1975 03 27 CC Minutes5785
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
March 27, 1975
The City Council of the City of Baytown met in regular session, Thursday,
March 27, 1975, at 7:00 P. M. in the Council Chamber of the Baytown City Hall. The
following members attended:
*Jody Lander
*Fred Bednarski,Jr.
Charles Pool
Mary E. Wilbanks
Henry Dittman
Tom Walmsley
Tom Gentry
Fritz Lanham
Neel Richardson
Edna Oliver
Howard Northcutt
Councilman
Councilman
Councilman
Councilwoman
Councilman
Councilman
Mayor
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Assistant City Manager
Mayor Gentry called the meeting to order and theinvocation was offered by
Reverend Coy Lively, pastor of Baptist Temple Church.
Approve Minutes
Councilman Pool moved approval of the minutes of the meeting held March 13, 1975,
and ratification of actions taken at that meeting; Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded the
motion:
Ayes: Council members
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
Petitions
Pool, Wilbanks, Pittman and Walmsley
Mr. Lanham presented a petition that was received from the residents of
Wilburn Drive and Francis Street:
"We, the undersigned property owners and residents of Wilburn Drive and Francis
from North Main to Wilburn, ask the City Council to consider our proposal to prohibit
heavy trucks, car transport trucks or any heavy trucks other than those making
deliveries to and from homes on Wilburn and Francis. We would like signs prohibiting
the use of Wilburn Drive and Francis as a short cut from Park to North Main and
vice versa. We appreciate our street now being repaired. It has been an inconvenience
to us and we as taxpayers hate to see our tax dollars go down the drain. Until the
trucks are stopped, our street will continue to be torn up. Thank you for considering
our proposal."
( *Councilmen Bednarski & Lander present)
Councilman Pool moved to accept the petition and refer it to the administration
for study and a recommendation; Councilman Walmsley seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski,Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
Mayor Gentry suggested the police officers issue citations to truck drivers
violating the truck route ordinance.
5786
March 27, 1975
City Manager's Report
Regarding the street improvement program, all of the streets included in
Phase I have been surfaced, and only clean up work remains.
The Capital Improvements Study subcommittees have all submitted their
reports to the steering committee, and they have scheduled a meeting for April 3
to begin their study of the subcommittees' recommendation for the bond election.
The drainage subcommittee met with Commissioner Fonteno and Mr. Langford
of the Flood Control District lastweek. At that meeting, the committee
was able to get the necessary answers to their questions in order to finalize
their report. Mr. Fonteno indicated that the county has $1.455 Million to expend
in the Baytown area. The county will be responsible for drainage improvements
from Highway 146 to Tri- Cities Beach Road; the City will make improvements to
drain the South Main area. Another project was the lining of the Adams Street
ditch in order to increase its capacity so that the area in the vicinity of
Highway 146, Ward Road, and Hunnicutt Street could be drained into that improved
ditch.
Mr. Fonteno and Mr. Langford also agreed to make a study of the drainage
needs in the vinities of McKinney Road and McKinney Street to determine the cost
of right of way to make needed improvements.
Several other needs were discussed, and the flood control district engineer
agreed to make a study of those for the April meeting.
Mr. Richardson attended a meeting in Houston, March 25, regarding the
Houston Pipeline Company's (a wholly -owned subsidiary of Houston Natural Gas) request
to the Railroad Commission to grant them an increase in the gate rate for gas.
The rate is currently 75.4c per thousand cubic feet; the requested increase would
make this $1.26 per thousand cubic feet. In addition, they are asking for permission
to have a pass- through increase in the gate rate of 85 %. Presently, they have a
pass- through of 65 %, which means that anytime the cost of the -raw product is increased
to them, they may automatically increase their gate rate price 65% by filing notice
with the Railroad Commission.
The City of Houston appeared at the first hearing before theRailroad Com-
mission, on March 10, and was granted an extension of twenty days in which to prepare
a rebuttal to the testimony given by Houston Pipeline. The nextlearing will be
April 2 at 9:00 A. M. before the Railroad Commission. The City of Houston has retained
an accounting firm to analyze their request for the rate increase, and the City of
Houston, through their city attorney and director of public service, indicated that
they felt there were som a weaknesses in the case presented with regard to the fair
return on the fair value of the property, used & useful, by Houston Pipeline
Company. For example, the fair value is defined as a reasonable balance between the
original cost of equipment and the reproduction cost, less observed depreciation for
aging condition. The City of Houston feels that the balance which they are using
to reach the fair value may not be appropriate, and particularly if these assets
are only being depreciated two or three percent, when they are many years old.
They also feel that the allocation of the revenues is a little bit distorted, as
far as domestic use or the use of municipalities is concerned. In Texas, gas
suppliers are entitled to allocate their revenues based on the "peak day ", i.e.,
the coldest day of winter. Therefore, they may say that 23% of the gas is for
domestic use, and that 23% of their revenue is derived from domestic use. However,
on an annual average, only 5% of the gas is used for domestic purposes, and the City
of Houston would like to pursue this with the Railroad Commission.
Houston has requestedcother cities to lend support through appearances of
presence before the Railroa3Commission, and by written communication to the
Commission. Mr. Richardson felt a resolution would be in order, and to have a
representative of the City of Baytown present at the hearing in Austin.
Following discussion, council concurred to support the concept of a
more equitable allocation of revenues.
Mr. Richardson suggested a resolution that would support the City of
Houston in asking the Railroad Commission to carefully examine the analysis
of the fair value of the business, used and useful, in providing service, and
in asking for an equitable distribution of the revenues between commercial and
domestic.
5787
March 27, 1975
Councilman Dittman moved to authorize a resolution as outlined by Mr. Richardson;
Councilman Lander seconded the motion:
The council will be distributed a copy of the resolution on Monday. If there
are any objections to the final wording, there will be time to call an emergency
meeting to make any - changes before the hearing in Austin on Wednesday.
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wiblanks, Dittman & Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
Mr. Lanha presented copies of the audit for the past fiscal year.
Mr. Ed Hullum will be on the agenda of the next council meeting to discuss with, or
answer any questions council may have.
Garth Road - The concrete has been poured north to Baker Road, and excavation
is complete from the bridge south to the Exxon station on the west side. About 2,000
feet of this portion has been limed and is being compacted. The contractor will
begin setting forms next week.
Hearing on Benefits - Spur 330 Street Improvement Project
At 7:00 P. M., Mayor Gentry opened the Hearing on Benefits for the Spur 330
Street Improvement Project , explaining the purpose and procedure for the hearing.
Those persons desiring to give testimony were asked to sign a roster. Mayor Gentry
administered the oath to all persons from which testimony would be heard.
The purpose of the hearing was to determine the assessment to be levied
against each adjacent piece of property, by determination of thespecial benefits
to the property, and its owners, and its enhanced value by means of theimprovement.
The scope of the hearing would determine the accuracy, sufficiency, regularity, and
validity of the proceedings. The governing body would have the power to correct any
errors, irregularities, or invalidites to determine the amounts of the assessments.
The city attorney was then directed to present the city's case.
Mr. Richardson called City Engineer Jack Morton. Being questioned by
Mr. Richardson, Mr. Morton stated he had beenity Engineer for the City of Baytown for
eleven years, and prior to that, Director of Utilities for the City of Waco, and
before that, Assistant City Engineer for the City of Pt. Arthur. Mr. Morton is a
graduate of the University of Colorado with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil
Engineering; is a registered professional engineer with the State of Texas; and has
been in the engineering field for nineteen years.
Mr. Morton confirmed he is familiar with the plans for improvements to
Spur 330 that were prepared by the State Highway Department. This will be a joint
project between the State and City of Baytown, with Baytown's portion being approximately
` $95,000 of an $11 Million project. This particular project also includes construction
of Loop 201. The city is responsible for curb, drainage culvert, drainage pipe,
concrete for culverts, excavation for installation of culvert and drainage
structures, reinforced steel for concrete, steel guard rails, drainage inlets,
cement stabilized base, and concrete paving. Mr. Morton described the overall project
for the improvement to Spur 330, which is approximately .8 mile, beginning about
600 feet northwest of the present intersection of Airhart Drive and Decker. At
that point, the roadway is divided by approximately 200 feet, and converge near Airhart.
-Spur 330 is carried on across the bridge to the vicinity of Garth Road, with the
lanes being separated by a 16 -foot esplanade. A new bridge will be constructed at
5188
March 27, :q-75
at a 19 -foot plus elevation. The portion of this project borne by the
city that is to be assessed against the abutting property is the monolithic
curb section, that portion of the concerete pavement, and the cement
stabilized base that supports the curb. Mr. Morton has prepared cost
estimates forthis project as directed by the Council, and determined the
maximum amount that could be assessed against the property for the curb
and base to be:
(a) Estimated maximum amount per linear front foot proposed to
be assessed against the abutting property for curb is .... $ 2.50
(b). Estimated maximum amount per linear front foot exclusive of
the cost of curb proposed to be assessed against the abutting
property is ................ ............................... $ 0.95
(c) Total estimated maximum amount per linear front foot proposed
to be assessed against the abutting property is............ $ 3.45
These amount were included inthe notices sent to the abutting property
owners. The $3.45 is the maximum unit price that could be justified based
on the cost associated with the curb, concrete, and base thereto.
Mr. Richardson then concluded his questioning of Mr. Morton.
Mr. R. E. Lee, a property owner at 1905 Decker Drive, questioned
Mr. Morton regarding what access would be made through the curb to his
place of business, to provide ingress and egress.
Mr. Morton explained that there are no driveways shown on the plans
for construction. It is the practice of the highway department, however,
to work with the property owners in making arrangements to have these
driveways made. This in-no way affects the amount of assessment.
Mr. Lee then asked if a crossover was shown in the esplanade near
Garth Road to which Mr. Morton replied there was not. Mr Lee explained
that about four months ago, an employee of the public relations department
of the highway department assured him there would be a crossover approximately
200 feet east of Garth Road.
Mr. Richardson then introduced an affidavit of City Clerk Edna Oliver that
she had mailed notices to property owners shown on the tax rolls of the
City of Baytown and a copy of a letter to a group which now owns a piece of
property shown as tract #90 -a, previously owned by M. C. Bray. Also intro-
duced was a publisher's affidavit that notices were published in the
Baytown Sun.
Mr. Otis Graham was called as the city's second witness. Mr. Graham stated
that he had resided in Baytown since 1945, was licensed as a broker in 1946,
and has been a full -time realtor for the past ten years. Mr. Graham
confirmed he had reviewed the plans for Spur 330, and had directed his
attention to the city's portion of these improvements. Mr. Graham is
familiar with the land values in the vicinity of Spur 330, and has made a
visual inspection of the property surrounding the proposed improvements.
Mr. Graham's professional opinion of the enhancement to the property
fronting Spur 330, from Loop 201 to Garth Road, to be derived from putting
in curbs was equal to or greater than $3.45 per linear foot:
Tract No. 90 -A
Tract No. 90 -C
Tract No. 90 -D
Tract
No.
90 -E
Tract
No.
90 -F
Tract
No.
90 -G
Tract
No.
89
1
Tract No. 94 -
Tract B
Tract No. 87 -AO2
Tract No. 87 -C -2
5789
March 27, 1975
512.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
$1,766.40
205.83 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
710.12
75.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
258.75
80.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
276.00
80.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
276.00
80.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
276.00
Only 120' of
the northeast
side and 440' of
the southwest
side of Spur
330 will be enhanced.
The remainder
of the tract
is of too low an
elevation in
relationship
to the finished roadway
to benefit.
560.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
$1,932.00
No assessment
due to elevation
of the property.
224.44 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
774.32
20.00 ft. @
$3.45 f/f
69.00
20.00 ft @
$3.45 f/f
69.00
Mr. Richardson then rested the City's case.
Mr. Lee was then called to give his testimony. He began by explaining he
had no objection to the assessment. His concern was with the access to his place
of business; the curb and esplanade will reduce the amount of traffic coming into
his business, and asked to go on record as questioning the plans for a cut in the
esplanade west of the bridge, and not one east of the bridge.
There being no one else desiring to give testimony regarding the assessments,
Mayor Gentry declared the hearing closed.
Councilman Pool moved to adopt Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -2, formally
closing the Hearing on Benefits for Spur 330, incorporating the testimony given
and the assessment roll as approved by council. Councilman Walmsley seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
Council offered no objection to instructing the administration to contact
the highway departmentregarding some crossover access between Garth Road and the
bridge, which would give relief to Mr. Lee's property.
5790
March 27, 1975
ORDINANCE NO. 1771
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS,
CLOSING THE HEARING GIVEN TO THE REAL AND TRUE OWNERS OF THE
PROPERTY ABUTTING UPON SPUR 330 WITHIN THE LIMITS HEREINBELOW
DEFINED, IN THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, AS TO SPECIAL BENEFITS
TO ACCRUE BY VIRTUE OF THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREOF, AND AS TO
ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY, REGULARITY, AND VALIDITY OF THE PROCEEDINGS
AND CONTRACT IN CON N ECTION WITH SAID IMPROVEMENTS AND THE ASSESS-
MENTS TO BE LEVIED COVERING THE COST THEREOF; OVERRULING AND DENYING
ALL PRLTESTS AND OBJECTIONS OFFERED EXCEPT AS TO THE ADJUSTMENTS
HEREINBELOW MADE; FINDING AND DETERMINING SPECIAL BENEFITS TO
EACH PARCEL OF PROPERTY AND THE OWNERS THEREOF EQUAL TO OR IN
EXCESS OF THE AMOUNT OF THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS AS HEREIN ADJUSTED
AND ASSESSED AGAINST SAME; FINDING THE REGULARITY OF ALL PROCEEDINGS
AND THE PERFORMANCE OF ALL PREREQUISITES TO FIXING THE ASSESSMENT
LIENS AND THE PERSONAL LIABILITY OF THE PROPERTY OWNERS; LEVYING
ASSESSMENTS, FIXING CHARGES AND LIENS AGAINST SAID PROPERTY
ABUTTING SAID SPUR AND THE TRUE OWNERS THEREOF FOR PAYMENT OF PART
OF THE COST OF THE IMPROVEMENTS; PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF
ASSESSMENT CERTIFICATES AND THE MANNER OF THEIR COLLECTION; PROVIDING
FOR OTHER MATTERS RELATING TO THE FOREGOING, AND PROVIDING FOR THE
EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Councilman Dittman requested the City Manager, in the near future, to take
a look at how it would affect the senior citizens of this city to increase
the tax exemption to $7500. Because our taxes are based on 50% evaluation,
this may have very little effect.
Mr. Richard Merling - Roseland Park
Mr. Richard Merling appeared regarding the boat ramp and bulkhead at Roseland
Park. He expressed his appreciation for the ramp, but felt there is a
problem with a ditch in front of the ramp. This ditch makes it impossible
to keep a truck and boat trailer straight, when coming out from the ramp.
The parking area is not adequate, as only six to ten vehicles with trailers
may park. Mr. Merling felt the ditch should be filled in with dirt because
it is not needed.
Mayor Gentry explained that the ditch was designed by engineers, and is
necessary during high tide to keep the area from flooding.
Mr. Richard Clark agreed with Mr. Merling's statements, and asked if the
parking area would be asphalted as well as the service road.
Although there are no plans to asphalt the area along the bulkhead that
is used for parking, estimates could be prepared for council. A parking area
could be designated to relieve congestion.
Councilman Lander suggested that these suggestions be referred to the
the administration for a report. Council offered no objection.
First Reading - Ordinance Annexing Certain Properties Belonging to Gulf Oil
Corporation.
Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -1 will annex, first reading, 20% of Gulf
Oil Corporation for tax purposes. An industrial district contract will be
presented to council before this ordinance is read a second time.
Councilman Pool moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilman Bednarski
seconded the motion: 7
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman & Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1770
AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXTENSION OF CERTAIN BOUNDARY LIMITS
OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, AND THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN TERRITORY, WHICH
SAID TERRITORY LIES ADJACENT TO AND ADJOINS THE PRESENT BOUNDARY LIMITS
OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS.
March 27, 1975
Approve Plans and Programs of the Baytown Bicentennial Commission
5791
Baytown`s American Revolution Bicentennial Commission has submitted their
application to the Bicentennial Commission of Texas for funds. That Commission has
indicated that a resolution is needed indicating the Baytown City Council has reviewed
and approved the programs of the local group. This does not include approving any
expenditure of funds.
Councilman Dittman moved to adopt Resolution No. 505, approving the projects
and goals of the Baytown American Revolution Bicentennial Commission; Councilman
Bednarski seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
RESOLUTION NO. 505
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, APPROVING
THE GOALS AND PROJECTS OF THE BAYTOWN AMERICAN REVOLUTION BICENTENNIAL
COMMISSION AS SET FORTH IN THE APPLICATION FOR ENDORSEMENT BY THE AMERICAN
REVOLUTION BICENTENNIAL COMMISSION OF TEXAS.
Award Bid - Concessions at Baytown Sports Complex
Bids were received March 17 for concessions at the Baytown Sports Complex.
Howard Concessions: No Bid All Foods Concessions: 10% of gross income
Mr. Lanham recommended the bid be awarded to All Foods. Councilman Lander
moved to accept the recommendation; Councilman Bednarski seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1772
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, AUTHORIZING
AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN TO EXECUTE AND THE
CITY CLERK TO ATTEST TO A CONTRACT WITH ALL FOODS CONCESSIONS COMPANY, INC.,
FOR THE CONCESSION AT THE BAYTOWN SPORTS COMPLEX (EXCLUDING THE SWIMMING POOL)
AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Consider Report on Concessions at Swimming Pool and Community Building
Bids were advertised for concessions at the swimming pools and thecommunity
building, however, there were none received. Mr. Richardson has advised that the
provisions of the City Charter have been met, and negotiations may begin with a firm
or firms for the concessions. Mr. Lanham requested permission to proceed along these
lines.
Councilman Walmsley moved to authorize negotiations for theconcessions;
Councilman Walmsley seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
Final Payment - Phase I of 1974 Street Improvement Program
Proposed Oridnance No. 50327 -4 will accept and authorize final payment for
Phase I of the 1974 Street Improvement Program. The original contract amount was
$173,575.05. There was an overrun of $8,361.33, bringing the final contract amount to
$181,936.37. Mr. Lanham recommended final payment be authorized. There will be a
considerable underrun on Phase II of this program.
Councilman Bednarski moved to accept the recommendation; Councilman Walmsley
seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
5792
March 27, 1975
ORDINANCE NO. 1773
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS,
APPROVING AND ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION OF THE 1974 STREET IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM BY BROWN & ROOT, INC.; FINDING THAT THE IMPROVEMENTS ARE
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF TH E CONTRACT; ACCEPTING THE ENGINEERS'
CERTIFICATE OF FINAL ACCEPTANCE; AUTHORIZING THE FINAL PAYMENT TO THE
SAID BROWN & ROOT, INC., AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Agreement for Fire Protection for Harris County
Several months ago, council rejected a proposal from Harris County
regarding fire protection to unincorporated areas of Harris County. Other
cities in the county had the same objections.
A new proposal has been received, and Mr. Lanham recommended its
approval. This agreement calls for the City to provide fire protection to
an area of Harris County designated as Zone 32, which is the area south of
I -10, and between San Jacinto River and the Chambers County line. Baytown will
receive $3,328 annually for this protection.
CouncilmanDittman moved to approve the proposal of Harris County; Councilman
Bednarski seconded the motion.
Mayor Gentry requested that next year, before entering into a contract,
a breakdown of the cost allocation for the protection be presented, i.e.,
number of runs and approximate number of manhours and equipment depreciation.
The question was raised as to whether or not the contract infers that the City
of Baytown has the same obligation to the people outside the city limits as it
does to the citizens of Baytown. Mr. Richardson explained this contract calls
for fire fighting and fire fighting equipment only when the equipment is
available.
For clarification, Fire Chief Bailey explained that because there are no
water lines in the unincorporated areas of Harris County, that only the two tank
trucks would be dispatched outside the city limits regardless of the nature of
the fire, and only the driver of each truck would go.
The vote was then called:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool,Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsle;
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1774
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS,
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND CITY LCLERK OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST TO A CONTRACT WITH HARRIS COUNTY WITH REGARD
TO PROVIDING FIRE FIGHTING AND FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES TO UNINCORPORATED
AREAS OF HARRIS COUNTY AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Agreement with Harris County for Jail Services
w
0
Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -6 will enter into an agreement with Harris
County for jail services. This is based on the contract for the first year,
however, would provide for a $6100 increase over theamount received for the first
year. The city will receive $47,700 and Mr. Lanham recommended approval.
Councilman Bednarski moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilman Lander
seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1775
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, AUTHORIZING
AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN TO EXECUTE
_ AND ATTEST TO A CONTRACT WITH HARRIS COUNTY PROVIDING FOR JOINT PARTICIPATION
BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE COUNTY WITH REGARD TO FURNISHING, MAINTENANCE, AND
OPERATION OF JOINT JAIL FACILITIES AND PROVIDING FOR THSEFFECTIVE DATE
HEREOF.
March 27, 1975
.Establish Mid -Block Crosswalks on Texas Avenue
5793
Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -7 will establish mid -block crosswalks in each
of the four block in the downtown area on Texas Avenue. This is the recommendation
of the council's traffic committee, and Mr. Lanham recommended approval of the
ordinance:
Councilman Dittman moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilman Walmsley seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1776
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS,
DESIGNATING MID -BLOCK PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALKS ON TEXAS AVENUE IN
THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, PROHIBITING PARKING WITHIN A DISTANCE OF
ONE HUNDRED FEET IN ADVANCE OF AND A DISTANCE OF TWENTY FEET
BEYOND SUCH CROSSWALK; DIRECTING THE CHIEF OF POLICE TO CAUSE
SAID CROSSWALKS TO BE PROPERLY POSTED AND MAINTAINED; PRESCRIBING
THE MAXIMUM PENALTY OF TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR THE VIOLATION
THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE
HEREOF.
Establish Speed Limit on Texas Avenue
Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -8 will establish a 20 mph maximum speed limit
on Texas Avenue from Commerce to Pruett Street. This has been recommended by the
council's traffic committee, and Mr. Lanham recommended approval.
Councilman Pool moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilman Bednarski seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1777
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN,
TEXAS, BY THE AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 18 "MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC,"
ARTICLE IV,'8PEED REGULATIONS," SECTION 18 -98.1, DESIGNATION OF SPEED
LIMIT ZONES, BY ALTERING THE PRIMA FACIE SPEED LIMITS ESTABLISHED FOR
VEHICLES UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLE 6701d, VERNON'S TEXAS CIVIL
STATUTES, UPON THE BASIS OF AN ENGINEERING AND TRAFFIC INVESTIGATION,
UPON PARTS OF WEST TEXAS AVENUE, WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE
CITY OF BAYTOWN, AS SET OUT IN THIS ORDINANCE; PRESCRIBING A MAXIMUM
PENALTY OF TWO HUNDRED AND N01100 ($200.00) DOLLARS FOR VIOLATION
THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Restrict Turning Movements from West Texas Avenue
Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -9 will prohibit left turns from Texas Avenue
onto Jones, Ashbel and Gaillard Streets. This is the recommendation of the council's
traffic committee, and Mr. Lanham recommended approval.
Councilman Dittman moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1778
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS,
PROHIBITING LEFT TURNS FROM WEST TEXAS AVENUE AT CERTAIN INTERSECTIONS;
PROVIDING A MAXIMUM PENALTY OF TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS FOR THE VIOLATION
THEREOF; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
5794
March 27, 1975
Designate "No Right Turn on Red" - Ward Road at Alexander Drive (Highway 146
Proposed Ordinance No. 50327 -9 wilt prohibit right turns on red from
Ward Road onto Alexander Drive. This is the recommendation of the traffic
committee.
Councilman Dittman moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilman Walmsley
seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman &
Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 1779
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS,
PROHIBITING RIGHT TURNS ONTO ALEXANDER DRIVE (STATE HIGHWAY 146)
FROM WARD ROAD IN THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS, ON
STEADY RED SIGNALS, PROVIDING A MAXIMUM PENALTY OF TWO HUNDRED
DOLLARS FOR THE VIOLATION THEREOF, AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION
AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Committee Reports
CouncilmanPool presented a report on the meeting of the council's traffic
committee in March. The committee has voted to recommend the traffic lights at
the following intersections be sacked on a 60 -day trial basis, and at each intersec-
tion, stop signs will be pladed on the street that carries the least traffic.
1. Sack the traffic lights on Texas Avenue with its intersections with
Ashbel, Gaillard and Jones Streets, in an effort to aid the flow of traffic and
ingress and egress from the parking areas.
Councilman Lander moved to affirm the action taken by the traffic
committee; Councilman Bednarski seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman & Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None ,
2. Sack the traffic light at North Gaillard and West Defee, by the post
office. Councilman Lander moved to affirm the action; Councilman Walmsley seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman & Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
3. Sack the traffic light at Gulf Street and South Main, by the fire
station. Councilman Dittman moved to affirm the action; Councilman Bednarski
seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks ,Dittman & Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
4. Sack the traffic light at the intersection of Market Street and the
entrance to the parking lot at Robert E. Lee High School.
Councilman Lander moved to affirm the action; Councilman Dittman seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: Council members Pool and Wilbanks
5. Sack the traffic light at the intersection of Carver Street and Lee
Drive. Councilman Pool moved to affirm the action; CouncilmaiLander seconded the
motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman & Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
March 27, 1975 5795
(Comitee Report continued - Council Traffic Committee Recommendations)
6. Sack the traffic lights at the intersection of Felt on Street and Texas
Avenue. This will involve several lights. Following discussion, council offered
no motion to affirm this action of the traffic committee.
7. Sack the traffic light at South Pruett and West Gulf, and make this a
four -way stop intersection.
Councilman Dittman moved to affirm this action; Councilman,Bednarski seconded
the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
The council's traffic committee rejected the following requests at its meeting:
1. A stop light at the intersection of Wye Drive and North Main; a traffic
count does not warrant this.
2. A stop light on Memorial Drive at Park Street; a. traffic count does not
warrant this.
3. A 20 mph speed limit on Wye Drive. This was denied, however, the school
zone portion will be signed.
4. A four -way stop on North Second at Defee; a traffic count does not warrant
this
5. Stop signs at Richardson, Ivie Lee and Lacy Drives; a traffic count does
not warrant this.
Recess
Mayor Gentry recessed the open meeting into an executive session for discussion
of pending legal matters.
Ad l ourn
When the open meeting reconvened, Mayor Gentry reported no action was taken in
the executive session. Councilman Bednarski moved to adjourn; Councilman Dittman
seconded the motion:
Ayes: Council members Lander, Bednarski, Pool, Wilbanks, Dittman and Walmsley
Mayor Gentry
Nays: None
APPROVED: /s/ Tom Gentry
TOM GENTRY, Mayor
ATTEST:
EDNA OLIVER, City Clerk