1981 09 24 CC Minutes10924 -1
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN
September 24, 1981
The City Council of the City of Baytown, Texas, met in
regular session on Thursday, September 24, 1981, at 6:30
p.m. in the Council Chamber of the Baytown City Hall with
the following attendance:
Fred T. Philips
Jimmy Johnson
Perry M. Simmons
Mary E. Wilbanks
Roy L. Fuller
Allen Cannon
Absent: Emmett 0. Hutto
Fritz Lanham
Randy Strong
Eileen P. Hall
Councilman
Councilman
Councilman
Councilwoman
Councilman
Mayor Pro Tempore
Mayor
City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
The meeting was called to order with a quorum present
and the invocation was offered, afterwhich the following
business was transacted:
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon indicated that all votes
would be taken by a show of hands.
Minutes
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved for approval of the minutes;
Councilman Philips seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Receive Petitions
Refugio Martinez, 3126 Nebraska, representative of the
DeZavala Neighborhood Council, appeared to present Council
with a petition expressing the concern of the neighborhood
council with regard to unhealthy conditions in the Old
Baytown area. The DeZavala Neighborhood Council, as requested
by the Clean City Commission, had performed a survey of Fast
Baytown Subdivision, Airhart Addition, Busch Terrace and
Leger Subdivision. In this survey the following violation
checklist was utilized: (a) junk cars, (b) dilapidated (run
down) unsafe buildings, (c) lumber or building materials
(city will not pick up), (d) improper garbage handling, (e)
loose trash in yard and alley, consisting of trash, garbage
and dead animals and (f) large discarded household items in
alleys (refrigerators, furniture, mattresses, etc.). In
Airhart Addition, 71 violations were listed; in East Baytown
Subdivision, 209 violations were listed; in Leger Subdivision,
45 violations were listed; and in Busch Terrace, 8 violations
were listed. Along with a petition which contained 643
signatures, a resolution from the Bayshore Community Development
Board was also presented.
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Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Councilman Johnson moved to accept the petition; Councilwoman
Wilbanks seconded the motion.
In response to an inquiry from Council, Mr. Martinez
explained that East Baytown is the subdivision between old
Baytown Junior High to Fehring Service Station on the south
side of Market Street, from Oklahoma through the state
street names and ends at New Jersey. Leger Subdivision
begins at New Jersey and ends at Utah Street.
Council thanked Mr. Martinez for the input and requested
that the Administration check into the matter to determine
what alternatives are feasible. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Mr. Lanham had been presented with a petition from the
residents of Ponderosa and Craigmont Additions requesting
that City Council approve the lowering of Ponderosa Street
where it intersects with Baker Road to help move water out
of subdivisions and alleviate flooding of homes.
The Administration has been working on this problem.
The county has been contacted in this regard because at
present the county is in the process of improving Baker
Road. The county's contractor has agreed to perform this
work for the sum of $4,781. The city could contract with
the county to perform this work which would mean a change
order to the county's contract on Baker Road.
Mr. Lanham explained that a large area drains across
toward Goose Creek and where Ponderosa intersects with Baker
there is a little over one foot rise to Baker Road which
causes the water to rise and then flow back into the subdivisions.
The inlets in the subdivisions will only hold so much water
which causes the water to flow into yards. Approximately
100 feet of Ponderosa will be reworked to remove the rise
and develop a smooth flow pattern for most of the water to
move from Ponderosa into the storm sewer system along Baker.
Mr. Lanham mentioned that the funds to perform the
project would come from the 1981 -82 street improvement
budget.
Steven Donnelly, 4503 Ponderosa, was recognized and he
confirmed that there are homes in this area that are flooded
during heavy rains. He stated that the rise acts as a dam
at that point. The residents felt that the large storm
sewer system on Baker could adequately handle the added
flow.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved to accept the petition and
indicate to the Administration that Council would like to
arrange for the county to have this work performed; Councilman
Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
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Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Councilman Philips commented that perhaps the only
solution to the DeZavala petition would be to acquire
contract help above and beyond regular staff capabilities.
Councilman Philips specified that perhaps contract help
could be acquired to place containers in the neighborhoods
to determine if this will precipitate self -help in those
areas.
City Manager's Report
Houston Lighting & Power Company Statement of Cost
Comparisons - The statement of cost comparison from Houston
Lighting and Power Company indicated that the cost for 2,000
KWH useage for October is slightly more than for September.
However, October is still lower than August.
Sale of Bonds - Mr. Lanham mentioned that Harris County
had sold $20,000,000 in road bonds for 9.75% interest. The
reason for this was that the bonds had a very short maturity.
The average maturity was 5 1/2 years, while the City of
Baytown's average maturity is about 10 1/2. Tom Masterson,
City of Baytown Fiscal Agent, felt that the City of Baytown's
bonds would sell at 11.25% to 11.500. Mr. Masterson has
suggested that the city plan for a bond sale of 5.6 million
at 7:30 p.m. on October 15. October 15 is not a regular
Council meeting date, but is on Thursday. If a change
develops, there would still be time for Council to change
the sale to another date and reduce the amount. Since
Council will be meeting to discuss architectural and engi-
neering firms on October 1, the Administration can report to
Council at that time concerning the pending sale of bonds.
For this bond sale, Baytown has not been rated; however
the last rating was A -one with one firm and A -plus with the
other. These are comparable ratings.
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon requested that the Administra-
tion inquire of the fiscal agent if the city could propose
two conditions of sale - -5.6 million or 2 million.
Mr. Lanham stated that the Administration would check
this possibility.
Houston - Galveston Area Council - The Houston - Galveston
Area Council is in process of developing cooperative purchasing
of various items that local governments utilize. The
Administration requested that Council consider whether the
City of Baytown would be interested in a cooperative purchasing
arrangement for police vehicles. For the last three years,
the city has not purchased police vehicles from local dealers.
However, local dealers would have the option to bid on the
H -GAC proposal.
Chief of Police Turner was present and stated that he
felt that through this volume buying, a better price could
be obtained. He felt that there would be no problems associated
with this concept because the cars would be shipped directly
from the manufacturer to local dealers who would service the
vehicles. Specifications will be bid according to the
city's need. Houston - Galveston Area Council will be forwarding
a contract for formal action.
Council had no objections to participation by the city
in cooperative purchasing with H -GAC on police vehicles.
10924 -4
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Drainage - City crews have completed approximately 900
of the work on Goose Creek Drive; the work at Park and
Airhart has been completed and the work on the ditch east of
Sterling High has been completed. The drainage work on
Gaillard at West Sterling is 95% complete and a project on
Bayway Drive, north of Baker has begun.
Councilman Johnson mentioned that he had received a
call from a citizen who resides on Bruce at Narcille concerning
drainage problems at that location. Mr. Lanham responded
that Narcille is on the list of drainage projects for next
year.
Part of the Goose Creek Drive project consisted of a
ditch between houses. This area has been excavated in
preparation for the slope paving that will be performed
there.
1981 Street Improvement Program - The City of Baytown
paving contractor has almost completed the 1981 Street
Improvement Program. The curb and gutter work on Kansas
Street has been completed and the excavation and reconstruction
of the base has been completed. The only remaining work is
the asphalt work.
Garth Road Water and Sanitary Sewer Lines - The Administration
had reported at a previous Council meeting that all the
property owners who had indicated an interest in the water
and sewer line extensions on Garth Road had not paid their
share of the costs, nor had all the easements been dedicated.
The contractor has indicated a willingness to wait a few
days longer; therefore, there is the possibility that this
project may still be a reality.
Questions /Comments Regarding City Manager's Report
Councilman Johnson inquired concerning a temporary
building which may be located on easements of a house that
is for sale on Sunset Street. Jack Cramer, Chief Building
Inspector, responded that he was aware of the situation, but
the matter had not been investigated as yet.
In response to an inquiry from Council concerning the
condition of Cedar Bayou Road between North Main and Highway
146, Mr. Lanham explained that that had been considered for
rebuilding, but the estimate to perform this work was quite
high. Mr. Lanham stated that the Administration will consider
that street again this year.
Council also mentioned that Park Street from Bayway
Drive to the railroad tracks at Exxon was in a state of
disrepair and should be considered on the upcoming street
improvement list.
Pat Chapman and John Schnellbacher Will Appear Regarding
Mobile Home Ordinance
John Schnellbacher, an attorney from Houston and represen-
tative of Mr. Boston, appeared concerning the requirement of
the mobile home ordinance that a driveway must be constructed
prior to the granting of permits associated with the placement
of a mobile home. Mr. Boston has been residing at 3330
Marvin Road for over ten years. Recently, he purchased a
new mobile home, but prior to the Inspection Department
granting necessary permits for electrical, plumbing,
10924 -5
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
etc., Mr. Boston would be required to install a driveway in
accordance with provisions of the ordinance. Mr. Boston was
seeking Council relief.
Mr. Schnellbacher and Mr. Boston were informed that the
proper procedure would be to made an appointment to appear
before the Mobile Home Review Board, which board is charged
with hearing appeals of decisions made by the chief building
inspector. If the board's ruling is unsatisfactory, that
ruling may be appealed to City Council.
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Adopting 1981 -82 Budget for
City of Baytown
The proposed ordinance is based on the budget as revised
by Council at its work session on Monday. The ordinance
will appropriate for the general fund, $15,498,284; for the
solid waste fund, $1,452,199; for the waterworks and sanitary
sewer fund, $7,322,934; for the general fund debt service,
$2,787,665 and for the waterworks and sanitary sewer debt
service, $353,603. The Administration recommended approval
of the ordinance.
Councilman Philips moved to adopt the ordinance;
Councilman Simmons seconded the motion.
Councilman Philips requested that Council work more
closely with the Board of Equalization and that the problems
specified by the Board of Equalization be addressed.
Councilman Philips also requested that when the tax rate is
published that not only State law requirements be met, but
that Charter requirements be met. He felt that there should
be no shadow regarding whether Council is adhering to Charter
requirements. He felt that the schedule should be arranged
next year so that the tax hearing is held at least four (4)
weeks prior to the deadline so that if there is the necessity
to rework the budget, this can be accomplished without the
pressure which was exerted this year. Councilman Philips
stated that he felt that Council could improve its budget
review work, beginning with the appraisal program. Council-
man Philips maintained that Council should expect the
Administration to resolve this question about the Charter
and that Council should allow and ask the Administration to
set the schedule so that Council will have at least four (4)
weeks to go back and review the budget. He further stated
that Council should be working in a position to allow time
for review of services that could be discontinued. This was
not done this year. Perhaps Council could have trimmed
another $ .02 from the tax rate if Council had looked at
existing in place programs that could be discontinued. He
felt the process and schedule should be worked so that
Council would have time to do that.
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon concurred with Councilman
Philips and made a plea that the citizens of Baytown become
involved in the budget work sessions. He stated that a
number of persons had commented to him that they were
unaware that they could participate in these sessions. He
requested that the press encourage people to come down and
become educated. He stated that basically he agreed with
what the Baytown Taxpayers Association is trying to accomplish,
but felt that they should be involved in the entire process
from the very beginning.
10924 -6
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon also pointed out the fact that
Council for the first time has adopted a zero based budget.
He reiterated that the employee package was substantial and
that Council had the right to expect employees to respond
accordingly, and ended his remarks by requesting that costs
be controlled where possible and that the best level of
service possible be provided. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3228
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR THE ENSUING FISCAL YEAR,
BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 1981, AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 1982, IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE CHARTER AND ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF
BAYTOWN AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ORDINANCE.
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Adopting City of Baytown Revenue
Sharing Budget for 1981 -82
A total of $703,623 is available for appropriation from
three sources: (1) Anticipated Entitlement XIII, $596,103;
(2) Entitlement XII Unappropriated Funds, $596,103; and (3)
Unappropriated Interest Funds, $54,000. The broad categories
in which the expenditures have been grouped are as follows:
Public Safety
Environmental Protection
Public Transportation
Recreation
Library
Social Services
Financial Administration
$ 12,300.00
331,304.00
245$19.00
8,500.00
25,000.00
70,000.00
11,000.00
$ 703,623.00
The reason for this terminology is to meet federal guidelines.
The Administration recommended approval of the ordinance.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved for adoption of the ordi-
nance; Councilman Fuller seconded the motion. The vote
follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
The category Public Transportation will be utilized for
street improvements and a large part of Environmental Protection
will be utilized for sliplining.
ORDINANCE NO. 3229
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OF THE CITY OF
BAYTOWN TO APPROPRIATE SEVEN HUNDRED THREE THOUSAND SIX
HUNDRED TWENTY THREE ($703,623.00) DOLLARS FROM THE UNAPPROPRIATED
TWELFTH ENTITLEMENT PERIOD FUNDS OF GENERAL REVENUE SHARING,
1981, THE UNAPPROPRIATED FUNDS FROM THE TWELFTH ENTITLEMENT
PERIOD, AND UNAPPROPRIATED INTEREST TO THE FOLLOWING BUDGET
ACCOUNTS; 4282 -100 PUBLIC SAFETY; 4282 -20, ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION; 4282 -30, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION; 4282 -50, RECREATION;
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Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
4282 -60, LIBRARY; 4282 -70, SOCIAL SERVICES; 4282 -80, FINAN-
CIAL ADMINISTRATION; DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO FILE AND
GIVE NOTICE OF THE AVAILABILITY OF THE ADOPTED BUDGET; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Consider Approval of Baytown Area Water Authority Budget
for 1981 -82
The proposed budget has been reviewed by the Baytown
Area Water Authority Board. The total expenditures which
have been recommended are $2,876,057. The budget for the
year 1980 -81 was $2,677,900 which represents approximately
$200,000 increase. The Administration recommended approval
of the 1981 -82 BAWA Budget.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved to approve the Baytown Area
Water Authority Budget for 1981 -82; Councilman Simmons
seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Amending Chapter 14, "Garbage,
Trash and Brush," to Provide an Increased Charge for
Solid Waste Collection
The budget that Council adopted was based in part on
the additional revenue that will be generated by the increase
in charges for collection of solid waste. The charges will
be increased from $5.50 to $6.00 per month with no change in
charges to persons over age 65. The reduced rate for senior
citizens who apply for the reduction will continue to be
$3.25. The Administration recommended approval of the
ordinance.
In response to an inquiry from Council, Mr. Lanham
stated that budget projections had been based on collection
of the increased charge over a twelve -month basis.
Councilman Fuller moved for adoption of the ordinance;
Councilman Philips seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3230
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.
10924 -8
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Calling for Two (2) Public
Hearings on Proposed Annexation Adjacent to and North
of Lynchburg -Cedar Bayou Road and Adjacent to and East
of Goose Creek Stream
Owners of an approximately 64 -acre tract have requested
annexation by the City of Baytown. A map depicting said
location was posted in the Council Chamber for review by
Council. The proposed annexation is in the general vicinity
of the Coady Landfill site which is no longer being operated
as a landfill. The proposed ordinance will call two public
hearings in accordance with recently adopted legislation.
One of these hearings must be in the area to be annexed and
the other is to be held at city hall.
Water and sewer services are available to the area. It
will be necessary that a lift station be enlarged, but the
developers understand that and know that this will be their
responsibility. The developer must comply with the drainage
ordinances and in that regard he does have certain options.
Mr. Lanham mentioned that the actual acreage being
proposed for annexation is 66 acres rather than 64 because
of a street that is to be included.
The proposed ordinance calls for a hearing to be held
at 5:30 p.m. on October 8 at the northeast corner of the
intersection of Goose Creek Stream and Lynchburg -Cedar Bayou
Road. There is no building at that location; therefore, the
hearing will be held in the open. It will be necessary for
a majority of the City Council to hold this hearing. Another
hearing will be held at 7:00 p.m. on October 8 at city hall.
The Administration recommended approval of the ordinance.
The new law on annexation also requires that the city
develop a plan for providing services to the area to be
annexed. That plan must be available at the time of the
hearing; therefore, Council should direct the Administration
to prepare said plan. The city has 2 1/2 years to provide
the same services available to other parts of the city to
the newly annexed area.
Councilman Philips requested that cost estimates be
developed for providing the various services, along with the
plan for implementation.
Councilman Johnson moved to adopt the proposed ordinance
and to direct the Administration to develop a plan to provide
city services to the area; Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded
the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3231
AN ORDINANCE SETTING A DATE, TIME AND PLACE FOR THE PUBLIC
HEARINGS ON THE PROPOSED ANNEXATION OF AN APPROXIMATELY 64
ACRE TRACT LOCATED EAST AND ADJACENT TO GOOSE CREEK STREAM
AND NORTH AND ADJACENT TO LYNCHBURG CEDAR BAYOU ROAD; AUTHORIZING
AND DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO PUBLISH NOTICE OF SUCH
PUBLIC HEARINGS; AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
10924 -9
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Consider Proposed Resolution, Authorizing City of Baytown
to Continue Group Insurance Coverage Under the Texas
Municipal League Plan
Adoption of this resolution would continue City of
Baytown employees coverage under the existing plan for
another year. Although there has been a significant increase
in premium costs, those costs are reasonable in terms of
premiums paid versus claims paid and increases in cost of
medical services for this area. The Administration recom-
mended approval of the resolution.
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon mentioned that there has been
a significant change this year. Premiums paid have exceeded
claims paid.
Mr. Lanham mentioned that when Council adopted the
budget, this changed the city's participation in the insur-
ance program. Therefore, although there is an increase in
premiums, the employees will be paying substantially less
for family coverage. This also provides for changing to a
composite rate, rather than the rate that is now being
utilized. The composite rate, based on the increase, would
be $74.89 for family coverage. With the city paying eighty
(80 %) percent of the premium cost, the employees share will
be $14.98.
In response to an inquiry from Council, Mr. Lanham
stated that he felt the increase to be competitive with
other companies because if the city were to go out for bids,
any company bidding would consider the city's past experience.
A problem with insurance coverage has been that carriers
have been changed frequently.
Councilman Philips moved for adoption of the resolu-
tion; Councilwoman Wilbanks seconded the motion. The vote
follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
RESOLUTION NO. 788
A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE DESIRE OF CITY COUNCIL TO
CONTINUE ITS PRESENT GROUP POLICY WITH TEXAS MUNICIPAL
LEAGUE INSURANCE TRUST FUND FOR LIFE INSURANCE, MAJOR
MEDICAL BENEFITS, AND BASIC MEDICAL BENEFITS FOR THE CITY OF
BAYTOWN EMPLOYEES; DIRECTING PAYMENT OF PREMIUMS; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE.
Consider Employing Touche, Ross as Rate Consultants for
Houston Lighting and Power Company Rate Increase Request
Randy Strong, City Attorney, stated that in July,
Houston Lighting and Power applied for rate increases, at
that time, Council acted to suspend that rate until December
8. The hearing before the Public Utilities Commission on
the unincorporated areas has been stipulated by the parties
and if it has not been presented to the Commission for final
determination. Therefore, the City of Baytown needs to have
its hearing on municipal rates before the first part of
December. Last year Council retained the firm of Touche, Ross
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Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
and Company, an accounting firm that specializes in rate
hearings. Touche, Ross presented a summary of their findings
and recommendations to Council. The City Attorney has been
in contact with representatives of the firm and the firm
could make a similar presentation this year for a sum which
should not exceed $1,500. Last year the fee was $900. This
is the same firm that has been retained by the City of
Houston on this same rate increase. There is no one on the
city staff with the expertise required to evaluate Houston
Lighting and Power Company's.request and make a recommendation
as to what the rates should be. The Administration recommended
that Touche, Ross be retained to evaluate the Houston Lighting
and Power Company's request for rate increase and make
recommendation to City Council. At the public hearing, HL&P
and others may appear to make a presentation.
Councilman Philips stated that his personal feeling was
that any possibility of direct impact resulting from this
was nil. He felt that the PUC had already done a good job
of reducing HL &P's request. To attempt to get the amount
reduced further would be to no avail. He stated that he
would not favor this same approach each time, but in this
particular situation, he felt that the city could save the
$1,500 and not participate.
The City Attorney pointed out that what has happened
before the PUC this year on the rural rates is that there
has not been a presentation or hearing before an examiner
because the various parties- -HL&P, various industrial groups
and some consumer groups, have agreed to a rate. HL&P
agreed to a lower rate to get the rate enacted sooner.
Therefore, there has not been a "true" hearing before the
PUC. In fact, the hearings held by the cities of Baytown
and Houston, if Baytown holds one, will be the only true
adversary -type hearings to be conducted. Houston has retained
Touche, Ross and plans to hold a hearing.
The HL &P requested rate increase if $248,000.00. The
stipulated agreement is $185,000,000.
Councilman Fuller stated that he felt the Council would
be a bit remiss if expert advise were not obtained. He felt
that Council was obligated to assure the citizens that their
best interests are being served. He felt that $1,500 would
be very reasonable to obtain the expertise necessary to
substantiate what the rate should be.
Councilman Simmons stated that he understood that
Councilman Philips was saying that to retain the firm of
Touche, Ross would be a futile exercise and he concurred.
However, he also understood that Councilman Fuller was
saying that the citizens would demand that Council make some
attempt to mimimize the rate for electrical service. The
best vehicle for this is to hire experts in the field.
Therefore, Councilman Simmons moved to retain the firm of
Touche, Ross and Company. Councilman Fuller seconded the
motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Johnson, Simmons, Wilbanks
and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: Councilman Philips
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Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Awarding Contract for Radio
Consultant
One of the recommendations of the Capital Improvements
Study Committee was that the police radio system be upgraded.
The cost estimate at that time was approximately $300,000.
It was the feeling of the executive committee that this
small amount could best be financed in some other manner
besides voting bonds. Therefore, the Administration suggested
to Council that possibly certificates of obligation could be
issued to finance these improvements or some other method of
financing could be arranged. Council had authorized the
Administration to solicit proposals from radio systems
consultants. After meeting with the various city departments
and determining radio needs, Police Chief Turner developed a
rather detailed request for proposals which was forwarded to
five firms that the Administration felt might be interested
in presenting proposals. Two firms responded. This was
expected since there are few firms in this business. A
tentative proposal was received from a Mr. Cranfield, Consul-
ting Engineer in Dallas, for the amount of $41,537. The
other proposal was from a Houston engineering firm that has
worked in Baytown and has worked for the Houston - Galveston
Council as radio consultants -- Bernard, Johnson submitted a
firm, fixed fee of $38,693. Council was furnished with a
copy of sheets from the proposal in which the project approach
was outlined. There would be a preliminary phase, a detailed
design phase and an implementation phase. Much detail was
submitted concerning each phase. The proposal is very
similar to a contract for civil engineering services. A
study would be performed of the needs for the entire city,
not just the police system. The report would be made in
such a manner that the city would have the option of taking
bids as funds are available. The Administration felt this
to be a good proposal and recommended approval of the
proposal submitted by Bernard, Johnson, Inc.
In response to an inquiry from Council, Mr. Lanham
explained that the next agenda item would transfer money for
the study, but would not cover implementation. At the time
costs are projected, the Administration will recommend a
course of action. Lease purchase is a possibility. Because
of the magnitude of the project, probably the replacement
will need to be in phases.
Police Chief Turner, in response to inquiry from Council,
explained that Bernard, Johnson was responsible for installation
of the original radio equipment through a contract with
Houston - Galveston Area Council. The only problem with that
contract was that there was no requirement for final inspection
of equipment. This contingency has been covered under this
proposal.
Councilman Fuller stated that although the implementation
chart indicates final inspection, he would like to be assured
that Bernard, Johnson is actively involved during the entire
process.
Mr. Lanham mentioned that if the company were to agree
to have someone in Baytown everyday while the work is in
progress, the costs would have to be greater. fir. Lanham
read a portion of the proposal which stated that Bernard,
Johnson would inspect the installation work while in progress
and materials, equipment, wiring and cable used in the
installation for compliance with the contract specifications.
10924 -12
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Councilman Fuller stated that this was a very important
aspect of the proposal because in the past, the city has not
been comfortable with the inspection performance of some
contracts.
Mr. Lanham responded that the city has a radio technician
who would be helpful in this regard.
Chief Turner suggested that perhaps the City's legal
staff and Bernard, Johnson's legal staff could develop
stronger language to insure both parties interests.
Mr. Lanham stated that he felt that the company is
agreeing to inspect during installation which includes
inspection of materials while work is in process and final
inspection.
Councilman Philips pointed out that under final implementation
phase, the proposal includes contract preparation, system
implementation and inspections, system cutover and inspections
and final inspection. Therefore, the term inspection /inspections
is used on three different occasions. Councilman Philips
stated that he felt the proposal is very knowledgeably done
and moved to adopt the ordinance. Councilwoman Wilbanks
seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3232
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE MAYOR AND CITY
CLERK OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN TO EXECUTE AND ATTEST TO A
CONTRACT WITH BERNARD JOHNSON INCORPORATED WITH REGARD TO
PROVIDING RADIO CONSULTANT SERVICES AND PROVIDING FOR THE
EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF.
Consider Proposed Resolution, Authorizing the Transfer of
Funds from Council Contingency to 0101 -06 -0400
The proposed resolution will transfer funds in the
current budget from Council Contingency to Special Services
to finance the contract with Bernard, Johnson for the amount
of $38,693.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved for adoption of the resolution;
Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
RESOLUTION NO. 789
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO TRANSFER THIRTY
EIGHT THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED NINETY THREE & N01100 ($38,693.00)
DOLLARS FROM COUNCIL CONTINGENCY ACCOUNT NO. 0101 -12 -0100 TO
SPECIAL SERVICES ACCOUNT NO. 0101 -06 -0400.
10924 -13
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Awarding Bid for Steel Side
Dump Truck
Bids were taken on a steel side dump truck to replace
an open bed truck that burned a few months ago. Four bids
were received. The low bid that meets specifications, based
on what was quoted on the day bids were received is Jim Ball
International with a bid of $39,330.50. San Jacinto Ford
submitted a bid, but indicated in the bid that a vehicle
with six -hole bud wheels would be supplied, rather than the
specified ten -hole bud wheels. Since that time, San Jacinto
Ford has submitted a letter stating that they will place the
required wheels on the truck at the price quoted when bids
were opened, which makes San Jacinto Ford low bidder.
The City Attorney explained that general law is that a
bid is not rejected by mere informalities, minor defects or
irregularities. In determining whether a specific problem
with a bid constitutes substantial non - waivable irregularity,
courts have applied two criteria: (1) whether the change
would deprive the city of its assurance that the contract
will be entered into and (2) whether the change is of a
nature that would affect adversely competitive bidding by
placing one bidder in a position of advantage over others.
In this situation, what occurred is that someone submitted
low bid, but did not meet specs due to a minor irregularity.
Therefore, there is no question that if Council allows this
it will not deprive the city of its assurance that San
Jacinto Ford will comply with the contract and acceptance of
San Jacinto Ford would not put one bidder in an advantage
over another, because San Jacinto Ford will simply be meeting
specifications for the same price quoted at the time bids
were let. It would be a different matter if the city would
allow San Jacinto Ford to provide an item different than
what was specified in the bid documents. For further
documentation, Mr. Strong stated that in a New Jersey case,
the court ruled that the purpose of having bid opening rules
and statutes is to benefit taxpayers to guard against
favoritism, extravagance and corruption. Therefore, if the
city rejected this bid after San Jacinto Ford has expressed
a willingness to comply and paid $2,500 more, this could
fall under the extravagance that the Court was saying that
municipalities should avoid. The key point is that San
Jacinto Ford would be meeting specifications at no additional
cost to the city.
Mr. Lanham pointed out that delivery time was mentioned
in the specs as a condition of the bid. Mr. Ball bid a 1982
model with 60 -90 days delivery, while San Jacinto Ford and
the others bid considerable less in terms of delivery.
The City Attorney stressed that this particular cir-
cumstance is considered a minor irregularity and not a
circumvention of the bidding process.
Fred Broussard, representative of San Jacinto Ford, was
present and stated that the reason he had bid the six -hole
bud wheels was that he had understood that the city needed
the vehicle as soon as possible and he happened to have that
vehicle on the lot. He stated that he had bid the vehicle
low in order to help the city save money.
In response to an inquiry from Council, the City Attorney
explained that Council would be within legal bounds to
consider the dollar amount, as well as delivery time. The
Charter states that the city must accept the bid of the
lowest and most responsible bidder.
10924 -14
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Councilman Philips pointed out that immediate delivery
is worth money to the taxpayers because in essence the truck
will earn money by being in service. Therefore, Councilman
Philips stated that he would feel comfortable with the
acceptance of the San Jacinto Ford bid and moved that the
ordinance awarding the bid for purchase of steel side dump
truck to San Jacinto Ford be adopted. Councilwoman Wilbanks
seconded the motion.
Councilman Fuller stated that he would support the
motion on the basis that acceptance of the San Jacinto Ford
bid could be justified on the delivery aspect. Councilman
Johnson concurred, but stated that he would like to avoid
this type circumstance in the future. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
ORDINANCE NO. 3233
AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING THE BID OF SAN JACINTO FORD FOR THE
PURCHASE OF A STEEL SIDE DUMP TRUCK AND AUTHORIZING THE
PAYMENT BY THE CITY OF BAYTOWN OF THE SUM OF THIRTY FIVE
THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED FORTY TWO & 84/100 ($35,942.84) DOLLARS.
For bid tabulation, see Attachment "A ".
Consider Proposed Ordinance, Awarding Bid for Photo Supply
Contract
Mr. Lanham explained that there was a problem with this
bid which was due in part to the fact that the bid invitation
stated F.O.B. Baytown. Neither bidder met specifications;
therefore, the Administration recommended that neither bid
be accepted. The Invitation to Bid will be altered to
reflect minimum purchase of $200. These photo supplies are
utilized by the tax and police departments, as well as
various other departments of the city.
Council suggested that perhaps when this item is rebid
that the city might get 3 or 4 more bids. Council took no
action on this item.
Consider Approval of Plans and Authorization to Advertise
for Bids for Sliplining in Eva Maud Subdivision and Along
Ferry Road
A map was posted in the Council Chamber to indicate to
Council where the various lines were located in Eva Maud and
the large thirty -six (3611) line on Ferry Road. The lines in
Eva Maud have been spot checked by televising to determine
the extent of damage. These lines are over 20 years old and
probably were laid shallow. The estimated cost to slipline
the lines in Eva Maud and along Ferry Road is $214,000.
Council placed additional funds in the Water and Sewer
Budget for sliplining and this will take a large part of
these funds.
10924 -15
Minutes of the Regular Meeting- September 24, 1981
Councilman Philips commented that in order to keep up
with the sliplining needs, what will need to be done is to
slipline addition by addition.
Mr. Lanham responded that this will be done in Lakewood
Subdivision as part of the bond program.
Councilwoman Wilbanks moved to approve the plans and
authorize advertisement for bids for sliplining of Eva Maud
Subdivision and along Ferry Road; Councilman Fuller seconded
the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Consider Preliminary Alignment of Rollingbrook Drive
Council was furnished with a map of the proposed
alignment of Rollingbrook Drive which alignment was devel-
oped by the City of Baytown Planning Department in 1970.
One of the reasons for developing the alignment was to give
Friendswood Development guidelines where their portion of
Rollingbrook would be constructed. The consulting engineers
need approval of the proposed alignment to get more detailed
field notes and determine needed right of way. There has
been development of the area based on the proposed alignment.
The Administration recommended approval of the preliminary
alignment of Rollingbrook Drive. For other steps involved
in the process, the Administration will be reporting to
Council.
In response to inquiries from Council, Mr. Lanham
explained that in 1970, the Planning Department of the City
of Baytown developed the first alignment and since that time
development has occurred based on that alignment. Therefore,
to change that alignment now would present problems.
Councilman Simmons moved to accept the preliminary
alignment of Rollingbrook Drive as presented by the consulting
engineers. Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The
vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Consider Appointment to Clean City Commission
This appointment will be made at a future meeting.
Consider Appointment to Planning Commission
Councilman Fuller moved to appoint Francis J. Whalen to
the position of interested citizen on the Baytown Planning
Commission. Councilman Johnson seconded the motion. The
vote follows:
10924 -16
Minutes of the Regular Meeting - September 24, 1981
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Consider Appointment to Auto Wrecker Committee
Councilman Philips moved to appoint Gary Walker to
serve on the Auto Wrecker Committee; Councilman Fuller
seconded the motion. The vote follows:
Ayes: Council members Philips, Johnson, Simmons,
Wilbanks and Fuller
Mayor Pro Tempore Cannon
Nays: None
Ad j ourn
There being no further business to be transacted, the
meeting was adjourned.
Eileen P. Hall, City Clerk
TITLE: STEEL SIDE DUMP TRUCK
B i D� 819 -15 � —
DATE= ' Scptembcr 14 , 19$1
TErv3 Q T Y DESC R 1 PT10N
1. T 1 EACH STEEL SIDE DUMP TRUCK
per specifications
1 Truck Make/ Model
8
U
cd
+�
1
Delivery A.R.O.
GlTY OF' BAYTOWIV
B!D TABULATION
Su erior�Trucks
Jim Ball
Inter.
San Jacinto Ford
Gulf State Crane
EXTENDED UNlT EXT NOEO
UNl7
EXTENOEO
UNlr
pCTENOED
eO 1 �
nurr0
RN E
::$ 123,298.00 � S! 38,330.50 � "s�5,942.84. � S1 43,932.00
GMC 1 1981 � 1H � 1982 � Ford ` 1981 �GMC 1 1981
10� Days � 60 -90 Days ,14 -21 I Days � ^21-30 � Days
*Income etc
Bid. id not bid
on Bru h Picker or
body.
Cab an chassis
only.
��oss TOTAL
LESS DISC.
NET TOTAL s 42,298.00
nos,_ rvr= RY
Does of meet � Subj ct to
Speci ications prior sale
Bid 6 Hole Bud
Wheel instead of
l0 Hole Bud Wheels