1 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS 1. MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS Regular Meeting November 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: Absent: Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmembers Snell, Trevino, Mullen, Goodman Councilmember Himmelblau The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Dr. Browning Ware, First Baptist Church. UP WITH PEOPLE WEEK Mayor McClellan read a proclamation designating the week 66 November 20-25, 1978, as Up With People Week and called on all citizens of the Capital City of Teras to recognize the outstanding contributions of these young people to the cause of world understanding and fellowship; to applaud the genuinely unselfish goals of the groups and encourage them to continue striving for progress in the cultivation of international communication. Todd Lorness, Steve Stveson, Chris DeGraff, and John Skean accepted the proclamation and thanked the Council. TENNIS DAY Mayor McClellan read a proclamation designating Saturday, November 18, 1978, as Tennis Day in Austin and urged all citizens to join her in recognétion of this outstanding organization in conjunction with their second annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, November 18, 1978. Bo Byers accepted the proclam mation and thanked the Council. 22 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 CLASS INTRODUCTION Mayor McClellan introduced a group from the introduction to the planning process class of the communtty and regional planning department of the University of Texas. MINUTES APPROVED Councilmember Goodman moved that the Council approve the Minutes for the meeting of November 2, 1978. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Mullen, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS Mayor McClellan announced that the following Board and Commission appointments will be made November 30, 1978: Building Standards Commission, 3; Vending Commission, 1; Community Development Commission, 1; MH/MR Board, 1; Wrecker Standards Commission, 7; Medical Assistance Advisory Board, 9; Construction Advisory Committee, 4; Human Relations Commission, 7; The entire Electric Board will be reconstituted; On Going Goals Committee, 6; Dental Health Advisory Committee, 2; Mayor McClellan stated, "I was contacted by Judy Udolf who chairs the Austin Travis County MH/MR Board of Trustees and it has been mandated by the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation that we appoint three people to a Public Responsibility Committee. This committee will be made up of appointments from the County, the School District and the City. They will hear complaints from all MH/MR Center clients. Since it is not an ordinary City Board or Commissson it doesn't fall in our usual requirements. How- ever, I thought we'd like to announce it so if there are any individuals interested in applying for this they could do so. The Council will make the appointments in the next 2-3 weeks and my office will contact other groups asking for their suggestions regarding membership on this committee." KIENDAL FIELDS Council had before it for consideration the granting of a site near Sara Drive and Prock Land to the Greater East Austin Association as a site _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 for development of kickball fields. The staff requested a provision stating that this tract is not now park land and does not become park land by this action, and that it be in accordance with the resolution adopted October 6, 1966, which covers a number of other ballfields in the city. Motion Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council grant the use of a site near Sara Drive and Prock Lane to the Greater East Austin Youth Association as a site for development of kickball fields. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau STASSNEY LANE Counci Imember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize the acquisition of certain land for the Stassney Lane, Phase II Project, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM, No. 73/62-30: 0.29 of ene acre of land for street purposes and 252 square feet för drainage pupposes, out of that certain 3.389 acre tract out of the William Cannon League. (Thomas G. BradHeld field et ux and Paul S. Wakefield et ux.) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell. Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Cooke None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau RELEASE OF EASEMENT Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize release of the following easement: A portion of two (2) five (5.00) foot Public Utility Easements along g east and west property lines of Lot 7, Block C, Highland Park West, locally known as 3101 Perry Lane. (Requested by Mr. Maurice Olian, owner) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau - CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS November 16, 1978 CONTRACTS APPROVED Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize approval of the following contract: WEST COAST ORGANIZATION PLAN, INC. 560 East Shields, Suite 105 Fresno, California Subscription Service for Magazines and Newspapers, Austin Public Libraries Estimated Expenditure $30,000.00 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau Council member Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize approval of the following contract: REICH CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION 4107 Medical Parkway, Suite 217 Austin, Texas CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM-- Construction of Bire Administration and Training Academy - $549,780 C.I.P. No. 75/83-01 The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize approval of the following contract: CENTRAL DISTRIBUTING COMPANY 1201 East Houston Street San Antonio, Texas - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM - Installation of divider screens at South Austin & Pan American Recreation Pan American - $13,965.00 C.I.P. Nos. 77/86-7 & 77/86-25 Centers, & two folding partitions at The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes; Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 PLANK & RAILROAD CROSSING AT WEBBERVILLE ROAD Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize a contract with the southern Pacific Transportation Company for installation of a plank crossing and railroad crossing protection devices at Webberville Road. (Estimated cost $41,800) The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAM Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to authorize submission of a grant application in the amount of $75,000 to the Department of Health, Education and Welfare for the 9th year of the Family Planning Program. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Noes: Mayor Pro Tem Cooke None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau ENGINEERING FIRM SELECTED Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to select the firm of Espey-Huston Association, Inc., for professional engineering, research and associated services for the investigation of hydrological and operational characteristics of porous and conventional paving systems in connection with an Environmental Protection Agency grant. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau PERMISSION TO SELL BEER & WINE Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council adopt a resolution to approve the request of Mn. R. Benneth Harkness for permission to sell beer and wine within 300 feet of St. Austin's Church at the New York Sub-Way, 1914 Guadalupe. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Snell, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Council members Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke Noes. None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS November 16, 1978 UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION FUND Mayor McClellan introduced the following ordinance: AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING AN UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION FUND FOR THE CITY OF AUSTIN; PROVIDING HOW THE UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION FUND IS TO BE FUNDED; DEFINING FOR WHAT PURPOSE THE FUND IS TO BE USED; ESTABLISHING HOW DISBURSEMENTSS ARE TO BE MADE; AMENDING THE 1977-1978 ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET BY KRANSFERRING APPROPRIATED FUNDS FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO THE UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION FUND; SUSPENDING THE RULE REQUIRING THAT ORDINANCES BE READ ON THREE SEPARATE DAYS; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council whèveethèrenqutrément for three readings, declare decaare an emergency and finally pass the ordinance. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Shell, carried carried by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmember Goodman Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau The Mayor announced that the ordinance had been finally passed. USES FOR LAKE WALTER E. LONG PARK Council had before it for consideration the following: a. Request from the Austin Radio Control Association to develop and use approximately therty (30) acre tract of land near the northwest corner of Lake Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park for the purpose of flying radio controlled model aircraft. b. Request from the Capital City Trap and Skeet Club to make use of a 70acre tract of land located at the corner of Decker Lane and Lindell Street, and in Lake Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park, for the construction of trap and skeet shooting facilitées, a small bore rifle range and archery range. c. Request that portions of Lake Walter E. Long Park be used toograze Cattle. Mayor McClellan said that the Parks Board has considered all of these requests and has recommended favorably on a. and be She asked what the recommendation is for the use of the park for grazing cattle. Mr. Albert DeLatina, Assistant City Attorney, stated concerning compliance with the HUD application The Hub letterations ontwith of " the city's application to HUD in the 1960's and the curren current overall scheme fo for the park. HUD is aware of the situation and we do have a master plan for the development of the park and they are satisfied with that program and proposal. They have indicated they have no problems with the flying control air t _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 : field park and the skeet shooting range. They feel that if the City Council determines that these items are consistent with the overall comprehensive master plan, then those items can be considered by the City Council and no further review or action by HUD would be needed. They feel that the use of parkland for cattle grazing would present problems since it would be inconsistent with the overall master plan for that area and would require that the steps outlined in the initial letter from HUD be followed which would involve certification from CAPCO." Councilmember Snell said he had asked for a breakdown on exactly how Lake Long is to be used and thought Council should see the master plan of the park area before any decision is made by Council. MotionCouncilmember Snell moved that the Counttl delay action on the re- quests for uses of Lake Walter E. Long Metropopitan Park until they have seen the master plan. The motion was seconded by Council member Goodman. Mr. Ehrler, Director of Parks and Recreation, told Council that the master plan for the park was displayed the last time this was discussed. He and Mr. Davidson, City Manager, said they did not know Council wanted cppies of the plan. Councilmember Snell said he thought the people also wanted to see the plan. Mayor McClellan asked Mr. Davidson to comment on the grazing issue. Mr. Davidson told Mayor and Council that he and Mr. Ehrler donnot believe that this is a suitable activity for the parkland at this time and recommend Council not grant approval of that request. Councilmember Trevino and Mayor Pro Tem Cooke concurred. Roll Call on Motion (Re-Stated) Rool Call on motion to delay Council action on the requests for a. and b. until December 7, 1978 after Councilmembers have seen park master plan; and drop request c. to graze cattle, showed the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmember Goodman Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau Mr. Harris, City Attorney, told Council, "One of the issues was compliance with the HUD application. Another legal issue was a question raised about the legality of the City Council authorizing this type activity under the Charter which prohibits the lease of park land. Mr. Strange, Assistant City Attorney, is here to speak to that question tonight." CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 Mr. Strange stated, "I have researched the question of whether or not allowing use to the Austin Radio Control Association and the Capital Trap and Skeet Club would be a violation to the Charter, and have concluded this would not be in conflict with the Charter." In a memorandum to Council, Mr. Strange informed them, "so long as it is made clear in that agreement that City Council has set the hours of operation and City Council has participated in the setting of the fees for use that there is no conveying of an estate in land to the sundry groups, and finally and most important, that there is not conveying of an exclusive right of possession to those groups of that property." Councilmembers Snell and Trevino brought up the question of charging a fee for the use of the land. Mr. DeLaRosa responded that HUD had informed him that these two activities would be consistent with the application, anch that "these two activities are of a type of recreational activity that would be conducive to an open space recreational reserve and they understand we are working with some provate groups to accomplish these activities." Councilmember Snell said it sounded like if enough private groups come in, they could dominate the entire area. Mr. DeLaRosa said that if the use is consistent with the cities overall scheme for the park, HUD does not object. It was decided that this was hypothetical and each decision needs to be delib berated. REPORT ON AISD AND CITY FACILITY USE AGREEMENT Mr. Ehrler, Director of Parks and Recreation, gave a report on amendments to the Austin Independent School District and City of Austin Facility Agreement. He said that the administrative staffs of the City of Austin and AISD have been meeting together concerning fees fort the rental of school district facilities for the Parks and Recreation Department. He referred to the packet Council had received with fee schedule enclosed. (COPY IS ON FILE IN CITY CLERK'S OFFICE.) Mr. Ehrler said the fees are in the confines of this department's budget and are not out of line. Mayor McClellan said that many inquities have been received concerning the Capital City Youth Basketball program. She asked if Council would soon receive a report as to how the School District intends to handle this program. She said that it is not a city program but one which the city is interested in seeing continued. Mr. Ehrler said that the CCYBA is just another organization. seeking use of school facilities, as others are e.g. square dancers. He said they have asked for special consideration from AISD and asked the city's help in dealing with AISD. Mr. Ehrler said the city wanted to wait until the fees have been ratified by the School Board and the Council had hade made aware of them. Then, he said, at Council's direction, they will attempt to meet with the school system and CCYBA representative to arrive at an amicable fee structure that could help them get their program underway. The Mayor pointed outathat this program has never been a city function and never involved a fee, but now that a fee is going to be imposed the city is being accused of haveng responsibility for imposing the fee. Mr. Davidson said, "We are expecting to receive a proposal or indication from the school administration as to where they stand and what they intend to recommend and - CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 we will bring this information back Council." Mr. Ehrler said that a meeting between the school district, the City and CCKBA is being set up for Tuesday, November 21. Mayor Pro Tem Cooke said, "This particūlar issue as it deals with the equity and rental facilities which the Mayor focused on are to be commended. I appreciate the work that has been done on this. I think it's long overdue." Councilmember Mullen said he appreciates the fact that the city had not cut anything off of their program. Mr. Davidson thanked them' for their appreciative remarks. ACORN GAS SERVICE REGULATIONS Mr. Davidson, City Manager, asked that the City Manager Report on Gas Service Regulations Regulations be deferred until December 21, 1978. SUBDIVISION TASK FORCE City Manager Davidson submitted a report on the Subdivision Task Force as follows: "This is one of two items on this eveningssagenda where I would like to have an indication of Council approval. My report indicates that after studying the recommendations of this Task Force in considering the options available as to how to staff it and get it in operation, that I resom- mend Option C which would transfer one position from the office of Environmental Resource Management, and one position from the Advanced Planning Section. I would ask Council's approval tonight as a motion. I would have to bring back the exact paper work on the next agenda. Further I would suggest we make good progress in implementing all phases of the Subdivision Kask Force recommendations. We've had e've had unusual and pleasi and pleasing cooperation from the the people involved in this industry and from the departments that have to contribute to a suce cessful new service. The Council has already authorized requirements to house the new office and Mr. Lillie and his staff, working withoother departments have organized the transition to the new service. We think it will eventually reduce costs, and improve city services while still maintaining adequate maintenance of the subdivision ordinance requirement." Councilmember Snell asked why a person is being taken from the Environmental Resource Management office. Mr. Davidson replied, "The Task Force and our staff did an extensive study as to what the difference in work load would be if all the City Departments after this new servide goes into operation. We found that within that Department and in the advanced planning section of the Planning Department that we are going to reflect a reduction in work load so that we can afford to ask that one position be transferred out of that department." Motion Mayor Pro Tem Cooke moved that the Council accept recommendation of Option C of the Subdivision Task Force Report. The motion, seconded by CouncilGoodman, carried by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen Noes: Councilmember Snell Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Trevino C _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 Councilmember Snell stated that he was not voting against the Task Force, but is not in favor of moving someone from the Environmental Office. i Councilmember Goodman commented "I'd like to commend the City Manager for working very closely with the Subdivision Kask Force to create this new option which I believe will prove to be very workable one. I also think it is important to note that the Subdivision Task Force is going to continue and enter into a different phase to cut out some of the bureaucratic procedures that are often involved in doing business with the city." Councilmember Mullen said he thought they should thank Mr. Goodman for bringing this to the attention of the Council and for helping to set up the Kask Force. AMENDMENT TO PARADE PERMIT Councilmember Mullen moved that the Council approve the request of Mr. Jack G. Fritts, Parade Chairman, Capitol A & M Club, to amend the staging area granted on parade application for Corps of Cadets Texas A & M University and to apply for parking space at Fiesta Beach for members of the Corps of Cadets. (Permit granted November 2, 1978.) The motion, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, carrded by the following vote: Ayes: Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau Not in Council Chamber when roll was called: Councilmember Trevino CLEARING OF VACANT LOTS MS. BOBBIE SPARROW, representing ACORN, appeared before Council to present proposals for the improvement of Chapter 13, Sections 5-9 of the Austin City Code pertaining to Healthe and Sanitaston. She discussed the overgrown vacant lots in the neighborhoods and said that although there is an ordinance governing the cutting of grass and clearing of debris, it seems to take from two months to forever to get the clearing taken care of when a complaint is filed. She suggested the city adopt a more efffotentimenter too take care of the problem, with inspectors to check on the condition of vacant lots, and additional part-time inspectors during the busy months of the summer. She also suggested the use of the Youth Employment Program to provide jobs for youth. Mr. Davidson, City Manager, told Ms. Sparrow that the City Council, either as a part of budget considerations next year, or any time, or as a part of a study may care to check into some of the proposals that ACORN has presented. "I want to mention," he continued, "that one of the reasons it takes awhile to process a complaint is that property owners, regardless of where they live, do have some rights that have to be protected before the city can do work and charge that property with money. And we are talking a about some $75,000 worth of lot clearance each year. While the program at times may appear to move slow, we have checked that on a mumber of occasions CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 and during the normal growing season it moves pretty rapidly. We are talking about the clearance, on an annual basis, of some 39,000,000 square feet of land which is cleared each year as a result of this effort. During the period when we have too much growth because of a lot of rainfall, we do get behind. But it is not practical, from an economic standpoint, for the city to try to staff up so that we have enough people year 'round on the payroll to handle these complaints quicker during the rainy season. Somehow the Council has got to arrive at a proper balance between those who complain of hazardous conditions and the property owners who do have certain rights under the law. Overall, I think we've had a very reasonable program and it has accomplished a lot of good but I would tell the Council that any time we are criticized for the speed of processing, and the number of complaints that we are able to handle, that we'll pursue each complaint to see if we can do a better job. We will be pleased to help Council evaluate any of the suggestions that have been made. I will see, in connection with our budget work next year, that we address some of the concerns that have been brought to your attention." Mayor McClellan told Mr. Davidson that she wanted to be kept informed of each matter brought to Council's attention and particularly in reference to expediting some of those matters. She asked for a running report on progress. Councilmember Snell said he thought that was a good idea but he wanted a report given in 2 or 3 months on the number of lots have been cleared up, rather than have citizens coming before Council every few monthe with complaints. Ms. Sue Edwards, Acting Director, Public Health Department, asked if this was on the number of lots submitted by ACORN. Mr. Snell answered "Yes", and she said that they would be glad to do so as they are keep- ing a currently updated report on the lots. CAPITAL CITY YOUTH BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION MR. DONALD B. KROMER, representing the Capital City Youth Basketball Association, appeared before Council to discuss the youth basketball program. He feferred to Mr. Ehrler's report, given earlier in the day, and said he thought part of the reason why a solution has not yet been found is the failure of the school district to recognize that CCYBA is an independent entity, not directly tied in with the city. Mr. Kromer said the point was finally made at the AISD meeting the previous Monday that you do not come up with a solution if you eliminate those for whom the solution is for. He said that as a result, direction has been given to him, Mr. Ehrler, and city staff to come up with a solution. Mr. Kromer is hopeful that some of the proposals aired thus far, if worked out, will greatly benefit their program and the youth. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED BOND ELECTION Mayor McClellan opened the public hearing, scheduled for 7:00 P.M. on the proposed Bond Election. She She he said that the purpose of the hearing is to listen to citizens comments c comments concerning the bond issue that they plan ey plan to somit to the voters on January 20, 1979. Mayor McClellan stated that Mr. Daran Butler, Budget Director, will give a short presentation to review the bond reperentes of the city departments as outlined in the 1978-83 Capital CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 the decision then is going to compound and make the ballot even larger and and present even more issues to voters in the next election. Third, the general government bond program can be financed by the current 28¢ debt retirement tax levy. The $75,000,000 figure is about four years of authority, and the 28¢ levy is a good posture for the Council provided we continue to sell 6.0. bonds at the rate of $20,000,000 a year; that we continue to obtain an interest rate of 54% or less. If those factors change, obviously it would effect our ability to sell that amount of bonds and our ability to hold the 28¢ rate." Mayor McClellan sald she thought it was "under 6%". Mr. Butler clarified this to say "I want to say a range of 5% to 6% is the safe range. If we move over the 6% mark then we have to begin considering the issues of debt." Mayor Pro Tem Cooke asked Mr. Butler to "speak to any comment that might have been communicated between the city staff and our bond advisors and consultants related to that particülar interest rate." Mr. Butler replied, "The conversations that occured during months between the staff and out financial advisors focused on the advisability of moving to the 28t rate in the current market and whether we could hold that in the conditions under which it could be held, and in working with them and Mr. Barker, we found we could recommend the 28c rate. So we have consulted closely with those individuals. We have told Council before that it's a manageable rate and it takes careful planning and control of our issues and our spending during the course of the authorization but one we can attain." Mayor Pro Tem Cooke asked how the market will shape up over the next 36 months in relation to this particular parameter. Mr. Butler said he has not asked that specific question yet, but will pursue it with First Southwest at the appropriate time. Mr. Davidson, City Manager, City Manager, interjected that he has asked that question before, and "I don't think we'll get an answer. It's pretty difficult to predict a market over that many months." Councilmember Mullen asked if staff had seen any sales in the past few months for a comparably rated city. Mr. Butler said that from his reading he has found that triple A cities are still selling at a favorable rate. At this point, Mr. Reed addressed Council, and said, "I can't answer that specific question but I can govesyou bombchistdeta dhad thatowbeldibeisig tantant Thahpriméméri trenes treatte for commercial indebtedness now is at roughly 11%. The only time in our history when we've had interests rates that high was in 1974 when the prime rate went 12%. We sold some bonds in 1974 and we never paid over 6% for these obligation bonds. The general forecast, if you can believe them as the record in the recent past has not been too good, is that we will probably be in a high interest rate for another 12 months. Possibly a little longer than that. Forecasts are that rates are near their peak." Mr. Butler added, "As a footnote to that it would be looking at our next major sales under any new authorization on the downside of the peaks of the interest rate for commercials. It would have the same effect then on taxfree or exempt market too." Mr. Butler continued his presentation. "The fourth point I would like to make is that the projects emphasized in this program and in this C.I.P. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 : Improvements Program, She reminded everyone that the primary topics Council is concerned with are the bonding requirements of general government programs such as public works, parks, and the requirements of the Electric Department: Waber and wastewater projects, the Mayor Bointed out, will not appear on the next bond election ballot.. There was a bond issue a couple of years ago for water and wastewater and it was a 3-year bond issue. She said these will require new bonding authority late in 1979 or early in 1980 and will be considered a part of the 1979-84 Capital Improvements Program. Mr. Daron Butler appeared before Council and stated: "What I would like to do is present a brief overview of some of the broad aspects of the bonding requirements that are before the Council, based upon the adopted 1978-83 Capital Improvements Program. Within the general government area, Council has approved a C.I.P. that requires $73,209,000 in general obligation bonds to implement the first three years of the program." Mr. Butler then disclosed the following chart of figures to Council: NEW BONDING AUTHORITY REQUIREMENTS FOR 1978-83 CIP PROPOSED BALLOT DEPARTMENT THREE-YEAR TOTAL PROPOSED BALLOT WITH INFLATION Public Works $ $ 21,985,000 $ 23,240,000 Street Improve- ments Right-of-Way 600,000 Paving 17,549,000 Bridges and Culverts 1,078,000 Sidewalks 1,905,000 Railroad Cross- ings 375,000 Bikeway Sidewalk Ramps 475,000 Drainage Storm Drainage 3,003,000 3,005,000 3,139,000 Sub-total $$24,985,000 $ 24,990,000 $ 26,379,000 Hospital Sub-total $ 17,000,000 $ 17,000,000 $ 17,000,000 Police and Coutts Sub-total 13,727,000 $133,730,000 14,160,000 CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS November 16, 1978 CIP PROPOSED Parkland Acquisition Parks & Recreation Green Belt Acquisition 1,150,000 THREE YEAR TOTAL BALLOT PROPOSED BALLOT WITH INFLATION 1,150,000 Park Improvements 5,488,000 Playground Acquisition & Renovation 820,000 Sub-total $ 8,608,000 $ 8,610,000 $ 9,115,000 Aviation Sub-total $ 4,682,000 $ 4,685,000 $ 4,790,000 CIP PROPOSED THREE-YEAR TOTAL BALLOT PROPOSED BALLOT WITH INFLATION Fire Sub-total $ 2,073,000 $ 2,075,000 $ 2,235,000 Traffic Signals Sub-total $ 1,461,000 $ 1,465,000 $ 1,560,000 EMS Sub-total $ 673,000 $ 675,000 $ 705,000 3 YEAR TOTAL NEW BONDING REQUIREMENTS $73,20990000 $73,230,000 $75,944,000 OPTION South Austin Service Facility 480,000 $ 480,000 $ 480,000 3 YEAR TOTAL INCLUDING OPTIONS $73,689,000 $73,710,000 $76,424,000 Mr. Butler continued, "The Planning Commission and the City Council has carefully considered these projects and heard a broad range of testimony from citizens and citizen organizations as to the needs. If my records are straight, this is the fifth public hearing held in this C.I.P. process to review either specific projects or bond program proposals. It appears that the Council's primary option would be to proceed with seeking voter approval for the General Obligation Bond portion for the C.I.P. as approved in September of this year. There are at least four distinct advantages to proceeding with the entire package at this time. First, funds would be available to design and bid major projects at a a point p in the business cycle when local government projects usually receive quite te fav favorable bids. Two, the Council could avoid overloading the voters. In the fall of 1979, as a result of the 79-84 C.I.P. the Council will probably be asking the voters to approve at least $100,000,000 in water and wastewater bonds, and pending on Council's decision about the South Texas Project, could be asking for new electric authority. Delaying ! CITY OF AUSTIN. TEXAS November 16, 1978 are ones that theePlanning Commission and Council very very carefully hammered out as community investment oriented projects. When completed, they will have a minimum impact on the operation budget. In fact some projects, would reduce operating costs and help generate more revenues in the future. The Council's decision, obviously, is not to submit the entire bond package. We have previously communicated with you on the implications and the options you have in putting this package together." At this point I'd like to review a bonding requirement program and situation that is somewhat more complex than that within the general government area. I also handed out to you a one sheet chart which summarizes both the five and three year bonding requirements of the Electric Department and the options you have requested staff to prepare for you. Three basic options are outlined." (SEE CHART THAT FOLLOWS) November 16, 1978 CURRENT PLAN: STP CAP. 16%: 'SUMMARY ESTIMATED BORROWING REQUIREMENTS & RATEPAYER IMPACT FOR ELECTRIC UTILITY GENERATING CAPACITY THROUGH 1993 AND TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION, FUEL INVENTORY, AND STREETLIGHTING THROUGH 1982 OR 1984 New Bond Funds Date REDUCED STP CAP. TO 8%: Replace Reduced Cap. 1986: New Bond Funds Date Replace Reduced Cap. 1990: New Bond Funds Date REDUCED STP CAP. TO 0%: Replace Reduced Cap. 1986: New Bond Funds Date Replace Reduced Cap. 1990: New Bond Funds Date NOTES: Col. 1 ADDITIONAL BORROWING REQUIREMENTS (IN DOLLARS) Col. 2 Electric System Requirements (STP Plant Cost Not Inc.) 5 Years $126,031,000 April, 1979 $102,694,000 April, 1979 $102,694,000 April, 1979 3 Years $107,602,000 April, 1979 $ 90,697,000 April, 1979 $ 90,697,000 April, 1979 $ 79,603,000 April, 1979 $ 74,038,000 April, 1979 $ 79,603,000 April, 1979 $ 74,038,000 April, 1979 Col. 3 For Increase Cost of STP Plant $161,000,000 July, 1979 -0- November 13, 1978 COST DIFFERENCE TO RATEPAYER OVER NEXT Col. 4 Col. 5 For Replacement Amount Of Reduced STP Cap. With Lignite -0- ----- 15 YEARS Col. 6 Amount Base Base $218,000,000 $179,000,000 4% More ----- Late Cal. 1979 $286,000,000 $262,000,000 6% More Cal. 1983 -0- ----- -0- ----- -0- ----- $436,000,000 $381,000,000 9% More Late Cal. 1979 $572,000,000 $594,000,000 15% More Cal. 1983 D 1. Fund requirements for capacity required after 1993 would have to be added in accordance with the lead time associated with the proposed project. 2. Estimates are based on continuation of present financial policies and practices; future inflation rate of 6% for non-generation items; no major changes in regulatory or statutory requirements; 6% energy growth; and no new electric utility programs other than those presently provided. () 1 CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 "I think it is important to point out, continued Mr. Butler, "the availability of current revenues at the levels outlined are crucial. Should these amounts of $31,000,000 not be available for any reason bond funds will be consumed at a more rapid rate, or alternatively, system improvements and other projects would be deferred to fit the available funding. ... This a broad overview of the financial conditions and decisions that are before the Council at this time." Mayor Pro Tem Cooke asked, "The only thing I want to make clear from us is that the current revenue for capital needs that you referenced, the $31,000,000 to $33,000,000...that would be an addition to the specific figure you used, staying in with STP at 16%; reducing to 8%; or reducing to 0. Or, $107,602,000; $90,697,000; or $74,038,000 based on a 3 year need. In other words we would be committing as far as capital into the system 107-million plus 31-million, 90-m 90-million plus 31-million, or 74-million plus 31-million." Mr. Butler said this is correct. Mayor McClellan thenaasked those in the audience who wished to speak to do so. MR. JOHN FLINK, 1415 Hillcrest Drive, appeared and said that the bond issue proposed includes more than the citizens want or need. He specifically mentioned that he thought we already had too much park land and did not need to spend $1.1 million for more. MRS. FLINK aigned to speak but waived the right. MR. ELMER NYGREN, 1304 Ridgehaven, asked how much money out of C.I.Ρ. is allotted to Decker Lake and Park. Mr. Ehrler, Director of Parks and Recreation, said the C.I.P. asked for $945,000,000 for five years. Mr. Nygeen told Council that it is distressing to him to find out again something the ex owners of Decker land have feared from the beginning. The amount amount of money that the city has expended since the contract with HUD in the spring of 1967 is negligible. The Council that acquired the land, he believes, acted in good faith for purposes stated. Now, he said, there is a proposal to use the park privately for recreational facilities. The former owners are hurt that the land confiscated for public good may fall into the hands of people to use for development of recreational type usage which the former owners could have leased or sold to people to do.... the same thing as these people are now requesting. He urged Council to seriously consider following the footsteps of the previous Councils and not let the land fall out of the hands of the public body. MR. BOB TATE, representing the medical staff of Brackenridge Hospital, in the capacity of Chief of Staff, urged Council to approve for the bond election the line item of $17,000,000 for the completion of Brackenridge Hospital. He said that a number of the staff "has watched the piecemeal building of the hospital at an extensive cost of escalating construction price year in and year out. At the At the last general staff meeting it was unanimously suggested that this be passed of possible as a total $17,000,000 pack- age to totally complete Brackenridge Hospital. I'm sure you are aware of the possibility that there is a $2.2 million dollar increase cost per year which ) _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 has to do with the cost of running two separate buildings and escalating construction cost which goes on and on. My main purpose for being here is to let you know that the medical community at Brackenridge Hospital is in favor of such and would like you to submit this item to the public for their approval or disapproval." Councilmember Mullenaasked Dr. Tate if the staff at Brackenridge had discussed the possibility of the bond issue failing if too much was put to the voters. He said he is concerned that if they put maximum amounts in the bond issue, and all fails, then what? Dr, Tate said that if the voters know it is coeting them $2.2 million per year to continue piecemeal, they will be in favor of finishing Brackenridge. This trading off, he said, has been going on for years when it would have cost less to totally complete the new hospital several years ago. This discussion continued with the Mayor asking Mr. Spurck, Administrator for Brackenridge, for operational cost figures for maintaining the old building. Other questions arose pro and and con, the figure of $17,000,000 being put on the ballot for the bond election. Councilmember Goodman said that he is willing to stand up for $17,000,000 and get the hospital construction done with. After further discussion, the public hearing of the people was continued. MR. BO BYERS, 3103 Borden Road, appeared as president of the Capital Area Tennis Association. He urged Council to include the bond proposition for the Parks and Recreation Department Capital Improvements Project on the ballot for the election which is being considered for January 20, 1979. Не said the PARD bonds should be on the ballot because one of the strongest groups of support for the bond election will be the supporters of the city's Parks and Recreation program. He cited the softball players and the tennis players as strong backers for the bonds because of the softball complex and the 16-court tennis center which the bonds would finance. Mr. Byers told Council that an intensive campaign is planned by these groups. MR. HOWARD A. KING, 1720 Fawn Drive, appeared on his own behalf and said he objects to the use of his tax money for "freaks" to use the parks and asked the Council to "keep your tax picking hands out of my pockets. MR. NOEL DOLCE, 2502 Jarrett Avenue, urged Council to have a bond election in order to find out what the voters want. MR. HAROLD L. ROBINSON, 2007-B Westridge Drive, told Council that he supports the bond issue and is in favor of the good drainage systems which are being constructed. MR. M.J. ANDERSON, 1602 Astor Place, complimented Council on the fine job they are doing. He discussed Municipal Airport and asked that it be taken care of until a new one can be built. MR. MIKE WILLATT, Chairman of the Hospital Board, appeared to say it is time to finish something that was begun 10 years ago...Brackenridge Hospital. The doctors and patients are confident of the hospital and the Council should show confidence also. قوع تند CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 MR. BARRETT GARRISON, Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Board, said that they are behind the $8.6 million bond issue and will support it. MR. VIC MEYERS, representing the Austin Softball Association, told Council that the association will support the bond proposal. MR. RON GRAESSEL, a private citizen, addressed Council by saying that Austin has an excellent park system. He urged them to include the proposition for the Parks and Recreation Department Capital Improvements Project ontthe ballot. He said he also supports the $17,000,000 proposal for the completion of Brackendidge Hospital. But, he urged Council to get out of nuclear. MR. MARK Wambert, President of the Williams School P.T.A., appeared and said they are happy to see money being allocated for south Austin parks. MR. TONY GARCIA, Austin Umpires Association, appeared in support of the Parks and Recreation budget. He said that Austin needs more softball par parks. MR. TOM FAIREY, speaking as a private citizen, asked if the proposed bond issue would entail a tax increases Mr. Davidson answered, "It would not involve any tax increase as a result of the bond issue. I cannot speak as to what is going to happen in the operating fund, but we have advised the City Council that if the amount of the bond program and the issuance of debt stays within a certain level, that there will be no increase in the tax levy." MS. JEAN BLACK, Director, Austin Women's Soccer League, appeared in support of the bond issue. No one else appeared to be heard. Mayor McClellan stated that Council would be making decisions soon as to what will go on the January 20th ballot and told the audience that Council appreciates their input. Motion Councilmember Trevino moved that the Council close the public hearing on the proposed bond election. The motion, seconded by Councilmember Goodman, carried by the following vote: Aves: Mayor McClellan, Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmembers Goodman, Mukhang 180e10yTrevinonell, Trevino Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau RECESS Council recessed its meeting at 8:45 p.m. and resumed at 9:00 p.m. CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 GROWTH AND INFLATION Mayor Pro Tem Lee Cooke introduced an item from Council to consider developing an Ordinance tying future budget increases to growth and inflation. He proposed that Council be sensitized to the citizens and look at sincereeco economic trends as they deliberate. He stated that "we should analyze how we're growing, how our corporate city limits are growing, and how the consumer prèce Index, nationally and regionally, is influencing that both negatively and positively. There is now a policy before the City Manager dealing with the budget and Capital Improvement Programs. I would like to submit this to Council for consideration at this time and also bring it back when Council is considering policy changes or any modifications that the Manager currently has before us." Councilmember Trevino stated that he would like to see what type of modifications it may have for future Councils. Mayor Pro Tem Cooke agreed with him on the importance of this. Mayor McClellan said that another work session will be held on budget matters and stated that would be a good time to take this matter under consideration. CITY MANAGER EVALUATION Mayor Pro Tem Cooke and Councilmember Mullen introduced an item to Council to consider setting a date for the City Manager evaluation. Mayor MeCletian asked all Counci Imembers to give her their calendars and she will set a date when they can all attend. She said themmonth of November is exhausted and wanted to see their schedules for December and the first two weeks in January. RENEWABLE RESOURCES COMMISSION Mayor Pro Tem Cooke introduced an item to Council to set a public hearing date and a timetable for the creation of a Renewable Resources commission. He said, "A month ago we formulated we would consider what the Electric Utility Commission brought us as it dealt with a Renewable Energy Resource Commission, pretty much oriented toward solar. I would like for us to refer that out to those two commissions for their review and consideration and come back as early as possible. In doing some quick checking that has not been done yet and that would be my intent based on the mamo that has been circulated to you." Councilmember Goodman endorsed this and said he thought they should move as quickly as possible to get the assessment from the Electric Utilities Commission and the Energy Conservation Commission and move forward to set a public hearing and decide whether or not they want to establish such a commission, He said he thinks the potential pay-off could be tremendous. Mayor McClellan asked, "Are we farming it out to them for their opinion as to whether we should have a separate one or if they feel like they could handle some of these activities?" Mayor Pro Tem Cooke said that is his intent for the request. ३. _ CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 Mayor Pro Tem Cooke said, "I was just thinking about how many commissions and boards we eliminated and now we want to have more." The Mayor said that is why she thinks it is important to look at this one to see of it can be handled by any existing board or commission. Mayor Pro Tem Cooke stated, "I would hope we could send them an indication, I don't know what their schedule is, but maybe we could see this come back to us hopefully in mid-January at the latest." SKYCAP AND CURBSIDE CHECK-IN AT MUNICIPAL AIRPORT Mr. Roy Bayless, Director, Municipal Airport, appeared before Council with a report on options for Skycap and Curbside Check-In at Municipal Airport. He said staff had requested proposals to operate a high standard sky cap service at the airport. Primarily there have been two airport employees handling this function part time since 1961 1961 and "they have done a real good job. However, airport traffic this year will reach about 1.6-million passengers. There is tremendous congestion at the ticket counters and we hope to accpaplish curbside check-in. That would cut down tremendously on the queuing lines at the ticket counters and expedite the passenger flow. Under this concept we are talking about 9 or 11 persons to handle this. There are some organizations in business that contract for this service and provide a high level ser- vice. We hope to employ an organization like that. We could leave it like it is, as an option, but two people cannot continue to provide the level of service we feel is needed out there. We looked at another option of haveng the city do this and use City Employees, but we pretty well discarded that option because of the lack of expertise we have and probably the higher cost. Another option was to have the airlines do it, but there are four different organizations and that creates problems. Again, the one we recommend is an attempt to go to contract. All the airlines have expressed an interest in this. We do not have any firm commitments from them at this time, and we would approach this on the basis that that they would reimburse the city fully for any cost plus an administrative fee of perhaps 5%. The only decision to be made here tonight would be to seek proposals and we can come back to you at a later date with those proposals and explain them and see if we can then gain firm commitments once the proposals are in from the airlines." Councilmember Snell thanked Mr. Bayless for bringing the report. He said he has been interested in seeing this service at the airport. Motion Councilmember Snell moved that the Council proceed with the request for proposals for skycap and curbside check-in at Municipal Airport and bring back to Council as soon as possible. The motion, waeceded by Counc11member Trevino. J CITY OF AUSTIN, TEXAS November 16, 1978 Mayor McClellan stated, "We want to be sure we take good care of our city employees." Mr. Bayless said, "Yes Ma'am, I think that underaany proposal we would suggest that the contractor allow those people that have pro- vided an exceptionally good service for many years, that if they wish to work as part time it would be permitted as long as it did not conflict with their regular duties as city employees, which I am sure they would not want to do anyhow. We think this can be worked out." The Mayor commented, "We have some good people there and we just want to make sure they are taken care of." Roll Call on Motion Roll Call on the motion showed the following vote: Ayes: Mayor Pro Tem Cooke, Councilmembers Goodman, Mullen, Snell, Trevino, Mayor McClellan Noes: None Absent: Councilmember Himmelblau ATTEST: ADJOURNMENT Council adjourned its meeting at 9:15 p.m. APPROVED len Mayor Momse City Clerk