My first meeting as a new representative was fairly uneventful. I still haven't quite decided on a new format for this blog, so at least this post will be a little dry.
Started the meeting and then we had the swearing in of newly elected representatives.
III. Proclamations.
1. First one to Girl Scout Autumn Tarter.
2. A second for Juneteenth.
IV. Open Forum.
1. 2 men came forth to speak about their plans to aid in the relief efforts of Joplin, Missouri.
V. Consent Agenda.
Items 1 and 5 pulled by Mr Sevier.
Rest approved 7-0.
Item 1 related to minutes of a meeting Mr Sevier missed, Passed 4-0 and 3 abstentions.
Item 5 dealt with extension of Discovery Blvd. Passed 7-0 and source of funding. Passed 7-0.
VI. Appointments.
1. Vice Chair Jackson briefed council on public hearing items on the agenda.
VII. Public Hearings.
1. Couple wants to open a Snow Cone stand behind Luigi's. They changed the plans to accommodate some concerns of P&Z and an adjacent business.
After brief discussion, item passed 7-0. (Sorry, Chance and Ashley! Better get chamoy if you want to compete!)
VIII. Site Plans/Plats.
1. Resident of LRE (The Zoo) wants to expand her house and needs some variances. She got it 7-0.
IX. Action Items.
1. Several items for the Toyota U.S. Open Triathlon. Fees waived for Harbor Use, Route Approved and Date Approved. All Passed 7-0.
2. Your electric bill going up a couple bucks per month thanks to a negotiated rate increase we approved for Oncor. I blame Fiat Currency! Passed 7-0.
3. LRE again! Dilapidated house going to be demolished. Eventually. Passed 7-0.
4. Mr Sevier wants Consent Agenda items that are associated with spending money have the amount listed along side the item. Done.
X. City Manager's Report.
Wayfinding signs directing folks to downtown was discussed. Once details hammered out with TxDOT, city will move forward with installation.
Showing posts with label lre. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lre. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Rockwall City Council 18 April
It's a two-fer! Posting 2 on same day, so don't miss the meeting from April 4th right here.
Executive Action.
1. 380 Agreement between city and Murphy Building Ltd. 7-0. Read about 380 agreements!
2. Harbor Heights investor (I think that's what I wrote) agreement. 7-0.
III. Proclamations.
1. Sons of the American Revolution. Three guys gave out some awards:
Law Enforcement Commendation to Sgt Jeff Welch.
Fire Safety Commendation to Ariana Hargrove.
And ________ _________ awared for EMS service. (Missed name, former councilman running for mayor distracted me.)
James Cullins for proper flag etiquette.
2. Little girl raised $5000 for American Heart Association. Read about it here.
3. Rockwall Environmental Action Day (aka Hazard Waste You Can Stop Putting Down The Drain or Burying Day) is April 30th. More here.
IV. Consent Agenda.
1. Passed 7-0. (Minutes)
2. Ramp closure off I-30 east of SH-205 for the Classic Rock Rotary Sprint Triathalon on May 15th. Won't be as inconveniencing to citizens as the event last year was.
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chair Herbst. One item withdrawn, voted to allow winery in Harbor, first change in plan to first building at PD-32.
2. Former councilman Stephen Straughn introduced the new Chief Professional Officer for the Rockwall Boys and Girls Club. Lots of upcoming plans to make the club more educational and cannot do without the city's $$help$$.
3. Issue about parking in Meadowcreek Estates, no show.
4. Extension of SUP for BigTex Trailers for 3 more years. Passed 7-0
VI. Public Hearing Items.
1. Winery coming to the Harbor. Will be making some wines (all from Texas grapes) and selling all Texas wines. Passed 7-0 with one councilmember offering "Congratulations." for the applicant getting the SUP passed by council.
2. Change to first office building going up at PD-32. Proposed change includes a restaurant on the top floor. Passed 7-0.
3. Front yard fence built without permit from city or permission from council. Contractor said "all would taken care of" but all wasn't - he got a citation. Neighbors ok with fence. Passed 4-3 (Scott, Sevier, and Farris opposed).
4. TIF stuff changing on PD-32, waiting on meeting with TIF board to be held on May 2nd. Tabled.
VII. Action Items.
1. Show cause hearing to demolish house at 470 Nicole. Onwer has failed to respond to certified letters and has 90 days or blammo. Passed 7-0.
2. Long discussion about adding congregate care facilities. Seemed to be a lot of confusion from council on what congregate means and who wants what and when they want it and what is already in the code and how it works. (Hard to hear when you don't listen.) Anyhoo, city has had some inquiries into this type of facility, and code must be changed to allow it.
Motion made to allow this type of facility with SUP passed 5-2 (Sevier opposed - didn't want to force SUP, wanted in code along with already allowed uses like Nursing homes, assisted living, etc. Russo also opposed.)
3. Airport Road bond issuance. Passed 7-0.
4. Tabled to May 16th when the voting pool will be favorable to passage. (Some council were either expected to be absent at this meeting or the next, and the theory was if the super majority wasn't present, the motion would have failed. "Vote stacking" was a term used.)
For the people!
Executive Action.
1. 380 Agreement between city and Murphy Building Ltd. 7-0. Read about 380 agreements!
2. Harbor Heights investor (I think that's what I wrote) agreement. 7-0.
III. Proclamations.
1. Sons of the American Revolution. Three guys gave out some awards:
Law Enforcement Commendation to Sgt Jeff Welch.
Fire Safety Commendation to Ariana Hargrove.
And ________ _________ awared for EMS service. (Missed name, former councilman running for mayor distracted me.)
James Cullins for proper flag etiquette.
2. Little girl raised $5000 for American Heart Association. Read about it here.
3. Rockwall Environmental Action Day (aka Hazard Waste You Can Stop Putting Down The Drain or Burying Day) is April 30th. More here.
IV. Consent Agenda.
1. Passed 7-0. (Minutes)
2. Ramp closure off I-30 east of SH-205 for the Classic Rock Rotary Sprint Triathalon on May 15th. Won't be as inconveniencing to citizens as the event last year was.
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chair Herbst. One item withdrawn, voted to allow winery in Harbor, first change in plan to first building at PD-32.
2. Former councilman Stephen Straughn introduced the new Chief Professional Officer for the Rockwall Boys and Girls Club. Lots of upcoming plans to make the club more educational and cannot do without the city's $$help$$.
3. Issue about parking in Meadowcreek Estates, no show.
4. Extension of SUP for BigTex Trailers for 3 more years. Passed 7-0
VI. Public Hearing Items.
1. Winery coming to the Harbor. Will be making some wines (all from Texas grapes) and selling all Texas wines. Passed 7-0 with one councilmember offering "Congratulations." for the applicant getting the SUP passed by council.
2. Change to first office building going up at PD-32. Proposed change includes a restaurant on the top floor. Passed 7-0.
3. Front yard fence built without permit from city or permission from council. Contractor said "all would taken care of" but all wasn't - he got a citation. Neighbors ok with fence. Passed 4-3 (Scott, Sevier, and Farris opposed).
4. TIF stuff changing on PD-32, waiting on meeting with TIF board to be held on May 2nd. Tabled.
VII. Action Items.
1. Show cause hearing to demolish house at 470 Nicole. Onwer has failed to respond to certified letters and has 90 days or blammo. Passed 7-0.
2. Long discussion about adding congregate care facilities. Seemed to be a lot of confusion from council on what congregate means and who wants what and when they want it and what is already in the code and how it works. (Hard to hear when you don't listen.) Anyhoo, city has had some inquiries into this type of facility, and code must be changed to allow it.
Motion made to allow this type of facility with SUP passed 5-2 (Sevier opposed - didn't want to force SUP, wanted in code along with already allowed uses like Nursing homes, assisted living, etc. Russo also opposed.)
3. Airport Road bond issuance. Passed 7-0.
4. Tabled to May 16th when the voting pool will be favorable to passage. (Some council were either expected to be absent at this meeting or the next, and the theory was if the super majority wasn't present, the motion would have failed. "Vote stacking" was a term used.)
For the people!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Rockwall City Council 7 March
III. Proclamations.
Supposed to be two, but both were postponed.
IV. Open Forum.
No one spoke, guess everyone in town in perfectly content with government!
V. Consent Agenda.
None pulled, passed 7-0.
2nd reading of the anti-bumming ordinance.
VI. Appointments.
Two scheduled, P&Z either no show or had nothing to report, and the other was tabled.
VII. Action Items.
1. Starting process to issue Certificates of Obligation. Fancy word for taking on big debt without the hassel and inconvenience of a bond election where the opportunity for citizens to actually have the chance to say yea or nay is bypassed.
Looks like the maximum amount of the CO will be $7.7 million. Also, some refinancing of the current TIF was included.
Mayoral Candidate Farris wanted some explanation from the city manager regarding PD-32 - to clear up "misinformation". Also, Mr Farris asked who pays for the debt if the REDC defaults.
COs being issued will be used for infrastructure and improvements. The TIF pays for the debt service on the COs.
The answer about who is responsible for the debt once again went unanswered.
Here is the answer the CEO of the REDC gave:
The City of Rockwall issues the debt, and if sales tax revenues were not sufficient to cover the debt repayments, it would be the city council’s responsibility to balance the budget. The Sales Tax Revenue Bonds are issued with a first priority lien on sales tax revenues of the corporation and the CO debt repayment is a second priority lien.
2. More TIF stuff.
Passed 6-1, Councilman Sevier opposed.
VII. City Manager's Report.
-Turn lane at Ralph Hall and 3097 is complete.
-Drainage improvements on 740 are complete.
Mr Farris wanted to clear up rumors that the In-N-Out Burger, who he gave a hard time about the sign they needed, is still coming to Rockwall.
Mr LaCroix spoke the project architect who said "yes".
The response In-N-Out gave me to my inquiry was "tentative".
(tentative
–adjective
2.unsure; uncertain; not definite or positive)
Here's hoping.
-Bills in State House and Senate to help out LRE with water has been introduced. Relief finally coming to LRE?
(tentative
–adjective
2.unsure; uncertain; not definite or positive)
Supposed to be two, but both were postponed.
IV. Open Forum.
No one spoke, guess everyone in town in perfectly content with government!
V. Consent Agenda.
None pulled, passed 7-0.
2nd reading of the anti-bumming ordinance.
VI. Appointments.
Two scheduled, P&Z either no show or had nothing to report, and the other was tabled.
VII. Action Items.
1. Starting process to issue Certificates of Obligation. Fancy word for taking on big debt without the hassel and inconvenience of a bond election where the opportunity for citizens to actually have the chance to say yea or nay is bypassed.
Looks like the maximum amount of the CO will be $7.7 million. Also, some refinancing of the current TIF was included.
Mayoral Candidate Farris wanted some explanation from the city manager regarding PD-32 - to clear up "misinformation". Also, Mr Farris asked who pays for the debt if the REDC defaults.
COs being issued will be used for infrastructure and improvements. The TIF pays for the debt service on the COs.
The answer about who is responsible for the debt once again went unanswered.
Here is the answer the CEO of the REDC gave:
The City of Rockwall issues the debt, and if sales tax revenues were not sufficient to cover the debt repayments, it would be the city council’s responsibility to balance the budget. The Sales Tax Revenue Bonds are issued with a first priority lien on sales tax revenues of the corporation and the CO debt repayment is a second priority lien.
2. More TIF stuff.
Passed 6-1, Councilman Sevier opposed.
VII. City Manager's Report.
-Turn lane at Ralph Hall and 3097 is complete.
-Drainage improvements on 740 are complete.
Mr Farris wanted to clear up rumors that the In-N-Out Burger, who he gave a hard time about the sign they needed, is still coming to Rockwall.
Mr LaCroix spoke the project architect who said "yes".
The response In-N-Out gave me to my inquiry was "tentative".
(tentative
–adjective
2.unsure; uncertain; not definite or positive)
Here's hoping.
-Bills in State House and Senate to help out LRE with water has been introduced. Relief finally coming to LRE?
(tentative
–adjective
2.unsure; uncertain; not definite or positive)
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Rockwall City Council 21 February
I can't seem to find my notes on this meeting, so I'll be relying solely on my memory for the content. This shouldn't affect the accuracy, or inaccuracy as I have been repeatedly accused of from sitting councilmen during multiple council sessions.
Exectuive session items:
Some money was spent, was it 3 things? Only one I remember was hiring a lobbyist to get a bill passed that has something to do with private water service providers in municipal boundaries, or something like that.
IV. Consent Agenda.
I think the anti-bum ordinances were pulled.
(1)It will be ok for Shriners and Firemen to hold up traffic and distract drivers, but not others. (1st reading)
(2)Camping in public places passed on 2nd reading.
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Vice Chair Connie Jackson, also current candidate for city council, coincidentally gave the P&Z report for the second week in a row. Not as much verbosity or micromanaging this time.
2. Police Chief Moeller gave his racial profiling report (as mandated by state law, I think). No reports of racial profiling for the past year against police officers. Against code enforcement in Lake Rockwall Estates however....
3. Lady who wants fees waived at Harbor so she can have a fundraiser got it. ($400 rental fee plus other fees waived.)
VI. Public Hearings.
1. Guy wants a large accessory building to replace two existing. Passed.
2. Kroger wanted to add a gas station. This would have shorted the parking lot 8 spaces that would be required. City council decided that Kroger doesn't know anything about customers' needs and are more knowledgeable than Kroger about the retail business and denied the request 4-2-1. (Russo and Nielsen supported Kroger, Sweet abstained.)
3. Church needed an SUP to engage in their first amendment rights of religion and peaceable assembly. Was some discussion about adding a parking ban that hasn't been a problem for the empty lot adjacent to the building, don't know if that was removed in the final motion. Either way, the church will be able to continue practicing their natural rights - with government's permission. Passed 6-1, Scott opposed.
VII. Action Items.
1. AquaTexas (Water service provider in LRE) isn't getting the green light to raise water rates, yet.
2. City staff thought it would be a good idea to tack on a 5% fee for absolutely no good reason to citizens natural gas bills (Atmos). Council was like, "Oh, no you din't". Failed 7-0.
3. Big-ass trashcans will not be forced upon citizens. Several, if not all, council received over 100 emails opposed to the idea of giant trash cans and recycling bins as well as the reduction in services while increase the cost.
Mayor Pro Tem/ Mayoral Candidate Glen Farris was the only one who did not support the motion to keep the current, perfect trash service exactly the way it is. Basically he stated the 100 emails were not enough to sway him as the 34,900 people who didn't convey opinion one way or the other to council mattered more.
FYI, absolutely nothing prevents one citizen in Rockwall from having big-ass trashcans or big-ass recycle bins if so desires. Anyone can have big-ass cans, all you have to do is call the city and request one (or both). The difference between the failed plan and current situation is that (1) robots won't pick up your big-ass trashcans, (2) You have have to pay a couple bucks more a month, but only if you rent them from Allied. You can go to Home Depot or Lowe's and get big-ass trashcans if you want, and (3) No one is forced by the city to have big-ass trashcans.
4. Item about creating a PR position tabled.
5. Art in Public Places - on all future bonds passed, 1% of the money will go to an art project. (THIS IS HOW IT WAS EXPLAINED TO ME: If we pass a bond, 1% of the amount will go to fund an art project, but only at the site of the bond passed. The money will not be used to fund any art project or other art related projects throughout the city.) Passed 7-0.
6. City creating a citizen cheer leading citizen committee to promote passage of the c.$40,000,000 bond package election in November.
7. The new Mi Cocina restaurant needs a sign variance - passed WITHOUT any discussion.
8. Police department is buying a SWAT Rapid Deployment Vehicle - around $50,000, but it won't cost taxpayers anything as the money comes out of seized property.
9. City once again talking about somehow broadcasting meetings over the internet. I think they are going to start out doing what the county has done, basic audio streaming.
If I find my notebook, I may edit this with some snarky comments. But then again, Black Ops calling my name...
Exectuive session items:
Some money was spent, was it 3 things? Only one I remember was hiring a lobbyist to get a bill passed that has something to do with private water service providers in municipal boundaries, or something like that.
IV. Consent Agenda.
I think the anti-bum ordinances were pulled.
(1)It will be ok for Shriners and Firemen to hold up traffic and distract drivers, but not others. (1st reading)
(2)Camping in public places passed on 2nd reading.
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Vice Chair Connie Jackson, also current candidate for city council, coincidentally gave the P&Z report for the second week in a row. Not as much verbosity or micromanaging this time.
2. Police Chief Moeller gave his racial profiling report (as mandated by state law, I think). No reports of racial profiling for the past year against police officers. Against code enforcement in Lake Rockwall Estates however....
3. Lady who wants fees waived at Harbor so she can have a fundraiser got it. ($400 rental fee plus other fees waived.)
VI. Public Hearings.
1. Guy wants a large accessory building to replace two existing. Passed.
2. Kroger wanted to add a gas station. This would have shorted the parking lot 8 spaces that would be required. City council decided that Kroger doesn't know anything about customers' needs and are more knowledgeable than Kroger about the retail business and denied the request 4-2-1. (Russo and Nielsen supported Kroger, Sweet abstained.)
3. Church needed an SUP to engage in their first amendment rights of religion and peaceable assembly. Was some discussion about adding a parking ban that hasn't been a problem for the empty lot adjacent to the building, don't know if that was removed in the final motion. Either way, the church will be able to continue practicing their natural rights - with government's permission. Passed 6-1, Scott opposed.
VII. Action Items.
1. AquaTexas (Water service provider in LRE) isn't getting the green light to raise water rates, yet.
2. City staff thought it would be a good idea to tack on a 5% fee for absolutely no good reason to citizens natural gas bills (Atmos). Council was like, "Oh, no you din't". Failed 7-0.
3. Big-ass trashcans will not be forced upon citizens. Several, if not all, council received over 100 emails opposed to the idea of giant trash cans and recycling bins as well as the reduction in services while increase the cost.
Mayor Pro Tem/ Mayoral Candidate Glen Farris was the only one who did not support the motion to keep the current, perfect trash service exactly the way it is. Basically he stated the 100 emails were not enough to sway him as the 34,900 people who didn't convey opinion one way or the other to council mattered more.
FYI, absolutely nothing prevents one citizen in Rockwall from having big-ass trashcans or big-ass recycle bins if so desires. Anyone can have big-ass cans, all you have to do is call the city and request one (or both). The difference between the failed plan and current situation is that (1) robots won't pick up your big-ass trashcans, (2) You have have to pay a couple bucks more a month, but only if you rent them from Allied. You can go to Home Depot or Lowe's and get big-ass trashcans if you want, and (3) No one is forced by the city to have big-ass trashcans.
4. Item about creating a PR position tabled.
5. Art in Public Places - on all future bonds passed, 1% of the money will go to an art project. (THIS IS HOW IT WAS EXPLAINED TO ME: If we pass a bond, 1% of the amount will go to fund an art project, but only at the site of the bond passed. The money will not be used to fund any art project or other art related projects throughout the city.) Passed 7-0.
6. City creating a citizen cheer leading citizen committee to promote passage of the c.$40,000,000 bond package election in November.
7. The new Mi Cocina restaurant needs a sign variance - passed WITHOUT any discussion.
8. Police department is buying a SWAT Rapid Deployment Vehicle - around $50,000, but it won't cost taxpayers anything as the money comes out of seized property.
9. City once again talking about somehow broadcasting meetings over the internet. I think they are going to start out doing what the county has done, basic audio streaming.
If I find my notebook, I may edit this with some snarky comments. But then again, Black Ops calling my name...
Monday, February 21, 2011
Rockwall City Council 7 February
III. Proclamations.
1. February is black history month. The proclamation explained the civil war started in 1861 when confederates attacked Ft Sumter.
Yep, it was just that simple.
The theme for this year is “African-Americans and the civil war” and “contributions of blacks during the civil war.”
IV. Open Forum.
1. Fellow from the Zoo spoke in anger about the upcoming water rate increase for Lake Rockwall Estates. (Should push mine to about $150-160.00 a month.)The mayor said the city was in the process of looking into the rate increase and that the request had to be approved by city council.
V. Consent Agenda.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris pulled item 1.
Councilman Scott pulled items 2 & 4.
1. Minutes from meeting Mr Farris missed. Passed 5-0-2. Sevier and Farris abstained.
2. Mr Scott wanted a bunch of wording changes for youth sports agreements. Passed 7-0.
4. Final approval for Christian Brothers. Pulled for basic showboating. Passed 7-0.
VI. Appointments.
1. P&Z Vice Chair Connie Jackson filled in for Mr Herbst. Recent actions by P&Z:
-Petty micromanagement of the looks of a new McDonalds, a company that would be unsuccessful if not for the meddling of the unqualified or incompetent.
-Best Buy lighting changes for outside signage. Denied because P&Z was afraid other businesses would also want lights to help promote business.
-Enlargement of accessory building in the Zoo. Passed 7-0.
-Expansion of SPR Packaging, lots of variances needed. Passed 7-0, with the added note from Ms. Jackson that she was “thrilled someone is expanding in this economy.” A comment that is strangely contradictory to those from the Mayor and some council who claim the economy is Rockwall is essentially immune from the economic problems plaguing the rest of the world.
2. Folks want the fee waived at the Harbor for an event to raise money for a non-profit organization. City waives fee for 501.c3s and Ms. Nielsen suggested they get the actual organization to make the request to keep more in line with the requirement. Will return next time.
Mr Farris opposed support as the event happens the same day as Founders Day. Recommended they pick a new date.
2. Jerry Archer back again. See previous blogs for more info.
Needs an SUP, but the unified development code for Downtown does not allow any auto repair facilities, not even with an SUP.
City will have to change the code in order to allow SUPs for auto repair and then Mr. Archer can make application for the SUP.
After some risk management lessons from the Mayor and Council, motion was made to have staff make changes to allow auto repair facilities in the downtown district with an SUP.
4. Lady wants to talk about changes to trash service. She seemed to be for it and against it. But not really.
Mr. Scott explained there was much “misinformation” about the upcoming changes:
-Councilman Clifford Sevier, Councilman Mark Russo, and Mayor Pro Tem Glen Farris are the ones on the subcommittee and Councilman Clifford Sevier, Councilman Mark Russo, and Mayor Pro Tem Glen Farris were the ones who came up with the idea to change current garbage and recycling service. Councilman Clifford Sevier, Councilman Mark Russo, and Mayor Pro Tem Glen Farris were sitting around one day and they decided without any input from Allied Waste or anyone else, the best thing in the world be for Councilman Clifford Sevier, Councilman Mark Russo, and Mayor Pro Tem Glen Farris to propose to council that we change garbage and recycling service.
-No one will have to use both types of 96 gallon trash cans.
-If you want to continue to recycle, you will have to have at least the 96 gallon trash can.
The Mayor vigorously defended the proposal.
Mr Sweet explained that recycling is “good for the earth”. (Although he does oppose the changes – that’s good. Gaia will be pleased and angry all at once.)
Item will be back to council.
VIII. Action Items.
4. LRE water rate increase. Council will require a “show cause” from AquaTexas to justify the rate increase. Rate increases by private water providers in city limits must have council approval.
VII. Site Plans.
1. McDonald’s new store design has a rounded roof. Building standards have no provision for rounded roof. That’s the only reason for the variance request. Passed 7-0 without meddling.
2. Best Buy has had some lights illuminating the store for the last three years that do not comply with code. City noticed problem after three years and now wants Best Buy to not have those lights. Best Buy would like to change those lights - that no one notice or complained about for three years - for some projection lights to illuminate the blue field around the main sign on the building.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris wanted Best Buy to justify in dollars how this would increase the business of Best Buy. He also stated that the new light would not increase Best Buy’s earning power. He continued his opposition stating that not having the lights would not hurt Best Buy. He was also concerned other businesses would want similar lights.
Ms Nielsen agreed with Mr Farris.
Councilman Sweet took the other side of the issue stating that he wants the businesses in Rockwall to be their own experts. This wasn’t an unusual request and if other businesses made the same request that could go through the process just like Best Buy is doing.
Mr. Farris made a motion to deny the request which failed 5-2. (Nielsen also supported the motion.)
After the motion to approve was made, Mr Farris wanted to add a punitive requirement for a “photovoltaic study”. P&Z Director LaCroix said it would not be necessary. Motion passed without the punishment 6-1. (Farris opposed.)
3. LRE fella needs an accessory building to hide all the crap he keeps in his yard that the city keeps complaining about. He wants to enlarge an existing metal building, which will not meet the masonry requirement. A bunch of belly-aching ensued after a motion to deny failed, the motion to approve passed 5-3. (Sevier, Farris, and Scott opposed.)
4. Expansion of SPR Packaging and variances. Lots of discussion. Passed 7-0.
VIII. Action Items.
1. CIP task order contracts approval. Despite continued economic troubles plaguing the USA, the city is gearing up to promote bond passage in November. Baseball fields, downtown stuff, historic park, one other I think. Floating around the $40,000,000 mark I think. Possibly more.
Keep repeating: “Debt is sustainable.” “Debt is sustainable.” “Debt is sustainable.”
Works for Wisconsin. And Dallas. And Rockwall ISD. And the Federal Government. And Texas.
2. Electronic sign won’t go away. Pointless and expensive. Does anyone other than city or council really care about this waste?
Just stop already.
3. Change in the bum ordinance. You can still be a bum, but can’t set up temporary lodging on public land.
Passed 7-0.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Rockwall City Council 4 October
Actions from Executive Session: Appointments to YAC and REDC. Right-of-Way acquisition on 549.
III. Proclamations.
4. Fire Prevention Month. City will give you a free smoke detector if you can't afford one.
2. Rockwall 4H Clovers Week. No one said exactly what they do, but it was explained that it is a good way to get involved in the community, it "helps you grow", and "helps others grow".
3. Pumpkin Patch Proclamation. Started by the Friends of the Library and the Catholic Women, The pumpkin patch has been around 22 years. Sold 50,000 pumpkins last year. Funds go to support the library.
The mayor asked for an explanation in the difference between a "pie pumpkin" and "cut pumpkin". "Pie pumpkins" are for pies, and "cut pumpkins" are for cutting (or carving).
1. National Charity League Day. First chapter in Texas was started in Rockwall. Girls do all sorts of things around town to help the community while also fostering relationships between mother and daughter. Open to all girls from 7th-12th grade.
The mayor stated that some wonder why our community is so great. He continued it is because of all the local organizations involved in the community.
I always thought it was because of council's micromanaging of citizens' lives.
IV. Open Forum.
Crickets.
V. Consent Agenda.
# 7 pulled by Mark Russo.
Rest passed 6-0.
7. Mark Russo didn't "like the time frame". Glen Farris doesn't want position (seat on commission or board) to affect how long one sits on other commissions. I agree, people should be allowed to serve as long as possible on boards and commissions. That will prevent any fresh ideas or independent thinkers from affecting the political machine.
VI. Appointments.
1. (new) P&Z Chair Phillip Herbst.
First item "approved", second item denied a manufactured home in the Zoo to have vinyl siding.
2. Main St Advisory Board requests that the holly bushes on Rusk between San Jacinto and Goliad be removed. Businesses located there don't like them, including Councilman Farris who apparently has an office there. Passed.
I didn't hear that the city would be replacing trees (somewhere) for those they removed as they require of citizens and businesses who do the same.
Note: Trees were removed and replaced with flower planters in less than 24 hours. Amazing how fast the city worked without having known beforehand what the vote of council would be.
3. Tom Thumb's want's to have a pumpkin patch of there own. Because of the confusion created by the myriad of ordinances, many were confused why they needed a permit.
Confusion was "cured" and Tom Thumb gets a pumpkin patch.
VII. Public Hearing Items.
1. Walgreens (from last meeting) still wants to increase the products they offer customers, yet council is still opposed. Motion to allow Walgreens to commit capitalism failed 3-3. Mayor Cecil, Councilman Sweet, and Councilman Russo supported the free market. The rest opposed.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris explained the PD was sacred like Ground Zero and should not have outside displays of items nor Mosques adjacent. He continued that Walgreens knew the rules when they built.
Councilman Sweets alter ego showed up to explain all levels of management change and business plans change and the store is try to change and compete with others (specifically CVS across the street that CAN do all the Walgreens cannot). He added that the city is preventing one business from competing with another. (Well, that is why we call it GOVERNment and not ALLOWment.)
Margo Nielsen and Cliff Sevier stated that similar SUP's accross the city might indicate that the zoning is improper and needs to be re-examined to prevent the constant flow of SUP's.
Glen Farris noted, as former CEO of Walgreens and therefore the expert on Walgreens, that Walgreens doesn't need to sell propane, outside "displays" are too much like signs (Glen Hates signs) and this is nothing more than some sneaky attempt on Walgreens part to increase their market visibility and make money.
Ms. Nielsen made a motion to allow only the propane tanks to be displayed outside. Passed 4-2, Farris and Sevier opposed Walgreens propane market greed.
A motion was then made to look at the hyper-restrictive ordinances dealing with outside displays. (I could give em a list of all the small business folks I met a few months back who would whole-heartedly agree. The former owner of a once very prominent local business told me he would never open another business in Rockwall for this very reason.)
2. 7-11 up north wants the same thing as Walgreens. Council is willing to give in to the propane tanks, but not the Red Box. Councilman "Sweet" once again defended the free market and stated the city must be flexible to the businesses that must be flexible to the market.
Council hates Red Box. They believe Red Box dispensers are worse than Heroin/Cyanide/C-4 vending machines and would cause more harm to Rockwall than Fat Man did to Hiroshima.
Note to Red Box - invent an invisible box and it will be welcomed in Rockwall.
7-11 can have propane ONLY. 5-1, Farris threw the anti-business vote. Again.
VIII. Site Plans.
1. Single mom with 3 kids, including one with special needs, wants to have a manufactured home moved into the Zoo without meeting the oppressive "masonary" requirements of the city.
No one on council made a motion to approve or deny the request, so that none would look like a jerk denying a single mom with 3 kids, including one with special needs, a decent home in Rockwall.
(Didn't work)
2. In-N-Out coming to Rockwall. The first obstacle is the roof design. In-N-Out want's the restaurant to look like an In-N-Out. City design standards require a variance for them to achieve this.
IX. Action Items.
1. In-N-Out wants a taller sign than the self-described "sign Nazi", Glen Farris, wants anyone anywhere in the universe to have. In-N-Out wants a 60ft sign in order for people to see it from a greater distance than 10ft away.
Glen Farris opposes of course. Glen hates signs. Glen doesn't think businesses need signs because we have the internet - yes he said that. (Not this meeting, but a previous.)
Cliff Sevier suggested the sign not exceed the elevation of the Toyota sign OR 60ft.
Margo Nielsen explained in her expert opinion as director of a charity that a tall sign is not necessary. She also noted that Toyota got a taller sign because the building is "special". (LEED certified isn't "special", it's a waste of money and feel good crap. But with our earth-worshiping "green" council, anything that pretends to counteract the effects of the Sun's superheated nuclear output is "special". )
In-N-Out explained in their expert opinion as super successful hamburger sellers that a tall sign is necessary for that location.
David Sweet's doppelganger once again defended the business' need over the sentiment of council.
First motion failed 4-2, due to lack of super majority.
After further discussion, which included Mark Russo accusing the In-N-Out folks of a deceitful presentation and Glen Farris crying like a baby and stamping his feet at the thought of a 50ft sign (Mark Russo tried to convince In-N-Out that by Glen going to 50ft he was really sacrificing something and they should be on their hands and needs kissing the feet of Glen Farris for allowing a 50ft sign.) In-N-Out is getting a 50ft sign.
Glen Farris' toddler-like attitude and council's refusal to tell Mr Farris where to stick his attitude and stand up for business nearly cost Rockwall an In-N-Out.
50ft sign passes 6-0.
2. Some 212 agreements as part of annexation procedures passed 6-0.
3. City yet again annexing land. Passed 6-0.
K2 related deaths per year: 0 (Illegal in Rockwall, regardless of age)
Also to be banned is a plant (and it's processed derivatives) Salvia Divinorum. God made a mistake?
Ordinance to be drafted for next council.
--From miscellaneous, the Toyota Triathlon is going to being in huge amounts of revenue to save the failed Harbor project. How much?
III. Proclamations.
4. Fire Prevention Month. City will give you a free smoke detector if you can't afford one.
2. Rockwall 4H Clovers Week. No one said exactly what they do, but it was explained that it is a good way to get involved in the community, it "helps you grow", and "helps others grow".
3. Pumpkin Patch Proclamation. Started by the Friends of the Library and the Catholic Women, The pumpkin patch has been around 22 years. Sold 50,000 pumpkins last year. Funds go to support the library.
The mayor asked for an explanation in the difference between a "pie pumpkin" and "cut pumpkin". "Pie pumpkins" are for pies, and "cut pumpkins" are for cutting (or carving).
1. National Charity League Day. First chapter in Texas was started in Rockwall. Girls do all sorts of things around town to help the community while also fostering relationships between mother and daughter. Open to all girls from 7th-12th grade.
The mayor stated that some wonder why our community is so great. He continued it is because of all the local organizations involved in the community.
I always thought it was because of council's micromanaging of citizens' lives.
IV. Open Forum.
Crickets.
V. Consent Agenda.
# 7 pulled by Mark Russo.
Rest passed 6-0.
7. Mark Russo didn't "like the time frame". Glen Farris doesn't want position (seat on commission or board) to affect how long one sits on other commissions. I agree, people should be allowed to serve as long as possible on boards and commissions. That will prevent any fresh ideas or independent thinkers from affecting the political machine.
VI. Appointments.
1. (new) P&Z Chair Phillip Herbst.
First item "approved", second item denied a manufactured home in the Zoo to have vinyl siding.
2. Main St Advisory Board requests that the holly bushes on Rusk between San Jacinto and Goliad be removed. Businesses located there don't like them, including Councilman Farris who apparently has an office there. Passed.
I didn't hear that the city would be replacing trees (somewhere) for those they removed as they require of citizens and businesses who do the same.
Note: Trees were removed and replaced with flower planters in less than 24 hours. Amazing how fast the city worked without having known beforehand what the vote of council would be.
3. Tom Thumb's want's to have a pumpkin patch of there own. Because of the confusion created by the myriad of ordinances, many were confused why they needed a permit.
Confusion was "cured" and Tom Thumb gets a pumpkin patch.
VII. Public Hearing Items.
1. Walgreens (from last meeting) still wants to increase the products they offer customers, yet council is still opposed. Motion to allow Walgreens to commit capitalism failed 3-3. Mayor Cecil, Councilman Sweet, and Councilman Russo supported the free market. The rest opposed.
Mayor Pro Tem Farris explained the PD was sacred like Ground Zero and should not have outside displays of items nor Mosques adjacent. He continued that Walgreens knew the rules when they built.
Councilman Sweets alter ego showed up to explain all levels of management change and business plans change and the store is try to change and compete with others (specifically CVS across the street that CAN do all the Walgreens cannot). He added that the city is preventing one business from competing with another. (Well, that is why we call it GOVERNment and not ALLOWment.)
Margo Nielsen and Cliff Sevier stated that similar SUP's accross the city might indicate that the zoning is improper and needs to be re-examined to prevent the constant flow of SUP's.
Glen Farris noted, as former CEO of Walgreens and therefore the expert on Walgreens, that Walgreens doesn't need to sell propane, outside "displays" are too much like signs (Glen Hates signs) and this is nothing more than some sneaky attempt on Walgreens part to increase their market visibility and make money.
Ms. Nielsen made a motion to allow only the propane tanks to be displayed outside. Passed 4-2, Farris and Sevier opposed Walgreens propane market greed.
A motion was then made to look at the hyper-restrictive ordinances dealing with outside displays. (I could give em a list of all the small business folks I met a few months back who would whole-heartedly agree. The former owner of a once very prominent local business told me he would never open another business in Rockwall for this very reason.)
2. 7-11 up north wants the same thing as Walgreens. Council is willing to give in to the propane tanks, but not the Red Box. Councilman "Sweet" once again defended the free market and stated the city must be flexible to the businesses that must be flexible to the market.
Council hates Red Box. They believe Red Box dispensers are worse than Heroin/Cyanide/C-4 vending machines and would cause more harm to Rockwall than Fat Man did to Hiroshima.
Note to Red Box - invent an invisible box and it will be welcomed in Rockwall.
7-11 can have propane ONLY. 5-1, Farris threw the anti-business vote. Again.
VIII. Site Plans.
1. Single mom with 3 kids, including one with special needs, wants to have a manufactured home moved into the Zoo without meeting the oppressive "masonary" requirements of the city.
No one on council made a motion to approve or deny the request, so that none would look like a jerk denying a single mom with 3 kids, including one with special needs, a decent home in Rockwall.
(Didn't work)
2. In-N-Out coming to Rockwall. The first obstacle is the roof design. In-N-Out want's the restaurant to look like an In-N-Out. City design standards require a variance for them to achieve this.
IX. Action Items.
1. In-N-Out wants a taller sign than the self-described "sign Nazi", Glen Farris, wants anyone anywhere in the universe to have. In-N-Out wants a 60ft sign in order for people to see it from a greater distance than 10ft away.
Glen Farris opposes of course. Glen hates signs. Glen doesn't think businesses need signs because we have the internet - yes he said that. (Not this meeting, but a previous.)
Cliff Sevier suggested the sign not exceed the elevation of the Toyota sign OR 60ft.
Margo Nielsen explained in her expert opinion as director of a charity that a tall sign is not necessary. She also noted that Toyota got a taller sign because the building is "special". (LEED certified isn't "special", it's a waste of money and feel good crap. But with our earth-worshiping "green" council, anything that pretends to counteract the effects of the Sun's superheated nuclear output is "special". )
In-N-Out explained in their expert opinion as super successful hamburger sellers that a tall sign is necessary for that location.
David Sweet's doppelganger once again defended the business' need over the sentiment of council.
First motion failed 4-2, due to lack of super majority.
After further discussion, which included Mark Russo accusing the In-N-Out folks of a deceitful presentation and Glen Farris crying like a baby and stamping his feet at the thought of a 50ft sign (Mark Russo tried to convince In-N-Out that by Glen going to 50ft he was really sacrificing something and they should be on their hands and needs kissing the feet of Glen Farris for allowing a 50ft sign.) In-N-Out is getting a 50ft sign.
Glen Farris' toddler-like attitude and council's refusal to tell Mr Farris where to stick his attitude and stand up for business nearly cost Rockwall an In-N-Out.
50ft sign passes 6-0.
2. Some 212 agreements as part of annexation procedures passed 6-0.
3. City yet again annexing land. Passed 6-0.
4. Cliff Sevier wanted to know if the city should waive building fees for non-profits. It was thought it could look too much like funneling money to non-profits. Mrgo Nielsen noted that when Helping Hands asked for a waiver, it was granted. Hm.
No action.
5. Cliff Sevier and Chief Moeller want K2 (fake marijuana) banned. Everyone on council agreed that a substance with no confirmed ill-effects should be banned 6-0.
Tobacco related deaths per year: 400,000+ (Legal in Rockwall, 18 or older to buy)
Alcohol related deaths per year: 80,000+ (Legal in Rockwall, 21 or older to buy)
Legally obtained prescription drug related deaths per year: 32,000+ (No age limitation with prescription)
Aspirin related deaths per year: 2,000+ (Legal in Rockwall, no age restriction to buy)No action.
5. Cliff Sevier and Chief Moeller want K2 (fake marijuana) banned. Everyone on council agreed that a substance with no confirmed ill-effects should be banned 6-0.
Tobacco related deaths per year: 400,000+ (Legal in Rockwall, 18 or older to buy)
Alcohol related deaths per year: 80,000+ (Legal in Rockwall, 21 or older to buy)
Legally obtained prescription drug related deaths per year: 32,000+ (No age limitation with prescription)
K2 related deaths per year: 0 (Illegal in Rockwall, regardless of age)
Also to be banned is a plant (and it's processed derivatives) Salvia Divinorum. God made a mistake?
Ordinance to be drafted for next council.
--From miscellaneous, the Toyota Triathlon is going to being in huge amounts of revenue to save the failed Harbor project. How much?
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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