City councilman for Rockwall City Council Place 1. Former angry blogger. Didn't like the way things were going, so I got up and am now doing something about it. (Updated May 2011)
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. 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.
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.
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"
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.
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.
Only action from Executive Session was to appoint someone to North Texas Water District Board.
III. Proclamations.
1. Safe Boating Week. Our city emblem is a boat. We live next to a lake full of boats. There are tons of private docks on the lake for boats. We invested in the boat launch at 66. We have several private marinas. Rockwall seems to be boat friendly, right?
Did you know if you have a boat the city government doesn't want to see it?
C. Storage of Vehicles. On lots less than five (5) acres, trailers, motor homes, trucks (greater than 1.5-ton capacity), camper cabins, non-street legal motorcycles (including all-terrain vehicles, dirt or moto-cross bikes , or similar type vehicles) boats, farm machinery, or similar equipment, excluding golf carts, shall not be parked or stored on any residential or agricultural lot or the adjacent street except when in conformance with the following provisions: 1. Such equipment shall be located beside or behind the primary structure and back from the nearest corner of the front façade of the house a minimum of 10 feet, (if such equipment is 6 feet or less in height, the 10 feet minimum setback shall not apply), and 2. On lots less than one and one/half (1.5) acres shall be screened from view of public street rights-of-way with a minimum 6-foot solid fence or equivalent landscaping, and 3. On lots less than one and one/half (1.5) acres, equipment taller than 8 feet above grade shall respect a 3 foot setback from all side and rear property lines; and 4. If located on a lot which is less than one and one/half (1.5) acres, it shall be parked on an approved surface of concrete, asphalt or stabilized gravel.
You can have a boat, but don't let anyone see it (except on the water)!
Anyways, the US Coast Guard Auxiliary was present to talk about boating safety. Lake Ray Hubbard is one accident away from becoming Lake Lewisville!
IV. Consent Agenda. No items pulled. All pass 7-0.
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman Michael Hunter noted that the upcoming Public Hearing item passed with P&Z approval 7-0.
2. Stephen Straughn the new head of Rockwall Boys and Girls club wants a rental fee waiver for an upcoming event at the Harbor. (This came up at last meeting to waive fees for civic group events. It was also mentioned by Mr Straughn that it was an issue brought to council when he was on council a few years ago, and noted that Margo Nielsen supported the idea. I am guessing that the idea did not pass, or he would not be here asking now. What was his vote then? Just wondering.)
The amount being asked to have waived is $800.
Margo Nielsen made a motion to approve.
Passes unanimously 7-0. A few points to consider.
Quote from Glen Farris November 26, 2009: "I am appalled at The Rockwall News and the Boys and Girls Club of Rockwall for implying that the City of Rockwall should give up economic development opportunities and bail out a nonprofit organization. It is not the responsibility of any City to ensure that non-profits thrive or even survive. The Rockwall County Kiwanis (of which I am a member) just gave the B&G club $1,500.00. I have supported the organization in the past through Leadership Rockwall and attending their functions. Other Council members have been board members in the past. As a reward the Rockwall City Council and the City of Rockwall gets slammed by a website and others for not bailing them out. My support ends here."
Well maybe it ends after he votes to waive (read: give) $800 to the Boys and Girls Club.
Second point, alcohol will be sold at this event for children that will be attended by children at this park (and a park by another name is still a park, don't shovel that "Outdoor Entertainment Area" stuff this way.)
3. Presentation of the Parks and Open Space Plan aka World Is In Financial Crisis, But To Hell With That, Let's Spend Some Money Plan.
City has a good number of parks. People like parks. Heck, I like parks. People want parks. But, a few folks want a Sports Complex. In fact they go so far as to say we need a Sports Complex. Kinda like the way I need a 1956 Porche 550 Spyder.
Data from the 2008 citizen survey was presented. The wants of the citizens don't seem to match the needs stated by some council and the consultant.
What citizens want:
1. Jogging Trails 91% 2. More Parks 81% 3. Performing Arts Center 80% 4. Nature Center 78% 5. More Big Parks 77% 6. Dalton Road Park 76% 7. Sports Complex 69% 8. Spray Grounds 64% 9. Water Park 63% 10. Dog Park 63% 11. Pool 58%
The claim was made that many of those priorities would be met with #6 being built and implying that the Sports Complex should be our focus.
The oft-interrupted power point presentation ended with a summary of the priorities and costs (of which I am only showing high end of estimates given because this is government):
1. Northshore Park - $200,000 2. Acquire land (200 acres) for Sports Complex - $15,000,000 3. Acquire 50 acres for a south Rockwall Park 4. Caruth Lake - $3,250,000 5. Trails and linking trails - $550,000 per mile
Lots of questions by council during and after the presentation.
I suspect much of the presentation and many questions were prepared by these guys: Motion to approve the plan passed 6-1, Mayor Cecil opposed.
The Mayor then tried to move on to the next item, but was asked by Councilman Scott "if he (Mr Scott) missed something" to explain the Mayor's vote. Mayor Cecil stated he voted the way he voted. After being pressed again by Councilman Scott, the Mayor stated he did not have to justify his vote to Mr Scott.
VI. Public Hearings.
1. A Honda dealership wants to open in Rockwall, but is having difficulties with the franchise process. The developer needs an extension on an SUP, so that when the issue is resolved, construction can begin.
The staff recommendation is to add language to force the dealership to do that which they had planned to do voluntarily, namely construct a LEED Gold building.
Some council considered not extending the SUP because this "valuable real estate" is being tied up and it could be used for something else. I am sure that if any of those council members made a reasonable offer to personally purchase that land, the developer might consider selling it to them. Of course, none did.
SUP approved for another year 7-0.
VII. Action Items.
2. Fella from last time that wants all his land in one ETJ or the other, preferably McClendom-Chishom's than Rocwkall's.
Glen Farris asked if any land swap negotiations were done or if the land was just outright being removed from Rockwall ETJ and given to McClendom-Chisholm; none were and yes to the latter.
3. Sign covers from last meeting brought up. Last time everyone voted to approve, this time everyone opposed.
No one from council was yelled at by other council members for changing their vote due to not being smart enough or diligent enough to investigate the issue before hand. (It's happened before!!)
4. Changes to the Youth Advisory Council. Glen's idea: If kids from cities that go to RISD schools want to participate in City of Rockwall sponsored YAC, the other cities will pay for their residents' involvement.
Motion was made and passed to have Glen talk to other mayor's in RISD to talk about paying for their residents to participate in City of Rockwall YAC.
(Off note: Matt Scott noted his property evaluation being down, David Sweet made a joke Matt's mere presence in the neighborhood was the reason. This got a great chuckle, but all I could think was, "Mayor's race starting early!"
From this point it should be considered that the property evaluations are down city-wide. This means less tax money for the city. Combine that thought with the expensive park plan when you vote on the multi-million dollar luxury bonds next year.)
1. Last item was to schedule some work sessions. Many conflicts, no resolutions. Stay tuned.
I have been accused of hating Rockwall. This is just a ridiculous statement. Those who make this claim confuse my distaste for council actions as "hate" for my hometown. The true nature of liberty-loving conservatives: skepticism of the intentions of government in general. We have many on council who favor the idea of big-government as the answer to all our woes. "We the people" are the answer, not seven souls who sit at the head of our city government, regardless of who they are. We must fight government intrusion of our liberties at all levels of the governments in our lives: local, county, state, and federal. That is what I will do as your councilman: help protect life, liberty, and your pursuit of happiness. Tomorrow is the final day to vote. If you haven't, please do. And remind your family, friends, and neighbors as well.
Actions from executive session:
1. Council unanimously acted to "enforce termination of lease" the city has at the Shores Golf Course.
2. Parcel acquisition on Airport Road.
3. Appoint someone to Land Use committee.
III. Proclamations.
1. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. A lady biker called "Stryker" received the proclamation on behalf of all motorcyclists.
A couple observations:
-"Bikers" aren't known for their love of motorcycle safety equipment. Most choose to ride sans helmet or other protective gear. -"Stryker" while shaking hands and talking to the Mayor had a giant patch on her vest letting us know she was a member of the "Sh*tcrew" -The whole club came to get a picture with the mayor and I noticed "Squirrel" (President of club, I think) had a large patch on his jacket of a skeletal hand letting all who notice said patch that the observer is "Number 1". -I didn't see any motorcycles in the parking lot despite there being 10-15 bikers present.
IV. Open Forum.
No one spoke.
V. Consent Agenda.
#2 Pulled by Cliff, rest approved 7-0.
2. The city is applying for an $80,000 grant to purchase a SWAT vehicle.
VI. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman Michael Hunter presented the recent actions of P&Z for the Site Plans on Council Agenda (See below). 1&2 P&Z passed with little discussion.
Regarding the third site plan (First Baptist Church new Youth Building) for the evening, P&Z expressed concern over the "look" of the building and how it affects the southern "entry" to downtown. Another "entry". Is this the new meme that will be used to block progress? This is the 3rd time it has been used now. P&Z wanted FBC to replace a fairly new 6ft cedar fence with a masonry wall , but settled for an 8ft cedar fence with masonry columns on 45ft centers. P&Z vote was 6-1.
2. Rockwall FD and the Rockwall Committee on aging got a "free" grant to purchase safety equipment for elderly and disabled folks. 420 kits will be distributed throughout the county.
The kit includes:
An emergency radio that works on several power sources and receives emergency alerts. ($85 at Radio Shack, city price is Top Secret.) Wireless alarm unit with a flashing light (for the visually impaired -not my words) and a siren. Smoke Detector and CO Detector. Bed Shaker (The Mayor asked if he could get one.)
3. The city's franchise agreement with Charter Cable is coming to an end. The state has taken franchise agreement authority from cities in the state. An auditor is going to go through the last few years of financial transactions the city has had with Charter to make sure that Charter has given us everything they were obligated and compensate the city is necessary.
Councilman Sevier wanted to know why this wasn't done regularly since it was revealed that Charter is often found deficient in these audits. City Manager answered that we are doing it now. The question was repeated, with same answer given several times.
The audit will cost the city about $13,500. I hope we find Charter at least $13,500 deficient or else we might be in the red for this process.
Also, Charter may or may not continue to maintain the fiber network between city buildings, it will depend on the cost vs alternatives like wireless.
4. Guy wants to be able to sell stone-like sign covers for metal signs. 2 problems: Changes size of sign and it wouldn't meet the masonry requirement. After lengthy discussion, it was allowed 7-0.
NOTE: If you are appearing before council for what you think is a simple issue, be prepared.
Write down everything you want to say. Have a clear presentation of the problem from which you are seeking relief . Have a clear solution for the problem. Get ready for vague questions and the occasional accusation. Talk to at least 2 councilmen prior to the meeting detailing your issue. If possible get a lawyer to talk for you (or someone who talks to obstructionists for a living).
VII. Site Plans
1. A man (who recently was publicly accused of making snide comments about council. No, not me.) wants to split his lot into two. Passes 7-0.
2. REDACTED
3. REDACTED
VIII. Action Items
1. REDACTED
2. Change the quarantine requirements for dogs after biting incidents.
-Last year 44 dog bites resulted in no cases of rabies. -The Animal Adoption Center euthanized 41% of the animals taken in last year.
Passed 7-0.
3. Allow civic groups to have the rental fee ($100 per hour, 4 hour minimum) waived at the harbor.
1. The Rockwall Youth Advisory Council (YAC) presented to the Rockwall County Library a giant check for around 300 bucks to buy some environmental books. How many trees were killed and how many CFS were produced for this endeavor? It's the show that counts.
IV. Consent Agenda.
4 items, all pulled.
1. Minutes. Passed
2. 2nd reading for the SUP of the greatest 7-11 ever. Passed 5-2, Matt Scott and David Sweet opposed this generator of sales and property taxes and soon-to-be local employer.
3. Replat of some lot on Ralph Hall. David Sweet opposed, not sure if he said why.
4. After-the-fact approval of a front yard fence. Passed 7-0
V. Appointments.
1. P&Z Vice Chairman Herbst reported the vote on the upcoming public hearing. Passed P&Z 3-2.
2. YAC kids presented their green report and passed out some paper (!) handouts.
The objective of their project was to get the community to "go green". Not sure if they succeeded yet.
Part of the project included a display at the library with solar powered light. (Let that sink in for a minute.)
Paper (!) awards were given out to the kids with comments and praise from the mayor and Councilman Farris. (Glen noted his resume wasn't as good as "these kids". I know my resume is at least slightly better than high school kids. Logically, Glen is saying my resume is better than his! And if he is "qualified" to be on council based on his resume, I guess that means I am too, despite what some have said on certain internet forums! Thanks, Glen!)
Glen also noted this was the best group ever. Take that last year kids!
3. Independent financial report of city. Fella says we doing ok, but cautions that we be in a "W" recession and haven't hit the 2nd drop yet. Whatever, lets spend ridiculous amounts of money!! What's some "finance" joker know anyway.
4. Some guy is having problems forcing his neighbor to do whatever the guy wants his neighbor to do. Constantly calls code enforcement on his neighbor, who in turn (supposedly) reported him to the cops and the cops had the complainer under surveillance for secret reasons!
The Mayor stated that all the complaints had been addressed and compliance from the neighbor had been achieved. The man then stated that the forms may be falsified.
He also mentioned that he had signed for his neighbor's certified letters and then placed them into the neighbor's mailbox.
He then suggested the city eminent domain the neighbor's property and make it a park!
Cuckoo.
VI. Public Hearings.
1. Christian Brothers.
Basically, everyone who spoke wants Christian Brothers Auto repair in Rockwall, but not in Rockwall. Christian Brothers will soon be applying for an SUP to install a quantum tear in the fabric of the universe to open in Rockwall.
Speaker 1: Opposes because it is a "gateway to the hospital district".The first time opposition was because the first site was a "gateway to the city".
Speaker 2: Represents former owner of the land and supports because it will produce tax revenue and is a good fit for the area.
Speaker 3: Real estate broker that brought CB to the site. Was also responsible for bringing in many of the other business in this Planned Development District (PD-9). PD-9 encourages "mixed use" not just medical.
Speaker 4: Guy from secret cove neighborhood noted that his neighborhood "accepted" the hospital into the area (wasn't that nice of him!) He then spent 10 minutes randomly saying words before finally stating he would like to talk about the 7-11 (which is a done deal) as he didn't get a chance to oppose it at one of the multiple public hearings held over the last few months. (I may have added that last part.)
Speaker 5: Representative of the owner of the lot adjacent to the south opposes.
Speaker 6: A neighbor from the Fox Chase neighborhood supports it! She said if she worked in one of the nearby buildings it would be nice and convenient to have something like that close to work.
Speaker 7: Representative of the owner of the lot adjacent to the west opposes. He also thought the city would spend 100% of it's resources constantly watching over the day-to-day activities of the place to ensure compliance with the SUP.
Speaker 8: Owner of competition. Opposed.
Speaker 9: Representative of the hospital opposes.
Speaker 10: A different competitor who thinks it impossible to fit that building onto the land. (Hello! Quantum tear in the universe ring a bell??)
David Sweet opposes because all the land owners around oppose.
Matt Scott opposes because he says it is not the best use of the land. (Does that imply an empty lot is a better use of the land?)
Margo Nielsen supports as the land has been vacant for 5 years and no medical has been developed. Bird in the hand? Yes.
Mayor Cecil opposes, says it is no good next to a medical facility.
Glen Farris noted that another local auto repair business got council support when they wanted to go where that business it "wouldn't fit". He supports the SUP also stating no medical use had been developed for that spot.
Mark Russo opposed, agreeing with others that it "didn't fit".
Christian Brothers denied (again) 5-2.
The Christian Brother's representative then asked where would the city like them to open??? Fingers were then inserted into ears and loud humming commenced.
2. A guy wants to move his fence a couple feet out from it's exiting spot on the side of his home. Of course, government made this a difficult task because if you live on a corner you have 2 "front" yards. This made his fence request technically a front yard fence request requiring council's blessing.
The public hearing was open, no one chose to speak, and then the public hearing was CLOSED.
But, some lady decided she didn't understand what the heck anyone was talking about, so the public hearing was reopened. Didn't realize that was allowed.
After 3 hours of explaining what was the plan with the fence, the lady gave her blessing (not that it was needed...) and council allowed the fence by a vote of 5-0 (Matt Scott left and Mark Russo recused himself.)
V. Action Items.
1. Consideration of city wide banning of free newspapers and flyers to homes and other locations tabled for the second time.
I am quite pleased at the hundred or so inquiries at my lack of updates since my last post.
Actions from Executive Session - Right-of-Way stuff for airport road.
III. Proclamations.
- Bunch of Boy Scouts were present fulfilling requirements for a merit badge.
2. Rockwall Environmental Action Day aka Hazardous Crap Your Neighbor Didn't Know About Day. On April 17 at the city service center, you can finally get rid of all those half-empty paint cans, broken electronics, old tires, etc that you have been "saving". Warning: you may sit in line for up to an hour or more. Take your Kindle.
1. Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month.
IV. Open Forum.
1. Rockwall Music Fest lady came to thank the city for whatever it is the city did. Probably for money.
2. Guy from Community Waste Disposal wants the city to know that he can pick up trash cheaper than Allied. Heck, if he can get the bulk trash in my neighborhood picked up when it is supposed to, as opposed to Allied which last month too 3 weeks to pick up my neighbors even after repeated communication with the city, I'm all for the change!
3. 17-year Mayor of McClendom-Chisholm thanked the city for all the years of working together between Rockwall and McClendom-Chisholm. Gonna go out on a limb and say Rockwall has probably contributed a whole lot more to McClendom-Chishom than the other way around.
V. Consent Agenda.
No items pulled. 1-4 were about minutes, and 5 has the words "change order". Usually, "change order" = more money being spent.
VI. Appointments.
1. P&Z Chairman Michael Hunter to let council know that the much anticipated 7-11 at the corner of Tubbs and Horizon passed P&Z by a vote of 4-1.
2. Some guys from the US Coast Guard Auxiliary stopped by to promote boater safety. They are also recruiting and want to work with the city to further educate boaters.
There was then a debate about VHF vs UHF radios. I think UHF won.
3. Tabled until next meeting. Sounded like a real snoozer anyway.
4. Members of the Environmental Subcommittee presented a power point. (In case you were unaware, city staff loves power point presentation more than Lit'l Smokies and sheetcake.)
Conclusion: we are green.
I hope the reduction in energy usage (read: money) reflects as a reduction of taxes!
VII. Public Hearing.
1. Basically, 7-11 wants to put in a store with more than 2 gas pumps. That requires an SUP from the city as does any other gas station that comes in anywhere in the city. This gives folks the opportunity to micro-engineer the 7-11, especially in the aesthetics department.
Notices went out to all property owners (5) within 200' as required by state law and city ordinance. 3 came back, all in favor.
The 7-11 folks also made all the changes that the P&Z wanted.
It was mentioned that the near-by neighborhood (Fox Chase) had some concerns. Not mentioned at this point is that 2 other neighborhoods (Windmill Ridge and Lake Rockwall) are also nearby (and in fact closer).
Issues and suggetions raised during public hearing:
-Alcohol will be sold close to a park (Not illegal according to state law. In fact the city of Rockwall allows drinking in one of our very on Non-park parks: the Harbor.) -Alcohol will be sold close to a hospital. (State law limits sales of alcohol near a hospital at 300', front door to front door. The 7-11 is well over 400' from the hospital.) -7-11 will increase crime. Because nothing entices criminal activity like fruit pies and a Slurpee. -Too much noise (FYI the 7-11 in on a major arterial road, someday at least 4-lane, as weall as next to a hospital with a helipad. -Safety issues. Didn't elaborate, probably means the coffee is too hot. -6 pumps is too many. How someone not in the gas station business knows this is beyond me. -Limit the hours to 8-5. Do they not know where the name 7-11 even comes from?? -Protect children. (Parents: that's your job.) -Too much traffic. I am guessing the thinking is that people from all over Rockwall will drive all the way across town passing 3 other 7-11's as well as a multitude of convenience stores and grocery stores to come to this 7-11. -Will negatively affect what other kinds of businesses might go there. Because NObody ever wants to have an office near a convenience store... -This is a bad location for a 7-11. This had been brought up by others. What gets me is why the world's most successful franchiser has not snapped these people up to help them make real money! 7-11 wating alot of money on research and marketing when all they need to do is just ask some random guy on the street where they shouldn't put a store. -The Kroger and Walgreens are close enough for the hospital people. Those sound more like inconvenience stores. -Not compatible with that area. This dispite the fact that the developerand 7-11 say it is. -No good that it is open 24 hours next to hospital also open 24 hours. -People will drink at the 7-11. (Against the law.) -People will drink at the park. (Against the law.) -People will furnish alcohol to minors (Against the law.)
It was mentioned by Councilman Scott that these folks were outside the 200' range of the city requirement for notification, but he had tried to get it extended to 1000' but failed. I guess the implication is that more in Fox Chase would have notified and been able to get involved had he gotten his way.
Notice this map:
The square is the location of the 7-11/ Future Medical Office Site. Big Circle is 1000' from the site and the little circle is 200' from the site.
At 1000' the notices would have gone out to many more property owners, that's true. Notices going out implies that those being notified are those who could been affected by the zoning request.
At 1000' here is an approximate breakdown of additional homes that would have received notification at 1000':
7 homes in Fox Chase. 25 homes in Windmill Ridge 35 homes in Lake Rockwall Estates.
Fact: my home is closer to the 1000' mark (about 3 houses out) than anyone else who spoke from Fox Chase who opposed the 7-11!
Councilman Farris stated that this is a good business for Rockwall, the 2-pump ordinance is antiquated, and with the 7-11 you are getting a known good business versus taking the chance at getting a bad business at that spot.
Councilman Sevier noted that nothing can stop the sale of alcohol at that location. I'll repeat: Nothing can stop the sale of alcohol at that location. Nothing can stop the sale of alcohol at that location. Nothing can stop the sale of alcohol at that location.
He noted that the Kroger is as close to Fox Chase and it sells alcohol.
He also mentioned that the P&Z asked for and received many concessions from 7-11 and the only real issues is the number of pumps requested.
Councilman Scott stated his opposition was based on the sale of alcohol near the park.
Mr Farris rebutted that we then must make a choice: get rid of alcohol sales or get rid of parks.
Councilman Scott then stated he was "disappointed" that Mr Farris would make such a "flippant" remark. Mr Scott was "disappointed" that Mr Farris would make such a "flippant" remark? Shall I do an Open Records Request to find other flippant remarks not made by Mr Farris?
Councilman "Gabbby" Sweet said this was one of the top 700 toughest decisions he has had to make on council and gave 4,129 reasons why.
Where was the concern about alcohol when those opposed were supporting the ordinance to make Rockwall "wet"?
Where was the concern about alcohol when those opposed were supporting the ordinance to make The Harbor "wet"?
Where was the concern about alcohol when those opposed were supporting the ordinance to make Downtown "wet"?
Passes 5-2, Sweet and Scott opposed.
VII. Site Plans/Replat.
1. Canyon Ridge apartments. HOA and the apartments came to an agreement on whatever the problem was. Passes.
IX. Fella with part of his land in Rockwall's ETJ and part in McClendom-Chisholm's ETJ wants it in one or the other, preferably McClendom-Chisholm's ETJ.
Most would like to put this through a long drawn out process, but councilman Sevier had the brilliant idea to not put this through a long drawn out process. His idea was to take action and give the guy what he wants (to be removed from Rockwall's ETJ).
Some staff and council were apprehensive that we would lose around 150 acres of the city and get nothing! That's probably like a couple hundred dollars a year in taxes we could lose!
Councilman "Gabby" Sweet had a few hundred things to say about it as well.
Mr Sevier made a motion to remove the land from the ETJ, passed 5-2 (Nielsen and Farris opposed.)
2. Social media discussion again. 45 minutes basically talking about Facebook which is about 44 minutes and 45 seconds longer than I wanted to hear about Facebook.
Councilmen Farris, Russo, and Sweet talked a lot about this. Now 3 "Gabby's".
Motion to accept the policy regarding social media passed 6-1, Russo opposed.
3. Budget stuff for about 15 minutes. Money comes in, money goes out.
4. Last item postponed to next meeting.
And since you, the reader, stuck around to the end, I present this video of a baby doing his best impression of our very own "Gabby"-est councilman.
1993 RHS graduate, long-time resident, and current city councilman of Rockwall living in the Rockwall Zoo.
The Rockwall Zoo is my name for my neighborhood of 12 years: Lake Rockwall Estates. Why Rockwall Zoo? Seemed appropriate as every discussion I heard at city council (or other gatherings) regarding my neighborhood is prefaced with, "I was driving through Lake Rockwall Estates and .......". Apparently, our neighborhood amazes and bewilders and shocks people with our strange customs and habits.
To our esteemed visitors: Keep your windows rolled up and don't feed the animals!!!
The motion to approve, brought to you by Carl's Jr, passed 7-0.
