III. Proclamations.
1. Constitution Week. Some ladies from the DAR accepted the proclamation honoring the adoption of the US Constitution.
Almost in unison the council exclaimed, "Consti-what-tion?"
It was then explained that the Constitution was the "whole basis of how we live and what we do." If only.
The mayor then declared the Constitution to probably be one of the most important documents in US history.
The ladies then handed out copies to the audience. When she approached councilmembers, their reaction was that of a vampire to a cross.
Actually one councilman took a copy to solve a wobbly-chair problem.
2. National Preparedness Month.
Basically, you should have a plan and supplies in case of dire life threatening-emergency. Liek say, your golf course isn't getting watered.
I say forget all that advice and just call the city if you ever need anything. That's what city government is for, to fulfill the desires and needs of citizens. Well, certain citizens anyways.
On second thought, you better get prepared and not rely on government.
IV. Open Forum.
Crickets.
V. Consent Agenda.
2 & 3 pulled by councilmen that couldn't be bothered to go to a couple meetings and therefore couldn't vote on the minutes.
Rest passed 7-0.
VI. Appointments.
1. P&Z was a no show!
VII. Public Hearing Items.
1. Budget.
City comments:
No new employees.
No new taxes.
Not City comments:
No cut in spending.
Only one person spoke:
-Told the mayor not to fear free speech, nor demonize those who engage in it (via blogs).
-The economic outlook is not a rosy as the mayor claims.
-In the real world (read: private sector) when revenue goes down, costs are cut
-Reduce the budget, not maintain status quo to prepare for what the rest of the populace sees happening in the financial world.
2. ANOTHER fella has to beg the city for permission to install solar panels on his house.
One audience member spoke asking why solar panels are still requiring the homeowner to beg the council for permission to install solar panels.
Mayor Cecil: "Because we require it."
Audience member: "This should be a routine process. Plano has it figured out."
Councilman Farris then defended the city's inaction by explaining that the city has been studying the issue "intently". The city wants to make sure it's ok with HOA's before it is codified.
Passed 7-0.
VIII. Fella in the Zoo built a fence too high (48", city max 42") and without permission from the city.
Councilmember Nielsen asked why the city standard was 42", as 48" seemed like a more "regular" height.
Chief Code Guy Widmer: "At 48 inches, it is hard for people from a vehicle to see into the yard."
In case you didn't get that:
At 48 inches, it is hard for people from a vehicle to see into the yard.
At 48 inches, it is hard for people from a vehicle to see into the yard.
At 48 inches, it is hard for people from a vehicle to see into the yard.
At 48 inches, it is hard for people from a vehicle to see into the yard.
At 48 inches, it is hard for people from a vehicle to see into the yard.
Ms Nielsen asked for a more reasonable standard and made the motion to approve.
Passed 7-0.
2. PD-32 aka Failed Harbor Project 2
Glen Farris:
-Thanked council for postponing vote until the vote was stacked.
-The "hill" is the most valuable piece of property in the Metroplex. (uhhh, I'm guessing Glen hasn't seen much of the Metroplex.)
-Potential income for the city is $700 million. (How the city coffer benefit from a TIF, I have yet to see.)
-Will make every single person in Rockwall's life so much better. (Yipee! I knew the only thing missing to make everyone in Rockwall feel great was a watching a bunch of yuppies crammed into a tin can. )
Matt Scott:
-Lot of good reasons to oppose apartments and multifamily. (Has repeatedly said he does not support multifamily.)
-Opposing anything but single family is dogmatic. (Has repeatedly said he does not support multifamily.)
-Supported the apartment complex "Evergreen".(Has repeatedly said he does not support multifamily.)
-Opposing multifamily is not good.(Has repeatedly said he does not support multifamily.)
-These are not "apartments", just a bunch of units crammed together on all sides and each with a separate deed. (As opposed to an apartment which is just a bunch of units crammed together on all sides and each with a single deed.)
-All units will be owner occupied. (No one has yet said how this will be enforced.)
-The homes will be worth more than the $190k average home in Rockwall and more than all of councils' homes, except Mr Scott's home which is worth WAY more than the next councilman's home.
-Can't vote cautious just because you can't see the future. (But you can vote reckless when you can't see the future.)
-Mr Scott then chastised me (indirectly) for not having enough knowledge about such things because my home is only worth 12% of the taxable value of Mr Scott's home. He would rather live in a town of $300k homes, not those as low valued as mine. (FYI, He forced a neighborhood full of those types of home into the city limits.)
-He noted the investors in the audience ready to build as soon as the city invests ten of millions of taxpayer dollars to fund this fiasco.
-He then got onto Councilman Russo for previously voting throughout the process, but now not wanting to spend ten of millions of taxpayer dollars to fund this fiasco.
-He then continued that opposing wanting to spend ten of millions of taxpayer dollars to fund this fiasco was irresponsible.
Cliff Sevier:
-Noted that had the mayor not tabled the issue, it would have died at the previous meeting. It was tabled to guarantee passage with a stacked council.
-He defended his votes to spend money on the plans, as he couldn't vote against something that didn't exist.
-8 other large multifamily complexes in Rockwall have less density combined than this project.
-Massive increase in parking and traffic issues.
David Sweet:
-This is needed for the success of the Harbor. (Big government solution to a failed government created problem: throw money at it. Ah, works so well for Social Security, Schools, Mass Transit, etc.)
-Need more foot traffic during the day. (Foot traffic ain't the missing factor in the equation of success at the Harbor; stuff people want to buy is the missing factor in that equation.)
-These are not "apartments" or "multifamily", just a bunch of units crammed together on all sides and each with a separate deed. (As opposed to an apartment which is just a bunch of units crammed together on all sides and each with a single deed.)
-Will be a TIF (Remind me, David, how does a TIF halp the city?)
-He HOPES AND PRAYS THOSE INTERESTED SPEND THE MONEY.
Margo Nielsen:
-For 10 years mystery people have been asking for different housing types to downsize.
-The council has good intentions. (Good intentions are also useful pave stones for certain destinations.)
Mayor Cecil:
-This will not be successful without residential. (Just like all the other retail areas in Rockwall, if it wasn't for that apartment complex in the middle of the Kroger parking lot, it would have gone out of business a LONG time ago.)
-No one will pay $100k or more for these homes without retail. (Someone should tell that to those who developed the Shores, Chandler's Landing, Buffalo Creek, etc.)
-These are not "apartments" or "multifamily", just a bunch of units crammed together on all sides and each with a separate deed. (As opposed to an apartment which is just a bunch of units crammed together on all sides and each with a single deed.)
-Nothing can stop someone from owning multiple condos and renting those units out. (Sounds a lot like an apartment.)
-People want to own a piece of the Harbor. (I'm guessing he means the developers.)
-This is the best possible scenario to make this development and the Harbor successful. (Wow, an admission from the mayor that the Harbor was a failure. And before anyone argues: IT IS IN BANKRUPTCY.)
Passes 5-2.
Only councilmen Russo and Sevier saw the foolishness of spending TENS OF MILLIONS OF TAX DOLLARS to develop Rob Whittle's second major failure in Rockwall.
The city will be the "developers" of this land.
This will be a massive collection of apartments.
This will cost tens of millions Rockwall tax dollars.
Anyone who tells you differently is lying to your face.
4. City annexing to make sure some folks can't do with their property what they want.
5. City adding pergolas to allowed structures on the takeline. Dallas ok with it, but no more changes in building types.
6. Something about a demolition delay for homes in the historic ovelay district.
7. Item about allowing wineries in city limits. Passed 7-0. More benefits for the "wine and cheese" folk passed by the 2 "hot dog and beer" councilmen?
8. The staff needs to schedule a meeting to discuss capital improvement planning and want council input as to when they think it would convenient for them to attend and inconvenient for citizens.
9. The terribly designed left turn at Ralph Hall and Horizon needs fixing. Gonna cost $25k, but City Manager Julie Couch says that money doesn't exist, especially with this multi-million dollar fiasco called PD-32 coming up. May not happen, but staff will investigate to confirm it won't happen.
I've notice that whenever staff comes up with some idea, they can always find money in the budget to fund that project. But very often, when councilmembers come up with an idea, the city responds "there ain't no money" before the councilman even finishes his sentence. Weird.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Rockwall City Council 16 August
Action from Executive Committee: we bought some land.
VII. Action Items.
1. District Attorney Kenda Culpepper presented to council the county-wide plan for the "No Refusal" weekend over the Labor Day holiday.
Should be called "Quicker Warrant" weekend as "No Refusal" could technically always be the case if the local governments wanted to do so.
Basically, if you get pulled over and the police suspect you are driving under the influence (DWI) and you refuse a breathalyzer, the police have a couple local judges that are on call to sign a warrant for a blood test.
Rockwall's Municipal Judge Cathy Penn will be one of the judges on call and if used, the city will reimburse the county $120 per hour for Judge Penn's time.
Last year, the county used the on call Judges 3 times. Also, there were less refusals than past years. In this case, crime deterrence is credited.
City agrees to the agreement 6-0. (Glen Farris was a no-show.)
III. Proclamations.
1. Rockwall University Graduates recognized for graduating Rockwall University.
Employees spend time learning what goes on in other departments, while citizens wonder why the Water Department serviceman is dressed in a tie and loafers.
Graduates received a plaque and money.
IV. Consent Agenda.
5 & 6 pulled by Cliff Sevier.
1-4 Pass without discussion 6-0. (1. Minutes, 2. Minutes, 3. Donor Sign thingy, 4. Utility easement granted to ONCOR somewhere.)
5. 1st Reading of a zoning change for the hillside up from the Harbor.
Basically, the majority of council and staff want to fundamentally change the demographic and feel of Rockwall by turning it into Plano, Jr.
The Centrally Planned Development (PD-32) includes high-density retail and residential (1201 units) development for the proposed 80 acres.
The city will foot the bill (probably as certificates of obligation or a TIF) to put in all the roads and infrastructure, as well as paying for moving the exit ramp from I-30 back.
The cost is in the millions to do so, with guarantee of any development. Unless of course there is already some secret developer involved that has not been divulged, but I really doubt that is the case. I guess someone could get past campaign finance reports and compare those to any future developers that magically appear. Not gonna be me, I have too much faith in my government.
The residential will possibly include townhomes and condos, NOT APARTMENTS OR MULTIFAMILY DWELLINGS , even though some of the elevation drawing and renditions show residences connected at 3 walls, the ceiling and the floor to other non-apartments. They are merely residences that a connected together apart from one another.
I repeat, multiple families living in the same building apart from each other are NOT APARTMENTS. Several council stated this.
The expression used repeatedly was "urban residential" NOT APARTMENTS. (Clicky on link for a GIS of "urban residential" and you will see they are NOT APARTMENTS.)
The "urban residential" obsession is obviously filling a need in the market that the market forces are too stupid to recognize. People move away from the urban areas to the suburbs and demand an urban setting they chose not to live in in an urban area. Duh.
Councilmen Russo and Sevier expressed their opposition.
Councilmen Sweet and Scott then stamped their feet and demanded to know why Councilmen Russo and Sevier were opposed.
Councilman Sevier's main opposition is the "cramming" in of the homes, aka "row housing". He also noted that he has never supported increasing multifamily-type house in Rockwall, unlike other councilmen who oppose multifamily except when they vote for it.
Councilman Russo's two reasons for not supporting were the negative impact of more traffic at an already high density traffic area and he believes the developers should be planning the best use of land, not the city.
After 30 minutes of monkeying around, the city avoided a deadlocked vote of 3-3 (Sweet claimed he would oppose), the council tabled the item until the next meeting when the cards would be stacked in favor of passing the item.
Malvina Reynolds - 1962
(Councilwoman Nielsen excuse herself from the remainder of the meeting.)
V. Appointments.
1. Jerry Archer of Archer's Car Care was forced to move (2007, I think) from his location on SH-205 for the purpose of SH-205 being widened.
He a few blocks to Washington St and was again burdened by the Fannin St repairs.
Long story short, he agreed to put in fire sprinklers by x amount of time (3 years I suppose) in order to fulfill the SUP . He has not done so for various financial reasons, and still cannot afford to do so. He needs a little more time to figure it all out and was granted 90 more days, 5-0.
2. Fella living in the ETJ of the city wants to be released from Rockwall's ETJ and be taken into McClendom-Chisholm's ETJ. City didn't like that idea one bit. Failed without a vote. He's stuck.
On the bright side, he might some day get city water!
VI. Public Hearings Items.
1. Bunch-o-land being annexed.
People who spoke do not want to be annexed. City could give a Rat's Donkey. Basically, the Mayor's position was that if you live in the ETJ we will annex you, like it or not.
Why call it a hearing if no one listens?
City must annex or as I was once told by a councilman, "People would do whatever they want."
Patrick Henry would be so proud! "Give me liberty or give me death! Or not."
VII. Action Items.
3. Tabled.
2. City's answers the Old Town Shoppe's questions from previous meeting:
Lights need fixin'.
Trees need trimmin'
Planters need movin'.
Parking lots need illuinatin'.
Christmas time will decoratin'.
Councilman Sevier's sign initiative need implementin'.
4. Councilman Russo wants the staff to look into setting up Cultural Arts Districts in the city.
Councilman Scott was the most vocal opponent because he is not interested in it. "The wine and cheese folk get too much attention and not enough for the beer and hot dog folk like [Mr Scott] and [David Sweet]."
Councilman Scott then asked Mr Russo why he would support this and not a multi-million dollar ball field monument?
Mr Russo: "This is way cheaper."
Councilman Sevier opined that staff may have too many projects and that if there is too much for staff, there won't be any followup.
Mr Scott then made a motion to have staff look into Cultural Arts District program. Passed 5-0.
VII. Action Items.
1. District Attorney Kenda Culpepper presented to council the county-wide plan for the "No Refusal" weekend over the Labor Day holiday.
Should be called "Quicker Warrant" weekend as "No Refusal" could technically always be the case if the local governments wanted to do so.
Basically, if you get pulled over and the police suspect you are driving under the influence (DWI) and you refuse a breathalyzer, the police have a couple local judges that are on call to sign a warrant for a blood test.
Rockwall's Municipal Judge Cathy Penn will be one of the judges on call and if used, the city will reimburse the county $120 per hour for Judge Penn's time.
Last year, the county used the on call Judges 3 times. Also, there were less refusals than past years. In this case, crime deterrence is credited.
City agrees to the agreement 6-0. (Glen Farris was a no-show.)
III. Proclamations.
1. Rockwall University Graduates recognized for graduating Rockwall University.
Employees spend time learning what goes on in other departments, while citizens wonder why the Water Department serviceman is dressed in a tie and loafers.
Graduates received a plaque and money.
IV. Consent Agenda.
5 & 6 pulled by Cliff Sevier.
1-4 Pass without discussion 6-0. (1. Minutes, 2. Minutes, 3. Donor Sign thingy, 4. Utility easement granted to ONCOR somewhere.)
5. 1st Reading of a zoning change for the hillside up from the Harbor.
Basically, the majority of council and staff want to fundamentally change the demographic and feel of Rockwall by turning it into Plano, Jr.
The Centrally Planned Development (PD-32) includes high-density retail and residential (1201 units) development for the proposed 80 acres.
The city will foot the bill (probably as certificates of obligation or a TIF) to put in all the roads and infrastructure, as well as paying for moving the exit ramp from I-30 back.
The cost is in the millions to do so, with guarantee of any development. Unless of course there is already some secret developer involved that has not been divulged, but I really doubt that is the case. I guess someone could get past campaign finance reports and compare those to any future developers that magically appear. Not gonna be me, I have too much faith in my government.
The residential will possibly include townhomes and condos, NOT APARTMENTS OR MULTIFAMILY DWELLINGS , even though some of the elevation drawing and renditions show residences connected at 3 walls, the ceiling and the floor to other non-apartments. They are merely residences that a connected together apart from one another.
I repeat, multiple families living in the same building apart from each other are NOT APARTMENTS. Several council stated this.
The expression used repeatedly was "urban residential" NOT APARTMENTS. (Clicky on link for a GIS of "urban residential" and you will see they are NOT APARTMENTS.)
The "urban residential" obsession is obviously filling a need in the market that the market forces are too stupid to recognize. People move away from the urban areas to the suburbs and demand an urban setting they chose not to live in in an urban area. Duh.
Councilmen Russo and Sevier expressed their opposition.
Councilmen Sweet and Scott then stamped their feet and demanded to know why Councilmen Russo and Sevier were opposed.
Councilman Sevier's main opposition is the "cramming" in of the homes, aka "row housing". He also noted that he has never supported increasing multifamily-type house in Rockwall, unlike other councilmen who oppose multifamily except when they vote for it.
Councilman Russo's two reasons for not supporting were the negative impact of more traffic at an already high density traffic area and he believes the developers should be planning the best use of land, not the city.
After 30 minutes of monkeying around, the city avoided a deadlocked vote of 3-3 (Sweet claimed he would oppose), the council tabled the item until the next meeting when the cards would be stacked in favor of passing the item.
Malvina Reynolds - 1962
(Councilwoman Nielsen excuse herself from the remainder of the meeting.)
V. Appointments.
1. Jerry Archer of Archer's Car Care was forced to move (2007, I think) from his location on SH-205 for the purpose of SH-205 being widened.
He a few blocks to Washington St and was again burdened by the Fannin St repairs.
Long story short, he agreed to put in fire sprinklers by x amount of time (3 years I suppose) in order to fulfill the SUP . He has not done so for various financial reasons, and still cannot afford to do so. He needs a little more time to figure it all out and was granted 90 more days, 5-0.
2. Fella living in the ETJ of the city wants to be released from Rockwall's ETJ and be taken into McClendom-Chisholm's ETJ. City didn't like that idea one bit. Failed without a vote. He's stuck.
On the bright side, he might some day get city water!
VI. Public Hearings Items.
1. Bunch-o-land being annexed.
People who spoke do not want to be annexed. City could give a Rat's Donkey. Basically, the Mayor's position was that if you live in the ETJ we will annex you, like it or not.
Why call it a hearing if no one listens?
City must annex or as I was once told by a councilman, "People would do whatever they want."
Patrick Henry would be so proud! "Give me liberty or give me death! Or not."
VII. Action Items.
3. Tabled.
2. City's answers the Old Town Shoppe's questions from previous meeting:
Lights need fixin'.
Trees need trimmin'
Planters need movin'.
Parking lots need illuinatin'.
Christmas time will decoratin'.
Councilman Sevier's sign initiative need implementin'.
4. Councilman Russo wants the staff to look into setting up Cultural Arts Districts in the city.
Councilman Scott was the most vocal opponent because he is not interested in it. "The wine and cheese folk get too much attention and not enough for the beer and hot dog folk like [Mr Scott] and [David Sweet]."
Councilman Scott then asked Mr Russo why he would support this and not a multi-million dollar ball field monument?
Mr Russo: "This is way cheaper."
Councilman Sevier opined that staff may have too many projects and that if there is too much for staff, there won't be any followup.
Mr Scott then made a motion to have staff look into Cultural Arts District program. Passed 5-0.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Rockwall City Council 2 August
An urgent matter kept me from all but the first hour of the meeting.
This handy pie chart will illustrate in a general manner how the time was spent in that hour. (Actually, this chart could be used to illustrate every meeting.)
This handy pie chart will illustrate in a general manner how the time was spent in that hour. (Actually, this chart could be used to illustrate every meeting.)
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Rockwall City Council 19 July
The 6:00pm meeting started promptly at 6:05pm.
III. Consent Agenda.
All Passed 6-0.
There was some discussion of upcoming development on the large area west of Ridge Road where Alamo St is interrupted.
IV. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman Hunter briefly talked about the upcoming public hearing on a replat that wasn't heard at the last P&Z because the applicant was a no-show.
Motion to continue until next meeting.
2. Lady wants to build some parking spaces at her business downtown on public right-of-way.
Passes without discussion 6-0.
3. Almost exactly the same (different lady) as #2. Passes 6-0.
V. Public Hearings.
1. See appointment #1.
VI. Action Items.
1. Pergola thing from last meeting is back. After a lengthy coma-inducing discussion, council is sending the item to Dallas for approval.
4 & 5. Extension of 212 agreements for undeveloped areas under consideration for annexation (mostly or completely surrounded by city anyways).
Mayor Pro Tem Glen Farris expressed that he opposes the annexation of the areas unless it was to regulate development.
Motion to begin annexation passed 4-2, Councilman Russo and Mayor Pro Tem Farris opposed.
3. Donor recognition signs from last meeting are back.
Little discussion, but self-designated sign-Nazi Farris wanted pole signs excluded from the donor sign allowance.
He explained that if these signs were up along the I-30 corridor (only place pole signs allowed), it would cause confusion finding things.
In other words, signs would make it hard to find the place you want to go.
Plus, Glen hates pole signs. Example of a Pole sign:
Passed 6-0.
2. Directional signs. Discussed back in November. The signs would be privately maintained, and would b e used to direct people to areas around town (Harbor, Downtown) and businesses in those areas. The businesses on the signs would pay the private company and the city would get a percentage of those sales. Home builders would not be allowed to advertise. The issue was brought forth to council (both times) by Councilman Sevier, who explained this program would be ideal to help promote areas like the Harbor and Downtown.
The discussion revolved around making it easy to get around town and reduce confusion while searching for a business.
In other words, signs would make it easy to find the place you want to go.
Motion to get staff to look at (again presumably, as it was the same request in November), passes 6-0.
The following item was not on the agenda posted Friday afternoon:
6. Actual wording from the agenda amendment :
Here's how the law is written:
III. Consent Agenda.
All Passed 6-0.
There was some discussion of upcoming development on the large area west of Ridge Road where Alamo St is interrupted.
IV. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman Hunter briefly talked about the upcoming public hearing on a replat that wasn't heard at the last P&Z because the applicant was a no-show.
Motion to continue until next meeting.
2. Lady wants to build some parking spaces at her business downtown on public right-of-way.
Passes without discussion 6-0.
3. Almost exactly the same (different lady) as #2. Passes 6-0.
V. Public Hearings.
1. See appointment #1.
VI. Action Items.
1. Pergola thing from last meeting is back. After a lengthy coma-inducing discussion, council is sending the item to Dallas for approval.
4 & 5. Extension of 212 agreements for undeveloped areas under consideration for annexation (mostly or completely surrounded by city anyways).
Mayor Pro Tem Glen Farris expressed that he opposes the annexation of the areas unless it was to regulate development.
Motion to begin annexation passed 4-2, Councilman Russo and Mayor Pro Tem Farris opposed.
3. Donor recognition signs from last meeting are back.
Little discussion, but self-designated sign-Nazi Farris wanted pole signs excluded from the donor sign allowance.
He explained that if these signs were up along the I-30 corridor (only place pole signs allowed), it would cause confusion finding things.
In other words, signs would make it hard to find the place you want to go.
Plus, Glen hates pole signs. Example of a Pole sign:
Passed 6-0.
2. Directional signs. Discussed back in November. The signs would be privately maintained, and would b e used to direct people to areas around town (Harbor, Downtown) and businesses in those areas. The businesses on the signs would pay the private company and the city would get a percentage of those sales. Home builders would not be allowed to advertise. The issue was brought forth to council (both times) by Councilman Sevier, who explained this program would be ideal to help promote areas like the Harbor and Downtown.
The discussion revolved around making it easy to get around town and reduce confusion while searching for a business.
In other words, signs would make it easy to find the place you want to go.
Motion to get staff to look at (again presumably, as it was the same request in November), passes 6-0.
The following item was not on the agenda posted Friday afternoon:
6. Actual wording from the agenda amendment :
6. * Discuss and consider maintenance issues at the Shores Golf Course, and take any action necessary.
* Justification: This is an emergency agenda item. Due to maintenance conditions, including irrigation deficiencies and the extreme heat observed today, July 19th, at the Shores Golf Course, discussion and possible action may be required to ensure protection of City controlled property.Here's how the law is written:
Sec. 551.045. EXCEPTION TO GENERAL RULE: NOTICE OF EMERGENCY MEETING OR EMERGENCY ADDITION TO AGENDA. (a) In an emergency or when there is an urgent public necessity, the notice of a meeting or the supplemental notice of a subject added as an item to the agenda for a meeting for which notice has been posted in accordance with this subchapter is sufficient if it is posted for at least two hours before the meeting is convened.
(b) An emergency or an urgent public necessity exists only if immediate action is required of a governmental body because of:
(1) an imminent threat to public health and safety; or
(2) a reasonably unforeseeable situation.
(c) The governmental body shall clearly identify the emergency or urgent public necessity in the notice or supplemental notice under this section.
(d) A person who is designated or authorized to post notice of a meeting by a governmental body under this subchapter shall post the notice taking at face value the governmental body's stated reason for the emergency or urgent public necessity.
(e) For purposes of Subsection (b)(2), the sudden relocation of a large number of residents from the area of a declared disaster to a governmental body's jurisdiction is considered a reasonably unforeseeable situation for a reasonable period immediately following the relocation. Notice of an emergency meeting or supplemental notice of an emergency item added to the agenda of a meeting to address a situation described by this subsection must be given to members of the news media as provided by Section 551.047 not later than one hour before the meeting.
Possible examples of"(1) an imminent threat to public health and safety; or
(2) a reasonably unforeseeable situation."
Flooding.
Tornado.
The moon crashing into the earth.
Praxis exploding.
Is lawn maintenance of a private golf course an example of
"(1) an imminent threat to public health and safety; or
(2) a reasonably unforeseeable situation."?
Dead grass.
Dead grass.
A worthy and important issue? Probably.
Is it worth possibly violating state law? I'm not Greg Abbot. What was so vitally important as to amend the agenda at noon, was no longer important at 7:30pm. The item was removed from the agenda. (Several in audience were quite unhappy about that, too.)
Is it worth possibly violating state law? I'm not Greg Abbot. What was so vitally important as to amend the agenda at noon, was no longer important at 7:30pm. The item was removed from the agenda. (Several in audience were quite unhappy about that, too.)
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Rockwall City Council 6 July
III. Open Forum.
1. A representative from RISD briefly talked about the strategic plan devised by a 156 member committee. She didn't get into details of the report, but I can imagine it read something like: "blah blah blah, spend tons of cash, tax tax tax, it's for the children."
IV. Consent Agenda.
#6 (regarding one of the SUP's for a new antique store) was pulled and didn't need to be.
All were eventually approved 7-0.
V. Appointments.
1. Fella that wants to break the world record for giant work out session at the harbor was back asking for half the money he wanted before - this time "only" $2500.00.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris gave mad props to Councilman Russo for bringing the "Fit City" initiative to Rockwall and made a motion to support the request.
It is slightly possible the city could get the money back if the fund raising goals are met. The organizers wanted to give any leftover money to the Boys and Girls club, which Councilman Farris thought acceptable. (Was not a staff recomendation, but the idea was entertained to amend the motion.)
Councilman Sweet expressed he would not support the motion as not a wise expenditure of taxpayer money, nor should any leftover city money go to a non-profit.
Councilman Sevier also did not support giving the money to a non-profit and stated that the collected Hotel/Motel Tax dollars are available for such events.
Councilman Russo dittoed the opposition of "funneling" money to a non-profit.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris re-amended the motion to remove the "funneling".
It was also argued that this would "bring economic development to the harbor". (That's polispeak for "I can't think of a better argument and no one will argue against 'economic development.'" Much like "it's for the children", "it's for health and safety", or "national security.")
Mrs Nielsen expressed that she would help find more sponsors and that this was a loan. (An unsecured loan.)
Mayor Cecil pointed out to those still opposed (with the "funneling" taken out) that they aren't willing the expend $2500 on this, but are willing to put forth $700,000 worth of bonds!
The motion passes 5-2, Councilman Sweet opposed spending yours and my tax dollars on the event.
VI. Action Items.
1. The city is going to spend $20,000 to have an on-site spay/neuter clinic at the Animal Adoption Center.
The current policy is after an adoption, the new owners have 6 months (!) to get the animal fixed. The city confirms this by having an animal control officer contact the owner and ask if they have done so. And if they haven't fixed the animal, well, they'd better - or else they might get called again.
But for an initial cost of $20,000 plus whatever it costs to have a vet come to the adoption center and perform the operation, the city will no longer have to waste man hours calling adopters for follow-up.
Motion for staff to pursue this adventure passes 7-0.
2. The all-new, comprehensive sign ordinance that staff and council recently passed after spending untold hours and months developing needs amending.
The YMCA would like to install a couple signs thanking sponsors. The city's current ordinance classifies this as off-premise advertising and it is unacceptable. The change would make it acceptable for non-profits to use some of their sign allowance showcasing the sponsors that make the operation possible.
15 minutes of rambling discussion ensued, including the concern that a church might also take advantage of this allowance, because that's what a church would do - get a corporate sponsor.
Well, maybe if this guy was the pastor:
The motion to approve, brought to you by Carl's Jr, passed 7-0.
1. A representative from RISD briefly talked about the strategic plan devised by a 156 member committee. She didn't get into details of the report, but I can imagine it read something like: "blah blah blah, spend tons of cash, tax tax tax, it's for the children."
IV. Consent Agenda.
#6 (regarding one of the SUP's for a new antique store) was pulled and didn't need to be.
All were eventually approved 7-0.
V. Appointments.
1. Fella that wants to break the world record for giant work out session at the harbor was back asking for half the money he wanted before - this time "only" $2500.00.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris gave mad props to Councilman Russo for bringing the "Fit City" initiative to Rockwall and made a motion to support the request.
It is slightly possible the city could get the money back if the fund raising goals are met. The organizers wanted to give any leftover money to the Boys and Girls club, which Councilman Farris thought acceptable. (Was not a staff recomendation, but the idea was entertained to amend the motion.)
Councilman Sweet expressed he would not support the motion as not a wise expenditure of taxpayer money, nor should any leftover city money go to a non-profit.
Councilman Sevier also did not support giving the money to a non-profit and stated that the collected Hotel/Motel Tax dollars are available for such events.
Councilman Russo dittoed the opposition of "funneling" money to a non-profit.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris re-amended the motion to remove the "funneling".
It was also argued that this would "bring economic development to the harbor". (That's polispeak for "I can't think of a better argument and no one will argue against 'economic development.'" Much like "it's for the children", "it's for health and safety", or "national security.")
Mrs Nielsen expressed that she would help find more sponsors and that this was a loan. (An unsecured loan.)
Mayor Cecil pointed out to those still opposed (with the "funneling" taken out) that they aren't willing the expend $2500 on this, but are willing to put forth $700,000 worth of bonds!
The motion passes 5-2, Councilman Sweet opposed spending yours and my tax dollars on the event.
VI. Action Items.
1. The city is going to spend $20,000 to have an on-site spay/neuter clinic at the Animal Adoption Center.
The current policy is after an adoption, the new owners have 6 months (!) to get the animal fixed. The city confirms this by having an animal control officer contact the owner and ask if they have done so. And if they haven't fixed the animal, well, they'd better - or else they might get called again.
But for an initial cost of $20,000 plus whatever it costs to have a vet come to the adoption center and perform the operation, the city will no longer have to waste man hours calling adopters for follow-up.
Motion for staff to pursue this adventure passes 7-0.
2. The all-new, comprehensive sign ordinance that staff and council recently passed after spending untold hours and months developing needs amending.
The YMCA would like to install a couple signs thanking sponsors. The city's current ordinance classifies this as off-premise advertising and it is unacceptable. The change would make it acceptable for non-profits to use some of their sign allowance showcasing the sponsors that make the operation possible.
15 minutes of rambling discussion ensued, including the concern that a church might also take advantage of this allowance, because that's what a church would do - get a corporate sponsor.
Well, maybe if this guy was the pastor:
The motion to approve, brought to you by Carl's Jr, passed 7-0.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Rockwall City Council 21 June
III. Proclamations.
1. Taylor Lipsett Day. City recognized the achievements of paralympian, Taylor Lipsett. He showed the mayor his gold medal, which the mayor passed around council. Surprisingly, no one on council spent 30 minutes grandstanding - they saved that for later.
After the presentation, the mayor told Mr Lipsett and his entourage that they were welcome to stay for the rest of the meeting. They left. (Must have been to council before?)
IV. Consent Agenda.
None pulled. The 2nd reading of speed limit change for 3097/Horizon Rd. Still don't know what the change is. They must be lowering it to match the speed of the majority of drivers who like to go 20 mph under the posted speed limit. (That is when heading south, they like to go 20 mph over when heading north, guess they think that makes it even.)
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Vice Chair Phillip Herbst talked about the site plans and public hearing items on tonights agenda. P&Z recommended approval of SUP's for 2 antique stores, so long as they don't have any outside displays. Concern about the stores the stores looking too much like an antique store and such.
They did not approve a request by Olive Garden to use fake stone over natural stone. The only fakeness allowed, is the authenticity of the food.
2. Resident wants to build a shade structure on the take-line. Weird restrictions by city of Dallas prevent things from being built below certain a certain sea level. (438ft) Dallas has to get involved and approve.
There were concerns that the structure, which is smaller than a gazebo which the city allows without begging, being built would hinder views that a gazebo (which he wouldn't have to come to council and beg) would obstruct. The question is only in regards to the city of Dallas restriction of being built below a certain sea level.
Of course, this doesn't stop council from getting involved to address issues that didn't exist until they magically appeared in their heads.
3. A rep for the downtown shops has some concerns. Not enough parking, and the parking that does exist, no lights. People can't cross Fanin street, cars come too fast. More planters and benches, or move the ones that are there. Black street lights would be better than bronze street lights. Trippy. Lots more Christmas decorations. (Presumably during Christmas.)
Council mentioned that many of the concerns were already being discussed and are in planning stages. Council not getting people directly affected involved in the planning stages of a project? Unpossible.
Kind of a long discussion, would have been shorter if there wasn't an open seat for the Mayor's race next year...
VI. Public Hearings.
1. 1st antique store. Lady won't have any outside displays, doesn't want to have outside displays, and even if she did want either, she wouldn't be allowed.
Council approved 7-0.
2. 2nd antique store. Pretty much same as before, except this applicant finds out at the last minute that she won't have anywhere for her customers to parking, nor anyplace to accept deliveries. The owners of the parking lot behind her shop sent a letter to council stating such.
One of the mayoral candidates, wanting to appear as the great moral arbiter, proposed postponing the request until the parking situation which has nothing to do with the city could be worked out.
The current mayor smartly suggested passing the 1st reading and allowing it to move forward so as not to delay the desired opening date of July 15.
17 hours later with the issue so fart pounded into the ground that Australians were now involved, they passed first reading of the ordinance, 7-0.
Mayor Cecil then spent 10 minutes letting non-regulars to the meeting know that the council likes to move meetings along quickly. Guess I missed those.
VIII. Action Items.
1. City starting process to take over the cemetery along 205. Passes 7-0.
Back to VI. Public Hearings.
3. Bunch of code/ordinance "clean up". passes 7-0.
VIII. Site Plans/Plats.
1. The undeveloped area around Best Buy is about to be developed. Yay.
Developers want some variances for the architectural requirements.
Power point.
Some of the new stores coming in: Home Goods, Joann, Freebirds, Vitamin Shoppe, SmashBurger, another secret tenant, and Olive Garden. (<-- WARNING don't click if very easily offended)
Councilman Scott (in one of his blind squirrel finding a nut moments) asked the developer if they could get a Chuy's and Dairy Queen. (Attention U-haulers - we had one, closed long time ago.)
Chuy's passed, DQ not asked.
He also asked about a clock tower that no one remembered.
The Olive Garden rep then presented to council samples of the fake stone they want to use on the facade. Council liked.
Both variances approved 7-0.
1. Taylor Lipsett Day. City recognized the achievements of paralympian, Taylor Lipsett. He showed the mayor his gold medal, which the mayor passed around council. Surprisingly, no one on council spent 30 minutes grandstanding - they saved that for later.
After the presentation, the mayor told Mr Lipsett and his entourage that they were welcome to stay for the rest of the meeting. They left. (Must have been to council before?)
IV. Consent Agenda.
None pulled. The 2nd reading of speed limit change for 3097/Horizon Rd. Still don't know what the change is. They must be lowering it to match the speed of the majority of drivers who like to go 20 mph under the posted speed limit. (That is when heading south, they like to go 20 mph over when heading north, guess they think that makes it even.)
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Vice Chair Phillip Herbst talked about the site plans and public hearing items on tonights agenda. P&Z recommended approval of SUP's for 2 antique stores, so long as they don't have any outside displays. Concern about the stores the stores looking too much like an antique store and such.
They did not approve a request by Olive Garden to use fake stone over natural stone. The only fakeness allowed, is the authenticity of the food.
2. Resident wants to build a shade structure on the take-line. Weird restrictions by city of Dallas prevent things from being built below certain a certain sea level. (438ft) Dallas has to get involved and approve.
There were concerns that the structure, which is smaller than a gazebo which the city allows without begging, being built would hinder views that a gazebo (which he wouldn't have to come to council and beg) would obstruct. The question is only in regards to the city of Dallas restriction of being built below a certain sea level.
Of course, this doesn't stop council from getting involved to address issues that didn't exist until they magically appeared in their heads.
3. A rep for the downtown shops has some concerns. Not enough parking, and the parking that does exist, no lights. People can't cross Fanin street, cars come too fast. More planters and benches, or move the ones that are there. Black street lights would be better than bronze street lights. Trippy. Lots more Christmas decorations. (Presumably during Christmas.)
Council mentioned that many of the concerns were already being discussed and are in planning stages. Council not getting people directly affected involved in the planning stages of a project? Unpossible.
Kind of a long discussion, would have been shorter if there wasn't an open seat for the Mayor's race next year...
VI. Public Hearings.
1. 1st antique store. Lady won't have any outside displays, doesn't want to have outside displays, and even if she did want either, she wouldn't be allowed.
Council approved 7-0.
2. 2nd antique store. Pretty much same as before, except this applicant finds out at the last minute that she won't have anywhere for her customers to parking, nor anyplace to accept deliveries. The owners of the parking lot behind her shop sent a letter to council stating such.
One of the mayoral candidates, wanting to appear as the great moral arbiter, proposed postponing the request until the parking situation which has nothing to do with the city could be worked out.
The current mayor smartly suggested passing the 1st reading and allowing it to move forward so as not to delay the desired opening date of July 15.
17 hours later with the issue so fart pounded into the ground that Australians were now involved, they passed first reading of the ordinance, 7-0.
Mayor Cecil then spent 10 minutes letting non-regulars to the meeting know that the council likes to move meetings along quickly. Guess I missed those.
VIII. Action Items.
1. City starting process to take over the cemetery along 205. Passes 7-0.
Back to VI. Public Hearings.
3. Bunch of code/ordinance "clean up". passes 7-0.
VIII. Site Plans/Plats.
1. The undeveloped area around Best Buy is about to be developed. Yay.
Developers want some variances for the architectural requirements.
Power point.
Some of the new stores coming in: Home Goods, Joann, Freebirds, Vitamin Shoppe, SmashBurger, another secret tenant, and Olive Garden. (<-- WARNING don't click if very easily offended)
Councilman Scott (in one of his blind squirrel finding a nut moments) asked the developer if they could get a Chuy's and Dairy Queen. (Attention U-haulers - we had one, closed long time ago.)
Chuy's passed, DQ not asked.
He also asked about a clock tower that no one remembered.
The Olive Garden rep then presented to council samples of the fake stone they want to use on the facade. Council liked.
Both variances approved 7-0.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Rockwall City Council 7 June
III. Swearing in of Elected Officials. (The swearing of elected officials is behind closed doors, I am told.)
The mob has spoken and the .05% who showed up to vote have re-elected Mark Russo, Cliff Sevier and Margo Nielsen.
IV. Selection of Mayor Pro Tem - Probably gonna be Glen Farris, but was moved to executive session at the end of the meeting. Will have to wait til next time.
This is where the legally posted agenda diverges from the agenda used by council for this meeting. I am told it is ok to rewrite the agenda for 2 reasons:
1. No action taken on the item
2. "It's for a good cause" (Following the law is obviously not a good cause. After consulting with an attorney who is an expert on the Open Meetings Act, he did say it was probably ok since there was no action, but would have advised against changing the agenda since the law was a little murky. I took looked through the law and could not find an exception for "it's for a good cause.")
V. Distinguished Citizen Award "Beyond the Horizon"
Marilyn Mock the "Foreclosure Angel" received the award. She has helped 70 families stay in their homes.
She got a big plaque and an statue of an eagle.
VI. Open Forum
1. Fella who put in solar panels a while back wanted to give council an update. Thanks to "incentives" from the government (aka your's and my tax dollars"), 98% of the costs were covered. All his bills have dropped from $150 to $40.
He thanked the city for "all it did". Does obstructing count?
However, he did not thank anyone else for funding this project via tax dollars.
Your welcome.
VII. Consent Agenda.
None pulled.
#4 had something to do with changing the speed limit on 3097, but no one said what it was going to be. I can't imagine it being slower than 55 mph as everyone seems to drive 35 mph on it.
VIII. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman was a no-show!
2. Fella wants to break the world record for the "World's Largest Community Workout". Texas has a lot of fat people and the most cities on the "fattest cities in America" list.
The event will be at the Harbor and expects 3,000-5,000 people to participate.
This is associated with the "Get Fit" program introduced by Councilman Russo a while back, and Eclipse Fitness on the lake.
The organizer would like "support" from the city, specifically bathrooms, facilities, personnel and money - $5,000.
Glen Farris liked the idea as it would have a positive economic impact on the Harbor. He did not support the idea of giving away the $5,000 requested.
The other associated costs the city would be giving away would total about $1,000.
David Sweet then commented saying "tremendous", "absolutely no question", "struggling", "take me through the process", and "help me out". (If you have never been to council, he says those words a lot...)
City staff had already researched and "found" $5,000 in the general fund that the city could give for this event. (Didn't say if they had researched for grant money, more on that later...also didn't hear if the organizers had contacted local businesses and rich folk for the money.)
If he can't get the money, the event won't be as great as the organizer would like, e.g. no "free" T-shirts to give away.
And if the event brings in over $19,000, the organizer would give back the $5,000.
Margo Nielsen made the motion to approve the $5,000, noting that the city had committed to the Get Fit program and we must now support it.
Motion failed 5-2, Mayor Cecil also supported.
Glen Farris Asked for the item to come back to council in 2 weeks.
IX. Action Items
1. Lady in the Zoo wants to put up a carport to replace one that had fallen down. P&Z approved, 7-0. Council approved 7-0.
2. The "can't be tamed" expansion of city limits via annexation - procedures initiated to annex 4 areas.
3. Councilman Russo wants to get a citizen committee started to help find outside monies (private grants, sponsorships, etc) for various projects.
Glen Farris asked why not make this a staff directive. Mark Russo explained it would increase citizen involvement and save money. Mr Farris said staff does it well enough (fyi, staff did mention looking for any grant or outside money for the Get Fit item above. The $5,000 was "found" in the budget) and no need to get citizens to do this. Mr Scott agreed with Mr Farris' objections.
(Are they against citizen involvement or saving money?)
Mr Scott also expressed concern that people would commit to a civic position, and then "not show up".
This would be like a councilman showing up late, missing meetings, or coming and going during the meeting as he pleases, and that would be unacceptable.
4. Councilman Russo wants to form a volunteer program to get citizens to help out mowing right-of-way the city won't mow but a couple times a year. If any citizen also followed that model, he would be cited and fined by the city.
Basically, everyone hated the idea because high grass on city property = not dangerous, high grass on your property = dangerous and mowing is "risky" if citizens do it, too much liability if a rock goes flying into a windshield.
A while back the city had cut back on mowing some areas, unbeknown to the Mayor and others.
For the time being, the city thinks it best to do nothing and let the grass just be high. Who cares if another dog gets bit from a snake hiding in the city's high grass. Tethering is far more dangerous than snakes anyway, and that issue was already addressed.
The mob has spoken and the .05% who showed up to vote have re-elected Mark Russo, Cliff Sevier and Margo Nielsen.
IV. Selection of Mayor Pro Tem - Probably gonna be Glen Farris, but was moved to executive session at the end of the meeting. Will have to wait til next time.
This is where the legally posted agenda diverges from the agenda used by council for this meeting. I am told it is ok to rewrite the agenda for 2 reasons:
1. No action taken on the item
2. "It's for a good cause" (Following the law is obviously not a good cause. After consulting with an attorney who is an expert on the Open Meetings Act, he did say it was probably ok since there was no action, but would have advised against changing the agenda since the law was a little murky. I took looked through the law and could not find an exception for "it's for a good cause.")
V. Distinguished Citizen Award "Beyond the Horizon"
Marilyn Mock the "Foreclosure Angel" received the award. She has helped 70 families stay in their homes.
She got a big plaque and an statue of an eagle.
VI. Open Forum
1. Fella who put in solar panels a while back wanted to give council an update. Thanks to "incentives" from the government (aka your's and my tax dollars"), 98% of the costs were covered. All his bills have dropped from $150 to $40.
He thanked the city for "all it did". Does obstructing count?
However, he did not thank anyone else for funding this project via tax dollars.
Your welcome.
VII. Consent Agenda.
None pulled.
#4 had something to do with changing the speed limit on 3097, but no one said what it was going to be. I can't imagine it being slower than 55 mph as everyone seems to drive 35 mph on it.
VIII. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman was a no-show!
2. Fella wants to break the world record for the "World's Largest Community Workout". Texas has a lot of fat people and the most cities on the "fattest cities in America" list.
The event will be at the Harbor and expects 3,000-5,000 people to participate.
This is associated with the "Get Fit" program introduced by Councilman Russo a while back, and Eclipse Fitness on the lake.
The organizer would like "support" from the city, specifically bathrooms, facilities, personnel and money - $5,000.
Glen Farris liked the idea as it would have a positive economic impact on the Harbor. He did not support the idea of giving away the $5,000 requested.
The other associated costs the city would be giving away would total about $1,000.
David Sweet then commented saying "tremendous", "absolutely no question", "struggling", "take me through the process", and "help me out". (If you have never been to council, he says those words a lot...)
City staff had already researched and "found" $5,000 in the general fund that the city could give for this event. (Didn't say if they had researched for grant money, more on that later...also didn't hear if the organizers had contacted local businesses and rich folk for the money.)
If he can't get the money, the event won't be as great as the organizer would like, e.g. no "free" T-shirts to give away.
And if the event brings in over $19,000, the organizer would give back the $5,000.
Margo Nielsen made the motion to approve the $5,000, noting that the city had committed to the Get Fit program and we must now support it.
Motion failed 5-2, Mayor Cecil also supported.
Glen Farris Asked for the item to come back to council in 2 weeks.
IX. Action Items
1. Lady in the Zoo wants to put up a carport to replace one that had fallen down. P&Z approved, 7-0. Council approved 7-0.
2. The "can't be tamed" expansion of city limits via annexation - procedures initiated to annex 4 areas.
3. Councilman Russo wants to get a citizen committee started to help find outside monies (private grants, sponsorships, etc) for various projects.
Glen Farris asked why not make this a staff directive. Mark Russo explained it would increase citizen involvement and save money. Mr Farris said staff does it well enough (fyi, staff did mention looking for any grant or outside money for the Get Fit item above. The $5,000 was "found" in the budget) and no need to get citizens to do this. Mr Scott agreed with Mr Farris' objections.
(Are they against citizen involvement or saving money?)
Mr Scott also expressed concern that people would commit to a civic position, and then "not show up".
This would be like a councilman showing up late, missing meetings, or coming and going during the meeting as he pleases, and that would be unacceptable.
4. Councilman Russo wants to form a volunteer program to get citizens to help out mowing right-of-way the city won't mow but a couple times a year. If any citizen also followed that model, he would be cited and fined by the city.
Basically, everyone hated the idea because high grass on city property = not dangerous, high grass on your property = dangerous and mowing is "risky" if citizens do it, too much liability if a rock goes flying into a windshield.
A while back the city had cut back on mowing some areas, unbeknown to the Mayor and others.
For the time being, the city thinks it best to do nothing and let the grass just be high. Who cares if another dog gets bit from a snake hiding in the city's high grass. Tethering is far more dangerous than snakes anyway, and that issue was already addressed.
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