The City Council of the City of Abilene, Texas, met in a Pre-Council Work Session on July 13, 2000, at 8:30 a. m. in the Basement Conference Room of City Hall. Mayor Grady Barr was present and presiding with Councilmen Norm Archibald, Kris Southward, Victor G. Carrillo, Rob Beckham, and Councilwoman Kay Alexander. Also present were City Manager Roy L. McDaniel, Assistant City Manager Michael Morrison, City Attorney Sharon Hicks, City Secretary Jo Moore, and various members of the City staff. Councilman Brown was absent from the Pre-Council session only.

Mayor Barr welcomed the new Councilmembers. Denise Hamilton, Training Coordinator, presented to the Council the Customer Service Initiative Report, which included the history of the Mission & Values Statement, the Secret Shopper Program, Customer Services Training (which has been completed by 75% of all employees), and Internal Consulting. Ms. Hamilton concluded with a briefing of the reward and incentive programs, and the summer Star Search 2000 report. Council noted the positive aspects of the program and stated appreciation for the report. City Manager Roy McDaniel introduced Richard Gertson, the new Community Development Director. Councilwoman Alexander thanked Councilman Archibald for emceeing the 4^th of July fireworks show. The Council discussed various agenda items, and there being no further discussion, the meeting was recessed to the City Council Chambers until 9:00 a.m. for the regular Council Meeting.

Mayor Barr reconvened the City Council of the City of Abilene, Texas, into Regular Session July 13, 2000, at 9:00 a.m. in the City Council Chambers of City Hall.

Councilman Victor G. Carrillo gave the invocation.

Riley Kidd, fourth grader from Thomas Elementary School led the Pledge of Allegiance. Riley was accompanied by his parents, Ronnie and Sheila Kidd. Ronnie Kidd is the Information & Technology Manager for the City of Abilene.

Mayor Barr welcomed Brian Parmelly's Government class from Cooper High School.

Mayor Barr, assisted by Employee Committee Chair Rick Dorman, presented the Employee Scholarship Fund Awards to the following individuals or their representatives:

Jason John Blakeney, son of John Blakeney, Fire Captain; Phillip Zachariah Hay, son of Phillip Hay, Fire Lieutenant; Tara M. Mundschenk, daughter of David Mundschenk, CAD Technician II; Anna Marie Schuffield, daughter of Terry Schuffield, Secretary, Building Inspection; and Jennifer L. Vickers, daughter of Kim Vickers, Police Sergeant

Malcolm Bramlett, Chair of the Keep Abilene Beautiful board, presented to Mayor Barr the Governor's Community Achievement Award on behalf of the City of Abilene. Mr. Bramlett noted the accomplishment and previous awards the City has received.

Councilman Brown moved to approve the minutes of the June 22, 2000 Pre-Council Session and Regular City Council Meeting as printed. Councilwoman Alexander seconded the motion and the motion carried.

AYES: Councilmen Archibald, Southward, Carrillo, Beckham, Brown, Councilwoman Alexander, and Mayor Barr.

NAYS: None.

Councilwoman Alexander moved to approve consent agenda items 3.1 through 3.6 and first reading of items 3.7 through 3.11. Councilman Southward seconded the motion and the motion carried.

AYES: Councilmen Archibald, Southward, Carrillo, Beckham, Brown, Councilwoman Alexander, and Mayor Barr.

NAYS: None.

1. Resolution in support of and authorizing solid waste grant applications in compliance with the West Central Texas Council of Governments (WCTCOG), the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC), and the State of Texas requirements.

The Resolution is numbered 19-2000 and is captioned as follows:

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ABILENE AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF GRANT APPLICATIONS WITH THE WEST CENTRAL TEXAS COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS (WCTCOG) FOR REGIONAL SOLID WASTE GRANTS PROGRAM GRANTS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ACT ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF ABILENE IN ALL MATTERS RELATED TO THE APPLICATIONS; AND PLEDGING THAT IF A GRANT IS RECEIVED, THE CITY OF ABILENE WILL COMPLY WITH THE GRANT REQUIREMENTS OF THE WCTCOG, THE TEXAS NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION COMMISSION, AND THE STATE OF TEXAS.

2. Oral Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Kincaid Auction Service House, Inc. for auctioneer services, Proposal #CB-0044 at a 15% fee on small items and a 4.99% fee on large equipment and vehicle sales. The contract is for a one-year term with the City having the option to renew for four additional one-year terms.

Bid Awards

3. College Heights area street rehabilitation - Phase II, Bid #CB-0045.The bid was awarded to Bontke Brothers, Inc. for the unit prices bid with an estimated construction cost of $92,950.00 as recommended by staff.
4. Oil products for Equipment Services Division, Bid #CB-0046. The bid was awarded as follows: Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8 to Western Marketing, inc.; Item 7 to Griffin Oil; and Item 6 SAE-10W, SAE-30, SAE-40 to Western Marketing; and SAE-50 to Griffin Oil as recommended by staff. The contract is for a one-year period with the City reserving the option to renew for four additional one-year terms at the same terms and conditions.
5. Fuel products for Equipment Services Division, Bid #CB-0047. The bid was awarded as follows: Item 1 to Pride Refining, Inc. and Item 2 to Bob Loyd, L.P. Gas Co. as recommended by staff. The contract is for a one-year period with the City reserving the option to renew for four additional one-year terms at the same terms and conditions.
6. Water pipe for Water Utilities Division, Bid #CB-0048. The bid was awarded to The Marta Company of Wichita Falls, Texas in the amount of $43,835.00 as the most advantageous to the City, and as recommended by staff.

Ordinances

7. Approval of first reading - Ordinance amending Chapter 18, "Motor Vehicles and Traffic", of the Abilene Municipal Code.

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 18, "MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC," OF THE ABILENE MUNICIPAL CODE, BY AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS, AS SET OUT BELOW; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND DECLARING A PENALTY.

8. Approval of first reading - Z-03200 - Rezone from GC (General Commercial) to MH (Mobile Home) zoning district property located in the 3000 block of F. M. 2404 (Old Anson Road), and set a public hearing for July 27, 2000 at 9:00 a.m.

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, "PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT," SUBPART E, "ZONING," OF THE ABILENE MUNICIPAL CODE, BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AFFECTING CERTAIN PROPERTIES, AS DESCRIBED BELOW, DECLARING A PENALTY, AND CALLING A PUBLIC HEARING.

9. Approval of first reading - Z-03300 - Rezone from RM-3 (Residential Multi-Family) to LC (Limited Commercial) zoning district property located at 1202 and 1210 Cherry, and set a public hearing for July 27, 2000 at 9:00 a.m.

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, "PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT," SUBPART E, "ZONING," OF THE ABILENE MUNICIPAL CODE, BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AFFECTING CERTAIN PROPERTIES, AS DESCRIBED BELOW, DECLARING A PENALTY, AND CALLING A PUBLIC HEARING.

10. Approval of first reading - Z-03400 - Rezone from RM-2 (Residential Multi Family) to MH (Mobile Home) zoning district property located at 5733, 5741, 5726, and 5718 Westdale Circle, and set a public hearing for July 27, 2000 at 9:00 a.m.

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 23, "PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT," SUBPART E, "ZONING," OF THE ABILENE MUNICIPAL CODE, BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AFFECTING CERTAIN PROPERTIES, AS DESCRIBED BELOW, DECLARING A PENALTY, AND CALLING A PUBLIC HEARING.

11. Approval of first reading - Z-03600 - Rezone from HI (Heavy Industrial) to PDD (Planned Development) zoning district property located on Arnold Blvd., south of I-20, and set a public hearing for July 27, 2000 at 9:00 a.m.

4.1 Tucker Bridwell, Chair of the Development Corporation of Abilene, reviewed the past ten years of economic development in Abilene, beginning with the implementation of the ½ cent sales tax in 1989, followed by a 10 year history of the DCOA and its impact on economic development, and concluded with plans for the future. Mr. Bridwell mentioned the progress of economic development in other cities, noting that Abilene was the first city to pass the ½ cent sales tax. Of the Texas cities ranked, Mr. Bridwell stated Abilene is #7 in terms of revenue. The organizational relationships between the City, DCOA, the Chamber of Commerce, Abilene Industrial Foundation, and the Small Business Development Center was reviewed. Mr. Bridwell further noted that over 600 jobs have been created and/or retained by DCOA through the first 9 months of 2000. Abilene's philosophy is to not give away grant money to incentivize companies, but to be paid back the money loaned and invest it in our own infrastructure.

Lisa Hoodenpyle, Interim Director of Economic Development, addressed the ad valorem tax, stating there are no tax-exempt projects. Mr. Bridwell reviewed projects funded by DCOA and then briefed the Council on the four distinct business parks. Mr. Bridwell stated the same presentation before the Council this morning has been given to various organizations around town.

Council's comments included noting the great public service this presentation provides, and appreciation of the good management and positive philosophy of the DCOA.

Mr. Bridwell stated credit goes to the citizens of Abilene for voting in the sales tax and for their continued support over the past 10 years.

Mayor Barr noted Mr. Bridwell serves on the State Economic Development Board as Vice Chair, which is a benefit to Abilene. Mayor Barr thanked Mr. Bridwell, the DCOA board and staff, and reiterated credit to the citizens of Abilene.

Councilman Beckham requested a written report of Mr. Bridwell's presentation. Mr. Bridwell stated he would provide all Councilmembers with a copy of the report.

Councilman Archibald moved to approve by oral resolution the semi-annual report of activities from October 1, 1999 through March 31, 2000 of the Development Corporation of Abilene, Inc. as presented. Councilman Southward seconded the motion and the motion carried.

AYES: Councilmen Archibald, Southward, Carrillo, Beckham, Brown, Councilwoman Alexander, and Mayor Barr.

NAYS: None.

4.2 Cassie Hughes, Building Official, introduced the Space Study and Construction Phasing report, stating the bond election for the new Fire Station included funding for an Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The EOC is conducive to serve simultaneously as training facility and utilize space to its maximum. To determine the best location for the EOC as well as develop a plan for space allocation for City offices, the architectural firm of Tittle Luther Partnership was employed to conduct a space study. The focus of the space study was primarily City Hall with evaluations of the Community Services Building, Law Enforcement Center, and adjacent vacant land surrounding City Hall. The summary and recommendations were presented to the City Council in March of 2000. At that meeting, it was requested the property at 534 Cypress be considered and evaluated for use by City offices. Ms. Hughes then introduced architect Gary Pullin with Tittle Luther Partnership, who she stated would give an overview of the City Hall space study. Mr. Pullin stated the two primary considerations of the space study were first, the best place to locate the EOC and second, the best use of City Hall space. Mr. Pullin further stated that through a facilities program questionnaire, existing space was looked at and the space needs were considered. This questionnaire determined that City Hall is currently short 3,700 square feet in needed space. The 3 options available were to: 1) add to the existing building, 2) relocate some offices out of city hall to a building the City owns, or 3) build another structure on land that the City owns. The projected space utilization has been expanded to include use of the Cypress Building by relocating the Housing and Water Utility offices, which are heavily accessed by the public, to provide better parking and relief of overcrowding at City Hall. This in turn enables relocation and consolidation of other functions currently located at City Hall in a configuration that would meet current day demands.

Ms. Hughes stated initially and of significant cost is the State mandate requirement to perform asbestos abatement in the basement of City Hall. Additionally, the demolition of the jail cells is necessary to use the area more effectively and construct the EOC. Cost estimates to complete Phase I and Phase II of construction is approximately $1.4 million with $200,000.00 being funded from the bond election. Phase I includes asbestos abatement, demolition, construction and renovation of the Emergency Operation/Training Center, break room, and conference room. Phase II includes construction and renovation costs for the remaining basement area, relocation of the Housing Authority and Water Utilities offices to the Cypress Building, accessibility upgrades at the

Cypress Building, storage areas, and architectural and engineering fees. Options in Phase I or Phase II and the description of and related cost for Phases III and IV were reviewed. Ms. Hughes concluded by stating approval or direction from Council is needed to proceed with hiring an architect and proceeding with the EOC/Training Center.

Roy McDaniel, City Manager, explained the function of an EOC and the importance of the multipurpose operation being located in the basement of City Hall. Mr. McDaniel also explained that although the EOC is a bond allocation, other possible funding options for the additional needs include the Operating Budget, Housing/Water funding, and Certificates of Obligation.

Council's discussion included the location of the EOC, original cost of the EOC versus the increased cost involved in the addition of projects, the Bond Committee recommendations concerning the amount of the bond placed before the voters, sources of additional funding, preference of funding and project proposals being presented simultaneously, modifying project proposals, the adequate and efficient use of the basement area for record storage, and staff's need to know if Council feels they're going in the right direction with the presented recommendations.

Council's consensus was that a tour of the basement area in City Hall would be beneficial to them and that decisions concerning the space study and construction phases should be reserved for the budget worksessions.

No Council action was taken.

4.3 Melvin Martin, Chief of Police, presented to the Council the 1999 crime statistical report. Chief Martin briefed the Council on crime trends and other quality of life issues, noting that overall crime is down 17%. Chief Martin credited the Police programs in crime prevention and stated traffic issues will be the focus of his department in the coming year.

Council stated their appreciation to Chief Martin for the report and to his department for their work in the community.

No Council action was required.

5.0 Other Business

Mayor Barr recessed the Council into executive session pursuant to Sections 551.071, 551.072, and 551.074 of the Open Meetings Act, to seek the advice of the City Attorney with respect to pending and contemplated litigation, to consider the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property, and to consider the appointment and evaluation of public officers.

Following the executive session, Council reconvened into open session and reported no action was taken in executive session.

5.1 Mayor Barr recommended board appointments and reappointments as follows:

Re-appoint:

Dr. Royce Money

Gerald Schwalb

Dr. L.D. "Bill" Hilton

Appoint:

Norm Archibald, term expires 11/2002

Appoint:

Joe Crowder, term expires 11/2002

Kelly Kinard, Abilene Industrial Foundation representative

Appoint:

Larry Holmes, Alt , term expires 11/2000

Re-appoint:

Melanie Copeland

Appoint:

Rosemary Burkes

Angie Baird

Re-appoint:

Lynn Mendenhall

James Smith

Nancy Bander

Rob Barnhill

Appoint:

Peggy Manning, term expires 5/2001

Liz Herrera

Re-appoint:

Terrenia Fitts

Cynthia Hayes

Dee Moore

Sylvia Shurgot

Anthony Williams

Appoint:

Willie Horton, term expires 5/2002

Appoint:

Delisa Dean, term expires 11/2001

Linda Taubert, term expires 11/2000

Re-appoint:

Bryce Anders, Engineer

Ronnie Carlson, Swimming Pool Contractor, Alt.

Appoint:

Jerry Sartor, Plumbing Contractor, Reg.

Johnny Bevills, Plumbing Contractor, Alt.

Larry Meers, Engineer, Alt.

Ken Hutchins, Architect, Alt.

Ron Smith, Mechanical Contractor

Re-appoint:

Farris Neil, Citizen -At-Large

Appoint:

Wayne Sanford, Master Electrician

James Smith, Citizen-At-Large

Re-appoint:

Toney Gutierrez

Susan Arrington

Re-appoint:

Joseph Rios

Harry Tredennick

Harriet Connor

Appoint:

Christie Galbraith

H.C. Zachry, term expires 11/2000

Appoint:

Gary McCaleb

Councilman Beckham moved to approve Mayor Barr's board appointments and reappointments as listed above. Councilman Brown seconded the motion and the motion carried.

AYES: Councilmen Archibald, Southward, Carrillo, Beckham, Brown, Councilwoman Alexander, and Mayor Barr.

NAYS: None.

5.4 City Manager Roy McDaniel briefed the Council on the Resolution nominating a member to the Board of Directors of the Central Appraisal District of Taylor County due to the resignation of Carlos Rodriguez. Mr. McDaniel stated Betty Ray is recommended for the nomination.

Councilman Archibald moved to approve the Resolution nominating Betty Ray to the Central Appraisal District of Taylor County to fill an unexpired term. Councilwoman Alexander seconded the motion and the motion carried.

AYES: Councilmen Archibald, Southward, Carrillo, Beckham, Brown, Councilwoman Alexander, and Mayor Barr.

NAYS: None.

The Resolution is numbered 20-2000 and is captioned as follows:

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:05 p.m.

Jo Moore, City Secretary

Grady Barr, Mayor