- CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Regular Meeting March 16, 1978 6:00 Ρ.Μ. Council Chambers 301 West Second Street The meeting was called to order with Mayor McClellan presiding. Roll Call: Present: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino Absent: Coutcklmember Cooke INVOCATION The Invocation was given by Reverend Tom Martin, Minister of the First Baptist Church. RUTH HOFFMAN DAY Ruth Hoffman Day has been proclaimed on Tuesday, March 21, 1978, in honor of a woman who has given 17 years of volunteer service to the Travis State School, and been named recipient of the Austin Board of Realtors "Most Worthy Citizen" award for 1977. Mrs. Hoffman received the proclamation from Mayor McClellan with her thanks. Members of the Austin Board of Realtors who were with her to receive the proclamation were Mr. Odus Crumley,, and Ms. Dorothy Wallace. RAY ANTHONY AS WEEK Ray Anthony Ovens, of Austin, has been named National Boy of the Year by the Boys' Club of America at a White House breakfast hosted by President Jimmy Carter. Mayor McClellan read a proclamation setting aside the week of March 19-25 as Ray Anthony Ovens Week. Accepting the proclamation for Ray Anthony Owens were representatives of the local Boys Club, Mr. Chris Allen, Mr. Ken Zimmerman and Mr. Willie Kocurek. 2P March 16, 1978 = CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS "BREAKAWAY WEEK" WARREN SKAAREN and WALTER YATES received, with their thanks, a proclamation read and presented to them by Mayor McClellan which designates the week of March 19-25 as "Breakaway Week" in honor of the world premier of an Austinproduced documentary film on survival experiences in the Alaskan wilderness which is presented in conjunction with the Committee for Wild Basin Wilderness. 0. HENRY JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL Mayor McClellan recognized the 7th grade Texas History class and their teacher, Mr. Steve Warren; together with the Student Counsil officers, Romi Angli, President; Dudley McClellan, Vice-President; Jennifer Hage, Secretary Dan Alexander, Parliamentarian; Allison Temple, Sergeant-at-Arms; and Bradley McClellan, 7th grade representative, who were in attendance in the Council Chamber. She also recognized co-sponsors of the Student Council, Miss Vicki Lawrence and Miss Marlene Anglin. MINUTES APPROVED Councilmember Mullen moved that the Council approve the Minutes for Special Meetings of March 1, 1978 and March 8, 1978 and Regular Meetings of March 2, 1978 and March 9, 1978. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Noes: None Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino Absent: Councilmember Cooke BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS APPOINTMENTS Councilmember Snell moved that the Council appoint the following to terms on the Community Development Commission: Dayle Bebee, representing private secter, term to expire 3/1/80 John Yeaman, representing private sector, term to expire 3/1/80 Edith Buss, representing public officials, term to expire 3/1/80 Marie Bruffy, representing public officials, term to expire 3/1/80 Delores Ybarra Briones, private sector, term to expire 3/1/80 Doloris Walker, representing public officials, term to expire 3/1/80. The motion, seconded by Bayor Pro Tem Trevino, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmembers Cooke March 16, 1978 - CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS Construction Advisory Committee Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council appoint Roger Bailey, to replace Bob Gray on the Construction Advisory Committee, who resigned in January. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Urban Transportation Commission Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Couinil appoint Martha Arbuckle to a term, expiring January 1, 1979, on the Urban Transportation Commission. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmember Goodman Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Building Standards Commission Councilmember Mullen moved that the Council appoint Noe Terrell to a term expiring June 1, 1978 on the Building Standards Commission. The motion, seconded by Councilmamber Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Appointments to be Made Mayor McClellan announced that the following appointments will be made in two weeks at the March 30, 1978, Council Meeting: Dental Health Advisory Committee Building Standards Commission (social worker) Citizen's Traffic Safety Commission On-Going of Goals Assembly Committee (Zone 8) EASEMENT GRANTED Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to grant an easement to Southwestern Bell Telephone Company along Stack Avenue and Missouri-Pacific Railroad Right-of-Way. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke 1 - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize eminent domain proceedings against the following to acquire right-ofway for Georgian Drive Street Improvement Project: 567 square feet of land out of a 0.208 of one acre tract out of the James P. Wallace Survey No. 57, locally known as 100 Florence Drive. (Wesley Dahl, et ux, owners) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Noes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize eminent domain proceedings against the following to acquire right-ofway for Georgian Drive Street Improvement Project: West 5 feet of Lot 5A, Resubdivision of Lot 5, Block C, Georgian Acres, locally known as 9007 Georgian Drive. (S. F. Cochran, Jr., owner) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Noes: Councilmembers Goodman, Hiamelblau, Mullen None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize eminent domain proceedings against the following to acquire right-ofway for Georgian Drive Street Improvement Project: 756 square feet of land out of Lot 1, Block D, Georgian Acres, locally known as 8829 Georgian Drive. (James W. Gifford, et ux, owners) Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS RELEASE OF KASEMENTS ! March 16, 1978 Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to release the following easement: A seven and one-half (7.50) foot Electric and Telephone Easement in Lot 3, Clearfield Addition, out of the George W. Davis Survey, Travis County, Texas, locally known as 8212-8222 Jamestown Drive. (Requested by Mr. Don Legge of Brock Mabrey & Partners, Architects as agent for Mr. Luther Smith, owner) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to release the following insamanté dirzains seiollowing to scuming right-o orarive Stree. Four (4) seven and one-half (7.50) feet Public Utility Easements being at the rear of Lots 20 and 21, Block "B" and Lots 4 and 5, Block "E" in Onion Creek, Section III, a subdivision in Travis County, Texas. (Requested by Mr. James G. Vier, Senior Vice President, Lumberman's Investment Corporation) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmemner Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to release the following easement: A fifteen (15.00) foot Electrical Easement traversing Lot 4, Broz Addition, locally known as 1611 Dungan Lane, recorded in Volume 5274, Page 1827, Travis County Deed Records. (Requested by A. Roy Thomas and E. C. Thomas, Builders) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS ! March 16, 1978 Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to release the following easementé: Three (3) five (5.00) foot Public Utility Easements being at the rear lot line of Lot 1, and at the rear lot line of Lot 3 and along the north side lät line of Lot 4, Block "E" of Summit Oaks Subdivision, Section One, recorded in Travis County Deed Records, locally known as 12001 U.S. Highway 183. (Requested by Donald E. Bird, attorney) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke CHANGE ORDER MOPAC WATER-WASTEWATER ADJUSTMENTS Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to approve a Change Order in the amount of $6,340.00 to United Construction Company for MoPac Water-Wastewater Adjustments. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM, NO. 75/40-10. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke CETA CONTRACT Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to negotiate a contract with Williamson-Burnet County Opportunities, Inc., to operate a rural project under the Youth Community Conservation and Improvement Projects of the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) as amended. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke STREET CLOSING Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution to temporarily close Rest 17th Street from San Jacinto to Trinity from 7:00 p.m. to 12 midnight, Friday, March 17, 1978, as requested by Mr. Dan H. Killen of The Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS March 16, 1978 Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Tan Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke CITY CODE AMENDMENT UNFUSED SERVICE CONDUCTORS Mayor McClellan introduced the following ordinance; requested by the Electrical Board: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 37 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967; DELETING ARTICLE 230-44 OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE OF 1975 AS ADOPTED; AND ADDING THERETO SECTION 37-52(f) PROVIDING FOR THE INSTALLATION OF UNFUSED SERVICE CONDUCTORS; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE (3) SEPARATE DAYS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. ZONING ORDINANCE Mayor McClellan 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 CHARTER 45 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967 AS FOLLOWS: (1) A 2.219-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 12902-12936 U. S. HIGHWAY 183 NORTH, FROM "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "GR" GENERAL RETAIL DISTRICT; AND, (2) A,49-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 6401 HUDSON STREET AND ALSO BOUNDED BY ED BLUESTEIN BOULEVARD, FROM INTERIM "A" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "C" COMMERCIAL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, (3) A 1.369-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 13700-13712 U. S. HIGHWAY 183 AND 10000-10002 HIDDEN MEADOWS DRIVE, FROM INTERIM "AA" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "GR" GENERAL RETAIL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, (4) LOTS 16 AND 17, IRS SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1004-1010 WHEELESS STREET AND 1005-1011 LYDIA STREET, FROM "C" COMMERCIAL DISTRICT TO NA" RESIDENCE DISTRICT; AND (5) A 1.32-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 1506, 1509 AND 1516 PARKWAY; AND 1104, 1106 AND 1117 ENFIELD ROAD, FROM "B" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT; AND - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS ! March 16, 1978 (6) THE WEST 15.5 FEET OF LOT 2 AND THE EAST 34.5 FEET OF LOT 3, OUTLOTS 4 AND 5, DIVISION E, BURLAGE SUBDIVISION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 815 WEST 11TH STREET, FROM "B" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "0" OFFICE DISTRICT; AND (7) TRACT 1: A 0.425-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, FROM INTERIM "AA" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "GR" GENERAL RETAIL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, TRACT 2: A 17.896-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, SAVE AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 325 FEET, FROM INTERIM "AA" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "GR" GENERAL RETAIL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, TRACT 3: SAVE AND EXCEPT THE SOUTH 325 FEET OF A 17.896-ACRE TRACT OF LANE, FROM INTERIM "AA" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "C" COMMERCIAL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; ALL OF SAID PROPERTY BEING LOCALLY KNOWN AS 700-800 BLOCK OF WILLIAM CANNON DRIVE AND 6600-6724 SOUTH INTERSTATE HIGHWAY 35; AND, (8) A 9.93-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 3401 ED BLUESTEIN BOULEVARD, FROM INTERIM "A" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "C" COMMERCIAL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, (9) A 7.54-ACRE TRACT OF LAND, LOCALLY KNOWN AS THE REAR OF 5717 CIRCLE S ROAD, FROM INTERIM "A" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "DL" LIGHT INDUSTRIAL, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; AND, (10) LOT 8, OUTLOT 23-1/2, DIVISION D, LOUIS HORST ADDITION, ORIGINAL CITY OF AUSTIN, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 2102 NUECES STREET (RUTHERFORD HOME), FROM "B" RESIDENCE DISTRICT TO "B-H" RESIDENCE-HISTORIC 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 PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. (Wayne E. Laymon, C14-78-001; Harry E. Montandon, C14-78-006; Forrest N. Trautman, Trustee, C14-78-007; Cityoofkaustin, C14-78-008; City of Austin, C14-78-009; Estate of Mrs. E. V. Catterall, C14-78-002; Austin Catering Service, Inc. and Will Thurman, Jr., C14-78-011; William B. Cotton, C14-75-100; Capital City Steel, C14-77-185; Rutherford Home, C14h-78-001). Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. McClellanSOUND WATER CHA 'AMENDED Mayor McClellan introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART 2 OF ORDINANCE NO. 771117-D AND SECTION 29-35 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967; PROVIDING FOR THE DESIGNATION AND REMOVAL OF WATERCRAFT OF UNSOUND CONDITION AFTER A HEARING BY THE BUILDING INSPECTOR; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE NORTHWEST AUSTIN FIRE STATION Mayor McClellan opened the public hearing scheduled for 6:15 p.m. on an appeal from Fire Chief, Ed S. Kirkham on the decision of the Planning Commission denying a Special Permit on Case No. C14p-73-050, the Northwest Austin Fire Station. Mayor McClellan stated that no action would be taken tonight due to the absence of Councilmember Lee Cooke. She indicated that action would be taken the following week. Chief Kirkham stated that in June of 1976, the City annexed the bulk of the property in the area on U. S. Highway 183, north and west of Balcones Drive. At the request of the Fire Department, the City Property Management Department began site selection in October of the same year. Chief Kirkham indicated that several things must be considered in the selection of a site for a fire station. They are as follows: 1. Response time to the area to be served. 2. Appropriate distances from other stations. 3. The ability to move fire equipment without obstruction. Chief Kirkham felt that the site which was selected seems to qualify in all respects. Chief Kirkham then made a slide presentation of the site to the Council. He stated that the site provides good east/west maneuvering and also has good north/south movement. He sisted that there is a controlled intersection at U. S. 183. Chief Kirkham stated that there is a problem with high-speed traffic along U. S. 183. He stated that the American Insurance Association now endorses four miles between stations if the driving capabilities are right in the outlying areas, and the State Board of Insurance also endorses four miles between stations. Chief Kirkham indicated that the proposed site is precisely 3.9 miles back to Fire Station 8 on Research Boulevard, and is also 3.9 miles from Fire Station 21 on Spicewood Springs Road. He stated that they felt the site selection was ideal and that it provided a good response time. Mr. Joe Morahan, Director of the Property Management Department, told the Council that the target area to be covered by the Fire Station is on U. S. 183 in the Angus/Duval Road area. He stated that a station could not be situated facing U. S. 183 due to the difficulties in getting across the highway. Mr. Morahan cited some of the criteria for fire station site selections. He then made a slide presentation of the area proposed for the fire station. Mr. Morahan indicated that the Council approved a purchase contract for the station March 16, 1978 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS in September of 1977, subject to a special permit from the Planning Commission. He stated that the permit having been denied by the Planning Commission, they decided to appeal the case for the following reasons: 1. The need for a station in the area and the timing involved. 2. There is not an acceptable alternate location available without probably condemnation. 3. The station would have good access on streets. Mr. Morahan stated that opposition to the station was based upon the possibility of less restrictive zoning occurring on nearby properties. He stated, however, that this is not necessarily so and that fire stations are compatible to residential neighborhoods. Mr. Morahan stated that the tentative site plan has been designed with neighborhood compatibility in mind. Mr. J. D. Murchison, City Architect, made a slide presentation of the various site plans for the station. He stated that the station can be completed by July of 1979. Chief Kirkham concluded the staff presentation by recommending that the station be approved. Councilmember Himmelblau asked Mr. Morahan if consideration had been given to the lot in front of the site coming off of West Cow Path and West Duval. Mr. Morahan indicated that this area was privately owned and that the owner would not discuss the conveyance of a fire station site because it conflicted with his own plans. In response to a question from Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mr. Morahan indicated that the completion time for another alternate site could be trimmed down to about six months. This six months would be in addition to the proposed completion date of July, 1979. MR. DICK PETERSON, resident of Mesa Park, told the Council that he represented a newly formed neighborhood group composed of residents from Angus Valley, Balcones Woods and Mesa Park. He stated that, though a vote had not been taken on the issue, the majority of persons in his organization were in favor of having the fire station in the area. Mr. Peterson stated that he personally recommended approval of the fire station in the area. MS. CATHERINE MCLAUGHLIN, Operating Vice-President of the Balcones Woods Homeowners Association, told the Council that their committee had unanimously voted in favor of the fire station. She stated that their organization consisted of 327 families in the Balcones Woods area. Ms. McLaughlin gave the following advantages of having a fire station located in the area: 1. There is good access to surrounding areas. 2. It would be good to have a fire station located in close proximity to a nearby nursing home. 3. Under the proposed landscaping design, visual inconveniences to the surrounding residential areas will be minimized. She urged the Council to consider the interests of her organization. il : : = CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS ! March 16, 1978 MR. JIM CIVI CIVITRO, a resident of Mesa Park, felt that it was important that the fire station be approved. MR. JOHN BROOKS urged the Council to approve the proposed location for the fire station. MR. LARRY DEUCER spoke in opposition to the fire station. He stated that he was in favor of a fire station in the Mesa/Angus Valley area but did not like the proposed location because it is so near to residential areas. Deucer presented the Council with a 266-name petition opposing the proposed fire station. Mr. MR. ARBRY HURSICK spoke in opposition to the site location for the fire station. He cited the following reasons for opposition: 1. The placement of a fire station behind area homes. 2. The site will drive a wedge between two pieces of land. He stated that he was pleased to see that the City was trying to keep the area basically residential. MS. ROSEANN SHORY told the Council that she would object to the location of a fire station within 300 feet of her home or backyard. She stated that this opinion was shared by the persons who signed the petition presented to Council. Ma. Shory stated that a fire station in the area would dešalue the residential property in the area and would also open the door for commercial zonings. She felt that phased-down zoning was needed for preservation of the area. Ms. Shory stated that she was not opposed to a fire station in the area but just a station at the proposed site. She felt that the area could be served by a station located at an alternate site as well as one located at the proposed site. MR. LARRY FRESHOUR told the Council that he was not opposed to a fire station in the area but that he was opposed to one at the proposed site. He stated that he had made a survey of other fire stations around the City. He suggested that the City construct the fire station away from residential areas as has been done in the past. Mr. Freshour recommended that the Council uphold the recommendation of the Planning Commission and deny the special permit. MR. TOM WHITTEN, a resident of Angus Valley, felt that it was wrong to place a fire station next to people's homes. I felt that the fire station will encourage commercial density in the area. Mr. Whitten stated that when Angus Valley was first annexed into the City, City staff had recommended that a fire station for the area be located on Hamilton Road, He asked that the City honor this commitment. He stated that he was in favor of a fire station in the area but not in the location recommended by staff. He felt that the amount of time needed to find an alternative seemed to be excessive. Mr. Whitten asked that the Council uphold the recommendation of the Planning Commission and deny the special permit. MR. CLARK CRAIG spoke in opposition to the proposed fire station. He felt that the extra six months should be taken to find an alternate location. ! 1 _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 MR. BEN PARM, a resident of Angus Valley, stated that there were other alternative sites where the fire station could be located. He stated that he did not want to see his property taxes go up any more. MR. KEITH ALEXANDER, representing the North Oaks Neighborhood Association, told the Council that the privacy of the neighborhoods needed to be preserved. MS. MARILYN GERISCH, representing the Northwest Oaks Neighborhood Association, spoke in opposition to the fire station. She stated that there was an extreme need for fire service in the area but that not all suitable sites have been exhausted. MR. KEITH SLOCUM, a resident of Angus Valley, told the Council that he lived one mile from the proposed site. He recomended that an alternative site be chosen because the proposed site was rather limited as to its ingress and egress. He also stated that the proposed station was too close to a nursing home. He recommended that a site be considered at the intersection of Duval Road and U. S. 183, on the south side. MS. SUSAN FURRS spoke in favor of the fire station stating that fire protection was greatly needed in the area. MR. RAY THOMAS, a property owner in the area, told the Council that he was in favor of a fire station in the area and that he would not mind living next door to one. MR. DON EDWARDS spoke in opposition to building a fire station at the proposed site. Mayor Pro Tem Trevino moved that the Council close the public hearing and postpone action on the matter until the following week. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke MRS. JOANNA CORNELL MEMORIAL MR. BILL MOORE, Chairman, Urban Transportation Commission, appeared before Council to recommend the honoring of Mrs. Joanna Cornell's memory by placing memorial plaques in the barrier-free buses obtained through Special Transit System Program. She was one of the charter members of the Commission and one of the hardest working people that Mr. Moore said he had ever had the opportunity to be associated with. He said Mrs. Cornell had been a prime mover in bringing the special transit system to Austin, and making it one of the top two or three in the nation. Mr. Moore then recognized Dr. John Cornell, husband of Joanna, her daughter Mary, and her mother Mrs. Helen Fell McBeth. Mayor McClellan told Mr. Moore, "We appreciate and are very enthusiastic about your Commission's recommendation. Joanna Cornell was a very special person to all of us. Through theyyears I've seen her participate in many ש _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 activitáss and many things that are needed for citizens in this community. I don't know anyone who always did it in such a positive manner. She was tremendous." Councilmember Himmelblau said, "Joanna was very special to me. I met her in 1958 when we were newcomers to the Faculty Club, University Ladies Club, and I never saw her down...her handicap didn't get her down, and you are right, she is the reason we have such a fine Special Transit System. I think the whole city owes her a debt of gratitude." Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council approve the recommendation of the Urban Transportation Commission to honor Mrs. Joanna Cornell by placing memorial plaques in the barrier-free buses obtained through the Special Transit System Program. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke STUDY COMMITTEE REQUESTED ZONING MS. SUSAN BERRY appeared before Council to follow up on her previous request that Council create a study committee to present concepts to the Planning Commission on zoning changes located on Outlots 72 and 73, west of I. H. 35, north of the Colorado River. She showed slides of the area and stated that in her opinion the area is a vital part of the proposed downtown restoration. She recommends that buildings which are scheduled to be demolished should be moved into the area and refurbished for low income housing. MR. SAM HERNANDEZ who rents a house in the area appeared to say that the neighborhood is deteriorating and bringing houses into the area would be a good idea. Mayor McClellan said she would have the staff look into the feasibility of the project. City Manager Davidson told Council he would have a report brought back to them. Mayor Pro Tem Trevino asked if the Planning Commission has looked into Ms. Barry's proposals. He told Council that the concern of Mr. Hernandez has been expressed frequently over the years, and he thinks it would be advisable for the Planning Commmission to look into the possibility of a roll back of zoning in the area. Mayor Pro Ten Trevino noved that the Council refer to the Planning Commission for study, concepts on soning changes located on Outlots 72 and 73, west of I.H. 35, north of the Colorado River, also to the Historical Landmark Commission. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke March 16, 1978 -CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS MAYOR OF LAKEWAY DISCURSES ETJ Mayor James T. Gribble of Lakeway appeared before Council to request extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) for the Village of Lakeway. He first had residents of Lakeway who were attending the Council Meeting stand up and then introduced MR. DOREN, ESKEW, attorney, who addressed Council. Mr. Eskew invited the Council to attend some of Lakeway's Council meetings and then said that they want to preserve the quality of life and contribute something to Austin. "It may be," he said, "that the purposes are expressed in the City of Austin's own zoning ordinance and in the state zoning law in the shortest possible way. That is, to lessen congestion, to secure safety from fire, panic and other dangers, to provide adequate light and air, to prevent the overcrowding of land, to prevent undue concentration of population, and a number of other things with reasonable consideration among others to preserving the peculiar sui suitability of buildings and the values of same, and encouraging the most appropriate use of land. We only want to address a couple of these objectives in this matter tonight, and then address a practical solution which we believe can be easily demonstrated to be both environmentally and economically advantageous to the City of Austin. We bring to you a request to contribute something to the well-being of the City of Austin. Particularly on this matter of overcrowding of land, avoiding undue concentration of population and in conserving the values of buildings and properties and encouraging the most appropriate land uses. On the 23rd of May, 1974, when Mr. Davidson recommended to the City Council that because the City of Austin could not in the reasonably forseeable future be capable of providing municipal services to this large group of people who were approximately 25 miles from the main body of Austin, and that the Council should consent to the holding of an election for separate incorporation there. There were several things that neither Mr. Davidson nor the members of the City Council. knew. First of all whether or not an election for that purpose would carry. Second, whether if it did carry the village would prove to be a responsible, self-sufficient corporation. Without a proven track record, I think Mr. Davidson and City Council wisely agreed that the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the City of Austin be maintained and the Village of Lakeway not exercise ETJ jurisdiction. That was agreed...no one is questioning what was agreed. Of course, with the passage of time and the changes of circumstances, and if it can be dnstrated to you it is both economically and environmentally sound and advantageous to the City of Austin to have someone else take on the headaches of some of the things the City of Austin is now having to spend money and staff time on." Mr. Eskew went on to say that if it can be demonstrated that some things can be done without spending Austin's money and staff time, then it would be time to reconsider the agusement reached in 1974. He said that in the intervening years Lakeway has been able to more than fulfill the aspirations, as it is fiscally and governmentally sound. The subdivision ordinance of Austin, he continued, prescribes only the minimum standarde. It does not provide the maximum standards for land uses or development, therefore, do not prevent the overcrowding of land 25 miles away from the main body of the City. He said the ordinance should not be geared to an area that far away; to the contrary residents of Lakeway want to be protected from overcrowding and land uses can be administered in such a way as to prevent water pollution on Lake Travis. He thinks the common goals of Austin and Lakeway can best be served by permitting Lakeway the exercise of extraterritorial jurisdiction for subdivision purposes only in those instances in which their regulations would be as ـــــــــــــــــــــ-CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 protective as the ordinances as the City of Austin. He feels there is no reason why an intergovernmental agreement between Austin and Lakeway cannot be met which would permit the most protective of the ordinances of the Village and the City to apply in the overlapping ETJ. He said he has not yet heard a logical explanation or reason why this sort of an arrangement, which would be advantageous to Austin and Lakeway, should not be embraced. Mayor Gribble addressed Council by saying that the agreement made between Austin and Lakeway 5-1/2 years ago was agreeable to everyone, but now Lakeway has the staff capability to operate their village of 700 permanent residents. Councilmember Goodman stated that the situation has changed since the agreement made in 1974 and the residents of Lakeway have a legitimate concern The City staff, he said, is against the establishment of an ETJ, but perhaps Austin can go along with an intergovernmental committee with Lakeway to see what agreement can be worked out after some discussion. Motion Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council formaan intergovernmental committee between Lakeway and the City of Austin to look into the possibility of solving the situation. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Trevino. When seconding the motion, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino said he is particularly interested in seeing what the administration has to say regarding the intergovernmental cooperative agreement. Councilmember Snell asked what effect this is going to have on the request being made tonight. Councilmember Goodman answered that this would be a preliminary step in making some assessments to find out what sort of concerns Lakeway has and who has the legal responsibility for dealing with those concerns. He said Austin is making no commitment except to thoroughly study the alternatives available. Mayor McClellan commented that Austin shares the concern of wanting to be very protective of the control and development in our ETJ area. Councilmember Himmelblau stated, "I feel with our Planning Commission we're very competent in making decisions with subdivisions in our ETJ. I personally am satisfied with the 1974 agreement with the Butler Council," The Mayor and Mr. Eskew exchanged remarks about sharing concems for the development of the ETJ of their respective City and Village. Councilmember Goodman asked if the statisticsscompiled could include some information about the increase of population and what kind of problems have surfaced as a result. He said this would allow the City to address the concerns of the residents on a more timely basis. Mayor McClellan asked, "Do you have a Planning Commission or a subdivision ordinance?" Mr. Eskew replied that Article 974-A requires for either the Planning Commission to approve subdivision plats outside the City, or if there is no Planning Commission, the City takes over that duty. In this case, he said, the governing body of the Village of Lakeway has exercised its authority to control subdivision plats and is perfectly capable and willing to do so. Because of the fact that Lakeway has not had ETJ, it has not been necessary thus far to have a subdivision ordinance. He said they have examined Austin's subdivision ordinance and feel some Liprovements can be made when Lakeway enacts its ordinance. L CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16. 1978 Ayes: Noes: Absent: Roll Call on Motion Councilmember Mullen, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmember Goodman Councilmembers Himmelblau, Snell Councilmember Cooke USE OF CITY FACILITIES FOR PRIMARY ELECTIONS Mayor Pro Tem Trevino moved that the Council approve the request of Mr. Ken Wendler, Chairman of Travis County Democratic Party, for assistance and use of the following City facilities for primary elections on May 6, 1978, and June 3, 1978, subject to written agreement for assistance: Doris Miller Auditorium Ullrich Water Treatment Plant Austin Recreation Center Pan American Recreation Center The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmember Himmelblau Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Goodman MR. BUSSLER DID NOT APPEAR MR. ALLEN L. BUSSLER, who had requested to be heard under Citizentá Communications, did not appear at this time. NAACP VETERANS OUTREACH PROGRAM Councilmember Snell had asked that there be a discussion of a budget requrest for the NAACP Veterans Outreach Program. MS. LINDA LEWIS-MCGOWAN appeared before Council to request funds for more suitable office space and equipment. She said that 16 staff members are housed in one small room with no money funded for equipment. She requested the City appropriate $18,405.35 to their program so they may have the essentials needed for carrying out their program. Motion Died for Lack of a Second Councilmember Snell made a motion to support the budget request for the NAACP Veterans Outreach Program. There was no second to the motion.. Mayor Pro Tem Trevino asked what staff recommends. Mr. Dan Davidson, City Manager, said, "The staff tried to assess this request as submitted by NAACP and you'll notice that in the written material Mr. Snell asked to be passed out that Mr. Liro points out in connection with this particular program that if the program is going to achieve the objectives that are stated within _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 the programs effort that NAACP must obtain some additional funding for these administrative expenses. I must point out also, however, that this is something a little bit different, and if the City Council does grant this request, it could lead to similar expense allocations requests from other similar agencies who are operating in the CETA program. It is something different, it could set a precedent, but our staff does indicate that if they are going to achieve the objectives that they originally set out they have to get some funding from somewhere and I think that is why Mr. Snell put it on the agenda." Councilmember Himmelblau stated, "Mr. Davidson, for organizations that are recommended for CETA grants, aren't their capabilities checked out before those positions are awarded?" Mr. Davidson said one of his staff would speak to that, "I'm not sure whether or not the initial analysis of the program requests are made on the basis of anticipating the changes that are brought about by sponsoring this organization." Ma. Lewis-McGowan said she had just finished working for a consultant firm who monitored the performance of EETA contracts around the state of Texas. It is the general procedure that administrative costs are part of CETA funds. The City of Austin does not do that. Historically, she said, when poverty programs came into vogue they were run by neighborhood associations. It is normal procedure to include administrative costs when awarding a contract or sub-contracting. Andy Ramirez, Director of Human Resources, addressed Council by saying, "I think there is some confusion over what is considered administrative costs for a contractor, a person who is administering part of a program as opposed to funding a project. When we solicited proposals for projects, we made it clear in the request for proposal that we were not going to allow administrative costs. That was in fact part of the package that was approved by Council that the idea behind that as opposed to buying the material so that, or like safety glasses or safety shoes or those kinds of things to implement a project that the project sponsor would have to provide that cost. In order to divert all of that money toward actual participant wages and not have it diverted for buying any kind of safety equipment, lawn mowers, equipment, etc., it is in fact eligible as an activity. However, we recommended initially to the MATC as well as to this Council that we use that money for purposes of previding wages to participants. That way we would be able to hire more people under that particular program. It is true that other plans are in fact allowing the cost of not necessarily administrative costs as much as allowing the cost for participant uniforms or participant kinds of things. I'd like to point out that the difference of administrative costs, the regulations speak to 7-1/2% to be used by a sub-grantee. That is a grantee that is administering a definite part of the grant, i. e, doing the administration of the grant as opposed to administering a project that has been funded." Councilmember Himmelblau said, "When this came up and was considered, was it made clear that there wouldn't be any funding...." Mr. Ramirez answered, that was in fact in the RFP. "Again, "he said, "it is important that at this point in time our position is that we don't have the money even if the Council wanted to do it because all of our money is obligated for projects." Councilmember Himmelblau asked if he thought we would be setting a precedent where most of the organizations would come back and expect the same. Mr. Ramirez answered that would be his apprehension. Councilmember Trevino commented that this request for funds is from General Funds and not from CETA. So, therefore, he continued, any projects which had been denied administrative funds may come in CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXASMarch 16, 1978 and request funds from the general fund. Mr. Ramirez said the only thing which can be offered as a remedy in this point in tine is that if the Council desires, the policy can be changed to allow that kind of a cost, but staff does not recommend. Councilmember Goodman asked if some assistance can be lent insofar as office supplies and maybe some office space with some surplus city equipment. Mr. Ramirez answered that his staff is currently looking at excess equipment at the request of Mr. Liro, or looking at it with leasing in mind rather than purchase. Councilmember Goodman asked if all of this information can be developed in the next week so that by next Thursday"we have a good idea of exactly how much you're going to be able to find." M. Walker said she had been investigating a source for two months, going through all proper channels, and the issue is still unresolved. Councilmember Mullen asked Me. Walker if she had been involved with this program from the very beginning. She said she has been since it first was before Council in November 1977. Councilmember Mullen said people have come to his office with this type of request before, and "I don't understand. Where did we mess up here, why don't you understand these are things you are supposed to supply?" She said there must have been some misunderstanding from the beginning. At this point there was considerable discussion between Ms. Walker, Ms. McGowan, Councilmember Snell and otherss concerning what had been understood and misunderstood. Mr. Davidson told those appearing before Council, "I'm not here to argue with you about it, I'm simply pointing out you are asking for an appropriation from the City's general fund which is not budgeted. If this approved by the Austin City Council, you are going to end up with a multitude of requests for the same thing. I think the urgency is obviously felt, but the time to address such funding is a matter of course in the budget. This is not budget time." Ms. Walker asked Mr. Davidson what the City intends to do, and he replied that the City is not responsible for their office space or supplies. She said that the City is responsibile for seeing that programs that receive City funds are operating properly. Mr. Davidson said the City does not analyze that. Councilmember Snell said he wanted to take responsibility for this because he just passed out the information and he suggested if they wait another week, the problem can be solved. Mr. Goodman agreed with Mr. Davidson and said it is not the City's fault that these contingencies are not planned for. He said it wasn't the City's submission, it was a grant.. After further arguing and discussion, Mr. Davidson stated, "This item is on the agenda as an item from a City Councilmember. It's not scheduled as a debate, it's not scheduled as an ordinance for appropriation, and it's not scheduled as an item from the City Manager." Motion Councilmember Snell moved that the Council postpone until next week any decision on a budget request for NAACP Veterans Outreach Program, and have the City Manager look into what can be done. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Goodman. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 Mayor McClellan said that included in the motion, it should be determined if there is any equipment which can be used by NAACP. Mr. Snell said that is what he meant. The Mayor reiterated that this issue is more of a concern than in October because anything brought to Council's attention after adoption of the budget has to be looked at with due consideration. She asked Mr. Davidson to get a report from Mr. Liro about what commitments were, or were not made. She said she wants this addressed at next week's meeting, too, before a decision is made. Councilmember Goodman stated that the City has a problem and has to somehow find a solution "without establishing a precedent that is going to cost us multi-thousands of dollars for every other agency, some of whom I see in here tonight monitoring this discussion. We need to figure out how to get these resources to this program so that it can continue to do the job it's doing." Councilmember Snell said, "We give other agencies money, such as the MexicanAmerican Chamber of Commerce...but a Black organization, I discouraged them from coming to the Council and saying anything. It's a matter of what we want to do. I would like to see if we can work with staff and come up with some typewriters to supply the people. They are doing a good job." Councilmember Goodman said, "One of the solutions we should look into this next week, and on an immediate basis is seeing if we can, through October 1, 1978, find a suitable place for them to be located, one with enough office space, if there is one available." Councilmember Mullen asked again, "What in the world went wrong? As I understand it, it was not this Council, nor the City's responsibility. Now we are being blamed as if it is our responsibility. We funded and we did our part and now it looks like we don't care. But we do care. What can we do next year so this doesn't happen again?" Councilmember Snell said, "We should be sure, just as Betty stated, that agencies who come before us are equipped to do what they are asking to do." Roll Call on Motion Roll call on CouncilmembersSnell's motion, Councilmember Goodman's second, to postpone until next week, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Dooke PARADE PERMIT Mayor Pro Ten Trevino moved that the Council approve the request for a parade permit from Mr. Young for the Travis County Sheriff Posse, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 19, 1978, beginning on Burleson Road to Ben White, to Congress Avenue, Congress Avenue to Riverside, west to Coliseum. The motion, seconded by Mayor McClellan, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayer McClellan, Councilmenbers Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Goodman = CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER TRANSIT SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS Mayor McClellan opened the public hearing scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on transit system improvements. Mr. Joe Ternus, Director of the Urban Transpor tation Department, presented the Council with an outline of changes to be made in the transit system. These changes are as follows: 1. A more reliable bus time schedule. 2. More frequent service during the peak periods. 3. Extensions of routes. 4. The extension of a new route along Riverside Drive to Bergstrom Air Force Base. Mr. Ternus indicated that the proposals have been discussed with the Urban Transportation Commission, and that two changes have been made in light of comments made at the Commission hearings. Councilmember Himmelblau asked if previously deleted routes were being considered before new routes are added. Mr. Ternus stated that this had been considered and that the only new route being added was the Riverside to Bergstrom Air Force Base route. He stated that this particular route would be more efficient than the original route which was deleted earlier. Mr. Ternus stated that the Dove Springs area was probably the highest priority area which is not currently served by the transit system. He stated that if there was additional equipment, they would be recommending service into this area. Mr. Ternus stated that they have also looked at service along U. S. 183 and that with additional equipment, some bus service could be provided in lieu of deletion of the Allandale route. He stated that this woute would start at Seton Medical Center on 38th Street, up Shoal Creek Boulevard to Northcross Mall. He stated that this would service about half the people who lost service last fall with the deletion of the Allandale Route. Mr. Ternus indicated that they were concerned about the equipment available. He stated that there is one additional bus which is being reserved for south S Austin after the Congress Avenue bridge is closed. He stated that if this bus is not needed for south Austin routes, then the Council could consider using it in either the Dove Springs area or along Shoal Creek Boulevard. He stated that these are the two areas he was recommending for equipment priority. Councilmember Himmelblau asked if the City was obligated to serve within the incorpo- rated area of Dove Springs before it could serve Bergstrom Air Force Base. Mr. Ternus was not sure if there was any requirement to serve a particular area. stated that, historically, there has been appreference to serve areas within the corporate limits of Austin, versus service outside of the City limits. He stated, however, that the Bergstrom route would serve a heavier concentration of people, many of whom live in the city but work at Bergstrom Air Force Base. Mr. Ternus, in response to a question from Councilmember Himmelblau, stated that Bergstrom Air Force Base did at one time have a limited service going to and from the city. He stated that the Riverside/Bergstrom route would also provide needed service to the Montopolis area. Mr. Ternus indicated that they were recommending the Riverside Bergstrom route over the Dove Springs route because it would be serving a greater portion of the city. Councilmember Himmelblau asked how long it would be before service could be scheduled for the Dove Springs area. Mr. Ternus indicated that the Council has authorized the purchase of three additional buses to operate out of the north terminal. This purchase order has been forwarded to the Federal government. He stated that service He March 16, 1978 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS ! could begin in the area within seven to eight months. Mr. Homer Reed, Deputy City Manager, pointed out that this would require a budget amendment. MS. JEAN MATHER, President of the South River City Citizens Group, asked Mr. Ternus if the changes previously mentioned included revision of the proposal for Travis Heights. Mr. Ternus replied that it did not. Ms. Mather indicated that they wanted an increased bus frequency along the Travis Heights route. She recommended that more buses be added to the route or that the route be made into two loops so that the route could be covered within the required time limit. Ms. Mather indicated that her organization wanted buses along Lamar and Oltorf Streets. Ms. Mather then read a 96-name petition from persons living along the Travis Heights route. The petition read as follows: "We, the undersigned riders of the Travis Heights bus, oppose the planned reduction of service on this line. Increasing the interval between buses from 30 to 40 minutes will inconvenience many of us, not only because of the difficulty in remembering the schedule, but also because of the need to take an earlier bus to make connections to get to work, meet doctors appointments and so on. The closing of the Congress Avenue Bridge should be the time to increase the availability of public transportation to south Austin, particularly at peak hours, not decrease it." Councilmember Himmelblau asked if a loop made on Riverside Drive rather than continuing service to Bergstrom Air Force Base would increase the service in the Travis Heightssarea. Mr. Ternus stated that it would not effect the Travis Heights route. Mr. Ternus pointed out that the Travis Heights route ranked 19th out of 24 bus routes and that the route is not heavily used during the peak periods. He stated that the 20-minute service is being put on the routes that have the heaviest ridership and that, as additional buses are obtained, the 20-minute service can be extended to other routes. Councilmember Himmelblau indicated that she was opposed to extending service outside of the City limits. Councilmember Snell indicated that he was in favor of extending bus service to Bergstrom Air Force Base. Mr. Ternus stated that surveys have shown that the Riverside/Bergstrom route will be a well-used route. Mayor Pro Tem Trevino pointed out that the Montopolis community has been requesting bus service for a long time and that the route is long overdue. Councilmember Himmelblau asked if the route could serve the Montopolis area without going to Bergstrom. Mr. Ternus indicated that it could but that it would be better to have people going in both directions on a major route. Mr. Reed indicated that Air Force officials at Bergstrom have been requesting the service for some time and that the proposal was placed in the transit plan in part as a demonstration. He stated that the route would be scrutinized for feasibility. MS. ROSALYN BOND spoke in favor of the proposal. She stated that the proposal would at least increase the number of bus routes already in existence. Ms. Bond stated that the route would greatly help persons who don't have an automobile. Ms. Bond felt that there should be more bus routes during the weekends when people run errands. MS. MARILYN SIMPSON, President of the Whispering Oaks/Cherry Creek Neighborhood Association, told the Council that they were pleased to see CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 that the Manchaga bus has been routed into their area. Ms. Simpson stated that it would be helpful if a map of the City along with all bus routes was made available to the public. 1 MR. BILL SCARBROUGH presented his idea of an alternative to the plan. MR. BILL MOORE, Chairperson of the Urban Transportation Commission, shared the concerns of the Commission with the Council. Mr. Moore agreed that route frequencies needed to be chosen in such a way as to accommodate the areas with the highest population density. He gave an explanation of routing schedules and time to the Council. Mr. Moore felt that the proposed transit improvements laid the base for implementing the Public Transportation Plan. He stated that it was the recommendation of the Commission that the proposed improvements be approved by the Council. Motion Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council close the public hearing and approve the recommendation of the Urban Transportation Commission to approve the Austin Transit System improvements. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke Councilmember Goodman made the following statement during the roll call: "I vote yes and I'd like to say thank you to those who have participated in helping to put together the new plan. In particular there are a couple of suggestions on your sheet, Ms. Bond, that I would like to follow-up on in particular your suggestion number 4: 'that we have some information available at the main intersection of 6th and Congress', actually that's your suggestion number 6. I frequently observe people, what they have to do is get on the bus and ask the bus driver where the next bus is going and what time it is coming... there's no schedule or route information at that main terminal, so to speak. So, Mr. Reed, can staff develop any suggestions for dealing with that? I know that in other cities they have a schedule and a map with routes posted." Councilmember Snell made the following statement during the roll call: "I'd like to say that I'm certainly happy to see this route include Bergstrom and our friends way out south, I vote yes." CONTRACT WIDENING OF RED RIVER The Council had before it for consideration the following contract: AUSTIN ROAD COMPANY 428 East Anderson Lane Austin, Texas - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM - Widening of Red River Street from 32nd Street to 38-1/2 Street - $1,198,296.20 CIP Nos. 75/62-07, 73/50-03 and 75/40-09 3 _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 Councilmember Goodman asked when residents in the area were informed of the project. Mr. T. J. Hillis, Chief Engineer, told the Council that the neighborhood group was shown the plan yesterday afternoon. In response to a question from Deputy City Manager Reed, Mr. Joe Ternus, Director of the Urban Transportation Department, stated that the basic project was a sixty foot roadway on an eighty foot right-of-way. He stated that there had been considerable discussion as to how many lanes the street should have. Councilmember Goodman asked if the City has acquired all of the land necessary to complete the plan. Mr. Termus indicated that the City does not acquire the right-of-way but that the University of Texas has the responsibility of acquiring the right-of-way. Mr. Ternus stated that one piece of land south of 32nd Street was currently in litigation. Councilmember Goodman expressed concern that the project would run into legal entanglement. Mr. Ternus indicated that the legal staff felt the University of Texas will be successful in acquiring the right-ofway, and, if not, there were other ways by which the land can be acquired. Councilmember Himmelblau asked if this was the same plan that was heard in 1975 and Mr. Ternus replied that it was. He stated that they had more specifications now than in 1975 when the plan came up. Motion határe Withdrawn Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council postpone action on the matter until next week. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Ten Trevino. DR. WILLIAM SHIVE told the Council that at the time of the public hearing, the Council had expressed privately and publicly that there was no alternative other than to go ahead and draw the plans for the project. He stated that they were told that there would be another public hearing on the configuration of the project and the exact width of the street. Dr. Shive felt that the project would be a waste of money and asked that action be delayed until a public hearing could be held. He stated that in the previous public hearing there had been no mention of the one block between 38th and 38-1/2 Streets. In response to a question from Councilmember Goodman, Mr. Ternus indicated that the original plan presented in 1975 included 38-1/2 Street as the northernmost boundary for the project. Later in the meeting, Councilmember Goodman withdrew his motion. Motion Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council set a public hearing on the project for March 23, 1978, at 9:30 a... The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke BUSSLER APPEARED MR. ALLEN BUSSLER, who had not appeared earlier as scheduled appeared to apologize, something had come up which required his time. t _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 i as they looked at the alternatives, they thought it was appropriate to have a staff person with that direct responsibility. He said the person does not have to work in the Personnel Department. At this point, there is no one in his department who can take on that additional responsibility. He said the alternative of not adding any additional staff members was carefully considered. Councilmember Himmelblau wondered if the suggestions were handled by each department, if that would not minimize the work that would go to the Personnel Department. 11 Mr. Homer Reed, Deputy City Manager, commented that the survey Mr. Flakes and other members of the staff made in other cities where suggestion programs have been initiated, is that unless you do staff them and put some effort into them, they soon just fade away. Mr. Haed said it is the staff's understanding that Council wants this to be an active program with the feeling that it will pay off with profit to spare. He said it has that potential but they do not feel it will if it is not properly staffed. Councilmember Himmelblau said she would like to see it tried for two or three months going through the departments before the budget is amended to add more personnel. Mr. Flakes said that what she is suggesting is already outlined in the 28-page report on alternatives. Mayor McClellan added her thoughts that all of this had already been thoroughly discussed and it had been decided that a suggestion program should have proper monitoring. The Mayor also said she thought this is one program that will more than pay for itself. Mayor HaClellan introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 770922-A, ANNUAL BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 1977, AND TERMINATING SZEMBER 30, 1978, BY APPROPRIATING $10,987.00, FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SUGGESTION AWARDS PROGRAM FOR CITY EMPLOYEES; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THAT ORDINANCES BE READ ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion was seconded by Mayor McClellan. Friendly Amendment - Not Accepted Councilmember Mullen offered a friendly amendment to raise the award from $500.00 to $1,000.00. His friendly amendment was not accepted. Roll Call on Motion Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino Noes: Councilmember Himmelblau Absent: Councilmember Cooke The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16. 1978 CEDAR PARK ETJ City Attorney Harris said it had come to the City's attention some time ago that the City of Cedar Park, when it originally incorporated overlapped into some of Austin's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) zone, which is not permissable under the law. In addition, a subsequent annexation they also overlapped partly into Austin's ETJ. This, he said, is something which needs to be resolved and believes it should be resolved legally and firmly once and for all so there will not be any confusion in people's minds who live in these areas concerning who has control. As a result, Mr. Harris said the City is instigating litigation in order to resolve the uncertainties. Mayor Pro Tem Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize the City Attorney to legally contest the incorporation and annexation of Cedar Park. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke COLORADO RIVER DAM PROTEST Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize the City Attorney to file a protest in the matter of the application of the Colorado River Municipal Water District to construct a dam near the confluence of the Concho and Colorado Rivers (application pending before the Texas Department of Water Resources). The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke City Attorney Harris told Council this is an application for a new dam and reservoir on the Colorado River upstream from the current Highland Lakes. He said that he understood, from preliminary reports, some conducted by LCRA that there is a possibility this could have an impact on Austin's water supply, hot only for municipal purposes, but also for cooling our various power plants. He said he believes it is in the interest of Austin to file a protest before the Water Commission, being a party to the litigation and keeping a close pulse on the situation so Council can be advised as things develop. SUGGESTION AWARDS PROGRAM Council had before it an ordinance appropriating funds in the amount of $10,987.00 for the implementation of the Suggestion Awards Program for City employees. Councilmember Himmelblau asked, "Instead of appropriating more funds, I wonder if this couldn't be done through the various departments without adding more City personnel." Mr. Flakes, Director of Personnel, answered that n CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS March 16, 1978 EMS QUALITY ASSURANCE ORDINANCE Councilmember Himmelblau introduced to Council an amendment to the EMS (Emergency Mediçal Service) Quality Assurance Ordinance. She said, "I'd like to designate the ordinance that one of the consumer positions be set aside for a member of the Travis County Commissioner's Court, and also an ordinance change of Part 1, That Part 2 of Ordinance No. 760122-E shall read as follows: "PART 2. All members to be appointed to and to serve hereinafter on City established boards, commissions and committees shall be residents of the City of Austin, except for the Electric, Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Appeal Boards, the Energy Conservation Commission, and the Emergency Medical Services Quality Assurance Team, and further except as otherwise provided by City, State or Federal law." Motion Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council pass the two ordinance Councilmember Goodman seconded the motion. amendments. Councilmember Mullen asked, "Is there a chance that you might have somebody on the Coimty Commissioner's Court that doesn't live in the City limits?" Councilmember Goodman pointed out that Councilmember Himmelblau is speaking about two separate issues, and City Attorney Harris said that all of the members of the County Commissioner's Court could live outside the City, but this is to remove the requirement that the members of this particular board or commission live within the City. Councilmember Snell asked who would select the member, and Councilmember Himmelblau said Council selects the whole commission, but one will be designated as being a member of the Commissioner's Court. Councilmember Mullen said he thought it is a bad practice to say that one of the members of the commission has to be a member of the County Commissioner's Court. He said it is not logical, since a member of the City Council is not on the commission. Roll Call on Motions Mayor McClellan introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 780216-M, BY REVISING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR APPOINTMENT FOR MEMBERS OF THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES QUALITY ASSURANCE TEAM; DELETING THE REQUIREMENT THAT MEMBERS BE RESIDENT CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUERING THE READING OF ORDINANCES ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: Councilmember Mullen Absent: Councilmember Cooke The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. March 16, 1978 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Mayor McClellan introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PART 2 OF ORDINANCE NO. 760122-E TO PROVIDE THAT MEMBERS OF THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES QUALITY ASSURANCE TEAM SHALL NOT BE REQUIRED TO BE RESIDENTS OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THAT ORDINANCES SHALL BE READ ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Snell, Mayor Pro Tem Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: Councilmember Mullen Absent: Councilmember Cooke The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. PECOS STREET SIDEWALKS Mr. Homer Reed, Deputy City Manager, presented a report on Pecos Street Sidewalks. He said the report has been in the Council's hands for ten days and copies have been sent to all property owners immediately effected by the area proposed for not installing a sidewalk. He said the proposal said to delete one long block of sidewalks between the Northwood-Wade intersection and the Scenic intersection on the west side of Pecos. In lieu, thereof, install a sidewalk on the west side of Pecos from Reed Park to Windsor Park. Councilmember Himmelblau commented that a letter has been received from Mrs. Shipman saying that the West Austin Neighborhood Association is satisfied with the walk plan. Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council authorize a contract to proceed with the Pecos Street Sidewalks, as amended. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mullen, Snell, Mayor Pro Ten Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Cooke ELECTRIC UTILITY RATE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Mr. Jorge Carrasco, Superintendent of Administration, Electric Department, presented a report on the Electric Utility Rate Management Program, copies of which had been received by Council. He said the only new information he had to share are the recommendations made by the Electric Utility Commission. Mr. Reed said there will be an ordinance to authorize the additional positions, although by cutting back in other areas no dollars will need to be appropriated. 3 n CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS_ ADJOURNMENT i i Council adjourned its meeting at 11:00 p.m. ATTEST: City Clerk March 16, 1978 APPROVED Clella Mayor