CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Regular Meeting June 22, 1978 10:00 Α.Μ. Council Chambers 301 West Second Street The meeting was called to order with Mayor McClellan presiding. Roll Call: Present: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino None Absent: COUNCILMEMBER'S DAUGHTER INTRODUCED Miss Kim Cooke, daughter of Councilmember Lee Cooke was introduced to other Councilmembers and the Council Chamber audience by Mayor McClellan. Miss Cooke, who lives in San Francisco, was presented with a Certificate of Honorary Citizenship by the Mayor. Miss Cooke accepted the Certificate with pleasure and a thank you. MISS PRETEEN TEXAS DAY LEAH MONTGOMERY, who was recently selected as Miss Preteen in a statewide competition was honored by the City of Austin in a proclamation, read by the Mayor, designating June 22, 1978, as Miss Preteen Texas Day. Miss Montgomery accepted with her thanks. MINUTES APPROVED Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council approve the Minutes for Special Meetings of June 10, 1978 and June 15, 1978, and Regular Meeting of June 15, 1978. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Cooke, carried by the following vote: CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino Noes: None ANNOUNCEMENTS Mayor McClellan announced that Council will meet with the LCRA Board at their open, public meeting at 11:30 a.m., today. She said that whatever Councilmember wants to go can go, there is no limit as long as there is a quorum. She said that they would be guests of LCRA as it really is their meeting, and the meeting has been posted as an Emergency Meeting of the Austin City Council at 11:30 a.m. this morning. EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor McClellan also announced that the Council will convene in a closed or executive session at 1:30 p.m. in her office, today, authorized by Section 2, Paragraphs (e), (f) and (g) of Article 6252-17, Texas Revised Civil Statutes Annotated; and after such closed or executive session, any final action, decision or vote with regard to any matter considered in the closed or executive session will be made in open session, should such action, decision or vote be necessary. She said that following the session the Council will probably have some announcements to make concerning the Citizens' Electric Utility Commission, and perhaps others. ITEMS PULLED The Mayor announced that Item B.2. (Withdrawal of zoning case C14-78-101) under Citizens Communications, and Item D.1.b. under Ordinances (Ordinance for zoning case C14-78-044, Barrow Corporation) had been acted on the previous week and are pulled from the agenda. NORTHWEST 183 FIRE STATION SITE Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize acquisition of certain land for the Northwest 183 Fire Station Site. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT No. 73/83-06. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None 0.58 of one acre of land out of and part of the remaining portion of that certain 172.36 acre tract of land out of the James Rogers Survey and the F. G. Secrest Survey (E. J. Hood) _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Mayor McClellan asked Fire Chief Kirkham how long it will be before this fire station will be operating. He said that if everything proceeds normally, it will be about 18 months, or the spring of 1980. Councilmember Goodman asked how much the land is costing per square foot. Chief Kirkham told him, $1.19. RELEASE OF EASEMENTS Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize release of the following Easements: The two (2) five (5.00) foot Public Utility Easements; one being out of and a part of Lot 3, Block "A" and the other being out of and a part of Lot 5, Block "A," Mesa Village Subdivision, locally known as 8100 Mesa Drive, and recorded in Plat Book 75, Page 198, of the Plat Records of Travis County, Texas. (Requested by Bryant-Curington, Inc., Engineer for Mr. R. T. Mayfield, owner) The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize release of the following Easement: The west five (5.00) feet of a ten (10.00) foot wastewater Easement on Lot 2, Resubdivision of Part of Lot 7, Maas Addition. by Mr. Dick Clark, owner) (Requested The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize release of the following Easement: A six (6.00) foot Public Utility Easement along the east side of Lot 14, Block 3, Brykerwoods, Section "C," as recorded in Plat Book 4, Page 46 and locally known as 1804 Northwood Road. (Requested by Mr. Gay Ziller, owner) The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS June 22, 1979 Councilmember Himmelblau said that it seems "each week we have to release an easement because a home or part of a building is built over an easement, and I am wondering why with Building Inspection looking at the plans we experience so much of this?" Mr. Davidson, City Manager, stated: "Actually, each one of these, of course, we have to bring to the City Council. It is proper and legal and, therefore, it does appear we have a lot of them, but if you compare this with the total number of units constructed, it is a very minute percentage. In a good many of the cases we bring to you, the structure was built prior to annexation into the City, and therefore, no building permit was required. In other cases, on the old maps in connection with the plat that may have been approved 40 years ago, the property lines or the easement locations were incorrectly documented on the City files. In some cases it is merely an oversight, but in the large majority of those we bring you, it's one of the former reasons as to why it occurred in the first place. Then years later some potential purchaser of the property gets hung up in a title search and is unable to transfer the title, and it's at that point, which is a very good safeguard, that the property owners involved bring it to our attention, and we bring it to you to correct." Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize release of the following Easement: A portion of a five (5.00) foot Public Utility and Drainage Easement on the west side of Lot 26A, Block "F," Scenic Brook West Section Two, Phase One, locally known as 7114 Scenic Brook Drive. (Requested by Mr. William M. Wallace) The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CONTRACTS APPROVED Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving the following contract: TEXAS CRUSHED STONE COMPANY North IH 35 - Crushed Road Stone, Street and Bridge Division Georgetown, Texas Twelve (12) Months Supply Agreement Items 1-3 $39,825.00 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving the following contract: DELTA MACHINE COMPANY 3622 Brown Drive Brownsville, Texas - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM Pump Repair Parts for 7,000 GPM Fairbanks Morse Pump and 5,000 GPM Patterson Pump, Water and Wastewater Department. Items 1 through 4 $7,529.93 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving the following contract: ARMOUR OF AMERICA 1760 Stewart Street Santa Monica, California - Police Equipment, Police Department Item 1 $29,957.84 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving the following contract: WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY 9230 Research Boulevard Austin, Texas CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM Three Phase Pad Mounted Transformers, Electric Department. Items 1 through 6 - $109,960.00 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving the following contract: GRAYBAR ELECTRIC COMPANY 7434 Lamar, North Austin, Texas - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM 164,674 Pounds (603,200') Shield Wire for 345 KV Transmission Line, Item 1 $72,291.89 - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to approve the following contract: UTILITY EQUIPMENT COMPANY 5305 North Santa Fe Oklahoma City, Oklahoma - One Cable Reel Trailer, Vehicle and Equipment Services Department. Item 1 $7,193.30 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution approving the following contracts: Bid Award: BANCROFT PAPER COMPANY 2201 East 6th Street Austin, Texas - - Coarse Paper Products, All City Departments Items 1, 5, 7, 11, 12, 17 through 21, 28 and 42 $6,068.71 LONE STAR PAPER COMPANY 210 St. Elmo Road Items 2, 3, 6, 8, 13, 15 and 27 $951.39 Austin, Texas CENTURY PAPERS, INC. 3203 Aniol Street San Antonio, Texas - Items 9, 16, 22, 24 and 29 $921.39 AUSTIN PAPER COMPANY 1501 West 5th Street Austin, Texas Items 4, 10, 14, 23, 25, 26, 30 through 33, 39 through 41 $3,940.41 The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 FARE RAISED FOR ZILKER PARK EAGLE Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to amend the contract with the owners of Zilker Park Eagle to provide 35 cents per ride for fare. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None SENIOR AIDES PROGRAM Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize submission of a 2nd year grant renewal to National Council of Senior Citizens for Title IX, Older American Act funds for the Senior Aides Program; and authorization to enter into a contract agreement. (Contract periods: July 1, 1978 June 30, 1979. Total amount $250,766; City share $27,077 in-kind) The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None PARKING METER ZONES Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize the following parking meter zones: DELETE LIMITS SIDE OF METER ZONE STREET FROM TO STREET 60 West Service 1400 1400 West Road IH 35North 60 East 15th Street 700 700 South 120 East 15th Street 600 700 North 120 East 15th Street 700 700 South REESTABLISH 15/30 San Antonio 30/60 Red River 30/60 Old 14th Street (Brackenridge Hospital St.) 30/60 East 15th Street 30/60/90/120 Red River 30/60/90/120 East 15th Street 30/60/90/120 East 15th Street 1000 1000 West 1200 1400 East 700 700 North 700 700 South 1200 1400 East 500 700 North 500 700 South The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to select the firm of Stapp, Hamilton and Associates for soils investigation and engineering testing services during the design and construction of Metz Recreation Center Addition for Parks and Recreation Department. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM No. 78/86-21. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to meet with Lawless & Alford, Inc., to seek price reductions from amounts bid on June 13, 1978, for construction of Northwest Recreation Center. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM No. 8651 1. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CETA TITLE VI PROJECTS Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize negotiations to expand three (3) and extend two (2) current CETA Title VI Projects with private non-profit agencies. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None DAY CARE CENTER PUBLIC HEARING SET Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council set a public hearing on July 27, 1978, at 10:30a.m. on an appeal of the decision of the Planning Commission granting a Special Permit for day care center located at 1105 South Meadows. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 ZONING ORDINANCES Mayor McClellan 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: LOTS 1-25, ARROYO SECO, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 3801-3803 HILLBROOK DRIVE, 5916 MOUNTAIN CLIMB DRIVE, AND ALSO BOUNDED BY DRY CREEK DRIVE; FROM "O" OFFICE DISTRICT AND "LR" LOCAL RETAIL DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE DISTRICT; 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. (Lamar Saving Association, C14-78-041) Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmember Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmember Cooke Noes: None Abstain: Councilmember Snell The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. 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 CHAPTER 45 OF THE AUSTIN CITY CODE OF 1967 AS FOLLOWS: THE EASTERNMOST 85.0 FEET OF LOT 1, AND ALL OF LOT 2, J. D. HORNE ADDITION, LOCALLY KNOWN AS 4018-4020 VALLEY VIEW ROAD; FROM "O" OFFICE, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT AND INTERIM "A" RESIDENCE, INTERIM FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT TO "A" RESIDENCE, FIRST HEIGHT AND AREA DISTRICT; 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. and Gloria Reynolds, C14-78-069) (Murl L. Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council waive the requirement for three readings, declare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Maj Noes: None Abstain: Councilmember Cooke Mayor McClellan The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. =CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS: June 22, 1978 CHANGE ORDER PINECREST CHANNEL Councilmember Cooke moved that the Council adopt a resolution to approve a construction Change Order in the amount of $11,766.16 for construction necessary to divert one 48-inch storm sewer pipe from the Pinecrest Channel into the detention pond. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM No. 78/07-05. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman Noes: None Mayor McClellan asked Mr. Charles Graves, Director of Engineering, if the neighborhood concerned with this has been informed. She also asked if this situation will continue to be monitored even after this construction has been accomplished. Mr. Graves said, "Yes, we will do that, and this will reduce the flows to where they (the neighborhood) will have no problems whatsoever, even from an intense rainfall. They will still have flow down that channel and may still have some problems trapping out trash because they do have their fences across that channel and they will have to filter it out if the trash gets in there, but there should be no problem whatsoever with flooding." Mr. Davidson commented that this change responds to the concerns that were presented, by the neighborhood, to the City Council; and Mr. Graves and his staff are doing all that they think is feasible in order to comply with the neighborhood request. RENTAL OF CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT The Council had before it a bid award for the rental of construction equipment and related items. Councilmember Himmelblau asked if this is something that is done annually. Mr. Davidson, City Manager, answered that it is a new program that comes out of the Construction Advisory Committee to insure that the City will have one contract document and one control for all of the rental equipment in the City, as opposed to having fifteen different departments going out individually to rent what they need. Mr. Davidson said he thinks this proposal is a very good one which will save the City money and it is in full compliance with the Charter. He said this is the second year it has been done. Mayor Pro Tem Mullen asked how the Council will be kept aware of what is being rented, and the cost. Mr. Davidson said that in the past Council would not have been aware of any of the rentals, but in this case, Council is being told that if there is to be a rental of any type of heavy equipment, it must be in accordance with this contract. He said they are estimating about $40,000 per year worth of work along this line will be done during a fiscal year. If a department needs to rent equipment not anticipated when these specifications were drafted, then it will be brought back to Council for a separate award. Councilmember Cooke asked if there are any problems, legally, since Mr. Faulkner is one of the recipients in this contract, and he is also chairman of the Construction Advisory Committee. Mr. Harris, City Attorney, advised Council that since the committee is just an advisory committee, there is not a legal conflict nor any Charter problems with this. = CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Councilmember Cooke moved that the Council adopt a resolution to approve the following contracts: Bid Award: BUILDERS EQUIPMENT COMPANY 100 East 6th Street Austin, Texas CAPITAL EQUIPMENT COMPANY 5508 Highway 290 Austin, Texas CENTRAL TEXAS EQUIPMENT COMPANY 127 East Riverside Austin, Texas TOM FAIREY COMPANY 5005 East Seventh Street Austin, Texas GIRARD MACHINERY COMPANY 3428 Roosevelt San Antonio, Texas RIVER CITY MACHINERY COMPANY 10411 North Lamar Austin, Texas Rental of Construction Equipment and Related Items. - Items 1121 Estimated annual award $40,000.00 awarded by line item to appropriate suppliers based on first, second and third low bidder, etc. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Himmelblau, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau Noes: None CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS Council had before it a resolution to award two construction contracts to Stiefer Painting and Contracting, Inc., under the Capital Improvements Program. Mayor Pro Tem Mullen said that it appears the City is getting either no bids or only one bid in these areas and it concerns him. He said he thought the price of things go up considerably when people realize they are the only bidder, and Mr. Mullen wondered what Council can do to try and encourage rather than discourage people to bid. He said that about six months ago Council had some trouble about not approving someone's contract because of technicalities. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Mr. Davidson, City Manager, said he would be more concerned about that in this case if they were talking about the construction of new facilities. But, he said, this is sort of a complicated remodeling job and, historically, the City has more trouble getting bids from contractors on a remodeling effort than they do on a newly constructed building. Mr. Al Eldridge, Director of Construction Management, stated, "We did contact ten contractors who would be likely interested in these projects. They are unusual projects in that, I suppose, many contractors would call them nuisance projects. They are a little bit of this and a little bit of that and it's something you are through with one item very quickly and you go on to something else, and it requires a lot of on-site coordination to keep it out of trouble. We did interest five people in picking up the plans and were very disappointed in receiving only one bid. We do understand that if these people have anything else bidding at the same time that is more attractive, they are going to tend to bid that other work and it is hard to obtain bids for this type of work. We will redouble our efforts in obtaining bids, but we feel we have not been negligent in trying to interest people in bidding these projects." Mr. Davidson added, "Another factor I intended to mention is the low dollar amount of each location. The lower the dollar amount per location, the higher the supervision required and coordination and the more difficult it is for a contractor to assume responsibility." Mayor Pro Tem Mullen asked what kind of personnel the City has that could do this type of work. Mr. Davidson told him we do have some people who could do this work, but the emphasis coming from recommendations of the Construction Advisory Committee, and several discussions before this and previous City Councils, indicates that the policy desired is not to maintain City forces on the payroll that are capable of doing heavy remodeling or construction. And it is for that reason, he said, that he has extended directives to all City departments that work on this scope shall be done by private enterprise through contract. Mr. Davidson said that at present the City has a building maintenance crew under Public Works and their operation is being geared primarily toward maintenance and small repairs so that the remodeling will be handled through the private sector. Under the previous policy, he continued, "we would have utilized that division of Public Works to handle the City Hall remodeling job that is now underway. It's being done through contract by private enterprise, which is new and different." Chances are, some of the work obtained in these contracts could have been handled in the same way, except for the fact that he has asked Mr. Eldridge and other City departments not to do it. Mayor Pro Tem Mullen said, "The only thing I'm getting to is if it gets so far out of line it may be that we need a back up to fall back on." Mr. Davidson replied that he thinks that is a legitimate use of this policy. If it appears that we are not going to get satisfactory bids on items costing less than $70,000.00, that's an option we can utilize in the future. Mayor Pro Tem Mullen commented, "You know how hard I pushed for free enterprise to do these jobs, but on the other hand if it gets so far out of line that we only have one bid, then that's way out of line and I think we need a back-up there. I would favor looking at this as a possible recommendation in the future on jobs that are 20 to 25% over what we thought they would cost." Councilmember Goodman said that, "perhaps the Purchases and Stores Department, rather than Mr. Eldridge, needs to look at those areas that are deficient, like a $50,000 remodeling job with one bid, and go out and find CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 other people and educate them in the City's bonding requirements, etc. If we can spot these areas of deficiencies, it would seem to me we would get more bids." Mayor Pro Tem Mullen stated that it would seem to him one of the areas where they could help promote this is in the area of minorities. He thought this would be a place where they could get started if they have the expertise if they could be encouraged to bid. Councilmember Trevino reminded Council that the City already has the Office of Minority Business Affairs and part of the instruction given to that particular office is also to deal with Anglo business people in order to give them an opportunity to do business with the City. Mr. Davidson told Council, "I'd like to point out, before you draw any definite conclusions on this, Mr. Eldridge is the person to talk to, along with purchasing. I recently distributed to Council a notice of a seminar that we're cond conducting for small business interests of this type early in July, composed of about 12-15 City personnel who intend to do precisely what you're saying. This Council has spoken to that before and while we've done it informally, case by case, contractor by contractor basis, I think you'll be pleased by the outline I've sent you, that we've formalized the procedure and we're very optimistic about what can occur." Mayor Pro Tem Mullen moved that the Council adopt a resolution to approve the following contracts: STIEFER PAINTING & CONTRACTING, INC. 903 Wagon Trail Austin, Texas STIEFER PAINTING & CONTRACTING, INC. 903 Wagon Trail Austin, Texas - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM Construction Contract for Natural Science Center Alterations $45,253. C.I.P. No. 76/86-26 - - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM Construction contract for 12th Street Maintenance Yard Improvements $41,377. C.I.P. No. 76/86-36 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Contract For Summer Utilities Mayor McClellan indicated that the City intended to honor its agreement with the School District which goes through this fiscal year and includes the City picking up the costs of utilities for the School District for the months of July and August in return for using School facilities for various City programs during the year. The Mayor stated, however, that they wanted to utilize a more equitable cost base for utilities utilized by the School District and still retain the use of School facilities. Mayor McClellan suggested giving the School District notice in the form of a resolution that as of the first day of October, 1978, the City will no longer act in accordance with Section 3(a) of the policy section of its agreement. She stated that the City would pay an _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 equitable rate for use of School District facilities and in return the School District would pay its utility bills for the summer months. The Mayor stated that the City Manager should be instructed to initiate meetings with officials from the School District for the purpose of determining what fair and equitable policies may be adopted for determining the prices the City will pay for the future use of School District facilities. Motion Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution notifying the Austin Independent School District that as of October 1, 1978, the School District would have to pay its own utility bills for the summer months; and to authorize the City Manager to negotiate with the School District for the use of school facilities by the City. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Cooke. Councilmember Goodman stated that this was a case where the taxpayers within the City were being asked to foot the bill for an entity larger than the City. He stated that there were individuals who did not live in Austin but did live within the School District who weren't paying their fair share. Councilmember Cooke indicated that there were persons in Austin who lived within two school districts who were paying for the costs of operating both school districts. Mayor McClellan read a memo from the Electric Utility Commission urging the City to discontinue the practice of absorbing A.I.S.D.'s utility bills in the months of July and August. They recommended that the School District pay the actual cost of utilities and that the City in exchange compensate the School District for the use of its facilities on an equitable basis. In response to a question from Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, City Manager Dan Davidson stated that the City is obliged to pay for the usage of School District facilities during the summer months, since those facilities would ordinarily not be open during this period. He pointed out that it is mostly persons within the School District who utilize the facilities. Councilmember Himmelblau indicated that she wanted to look at the joint maintenance policy for upkeep of playgrounds and asked that the Manager bring this item back the following week. City Manager Davidson stated that he would like to address any other joint utilizations which the City and the School District should be doing together. Councilmember Himmelblau felt that some of the adult groups could be paying for the use of facilities and City Manager Davidson indicated that he would look into this. Roll Call on Motion Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmember Snell Noes: None Mayor McClellan indicated that she would transmit by letter to Reverend Marvin Griffin, President of the Austin Independent School District (A.I.S.D.) Board of Trustees, and the entire School Board, the action taken by the City Council. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 POSTPONEMENT OF ZONING HEARING The Council had before it for consideration, a request from MR. PAUL D. JONES, attorney, to postpone Zoning Hearing, Case No. C14-78-088, scheduled for June 29, 1978. Councilmember Himmelblau stated that the neighborhood in question would like to have the item scheduled for an evening Council meeting. Councilmember Himmelblau moved that the Council schedule the Zoning Hearing, Case No. C14-78-088, on July 20, 1978, at 7:30p.m. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino Noes: None PARADE PERMIT Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council approve a request for a Parade Permit from MR. DAVIS ALAN WEIR for Texas Mobilization for Survival, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30p.m., Sunday, June 25, 1978, beginning at 519 South 1st Street, across Drake Street Bridge, across First Street ending at the Municipal Annex Building. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN AUSTIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT (CONTINUED) Community Education Joint Resolution and Northeast Community School Mayor McClellan indicated that the Community Education Program has become a model around the country and that, while the Council was not in a position to make a financial commitment today, it could endorse the joint resolution which would equitably divide the finances and responsibilities between the two entities. The Mayor felt that Northeast Austin needed a Community School Program. Councilmember Cooke expressed concern that the City would be locking itself into a maximum obligation during budget deliberations, without a corres- ponding commitment from the School District. Mr. Joe Liro, Assistant City Manager, told the Council that he had spoken with Mr. Willie Walls, A.I.S.D. Director of School-Community Relations, and was told that Dr. Jack Davidson, Superintendent of the A.I.S.D., intended to take the recommendation for joint participation with the City to the Board of Trustees. Mr. Liro stated that it was his impression that the School District would be taking budget action in line with the recommendation. City Attorney Jerry Harris pointed out that the recommended resolution would have a three year term, that there be a cancellation clause for either party and that for breach of the agreement, either party can cancel upon thirty days notice. Mr. Liro stated that staff from the Legal Department, the City Manager's Office, and Parks and Recreation Department have _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 been working with the Consortium for several months and that the agreement represented participation in a program that is no longer experimental, but is mature to a point where it will be an important part of public services provided by the Council and the School District. He stated that the staff recommended approval of the joint resolution and inter-governmental group. Motion Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution endorsing the joint and equitable participation of the City of Austin and the Austin Independent School District in the Community Education Program. The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Goodman, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmember Cooke Noes: None Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Himmelblau In regard to the Northeast Community School, Mayor McClellan pointed out that the old estimate for the school was $56,381 and the new estimate is now $73,381. Councilmember Goodman indicated that Northeast Austin could certainly use a community school and that it has been a long standing request in the area. MS. PAT OTIS, representing A.I.S.D., told the Council that the best facility would be a combination of an elementary school and a secondary site. Ms. Otis pointed out that the Board of Trustees will be considering the Northeast Community School during its budget deliberations. Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council adopt a resolution in favor of the Northeast Community School. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Cooke, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman Noes: None Senior Citizen Homestead Exemption Councilmember Cooke felt that it would be hard to make a decision on this matter without first knowing what the intentions of the School District are. Councilmember Goodman suggested deferring action for now and making contact with the School District in the interim. Councilmember Cooke suggested passing along to the School District that the Council is considering ring additional relief to senior citizens. Mayor McClellan told City Manager Davidson that it would be helpful for the Council to know what other cities are doing for homestead exemptions. Motion Councilmember Cooke moved that the Council adopt a resolution to advise the Austin Independent School District of the City Council's intention to increase and discuss homestead exemptions for senior citizens. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1979 Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau Noes: None Property Tax Revaluation Procedures Mayor McClellan felt that, before the tax bills are sent out, the Council should hold a public hearing for discussion of the revaluation procedures and to receive public input. City Manager Dan Davidson indicated that they have been preparing for just such a hearing. Mr. Jack Klitgaard, Tax AssessorCollector, told the Council that they hoped to begin mailing out property tax notices by July 17, 1978. Councilmember Cooke felt that the public hearing should be held prior to the tax notices being sent out. Councilmember Cooke moved that the Council set a public hearing for July 6, 1978, at 7:00p.m., to discuss property tax revaluation procedures and to receive input from the public. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen Noes: None Austin High School Street Mayor McClellan indicated that the School District has decided that it does not want the Austin High School Street dedicated, but does want the City to accept responsibility for the Austin Road/West First Street intersection. The Mayor felt that it would be appropriate to place on a future agenda what the Council would need to adopt for that intersection. City Manager Davidson indicated that he would look into the request. Mr. Davidson stated that the School District will probably have to contract for the maintenance of the Austin High School Street. Councilmember Goodman pointed out that there is no North Loop 1 marker present upon coming out of the Austin High School Street. Mayor McClellan asked Mr. Joe Ternus, Director of the Urban Transportation Department, what the City's responsibility was in regard to the section of street going under MoPac. Mr. Ternus stated that the entire section was the responsibility of the School District. City Manager Davidson indicated that the City would need a field description of what the City actually had control over in the area. Mr. Ternus stated that the City has done a considerable amount of surveying in the area. Councilmember Himmelblau felt that the School District should pay for the upkeep of the street. City Manager Davidson stated that recommendations for street maintenance had been forwarded to the School District, but that they chose to ignore the recommendations. He felt that the City should not have to pay for deficiencies in the street. He stated that when it appeared that the School District would have to pay out some money for the project in return for the City's acceptance of the maintenance and traffic enforcement responsibilities, the School District decided that it would rather not do that and withdrew its request. Mayor McClellan agreed that the School District should pick up the cost for the project but that the City should try again to point out its concerns to the School District. Mayor Pro Tem Mullen felt that the project was the responsibility of the School District and not the City. Mayor McClellan and Councilmember Goodman felt, however, that the street was the responsibility of the City, espacially since it bordered on City-owned park land. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council instruct the City administration to negotiate with the Austin Independent School District regarding the Austin High School Street and return to the Council with recommendations. motion, seconded by Councilmember Cooke, carried by the following vote: The Ayes: Councilmember Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmember Snell Noes: None JOINT USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF FACILITIES Councilmember Himmelblau had introduced, under Items from Council, the consideration of amendments to the 1960 "Policies to Guide the Austin Public School Administration and the City Administration in the Joint Use and Development of School and Recreational Facilities." She stated that this item had been well covered in consideration of items concerning the City of Austin and the Austin Independent School District, and did not wish to add anything at this time. WASTEWATER BILLING Councilmember Cooke asked the Councilmembers to consider the calculation of water average which is used in wastewater billing. He said that about two years ago, "a policy statement was made that we would determine cost of water and wastewater based on, as far as annual costs to the citizens, users of the service, the November, December and January cost of consumption for the December, January and February bills. A flyer was sent out shortly after that that really gave the citizens the implication that it was going to be based on consumption in December, January and February so therefore if citizens held their consumption or monitored very closely, it could effect their billing for the other nine months of the year. And really, what this particular flyer that went out in error should have said was that it was going to be reflected on their billing for December, January and February rather than consumption. So it was an error and in conversation with the staff they had planned an area for about a 60word notice on the utility bill, and in the November bill had planned to indicate that this was the policy and I imagine a vast majority of Austinites are not even aware that this is a policy. And we're going to put it in this November's bill to say, you know, begin consumption of water and wastewater because your next three months of consumption will determine, or will effect your annual bill process, and, I think that's good, but I would like the Council to endorse that and make it an annual process because with the way the rate payer and consumers of water and wastewater move in and out of Austin every year, probably many Austinites are not even aware that this is the process we use." Councilmember Cooke moved that the Council endorse, on an annual basis, information to the ratepayer concerning the calculation of wastewater billing. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmember Snell Noes: None Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Trevino _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 REQUEST FOR STATUS REPORT ON CAMP SWIFT LIGNITE Councilmember Goodman indicated that he had requested a status report on where the City stood on acquisition of the Camp Swift lignite. He indicated that the City was in partnership with L.C.R.A. (Lower Colorado River Authority) and the City of San Antonio. City Manager Dan Davidson stated that they could come back with a more in-depth report on a future agenda. Mayor McClellan stated that she wanted to see the item placed on a future Council agenda and also referred to the Electric Utility Commission. Mr. R. L. Hancock, Director of the Electric Utility Department, said that early in 1973, the Council appointed a citizens' group to address the City's long range energy strategy. The citizens' group recommended participation in a jointly owned coal facility, and the exploration of the possibility of using lignite as a fuel source for either the coal facility or some future facility. With the approval of a bond program, the City entered into a joint agreement with L.C.R.A. for a coal-fired generating facility. At that time, it was hoped that lignite could be used in that facility. Mr. Hancock indicated, however, that time constraints became so severe, that it was not possible to obtain lignite in time for the first unit at Fayette, nor for the second unit at Fayette, and the decision was then made to utilize western coal on the first unit, subsequently on the second unit, and to use lignite in the fuel array for some subsequent capacity addition. Mr. Hancock stated that the City and L.C.R.A. became aware of the lignite deposits on the Camp Swift property but that no one has been able to touch the property because it belonged to the Army. He stated that the lignite deposits are extremely close to Austin and that the lignite at Camp Swift is of a relatively high quality. Mr. Hancock indicated that they had received permission from the Army to core the area to determine what the magnitude of the resource is. This occurred in February of 1974, and in March of 1974 an agreement was executed between Austin, L.C.R.A. and the Army that allowed for exploratory drilling in the area. Mr. Hancock stated that the drilling was completed in October of 1974 and the determination was that there was about 250 million tons in total resource. Of that, between 110 and 83 million tons were suitable for surface mining, down to depths of about 200 feet. Mr. Hancock stated that the Camp Swift lignite is good in quality compared to other resources in the state, but is poor in quality compared to the western coals. However, its proximity to Austin makes it economically attractive. After the exploratory drilling was completed, there was a meeting in Washington in February of 1975, in which officials from the City of Austin, L.C.R.A. and all involved federal agencies met to determine what course of action should follow. Mr. Hancock pointed out that it became obvious that some sort of legislative action would be necessary for Austin and L.C.R.A. to gain access to the deposits. In January of 1976, the House considered the federal coal leasing act, to which Congressman Pickle attached an amendment which would provide first opportunity for bidding to publicly-owned generating systems. This gave the City the opportunity to bid against other petro-chemical companies which could afford to pay a higher bid price. Mr. Hancock stated that the legislation was finally passed and that it gave Austin a first opportunity for competitive bidding on that resource. The act also directed that the Bureau of Land Management has jurisdiction over the CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 facility on behalf of the Department of Army. Mr. Hancock indicated that Austin and L.C.R.A. met with the Bureau of Land Management in Sante Fe, New Mexico, in November of 1976, in order to determine what steps needed to be taken. He stated that the Bureau issued some proposed rules, and that there has been some action on those rules. Mr. Hancock stated that a letter of application was submitted to the Bureau on September 28, 1976, applying for the rights to the lignite. That application was distributed through channels of the federal government, and it was determined that a land use study needed to be made on the property, in accordance with the statutes, and the Electric Department staff and the L.C.R.A. staff met with the Governor's staff, and as a result the Bureau of Economic Geology developed a study which was entitled, "Plan for Multiple Use of Camp Swift, Texas Bastrop, Texas," and was submitted by the Governor to the head of the Department of the Interior in August of 1977. Mr. Hancock stated that in mid-1977, however, there was a case filed by the Natural Resources Defense Council with the U. S. District Court in Washington that contended that the final environmental statement that was filed in 1975 was inadequate in regard to federal coal leasing. This supposedly jeopardized all federal lands upon which coal leases were to be obtained. Mr. Hancock stated that there was court order issued that stopped all additional federal land leasing and that matter has been under litigation and court consideration since that time. However, the court did order public comments on the procedures for the leasing of the land, and ordered the comments in by January of 1978. The City of Austin and L.C.R.A. submitted statements concerning the rule-making and the matter then sat in abeyance before the judge. During this time, the City and L.C.R.A. were in continuous contact with the Bureau of Land Management with respect to what could be done in the meantime in order to expedite things. As a result, the Council approved in April of 1978, an arrangement to allow a firm to start assisting in the collection of data that will be used in the environmental impact statement on the opening of the mine in that area. Mr. Hancock stated that on June 12, 1978, the district court in Washington issued a ruling that excluded a few isolated coal leasing areas, one of which was the Camp Swift area. This means that the Camp Swift area may now proceed, and as a result of this, the City, L.C.R.A. and the Bureau of Land Management has had one recent communication with environmentally-oriented people in the local area in order to receive some input with respect to the environmental impact statement. Mr. Hancock stated that the statement will have to be completed and issued and then the procedure may continue with respect to the competitive bidding for that particular resource. Mr. Hancock then showed some charts indicating the various locations of the lignite deposits. Councilmember Goodman encouraged the continuation of negotiations with the Bureau of Land Management, and that the City do what it can in regard to the environmental impact statement. Councilmember Goodman pointed out that there are technological advances which limit sulphur and ash emissions from a lignite plant and that there have also been advances in the reclaiming of land which has been strip-mined, as would be the case in the Camp Swift situation. Councilmember Goodman stated that the environmental considerations for a lignite plant pale in comparison to those for a nuclear plant, and stated that this was his major interest in promoting the lignite facility. Mr. Hancock pointed out that the area in question was extremely attractive for strip mining because there would be no local impact as a result of the surface mining. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS CLASS RECOGNIZED June 22, 1978 Mayor McClellan recognized the Senior Government Class of Austin High School who were part of the Council Chamber audience. Their teacher is Mr. Tony Castillo. APPOINTMENT TO SUBDIVISION PROCESSING TASK FORCE Mayor Pro Tem Mullen moved that the Council appoint Mr. John McPhall to fill one of the builders slots on the Subdivision Processing Task Force. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmember Trevino, Mayor McClellan None Noes: Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Snell Mayor Pro Tem Mullen explained that this was done because one of the members of the Task Force decided he was not as qualified as he should be and this is a short term task force, so the vacancy needed to be filled today. Councilmember Goodman commented that the task force has met weekly since it began and Mr. McPhall has attended all of the meetings so he is well-versed on what the committee has done thus far. REPORT ON TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENTS SOUTH IST AND OLTORF Mr. Joe Ternus, Director of Urban Transportation, presented a report on traffic improvements requested by South Austin Citizens' Advisory Board regarding a traffic light at Oltorf and South Ist. He said, "Mayor, we have met with the Advisory Board and we would like to recommend that the City staff continue the widening project that we have under way at this time, that is, to widen the intersection and put in left turns, that we immediately go forth with putting in pedestrian signals at that intersection, and also provisions for south bound protected left turn base. We think we can do that within 30 days and have that in operation." Councilmember Himmelblau said that she wants to make sure that some of the right-of-way acquisitions don't set some other projects back. Mr. Ternus replied, "When we have identified those, where those funds can come from, we will bring that back to you specifically. We have no intention of setting back projects. We don't think that's necessary. We want to proceed with that as we have previously...authorizing from Council. But the major concern is immediately, and we think we can handle those concerns." Councilmember Himmelblau said, "We're talking about $80,000 of shifting." Mr. Ternus said this is correct and that it will be brought back to Council. Councilmember Himmelblau replied, "I don't see how we can do it. I agree it needs to be done in this area, but I don't see how we can do it without impacting other projects that have been on the books in the CIP for a long time." Mr. Davidson, City Manager, told her, "Well, we have it worked out where the immediate thing that Mr. Ternus is talking about certainly will not have that impact. And before we decide to recommend anything that would have such a CIP impact, we'll come back to the City Council CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS _ June 22, 1978 and let you knowthose options then." Mr. Ternus pointed out that, "the operational changes, those funds are already in our signal budget so we're not impacting any project." Motion Counci Imember Trevino moved that the Council install a southbound protected left turn signal at the intersection of Oltorf and South 1st Street. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Goodman. Councilmember Cooke asked, "Let me get a clarification. We're saying that in 45 days roughly you're going to have an operational left turn southbound lane at that intersection?" Mr. Ternus replied, "Not a southbound lane; we will provide a southbound movement. It will be a protected left turn, just like Lamar and Oltorf where we have a lagging protected southbound left turn. We can do that within our restraints." Mayor McClellan commented, "And the other will be brought back to us." Roll Call on Motion Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmember Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmember Cooke Noes: Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Snell None RECESS At 11:20 a.m., Council recessed to the LCRA Board of Directors Room, 3700 Lake Austin Boulevard, Austin, Texas, for the following purpose: To hear discussion of Cost Overrun at Fayette II Power Plant by the LCRA Board. Following the discussion, Council went to City Hall for an executive session in the Mayor's office. Following said session, Council returned to the Council Chambers to resume the Council Meeting at 3:30 p.m. APPOINTMENTS TO CITIZENS ELECTRIC UTILITY COMMISSION Mayor McClellan announced that Council will make appointments to the Citizen's Electric Utility Commission since they have a heavy agenda and therefore Council stepped up its schedule on making the appointments. Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council appoint the following to the Citizen's Electric Utility Commission, with terms expiring July 1, 1980: Mr. Willie Johnson Dr. Herb Woodson Mr. C. W. Heatherly Mr. Neal Kocurek Mrs. Shudde Fath The motion, seconded by Councilmember Cooke, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmember Himmelblau, Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman Noes: None CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 BOARD AND COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS TO BE MADE Mayor McClellan announced that Council will make appointments on June 29, 1978, to the following: Board of Equalization Airport Zoning Board On-Going Goals Assembly Committee Parks and Recreation Board Manpower Advisory Planning Council Building Standards Commission Dental Health Advisory Committee On July 6, 1978, appointments will be made to the Energy Conservation Commission and the Solicitation Board. UPGRADING TAXICAB SERVICE Mr. Joe Ternus, Director of Urban Transportation, reported to Council that during the past several months the City Urban Transportation Commission has been discussing ways of upgrading taxicab service with the franchise holders, the city staff, and several drivers. As a result of these discussions, they are recommending to you improvements in several areas. One of these is changing the term of the franchises, which now is an indefinite term, to a specific five-year term. If this concept meets with Council approval, Mr. Ternus said they would negotiate through the Legal Department with each of the franchise holders to bring back a specific franchise to the City Council for consideration based on the five-year term. The second recommendation, according to Mr. Ternus, is improvements to the airport situation. He said they have received comments about some problems there and they believe the best way to handle it is to assign a taxicab starter. This would be an individual who would be an employee of the Aviation Department, who would work at the Airport to provide service to the public and assist taxicab drivers and operators as well. Councilmember Himmelblau asked if this would be more for the convenience of the taxicab drivers so one does not jump ahead of the other. Mr. Ternus told her that this would be more for the convenience of the passenger coming in. In answer to Councilmember Goodman's question, "Is there any other City who does that?" Mr. Ternus replied that this is quite common. Mrs. Himmelblau asked if the cab starter would be paid for by the City or pro-rated among the cab companies. Mr. Ternus said that they recommend it to be part of the City budget, paid for out of the Aviation fund. He said the fund is generated by fees, etcetera, at the Airport so that it is really the users who are paying for this particular service. He added that the Aviation Director has reviewed this. The other option would be to have the user pay for it as a part of the trip, but this becomes extremely difficult and is not really a feasible operation. An increase in taxicab rates is the third recommendation, according to Mr. Ternus. There is a specific rate being recommended for Council's consideration which they feel is an equitable rate being used for short trips as well as long trips, which will provide needed revenue for the taxicab industry. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978 Several revisions to the City Code is the fourth recommendation. Mr. Ternus pointed out that many of them will improve the administration of the taxicab ordinance and some of them will remove some of the bureaucratic controls that we have that we don't think are necessary and still maintain a standard of taxicab service. Part of the recommendation re the City Code is revision of a performance bond. At the present time a taxicab franchise holder must have a performance bond each year. Most of the franchise holders have been in business 20 or 30 years and are performing well, so it is not felt that this is a necessary expense. Mr. Ternus said the Commission also recommends that levels of service be established for the industry. This is a unique approach that is used by the transit system to measure the service level to the public. He explained that level of service includes how long it takes to be picked up for a trip. Initially they will recommend that 80% of passengers be picked up within 20 minutes. Last of all, Mr. Ternus said they are recommending the City Council have a public hearing where the public, franchise holders and staff can give Council more detailed information on rate increase proposals as well as consideration of other changes to the City ordinance. He said they plan to come back to Council six months after the rates have been put into effect with a status report of the improvements that are being made as a result of Council's action. Motion Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council schedule a public hearing on upgrading taxicab service for 11:30a.m. on June 29, 1978. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Mullen, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Councilmembers Cooke, Goodman, Himmelblau Noes: None Mr. Davidson, City Manager, told Council that taxicab deliberations in many cities are normally associated with considerable turmoil and he said he appreciates the way that the Urban Transportation Department and the Urban Transportation Commission and the industry representatives have gone about this with a deliberate effort to improve service and reflect equity. CLARKSVILLE CURBS Mr. Charles Graves, Director of Engineering said that the Clarksville Neighborhood is essentially in accord with the City of Austin Engineering Department, but that Reverend Southerland has one or two more questions. Mr. Harris, City Attorney, asked if the contractor will hold his bid until the end of June. Mr. Graves said that is correct, but he has indicated he is not interested in extending his bid of $1.4 million. Councilmember Goodman asked questions about the 12th Street re-alignment which is proposed. He wanted to know how much the cost would be. Mr. Graves said that it is not a major cost item and that the right-of-way has been acquired. Mr. Ternus showed Council a map of the area involved. Mr: Goodman pointed out that the main purpose of the realignment is to give the people a clear shot out of the neighborhood and that the citizens there do not want the realignment. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS June 22, 1978. There were no more questions so Council postponed their discussion of this subject until June 29, 1978. ADJOURNMENT Council adjourned its meeting at 3:45 p.m. ATTEST: Grace Monise City Clerk Coltella APPROVED Mayor