking for firms that have extremely high national ratings, and this was the purpose of her substitute motion. Roll Call on Substitute Motion Roll call on Councilmember Himmelblau's motion, Councilmember Lebermann's second, to appoint Peat Marwick Mitchell & Co., showed the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Lebermann Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Hofmann, Linn Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Mayor Friedman - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 808 The substitute motion failed to carry by a 2 to 4 vote. Roll Call on Motion Roll call on Councilmember Linn's motion, Mayor Pro Tem Snell's second, to appoint Seidman & Seidman, showed the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Linn, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Noes: Hofmann, Trevino Councilmembers Lebermann, Himmelblau Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Mayor Friedman The motion carried by a 4 to 2 vote. APPEARANCE CONCERNING AUSTIN TOMORROW GOALS Mr. Jim Wells, Chairperson of the On-Going Committee of the Goals Assembly and representing Austin Tomorrow, appeared before the Council to present a resolution for adoption. He noted that in May the Goals report was presented to the Council, and in June the Council appointed the On-Going Committee. During an organizational meeting, he stated that it was the feeling of the Committee that in order to proceed with their work as the On-Going Committee of the Austin Goals Program, they should have a formal acceptance by this Council of the Goals report. He listed the Committee's recommendations to the Council: 1. Recognize the participation by the many citizens of Austin in the preparation of the Goals report. 2. Accept the report in the spirit in which it was presented and endorse it as a policy of the City. 3. Direct the Planning Commission and Planning Department to use the report in the formation of the Master Plan. 4. Direct all City departments, boards, and commissions to use the report as a guide in their operation. Mr. Wells hoped the Council would pass this resolution so that the Committee might cooperate with all the departments and commissions and boards in coming together with a comprehensive plan everyone would enjoy in years to come. Councilmember Hofmann commented that it was her privilege to have been a member of the Executive Committee of the Goals Assembly, and she was well aware of the work and involvement everyone had put into this report. Councilmember Hofmann moved that the Council accept the report as City policy and direct the Planning Commission and Planning Department to incorporate the report into the Master Plan with all due speed and direct all boards, commissions, and departments to use it as a guide in their operations, with the understanding that the document would apply to the function of the Master Plan and not the implementation of the present Capital Improvements Program inasmuch as it was already in progress. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Linn, carried by the following vote: =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 809 Ayes: Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino Noes: None Mr. Dick Lillie, Planning Department Director, stated that he was grateful for the participation the citizens had given to this program and was grateful for the interest the Council had given to the program. He announced that the Planning Department was ready to proceed with the implementation of the policy and the development of the Comprehensive Plan, and he noted that it should be before the Council in about 6 months. Mayor Friedman suggested that the report could be used as the base for the next year's Capital Improvements Program, which would begin development around January. City Manager Davidson took this opportunity to express his pleasure and appreciation for the outstanding job done by Mr. Lillie and his staff on these programs. Mayor Friedman also extended the Council's gratitude for the work done. APPEARANCE CONCERNING ADDITIONAL FUNDS Mr. John N. Kemp, Executive Director of the Central Texas Medical Foundation, had requested to appear before the Council with regard to a request for additional funds for 1974-75 fiscal year; however, Dr. Tom Kirksey, President, appeared in this stead and noted that an additional $150,000 would be required to complete the 1974-75 year to provide professional services to the City as determined by their contract. He indicated that the principal contributors to the projected deficit were malpractice insurance costs, the expenses of a new Director of Medical Education, and lower than anticipated Medicare reimbursements. City Manager Davidson pointed out that while it was necessary for the Council to vote on this request, it was not necessary for additional money to be appropriated at this time in that adequate funds were available to accommodate this particular expenditure. He also pointed out that this was recommended by the Hospital Administrator and the Management and Budget Department. In response to Councilmember Lebermann's question, Dr. Kirksey explained the inability to transfer baek dollars which were anticipated to be refunded into the Foundation, Councilman Lebermann moved that the Council approve the request for an additional $150,000 for 1974-75 fiscal year. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 810 REPORT CONCERNING MOPAC City Manager Davidson stated that the staff had been working with representatives of the Highway Department in coming up with a very broad outline as to what they would propose in the way of a detailed and complete study of the MoPac corridor. He indicated that it had been pointed out in a letter of transmittal that they believed the design features of MoPac should be evaluated in light of neighborhoods, the layout, environment, and transportation effects along its corridor from F.M. 1325 on the north to U.S. Highway 290 on the south. He announced that they were recommending that the Council authorize an advisory committee of citizens and technical officials to provide neighborhood and professional input and participation; and in order to accomplish this, they suggested that the Council invite neighborhood organizations along the entire length of the corridor to submit an individual to represent their organization in order to participate in this team. He felt that the consultants should not be traffic planners as such but should have the expertise to deal with all the present day factors of a major traffic facility and the kinds of problems confronting municipalities and local neighborhood conditions. They believed this should be a comprehensive type planning firm who could touch on most any area of expertise required. He suggested that if the Council did authorize this study under the Planning Department for basic coordination of the study itself, Mr. Lillie and the consultants would work with the staff of Urban Transportation, Environmental Resource Management, the Highway Department, the public, and Travis County. Mr. Davidson felt that the study could be accomplished at an estimated cost of $75,000 to $125,000, but he could not determine the exact amount until the consultants and the City narrowed down the parameters of the study. He pointed out that even if this did cost $125,000 or more, this would be a small price to pay for the kind of data and basic information the Council must have before making the kinds of decisions that have been put on the table. In addition to measuring traffic and other conditions within the neighborhoods, he suggested that the consultant measure in detail the actual negative factors that seemed to be created and measure in detail the benefits that could be attributed to the operation of MoPac in favor of neighborhood preservation. He would also ask that the consultant go into some unique suggestions for solutions in order to correct any deficiencies that would be found. He noted that this might also include planning considerations and possible land use restrictions the Council might want to adopt to protect neighborhood integrity in the future and help maintain the quality of life in the neighborhood. He felt the consultant should consider suggesting some environmental considerations that have not been used in the Austin area and some means of lessening any negative impact. Mr. Davidson would ask that the consultant study operational factors such as traffic engineering concerns, signalization, controls for possible intermittent ramp openings or closings. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 811 He believed that if the Council would authorize such a study be undertaken and authorize him to work with the staff and others in bringing back recommendations of names of consultants to do such a job, they could have some recommendations for consultants back to the Council before any part of MoPac was ready to open. He felt that the timing of this proposal was most urgent so that his office and staff could provide the Council the kind of concrete information and recommendations as to how the ramps should be opened and closed during the study period. In response to Mayor Friedman's question, City Manager Davidson stated that the staff would accept input from the neighborhoods with regard to suggesting consultants. In response to Councilmember Linn's question as to whether or not the ramps would be closed during the study, Mr. Davidson suggested that the Council not be faced with this until the consultant was selected and a preliminary report submitted to the Council as to what kind of openings and closings the consultant would need to make the study. He pointed out that the Highway Department had indicated they would cooperate with this study if the Council desired to undertake it. Councilmember Linn was interested in making the Council's position clear that they would not be in favor of the ramps being opened until the study was complete. In connection with this, Mr. Davidson suggested that the Council should not spend money for the study if the ramps were never to be opened during the study. There was further discussion with regard to whether or not the ramps should be opened during the study, and Mayor Friedman suggested that it be expressed to the Highway Department that it was the Council's intent to keep the ramps closed until requested by the consultant to open for the study. Councilmember Trevino felt it would be a disservice to authorize such a study if some of the Councilmembers wanted the ramps closed. Mr. Davidson felt it would be a waste of taxpayers' funds to conduct a study if it was the Council's intent to not open the ramps. If the Council wanted to look at options available to the Council and Highway Department, he suggested this study and the advisory committee. Motion Councilmember Lebermann moved that the Council accept the Manager's recommendation for a study and instruct him to proceed with the identification of qualified consultants. Councilmember Himmelblau seconded the motion. The following appeared in regard to the Motion before the Council: MS. HELENA HARDCASTLE felt that the study was very much needed but addressed herself to the issue of representation of various neighborhood organizations. She stated that the Manager was recommending an advisory committee composed of each neighborhood group; however, she suggested that most of these groups were opposed to the ramps being opened. In response to this, Mr. Davidson pointed out that he was recommending 18 people, and they would be from groups as far north as Balcones and as far south as the Barton Springs area. CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS July 31, 1975 8/2 MR. HOWARD FERGUSON addressed himself to the issue of temporary opening of the ramps. He felt that this offered little or no possibility of getting any reasonable indication of the impact on the basis of permanent opening and closing, and he suggested that it took at least 6 months for traffic patterns to develop. MR. NORMAN FISCHER asked why a consultant was necessary when the staff had already made a study. In response to this, Mr. Davidson stated that he never thought this was necessary; but because of concerns raised to the Council by abutting residents and property owners, he felt the Council was not going to have adequate information without having a new study with updated measurements of traffic, etc. Mr. Fischer felt that if the rampss were opened, they would never close again; and the citizens were concerned about the value of their property. MR. JOHN GALLERY, representing West Austin Citizens, stated that they had reviewed the recommendation of the City Manager and believed the Council should take an action to close the ramps and keep them closed during the duration of the study until the Council could act on the recommendations of the consultant for the following reasons: 1. Opening of MoPac could have a significant negative impact on the neighborhood. 2. No possible way of getting any traffic count in such a short period of time. They believed such a study could be done within these guidelines, whereby the consultant would come back to the Council and ask that the Councilcconsiderr opening the ramps. They agreed with the suggestion of placing the responsibility in the Planning Department, and it indicated clearly that it was comprehensive and not just a traffic study. In conclusion, he summarized their requests: 1. The Council indicate its desire to the consultant that ramps remain closed. 2. Emphasize that this is a broad, comprehensive study, including land use and environmental impact as well as transportation. 3. Realize neighborhood organizations have a continuing role and have consultants meet with neighborhoods and present findings to them before finalizing them to the Council. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 813 Councilmember Himmelblau asked if Mr. Gallery would like to be dictated to on how to conduct a study; and Mr. Gallery stated that he liked to have the most specific directions from his clients as to what they would like to see done. He felt that the clearer and more specific, the better. Mayor Friedman asked if it was reasonable for the Council to indicate they wanted the ramps closed and hire a consultant to come in and tell the Council whether or not that was the right decision. Amendment to Motion Mayor Friedman offered a friendly amendment to Councilmember Lebermann's motion, whereby the Council would indicate its intent to recognize this was a problem and to keep the ramps closed except as during times that the consultant might need them open to get a county, and any harmful effects be minimized through the consultant's report. Councilmember Lebermann accepted the amendment. In regard to comments by Mr. Gallery, Mr. Davidson pointed out that this study would not include a study of the feasibility of the Texas Highway Department's proposal to connect up with Highway 183; and Mr. Gallery submitted that this was the kind of detail with which they were concerned. MR. MASON DULA, President of the Northwest Austin Civic Association, felt that the Manager's proposal for a study was an outstanding suggestion. and welcomed the opportunity to participate along with the other groups. A gentleman suggested that the Council follow the City Manager's recommendations. MR. DONALD BELL was opposed to spending money for a study that was not needed. He felt it was not needed because the Council had common sense and knew the detrimental effect on neighborhoods. MR. ERWIN MCGEE, President of the University Young Democrats, suggested that the Council was "sharp" enough to anticipate what the ramps would do if they were opened. He felt it could be anticipated what the impact would be on the West Austin neighborhood. Roll Call on Amended Motion Roll call on Councilmember Lebermann's motion, Councilmember Himmelblau's second, to conduct a study and instruct the City Manager to proceed with the identification of qualified consultants but at the same time to indicate the Council's intent to keep the ramps closed except at times that the consultant might need them open to get a count, with the understanding that any harmful effects be minimized through the consultant's report, showed the following vote: Ayes: Noes: Councilmembers Lebermann, Himmelblau, Hofmann Councilmembers Linn*, Trevino*, Mayor Friedman*, Mayor Pro Tem Snell The amended motion failed to carry by a 3 to 4 vote. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 *Councilmember Linn prefaced her negative vote by stating that she did not see how we could have a study that included only part of MoPac and not all of it and suggested that ultimately it might be a freeway. 814 *Councilmember Trevino commented that he was biased and did not feel the He City should waste money to conduct a study when he knew how he would vote. noted that the City had the capabilities to determine in the future that it would need a highway such as MoPac before it was built; and he wondered why we did not have the same capabilities to determine what the traffic count would be without opening the ramps. *Mayor Friedman felt that we needed the northern extension of MoPac to Highway 183. Mayor Friedman announced that the Council could not close the ramps. In response to Councilmember Hofmann's question as to whether or not the City could study the north and south extension of MoPac, Mr. Davidson stated that he had not understood the staff had a charge to study the extension and suggested that this be a matter the Council take up with the County Commissioners. Councilmember Hofmann suggested a study that would include the entire length of MoPac, including the north and south "tails" to be coordinated along with the County. Motion Councilmember Hofmann moved that the Council pass Councilmember Lebermann's previous motion for the study and include discussions with the County Commissioners and the Highway Department with regard to extensions to the north and south and have an impact study on the neighborhoods but not open the ramps except as needed by the consultant. The motion died for lack of a second. City Manager Davidson suggested that the Council not vote on any kind of a study until they have had the opportunity to talk to Travis County and the Highway Department to see if they can help with the study. Councilmember Hofmann felt that the time to undertake a study was before the City spent any more money to build anything. Motion Councilmember Hofmann moved that the issue of north and south extensions of MoPac be put on the agenda for August 20, 1975, when the Council was scheduled to meet with the Travis County Commissioners. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Lebermann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann Noes: None Councilmember Lebermann left the Council Chamber at 5:30 p.m. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 815 APPROACH MAIN CONTRACT Mayor Friedman brought up the following ordinance for its first reading: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR THE DEPUTY CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN TO ENTER INTO A CERTAIN REFUND CONTRACT WITH JONES-LAKE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY. (Allen Subdivision) The ordinance was read the first time, and Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the ordinance be passed to its second reading. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Snell, carried by the following vote: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Ayes: Snell, Councilmember Himmelblau Noes: Absent: Councilmember Lebermann Councilmembers Linn, Hofmann The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been passed through the first reading only. ZONING ORDINANCE SECOND & THIRD READINGS Mayor Friedman brought up the following ordinance for its second reading: AN ORDINANCE ORDERING A CHANGE IN USE AND CHANGING THE USE MAPS ACCOMPANYING CHAPTER 45 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967 AS FOLLOWS: LOT 1, BLOCK 1, JOHNSON'S RIVER ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 2201 LAKE AUSTIN BOULEVARD AND ALSO BOUNDED BY FOSTER AVENUE AND MO PAC BOULEVARD, FROM "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "GR" GENERAL RETAIL DISTRICT; SAID PROPERTY BEING LOCATED IN AUSTIN, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (Mrs. Jimmie Lea Hazlewood Chris, C14-75-052.) The ordinance was read the second time, and Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for the third reading, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance effective immediately. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Trevino, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann Noes: Councilmember Linn Absent: Councilmember Lebermann The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. ZONING ORDINANCES ALL READINGS Mayor Friedman introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE ORDERING A CHANGE IN USE AND CHANGING THE USE MAPS ACCOMPANYING CHAPTER 45 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967 AS FOLLOWS: CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 816 THE SOUTH 150 FEET OF LOT "A," HARDIN-CHESLEY ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 600-702 NELRAY BOULEVARD AND 5412-5414 GUADALUPE STREET, FROM "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "O" OFFICE DISTRICT; SAID PROPERTY BEING LOCATED IN AUSTIN, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (Earl Podolnick, et ux, C14-73-171) Councilmember Linn moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance effective immediately. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Linn, Trevino Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Lebermann The Mayor announced that the ordinance haddbeen finally passed. Mayor Friedman introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE ORDERING A CHANGE IN USE AND HEIGHT AND AREA AND CHANGING THE USE AND HEIGHT AND AREA MAPS ACCOMPANYING CHAPTER 45 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967 AS FOLLOWS: (1) BLOCK 21, FAIRVIEW PARK SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1203 HILLSIDE; LOT 36, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1406 NEWNING; THE NORTH 50 FEET OF BLOCK 34, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1404 NEWNING; AND LOT 12 N, FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1509 NEWNING; FROM "B" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT; AND (2) LOT 1, ODIORNE SUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS: 68, 69, AND 70, FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 211 ACADEMY; BLOCKS 22 AND 23, FAIRVIEW PARK SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 303 ACADEMY; BLOCK 24, FAIRVIEW PARK SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 403 AND 405 ACADEMY; LOT 4, WOODLAWN ADDITION, FAIRVIEW PARK SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 506 ACADEMY; LOT 5, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 508 ACADEMY; LOT 6, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 510 ACADEMY; THE SOUTH 61.73 FEET OF LOT 6, ODIORNE SUBDIVISION RESUBDIVISION AND LOT 5, LESS THE NORTH 10 FEET, ODIORNE SUBDIVISION RESUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1211 RAVINE; LOTS 6 AND 7, BLOCK 4, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1015 MELISSA LANE; LOTS 2 AND 3, BLOCK 2, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 220 BONNIEVIEW; THE EAST 56.11 FEET (AVERAGE) AND THE SOUTH 120.4 FEET (AVERAGE) OF BLOCK 62, FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 310B AND 312 LE GRANDE; LOT 55, LESS THE SOUTHWEST TRIANGEE AND THE SOUTHWEST TRIANGLE OF LOT 56, WOODLAWN, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1208 BICKLER; LOT 54, AND THE SOUTH TRIANGLE OF LOT 55, LESS THE SOUTH TRIANGLE OF LOT 54, WOODLAWN ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1210 BICKLER; LOT 2, OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 502 ACADEMY; LOT 61 OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 518 ACADEMY; LOT 28, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1209 BICKLER; LOT 17, OF LOCALLY KNOWN AS 517 ACADEMY; LOT 13, OF LOCALLY KNOWN AS 509 ACADEMY; LOT 52, OF LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1214 BICKLER; LOT 50, OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1218 BICKLER; LOT 49, OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1220 BICKLER; LOT 46, INCLUDING THE SOUTH TRIANGLE, AND ALL OF LOTS 47 AND 48, WOODLAWN ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1222 BICKLER; LOT 51 OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1216 BICKLER; LOT 14, OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 817 LOCALLY KNOWN AS 511 ACADEMY; THE NORTH 50 FEET OF LOT 46, FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1211 NEWNING; THE NORTH 81 FEET OF BLOCK 50 OF FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 507 ACADEMY; THE SOUTH CENTER 50 FEET BY 168 FEET OF BLOCK 5, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1312 THE CIRCLE; LOT 29 OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1211 BICKLER; LOT 30 OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1213 BICKLER; LOT 9 OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 516 ACADEMY; LOT 9, BLOCK 4, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 212 LE GRANDE AVENUE; LOT 1 AND LOT 10, BLOCK 4, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1008 HILLSIDE; LOT 10, ODIORNE RESUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 68-71 FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1206 HILLSIDE; ALL OF LOT 8, AND THE SOUTH 10 FEET OF LOT 9, ODIORNE RESUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 68-71, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1210 HILLSIDE; LOT 7, ODIORNE RESUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 68-71, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, SAVE AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 5.2 FEET, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1212 HILLSIDE; THE SOUTH 20 FEET OF BLOCK 49, AND THE SOUTH 115.25 FEET OF BLOCK 50, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1207 NEWNING; LOT 3, BLOCK 4, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 211 BONNIEVIEW: LOTS 6 AND 7, BLOCK 2, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 212 BONNIEVIEW; LOT 2, BLOCK 4, NORWOOD HEIGHTS, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 213 BONNIEVIEW; LOT 27, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1214 NEWNING; LOT 16, LESS THE SOUTHWEST TRIANGLE, PLUS THE NORTHEAST TRIANGLE OF LOT 15, WOODLAWN ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 515 ACADEMY; THE SOUTHEAST TRIANGLE OF LOT 14, LOT 15 LESS THE NORTHEAST AND NORTHWEST TRIANGLE, AND THE SOUTHWEST PORTION OF LOT 16, WOODLAWN ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 513 ACADEMY; LOT 3, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 502 ACADEMY; LOT 1, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 500 ACADEMY; LOT 26, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1205 BICKLER; LOT 27, OF WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1207 BICKLER; LOT 56, LESS THE SOUTHWEST 23.9 FOOT TRIANGLE, WOODLAWN ADDITION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1206 IBCKLER; LOT 3-A, PETERS ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 209 ACADEMY; LOT 49, LESS THE SOUTH 20 FEET, FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1203 NEWNING; AND LOT 20, WOODLAWN ADDITION TO FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 523 ACADEMY AND 1202 BICKLER; FROM "B" RESIDENCE, SECOND HEEGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT3; AND, (3) THE NORTH 10 FEET BY 263 FEET, BLOCK 17, AND THE WEST 100 FEET BY 263 FEET, BLOCK 18, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1207 HILLSIDE AVENUE; AND THE NORTH 65.5 FEET OF BLOCK 15, AND THE SOUTHEAST TRIANGLE OF BLOCK 16, FAIRVIEW PARK ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1301 HILLSIDE AVENUE; FROM "BB" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT; AND, (4) LOT 8A, RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 4, 5, 8, 9, AND 10, RESUBDIVISION OF BLOCK 10, KIRSCHNER RESUBDIVISION OF FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1402 DRAKE, FROM "BB" RESIDENCE, SECOND HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, (5) LOTS 2 AND 3, BLOCK 67, FAIRVIEW PARK, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 210 ACADEMY, FROM "B-H" RESIDENCE-HISTORIC, SECOND HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "A-H" RESIDENCEHISTORIC, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; ALL OF SAID PROPERTY BEING LOCATED IN AUSTIN, TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. (Stuart M. Purcell, et al, C14-75-005) Councilmember Linn moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance effective immediately. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 818 Ayes: Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Linn, Trevino Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Lebermann The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. BICYCLE LANE PLAN The Council had before it a report on the Bicycle Lane Plan. Mr. Joe Ternus, Urban Transportation Director, summarized this by stating that in 1972 the Council approved ordinances for the Austin Bicycle Plan and authorized the administration to implement bike lanes in a manner similar to implementation of other traffic control devices. He noted that the Department began planning the development of a City-wide bicycle network; beginning with elementary schools and expanding through the sixth grade, junior high, senior high, neighborhood and community organizations, and bicycle clubs, a series of proposed routes were obtained, overlapped, analyzed, and an interim report was developed. He pointed out that this interim report will be used as a guide in the development of a proposed transportation system. He indicated that upon completion of the entire transportation study, a final report will be submitted to the Council for consideration. Mr. Ternus stated that the locations scheduled this year for bike lanes consisted of 23 miles of lanes in the northwest, northeast, central, and southern portions of Austin. He indicated that letters outlining the program were provided to all residents and property owners along the routes. Based on responses to the letters, he indicated that people were concerned about temporary parking in front of homes. He noted that the City Code did not prohibit parking within the bike lane unless prohibited by signs. It was his opinion that it would not be necessary to legally prohibit parking along these bike routes; however, he noted that there would be, because of location or intensity of on-street parking, hazards created to either the bicyclistoor the motorist. He stated that in these instances parking should be prohibited; but prior to this, the property owners would be notified again so that they would be aware of any potential installation of parking restrictions. Because of misunderstandings in connection with the first letters sent out, he stated that a letter of clarification was being drafted and would be sent to all property owners so that they were aware of the parking provisions in relation to the bike lanes. In order to provide a smoother implementation program, he noted that the City would begin work on one area of the City and complete it before moving to the second area. He believed this program was consistent with citizens' suggestions, Council fundings, and the need of safety. Councilmember Hofmann presented Mr. Ternus with a picture taken in Berlin that showed the bicycle lanes to be off the street and separated from the sidewalk by a green strip. She hoped that in the future this could be achieved in Austin. Councilmember Linn remarked that she had received calls with regard to the potential danger involved if the City had a permissive attitude of parking in bike lanes. C CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 Mr. Ternus noted that the issue involved different conditions and different areas of the City, and he felt the review of each situation must be made separately. Councilmember Linn suggested that generally there should be prohibition of parking but install "Parking Permitted" signs where needed. In connection with this, Mr. Ternus felt this would be out of place in a residential area, and it was best to have the situation open unless otherwise noted. He also recommended this from a cost standpoint. REPORT ON EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE Councilmember Trevino noted that he and Mayor Pro Tem Snell and others had gone to Louisville, Kentucky, and Dallas, Texas, to view the different types of operations of Emergency Medical Service (E.M.S.); and it was a unanimous decision of the delegation to make a recommendation to the Council. Motion Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council reaffirm the decision to place the E.M.S. in a separate department and that the E.M.S. Department incorporate the latest medical innovations, including the utilizaciónn of nurses and station wagons into its program; and the City Manager by this action be authorized to implement this program as quickly as possible. Mayor Pro Tem Snell seconded the motion and added that a program would be worked out for those in the Fire Department who wanted to participate in this without jeopardizing their Civil Service status. The following appeared in regard to the Motion before the Council: MS. REGINA ROGOFF stated that regardless of where the service was placed, special emphasis should be made on the hiring of women and other minorities. Councilmember Trevino pointed out that the delegation felt that in order to provide the best service to the people, this should go into a separate department; and they also considered the problem with regard to minorities. He stated that he decided this should be secondary to come up with a system to serve the people. Mayor Pro Tem Snell pointed out that this would depend on the cooperation of the entire City to be successful, and he felt that this was what make the Louisville service so successful in that it received the full cooperation of everyone. He noted that the firemen trained those who drove the modulances and did it without any hesitance to make it a success. Councilmember Trevino stated that this did not exclude the fire-fighters and hoped there would be cooperation between them and the E.M.S. personnel. MS. KAY BALLARD wanted to see Austin have a system that has been proven. She did not know much about the system in Louisville, but it was her impression that there were some problems; and she hoped the Council would not make a very quick decision on something so important to Austin and her children. 819 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31, 1975 820 MS. SHARON FRAUGHT stated that she was a registered nurse in the emergency room and felt that in the Fire Department there would be no room for nurses. She urged passage of the motion and suggested that it be set up as quickly as possible. DR. VAUGHT suggested that someone had not gotten enough hard data on dollars, people, and time. He felt that the City would end up with the cost of the system that would give the City only one alternative and that would be to go back to a private company. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Snell's question, Dr. Vaught mentioned the San Antonio system in that they went out into the County; and if he had to make a recommendation, he would pick one that would get to the patient the quickest without adding cost. MR. DONALD BELL felt that the City would not get much cooperation from the firefighters. MR. ED O'GRADY stated that he was a firefighter; and when the welfare of the citizens was concerned, he did not care who they would be working with or helping, they would get along. He pointed out that fire service was designed for the betterment and health and welfare of the citizens, and they would work together even though the Fire Department would like to have had the system under their department. Vote on Motion The vote on Councilmember Trevino's motion, Mayor Pro Tem Snell's second, to place the E.M.S. in a separate department, was as follows: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Snell, Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Lebermann Mayor Friedman took this opportunity to thank Captain A. C. Frohnapfel, President of the Austin Firefighters Association, and the firefighters for their concern for the general welfare of the people. He remarked that the Council would act to add some women to the system. CONSOLIDATION OF TAX STATEMENTS Mayor Friedman moved that the Council instruct the City Manager to implement procedures for the consolidation of tax statements being sent out by the City and the Austin Independent School District, as another step in trying to curtail expenditures. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Linn, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Hofmann, Linn, Trevino, Mayor Friedman, Mayor Pro Tem Snell Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Lebermann 821 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS July 31. 1975 Mayor Friedman noted that this would save the City $7,600 this year and $10,100 next year; and it would save the Austin Independent School District $8,800 this year and $11,000 next year. ATTEST: ADJOURNMENT The Council adjourned at 6:05 p.m. race Monie City Clerk APPROVED Mayor