1980 09 25 CC Minutes00925 -1
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
September 25, 1980
The City Council of the City of Baytown, Texas, met in
regular session on Thursday, September 25, 1980, at 6:30 p.m. in
the Council Chamber of the Baytown City Hall with the following
members in attendance:
Jimmy Johnson
Perry M. Simmons
*Mary E. Wilbanks
Allen Cannon
Emmett 0. Hutto
Fritz Lanham
Dan Savage
Randy Strong
Eileen P. Hall
Absent: Fred T. Philips
Eileen Caffey
Councilman
Councilman
Councilwoman
Councilman
Mayor
City Manager
Assistant City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Councilman
Councilwoman
The meeting was called to order and the invocation was
offered by Mayor Hutto.
Minutes
Councilman Johnson moved to approve the minutes of the
regular and special meetings held on September 11, 1980. Council-
man Simmons seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
Pc-t i t i nnc
None.
City Manager's Report
Council had been furnished a copy of Houston Lighting and Power
Company's statement of cost comparison for the billing month of
October, 1980. The statement reflected a reduction of almost $4.00
in the bill of a customer using 2,000 KWH.
Council had also been furnished a letter from Airs. Lurline
Wilson regarding some of the needs of the community. Representatives
of the Clean City Commission visited with Mrs. Wilson and got some
specifics from her. Representatives of the Clean City Commission
were able to remedy ten of the problems Mrs. Wilson listed.
*Councilwoman Wilbanks present.
Drainage - Most of the drainage projects approved by Council for
the 1979 -80 fiscal year have been completed. After the end of the
fiscal year, a complete report will be given concerning drainage.
Presently, the Airhart Drive project is approximately 98% complete
and the Travis Street Project has been completed.
00925 -2
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Harris County Flood Control District continues to work in
the Baytown area and additional crossings have been installed
underneath the flood control district's crossing of Kilgore Road.
Barkuloo Road Sanitary Sewer - This line is being jointly
funded by the school district and the city to provide sewer
service to the new Crockett Elementary School. Approximately
350 feet of line has been laid along the west side of Barkuloo
Road.
East District Sanitary Sewer - The contractors on the East
District Sanitary Sewer contracts are making good progress.
Approximately 720 feet of 8 -inch gravity sewer line has been
completed along Raccoon Road south of Knight Lane and the lines
and manholes have been tested. Almost 1500 feet of line has
been laid along Raccoon Drive from Cary's Bayou to Knight Lane
and east along Knight Lane. This section has also been tested.
Approximately 1065 feet of 8 -inch line along Savell Drive and
approximately 2600 feet of 24 -inch along Cary's Bayou from
Raccoon Drive in a westerly direction to within about 800 feet
of Hardin Road has been completed. The walls of the lift
station are being formed and poured.
Twelve -Inch Water Line Along Interstate 10 Between San
Jacinto Mall and Thompson Road - This line has been completed
with the exception of the tie in to Baytown Area Water Authority
line; testing of that line is in progress.
Park Street - Approximately 95% of the work has been
completed on the storm sewer and about 95% of the concrete on
the south side has been poured. Forms have been set on the
north side between the bridge and Garth Road. The contractor
has begun setting forms on the north side east of Garth Road.
Within the past few days the contractor on that job has made
good progress. The contractor expects to complete this job
on schedule which should be early November.
Community Development - Approximately 95% of the sidewalks
and driveways have been poured on the Community Development
Project and the contractor is setting forms.
Mesquito Control - The City is being sprayed to control
mesquitoes every week. From the calls being received, it appears
the problem is no longer as serious as it had been.
Recent rains have helped minimize the number of water breaks.
Larger breaks have been repaired and crews are now able to repair
the small breaks. All breaks should be repaired by the end of
next week.
Questions and Comments Regarding City Manager's Report
In response to an inquiry from Mayor Hutto, Mr. Lanham
explained that the decision of where to begin a project is
usually left to the contractor. Mr. Lanham also stated that
he would check with the Consulting Engineers concerning founda-
tion on the Park Street project.
With regard to Houston Lighting & Power Company, Randy
Strong, City Attorney, explained that the Public Utilities
Commission has granted the company an additional month to
charge summer rates. Houston Lighting & Power is now allowed
to charge summer rates from May through October.
00925 -3
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Norman Dykes, City Engineer, stated in response to an inquiry
from Council, that he had reviewed the county plans for completion
of the Baker Road project. The plans are well done, but do require
that Harris County Flood Control District enlarge the east fork of
Goose Creek.
Representative of Centennial Square Apartments Appeared
Mr. Terry Ross, a partner in the Bicentennial Square Company,
appeared to protest valuation of Centennial Square for 1980. Mr.
Ross read a prepared statement afterwhich Mayor Hutto explained
that under the City Charter, the City Council does not have the
power to alter a decision of the Tax Equalization Board and the
only appeal would be through district court.
Ordinance - Establishing the Tax Rate for the 1980 -81 Fiscal Year
Mayor Hutto recognized Lamar Kelley, representative of Baytown
Taxpayers Association, who requested that Council consider estab-
lishing a tax rate of $1.25 or less. He stated a tax rate of $1.35
or $1.30 would not be acceptable to the taxpayers association.
In response to an inquiry from Council, Mr. Kelley stated
that his group had gone over the budget and there are areas in
the budget that could possibly require attention, but that group
had elected not to discuss those areas publicly.
Mayor Hutto introduced for the record statements from Council
members Caffey and Philips which statements are attached to the
minutes as Attachments A and B respectively.
The Administration had developed alternatives which would
provide $.05 or $.07 reductions in the proposed $1.35 tax rate.
The alternatives, Case Nos. 1 - 4 were presented as follows:
CASE 1
50 Reduction
Cumulative
Supplement Street Paving
$ 125,000
1.658
Street Sweeper
63,000
.835
2.49
Reduction in fuel budget
30,000
.398
2.89
Delete replacement of brush truck
20,000
.265
3.16
Reduce Contingency
140,000
1.840
5.00
(Remaining Contingency $199,796) $ 378,000
CASE 2
50 Reduction
Cumulative
Supplement Street Paving
$ 125,000
1.658
Street Sweeper
63,000
.835
2.49
Reduction in fuel budget
30,000
.398
2.89
Delete replacement of brush truck
20,000
.265
3.16
Lease purchase Gradall
92,000
1.220
4.38
Reduce Contingency
47,000
.620
5.00
(Remaining Contingency $292,796) $ 377,000
UU92b -4
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
CASE 3
70 Reduction
Cumulative
Supplement Street Paving
$125,000
1.658
1.658
Street Sweeper
63,000
.835
2.49
Reduction in fuel budget
30,000
.398
2.89
Delete replacement of brush truck
20,000
.265
3.16
Lease purchase Gradall
92,000
1.220
4.36
Reduce Contingency
198,990
2.640
7.00
(Remaining Contingency $140,806) $528,990
CASE 4
70 Reduction
Cumulative
Supplement Street
Paving
$125,000
1.658
Street Sweeper
63,000
.835
2.49
Reduction in fuel
budget
30,000
.398
2.89
Delete replacement
of brush truck
20,000
.265
3.16
Delete replacement
of Gradall
122,000
1.618
4.78
Reduce Contingency
167,332
2.220
7.00
(Remaining Contingency $172,458) $527,332
In the discussion of the four alternatives, Mr. Lanham pointed
out that in all instances fuel costs were reduced to $1.20 per
gallon and that the contingency had also been reduced in each
case to varying degrees. He stated that these were just a few
alternatives that Council could consider. Perhaps, Council
would have other alternatives.
Mayor Hutto expressed concern that in each case contingency
would be reduced. Also, he felt the gradall to be necessary to
maintain the City's drainage program.
Councilman Cannon pointed out that the surplus estimate for
the 1979 -80 fiscal year is $878,613. For the 1978 -79 budget,
the surplus was $740,000. He commended the Administration for
an excellent job in managing the city's funds, but at the same
time questioned the process that would result in this amount of
surplus. He emphasized that there would be increases in fees
for a number of city services and that citizens are having
difficulties meeting financial obligations. He inquired if
setting a $1.28 tax rate would mean that Council would be
approving the budget as proposed minus Case No. 4. Mr. Lanham
responded in the affirmative and pointed out that in 1978 the
surplus was $1,181,000, which amount has declined each year.
Councilman Cannon felt that if the tax rate were lowered,
Council would then need to consider very carefully before
expending funds not budgeted during the fiscal year. He felt
that Council could lower the rate with a forewarning that it
may be necessary to increase the rate the following year.
Mayor Hutto proposed that Council consider $.07 reduction
from the proposed $1.35 since the rate proposed by the tax
department, $1.13 plus 130o inflation equals $1.28. He felt
since values had been increased to 1977 figures, this would
provide necessary funds to operate the city and provide a
satisfactory level of service.
00925 -5
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Councilman Cannon stated that the City needed to devise meth-
ods to offset inflation, such as bidding smaller vehicles and
planning work schedules so that more people can ride per vehicle.
However, he emphasized that he would want to provide the pay
packet that had been discussed. He felt the employees are
entitled to this increase.
Mayor Hutto mentioned that with regard to inflation, in many
instances there are few things that can actually be done and the
13% increase to employees will not actually provide an increase,
but only allow the employees to "break even."
Mr. Lanham reviewed several of the budget accounts for Council.
Afterwhich, Councilman Simmons stated that it has been his experi-
ence that in the budget process, the Administration is usually
conservative in estimating revenues and liberal in estimating
expenditures which usually provides some cushion. There is no
control over revenues; however, expenditures can be controlled
by waiting to make the expenditure or eliminating the expenditure
completely. Therefore, he felt the proposed tax rate of $1.35
could be reduced without causing problems.
Mayor Hutto inquired if Council had a figure besides the
proposed $1.35 rate to discuss. Mayor Hutto had suggested $1.28
and Council members Philips and Caffey had recommended $1.32 and
$1.30 respectively.
Councilman Cannon stated that he had determined before attending
the meeting that $1.25 would be a reasonable tax rate. He had
reached this determination by taking $1.13, last year's rate, and
adding an inflation factor of 10 %. He mentioned that in the
Administration's alternatives, Council could find $.07 which
would mean Council would need to find further reductions to
equal the $225,000. This could mean a crunch toward the end of
the budget year, but again there are a number of variables which
may produce more revenue or less expense. Therefore, Councilman
Cannon moved to establish a tax rate of $1.25.
Mayor Hutto inquired if Councilman Cannon had considered
where the $225,000 would be derived?
Councilman Cannon responded Council would need to reconsider
each departmental budget. He was not suggesting that the contin-
gency be lower further than Case No. 4 proposed. The Administration
could wait 3 - 4 months to make certain expenditures.
Councilman Simmons stated that he had been against the pro-
posed $1.35 rate from the beginning, but by the same token with
the unpredictables in fuel cost, he would think the better part
of discretion would be to entertain Case No. 3, providing a $.07
reduction.
Mayor Hutto pointed out that Council had two statements from
absent Council members recommending $1.32 and $1.30. Also, he
stated that as a prudent businessman he could not support $1.25.
He also pointed out that the surplus is considered very important
to the bond rating firms.
Councilman Cannon's motion died for lack of second.
Councilman Johnson explained that he too desired to establish
a tax rate which would be the lowest possible rate, but he would
prefer to know where the $225,000 would be derived. Therefore,
Councilman Johnson moved that $1.28 be established as the tax
rate as indicated in Case No. 3 of the Administration's alternatives.
Councilman Simmons seconded the motion.
00925 -6
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
The City Attorney was allowed time to make appropriate changes
in the ordinance. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2971
AN ORDINANCE FIXING THE RATE AND TAX LEVY FOR THE CITY
OF BAYTOWN FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30,
1981, UPON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY IN SAID CITY OF BAYTOWN
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF TEXAS AND
THE CHARTER PROVISIONS AND ORDINANCES OF SAID CITY; AND
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN
CONFLICT THEREWITH.
Ordinance - Adopting 1980 -81 Budget for City of Baytown
Mr. Lanham explained that the budget which Council had
been given was based on changes through August. The $60,000
that resulted from the Board of Equalization report was not
included. The Administration had developed a summary of 1980 -81
proposed budget which included the $60,000 figure based on $1.35
tax rate. With the adjustment in the tax rate, the general fund
figure, $14,834,805 was reduced by $528,990 for a figure of
$14,305,815 to be included in the ordinance under Section 2,
General Fund.
Councilman Simmons moved for the adoption of the ordinance,
subject to the reduction; Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded the
motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2972
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR THE ENSUING FISCAL
YEAR, BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 1980, AND ENDING SEPTEMBER
30, 1981, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CHARTER AND ORDINANCES
OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION
OF TIiIS ORDINANCE.
Ordinance - Adopting City of Baytown Revenue Sharing Budget
for 1980 -81
Mr. Lanham explained that at the present there was no
confirmation that the revenue sharing legislation had been
finalized; therefore, Council would be acting with the under-
standing that Council action is contingent upon legislative
action. Also, the Administration would not proceed with any
revenue sharing expenditures until such authorization was
received. The Administration recommended approval of the
$500,000 for the purposes outlined in recommendations. The
major portion of the $500,000 would be utilized toward matching
funds for the West District Treatment Plant.
00925 -7
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved for the adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2973
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY
OF BAYTOWN TO APPROPRIATE FIVE HUDNRED THOUSAND AND
N01100 ($500,000) DOLLARS FROM THE UNAPPROPRIATED
TWELFTH ENTITLEMENT PERIOD FUNDS OF GENERAL REVENUE
SHARING, 1981, TO THE FOLLOWING BUDGET ACCOUNTS: 9020,
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION; 9060, LIBRARY; 9070, SOCIAL
SERVICES; AND 9080, FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATION; DIRECTING
THE CITY CLERK TO FILE AND GIVE NOTICE OF THE AVAIL-
ABILITY OF THE ADOPTED BUDGET; AND PROVIDING FOR THE
PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Approval of Baytown Area Water Authority Budget for 1980 -81
This is the budget that has been reviewed and approved
by the Baytown Area Water Authority Board. The figures are
based on estimated treatment of 7,600,000 gallons of water
per day. If BAWA were to treat more water, the cost of treat-
ment would increase accordingly, but so would revenues since
revenue projections are also based on 7,600,000. Based on City
of Baytown consumption, there should be demand for at least
the 7,600,000. The Administration recommended approval of the
Baytown Area Water Authority Budget for 1980 -81.
Councilman Simmons moved to approve the 1980 -81 Budget for
the Baytown Area Water Authority; Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded
the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
Ordinance - Amending Chapter 31, "Utilities," to Provide for
Increase in Sewer Service Rates and Tapping Fees for Water
and Sewer Service
Passage of this ordinance would increase the sewer rates from
the present rate of $3.50 for the first 3,000 gallons and $.40
per 1,000 gallons in excess of 3,000 to $4.50 for the first
2,000 gallons and $.85 for all service over the minimum. For
residential customers a cap will be set at 10,000 gallons. For
service over 10,000 gallons for residential customers, there will
be no charge.
The Administration has reviewed the tapping fees and a change
is indicated. The recommendation is to go from $215 to $250 for
a three - quarter inch water tap; from $275 to $300 for a one inch
water tap and from $140 to $175 for a four inch sewer tap. All
taps larger than these residential taps will be made at cost.
The Administration recommended approval of the ordinance.
In response to a question from the audience, Mayor Hutto
explained that Council realizes the increase in water is high,
but there are bonds to be retired and the cost of raw water to
00925 -8
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
consider. With regard to the sewer rate, Council had requested
a cap be placed at 10,000 gallons because Council felt anything
over 10,000 gallons would be used to water lawns, wash autos, etc.
Mr. Lanham explained that in past years, the water fund has
been subsidizing the sewer fund to some degree and this would
change that and put the sewer system on a self - supporting basis.
Councilman Simmons moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilwoman
Wilbanks seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2974
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 31, "UTILITIES," OF THE
CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN BY AMENDING
SECTION 31 -55, WATER TAPPING FEES; AMENDING SECTION 31-
65, SEWER SERVICE CHARGE; AMENDING SECTION 31 -67, SEWER
TAPPING FEES; PROVIDING A REPEALING CLAUSE; CONTAINING
A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION AND
EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Ordinance - Amending Chapter 14, "Garbage, Trash and Brush,"
to Provide an Increased Charge for Solid Waste Collection
The present rate is $4.50 per month for normal residential
service and $2.25 per month for senior citizen service. The
proposal is to increase each of these rates by $1.00 per month.
This rate will cover the cost of garbage collection twice
weekly, but will not cover the cost of trash and heavy items
collection. That would continue to be subsized from other city
revenues. The Administration recommended approval of the ordi-
nance.
Councilman Johnson moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Simmons seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2975
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14, "GARBAGE, TRASH, AND
BRUSH," OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
SETTING THE CHARGE FOR COLLECTION; PROVIDING A REPEALING
CLAUSE; CONTAINING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR
THE PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
K
Ordinance - Approving a Contract with Lake Municipal Utility
District to Provide Sanitary Sewer Service
The Council has made certain agreements with the developers
of Lake Municipal Utility District which this contract will
implement. The contract provides that Lake Municipal Utility
District will pay the City of Baytown $525,000 as a capital
charge for sewer plant capacity. The agreement was that Lake
Municipal Utility District's rates will be the same as that of
customers within the city limits and that is what this contract
provides. The district will be responsible for building the
00925 -9
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
system and transmission line to the city subject to the city
approval of plans and specifications and city inspection of
the work. A flow device must be installed to meter and record
the amount of sewerage flowing into the city's system. The
system will be owned by the district, but the district must
comply with city regulations and there is a very stiff penalty
for infiltration. Article V speaks to scheduled types of wastes
that the city will accept. There is a table attached to the
contract which shows that by 1986 the average volume expected
to be delivered to the city is 500,000 gallons per day. The
capital buy -in charge as determined by Langford Engineering
is $1.04 per thousand gallons for plant expansion; therefore,
by multiplying the $1.04 by 500,000 results in the capital
buy -in. The remainder of the contract speaks to payment and
the right of the city to inspect the district's books. The
district will be billing its customers and paying the city on
a lump sum basis. The Administration recommended approval of
the ordinance.
Councilman Cannon moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2976
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN,
TEXAS, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND CITY
CLERK OF THE CITY TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST TO A WASTEWATER
DISPOSAL CONTRACT WITH LAKE MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT
AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Ordinance - Awarding Bid for Depository Contract
Specifications were changed and
rebid. On second bidding, two bids
Bank and Trust submitted .4% below
Texas National Bank submitted .895%
Rate. The bid of Citizens Bank and
Administration recommended approval
the depository contract was
were received. Citizens
the current Treasury Bill Rate.
below the current Treasury Bill
Trust is the high bid. The
of the ordinance.
Councilman Simmons moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilman
Cannon seconded the motion.
In response to an inquiry from Council, Mr. Lanham explained
that the big change in the contract was the provision that the
city would be able to do some investing on its own. The contract
ambiguity discussed at the last meeting was changed in an effort
to clarify that both parties have the right to cancel the contract
for cause. With regard to the pledges that can be accepted, Mr.
Strong stated that the state law specifies acceptable securities
and the contract follows that except there is a provision that on
some federal agencies, the securities be unconditionally guaranteed.
Also, any bonds of another governmental entity which are used as
collataral must be "A" rated or better. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
00925 -10
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
ORDINANCE NO. 2977
AN ORDINANCE SELECTING A CITY DEPOSITORY; AUTHORIZING
THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST TO A
CONTRACT WITH THE SELECTED DEPOSITORY; AND PROVIDING
FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Ordinance - Awarding Bid for Term Life, Accidental Death and
Dismemberment and Medical Insurance for City Employees
Six bids were received on September 24, 1980, for term life,
accidental death and dismemberment and medical insurance for
city employees. Bids were taken on two group medical plans.
Plan A is based on the current city medical plan with minor
modifications. Plan B is based on specifications developed
by the Texas Municipal League's Insurance Trust Fund.
Plan A provides for a $200 deductible, average semi - private
room rate, $1,000 first dollar coverage with 80% co- insurance
for the next $4,000 and 100% coverage over $5,000.
Plan B provides for $100 deductible, average semi - private
room rate, and 80% co- insurance for the first $2,500 with 100%
coverage over $2,500. Plan A provides better coverage on
smaller claims, while Plan B provides more coverage on larger
claims.
The low bid for group medical insurance on Plan B was
submitted by the Texas Municipal League's Insurance Trust Fund.
The rates quoted for employee medical insurance are identical
with the current rates -- $38.34 for employee coverage, $25.42
for child coverage, $65.19 for spouse coverage, and $88.21 for
family coverage. The Texas Municipal League Insurance Trust
Fund Plan is currently insured by Philadelphia Life Insurance
Company and reinsured and administered by the Prudential
Insurance Company of Austin.
The City's annual cost for medical coverage for 521 employees
will be $239,701.68. Currently, 161 employees have child, spouse,
or family coverage. Employees with dependent insurance will pay
$115,695. The total cost of group medical insurance at present
enrollment will be $355,396.68. Mutual of New York submitted
the low bid on Plan B at a total cost of $381,489. Mutual of
New York also submitted the low bid on Plan A at a total cost
of $426,484.92.
Group Life Insurance is provided as part of the employee
group coverage package. Currently, the city provides employees
with $5,000 coverage and retirees with $3,000 coverage. Bids
were taken on this plan and two others. One would provide only
$3,000 coverage and the other for full salary up to $25,000.
Since the Administration has recommended modifying the City's
Texas Municipal Retirement System Plan by adding both 10 year
vesting and increased death benefits, it is probably best to
stay with the present life insurance plan. The total city cost
for this coverage is $16,144.92.
Council expressed some concern there was no employee input
prior to advertising for bids; however, Councilman Cannon noted
that in a situation where many individuals are affected, that it
would be difficult to please everyone. He stated that this
appeared to be a good plan with no increase in cost to the
employees.
00925 -11
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Mr. Savage pointed out that the plan itself was designed by
Municipal League Trust Fund Board composed of persons who rep-
resent cities throughout the state and the plan is designed for
cities which is an important consideration.
Councilman Johnson moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Cannon seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2978
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN,
TEXAS, ACCEPTING THE BID OF TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE INSUR-
ANCE TRUST FUND FOR A GROUP INSURANCE POLICY PROVIDING
FOR LIFE INSURANCE, MAJOR MEDICAL BENEFITS, AND BASIC
MEDICAL BENEFITS FOR THE CITY OF BAYTOWN EMPLOYEES;
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO
EXECUTE AND ATTEST TO A CONTRACT WITH TEXAS MUNICIPAL
LEAGUE INSURANCE TRUST FUND; DIRECTING PAYMENTS OF
PREMIUMS PURSUANT TO THE TERMS OF SAID CONTRACT; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
For tabulation, see Attachment "C."
Ordinance - Authorizing Execution of a Facilities Management
Contract with B. H. Greer d /b /a Computer Consulting Services
For the last three years, the City has had a contract with
Bob Greer of Computer Consulting Services to provide technical
service for data processing operations. What the Administration
is proposing is to renew that contract. The original contract
called for an annual payment of $18,000 which provided for 1,000
hours of work at a rate of $18.00 per hour. That contract was
signed in September, 1977. The contract that the Administration
is proposing is a three -year contract, but under the terms of
this contract each year, the city would specify the basic number
of hours that Mr. Greer and his employees would be working. In
the 1980 -81 fiscal year, the recommendation is that he be employed
to work 1,500 hours and that during that fiscal year, he be
guaranteed a minimum of $30,000; that an hourly rate be established
for him at the rate of $25.00 per hour, systems analyst at the
rate of $20.00 per hour and programmers at a rate of $18.00 per
hour. In the event he is required to work more than the 1,500
hours specified, the rates will be changed to $30.00 per hour for
his time, $25.00 per hour for systems analyst, and $20.00 per hour
for programmers. In subsequent years, the Administration would
like to set the minimum hours at no less than 1,000 hours per
year, but each year prior to beginning of the fiscal year, a rate
would be established. Also, there is a provision that Mr. Greer's
salary and that of his employees will be-negotiable up to, but
not to exceed, the cost of living increase granted city employees.
The contract has a clause that either party may cancel the contract,
provided that 60 days written notice is given. The contract is
not assignable. There is an attachment to the contract entitled,
"Scope of Services," which basically makes Mr. Greer responsible
for the technical aspects of the city's data processing operations --
existing systems, as well as new systems. The city has the respon-
sibility to establish priorities and to supervise and operate the
production operations of the department and its personnel -- computer
operators and keypunch operators.
00925 -12
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
In response to questions from Council, Mr. Savage explained
that Mr. Greer has been involved with data processing since 1966
or 1967, and became involved with the City of Baytown through
Honeywell when the city was in desperate need of a programmer.
The City had hired Mr. Greer on a temporary basis until such
time that a full -time programmer could be retained. At that
time, the City was unable to get a person with the proper back-
ground to operate the City's data processing system; therefore,
Mr. Greer was offered the data process consulting contract. Mr.
Savage likened Mr. Greer to an engineering consultant who has
expertise at a greater level than the City would be able to afford
on a full -time basis. A contract such as this gives the City
continuity which the City would not be able to maintain by
competing on the data processing market. Mr. Greer is responsible
to Mr. Savage who makes all scheduling decisions. Mr. Savage
felt that the best procedure at this point would be to develop
a procedure to consolidate the data processing operation, bring
existing system up to current technology and attempt to realize
some economics. A work plan has been developed and presented
to the City Manager. During this fiscal year, Mr. Savage would
like to develop a data processing review committee to help
establish plans and set priorities in terms of future develop-
ment.
With regard to recommendations made by the auditors, Mr.
Savage explained that some of the cash receipt programs are
operational, but not fully implemented. With regard to verifying,
Mr. Savage felt that the edits that the program produces are
designed to do that.
Mr. Greer is available to the City by phone and in many
instances problems are resolved by phone. If the problem cannot
be resolved by phone, Mr. Greer makes an on -site inspection.
Over the three years of the present contract, this has not been
a real problem.
Mr. Greer possesses the expertise necessary and provides
necessary continuity to move into an on -line system.
Councilman Cannon stated that at some point, he felt that
the City would need to look at having a full -time person on the
City's payroll to handle the data processing program.
Councilman Cannon moved to adopt the ordinance; Councilwoman
Wilbanks seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2979
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK OF
THE CITY TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST TO A FACILITIES MANAGE-
MENT CONTRACT WITH B. H. GREER, d /b /a COMPUTER CONSULTING
SERVICES, FOR DATA PROCESSING SERVICES AND PROVIDING FOR
THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
00925 -13
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Ordinance - Authorizing Execution of a Contract with Baytown
Area Water Authority for Personnel Services
Council approved the City of Baytown budget for the 1980 -81
fiscal year which included employee positions for staffing of
the water treatment plant. It had been decided some time ago
that rather than the Authority hiring its employees, the City
would hire and supervise the employees and the Authority would
reimburse the City for the actual expense of providing the
service.
The contract provides that the City will provide a plant
manager, operators, etc. to operate and maintain the water
treatment plant. BAWA will pay the City the actual expense
incurred to furnish employees, that is salary, benefits,
licensing, etc.
The Baytown Area Water Authority Board has approved the
contract; the Administration concurred.
Councilman Simmons moved for approval of the ordinance;
Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and
Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2980
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND
CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST
TO A CONTRACT WITH THE BAYTOWN AREA WATER AUTHORITY (BAWA)
FOR PERSONNEL SERVICES TO BE FURNISHED BY THE CITY OF BAY -
TOWN TO BAWA TO MAINTAIN AND OPERATE ITS PLANT.
Ordinance - Authorizing Execution of Contract with Baytown Area
Water Authority Establishing Rate for Sale of Water to the
City of Baytown
When the contract election was held in 1977, what was actually
being voted on was a contract between the Baytown Area Water Author-
ity and the City of Baytown which provides that the Authority will
build and operate a water treatment plant and transmission system.
The City of Baytown will be financially responsible to pay to the
Authority funds to pay the interest and principal on the bonds and
to operate the plant. It is necessary to have a supplemental
contract to set forth the rate that the Authority is authorized
to charge. Based on the budget recently approved and based on the
sale of 7,600,000 gallons of water per day, that charge must be $.97
per thousand gallons. In dealing with the customers other than the
City of Baytown, $1.00 is being used as a basis for negotiation.
If more than 7,600,000 gallons are sold, it may be possible to
reduce this rate. The original contract makes this provision.
The Baytown Area Water Authority Board has approved this contract;
the Administration concurred.
Councilman Cannon moved for adoption of the ordinance; Councilman
Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
00925 -14
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
ORDINANCE NO. 2981
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND
CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST
TO A CONTRACT WITH THE BAYTOWN AREA WATER AUTHORITY
(BAWA) ESTABLISHING THE RATE FOR SALE OF WATER TO THE
CITY OF BAYTOWN.
Ordinance - Approving Final Payment for the 1980 Street Improve-
ment Program
Brown and Root, Inc. has completed the work. The total cost
of the contract, including two change orders is $417,183.44 which
is an underrun of $79.20. The major change order was the change
in plans for Lobit Street. The Administration recommended
approval of the ordinance.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Cannon seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2982
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION OF
THE 1980 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BY BROWN & ROOT,
INC.; FINDING THAT THE IMPROVEMENTS ARE IN ACCORDANCE
WITH THE TERMS OF THE CONTRACT; ACCEPTING THE CITY
ENGINEER'S CERTIFICATE OF FINAL ACCEPTANCE; AUTHORIZING
THE FINAL PAYMENT TO THE SAID BROWN & ROOT, INC.; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Ordinance - Approving Final Payment for 1980 Sanitary Sewer
Sliplining Program
This work has been completed with an overrun of $300
bringing the final payment to $18,168. The Administration
recommended approval of the ordinance.
Councilman Cannon moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2983
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION OF
THE 1980 SANITARY SEWER SLIPLINING PROGRAM BY SHUR -FLO,
INC.; FINDING THAT THE IMPROVEMENTS ARE IN ACCORDANCE
WITH THE TERMS OF THE CONTRACT; ACCEPTING THE CITY
ENGINEER'S CERTIFICATE OF FINAL ACCEPTANCE; AUTHORIZING
THE FINAL PAYMENT TO THE SAID SHUR -FLO, INC.; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
00925 -15
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Ordinance - Approving Final Payment for Twelve -Inch Water Main
to Gentry Junior School
This is the line that is to be jointly funded by the school
district and the City. Final payment is $13,131.70. The
Administration recommended approval of the ordinance.
Councilman Johnson moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Cannon seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 2984
AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION OF A
WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM BY JAHO, INC.; FINDING THAT
THE IMPROVEMENTS ARE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF
THE CONTRACT; ACCEPTING THE CONSULTING ENGINEERS'
CERTIFICATE OF FINAL ACCEPTANCE; AUTHORIZING THE FINAL
PAYMENT TO THE SAID JAHO, INC.; AND PROVIDING FOR THE
EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Consider Proposed Resolution - Establishing Rules and Procedure
for Conduct of Council Meetings
Since all Council members were not in attendance, this
item was passed.
Resolution No. 746 - Authorizing the Administration to Make Grant
Application for Senior Citizens Taxicab Program
The Houston - Harris County Area Agency on Aging has changed its
fiscal year to coincide with the federal fiscal year. Therefore,
requests for funds will be limited to a nine -month period, January 1
to September 30, 1981. The Administration would like authorization
to submit another grant application for continuation of the senior
citizens taxicab program. Currently, approximately 1100 rides per
month are being provided. The average cost per ride is about $1.65
and there are about 540 people who are enrolled in this program.
The City would be applying for $17,280 in federal funds which will
be matched with $11,520 local funds for a 60 -40 match. The Admin-
istration recommended approval of the resolution.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved for adoption of the resolution;
Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
RESOLUTION NO. 746
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY
OF BAYTOWN TO MAKE APPLICATION TO THE HOUSTON- HARRIS
COUNTY AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR GRANT FUNDS IN THE
AMOUNT OF SEVENTEEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED EIGHTY AND
N01100 ($17,280.00) DOLLARS FOR THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
SENIOR CITIZENS' TAXICAB PROGRAM.
00925 -16
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Ordinance - Approving Stipulation Agreement Concerning Proposed
Rural Rate Increase for Houston Lighting and Power Company
Council authorized the Administration to participate in the
rural rate case regarding Houston Lighting and Power Company
request for rate increase. Prior to the hearing, several of
the parties involved, in an effort to eliminate some of the time
and effort that goes into a rate hearing, worked out a stipulation
agreement as to a proposed rate increase. That has been presented
as part of the packet to the Public Utilities Commission. The
stipulation would give-Houston Lighting and Power Company a
rate increase of approximately $134,000,000. Houston Lighting
and Power had requested in their rate packet $214,000,000. The
City of Houston hired the firm of Touche, Ross to study Houston
Lighting and Power's request and make a recommendation. Touche,
Ross's recommendation is $121,000,000. The City of Baytown did
not participate with Touche, Ross in that, but the City has used
that firm in the past. The stipulation which was agreed to was
fairly close to what the City of Houston's experts had recommended
and it was in fact approximately $1,000,000 under what the Public
Utilities Staff had recommended. In light of the fact that in
past cases, Public Utilities Commission has usually accepted the
staff recommendation or just above that recommendation, the
stipulation had the effect of lowering the increase as to
residential rates as opposed to what Houston Lighting and Power
had originally requested. In the opinion of the City Attorney,
the stipulation was reasonable. Under the stipulation, the total
increase for residential customers would be 9.6 %. The company had
requested a little above 14% originally. With regard to some of
the newspaper stories which state that the stipulation agreement
represents 18% increase, it does represent 18% increase if you
look at the base rate only and do not count fuel costs. Using
the same comparison and looking at Houston Lighting and Power's
original request, the original request for base rate was 28 %.
Therefore, the stipulation agreement is a fairly modest increase.
The stipulation also raised the return differential somewhat.
The return differential would be .81 from .70. The Public
Utilities Commission staff had recommended .83.
The City Attorney did not have an opportunity to present
this to the Council prior to this being agreed upon. All the
parties agreed to the stipulation, but the City Attorney did
state that the stipulation would need to be presented to City
Council for final decision. Theoretically, the stipulation
applies strictly to the rural case and is not binding on any
municipality in its own rate making case. Therefore, when the
City Council holds its hearing, the Council may set whatever
rate it deems just. However, realistically, if the City Council
agrees to this stipulation, when it comes time to hear the City
case there is some obligation for the Council to abide by the
stipulation, because in essence Council in agreeing to the
stipulation, is saying that this is a correct amount for Houston
Lighting and Power to receive. Therefore, if Council agrees to
the stipulation and then later decides on a different rate, this
would put the City in a difficult position when appealing to the
Public Utilities Commission. Therefore, the City Attorney felt
that if Council adopted the stipulation agreement, it would set
the tone for what Council would be doing in the City's case.
The stipulation agreement is what Houston Lighting and Power
received in the rural case and because Baytown was an intervenor
in that case, the Public Utilities Commission is expecting Baytown
to either approve or disapprove the stipulation agreement.
Councilman Simmons expressed the desire to make a decision
on the stipulation agreement after a public hearing is held by
the City of Baytown to allow time to hear from the citizens with
regard to what posture the City should take.
00925 -17
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
The City Attorney explained that part of the reason that Houston
Lighting and Power was willing to enter into this stipulation was
that the rates will go into effect on October 1 for rural areas and
the cities entering the stipulation are agreeing that they will hold
their rate hearings as soon as possible where these same rates can
take effect in the cities. Therefore, by the stipulation Houston
Lighting and Power would be able to put their increase into effect
a month or two earlier.
Another provision of the stipulation is that persons using less
than 500 kilowatt hours per month would pay at the winter rate even
in the summer. For those persons, their bill would actually decrease.
Mr. Schafer stated that 210 of their customers fall in this category.
The City Attorney also pointed out for Council information that
the franchise fee will be considered separately by the Public
Utilities Commission and is not settled as part of the stipulation.
This will be considered at a separate hearing before the Public
Utilities Commission. One of the proposals is that a portion of
the franchise rate will be allocated to all consumers and a portion
will be allocated to municipal customers. At present, municipal
consumers pay the entire franchise cost.
In response to a question from Council regarding energy audits,
Mr. Schafer explained that Houston Lighting and Power will be
offering to residential customers a service by which Houston
Lighting and Power would go into the home and perform an energy
audit and make recommendations as to energy conservation, along
with facts related to pay back in energy savings. As part of the
National Energy Act, this is mandated. Originally, Houston Lighting
and Power has estimated a charge of $25.00, but the National Energy
Act specifies that the maximum to be charged for this service is
$15.00. Houston Lighting and Power now estimates that the actual
cost to perform this service is $75.00, but by law the maximum
that can be charged for the service is $15.00; therefore, the
remainder will be absorbed elsewhere.
Mayor Hutto pointed out that it appeared that the cost to
perform the service out weights the actual benefit. He felt that
the individual could go to a private concern to perform this audit
if he so desired and then other customers would not be paying for
the audit.
Mr. Schafer explained that the City of Houston chose not to
endorse the Administration's recommendation regarding the stipulation.
Therefore, Houston Lighting and Power did file an appeal of that
ordinance and the Public Utilities Commission will hear that appeal
on October 6. Historically, the Public Utilities Commission has
provided interim rates based on the determination in the rural
rate case.
Council requested that the Administration place this item on
the Council agenda for October 9, 1980 meeting, along with an item
to hold a public hearing on the Houston Lighting and Power rate
request at 7:00 p. m. in the Council Chamber.
Mr. Lanham inquired if Council would like the Administration
to contact Touche, Ross with regard to testifying at the public
hearing concerning the rate increase? Council responded that the
Administration could be in contact with Touche, Ross to be present
if the charge for this service is within reason.
uuy65 -16
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 25, 1980
Consider Request to Make Median Cut on North Main Street Near
Briarcreek Subdivision
The Planning Commission has given preliminary approval of the
plat for Briarcreek Subdivision. The developer has requested to
make a median cut on North Main Street. at Podea Boulevard. The Admin-
istration recommended that the request be approved with the
stipulation that the developer pay the cost of the median cut
and that there also be a left -turn storage lane.
The Administration recommended approval subject to the
developer paying the cost of the median cut and left -turn storage
lane.
Councilman Johnson moved to accept the Administration's
recommendation; Councilman Simmons seconded the motion. The
vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks and Cannon
Mayor Hutto
Nays: None
Recess and Adjourn
The meeting was recessed into executive session to discuss
personnel matters. When the open meeting reconvened, the Mayor
announced that no business had been transacted.
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was
adjourned.
J
Eileen P. Ha 1, City Clerk
la
ATTACHMENT "A."
TO: HONORABLE PilAYOR HUTTO AND CITY COUNCIL 51EMBERS
FROM: EILEEN CAFFEY, COUNCIL MEMBER
SUBJECT: TAX RATE
I WOULD LIKE TO GO ON RECORD AS BEING IN FAVOR OF CUTTING THE PRESENT
TAX RATE OF $1.44 to $1.309 RATHER THAN GOING WITH THE PREVIOUSLY
PROPOSED RATE OF $.1.35. THIS WOULD AMOUNT TO A 140 REDUCTION FROM LAST
YEAR'S RATE,
IT IS WITH DEEP REGRET THAT I AM NOT ABLE TO ATTEND THIS MOST IMPORTANT
COUNCIL DIETING, AS AN OBLIGATION FROM OVER A YEAR AGO TAKES US OUT OF
STATE. OTHERWISE, AS YOU WELL KNOB "J, I INOULD BE PRESENT.
AFTER MUCH STUDY AND MANY INQUIRIES, I BELIEVE WE CAN STILL GIVE GOOD
SERVICE TO OUR CITIZENS AT THIS RATE WITHOUT SACRIFICING OR CUTTING
THE QUALITY OF SERVICE.
AS AN EXAMPLE, SURELY NO ONE CAN BE AGAINST ADEQUATE LAW ENFORCEMENT.
Al DEFINITELY NEED ADDTIONAL POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION TO COVER THE
GROWTH OF OUR CITY.
ALSO, I DEFINITELY WOULD NOT WANT TO SEE A CUT -BACK ON THE DRAINAGE
WORK AND STREET BUILDING AND REPAIR THAT HAS BEEN DONE THIS LAST YEAR.
I AM CERTAINLY PROUD OF THAT PROGRESS AND WANT TO SEE THAT MOMENTUM
RETAINED, STEPPED UP IF AT ALL POSSIBLE, CERTAINLY NOT CUT BACK! AT
THIS RATE Vol CAN CONTINUE ON AT A STEADY PACE.
ANOTHER SERVICE OUR CITY HAS BEEN ABLE TO GIVE IS THE $25,000 ASSESSED
VALUE EXEbM'ION TO THE DISABLED AND SENIOR CITIZENS, WHICH AMOUNTS TO
BETWEEN $400,000 and $500,000 PER YEAR. THIS EQUATES TO 6 to 80 OF THE
TAX DOLLAR BEFORE WE EVEN GET STARTED. I CERTAINLY HOPE THAT EVERY CITIZEN
IS AWARE OF THIS FIGURE.
IT IS MY OPINION THAT $1.30 PER $100.00 OF ASSESSED VALUATION IS NOT
TOO MUCH TO PAY ON A NICE HOME IN A NICE PLACE TO DIVE. LAST WEEK A
CITIZEN TELEPHONED ME TO TELL ME HE PELT THE CITY OF BAYTOWN GETS A LOT
OF MILEAGE OUT OF THEIR MONEY AND IN HIS OPINION THEY DO A GOOD JOB. HUb
IS NOT IN FAVOR OF A LARGE TAX CUT
WILL YOU AND THE CITY �:OUNCIL P.,FA`E' CONSIDER A TAX RATE OF $1.30 FOR
THE 198o - 1981 BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF BAYTOWN?
ATTACHMENT
•rv.
or
BAYTOWN
POST OFFICE BOX 424 • TELEPHONE 422 -8281 • AREA CODE 713 • BAYTOWN, TEXAS 77520
September 19, 1980
Honorable Mayor and Fellow
City Council Members:
I deeply regret that a business commitment made four months
ago will require my absence at the September 25 Council
meeting. I had assumed that final approval of the budget
would have occurred earlier as it did last year. However,
because of the extensive investment in my time during seven
long budget work sessions plus the Council budget hearing,
I feel compelled to express my views on this important matter
even though I cannot cast my vote. May I say that during the
work sessions the Council carefully reviewed the budget line
item by line item. Council also listened to numerous spokes-
persons who made special appeals. Council has met with every
city department head to discuss their operation and budget
needs.
Based on this extensive background, I wish to state for the
record my recommendation for the 1980 -81 tax rate:
It is a matter of record that next year's tax rate
would be $1.13 based on last year's budget and the
new assessed value of $668,000,000 dollars. This
rate does not recognize inflation. Neither does it
take into account the increased cost of growth.
Inflation, I am sad to say, must be passed on to
our citizens. This year it is 13% and that amounts
to a 15 cents increase over last year's base of
$1.13. Thus, we have $1.28 with inflation coverage.
Baytown has grown in area and in population during
the past year. It is my opinion that growth alone
forces us to add police, fire, drainage, streets
and other services at the rate of 3 %. This will
add 4 cents to the no growth plus inflation base of
$1.28.
September 19, 1980
Page No. 2
In summary, I recommend the $1.13 base plus 15 cents for
inflation, plus 4 cents to meet the needs of growth for
a total of $1.32 per $100 valuation for the 1980 -81 tax
rate. To set a lower rate would start a decline in the
quality of life in Baytown. I am opposed to that because
Baytown's best years are ahead of us - -not behind us.
S'ncerely,
Fred T. Philips
Councilman, District 3
FP /kp
cc: Fritz Lanham, City Manager
Eileen Hall, City Clerk
W
CITY OF BAYTOWN
T1TLE: Group Insurance BID TABULATION
BID:
DATE. September 24, 1980
American Nationat116.51
Mon Cross
TEM QTY DESCRIPTION UNIT EXTENDET EXTENjEPB:lue
NDEO q UN1
65.18
No Bid
108.39
176.00
215.14
No Bid
.52
.069
Pl an A
•
Employee
50.15 01 48.38
Employee and Dependents
165.78 137.90 140.66
Employee and Children
83.53 76.51 80.46 82.07
Employee and Spouse
135.62 124.24 130.65 133.26
Employee and Family
165.78 151.86 159.70 162.89
Plan B
Employee
41.15 43.42 44.28
v
Employee and Dependents
104.22 123.74 126.21
Employee and Children
No Bid 68.45 72.20 73.64
z
Employee and Spouse
111.15 117.25 119.57
W
Employee and Family
135.85 143.32 1.46.16
x
U
Plan I
H
Life
.48 .49 .36 .36
E-'
Q
A D & D
.07 .072 .06 .06
Plan II
Life
.46 .49 .38 .38
A D & D
.07 .072 .06 .06
Plan III
Life
.42 .39 .33 .33
A D & D
.07 .072 .06 .06
GROSS TOTAL
LESS DISC.
NET TOTA L
D_IVERY
.�
NDEO q UN1
65.18
No Bid
108.39
176.00
215.14
No Bid
.52
.069
0
U
U
H
w
x
U
H
CITY OF BAYTOWN
TITLE Group Insurance BID TABULATION
BID: _
DATE. September 24, 1980
� r
' TNII.
Mass. Mutual
ITEM
QTY
DESCRIPTION unllr EXTENDED
UNIT
EXTENDED
UNIT
X NO D
uNlT
EXTENDED
UNIT
XT ND D
Plan A
Employee
48.57
Employee & Dependents
136.93
Employee & Children
No Bid
108.92
Employee & Spouse
108.92
Employee & Family
150.10
Plan B
Employee
38.34
43.16
Employee & Dependents
101.22
119.36
Employee & Children
63.76
98.86
Employee & Spouse
103.53
98.86
Employee & Family
126.55
129.26
Plan I
,Life
.34
.35
A D & D
.05
.06
Plan II
Life
.34
.33
A D & D
.05
.06
Plan III
Life
.33
NA
A D & D
.05
GROSS. TOTAL
LESS DISC.
NET TOTAL
D. _IVERY