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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublicity Vol. 64 (Jan. 5, 2000 - Dec. 21, 2000) The Bryan-College Station Eagle-RegionLocal/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe Today! Tie Pe 979-7 -2345 Region The Brvaii-College Station Ea� %ursday,December 1, 2000 legion` Region>Local/Regional Texas Pizos%91egNoteb.xk Officials try to lure high-tech firm here Re<„rds Obituaries Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Datebc�k Restaurant Nkmitor Eagle Staff Writer breaking news A high-powered delegation from the Bryan-College Station area hopes its sales pitch in Austin this week Is,a:.cis Bn,::ns. will be enough to convince a coveted high-tech company to build a$6 billion facility here. Community Local officials still have not named the company, but (rrmmursir,� N;ie sources have said it is Advanced Micro Devices, the � 1•,ritlr i��atrrex IIcallh r fame s nation's second-largest computer processor manufacturer. � \lrrxirn Moon \o-srqvrs in I'A''wxxm' Quality-of-life issues seemed to be the hot topic over Obittairies 011tniolu a 2-hour lunch Monday that included company Reg )n officials and eight representatives from Bryan, 4Pra�5 4,,tub�ht College Station, Brazos County, Texas A&M University' �Blinn College and the Bran-College rlt��:rgle.rnm Station Economic Development Corporation. tt„rki The Bryan-College Station area is one location on a theeaom growing list of cities courting AMD, whose new r�►r Sar cko;ce far facility could bring as many as 3,000 jobs. The new ra«utrC advrrtisare! plant would manufacture 12-inch wafers, which are used to make computer chips for the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company. AMD already has a facility in Austin that makes wafers. mgBryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler, who would not name the company, said Wednesday that one of the major BIOS concerns company officials had was the availability Bminm and reliability of electricity and water. Those are two every Sunday needs that local officials say the area can definitely http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/122100bcscourtsamd.htm 12/21/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 in the Eagle accommodate. "They use quite a bit of water, like $6 or$7 million worth each year, at their Austin location," Stabler said. "Their electricity bill is about $12 million each year. We don't have anybody like that right now, but I think we have the capacity to supply their needs in the arena of electricity and water." Added College Station Councilman Larry Mariott: "We feel very comfortable that we could provide those things at the level they needed. It was just a really positive meeting." Company officials also raised questions about the area's school systems, housing market, neighborhoods, parks, police and fire services, the environment and community organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity. Other known competitors for the new facility are San Marcos, Texas, Austin, Round Rock, Texas, and Dresden, Germany. But sources say the company has received calls from at least 12 other locations ® interested in recruiting AMD since the word has gotten out that it is looking to build a new plant. The company has moved quietly in its search, but some of the cities are making overt appeals. A billboard in San Marcos recently proclaimed the city "AMD-friendly."It has since been taken down. Representatives of Bryan and College Station have not formally offered any incentives, but while in Austin they discussed types of incentives that would be available, such as how much tax abatements could save the company. The company does not expect to announce its decision until March, Stabler and Mariott said. At an EDC meeting Wednesday afternoon, Chairman Ron Blatchley said he believes the Bryan-College Station area is a front-runner if the company wants to locate in Central Texas. "We have done too much planning in this community to fail at this endeavor,"he said. "We're going to be successful. It's going to happen." http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/122100bcscourtsamd.htm 12/21/2000 ,.e rx r ,p- • k_£ i t t5 ♦w 2 1 ylet4- Lan, acw I Area bl,* s Or I DC� i, 1 Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler, who would not • name the company, said Wednesday that one of the major concerns company officials had was the avail- �C1'0 ability and reliability of electricity and water. Those ,�,��,�(� I are two needs that local officials say the area can idefinitely accommodate. "They use quite a bit of water,like$6 or$7 million ty worth each year, at their Austin location," Stabler Officials try to lure said. "Their electricity bill is about$12 million each year. We don't have anybody like that right now,but I I think have the capacity to supply their needs in high-tech firm here I the arena of electricity and water." By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Added College Station Councilman Larry Mariott: Eagle Staff Writer We feel very comfortable that we could provide those things at the level they needed. It was just a A high-powered delegation from the Bryan-Col- really positive meeting." lege Station area hopes its sales pitch in Austin this Company officials also raised questions about the area's school systems, housing market, neighbor- week will be enough to convince a coveted high-tech hoods, parks, police and fire services, the environ- + company to build a$6 billion facility here. ment and community organizations, such as Habitat Local officials still have not named the company, for Humanity. but sources have said it is Advanced Micro Devices, Other known competitors for the new facility are the nation's second-largest computer processor San Marcos, Texas, Austin, Round Rock, Texas, and manufacturer. Dresden, Germany. But sources say the company Quality-of life issues seemed to be the hot topic has received calls from at least 12 other locations over a 2-hour lunch Monday that included company interested in recruiting AMD since the word has got- officials and eight representatives from Bryan, Col- ten out that it is looking to build a new plant. lege Station, Brazos County, Texas A&M University, The company has moved quietly Blinn College and the Bryan-College Station Eco p Y q Y its search, but nomic Development Corporation. some of the cities are making overt appeals. A bill- The Bryan-College Station area is one location on a growing list of See FACILITY, Page Al2 cities AMD, cowhose We feel very new facility comfortable that we could bring as could provide [water many as 3,000 jobs. The new and electricity] at the plant would level they needed. It manufacture j 12-inch wafers, was just a really which are used positive meeting.> to make com- puter chips for — LARRY MARIOTT the Sunnyvale, College Station councilman f Calif.-based company. AMD already has a facility in Austin that makes wafers. The ,,any does not expect Facility to announce its decision until March, Stabler and Mariott said. At an EDC meeting Wednesday From A7 afternoon, Chairman Ron Blatch- ley said he believes the Bryan- board in San Marcos recently College Station area is a front- proclaimed e c • proid the "AMD-friend- runner if the company wants to ly.„ locate in Central Texas. It has since been taken down. "We have done too, much plan- Representatives of Bryan and ning in this community to fail at College Station have not formally this endeavor," he said. "We're offered any incentives, but while going to be successful. It's going in .Austin they discussed types of to happen." incentives that would be avail able,such as how much tax abate- ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address ments could save the company. is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaURegional Page 1 of 4 Subscribe Today! he �'e 979-7 -2345 ......................_ .... .. . 79.776.2345 wupon Irbscribe todayl 'I'lic Bryan-College Station Eadc Thursday,December 21, I 2000 I '°Tt�° atlter-"Ttti�'f`aglew5 �tar�"'8trstt`tl0rary"� Region>Local/ Regional Lv_a(tregioaaal _ __ _ _. 8w,asVbdleyNote6;rk` CS Council rejects new zoning rules E Reo: obituaries Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH DatebReslaur Eagle Staff Writer Kestaklr'drat 71�irniWr Lortery :iF'breaking news The entire College Station City Council is opposed to a proposal to increase the number of votes it takes to Sitc= �e�ti�n� overrule a Planning and Zoning Commission decision. C alWaiga 20(9) [:�luaanicts ,;;,rtu nnrt,y. A proposal tabled at the commission's Dec. 7 ,;.a* meeting included a recommendation that current l aith tic Vahaer policy be revised to require a vote of six of seven I tcn»4&r;arden council members to overrule the commission—a three-fourths majority vote. \4+a,,;yxrti in Fs`darat>.n� i)biha3riss c)�,iniranti Currently, a simple majority vote of council is Bqg""a required. ti,Nrilighi. '` ''°"k' Councilman Ron Silvia said he sees no logical reason I hecig'h:xona Ic.e i lnin:w for the change. �tt,tl4► "I would definitely be against it," Silvia said. theeagle.com «Commission members] look at these issues,but ro4r$cat choice far they are a recommending body to us. I feel the online advertising! council, made up of elected officials, should have full flexibility of addressing those issues." Commission members say the policy change has been ■ discussed as a way to help the council. They say it ■call could encourage more public input at commission meetings,which many times are poorly attended, Brazos rather than having hordes of people wait to voice Business S their opinions at the council meetings,which every Sunday typically have full agendas. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/122100planningcommission.htm 12/21/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle Commission Chairman Karl Mooney rejects the © notion that change was being sought as a way to increase the commission's power, as some critics of the proposal have suggested. "This is something for the council to decide," Mooney said. "There is no desire on the part of P and Z to gain any more power. We want to make the government of College Station ... run more effectively." Mooney said sometimes commission members may have made a different ruling if they had possessed the information that is brought forth at a later council meeting. "The council is left scratching their heads and wondering why we voted that way,"he said. "Part of our job as appointees is to make sure our aspect is running smoothly and efficiently." In addition to Silvia, council members Larry Mariott, James Massey, Anne Hazen, Winnie Garner and • Dennis Maloney say they are opposed to such a measure. Although Mayor Lynn McIlhaney would not go on record as opposing the move, she said she would have to see a compelling reason for the change before she would support it. Council members—all of whom, except for McIlhaney,have served on the commission—said they understand that commission members may be frustrated by the low attendance at their meetings and that many interested parties typically wait to plead their cases to the council. But they maintain that the final say on zoning changes should come from elected officials, who are directly responsible to College Station residents. Mooney said each commissioner spends countless hours reviewing zoning requests in preparation for the meetings, and the commission always welcomes public input before making any decision. He acknowledged that the appeal process in which requested zoning changes move from the commission http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 22 1 00planningcommission.htm 12/21/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 to the council is a necessary step,but he added: "You need to have a good reason to go beyond `P and Z."' ® Mariott said that at this point he cannot support the proposal, which has never formally been brought to the council. "I think it puts too much pressure on the [commission] and our selection of the [commissioners],"he said. "I think we've got to have the final say, and I don't think we have to have six of seven to do that." Massey said he felt similar frustration with a lack of public input at times during his three-year tenure on the commission, but that is part of serving on a volunteer board. "All citizens may not come to [commission meetings], but that's just a function of the process," he said. "The council is directly responsible to the citizens by way of the vote. Unless there are some circumstances that I am not aware of, I think the process should stay as it is." • Maloney cited the recent example of a property owner who wanted to renovate his run-down building and turn it into a restaurant and bar. No one from a nearby church opposed the change at the commission's meeting, at which members recommended zoning that would allow the property owner to pursue his plans. When it came to the council,however, church members poured in to the council chambers to argue that the restaurant was a bad idea, Maloney said. "Then they put on a show,"he said. "That should have happened at Planning and Zoning. But, they assumed [the commission] would rubber stamp it, so people save all their guns for council, and that's wrong." Maloney said he would like to see some changes that allow the commission to get the respect it deserves. After all, he said, commissioners spend hours studying rezoning requests and the impact they would have on neighbors. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/122100planningcommission.htm 12/21/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 A possible change, he said, would be for the council to receive only information and comments that were ( presented at a commission meeting. That way, he said, the council would have the same information that the commission did when it made its recommendation to approve or deny a request. Garner said such a change most likely will be discussed at a future joint commission-council meeting. But none of the council members predicted a change in the council voting requirement any time soon. "I don't think that would ever fly,"Maloney said. "It takes things out of the hands of elected officials." ........... © 2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eaizle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/122100planningcommission.htm 12/21/2000 _s 'cr'3 x M L tea, �s+'a X S ?,� ,+ o CS Council 0 P&Z eets Massey, Anne Hazen, Winnie would support it. reJGarner and Dennis Maloney say Council members — all of they are opposed to such a mea- whom, except for McIlhaney, sure. have served on the commission Although Mayor Lynn McIl- —said they understand that com- p ro p o s ,, haney would not go on record as mission members may be frus- �1 opposing the move, she said she trated by the low attendance at would have to see a compelling their meetings and that many By COLLEEN KAVANAGH reason for the change before she interested parties typically wait Eagle Staff Writer CQDOU to plead their cases to the coun- cil. The entire College Station City Council is — — But they maintain that the opposed to a proposal to increase the number of final say on zoning changes votes it takes to overrule a Planning and Zoning should come from elected offi- Commission decision. cials, who are directly responsi- A proposal tabled at the commission's Dec. 7 , ble to College Station residents. meeting included a recommendation that current Mooney said each commission- policy be revised to require a vote of six of seven er spends countless hours council members to overrule the commission. reviewing zoning requests in Currently, a simple majority vote of council is preparation for the meetings,and required. the commission always welcomes Councilman Ron Silvia said he sees no logical public input before making any reason for the change. decision. "I would definitely be against it," Silvia said. He acknowledged that the "[Commission members] look at these issues, but appeal process in which request- they are a recommending body to us. I feel the ed zoning changes move from the , council, made up of elected officials, should have commission to the council is a full flexibility of addressing those issues." necessary step, but he added: Commission members say the policy change "You need to have a good reason has been discussed as a way to help the council. to go beyond `P and Z.— They say it could encourage more public input at Mariott said that at this point commission meetings, which many times are poorly attended, rather than having hordes of people wait to voice their opinions at the council meetings, which typically have full agendas. Commission Chairman Karl Mooney rejects the notion that change was being sought as a way to increase the commission's power, as some critics of the proposal have suggested. "This is something for the council to decide," Mooney said. "There is no desire on the part of P and Z to gain any more power. We want to make the government of College Station ... run more effectively." Mooney said sometimes commission members See P&Z, Page A2 Plater council meeting. "The council is left scratching their heads and wondering why we voted that way,"he said. "Part From Al of our job as appointees is to make sure our aspect is running may have made a different ruling smoothly and efficiently." if they had possessed the infor- In addition to Silvia, council mation that is brought forth at a members Larry Mariott, James he cannot support the proposal, was a bad idea, Maloney said. which has never formally been "Then they put on a show," he brought to the council. said. "That should have hap- "I think it puts too much pres- pened at Planning and Zoning. sure on"the[commission] and our But, they assumed [the commis- selection of the [commission- sion] would rubber stamp it, so ers]," he said. people save all their guns for "I think we've got to have the council, and that's wrong." final say, and I don't think we Maloney said he would like to have to have six of seven to do see some changes that allow the that." commission to get the respect it Massey said he felt similar deserves. After all, he said, com- frustration with a lack of public missioners spend hours study- input at times during his three- ing rezoning requests and the year tenure on the commission, impact they would have on but that is part of serving on a neighbors. volunteer board. A possible change, he said, "All citizens may not come to would be for the council to [commission meetings], but receive only information and that's just a function of the comments that were presented process,"he said. "The council is at a commission meeting. That directly responsible to the citi- way, he said, the council would zens by way of the vote. Unless have the same information that there are some circumstances the commission did when it that I am not aware of, I think made its recommendation to the process should stay as it is." approve or deny a request. Maloney cited the recent Garner said such a change example of a property owner most likely will be discussed at a who wanted to renovate his run- future joint commission-council down building and turn it into a meeting. restaurant and bar. But none of the council mem- No one from a nearby church bers predicted a change in the opposed the change at the com- council voting requirement any mission's meeting, at which time soon. members recommended zoning "I don't think that would ever that would allow the property fly," Maloney said. "It takes owner to pursue his plans. things out of the hands of elected When it came to the council, officials." however, church members poured in to the council cham- ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address bers to argue that the restaurant is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle F City of College ,_Station News p D velo er e as ked to revise plan CS Council also OKs bar & grill location By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer The College Station City Council on Thursday asked a developer to return with another plan that would give the city more oversight of a hotly con- tested development planned near the Raintree subdivision. In a separate decision, the council approved another con- troversial rezoning that will allow the owners of Koppe Bridge Bar & Grill to expand to a second location on Harvey Road. Council members said there were too many variables MASSEY involved in the sin- gle-family housingS CS Council meeting/A9 plan for 5 acres adja- cent to Raintree. They said that nearby residents who have vehe- mently opposed Houston resident Darrell Grein's development plans should know exactly what will be built next to them. "Too many unknowns have been brought out [by speakers]," Councilman James Massey said. "There has not been the trust portrayed in the actions of the developer over time, and I don't want to encourage that." Grein has submitted several proposals during See REZONING, Page A4 A remaining 9•acre tract— acres."I have a real problem with Rezoning rently zoned for agriculture and someone coming in from outside single family housing—was not and saying they have our best included, but probably will be interests in mind." rom Al developed in conjunction with Grein's representative, Greg the 5 acres, city staff said. That Taggart,told the council that the the past year,trying to find one tract allows for smaller lot sizes request was strictly for zoning, that the council will approve for than what would on the 5 acres.have been and UeSdrainagewold and engineeringa addressed the eight tract. Neighborhood residents have Opponents said Grein's latest through the platting Process. fought all of Grein's proposals, plan did not clear up drainage He said Grein has tried to including one the council tabled issues or how streets in Grein's accommodate opponents in August. They fear the new subdivision would affect those in throughout the lengthy rezoning homes would become rental prop- Raintree. Their main concerns, process. Previously, Grein has erties for students and bring kg inetef ,oare e maintaining tab- requested P oposa a planned lment or unwanted noise,traffic and par apartments and town- In problems. lished neighborhood. PDD, for apartm In his latest request, Grein -if we're going to have neigh- homes.That request was denied. asked for single-family zoning bors,let's have the same kind of Grein's latest request, Taggart that would allow for houses with neighbors," said Raintree resi- said, will not degrade existing a minimum lot size of 8,000 dent Boyd SoRell,asking for one homes simply because it allows square feet. zoning designation on all 14 for lots that are 1,000-square-feet ws it have a real ab"All we-are attempting to talk zoning,asking they return with a out here is reasonable land planned development distric , problem with someone use,"Taggart said. plan, which would give the city' co tri from outside In the unanimous vote after more control over the proposed coming much discussion, the council development. and saying they have approved the city-initiated zon. Their request for commercial our best interests m8,in which Grein could submit zoning drew opposition from a PDD for all 14 acres. nearby residents of the Harvey in mind.19 Recently,PDDs have been rec- Hillsides subdivision, many of —BOYD SOREIL onimended in controversial whom said that the designation- cases.They require that the com- would allow too many options for Raintree resident mission and the council approve potential use on the property, development plans before granti- Other concerns included intru-. ng a rezoning. sive lighting,loud noise and the smaller than those in Raintree. The council granted the owners need for a buffer separating the "This is not considered a heavy of Koppe Bridge Bar&Grill their restaurant property and the sub- intensive use," he said. "Mr. request for a planned development division. Grein has continually striven to district on their 1.7-acre tract east The Rosses' request specifies meet the reasonable desires of of Earl Rudder Freeway South. that a new building would be no the neighborhood. We have a In November, the council higher than 35 feet and requires a development process which is denied the request from Delph 40-foot buffer of natural vegeta- enshrined by city ordinances. and Glenda Ross for commercial tion separating it.from the subdi- vision.It also calls for sound lev- els within city ordinances and lighting directed away from the subdivision. Three residents who spoke at the meeting said they still have concerns over lighting, hours of operation and noise levels from a planned back porch that were not addressed by the PDD. "If it isn't in the PDD, then probably it won't be considered," said John Vilas."I'm not against a family restaurant, providing that is enclosed.I am against any. thing that will degrade our neigh- borhood." Council members approved the Rosses'plan for the restaurant by a 5-1 vote, with Councilwoman Anne Hazen dissenting.. Councilwoman Winnie Garner abstained from the vote because she is employed by First Ameri- can Bank, which handles the Koppe Bridge account. Those in favor said the Rosses did everything the council had asked the couple to do. "I know they're going to do a. good development," Councilman Dennis Maloney said. "They've jumped through all the hoops, and I think they'll be good neigh- bors. They're reputation pre- cedes them. They're good peo- ple." ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com 'v c C=ity of+C lege Stat10 ev s i Councils proceed with ban proposal Area smoking ordinances reviewed By COLLEEN KAVANAGH sion and plan to bring both Eagle Staff Writer(2 13 i zoco councils together in January St for a possible approval of the Bryan and College tation proposal. city council members moved a College Station Councilman step f,)rward Tuesday on a pro- Ron Silvia,a strong advocate of posal to ban lighting up in the proposal, said the issue of restaurants during the day. personal rights has been raised Members of the joint legisla- by both supporters and oppo- tive affairs committee—made nents of a ban on smoking in up of council members from restaurants. He said people each city — are reviewing the have a basic right to clean air. cities' smoking ordinances to "There is an opportunity for make sure they are strict folks, when they leave the enough to shield nonsmokers restaurant, to go ahead and from secondhand smoke. light up," said Silvia. "We're They agreed Tuesday after- not doing anything to infringe noon to take identical drafts of upon their rights, but we are a new ordinance back to their respective councils for discus- See SMOKING, Page A2 Smoking To me, personal rights end at and private secondary school or the point where other people are higher education institutions, affected," Massey said. hospitals, enclosed theaters, The propoeed ordinance would courtrooms and jury waiting or From A 1 ban smoking in restaurants or deliberation rooms. The campus- cafeterias between 6 a.m. and 10 es of Texas A&M University and doing something to protect the p.m., and would prohibit smok- Blinn College would be included. public." ing within a 20 feet of the entry Owners could designate a Bryan Councilman Kenny Mal- way of all public places. smoking area between the hours lard and College Station Council- Included in the list of public of 10 P.M. and 6 a.m. in restau- man James Massey agreed. places in the proposal are public rants and cafeterias with more than 50 seats. But that option comes with two restrictions: The smoking area cannot be larger than half of the seating capacity, and the areas would have to be separated by at least 4 feet. Bryan Councilman Mike Beal said he thinks the proposal offers a compromise for late-nigh restaurants such as The Kettle, whose clientele includes a large number of smokers. "I think we've been sensitive in '� allowing smoking during certain hours of the evening," he said. Bars — which are proposed to be defined as establishments ded- icated predominantly to serving alcohol rather than food—would be exempt from the ban. Also,bar areas of restaurants, where the area dedicated predominantly to serving alcohol is physically sep- arated from a food serving area, would be excluded. The two councils have agreed The modifications do not apply they would not enact a ban on to outdoor patios. smoking unless both cities Members briefly discussed allowing smoking in restaurants approved identical ordinances so that include a ventilation system it would not put restaurants in that restricts smoke from drifting one city at a competitive disad- through the restaurant. So far, vantage. they have decided against such a Members of the Brazos County provision because it could put chapter of tbP Texas Restaurant smaller restaurants that could Association have said they do not not afford an expensive system at support more restrictions a disadvantage. because they will lose business "I'd like to see this on the best and their customers should dic- playing field we can do as a tate whether they allow smoking. municipality," Silvia said. The issue was brought to the City officials discussed ways to councils by the six-member Bra- enforce a new ordinance. The zos County Board of Health, cities could provide signs to which voted in October to sup- restaurants, they said, and port a ban of smoking in all pub- require owners to hang them in lic places. conspicuous places. Sign place- ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address ment could then be modified by is ckavanagh@theeagle.com health and code inspectors. College Station City Attorney Harvey Cargill, who worked on a smoking ordinance in the city of Abilene, said the signs would lead nonsmoking patrons to ask those violating the ordinance to put out their cigarettes. "What really happened in the real world is you put the sign up and it self-enforces," he said. Included in the proposal is a provision to require owners, operators, managers or employ- ees make a reasonable effort to take action against individuals violating the ordinance. That, city officials said, would require them to ask a patron to extin- guish his cigarette. �-x z ko ews CS Council to weigh rezoning requests, development plan By COLLEEN KAVANAGH sion, according to a council same time." day's agenda, this time with a division. Eagle Staff writer 2�13I�� report.That is less than the 9,000- Neighborhood residents have request for a PDD to allow for a The Rosses' request specifies square-foot minimum require- fought all of Green's proposals, second location of the restaurant. that a new building would be no The College Station City Coun- ments in Grein's request that the including the one tabled in In November, the council higher than 35 feet and requires a cil will consider Thursday two council tabled earlier this year. August.They have said they fear denied the request from Delph 40-foot buffer of natural vegeta- controversial rezoning requests A remaining 9-acre tract—cur- the new homes would become and Glenda Ross for commercial tion separating it from the subdi- and an economic development rently zoned for agriculture and rental properties for students and zoning, asking that they return vision.It also calls for sound lev- agreement with the owners of the single-family housing — is not bring unwanted noise,traffic and with a PDD plan, which would els within city ordinances and Hilton Hotel. included in this request, accord- parking problems. give the city more control over the lighting directed away from the One rezoning request would ing to the report,but probably will Staff recommends that all 14 proposed development on Harvey subdivision. allow for single-family housing on be developed in conjunction with acres be zoned the same way.The Road. Residents who spoke at a recent 5 acres adjacent to the Raintree the 5 acres. Planning and Zoning Commission Their reque,,t for commercial Planning and Zoning Commission subdivision.The applicant,Hous- "If the subject property is recommends the application be zoning drew opposition from meeting said they still have con- ton resident Darrell Grein, has rezoned to[allow for 8,000-square- denied without prejudice so the nearby residents of the Harvey cerns over lighting and noise lev- submitted several proposals dur- feet lots],the future development owner can submit a planned Hillsides subdivision, many of els.The commission recommend- ing the past year, trying to £end will have three separate zoning development district-housing pro- whom said that the designation ed that the council approve the one that the council will approve classifications that have three dif- posal,or PDD,for all 14 acres. would allow too many options for rezoning. so he can turn the property into a ferent minimum lot sizes," the Recently, PDDs have been rec- potential use of the 1.7-acre tract There will be public hearings on profitable development. report states."Sound zoning prac- ommended in controversial cases. east of Earl Rudder Freeway both rezoning requests. Grein is requesting single-fami- tices discourage a piecemeal They allow the council to approve South. The council also will consider ly zoning that would allow for approach to zoning, and staff t plans before granti- Other concerns included intru- an economic development agree- houses with a minimum lot size of therefore typically expects prop- ng a rezoning. sive lighting, loud noise and the ment with Lane College Station 8,000 square feet,which would be erty under the same ownership to The owners of Koppe Bridge need for a buffer separating the similar to the existing subdivi- be submitted for rezoning at the Bar & Grill are back on Thurs- restaurant property and the sub- See COUNCIL,Page A13 ■ A zoning ordinance amena- C O i' ment to allow for commercial amusement.uses under business- commercial zoning. ■ An amendment to develop- From All —� ment and tax-abatement agree- ments between College Station, Limited Partnership, which owns the Bryan-College Station Eco- and operates the Hilton Hotel. nomic Development Corporation According to the agreement and STATA Corporation. terms, Lane College Station ■ A rezoning request for six would be eligible for a $200,000 acres at 1267 Harvey Mitchell reimbursement for the construc- Parkway S. from single-family tion of a retaining wall along its residential to general commer- property on University Drive in cial. the Texas Department of Trans- ■ A citywide policy for neigh- portation's right of way. borhood traffic calming mea- In other action, the council will sures. The policy includes about consider: 10 options that can be used to ■ A $20,000-per-month contract reduce impacts of traffic and with Dean International for speed on local neighborhood and development of a transportation residential streets. improvement plan for the city. ■ An ordinance rezoning 339 The contract would be for one acres for the new College Station year and would be paid for from Business Center. It will be located the general fund. near the northeast intersection of Texas 6 and Greens Prairie Road. The city already owns the land. During the workshop session, the council will discuss the pro- posed contract with Dean Interna- tional and a proposed conceptual plan for a future city center. ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 SubscribeToday! The e 979-7 -2345 Region .4scribe today * Friday,December 8,2000 "Bonfire Tragedy ,AggieSports_conr—Ktd's Korner The Weather Region Region>Local/ Regional lzsas BnvxA WleyNoteb,-1,k College Station Planning and Zoning postpones Re(nis obituaries controversial decision Births Datebook RestaurantW-11itor By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Lottery- AP Eagle Staff Writer breaking news F, �� �' College Station's Planning and Zoning Commission S' e Seel ns decided late Thursday to table discussions of a proposal that calls for a key change in the way zoning tlr:u�is Suntlav Campuigm issues are settled in the city. • t:r,lunmisre (:Slntntllnlry4 Eagle Members discussed a possible meeting with the city Faith&Naiues IIcalth&F'iute% council to debate the proposal,which would increase Flame&Garden the number of council votes it takes to overrule a Memo) Nati,nt commission decision. NM-qq rS ut Ednc:uarn (Mural ies t)E7iniom That proposal, which critics say would give the Regia,n appointed commission members too much power, Siwrts stx tught was part of a resolution that the commission 1'4thtrnkt}n reviewed during its three-and-a-half hour meeting thm-ngle.an» ita ti:vnc,lsaa Thursday evening. Currently, it takes a majority vote of the seven- theeagle.com member council to overturn a commission your Gdst'choice for recommendation. Under the resolution, six of seven online advertising! council votes would be needed to overrule a A commission decision. Commissioner Joe Horlen said he is not ready to A suggest that the council change current policy. CI 39 "I probably personally look at it as something they BraZOS should discuss,but I'm not sure I'm ready to guSineSS recommend it,"he said, "being that we are an every Sunday appointed body and they're an elected body." in the Faaln http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120800planningandzoning.htm 12/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 College Station resident Mike McMichen said he waited for commissioners to explain the reasoning behind the proposed change, which he contends will simply increase the commission's power. "My question to them is why is this a good thing to have six or seven council members override their denial,"he said. "They are asking the council to implement a three-quarters majority to override their decisions." But Mayor Pro Tem Larry Mariott said he views the change as more benign. Although he had not seen the resolution, Mariott said it most likely stems from some frustration on the commission's part that residents know it is not the final word on zoning changes. "When [the zoning request] comes to us, then everybody comes [to the meeting], and we, of course, hear a lot more information and we rule one way or another,"Mariott said. "It's almost like they're wasting their time on rezoning cases because on public hearings, they are not hearing as much as we are. "Had they had all information we get, it might have changed their vote. Then again, it might not,"Mariott said. Any change in the number of council votes would require council approval and an amendment to the city's zoning ordinance. Another section proposing a ban on public comment on items not set for public hearings already is in the commission's power, so it was deleted from the resolution, members said. That's because any agenda item that does not call for a public hearing is strictly reviewed to meet technical standards, members said. If it meets those standards, the members are required to approve the item, no matter how many people speak out against it. Commissioner Rick Floyd said he thinks that the commission should better inform residents on the procedures involving technical review. "I il,irlr tho4'c {vl{PrP l{PPn miclPorllnR http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaU120800planningandzoning.htm 12/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaURegional Page 3 of 4 1 111111/1 LIXUL J ♦y 11V1V Vy V V V VVV11 1111OAVU 11115 everybody,"he said. "That's what the law says. We're not trying to squelch public opinion—our hands are tied." Another part of the resolution would permit the commission to establish a time limit for all public hearings—something it already is able to do, members said. The commission is able to use criteria such as the length of the agenda and the number of speakers registered to address an item when setting that time limit, so members decided the provision did not need to be included in the resolution. Time limits can be imposed by setting specified periods for support and opposition, setting a total time for each hearing or establishing a fixed time for all hearings. Commissioner John Happ was absent from the meeting. In other action, the commission recommended L approval of a proposal that would give the city more control over how the property is developed for a second location of Koppe Bridge Bar& Grill. The owners, Delph and Glenda Ross, are requesting a planned development district-business, or PDD, zoning designation for the restaurant. It was the third proposal they have submitted and will be up for consideration at next week's city council meeting. The Rosses' request is in line with a request from council members, who denied their request to rezone the property for commercial use last month. Their request for commercial zoning drew opposition from nearby residents,many of whom said that the designation would allow too many options for potential use of the 1.7-acre tract east of Earl Rudder Freeway South. Other concerns included loud noise, intrusive lighting and the need for a buffer separating the restaurant Lproperty and the subdivision. In a PDD, thel council would approve plans for a �P[lP�/�11111 P11+ IIPTAI'P crrn lf;"" fba r r%n;n1 http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/l 20800planningandzoning.htm 12/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 4VY V1Vj./111V11� VV1Vlli�,1 GLllllll�, lllV LVlllll�. The Rosses' request specifies that a new building would be no higher than 35 feet and requires a 40- foot buffer of natural vegetation on the south side of the property, separating the restaurant from the Harvey Hillsides subdivision. It also calls for a sound level within city ordinances and additional volume control for exterior speakers. The lighting could not be directed toward the subdivision, according to the plan. Residents who spoke at the Thursday's meeting said they still have concerns over the lighting and noise levels, if music is allowed outside. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagha,theeagle.com © 2000 The Brvan/Collep-e Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120800planningandzoning.htm 12/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe 'Today The e 979-7 -2345 ............_.......................... . ■ ,.776.2345� " � R1on ascribe todayl r ( Thursday,December 7, 2000 i Region>Local/Regional L��al!regiunaJ _ __ Texas BRm.-.9 WtieyN,)Eet xk College Station planners to discuss added t�bitrie� powers Births Datebwk Restauranthkmilor By COLLEEN KAVANAGH I-l-wery btea Eagle Staff Writer iF'breaking news Site sections � Key changes in how zoning issues are decided in College Station will be discussed by the Planning and licvne Eiitsm.., Zoning Commission at its Thursday meeting. • CRInv i nt 2(xx1 �'Gobsmwiets One member of the commission said the proposed changes stem from discussions over making meetings Faith&VAIIC.. I►gall&riLlicss more efficient while maintaining citizen input, and "t"'k-&Ga'de11 Thursday's meeting will give members an Mexico \:,lion opportunity to discuss possibilities for reaching that \Ct14�1:7j5et5 in goal. Obit u.n ies Opnui"nie kc;- "' But those possibilities have several citizens sfxN,.t sr"light concerned that the commission's appointed members r< hmow, will have too much power. dhet.tgtesom "ez is Airm roar "This is the first time we will be discussing this stuff," Commissioner Judy Warren said Wednesday. th"Mineeagle.corn "This is an opportunity for us to look at this and see _.. your ai'choice for what we want to send forward to council." online advertisin¢1 Among the series of changes that will be discussed at a workshop session are modifications that would: ■ • Ban public comment on items that are not set for 01 so memo public hearings. BrazoS • Call for an amendment to the city code that would BuSxneSS require a three-fourths vote of the City Council to every Sunday overrule a commission recommendation to deny a http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120700planningandzoning.htm 12/07/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-RegionLocal/Regional Page 2 of 3 in the Eagle rezoning as provided in the Local Government Code. Currently, the council needs a majority vote to stray from a recommendation from the commission. • Establish a time limit for all public hearings. The commission would be able to use criteria such as the length of the agenda and the number of speakers registered to address an item. Time limits could be imposed by setting specified periods for support and opposition, setting a total time for each hearing or establishing a fixed time for all hearings. Warren said the commission chair, Karl Mooney, worked with City Manager Tom Brymer to develop the proposal so it could be discussed by the commission. Neither Mooney nor Brymer could be reached for comment late Wednesday. She said she is not sure what the ban on public comment entails,but would not support the elimination of"Hear Visitors,"the public comment section held at the beginning of every meeting. It • allows anyone to speak to commission members about anything. "I want to hear [more] about that," she said. "I think the Hear Visitor section is important. We often hear concerns from citizens, and I think we need to maintain that for sure." Warren said discussions about time limits on public hearings could lead people with the same concerns on an issue to appoint one group member to speak on their behalf. "You can have a huge number of people and all could be saying the same thing," she said. "It requires more organization on the part of citizens, and we have to look at how it really will work out. Sometimes it helps to hear people say things in their own words. "I think it's very important to hear what people have to say but also recognize that there are ways to encourage ... people to organize their comments and ® have them presented by a representative." College Station resident Mike McMichen said he is waiting to hear the reasons behind the commission http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120700planningandzoning.htm 12/07/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 , "wanting that much authority,"which he hopes will come out in Thursday's discussions. "From what I have seen of the resolution, it appears to be that they're wanting more absolute control over their decisions,"he said"Citizens should be concerned because of what's apparent in the amount of control they want and how much of a majority the City Council would need to overturn their decisions." The commission will not take action on the resolution Thursday. If the resolution or some parts of it are approved by the commission, approval will still be required by the City Council. The commission's discussion will take place during its workshop session, which begins at 6 p.m. Thursday in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavana-aW theea-ale.com © 2000 The Brvan/Colleize Station Eajzle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120700planningandzoning.htm 12/07/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 6 Subscribe Today! The e 979-7 -2345 RA%"g .401'scribe todayll 1 " ' Region>Local/ Regional Dee ember E..i�`.3lrle�+lNl'a! Texu BinvisVAleyhotet-:�k Bryan-College Station gears up to compete for zwv Retx v6 Obituaries high-tech jobs Births t�atzbcwk Restaurant NI--niter By LAURA HIPP l Ai breaking news Eagle Staff Writer Ail breaking Two years ago, local economic development officials Ete Erns pinned their hopes on a Bell Helicopter Textron plant that would bring more than 1,000 jobs. Eirar�rs Snntla� The Bryan-College Station Economic Development Community Eagk Corp. packaged a deal that would have given the Fort faith&MAInes Ilealth&I:i,,,4„ Worth-based company land and facilities at low or no 11„n,u&Garden cost. The development corporation also touted ready Nlexlcf Milon engineers from Texas A&M University to work at the do„=It.lxrN inF11mawil $46 million plant. t)bitn:nicti [ypiniuns Rcg)n The community competed against Fort Worth, San Slx,n< Spotlight Antonio, Arlington, Dallas, Austin, Houston and IctlYn°Wtkn Amarillo for the technical jobs. �li�ca>ile.Gtrm 1�x.ts:Uman�• Wodd The Panhandle town ultimately won the facility after promising a full tax break for 10 years, a$40 million theeagle.com bond financing that would fund building your t'chnicein�!for construction, $2 million for employee relocation and online at#vCxtia training programs and more than 200 acres. rWith funding approval expected this week from the Pentagon, the V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft should ■ roll off of the assembly line at the Amarillo plant .a soon. ! BraZOS Economic development leaders walked away from Business the experience knowing they were outspent by every Sundav Amarillo, said Lynn Stuart,past chairman of the http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120300economicenticements.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 6 in the Eagle development corporation. Now, those leaders are aiming high again and hope the same university connections along with an alluring quality of life can bring a high-tech manufacturing plant to Brazos County. Similar economic incentives that include tax breaks probably will be offered by each city, and officials hope their package stands out. Sources say Advanced Micro Devices, the nation's second-largest computer processor manufacturer, is looking at the Bryan-College Station area, San Marcos, Austin, Round Rock and Dresden, Germany, to locate a 12-inch wafer manufacturing plant. Wafers are used to manufacture computer chips for the Sunnyvale, Calif.-based company. Ron Blatchley, chairman of the economic development corporation, has declined to publicly name the company, but says it would bring about 3,000 jobs and a$3 billion to $6 billion capital investment. The economic development corporation is evaluating ways to meet the needs of the high-tech firm, but Blatchley says he can't specify any incentives the agency has offered. The company is expected to make a decision by the end of the first quarter of 2001. The firm already has an eight-inch wafer manufacturing plant in Austin. "The only real grave concern they had was air transportation, them being an international firm," Blatchley said. "We'll have to address that to the best of our ability." He said a steady supply of commuter flights would be needed from Bryan and College Station to Houston, Austin and Dallas. The company has reviewed the economic development corporation's proposal,but Blatchley would not divulge details. "They were very pleased with everything they've seen,"he said. "I feel pretty good about it." Stuart said the cooperation between Bryan, College http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120300economicenticements.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 6 Station and Texas A&M University must be stressed. j "We do the best we can with what we've got,"he fir► said. "What we've got to do is emphasize our strong points. We can meet their requirements for electricity, water and sewage." But the area's continuously low unemployment rate is a persistent concern of any company that the economic development corporation recruits, Stuart said. The Bryan-College Station area has had the lowest unemployment rate in the state for several years. Currently, the rate is 1.4 percent, and the small labor pool usually means companies will have to pay higher wages to court those already employed. "That's been a problem for everybody we've brought in here,"he said. "But we also tell them we're the center of an eight-county area." Stuart said the cities should be on equal footing in the competition because none of them may be able to offer the large cash incentives Amarillo did to win Bell Helicopter Textron. "Their bid was several times what ours was,"he said. "They were able to put together a lot of cash incentives that we cannot do here." In the race for AMD, Bryan and College Station will employ the same tools that San Marcos and Austin use. John Boswell, director of the Greater San Marcos Economic Development Council, said his city's primary incentive tool is the tax abatement. He also proposes fee waivers and infrastructure assistance. He said the economic development agency does not have money to buy land for AMD or other companies. "They're looking at primarily Texas cities,"Boswell said. "That could level the playing field." `,, San Marcos also will try to sell the company on partnerships with those in higher education, Boswell said. Community colleges and universities in San http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120300economicenticements.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 6 Marcos, Austin and San Antonio could be attractive ingredients to AMD's long-term success. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the Austin-San Marcos unemployment rate is 1.9 percent. Boswell said the rate for Hays County alone is 2.3 percent. "That's where you can get creative,"he said. "I think the key to this deal is not about incentives. The decision is going to come down to workforce and probably utilities and infrastructure. We're bound by the same set of rules." The cost of the incentives must not outweigh the benefits the company brings to the community, he said. "I think really clearly, all of us are going to do what they can,"he said. "Each policy board is going to do what they're comfortable with, if that will be enough to get it. College Station and San Marcos want to be in the same playing field." Bob Levin, vice president of economic development at the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce,would not comment on any incentives the city is prepared to give to AMD. But Austin has offered tax and fee incentives to the Vignette Corp.,which may build two office towers of 25 and 30 stories south of the Austin Convention Center. The corporation could get a$25 million offer from the city in development incentives, under a program designed to divert development away from environmentally sensitive areas west of downtown. The city has not given tax abatement in a few years, Levin said. Levin said he has seen Bryan and College Station's proposal,but would not elaborate. "It's our understanding that Bryan-College Station is putting together a very competitive package," Levin said. He said quality-of-life attractions are key to luring companies. The cost of living, the quality of school districts and the availability of cultural events usually http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120300economicenticements.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 5 of 6 are evaluated. "They've always been important and something that �r every community tries to put the best light on,"he said. One community not competing for AMD has been as successful as Austin at landing high-tech jobs. Twenty-five percent of such jobs in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex are in the Telecom Corridor, a 17- mile stretch of highways in Richardson along U.S. 190 and U.S. 75, said John Jacobs, vice president of economic development at the Richardson Economic Development Partnership. The city receives about three to four calls each week from Silicon Valley companies looking to relocate or open a research and development office, Jacobs said. Jacobs said high-tech firms seem to be more interested in quality-of-life issues. The workers want a scenic environment and lower cost of living than is found in California or Boston, another high-tech hub. �r The city recently offered Cisco Systems Inc. an incentive package that convinced the corporation to build a 1.7 million square-foot regional office campus, he said. The company received a 50 percent tax abatement for 10 years, fee waivers and hiking and biking trails built by the city. "For big projects in this part of the world, that's almost kind of standard,"he said. But the deals need more than tax cuts and land, he said. A company wants to move into a community quickly, unhampered by red tape and bureaucracy. "I think the biggest thing [is if] the city can move with lightning speed to get things done,"Jacobs said. Richardson has placed an inspector at construction sites for the duration of a project to speed up the process, he said. Communities like the Bryan-College Station area (W probably will have to be patient to build a high-tech area like Richardson's. Jacobs said it has taken about 50 years for the corridor to achieve its current status. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120300economicenticements.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 6 of 6 Texas Instruments Inc. first located in the city in the 1950s, he said, and other companies slowly arrived as fir► they watched Texas Instruments' success. The high- tech workforce is a strong attraction. "The No. 1 thing we have is the gravitational force that pulls high-tech companies to us,"he said. "You've got to talk about a process that takes three to four decades." That is just what local leaders want from the wafer manufacturing plant. Blatchley said if the company chooses the Bryan-College Station area, that would only be the beginning. Other companies that serve the plant would arrive bringing an estimated 3,000 additional jobs, he said. "It's a very clean industry,"Blatchley said. "It's all the things that any city would die for." •Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lh ippna,theeaQl e.com • The Associated Press contributed to this report. _._ .._---_. ............... ......._.... — © 2000 The Brvan/Colleae Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/120300economicenticements.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Pagel of 3 Subscribe Toda., The '� (W 979-77 -2345 _........ ..._ _..._.._..._..- -......... - �V 98cribe Cll1�l1'IBravos Bus 111ass •••••� e fagte Gfasst�etl Storer'BtJsfr`ttb2r I u � s; Brazos Business>Local Business Baatkrate monitor cham6aofcommene New subdivision planned in south College columnists Ewnomie development .Station Lout business WfleyForl By LAURA HIPP PR Newswire Strictly Business Eagle Staff Writer Tar forms&information n A new neighborhood planned for south College Station would add about 1,000 higher-priced homes I sra,.t»lfiL,irte to the local market. ` i3a.aaaax 4m,aLl Campaign NO) C:ohannests Lots will be sold in early 2001 at the 338-acre Comm suit` Castlegate Communities on Greens Prairie Road, Eagle Faith&Wnea near the location of the proposed state highway Texas "calth&Fitnl.-:s 40. tlaane&Q'OLICH 1la xwu `m ° Homes in the subdivision would range from Obittcnies $125,000 to $600,000, said developer Wallace Opina Phillips. The houses would be 1,500 to 3,000 square n aegis}l slob. feet. 5)xi light the=1glesxon) The neighborhood would feature amenities similar to '`Xls'U"u""` those in The Woodlands,with a trail, lake, waterfall ��!>t►d and parks. The wooded neighborhood also would have tennis courts, a pavilion and two playgrounds. Advertising Laurie Follis, a broker at Ashford Square Realty, said house construction should begin in February or theeagle.com March. your 1m vert si for "That's really where all of the growth is and it's got onLne ulva:rtirin ! � a lot of topography,"Follis said. "It makes for a Thursday's A really nice layout. It's going to hit all aspects of the Eagle S market. C A The higher-priced end of the housing market tends to http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/113000newhousingarea.htm 12/06/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 2 of 3 f ' ^psi n be overbuilt in some cities, said Jack Harris, a research economist at the Texas A&M University Real Estate Center. "We've got a very stable economy, but not an Austin-like booming economy,"Harris said. Housing permits are up about 2 percent from last year,he said,but sales on the multiple listing service were down 9 percent from January to September. The service is a database of houses on the market for Realtors. "It's looking like we passed our peak,"Harris said. Overbuilding in strong economies is typical, but should be absorbed by the market eventually, he said. "A lot of new supply comes on just as demand starts to fall,"he said. Phillips said he is not concerned. "The economy would have to slow greatly for Bryan- College Station to stop developing,"he said. The subdivision should be complete in about seven years with more than 1,000 lots,he said. Infrastructure is being placed in the subdivision. College Station City Council approved$374,638 for the construction of a 24-inch water line to serve the area north of Greens Prairie and west of Earl Rudder Freeway South. Jim Callaway, development services director at College Station, said the number of neighborhoods in the area is expected to grow. "We've had a really strong single-family residence in that part of town,"he said. "[Castlegate is] going to give a residential product that we haven't had." The Texas Department of Transportation is planning projects in the area to accommodate growth. The proposed Texas 40 would connect Earl Rudder South at Greens Prairie Road to Wellborn Road near Graham Road. Transportation officials said the four- lane highway will accommodate traffic from A&M http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/113000newhousingarea.htm 12/06/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 3 of 3 activities and growth in south College Station and j will reroute large truck traffic around the two cities. The project is in the design stages, and construction is anticipated to begin in three to five years, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Transportation officials also are planning to widen Wellborn Road to four lanes in five to seven years. The road would be constructed from the proposed Texas 40 to Harvey Mitchell Parkway South. Phillips said Texas 40 would enhance access to the neighborhood. "It's just going to help development,"Phillips said. "I definitely don't see it as a detriment to the property." Follis said the neighborhood would be separated from the highway by a 300-to 400-yard grassy area. "I don't think [Texas 40 is] going to carry a lot of traffic," she said. "[Castlegate] was designed around highway 40." Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhipp(avheeagle.com © 2000 The Brvan/Colleae Station Eagle Privacy Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/I 13000newhousingarea.htm 12/06/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page I of 4 Subscribe Todav! The�Tg_lle 979-77 -2345 , ..... ....... ... ----------....................................... . ......................................... Brazos Business Lcrl e- today V 9e&y­^g91e5poftr.tomr­X1d%-1Coff*r--TheW"ther--The Eagte Calas�slltftwfed SYUr Brazos Business Brazos Business>Local Business Bmik"r monitor Chanibets ofCcmwietce High tech company could bring $6 billion �Jovcff)ber c)-,i, CduMd1*Es I Econ&atiedevelopawnr investment to local economy LoeA business *A WfleyFooi By LAURA HIPP PR Newswire strielly Business Eagle Staff Writer Tim forms&infomia(ion The Bryan-College Station area is one of four NIPTe-ot communities being considered for a high-tech Blazos HlisillcnN manufacturing plant that could bring a$6 billion Hnua S1111day Cwnpaign-,(XX) investment and 3,000 new jobs. ClAull-alists ConululnilN Sources said Advanced Micro Devices of Sunnyvale, Bogle F�,uth&Value,% Calif, is negotiating with the Bryan-College Station health Fitnoii Economic Development Corp. for location of the Marne&Garden Memo) plant. Mum NooNwqx'm in H111jummm Advanced Micro Devices, a leading processor manufacturer, is evaluating two prospective locations RegHtn in Bryan and one in College Station,the sources said. EDC Chairman Ron Blatchley would not disclose the name of the company,but said the one-million- square-foot facility would manufacture newly developed 12-inch wafers used to make computer Advertising processing chips. thecagle.com "They're looking to expand, and we happen to be one of the locations they are considering,"Blatchley said. hoice fo Yxur!�Zriising!'" "Obviously, it is a highly sought-after expansion Check ' N project." Thursday's A Eagle S Bryan and College Station are competing against C Austin, San Marcos and a town in Germany, A Blatchley said. R http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/I 12900hightechcompanyhere.htm 12/06/2000 ,The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 2 of 4 Advanced Micro Devices has similar manufacturing facilities in Austin and Germany. Blatchley said the company would make a$3 billion to $6 billion capital investment in the project. Within five years, it would employ almost 3,000 people. The plant would be built in two phases within four years,he said. The company will choose a location either this month or by the end of the first quarter of 2001,he said. Officials are looking at land in both cities,but not in any local business parks. The high-tech manufacturing facility would push economic development leaders toward their goal of increasing the presence of the technology industry in the county. "We're talking about changing the face of Brazos County,"Blatchley said. If the company were to choose the twin cities, Blatchley said, several other businesses that sell products to the plant would locate in Bryan and College Station. That could add another 3,000 jobs to the local market. "It's a very clean industry,"he said. "It's all the things that any city would die for." Blatchley said he could not comment on any incentives that would be offered to the company. But he said that the same considerations used to lure other businesses are being evaluated. "We sell what we as a city and county are willing to do to accommodate their needs,"he said. Advanced Micro Devices spokesman Tim Martin would not comment. "It's premature to speculate,"Martin said. More than 50 percent of AMD's sales are international, according to the company's Web site. It has manufacturing facilities in the United States, including the one in Austin, as well as in Germany, Japan,Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and China. AMD reported record numbers during the third http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/112900hightechcompanyhere.htm 12/06/2000 ,The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 3 of 4 quarter of this year,with$1.2 billion in sales, $263 million in operating income and$409 million in net income. In the same period last year, the company recorded sales of$662 million, an operating loss of $99 million and net loss of$106 million. The company's stock dropped 6.5 percent Tuesday to close at $17.75. AMD is in the early stages of manufacturing a 12- inch wafer, said John Halton, assistant dean at the University of Texas College of Engineering. The AMD Athlon processor competes with Intel's Pentium chip. "These companies often trade places as having the highest performance chip,"Halton said. "Right now, some say Athlon outperforms Intel." But,he said, that depends on the chip's primary use. He said high-tech companies generally want to locate facilities in different areas to diversify their work force. i "They need to spread out a little bit because the labor may be used in that area,"he said. Wafer manufacturing plants can offer jobs for different education levels,Halton explained. Engineers with bachelor's degrees and technicians with associate's degrees or high school diplomas are typically employed at the facilities. Salaries usually start at $50,000,he said. "These are very sophisticated jobs that demand expertise in the way they do things,"he said. Blatchley said the area's low unemployment rate should not hinder the project because graduates from Blinn College and Texas A&M University would be available. "The biggest selling point I can make is we have a university that is not duplicated in the state of Texas,"he said. "We have these kinds of resources that have not been tapped locally." Morgan Reynolds, an A&M economics professor, said the area's 1.4 percent unemployment rate would http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/112900hightechcompanyhere.htm 12/06/2000 ,The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 4 of 4 not negatively impact the project as long as the ( company is willing to pay higher wages. �w "There are always employees available,"Reynolds said. "It's just a matter of price. It shows vibrancy in the economy." Laura Hipp's e-mail address is Ihippatheea0e.com © 2000 The Brvan/ColleQe Station Eagle Privacv Statement i r http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/I 12900hightechcompanyhere.htm 12/06/2000 -.; # U ZZ i . No 2 v -0vc� Kudos to the city family of Jeremy Frampton a-3 cV0 they walked in Brison Park among ! Thank you for the story the 12 newly dedicated lights. (Eagle, Nov. 19)by reporter They were solemnly grateful that, Colleen Kavanagh mention- the city had chosen such a mov- ing the new lights in Brison Park ing, fitting way to memorialize the dedicated to the victims of the lives of their son and his fallen Bonfire tragedy. Aggie comrades. The city's efforts in providing When the individual plaques are this fitting memorial were based permanently installed in Brison ® on a city initiative to install Park, the city will have added antique lighting fixtures on select- another permanent reminder of ed streets in the historic Southside the co-mingled history of College neighborhood. Councilman Station and Texas A&M Univer- Dennis Maloney deserves much sity. We can all enjoy the memori- credit for this project, as do al lights in the park and the other Deborah Jasek of the College antique streetlights in the Station Historic Preservation Southside neighborhood. Committee and David Gerling of Kudos to the city of College the College Station Parks and Station. Recreation Department. DOCK BURKE On Sunday, I talked with the College Station The Eagle City �f College St s NUvn I(19, a 1 Production i V receives aid College Station, Brazos County must sign off on abatements, land By LAURA MPP to give TV Tree Productions five puppets and children who live in a entity on the following schedule: posal. Eagk Staff Wraff ��I�(D I2(�) acres in the city's business park national park and is designed to 60 percent the first year, 40 per- In return, TV Tree must con- and a five-year tax abatement. teach communication skills and cent the second, 30 percent the struct a 20,000-square-foot build- Economic development officials The 9-month-old production conflict resolution. third,20 percent the fourth and 10 ing with production studios and approved Wednesday a tax abate- company is testing a pilot of its The program has been shown in percent the fifth. offices, the proposal states. The ment and land acquisition for a children's show Camp AOK, Dallas and is being tested in Seat- The City Council will consider capital investment would be at television production company in according to the incentive propos- tle and New York,he said. giving TV Tree five acres of land least $2 million for the building, Bryan. al.TV Tree is negotiating to sell 25 Pending approval from the Col- in the Business Center at College furniture, fixtures and equip- The Bryan-College Station Eco- half-hour shows to PBS, the pro- lege Station City Council and Bra- Station, ment. nomic Development Corp. posal states. zos County Commissioners Court, The tax abatement could save The company must employ 25 approved an incentive package Darrell Campbell, company the company could receive a five- the company an estimated that would allow College Station president,said the show features year tax abatement from each $26,857.60, according to the pro- See AID,Page A_U Ow V The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 1 of 3 R Subscribe "Today! hh Pe 9 7 2345 _.._............-----............._—.....................-...-- ----.....................--. - Bruzos Business ��be todilyl The Brran-College Station Eat�leI Wednesday,becember 6, 2000 N Ovem b ey WMAMBr 16 , 2Ow Brazos Business>Local Business ..___.... Bankn iteChanibers nrimitur Columnists runerce' Economist tells community leaders of good cJtUMniS[9 Ezon6micdevelopment times ahead Local business Wtley Fool By LAURA HIPP PR Neu ire SttiedyBusiness Eagle Staff Writer Tar forms&inf rm:uion A Texas economist predicted a continued strong economy for the Bryan-College Station area, but with Bnuos BILSinevi slightly slower growth over the next five years. 011W Sunt4�� t:ounpaign;i?Ctli c:Otnnnitct3 Ray Perryman, president of the Waco-based Perryman Group,told local economic and liagte Faith government leaders that a booming population, Texas l►OJ11e t;:#da1 A&M University and a positive business climate Fimne&(.:uden Mexico could bring desired growth in the area of high-tech Mil on jobs. Obniariex ()tIinn),►x cc ltegKnn This place has been to me a sleeper for a long time Spur4w because you're close to a major airport, you have this stx,(light eat resource over here that trains some of the finest thLv4&.r am technical people in the country, and I think a lot is 'I@)iint Mnulklw Wotkl beginning to coalesce and come together,"Perryman said. The area is gaining a reputation for trying to recruit Advertising high-tech industry,he said. theeagle.com He said the Bryan-College Station area has an advantage over similar towns with the same tech your line dvertivi for dreams—A&M and Blinn College can supply labor online advcrtioin>t! Check N to companies that move here. ThuEagler days A Earl Rudder Freeway is well-connected to other state S C and interstate highways, and Houston airports are A nearby,he said. Smaller technology companies that http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/111600edcfundstotvproductio.htm 12/06/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 2 of 3 are operating locally show the cities can support the f new industry. \r• "All that points to an opportunity to do something and make it work,"Perryman said. "I think that is a very good focus for this community because it's realistic." Perryman projects that the gross economic output for the area will increase at 3.71 percent each year, reaching about $3.95 billion in five years. That would be down from the 4.96 percent growth of the past five years. The number of workers in Bryan and College Station could reach 89,410 by 2005, according to a report Perryman prepared for local leaders. That is a 2.17 percent increase each year,which is equal to the state's expected growth rate. The employment growth rate from 1995 to the present was 3.5 percent annually. The area's history of low unemployment should not be detrimental to any economic development efforts, Perryman said. The unemployment rate is 1.4 percent —the lowest in the state. "For the type of skilled worker you're talking about, I don't think there's going to be any significant shortage there,"he said. The largest job-growth areas will be in mining, finance and producing durable goods, such as computers, he said. Projected growth rates for those industries are 4.56, 4.82 and 5.12 percent, respectively. But the service industry, government and wholesale and retail trade will remain the largest employment sectors,he said. Ron Blatchley, chairman of the Bryan-College Station Economic Development Corp., said he agreed with the projections. "We're pretty much on target with what we're doing,"Blatchley said. Perryman said growth in the national economy http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/111600edcfundstotvproductio.htm 12/06/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 3 of 3 should continue, no matter who ultimately wins the disputed presidential election. "We have done a very detailed analysis of Bush's plan, Gore's plan,what happened if who wins, and when you look at the national economy as a whole, it doesn't make a great deal of difference,"Perryman said. "If I take the Bush plan, I get a little bit higher growth but a little bit higher inflation. So there's a little bit of a tradeoff there. If I take the Gore plan, the growth is a little bit lower but the inflation is a little bit lower. In both cases,we're taking about a tenth of a percent." The true challenge,he said,will be passing legislation through an equally divided House and Senate. Ten Senate members and 13 Representatives are considered moderates and do not always follow the party line. "Those are the people who are really going to determine the legislative agenda,"he said. • Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhinpaa,theeazlexom © 2000 The Brvan/Colleue Station Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/111600edcfundstotvproductio.htm 12/06/2000 Lion I , k Tuesday,November 14,2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle Page A3 News Bryan, CS city attorneys to draft smoking ordinances By COLLEEN KAVANAGH they will lose business and their of the seating as nonsmoking with yourself, go ahead, but do it out- back to the two councils for consid- Eagle Staff writer customers should dictate whether a minimum of 4 feet between the side. I don't like smoking, and I eration. There will be no major they allow smoking. two sections. think all of the bar owners who say changes to the current ordinances, The Bryan and College Station "We need to be sensitive to our Smoking is not allowed in restau- they'll lose business are wrong. members said, unless they are city attorneys will draft proposed business owners,because they're rants with less than 50 seats. People aren't going to quit coming adopted by both city councils, modifications to the cities'smok- going to be impacted one way or ■The modifications would not to bars because they don't allow because they do not want to put ing ordinances,including placing another,"Garner said."Hopefully apply to outdoor patios. smoking." restaurants in one city at a compet- a ban on lighting up in restau- it will be positive and minimal." Committee members discussed As home-rule cities, Bryan and itive disadvantage. rants between 6 a.m.and 10 p.m. The 6 a.m.to 10 p.m.rule,simi- allowing smoking if ventilation College Station have the power to "If College Station agrees and Joint legislative committee lar to the city of Austin's ordi- systems are added to restaurants to enact whatever smoking ordi- Bryan doesn't,I don't want to see members—made up of an equal nance,would allow for most of the ensure that nonsmoking patrons nances they choose, Cargill and College Station adopt it," College number of council members from dinner crowd to clear out before are not exposed to second-hand Cosentino said, including a com- Station Councilman James Massey each city — discussed possible smoking is allowed,College Station smoke. plete ban on smoking in public said."We could have a joint meet- changes and asked Bryan attor- Councilman Ron Silvia said.Also, Bryan City Councilman Mike places. ing to deliberate and take any ney Michael Cosentino and Col- he said,the lift on the ban would Beal said he sees both sides of the "You decide where to draw the action." lege Station attorney Harvey accommodate late-night customers issue and remains undecided.But, line,"Cargill told the committee. Cargill on Monday to put the mod- to restaurants that are open 24 he said, if the councils exempt If the drafts gain the approval of ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address ifications into ordinances, which hours,such as The Kettle. restaurants with expensive venti- the committee,they will be taken is ckavanagh@theeagle.com they will review again in Decem- "I don't see how it could hurt the lation systems, it puts smaller or ber. businesses if we did it in both privately owned businesses at a ommittee is in the middle Bryan and College Station,"Silvia disadvantage. wing the two cities'ordi- said. "I can't buy the notion that "I cannot reconcile that,"he said. rAW that involve smoking in all people will drive to Houston for "I don't like that." public places to make sure that dinner just to be able to smoke." Don Ganter, who owns several they are strict enough to protect Other proposed modifications restaurants and bars,including the the public from second-hand are: Dixie Chicken,said he supports the smoke.The issue was brought to ■A clause exempting bars from councils'pursuit of tightening the the councils by the six-member the smoking ban. A bar would be ordinances.Only one of his estab- Brazos County Board of Health, defined as any establishment in lishments, Chicken Oil Co., falls which voted in October to support which at least 70 percent of gross into the restaurant category,but he a ban of smoking in all public annual sales come from alcoholic would support a complete ban on places. beverages. smoking inside public buildings. "The question is not do we want "If we use 70 percent, I think "Why hi the world should people to do this,"College Station Coun- you're definitely dividing the bars be allowed to blow smoke into cil member Winnie Garner said. and restaurants,"Silvia said. other people's lungs?"said Ganter, "We do.But,how?" ■ Between 10 p.m. and 6 am., a nonsmoker. "If you want to kill Members of the Brazos County current ordinances would apply. chapter of the Texas Restaurant That means that restaurants with Association said they do not sup- more than 50 seats still would be port more restrictions because required to designate at least half • The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 3 Subscribe Today! 9he;;- 34� 5 ........... ............ ...................... ................................. ................................... ��; Region §I-s-cribe -todnyl November Bryan-Colleg,_e Station 77/j 1777 Region>Local I Regional Texas Bfj2&s Wley Note6)rk Bryan, College Station draft proposed smoking Rebatits bans Dateb,-ok RestaurantIALnit&r By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Lottm- A ,breaking news Eagle Staff Writer P bre The Bryan and College Station city attorneys will draft proposed modifications to the cities' smoking Bruz(A Busim, ordinances, including placing a ban on lighting up in CaaVaiga 2(XX) restaurants between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. cc lnnut�stg OIL Fagk- Joint legislative committee members—made up of & an equal number of council members from each city Home"CGUdell —discussed possible changes and asked Bryan Xlexico attorney Michael Cosentino and College Station in Eduotm attorney Harvey Cargill on Monday to put the modifications into ordinances,which they will review again in December. The committee is in the middle of reviewing the two 111mayleso"I J c,,u%Altmin;iv cities' ordinances that involve smoking in all public Wodd places to make sure that they are strict enough to theeagle.com protect the public from second-hand smoke. The issue was brought to the councils by the six-member icz for Brazos County Board of Health, which voted in Ur 'MirdZ sing! October to support a ban of smoking in all public rplaces. "The question is not do we want to do this," College Station Council member Winnie Garner said. "We ■ (3 Zo do. But, how?" BraZOS Members of the Brazos County chapter of the Texas Business Restaurant Association said they do not support more every Sunday restrictions because they will lose business and their http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I I 1400bryancssmokingordinan.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 b.'a the Eagle customers should dictate whether they allow smoking. • "We need to be sensitive to our business owners, because they're going to be impacted one way or another," Garner said. "Hopefully it will be positive and minimal." The 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. rule, similar to the city of Austin's ordinance, would allow for most of the dinner crowd to clear out before smoking is allowed, College Station Councilman Ron Silvia said. Also, he said, the lift on the ban would accommodate late- night customers to restaurants that are open 24 hours, such as The Kettle. "I don't see how it could hurt the businesses if we did it in both Bryan and College Station," Silvia said. "I can't buy the notion that people will drive to Houston for dinner just to be able to smoke." Other proposed modifications are: - A clause exempting bars from the smoking ban. A • bar would be defined as any establishment in which at least 70 percent of gross annual sales come from alcoholic beverages. "If we use 70 percent, I think you're definitely dividing the bars and restaurants," Silvia said. n Between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., current ordinances would apply. That means that restaurants with more than 50 seats still would be required to designate at least half of the seating as nonsmoking with a minimum of 4 feet between the two sections. Smoking is not allowed in restaurants with less than 50 seats. - The modifications would not apply to outdoor patios. Committee members discussed allowing smoking if ventilation systems are added to restaurants to ensure that nonsmoking patrons are not exposed to second- hand smoke. Bryan City Councilman Mike Beal said he sees both sides of the issue and remains undecided. But,he http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/111400bryancssmokingordinan.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 said, if the councils exempt restaurants with expensive ventilation systems, it puts smaller or • privately owned businesses at a disadvantage. "I cannot reconcile that,"he said. "I don't like that." Don Ganter, who owns several restaurants and bars, including the Dixie Chicken, said he supports the councils' pursuit of tightening the ordinances. Only one of his establishments, Chicken Oil Co., falls into the restaurant category,but he would support a complete ban on smoking inside public buildings. "Why in the world should people be allowed to blow smoke into other people's lungs?" said Ganter, a nonsmoker. "If you want to kill yourself, go ahead, but do it outside. I don't like smoking, and I think all of the bar owners who say they'll lose business are wrong. People aren't going to quit coming to bars because they don't allow smoking." As home-rule cities, Bryan and College Station have the power to enact whatever smoking ordinances they choose, Cargill and Cosentino said, including a complete ban on smoking in public places. "You decide where to draw the line," Cargill told the committee. If the drafts gain the approval of the committee, they will be taken back to the two councils for consideration. There will be no major changes to the current ordinances, members said, unless they are adopted by both city councils,because they do not want to put restaurants in one city at a competitive disadvantage. "If College Station agrees and Bryan doesn't, I don't want to see College Station adopt it," College Station Councilman James Massey said. "We could have a joint meeting to deliberate and take any action." Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanazha,theeazle.com © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/l11400bryancssmokingordinan.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 Subscribe Today! t!4Lhee • 979-75 ................___.............................................. . .......... .. ..... _.._...._.......- .._...__...___..._...................._.......... _...__.........__... Ke 1o1MT.Jn7V OK M be` I I i'll Region>Local/ Regional Texas 'Brazrs VAIley Noteb,:,A Traditions Golf Course celebrates Reg oacg groundbreaking Births Datebook RestaurrantAoitor By HOLLY HUFFMAN Lotterq AP breaking news Eagle Staff Writer 'Secti���na Scores of people gathered at the future site of the Traditions Golf Course in Bryan for a isTu,.S,,,xLty groundbreaking ceremony Friday afternoon. t:atttpa,gu?t1tt11 t:olanmiets c,mnarnin Those in attendance watched various officials alternately step up to a small hill and dig into the soft I` ith a I I ahi,&h1u,, earth with one of 11 shovels adorned with large j """"'`""`'"' bright gold bows—often stopping in mid-throw to \auun pose for one of several cameras. \ewx}xy en ut E-A"txni Obitimies 011in4nu Among those in attendance were golf course designer 8,xL.<' Jack Nicklaus II, Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler, Texas StuxI*;ht A&M University golf coaches Jeannie Sutherland and Bob Ellis Chamber of Commerce president tlt^c:,.ete_rvm � 'Icx sA!m,nx Royce Hickman, C1ubCorp senior vice president of `}"Id development Carolyn Ellis, Jordan Signature theea le.com Properties president Paco Jordan, the Traditions •► board of governors executive committee and Texas "°�i"for A&M officials. an6nc ui+rcrtisin¢! Nicklaus walked the land that soon will become an rea 18 hole- course Friday afternoon. He described the property as "gorgeous"and said that his father, Jack ■01 Sr., loved the land. ■ "Both of our impressions of the property is, `You've BraZOS got something that is really special here,"'Nicklaus Business said. every Sunday http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/111100traditionsgroundbreak.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 in the Eagle "I think we can build something that a lot of people are going to enjoy for many years." Nicklaus said the trees stood out more than anything yt g else on the property. He added that Turkey Creek, which runs through the property, could be enhanced and made more attractive and said the property also had good soil. He said the goal in designing a golf course would be to make it playable and exciting,but not too challenging to the golfer. "There are a lot of different thoughts that go into designing a golf course,"he said. "We have to sit back and figure out, `What type of golf course are we going to build? Resort,public or private?"' He said the design of a public course is aimed at moving golfers through the course quickly. In a private course, like Traditions, designers can do "more exciting things,"he said. "We build a golf course that suits the people that are going to play it day in and day out, which is the membership,"Nicklaus said. Stabler said he was excited to have reached the first stage in the development process. "It's kind of a big sigh of relief when you are finally able to turn the ground and you known it's actually going to be a reality,"Stabler said. Holly Huffman's e-mail address is hhuffman(&theeagle.com .......__ _ . ......... .........._. .... ............ .................... ..... ........... ................._......_......._..._........__....._..... _, © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaUl 11100traditionsgroundbreak.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 5 4 Subscribe Today The e 979-7 -2T4, ........_. ......... _ .........._..... _................_ _ ......_...__ ........ 6.234 Region i , Wv�M ber The Brvari-Colle,,e Station Eagle A(A EL Region>Local/Regional Texas Brazos 5lleyNotet..wrk College Station Council denies restaurant Obituaries zoning request Births oateurak By COLLEEN KAVANAGH ReAtanwarit ll'k?Ai[iH iUnM Eagle Staff Writer AP breaking news ,--� College Station City Council members denied a controversial zoning request for a restaurant, encouraging the owners to return with plans that l3ruers Stendry^ • c:ampais�i �x ► would give the city more control over the C'ol""' fists development. Eagle Faidi&`ucs Delph and Glenda Ross, owners of Koppe Bridge Bar I lealth&Finwc Ilolm&Garden & Grill on Wellborn Road, hope to open a second restaurant on Harvey Road, east of Earl Rudder ylxrs in Iuhuati n Freeway, and requested that the 1.7-acre tract be Obinuries zoned commercial-business. Opiaiolm srihm spwmt i�fir Council members, who are in the middle of `1&hm)6* reviewing the city's development codes and zoning tlxagle_"'n' ordinances, said they wanted tighter control over the 'lesre.vm�n;a 1i i!d possible effects a restaurant would have on the neighboring Harvey Hillsides subdivision just before th eagle.ccom the 5-1 vote denying the request without prejudice. }•our b for That was the second time in a year the request has online advertising! been denied. r "It has nothing to do with the personalities or the people," Councilman Dennis Maloney said. "It has to 01 do with the property, and that's why I would vote ■ against it." Braws Mayor Pro Tern Larry Mariott voted against the move Business to deny the request, saying the Rosses already have every Sunday shown their commitment to the community and http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 11000cscouncil.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 5 in the Eagle deserve to move forward with plans for a second restaurant. Other council members said the denial had nothing to do with the people involved. They said that zoning is tied to the property, not the owner. So, if the Rosses sell the property, there are a variety of other uses allowed under commercial-business zoning. That was the argument used by several residents of the subdivision, which is outside of city limits, because a zoning change would allow for a variety of other uses, including hotels, theaters, large-scale retail and nightclubs. They said they also have concerns with noise, lights and additional traffic. The Rosses and two neighbors of the Wellborn Road location said that would not be an issue. They promises a"locally owned, family-operated" restaurant that would not affect area residents. Mariott said the council seems to be to concerned with people not following through with their plans. • "Why do we distrust everybody so much?"Mariott asked. "It seems to me it's almost like we've gotten burned whenever we rezone something. Show me where in this town we've been burned." Other council members opposed to commercial zoning said they would approve a rezoning if the Rosses presented a request for a planned development district, or PDD. They encouraged the couple to return with those plans as soon as possible. City officials said such districts typically are recommended for controversial developments, and they give the city more control over the property's use. That was the recommendation of both city staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission. With a PDD, the council would approve plans for the development before granting the rezoning. That way the zoning is tied to the property, they said. "Whenever you zone something, the zoning goes • with the property, not the intention,"Maloney said. "There is no control. "The only way to protect the future of our city is a PDD because we flat out don't have ordinances yet to protect ourselves. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaUl 11000cscouncil.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 5 "It seems to me that if they go through a PDD and come back, we're all going to say yes,"he said. The Rosses could not be reached for comment after the meeting. They previously have said they did not seek a PDD because it significantly increases the cost of development. Councilwoman Winnie Garner,who works for the bank the Rosses use, abstained from the vote. In other action, council members changed the city's employee health benefits plan and divided $243,655 among about 600 employees as part of the city's gainsharing program. Julie O'Connell, the city's human resources director, said the health benefits package affects some 1,300 employees and dependents. A newly adopted health policy calls for providing affordable, competitive health care options and making changes to the plan before increasing premiums. C The city is under a self-insured health benefits plan, O'Connell said. Based on recent increases in claims as well as trends in the medical industry, she said, additional plan changes are needed to maintain the employee benefits fund and meet the city's financial policies. The council adopted a recommendation from city staff, which received recommendations from an outside consultant, to implement a$250 deductible for in-network care at The College Station Medical Center and a$500 deductible for care outside the city's contracted Texas Municipal League network. At present, there is no deductible for covered employees' in-network care at The Med,but there is a$250 deductible charge for employees who receive care outside the network. Those changes are estimated to save the city$92,000 annually, O'Connell said. The changes will take effect in January. Under the gainsharing allocation, eligible employees will receive $334 before taxes. The program, in its http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/111000cscouncil.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaURegional Page 4 of 5 , fourth year, is designed to encourage employees to find ways to reduce costs and generate budget savings. Employees saved $730,965, two-thirds of which will go into the city's fund balance. The remaining third will be distributed. In other action, the council approved: - A request for oversize participation—when the city increases the size of a water line, it pays the difference in cost—for the construction of 7,200 feet of 24-inch waterline from the intersection of Texas 6 and Greens Prairie Road to serve that area. The city's cost is $374,638. - Three equipment purchases that involve the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency: $487,500 for a landfill compactor; $338,440 for a track type tractor that moves dirt in the landfill; and $295, 075 for two dump trucks also used for moving dirt. - A contract with GKG.NET, Inc. for a • comprehensive Internet and E-government plan. The contract to help the city plan for business over the Internet will cost $41,225. - A $147,700 change order on a construction contract for additional odor control improvements to the Carter Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Bryan Construction Co. is under contract with College Station to construct odor control improvements on three of four major treatment processes that a 1999 engineering study identified as odor sources. The change order will partially address the fourth source, according to a council report. - An interlocal agreement with the city of Bryan for the purchase of supplies and materials. - A change order on a construction contract to add 700 feet of storm sewer along Church Avenue and Second Street. This will provide drainage from the parking garage and a connection to a storm drain on Church Avenue and will cost $102,180. On Aug. 10, the council approved a$1.3 million contract with Elliott Construction Inc. for the Northgate Sewer Trunkline Project. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaUI I I000cscouncil.htm 12/05/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 5 of 5 During the workshop, the council directed city staff to negotiate a contract with Dean International Inc., a C. public policy consulting firm, to develop a transportation improvement plan for College Station. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavana-ah(a,theeazle.com © 2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eagle Privacv Statement (W (W http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 11000cscouncil.htm 12/05/2000 1 _ xC „ ey K To Nov, auou Revisions to smoking ordinance discussed BY JosEeH PLEASANT I(� ent alternatives to the current policy, said."Enforcement could fall under the added that waiters and waitresses work- The Battalion 1 some of which would completely pro- 'health department,the fire marshal's of- ing in the smoking sections of restau- Smokers in the Bryan-College Sta- hibit smoking in public areas,change the rice or even the building inspector's of- rants tend to have higher chances of de- tion area may have to put out their ciga- building requirements for restaurants or frce,if the council changes requirements veloping lung cancer. rettes when eating out if proposed revi- add more regulations for restaurants. on the actual structure." Many B-CS residents,as well as lo- sions to the cities'smoking ordinances A joint meeting between the city Enforcement of the ordinance will cal restaurant owners, attended the are passed by the Bryan and College Sta- councils and the Brazos County Com- be a concern of the city councils when meeting to voice their opinions about ticn city councils.The councils are con- missioners Court was held last Thursday making their decision. the proposed revisions. sidering revising the current smoking or- night at the Brazos Center. "There is no safe level of exposure to "Being in the presence of smoke is a dinances,possibly banning smoking in Cargill,city attorney for Col- cigarette smoke,"said Dr.Dallas Coate physical assault,"said Howard Fredrics, .public areas. lege Station,addressed the issue of en- of the Brazos County Health Authority. a College Station resident and a Texas Currently, area restaurants permit forcing the smoking ordinance. "Even if the smoke cannot be smelled, A&M music professor. smoking in designated areas. "Currently it is$100 to$500 fine for carcinogens are still being inhaled." John Greer,a College Station resident, The councils are considering differ- smoking in a nonsmoking area,"Cargill Citing a California study, Coate See TOBACCO on Page2A. Brown's feelings were echoed by TOBACCO other restaurant owners. Paul McNamara, beverage and Continued from Page lA hospitality manager for Red Lobster. • said changing the ordinance would af- raid he does not support prohibiting fect his restaurant's operations. smoking. "It's hard to compete in our indus- "I am a nonsmoker and 1 do not try.A smoking ban will impact sales," think we have the right to go to a pub- McNamara said. lic restaurant and ask for nothing dis- The city councils have not made a agreeable to happen,"Greer said. decision about revising the smoking Greer said smokers have the right ordinance. to smoke in public if they want,even The councils will separately revise if others do not approve of it. the ordinance. Coate said the ordinance is not about rights. "This is not a human rights issue, this is a public health issue being dis- cussed,"Coate said. David Posadas,owner of Zarape restaurant in Bryan,said his restaurant supports the revisions and has already y.. implemented its own policy. Sunday has been designated no- smoking hours at our restaurant and our business has not suffered. In fact, it is better;customers thank us."Posades said."We are not sell- ing smoking rooms—we are sell- ,� in,food." Tf Howevr, other B-CS restaurant owners voiced opposition tote pro- posed changes. "if it is a public health issue,why hasn't the state health board done any- thingT'said Bob Brown of the Kettle restaurant. Brown added that prohibiting smoking in restaurants would be bad for his business. "The economics of this could be ANDY HANcaDKfr"t.BAr A'1— devastating to my business,"Brown )oshua Munsterman smokes a said. cigarette while waiting for his The Battalion On-Line - Revisions to smoking ordinance discussed Page 1 of 3 E I Ma;tftlWaal�T=@nj �.■ - Thursday - NoCNT ' 2000 ENT ARCHI OACT MAIN SECTIONS J Great Rewards Click to az, Front Page pply now! ^- "rr�u"7 " ! 0"l0 •; Featured Photos Aggielife J TODAYS Revisions to smoking ordinance HEADLINES Sports discussed Americans Snorts Briefs await inion Florida's The Battalion recount Mail Call _.......... ..._._...... ...__._... By Joseph Pleasant Ca us Staff writer Yell leaders State/Local for OU World/Nation Smokers in the Bryan-College Station area may have to 'Towel Out' News in Brief put out their cigarettes when eating out if proposed People in News revisions to the cities' smoking ordinances are passed by Local voter the Bryan and College Station city councils. The registration Science and questioned Technology v councils are considering revising the current smoking questioned _- • Comics ordinances, possibly banning smoking in public areas. Revisions to Staff Currently, area restaurants permit smoking in smoking Contact Us designated areas. ordinance discussed Radio The councils are considering different alternatives to U.S. Senate the current policy, some of which would completely points Don't forget to prohibit smoking in public areas, change the building A&M prof to visit Texas requirements for restaurants or add more regulations for OASI _ A&M's restaurants. University WWII website!It's an Aggie A joint meeting between the city councils and the hero's lost Tradition. Brazos County Commissioners Court was held last Aggie Ring Thursday night at the Brazos Center. found Harvey Cargill, city attorney for College Station, battalion.tamu.edu ... ►r+ iR r addressed the issue of enforcing the smoking ordinance. Your News Source for Texas A&M. "Currently it is $100 to $500 fine for smoking in a want to make a nonsmoking area," Cargill said. "Enforcement could fall Comment?The under the health department, the fire marshal's office or Battalion Feedback even the building inspector's office, if the council Forum changes requirements on the actual structure." ©2000 The Battalion.All Rights Reserved.Problems, ® comments,suggestions? Enforcement of the ordinance will be a concern of the Contact Webmaster. city councils when making their decision. I Don't forget to http://www.thebatt.com/old—Style/daily/fp4.html 11/09/2000 The Battalion On-Line-Revisions to smoking ordinance discussed Page 2 of 3 . "There is no safe level of exposure to cigarette smoke," visit Texas A&M s ® said Dr. Dallas Coate of the Brazos County Health Universitv Authority. "Even if the smoke cannot be smelled, website!It's an carcinogens are still being inhaled." Aggie Tradition. Citing a California study, Coate added that waiters and waitresses working in the smoking sections of restaurants tend to have higher chances of developing lung cancer. Many B-CS residents, as well as local restaurant owners, attended the meeting to voice their opinions about the proposed revisions. "Being in the presence of smoke is a physical assault," said Howard Fredrics, a College Station resident and a Texas A&M music professor. John Greer, a College Station resident, said he does not support prohibiting smoking. "I am a nonsmoker and I do not think we have the right to go to a public restaurant and ask for nothing disagreeable to happen," Greer said. • Greer said smokers have the right to smoke g o e in public if they want, even if others do not approve of it. Coate said the ordinance is not about rights. "This is not a human rights issue, this is a public health issue being discussed," Coate said. David Posadas, owner of Zarape restaurant in Bryan, said his restaurant supports the revisions and has already implemented its own policy. "Sunday has been designated no-smoking hours at our restaurant and our business has not suffered. In fact, it is better; customers thank us," Posades said. "We are not selling smoking rooms -- we are selling food." However, other B-CS restaurant owners voiced opposition to the proposed changes. "If it is a public health issue, why hasn't the state health • board done anything?" said Bob Brown of the Kettle restaurant. R,-.,.. .AA_ http://www.thebatt.com/old—style/daily/fp4.html 11/09/2000 The Battalion On-Line - Revisions to smoking ordinance discussed Page 3 of 3 1J1VW11 auu%,u L11RL F1V111U11111Y, 0111VAA115 111 1%,aLRu10.11LJ would be bad for his business. "The economics of this could be devastating to my business," Brown said. Brown's feelings were echoed by other restaurant owners. Paul McNamara, beverage and hospitality manager for Red Lobster, said changing the ordinance would affect his restaurant's operations. "It's hard to compete in our industry. A smoking ban will impact sales," McNamara said. The city councils have not made a decision about revising the smoking ordinance. The councils will separately revise the ordinance. We're looking for feedback on the layout: comments, • suggestions, likes/dislikes or anything else you would like to say. Feedback Forum 1'114 ©2000. The Battalion. All Rights Reserved. ......... . Front Page 11 Ag ig elife 11 Qpinion 11 Sports 11 State 11 World 11 Science& Technology Campus 11 News in Brief 11 Mail Call 11 People in News Comics 11 Sports in Brief 11 Editorial 11 Contact Us 11 Staff 273702 • http://www.thebatt.com/old—Style/daily/fp4.html 11/09/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 Subscribe Today The ki—gle • 979-777 -2345 Region 979.776.2345 Wednesday,November 8, 1 2000 Nownbe-,r MIN SonflreT..,,uy —U-0-0 Tlie Eagfe­,0ass*ed Store W) 2 kegl,jll Region>Local/ Regional Teas Braa,s Vallev Notebook College Station Council to revisit restaurant ReoAs aabirua zoning plea By COLLEEN KAVANAGH APfr.Adng,new, Eagle Staff Writer The College Station City Council on Thursday will consider for the second time a controversial rezoning i request that would open the door for a second Koppe Bridge Bar&Grill on Harvey Road. Eagle Council members also will consider changes to the F.1411&V.1141c, city's employee health benefits plan and dividing $243,655 among about 600 employees as part of the city gainsharing program. ObmuticN Opitfimv% The rezoning request is for a 1.7-acre tract on Harvey Rego Road east of Earl Rudder Freeway that was once the I�jxfms I jxtthghl site of Jose's restaurant, which burned down. I vhnl,hw,ro 11ILeagic.com The applicant,Koppe Bridge owner Delph Ross, has Wotk-I requested that the zoning be changed from thecagle.corn agricultural open to commercial business to allow for the restaurant. Nearby residents have opposed the your bcsl choice for zoning change because it would allow for a variety of online aclvcrtising! other uses, including hotels, theaters, large-scale retail, and nightclubs, if the council grants a special use permit. City staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission have recommended that the request be denied. Both said that Ross should come back with a planned Brazos development district, or PDD, application. City Business officials said such districts typically are every Sunday recommended for controversial developments, and http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 10800cscouncil.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle I they give the city more control over the property's use. With a PDD, the council would approve plans for the development prior to granting the rezoning. On other matters, Julie O'Connell, the city's human resources director, said College Station has prepared a proposed health benefits package that would affect some 1,300 employees and dependents. The proposal calls for providing affordable, competitive health care options and making changes to the plan before increasing premiums. "We are trying to hold down the city's costs as well as employees' costs," O'Connell said. "When there are premium increases, they affect the city and employees." The city is under a self-insured health benefits plan, O'Connell said. Based on recent increases in claims as well as trends in the medical industry, she said, additional plan changes are needed to maintain the employee benefits fund and meet the city's financial • policies. City staff, which received recommendations from an outside consultant, has recommended that the city implement a$250 deductible for in-network care at The College Station Medical Center and a$500 deductible for care outside the city's contracted Texas Municipal League network. At present, there is no deductible for covered employees' in-network care at The Med,but there is a$250 deductible charge for employees who receive care outside the network. Those changes are estimated to save the city$92,000 annually, O'Connell said. If approved, the changes would take effect in January. Under the proposed gainsharing allocation, eligible employees would receive $334 before taxes. The • program, in its fourth year, is designed to encourage employees to find ways to reduce costs and generate budget savings. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 10800cscouncil.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 Employees saved $730,965, two-thirds of which will go into the city's fund balance. The remaining third is what is available for distribution. In other action, the council will consider: - A request for oversize participation—when the city increases the size of a water line, it pays the difference in cost—for the construction of 7,200 feet of 24-inch waterline from the intersection of Texas 6 and Greens Prairie Road to serve that area. The city's cost is $374,638. - Three equipment purchases that involve the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency: $487,500 for a landfill compactor; $338,440 for a track type tractor that moves dirt in the landfill; and $295, 075 for two dump trucks also used for moving dirt. - A contract with GKG.NET, Inc. for a comprehensive Internet and E-government plan. The contract to help the city plan for business over the Internet would be for$41,225. • - A$147,700 change order on a construction contract for additional odor control improvements to the Carter Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Bryan Construction Co. is under contract with College Station to construct odor control improvements on three of four major treatment processes that a 1999 engineering study identified as odor sources. The change order would partially address the fourth source, according to a council report. - An interlocal agreement with the city of Bryan for the purchase of supplies and materials. City Manager Tom Brymer said the agreement should save the cities money. - A change order on a construction contract to add 700 feet of storm sewer along Church Avenue and Second Street. This would provide drainage from the parking garage and a connection to a storm drain on Church Avenue and would cost $102,180. On Aug. • 10, the council approved a$1.3 million contract with Elliott Construction Inc. for the Northgate Sewer Trunkline Project. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 10800cscouncil.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 During the workshop session, the council will meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission to discuss development code review and revisions, a continuation from the last workshop session. The council also will discuss the city's plan for sidewalks and hiring a consultant to develop a transportation improvement plan. The workshop will be at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaghaavheeagle.com. -- . © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Eagje Privacv Statement • • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/i 10800cscouncil.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page I of 4 Subscribe Today! The jUrRie 979-77672345 979.776.2345 Brazos Business . tscribe todav; 11111M'151� 1 Wednesday,November 8, NOVern bc-f si 2000 END" L*Ai,,W,L'idftluy yg,eSports,1.oM Kid,iwt i it f ,ne Vleather The Ea9te Classified Store Bush Library Brjzus Business Brazos Business>Local Business ......... .... ....Bankpate monitor ChambmofCc,"ner,v Economic Development Corporation considers c-alumnisrs Economic developawftt new director and future Uxnd business Niottey Fc.)] By LAURA HIPP PR Newmire Striedy Business Eagle Staff Writer Tim fe mms&information As local economic development officials move to Site replace a chief executive who left in October for the BlayoN Hwslli'N' private sector, some are examining the future role of • Btu,. ,nutu> the agency that assists in business growth. Campai _kXX) The Bryan-College Station Economic Development F�6111&Vkhjes Corp. board of directors has received proposals from I IC31111&[411CM six search firms to find a replacement for Robert I 41411C&G.39LI4It Nkmo. Worley,past chairman Lynn Stuart said. Worley opened a local office of Somervell.Partners, a Glen Rose, Texas-based commercial and residential development company. SINitligilt T"'Chw6gy EDC officials are reviewing proposals from Sockwell tIlewg.exom and Associates of Charlotte,N.C.; Joan Jorgenson Consulting of Annapolis Md.; The Pace Group of Tupelo, Miss.; Johnson and Associates of Austin; Ralph Anderson and Associates of Dallas; and DMG- Maximus of Dallas. Advertising One firm should be chosen by December, Stuart said. He expects the position to be filled in about six theeagle.com months. t choi- for your lcra�dvcrh'in sing! The firms were recommended by Chuck Sippial, vice • president for administration at Texas A&M Check N University, and Bryan and College Station city Thursday's A managers, he said. Eagle S Va4l_' C http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/1 10800edcconsidersdirector.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 2 of 4 r M"Al Stuart said the firms had positive recommendations R from the Texas Department of Economic Development. With the search for a new leader under way,board members also are reviewing the corporation's role in local economic development. A committee is examining the structure and relationship with the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce. Stuart said when economic development corporations began popping up a decade ago, they were under the umbrella of a chamber of commerce. Now, many are moving to an organization similar to the Bryan- College Station Economic Development Corp., he said, as an independent agency that works with the chamber—not under it. "The trend is toward independence,"he said. "The chamber's a full-time job. The EDC's more of a single purpose. It just seems like to me that if you put the two together, you're going to dilute one of them or both." • He said he would like the entity to continue its push to bring high-tech companies and expand existing businesses. "That's come to be a pretty big part of our growth," he said. "We've got to keep that up and keep that going. One of the first things I've learned [is] your best source of growth comes from the businesses you've already got." Successful existing businesses will stand out when the new chief executive is trying to bring new companies to the two cities,he said. Thriving businesses would show an economy that could support new companies. "I want to see somebody that has the ability to continue to work, to organize us to work as one community and to present us as a place to do business in," Stuart said. "Somebody who wants to come to our community. • Somebody that thinks this is as good a place as we think it is." Brazos County Judge Al Jones said he encourages - - - - - - - - - --- - - - http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/I 10800edcconsidersdirector.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 3 of 4 developments that employ highly skilled workers but also wants those that supply more blue-collar jobs. "I don't want to see it labeled as strictly a high-tech area,"he said. "We have to have industry that offers [work] to the entire community. I'm still a favorable proponent of Sanderson Farms. They are employing a better quality of life. We need to look at other things as well. Then we have to make a decision." Jones said he would like a new president that would continue Worley's principles and have strong communication skills. "I think the efforts of the EDC, in the past,have been good,"Jones said. "We should be looking for a replacement that has a lot of the same philosophies Robert had." A person that would continue a proactive approach to recruiting businesses is the only desired characteristic Louis Newman can name in a new leader. Newman, also a past chairman, said he is in favor of • reviewing the EDC's structure. He said one consideration is moving the responsibility of existing business expansion away from the EDC and to the Chamber of Commerce. "I'm a little bit troubled, or at least would like to see a review, of the EDC offering incentives to businesses,"he said. He said the EDC was formed to attract new business from outside the community but he questions the agency's role in giving incentives to existing local companies. "These are really two different roles, in my mind, really separate roles,"Newman said. "They're both important, no question,but they're different." Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhipp(a,theeaale.com http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/110800edcconsidersdirector.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 4 of 4 2000 The Brvan/Collep-e Station Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.thecagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/110800edcconsidersdirector.htm 11/08/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 ' it Subscribe T Thy'odxv! #e 979-7-71-,23'45 Region 979.776.2345 N0vCM bC( �, - Tuesday,November 7, 2000 III I I III 11,]1111[1 Lquillull 1111,11 II'II1JJ1ALJIJIIIIIIIII III HHHHHH; Region>Local Regional TesAs i Biwos VAIry N,&e6:.A Grimes County opposes plans for landfill Obituaries Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Datebu,& RestaurmtMonitor Eagle Staff Writer ANDERSON—Grimes County officials and residents are working to prevent neighboring Bryan :etc :icLt _tts and College Station from bringing a regional landfill ,S,roct., to the county, modeling their tactics after a Millican O t „r,tra� 20W group that successfully fought the same battle just G"A111111istq (.,,tnnotnnN over a year ago. F';Igle Fili'll&NAles leulth&Viinem Bryan and College Station officials have said there is little the county can do to prevent the Brazos Valley Xh:\]m Solid Waste Management Agency from locating a landfill there. jr Obituatits (pillinno; Grimes County srzzas Ctunry Gdmos corgyFq_1i Gibbons SIX)(light Commissioners Frank Creek Glass and Doug coli'me station Reservoir 'IcXA%AIJAURA' Morris have scheduled an caries *Proposed thleeagle.com organizational dunip$he meeting in Iola on swrcv.chy Of coftgv stavorl Ii4gle graphic Your best choict for Thursday night, online adveriisinK! hoping to recruit people and money for what they expect to be a lengthy fight. They have posted flyers throughout the county and have mailed letters to property owners in the northwest part of the county, Glass said. They also • are working to recruit Brazos County residents who BraZOS live along Texas 30, the road trucks would travel to Business get to the proposed site, he said. every Sunday http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaUl 10700dumpsitefight.htm 11/07/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle "College Station had major concerns and found it was not appropriate to put it in Millican," said Glass, Ca retired real estate broker and architect. "Without our input, they decided to put the landfill in our county. They are at the front door to a beautiful county that we love very much, and they have decided without input that that's where they're going to put it. "If no one wants to give any money, nothing will be done,"he said. "It takes money to build a case, as evidenced in Millican. There are some large landowners in that area, and I don't think it will be hard to identify a plan of attack and implementation program." Bryan and College Station City Council members recently approved an option to purchase about 390 acres of land located south of Texas 30,just across the Navasota River. The agreement gives the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency, a joint operation between the two cities, five years to complete the purchase for about $1.56 million. • Bryan and College Station officials have praised the site's qualities. It is near a main highway, out of a floodplain and contains clay soil, ideal for a landfill. BVSMA director Jim Smith said the agency will use modern landfill design methods, including liner systems, leachate collection and treatment operations. Daily cover, adequate staffing and litter fences will be used to reduce litter, odors and other potential nuisances, he said. Smith said the landfill would not allow such things as paints and motor oil. Even if some of that material gets in, the landfill will have a liner, he added. "That's why we have liners and a collection system, because we know that stuff like that can get in," Smith said. "We are going to protect the ground, period." Only about 200 acres is needed,but BVSMA and city officials have said they want to make sure that there is enough land to serve as a buffer. All of the permits NOW for a landfill will have to be approved by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, and that process takes between three and five years. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/l 10700dumpsitefight.htm 11/07/2000 i The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 If the councils continue their pursuit of the Grimes • County site, there may be little Grimes can do to stop it, officials said, if it meets technical and environmental standards set by the state. Grimes County officials can zone that part of the county to not allow for landfills. But, if they choose that option, they have to zone an area specifically for a landfill and cannot oppose it, said Rick Conner, Bryan's public works director. "Then, you've got to provide an area that meets environmental standards,"he said. Grimes County officials said if a landfill is built there, that acreage would be taken off the county's tax rolls. They said that reminds them of when the Texas Municipal Power Agency, of which Bryan is part owner, located in Grimes County. The move took away about 200,000 acres from the tax rolls. "That's the feeling that comes back to me,"Grimes County Judge Ira E. "Bud"Haynie said. "And now, ® they want to take more." Haynie said BVSMA has offered $40,000 each year until the landfill is built and opened as a compensation for the lost tax revenues. BVSMA also has offered to provide the county a tipping fee for each ton left at the landfill, Smith said, as a compensation for the lost tax revenue. That fee remains under negotiation, he said, declining to reveal that offer. Haynie said Grimes County officials believe that the landfill is a political issue that Bryan and College Station officials do not want to address, so they are "transferring the burden of that heat over to another county." "They know they've got the right to do it, but they also know, in my estimation, that there is land available in Brazos County,"he said. The cities have been trying to find a site for more than a year, after the College Station City Council withdrew its support from the proposed Millican site. A group of landowners and residents on or near the http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/110700dumpsitefight.htm 11/07/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 land proposed for the first site—at Texas 6 and F.M. 159—formed the South Brazos County Citizens for Intelligent Development to fight the location of a landfill in their back yard. That group hired a public relations firm to help it promote the detailed reasons behind its opposition, including that it would have been accessed from Texas 6, a major gateway into the community. The group had press conferences, wrote letters to city officials and used advertising to get their message out. Shortly after the group formed, the College Station Council withdrew its support from the proposed site, effectively killing the plan because any site has to be approved by both cities. Glass has been collecting information about the group and the numerous concerns it raised with the previous site. If there is enough support at Thursday's meeting, which will be at 7 p.m. in the Iola Community Center,he said, attendees will form a committee to take charge of the fight. "We would invite interested people on the eastern side of College Station to come join us for positive discussions on how this can benefit how it will impact everyone," Glass said. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavana--h@theea-gle.com C 2000 The Brvan/Collep-e Station Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 10700dumpsitefight.htm 11/07/2000 The Eagle Q } ,City of College Station News �- Ov. 312cw0 okingrights � ate , b-CS city councils, residents speak out on topic By COL LEEN KAVANAGH many of whom opted not to speak pub- Health Department's board of direc- Ea Eagle Staff Writer � ' 13)WOO licly, clapped and cheered when they tors, which is composed of officials agreed with the speakers. from the three entities. The group The controversy over where people Bryan, College Station and Brazos voted last month to ask Bryan and can light a cigarette heated up Thurs- County officials began reviewing the College Station to ban smoking in day night as an equal number of oppo- cities' ordinances to determine if they restaurants because of the dangers of nents and proponents stated their are strict enough to shield nonsmok- secondhand smoke. views in an emotional tug-of-war ers — mainly restaurant patrons — Before the public was permitted to about smoking in restaurants and from secondhand smoke. speak, the group reviewed ordinances bars. "This has been a community effort and steps other Texas cities have About 24 area residents and busi- to try to look at common interests that taken to deal with the issue. ness owners made their feelings we all have," College Station Council- Those who opposed any increased known at a meeting of the Bryan and man James Massey said at the start of restrictions argued that smoking in College Station city councils and the the meeting. restaurants is a case of individual lBrazos County Commissioner's The issue was brought to the city , Page A4 Court. Members of the audience, councils from the Brazos County See SMOKING i said. "Just as you expect clean bers said they were concerned Smoking Water, I think you should expect that smoke drifts into nonsmok- clean air." ing sectios.Restaurant representatives dis they said,doese n ty wo km Also, From Al agreed.They said no medical stud- they said, they do not believe that ies have proven that secondhand customers will drive to Houston rights and economics — restau- smoke in restaurants is harmful. or other areas to dine, despite rants will lose business if smok Also, they said, several cities such claims by opponents. ing is banned, and customers, not that enacted smoking bans have In College Station, smoking is government, should make that rescinded them; other cities have banned if a restaurant has fewer decision. seen restaurant sales plummet than 50 seats. If there are 50 or Bryan resident John Greer, a after Representatives bans. more seats, up to 50 percent of the nonsmoker, said although smoke rant of local restau- seating can be designated as a ex bothers him, it bothers him even pressed concern about smoking area and barriers and more that officials might try to losing business. ventilation must be provided. legislate the issue. indut's hard to compete in our Bryan's smoking code for food I don't think government y. A smoking ban will establishments calls for at least 4 should try to legislate that noth- affect our business and restau- feet of floor space between smok- ing bad happens to us," he said, rants n the area," said Kevin ing and nonsmoking sections and citing a list of things that irritateMcNamara, who is employed by that the building be ventilated him in restaurants, such as noise Red Lobster. "From talking to our and situated so that air from the and sneezing. "I personally take guests, we do know that it will smoking area not be drawn. offense to sneezing in restau- have terns n impact, and it deeply con- across or into nonsmoking areas. rants, so maybe we need to con ms e Options for change include a sider an ordinance on that. g Station council mem- complete smoking ban, stricter "That's not what we make laws about, I don't think," Greer said, adding that people need to be more tolerant of each other. a Proponents said secondhand smoke is a public health concern ventilation requirements, added Many factors will be involved and the rights of nonsmokers are barriers and increasing the dis- in any decision,even if it's a deci- jeopardized if they inhale second- tance between smoking and non- sion to make no changes, council hand smoke. They argued that smoking sections. Cities such as members have said.There was no more nonsmokers would go to Austin ban smoking until food decision and very little discus- smoke-free restaurants, and if service is stopped for the day or sion Thursday — the meeting both cities amend their ordi- unless it is between 10 P.M. and 6 was adjourned immediately after nances at the same time, busi- a.m. Another possibility, officials the public hearing. nesses will be on equal ground. said, is requiring smoking areas Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler "We live in a country founded to be completely enclosed, as is said he did not know when the by freedom and individual the case at some airports. rights," said Howard Frederics, a next meeting will occur. music professor at Texas A&M University. "But we also live in a country where individual rights end when they hurt others." Added Justice of the Pea e Charles Ellis, who has lost throe "My sense is that [the commit- family members to cancer and tee wh]focus on the ventilation," has two uncles who have emphy- he said. "It still allows restau- sema but never smoked: "I do not rants to have a smoking section, think that economics should be but it gives better control from a the basis of damaging someone nuisance standpoint for those else health." who don't like being around Dr. Dallas Coate, a physician smoke." who serves as the Brazos County ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail Health Authority, briefly diSL address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com cussed the dangers of tobacco smoke, saying there is no basis to say there are any safe levels of environmental tobacco smoke. Tobacco smoke, he said, is cate- gorized with other Class A car- cinogens, such as asbestos. "It's a public health issue," he �e 4—t1 t$ "y'D,yi �f„Zk 5. si,N.�'+i;�. ' K �ofCoe� e� t ion Views y L� Restaurant patrons weigh By HOLLY HUFF 4AN &Wle Staff Writer in on smokers' rights children.So,it is a routine occur- "I think a business should have rence for the United States history a choice as to whether or not they teacher to tote a plastic container want to allow smoking,"she said. Kelly Molkentine is a frequent of her students'papers and a pack "I think there is enough room in visitor of the Kettle Restaurant in of cigarettes up to the restaurant. this world for everybody ... but I Bryan.And,despite the mountain Friday evening was no different understand for the people who of middle-school papers that she from Molkentine's regular trips. don't smoke, they find it offen- carries in to grade,she finds her She settled into a back booth at sive." trips relaxing. the Kettle and,before even remov- Bryan,College Station and Bra- Molkentine,of Bryan,is a ciga- ing her grade book from the gray zos County officials will tackle the rette smoker,but she doesn't like plastic filing box, she lit a ciga- issue of where people can smoke to smoke at home or around her rette and took a deep breath, this week when they undertake a review of ordinances to see if they the dangers of secondhand smoke. Brazos Valley rest ens had are strict enough to shield non- Council officials said no deci- mixed reactions to the news that smokers — mainly restaurant sion would be made without a full the two cities were reviewing patrons — from secondhand review of the issue and many fac- their smoking ordinances. Views smoke. tors will be involved in any deci- ranged from those in favor of a The review comes after the Bra- sion, even if it's a decision to total smoking ban to those that zbs County Health Department's make no changes.But one of those felt like added restrictions were board of directors, comprised of factors will be seeking public an infringement on their civil officials from the three entities, input at a joint meeting of the gov- rights. voted earlier this month to urge ernmental agencies at 6 p.m. Molkentine said she is against Bryan and College Station to ban Thursday at the Brazos Center, smoking in restaurants because of 3232 Briarcrest Drive in Bryan. See REACTION,Page A8 But she said she understands Texas A&M University junior the Fox&Hound sports bar and restaurants that provide her a Reaction both sides of the issue,especially Clarie Rode agrees that it is grill in College Station. section to smoke in.It is only on for patrons in the Kettle Restau- inconsiderate and bothersome "I've been sat in the nonsmok- occasion that she goes to a restau- rant, because there is no clear when smokers light up near her. ing section,and when the person rant that is smoke-free, she said From Al division between the smoking However, Rode said, wafting next to me lights up a cigarette, as she was leaving the Kettle. and nonsmoking sections. smoke has never been a problem you might as well be in the smok- "I probably wouldn't go out as any type of ban on smoking in "If you don't smoke,when you at any of the local restaurants she ing section,"Main said. much,"Lobdell said of what she public places.And she is not fond walk into the restaurant ... it has visited.She is also hesitant to Main said she would love for would do if a ban were put in of added restrictions on when doesn't matter if you go to smok- infringe on others'rights to do as someone to open a nonsmoking place. and where she can smoke,either. ing or nonsmoking,you can smell they please. bar,but she doesn't think a busi- But as smokers, Molkentine it,"Molkentine said. "I don't want to restrict them ness owner would consider that and Lobdell are not the only resi- But her concern for nonsmok- and their right to be able to feasible. dents that have a negative out- ers doesn't outweigh her desire to smoke,"Rode said while waiting "I love shooting pool,but I can't look on the review of the current have the luxury of being able to for a table at Chili's. "But I don't stand going to the pool hall smoking ordinances. smoke when she chooses. want it blowing downwind." because I come out smelling like Non-smoker Jim Martin of Although Molkentine is not alone Greg Goode of College Station smoke,"she said. Lake Jackson,Texas,is against a in her views,there are many who and Texas A&M junior Rachel Cox said if he were a smoker he ban and further restrictions,cit- take an opposing stance. Kovar are taking an even softer would probably feel put out about ing he does not believe govern- Sharon and Billy Johnstdn of stance against smokers. having to leave a restaurant for a ment should tell private industry Brenham were sitting with their Although both are nonsmokers, cigarette break.But,he added,if what to do. children, Tim, 16, and Rebecca, neither has a problem with sec- restaurants have a smoking sec- Martin, the former mayor of 18,outside of Chilfs Grill&Bar in ondhand smoke or the current tion, then the only way to com- Lake Jackson,said he came with College Station awaiting a table smoking ordinances. pletely isolate the smoke is to pro- his wife, Schelli, to College Sta- when a nearby patron lit a ciga- "Nonsmoking is nice when you vide a separate room for either tion to visit their daughter,Bran- rette. The faint smell of smoke get it,"Goode said while waiting nonsmokers or smokers. dyn,a junior at A&M.While wait- wafted over to the bench that the with Kovar outside of Chili's for a Whitfield also flirted with both ing outside of Chill's for a table, Johnston were huddled around table. "But when it's a home- sides of the issue. he said he felt that businesses and Sharon wrinkled her nose. game night,it's first-available." "I don't think they should be should have the right to choose if "I would definitely be for (a And Goode and Kovar are not inconvenienced just because they they want to allow smoking and smoking bank"Sharon said."We alone. Several residents seem to choose to smoke,"Whitfield said. then deal with the consequence of have allergies...we've had to get straddle the fence on the issue. "If I was a smoker, I would feel their actions. up and leave before." Nonsmokers say thei want the like I would want to smoke wher- Martin said while he was Sharon, who came to Bryan right to sit in a smoke-tYce estab- ever I wanted to." mayor, Lake Jackson tried to with her family to shop and then lishment,yet some are willing to But she said she didn't think it implement a smoking ban bui it decided to stay and eat,thinks of try and understand the smokers' would be a big inconvenience to failed miserably.His current per- it as a matter of courtesy."I can't plight—that of a society that has force smokers to step out to a sonal policy is:If the smoke at a stop breathing,but they could go slowly encroached on a their back patio when they wanted a certain restaurant bothers you, outside." right to smoke. cigarette. don't frequent that restaurant Her husband,Billy,said he just Nonsmokers Amy Main of However, Barbara Lobdell of "I don't think city hall should doesn't like the smell. Bryan and Rich Cox and Jennifer Bryan said she thinks added tell the restaurant owners what "I don't like coming out with Whitfield,both of College Station, restrictions or a smoking ban to do,"he said."Butt out" [my) clothes smelling like debated the idea of strengthening would be not just an inconve- smoke,"he said."It doesn't do a the current smoking ordinance nience but a hassle. Lobdell, a ■Holly Huffman's e-mail address is lot for my appetite." while sitting at a front booth at smoker, said she ftmquents area hhuffman@theeagle.com The Eagle �City of College Stato • 0 a. 30 t; o __F Smo banplan opposed Restauranteurs say it will hurt profits EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the second of a two-part series of stories on efforts by the Brazos County Health Depart- ment to restrict smoking in Bryan and College Station restaurants. By LAURA MPP 1013012-000 Eagle Staff Writer The mere mention of a smoking ban in public places has some local restaurant-owners seeing red, or at least that's what they fear would be the fman- cial fallout if a total ban were enacted. With about 315 restaurants, bars and grills in Bryan and College Station, dining establishments say they would suffer the most should expanded restrictions to limit smoking be approved. The Brazos County Health Department board of directors has asked cities to review their ordinances and significantly reduce locations where smoking in buildings is allowed. The directors contend smoking sections in many restaurants and dining facilities are not adequately separated from the nonsmoking sections and that the health of waitstaff may be affected. Bryan and College Station city councils will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Brazos Center to discuss the issue. See SMOKING, Page A8 tive advantage, said Gunter, icals as the smoke that smokers He said banning smoking from eat,she said. group. "They do this by accom- S m o k n g owner of Taco Bell franchises in inhale, according to the Ameri- his restaurant would drive away Houston does not ban smoking, modating the needs of both smok- the Bryan-College Station area. can Cancer Society. customers who stop there to have but in Austin smoking in public ers and nonsmokers,and they do "I don't allow smoking in Taco Bob Brown,owner of the Kettle a last puff before going to a places is generally prohibited. this by offering both smoking and From Al I Bell, but that's a competitive restaurants in Bryan and College smoke-free workplace. Restaurant owners must place nonsmoking sections." advantage for me and my busi- Station, said proper ventilation "If they can't do that,they'll eat signs that state smoking is pro- Hovanec said the association Greg Gunter, president of the ness," he said. "Almost every- can improve smoky conditions. their eggs at home,"Brown said. hibited or is forbidden outside of had not studied the effects of Brazos Valley chapter of the where they've done this it has Smoking sections at the Kettle A loss in sales would lead him designated areas. smoking bans on businesses,but Texas Restaurant Association, been a disaster. We need to do are about half the size of non- to reduce his staff,he said. "We get a lot of people from the that sales-were affected depend- said the 120-member group does things that increase and enable smoking sections. Sally Ryan,owner of Red Lob- smaller communities," she said. ing on the severity of the smok- not see the issue as one govern- restaurants in the area." In the Bryan facility,fresh air ster Restaurant in College Sta- "I believe those people would go ing restrictions. ment should decide. Gunter also said medical stud- enters the building at the non- lion,agreed that any reduction in to Houston or Austin. They're Not all restaurant owners in "We feel it should be left up to ies have not proved that second- smoking area and flows across to patronage from smokers is harm- going to come to town, they're Bryan and College Station view the individual owner and the con- hand smoke in restaurants is the smoking section, where it ful to the bottom line. going to do their shopping,their more restrictions on smoking as sumer," Gunter said. "The damaging to a person's health. exits the restaurant,said Brown, "Every time there is a smoking eating. I think that would defi- damaging to profits. patrons have a choice where they "While everyone recognizes an at-large board member of the ban, people do lose business," nitely be an effect. We have to David Blackburn, assistant want to eat.All the changes that that smoking cigarettes is bad for local restaurant association. said Ryan,second vice president give people a choice." general manager at the Black- have been implemented are con- your health,there's been no con- Brown said about half of his of the local restaurant group. But a 1997 study by the Ameri- Eyed Pea Restaurant, said the Sumer-driven, not a legislative clusive evidence that secondhand customers are smokers,and he is "People do lose jobs, and some- can Journal of Public Health restaurant often receives com- issue." smoke in restaurants is bad for confident business would drop times people close." states that smoke-free restau- plaints about smokers in the If city officials chose to ban your health,"Gunter said."It has almost 40 percent if smoking The smoking section in Red Lob- rants do not experience signifi- smoking section. The section is smoking, they would take away not been proven to be a health were prohibited. ster is a separate room adjoined to cant losses in revenue. smaller than the nonsmoking sec- some establishments' competi- hazard in the restaurant busi- "The people vote with their feet the nonsmoking area by a door- Another study in the publica- tion and is separated by a short ness." and where they spend their dol- way. Ryan said the consumers tion that same year stated patron- wall and a curtain. When nonsmokers inhale the lars,"he said. "Why legislate for should be allowed to decide where age may even increase in some "We get some complaints when tobacco smoke of others, it is the whole community? The gov- they want to eat based on current smoke-free facilities. About 30 the smoke comes over,"he said. known as environmental tobacco ernment is taking tax dollars smoking policies. smoke or passive smoking. from the smokers,but they don't "I think that people in this com- said they would,frequent respondents He estimated that about smok- per- Smoke in the atmosphere is want me to t m share." muni are intelligent," il fre90 fte smoke- cent Hof e customers were manager P get Y ty lligent," she said. free facilities more often. Eight ers. He and general manager divided into two categories: Brown said several regular cus- "They can choose.I don't want to percent of those surveyed showed Dave Wood said they would sup- mainstream smoke,which smok- tomers come in every day to sit, see the businesses around here get a decreased use. port restrictions on smoking. ers draw through the mouthpiece drink coffee and smoke. hurt and people have to lose jobs." The Texas Restaurant Associa- "We got two comment cards of a cigarette and exhale into the "The guys that come into this Ryan said many of her cus- tion supports the opinions of this past week that said they air;and sidestream smoke,which restaurant, the Bryan crowd, tomers live between the Bryan- local restaurateurs. would not come back until it was comes from the burning tobacco they're so consistent it's incredi- College Station area and Hous- "Restaurants are trying to sat- nonsmoking,"Wood said. in cigarettes. ble," he said. "The smokers are ton. Limiting smoking further isfy the needs of their cus- Environmental tobacco smoke more consistent patrons. They could drive the customers to tomers," said Alison Hovanec, ■ Laura Hipp's email address is contains the same harmful chem- come back more." Houston and Austin to shop and spokesman for the statewide IhippOffieeagle.com :The Eagle t�x �xt -Cit d College tation News • , a9, 2_vc) CS recognizes worker service Eagle Staff Report 1012-8)WW) chief. ognized for longevity in cate- Goehl was chosen from 11 other gories of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years Ninety College Station city employees nominated for the of service. employees were recognized Fri- award. The list was developed The employees who were recog- day night for their public service through peer nomination or from nized for 25 yearn of service were: during the City Stars 2000 awards employees who have received the Tim Fickey,fire; Louis Ocon, pub- banquet at the Brazos Center. city's Standing Ovation And lic works; and Paul Urso, public The event included a special Recognition, or SOAR, award for works. award to Police Chief Edgar Feld- service above the call of duty, city Twenty-year employee award man for 35 years of service and the officials said. With the award, recipients were: Chris Beasley, announcement of the city's Goehl received $500 and a special Jim Connor III, and Steve Hisaw, Employee of the Year, Thomas statue. all from fire; Garry Lange and Goehl, a fire department battalion The other employees were rec- Tony Michalsky, both from public utilities; Jon Mies, fire; Cindy Mixon, OTIS; Luther O'Banion, police; Pat Quinlan and Andy • Ramirez, both from fire; Mark Smith, public works; and Johnny Ward, fire. Employees with 15 years of ser- vice in College Station were: Phil Brown, police; Victor Casares, parks; David Dobbs and Mike Engelman, both from public See WORKERS, Page A14 ored for five years of service. Porkers They were: Bingham, Bain, police; Tonya Bingham,, police; Michele Boriskie, finance; Cecil- From A9 is Browder, Pete Caler, Charles Corkhill, Roy Lee Curtis, Angela works; Chris Gonzales III, public Daugherty, and Craig Dohnalik, utilities; Jerry Hejl, OTIS; Scott all from public ,works; Renita McCollum, police; Jesse Quin- East, finance; George Fite, tero, public works; Keith Smith, BVSMA; Julia Franz, police; police; and Linda Waltman, Daniel Garcia,public works;Karl parks. Goldapp, public utilities; and Ten-year employee awards Ernie Goode, fire. were given to: Rafael Aguirre- Dan Graalum, public utilities; Cuevas, public works; Ross Missy Green, public works; Mike f Albrecht, parks; Ginger Counts, Gutowski, public utilities; human resources; Pete Fitzger- Charles Johnson, public utilities; ald, parks; Paul Gunnels, fire; Ed Chris Kelly, fire; Kevin Kosh, Hard, development services; Cur- parks, Frank Krause, BVSMA; tis Hays, public works; Greg Beverly Langille, OTIS; Arthur Janda, fire; Sabine Kuenzel, Lara,public works;Clint Matcek, i development services; Greg OTIS; Dean Mushinski, BVSMA; { Leeth, police; Sunday Manyose, Adrienne Noah, police; and Joe { BVSMA; and Brenda Martz. Ocon, public works received the Also receiving 10-year-service 5-year award. awards were: Lance Norwood, Also receiving the award were: fire; Julie O'Connell, human David Olivarez and Charles O'Ri resources; Doug Payne, public ley, public utilities; Sonja Pier- Paula Peel,finance; Cathy sall and Paul Price, police; Gus Raney, OTIS; Natalie Ruiz, devel- Roman, OTIS; Bryon Rychlik, opment services; Richard Stew- public utilities; Rhonda Seaton, art and Al Supak, and Pat Walk- police; er, all from public works; Greg Rusty Smith, public works; Wall, public utilities; Mike Wat- Kris Startzman, parks; Ryan son, parks; and Marshall Wal- Stoker, public works; Carl War- lace, public works. ren, development services; and There were 40 employees hon- Sandra Wegman, parks. i The Eagle - � A g Ye a Station News _ Da: ark) awo N Pucker up Eagle photo/Guy Rogers College Station City Attorney Harvey Station's United Way fund-raising efforts. Cargill was the "winner" of the "Kiss the Employees at city hall donated money to Pig" contest. The contest, which ran from the piggy bank of the person of their Oct. 2-20, was part of the city of College choice. C =6Th o eh a =S a' roil ews Center s RIO 11 locatio tox� gets 0_K_ CS approves 2 land agreements By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer College Station City Council members unani- mously approved Thursday two of nine develop- ment agreements required for the city to partner with TAC Realty Inc. on a project to build a hotel, conference center and corporate headquarters. The first agreement involves College Station's purchase of 10 acres of land for the city's confer- ence center that was originally planned for the Wolf Pen Creek area.The real estate contract calls for the city to buy the land off F.M. 60 east of Earl Rudder Freeway South from TAC Realty, a sub- sidiary of The Adam Corporation/Group, for $100,000. The second agreement is a$10 option agreement the city has on nine acres for a performing arts center if that is the location chosen for the cen- ter. TAC Realty also has offered a $1 million donation if a decision is made to include the arts cen- ter in the project and if there are matching funds for the cen- ter from other donors. That ADAM decision will be made by the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley some time next year. Councilman Dennis Maloney said he realizes there is some controversy about where the center ends up, but he thinks this location—just inside College Station city limits — is a win for both cities. "It's in the Bryan Independent School District and College Station city limits," he said. "You • couldn't get a more community-oriented environ- ment, and I think it's a good deal for both cities." In July, the council approved the memorandum for the public-private partnership with TAC Real- ty, which is owned by Bryan businessman Don Adam. According to the agreement: ■TAC Realty will purchase 55 acres east of Uni- versity Drive and Copperfield Drive and construct a 200-room, full-service hotel that will adjoin the city's 45,000-square-foot conference center. TAC also will construct a corporate headquarters for The Adam Corporation. The city has retained PricewaterhouseCoopers to help find a hotel operator, a decision made by both TAC Realty and College Station. Kim Foutz, the city's economic development director, said the city and TAC Realty officials hope to have an oper- ator in place by the end of January. "We have issued a request for proposals, and we received a number of proposals back," she said. "We're working with TAC and our consultant to determine the finalists." ed, Foutz said. Proposals, and the new plan will ■ The city will provide streets, water, sewer From there, she said, College take about a year to develop. lines and other infrastructure needs and give TAC Station officials will work to ■A $1.29 million contract with control of the overall site plan layout, exterior develop the final drawings for the Municipal Drilling Services for design and architecture development of the prop- city's conference center. e y' "Right now, we only have con ellthe cthat ttwill helpction f a sixth water# College Station will construct the extension of cept drawings," Foutz said. the needs of a the city meet Copperfield Drive from F.M. 60 to Texas 30, and The council also approved a set the growing popula- feet. uct a collector street that will not exceed property of guidelines and criteria for ■ The purchase of a ro am2 feet. The city will put the residual property offering economic development ming system that will allow city around the central development in a public incentives for businesses that are employees improvement district, which will fund $500,000 not covered by the Bryan-College tion ighto set school zone icaui ce toward the cost of utilities and improvements for lights from their office that ro ert Station Economic Development rather than having to go out an p p y' h suc as retail Foutz said that the infrastructure is needed to Corporation, , large g manually reset them at the begin- develop that part of College Station,and the cost of commercial and hotel/motel ning and end of every semester; the improvements will depend on decisions about enterprises. The $16,236 purchase will held The guidelines, which were with productivity, city officials unanimously approved, do not See COUNCIL, Page A2 said, because manually resetting commit the council to providing the timers takes a crew about a ids incentives, and all requests must week; the new system will take Council be approved by the council. about two hours. In other action, the council ■ A hardware and software approved: program that allows fire depart- From A 1 ■ Budgeting $500,000 of the ment officials and emergency drainage utility fund for the medical crews to pre-empt a rou- line sizes needed to serve the area. development of a new updated tine traffic signal at 13 intersecr "We estimate that the cost will storm water master plan. Mark tions so that traffic si be somewhere between$3 million Smith, the city's public works 1s will $3.8 million," she said. director, told the council that The fire trucks the right of way. In conjunction with the hotel parts of the current plan are out- The intersections are mainly construction, the second phase of dated, and will her the cityeval Gong Texas Avenue and Univer= Miramont, The Adam Corpora uate more quickly the stotnwa sity Drive. tion's planned golf course, will be ter impacts of development ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address built for hotel and conference Smith said the city will request is ckavanagh@theeagre.com center guests. Officials have not Yet said whether it will be on the original site in Bryan or if it will be moved closer to the hotel. Seven other agreements, including one to determine where the infrastructure improvements are located, and another to deter- mine the construction and design of all buildings, must be complet- The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 Subscribe Today! The Eagle 979-77'&--2345 Region 979.776-2345 scribe todnvi OCto bjr 21, 'Friday,October 27 2000 i rr_3 orts.co Md's xomer Tt _ E ,WUbrar ) R A Region>Local /Regional ......- {2514 tiwoz Valley Notern k College Station council approves agreements Obituanes for conference center Biaths Dateb-I Restaurmi Nkmiwt j By COLLEEN KAVANAGH L.xtrry I Eagle Staff Writer :. l bre it ink ne.u'3 _ College Station City Council members unanimously approved Thursday two of nine development ��"`"°' "'°"" agreements required for the city to partner with TAC t#i:rut.4un:4a� Realty Inc. on a project to build a hotel, conference center and corporate headquarters. Eagle.1�;1C FAith A VUlntl;S health&tulles. The first agreement involves College Station's lt�°llrt{rl:'c�r{k purchase of 10 acres of land for the city's conference Mel<,v„ fl 1, center that was originally planned for the Wolf Pen \el,sigwn ill Creek area. The real estate contract calls for the city (nIi )Eniunr to buy the land from TAC Realty, a subsidiary of The { n Regime Adam Corporation/Group, for$100,000. slu'l ll„hl '`i''"°tr',> . The second agreement is a$10 option agreement the gtll�ra�,le.�iam iTcxA%AIIILUt3v city has on nine acres for a performing arts center if World that is the location chosen for the center. theeagle.corn TAC Realty also has offered a$1 million donation if your iµchnict for a decision is made to include the arts center in the online advnrtising! project and if there are matching funds for the center from other donors. That decision will be made by the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley some time next year. k%am Councilman Dennis Maloney said he realizes there is some controversy about where the center ends up, but BraZOS he thinks this location—just inside College Station Business city limits near F.M. 60—is a win for both cities. every Sunday in t-hp Fnalen "Wo in the Rrc an In 1PnPn lent CPl,nnl nictrWt anll http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102700cscouncilconfctr.htm 10/27/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaVRegional Page 2 of 4 i saa 4a:ti. a.M$sa. f 1L J 111 L11V Ll,'L111 1.11LLV�J V11LLV11L UV11VVl L1JL1lVL LLLI%I College Station city limits,"he said. "You couldn't get a more community-oriented environment, and I • think it's a good deal for both cities." In July, the council approved the memorandum for the public-private partnership with TAC Realty, which is owned by Bryan businessman Don Adam. According to the agreement: - TAC Realty will purchase 55 acres east of University Drive and Copperfield Drive and construct a 200-room, full-service hotel that will adjoin the city's 45,000-square-foot conference center. TAC also will construct a corporate headquarters for The Adam Corporation. The city has retained PricewaterhouseCoopers to help find a hotel operator, a decision made by both TAC Realty and College Station. Kim Foutz, the city's economic development director, said the city and TAC Realty officials hope to have an operator in place by the end of January. "We have issued a request for proposals, and we received a number of proposals back,"she said. "We're working with TAC and our consultant to determine the finalists." - The city will provide streets, water, sewer lines and other infrastructure needs and give TAC control of the overall site plan layout, exterior design and architecture development of the property. College Station will construct the extension of Copperfield Drive from F.M. 60 to F.M. 30, and construct a collector street that will not exceed 388 feet. The city will put the residual property around the central development in a public improvement district, which will fund $500,000 toward the cost of utilities and improvements for that property. Foutz said that the infrastructure is needed to develop that part of College Station, and the cost of the improvements will depend on decisions about line sizes needed to serve the area. ® "We estimate that the cost will be somewhere between$3 million and$3.8 million," she said. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102700cscouncilconfctr.htm 10/27/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 In conjunction with the hotel construction, the second phase of Miramont, The Adam Corporation's planned golf course, will be built for hotel and conference center guests. Officials have not yet said whether it will be on the original site in Bryan or if it will be moved closer to the hotel. Seven other agreements, including one to determine where the infrastructure improvements are located, and another to determine the construction and design of all buildings, must be completed,Foutz said. From there, she said, College Station officials will work to develop the final drawings for the city's conference center. "Right now, we only have concept drawings,"Foutz said. The council also approved a set of guidelines and criteria for offering economic development incentives for businesses that are not covered by the Bryan-College Station Economic Development Corporation, such as retail, large commercial and • hotel/motel enterprises. The guidelines, which were unanimously approved, do not commit the council to providing incentives, and all requests must be approved by the council. In other action, the council approved: -Budgeting$500,000 of the drainage utility fund for the development of a new updated storm water master plan. Mark Smith, the city's public works director, told the council that parts of the current plan are outdated, and will help the city evaluate more quickly the stormwater impacts of development Smith said the city will request proposals, and the new plan will take about a year to develop. - A $1.29 million contract with Municipal Drilling Services for the construction of a sixth water well that will help the city meet the needs of a growing population. • - The purchase of a programming system that will allow city employees to set school zone caution lights fi-nm Chair of,^-v rothur thon hovinrs to rtr% niit o»el http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102700cscouncilconfctr.htm 10/27/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 11 V111 Llll+ll V LIIV%/O 1 KL11N1 L11LL11 11LL V 1116 LV b'V V UL[Lull manually reset them at the beginning and end of every semester. The$16,236 purchase will help with • productivity, city officials said, because manually resetting the timers takes a crew about a week; the new system will take about two hours. -A hardware and software program that allows fire department officials and emergency medical crews to pre-empt a routine traffic signal at 13 intersections so that traffic signals will allow fire trucks the right of way. The intersections are mainly along Texas Avenue and University Drive. - Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanazha.theeaPle.com ......... ............ ........ ___ .............._......................._........................... ......_...., © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Ea&e Privacv Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaU102700cscouncilconfctr.htm 10/27/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 The Subscribe Today! T I he- lc Ita age • 979-77K.-2345 979.776.2345 Region Y _ ( Wednesday,October 25, 2000 T,i.y,.,.Y '•yy.<5r•, y_.,.,,, ,,.t,e,,.. , _ .. . �.o.. _ „ _ .y ..as,,,,__ $"�6i2 `E.�...,,,,.a.r 25 `1 00fdbe Region Local/ Regional Ter-as Rry atleyNuEe6:4, College Station Council to consider conference Obituares center partnership agreements Births Datebcwk Restarrrmr'bkoits,r I By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Loner,' � Eagle Staff Writer AP brea4ang nuts �r The College Station City Council will consider two It'd e property agreements Thursday that involve its partnership with TAC Realty Inc.� a subsidiary of The 1it;iiru Snurla� • caffi0i ,i_ m Adam Corporation/Group, for a 55-acre hotel, ,(:olnuutcecs conference center and corporate headquarters project. t agk l aIrit&VAlues }tcs3d &!itncyc Ita,r;e ti(;;Wden The first agreement to be considered is a$100,000 s, "41Gxic�!, real-estate contract for 10 acres of land on F.M. 60 �c�,�lsgx�s in lsd,uxYmm for a conference center. The second is a$10 option ��}bl[Ilani'1 agreement for nine acres for a performing arts center u" if that is the location chosen by the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley. TAC also has offered a$1 million donation if that is the site chosen and if there are Ic s.vroar, matching funds for the center from other donors. %Vfld .iiilliWliYiiiullltlllinilhIIIIIWIIIIIIIIIIhI IIII I i dilllllll Yllh, theeagle.com "This is the first of many steps to carry out the memorandum of understanding that the council your best choice for approved earlier this summer," City Manager Tom onFinc uc4vcrtisin�. Brymer said Tuesday. In July, the council approved the memorandum for the public-private partnership with TAC Realty, which is owned by Bryan businessman Don Adam. According to the agreement: Brazos Business - TAC will purchase 55 acres east of University every Sunday Drive and Copperfield Drive,just inside College http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500cscouncilconfrencectr.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 ( in the Eagle ( Station city limits, for the project, and construct a 200-room, full-service hotel that will adjoin the city's • 45,000-square-foot conference center. TAC also will construct a new corporate headquarters for The Adam Corporation. The city has retained PricewaterhouseCoopers to help find a hotel operator, a decision made by both TAC and College Station. - The city will provide incentives—streets,water, sewer lines and other infrastructure needs at no cost —for the project and give TAC control of the overall site plan layout, exterior design and architecture development of the property. College Station will construct the extension of Copperfield Drive from F.M. 60 to F.M. 30, and construct a collector street that will not exceed 388 feet. The city will put the residual property around the central development in a public improvement district, which will fund $500,000 toward the cost of utilities and improvements for that property. In conjunction with the hotel construction,the second phase of Miramont, The Adam Corporation's planned golf course will be built for hotel and conference center guests. Officials have not yet said whether it will be on the original site in Bryan or if it will be moved closer to the hotel. In other action,the council will consider: - A$1.29 million contract with Municipal Drilling Services for the construction of a sixth water well. It will help the city meet the needs of a growing population, city officials said. - The purchase of a programming system that will allow city employees to set school zone caution lights from their offices rather than having to go out and manually reset them at the beginning and end of every semester. The $16,236 purchase would help with productivity, city officials said,because manually resetting the timers takes a crew about a week; the new system would take about two hours. -A hardware and software program that allows fire department officials and emergency medical crews to pre-empt a routine traffic signal at 13 intersections so http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500cscouncilconfrencectr.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 that traffic will allow fire trucks the right of way. The intersections are mainly along Texas Avenue and University Drive. - Budgeting$500,000 of the drainage utility fund for the development of a new updated storm water master plan. Parts of the current plan are outdated, city officials said. During the workshop session, the council will meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission to discuss development code review and revisions. Later at the workshop,the council will discuss a proposed policy to calm neighborhood traffic. The policy requires a general consensus in the neighborhood before traffic calming devices, such as speed bumps, are used, city officials said. The workshop session will be at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will follow at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is • ckavanagh(a)theeagle.com © 2000 The Bryan/College Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500cscouncilconfrencectr.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 Subscribe Today! 979-77 ,,2345 y; 979.776.2345 Region todago= � c , l Wednesday,October 25, 2000 The fag- 5'v.e bs4an�.ime;!y 5 g on Region>Local/ Regional Taus Rrte;4\alt ,,rat„k:i Bryan council proceeds with land acquisition t�a,,;�b Oitow Obitu.ni.s measures for golf course Births Dales,kk RemwrantAl,nilor By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Lottery Eagle Staff Writer AS'brealdrig newN Bryan City Council members Tuesday approved condemnation procedures to obtain almost 27 acres 'kuox saw:,l of land and part of another 28 acres for the Traditions 1S;;t«�a 4t;;::,, Golf& Country Club at University Ranch project. (:an�nuinn� o�glc The council voted to take the land, on which the city Faith&Vahles i 1leslFh& held a contract, after property owner William Davros changed his mind about selling, Mayor Lonnie Stabler said. The 6-1 vote,with Councilman Mitch Not-si:rrxi,in EA .Ilmm Morehead voting against, immediately followed a Obittwi . closed executive session. "He was not fulfilling the terms of his contract," ti x dighF Stabler said after the meeting. "We chose to go this rhrca,1C_o:,nt 1"is AknFnm route instead of the enforcement of the contract }„a! process.,, theeagle.corn Davros owns all of the 27 acres,but is one of 16 your bcst uhoict for property owners of the 28-acre tract. Of the 16 13 onlint acEvertising! , are willing sellers and two could not be located. The —� city already has authorized condemnation on their interests, City Attorney Michael Cosentino said. "At one time, [Davros] was a willing seller, and it appears now that he is not," Cosentino said. • Brazos Stabler said he did not know why Davros had Business changed his mind. every Sunday http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500bryancounciltradition.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle "Condemnation is one of the tools we felt we needed to use in this case for economic development,"he • said. In an earlier meeting,Bryan Commerce and Development Inc.'s board of directors,which is made up of City Council members, approved an agreement for the development of the residential and commercial areas within the Traditions project. Morehead gave the only"no"on the 6-1 vote. Tom Coyle, Bryan's project director, said the agreement—which would be with Jordan Community Properties, a subsidiary of CF Jordan— sets up the limited partnership that will handle the property development. The agreement states that Bryan Commerce and Development will provide the land,which costs about$8,000 an acre, and Jordan Community Properties will provide utilities and roads, for $25,000 per acre. The money will go toward creating subdivision lots, Coyle said. As the lots sell, the agreement calls for the city to get a percentage of those sales. According to the proposed agreement, ClubCorp USA, the golf course developer, gets 4 percent, and CF Jordan receives an 8 percent marketing fee. From the remaining proceeds, CF Jordan will get 56 percent, and the city will receive 44 percent, Coyle said. For example,he said, if 25 lots on 10 acres sell for$50,000 each, the city would have spent$80,000 and will receive $484,000 from the sales. During the Hear Citizens portion of the agenda, Bryan resident Frank Thurmond cited an attorney general's opinion involving an economic development project in San Antonio. He said the opinion could be in conflict with the council appointing members to serve on the Bryan Commerce and Development board of directors and tax increment finance zone's board of directors. • Of Bryan's $28 million contribution, $21.3 million is expected to come from a tax increment finance zone, or TIF. In a TIF zone,businesses or residential owners pay property taxes but their taxes do not go to http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500bryancounciltradition.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 the city or county—they go to repay the money spent installing infrastructure in the zone. The TIF • has a board of directors that oversees the payments throughout its 25-year life. Thurmond said the attorney general decided that San Antonio lacked the authority to appoint council members to that particular board. "I think it would be proper for the city to get an attorney general opinion,"he said. "Perhaps you have acted illegally in both the TIF and Bryan Commerce and Development." Cosentino said Thurmond is raising"nonissues" and that Bryan is following the law. "Mr. Thurmond's already had that question answered in detail,"he said after the meeting. The council also approved an option agreement to purchase about 390 acres of Grimes County land for a new regional landfill. The agreement,which already was approved by College Station council members, gives the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency five years to complete the purchase for$1.56 million. The site is located south of Texas 30,just across the Navasota River. BVSMA, a joint operation of both cities, is negotiating to buy the land for$4,000 an acre from Iola resident Harold Trant. City officials have said the land is a prime site because it is off of a main highway, away from flood plains and has clay soil,which is ideal for a landfill. Grimes County officials have said they are opposed to the cities putting a landfill into their county. The two cities have worked to find a site for more than a year,when the College Station council withdrew its support of the proposed site at Texas 6 and F.M. 159. • In other action, the council approved: - An$832,755 contract with Texcon General Contractors for the extension of Pendleton Street. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500bryancounciltradition.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 - A final ordinance reading changing almost 17 acres • from agricultural open to mixed-use residential. The property is located northeast of Texas 47 at Leonard Road and south of the intersection of Higgs Drive and Linda Lane. - A final ordinance reading that allows lot sizes at 2800 Villa Maria Road to be a minimum of 5,000 square feet each. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaQha,theeazle.coin © 2000 The Brvan/Collep-e Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102500bryancounciltradition.htm 10/25/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe Today! The Eagle 979-776z.2345 _ 979,776.2345 Region L' M C;��fi0br 2�f MW ft' 1 ITuesday,October 24,20001 t Region Region>Local/Regional t ,�,t,•�:, n�t 13raz VAle .tYt .i j Bryan council to consider landfill proposal Reo:,tds Obituaries BirthsDa[c By COLLEEN KAVANAGH kestaunutC„°'!' Eagle Staff Writer esta :t�init�a 'I.utlC'Y4' APbreakiuk ne,wN The Bryan City Council on Tuesday will consider an % _- option agreement to purchase about 390 acres of ,C i�tt ils Grimes County land for a new regional landfill. Brazos tiussue. i Ilr.u,iti 4Cudas The agreement, which already has been approved by F�,Coaltnncscs ,,,,,,,,,,,,;,, College Station council members, gives the Brazos AII Valley Solid Waste Management Agency five years h�aith2��.rhres leatth&t:;,n,., to complete the purchase for$1.56 million. I truttc&Garden Mexi 1 "Just as the College Station City Council gave their Na Ne-ANIM)CE,ut ra11>L:.ttxni intent to proceed with that land acquisition, we I Obitararies Opin;,,rt, expect our council to do the same,"Bryan spokesman uegi+tn Jay Socol said Monday. 5�>:xts sixrtlight '`tiinn wry. The site is located south of Texas 30,just across the CJtreaXle_rt>ut Navasota River. BVSMA, a joint operation of both Wolid cities, is negotiating to buy the land for$4,000 an acre from Iola resident Harold Trant. thmagle.conl ,,,r C Lr.hnicc for City officials have said the land is a prime site onlin aElvcztitinq! because it is off of a main highway, away from flood plains and has clay soil,which is ideal for a landfill. Grimes County Judge Ira E "Bud"Haynie said officials there are opposed to the cities putting a landfill into their county. -a Brazos "I just have always felt there are spots in Brazos Business County that would be available for a landfill,"he said every, Sunday Monday. "I think it's just a political hot potato that in 41r, r:loit, +11 n of 12,- _ 0-11 Rn Q+4 + _ n-A D­­ http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 02400bryancouncil.htm 10/24/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 ++• u+�. +..+(�+. Ll"'P'VF1N V1 "Yall, ULQL1V11 CL11LL 1JialLva County don't want to address, so they're putting it off ® on a smaller county next door." The two cities have worked to find a site for more than a year, when the College Station council withdrew its support of the proposed site at Texas 6 and F.M. 159. Bryan Commerce and Development Inc.'s board of directors, which is made up of city council members, will consider an agreement for the development of the residential and commercial areas within the Traditions Golf& Country Club at University Ranch. Tom Coyle, Bryan's project director, said the agreement—which would be with Jordan Community Properties, a subsidiary of CF Jordan— sets up the limited partnership that will handle the property development. The agreement states that Bryan Commerce and Development will provide the land, which costs about$8,000 an acre, and Jordan Community Properties will provideutilities and roads, for$25,000 • per acre. The money will go toward creating subdivision lots, Coyle said. As the lots sell, the agreement calls for the city to get a percentage of those sales. According to the proposed agreement, C1ubCorp USA,the golf course developer,would get 4 percent, and CF Jordan would receive an 8 percent marketing fee. Then, CF Jordan would get 56 percent of the remaining proceeds, and the city would receive 44 percent, Coyle said. For example, he said, if 25 lots on 10 acres sell for$50,000 each, the city would have spent $80,000 and would receive $484,000 from the sales. "Our lot sales would be treated like royalty payments," Coyle said. "Each time one sells,we get the money. It minimizes the city's liability and simplifies the accounting process." In other action, the council will consider: ® n An$832,755 contract with Texcon General Contractors for the extension of Pendleton Street. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102400bryancouncil.htm 10/24/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 n A final ordinance reading to change almost 17 acres from agricultural open to mixed use residential. The property is located northeast of Texas 47 at Leonard Road and south of the intersection of Higgs Drive and Linda Lane. n A final ordinance reading that allows lot sizes at 2800 Villa Maria Road to be a minimum of 5,000 square feet each. The 28 acres currently requires a minimum of 7,000 square foot lots. The council will tour the old city hall, which is soon to become the new home of the Children's Museum of the Brazos Valley, at 3 p.m. At 4 p.m., the council will reconvene for the remainder of the workshop session in the basement training room of the Bryan Municipal Building, 300 South Texas Ave. The commerce and development board of directors meeting will be at 4:45 p.m., and the regular meeting will be in the council's chambers at 6 p.m. - Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh(a,theeagle.com . ..... ............_.........................................................................._............................._ _.............._............................_....._......._. , ©2000 The Bryan/College Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/102400bryancouncil.htm 10/24/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Community Section Page 1 of 1 ,iyour News Now ! __.....__.. ! to a - - r Communily i + ' rs •' ' Wednesday,October 18, I 2000 _,.0." The'Ea9te t r ��n7munil� Community $rnzos galley L.iVing AggieLandPtinter Hazardous waste collection scheduled for Dining Guide Saturday seniot Re.houtee Bt_i: BruzF.s��112y.31rrzxnx Eagle staff report L.ihnuies Cities cawer& Lstw cntc+rcemettt The Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency >tG,etn, will be collecting household hazardous waste free of Iorganizations t Links charge Saturday, October 21 from residents of `��� Brazos,Burleson, Grimes,Leon,Madison, Robertson t c`ott and Washington counties. Ibr!/.!.IlltiniCJi The collection, sponsored by BVSMA and the cities (s ltnzn,its of Bryan and College Station,will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Brazos Center, 3232 Briarcrest Drive in 1?.agle Faith a kAuc. Bryan. Iealtlt&Fitnes. tome&(;:udctt `exicl, The program offers a way to dispose of hazardous 'tt1ou wastes, including items that are flammable, reactive, NL%%NFxyxr,in hducawn Ohitta„t.* corrosive or toxic. Solvents,pesticides, caustic Opinion' cleaners, used oil and batteries are examples of Regime Spot., different types of hazardous waste that will be ht IL,chnok accepted. Tires, medical waste,household garbage, ''Lick hmoh„�� dwccaj& _on, ammunitions and explosives will not be accepted. Wald _.. .......... .. ...... ..... .. . . ................ ©2000 The Brvan/Collep-e Station Eap-le Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/community/101800harardouswastedropoff.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaURegional Page 1 of 2 I Subscribe Today! Th@ `e 979-777.2345 979.7 7 6.2345 Region .�j. ascribe tado . s _M i Wednesday,October 18, 2000 t i u m u i u l,�wiummmi uunnu n�u!4ini m u i i i i�in!n i n i ei i mu *BtxYtit+�"IY�g@tly „yy.(cyt�.a•�.v.+ Kht�;.ukl,�r :�:��+Vleth+�t""""rttE�Eoyrt..Jba:�/�u�UtNe 8tr,.L9bT8t fi'eg�on Region>Local / Regional l.o,r�tFhe�ratlal Temu Arjz°-6 Valle,vN,,teb,,,l Water service interruption near Greens Prairie Rc�,Xwds obituaries Road Births Reatautwif` wlif.r Eagle staff report 3.,i Cl2TV' F'ferc:rkink i�r++'� College Station will temporarily shut off water along Texas 6, south of Greens Prairie Road at 9 a.m. Szte�ectir.�n� lire.Rusin", Thursday to repair water valves in the Greens Prairie Brazo,,SIry aN Road area, city officials said Tuesday. c:ul14ralen,()(t+t (.R1t111rUI1\ts I (h,mrinllllrr The repairs should be completed no later than 3 p.m. 1 ;to Thursday, city officials said, and also will affect t Faith&51{n+x llcAth&Fifltex% Wellborn Special Utility District customers in the Nantucket area. Mex„u Viva, \`w"JuI III'"'"``''`"" Anyone with water service problems during this (�t,;alrtt repair period can contact College Station's public utilities dispatch at 764-3638. For specific k'.�f�14t(L5 @pcxtlgm information about the repairs, contact Ed Savage, the city's field operations superintendent, at 764-3658. i ltix a�,�e.canr fe.e s:111tt+r1� theeagle.com your best t:ltoicc for online advcrtisinq! i Brazos Business every Sunday http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101800wateroffneargrprairie.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 in the Eagle- I .......... . ........ .......... • C 2000 The Brvan/Colleize Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101 800waterofffieargrprairie.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 A The 1100e Subscribe Today! 979-77&--2345 979,77 6.2345 0,Cfober 13, Region 2CCO • Friday,October 13,2000 ­T�Komer T cn. ud,c u wev ......Y Regl"Al Region>Local Regional .......... Bjazos Vatlev Vqeb­k Proposed landfill location announced Obituaries Nabs By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Dateb,--ok Restaulmll NIqlil.t Eagle Staff Writer The College Station City Council agreed Thursday to take an option to purchase about 390 acres of Grimes County land for a landfill. The commitment gives the city five years to complete the purchase for$1.56 C; million. 1 Eagle The 4-0 vote to build the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency's next landfill in a neighboring county came after a 30-minute closed session. Mayor Lynn McIlhaney and Councilman Anne Hazen were out of town, and Councilman James Massey had another commitment and could not attend, city officials said. "It will be a regional landfill,"Councilman Dennis Maloney said after the unanimous vote. "It will serve Winki between seven and nine counties. People will be upset about it in some places and happy about it in thecagle.co M others. Everyone wants their trash picked up, but yow-[ >l C11mcc for nobody wants it put down." onhnc w1vu6sing! Grimes County Judge Ira E. "Bud"Haynie said Wednesday that the landfill is a political issue that the Bryan and College Station councils don't want to aC, address, so they are "shoving"in into his county. The Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Brazos Agency,which oversees the Rock Prairie Road Business landfill, is a joint operation of Bryan and College every Sunday Station. The cities formed the agency a decade ago. in thp Pnolp http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/I 01 3001andfilllocation.htm 10/13/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler said Thursday that a • general consensus, not a full-fledged vote, was taken during the Bryan council's closed session Tuesday. Members supported the agreement so long as it was approved by College Station. "I got an indication that that's the direction the council wants to go,"he said. "We have the opportunity to lock in a willing seller on a piece of property that is just off a main highway, out of a floodplain and which contains good soil for a landfill. "The soil is clay, which is ideal for a landfill." Mark Smith, College Station's public works director, said the landfill also will be located in one of the most sparsely populated areas of Grimes County. "We expected opposition regardless of where we sited it,"he said. "There's not going to be a place anywhere without opposition. But, Carlos is as close as anyone is, so it isn't like there is a home anywhere nearby." • The site is located south of Texas 30,just across the Navasota River. BVSMA is negotiating to buy the land for$4,000 an acre. That purchase would not require issuing debt, city officials said, because BVSMA has the money set aside to buy the land. Only about 200 acres is needed, but BVSMA and city officials said they want to make sure that there is enough land to serve as a buffer. It will take between three and five years to obtain the necessary operating permits. The cities have been trying to find a site for more than a year,when the College Station City Council withdrew its support from the proposed site at Texas 6 and F.M. 159. The council's decision effectively killed the plan because any site had to be approved by both cities. • City officials said they will use modern landfill design methods, including liner systems, leachate collection and treatment operations. Daily cover, nr1a_­nfa otnf"G"" n"d 14+t Fa",Ao 11,01 ha 1,0ad to http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/1013001andfilllocation.htm 10/13/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaMegional Page 3 of 4 LIUVIi U[l�V JLCilllll�CUlU 11«►!1 1V11VVJ YY 111 VV UJVU lV reduce litter, odors and other potential nuisances, city officials promised. In other action Thursday, the council voted to give City Manager Tom Brymer a$7,000 raise, increasing his salary to $125,000 annually. That action followed Brymer's annual evaluation. A controversial rezoning request that would open the door for a second Koppe Bridge Bar& Grill on Harvey Road east of Earl Rudder Freeway was pulled from the agenda Thursday afternoon because a quorum of the council would not have been available for a vote. With three members already absent, another member of the council faced a possible conflict of interest and would have excused herself from the vote. Koppe Bridge owner Delph Ross banks with First American Bank, where Councilman Winnie Garner works, so she would have abstained. The proposed commercial-business rezoning for the 1.7-acre tract, which was first reviewed by the council in September 1999, has drawn opposition from nearby residents. In other action during the 20-minute regular meeting, the council also approved a resolution allowing for condemnation procedures to acquire right-of-way property for the widening of Graham Road. The city needs to acquire additional right of way to continue widening Graham Road from Schaffer Drive to Wellborn Road, city officials said. Negotiations for purchase of the right-of-way have not produced any agreements. City officials said they have not been able the obtain the right-of-way through the normal negotiation process but will continue to work with property owners. The $1.3 million widening is the second phase of the project. The first phase, which was completed this spring, widened the road from Earl Rudder Freeway South to Schaffer Drive. The council also adopted a city theme, College Station: Embracing the Past, Exploring the Future. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/l013001andfilllocation.htm 10/13/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 f The council presented three themes for citizens to chose from on the city's Web site. Of 354 votes, the 0 new theme received the highest percentage of the votes. The theme will be incorporated into all means of communication by the city and be used citywide and by all departments on marketing materials. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ekavanaFhq,theeagle.com © 2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eggje Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/1013001andfilllocation.htm 10/13/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe Tod The!y �1� 979-77 x.�2345 979.776.2345 Region scribe todev 4 I Thursday,October 12, 2000 Y� -9yTIIu r n-u'r Korner T'?e vvc oe'r Tffe>a Cia sitied'�t�re" '8 Regloli Region>Local / Regional Landfill location announcement expected soon Obituaries Births I By COLLEEN KAVANAGH ftesta[,raResta wnT Nk,rI ti Eagle Staff Writer Low* errre''k"' "e„s The city of College Station is expected to announce an agreement on a site for a new landfill in Grimes County. f; IS,aus S[atrtac • c.,,„�aai,;,T AM The announcement could come after the College (:olmmnesw t.ostgnrnnIty Station City Council meets in closed session t•a„ Thursday night, Grimes County Judge Ira E. "Bud" Faith&Values rt�alth&Finw.N. Haynie said Wednesday. II l(n)IC,Gardvr, `i`k"" tauini Haynie said he is not pleased with the decision. 1�nrhyxta 6T}•:dn sis,au ` t Bpi' "s "They're shoving this hot potato into Grimes County kc.gi;},[ I because they don't want to deal with it,"he said. "I ;;�,,, know the needs of a landfill,but at the same time, it's Th,T°ti'� gotten to be such a political issue. The two councils S th4�a�lr.cc3nT rG � _v[r,,naT don't want to take the heat of finding a place in Brazos County." theeagle.com Haynie said he learned about the planned your bey,choice for announcement because representatives from Bryan, online advcriising! College Station and the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency"came to me with the premise that they wanted me to hear it from them,rather than the newspaper." C1He said the officials told him that a property owner is willing to sell the acreage necessary for a landfill. = Brazos Business College Station City Manager Tom Brymer said every Sunday Wednesday officials have been working on finding a http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/1012001andfilllocationchose.htm 10/12/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 in the Eagle site after plans for a landfill in south Brazos County fell through. • "Hopefully, we'll be able to take some action soon," he said. "The council will discuss it and we have it posted under real estate in executive session. Depending on how discussions go, there may be action forthcoming, depending on what action the council wishes to take." Grimes County does not store its own trash, Haynie said. Most of it is taken to a landfill near Conroe, Texas, but some ends up at the current landfill on Rock Prairie Road. Haynie said he finds it difficult to believe that College Station and Bryan cannot find a suitable site in Brazos County. According to the Brazos Valley Council of Governments' solid waste management plan that was updated this year, BVSMA's landfill received 184,250 tons in 1998. • BVSMA accepts waste from the following counties: Brazos, Burleson, Grimes, Leon, Madison, Robertson and Washington. In 1998, there were: 2,534 tons from Burleson; 649 tons from Grimes; 124 tons from Leon; 51 tons from Madison; 422 tons from Robertson; and 574 from Washington, according to the council's information released in March. "The area that has most of the refuse should be the area that takes the garbage,"Haynie said. "I fear that before you know it we'll [be] getting garbage from Harris County." The cities have been trying to find a site for more than a year, when the College Station City Council withdrew its support from the proposed site at Texas 6 and F.M. 159. The council's decision effectively killed the plan because any site must be approved by both cities. In May, Brymer said the Rock Prairie Road landfill could be used for at least five years—longer if the necessary permits are approved. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagha,theea,ele.com http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/1012001andfilllocationchose.htm 10/12/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 ubscribe Today! Th��aY4 979-77Y6.-2345 979.776.234,5 Kegion scribe todav, _ Wednesday,October 11, l 2000 i Si7rrfirra'f�y g ,+yy.�3Vu a_wiae �r r,.t�cc,�, a.+i_.:.�+ Fagte"Ciassrtfed Stare" Suss Libralr egion Region>Local / Regional tyu:�aEfre�i�,rat Texas Braz.es\,Wcy N.` College Station Council will reconsider rezoning Rerx ds Obituaries for new restaurant Births Dateb,.(, Rest unmr Nk+nitor By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Lonely � Eagle Staff Writer R breakirrg news ,iuW+u�irurvn�.,wuiwwrndYiWwiw its ci g� College Station City Council members Thursday will consider a controversial rezoning request that would open the door for a second Koppe Bridge Bar& Grill on Harvey Road east of Earl Rudder Freeway. {.r,lr,nunt. C',rnrrnumn a t� The proposed commercial-business rezoning for the Faith&Vdijes II to-Ath"tri,,,c,, 1.7-acre tract,which was first reviewed by the I i1011 &G.uac,, council in September 1999, has drawn opposition from nearby residents. ;4e_�5s{�x+a rn t:dru,rrsr:ri {Stir rtt,ie+ t>pi+.,irxl5 Their opposition, said College Station senior planner Sabine Kuenzel, is because [commercial-business] Stxrtrs allows too many possibilities. Those uses include hotels, theaters, large-scale retail, and nightclubs, if ih.�-agtc_c+rnt It\asAtIrva-ar- the council grants a special use permit. The tract is zoned agricultural open and was the site thecagle.cc�n� of the Jose's restaurant,which burned down. The ,,mrr brsr chni.c w restaurant was grandfathered in when the city pnGnG at:vvrliSinQi annexed the property, city officials said. Delph Ross owns the Koppe Bridge Bar& Grill. When he first approached the city with the rezoning request, he expressed concerns that if the state decided to widen Wellborn Road, it would affect the existing location of Koppe Bridge on Wellborn, Brazos Kuenzel said. Business every Sunday "1 talked to Ed Hard, our transportation planner, and http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101100cscouncilrezoning.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle he said that was only one of several options the state has ... . My understanding is there has been no decision made." Ross could not be reached for comment at the Wellborn Road restaurant Tuesday afternoon. At previous meetings, Ross has argued that the property already has been home to a restaurant and is buffered from nearby residences by vegetation. Also, he said, the property is on a major corridor into the city, which is where commercial property is typically located. He said that Koppe Bridge is considered a restaurant, not a bar, and 91 percent of sales are for food. "He stated that he would like to redevelop the site into a locally owned, family-oriented small restaurant that would be complimentary to the area," according to commission minutes from Sept. 21. "He also stated that since there are no streets or drive connections to the residential areas to the south, there would not be any increased traffic to the area." • The Planning and Zoning Commission, as well as city staff,recommended that the zoning change be denied without prejudice, thereby encouraging Ross to return with plans for a planned development district (PDD) for the tract. Under normal practices, zoning ordinances are tied to a property—not an owner. So, if a property sells, the owner could change the proposed use, Kuenzel said. In a PDD, however, the council approves plans for the development prior to granting a rezoning. The rezoning would not occur if the applicant fails to follow through on stated plans. Kuenzel said residents had other question and concerns with the zoning. "They are concerned about site development, how it will be oriented, where parking will be, where lights will be,will there be outdoor entertainment, and if so, where," she said. "Those are things that can only be worked out and agreed upon with a [planned development district.]" http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101 100cscouncilrezoning.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 Such districts have been encouraged on controversial rezoning cases, Kuenzel said. • "They allows the city greater flexibility to address the issues," she said. "We have recommended several times to [Ross] that he come forward with a PDD." When the council first took up the rezoning request last January, it sent it back to the commission and city staff saying the area lacked a development plan, Kuenzel said. No such plan has been approved by the commission or the council. "But, our recommendation for this strip is not going to change," she said. "Yes, we would support some type of commercial uses,but only if they are done very sensitively and take the entire area into consideration, not just one piece of property." In other action, the council also will consider a resolution allowing for condemnation procedures to acquire right-of-way property for the widening of Graham Road. • The city needs to acquire additional right of way to continue widening Graham Road from Schaffer Drive to Wellborn Road, city officials said. Negotiations for purchase of the right of way have not produced any agreements. "We have been unable to obtain right of way through the normal process, so we may be forced to use condemnation powers,"Assistant City Manager Glen Brown said. "We have not been able to arrive at mutually agreed-upon prices, and we will continue to work with the property owners." The $1.3 million widening is the second phase of the project. The first phase, which was completed this spring, widened the road from Earl Rudder Freeway South to Schaffer Drive. In other action, the council will consider ratifying the $115,000 bill for water that has already been purchased from the city of Bryan. City officials said College Station purchased the water between July • and September, and funds are available in the water fund. It must be authorized by the council because the purchase is more than the amount that can be approved by the city manager. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101100cscouncilrezoning.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 The workshop will begin at 3 p.m. in the City Hall • Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will follow at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagah2theea l�e ............................. ........... ©2000 The Brvan/Colleize Station Eajzle Privacy Statement • • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101100cscouncilrezoning.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 �! u'bscr lbe Today! Tie' e in 979-77 2345 979.776,2345 — Region Aib e_rlbe todav- VWWVf1Y'1":JW:"1; �V:l�lllVfilIIIVW� �i il�IV1,iRIWiWV�►V I Wednesday,October 11, 2000 ..... Bonfire Tragedy Ag�F Nu - rimer Trae Weather The Eagle Classified Store Bush t1brary Region Region>Local / Regional College Station City Council approves East obituaries Bypass development plan Births RestaumrilXV-ni,,a By HOLLY HUFFMAN Lowry Eagle Staff Writer The College Station City Council on Tuesday night ��st t ��rt`' approved a plan for growth of the East Bypass area despite concerns that developers did not have • t:a,l,E , adequate input into the plan. t:oluni uws i;,,attmnnnt t:.tgic The 5-1 vote occurred after two hours of discussion h'ai,h".11(zics 1 iV,,,,:Fillw, at a special meeting set to discuss concerns about the East Bypass Small Area Action Plan at the College Station Conference Center. in tid,tstiysrn ( I ;u.uieti Councilman Ann Hazen did not attend the meeting. r epitu Mayor Pro Tem Larry Mariott voted against, saying 'tx,rts ssxGght the council needed to give developers more voice in ` 1°"`et3 licuaglex-mu the plan. Marion said if the council didn't take a !i tiAhwin:x proactive approach, it would"be continually fighting redevelopment all along the way." theeagle.com The special meeting took place after the council your bit Choitt'°r delayed approving a vote on the land use plan on on2inc advertising! Sept. 28, citing the need for more time to review its impact on future growth. "There were some questions and especially since we didn't receive a report from [Planning and Zoning Commission] we felt this would be beneficial," said College Station Mayor Lynn McIlhaney. "Small area Brazos planning is exactly that—so that those in the Business [affected] areas have input into the planning of the every Sunday geographical area." http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101100eastbypassdevelopplan.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle Despite some objections, Planning and Zoning CCommissioner Judith Warren and chairman Karl Mooney asked the council to approve the plan. "Ultimately, it will give more protection to existing residential areas and at the same time provide development that is aesthetic,"Warren said. Protests centered on the use of"overlay" and planned development districts. Developers, council members and some commission members contend the districts put too many limits on growth. Overlay districts place even more stringent development restrictions on neighborhoods. Planned development districts require developers to present a detailed plan for a project before a zoning change will be approved. The East Bypass plan should not be looked at as an ordinance or a mandate, Mooney said, but as a guideline for growth. He added that maintaining the ambiance of individual neighborhoods is important, • but reminded residents that some features will change as the city grows. Several examples were given comparing College Station to other Texas cities, including The Woodlands, a city north of Houston, in terms of areas that are growing, yet aesthetically pleasing. "We don't want to be Briarcrest and Wal-Mart," Warren said. "That's just not College Station to me." Councilman Dennis Maloney said he was pleased with the vote because citizens and city staff have spent so much time on the plan. It is only the beginning, he said,because many of the city's 30- year-old ordinances will have to be rewritten to accommodate the plan. "Developers and neighbors were invited to participate,"he said after the meeting. "There is a lot of concern from the development community that it will be too constrictive. They have the opportunity to • be involved in the rewriting of those ordinances." Developer Fain McDougal told the council that overlay districts make it more difficult for developers http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/10 11 00eastbypassdevelopplan.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 to plan projects. He said the same standard should be set for all areas. "It need not be so complicated that it makes it impossible for anybody to do anything,"McDougal said. "It needs to be dynamic." Fellow developer Darrell Grein, who has had a series of zoning requests in the Raintree subdivision denied by the council, said no plan would please everyone and the council shouldn't"study things to death" because "money counts." "By gosh, if you are going to dictate and tell me what to do, do it," Grein said. "Don't just let me dicker on and dicker on." He asked McIlhaney to consider the fact that the city already had"great"ordinances in place for the East Bypass area. However, Maloney said the city's zoning ordinances are three decades old and that's why the commission is revising them. • "We're 30 years behind the curve and we're pedaling fast,"Maloney said. Mooney said the process could be completed in three months. Members of the East Bypass Small Area Action Planning committee voiced concerns about the aesthetic value of their neighborhoods if the plan wasn't passed. They cited concerns about 24-hour businesses whose bright lights would shine into their yards and increased traffic along the bypass. "The primary concern is, `What is that going to mean for me looking out my back door and having to drive past it everyday?"' said Jan Pfannstiel, a member of the East Bypass Small Area Action planning committee. Holly Huffman's e-mail address is hhu loom http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/10 11 00eastbypassdevelopplan.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 4 © 2000 The Brvan/ColleRe Station Eagle • Privacy Statement • • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101100eastbypassdevelopplan.htm 10/11/2000 The Eagle City of College Station News I : 'Xi N Octocx- I01200o 3 Northgate bars under fire Dixie Chicken, Fitzwilly's, Coupe's to go on trial for student death Br BRruv Ruu before his birthday.After midnight,the Toscano said TABC is recommeyding "Levels above .3 are considered ex- The Battalion group then went to Coupe De Ville's, "cancellation for cause"of the establish- tremely dangerous,"said Sgt.Dan Jones, The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Com- where Wagener apparently consumed a ment's liquor license. public relations officer for the College Sta- mission(TABC)is accusing three North- large amount of liquor in less than an hour, Cancellation for cause is an act that de- tion Police Department. gate bars linked to the August 1999 death bringing his blood alcohol level to a lethal tries an establishment the right to renew its College Station police arrived on the of a Texas A&M student of contributing to .47.In Texas,a person is considered legal- liquor license.Toscano said that six cases scene the following morning,but Wagen- a minor in possession and selling to an in- ly intoxicated with a level above.08. resembling the Coupe De Ville's case have er was unable to be revived. toxicated person. Coupe De Ville's employees are being occurred in the last five years in Brazos Count Toscano said that,legally,a person is Michael Duane Wa ener died of alco- accused of selling alcohol to an intoxicat- Y• g ed person and will go to trial on Dec.11. Toscano said trial dates have not been permitted to drink at 12 a.m.on that per- apartment poisoning celebrating Aug. 3, is 21 at his Most bartenders attend a seller/server set for the Dixie Chicken and Fitzwilly's, son's birthday,but many bars in the area apartment after celebrating his 21st birth- training seminar,in which they are taught which are being accused by TABC of al- use caution and do not allow customers to day with friends at the Dixie Chicken, how to recognize characteristics of an in- lowing a minor to possess and consume al-' drink until their actual birthdays. Fitzwilly's and Coupe De Ville's. toxicated person,"said Sgt.Laban Toscano cohol on their premises. The trial will take place in either Waco According to reports, Wagener's of the TABC."Most Northgate bars have No criminal charges were filed against or Austin in front of an administrative law friends provided him with alcohol at the all been seminar certified,and should be Wagener's friends for providing alcohol to judge,a judge who sees a variety of li- Dixie Chicken and Fitzwilly's the night able to recognize those people,"he added. a minor. censing cases. STUART VILLANUEVAME BATTALION The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is ac- cusing three Northgate bars,including Coupe De Ville's above,in the death of an ASTM student. The Eagle r City of College Station News • Do i) �v orthgategoober 91 • Z ar ng garage breaks ground BY BRIAN RUFF The public parking garage, to be The Battalion built at 300 College Main Drive be- Finding a parking spot is not an easy tween Church and Louise avenues,will task for Frank Rodriguez,a Fitzwilly's provide Northgate customers and em- bartender, who now turns to God for ployees,with more than 700 parking assistance. spaces. The garage will also be avail- "Sometimes I drive around and pray able to students. for a parking spot," said Rodriguez, a No agreements or contracts have s •mathematics.major."You end up been made as of yet to provide restrict- hal%ng to pay[for parking]to work.At ed parking in the garage, but some fu- times I have had to drive around for 10 ture contracts are possible,"said Charles minutes before I am able to find a spot." Wood,College Station economic devel- College Station officials'answer to opment analyst. some of Northgate's parking prayers is The parking garage plan has been in the addition of the Northgate parking the works since the early '90s, and the garage,which officially kicked off con- four-level garage is scheduled for com- struction with a groundbreaking cere- pletion by July 2001. mony Friday morning. "We hope to solve most of the park- Parking supply was noted as an im- ing issues faced by the Northgate portant requirement for increasing the area," said College Station Mayor success of Northgate and as part of the Lynn McIlhaney. Northgate Revitalization Plan. Several Chad Grauke of Architect's Studio surface parking lots were recommend- designed the garage.Vaughn Construc- ed,but the city considered the lots diffi- tion Co.will construct the garage,which cult to acquire md,expensive compared " will be adjacent to the new Traditions with the number of spaces needed. dormitory. The College Station City Council The garage will fund itself and is ex- then conferred with a parking consultant pected to make one and one-half times group that recommended a$6.8 million, as much money as its annual expenses, 752-space parking garage and the re- including the debt payment. Hourly moval of many on-street parking areas parking rates for the garage have not to increase public safety. . been set. t r', I�I STUART V�LLNNU HE BATTALION College Station City Council members participate in a groundbreaking cere- mony for the Northgate parking garage on Friday. The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 Subscribe Today The k1g-le 979-776-2345, 97 9.77 6.234 5 legion I�_�A1111 ;_;cr i b P, t o L AD I. . 1T 'Bonfire Tr.ycuy° ngyezpQt,,_1_GM ­ut,e<ifiler The Weather 'TtvL*1E89W1C1359*1ed1 Store--gush'Llbrarri Region Region>Local / Regional Texas Bna=,s Volunteers sought for input on Wolf Pen Creek Ro>,I h Obituanes development Eagle staff report balm t,reakitlig+eus nv The city of College Station is seeking volunteers to e� - _­ help define and update future opportunities for public and private development in the Wolf Pen Creek area. After reviewing the area as a whole,participants will be divided into eight groups, each looking into a E;wlc different part of Wolf Pen Creek. The groups will I leaffh& work with Texas A&M University students,who will I k1l)LZI GAR11-11 assist in graphic presentation of ideas and concepts of the groups. These presentations will be made public on Oct. 21 at the College Station Conference Center. The deadline to register is Oct. 13, and information slx,rts SIXflighl packets will be distributed to team members on Oct. 17, the same day as volunteers will walk through the Wolf Pen Creek area. City staff will answer questions V'ol Id on Oct. 19, and the work will happen on Oct. 20. theeagle.com For more information, contact Steve Beachy, College Station's parks and recreation director, at 764-3413 Y)tir bcst chm-C i " lr)r or Kay Henryson of the American Institute of Architects at 693-8283. The project is sponsored by the city in conjunction with A&M's department of landscape architecture and urban planning, A&M's department of architecture and the Brazos chapter of American Institute of Architects. Brazos Business every Sunday http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/100800wolfpendesign.htm 10/11/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe Today! Tb ' 979-777 72345 Region ltecribe todnv firvan'',-Colleg,c Station Eagle (Tuesday,October 10,20001 'Boni",., qtla Y "r+yybu lv n. v,.. "l ls,.ul„w", n r+euJ�, �0/�{E'Ct855fled'SCflie 6u�aeuu...y Region Regi ...... •I Snazos% tleyNote"k Blinn trustees to consider dorm Northgate 1'o d,ck Obituar;es proposal Butts; Resta`"'k st;aaarant 1��1+:rtait.:K ByJOHN LeBAS Ete 1_.,Ml ry I Eagle Staff Writer Blinn College trustees on Tuesday are scheduled to review a proposal to help secure a low bond rating for a private developer in exchange for profits from lYr.az,ls�ttncLa� c a,aalrargla tx?!1 student housing planned for Northgate's Mud Lot. c:t,lrtn»aitrw €(santta»uaity litagle Dallas-based JPI can get a lower rating on bonds l »th&*Valatts issued to finance the project if it partners with a tax- llealth 1 Fitness 11,1111e G(.41aell exempt institution, said Craig Griffith, Blinn's dean for business services. He said the company first �:lta.,ta \l'44511;11:Ctl tit l:`.alllCal.'gi pitched the concept to the college several months �)tJrt ILaI Ii1 Opinionsago. Regii}tt SINI I X)t fs Nlxn light JPI development associate Jason Lentz declined to light lit'htt.kr}� comment Monday, saying details were not worked 111 ie,ig)ex1)1 n IL'.x:r%Altaurmu out. 1Qlrl la Griffith said JPI officials told him they first theeagle.com approached Texas A&M University with the idea but your best choicr for were refused. It was unclear Monday which A&M online advertising! administrators JPI may have spoken with. The company has submitted plans to the city of College Station to convert the Mud Lot from a parking area to a upscale, 225-unit complex. The 1:ag housing has been named Jefferson at Northgate. BrazOS Griffith said JPI's initial proposal would also require Business Blinn to market the development to its students. every Sunday Blinn already does so with several other housing ;n thn Faals owners. mainlv throueh advertisements in course http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101000blinnnorthgatedorm.htm 10/10/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 catalogs and by giving out brochures. The Brenham- based college does not offer housing on its Bryan • campus. Blinn would receive profits after JPI recouped construction and management costs, Griffith said. "Over the course of time, that could be a substantial amount of money,"he said. William Krumm, A&M's vice president for finance and comptroller, said the university would not get involved with promoting a private, off-campus housing development. "If we're going to use our tax-exempt bond rating," Krumm said, "we're going to build dorms on campus." Per the initial proposal, Blinn would not be asked to guarantee the bonds, Griffith said. Any agreement would have to be approved by the Blinn Board of Trustees. • JPI has said it would lease the Mud Lot property from owner Jack Culpepper. The lot is at the corner of Church Avenue and Nagle Street. The company owns student housing complexes in four other Texas cities: Lubbock, Austin, San Marcos and Denton. The Blinn Board of Trustees are scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Brenham. In other business, the board is expected to: • Vote on the competitive-bid method for second- floor renovations to the Star of the Republic Museum at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park. The museum is administered through Blinn. • Hear a report on a proposed partnership between Blinn and Texas A&M that would allow some students at the Bryan campus to simultaneously pursue an A&M degree. © 2000 The Brvan/Colleize Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/101000blinnnorthgatedorm.htm 10/10/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 The�Iijie Subscribe Today FbiMkt­%".W 979-77'672345 ;- 979.776.2345 Region scribe- to-,,] '! I Tuesday,October 3,2000 111II 11111111 111 {l1111 I "INU iI e,.W. 1—5 14Ui�� ., Veattler°The€agte^Ctassfed Store ....... 1 Region Region>Local/Regional �C`X3s Mud Lot housing proposed krtxnts ©bituan's Bi'chs By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Restaunni t Eagle Staff Writer '..F ..rat:"'g tic. A plan to build private student housing and a parking garage on the site of Northgate's Mud Lot has been submitted for consideration to the city of College Station, officials said Monday. `:"'""""'`` Plans to convert the 6.2-acre unpaved tract—named 4.:a-►� for obvious reasons—from a paid parking lot to a I'dlli,,&N Attic, t te;ila,, F iii,«, hotel recently switched gears to student housing, said t t<ii,i c;3r<,4i, Larry Haskins, attorney for property owner Jack Memo, Culpepper. Plans to close the lot for a seven-story f \:Lion `� �� en 6i rdiu su rri hotel were announced in 1998. {ftHf lFdn@] ),Jnit'f f5 "It just turned out that it is more economically advantageous to do high-density student housing than a hotel,"Haskins said. "There is a well-established rexi%vnenrx' demand, and it's more feasible. With lenders, student housing is not seen as risky as a hotel." thecagle.com The private housing has been named Jefferson at u N!,: -hoice for Northgate. onlina adverliainq! The Mud Lot mainly serves students looking for parking near Texas A&M University and willing to pay$3 a day. Between 500 and 700 cars park each day at the lot, which is located at the corner of Church Avenue and Nagle Street. Brazos Culpepper intends to lease the property to JPI, a Business Dallas-based, nationwide property management every Sunday company that would build 225 luxury apartment-style in thv Faaln n»ifo o"A o ooM T,3on" T anfo o TDT http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/100300mudlotdevelopment.htm 10/03/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 � VV ti1V JVVVLIV 1VVCLL1V11 1V1 JLUUVIIL 11V UJlll� LV V�JVll 111 the Northgate area. • The Tradition at Northgate, a$25 million private dormitory facing Second Street, is scheduled to be finished in July 2001, said developer Thomas Kirkland. The five-story dormitory will include 420 rooms and 6,500 square feet of retail space on the main floor and a 400-space parking garage, Kirkland said. • Geneva "itmarsh's e-mail address is gwhitmarsh@thggggle.com • © 2000 The Bryan/College Station Eagle Privacv Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/100300mudlotdevelopment.htm 10/03/2000 .The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 3 Subscribe The o 77 -gle • 979- 2345 97 9,77 6.2345 Region ribe_ -tad_ Friday,September 29,20001 *�i?111�if�7R7192�""'"�g9•-is�.....a:�w.,r-. ..:,.I y i.�.�u, .1� y S���r��✓o,y R gi,_,n Region>Local / Regional 'tam College Station council studies new land use Obitumes plan Girths t7:lti'bc,�,l RcstuunujI'Nk-Ijil"t ( By COLLEEN KAVANAGH LorlNre aking Eagle Staff Writer ��GiYY�Yu�i�uunwrkw(L�1,tiL�urmw. College Station City Council members Thursday delayed approving a new land use plan that would !ii sat k3n>ieje>.v nja;jx affect development of a 2,500-acre area east of Earl Rudder Freeway South, saying they need more time 't a,7j�llli ivf.5 nnllwjfw to review its impact on future growth. ! k to 1•airh�\:kljjtis tt Alij\Hlnc,s "This is an important issue for everyone,"Mayor Pro Tem Larry Mariott said. "They [plan study group] had nine months to put this thing together, and we've had a couple of weeks to review it. "I'm just asking for a little time on this,"he said S;x,El�riji before the unanimous vote. '.,. �t'd'trik41t46�4 The East Bypass Small Area Action Plan is the city's first attempt at neighborhood planning, a concept that theeagle.com allows those most affected by growth— neighborhood residents—a say in how their area is your best choice for developed. online advertising! The plan covers land generally referred to as the East Bypass Area, which is bound by Texas 30 to the north, Carter Creek to the east and Rock Prairie Road to the south. The study group included representatives from eight nearby neighborhoods: --- -� - Amberlake, Emerald Forest, Foxfire, Raintree, Brazos Sandstone, Shadowcrest, Stonebridge and �r Business Windwood. every Sunday in the Faalp _1. . ,- , - - ,. . - . , ,- A - r,- http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092900cscouncillanduseeast.htm 09/29/2000 ,sThe Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 • •�� i ne plan nas peen reviewea oy ine riammng ana Zoning Commission,which withheld action on the • proposal. Councilmen James Massey and Winnie Garner said they approve of the plan but it still needs some "tweaking."They recommended a time limit on the review. They said they were concerned that it did not have the commission's support. Mayor Lynn McIlhaney suggested setting up a joint workshop with the citizen planning team and the Planning and Zoning Commission to review the plan. "When we come back at that point, we will have everybody's input and stamp of approval," she said. "That way we all have an understanding of what goes into the ordinances." Dennis Maloney said he was ready to approve the plan because it is an outline, and residents spent so many hours studying what would be best for their area. "There has to be a time limit,"he said. "I'm willing ito sit down and workshop it, but not workshop it to death." The council discussed setting up the workshop for an evening in October. In discussion on other items, fire chief David Giordano spelled out reasons why his department will need to raise fees charged to transport patients in ambulances. Under the new plan, the base fee will be $350 plus $5 a mile. Any additional supplies for medical care would be added to the bill. The fee increase still must be approved by Medicare, Giordano said,which would take about three months followed by a 6- month evaluation period. The council approved the fee increase on a unanimous vote. In other action,the council: • - Approved $3.8 million in contracts for major water system improvements in two areas of the city. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092900cscouncillanduseeast.htm 09/29/2000 Zhe Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 - A$23,000 contract with Wallace Group Inc. for engineering and consulting services for the hotel and conference center project with TAC Realty, a subsidiary of The Adam Corporation/Group. Garner abstained from the vote. She is an employee of a bank owned by the Adam Corporation. -Agreements with six local public service agencies that were recommended to receive $177,600 in community development block grant funding. Bryan and College Station appoint citizens to a joint relief funding review committee, which reviews applications and visits each agency during an 8-week period. It recommended$30,000 for Hospice Brazos Valley; $33,654 for Twin City Mission's community support services; $15,000 for Brazos Valley Community Action Agency's dental clinic; $16,550 for Elder Aid; and $20,734 for the Brazos Food Bank. Anne Hazen abstained from the vote. - A .4293 tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year, which is the same as the rates over the past four years. That means a tax bill on a$100,000 home will be $429.30. i - A final $130,000 agreement with BVCAA for the Bryan-College Station Community Health Center. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanggh@ heeagle.com _ ....... ©2000 The Bo an/College Station Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092900cscouncillanduseeast.htm 09/29/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 Subscribe Today The e 979-77 -2345 301111111111111111110 Region SdtLslcribe today-1 Region Region>Local / Regional L�a[:'re�iuttal { Temas Bru&6 ValleyNutel*-.& College Station enforces 'no parking' during Obituaries football games Births i Uatebook Restaurant Monitor Eagle staff report AP breaking news �uuuuduididmuiioiiiiiiuuuibivaoouuuoiuilii�iuu� College Station has established special parking Site S �ri_a� regulations within city limits during major special events, such as Texas A&M University home football �i:u�n Buarnc+, i Bi;wo Sundae games. I.ni1F71Y}t11._(Nil.1 t:oLimnt�ts C:rYnunitnYt The city has "No Parking" areas established that are I�idr&Vataes marked with a distinctive sign on one side of the i i,aith&it itues% street. The areas within the city that are affected by special event parking are bordered on the north by 1ii:.11Cf/ .:IYYfYn George Bush Drive, on the south by Park Place and ei i ,�,,xnlnF,dai:atr:rr' Holleman Drive, on the east by Timber Street and i si»u�lic ,,YiYt11YlY. Dexter Drive, and on the west by Wellborn Road. �til•�iS NY 5(itHfS ;xxiight Enforcement of these parking regulations begins four it_ iYt"'ki " hours before the start of each home football game, I�:i.l;;ie_cfprn I 1"UnI and vehicles in violation will be ticketed and towed. thecagle.com Limiting on-street parking during these special events ensures emergency vehicles have adequate access to your best choice for these neighborhoods, city officials said. giYlt[IC�.di VClti&IrYg. For information, call the city's community enhancement action center at 764-6363. Brazos Business every Sundav http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092700parkingspecialevents.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 s in the Eagle OO 2000 The Brvan/ColleQe Station Eagle Privacv Statement L http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092700parkingspecialevents.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-RegionLocal/Regional Page 1 of 4 The f`Eagle Subscribe Today' fhea ksU«r r«nry as. 979-77 -2345 979.776.2345 Region k5cribe todnv 4WJIVWJU d u .�.>..A 6 rL­.0 L N.; �b?llds! r Regi ii Region>Local / Regional L oo-Ab'rWiiAi�i xmzt��yt �teb�� College Station council to consider ambulance =2eymis ObitUs=;e5 fee increases Birtbs U:ueb­& Restaur•:mtNkmnivo By COLLEEN KAVANAGH "flel'y Eagle Staff Writer . .b=e:e ing news i Ambulance fees for College Station residents may be increased to help the city meet rising costs for medications and supplies previously covered by local lls�r�as 4urGd�? • c:u,� d� ,���x� hospitals. t:elnnnaisis tt Co inulmt, 1;-;agk Before health care financing legislation was approved `'c,Jth 'Fitn by Congress this summer,hospitals billed patients for �i��ttn z�t�`tux«. 11_Il"L&Gaidtaa medical supplies and equipment used during "`h"" emergencies, fire department spokesman Bart Humphreys said Tuesday. ' �t11 The legislation changed that,he said. Beginning Oct. tijxNls 1, the fire department is required to stock and maintain medical supplies, so transported patients i I ;,i;;la_Ctrrtt will be billed for supplies used in their treatment en W '..' route to a hospital, he said. theeagle.com Because the changes are scheduled to take effect Oct. 1, the City Council will vote on a resolution that onL'nc advertising! would provide for the fee increases at its Thursday meeting. "The legislation changes the whole way we do business,"he said. "We need some avenue to recover those costs." CBrazos Under the price structure, ambulance fees are about Business $295 for basic life support transports, which are non- every Sunday life threatening, Humphreys said. For advanced life http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092700cscounciltaxrateadv.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle support transports, such as administering medications or using an I.V., the cost is $350 plus $5 per mile while the patient is in the ambulance, he said. �✓ Under the new plan, the base fee will be $350 plus $5 per mile. Any additional supplies for medical care would be added to the bill. The city of Bryan recently added a$50 lump sum increase to its fees, bumping the cost from $350 to $400. In other action,the council will consider contracts for major water system improvements in two areas of the city. The improvements are one phase of the city's plan to improve water services and capacities throughout the city over a 2-to 3-year period, said Dale Schepers, the city's water and wastewater division manager. The first water improvement contract is a$2.8 million agreement with Bryan Construction for capital improvements to the Sandy Point pump • station. "It's an overall program to increase water production capacities to keep pace with growing customer demands over the next two to three years,"he said. "This is one of the first projects in a long list of projects that will help us keep pace for a longer term. As that demand keeps going,we have to build facilities to meet that demand." The second is a$1 million contract with Elliott Construction for the rehabilitation of the Northgate water main. Northgate's water system is dependent on a 12-inch water line that is severely deteriorated and located in the busiest portions of University Drive, according to a report submitted to the council. Any leak or failure puts the entire area out of water, so this project would relocate the line and rehabilitate water service in the area. It will include a connection to the city of Bryan's system that can be used in emergency situations. ® "The Northgate project is focusing on improving the water service in the capacity area for the Northgate folks," Schepers said. "There's been a lack of http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092700cscounciltaxrateadv.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 available quantity of water in that area, but there's nothing wrong with the water pressure or quality." In other action, the council will consider -A$23,000 contract with Wallace Group Inc. for engineering and consulting services for the hotel and conference center project with TAC Realty, a subsidiary of The Adam Corporation/Group. The contract would be for the design of streets and water and wastewater improvements in the area. - A $30,000 contract with Mitchell &Morgan LLP for the design of a promenade area on Second Street, in between the future College Main Parking Garage and the Traditions Dormitory. The promenade will include benches,planters and shaded areas, according to a map of the project. -Agreements with six local public service agencies that were recommended to receive $177,600 in community development block grant funding. Bryan and College Station appoint citizens to a joint ® relief funding review committee,which reviews applications and visits each agency during an 8-week period. It recommended $30,000 for Hospice Brazos Valley; $33,654 for Twin City Mission's community support services; $15,000 for Brazos Valley Community Action Agency's dental clinic; $16,550 for Elder Aid; and $20,734 for the Brazos Food Bank. - A$20 permit fee to be assessed for temporary power poles to offset safety inspection costs. The fee is part of the updated 1999 National Electric Code followed by the city. - The proposed .4293 tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year, which is the same as last year's. That means a tax bill on a$100,000 home would be $429.30. The tax rate must be adopted by Sept. 30. -Possible funding agreements with four outside agencies not eligible for community development block grant funds: Brazos Valley Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse,R.S.V.P., the Brazos County Senior Citizens Association and the Dispute Resolution Center. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092700cscounciltaxrateadv.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 - A final $130,000 agreement with BVCAA for the Bryan-College Station Community Health Center. The council also will consider adopting a policy for future requests from outside agencies. During the workshop session, the council will meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission from 3:15 to 4:30 and with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board from 4:30 to 5:45. The workshop session will begin at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers at 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will follow at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanazha,theeazle.com © 2000 The Brvan/ColleRe Station Eagle Privacv Statement 4 (W http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092700cscounciltaxrateadv.htm 10/18/2000 'the Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 Subscribe Today! The Tie 9777177-23451 Re gion 979,776.2345 e;�ilhscribe_ todov! ZO 2ca) Region Region>Local Regional Lvel:'ry giuq Texas Bn=<s VA:v Notel*:,ok University Drive partially closed for utility repairs Reo:-A-6 Obituaries Binh!; Eagle staff report DatAkk Restaut-ant,W-naor APbreakjing new�; The right two westbound lanes of University Drive from Church Street to Nagle Street will be closed etc Wednesday night so College Station repair leaking B I 12-inch water valves. This will leave one westbound lane open on University Drive. The repairs will begin at 10 p.m. and should be completed by 3 a.m. Thursday. Water service will not be shut off and service is not Mexico expected to be disrupted. Nmmll Anyone with water problems during the repairs can call College Station's utility dispatch at 764-3836. SarGsn For information, call Ed Savage, the city's interim Spotlight field operations superintendent, at 764-3658. theeagle.com your besthoi(,.r for 112'.advertising! M9 0 Brazos Business every Sundav http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092000universitydrH20repair.htm 10/18/2000 -The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 Subscribe Today! Thy 1' ` 979-77 ,2345 Region 979.776.2345 I*,'1' scribe todmilli Regis�� Region>Local/Regional _` .....___ .............._.._............. ......._................... BFw,s; leyN',.,FeboA Brazos County expo center bond issue to be on November ballot C}bitu:ues Births RollaJ R � By KELLY BROWN FC2SC8kiP.1tlr i�ICrtlitivc Eagle Staff Writer P breAi r,g t w The Brazos County Commissioners Court voted unanimously Tuesday to put an$18.5 million bond s.lfi�aE,+ISu.�irc:s, issue on the Nov. 7 ballot, asking voters to decide . C uRVAtut, 1"1"1 whether an exposition center should be built. Cdnumtvts �;t,Fttn'ucaih Taking the issue to the polls in seven weeks is the iaidt&!.tines r lcalt,&E;iuw" furthest the county has gone for an effort that has been discussed throughout the community for more than two decades. \��ti��xylcrti iit Iiducausnr' C)bittcutcs opinit>t c Should it pass, County Judge Al Jones said it might Region be another one or two years before taxpayers begin S�>4,rt5 srF�,�tit paying for it. Funding the expo center could raise r 'ttr°kt the .41 cent county tax rate by 2 1/2 to 3 cents per c..,,t,,l,,,,n,, $100 valuation. That amounts to roughly$25 \VtAd annually for a home appraised at $100,000. theeagle.com Though no site has been selected and architecture YOU beet choice for drawings still are under way,Jones said the following on}ine ativcrtisinit! details have been nailed down: r - The center is expected to have between 5,000 and 6,000 permanent seats and another 2,500 or so temporary seats. - Commissioners want it to accommodate: a county • Brazos fair; horse/livestock shows; arts and craft, auto, boat, Business Pet, trade, antique, mineral and gem, home, and every Sundav garden shows; special events, such as a circus or http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092000countybondexpocenter.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 in the Eagle carnival; tractor pulls; auctions; training events; festivals; banquets; meetings; concerts; a rodeo; and R.V. hookups. Precinct 3 Commissioner Randy Sims said he's fielded inquiries about a minor league hockey team potentially starting in the county should an exposition center be constructed. "There's a great deal of potential for an exposition center in this community," Sims said. "I think the people of Brazos County want it and it will pass." Following Jones' announcement during Tuesday's meeting, a citizen told the commissioners that any tax increase should go toward paying employees more money. He predicted the bond election will fail. Dick Forester, director of the Bryan-College Station Convention and Visitor's Bureau, said there is a demand in Brazos County for an exposition center, but he cautioned that its success is dependent upon how it will be marketed. "If it is effectively marketed then it can be an economic generator,"Forester said. He said he could not project the economic impact since the location is not yet known. "So much of it depends on where it's built—will it be near hotels and restaurants? And how it is built— what's the configuration of all the buildings? These are among other important factors."Forester said. Jones said six to eight sites currently are being studied with those factors under consideration. Forester said it is no longer"a case of if you build it they will come anymore. You have to effectively market it or it will not be utilized to its full potential." Celia Goode-Haddock, who was one of 10 citizens on a committee studying the expo center feasibility over the past two years, said educating voters about the center's potential will be crucial to the issue first • passing at the polls. "We're at least the third committee to study whether the area needs an exposition center, so I'm really http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092000countybondexpocenter.htm 10/18/2000 .The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 proud the county is finally making a move," said Goode-Haddock,past chairman of the Chamber of Commerce. "Anyone you talk to in the community related to agriculture and even other associations and groups, such as those interested in antiques,home building and others, they want something different than what's available in our town now," Goode-Haddock said. "Something that will serve all needs." Many shows now are held at the Brazos Center off Briarcrest Drive, a building that committee member and banker Mervin Peters said quickly outgrew itself after it was opened in the late 70s, rendering it inadequate to serve the needs of the county. Peters predicted the proposed exposition center will pay"great dividends"to the county, which he said is the largest community in the state without an exposition center. A class at Texas A&M University studied the issue for three months in 1996, estimating that an expo . center in Brazos County would have a$64 million economic impact. No market study was done on the issue and Jones said he has no current data available to project the economic impact. He said the committee's research, as well as longtime discussions with leaders throughout the community, indicate that an exposition center would be more than welcome in Brazos County. "It's not just for the agriculture community, it would be for activities of all kinds,"Jones said. C. Jack Hunter, the county's agriculture extension agent, said the youth livestock show currently held annually at the Tabor Road Arena off Texas 6 would benefit from a larger facility. "It not only would be a convenience to our program, but there's all types of uses this community could get out of an exposition center,"Hunter said. . "Washington County has something considerably smaller than what's being proposed here, and it's got something going on every weekend." http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092000countybondexpocenter.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 A&M's Reed Arena opened its doors in April 1998, equipped to handle concerts and shows with a 12,500 ` seating capacity. Mary Helen Bowers, deputy director over special events center operations, said the exposition center might compete with some shows at Reed,but much of what Reed attracts is directly tied to A&M, such as basketball, commencement,reunions and banquets. Other big draws have been church services, concerts, the circus and,recently, Bill Cosby. Jones acknowledges that there will be competition with Reed Arena,but he said it probably would be minimal. "Much of what would come to the county's exposition center would be too small for Reed,"he said. He said a fee schedule has not been set for the proposed exposition center. Bowers said Reed charges $3,000 each day plus expenses for an off- campus user and $2,000 daily plus expenses for an • on-campus user. Jim Singleton was selected last year by the expo committee to be the architect on the project. Singleton, along with two architects who designed Reed Arena,built the A&M Letterman Association Sports Museum at Kyle Field's The Zone. Singleton said Tuesday that he's confident voters will approve the expo center. "Let's do something right for Brazos County, do something good for Brazos County, let's build this exposition center," Singleton said. Kelly Brown's e-mail address is kbrowna,theeaQle.com © 2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/092000countybondexpocenter.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Community Section Page I of 2 • �:Your NU--- ws :KLokAt ! Community to adver I tise Wednesday,September 20,2000 Bc,nfire­rragedy 6-AtiLibrary-1 Community E44e 5K Bra2&9ValleyLiNing College Station rewards environment programs .UgieLmid Pdryter Dining Guide By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Senior Resource Pwok Eagle Staff Writer Biwos Xalle vAlman 3K, SC O'4 • Lib=, an-es College Station Councilman James Massey said Tuesday that he cil'ies can attest to the success of the environmental education that Rock Counties Law enforeement Prairie Elementary third-graders receive. Enw-trney Organizxii-cs Two of his children have been through the program, he said, and if Lin" he even begins to forget to recycle something both energetically .................... remind him. "It's not something that just stays at school,"he told attendees of BnwvSiiftd:iN, this year's College Station Environmental Excellence Awards Giinixiivil.201 program. "It makes its way home." Colliallm,kh Eagk Conlnlllnll,�, Rock Prairie's"Think Globally, Act Locally,"program was one of Faith&VAlues seven award winners recognized for voluntarily providing I LAll& Finle"is environmental benefits to the community through projects and I lolvx&Garde„ programs at the annual banquet. Ninon ill 1"Elliclumm Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said the city is fortunate to have Obitualic"t organizations,businesses, city employees and individuals Opinions committed to helping the environment. Region sl"Klrvs "If we don't start now and we're not careful now, and we try to do • t��t„l„t„� something in the future, it's going to be too late," she said. Other award winners include: http:/Jwww.theeagle.com/community/092000cityenvironmentawards.htm 9/20/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Community Section Page 2 of 2 -Betty Manion of South Knoll Elementary for the Environmental Learning Center Outside program,which gives students a hands- on opportunity to learn about gardening, conservation and environmental science. - Jason Muesse of Boy Scout Troop 159 for educating the community on the importance and benefits of native plants. - Charles Thomas of Charles Thomas Homes for enrolling every home built in the city's GoodCents program. The company has a 99 percent qualification rate in the program. - The College Station school district's energy management team for reducing energy waste and utility costs in the rapidly growing district. The program is carried out by Arthur and Myra Bright. - The school district's recycling program for developing a comprehensive, long-term recycling program for its campuses. The district's goal is to reduce 75 percent of the 176 million sheets of paper used during a school year. - Brazos Greenways Council's community visioning process, which is an effort to educate the public on the importance of greenways and to acquire greenway property in College Station and Brazos County. The city has decided to make the awards a biennial event to allow applicants more time to implement and monitor their programs. Applications for the 2002 awards are available at City Hall, the public works department and on the city's Web site: www.ci.colleRe-station.tx.us. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh(&heeagle.com © 2000 The Brvan/Collep-e Station Eagle Privacy Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/community/092000cityenvironmentawards.htm 9/20/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 3 _e he Subscribe ' Tpile oday �1.omh' "'t-yd" • 979-77672345 ■ 979.776.2346 "It Region 4tscribe todnvi, The Bryan-College Station Eagle Tuesday,September 19,2000 The-Weather- The Eagte Classified Store bunAit_ivici�y' Region>Local / Regional f�-xz College Station trustees OK builder ObitUanles By KELLI LEVEY Births Eagle Staff Writer Date book Restaurant\V-oitor College Station school trustees advanced Monday toward building AP brra1J,ng I le kk the district's next elementary school, approving an architect and a resolution for the district to reimburse itself for initial construction costs. Site sectic-ris Blazo.Hil'S111C..'s VLK Architects of Arlington, Texas,was hired to begin design N:Jzo. work on Forest Ridge Elementary School,which is scheduled to (.;Ainpaign 2(0) open in three or four years near Cypress Grove Intermediate School. The firm, which already has worked for the district on E'Al­lc several other campuses, is charging a fee of 6 percent of & construction costs. I[callh v FtIlIcss I tonic Gxdcll The district will not have to use general funds to pay for architectural services, as the firm has offered to defer payment of \L%Nlupco.ill Killiumolil A any architectural fees until bonds are sold for the school's construction. But other costs will arise for the project before the op ii 1 1401 district is prepared to sell the $14 million in school construction Regiiin he district's S�Xqt% bonds approved by voters in 1998, said David Neal, t sl*)flirhl deputy superintendent for business and operations. I 11cca"Lonit The board approved a plan Monday to temporarily pay for costs vi"Ahmillat: such as soil tests and surveys from the general fund and reimburse the money when the bonds are sold. Neal said it would be wise to • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091900csboard.htm 9/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 wait until nearer the time for bidding on the construction work to theeagle.com sell the bonds. your besi'choice for onlinc advertising! "We would not be planning to sell those bonds until at least 2002," -------------------- he said. "Selling the bonds at this time would subject the sale to the arbitrage rebate regulations under the Internal Revenue Code. ... If we broke any of those deadlines along the process, we would have to send any interest earnings above the costs back to the U.S. Treasury and we certainly don't want to do that." The board's approval of the contract and the financing arrangement will help the district in several ways, Neal said. BrazO S He said progress toward building the school will: Business every Sunday • Enhance the chances of the school district and city receiving a in the Eagle grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife for a recreational complex at the school. • Encourage the city to improve the infrastructure, near the site off Graham Road. • Allow the district to open the school earlier than planned if elementary-level enrollment increases drastically during the next • few years. Several trustees expressed concern last month that no roads have been built near the property for the school. On Monday, two trustees said city council members indicated in a liaison committee meeting that they would like to see a shift toward proactive planning of streets. Currently, developers bear most of the responsibility of providing infrastructure in new areas. "I'd say we are thinking like-minded on that and I was glad to hear it, considering our concern about building schools before roads are built," said Trustee Tim Jones. "It would be a change in policy for them and it's important to note there has been no change in their policy at this point." The trustees also heard Monday from district and campus administrators about an improvement plan for College Station schools. The district is undergoing a systemwide philosophical renovation, said Steve Johnson, the district's deputy superintendent for curriculum and instruction. • "For the past several years across the district we've had random acts of success, a lot of programs having a lot of success,but no uniform method of ensuring all our programs are successful,"he http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091900csboard.htm 9/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 said. "What we'd prefer to have is this: an alignment of goals and direction throughout the district so we can see improvements in all • areas for all our students. Everything could be supported from a central office and districtwide perspective. "Everywhere you look these days you see our motto: each life, each day, each hour. That's what we want." To that end, every district employee has been or will go through training based on Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People;professional development has been offered to various groups of employees; and the top administrators have been working with officials in the Brazosport, Texas, school district to study their"correlates of effective schools"model. "Since early spring, we have gone to a lot of depth in researching various methods for improvement,"Johnson said. "We're not going to be Brazosport North, but we will take from these pieces of research those pieces that will make us better. © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Eagle Privacy Statement • • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091900csboard.htm 9/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Opinions>Letters to the Editor Page I of 1 I q,zXv Promises, promises • I guess it's a done deal with the Traditions Golf Course and all that goes with it. It certainly is disappointing to realize our Bryan city officials can't keep their promises. I refer to an open forum months ago at Rudder Theater at which the Bryan city manager promised the people of Bryan that the Traditions project would not go forward if the company doing the project did not make its financial goals by the end of June. The end of June came and the company didn't make its goals. Now our City Council has not only let it off the hook on the financial goals,but the company will get additional money so it can go forward with the project. Whatever became of telling the truth? Whatever happened to doing what you say you're going to do and not doing what you say you're not going to do? I guess all the city's money was just lying around and the City Council didn't know what else to do with it. For openers, I would have suggested the city devote a large chunk of it to fixing South College Avenue. Take a spin down South College, City Council members, and see what a bone-jarring experience it is, and • contemplate what you could have done with that money instead of blowing it on a golf course complex most city residents will never get to use. Kevin I O'Neill Bryan http://www.theeagle.com/opinions/letterstoeditor/091900letterstoeditor.htm 9/20/00 f The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 1 • Subscribe Today The,�r�,e 979-77�,2345 970.77&__2345 Region . oc�v� r I-7, UM evon Region>Local/ Regional Texas kale`r�`�t „' Soutwest Parkway partially closed for Obituafies maintenance Births Dateb wk aestautwt Ntriiva i Eagle staff report A.E't>reaking nea,, I Southwest Parkway in College Station will be reduced to one lane for both east and westbound traffic on Monday and Tuesday so crews can seal 13�3xeas liiume".� f3raussmnLt coat the road from Wellborn Road to Welsh Avenue, • t:uiSA4Taign 20 iF Colnrnruete city officials said. � (:t�nuitimih ' E gle Drivers are asked to be cautious when in the area be FAith&lsitncs i I lealill&Fillic" aware of workers and follow all traffic signs. \au,n For more information, call Paul Urso, the city's ``,,apa,Xn rn l:,l " "'t>I»t u.n in streets and drainage superintendent, at 764-3690. t 3pn buns sixxhghr '; I'etthr�tol�r� �liectwle.c{gym I t ass:1hn�na� 1t„hl thecagle.com your 6cct choicc for online x<Ivcr;i&inr! Brazos Business every Sundav http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091700southwestpkyrepairs.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 5 Subscribe Todd. ! The 1 , 10 979-77 2345 Region 979.776.2345 b-scribe- todw Region Region>Local / Regional TexAs Br.,INA:,tet„:MA, I Raintree development battle catches small pond t2e+rants tHes in the cross fire Binh$ [3atet��l. Restauranthknit,•I By COLLEEN KAVANAGH .rce Eagle Staff Writer AP brew kitog;;ea's I Site sect ,SIN I A Houston man hopes his fifth plan to turn property near the Raintree subdivision into a profitable development will win approval by the College 3St;ir•i��t,uttac • t:.3»1p.»c»20C Station City Council. t;ui:a»nIGSCi t a,i reYu;ri�y }=+ �e The year-long ordeal has turned into a battle,pitting i�aith t���tues I k-,A,,S,h,u,,�,� developer Darrell Grein against nearby residents in a fight to find a balance between maintaining neighborhood integrity and allowing a property �zt% Ex��a,►:,t;,�.}�„» owner to develop land for a profit. t)I)�[twrieti t?4a»li;,»e And in the cross fire, two families lost a backyard SIxxlighl pond they have cherished for years. � tl,�c.ah�e.cum k uIi;Mounm Grein recently submitted a proposal for single-family `t01la residential lots that would have to be at least 8,000 square feet—3,000 more square feet than his first theeagle,cpm subdivision request would have required. Those rou,t rya fpr homes would be adjacent to the homes in Raintree Ah t r�;a�flQr most of which are on lots between 9,000 and 14,000 square feet. Nearby residents said the proposed development most likely would harm or devalue the investment they have made in their neighborhood. They fear the new homes would become rental properties,most Brazos likely for students. Business every Sundav The residents insist that students bring noise, density, http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091700raintreedeveloperpond.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 5 in the Eagle traffic and parking problems. "It amazes me that so much emphasis has been put on college students,"Grein said. "After all, College Station is a college town. That has made the city." In addition, opponents said the fact that the proposed development would be on land in the 100-year flood plain will create drainage problems that could affect the rest of the area. The council will resolve the dispute after taking into account pleas from both sides for the future of the property, which is currently zoned for agricultural purposes. The council tabled a request for single- family residential zoning on the land in August, awaiting the results of a study about development needs in that area. Grein's land is east of Earl Rudder Freeway South near Southwest Parkway. "It is a difficult decision ... because we have to balance the needs of the people living there with the rights of the property owners,"Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said. "It does make it a bit difficult when we have rezoning requests and have had people working for six months or more trying to make sure that whatever develops over there develops in a way that compliments existing areas." Grein said he thinks the residents are opposed to any development he could offer because it's a change. His frustration, he said, stems from the fact that he has done everything the city has asked of him, including working with Raintree residents. "People get so used to seeing things one way that they don't want to see it any other way,"he said. "One of most vocal things about this has been, `Why can't you leave it like it is?' "The city doesn't want to buy [the land], Raintree [home owner's association] doesn't want to buy it, so we're just paying taxes. We have to put the land into a productive use, even if it is agricultural, and do something that will pay its own taxes." John Peters, who lives a block away from the proposed development, said he does not see neighborhood preservation as a negative. http://www.thecagle.com/region/localregional/091700raintreedeveloperpond.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 5 "People want a secured, friendly neighborhood,"he said. "They like to get what they pay for. If he's got iproperty and wants to make money, there's nothing wrong that,but it doesn't mean that everyone has to cave in." Here is how Grein has fared on the rezoning front: - Last year, he proposed a development that included professional offices and retail buildings. The rezoning request was denied. - Then, he proposed a mix of apartments with access to Earl Rudder Freeway South and 12 townhouses with access to Appomattox Street. Again, it was rej ected. -His third plan involved a retirement community, similar to an upscale community in The Woodlands, he said. It would consist of apartments for people at least 55 years old. `Everybody knocked that down because there would be too many people coming in," Grein said. - In August,he sought rezoning for a residential subdivision. Some Raintree residents told the council they were opposed because it would allow lot sizes to be a minimum of 5,000 square feet. That is smaller than the average existing homes' lot sizes, most of which are between 9,000 and 14,000 square feet. There are some patio homes on 7,000-square-foot lots. The council tabled that request. - The fifth rezoning request calls for single-family residential on larger lots. With the R1-B zoning he is requesting, lot sizes must be a minimum of 8,000 square feet. The plan must be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission before it gets to the council, Grein said. Peters said the thinks homes situated on lots smaller than 14,000 square feet—the"old-fashioned single- family homes"—will attract rich students who are not concerned with the quality of the neighborhood. Also,he said, traffic will increase significantly unless the development has access to Earl Rudder Freeway South. Residents are not scared of development, Peters said, citing a church under construction nearby and vacant http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091700raintreedeveloperpond.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 5 commercial property at Raintree's entrance. • "A person is allowed to develop his land if it's developed the way the land is intended,"he said. "If [Grein] wants to build something decent that won't impact the land that much,I would probably go along with it,but it's not going to be feasible for him." Grein, too, said he will not give up trying to pursue some type of profitable development. He said he disagrees with residents' claims that his development would not be upscale. While he did not know how much money would be invested if the subdivision was allowed, the office and retail plans that were rejected would have meant a$15 million investment,he said. While waiting for a council decision,he began working on the land. He dug a 25-foot,V-shaped hole into a stock pond that he shared with two other Raintree land owners, turning it into a mud pit with a few puddles of water. He began bulldozing the pond on a Friday night,he said, to begin preparing the land before the rainy season begins. Most of the pond was on Grein's property, but the two landowners who shared the pond were saddened to lose the tranquility they said it offered. It angered other nearby residents who think it was done in spite. Boyd SoRell,who was used to seeing the pond and the variety of wildlife in and around it, said he is still in shock. "If somebody came in and took grass off your property, you'd sue them for theft,"he said. "The pond has been there since 1929. It's a pretty pathetic looking pond right now, and there are a bunch of dead fish on the other side. [Grein] told me he's tired of messing with College Station and the City Council. He said he's going to develop the property and they're not going to stop him." Jim Callaway, the city's director of development services, said Grein did not have a permit for the work and it has stopped. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091700raintreedeveloperpond.htm 10/18/2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 5 of 5 "It wasn't the draining of the pond that was in violation, it was the excavation that made it drain," he said. "As I understand, he's not doing any more work, and he and his engineer contacted our staff. ... I assume they're in the process of taking care of everything." That's not good enough for SoRell and his wife, Laurie. Grein has yet to restore the dam so the SoRells can have a pond. Laurie SoRell wrote McIlhaney. "I look to our City Council ... as stewards who will make our community the best it can be," she wrote. "Our growth as a city depends on informed, intelligent decision making [that] will have an impact on the quality of life for all who live and work here for many years to come. "I know that many citizens of College Station and Bryan do not want to see the area become another rambling, dysfunctional suburb of Houston." The East Bypass Area Planning project—a joint effort between staff,property owners, businesses and residents of eight subdivisions in the area near Raintree—will be presented to the council on Sept. 28. Grein said he has been told the study will say that the property favors a mixed use development. "That is what we had originally planned,"he said. "We have gone through everything there is to go through, and we have bent as much as a rubber band can bend." Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanazh@,theea-ale.com © 2000 The Brvan/ColleRe Station Eajale Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091700raintreedeveloperpond.htm 10/18/2000 -The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 0( y! T. e E gle • Subscribe T T. 979-77 ,:2345 ■ _ __ _ 979.776. 345 Region 6A, scribe todnvi Friday,September 15,2000 ` y +?r� Region>Local/Regional i,�,ralfre�i.ba�l - -- ----- Te.xas College Station approves $2.2 million Eastgate Brw,6 Valley Norebr Records infrastructure project Obituatits Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Date600k Eagle Staff Writer Restaurant M:oitor g �,�. re, eiv AP b)�,�akir,g news Residents in East ate—one of the oldest neighborhoods in • .,-" w, College Station—will receive new water and sewer lines from a $2.2 million infrastructure project approved Thursday by the College Station City Council. titat��s t3a,s�:�tti The project, which also includes the resurfacing of Munson Avenue, will begin in October, city officials said. t:�„rrn�tt,7ii I: l Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said the council is working to stay one step t'iiit rl&VAlrres ahead in making sure that the city's infrastructure is maintained. 1c;,1111&Fit.,ic-'s `'0 `"' "About 50 percent of our community was built at one time," she Mj,,rr said, "and we have had a proactive schedule for going in and irr rdiw.&N>,t renovating lines to ensure that service delivery of water and sewer is not jeopardized." {?r�uni�nr itc: ittrt 4rx�rts The council met in executive session to evaluate the job done by ltxalight City Attorney Harvey Cargill Jr.,who was hired by College Station `l�-vllllolo* in 1997. The council on Thursday increased his pay by$7,000 to $97,000. muuWuuuWwiu,umuuum,uuumuulmuuuuu,mm uu uum,,, Mcllhaney said Cargill received a good evaluation and has made http://www.theeagle.coin/regionllocalregional/091500collstainfrastructure.htm 9/15/00 'The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 the "city proud to have him on the team." thtreagle.CQTII Your bcsf rhOiCT fOr The council also approved a contract for a renovated fire station, CW nnLnc advertising! increased some sanitation rates, approved its $172.5 million budget for 2001 and hired a consultant to locate an operator for a proposed hotel and conference center, a project the city is working r on with TAC Realty, a subsidiary of The Adam Corporation/Group. The low bidder on the Eastgate Utilities Rehabilitation project was Young Contractors Inc. �, Z Mark Smith, the city's public works director, said the project also os includes a resurfacing of Rose Circle and the addition of fire Business hydrants. During the construction, segments of Munson Avenue every Sunday and Rose Circle will be closed from time to time,he said. in the Eagle In February 1998, a comprehensive plan was developed to address the rapidly deteriorating condition of water and wastewater facilities in and around the Eastgate area, which is bounded by Lincoln Drive, Munson Avenue, Dominik Drive and Texas Avenue. The first phase of the project was completed last year. Fire Station#2 will receive a major face-lift and expansion • through an approved$936,000 construction contract. The 19-year- old station at 2100 Rio Grande will almost double in size when the project is completed. "Anyone who has seen it realizes that it needs to be renovated and expanded,"McIlhaney said. "It is again the council's desire to make sure there are adequate facilities to meet the growing needs of our community. This will enable us to provide a higher level of services and meet the needs of our firemen." The additional space will include an equipment bay, sleeping quarters, kitchen, day room, storage, decontamination, training, washer/dryer facilities and work areas. R.M. Dudley Co. was the lowest bidder. The project will be paid from capital improvement project funds. The sanitation rate increase is 50 cents a month, from$10.20 to $10.70, for single-family residential areas, and a$25 increase for roll-off collection, from $75 to $100. The latter is mainly for dumpsters at construction sites and apartment complexes, city officials said. The new rates will help cover increasing costs of a growing system, officials said. The city's proposed budget calls for a$24 million increase,most of which will pay for long-planned, one-time capital improvement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091500colistainfrastructure.htm 9/15/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 projects, city officials said. At Thursday's meeting, the council added about $60,000 to the budget for various projects,programs • and organizations. They are: - Increasing the historic lighting project by$70,000 so it can be expanded to Eastgate.-Increasing the utility bill payment project by$34,500 for credit card payment capabilities in the utility billing department. - Allocating $50,000 to the Veterans Park Memorial project,which will be located in Veterans Park. - Allocating $5,000 to the Dispute Resolution Center. At its next meeting, the council will consider adopting the same .4293 property tax rate. That means a tax bill on a$100,000 home would be $429.30. Council members also approved a consulting contract for an operator for the hotel and conference center project. PriceWaterhouseCoopers will be in charge of locating an operator. The firm will be paid $50,000 when an operator is recommended and $50,000 when the project opens, according to the proposed • agreements. Councilwoman Winnie Garner abstained from the vote. hi other action, the council: -Approved a rezoning request for 46 acres at 200 Greens Prairie Road. The action would change zoning from commercial to single- family residential for the Texas Centroid Ranch. The request was tabled at a May meeting in which council asked for secondary access into the subdivision,which the developer added to his plan. Two nearby residents opposed the rezoning. Manuel Martin-Rodriguez said neighbors are concerned that the subdivision is being built in an already-crowded area. "It may improve the quality of life for residents in the new subdivision,but I think it will affect the quality of life for those of us who are already there,"he told the council. -Purchased 240 electronic parking meters for the Northgate area in two phases. The first phase of meters will replace the current equipment in the Promenade Parking Lot; the second will be installed in conjunction with the opening of the College Main • Parking Lot. They will accept tokens, coins and prepaid cards and will cost $71,135. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091500collstainfrastructure.htm 9/15/00 •The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 - Approved a$73,535 construction contract with R.M. Dudley Construction Co. for improvements to Brothers Pond, Merry Oaks • and Raintree parks. - Approved a rezoning request for 11 acres at 901 Graham Road, which changes the zoning from agricultural open to single-family residential. The approval came with the condition that Arnold Road be upgraded to the city's minor collector standards. -Approved an interlocal agreement between the city's police department and the Brazos County Community Supervision and Corrections Department for police escorts for probation officers within city limits. The probation department would reimburse the city for officer overtime and vehicle mileage up to $15,000, and the city would pay a balance of$1,700, according to the agreement. During the workshop session, the council directed City Manager Tom Brymer to meet with Bryan, Brazos County and Texas A&M University officials about the possibility of all four entities hiring a consultant to help the city develop strategies to improve transportation. That could involve the consultant helping with a variety of things, • including the formation of a Municipal Transit Authority,rail line relocation or regional airport planning, similar to work he has done in other Texas cities. David Dean, chief executive officer of Dean International Inc., Public Policy has proposed a year-long contract for$30,000 each month plus expenses. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaeWtheeagle.com ©2000 The B WColleize Station Eajle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091500colistainfrastructure.htm 9/15/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 WIN T �!We Subscribe od he1"timbiot--yd'? 979-776:-2345 979.776.2345 Region A!;cribe todnv, Thursday,September 14,2000 I plow Bonfire T&gtdy KJd'5 Korner—The Weather, The Eagfe-Cla_ssifted Store i q Region Region>Local / Regional B Vay, College Station city council considers infrastructure in iavis lley Records Munson area Obitua.ries Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Daieb.�,ok Eagle Staff Writer A $2.2 million water and sewer line replacement project planned for the Eastgate area of College Station"will be like building a itc Secti I o whole new subdivision around those old houses,"a city official said Wednesday. The infrastructure project, which also includes the resurfacing of Calt1i'mit"ll 20W Munson Avenue, is one of a series of items awaiting action by the City Council on Thursday. The area is one of the city's oldest neighborhoods and is bounded by Lincoln Drive, Munson Avenue, Dominik Drive and Texas Avenue. I Icallh& Fit liuss & "The utilities in that part of town are very old,"said Mark Smith, "lexico \.Itioll the city's public works director. "This will basically upgrade water \Uk Nlxlpers ill and sewer. It also will add additional fire hydrants, so our fire Ibli 11,41 ic.N coverage will improve as well as improve Rose Circle and 'pllliotvs Munson. It should be very nice." During the same meeting, the council will also consider raising some sanitation rates and approving its $172.5 million budget for the 2001 fiscal year. There will be a public hearing on the tax rate, which is expected to remain the same but generate more money because of development and increased appraised property values. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091400cscouncilutilities.htm 9/14/00 .The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 theeagle"M The low bidder on the Eastgate Utilities Rehabilitation project is your Vest chnice for Young Contractors Inc. If the contract is approved, work should onl►nc a4crtising! start in October, Smith said. During the construction, segments of i Munson and Rose Circle would be closed from time to time. In February 1998, a comprehensive plan was developed to address the rapidly deteriorating condition of water and wastewater facilities in and around the Eastgate area. The first phase was completed last year. The proposed sanitation rate increase is 50 cents per month, from Brazos razoS $10.20 to $10.70, for single family residential areas, and a$25 increase for roll-off collection, from $75 to $100. The latter is Business mainly for dumpsters at construction sites and apartment every Sunday complexes, city officials said. The new rates will help cover in the Eagle increasing costs of a growing system, officials said. The city's proposed budget calls for a$24 million increase, most of which will pay for long-planned, one-time project, city officials said. According to the City Charter, the budget must be adopted by Sept. 27. The council can adopt it, amend it so long as additions do not exceed 10 percent or take no action and the proposal would take effect on Sept. 27. (, The tax rate is proposed to remain at .4293 per$100 valuation. That means a tax bill on a$100,000 home would be $429.30. That rate is expected to generate $9.9 million and city staff has proposed that the council vote on the rate at its Sept. 28 meeting. Council members will also decide whether to hire a consultant to find an operator for the hotel and conference center project the city will undertake with TAC Realty, a subsidiary of The Adam Corporation/Group. The consultant for the hotel and conference center operator would be PriceWaterhouseCoopers and receive $100,000 in fees. The firm would be paid $50,000 when an operator is recommended and $50,000 when the project opens, according to the proposed agreements. In other action, the council will consider: - Public input about a rezoning request for 46 acres at 200 Greens Prairie Road. The action would change zoning from commercial to single family residential for the Texas Centroid Ranch. The request was tabled at a May meeting in which council asked for secondary • access into the subdivision. Several nearby residents opposed the change. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091400cscouncilutilities.htm 9/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 -Purchasing 240 electronic parking meters for the Northgate area in two phases. The first phase of meters would replace the current equipment in the Promenade Parking Lot; the second would be installed in conjunction with the opening of the College Main Parking Lot. They would accept tokens, coins and prepaid cards and would cost a total of$71,135. - Purchasing $403,274 in excess property, liability and workers' compensation insurance from the Texas Municipal League- Intergovernmental Risk Pool. The insurance would be part of the city's self-insurance program. The league was the lowest bidder. -A$73,535 construction contract with R.M. Dudley Construction Co. for improvements to Brothers Pond, Merry Oaks and Raintree parks. - A rezoning request for 11 acres at 901 Graham Road. If approved, the zoning would change from agricultural open to single family residential. There will be a public hearing about the rezoning request. -An interlocal agreement between the city's police department and the Brazos County Community Supervision and Corrections Department for police escorts for probation officers within city limits. The probation department would reimburse the city for officer overtime and vehicle mileage up to $15,000, and the city would pay a balance of$1,700, according to the agreement. During the workshop session, the council will discuss a"one-stop" social service facility to house social service providers in College Station. City officials said this would be different from Brazos Valley Community Action Agency's community health center,just inside Bryan city limits, because BVCAA's project focuses mainly on health care. It also will discuss whether to hire a consultant to help the city develop strategies to improve transportation. That could involve the consultant helping with a variety of things, including the formation of a Municipal Transit Authority, rail line relocation or regional airport planning. The council would negotiate a fee to hire David Dean, chief executive officer of Dean International Inc., Public Policy. Dean has proposed a year-long contract for$30,000 each month plus expenses. The workshop will be at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers at 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the • council chambers. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaghntheeagle.com http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091400cscouncilutilities.htm 9/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 gle Subscribe 'oday! Th 979-77 -2345 --— ­------- -- Reg i■ on k77= The Bryan-College Station Eagle --- W,ednesday,September 13,2000 I hecagle.com -Bonfire Trageri, Wlji e,,u'sl(orner -The V,..uL1M1' The Eaqte Classified S­ . ouikt tra ryl I Region>Local / Regional Texas Bra2_4 Valley Notel, Bryan council approves addtional $1 million for Traditions Records Golf Course Obituaties Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Dateb.-ok Eagle Staff Writer AP bre'.Aki 1)g I I e v.. The Bryan City Council on Tuesday night approved financial modifications to the Traditions Golf& Country Club at University • {Sitc StADAI�i Ranch agreement that private developers and city officials say will enable the development to move forward. Jim/,;JN Still ils-N Specifically, the council agreed to contribute an additional $1 Calnpliwl 20W million to the project in return for a 10 percent share in net profits for the life of the golf club—a decision made after almost an hour of questions and discussion. The city would be repaid within seven & years, according to the agreement. Icalth& lolnc& \1c.mc If the golf club loses money, the agreements are structured so the o city would not be affected by the shortfall, according to project E'ductimll director Tom Coyle. Council members asked Coyle about the reasoning behind the sixtit's city's role in economic development, particularly the Traditions project. "Communities have to be aggressive in securing uses that otherwise would go somewhere else,"he said, adding that the council's involvement is a policy decision it must make. 6 611;2 s my http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091300traditionsmoremoney.htm 9/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 belief that the cities you want to live in are cities that are theeagle,com aggressive." your bCBI choict for enlinc advertising! Councilman Mitch Morehead was the lone voter against the -- modifications. He submitted a list of concerns to City Secretary Mary Lynne Stratta to put on record. Mayor Lonnie Stabler asked Stratta to make copies and distribute the list to the council. Councilman Mike Beal asked that about $2.4 million be budgeted for a conference center. ---- The hotel developer—Campus Hotels—will pay the intital $2.4 Brazos million cost for construction of the 12,000-square-foot conference center. But when completed, the city will be given ownership of Business the facility and repay the developer$2.4 million, Coyle said. The every Sunday city will have architectural control over the conference center and in the Eagle review all construction invoices, he added. Higher construction costs and a$1 million shortfall in initiation fees for the development's golf course contributed to a projected deficit of between$2 million and $3 million. The 800-acre project in west Bryan will be the home of the Texas A&M University men's and women's golf teams. The overall deficit will be covered by the city's $1 million contribution, about $750,000 in club memberships purchased by the hotel and residential developers and the balance by C1ubCorp. Beal said he was concerned that the shortfall means Traditions would not be the first-rate project that the council and city staff have touted since its announcement last July. Coyle said that golf course developer C1ubCorp USA is required to spend at least $7 million on the golf course, not including the land and improvements, according to the agreements. "That's not modest,"he said, adding that a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course adds to its quality. The other partners in the project—C1ubCorp, A&M, CF Jordan and Campus Hotels—also made concessions to help the project move forward, Coyle said. They include: n A&M deferring all royalties from the use of the school's name for the project until all city loans have been repaid and the city has received all profit-sharing guaranteed in the agreement. n Campus Hotels, the hotel developer, and CF Jordan, the http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091300traditionsmoremoney.htm 9/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 residential developer, will purchase memberships. Because of the modifications, Coyle said, the city is now requiring i that ClubCorp put the terms of the construction phases and time lines in writing, which means Bryan residents will be guaranteed the following: 1. The golf course and hotel will be completed simultaneously. 2. The clubhouse will be built as part of the hotel complex and will be expanded when either 425 golf memberships are purchased, 400 residential lots are purchased or an additional $2 million in initiation fees is collected. Councilman Kenny Mallard said the phases and time lines added to the agreement appear to be a better deal for the city. "The realignment puts the hotel in the forefront,"he said. Golf course memberships require a$4,000 initiation fee and will cost $200 per month. Other types of memberships include social and out-of-town memberships. The hotel will include amenities and meeting rooms for Traditions members, including a permanent pro shop, fitness center and dining facility. The second phase of the clubhouse will be for Traditions members only, Coyle said. The city's $28 million financial participation would include $21.3 million from a tax-increment finance zone set up around the project property, which the city is in the process of acquiring. The rest comes from oil and gas revenues and other city funds. Six people told the council they were against the project; two spoke in favor of it. The council also approved a resolution that allows for the publication of the city's intent to issue $17 million in bonds for the project. Morehead voted against the resolution. The next step in the development is for the council to vote on issuing$17 million in bonds for the project. Coyle said he was not sure when that would happen. If that passes, the next step is to acquire the land and build the golf course, hotel and conference center, he said. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaghntheeagle.com http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/091300traditionsmoremoney.htm 9/13/00 Bowen said that a two and one-half year which is expected to increak drarhatically over r, M , ocess of design for B will result in a new the next few years and can cause public safety 'd. k, bus;'she said."[Other people on the g concerns. ' M1R +M``"'4 road] probably don't think abo y yle,a safer constructi ess,a trained lead- what it takes to stop a bus.A lot of blW ship staff and a full-tint fessional staff.The In the wake of last year's tragedy,14 Bonfire cyclists are using the sidewalk,so mester-long preparation for Bonfire will be re- Memorial Scholarships have been given to iced to two weeks. younger siblings,family members and friends of they don't follow the rules like nor- Bowen explained that the 2000-2001 school the 12 fallen Aggies and to several students in a vehicles have to.So you have to p ��,,, ask sk yourself if they're going to stop gar will be a planning opportunity for students, Jared in the collapse.The scholarships are intend- at the stop sign,or if they'll go right culty members and administrators to give sug- ed to be a living memorial of the Bonfire victims. on through it." :stions for the design and process. Other issues brought up by Bowen at the Senate meeting include the number of minority Cars parked in bus stops are an- The task force directly involved in this early g y other problem bus drivers face, arming process is headed by freshmen accepted to A&M, Rutherford said. r.J.Malon Southerland,vice , which is up by 17 percent, esident for student affairs, Q' Utt9,t1 and the 7-percent decline in "A lot of times you have to wait for m a car to get out of the way because id Student Body President Senate minutes V�S�t: African-American students. xrest Lane,a senior political Bowen said many of the mi- we're only supposed to load and un- ience major. Bryan Cole, nority students accepted to just open the doload at a bus ors anywhere."'e can't :ad of the Educational Ad- J&" A&M each year turn down Jackson said more buses are being Ministration and Human Re- nuBeN cmu HEBATTALION their acceptance to the Uni- used in efforts to help off-campus stu- )urce Development Depart- versity and suspects it is be- ent,was chosen by Southerland to coordinate and cause of financial reasons.Bowen said he hopes dents get from parking to classes. "There's more demand for the s on .cilitate the task force. - to continue to further diversify the student body The 2001-2002 school year will be a year to as part of the Vision 2020 plan.Enrollment fig- vice and put six more buses on !arch out strong leaders for Bonfire and to train ures are expected to be released next week. campus because of the parking lot said. iem The buseess added in safety procedures that will become stan- In other business,the Senate discussed treat- changes," to ard.The final stage will be Fall 2002 leading up ing a stronger connection with Bryan campus of r the November Bonfire.During this time peri- Blinn College.Bowen said he would like to cre- from tapping into resserves: the route came d,the newly selected leaders can offer sugges- ate a system in which Blinn transfer students can "We are using absolutely everis y ons to any of the finalized plans. transfer credit more easily and participate in bus.What we've done in the past Regulations for Bonfire include a single tier, some A&M school activities before they have N+m � B�TA keep four down for maintenance on Re gu u g any one day,"Jackson said."We also epee'design;a construction plan created by pro- been admitted. Matt Abernathy,a sophomore marine biology major at Texas A&M- have reserved five or six buses for :ssionals;a construction time no longer than two The Senate passed a proposal for a degree in Galveston,looks at a memorial sculpture that was dedicated in GaNe- eeks;production hours ending at midnight;pro- music,which is under consideration. ston Saturday.Saturday marked the 7 OOth anniversary of the worst charter-type things and we had to eat -ssionally cut and transported logs; and a During the July 10 Senate meeting,it also natural disaster in U.S.history,when more than 6,000 people were into that.We've got seven more bus- -nced-in construction area with limited access approved a minor in coachingi a new under- killed by a hurricane that destroyed the island. es on route than we had at this time nd video cameras. graduate course and changes to current classes last year." "If the construction process is not carried out available. See BvsEs_on Page7A. College Station offers freeparkingat Northgate . BY A t, BHATTACHAxYA Kim Foutz,director of economic develop- has always been a center of traffic conflict be- `The city keeps pressing on the garage is- TbeBatwhon ment for College Station. The Northgate tween vehicles and bicyclists," said Mies. sue for safety, but it's obvious the basic In the ongoing effort to develop the plan includes,but is not limited to,area land- "Thus,we have extended the bike lanes to backbone to the plan is economic revenue," Northgate area,a parking garage is planned scaping,streetscaping and road and utility maintain public safety within the community." Bradshaw said. to open in Fall 2001 to increase Northgate's improvement. Since creation of the free one-hour park- Although Foutz said she has not person- limited parking. A press release distributed by the city of ing,Mies said he has noticed more cars park- ally heard any negative feedback,she ex- "The parking situation has always been College Station announced that Northgate's ing in the area: plained that citizen input was a factor in tight at Northgate,"said Fire Marshal Jon Promenade Parking Lot is providing free "Ninety percent of the lot's parking ca- planning Northgate's redevelopment and the Mies."The narrow street structure is a defi- one-hour parking Monday through Saturday, pacity seems to be utilized now,versus the garage's construction. nite safety hazard,especially during emer- 7 a.m.to 6 p.m.Fees for paid parking will previous paid parking,"said Mies. "The garage has been planned for years gency plights." remain the same after free parking hours— Although the garage has received positive as a part of the package in renovating the The new parking garage,expected to house $0.50 per hour on Sunday between the hours feedback,many people have mixed feelings. Northgate area to make it a more appealing approximately 735 spaces and charge fees of 7 a.m.and 6 p.m.,and$1 from 6 p.m.to Mindy Morin, a Northgate Loupot's em- city attraction,"Mies said. equivalent to University facilities,was issued 2 a.m.During sPecial events on Saturdays, ployee and senior journalism major,is upset Twenty-seven parking spots have been a building permit last week.With a 240-day all-day parking will remain$5. about about the garage's construction. removed from College Main,but Mud Lot is planned contract,the parking garage is ex- Meter parking is expected to begin in the "The parking garage will probably create still available for parking.Once the parking pected to open early next fall.The site is be- Promenade Lot this fall after free parking order,but college students don't want to pay garage is completed and accessible,the free ing cleared.The garage location will be 100 hours, replacing the current display ma- for parking,"she said."It definitely will not parking at the Promenade Lot will be re- CBAD AD HE BATTALION yards north of the intersection of Church chine.Some street parking surrounding the be as convenient as parking on the street." evaluated.More investigation will be con- combat Northgate parking traf- Street and College Main. core business areas will also become meter Michael Bradshaw,a senior forestry ma- ducted in the upcoming months to determine ic,the city of College Station an- "A 1996 study rated parking as a main is- parking. jor, said the garage issue is a wolf in a whether it is necessary to remove addition- iounces plans for free parking. _ sue for Northgate's redevelopment," said "She area around the parking garage[site] sheep's clothing. al spots. The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Opinions>Letters to the Editor Page 1 of 1 September 9, 2000 Surely a bad sign I have no complaint with the city of College Station making the intersection at Rock Prairie Road and Longmire Drive a four-way stop. Examination of the accident statistics makes it clear that this should have been done long ago. However, I do have a problem with the way in which the change was made. On a Sunday morning,with no prior public notice, the city put up the smallest available stop signs,with the smallest available stop ahead signs posted at the minimum legal distance from the intersection. These signs are very easy to miss for regular travelers. The only reason I noticed them was that the workers were still painting the stripes on the road when I went to church. The city then assigned police to the intersection full time for the rest of the day. Were the officers there to direct traffic and make sure that people noticed the signs? Of course not. The city of College Station needed money to pay for the overtime in putting the signs up, so the police,parked on Longmire Drive and ticketed everyone who missed seeing the signs. I'm sure that this made quite a tidy profit for the city and will continue to do so. And just think,when the next accident happens because someone misses seeing the signs, officers will already be on scene. JOHN POLASEK College Station http://www.theeagle.com/opinions/letterstoeditor/0909letterstoeditor.htm 9/20/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 ouoscribe od, • aR Fl.irs hirrr."rY do 979-7�6-2345 979.776*2345 EagleRegion scribe todavi The Bry;an-College Station Thursday,September 7,2000 Bonfi,c l} ,y A19ieSporzs.co m,, Kids,lth,it-i T[ _ _c i�F' T. _ _.y,: ZtassihLad Stc­_ Busn U17117 t Region>Local / Regional l` Metropolitan Planning Organization announces railroad Brat rs Wleti Notebook. Reoords relocation public hearings Obituailies Births Eagle staff report Datebook Restaurant X-knitur The Bryan-College Station Metropolitan Planning Organization's Lottery AP brealkiing news policy committee approved an evaluation process for rating and • �� �,n�„N,,,,�,,,,� ,,,,,,� ranking alternative routes for the possible relocation of railroad it tracks in the cities, director Michael Parks said. Blazo,.t311,111c', When alternatives are ranked, the committee will forward the routes at the top of the list to consultants for an environmental impact study, Parks said. The rankings are scheduled to be t:,:,lrunr,�rs completed in August 2001. 1 ai[lt&<'itllles Also, the committee announced the times and days for three public 3 Icaltt, & hiute,w hearings about the possible railroad relocation. They are: 1(ciuie�\Ciirsicii 1,1c�xic�c, 6:30 p.m., Sept. 19 at the Bryan Church of God, 2002 Hwy. 21 v:1..�7_gx rs ill Edilualliii East. 6:30 p.m., Sept. 20 at Mary Branch Elementary, 2040 West Villa Region y,[kirus Maria Drive. Sl*Aight - 11:30 a.m., Sept. 21 at the College Station Conference Center, 1300 George Bush Dr. ��`\:lti:11rlLlri:ti' All of the hearings are intended to be identical, Parks said, and the http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/090700mpomeetings.htm 9/7/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 public is encouraged to attend to give ideas or concerns for the rail theeagle.com study. There will be five additional rounds of public hearings on your bmi choice For the issue, Parks said. online at vertising! The policy committee approved the agency's $1.37 million budget —the largest in the organization's history—for the upcoming fiscal year. Of that, $1.1 million will go toward the rail study, which is being paid for by a combination of federal, state, local and private funds,Parks said. I a CIIN Brazos Business every Sunday in the Eagle ©2000 The Brvan/ColleQe Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/090700mpomeetings.htm 9/7/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 Subscribe Today! T '0 979-7 .-2345 , Region scribe l Wednesday,September 6,2000 Bonfire Tragedy e•iy�l�rL3�sLe'i .tt�lie �{UsaVl+l�� �Wt yiadt lar �45�''E�f� �ithL �wf,taUeau Rtgion Region>Local/ Regional Lueatr: t!i,-1aa( Tee Foxfire residents to be without water BravisV1 icy Notebook Reds Obituaries Eagle staff report Births Darebook Water service will be shut off overnight Wednesday to part of the Restautaflt Wniiot Lowry Foxfire subdivision so water valves can be installed in the •fit'breaking news subdivision. Wellborn Special Utility District customers east of C O Rock Prairie Road also will be without water during the installation. The valves, College Station officials said, are designed to prevent t„aft54,airi1}20(xx future interruptions in service. To minimize any inconvenience,the work will begin at 10 p.m. Wednesday. City officials expect it to r,rorttut�ir� be completed by 6 a.m. Thursday. a Vilues The areas bounded by the following streets will be without water: {� ,a7tt, 1 F„1« . &U.'Aide, Falcon,Fontaine, Foxfire, Freneau,Frost,Haywood, Howe and N 9C"rwo Huntington. \,boot \c-k"i''-4"ts i"Edi u3ts i Anyone experiencing problems with water service during the repair period can contact the city's public utilities dispatch at 764- ': t)i5�t�x2r 3638. For information about the repair operations, call 764-3660. `iixitts 11 i 3�Itl • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/090600foxfirewithoutwater.htm 9/6/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Y t Subscribe ' . f � El�irry;hiy,�rr t+ury dr. 979-77672345 979.776.2343 Region 4b cri be to avl UM F Region Region>Local/Regional Tee College Station gas rate boost to be considered B=-:is Malley Notetmx>k. Reec,rds Obituaries By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Births Eagle Staff Writer late bcok Restaurant Mjraitc r The College Station City Council on Thursday will consider giving Lotteryg tY Y g g ap bre— :in news TXU gas service a 4.51 percent rate increase for residential and . - commercial customers, almost 10 percent lower than the company had requested. Bjazm.liu itte„ Don Fazzino, TXU's Bryan manager, said that on average a residential customer would see an increase of 99 cents a month. ' Caarlpait;a 20W The increase for commercial customers would be about $5.92 a {it arlltlu to 1ii r month. l :utlt 8:lttltat In January, the company proposed a 14.47 percent increase to t icaltll& Fitrletiti become effective in February. But the Bryan and College Station I l lone&U.4filen \t€:.3L€l city councils suspended the rate boosts and hired consultants to \,Ili ni negotiate the increase on behalf of customers. \e«�pay?rrr4 in ks€luctat�ssn Revenues from the 4.51 percent increase would provide an ��tl"tt€rt's additional $1.21 million and a for plant investment and higher pay p � s S ,rrs operating expenses, according to estimates. The Bryan City sl ,th>�nt Council has approved the rate increase. The council also will hear public comment on the city's proposed $172.55 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year. It also will _4�„�i,t __J g p g Y consider a rezoning request for property near the Raintree http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/082300cscouncilgastaxadvan.htm 9/5/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 r ' ' subdivision. your b t rho;ct for Of the total, $106.56 million would go for operations and onhne;0vtrtising1 maintenance, up 9 percent from last year; $65.962 million is -- --- budgeted for capital improvements, up almost 30 percent. rThe budget includes $1.35 million for the multi-year salary enhancement program the council enacted last May for city employees. City staff is proposing that the tax rate remain at .4293 per$100 assessed valuation. That means a tax bill on a$100,000 home Brazos would be $492.30. A hearing on the tax rate has been tentatively Business set for Sept. 14. evety Sunday The rezoning request on 5 acres is part of a larger, 14-acre tract in the Eagle that was considered for rezoning in July for an apartment complex. The Planning and Zoning Commission and council denied the rezoning, citing a reluctance to introduce apartment uses into this part of the city,near a single family neighborhood. The area is east of Earl Rudder Freeway South near Southwest Parkway. Typical lot sizes in the neighborhood are between 9,000 and 14,000 square feet,with some patio homes on 7,000 square foot lots. The applicant is requesting a zoning classification that would allow lot sizes to be 5,000 square feet. After a public hearing on Aug. 3, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted, 5-2, for rezoning the property. In other action, the council will consider: • A rezoning request for 6.2 acres located at the intersection of Wellborn and Navarro roads in the Steeplechase subdivision. The applicant has asked to change the zoning from commercial, neighborhood business, duplex residential and agricultural open to commercial and townhouse. There will be a public hearing on this agenda item. • A$30,000 change order with Mitchell&Morgan L.L.P. for the design of a plaza between the College Main Parking Garage and the Traditions dormitory in Northgate. • Additional services from Malcolm Pirnie Inc. for the design and construction management of a waterline that will run along Harvey Mitchell Parkway from Wellborn Road to University Drive. The additional line will make more water available and tie into the water system for Northgate, city officials said. The company currently is under contract with the city for capital improvements in College Station's water production facilities. The http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/082300cscouncilgastaxadvan.htm 9/5/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 additional services would cost $431,900. • A three-year agreement with First American Bank for depository services. The city's contract with the bank ends Sept. 30. Earlier this year, the city requested applications and received three. After reviewing all three, city staff recommended First American. During the workshop session, the council will discuss the feasibility of a performing arts center, a possible special venue tax that would be added to the city's hotel/motel tax rate and a marketing and management study of the Convention&Visitor's Bureau of Bryan-College Station. The workshop session is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh(&heeagle.com ........ © 2000 The Bryan/College Station E_agje Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/082300cscouncilgastaxadvan.htm 9/5/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page I of 3 4 Subscribe T ! e " he r L �4 979-7 -,2 5 971,776,2345 Brazos Business Nb_,qrribe, todav! f , I - aa 111�_-Iwjiii N Namml Friday August 18,2000 ��iliall-illi- r .............. Sonfl, y,_j Y -Aggjespui Cher-Jbe'Eagte Ciassified Store--Sustrtibrarr B 1,razos B I u I sine ISS, Brazos Business>Local Business 203) Baj-Lkrate monitor Chambers of Con1l"fieFCC Freewing Aerial Robotics plans move from College Station Columnists Econornic deNtlopment By LAURA HIPP Local business Eagle Staff Writer MoEley Fool PR Newswire A College Station aerospace firm that was given economic Strictly Business incentives to locate in College Station announced Thursday that it Tax fours&infunninion will relocate to one of two cities in the West. The company citied more lucrative economic incentive packages as the reason for moving to to either Reno, Nev., or an unnamed city in Arizona. Campaign 2COO Collilyulk(s Freewing Aerial Robotics Corp. will move by the end of Communit, September, said Hugh Schmittle, the company's chairman and Eagle chief executive officer. He would not name the town in Arizona. &Vtlues The business manufactures robotic planes for commercial and I le:11111& Fil III:vs I Ionic&Gank,ij military use and employs seven people. Mexico Schmittle said he began looking at other cities after College Station told the company in March that it had not fully met terms of the agreement it accepted to locate in the city in 1997. Under Opilliorl'i Regi m terms of that agreement, Freeewing had received at no charge the S;'K1f(% use of 25,000 square feet of building space. It also had agreed to i Sxilby, - 111, employ 14 people within one year—a condition it never met. 16,1111ola* dleeagle.voill The company also received a$61,500 grant from the Bryan- *I Z mi Wol Id College Station Economic Development Fund. When the company announced that it planned to look elsewhere, ( the EDC offered a second incentive package in May that include http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/081800freewingleaves.htm 8/18/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Brazos Business>Local Business Page 2 of 3 Advertising more iana at a site in tsryan. ine package mcivaea nve acres of land, a 60-foot by 1,500-foot runway, a 20,000-square-foot building, infrastructure, 10 years of electricity at the lowest (w theeaglexom published rate and a five-year tax abatement. your besi choice for ! onlinc advertising! To receive the revised package, the company would have to prove equity funding was secured, employ 14 people with a gross annual Check N payroll of$50,000 by Jan.1, 2001, and start runway construction Thursday's A by that date. Eagle S SOL C The agreement still was awaiting approval of the city of Bryan and A Brazos County. R "With [additional] funding, I think we would have been able to make it, but the city didn't want to change it in any shape or form," Schmittle said. "They were very tough on that." That, he said, caused Freewing Aerial Robotics to look for a new location. Schmittle said the Western cities offered larger packages, but he would not discuss their terms. He said Reno and the Arizona city have the "ability to have unimpeded areas for flying." "It's a little difficult because of the air traffic density around here," he said. "We just had to make the best business decision. "The bottom line is if we had not had the lease canceled, we would still be here,"he said. Kim Foutz, director of economic development for College Station, said she could not comment. Schmittle said he would lose three or four employees by moving, but planned to employ 30 people at the new site within nine months. Robert Worley, EDC president and chief executive officer, said the council had received 80,000 shares of Freewing Aerial Robotics in exchange for incentives. "One of these days it may be worth something," Worley said. Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhippaa,theea-ele.com http://www.theeagle.com/brazosbus/localbusiness/081800freewingleaves.htm 8/18/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 3 &'h 0 Subscribe oday! The r 979-7 -2345_ ................ .......... ............. .................... a Region 4_�qcribe todnvl Thursday,Augus't i7`:Z0`6 ` egion Region>Local Regional Texcas Cause of gas leak under investigation Bra2cs;Valley Norebcm5k Records Obituaties By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Births Eagle Staff Writer Date book Restaurant Mi-nitur About 400 residents were evacuated from their south College Lottery Station homes for about seven hours early Monday morning after AP breaking neult; an 8-inch natural gas pipeline ruptured, city officials said. 'S"ti R'HOR7, The cause of the rupture, which was about a half a mile north of Greens Prairie Road and half a mile cast of Texas 6, remains under investigation, Mitchell Gas Services officials said. There was no fire and no one was injured, officials said, but the leak closed roads, disrupted traffic and delayed the opening day of I.iiil, VAilies school at Pebble Creek Elementary School. I k-:111 & Fitness I k I I rye&Gwillcl I Emergency personnel went door-to-door at about 2 a.m. in parts of \Icmco the Pebble Creek and Shenandoah subdivisions, waking residents \.Ifioll I o'^]I 1 8 in HdIwatif n I to tell them they needed to get out of their homes. Residents were sent to three shelters: Pebble Creek Country Club, the EXIT Teen Center and the College Station Conference Center, city spokeswoman Patti Roberts said. SI-Millighl 'kxhlloloz But, she said, the country club also had to be closed. "We used Pebble Creek Country Club for a while," she said, "but the gas levels got high in that area, so we evacuated from that 11T_ http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081500gasleakfolo.htm 8/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 llJlalllJll. vv G W GIG J UDI W U1I IULL allUUL rULL111r,t1GLJPIF, Lv baly theeagle.com locations." your besi rhnicc for ontine advertisinz( The fire department received calls about 2 a.m. reporting an explosion in south College Station. Roberts said there was no fire, and no injuries were reported. "The as pipe ruptured, and I g p p p guess when it did, it made some noise," she said. ,F;cil Don Fippinger, central Texas regional director of Mitchell Gas Services, a subsidiary of Mitchell Energy& Gas Corp. based in The Woodlands, said a company dispatcher noticed a pressure BrazOS drop in the line at about 1:30 a.m., and the system was shut down Buss eSS 20 minutes later. Sunday every Sunday In � S u In that type of situation, Fippinger said, officials work to isolate the source and seal off the ruptured line. The company works with unprocessed, natural gas. "The line was not our main line [but] it ties into it,"he said. "The gas source was isolated at 1:53 a.m., and the line still has to depressure. Once the pressure is off of it, we still have small amounts of gas weathering out of the pipeline at the scene." Shenandoah resident Yvette Tschirhart and family woke up to firefighters banging on her door and ringing her doorbell at 2 a.m. "We had no idea what was going on," she said. "We thought maybe a neighbor's house was on fire when they told us to evacuate as soon as possible. We got the kids dressed and went. "It was so frantic," said Tschirhart, who said she feared for the safety of her family, including her husband, Kirk, sons Braden, 1, and Dustin, 6, and the family dachshund, Slinky. Brazos Animal Shelter volunteers were on hand to take pets to the shelter for food, water and a place to stay, executive director Kathy Bice said. Some chose to keep their pets with them at the shelter sites. Seven hours and no sleep later when everyone was allowed to go home, Tschirhart said she was "just glad it's over." Dustin, her oldest, was set to begin his first day of first grade at Pebble Creek Elementary School, which was closed until almost 10 a.m. The day created some confusion for parents and students who were set for the school year to start at Pebble Creek Elementary. Buses http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081500gasleakfolo.htm 8/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 UlUYG rGUU1G\ IVIV&JLULLGIIW W11V UU 1lVl 11VG III L11G GVd%1U41LVU neighborhoods to College Station Middle School on Rock Prairie Road to wait until their school was re-opened. "It's not what I had in mind for the first day of the school year,but we got through it just fine," said Nancy Thomberry,principal of Pebble Creek. "A lot of the students were disappointed their first day didn't go as planned,but my teachers were creative and flexible and we had a full day of learning after we all got to the school." First-day school attendance was low districtwide, and at Pebble Creek Elementary, only about 375 of the expected 600 students came to school. In addition,many teachers and school employees were delayed by the detour of traffic. State transportation officials closed both directions of traffic on Texas 6, said Texas Department of Transportation spokesman Bob Colwell. Lanes going both directions were closed from F.M. 159 to Rock Prairie Road, and drivers to the south were detoured to F.M. 2154, which turns into Wellborn Road. The detour backed up traffic for miles, and the highway was re-opened at 10 a.m. • "Little sections kept being closed, all the way back until it reached the detour,"Colwell said. Also,he said,the east frontage road between Greens Prairie Road and Rock Prairie Road was closed and re-opened about noon. Two years ago workers digging in the same vicinity hit a Mitchell gas line, causing the evacuation of Pebble Creek subdivision and Pebble Creek Elementary School. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaahatheeagle.com Eagle staff writer Kelli Levey contributed to this report. _.................... .. , C0 2000 The Bryan/College Station Eagle Privaa._Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081500gasleakfolo.htm 8/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 Subscribe 'I" Thy Je 979-77 -2�45 _ ............. .......... Region 9 scribe todnw_ • Thursday,August 17,2000 I F3 Bonfi'E Tluycuy 7­J a&iu ..ie, The-Wfttfter -Tt gt tL*-Ct SSMed 'Region Region>Local/ Regional i✓u%at.I''r��i+'rr't3i Tee Top EDC official to quit job Braz,,s Wiev NuteI.,�Krk Reeords Obitu;uies By LAURA HIPP Births Eagle Staff Writer Date book Restaurant Minitor Robert Worley, resident and chief executive officer for the B Lort�ery p rYan- AP breaking new College Station Economic Development Corp., announced • Wednesday that he will resign in October. Worley, 55, will leave the post he has held for a decade and open a r��dl t3,iirr� . Bryan-College Station office for Somervell Partners, a Glen Rose, Texas-based commercial and residential development company. mnimijt;it 2010 t:I�Irllnrli:Sr4 t;I,rtrnEttrrit Worley told the board of directors of his decision at Wednesday's i as� ie meeting. He told EDC staff a week earlier. (',11111 �� V11.k?5 C:Aiul.r t;Illw„ "I am not making this move because of unhappiness or any other �. ` .i� negative reason,"he said. "Tom Brooks and Doug Hutchinson of \aus,n Somervell Partners simply offered me an excellent opportunity to \cmImpers itr Ed u mtu1r1 continue in the development business, but in the private sector, and (Hs11111t7es stay in Bryan-College Station." {�4)I11HHr1S 1{2�Nr11 4ik,rrti Somervell Partners does not own property in Brazos County, he ,SJ*Kiighl said. t�u:hnlrt�t thr ca;ic.t""' "That will be one of my jobs," Worley said. 'iis�ctz.ltrt>Lrre:ri: EDC chairman Ron Blatchley said a task force will be established http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081700topedcofficialquits.htm 8/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 to review the structure of the corporation before a"national theeaglexom search"begins for a replacement. The task force would review the your besi choice fir policies and operations of the EDC and advise the board of any (W onlinc a4vertising! changes needed,he said. "Everything is fair game when you lose a chief executive," Blatchley said. ;ao'll Blatchley said he and Worley discussed the resignation about two weeks ago, but the matter was not mentioned to the board of directors. Brazos "To say that the board might be a bit surprised today might be an understatement,"Blatchley said. "We are going to go forward Business obviously. Robert has been instrumental in bringing us to this every Sunday point." its the Eagle Worley said he has been considering the move since the offer was made in March by Hutchinson, a friend of 16 years. "I had not been out seeking a job,"he said. "It was a very hard decision to leave something that you've been doing this long. It's just an extremely good opportunity for growth for me." Worley said the new position will be more profitable, but he would not disclose the details. As EDC president and chief executive, Worley earns $80,000 a year plus benefits. Worley worked at chambers of commerce in McKinney, Texas, and Glen Falls,N.Y.,before accepting the top economic development position in the Bryan-College Station area. •Laura Hipp's e-mail address is Ihipp(a�theea-ale.com 2000,The.Brvan/College Station Eagle Privy_Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081700topedcofficialquits.htm 8/17/00 The Eagle 0 City of College Station News FiaL. Aug . i Luoc.) Council must apologize Community Action Agency. Is this how business is handled 1=ded my first College by the council?I arrived with hope n City Council meeting and anticipation but left with last week expecting to see gov- despair and disgust at the behavior ernment at its best. Instead, I was displayed,by the entire City appalled at what I heard coming Council. from folks who were voted into Mayor Lynn McIlhaney orches- positions to represent the residents trated the event more like a judge of College Station. and jury rather than a workshop Councilmen Dennis Maloney's requesting accountability. and James Massey's remarks were An apology is due by the City insulting, condescending and arro- Council to Eric Todd, BVCAA and gant. They displayed great animos- to the residents of College Station ity towards Eric Todd, and their for being disrespectful and rude, inquisitions appeared to be driven and displaying such disregard for by a personal attack on his charac- another human being. ter and leadership qualities as an administrator at the Brazos Valley DIANE MO Bryan The Eagle City of College Station News �. Aug i L; Z(W A VidOIl 1"aCk $110,000 in the budget for more. We have more than $300,000 budgeted ollege Station City Council for facade improvements for the members showed their true beer joints at Northgate. How colors as they viciously much did the Wolf Pen Creek fiasco ripped into Eric Todd, senior cost us? administrator for the Brazos Valley The College Station City Council Community Action Agency, who is members owe Eric Todd and the in charge of the Bryan-College citizens an apology. Station Community Health Center. NORMA MILLER Todd spoke at the Lincoln Center College Station on Aug. 8. He came prepared with graphics, charts, handouts, etc. Councilman Ron Silvia also attend- ed. Todd answered all questions with skill, knowledge and certainly managerial expertise. Silvia told him that he had satisfied many of his questions. Silvia then told him to go to the council meeting pre- pared to speak as he had to us. Silvia told Todd to come prepared to answer the questions about the architect overbid. Silvia said the council members had all the fig- ures they needed but did need to understand the overbid. Todd came to the council work- shop on Thursday prepared to explain the bid, and so he brought no figures with him. Silvia led off the questioning, followed by an emotional outburst from Council- men Dennis Maloney and James Massey demanding a penny by penny accounting of the$180,000 the center was asking for. Todd told him he would have the figures when the regular evening meeting convened. There are no words to portray the cruel, blind attack on Todd by Massey. It was unjustified, unnec- essary and humiliating. Councilwo- man Winnie Garner also chimed in, as did Councilmen Larry Mariott and Maloney, and, espe- cially, Mayor Lynn McIlhaney. We spend $70,000 for stupid antique street lights with another The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 S AV!ubscribe Tod-., �� 979-7Z6;72345 979.776.2345 Region todcayl Monday,August 14,2000 ... ............ -Bonfire-Trage<Jy -,gg,LJjkAtS.00M' 'Kid'5,Komer __1We'V/eathL, Eagle Cassified Store Bu-';1 L,!.,rarY4 Region>Local / Regional ............. .......... Breaking News - August 14, 2000 5:15am Texas Gas leak forces evacuation of Pebble Creek and Biaz�I&Valley Noud'�' 1, Recc,r& Shenandoah Obituaries Births Eagle Staff report Datebck,k Restautant Micitur A natural gas leak forced College Station to evacuate the residents of the Pebble Creek and Shenandoah subdivisions and shut down Highway 6 around 3:00 a.m Monday morning. Ite _'_ ;­1­1��11_'1­­_" _* - etions The city set up shelters at Exit Teen Center on Rock Prarie Road Blitos Blvollcs,-' and the College Station Conference Center on George Bush Drive. An another shelter at Pebble Creek Country Club was closed and Colliallikis evacuated after gas was detected in the area. Around 2 a.m. the College Station Fire Department began &Vilgles recieving calls reporting an explosion in south College Station. h& 1� loitle&Garden After investigating, city emergency personnel began going door to I \]exico door to ask residents of Pebble Creek and Shenandoah to evacuate. \.11ioll The College Station Emergency Operations Center coordinated the \t-k Nl'x"N ill evacuation and set up shelters for residents. Highway 6 has been closed between FM 15 9 and Rock Praire Road. llsui Id http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081400gasleak.htm 8/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 3 AL V! The( ilwte Subscribe 'Tod-L., 979-77&-2345 ........................................... ............................................... ......................................................... 979.776.2345 Reg!on 41scrib e todnv I 1 Friday,August 11,2000 -Bonfire Tragedy AggleSports-corn",z-,Kid's-Komer, -Tl,� The Eagte Classtfied Store Region>Local/ Regional L,"Vre gj,)" Texas College Station council reviews proposed budget Brazzis,Valley Notebook Obituaries By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Births Eagle Staff Writer Dateb,:..:,k Restaurant\Vmitov The College Station City Council on Thursday approved the Lollefy issuance of$8.1 million in bonds,most of which will help pay for AP breaking neto; land, design and construction of the College Main Parking Garage in Northgate. (W Site Secti,_'Ills Bia/m,Blvalicv, Construction of the$6.2 million, four-level parking garage to be BI'mos S111AIN built by Vaughn Construction of Bryan between College Main and 20M Second Street is expected to be completed in July 2001. Charles Cryan,the city's director of fiscal services, said bids were E;Iglc Fai I It&V11140 received from four companies for the 20-year bonds. The interest I ICA1111& FiLlIUSS ranged from 5.3 percent to 5.4 percent, which is lower than what I Ionic&Gmtkil the city expected. Mexico \.1tioll "Basically, it means the city is going to save some money,"he \CviNp�tpvrs in Edm3WI I said. "We expected them to be issued at 5.5 or 5.6 percent. On $8 million, that will save$15,000 every year for the length of the bonds." 'AIM arts tit ltlrisl„�: Also at the meeting, the council rezoned 162 acres from agricultural-open to planned-development district housing for the Castlegate subdivision in south College Station. It also approved a contract for the second phase of a bike loop through the city. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081 I 00cscouncilpkggaragezon.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 theeagle.CUm The subdivision is supposed to be similar to The Woodlands, a • your bc a master planned community north of Houston. The development, online l�ver4ver ice for iising! which is to be constructed on land along Greens Prairie Road, is planned to have 390 homes when it is completed. i The $704,911 bike loop contract is with Jerdon Enterprise Inc. and will include off-street paths within Lemontree, Bee Creek and Central parks. It also includes a raised median where Lemontree and Bee Creek parks meet. A federal grant from the Texas Department of Transportation will pay for 80 percent of the bike loop's cost; the city's cost is Brazos $269,600. Approval is conditioned upon TxDOT's review and Business approval of the contract. every Sunday in the Eagle The first phase of the bike loop,which is nearing completion, provided for bike lanes on city streets. Mark Smith,the city's director of public works, said the two phases help make the community better for bicyclists. "One of the criticisms we've received is that the city is not a bicycle-friendly community. This takes us a step toward being one,"he said. "I think you'll find people who say that more needs to be done,but this is a step in that direction." In other action, the council: - Approved a three-year marketing plan to help achieve the city's communication goals. The council also considered adopting a theme for the plan and narrowed a long list down to three choices. City staff will be researching a possible fourth. Within the next couple of weeks,residents will be able to vote for their favorite, as the list will be posted on the city's Web site. They are: —College Station. People. Pride. Progress. —College Station. Embracing the Past, Exploring the Future. —College Station. Home to Families,Friends and Futures. - Approved an annual landscape maintenance contract with The Greenery for nine buildings and locations, including the business center and library, throughout the city. The contract will be for all materials,machinery, equipment and landscape maintenance. The Greenery was the lowest bidder. http://vvww.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081100cscouncilpkggaragezon.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 - r��Yi�vcu a p1.J iiuiiivtt�vii5uu��tvii witua�� ivi uivabum'Luic improvements in the Northgate area. Elliott Construction was the lowest bidder. - Approved resolutions to the Texas Municipal League to support legislation that would increase the competitive bidding minimum from$15,000 to $25,000 and would allow for e-commerce and high technology to be used in the public bidding process. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavana_ahna,theea_ale.com - ... U' 2000 The.Bryan/College Station Eagle Privacy_Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081100cscouncilpkggaragezon.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 5 Subscribe Today The T gle F. 979-7 -2;45 Region Friday,August 11,2000 _80n&C liagEtjy Ktd'S X0Mer­ThLwIVe8ther--TJ R g,It Region>Local / Regional Texas College Station council a Braz pproves health center funding, zis Valley Noteb wk Records rebukes management for poor practices Obituaiies Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Daiebook Eagle Staff Writer Restaurant M)nitor Loner y The College Station City Council gave the Bryan-College Station Ap b re Ad n g i i e us Community Health Center $130,000 Thursday, but not before several council members sharply rebuked the agency's coordinator bite s bons for what they called bad management. Blazon B11'silics-N The health center, which aims to provide one-stop health and (.1limpai'll 2(Axi social services for the indigent and working poor of the Brazos Valley, asked the council to provide an additional $180,000 to Eagle support its operations. The council previously had approved a f`.Jilh&�-Itlljoi $126,000 contribution. leal I I I& Finics." 1`,I I)c&Garden The extra$130,000 would pay final construction costs so the six- \IVNICII year project could open its doors, center officials said. Eric Todd, senior administrator for the Brazos Valley Community Opilnows Action Agency, which will run the facility, has overseen the Region Slums project since 1994 when a coalition of nonprofit agencies decided SI-xodighi to turn an idea into reality. I'lleeiglex-Inn Council members grilled Todd for 90 minutes about the program budgets, construction costs, project costs, inconsistent costs, total project budget and funds raised. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081 100healthcenter$$approve.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 5 theeagle.com "There are some questions here that I have not been able to • reconcile,"Councilman Ron Silvia said. "We're getting a lot of Qn�a a-4choice r zt ng,f different information on these things, and quite frankly,we don't know what is correct. i The council members sharp questioning caught Todd off guard. Todd told the council he thought it had been given the information it needed to answer any questions. Plus,he said,he had been told that he would only be given five minutes to speak about the center's benefits to the community. B razOS A member in the audience tried at one point to help Todd answers Business some of the questions. At other times,he answered questions as every Sunday best he could or said he did not have the information at hand to in the Eagle provide an adequate answer. Asked why construction was started when the coalition had not raised funds necessary to pay for the building, Todd said the coalition raised a significant chunk of the money, and began construction before its vision died in limbo. Asked to explain individual program budgets, Todd said he did not know because all of the programs not under BVCAA are (WO independently locating in the building. Those programs will pay the costs of their utilities—space costs—each month,he said. "Each project has its own budget,"Todd said. "It's not my responsibility to look at what the budget for the Prenatal Clinic is. It is a private nonprofit agency." Council members asked about future federal and state funding availability, something BVCAA relies upon each year. "We have been in business for 29 years,"he said, adding that in his 11 years with BVCAA, funding levels have either stayed the same or increased in my 11 years." Also, council members pointed out, there have been 51 change orders throughout the construction process,which has increased the cost tremendously. "We've made plenty of mistakes along the way,"Todd said. "Was it done maliciously?No. Was it in good faith? Yes. We did it for a group of people who don't have much of a voice." • Councilman James Massey asked for a list of items the council would be paying for if it contributed the $180,000. Todd did not have one. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081100healthcenter$$approve.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 5 "Do you understand our frustration?"Massey asked. "This is not • personal,we're just trying to understand." Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said the council had financial information, but the records were not accurate and up to date. "That's why these questions are being asked," she said. "If we don't know and every time we ask a question,the numbers don't jive,nothing has been made clear to the council. Every piece of information we're getting is different ... That's why you're seeing frustration from us." Councilman Anne Hazen,who was silent for most of the discussion, asked to make a statement toward the end of the discussion. With tears welling in her eyes, Hazen said that as a former health care provider for almost 30 years, one of the dreams of the local medical community was a consolidated health care facility. "The group that started this six years ago had the same dream," she said. "I appreciate my fellow councilmen looking at the budget and management,but I don't want it to escape anyone that this facility is desperately needed." The council asked Todd for more financial information and decided to continue through its workshop and regular meeting before resuming its discussion. During the regular meeting,the council was asked for direction on how to spend funds available in its community development budget, and one of the suggestions was the center's request. Hazen moved to approve$175,000 in funding, which was seconded by Maloney. Maloney said he would support the full funding because the project had been strongly supported by the city of Bryan. "The reason why the health center is in trouble is because of a bad architect and bad management of the project, not because of the city of College Station,"he said. "The city of Bryan made a policy decision to do this project. I will show support for the Bryan City Council's policy decision, trusting in their decision." Silvia said he, too,would support the request, and the council does care for its members of its community. Councilman Winnie Garner also said she would support the request,because it's a"classic example of where you can't throw the baby out with the bath http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081100healthcenter$$approve.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaMegional Page 4 of 5 wawi. Massey said he would support the request, even though there are so many unanswered questions. "You must have a heart of gold,"he said to Todd, "but you're not a good businessman." Councilman Larry Mariott agreed with the others, saying he would support the funding. McIlhaney said she would not support the entire request. She proposed$130,000 to cover the telephone and computer system. She would not support funding an outstanding change order or paying for signs, especially if it could take money away from the future Lincoln Center renovations in College Station. "If we can't get straight answers, and if I can't get the information when I need it,how can I be sure that the people are getting the services they need?" Mariott moved to amend the original motion and fund the $130,000. The amendment passed, 4-3,with Maloney, Hazen and Silvia voting against in hopes of voting for the$175,000 in funding. "We appreciate their support,"Todd said after the vote. The project combines into one building health services provided by the Brazos Maternal and Child Health Clinic,the Brazos Valley Community Action Agency, information and referral services from United Way, and two Texas A&M University programs—the Community Health Education Laboratory and Educational Psychology Counseling Services. So far, about$2.5 million has been raised by a nonprofit coalition of agencies to operate the facility. That total includes $1.2 million from the city of Bryan,which pledged future community development funds over 10 years to the project. Three other contributions were$500,000 from the Episcopal Health Charities of Houston, $270,000 from the Brazos Valley Community Action Agency and$165,000 from the Meadows Foundation of Dallas. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavana-ah@theeagle.com http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/081100healthcenter$$approve.htm 8/11/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe �h�� 1 {T t r i.wY do u. td�J 979-77`6-2345 .. _........ .._ _. ... __ --.._.._. ............ _.__.......... ... _. ..... ... _._. -- ....._.. 979,776.2346 - .­. Region I to nor_ E Wednesday,August 9,2000 gCfT1 o u4 ttiggIL-`pCs€'m.to1"r[•—Kid*'S1<,orner :t a,r_uti 1 Tt`eE-, U+ 912 O Region>Local/ Regional Texts College Station City Council gets first look at proposed Rraz,:,s Valley Notebook budget Y�e c+girds g Obituaries Births By COLLEEN KAVANAGH DateY ook Eagle Staff Writer Restaurant Nkpnitor Lottery The College Station City Council will get its first look Thursday at AP breaking r'e"' the proposed $172.5 million budget for next year. The document iJIIIIYWIIIVIJIIVYVIIVIIIYYIIVIIIYIIWYIIIIIIIIJIII i1i1111116iIIlYYIYIIIIJYIdIhI� does not call for an increased tax rate. t10rIs fira�s�s E3,�sinw+ Budget manager Jeff Kersten will outline the proposed fiscal year 2000-01 budget,which calls for a$24 million increase in tasirliflai gn 20IX? spending, during the council workshop session. Most of the 16 ( ctr,ITlrli�rS percent increase is because of long-planned, one-time projects, he 4,r�rtknrrrrtirr said. Y.li �X 4'.t Y�.rith l th ��tilrur:s "There are a number of additional key capital improvement I loon&( :rrdcrt projects included in the proposed budget,"Kersten said. "Some are My oco for water and wastewater, some are for the business park and that y'"'`"l sort of thing." T Noo.1upcts ill EdIluamtri (}lint uai icy 0pliliorks City staff is proposing that the tax rate remain at .4293 per $100 of Region assessed valuation. That means a tax bill on a$100,000 home would be $429.30. SY�+.�t1i;trt rltett�lt.ccnrrr Several budget workshops are planned and a public hearing on the I4x s,\lnnarlav budget has been tentatively set for Aug. 24. Kersten said the budget will be ready for adoption in September. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/080900cscouncilproposedbudg.htm 8/9/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 theeagle.Com Also during the workshop,the council will discuss whether to your besi choicr for provide any additional funding to the Bryan-College Station c o�,�;,,�a4verv„ri,;s;ug, Community Health Center,which aims to provide one-stop health and social services for the indigent and working poor of the Brazos I Valley. The $2.5 million center still needs $180,000 for a telephone system,records and management software, computers and signs. The city already has contributed$126,000,but center officials are asking the city to increase its funding. During the regular meeting,the council will consider issuing$8.1 B raz OS million in bond money to help pay for land and design and Business construct the College Main Parking Garage in Northgate. every Sunday in the Eagle hi other action,the council will consider: - Rezoning 162 acres from agricultural open to planned development district-housing for a subdivision in south College Station. The applicant would like to develop the Castlegate subdivision, modeled after The Woodlands. It is on land along Greens Prairie Road. There will be a public hearing on the zoning change at the meeting. - A $704,911 construction contract with Jerdon Enterprise Inc. for the second phase of the bike loop. The second phase will include off-street paths within Lemontree, Bee Creek and Central Parks. It also includes a raised median where Lemontree and Bee Creek parks meet. A federal grant from the Texas Department of Transportation will pay for 80 percent of the bike loop's cost; the city's cost is $269,600. Approval would be conditioned upon TxDot's review and approval of the contract. -An annual landscape maintenance contract with The Greenery for nine buildings and locations, including the business center and library,throughout the city. The contract would be for all materials,machinery, equipment and landscape maintenance. The Greenery was the lowest bidder. - A $1.3 million construction contract for infrastructure improvements in the Northgate area. Elliott Construction was the lowest bidder. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/080900cscouncilproposedbudg.htm 8/9/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 - 1\GOULUL1V11J LU L11G 1GAaa 1V1U111L.1p0.11.GQrUG L11dL JUPFUIL legislation that would increase the competitive bidding minimum from$15,000 to $25,000 and that would allow for e-commerce • and high technology to be used in the public bidding process. The workshop session will be at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will be in the council chambers at 7 p.m. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavana-ah(a),theea-gle.com .... .... .... .... ...... ..... .... . C�_2000._The_Brya /Colleae,._Station.Eagle. Privacy Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/080900cscouncilproposedbudg.htm 8/9/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 he ge Subscribe Today! 979-7 -2 �45 979.776,2345 Region ribe today-I 05 , Wednesday,August 2,2000 --- -------- ---__------- -80nflre-T[,L�, :'�' �-'Y 9'C_.S J'U'V�.�Ui I I The Weather ""Tire r:agte Classtfled Region A 'Region>Local Regional Z9 2000 Texas' College Station Municipal Court changes fee procedures Brm)s Wley Notebook Obituaries Eagle staff report Births Datebook Restaurant NkInitor The College Station Municipal Court as of Aug. I will require that Levery all fines and court costs be paid by defendants when they enter AP breaking news their pleas. rrl Defendants who are not able to pay fines and court costs at that time will be referred to the collections officer to set up a payment plan. The defendant may request a referral from the customer service clerk at the court or a referral may be requested by the C'mopailza 20(W judge. Defendants who are referred to the collections officer will be given an application requesting specific financial information 'F Eagle used to determine the payment plan. F.Jith&VAIIIes I lealth& Fit Iless I Imne&,Gatdc]) OP111tows RegiiIII SJxnts sixotlighl \V61 Id • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/072800colstacollectionprogr.htm 8/2/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 Subscribe lbdav! Thy gie 979-77 -245 979.776.2345 Region A_�qcr6e tom F Wednesday,August 2,2000 r°B t 'T' IC,JY ,{iA/ '4 �`a� �ttr0 Region Region>Local/ Regional _ t..�alt`re i�y'ral Tee Northgate parking fees to change Brazta&Valley t btu"k Reeords Obituaries By COLLEEN KAVANAGH B nl-w Eagle Staff Writer Datel ook Restaurant kkinitur All 116 spaces in the Northgate Promenade parking lot soon will Lotter ,P breaking news be free for patrons who stay less than one hour on Mondays through Saturdays, College Station officials announced 0 Wednesday. BI,{fm l 1„uIcs The change, scheduled for Aug. 7, will help merchants who rely on Bcjz'�s1111da`" short-term, free parking as the city implements a plan to remove Gainp.aign 20t?t> almost 400 on-street parking spaces in the area, city officials said. c]kYlnrtYr,ear {sYr1Ul'�i nl�tk The on-street parking is being removed to help make the area safer i .iiI II&''VIIIfes for pedestrians and bicyclists as well as ensure the viability of the I IcAllf&Filli`ss College Main parking garage, the city says. I[>'Ine&f milc,i \Iciicrr \.,,iol'l On July 13, the City Council directed staff to look into providing \c.-k%,l Alvrs in E~;diw3tum more free parking than the proposed 30 free, one hour spaces txbirirnic4 because of increases in construction and to help Northgate a ( �i�rirYS s R`Fmiffi businesses provide parking to customers. slxirrs sl*Ytlight For people who wish to park in the lot for more than one hour, the Icx hIIIA(J fees remain the same: 50 cents an hour between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. 'i''x'I�jexonr and $1 an hour between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m., Monday through ``."AlmLinau Saturday. There are no daytime charges on Sundays, Fire Marshal Wnld Jon Mies said. (W http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/072700northgateparking.htm 8/2/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 theeagle.com Mies said he does not foresee the city losing money from making . your bw choice for those spaces free during the day—the $20 or$30 the parking lot online advertising! earns on average from daytime parking could be made up in fines from people who use the free spaces for longer than the free time allotted. r « [City staff) looked at the amount of revenue the lot is generating during the day, and there is not much impact now,"he said. "With all of the construction, we thought this would be good for .14 merchants." Brazes Bernie Guessner, owner of Aggie Cleaners on College Main, said he is pleased that the city worked with the merchants to help ease Bu i� a their concerns that the huge loss of parking would hurt their every Sunday businesses. in the Cagle "In particular, it might not be as convenient for some of us as it is for others, but overall this is a positive thing,"he said. "It hurts to lose the other parking,but there will be more parking than initially proposed, and we are pleased to have it. This is good for Northgate as a whole." The free spaces will be re-evaluated in about a year, after the parking garage is constructed, Mies said. Additionally, the parking lot's payment equipment will change to a metered system this fall. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanazhatheeazle.com © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/072700northgateparking.htm 8/2/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 Subscribe Todav! Tvw,he .. .., 979_77 -2345 R Solon 9_-qjcribe todw, I Wednesday,July 19,2000 o , ir>s�it_it Region>Local / Regional ZOGU Lix'slfre�i�rYal Texts, Groundwater usage prompts planning committee to hire Brazos XWley Note b+r4, Reux-rds lobbyist obituaries i Births Associated Press S Date book Restaurant hbnitor Members of the Brazos Valley Council of Governments water Lotter AP breaking neu} planning subcommittee chose an Austin law firm Tuesday to lobby legislators who will be charged with establishing groundwater conservation districts in Texas. Bickerstaff, Heath and Smiley will be paid $108,000 to represent € the 12-county group, said Tom Wilkinson, BVCOG executive (:ampaittt?fNM! CoIIIIIIIr,rwts director. CoI111111 nits Eagle The subcommittee is developing plans to create groundwater Faith&Vrlues conservation districts throughout the Brazos Valley. The districts I leant& Vit rwss would manage the Carrizo-Wilcox and Gulf Coast aquifers that are I \lcic,i under the area. Newsimpets i►i Nldut'aw'll �)l�ittuirie: � {1Eiirlitjrr Rc��*i+zrt 4rxKts SIXrt;light tg1exont 11) Id http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071900waterlobbybvcog.htm 7/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 4 The e �Subscribe � �. -27 345 Reffion 7rr�b l ­. ......... Wednesday,July 19,2000 ..L -1 Th >�u 44Eb. �{a.l�liaJly�iyaY=jam t Regic,n Region>Local / Regional L,�alr`re ;tinral Tee Scorching heat sparks burn bans Records ::;Bt'd2us�.yflej-i;�tet\f_�,k Obituaries By LAURA HIPP Eagle Staff Writer Births Date b_-A Restaumt k1mitur The counties of Brazos, Grimes and Madison ordered burn bans Li,ttery Tuesday as soaring temperatures parched dry land and raised the ` b"en new,, threat of wildfires in the Brazos Valley. t. Brazos County commissioners voted to prohibit all outdoor l ,;trr�.l3iiirre s burning during their meeting Tuesday. The order includes a ban on limzw,sulltlay burning material in barrels. t:atnpai,4n(MM} c;ohlo"rtists The Grimes County ban is temporary but may be made permanent C0111trtttt111', next week. Eagle faith&Vallfel l lealth&Fitat,w The Texas Forest Service's drought index lists the area at 587 as of I lu vie&Gattlt,tt Monday. The index, which ranges from 0 to 800, describes the k1exI , amount of moisture that is missing from the ground. ratio„l N€��mixt1Ixt,kn iit litlt�t::ri„+il �nrts Any figure above 600 is considered extremely dangerous because wri Opillioni dormant grass cannot absorb water. The area is expected to exceed Revirtn 600 within 14 days, according to the Texas Forest Service Web 4rxxts site. Sl-Xtllight I7 VhtuAar�t IkCJ.,;1C_;0111 Brazos County Judge Al Jones said emergency officials told Texas Attrttruat, commisioners that firefighters had battled more than 30 grass fires Wt ld so far this month. 66 • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071900weatherelderly.htm 7/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 theeagle,cam A campfire left burning Monday night caused a 50-acre grass fire • in southern College Station by Tuesday afternoon, fire officials zMur best choice for linc advertising! said. Public Information Officer Bart Humphreys said several children held a campfire at a home in the 13900 block of Renee Lane on Monday night, but didn't fully extinguish it before they left. Wind- driven embers from the campfire caused the fire to spread C1Tuesday, Humphreys said. who lives at the residence was ticketed _ The 14-year-old boy , Humphreys said. It is illegal to burn inside the city limits without a Brazos permit and authorization from the fire marshal, he said. BUSIIIeSS Sunday The blaze took about an hour for firefighters to get under control every Su in the Eagle and 19 firefighters from the College Station Fire Department, South Brazos County and Precinct 3 volunteers helped extinguish the blaze. No structures were damaged in the fire and no one was injured, Humphreys said. The Bryan-College Station area has had seven consecutive days of 100 degree-weather or higher. The high Tuesday was 100. Lance Wood, a National Weather Service forecaster, said temperatures should stay the same through this week but drop a little by the weekend. July 12 was the first day this year the temperature topped the century mark, at 101, and steadily increased to 105 Saturday and Sunday. "We are experiencing slightly above normal temperatures and normal is in the mid-90s, so it's not that hard to hit 100,"Wood said. Last year 100-degree weather hit July 27, he said. The summer of 1999 had 20 days that were 100 degrees or higher. Community agencies will offer assistance to residents who seek relief from the heat. The Brazos Valley Community Action Agency will help low- income families pay utility bills when the temperature is at least 100 degrees for seven consecutive days or more in a billing cycle, said Vancy Mayes, administrator for community services. The organization serves the Brazos Valley as well as residents in Walker and Waller counties. Last year the department received $689,000 in funding from the state department of housing and community affairs, Mayes said. She did not have an estimate of the funds received so far this year. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071900weatherelderly.htm 7/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 The organization also assists in repairing broken or non-energy • efficient air conditioners, she said. Families in need can call BVCAA at 779-7407 or(800) 551-5795. The American Red Cross is asking residents and merchants for assistance in buying 20-inch box fans for families in need, said Cathey Quintana, executive director.,The group has given away almost 400 fans in less than two weeks. She estimated the Red Cross gave out that number of fans in twice as long a period in 1999. The have no fans at this time, she said. "We are passing them out as quickly as we gather them," Quintana said. "The rise in temperatures came on early this year." Households must apply for assistance through the Red Cross and are restricted to one fan each because of the large demand, she said. "That is not nearly enough," Quintana said. "Most of our fans are going to Bryan versus College Station, but that does not mean that we are not going into College Station." • Anyone who needs a fan or would like to donate fans or money can call 776-8279. Summer temperatures are not the only thing on the rise in the area. Water use increases as it becomes hotter and rain decreases. College Station officials are urging residents to practice efficient outdoor watering. In doing so,water customers can save on water bills and reduce peak season water demand, which will ensure an adequate supply of safe, high quality water. "Summer's here, and it's really hot," said Jennifer Nations, College Station's water resource coordinator. "We're asking people to try to cut back. We are experiencing a really, really high demand of water." College Station officials offered the following facts regarding water conservation: - Up to 30 percent of water can be lost through evaporation when people water plants during the day. - Instead of watering daily, water once every five days, after 8 p.m. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071900weatherelderly.htm 7/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 • Vl UVIV1G 7 a.111. tv 1GUMIC; Watc;i Wbb. VV atullllg lubb 11uquCutly UUl for a longer duration of time encourages deep root growth, which makes plants better-able to withstand Texas heat. -Adjust sprinklers so that only vegetation is watered, not nearby sidewalks and pavement. Sprinklers that spray a fine mist increase evaporation and should be avoided. -Never use a hose to wash off hard surfaces—it wastes more than eight gallons of water per minute. A broom works better on hard surfaces and saves water. - Check for leaks often and fix them. Unrepaired leaks are silent water wasters. For example, a slow leak of one drip per second wastes about 250 gallons of water each month. - In College Station, report suspected water leaks to the 24-hour public utilities dispatch at 764-3638. - Mulch trees and plants to retain soil moisture and prevent evaporation. - If people must wash their vehicles at home, it is recommended they do so between 8 p.m. and 9 a.m. It saves water to use a bucket filled with soapy water and a hand-held hose equipped with an • automatic shut-off nozzle for rinsing. Never leave a hose running, officials said. Staff Writer Colleen Kavanagh contributed to this report. Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhipnaa,theea&e.com ©2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.thecagle.com/region/localregional/071900weatherelderly.htm 7/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 Y theeagle.COM The activity center envisioned for Forest Ridge Elementary School, off Graham Road near Cypress Grove Intermediate your best choice fbr onbnc a4veritisingt School, would be similar to a complex that opened last spring at Neal Elementary School in Bryan. The Neal center was funded in a similar fashion by the city of Bryan, the Bryan school district and the Parks and Wildlife Department. In the first year the state parks department funded outdoor projects, the local entities each contributed about $250,000 and a grant funded about $500,000. The 10-acre North Bryan park contains the city's first outdoor roller rink, restrooms, picnic and sports pavilions, barbecue grills, horseshoe pits, trails, a playground and a community garden. The F 'c�ZQSi Neal school's gymnasium is considered part of the recreational Business complex- every every Sunday in the Eagle The next step in College Station's process is for city and school officials to determine what they would like to include in the complex, so they can begin to estimate costs and develop a schematic plan. Officials from the two entities plan to meet again in early September. College Station officials solicited public input about what residents want in their public parks during the recent creation of a parks master plan, said Steve Beachy, the city's parks and recreation • director. "And that was one of the things that came out in that plan, that the city have more cooperative projects with the school district,"he said. Beachy said the desire to do such a project has existed for years, but this is the closest the two entities have gotten to cooperating on one. The city and school district entered similar agreements to build parks adjacent to the Rock Prairie and Pebble Creek elementary school campuses. One setback to this proposed project could be the city's ability to fund its portion, but Neal said the school district might consider assisting with that. "The school district has money already built into the last bond issue to pay for their part,"Beachy said. "The city didn't have anything like that, so we'll just have to look into what we can do." (W Kelli Levey's e-mail address is klevevC&theeagle.com http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071900newcolstapark.htm 7/19/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscrib " ! T�� 0 -._.... ... .__ _ __ 9 9_ -7 .... __..._. 979.776. "' Region Tuesday,July 18,2000 _19Mf`fP",:.+.Jy e ',,,',leather The Eaglte IC.4;,_, _. J Regi(,n Region>Local/Regional �..,:K.al�reivatal 'e ' Traditions golf course land purchase on hold 3razc6 Valley Not bwk Obituaries By COLLEEN KAVANAGH $irtl3s Eagle Staff Writer Datebu-:1- Restaurant 14lr)nitur The city of Bryan's attorney has withdrawn an offer to purchase ..ottery land from two property owners for the proposed Traditions project, 'kP breailung news but Mayor Lonnie Stabler said Monday the city hopes to resubmit • r the same offer if the plan moves forward. Site se�ti, ltil:11xi5 Blr,",c", Officials with the development company slated to build Traditions Golf and Country Club at University Ranch said the project is on t('ampaign AM course and final details should be worked out soon. .r lurnllki s ` (, °""umil` On Friday, City Attorney Michael Cosentino faxed a two- F'Agle 1. i[II&,, tI ,« paragraph letter to the two main owners of the 716 acres in west l leallh& hittic,s Bryan. Cosentino, who could not be reached for comment, sent the l lorne&c i'atticn letter after the council voted to postpone action on issuing$17 NIC-6co million in bonds for the project. N.Ilioll tic'cisixljwN iYt F:clliC:amsn 0bituirica Stabler described the letter as a formality, saying the city had to (4)ini0m withdraw its offer pending negotiations with C1ubCorp, the golf 1= 7t1 course developer. He said the city cannot purchase the property Spat`` until the bonds are issued and money is available. 4ixxlighl Li V.h gh.c*ani "We're still interested in buying the property," Stabler said. "We 'texas Ail,ttnac simply had to withdraw the options at that time. We asked that ... 1'rld [the owners] hold off on everything. We just wanted to let them tom«,n..•.�ti.n�•.,.. nn.•.+n,4 w.i.•.n .w•.n«.; 1.n,.,n„n.• .�•.... A;A ..n.�«nnn 41..• i http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071800traditionslandpurchas.htm 7/18/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 , nuvw L-L wQ uaiaivt iuvvc; iw waiu vc4,auzPc a wo u►u iivL pao,) uic theeaglexom bonds, we would not have the money to pay for it. your Esesh'choice for onhnc vertisinzt "Negotiations with Red Cashion [one of the major land owners] _ still indicate that the property is available," Stabler said. "The only thing pending really is negotiations with ClubCorp." JayWatson—attorney for Cashion who owns 418 r Y acres of land that was under option—said he notified Cashion about the city's letter, but has not discussed future plans for the land with his client. "The deadline has been extended a couple of times,"he said. "Mr. Brazos Cashion has tried to work with them because he wanted this Business project to go to benefit the city. I don't think he's in any hurry to every Sunday sell it." in the Eagle Stabler said he hopes the land owners are willing to wait until official word comes back. "We don't know how long they'd be willing to wait, but they are good partners,"he said. According to the city's contract with ClubCorp, three requirements —at least 800 members, $2.6 million in initiation fees and $450,000 in annual dues—had to have been met by June 30 for the project to move forward. ClubCorp reached two of the requirements, but missed the $2.6 million goal by just over $1 million. Stabler said the city has waived that requirement, saying it's confident the project will continue to move forward and gather more members. The developer has until July 30 to notify the city of its plans. Ken Kasten, ClubCorp's senior vice president of new business development, said Monday the company still is in the inspection period of the contract. "There is quite a bit of information still out there, like golf course routing, permits and entitlement,"he said. "We're working to do all that." Kasten said he had not spoken to city officials since Friday. He said he was not aware of the termination of negotiations to acquire the property. "We don't know why the vote was delayed,"Kasten said. "There may be some issues they need to deal with. We're still working hard on the project. We're moving along." http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071800traditionslandpurchas.htm 7/18/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 Stabler said he has no idea what "issues"Kasten is referring to. He said the reason the city did not approve the issuance of bonds was that it was awaiting C1ubCorp's announcement that it is ready to continue the project. "We've said the deal is a go, but they haven't," Stabler said. Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh(a,theeazle.com. © 2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eagle Privacv Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071800traditionslandpurchas.htm 7/18/00 Ift ieii they step off and people love to come to out too far." The losers in a `win-win' situation = e to go for a family out- er days.But remember J (��N iter.Children need to be By MIKE McMICHEN J I tion for the conference center.While this is ment Property and the residual property." Special to The Eagle technically true,all city propaganda,open Will this amount be significantly more > swimming or wading meetings,public hearings and press releas- than that required for Wolf Pen Creek due ests that could help pre- he Sunday edition of The Eagle calls es prior to the election spoke only of the to the distance involved? Tect he announced conference center pro- Wolf Pen Creek location. The new memorandum also states:"TAC But please take care to with Don Adam and the city of In a 1997 Eagle guest column titled"A will be responsible for,and will have College Station"a win-win deal for the closer look at CS hotel/conference center approval rights with respect to,overall site community."I disagree.There are at least proposal,"then-Assistant City Manager plan layout,exterior design and architec- two losers in this deal. Tom Brymer discusses the Wolf Pen tural control of the Development Property The first loser is the College Station Project in detail.He closes with the ques- subject to the City's requirements and rea- school district.According to city docu- tion,"Why should you care?" sonable approval with respect to the ments detailing the Wolf Pen proposal,the He continues with the following answer: Conference Center,the Performing Arts have raised the limit so that school district was a participant in the tax "As a taxpayer and citizen of College Center,and the associated improvements." ie most incredibly rich increment financing district,contributing Station,you should have a voice in decid- Who determines what is"reasonable"— iolds would have paid any- half of the school tax dollars to be generat- ing whether the city of College Station uses the developer or the city? ed by the development back into the TIF. up to$6 million in funds generated specifi- According to Charles Cryan,College Republicans were in the dri- Yet,the College Station school district was cally by this project to leverage$22 million Station's director of fiscal services,the eat still to receive more than$1.8 million in in private investment in our community. city's contribution of$6.6 million is pro- ✓could have chosen to com- taxes during the first 10 years of the Wolf This development will,in turn,give us jected to be repaid using ad valorem taxes e and saved family farms Pen project.After the expiration of the TIF, additional facilities which our tourist econ- instead of a TIF fund.The Performing Arts kall businesses.But they the school district would have received omy needs that are leaking outside our Center which is in the new development nstead to offer those fami- about$360,000 per year. community or are not coming in at all. was originally proposed for the first Wolf as a political sacrifice to a While the new Don Adam deal is in the Between now and the November election, Pen TIF fund.Those businesses which our nation's most wealthy College Station city limits,it is in the the city will do its best to provide our citi- have recently opened in that district now S. Bryan school district.Recent state legisla- zens with information about this project so find they may suffer with the loss of this ^enter for Budget and Policy tion now forbids school districts from par- they can make an informed decision.Stay major development. ies reports that 50 percent of ticipating in TIFs.Under that law,all tuned." The specific project that was voted on by refit of this bill would go to school property taxes generated by this The citizens who voted for that specific the public is dead.The specific location has filthiest one of every 1,000 new project will go to Bryan schools,not to project are losers,indeed,because the city changed,the specific developer has who die.That one extremely the College Station school district. has used their vote in 1997 to pursue a pro- changed,the specific financial details have Cam bli- The Bryan school district is understand- ject in the year 2000 that is significantly changed,and this new project allows a sig- of usably excited about this unexpected multi- different than the one on the table at the nificant"leak"of school district revenue . million dollar windfall.College Station time of the election. that was not in the project that was voted WIND school board members never were told of This new memorandum of understand- on by the citizens in 1997. College Station the relocation of the project and the loss of ing between the city of College Station and Some people may consider some of these potential revenue until they read it in The Don Adam's TAC Realty Inc.,and College changes good.Some may consider these Eagle. Main LTD.,was decided completely in changes don't add up to a win-win deal. The second loser is the group of citizens closed-door session and hurriedly present- May I remind you that the specific Wolf who voted for the conference center in 1997 ed for a vote by the College Station City Pen Creek proposal passed by only 299 377 E.Northwest Highway, based on the specific location in the Wolf Council with no public discussion or input. votes.Perhaps,it is time to ask the ques- Suite 410 Pen Creek area and the financial details for This new memorandum has the city com- tion again,"Why should we care?" Dallas,Texas 75238 that specific project.The city says that the miffing to"provide certain streets,utilities ■Mike McMichen is a college Station businessman. (214)349-9996 ballot issue did not mention a specific loca- and infrastructure to service the Develop- His e-mail address is webmaster@issues.org. FAX:(214)349-0738 Rep.Kevin Brady (8th District) mgworth House Office Building Vashington,D.C.20515 Tracking the national debt A (202)225-4901 I:rep.brady@mail.house.gov U.S.national debt decreased in June 2000 by: $24,506,3391157•I site:www.house.gov/brady FAX:(202)225-5524 The new total is: $5,648,244,271,953, District Office: Iniversity Drive E.,Suite 216 ege Station,Texas 77840 ■The national debt is debt owed by the federal Your share of the (409)846-6068 FAX:(409)260-2916 government.It is made up of debt obligations such federal debt is Rep.Jim Turneras Treasury bills,Treasury notes and Treasury bonds. $20,474 (2nd District) r." _ annon House Office Building Source:U.S.Treasury Department Copley News Service/Union-Tribune lashington,D.C.20515 (202)225-2401 Associated Press 79.Skating champion and commentator Dick ;ite:www.house.gov/turner FAX:(202)225-5955 Today is Tuesday,July 18,the 2OOth day of TODAY IN HISTORY Button is 71.Author-journalist Hunter S. District Offices: 2000.There are 166 days left in the year. Thompson is 63.Movie director Paul Verhoe- N.First Street,Room 201 Today's Highlight in History: time in his career. ven is 62.Singer Brian Auger is 61.Singer fkAok.xas 75901-3008 On July 18, 1947,President Truman signed In 1969,a car driven by Sen.Edward M. Dion DiMucci is 61.Actor James Brolin is 60. 1 )637-1770 the Presidential Succession Act,which placed Kennedy,D-Mass.,plunged off a bridge on Singer Martha Reeves is 59.Singer Ricky 09)632-8588 the speaker of the House and the Senate Chappaquiddick Island near Martha's Skaggs is 46.Rock musician Nigel Twist(The — president pro tempore next in the line of suc- Vineyard;passenger Mary Jo Kopechne died. Alarm)is 42.Actress Audrey Landers is 41. P.O.Box 780 cession after the vice president. Today's Birthdays:Actor Hume Cronyn is Actress Elizabeth McGovern is 39.Rock musi- ,rockett,Texas 75835 On this date: 89.Former South African President Nelson clan John Hermann(Widespread Panic)is 38. (409)544-8414 In 1927,Ty Cobb hit safely for the 4,000th Mandela is 82.Sen.John Glenn,D•Ohio,is Rock musician Jack Irons(Pearl Jam)is 38. I { FAX:(409)544-3102 I VESBURY By GARRY TRUDEAU I mil► The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 t Subscribe Today! LThe r'e • 979-77 -2345 979A776 2345 ion ��cribei to 19H118901 Monday,July 17,2000 "Mm _ .A..:h �. A; J i�.d Y'L �.I+w�r6.t.e.�+i.. ",a. - tv 4y'4#€+G*I i �w w. s+ru Regic)n Region>Local/ Regional Lc-A/reg;,w,a1 Bryan, CS may reach electricity agreement '? fZOSO Texas ra os Miller Noreb ok By KELLY BROWN r Reds Eagle Staff Writer Obituanes Births A rare joint meeting between the Bryan and College Station city Daw book J g rY g Y Restaurant Nk-iI,1,,, councils ended Saturday with officials more optimistic than ever Lottery that a longtime legal battle over electricity will soon end. AP breaking new • The 1 1/2-day retreat allowed officials to review positive mutual projects between the neighboring cities and also delved into tearing down barriers. .atnpain 2tn 'r The goal was for both cities to move on and form a more c,,,t„rnniits productive, collaborative community. The special meeting was so popular that council members from both cities said they hope it 1:�;;te Eaglt�:O tt„t� becomes a twice-a-year event. Fail' ttcsilili& Fillies t t,„nc&G.41(tet, Discussions at the meeting, which were described by some \Ilan"(" officials as being monumental, dealt with team-building and trust as the council members, and some staff, decided they would be stronger together rather than apart. Repi+nt An emotional discussion occurred late Friday when the issue of the sfx,rt_s electricity lawsuits arose. The debate spilled into Saturday's 4t ,tt,gh` meeting, but was taken behind closed doors with both mayors and theeagk:xont city managers discussing the potential for settling the old problem. " `1�n:tcAlnt�r,v, lterl,i It has been an underlying strain between Bryan and College Q4n4inr+ ti+it r+n4 �innircaa� mnnh r�nti+t�nt�> Tt�c �ior�n4o ir�rn� nc C http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071600coucniIsmeettogether.htm 7/17/00 ,The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaVRegional Page 2 of 3 UlCLl1V11, UUl 11VL U10V11JJN11111U%,11 PUU11Vly. 111%,U10r1Ul%+111VV1V VJ th.eeaglexom nine legal actions over electricity between College Station and your hcsl choice for Bryan or the Texas Municipal Power Agency. trnGnc at�vcrki�in�! In the early 90s,Bryan said a contract with College Station was not in compliance with its city charter and, therefore, was not valid. College Station officials said the issue dealt with College Station's exercising rights of the contract drafted in 1980, which allowed the city to purchase electrical infrastructure in areas annexed by College Station. ■ The other main issue began in 1995 when College Station decided to buy electricity from Texas Utilities Electric, now called TXU, Brazos rather than from Bryan, which is a partner in the Texas Municipal Business Power Agency. every Sunday in the EEagleach Bryan filed suit in 1996 against its southern neighbor, saying the city was unlawfully using its electric transmission lines. Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler said then that the city needed to protect its position in the courts in case the two cities could not negotiate a rate that College Station should pay for using the Bryan electricity transmission lines. College Station City Manager Tom Brymer and Bryan City Manager Mike Conduff said Saturday that the cities are probably • weeks away from resolving those issues. "I think we've found common ground in an understanding that to have productive discussions ... on other issues, the electrical litigation issues need to go away,"Brymer said. Like College Station officials, Conduff said he believes the resolution probably would have come over time, but the retreat helped expedite the process. "I come away from this with an understanding that people with good intentions can misunderstand each other,"he said. Stabler said he believes one of the reasons problems existed between the two cities stemmed from each sometimes misinterpreting the other. "I think Larry[Marriott, the mayor pro tern for College Station] said it best when he said we've been driving these wedges into each other for a long time and if we continue to separate, we will grow wider apart. So if we don't do something about it now, we • won't be able to make up the differences." The retreat, which was born out of suggestions from a legislative subcommittee comprised of representatives from both councils, http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071600coucnilsmeettogether.htm 7/17/00 ,The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 ' w h VVLLD 1QL+111L4LL+U U'' LVVV kiV11JU1LR11LJ VV1L11 111%,r-13F%111 %J1VUP International Inc., a leadership development company based in Colorado. The consultants will put to paper what was accomplished during the meetings and both councils said the document will be used as a guidebook—"a start"—toward future collaborations. Bryan Councilman Mike Beal said he was apprehensive that the positive steps made Friday and Saturday might just be "a flash in the pan,"where they would never see results. Like the others, he said he was resolved to seeing to it that the commitment to work together on issues is carried through. College Station Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said the meeting allowed for a better understanding between the two councils. "We came a long way," she said. "We went much further than I thought we would, and I know each of us will do our part in continuing to work on ... what we have in common." College Station Councilman James Massey said it was OK to be apprehensive about the future of the two councils working together • for a common good. "If we were all complacent, then maybe we wouldn't try as hard as we are,"he said. "It's kind of like a marriage— the fighting sometimes makes us grow closer together. The councils are comprised of good people wanting to do good things." Kelly Brown's e-mail address is kbrown(a,theeazle.com . ...... ... ... CO 2000 The Bran/CleeStation_Ea-le g ._ Pri-vacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071600coucnilsmeettogether.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 Subscribe Today! The rg'e 'ZO(r)7,- 345 N 9 7 9.7 7 6.2 3 4 5JMV-, Region 14 J1 STR I Monday,July 17,2000 The Eagle Ciassitied Storee 115U5*0brffr Region Region>Local Regional Loekregioi-Lat Group awaits plan for new arts center Texas Braz,i,s Valley Notebook By JIM BUTLER Rec,:)rds Eagle Staff Writer Obituaries Births Dwbook Jere Blackwelder,president of the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, Restaumat NVnitur said the announcement Thursday that a performing arts center Lottery AP breaking tiews might be constructed as part of a joint project by College Station and The Adam Corporation/Group brings the much-awaited r Site SK.Ctllillb facility closer to reality. "I'm elated," said Blackwelder, who learned of the project late Thursday. "It' Con koll ti I i I s a giant step forward psychologically in that we have some E.Agle seed money,"Blackwelder said, referring to the pledge of TAC h�itlt halt, Realty to contribute $1 million and nine acres of land in the tt�atrh, development for the center. The pledge includes some restrictions, I lolne&Gsdcll such as the participation of other donors. N4,30-PA",ill 1;kilit'll", "It looks like the facility can come to fruition much sooner than it might have otherwise,"Blackwelder said. "Just having a location is a major step." Reglilli s[Xim sfKafight The center would be included in a development on University 'ice htwhi* Drive East across from The Physician's Centre. ditvaglextynt '1�",Alfnmrlac "That's an ideal location,"Blackwelder said, "convenient to Win 14 everyone." • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500artscenterfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>LocaVRegional Page 2 of 2 theeagle•com College Station had already taken a step toward building a Your besi choice for performing arts center before the announcement Thursday of a nnGnc advertising! joint development with Adam Corp. After a survey of its residents indicated strong interest by having such a center as well as a willingness to support it financially, College Station Mayor Lynn McIlhaney asked the Arts Council of Brazos Valley to take charge of a feasibility study,which was released June 28. "We'll let the committee that has been working on the project Brazos oversee its progress,"McIlhaney said. Business Funding the center could be accomplished in a variety of ways, every Sunday said College Station spokesman Charles Cryan. in the Eagle "A bond issue would be a possibility, or the city could seek the participation of Bryan or the county," Cryan said. "For a facility that would cost $7 million to $20 million,the city would rely a lot on private donations. You also have to look at the annual operating expense,which could be $1 million." Getting a commitment of$1 million is a good start,McIlhaney said. "One of the hardest things is getting that first pledge," she said. "I'm very hopeful that we can leverage that for additional funding." Ruth Clearfield, a member of the Committee for a Performing Arts Center, said she was very excited when she heard the performing arts center was included in the development. "This is a much needed facility," Clearfield said. "Anyone familiar with the arts knows that. The location is fabulous. My main concern all along is how it would be funded. To have the backing of The Adam Group is a wonderful start." •Jim Butler's e-mail address is ibutler(a,theeagle.com .___ __.._ .......... _ __ .. _.. . ........_. .._ __. . .._._ ................... . ... ...................- (0 2000 The Bryan/Col_lege_Station Eagle Privacy._Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500artscenterfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe Todav! rg 0 4, 9_ -72345 __. --- ._._.—_.._........._ .._...__.. . ........ ----...----- CO w I Region l Monday,July 17,2000 17 P! "Somire"rl y ,y" gip•_-, TneWe,.stlliiw4. l 0 1 Regioon Region>Local/ Regional LoeaVrpgiofkat Traditions vote delayed az �'� TeXas I I ZS.��D Bni..�`jlley oreb"Ok By KELLY BROWN Re-cords Eagle Staff Writer Obituaries Births Date,bock The Bryan City Council met in closed session for 1 1/2 hours Restaurant Nk-niwr Friday evening before publicly voting unanimously to postpone Lottery issuing $17 million in bonds for the Traditions Golf Course and Ap breaking nerds Country Club at University Ranch project. ok � cttt Mayor Lonnie Stabler said the council is not under any deadline to B,,l/xlw Blvsn,L�, vote on the issue,but will do so once ClubCorp USA, the golf Blazon.sttaltb" course developer, decides on whether it plans to move forward with the project. Z..C)ittfTltl l.^�LS ��S1tllttEltnn� I:;agie "We just haven't received official word yet from C1ubCorp," F.,f It&'iettilei Stabler said. "We're not negotiating with them. We're simply lc.:11111& i;ifl«,, waiting on an answer and didn't feel it was appropriate yet to tome& move forward on indebtedness when we haven't received final word.,, �c kt�i7 is ut hill ifs i t�i�it,fatic C1ubCorp is under a July 30 deadline to notify the city of its plans. F (4)ttf orks, t�et;"�fl The council Tuesday tentatively approved an ordinance involving 4ixyrt_s six,cii ht issuing the bonds for the project. Had the council voted to issue the ItihnAyt« s bonds Friday, the deal would have been final. 41�ec;a�,l4_t�r>trt Earlier this month, C1ubCorp officials acknowledged they had not t1)tii yet collected $2.6 million in initiation fees, one of three (W http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500traditionsfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 M commitments that, if met, would require ClubCorp to move theeaglexom forward with the course. Yaur bestchnicc for nnLne advertising! The company's shortfall, described by City Manager Mike Conduff as being in the $1 million range, was due in part to ClubCorp offering discounted memberships to Brazos County rresidents as well as members of the now-defunct Plaza Club. Meeting that initiation fee requirement has been waived by the a a city, according to Stabler, who said the council is confident enough that the project will continue to progress based on membership sales. BrazOS The two other requirements for the company include having at Business least 800 members, which was done weeks ago, and paying every Sunday $450,000 in annual dues, also a task completed. in the Eagle Ken Kasten, senior vice president of new business development for ClubCorp in Dallas, said he's confident the project will go through. "We're still working very hard on making this project work,"he said. "I think we've got a good project here. We've made a lot of progress with the city." He said ClubCorp officials met Friday in Palm Beach, Fla., with golf course designers. The course, which will be home to Texas A&M University's men's and women's golf teams, is being designed Jack Nicklaus. A year ago this month, the city, A&M and ClubCorp teamed to develop 800 acres in west Bryan, a$275 million project that will include a hotel, conference center and residential area. The city's financial participation in the private venture has been challenged by residents, who say voters should have decided whether it was worth the nearly$27 million that the city has committed. The proposal calls for about $21.3 million to be generated from a tax-increment finance zone, in which property taxes from home and business owners in that zone go directly back into the zone, rather than to the city and county coffers. The money pays for infrastructure, among other items. Everyone in the zone must pay school taxes. Conduff said Friday's decision by the council indicates its willingness to proceed with the project and"gives ClubCorp the opportunity to do so." http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500traditionsfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 +` ti A&M's Director of Development for Athletics, John David Crow, said Friday that he's not involved in the financial dealings of the project,but is hopeful the plans moves toward a reality soon. "The athletic department and others have worked diligently to try to get the 800 members,"he said. "A lot of Aggies stepped forward, and I know the department would certainly like to see the course open. We like the location—it's close to the university for our students and former students." •Kelly Brown's e-mail address is kbrown(a,theeaQle.com _._._...... ... ---.._.._ _......_........................_._... _ 0_2000.The..-Bryan/College.._Station Eagle Privacy Statement (W http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500traditionsfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 Subscribe Toga T'lte -1gle fi 9 7 9-7 07673 45 979.776.2345 Region 9!;cribe tod(tv-1 Monday,July 17,2000 Region>Local Regional Adam Corp. to move ahead with developments Texas Brazos lley NcteboA- RecA:.rd& By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Obituaries Eagle Staff Writer Binh& DateKx)k The Adam Corporation/Group said Friday it will move forward LoRestaurantry Nfonitor with a scaled back Miramont residential-golf course project in east tte AP breaking news Bryan while at the same time working with College Station to • develop a hotel, conference center and performing arts center in the city. "Miramont has its master plan for development that already has been approved by the city of Bryan,"Dave Elmendorf,the Miramont project manager, said at ajoint news conference held with College Station officials. "It will proceed exactly as planned with the exception of the relocation of Adam Corp.'s headquarters Faith VAlkle'i and hotel and conference center. Everything else will remain the I lealth& Finiess same." I hwnc&,G.'Irdell Adam Corp. will move forward with residential development and an 18-hole golf course, he said. The plans for the hotel and conference center and corporate headquarters just shift to a new Opinions site,he said. Repini s(XIIIN sly)1light The fate of a second 18-hole golf course that was included in the original Miramont project was unknown. A joint statement by the i Kceaglexoni city and Adam Corp. said it will either be constructed at the if "{,yid Miramont project or built on a site closer to the hotel planned for the College Station project. • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500adamcorpfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 theeaglexom Questions about the Miramont project surfaced immediately after your bes1'chnice for Adam Corp. and College Station announced the joint venture online advertising! Thursday to develop 55 acres of land along University Drive on the east side of College Station. TAC Realty, a subsidiary of Adam Corp., will oversee the project. Under the surprise partnership, the city's long-planned $6.8 million Wolf Pen Creek Hotel and Conference Center will be transplanted to the new location,just inside College Station city limits. Also, Adam Corp. has offered an incentive in the form of land and partial funding for a performing arts center if it is located Brazos on the property. Business In return, the city will provide incentives—streets, water, sewer every Sunday lines and other infrastructure needs at no cost—for the project. It In the Eagle also gave TAC control of the overall site plan layout, exterior design and architecture. College Station officials said they have conservatively estimated the project to be worth $40 million. Bill Atkinson, president of Adam Corp., said the project could be closer to $100 million once the development of adjacent property reaches its potential. • The agreement was approved by the City Council after an hour's work in executive session. "There was a lot of work behind the scenes, and when these things come forward, they move quickly," College Station City Manager Tom Brymer said at the news conference. The next step will be the negotiation of contracts. In 1997, voters approved construction of a conference center in the Wolf Pen Creek area. But earlier this year that project was put on hold when the developer defaulted. The city then hired consultants with PricewaterhouseCoopers to help find solutions to the project. And that led to Adam Corp., Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said. "It's important for it to be a public-private development," she said. "We believe that we are embarking on a wonderful development for both the cities and Brazos County." The agreement outlined Friday also would provide an incentive for the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley to built a performing arts center at the site. It would be on nine acres donated by The Adam Corp. along with$1 million the company would donate toward its construction. "The performing arts center should be a vehicle to enhance the http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500adamcorpfolo.htm 7/17/00 vThe Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 quality of life in Bryan, College Station and the entire Brazos Valley," said Adam Corp. chairman Don Adam in a statement. Adam did not attend the news conference. "This site ... would be convenient to all residents of the area." Officials said the project features numerous benefits, including: n The site allows for easy access because of its proximity to Texas 6, Texas 30, F.M. 60 and F.M. 158. The Miramont project is located between F.M. 1179 and F.M. 158 between Allen Academy and the Copperfield subdivision. College Station will extend Copperfield Drive across University Drive to the new project. n Brazos County, the city of College Station and the Bryan Independent School District will benefit from increased tax revenues associated with the development. Adam Corp. said the company changed direction last April after it commissioned a study that showed the Miramont site was not the best for a hotel and conference center. "We feel the new location is much better, and will serve our needs much better,"Atkinson said. "We wanted to do what made most sense." (, Adam Corp. officials said development under way along University Drive made the site more attractive. Land now occupied by the Park Hudson business park was valued at about $46,000 before it was developed in August 1999, said Louis Newman, who is on the board of directors for Adam Corp. and the Bryan-College Station Economic Development Corp. With the new Brazos Valley Physicians Organization hospital, the DecisionOne facility and other developments at Park Hudson, the property now is worth about $21 million,Newman said. Planned residential and apartment construction will add $39 million to that value in three to four years, he said. "It's hard not to find anything that's not synergistic and beneficial in the way that thing has performed,"Newman said. "Obviously, this is a good thing for Park Hudson," said Bill Lero, president of Bryan Development Limited and park developer. "The companies that are going to be locating in Bryan-College Station probably aren't corporate headquarters, so there's going to be a lot of people coming in and out." As the cities grow on the east side, the business park will become http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500adamcorpfolo.htm 7/17/00 r The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 4 of 4 more centrally located and"it'll just attract more business to Bryan," Lero said. fir► Other details of the development include: n TAC Realty agreed to buy 55 acres of land from College Main Limited on a 192-acre tract on which the project will be constructed. The purchase price was not disclosed. n College Station will construct the extension of Copperfield Drive from F.M. 60 to Texas 30, and construct a collector street that will not exceed 388 feet. The city will put the residual property around the central development in a public improvement district, which will fund $500,000 toward the cost of utilities and infrastructure and improvements for that property. n The city will acquire 10 acres of the property, at $10,000 an acre, for construction of its conference center, which will be operated in conjunction with a hotel constructed by TAC on the property. The 45,000-square-foot conference center follows the plan conceived for the Wolf Pen Creek project. It will include kitchen facilities for joint use by the conference center and hotel. TAC will furnish all necessary fixtures and equipment for the kitchen facilities. The memorandum suggests that TAC has agreed to work within the $6.6 million budget the city had authorized for the conference center. n TAC will construct a 270,000-square-foot office building to accommodate its corporate headquarters and a 200-room hotel at its expense. The hotel flag has not been determined. The conference center and hotel will be jointly managed by a single operator selected by the two entities. • Staff writer Laura Hipp contributed to this report. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaehatheea_ale.com •Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhiPP(&theeajzle.com ..---......_ _ _ ............... Cc) 2000 The Bryan/College Station­111111Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500adamcorpfolo.htm 7/17/00 i The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 2 r � . jld�Th11 a I5IZZ" c Tod . . 979-77 ,45 --. _ ....................................... — . ■ Region � Monday,July 17,2000 t , nrl " 5Cx1f1tT $L1T tf Region Region>Local/ Regional ►� ,�t Retreat considered successful Texas ktrazl,s V2dlei 1' o eke cok By JOHN KIRSCH Reoords Obitu;nies Eagle Staff Writer Birth& Oatebx)k Cooperation was the byword at Friday's retreat for Bryan and Restaurant vk-nit°` College Station officials. Lottet6 AP breaking neu-a If Bryan officials had any hard feelings about the $100 million hotel-conference center that Bryan businessman Don Adam plans tom . to build in College Station, they kept it well hidden at the day-long Bjazos Birsinzw.. retreat. t3f mom S11114 N c"milt.lit"11 111 ': "It's a wonderful thing for College Station. I've always said we're C01IM111111fN two cities but one community," Greg Rodriguez, a member of the Lagic Bryan City Council, said of the ambitious joint project between FAiLh&VAUCS, College Station and The Adam Corporation/Group. tleaitl & I i,1I t I-t«�t�t�i'fs:�un le a(III)et, The project calls for a hotel, conference center, corporate X,tioll headquarters and performing arts center on 55 acres of land along Ethw:lum University Drive on the east side of College Station. t}fait i ra rig OP111tows The College Station City Council on Thursday unanimously Ltegi�zrt approved a memorandum of understanding with TAC Realty, a 5t ,tti„t,, subsidiary of Adam Corp. that is owned by Bryan businessman Iinit�t�� Don Adam and based in Bryan. t titi't�tR�t.i't3[ll tr\As Alftunau Bryan City Manager Mike Conduff, at Friday's retreat, echoed 11''t>tici Rodriguez, saying the Adam project was a"home run for the IL http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500bcsretreatfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 r community in a broad sense." theeagle.cam your best`tbpi«for Added Conduff, "This will be a big rock in the middle of the pond online advroising! and the ripples will continue to spread and some of them will spread south and some of them will spread north." Council members and staff from Bryan and College Station met Friday for the retreat at the G. Rollie White Visitor Center on F.M. 60 west of town. waCollege Station Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said the retreat, the first -- such joint event in recent memory, was intended to improve the Brazos spirit of cooperation between the two communities, which have B1,lSlI1eSS differed in the past. every Sunday In April, the Adam Corp. announced a$100 million plan for in the Eagle Miramont that included a golf course, hotel, conference center, corporate headquarters and residential community development in east Bryan. As a result of the project announced Thursday, Miramont will be scaled back. That prospect did little to dampen the upbeat mood at Friday's retreat. The emphasis was on downplaying any negative impact as �w a result of the Adam/College Station project. "It's going to be exciting for both cities. It's going to bring business in," said Annette Stephney, a member of the Bryan council. •John Kirsch's e-mail address is ikirsch(d)theeazle.com U 2000 The Bian/College Station .... ... Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071500bcsretreatfolo.htm 7/17/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 � e d' Subscribe Todav! he r" —.1 979_7 -72345 ............... ........... ............. 979.7715.2345J� Region today! Friday,July 14,2000 -sDnftre-Tmge6, _,iul Weather I Y 2DW Region Region>Local Regional Adam, College Station announce development By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Re"dg Obituaries Eagle Staff Writer Births Datebook College Station and The Adam Corporation/Group announced Restaurant M:PnituF plans Thursday to collaborate on the development of a hotel, Lottery V breaking news conference center, corporate headquarters and a performing arts center on 55 acres of land along University Drive on the east side 4"V of the city. BI;Izos Bil'sincs's No price tag for the development was announced. licizos stinday After meeting in CAXII-flilisLs Site of propAed devellopwnt ConkroltnilN executive session Magic for just over an 1"Aith&Vailies hour, College 1AVC1ct. 1.11 Bryan & Filllcs.'� Station City "C ryan Council members voted unanimously an ="Z'd1VIXPIn:t0 to approve a '4A" bW4 a IfQW. memorandum of paiondn&arts caiter. College Stationj RqM14111 understanding with EVe jraOci SfXIns TAC Realty, a SIMAIghl subsidiary of Adam Corp., which is owned by Bryan businessman I&NwhigN Don Adam and headquartered in Bryan. Councilwoman Winnie Garner, who works for First American Bank, abstained from the vote. First American Bank is owned by http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071400adamscorpdevelopment.htm 7/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 the Adam Corp. Councilwoman Anne Hazen was absent. theeagle.corn your b si-chn,cc for Neither the council nor members of Adam's organization 4nLnc advertising! discussed the development during open session. However, the memorandum outlining terms of the agreement was released Thursday evening, and it provided some details about the elaborate development. "This is a win-win situation," councilman Dennis Maloney said of Ea the project, which will be located east of University Drive and Copperfield Drive,just inside College Station city limits. Brazos Councilman James Massey said the project is a great opportunity. Business Asked for his reaction to the announcement, Bryan Mayor Lonnie every Sunday Stabler said"the development is something that will benefit the in the Eagle whole community." According to the surprise agreement, the city will get its long- planned Wolf Pen Creek Hotel and Conference Center,just transplanted to a new location. Plans for the Wolf Pen Creek project had been on hold since earlier this year after the original development team defaulted. The agreement outlined Thursday will provide space and some (W funding for a new performing arts center that was declared feasible in an independent study released two weeks ago. In return, the city will provide incentives streets, water, sewer lines and other infrastructure needs at no cost—for the project and give TAC control of the overall site plan layout, exterior design and architecture of the development property. In April, the Adam Corp. unveiled its $100 million plan for Miramont a golf course, hotel, conference center, corporate headquarters and residential community development—to be located on more than 900 acres in east Bryan. It was unclear Thursday night how the new agreement would affect the Miramont plans. George Lea, senior executive vice president for First American Bank, which is owned by Adam Corp., and Dave Elmendorf, managing director of Miramont, both attended Thursday's council meeting. Neither would discuss the project. Both deferred questions to a College Station and TAC Realty joint news conference scheduled for 8 a.m. Friday. LDetails of the development, according to the memorandum, include: http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071400adamscorpdevelopment.htm 7/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 • TAC Realty agreed to buy 55 acres of land from College Main Limited on a 192-acre tract on which the project will be • constructed. The purchase price was not disclosed. • College Station will construct the extension of Copperfield Drive from F.M. 60 to F.M. 30, and construct a collector street that will not exceed 388 feet. The city will put the residual property around the central development in a public improvement district, which will fund $500,000 toward the cost of utilities and infrastructure and improvements for that property. • The city will acquire 10 acres of the property, at $10,000 an acre, for construction of its conference center,which will be operated in conjunction with a hotel constructed by TAC on the property. The 45,000 square-foot, $6.8 million conference center follows the plan conceived for the Wolf Pen Creek project. It will include kitchen facilities for joint use by the conference center and hotel. TAC will furnish all necessary fixtures and equipment for the kitchen facilities. The memorandum suggests that TAC has agreed to work within the $6.6 million budget the city had authorized for the conference center. • TAC has agreed to grant the city an option to acquire nine acres of property to construct a performing arts center. The Brazos Valley Arts Council oversaw the feasibility study released on June 28. That study said a majority of residents would help pay for such a facility. The site selection was supposed to follow conceptual renderings of possible designs. The exact location of the performing arts center will be determined by TAC, which will also approve the overall layout and design of the center. In the event the center is built, TAC or its designee will contribute a gift of at least $1 million toward construction costs. The $1 million may be conditioned upon matched funding by other donors. • TAC will construct a 270,000-square-foot office building to accommodate its corporate headquarters and a 200-room hotel at its expense. • The conference center and hotel will be jointly managed by a single operator selected by the two entities. • Hotel and conference center guests would be afforded rights to utilize the golf course, which will be constructed by TAC in either the second phase of the Miramont project or on other property OL owned by TAC in College Station. Guests would be shuttled between the two developments, according to the agreement. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071400adamscorpdevelopment.htm 7/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 -V! Subscribe Todd Thy ilile �4, J 979-77)5,-2345, ......................... ■ v �g N" Region 'Lai sc, ibe t Friday,July 14,2000 L.,A Korner—The,Weather TheEagle,CMM5ftdS­,_ Region Reg,i9n.>.Lo,ca­1­/Regional Cities planning joint retreat Texas Braws Valley NoteL"k By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Records Obituaries Eagle Staff Writer Births Datebook At times, the relationship between the Bryan and College Station RestaurantlIv1pnitor city councils has been strained,but officials hope to take the first Lootery .AP breaking news major steps Friday and Saturday toward ironing out any differences. In their first joint retreat in recent history, Bryan and College I Station city council members will spend a day and a half I�1;izos StIIIJAV discussing ways the two cities can collaborate to benefit the Cainpaign 20X� community. Representatives from Brazos County and Texas A&M University also will participate. I;.I I I It&Villles "We may hear some positive things, and we may hear some issues I IC:11111& Fillic-' that neither city nor the county is happy about but that need to be I Ionic&0.11CICII brought up,"Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler said. "Joining forces Nlcmcu \.Ilion makes sense." Obit ILI I icN The two cities have hired consultants from The Aspen Group Opilliorts International Inc., a leadership development company based in SfXIIL% Colorado, to facilitate the discussions. The agenda is purposely broad to allow for a wide variety of topics. , A� College Station Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said a subcommittee from both councils has been r composed of representatives f brainstorming projects that encourage joint participation. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/0714OObcsjointretreat.htm 7/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 • theeagle.com "We really believe in regionalism, and it's important that the two your bcsi c.hnire for communities that are the hub of the region can work together," she online advertising! said. "I think it's important for the councils,just getting out of a day-to-day thought process and looking to the future in terms of our whole community." Council members will spend Friday discussing successful joint programs already in place and existing barriers to collaboration. The consultants will take the group through team building exercises and help break the ice on issues where there is a potential to collaborate. Brazos Consultant Randy Quinn, a founding partner of The Aspen Group, Business said that in order for the retreat to be successful, the two groups every Sunday will have to focus on the future. in the Eagle "Sometimes people get so preoccupied in the past that they lose opportunities for the future,"he said. "To the cities' credit,both have realized that there is nothing to be gained by continuing to look backward. They can't wipe the slate clean,what's happened has happened. "We will help them identify issues that the two cities have in • common that deserve attention." Already,the cities collaborate on the library system, solid waste disposal,police and fire responses and the animal shelter. Other possible collaborative issues include a joint water system or sewer infrastructure on the west side of Wellborn Road in both cities. McIlhaney said she's not sure if specific projects will be discussed, but the councils will definitely work on setting achievable goals. "It's like with any other relationship,"she said. "We have to focus on the positive side to those relationships, and we all have to realize that we are two growing communities and as such,we each will have needs,but those needs are not necessarily detrimental to our neighbor. We should be looking at how things can compliment both communities." • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaghatheeagle.com ©2000 The Brvan/Colleize Station Eagle Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071400bcsjointretreat.htm 7/14/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 4 Subscribe L Tbdnav! he rgle7 7 -72 9 9 ;4 5 979.776.2345 Region Ascrib _ X Thursday,July 13,2000 -Bonfire-Tragedy-,AggleSports.-com--,Kid'sr-Komer",,,T6, Region>Local / Regional 1312AXO ....................... ..................... Texas College Station to consider parking-garage bids Brazi&Valley N cite bo(,k Retords Obituaries By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Births Eagle Staff Writer Daiebo.k Restaurant hb,niror The College Main Parking Garage may soon have a builder if Lorrety AP breaking iieu-4 College Station Council members approve a $4.98 million contract for construction of the 725-space, four-level facility at their Thursday meeting. Blazm Vaughn Construction of Bryan was the low bidder among nine on lilazos sutldws the parking garage, which will be built between College Main and Second Street in Northgate. City staff has recommended that the coinminjit-, council include a 2 percent contingency—$100,000—into the La-le garage construction, which brings the total contract to $5.08 million. & I lollIC& (J:nk3ti,1) The project, which will be financed by the issuance of certificates i Nlexico N.Itioll of obligations, is scheduled for completion in July 2001. When NL"Nlyalv"ill Edtlualwil completed, the garage is expected to cost $6.2 million. Opilliolks During the workshop session, the council will reconsider its plan Regiint stmitt's to remove all on-street parking on College Main from University Sfx)tlighl Drive to Church Avenue. Iiichlloloz thecaglcxoni 'I��i,Alockriau The council already has begun implementing its plan to remove W"m Id almost 400 on-street parking spaces in the Northgate area, including 27 spaces on College Main. That plan will help make the • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071300csparkinggarage.htm 7/13/00 r The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 4 area safer for pedestrians and bicyclists as well as ensure the theeagle.com viability of the parking garage, City Manager Tom Brymer said. your bcst chnice for online at+vertising! Many merchants and business owners in the Northgate area have said they oppose the city's plan because they say the lack of short- term, free parking will put them at a business disadvantage. Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said Wednesday that she has discussed a possible compromise with some Northgate merchants—keeping the on-street parking on the west side of College Main. ic I She said she could not predict what the council will decide Brazos Thursday. Business "The key focus is on revitalization in Northgate, something that's every Sunday been a priority for the council for many years," she said. "But part in the Eagle of the revitalization is keeping the existing health of those business already there, such as the dry cleaners. If this meets with the city's goals in terms of safety issues as well as the short-term parking needs for customers and businesses, I think it's something the council needs to seriously look at." In other action, the council will consider: • • An extension of a moratorium on platting and replatting properties in two historic areas of the city. The hearing to reconsider rezoning the areas and add restrictions on the minimum lot size was scheduled for this council meeting,but there was an error in the legal notices, so it must be rescheduled. The original moratorium expires on Aug. 15. The two areas are bound by Texas Avenue, Holleman Drive, Glade Avenue, Southwest Parkway, Wellborn Road and George Bush Drive, and by bounded by Texas Avenue,University Drive, Tarrow Street, Lincoln Avenue,University Drive, Earl Rudder Freeway and Harvey Road. • A resolution approving the construction of the second phase of the Spring Creek drainage basin. The city would contract with Young Contractors Inc. for the$889,636 project. • A$150,000 contract with Navigant Consulting Inc. firm to help the city prepare a strategy for electric deregulation. • A resolution approving a$635,957 contract with TLS Traffic Controls Inc. for the installation of seven traffic signals throughout the city, including Rock Prairie Road and Longmire, Holleman and Glade. Texas A&M University will pay for a light at University Drive and Polo Road and will cover half the cost of a light at Raymond Stotzer Parkway and Discovery Drive. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071300csparkinggarage.htm 7/13/00 I The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 4 • A construction contract for the North Forest Parkway extension, which will provide for a second entrance and exit to the Emerald Forest subdivision. The $272,082 contract would be with Texcon General Contractors. • A professional service contract with HDR Engineering for a lateral expansion permit at the Rock Prairie Road landfill. The contract would not exceed $650,000. • A $1.57 million real estate contract for 5.79 acres of land between Krenek Tap Road and W. King Cole Drive. This land, which is near the police department, parks and recreation administrative offices and the utility customer service building, will be used for future expansions of city operations. • An ordinance that would change zoning at 101 Mile Drive from single-family residential to commercial. There will be a public hearing on this item. During its workshop session, the council will discuss: • The proposed $64 million capital improvements budget for the 2000-01 fiscal year. That part of the city's budget provides resources for multi-year projects that involve the repair and replacement of existing infrastructure as well as the development of new facilities to accommodate future growth. • Its proposed strategic plan that will work to accomplish goals for the city. • Whether there is enough interest from council members to vote on increasing College Station's contribution to the Bryan-College Station Community Health Center. Center officials have requested an additional $200,000, which would bring College Station's contribution to $326,000. The city of Bryan already has given $1.2 million to the center, which will provide a one-stop health and social services for the indigent and working poor. If council members decide that there is enough interest to vote on the request, the issue will be placed on an August agenda. The workshop session will be at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular meeting will follow at 7 p.m. in the council chambers. The council will have just one meeting this month. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanayh4,theeagle.com http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071300csparkinggarage.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page I of 2 Subscribe To d ay! rho ' 979-7J7 -3 45 .......... ..................­­....................... .......... ■ .10- Region ­ ,9.. __ 'Scribe tod . ..._... ._____... • Thursday,July 13,2000 13111161W Lvi-L. 6,j, A -—-------- Region>Local Regional T oreboak College Station to consider business park site 2-12-09D Obituaries By LAURA HIPP Births; Eagle Staff Writer Date book Restaurant Nkmitor L�rtercThe College Station City Council will consider Thursday the AP breaking news purchase of 374 acres for the construction of a second business park. j�IV The site, at the southeast comer of Greens Prairie Road and Earl Rudder Freeway South, would be home to a"Class A"business park, said Kim Foutz, director of economic development. The CallitijiJ4112OW distinction denotes a park with amenities such as landscaping, Coranianin building specifications and a pavilion area. EA'Ac Faith&Vthjes "This park would be very similar to [the Business Center at lealth q$c Vinwv, College Station],"Foutz said. i(line&G'Articil Mexico The city would pay$3.8 million for two tracts of land at the site. The land is appraised at $4.1 million. Obimativ.N o 11,111fts The business park would be attractive to software and information technology companies, Foutz said. Stxn1lighi ,lLVh11o1** A portion of the land can be used for a park with hiking and biking trails, she said, which moves the city closer to its goal of creating more of those areas. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071200businesspark.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 2 theea le.com The current business park in College Station is nearing full occupancy, she said. The 200-acre Business Center at College your best choice for Station opened in 1996 and is about 75 percent occupied. ontinc a4vertising! -- "At this time we're running low on available land at the existing park," she said. The business center's occupancy rate grew faster than expected, ■ said Robert Worley, president and chief executive of the Bryan- 0 College Station Economic Development Corp. He and a consultant M estimated the center would be full in 15 years. Brazos "If you look at other parks around the country, that wouldn't be Businessunusual,"he said. every Sunday Worley said the occupancy rate of a new business development in the Eagle may be slower because there are other options for companies, such as the Park Hudson development in Bryan. "It just depends on how successful we are with our information technology marketing,"he said. The EDC negotiates with companies possible locations in Bryan or College Station. Software companies are a high priority for the entity because they can bring high wages and large capital investment. "We need more developed land in that arena,"Worley said. "It's not a good thing in my business for a customer to have one choice." City officials also may develop a third business park that caters to smaller manufacturing and distributing companies, Foutz said. "It's our desire to have a good mix of companies," she said. "That's what makes a healthy economy." •Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhipp@,theea-ale.com © 2000 The Brvan/College Station EgVJe Privacv Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071200businesspark.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe TodflLV! The de 979-77 -2345 ........ 979.776.2345 Region 9-,q r-r dnvl r ` Thursday,July 13,2000 �....;. .:Vmmer heer Regi-on Region>Local/ Regional Lucatirt jli.A,LA Texas Bryan awaits ClubCorp plans Brasfls Valley Note oc*k Re wrds Obituaries By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Births Eagle Staff Writer Datebook Restaurant'4"L_mitur The Bryan City Council is scheduled to consider issuing $17 Lottery ,aP breat;ing„ews million in certificates of obligation for the Traditions project on Tuesday, but city officials still are waiting to hear whether a shortfall in initiation fees will affect the golf course developer's 0 t ' plans to move forward. t3r:rrt�s t3o+urrra t31.lr�la ;l�nday Councilman Russell Bradley said he does not foresee the council c"a'llt'a'g'l 21A) making any decision on the $17 million issue unless ClubCorp USA officials contact the city to say they intend to move forward t ltt with the agreement. Faith&Mile` t to rtth& t"iI,IL , "I think it depends on what ClubCorp does between now and olne I lsIr11L � [i:lydcrl `cl tomorrow afternoon,"Bradley said Monday. "It's not a time-driven Mlit/rt decision. We're not going to issue bonds for no reason at all." \L"A,sJ qv-N-ill Edlicill m t xririlalica, According to the development contracts, if three requirements— Opilliom at least 800 members, $2.6 million in initiation fees and $450,000 Reguoll '41rllrty in annual dues were met by June 30, ClubCorp would be '�;lKjfli;hi required to move forward with the project. 'nrea�tta{xll The company reached two of the requirements but had not reached I hrurlar: the $2.6 million figure. ClubCorp had offered discounted memberships to Brazos County residents as well as members of • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071100traditionsbryancounc.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 the now-defunct Plaza Club, causing the initiation fees to be less theeaglexom than the amount specified in the contracts, officials said. your best choice For online advertising! Mayor Lonnie Stabler said ClubCorp lacks about $1.5 million in initiation fees. "I think ClubCorp can get the money—that's not going to be a problem,"he said. "It's where it's going to come from that's taking ;,a time." Last July, the city teamed with ClubCorp and Texas A&M University to develop the 800 acre, $275 million project that will Brazos be the home to the A&M men's and women's golf teams. Business ClubCorp has until July 30 to notify the city of its plans. However, every Sunday three contractual agreements the company has with A&M are in the Eagle different than those it has with the city. Rick Floyd, A&M's associate vice president for finance, said the membership requirements that A&M has with ClubCorp are at least 500 memberships, $1.3 million in initiation fees and $240,000 in annual dues. There is no deadline for when ClubCorp must reach those • numbers, Floyd said. Both Floyd and Stabler said they expect ClubCorp to announce its plans by the end of the week. Also at Tuesday's meeting, Bryan Council members will consider three issues that relate to the city's community development block grant and home investment partnership funds, which include: • A 5-year consolidated action plan that will serve as the city's official planning document for the funds and must be submitted for approval to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. • A resolution to execute the annual action plans and all duties as required by HUD necessary to implement projects in the action plan. • A resolution that authorizes a city official to submit Bryan's 2000-01 consolidated action plan for$1.049 million in community development funds and $399,000 in HOME funds to HUD for approval. The 2000-01 plan for community development funds includes $170,000 to provide up to 11 families housing assistance and (W $16,071 to Twin City Mission for the demolition of two unstable buildings. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregionaV071100traditionsbryancounc.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 ` The HOME fund plan includes $139,625 to provide up to four families with repairs or reconstruction of their homes, $139,625 to . help 18 families with down payment and closing costs assistance and $59,850 for low income housing activities. Bob Biles,Bryan's director of support services, will give a presentation to the council about the fiscal year 2001 budget during the workshop session. The workshop session is scheduled for 4 p.m. in the basement training room of the Bryan Municipal Building, 300 South Texas Ave. The regular meeting is set for 6 p.m. in the council chambers of the municipal building. • Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanaeh(a,theeagle.com _ ........ - © 2000 The Brvan/College Station Eagle Privacy Statement • http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071100traditionsbryancounc.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe "odn r The @ `" 979-77 -2345 s 2 r:. Region a Thursday,July 13,2000 Bun`tre T 7 r_'._:._ a K rner Ti The EW hIW' i Region Region>Local/ Regional ..ucalfr��i��tal r.. Texas Expansion of East George Bush Drive becomes a College BraG;z���G�EI�s�i�:ctebuak Reeords Station priority obituaries Bitths By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Datebook Eagle Staff Writer Restaurant Munitur ir _."tte`v College Station is acquiring property along George Bush Drive 11 breaking news East as part of a project that eventually will connect the street to r Holleman Drive, giving motorists another north-south route Site s cti Itlb through the city. Blazos Bilsines IImzta still&IN Mark Smith, College Station's director of public works, said plans 20M to widen George Bush Drive East just east of Texas Avenue and C"lt"t"''ts connect it past Harvey Road to Holleman Drive have been in the works for several years. I•;Igl F.iiill& I k,:ihh& Viiiie s "The project is being completed for safety reasons," Smith said. 1 follic`t;.l,iit" "There is a terrible bottleneck there. The idea is to help remove some traffic from Texas Avenue, and we will have bike lanes on in EauckIFu the street that tie in to bike paths along Wolf Pen Creek." t hIl willies c#II,iiiuns After a redesign meant to save a College Station resident's home, >tcgiilil the city has the final blueprint and is in the middle of acquiring S M"" right-of-way for the $1.5 million project, which is scheduled for 4�xli�ht completion in April 2002. ih�e��:i�.cc�crt That involves purchasing seven lots on the north side of the street between Texas and Foster Avenue and one on the corner of George C I http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/070400eastgeorgebushexpansi.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 Luau auu isyi��v�-Ll" as wtii as pal Lb vi Lug iivuw vi Yivy-,iuw theeagle.com on the south side of the street. k your best restive for ! Two of the properties proposed for demolition have been in Bryan tsnLne at3vertiging, p p p p ry resident Minnie Foltermann's family for about 60 years. She said the two, 2-bedroom houses are profitable rental properties, and she doesn't think the widening is necessary. "They've been saying for years that they were going to take some property," she said. "The whole thing has been an aggravation." Foltermann said she has agreed to sell her property"if the price is right." BraZOS Business "I said I would cooperate, but I do think that I need more than they every Sunday offered me," she said. "I couldn't buy more houses for that, and the in the Eagle location of those houses is just ideal for students. Right now the price isn't right." The street's curve is too sharp and narrow for many motorists to use, Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said. Also, the project will accomplish one of the City Council's top priorities—increasing the number of thoroughfares through College Station. "This has been a long-term project to make things safer," she said. "Our staff has been working with property owners." William Lowery, a professional engineer in College Station, said connecting through to Holleman is important to the long-range road system in College Station. "It will help relieve Texas Avenue and provide for better circulation of traffic,"he said. "Texas Avenue is fine if you're planning on traveling three or four miles, but this will help the people who are making short trips." Lowery said that property owners usually are not happy when cities or the state acquire their land for roads,but the process is part of growth. Planning, however, is the key to preventing this type of situation. "If you plan for growth in the first place and make land development grow with it, it's easy and it works,"he said. Houses on the property that the city is working to obtain are rented, Smith said, and so far, several landowners have agreed to sell their properties for the appraised values. The city has closed on two lots and is working on a third closing. Those three cost $147,000. Property acquisition is expected to cost about $600,000, Smith said. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/070400eastgeorgebushexpansi.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 "We haven't had to threaten condemnation,"he said. "But, I think that everyone knows that's out there. The resolution the council approved in August 1999 mentioned the possibility. If need be, yeah, we will go to condemnation, but we'll negotiate first. "Because all of the houses are rented, we've timed the closings with the termination of the leases," Smith said. "That way, no one has to move out in the middle of their leases." About half of the rest of the property is under contract and the rest still is being negotiated, Smith said. City officials estimated that the city will own the property by next July. In 1998, the council unanimously approved redesigning the project to spare the Kyle Avenue house of 85-year-old Kyle Menefee. The original proposal called for purchasing Menefee's house, located at 306 Kyle Ave., which his daughter vigorously opposed. City staff, at the council's request, reviewed the project and proposed tightening the radius of the curve where Kyle Avenue turns south toward Harvey Road. The new alignment requires buying a less expensive house across the street from Menefee's home, which saves the city money, officials said. "We redesigned the street so we minimized the impact," Smith said, "and everything seems to be clicking along just fine." Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanazh(&theea_ale.com © 2000 The Brvan/Colle2e Station Eagle Privacv Statement i http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/070400eastgeorgebushexpansi.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-RegionLocal/Regional Page 1 of 3 Subscribe ':' d ! he -' 979-7? -23 5 Region 56bscribe today! Thursday,July 13,2000 Bon*ire Tr-,gei, iggv4,.oplwi T. _ _ _ Ziassi#Ned S«,� i c_ Region Region>Local/Regional �xas DecisionOne seeks deal to expand Bra2os Valley Noretook Reeords Obituaries By LAU RA HIP P Births Eagle Staff Writer Datebook Restaurant N-1--niter The Bryan-College Station Economic Development Corp. is L.otrery 4P breaking news reviewing a DecisionOne expansion proposal that could bring 300 jobs to the community. Site Sections The EDC board of directors approved a proposal Monday that Bivslne would provide the Frazer, Penn.-based company with a 25,000- '�""'stridt4 square-foot building near its technical support center at the Park ,;j,«1,.,;g n 210) Hudson business park in Bryan. Company officials hope the <:AIJ11111krg building opens by December. r.rith&t'ztlt,cs "Several months ago, DecisionOne contacted our office about 1 Icalth& l'""``" what they saw as a possibility that they would need approximately i l"1111C&(''"dCll 250 extra seats in their building," said Robert Worley, EDC \IC-ica y.Ili l; president and chief executive officer. \cmIxtivis ill E{ljciblui (A)II11mic.N The facility offers technical support to the company's computer t>I""IIAkS clients, he said. The new structure would allow for additional 1mifts customer service. Si*itli„ha I t:l 1111014 The deal is pending the EDC finance committee's approval of a $2.5 million loan for construction costs. Local bankers will meet I G x-�s.'tl E is�try�i� W.11d July 18 to consider providing the loan. http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071100economicdevelopment.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 2 of 3 "Nobody's committed, but they're willing to take a look at it," theeagle.com Worley said. your best choice for online advertising! The company will sign a 10-year lease on the new building that will be valued at $8 million when completed, Worley said. The new facility would employ 300 people with annual wages of $6 million within a three-year period, according to a letter two DecisionOne vice presidents wrote to the EDC. A capital investment of$1.5 million also would be made over three years. The company considered locating the technical support center in Brazos three cites. All are offering incentive packages, DecisionOne Business officials wrote. every Sunday "Based upon the overwhelming hiring success of the Bryan project in the Eagle coupled with below average employee turnover, DecisionOne desires to explore the possibility of expanding the existing Bryan center,"wrote DecisionOne's Chuck Heller, senior vice president, and Gene Buckley, vice president of corporate services. DecisionOne filed Chapter I I bankruptcy in February and converted its debt into equity, making its creditors the owners. EDC officials are waiting for the company's financial information from the past three years and fiscal projections. "They're now moving forward with profitable operations,"board member Tim Bryan said. The EDC is studying whether the new facility could be included in the existing center's 10-year tax abatement plan. If it is, the building would enter the plan's second year with 80 percent of its property taxes abated. The expansion proposal states that R.L. Payne & Associates will be the architects for the project and general contractor C.F. Jordan will provide a price quote. Board member Mike Beal said he was concerned that the construction contract was not offered to other companies. "I think we don't want the public to have the perception we're doing something out of line,"Beal said. Worley said that the project's deadline did not allow time to review other contractors' price estimates. C.F. Jordan built the current center, and the EDC has the final costs of that construction, he said. "Basically, we'll have exactly the same building,just a little bit http://www.thecagle.com/region/localregional/071 100economicdevelopment.htm 7/13/00 The Bryan-College Station Eagle-Region>Local/Regional Page 3 of 3 smaller,"he said. •Laura Hipp's e-mail address is lhippC&theeazle.com 16 © 2000 The Brvan/Colleu Station Eagle Privacy Statement http://www.theeagle.com/region/localregional/071100economicdevelopment.htm 7/13/00 The Eagle City of College Station News --l—patee -1iry CCU Northgate plan reconsidered CS council agrees to review on-street parking removal issue By COLLEEN KAVANAGH which is located in the Northgate along College Main — oppose the Eagle Staff Writer �P I area. The letter discussed a meet- city's plan because they say the `v ing they had about a compromise lack of short-term, free parking disad- College Station City Council on College vantage. City officials say disad- " will put them at a business members agreed Thursday — at Main. a the parking makes the area the request of Mayor Lynn McIl- "Concerning haney—to reconsider the plan to parking on Col- more pedestrian and bicycle- friendly. remove all on-street parking on lege Main, it is As amended, the ordinances College Main from University our understand prohibit parking on Church pDrive to Church Avenue. ing that we Avenue from Wellborn Road to In separate action,however,the were only dis University Drive and will allow council approved two ordinance cussing a com free one-hour parking in designat- amendments that pave the way for promise Of McILHANEY ed spaces at the Northgate Prome completion of plans to remove parking on one almost 400 on-street parking side of the street from University nade Parking Lot between 7 a.m. spaces in the Northgate area. Drive to Church Avenue," the and 6 p.m., except during special "I don't mind talking about this mayor said in the letter. "Specifi- events. again," Councilman Dennis Mal- cally, this would allow parking on The mayor's letter also said the oney said about the College Main the west side of the street." city will re-evaluate the 39 free parking controversy during a In March, the council approved spaces in the promenade parking workshop meeting in which it was the plan to remove almost 400 lot once the Northgate parking agreed to reconsider the issue. spaces in the area, including all garage is built and that Northgate Mellhaney was absent Thurs- parking on Church Avenue and 27 merchants ket the garage help the city mar- day but provided council mem- spaces on College Main. bers with a copy of a June 20 letter Many merchants and business "We recognized your expertise she wrote to John Raney, the owners in the Northgate area — See COUNCIL, Page A6 owner of Texas Aggie Bookstore, with the most outspoken ones i y Council From Al for promotions and welcome your help with the garage," McIl- haney's letter stated. At Thursday's meeting, City Manager Tom Brymer told the council that city officials are working to replace the equipment in the promenade lot with a more efficient system. The College Main parking will be discussed at the council's July 13 meeting. In other action, the council unanimously approved: ■ The purchase of three tracts of land for the George Bush Drive East extension project. The three tracts will cost $147,000. The cost of the expansion, which will be funded by general obligation bonds, thoroughfare rehabilita- tion funds and general funds, is $1.49 million. ■Rezoning at 1111 Rock Prairie Road for a medical and profes sional office building. ■ Two contracts for water sys- tem improvements that will cost $1.17 million. A third contract for $797,900 will fund improvements at the Dowling Road pump sta- tion. City officials said the improvements will allow for more water to be pumped each day, which will help meet the city's peak demand. ■ A $79,000 design contract for the Rock Prairie Road realign- ment project. The contract is with Mitchell & Morgan L.L.P. and paid from the 1998 general obliga- tion bond fund. ■ A memorandum of under- standing between the city and the Brazos Valley Community Action Agency for $174,375 to help low- income residents afford housing. Councilman Ron Silvia also did not attend the meeting. He is attending a transportation con- ference. ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News ___TDate; (14 4Z(�� Artgallery ppapproved kMS APPROVED ■The purchase of three tracts Aggie artist wins CS councils consent of land for the George Bush Drive East extension project. The three By COLLEEN KAVANAGH international headquarters and tracts will cost $project. The The nn Eagle Staff Writer promote fine art in the Brazos cost of the expansion, which will 1 `� Valley," Knox said, adding that be funded by general obligation (� A local man well-known for his he has been planning the project bonds, thoroughfare rehabilita- """"'�" Aggie art received the College Sta- for years. tion funds and general funds, is tion City Council's blessing Once Knox laid to rest ques $1.49 million. Thursday to house his collection tions about parking and the 0 Rezoning at 1111 Rock in a gallery modeled after the restaurant, he received a Prairie Road for a medical and city's train depot 100 years ago. resounding "yes" from the coup professional office building. Benjamin Knox wants to build cil. ■ Two contracts for water sys- the gallery on the north side of "It's going to be a nice project," tern improvements that will cost University Drive between Nimitz Councilwoman Winnie Garner $1.17 million. A third contract for and MacArthur streets. He told Knox. "We're real pleased to $797 900 will fund improve- intends to place a locomotive and have you here." ments at the Dowling Road pump box cars on tracks in front of the Councilman Dennis Maloney station. property. echoed Garner's comments: A $79,000 design contract He asked that the council "This is going to be a very nice for the Rock Prairie Road realign- rezone the proposed site to allow facility ... so bring in those tax is paid for the art gallery, framing shop, dollars, buddy,' he said, with a from the 1998 general ment project. The contract is retail sales and a restaurant, most chuckle. paid bond fund. oblig- likely a small ice cream shop. Knox said he project should be A memorandum of under "This will focus on the artwork completed on Oct. 2, 2001 th a Texas standing between the city and the and the customers and what A&M University's 125th anniver Brazos Valley Community Action would best benefit them," Knox sary. Agency for $174,375 to help low- told the council. "This will permanently house ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address income residents afford housing. the Benjamin Knox Gallery and is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News __T6a_te' •l l.l.l r I( LIJVI.� Center's request re ec a Finances fell short earlier this year when the project's construction was halted briefly because of a funding delay from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development, Todd said. "Unfortunately, with a project of this size,there are overruns and changeovers, but it didn't help County opposes when the HUD funding did not come when we expected it to," he said. health unit funds College Station city officials have not commit- ted ted to giving any more funding than they already have—$126,000. ly KELLY BROWN Todd said the nonprofit groups that will be Eagle Staff Writer \ housed in the center report about 20 percent of their patients are College Station residents, while The Brazos County Commissioners Court on the city's contribution is about 5 percent. Center Tuesday voted against contributing a requested officials said they would like to see contributions $150,000 to the Bryan-College Station Community to proportionally represent the number of its res- idents using the facility. Health Center, a one stop health center for the The city of Bryan has donated most of the fund indigent and working poor. ing with $1.2 million. Other large donations After the vote, one include $500,000 from the Episcopal Health Chari- commissioner said he 6 iWith a ties of Houston; $270,000 from the Brazos Valley plans next week to pro pose the county give project Of this Community Action Agency and $165,000 from the $60,00Meadows Foundation of Dallas. dental toward a new size, there are Brazos County Judge Al Jones said state law dental care program y. prohibits the county from contributing funds to the$2.5With million facility. OVerruriS and any capital expenditure that a county will not With that contribu- but tion, officials at the changeovers, See CENTER, Page A8 Community Health it didn't help Center said they'll still when the HUD need about $215,000 before they are able to funding did open the clinic. not come when Three main items for which the center needs we expected funding are: adding it to.> Braille signs through- out the facility, a tele- — ERic TODD phone system and a Braaos Valley Community computer system. Action Agency Eric Todd — senior 4 3.dministrator for the Brazos Valley Community Action Agency, the group that will run the center— said his organi- zation still holds out hope that the city of College Station will donate at least$180,000 and the Texas Department of Health will give $75,000. Center From Al own,such as the Braille signs or a telephone system. The county already annually gives roughly $60,000 to the prenatal clinic, which is one of the groups that soon will move into the new facil- <1ty. L-Ommissioner Randy Sims said he will ask at the June 27 meeting for $60,000 to be ear- marked for the new dental pro- gram. "It's a great benefit to low- income families," Sims said. "We know the center is in a hurry to do something with the dental care program and, hopefully, we can help out in that area. Todd said he understands the restraints referred to by Jones and welcomes Sims' idea. "We're just elated that the county commissioners see this dental project and the Communi- ty Health Center as viable ser- vices," Todd said. The site, on Texas Avenue in ..► Bryan, is adjacent to the Brazos Transit System's Transfer Sta- tion. Todd said he hopes the facil- ity can open in late July. The facility will combine under one roof the following agencies: the Brazos Maternal and Child Health Clinic, Brazos Valley Community Action Agency and twQ-Texas A&M University ser- vices: the Community Health Education Laboratory and Educa- tional Psychology Counseling Service. The facility is expected to pro- vide a variety of health services, including adult primary care, pediatric out-patient care, nutri- tional services, women's health care, psychological counseling, genetic counseling, pharmacy services, case management ser- vices, information and referral services, and a community meet- ing center. ■ Kelly Brown's e-mail address is kbrown@theeagle.com "WO The Eagle City of Collette Station News COMPARING NOTES t .rt 71 YF - M", a S d-, m . �.1. Eagle photo/Butch Ireland Nabil Ahmad Al Kofahi, mayor of Irbid, Jordan, laughs during an Kofahi visited the Bryan-College Station area as part of an inter- interview Tuesday afternoon at the Bryan Municipal Building. national visitor program sponsored by the State Department. Jordanian mayor offers advice to B-CS officials By COLLEEN KAVANAGH "This is a quiet and nice city and U.S. State Department. He already Eagle Staff Writer has good people," he said as he has seen Seattle and Albuquerque, wound up his tour. "You can build N.M. He leaves for Little Rock, Ark., The mayor of one of the largest friendly relationships here [with city on Wednesday morning. From there cities in Jordan offered a tip to officials]." he will go to Washington, D.C. To his counterparts in Bryan and He then offered one more compli- complete his trip to the United College Station after a tour of the ment: He liked the community's com- States, he will travel on his own to area: Repair your streets. bination of development and green New York to visit his brother. Not a bad review coming from the space. At 38, Kofahi is the youngest I mayor of Irbid, Jordan, who is Kofahi, who has served as mayor mayor ever to oversee the 7,000-year- responsible for overseeing the roads of the Middle Eastern country's sec- old city, and in addition to being and infrastructure that supports and largest city since last July, is mayor, he is working on getting his about 500,000 people. Then Nabil visiting five cities in the United doctorate in urban planning and Ahmad Al Kofahi immediately held States as part of the International out an olive branc'.i +-his hosts. Visitor Program sponsored by the See MAYOR, Page A13 MW Mayor He said he .spends 10 to 12 lic schools. hours a day at work as the full- Hugh Walker, Bryan's assis- time elected mayor. That sched- tant city manager, said spend- ule includes seeing some 150 ing the day with Kofahi was def- From A9 visitors a day, and answering initely a learning experience. the three telephones in his The main stickin transportation, running a busi- office. g point. ness and raising a family of six "It's not easy like it is here," prettlearned that we have it children. he said with a chuckle. y good here," he said. " I "It's not easy being a student But, he added, the national inmyloffcee inone day." people and mayor," he said, adding government of the democratic that he gets about four hours of country is responsible for police ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail ad- sleep a night. and fire services as well as pub- dress is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News orth g ate parking on g VNGCS agenda I City to consider der changes to ordinances governing removal of spaces By COLLEEN EAVANAGH charge between 7 a.m.and 6 p.m., ed by general obligation bonds, approved, the zoning would peak demand. Eagle Staff writer except during special events. thoroughfare Many merchants and business and genral funds,rehabilitation $1.49 million me change from two planneneighborhood development the Rock Prairie Road gn realigi L- The College Station City Coun- owners in the Northgate area Two public hearings are sched- district business. The planning ment project.The contract would cil on Thursday will consider oppose the plan.They say the lack uled on rezoning requests. commission approved the change. be with Mitchell&Mo amending two ordinances that of parking will put them at a com- The fast is for property rgan L.L.P. pave the way for completion of its P Peru at 101 In other action,the council will and paid from the 1998 general petitive disadvantage. City offs- _Mile Drive to accommodate an consider: obligation bond fund, plans to remove on parking cials say removing the parking auto repair 'shop. The applicant ■Two contracts for water sys- ■ A memorandum of under- in the Northgate area, makes the area more pedestrian has requested the zoning be tem improvements at a cost of standing between the city and the The revisions would prohibit and bicycle-friendly. changed from single-family resi- $1.17 million.A third contract for Brazos Valley Community Action parking on Church Avenue from The council also will consider dential to general commercial. $797,900 would fund improve- Agency for $174,375 to help low- Wellborn Road to University purchasing three tracts of land for The Planning and Zoning Com- ments at the Dowling Road pump income residents afford housing. Drive.They also would allow peo- the George Bush Drive East exten- mission opposed the change. station. City officials said the During the workshop session, ple to park for one hour in desig- sion project. The three tracts The second is for a site at 1111 improvements will allow for more the council will review the results nated spaces at the Northgate would costs $147,000. The cost of Rock Prairie Road for a medical water to be pumped each day, Promenade parking lot at no the expansion,which will be fund- and professional office building.If which would help meet the city's See COUNCIL,Page A14 Council CI From A9 of the 2000 Citizens Survey and a proposed three-year marketing plan. The workshop will be at 3 p.m. in the City Hall Council Cham- bers,1101 Texas Ave.The regular meeting is set for 7 p.m. in the council chambers. ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail ad- dress is ckavanagh@theeagle.com THE �� � � �� FN � TUESDAY June 20,2000 F P ° Volume 106-Issue 155 6 pages p A&M-artochanee ;:6 Parking changes is the Nerthgate Area ea ar Parking reproved 3 tree t5- mule spaces on Patrica Street east of Co ege ManPAW parkgrest of Cot fro Man free 15-mirprte v Parkng Lot from 7:00 a.m.b 6 p.m, spaces m Pat'Street 30 free one-trour spaces m lire Promenade ADRIENNE$Au Rg_ 1((�/0 sated between John Kimbrough and the Recre- mits will only be allowed to park in staff lots` campus and it's +_ The Batra&n ation Center and the pedestrian passage way. that are not 24-hour reserved. going to be a big1 Different parking changes on campus and in "We want to reduce the vehicles and pedes- "Overall there will be more blue physical horrendous taarea Ave.� --• - B the Northgate area will take effect Fall 2000.The trians from crossing Wellborn Road during spaces on campus,and during the evenings problem for J ii■i� . ,. Department of Parking,Traffic and Transporta- construction,because the roadway capacity students with blue permits will have more op- those living off- 'bon ""� 'bon Services(PITS)and the city of College Sta- will not accommodate the expected demand," tions of parking on main campus,because you campus,"Barkoh J R. 1 lion are working to make Texas A&M Univer- Williams said. • will not have red and green permits compet- said."I don't see - A , sity and College Station a less confusing traffic Williams said in order to complete this pro- ing for staff lots;'Williams said. how its going to jest they will have to close John Kimbrough Student Body President Forrest Lane said decrease traffic - area and safer for pedestrians and cyclists. Douglas Williams, associate director of [h from Olsen to Wellborn.During construction student government is working with PITS to too much or safe- Wellborn Road will reduce its five lanes to two develop a concrete solution for parking. ty. You have all 4 ,' PTTS,said,during the upcoming fall semester lanes n n northbound,one lane southbound and Lane said to helpenhance the options of those le t _ students with red parking permits will only P PcoP no turning lanes. parking on main campus in the evenings,stu- commuting off- - be allowed to park on main campus.Students "There will be less options available to en- dents with blue permits will be allotted free campus. You're ■1 f ►!i t■ R t. with blue to park th blu Zack ry�nu permits the exception of date construction of the passageway." inp g ma or said he feels the changes being made Bush,"Barkoh said. g ficcon estion o P P ra railroad track will be built to accommo- Kofi Barkoh,a junior biomedical engineer- congested Wellborn and a congested Georg parking Pe Y ter West Campus,"Williams said."A tern n in the.University Center Garage. going to have a e the ' population will not add to traf- g n main campus,"Wlhams said. Williams said they are making lot changes Williams says there will be more parking on campus are ridiculous. Williams said the desired objective is to re- Wilhams said the benefits of these new lot due to the construction of the future 932-space available for off-campus students and,during "Parking and traffic is going to be outra- duce the competition for spaces on campus. changes are less pedestrian and vehicle traffic. West Campus parking garage,which will be lo- the evenings,students with blue parking per- geous.We're going to have detours around "It will reduce the competition for spaces and See PARKING on Page 2:_ PARKING Continued from Page 1 trying to get to class on main campus. "The only downside to red park- ing is six times during the year,the red permit population will have to re- move their vehicles from lots reserved for the Twelfth Man on game days," Williams said. Lane said they will provide stu- dents with information on when their cars will need to be removed from the Twelfth Man reserved lots. Changes to Northgate parking will be completed on July 1.As part of the Northgate redevelopment plan,new changes will emphasize making Northgate a more pedestrian-and bike-friendly area. The City of College Station is re- moving some on-street parking and replacing it with 39 free short-term parking spaces in various locations. On-street parking will be removed from College Main to Church Street and on University Avenue due to con- cern for public safety. Kelly Cole,public communica- tions and marketing manager for College Station,said the main reason for redevelopment in the Northgate area is safety. 'The city is trying to make it a bike-and pedestrian-friendly area," \ Cole said. Cole said therewill benolongerbe two-hour parking on Northgate,and Promenade Parking Lot is ava&Me for students who will be there for ex- tended periods of time,Smith said. John Mies,city of College Station fire marshal,said the area where park- ing is removed will be converted into a bike lane connecting the Northgate area to Texas A&M,making the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists. "When the Northgate parking garage is built,some of the parking places will be metered and free spaces will be taken away,"Mies said.'Busi- nesses will be metered after the Northgate parking garage is built." Cole said the ciWwill re-evaluate the need for free parking spaces in the Northgate area upon-completion of the parking garage. The Eagle City of College Station News J un� I l�, Zcaou A `brilliant' plan . Show them. ne just has to love the Col Simply brilliant. oGEORGElege Station parking plan for Co SOPASAKIS Northgate. Our city leaders College Station are burning the midnight oil trying City should stop lying to selflessly fulfill the unspoken needs of their citizens. They is high time that College deserve our thanks. Station City Hall quit fabricat- Thanks for spending millions of ling stories about eliminating dollars for a 700-space parking on-street parking in the Northgate garage when they cannot even fill area. the 100-space Promenade. Thanks The first consultant's report on for revitalizing the business sector building a parking garage at by aggressively seeking to squash Northgate said a parking garage all these unwanted "mom and pop" would not be feasible unless on- operations that have littered street parking in the area was elim- Northgate for years. inated. City officials said at that The Northgate residents surely time they would not eliminate on- appreciate their efforts and count- street parking and said this wasn't less consulting dollars for the past necessary for the garage to pay for six years so that one day before the itself. next millennium, they may enjoy When Northgate merchants and the simple pleasures of well-lighted others questioned the removal of streets with curbs, sidewalks and on-street parking, city officials sud- gutters. denly started talking about "safety Thanks for their safety concerns. reasons"for removing the parking. We know the hazard of cars park- This excuse has persisted even ing on College Main. As they said, though qualified traffic experts Parking needs to be removed and have stated that on-street parking be replaced by bicycle traffic along provides a buffer between pedestri- the busiest street in Northgate. If ans and moving traffic. not, there will be bicycles on The city hasn't even made the lighter traffic streets. Unheard of. Promenade parking lot built They are perfectly right on leav- behind the stores pay for itself. The ing untouched the parking by the only time it comes close to being bars. There are many euphoric peo- fully utilized is on weekend nights ple there at night. They are so con- when the bars are crowded. siderate to allow them the conve- It's time for the city to abandon nience of getting from the bars to the ill-conceived idea of doing away their cars without the embarrass- with on-street parking and admit ment of confrontation with police that the parking garage is a really officers. It's good for the bars, the bad idea that will never be a pay- drunks and the police officers so ing proposition. The city could sell that they would not have a heavy the parking garage property to the load as our city cannot afford a developers of the high-rise Police substation in Northgate any- Traditions dormitory. more. The parking meters that city offi- Finally I thank city officials for cials so casually mention in pass- addressing parking concerns ing were not requested by the mer- before they even occur. They are so chants, as is usual in other cities. right for removing parking spaces In fact, the merchants asked that a year or two before the garage and the meters not be installed because the dormitory open. Let the resi- they will adversely affect their dents fight with construction work- businesses. ers during the daytime and drunk ards during nighttime. That will BERRY C. COOPER College Station The Eagle City of College Station News Panel to assess airport needs By LAURA BIPP Eagle Staff Writer �\ <<The task force has its A regional task force has been appointed work cut out. It all boils down to study future airport needs in the Brazos to how well you plan and make Valley, including the possibility of a new regional airport. some decisions about The 10-member task force, comprised of where you want to go area ... and aviation leaders, was in the future.> created earlier this year by the Brazos Val- ley Council of G..:. —JOHN HAPP John Happ, acting director of aviation at Texas A&Mowned Easterwood Airport in Acting director ofaviadon at E—t—ood Airport College Station, is leading the fact-fill group. 'li the potential growth of commercial airlines "The task force has its work cut out;,: : well as general aviation and aviation- said."It all boils down to how well you related industry needs. and make some decisions about whenfi—WI The task force wants to study the Brazos want to go in the future. The revelatipn-19 'Valley's growth and needs to determine how that someone is in fact looking at the future Easterwood Airport or another Brazos Val- to provide direction." Happ added that the task force wig look at See AIRPORT,Page A8 Page A8 The Bryan-College Station Eagle Wednesday,June 14,2000 News portation subcommittee chair- issues we haven't explored yet," enplanements,at the airport hov- Valley. But building a new air- for, and I think the airpoi Airport woman. Any recommendations he said. ers at less than 100,000 a year,he port to accommodate growth can capable of responding to would be given to area city coun- One of those questions is what said, which is more than 75 per- be expensive. growth," Dresser said. "B cils and county commissioners. the discussion means for Easter- cent of the Bryan-College Station "We need to look at the total think it's important to recol �rOltl Al J "This is not a decision-making wood Airport, recognized as the area's population. A study pro- capability we currently have and that the airport is infrastruc ley facility must develop. The may' she said."It's really a kind main facility in the seven-county jected that number to be more see what capability we need,"she that makes [economic dev, of fact-finding mission.We're not region. Happ said the outcome than 115,000 by next year. said."You have to make such an ment]possible.Our airport is population in the counties repre- out there trying to make a deci- could result in a new facility in The facility's annual budget is enormous investment in an air- holding us back." sented by the the council of gov- sion on where to put the airport another Brazos Valley town or about$3 million. port.,, An ernments — Brazos, Burleson, airport must serve dem at this point." for the community to officially No matter the outcome, Texas Building a new airport may not from many sources,such as Grimes, Leon, Madison, Robert- The task force will study the acknowledge Easterwood Airport A&M University expects to retain be financially feasible for the senger, cargo, general avi: son and Washington counties— six smaller airfields in the seven- as the area's regional airport. ownership of the facility. region, said George Dresser, a and military,he said. is expected to jump to more than county region, as well as Easter- Easter-wood expects to see an "We think we are the regional research scientist at the Texas "We do all of that now,"he 350,000 by 2030, according to the wood Airport,Garner said.Land increase in commercial traffic, airport," said Mary Miller, asso- Transportation Institute.Dresser "We're serving the six-or s( Texas State Data Center.It was at use, availability and infrastruc- Happ said, though the facility's ciate vice president for adminis- has studied the development of county area. I don't know 219,576 on the 1990 census. ture needs also will be studied. plan indicates it is not growing as tration at Texas A&M and a mem- regional general aviation air- reason it would need to be mi "What has to be determined by Michael Parks, director of the fast as anticipated. ber of the airport task force."We ports. "It's not the airport that bi the task force is where we want to Bryan-College Station Metropoli- "I think it's just that the growth do it well.We do it right.It's a ser- Easterwood Airport can accom- the people, it's the ecom go," Happ said. What direction tan Ping Organization and a rate in the local area doesn't put vice that we are providing to our- modate the expected population activity," Dresser said. "Th, do you want the economic devel- task force member,said the task the demand on the airport," he selves and the community." growth and possible expansion in not held back at that activity opment to take." force is charged with looking at said. Miller said the task force will the general aviation area, he The task force,which is part of the big picture. The number of people who evaluate the potential of all said. ■ Laura Hipp's e-mail addre the transportation subcommit- "There's just a whole lot of board commercial flights, or municipal airports in the Brazos "There is growth to be planned lhipWtheeagle.com tee, hopes to present a plan in about a year to other council of government officials, said Col- lege Station City Council member Winnie Garner, also the trans- The Eagle City of College Station News �Ikn % ,ZoUc _ _ ._... . Tuesday,June 13,2000 do ion . . , , .. Re 9 theeagle.com A9 • Board approves golf course fi-nancmg Tax-increment finance panel believes Traditions project will meet goals By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Commissioner and a TIP board analysis, I felt much better about The study provided to TIF board property taxes of businesses or res- Fagle Staff Writer member, said city officials it." members prior to Monday's meet- idential owners in the zone go to answered his questions, and the Last July,the city teamed with ing was commissioned by the city the TIP rather than the city and The financing and project plans information provided in the real C1ubCorp USA and Texas A&M in May after Brazos County Com- comity.Taxes to the Bryan school for the Traditions golf course were estate analysis shows the area can University for the 800-acre, $275 missioners requested an economic district will not go to the TIP. approved Monday by the board support the project. million project,which will be the feasibility study before voting on, The study, from Ralph Stewart overseeing Bryan s tax-increment "They looked at what's been home of the A&M men's and whether to participate in the TIP. Bowden Inc.in Virginia,indicates ce zone established to provide done in Central Texas, Pebble women's golf teams. The develop- One week after the request,com- that the figures Bryan officials d funding for the project. Creek, Briarcrest and the new ment will include a Jack Nicklaus- missioners approved the county's used in their calculations were ..re approval came after the Miramont,and where this one fits designed golf course, as well as a participation in the TIP, which conservative. nine member board received sup- in relation to those,"he said."You hotel, conference center and resi- will fund$21.3 million of Bryan's "With a relatively modest mar- plemental information, including can't look into the future,but as far dential area.It will be called Tradi- estimated$27 million contribution keting program,University Ranch a real estate market analysis. as my questions and providing lions Golf Course and Country to the project. See GOLF,Page Al2 Carey Cauley, a Brazos County comparative data and comparative Club at University Ranch_ In tax-increment financing, the glue households within driving time to three city of Bryan employees, Goff B-CS,"according to the report."It three Bryan council members, a will be necessary for University county commissioner anb two d two J Ranch to capture three-tenths of other members appo te From A9 one percent of the proximate, area legislators. qualified market in order to sell The board includes Commis- should comfortably sell 125 house out.This should be achievable sioner Cauley;Bryan City Council and lot packages per year at prices given the popularity of university members Mike Beal, Russell that will approach $300,000 on towns in general,the presence of a Bradley and Annette Stephney; average,"the June 6 report states. quarter million former students of state Rep.Charles Jones,R-Bryan, "This scenario anticipates the Texas A&M and the popularity who was elected vice chair of the average addition to the tax rolls to and prestige of a Nicklaus- board last week;and Switzer Dea- amount to $30,750,000 per year designed golf course." son,president of the First Nation- over eight years." Project director Tom Coyle said al Bank of Texas, appointed by The market sample included the study"is not a full-blown fea- state Sen.Steve Ogden,R-Bryan. both public and private golf com- sibility study,but rather a market The project calls for Bryan to munities in Central Texas,includ- assessment of the assumptions contribute $26.8 million to the ing Barton Creek in Austin and used in the tax-increment zone public-private venture,which has The Dominion in San Antonio, financing plan."He said the study drawn concerns from a group of which are comparable to what the is included in the project and residents.About$5.5 million will Traditions project will be, the financial plan approved Monday. come from Bryan's oil and gas rev- report states. Traditions will fill a That plan must be approved by enues,as well as money from the market niche that is regional, Brazos County Commissioners Elf Atochem settlement. according to the report and the Bryan City Council,both "There are approximately of which have meetings Tuesday. ■Colleen Kavanagh's email address 330,000 age- and income-qualified The TIF board is made up of is ckavanagh@theeaglexom Monday,June 12, 2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle Page AS Region Bryan council to discussgolf coursepacts �j By COLLEEN KAVANAGH the TIF. ■ The first reading of an ordi- of a building that the Building Eagle Staff Writer Among the agreements the nance approving the final financ- Standards Commission has .,..r council will consider are: ing and project plan for the TIF. deemed dangerous and ordered *-0 The Bryan City Council on ■ An agreement between the The plan also requires the demolished. C� Tuesday will consider a host of city and Bryan Commerce and approval of the TIF board of direc- ■ A street use agreement with agreements that involve the Tra- Development, the corporation tors on Monday and Brazos Coun- Genuity Networks, a new busi- ditions Golf Course and Country that will implement the $8.2 mil- ty Commissioners on Tuesday. ness moving to Bryan, to install r, — Club at University Ranch. lion land acquisition for the pro- ■ The first reading of an ordi- communications infrastructure Last July, the city teamed with ject. nance establishing an economic in and through the public rights of C Texas A&M University and Club- ■ A resolution naming city- development program, as way in the city. Corp USA to develop the 800-acre, appointed members of the tax- required by the Texas Local Gov- ■ A telecommunications fran- $275 million project, which will be increment finance zone board of ernment Code, to make loans and chise with Qlynk Communica- O the home of the A&M men's and directors for financing of the golf grants of public funds and provide tions Inc., a new business moving women's golf teams. The develop- course. It also will name a board personnel and services within a to Bryan, to install and maintain ment will include a Jack Nick- chair. TIF. The program is designed to infrastructure and poles in and � laus-designed golf course, a hotel, ■An interlocal agreement with promote local economic develop- through the public rights of way conference center and residential Brazos County for its 15-year par- ment and stimulate business and in Bryan. 0 area. ticipation in the TIF. commercial activity within an During the workshop session, Bryan's financial participation ■ An amendment to the agree area in Bryan. the council will discuss major � in the project is estimated to be ment with the Jordan Community In other action, the council will street projects. $27 million. Of that, $21.3 million Properties that reduces lot sale consider: The workshop session will 0 P=4 1 will come from a tax-increment proceeds to JCP from 69 percent to ■ A request from the Brazos begin at 4 p.m. in the basement V finance zone, or TIF. 55 percent. The amendment also Heritage Society to help fund a training room of the Bryan In tax-increment financing, states that the city will reimburse documentary film and book about Municipal Building, 300 South business or residential owners in $100,000 to JCP for pre-develop- the history of the Brazos Valley. Texas Ave. The regular meeting the TIF pay property taxes that ment costs. The society has requested that will be at 6 p.m. in the council look exactly the same as those of ■ An amendment to the agree- Bryan, College Station and Brazos chambers of the municipal build- other Bryan residents, but their ment with Traditions Golf Club to County each fund$50,000. ing. payments would go to the TIF ensure repayment of the club- ■ An ordinance amendment rather than the city and county. house construction loan through requiring a magistrate's warrant ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address School district taxes will not go to a lien on the property. before the seizure and demolition is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News June, L Z(%GU Fees are too high College Station should reconsid- er its pricing structure. It is not y wife had$13.25 in her family-friendly. �)M wallet as she, our two boys SKY GARNER '.1 n College Station and infant eagerly attempt- ed to have our first family swim outing of the summer. Like most dads, I dropped them off and went to park the car. I was soon met in the parking lot by my wife, who informed me she did not have enough money. Yes,I do have an ATM card. That, of course, is not my point. After unsuccessfully rifling • through my car to scrape up the funds needed to swim, I agreed to take our infant home and return to pick the rest of my family up when they were through. The price of admission to this pool is $3.50. obviously people are willing to pay this because the pool was packed. But$14 to go swimming at a city- owned and operated pool is wrong. I question this as I hope many oth- ers have. We have just returned to this area from Richardson, Texas, which is a well-run city,just as College Station is. There we paid$1 for admission. Ages 4 and under were free (exclud- ing the taxes we gladly paid to live there). • The Eagle City of College Station News �Dat Jbtne I � , 2-&oL I _ Parking removed due J ' I I to construction ` e xxxxxxXXXXXXxxxxxxx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Parking CHURCH AVIL _ It No Parking Zone \ XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX — j J -X Ao Parking Zone i '' j From Al x X Xj improving visibility for all types x x j of traffic," according to a state- x x men,released by the city."This i L axe X will also help address concerns X I about the increased traffic [car, trian, cyclej tat W s°yPns xis come e from the future Tradit onls PATRICIII j xdormitory and Northgate Park- 3,,ate private private x x spaces Private I Ing Garage. a marking x x f The area where parking is i U parking pinking X parking X j removed will be convened to a r X X I j bike lane that will connect the i x x i Northgate area to the [Texas I X X I j AM University, making the x j I area a er for according le dotntraic," t the UNIVQtSfty DRIVE statement. But two merchants who 15 minutes,free _._Existing parking to remain received the plan on Saturday aren't buying that explanation. ®1 hour,free XXX Parking removed "They still haven't justified O PAID from a safety standpoint why they're taking the parking away," said Robert Rose,owner of Cycles C S' details parking plan understand, College Main."If was a significant safety issue, I could undersrs tand, but very few •rcci• dents have occurred on College Main.They haven't give a stalls. Northgate merchants oppose on-street parking removal tically valid reason for doing it. By COLLEEN KAVANAGH "If it's a question of raising remove all parking from the Bra- money for the garage Eagle Staff write? (( Y parking gar a and [City officials]still zos Duplex Property,along with forcing purple to pay for parking, haven't 'ustified from a on-street parking on Culpepper, they need to tell it like it is,"he The city of College Station J Milam. Dogwood, Intow, and said announced of Saturday of its safeh•standpoint why Cross from Nagle to South College Hubert Forrest, owner of plans to remove on-street parking Avenue. Also, all remaining on- they're taking the city Army/Navy sloe, said in the Northgate area, further sheet parking an the business and city officials are worried that angering merchants and business parking away.?7 institutional areas of Northgate their garage will not fund itself owners who say the lost spaces _ROBERT Rose will be metered,along with park- unless people are forced to pay to will put them at a competitive dis- ing along University Drive from park fitNorthgate. advantage. Nnnhgsw—mereh— Boyett Street to Wellborn Drive. "I'm Iliad that people in our city The first step of implementing "in addressing the city's prima- don't have the guts to come to the plan approved by the City Street to University Drive,which ry concern for public safety, on- Northgate and tell us they are Council in March involves remov- will take place by July 1. street parking will be removed... paranoid that the garage won't ing parking on Church Street and When the Northgate Parking make at,"he said."It's not about on College Main from Church Garage opens, city officials will See PARKING.Page A8 safety." The Larking plan does take into consideration the addition of the treasures —INSIDE---- The Eagle online: ;coo-space garage scheduled to Brazos Sunday DI Lottery A31 theeaglexcull of open in 2001,"which proactively tiny jewel on the Business El Movies A13 aggiesports.con, —�� addresses the need for additional ;olumbia's vast Classified Fl Obituaries All larking in Northgate,"according Crossword D2 Opinions A10 to the city's press release. Horoscope D2 Sports c1 Please —N "The city will ,reevaluate the recycle need for free parking spaces in Landers A) Weather A7 the Northgate area upon comple. tion of the parking garage," it states. City officials said they are researching options for new equipment in the Promenade Parking Lot to make parking there easier.The final step of the removal plan will be in the North• gate residential areas,and those options still are being developed, according to the press release. Nose and Forrest said met'- •6 15-minute spaces on Patri- chants and business owners are via Street west of College Main. worried about how the parking Forrest said the free spaces are removal will affect their busi• a step in the right direction,but nesses. still do not solve the parking The city will provide 39 free problem in Northgate.The park- parking spaces. which officials ing is being removed well before said will alleviate the concerns the parking garage opens. h•uur merchants who rely on free. "Every store at Northgate will short-term parking. be affected when there is almost The free spaces will be: no parking," he said. "Already, ■ 30 one-hour spaces in the parking is it problem and this Promenade Parking Lot front 7 plan does not address that." a.m.to ti p.m. ■3 15-minute spaces un Pain. ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail cis Street east of College Main. address is ckavanagh@theeagie.com The Eagle City of College Station News : v' (Any -11 zo an Eagle Wednesday,June 7, 2000 Region CS to preservation orwei h older-nei hbhood g g By COLLEEN KAVANAGH The council also placed a mora- Commission and Zoning Board of The two areas are: a public hearing, set for 7 p.m. Eagle Staff Writer torium in the two residential Adjustments meeting in which ■ Southside: The area bounded July 13. Both will be held in Room areas on replats and building per- the groups discussed ways to pro- by Texas Avenue, Holleman 127 of the College Station Confer- College Station officials will mits that would allow for more tect and preserve older neighbor- Drive, Glade Avenue, Southwest ence Center, 1300 George Bush meet this week to lay the frame- than one principal structure on a hoods. Parkway, Wellborn Road and Drive, work for preservation of older lot or tract of land in single family At its Thursday meeting, the George Bush Drive. The district is on the council's neighborhoods in single family areas. council is scheduled to discuss the ■ Eastgate: The area bounded workshop and meeting agenda residential areas in the Southside Also frozen were applications pending rezoning for the overlay by Texas Avenue, University Thursday. The workshop will and Eastgate sections of the city. for zoning changes, conditional district. Drive, Tarrow Street, Lincoln begin at 3 p.m. in the City Hall In January, the council decreed use permits, variances or special The district would ensure that Avenue, University Drive, Earl Council Chambers, 1101 Texas t'---,' no more than one housing exceptions on single family devel- development in those areas is at Rudder Freeway and Harvey Ave, and the regular meeting will �ture should be permitted on opments since January. densities compatible with the Road. be at 7 p.m. in the council cham- a single lot or building plot in sin- The ban was approved until neighborhoods, according to a The planning commission will hers. gle family residential districts. Aug. 15. report from Jim Callaway, the hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. on Also, the,council said, new lots The moratorium evolved from a city's development services direc- June 15 to consider the rezoning ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address must be td least 8,500 square feet. council, Planning and Zoning tor. request.The council also will hold is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News • to 100 .:MIR• I L,_,ff tneeagle com A9 CS to C onsider budget increase $2.57 million boost not expected to change,ge 2000 property taxes By COLLEEN KAVANAGH have been set, and the city has the Solid Waste Management Agency rehabilitation of the Dowling vided electric service by BTU. All Eagle Staff Writer („ CLI resources to cover the possible projects. Funds would be appro- Road pump station. customers have been transferred �u budget changes. priated for professional services ■ $437,300 for pay plan adjust- to the College Station's electric The College Station Cily Coun Man of y these things the coun- for fill sectors, ground water mon- ments, approved by the council on system. In a separate action at the cil will consider raising the fiscal cil has already approved,"he said. itoring and legal fees. March 23. Those changes and meeting, the council will consider 2000 budget by $2.57 million to "At that time, we told the council ■ $466,000 for fiscal 1999 pro- other mid-year salary adjust- the actual payment. finance various projects, but city that a jects that were deferred to fiscal ments resulted in increased ■ $120,000 for the F.M. 2818 officials said the increase is not ■ Neighborhood zoning budget 2000. Several projects were origi- salary and benefit expenditures Crepe Myrtle project, which has a expected to affect property taxes. Under Consideration/A14 amend- nally budgeted for 1999, but funds that were not included in the orig- budget of$170,000. College Station At its Thursday meeting, the ment could not be purchased until 2000. inal budget. provided $5o,000 for the project, council will discuss setting a pub- would be required. This is just a Those projects include the pur- ■$403,100 to Bryan Texas Utili- with the rest coming from other lic hearing for public input on the follow-up to reflect those actions." chase of a truck for the electric ties for electric facilities now in entities. That $120,000 has been projects. The proposed appropriations department, a mobile command the College Station city limits. received and needs to be appropri- +' City Manager Tom Brymer said include: post vehicle, equipment for the The city annexed property in 1994, r current year's taxes already ■ $960,000 for Brazos Valley Northgate parking lot and the 1995 and 1997 that was being pro- See BUDGET, Page A14 l � H Budget ■ A plan to request proposals construction of critical rein- for a marketing and management forced foundation and structural study of the Convention and Visi- elements of the garage. tors Bureau. The study is esti- According to a staff report, the From A9 mated to cost$50,000, and College city does not have the necessary Station would be responsible for expertise on staff to complete the ated in the general fund. about $44,300. Bryan has agreed inspection. This would be the .i ■$110,000 in sanitation dispos- to pay $5,700. College Station's third change order on the project al fees. The city has taken more funding would come from an orig- and would come from the parking waste than anticipated to the inal $40,000 fiscal 2000 appropria- garage's debt service fund. landfill, and revenues also have tion that has not yet been autho- The workshop session will increased as a result of the rized. begin at 3 p.m. in the City Hall increase in tonnage picked up ■ A $32,000 change order with Council Chambers, 1101 Texas and taken to the landfill. Arkitex Studio for additional, Ave. The regular meeting is set ■$59,100 for fees to the Brazos design services on the Northgate for 7 p.m. in the council cham- Valley Groundwater Conserva- Parking Garage project. The bers. tion District. The money would order would provide for a pay the water usage fee assess- licensed structural engineer to ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail ad- ment to the district, and the observe and inspect during the dress is ckavanagh@theeagle.com expenditure was approved by the council in May. ■$20,400 for Northgate Prome- nade and parking lot cleanup. The bid for the cleanup was approved at a May 25 council meeting. In other action, the council will consider: ■A construction contract with R.M. Dudley Construction Com- pany for site improvements at Thomas and Lemon Tree Park. The contract would be for $101,000. The Eagle City of College Station News Tradi ions plandraws interest 740 club memberships sold, Bryan official says [you, I just information]need nformat on] d a little bit more I --- Conduff said consultants can be The Traditions Golf Course and paid to provide results that meet Resort at University Ranch pro- expectations, and the actual num- ject has sold about 740 golf ber of members who have club memberships and * already joined the golf ; By COLLEEN KAVANAGH has a list of 300 people i � club more accurately Eagle Staff Writer interested in buying shows the project's residential lots, feasibility. Also, he Bryan City Man- said, council mem ager Mike Con- bers and city staff duff told the have thoroughly nine-members reviewed the board that will project informa- oversee Bryan's y tion and are tax-increment comfortable finance zone for U Ct3T1AJnl% With it. the develop- G "I think the ment. council is ready The board had ® [to move for- its first meeting ward]," he said. Tuesday to consider Conduff also bylaws for the tax-increment rebutted claims that it would be finance zone, or TIF,as well as the unrealistic to sell 100 lots in one project's overall plan and financ- year when only 37 building per- ing. The TIF is to fund $21.3 mil- mits for $200,000 houses were lion of Bryan's $27 million contri- issued in Bryan and College Sta bution to the project. tion last year. He said that the► Carey Cauley, a Brazos County assumed $200,000 price tag commissioner and member of the includes the lot. TIF board, asked Conduff about "If the lot is $40,000, the home ; the need for a feasibility study. would be $160,000, and those hap- Cauley, who with two other coun- pen all the time in Brazos Coun- ty commissioners voted in May to ty," he said. • approve the project, pointed out The economic information in that his support for Traditions is the plan contains the necessary not wavering. requirements to meet the tax-- "No one except the man above increment financing statute, can forecast the future," Cauley according to the city's legal coun- said, "but companies are paid to sel. make these guesses for us. I see Board member Switzer Deason elements of a feasibility study,but not a feasibility study. I'm with,. See RESORT, Page A8 • Page A8 The Bryan-College Station Eagle Wednesday,June 7,2000 News Resort also will be considered by Brazos laus designed golf course, as well ` County commissioners and as a hotel, conference center and Bryan City Council members at residential area. the groups' Tuesday meetings. The project calls for Bryan to From Al The plan requires approval from contribute $26.8 million to the suggested that city staff provide all three entities before it can public-private venture, which r' move forward. has drawn concerns from a group answers to board members' ques- The board of directors is made of residents. About $5.5 million tions rather than complete a fea- up of three city of Bryan employ- would come from Bryan's oil and sibility study. That will allow the ees, three Bryan council mem- gas revenues, as well as money board to have informed answers bers, a county commissioner, and from the Elf Atochem settlement. to their questions, he said. two other members appointed by In tax-increment financing, the Specifically, more information area legislators. property taxes of businesses or was requested to explain how 100 The board includes Cauley, residential owners in the zone go lots could be sold each year; what Bryan City Council members to the TIF rather than the city the room rates and occupancy Mike Beal, Russell Bradley and and county. Taxes to the Bryan rates would be for the hotel com- Annette Stephney; state Rep. school district will not go to the pared to the community's already Charles Jones, R-Bryan, who was TIF. established rates; the $10 million elected vice chair of the board at In order for the development i value placed on the planned golf the meeting; and Deason, presi- agreements to move forward, i course, which is more than dou dent of the First National Bank of ClubCorp must reach its "trigger i ble the values of Pebble Creek Texas, who was appointed by number" of memberships — the and Briarcrest country clubs;and state Sen. Steve Ogden, R-Bryan. number officials say is a safe- what would happen to city taxes The board's bylaws were guard to ensure the project will in the worst case scenario. approved at the Tuesday meeting, succeed. The company has until Councilman Russell Bradley and Deason nominated Jones to the end of June to sell 800 mem- said that, in the worst case sce- serve as vice chair, saying, berships, or about $2.6 million in nario, if no lots are sold in one "Everybody here has already initiation fees. year, the TIF would experience a bought into this program. If there Regular meetings of the board $500,000 deficit.' Such a deficit is to be an impartial referee, it's will take place annually, unless could easily be covered in the you or me." there are amendments to the city's $180 million budget, he The City Council will appoint zone agreement that need to be said. the board chair. voted on or board members As for the other questions,Con- Last July, Bryan teamed with request additional meetings. The duff told the board those answers ClubCorp USA and Texas A&M board will meet Monday at 1:30 are readily available and will be University for the 800-acre, $275 p.m. in room 305 of the Bryan forwarded to members. million project, which will be the Municipal Building, 300 South The board delayed a decision home of the A&M men's and Texas Ave. on the project, agreeing to recon- women's golf teams. The develop- vene Monday for a vote. The plan ment will include a Jack Nick- ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News v NOTICE TO WATER CUSTOMERS IN L SOUTH COLLEGE STATION: ? £t v1 The City of College Station will shut off water service to repair water valves located in the Greens Prairie Road area on the following dates and times: j Wednesday, May 31 st from 11 :00 .m. to 4:00 a.m. Y Y p Wednesday, June 7th from 11 :00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. The specific areas affected included the entire Pebble Creek Subdivision, the College Station Business Park, and the Texas World Speedway. This area is bounded by Earl Rudder Freeway South, Greens Prairie Road, and East Rock Prairie Road. Please direct any questions to Public Utilities Dispatch at 764-3638. The Eagle City of College Station News ___FDate:_ 3, ZU0o Unwelcome intrusion Benito Flores-Meath is well meaning(Eagle, May 21) but advocates an extreme propos- al to limit all single-family dwel- lings in the city to two or three unrelated individuals. Do we really want city officials knocking on our doors demanding to know this information? To be fair, the city would have to ask the residents of every dwelling. How could this information be proven anyway?Will we have to show our driver's licenses to live on our own property? .. Flores-Meath's plan is intended to limit students living in residen- tial neighborhoods, but would actu- ally restrict the property rights and erode the privacy rights of all our citizens. I urge Flores-Meath and those concerned with neighborhood integrity to pursue alternatives to this restrictive proposal. Tram- pling the rights of all residents just because some people do not like their own neighbors is wrong. r,.f, CHRISTOPHER JAGGE VO College Station College Station City Council Workshop Meeting Thursday, May 11,2000 at 3:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers, 1101 Texas Avenue Details on any of the following items may be picked up on request in the City Secretary's Office(764-3541)in the College Station City Hall located at 1 101 Texas Avenue. Presentation, discussion, and possible action on the following items: 1. Canvass of Election Returns from May 6, 2000 Election. 2. Oath of office to newly elected officers and presentation of Certificates of Election. 3. Consent agenda items listed for Regular Council Meeting. 4. Presentation, discussion and possible action on the possible participation in the TXDOT Landscape Cost Sharing Program to develop raised, streetscape medians on George Bush Drive. 5. Strategic Planning process. 6. Committee Reports 7. Council Calenders 8. Hear Visitors (5:45 p.m.) 9. Executive Session will immediately follow the workshop meeting in the Training Room. Items that may be discussed: Pending and Contemplated Litigation, Real Estate, and Economic Development Negotiations. 10. Final action on Executive Session, if necessary. Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m. 11. Pledge of Allegiance, Invocation Consider request for absence from meeting. • Police Week • Emergency Medical Services Week Consent Agenda- Discussion and possible action on the following items: 12.1 Minutes for City Council special meeting on February 1 st, 2000, March 6th, 2000 and workshop and regular meeting on April 27th, 2000. 12.2 Bid No.00-52 - Purchase of dry polymer for the wastewater treatment plant. Recommend award to the lowest responsible bidder meeting specifications, Polydyne for an annual estimated expenditure of $22,741.76 12.3 Resolution approving a professional service contract for the George Bush Drive East Widening Project to Othon, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $88,000. 12.4 Resolution authorizing the Director of Parks & Recreation to apply for a matching grant for the Texas Parks&Wildlife Department for the year 2000 to construct trails to Lick Creek Park. 12.5 Second reading of a proposed franchise agreement with Enviromed for the collection and disposal services for treated and untreated medical waste. 12.6 Rehabilitation and relocation agreements between the City of College Station and eight income eligible housing assistance applicants. Budget costs of a maximum of$353,500 in construction costs for all eight projects and any temporary relocation expenses. 12.7 Ordinance amending Chapter 10, Section 2C of the College Station Code of Ordinances to change the intersection of Holleman and Phoenix/Eleanor from a 2-way to a 4-way stop condition. Regular Agenda- Discussion and possible action on the following items: 13.1 Public hearing, discussion and possible action on an ordinance rezoning 3.51 acres from R-4 and R-1A to PDD-H in the Henton-Lincoln Subdivision. 13.2 Contributions from the Economic Development Fund for the purchase of public improvements on Second an Boyett Streets in conjunction with 301 Church Ave., L.P.'s private dormitory. 13.3 Resolution providing a grant to 301 Church Ave., L.P.for an upgrade from concrete sidewalks to stamped, colored concrete sidewalks on Second and Boyett Street between Church and Louise Streets for 301 Church Ave., L.P.'s Dormitory. Also approve a grant agreement with 301 Church Ave., L.P. 13.4 Appointment to the Bryan/College Station Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors to fill an expired term. 14. Council Monitoring Report 15. City Council may convene the executive session following the regular meeting to discuss matters posted on the executive session agenda for 5/11/2000. 16. Final action on executive session, if necessary. 17. Adjourn. The Eagle City of College Station News Veterans Park plan a rovedPP By COLLEEN KAVANAGH process, officials said, but is Eagle Staff Writer expected to include up to six soc- cer fields, two softball fields, two The College Station City Coun- restroom buildings and related cil approved Thursday a proposed parking, utilities and roadways. master plan for the Veterans Park The land for the park — 150 and Athletic Complex and reject- acres—were acquired in 1998 for ed a policy to fund part of the cost $1.5 million from 1995 bond funds. of bringing private alleys to city About $2.12 million from that istandards, which could have cost same bond is budgeted for the more than$800,000. master plan and initial develop- The council also asked city staff ment of the park. to present proposed changes to The full increase the city's contribution to development is its employee health benefits fund proposed to during the budget process. include nine The veterans park master plan softball fields, was a joint effort by a city-hired 13 adult soccer consulting firm, College Station fields, two parks and recreation officials and pavilions and a three-member park subcommit- room for volley- tee. ball, batting MARIOTT John Nichols, a member of the cages, basket- subcommittee, asked the council ball courts and a one-mile hiking before its vote to consider the trail. importance of moving ahead with City employees began work on the project, which will include a an alley-accepting policy in memorial to U.S. veterans. response to a request from the "It's not just a facility for recre- Chimney Hill Business Park Own- ational use for the citizens of Col- ers Association. The association lege Station," he said, adding that asked that the city help with the the facility will draw people from cost of bringing private alleys up outside of College Station. "It's a to current standards to improve potentially good economic invest- and maintain the quality of alley- ment for the community." ways used for sanitation collec- Elements of the first phase of tion services. the park, which officials said will Mark Smith, College Station's be a regional facility, will be determined during the design See PARK, Page A6 Park From Al director of public works, said t there are 78 private alleys in the city that are not built to standard. ; The reality of this situation is that the private property owners, if required to make the improve- ; ments at their own expense, Currently, first-time offenders would rarely if ever make the are sentenced to Teen Court jury repairs or provide the mainte- I duty, community service and/or nance that is necessary to keep i a fine.According to city officials, ' the alleys in good condition,' many offenders do not have a Smith said in a memo to the coun- basic understanding of how to cil. "A policy where private par- change their actions, which the ticipation is required with city course would help with. involvement will make it more ; ■Tabled a rezoning request on likely that these problems will be i 46.46 acres at 200 Greens Prairie 'I addressed." Road from commercial to single�! The motion to approve the pro- c family residential.The applicant• posed policy to accept private i is working to develop a single alleys and public easements as family neighborhood. public ways and participate in Five College Station residents improvement costs failed, 5.2. told the council they oppose the Mayor Lynn McDhaney and development for various reasons, Mayor Pro Tem Larry Martott : including the lack of a neighbor-. voted for the policy. hood park and only one access The cost to increase the city's into and out of the development. health benefits contribution The Planning and Zoning Com- would be $262,500 annually, mission recommended approval. according Julie O'Connell, the However,city staff recommended city's human resources director. that the request be tabled so the ; The increase is necessary applicant can work with city staff because of higher claims and to address emergency,vehicular, administration costs as well as pedestrian and bike access. projected increases based on med- ■Approved an exemption from ical trends and current usage,she competitive bidding for profes- said, sionai legal services for expenses ; The proposed plan would related to Fire Station No. 1 liti- increase the city's condomdon gation. from $206 per employee ,per In November 1999, the council month to 5143 and for full f y approved about $50,000 to Davis ; coverage,from$200 j Yttt¢ t. and Shank for technical exper- $235 per month. ; tise. The primary attorney In other action,the co retained by the city changed law - ■Approved an advanced` d- '. firms and is a partner in Coats, ing agreement with the Texas ; Rose,Yale,Ryman&Lee.To date, Department of Transportation for the city has incurred about utility adjustments and $14,650 in expenses,and addition- streetscape enhancements as part ! ��avrwncac,-vlatpd to thiq lawsuit art�►� of TxDOT's widening of a portion �:nd eub�►�•,.c t Sq WC Nos f ej beclecl. of University Drive. TxDOT intends to widen Uni- versity Drive from Glenhaven to Forest Drive, changing the road from four lanes with a center two- ' way left turn lane to six lanes with a raised center median.The ' agreement for the city's$146,660 portion of fltnding is to provide utility adjustments, landscape ' pavers, streetscaped signal poles ' and illuminated street name signs. ■Approved a first-time grant application by the College Station ' Teen Court for juvenile account- ability block grant flmds•The city is eligible for$17,103 with a match of$1,900 to fund an 8-hour educa- tional course as a part of the com- munity service sentence for a maximum of 200 first- or second time-offenders annually. The Eagle City of College Station News CS council toconsider The plan proposes increasing the city's contribution from $208 per employee per month to $243 park plan and for full family coverage,from ■ A policy for the city accept- $200 per month to$235 per month. ing private alleys and access TxDOT intends to widen Uni- easements as public ways and By COLLEEN KAVANAGH,5 � ' versity Drive from Glenhaven to participation in the cost of their Eagle Staff Writer Forest Drive, changing the road improvement. City employees from four lanes with a center two- began work on a policy in The College Station City Coun- way left turn lane to six lanes response to a request from the cil on Thursday will consider a with a raised center median. The Chimney Hill Business Park proposed master plan for the Vet- agreement for the city's $146,660 Owners Association. erans Park and Athletic Complex , portion of funding is to provide ■ Changing the zoning on and increasing the city's contribu- utility adjustments, landscape about 46.46 acres at 200 Greens tion to its employee health bene- ` pavers, streetscaped signal poles Prairie Road from commercial to fits fund. and illuminated street name single family residential. The The council also will consider signs. applicant intends to develop a an advanced funding agreement During the workshop session, single family neighborhood. with the Texas Department of representatives from the Brazos The Planning and Zoning Com- Transportation for utility adjust- Heritage Society will ask the mission recommended approval. ments and streetscape enhance- council for city money to help However, city staff recommended ments as part of TxDOT's widen- fund a documentary about Bra- that the request be tabled so the ing of a portion of University zos County. applicant can work with city staff Drive. The heritage society is working to address emergency, vehicular, Tents of the first phase of to fund the $241,000 documentary pedestrian and bike access. t k will be determined dur- project, which will pay to for a 2- ■An exemption from competi- ing the design process, officials hour documentary, shorter seg- tive bidding for professional legal said, but is expected to include six ments of local history and organi- services for expenses related to soccer fields, two softball fields zational information, and the Fire Station No. 1 litigation. n and related parking, utilities and In November 1999, the council roadways. production of a hardback book. approved about $50,000 to Davis The land for the park — 150 The society is asking that and Shank for technical exper- acres— were acquired in 1998 for Bryan, College Station and Bra- tise. The zos County to each fund.$50,000. primary attorney In other action, the council will retained by the city changed law See COUNCIL, Page A14 consider: firms and is a partner in Coats, ■A first-time grant application Rose, Yale, Ryman & Lee. To Council by the College Station Teen Court date, the city has incurred about for juvenile accountability block al ex 0 in expenses, and addition- grant funds. The city is eligible �expenses related to this lawsuit for $17,103 with a match of$1,900 are 5. An additional $50,000 requested. From A9 a to fund an 8-hour educational was requested. course as a art of the communi- The workshop is set for 3 p.m. $1.5 million from 1995 bond ty service sentence for amaxi- in the City Hall Council Cham- funds. About $2.12 million from bers, 1101 Texas Ave. The regular that same bond is budgeted for mum of 200 first- or second time- meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the the master plan and initial devel- offenders annually. council chambers. opment of the park. Currently, first-time offenders The cost to increase the city's are sentenced to Teen Court jury ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail ad- health benefits contribution duty, community service and/or dress is ckavanagh@theeagle.com would be $262,500 annually, a fine. According to city officials, according to a report prepared many offenders do not have a for the council by Julie O'Con- basic understanding of how to nell, the city's human resources change their actions, which the director. The increase is neces- course would help with. The Lry because of higher claims grant will not require a long-term d administration costs as well obligation from the city, officials as projected increases based on said. ' medical trends and current usage, according to O'Connell's report. The change would be nec- essary to maintain and meet the city's financial policies, the report states. The Eagle City of College Station News Save neighborhoods hat can we do to preserve our single-family residen- tial neighborhoods? First, change the limit of unrelated adults in a single-family residential dwelling to no more than three per dwelling. College Station could base it on the draft ordinance that Bryan was considering last December. Many residents have suggested a limit of two unrelated adults per dwelling, and that is very reasonable for properties of limited area or number of bed- rooms, but use three for others. Second, make property owners equally responsible for the repeat- ed violations by their tenants. You can do this by issuing fines to the owner as well as the renter or by requiring an annual commercial rental permit for a nominal$1 charge. Change the ordinances dealing with parking, noise, etc., to issue the first fine in a year to the renters only and legally notify the owner that the next one counts. Any additional fines within a year would then also apply to the owner. Recurring violations could revoke the commercial permit and prevent the owner from renting the house for six months. I wouldn't recommend that any safety inspec- tions be mandated as part of the permit, as other college towns have done. The solutions I'm proposing should be applied to all single-fami- ly residential zones within the city. Owners of more dense properties such as duplexes and apartment complexes probably wouldn't oppose it. This should be done very quick- ly, before the next round of rental leases gets signed for the fall semester. I would suggest that property owners include a protec- tion clause in their lease agree- ments, so that if renters get the property owner in trouble, the owner can get reimbursed. This again puts the onus onto the trou- blemakers. Let's bring back the single in sin- gle-family residential areas. BENITO FLORES-MEATH College Station The Eagle City of College Station News • mad I q�2oco Coinmun*cate io ns s firm ends phone, Internet services :.Twister leaves customers in CS, across nation with no explanation Staff and Wire Report '' pany's Web page, 6 Twistercom.com, a message was Customers of Twister Commu- displayed saying the server could nications in College Station and not be located because there was across Texas who called to com- no DNS entry. plain that their long-distance Mike Sims, the general manag- phone and Internet service did not er of Twister's College Station work learned through a recorded office, said he could not comment message that the company had about the shutdown. The compa- shut down. ny is owned by Kamal Alavi, who The closure came one day after only months ago told a news con- Twister, which is headquartered ference in College Station that he in Conroe, Texas, laid off a large had plans to add thousands of group of employees. Some former employees to his company. employees said as many as 200 Reached at his home late Thurs- workers may have lost their jobs. day, Alavi told the Courier that Security guards at the compa- "some good news will come" by ny's headquarters told the Conroe Monday. Courier that the office was closed "We have a legal matter. I can't to the public. Phone calls to the talk very much, you know," Alavi company's customer service line said. "Everything is going to con- or the main line only reached a tinue because we have our new recorded message that said the company already fully in works, call could not be completed as you know. The division is not dialed. dead, and everything will contin- Customers in Austin, San Mar- ue." cos, Conroe and other Texas cities Terry Hadley, a spokesman for were affected. The company also the Public Utility Commission in provided free Internet service in Austin, said the agency received at least 30 cities across the nation several calls from Twister cus- and provided discount calling to tomers. The PUC authorized 50 states. When trying to link to the com- See TWISTER, Page A8 marketing agent for Twister in expand to .3,000 employees in Twister Austin, said he had customers in three to five years. Austin, San Marcos and Conroe By opening an office in College who were affected by 'the shut- Station, he said Twister's goal F1'Olil Al down. was to keep Texas A&M Universi- "I've got a lot of unhappy peo- ty graduates here in town rather Twister in 1999 to be a service ple," he said. than seeing them leave for larger provider in Texas. O'Connor said that lately the cities. Alavi told The Eagle that Although Twister customers company had not provided him he hoped to make the Bryan-Col- will still be able to use phone billing information and other lege Station area the next "Sili- lines to make long-distance calls, reports as required by contract. con Valley." Hadley said, "The question is, However, he was quick to add, Twister had$140 million in rev- `which company will pick up the "Overall, to date, they've done a enues last year, and Alavi said in call, and how much will it costT good job." March that he hoped to triple that We're concerned customers may Like his customers, O'Connor by the end of the year. be switched improperly." said he had been unable to con- Alavi told The Eagle in March Hadley said the PUC was "cer- tact any company official to find that one of his company's objec- tainly disappointed" by Twister's out what was happening. tives was to create a distance sudden move and said the com- At a highly promoted news con- learning program for universi- mission will confer with the Fed- . ference in College Station in ties. He wanted to provide cam- eral Communications Commis- March, Alavi touted plans to eras in every classroom and a sion about the situation.The FCC expand Twister's College Station totally interactive computer pro- has broader regulatory authority operations from 30 employees to gram students could participate when communications opera- possibly as many as 1,000 people in worldwide. tions cross state lines, Hadley within a few years. The company Alavi is an aerospace engineer, said. opened its College Station office originally from Iran. Long-distance callers with in January. Before founding Twister, he complaints should contact PUC He told The Bryan-College Sta- said he was involved in environ- toll-free at(888) 782-8477. Lion Eagle that the Conroe office mental engineering in Switzer- Fred O'Connor,an independent employed 300 people but hoped to land. The Eagle City of College Station News Imo: 'Mai 1 �, ?-0' I Firm gains support ,)O tdrelocate , Bryan site is called crucial for expansion By LAURA HIPP Eagle Staff Writer We are a highly A second package of economic sought-after company, incentives was approved by the and we are being Bryan-College Station Economic solicited b other Development Corporation on y Wednesday for a College Station locations. We would company seeking a move to Bryan. very much like to stay In a 5-3 vote,the board of direc- in Bryan.> tors approved the incentives for _HUGH SCHMITTLE Freewing Aerial Robotics Corpo- ration, a company that has fallen Fmewing Aerial Robotics Corporation short of employment require- ments in a previous incentive He suggested that the company package approved in 1996. The might move elsewhere if the company agreed to hire 14 incentives were not approved. employees,but has eight. "We are a highly sought-after The package must be approved company,and we are being solicit- by the Bryan City Council and ed by other locations," he said. Brazos County commissioners. "We would very much like to stay The high-tech company manu- in Bryan." factures robotic planes for com- Robert Worley, EDC president mercial and military use, said and chief executive officer, said Hugh Schmittle, chairman and Schmittle's comments come as no chief executive officer.The compa- surprise.He said he expects busi- ny patented a technology that nesses to use that approach as a allows the planes to perform take- negotiating tactic. But, Worley offs similar to helicopters', but cautioned,"It's not a done deal for they fly with the speed of airplanes. Bryan"that Freewing will stay. Freewing Aerial Robotics wants The new incentive package that to expand from the 19,000 square would encourage Freewing to feet of space it occupies at 3800 relocate in Bryan includes: Raymond Stotzer Parkway MAbout five acres of land for because it needs an easily accessi- the development of a 60-foot by ble runway,Schmittle said. 1,500-foot asphalt runway and Currently, the manufacturer 20,000-square-foot building from must dismantle a plane,transport the city. it to a local runway,reassemble it 0 The city provides water, and then test it,he said. sewer and electric service lines to "We really need to get to a facil- the property line of the site at no ity to consolidate our operations," cost. Schmittle said. "We've always M The city provides a 10-year known we were going to have to face that." See EDC,Page A6 ing Aerial Robotics must prove did not meet the employment in other business, the EDC receive the package,Freew- 1997.After one year,the company -age teary'is$45,�to$S11,000. EDC that equity funding has been requirements for its first c ed board of arectors elected Teresa; secured, relocate to Bryan and tive package, as From Al " °`; build the runway y the s 2001, ment$61,500 from the EDC develop and Joe Horlen asittreasurer.l — build a new facility on the site by ment fund. was given an contract between Bryan Texas Jan.1,2002,and employ a total of The company ■ Laura Hipp's email address is Utilities and Freewing Aerial 14 people with a gross annual extension, and officials reported Ihipp@theeagle.com Robotics for electricity at the low- payroll of$500,000 no later than that in March,the company still est published rate. Jan. 1,2ool.The average annual had not met the 14-employee ■Brazos County provides site wage must be at least $30,000, requirement. The contract preparation services(such as lev- excluding the founding officers. allowed for a 60-day extension to -mow eling and grading)for the runway The proposal also would meeetth a conditin in on.hiring mode," at no cost require College Station to agree The deal also ells for a tax to terms and a time line for the Scch l�t at being ae'reto reach abatement from the city and the company to vacate the facility, county at 70 percent the first Worley said. that objective." year, 50 percent the second, 30 Freewing Aerial Robotics The company employs eight peo- percent the third, 20 percent the received its current property at ple with a gross annual payroll of fourth,and 10 percent the fifth. no cost from College Station in $400,000,Schmittle said.The aver- •wr/ The Eagle City of College Station News lam: MaCA i8,2M) Injunction lifted in CS Wendi Lester,Nagle's attorney, Building said her client violated no deed historic arearestrictions or any city oand nance,and followed planning and From Al J zoning guidelines. "The fact is that directly across was a certain footage away from the street and elsewhere in that Man allowed to build the road," said Councilman Ron neighborhood there are houses Silvia. "Hopefully, a new ordi- on 50-foot lots," Lester said. "I 2 homes in Southside nance will be mote restrictive." think Judge Langley made a fair By KELLY BROWN r�I CI Silvia, who attended.a portion decision and did what the majori- Eagte Staff Writer U of the 3 1/2 hour hearing,said he ty of property owners wanted was disappointed that Nagle will done." be permitted to finish building. The residents contended in District Judge J.D. Langley on Wednesday "He split one large lot and their lawsuit that Nagle violated lifted a seven-month injunction against a man broke it into two more lots," Sil- deed restrictions by not allowing who drew opposition from neighbors when he via said. "There was nothing we for a frontage of at least 75 feet. started building two houses in College Station's could do at the city because no Nagle's plans call for 50 feet. Southside Historic District. ordinances were in place to pre- Circulating flyers stating, Nelson Nagle was granted permission to con- vent it." "Your civil rights regarding prop- tinue the construction he initiated last summer Meanwhile, a moratorium put erty ownership and use are at when he broke ground for the two homes on in place by the City Council will stake," Nagle obtained enough either side of an existing home. He said the continue for several more signatures on a petition from plans were sensitive to the "architectural fla- months, barring residents living area property owners that vor"of the homes off Welsh Avenue. in older neighborhoods on the allowed for that particular deed "The building gets under way again tomor- south and east sides of the city restriction, among others, to be row," said Nagle, a Round Rock resident, who from building single-family resi- thrpwn out. said he is building the homes for his adult chil- dential homes. Steele, whose clients said they dren to live in while they attend Texas A&M Steven Steele, who represented knew nothing of the petition,said University. College Park Subdivision resi- some of the property owners were "I'm pleased with the judge's ruling and look dents Norma Miller,Helen Pugh, unaware of what they were sign- forward to building homes I can be proud of and Bobby Mirza and Michael Luther ing I hope that the community can be proud of,too," on behalf of Mrs. L.H. Luther, Langley ruled that there was no he said. said his clients have the right to evidence of fraud on Nagle's part The battle to stop the construction was appeal. when the group amended the launched by four residents who filed the civil "They're upset because ... Mr. deed restrictions. He deemed action that accused Nagle of being in violation Nagle will be putting in three- those restrictions valid and said of deed restrictions. and four-bedroom houses in a that the homeowners association Several officials on the College Station City space of 150 feet with no provi- group did not abandon the deed Council said Wednesday the ordeal has prompt- sions for parking — that's a restrictions. Langley: also ed them to consider putting more.restrictive potential 12 residents there," declined to award attorney fees to ordinances on the books. Steele said,adding that the prop- the plaintiffs. "As long as you have a lot large enough to put erty probably will eventually other structures on,you could do so as long as it become rental units. "It will be a ■ Kelly Brown's e-mail address is See BUILDING, Page A6 nightmare." kbrown@theeagle.corn The Eagle City of College Station News M 0 1 -7, 2ooU � O0& 4�odyv ��d 1r°10 A�4 G fido✓Pl�f•� �h�f s�o °.�9^ 6lOjOA'�P NO � d �P P P �� � `�'3f m to vj• A °P'o�d� � f1"� �a�P�r�O � • �J�r�'r4 J4' •r %'d.�°1' i'P� • fi P � 6°'o���br�so4P�y o ° Po dijP 6 PjQ� aCj �Y O ?y�i �Po 1d�4fr oP P� 09, �jryyPO'�f eb .v°'^ Q 'O O,lPit+ C ,�ifP° •i^ ,Ply��� 4pj Q�_�O� �l�` y o�`ra.� j• GP Pig piD °f d� C�P'`m'gb• (P ol- eo Ago o°o t�P�'r Qij,°�`r c�PP�� OA d f a'o da n P a °� P o °1^°OP���rd� by1O�0 Ar P��°$PL o< OPT�P f� O!� _-Ph• f" os lJS ds, P d�'rP oi,• �0 P o Pr °Po r° .$�Y d� '-A ` oo ;� 1"r ,0 �a%Ci doy Per > �l Gpv 4 r ;6,h✓ '•Ph O'o A d� I?P P s Po PDd�tU �-Sc;E,jP °✓' rs e� °"� yo��yyyl�'��� °ter°aPc}. �Pd (.�•PSP i °.° •� AG 4r� P 6, T' the information he needed last bers and was ready to vote." the TIF is up for us and we Wednesday,so he,in turn,asked But Sims, whose vote was con- receive the ad valorem taxes," Judge Al Jones to place the issue tingent upon the city downsizing Sims said. From Al I back on the agenda for Tuesday's the county's financial participa- Commissioner Cauley's meeting. tion in the project,did not know precinct includes the land Tradi- licly that he favored the plan, "I don't think the county didn't that Jones had left Thursday for a tions will be built on. then voted against it and asked come through on its promise," long-planned vacation on a cruise "People might`hot wapt to for more information. Sims said. I think Tony and I near Alaska. believe this,but Bryan truly will It was during the May 9 meet- had a different definition of what County officials hurried to get become a ghetto if we don't seize ing that Sims followed Commis- a feasibility study is. I didn't in touch with.Jones—a builder opportunities for positive sioner Tony Jones'lead in asking want a market study.In my mind and developer whose close ties to growth,"said Cauley. the deal be placed on pause pend- last week,I wanted to see a busi- the industry had proponent Mike "Anytime you try something ing the study.Sims said Tuesday ness plan. Afterward, I became McMichen during Tuesday's new, there will be resistance," that the city supplied him with more comfortable with the num- meeting questioning whether Cauley said. "We're chartering Commissioner Jones had a con- into the unknown, but it's not a flict of interest. wild chance.The city is taking a ` Judge Al Jones said he contact- well-calculated risk that I think ed the cruise ship, among other will be well worth it for Brazos sources,but was unable to reach County." him early Tuesday. Judge Jones, who didn't offer "Even if he knew about it and his opinion during Tuesday's or was here, the issue would have last week's meeting,-said he's passed because there were three been, on the record for months in favor,and that's enough for a about the project. majority," Sims said. "I've "I support it, period," he said. always said this would be a good "That's no secret.I do regret that project for Bryan.I also believe it there's been.a clear division in originally was negotiated poorly our community over the issue." by the city.That's now changed." On Tuesday, five people — The Deal includinglfdu o previously The county's participation was spoke against the project told conditional upon four modifica- the commissioners they were tions to the development agree- opposed to the county's participa- ments, each of which now must tion in the$21.3 million TIF.City be approved by the Bryan City officials say money generated in Council.Two of those conditions the TIF zone are expected to pay were met more than a week ago, for the majority of Bryan's $27 while the others were met within million total contribution. 24 hours of the vote. The latest Davis Young, the vice presi- changes included: dent of Pebble Creek Develop- 0 The residential developer,CF ments in south College Station, Jordan, agreed to reduce the said if taxes increase as expected, amount of money it would then county residents will have receive on the sale of each resi- to bear that burden without help dential lot by 4 percent,from 59 to from those who.live in the TIF 54 percent.This marks the second zone. ...► time it was reduced.It started at I hate to see county and city 69 percent. government get involved in resi- ■ C1ubCorp USA, the golf dential development," Young course developer, agreed to said."I'm glad to see many of our secure the $1 million loan from concerns have been addressed, the city by putting a lien on the but there is still a long way to go golf course property, which olfi- where it's fair to the city." cials said would ensure that the Two residents lobbied for the loan would be repaid.Traditions economic incentives, saying the will repay the loan no later than Project is needed to spark much- seven years after the completion needed development and bring a of the golf course,officials said. positive spotlight to Bryan. The two concessions made last Last July,the city teamed with ,week were: Texas A&M University and Club- 0 The developer agreed not to Corp USA of Dallas to develop the build any homes in the project. 600-acre, $275 million project, ■The county's commitment to which will be the home of the the TIF will be reduced from 25 A&M ments and women's golf years to 15 years. teams. The development would The city also agreed to reim- include a Jack Nicklaus-designed burse CF Jordan for $100,000 in golf course,hotel,conference cen- predevelopment costs, but that ter and residential area. proposed agreement is not part of Bryan resident Paul Van Rip6 the county's conditions for TIF told commissioners that A&M is approval well-known for following through Tom Coyle, Bryan's project on plans. director,said CF Jordan's conces- "The Traditions proposal Is the sions will offset the county's least threat to developers;',he shorter participation.The recent sd countering claims that the sal additional 4 percent concession Project will compete with other on the lot sales•is projected to local privately funded develop- give the TIF an additional $1.2 Tents."It is outside money com- million. ing in,and that's what I'd like to The first set of financial projec- see in Bryan in the long run." tions is based on selling 100 lots Commissioner Jones has been per year for$35,000 each.The city, meeting with city officials, resi- dentsthen reworked the projections, and developers over the which showed the TIF will work Past two months, examining if 60 lots are sold per year at details of the proposal. In the $60,000 each,he said. process,he drew up his own pro- "Ultimately, in 15 years, the Pow and labeled it"Plan B."No .,do county will see a windfall once See ZONE,Page AS Isla 2ovc) Zone fees. Ken Kasten, C1ubCorp's senior vice president of new business development, said Tuesday that action was taken on the plan. almost 700 members have joined The five-page, handwritten the golf course and country club. ering suing the city over the pro- calls and 20 in-person visits in note to Stabler made 11 sugges• He said he is confident that Club- ject. During Tuesday's meeting, regard to this issue in the past tions, ranging from the city Corp's development will be good he discussed the potential of two months. agreeing to warehouse the resi- for the entire community. future depositions.Afterward,he "It's been split—half in favor, dential land and release it by con- "The reason we wanted to do it declined to say whether he would half against," he said. "It's diffi- tractual agreements down to the anywhere in College Station or file a lawsuit. cult to look out 25 years on fman- pro-rata lot costs and impact fees. Bryan was the partnership with Several years ago, Thurmond cial matters.It's like looking into He wrote that his scenario Texas A&M University,"he said. was scheduled to partner with a crystal ball, but if their num- "gives an incentive for a builder "The strength of our member businessman Ramiro Galindo, bers are right, it will be a good or developer and/or groups of base and prospective customers who proposed a golf course devel• deal. builders/developers" to have an are outside of Bryan-College Sta- opment on the city's west side "In the end, the city council opportunity to take advantage of lion,so they'll be coming to town before A&M's search for a home will have to face the taxpayers," a motivational sales concept. and looking at all the develop- course for its golf teams. Sims said. "They will be remem- The unfeasible study ments.I think we will be good for On Tuesday, Thurmond said bered for whether Traditions was Last week,commissioners sur- everybody. there are many questions left a good deal or bad deal." prised Bryan officials, who had "There will be some great choic- unanswered, including some es in Bryan and College Station regarding the legality of the TIF. 0 Colleen Kavanagh e-mail address proposed the first round of for golf and residential develop- Lisa Horton, general counsel is ckavanagh@theeagle.com changes to the development ment,"said Kasten,who last week for the Texas Municipal League, 0 Kelly Brown's e-mail address is agreements, by requesting the said feasibility studies many said tax-increment finance zones kbrown@theeagle.com feasibility study. Commissioner times show whatever a company are common in large and small Jones asked for the study to show or entity wants them to detail.He cities throughout Texas. The whether the Traditions project co said the number of increasing could effectively survive along- group does not keep data on such side similar developments under members will prove far morea economic development incen- way,including Don Adam's Mira- ho than market study. e but said the packages have mont golf resort project on the Though Commissioner Thorn- become"a common way to doing east side of the city. ton stepped away for the major business." City officials began making vote on the TIF issue, he did "The biggest misunderstanding preparations to initiate a study weigh in last week on whether a associated with TIFs is that folks while asking Sims exactly a what feasibility study should be con- think they're losing their tax dol- information he sought. ducted.Tuesday,he said he"did- lars to fund this zone,"she said. "I wear two hats," Sims said. n't know whether that was some- "The fact is,the residents aren't "A commissioner hat and a tax- thing I should have done."d losing anything, because they're payer hat, and I have to keep "I just made at it mind during presently not getting anything.If switching these.If it gets down to the meeting that it wouldn't o a it all works as planned, though, how this project could negatively coT�rt for ng d vote al a propo- TIFsmen end nc spurring develop- impact the county — it doesn't. sion,"seeking additional informs- over and increasing the tax base We're not putting anything into tione the lawyer said. "As s- overall." it. No cash money. We're giving turned out,my vote was unneces- That's sexactlyforwa what Mayor Sta- up ad valorem tax dollars that we ers �� three commission- bier looks forward to seeing. don't have now." ers had the majority vote." "I hope we can go ahead and Still, Sims said he could not Making it legal move forward and see some overlook his role as a Bryan tax- Coyle said the city's next step is development activity," he said. payer. to fmalize all the legal docu- "We hope this will be a catalyst "I met with the city's accoun- ments, including amending the that's been needed for a long time tant after last week's meeting, original agreement with CF Jor- that will help with the council's and he provided us with the num- dan. goal of improving and increasing bers,"Sims said."I wanted to see, Then, Coyle said, as soon as the quality of life for the commu- starting with 2001, what's the C1ubCorp has hit its trigger num- nih'as a whole." income and expenditures for the ber of memberships,the city will Like some city officials, Sims TIF. It looks like,by their num- buy the land for the project.The has received more than 150 phone bers, that there will not be out- hotel developer, Campus Hotels, side general fund tax dollars." is expected to announce the Judge-Jol `li a;d the issue of hotel's operator within the next whether to do study now has month,Coyle said. been "overcoW;�y the events "We initially thought that con- that_transpired t*y,but I think struction would start this sum- the city needs to tVspond to that." mer and be completed in the fall Coyle,Bryaifs pt*oject director, of next year, so we're right'on said the city s not decided schedule,"Coyle said. whether to 14" h the study, Meanwhile, Thurmond, one of which,could o*$4 to$15,000. the project's most vocal oppo- Project proponents believe the nents,has suggested he is consid- feasibility issue has already been resolved:Before any of the city's development agreements can move forward or the county can participate,C1ubCorp must reach its"trigger number"of member- ships—the number officials say is a safeguard to ensure the pro- ject will succeed. The company has until the end of June to sell 800 memberships, N%N.� or about$2.6 million in initiation The Eagle City of College Station News Date: Ma i 5, 2.x)U I Water rules 51,5 Brazos, Robertson counties form conservation district to guard supply By COLLEEN KAVANAGH groundwater supply. and LAURA HIPP pP y. Eagle Staff Writers The Simsboro Sand of the Wilcox group of aquifers is the area's only source of Brazos and Robertson counties are oin- Water.Thus,it is the aquifer that the coun- ing forces to create a ties want to protect. groundwater conser- Bill Riley, College Station's water and vation district that officials hope will wastewater division manager and the ensure a supply of water for generations to board chair,said the board includes repre- come. sentatives from city,Amid an escalating debate over ground- county, agriculture water rights, four representatives from and w al Water interests. each county have been a If we manage it properly,this area,with Brazos Valley Groundwater�Conservatioon its Projected growth,should see no restric- District's board of directors-to study the See WATER,Page A2 Water water needs. "It's OK for other areas to get ter districts that have until Sep- groundwater for a long-term the next fiscal year,the cities will The Brazos-Burleson campaign water, but only up to the point tember 2001 to measure the vol- water supply," said board mem- consider spending an additional is one of two local drives aimed at where it doesn't negatively ume of available groundwater ber Stephen Cast of the Wellborn $88,600 each. winning legislative approval of impact this area,"he said. and then assess each district's Special Utility District."Same as "We're effectively buying From Al districts empowered to manage Riley and Conner said the needs for the long term. the cities, we need a long-term insurance so we know the water's the volume of water that could be board needs to determine how In creating the districts, the water supply." there,"Conner said. tions for at least the next 75 pumped from aquifers. much water the counties can Legislature took the fast step in Cast said he thinks the board is Even though Bryan and Col- years," said Riley. "The mission The second front is spearhead- access and what the recharge possibly changing a long-standing an accurate representation of all lege Station have two of eight is to know what our resources ed by commissioners from nine rate is."If we exceed the recharge law in Texas:the rule of capture. parties interested in the area's board representatives, the cities are. Then we can develop a dis- counties across the valley who amount, somewhere we'll run The rule states that people or com- groundwater supply. will fund the majority of the bud- trict management plan. are laying the framework for a out,"Riley said. parties who own the land or have "This is critical to everyone," get, board officials said, because "We have the option to allow groundwater management plan The wells_that supply Bryan, mineral rights to the land—and he said."It's not a matter of keep- they are the largest consumers of other folks to come in and take that will be presented to the Leg- College Station and Texas A&M have the resources to resources to ing it from anyone,but a matter the water supply. that water, and there's nothing islature next year. University reach 2,000 to 2,500 pump water from that land—can of using the resource correctly." Board members contracted wrong with that so long as it's The nine-county group will feet below the surface. take as much water as they can The board has been moving with LBG-Guiton, a consulting managed." meet Tuesday to discuss forma- According to the Texas Water acquire,even if they dry up their rapidly to meet its deadline. firm in Houston, to study the And that's where much of the tion of its water management Board, 129,979 acre-feet of neighbors'wells. "It is good for only two years,to groundwater supply.LBG-Guiton concern about the valley's long- plan, said Grimes County Judge groundwater could be extracted "The scary part is that I can give the districts time to com- will chart the movement of water term water supply is focused. Ira Haynie. One option on the from the aquifer each year (1 purchase a quarter of an acre and plete studies and the necessary through various aquifers under Efforts are under way in parts of table is creation of a body that acre-foot equals 325,828 gallons) have a serious negative impact work," Conner said. "The dis- and around Robertson and Bra- Texas, including the valley, by would oversee several districts. —enough to meet the needs of the on hundreds or thousands of tricts could be continued by addi- zos counties. That information entrepreneurs to buy water The counties would make up the two counties beyond the year acres around me if I so desire," tional legislation." will help the board determine rights in water-rich sections of districts based on their positions 2050. Currently Bryan, College Conner said. District officials recently geographical and political bound- the state.They hope to mine the over an aquifer. Station and Texas A&M alone use But,with modifications to that adopted an eight-month operat- aries and areas that share com- water and sell it to drought- Brazos, Burleson, Madison, about 10 billion gallons of water a law,withdrawals could be moni- ing budget of$200,300 to fund the mon characteristics. plagued areas and to urban areas Roberston and Leon counties are year. tored to ensure that the supply is study.Bryan and College Station seeking solutions to long-term over the Carrizo-Wilcox aquifer. In 1999,the Legislature created not depleted,board officials said. will pay$118,000 for their portion ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address ,Washington,Grimes,Austin and a series of temporary groundwa- "It was formed to protect of the month budget. Then, for is ckavanagh@theeagle.com Waller counties are over the Gulf ■ Laura Hipp's e-mail address is Shop ONLINE at Coast aquifer. Ihipp@theeagle.com Rick Conner, Bryan's director Brenham s Shopping Mall of public works and a member of the Brazos-Robertson water con- trol effort,said their goal is not to 979-251-9300 hoard water, but to manage the The Eagle City of College Station News _TD a . I`D1 121 Wco Council, United Way feud over reasons for closure By JOHN KIRSCH i��� the United Way board,said United Eagle Staff Writer „ Way officials turned down the Agency council's funding request because The expected closing of a local board members did not believe social service agency has sparked the community council was mak- From Al a debate about who's to blame. ing enough progress in bringing The agency, called the Brazos its information and referral sys- Both Haverland and Miller con- County Community Council, is a tem up to United Way standards. ceded that the United Way hasn't social service clearinghouse that "We just didn't think they had got its referral system up and also provides assistance to the the proper guidance and running locally and that some elderly and helps in paying utility resources. They just couldn't people who have relied on the bills. The council also helps peo- make it work," said Haverland. community council may be incon- ple get in touch with services they Webb rejected that contention, venienced. need. saying the council has a certified "It's going to take some time. The executive director of the information and referral special- We don't have it now in Bryan- council,Theo Webb, said the orga- ist on staff. College Station, but we will have nization will close Monday after "We may not be doing it to their it," said Haverland. He said Unit- some 30 years of operation, a level, and they're six months from ed Way has hired a person to 7�` 9 he blamed on the Brazos delivering that now," he said. work on building up the informa- ` United Way, which turned Haverland pointed out that the tion and referral system. the council's$51,000 funding council also failed to receive com- A low€ i ne council employee, request last summer. munity development block grant uu-MLor Marye Oliver, said --- "We're closing down all contact funding for 2000. was puzzled by United Way's with the public," Webb said Another United Way board action. Thursday. "There's going to be a member,Mary Miller, said United "Why close us down and open gap. There's going to be a loss of Way nationwide is moving to up something else? We've been services." establish an upgraded informa- doing this for 30 years," she said. United Way officials see it dif tion and referral system. Webb said he has attempted to ferently. farm the council's services out to James Haverland, a member of See AGENCY, Page A8 other agencies but has met with limited success. "Our effort has been to try to get these services passed on to other agencies so that there isn't any interruption of that service," Webb said, "but that is hard to do because people at most agencies don't have a lot of extra funds, and they don't have a lot of extra staff and they aren't experi- enced." One program that will not be affected is the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, Webb said. The program is housed with tl council but will continue to oper ate because it is federally funded. ■ John Kirsch's e-mail address is jkirsch@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News _7D—zte• Ma 2-1 L000 CS approves rezoning b * d By COLLEEN KAVANAGH ,� Anne Hazen voted in favor, while Eagle Stag`'Writer � Councilmen Larry Mariott, Ron Silvia and .James Massey voted The College Station City Coun- against, arguing that that would cil approved a rezoning request in set a precedent for other develop- the Henton-Lincoln subdivision ments, and there may be some Thursday after the developer and problems if the city council limits the neighborhood association occupancy. reached a compromise on the res- Councilwoman idential project. Winnie Garner The development had come was absent. under fire from nearby residents, "I'm not and on April 13, the council voted ready to put t.; t; to table the request to change the this in an ordi- zoning on 3.51 acres in hopes the nance," Mariott developer and residents could said. "The reach a compromise. McILHANEY developer has After meeting with the presi- done every- dent of the neighborhood associa- thing we've asked him to do and tion, the developer agreed to limit has made agreements with the occupancy to one unrelated adult neighborhood apparently. I think per bedroom, which would limit that should be in deed restric- maximum occupancy to three tions." unrelated adults. According to Chuck Ellison, The council debated about who represented the developer, adding that to the ordinance that that provision will be added to the would allow for the rezoning, but deed restrictions and the lease the motion failed after a tied vote. agreements. Mayor Lynn Mcllhaney and Coun- cilmembers Dennis Maloney and See COUNCIL, Page A2 multi-family rental property the homeowners' association r Council would not be compatible with the president. He said the develop- neighborhood. They also con- ment will degrade the invest- tended that the development ments that homeowners have til Al would significantly impact the made in the area and that buying Fro area's traffic and noise, and that a "raw piece of land is specula The council then voted, 4-2, parking would be insufficient tive." with Hazen and Maloney against, causing cars to be parked on "The council has a commit- to approve the request. neighborhood streets. ment to those who have bought The project will include seven The developer also agreed to property and are living there,"he single-family lots fronting Lin- support legal and reasonable said. coln Avenue. The development measures to return Munson Council members said they also called for five duplexes, two Avenue into a residential street needed to work on traffic, park- triplexes and one fourplex, all and encourage traffic-calming ing and noise in all city neighbor- located behind the single-family efforts on the street. hoods and they would be working lots. Munson Avenue resident on policies to address the con- Neighborhood residents said Stephen Miller said he was aware cerns of all residents. they were concerned that the of the developer's meetings with In other action, the council approved: assistance through the council- s Spending no more than approved optional relocation pro- $33,198 to pay for public improve- gram and two qualified through ments on Second and Boyett the owner-occupied housing streets in conjunction with Tradi- rehabilitation program. tion at Northgate, a $25 million ■ Sending a letter of support private dormitory that will be for the Brazos Valley Community constructed at 301 Church Network, which received a Avenue. The money will pay for $22,000 grant in January to devel- I benches, trash cans and ornate op a grant application to receive i lighting, city officials said, and up to $500,000 to develop a multi- will come from the economic purpose and community-based development fund. network. I In a separate action, the coun- With the letter, the city is com- c cil approved spending $31,320 to mitted to spending $25,000 annu- install stamped and colored con- ally to ensure the success of the , crete sidewalks for the dormitory project as well as provide for sus- project. tainability. ■ Using funds from the city's Similar letters are being con- federal community development sidered by Texas A&M Universi- grants to help provide housing ty, Bryan, the Bryan and College program assistance for eight Station school districts and eight local homeowners. The projects other local entities. are budgeted to cost no more than $353,500. ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address Six homeowners qualified for is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News FD,1 fiL', 1 i I , ZUG� Rezoning on CS agenda Munson residents against change By COLLEEN KAVANAGI� \ the single-family lots. Eagle Staff Writer !��\'\ The developer requested a planned development district, and For the second time in a month, city staff said he had followed all the College Station City Council ordinances and the development on Thursday will consider a complied with the comprehensive rezoning request in the Henton- plan. Lincoln subdivision that had Neighborhood residents said come under fire from nearby resi- they were concerned that the dents. multi-family rental property On April 13,the council voted to would not be compatible with the table the request to change the neighborhood.The also contended zoning on 3.51 acres in hopes the that the development would sig- developer and residents could nificantly impact the area's traffic ,h a compromise. The project and noise,and that parking would Jd include seven single-family not be sufficient, causing cars to o s fronting Lincoln Avenue. be parked on neighborhood The development also called for streets. five duplexes, two triplexes and one fourplex, all located behind See I cation program and two qualified Council through the owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program. The projects are budgeted to cost From A9 no more than$353,500. ■ A letter of support for the The developer and residents Brazos Valley Community Net- met May 3, and city officials said work, which will be discussed the results of that meeting will be during the workshop session. Presented Thursday. There will The network received a $22,000 i be a public hearing on the issue grant in January to develop a during the meeting. grant application to receive up to In other action,the council will $500,000 to develop a multi-pur- consider: pose and community-based net- 0 Public improvements on Sec- work. and and Boyett streets in con- If the council approves the let- junction with Tradition at North- ter, the city is committed to gate, a $25 million private dormi- $25,000 annually to insure the j tory that will be constructed at success of the project as well as 301 Church Avenue. provide for sustainability. Simi- No more than $33,198 would lar letters are being considered pay for benches, trash cans and by Texas A&M University, ornate lighting, city officials Bryan, the Bryan and College said, and the money would come Station school districts and eight from the economic development other local entities. fund. The workshop session will ■ Agreements with eight local begin at 3 p.m. in the council homeowners to receive housing chambers of City Hall, 1101 Texas program assistance using funds Ave. The regular meeting is set from the city's federal communi- for 7 p.m. in the council cham- ty development grants. bers. Six homeowners qualified for assistance through the City ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address Council-approved optional relo- is ckavanagh@theeagle.com i judge The Eagle ti .tshes City of College Station News lam:project Mai 11 , 2WO I Grimes doesn't want B-CS waste By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer When Bryan and College Sta- tion officials tried to talk trash with Grimes County, the Brazos County communities walked away feeling like they had been dumped on by the Grimes County Judge. Ira E."Bud"Haynie,the Grimes Waste County judge,said he and another commissioner recently met with officials from both cities, which FCOItI A 1 are seeking a new site for a land- fill. Haynie said he told them he the early 1990s.Five have closed, did not want Brazos. County's leaving BVSMA's landfill the, trash — nevermind that Grimes only receiving station for the County dumps waste at the Brazos seven-county area. County disposal plant. According to the council of gov 'I let them know that I,feel like ernments,BVSMA accepts waste there is a place in Brazos County from the following counties:Bra, that certainly could be found to do zos, Burleson, Grimes, Leon,• that so they don't have to bring it Madison, Robertson and Wash- to Grimes County,"he said. "We ington. In 1998 there were: 2,534'. were told that there wasn't a place tons from Burleson;649 tons from in B County.I find that hard Grimes; 124 tons from Leon; 51 to There probably are from Madison; 422 tons from plac can, but just will be Robertson; and 574 from Wash- con ial." ington,according to the council's The cities have been trying to information released March 8. find a site since September,when Although Brymer could not the College Station City Council estimate how long it would take withdrew its support from the to select a site, the Rock Prairie proposed site at Texas 6 and F.M. Road landfill can be used for at 159. The council's decision effec- least five years,he said—longer tively killed the plan because any with permit amendments that site must be approved by both city city staff is reviewing.' councils. "Even if it's in Brazos County, College Station City Manager we'll work with county commis- Tom Brymer said six sites are sioners to address their con- being considered for a landfill by cerns,"he said."We have a well- the Brazos Valley Solid Waste operated landfill at Rock Prairie, Management Agency. and we feel we have been a very "We are looking throughout the good neighbor and make every area,"he said,declining to identi- effort to work with the residential fy where the sites are located. development that has occurred "There are a number of factors we around the landfill.Our intention have to look at when analyzing is to operate at the same standard potential sites. The process is or higher if it's possible." lengthy.We have to do a lot of pre- Haynie said he doesn't care liminary engineering assessment where the landfill is, so long as to determine whether it is worth- it's not in Grimes County. while to go talk to folks about "I guess they could push it property." down our throat if they bought There are federal, state and the land and moved it here, but local regulations that restrict we're not going to be pleased landfills from being near specific about it,"he said."I'm somewhat sites,including: offended that they would consider ■Airport zones. bringing a dump outside their ■Floodplain areas. county to ours." ■Wetlands. ■ Unstable geological condi- ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail tions. address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com ■ Endangered species popula- tions. - Other factors to consider inclu 1e access,impact on traf- fic al dangered species,and wat ty and the location of majo ers. According to the Brazos Valley Council of Governments'regional solid waste management plan updated this year, six municipal solid waste landfills were open in See WASTE,Page A2 The Eagle City of College Station News : Ha j 10, 200o Coun s Ils Traditions deal, seeks new study By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer ■EditorialIA10 r Brazos County commissioners, in a tie finance the majority of Bryan's financial vote,decided Tuesday to withhold—at least commitment in the project. Commissioners for now—county participation in the Tradi- Randy Sims and Tony Jones voted against. tions Golf Course and Country Club at Uni- Commissioner Bill Thornton abstained,say- versity Ranch. ing he had a conflict of interest,but voted on The decision left stunned Bryan city offi- a separate amendment that would have cials scrambling to produce a marketing sur- asked the city to provide expanded informa- vey to support their arguments that the tion about the viability of the project. development is economically feasible. Thornton abstained because he is part The commissioners court told Bryan offs- owner of the title company working on the cials at the meeting that it would reconsider project. its support for the project if the city provided The andcou other decision caught ur rise. a new feasibility study—not one from 1997 mayor and other city officials by surprise. - that showed it could effectively survive They said they thought concessions offered alongside similar developments under way, to Sims last week had made the Traditions including Don Adam's Miramont project on project favorable for passage. the eastside of the city. We thought we had addressed all of the County Judge Al Jones and Commissioner concerns and the issues that the commis- Carey Cauley supported the tax-increment sioners court had with the project,but obvi- fmance zone (TIF) that would have helped I See TIF, Page A2 Page A2 the Bryan-College Station Eagle Wednesday,May 10,2000 News T1 F what we need to do in the way of opinion is that Bryan is going to arsenic. "This in itself shows that the mitted four weeks ago.They dealt securing numbers and getting wind.up a ghetto," he said. The remaining portion, $21.3 figures that are proposed for the with the project's financing and them quickly, efficiently and Cauley said his constituents in million, was to come from the University Ranch are not attain. flow of funds,he said. From Al f effectively so we can count on the north and western parts of TIF. In tax-increment financing, able," he said. "If there are two "For one,they probably realize I [the county] to support the pro- the city, many of whom are business or residential owners in new golf courses,will they affect that there is great fallacy in their ously in the ninth hour, there ject minorities, want to know why .the zone pay property taxes that existing golf courses? Sure they financing plan,"Thurmond said. were some additional questions "If this is simply a stall tactic, people oppose the project look the same as those of other will, but in a competitive world, "It's clear that the city is con. at the meeting," a clearly angry then there is no reason for us to "The cities and county give tax Bryan residents, but their pay- all new growth will affect exist- fused about what they're going to Bryan Mayor Lonnie Stabler said go further. If it is, I wish they abatements," he said. "We are ments would go to the zone rather ing ones.This is what we call sup- do." after the vote. would come out and say they paying cash every year to corpo- than the city and county.Taxes to ply and demand,with or without Also speaking in opposition I'm going to find out from have no intention of voting for rations here in Bryan and College the Bryan school district would the University Ranch's residen- were Davis Young,vice president Commissioner Jones, Commis- the project no matter what the Station to locate here. Why is not go to the TIF. tial development." of Pebble Creek Developments'in sioner Sims, and Commissioner numbers are. We need to know there all the uproar over this one Tony Jones read a prepared On Thursday, Bryan officials south College Station; Jody Thornton exactly what it is they what they are looking for," Sta- right here? statement at the outset of the provided the commissioners with Quimby, manager of Madison would like to see,and what kind bler said. "I'd like to see this project go meeting detailing why he would copies of a 1997 feasibility study Construction Corporation; Louis of numbers they are looking for," The bottom line is, 'OK Com- forward," Cauley said. "Maybe not support the development as which had been updated in Sep- Newman, co-founder of Citizens Stabler said."We need to find out missioners, you said you want some things weren't done, but I written. tember 1999. The study did not In Action, a now-inactive politi• some additional information,and don't think you can go into any "I have tried to find a way to include the Adam project, for cal action committee; and t.... .............. the project is not over as far as business and cover everything." make this venture work for the which 440 acres of land were pur- Jeanette Roman, founder of a you're concerned.We want to try Last July,the city teamed with city of Bryan,"he said."From the chased this week. new political action committee, I Diamond Annwe na to provide you with that so we Texas A&M University and Club- very beginning of my research,I Before the final vote on the TIF, The Voter's Voice. ry Band can move forward."' Corp USA of Dallas to develop have seen that Bryan was in the Tony Jones asked the city to sub- Mayor Stabler was the key pro- City officials said they are the 800-acre,$275 million project, need of competitive residential mit an updated economic feasibil- ponent of the project.He told the f searching for a reputable consult- which would be the home of the developments. [In] 1999 building ity study that takes into account county officials that an estimated a ii firm to complete the market A&M ments and women's golf permits show the city of Bryan other developments such as the $82.5 million will go toward 1 s t study by the May 24 deadline the teams. The development would had only 8 permits in the$lM,000 Miramont project. school district taxes over the r ' city faces to purchase property include a Jack Nicklaus-designed and up category, while College That plan gained the support of length of the TIF. Furthermore, where the Traditions Golf Course golf course,hotel,conference cen- Station had 29 for that same peri- every commissioner, including he said,city and county supports would be built.Cauley,in voting ter and residential area. od. I continue to be against the Thornton.Although it's common in economic projects have jump Pygmalion for the TIF,said Bryan is right to The project called for Bryan to public sector being in competi- practice for elected officials started developments that might seek much-needed development contribute $26.8 million to the tion with the private sector." abs p happened otherwise. on the ci taming from votes to step out not have ty's westside. public-private venture and has Jones said he has seen no feasi- of the discussion completely, "Because of that,our degree of; "If we don't do something,my drawn criticism from concerned bility study that would substanti- Thornton decided to vote on Tony development activity has grown, residents. About $5.5 million ate the proposed figures relating Jones' request for additional substantially," he said. There. would come from Bryan's oil and to cost and debt service.Also,he information. have been other TIFs where peo- 1 Digital • • • gas revenues, aswell as settle- said, there are more than 10 There was some temporary ple had concerns about getting 1 merit money set aside for hnprov- active subdivisions in Brazos confusion over Jones'request. involved in a private develop- ing Bryan's image. The city County and 10 new proposed sub- Al Jones said the amendment ment,and look what benefits the COIs received the settlement from a divisions that will begin to be would state that the county community has received." e t now-def root plant that produced developed within a year. would participate in the TIP Last week, Sims asked for and,regardless of what the study received modifications from the: You'veprobably noticed • showed.Tony Jones said that was city regarding the original devel-' • not his intention. o ment,6k,- changes p agreements.The changes taking place with yourIt was then that the county were: a current Cox CableI 1 ' voted on the TIF and Thornton ■The residential developer,CF' abstained. After it failed, the Jordan, agreed to reduce the commissioners voted, 3.0, with amount of money it would, "- and Thornton abstaining, taining, receive on the sale of each resi-' _ , - to reconsider if the city provides dential lot by 10 percent. COMING ' ' to reconsider county with a new feasibility ■The developer agreed not to 'innovative technology,qffective Maystudy. build any homes in the project. & service will no longer be availab,r1as part of UNE 1ST The commissioners also gave ■The county's commitment to' analog service. Pay-per-view special eventsI ' people on both sides of the issue, the tax-increment finance zone• many of whom have lobbied the would be reduced from 25 years- offered on Channel 64 will still be available. commissioners for weeks, a to 15 years. chance to speak. During Tuesday's meeting,. Developer Frank Thurmond Sims asked Stabler if he was com-' • ' you questions • Look for spoke on behalf of several people, fortable that the city's financial, including Adam's attorney, Paul calculations were accurate and; give us a call at be Darmitzel. He said two issues would ensure the project's sue- • • • ,•re about our merchant coupon were involved:Whether it's right cess.The mayor said he was. digital • • y�j for the city to spend public ftinds "As long as you're comfortable. • t pay-per-view options. .,, I n t h I S Space. on a private development, and with it,because in 20 years we're' whether it's right for the city to going to look at you and say,'Old be part of a private development. hoss, it didn't make it,"' Suns e Digital Cable. 5` "It's just not right,"he said. said. Thurmond said that the city In an interv' Jr the vote, Coming •. • has not answered his most recent More channels,more choice,mo re value. set of questions, which he sub- S�kE,Page A3' Zone plete the study. He He said he would like to see a study that included the project's financial plan,cash flow,feasibil- ity and impact on other develop- ments. Sims told The Bryan-College Sta- "We're not trying to kill the tion Eagle that he is more con- project," he said. "We need to cerned with seeing the numbers make sure that if we put public on how the TIF will perform money into it,the gamble has got financially. to be minute." He said he would support the Jones said he wrote a letter to county's participation if the city Stabler further detailing the com- completes the economic feasibili- missioners' request for more ty study and the results show the information. But, Jones added, project is feasible. even a favorable report from the "I never got the numbers from city would not guarantee that he the city as far as what they put would support the project. together,"he said."You've got to Meanwhile, Ken Kasten, Club- use projections,no doubt about it, Corp's senior vice president of but we've got to see revenues and new business development, said expenses. I'm not necessarily the corporation is moving ahead looking for[a market study],but with architectural plans for the they really need to do that for clubhouse and teaching center, themselves." permitting and finalizing con- Sims said if he represented the struction budgets. city, he would want to see the He said the number of member- Adain project included in the ships that the corporation has study because "there's a new sold to date speaks for itself. game in town." Even if the county supports the "It's the same type of subdivi- project, ClubCorp must reach its sion and has a golf course on it," "trigger number" of member- Sims said. "If I were the city, I ships—the number officials say would like to see an update on my is a safeguard to ensure the pro- market study because there are ject will succeed. other players out there that were The company has until the end not there when the study was of June to sell 800 memberships, completed." or about$2.5 million in member- After the meeting, Tony Jones ships, and C1ubCorp officials said he had not heard of the May have said they already have sold 24 deadline for the property, but almost 700 memberships. he said he can not see the city get- "The proof is when the market ting an impact study in less than sends you a check to buy some- three to four weeks.He said that thing,"Kasten said. "We have 60 considering the investment in the days to go before the due date, project, he believes the property and we know we're going to well owners would consider the com- exceed our number of members. missioners' action and give the The market has already said city a 30-day extension to com- Yeah,we're ready to go,'and that couldn't be more encouraging." ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle - City of College Station News Ma� �5� 2000 hr Golf course contract 0 odi e Bryan hopes to garner commissioners' support By COLLEEN KAVANAGH pating in a tax-increment finance EagIc Staff Writer zone that will fund a majority of Bryan's financial participation. The city of Bryan has mod- But also in question is ified its contract with whether the vote will be one of the developers held Tuesday. of the Traditions Bryan officials project in hopes of said the city and winning the sup- developers have port of Brazos worked with com- County commis- missioners to sioners, who are address concerns still considering they had with the whether to par- ``'° development CC)UNT ticipate financial- Stiff CL agreements. ly in the develop- .►.. "We have for- ment. warded a proposal After weeks of to the commissioners being courted by city court that reflects three officials and project oppo- amendments to earlier nents, the commissioners are agreements," said Tom Coyle, scheduled to vote Tuesday on Bryan's project director. "The whether the county should help finance Bryan's project by partici- See CONTRACT, Page A2 Contract have responded to those in the sale of each residential lot by 10 Course and Country Club at Un'. amendments to the proposed CF percent. versity Ranch in west BY Jordan agreement; however, ulti- ■ The developer agreed not to Commissioner Bill ntol mately that will be a judgment build any homes in the project. has said he will abstain th From A1, call of the Commissioners ■The county's commitment to vote because of a conflict of inter Court." a tax increment finance district est. Commissioner Carey Caule; commissioners that we've been The changes to the agreement would be reduced to 15 years has said that he supports th talking to have raised some legit- are: from 25 years. plan, and Commissioners Ton; imate questions. ■ The developer, CF Jordan, Any modifications to the agree- Jones and Randy Sims said the; "We believe that the city as agreed to reduce the amount of ments would have to be approved are undecided. County Judge A well as the development partners money it would receive on the by the Bryan City Council, which Jones was out of town Thursda had already unanimously and could not be reached for core approved the creation of the ment. finance zone. The county's participatio, The county vote, originally requires majority approval. A ti scheduled for March 28,was post- blocks county participation poned so the commissioners which would mean that the fmar could get more information about cial package would have to b the $275 million Traditions Golf restructured, city officials said. Last July, the city teamed with In tax-increment financing, Texas A&M University and Club- business or residential owners in Corp USA of Dallas for the 800- the zone pay property taxes that acre project, which will be the look the same as those of other home of the A&M men's and Bryan residents, but their pay- women's golf teams. The develop- ments would go to the zone rather ment includes a Jack Nicklaus- than the city and county.Taxes to designed golf course, hotel, con- the Bryan school district would -✓ ference center and residential remain the same. area. Originally, the TIF was sup- The project calls for Bryan to posed to last 25 years. Sims said contribute $26.8 million to the one of his concerns was commit- public-private venture that has ting the county to the zone for 25 drawn criticism from concerned years. He said the city agreed to residents. About $5.5 million reduce the TIF to 15 years. would come from Bryan's oil and Sims said he also was con- gas revenues, as well as settle- cerned that the developer, CF ment money set aside for improv- Jordan, would competing with ing Bryan's image that the city local homebuilders to build received from a now-defunct homes. Sims said CF Jordan affi- arsenic producing plant. cials have signed a contract sfat- The remaining portion, $21.3 ing that they would not build or million,was to come from the cre- compete in single family home ation of a tax-increment finance construction at the project. zone, or TIF. "[CF Jordan] had submitted a letter stating that they would not build homes, but that's not a con- tract," Sims said of the original agreement. May 5 , 2ovo The final concession, Coyle said, is that CF Jordan will "We are extremely excited reduce the revenue it receives on about the response to member- reduce �� the sale of each lot by 10 percent, ship, as we have already enrolled from 69 percent to 59 percent. over 80 percent of our construe �'+�erence will provide the p tion trigger goal," ClubCorp's ecessary to reduce the length senior vice president Carolyn �,,,.,he county's participation }n Ellis said in a statement. Howev er, Traditions Golf and Country announced its opposition to the the TIF. county's participation. Cauley said he supports the Club members are joining apre Davis Young, Pebble Creek's modification and believes the vate club, so by members to definition, he project will be good for West owe it to our members to keep the vice president, said people have e, details of membership private. asked him for months to get Bryan. involved in the opposition. "If we don't somethingClubCorp honors the tradition of � as far _ club membership and does not "The more I studied it,the more as development and helping the I realized that there are a lot of any club, and the same is true tax base stay vibrant in Bryan, disclose category breakdowns iue unanswered questions," he said, our schools and other services adding that he does not think Tra- are going to suffer," he said, r here. Coyle said the market will till ditions is still feasible in light of I adding that there are parts in the whether the Traditions project the Adam project in east Bryan. � original development agreements Young said Pebble Creek that he does not agree with. "As will be supported, and that :is is received about $500,000 in public with an agreement, you may not reflected in the membership Y gr' Y Y funds as reimbursement for support everything that's in it, re"If that number is hit we as developing some of the infra- but in order to get a good thing, tha , well as CCA feel the market is structure for the city. But that is you may have to accept some of there s C forward with market Tra is the only public money that Peb- the bad parts." ble Creek received. He said Peb- Sims said he also wants to tions project,' he said. review the cit 's economic feasi- ', Since the announcement of the ble Creek will lose business Y Traditions goes through, and h bility study, which was done in project last. July, the city has 1997 and updated last September. I faced strong opposition from does not think it would be rig The study, however, does not some Bryan residents oppose the for the county to approve fundin - include Bryan businessman Don city's use of public money on a for a project that will compete Adam's plans to develop a similar Don private development. with private developments. First, members of Citizens In "I feel confident that we can project on the city's eastside. Action, a political action commit- compete with any development if Copies of the study were deliv we're on the same terms," he ered to the commissioners Thurs- ' tee that formed November in '-' opposition to Traditions, have said. "But, it's di$"acuJ*f to: com- �ns said he was not sure that ? been vocal in their opposition at tPetehis with the type^ terms m a 6ote would take place Tuesday 1 numerous public meetings. this agreement." . They focused on encouraging Also, he said, Me dY because he was leaving town and two private clubs - L in he needed time to review the # the Bryan City Council to recon study. I sider the city s financial partici- the area, neither of wYiicli ave tion in the development. The full compliments of bers. pa I think it may be tabled so we Why should the county fund are able to get a grip on the eco are decided it had accom- plished nomic feasibility stud he said. inormits mission by getting another one with public money y y' information about the project out while a third is under construc- Even if the county supports the tion" project, ClubCorp must reach its to the public, even though it n, Coyle said Briarcrest Country "trigger number" of member- not change the city s position, and is now inactive. Club could have used the argu- ships —the number officials say Then, on April 18, Citizens In ment of public funding when Peb- is a safeguard to ensure that the ble Creek was built. project will succeed. Action member Frank Thurmond Briarcrest didn't even get ClubCorp has until the end of submitted a petition to the coun- reimbursement for i even ruc- June to sell 800 memberships, or signed commissioners that had been [ about $2.5 million in member- signed by 19 local developers tore],"he said. "Every time a city ships. ClubCorpofficials said opposed to the county s possible provides an inducement to growth, we are involving our- they already have sold most of involvement. their requirement, but declined Most recently, Pebble Creek selves in the private sector mar- to release the breakdown of what Developments, which has a coun- ket, whether it's building parking lots types of memberships have been try club and residential develop- lots in the case of N or sold. ment in south College Station, are involved in the development te _ of low-income housing, as in the __ See COURSE, Page A6 case of Cedar Crest." Young said he does not buy the city officials' claim that Tradi- tions is targeting a different mar- ket than the area's other golf course and country club residen- tial areas. "I feel—and so do a large num- ber of people—that a large num- ber:of houses that are developed inthis Project would have been developed in the county regard- less," he said, adding that one of Pebble Creek's fastest growing markets is out-of towners. Young said he asked commis- sioners at their Tuesday meeting a list of questions, including how much tax revenue the county will lose if it participates in the TIF, and since the city does not have an agreement that the hotel will be constructed, does the county? "The city of Bryan's position has been that there is very little risk associated with this project since they have to have 800 mem- berships," he said. "How can this be the case when the member- ships are 100 percent refundable UP until 60 days prior to the club- house completion? "Their position on the residen- tial development is also that it is not a risky undertaking because they will only develop a mini- MUM number of lots at a time. As a developer, I know this is not the case.A major portion of the funds for this project must first be invested just to develop the first lots." Young said he expects the com- missioners will approve the coun- ty's participation with the new changes because it has A&M's approval and will benefit the uni- versity, but he still hopes this is not the case. "I would hope they oppose it based on the fact that there is not enough information to make a good business decision at this time,"he said. ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News _TD • Mai V=L2�00 CS police to discuss burglaries By HOLLY HUFFMAI+ eral Motors vehicles were easier from getting what he wants — if Eagle Staff Writer l to break into than other brands. he really wants it," she said, "but The second ring shatters one of you can make it really hard for Responding to the rash of vehi- the vehicle's windows to gain them." cle burglaries in College Station, entry, and the third ring seems to Because the school year is com- the police department will meet be less defined, Scott said. ing to a close, Scott said, many Thursday to design an aggressive An officer in an unmarked car students probably have their strategy to arrest the culprits. caught three suspects Sunday that minds on upcoming exams. Cabrina Scott, the department's authorities believe are responsi- They don't think about report- public information officer, said, ble for 21 vehicle burglaries last ing suspicious activity, but not "We're just trying to kick things weekend. However, with the only that, she said, they forget to around to see what's our best bet decreased manpower the depart- take valuables out of their cars for catching these guys. We've ment is experiencing, Scott said, and trucks. really go to do something." having an extra unmarked officer "Just don't leave things out Police believe three main rings on the streets is not always viable. where people are tempted," Scott are committing the burglaries, Scott asked the public to call said, adding that all valuables in a each using a different method to police if they see suspicious vehicle should be removed or at gain access to the vehicles. behavior. She said she thinks least hidden. "It's kind of inconve- The first ring is responsible for most people just don't think about nient, but its either that or you the burglaries at Northgate's Mud what they are really seeing run the risk of losing it.,, Lot, Scott said, and they appear to because they have other things on prefer a certain brand of vehicles their mind. ■ Holly Huffman's e-mail address is —General Motors. Scott said Gen- "Nothing will prevent a burglar hhuffmar,@theeagle.com The Eagle City of College Station News • MQ 2 2ov� Ex- CSt o � � icia �I arreste i n theft By COLLEEN KAVANAGH theft did not involve currency, Eagle Staff Writer police said, but a combination of computer software and acces- A former College Station parks sories, electronic equipment, and recreation employee was office equipment and other per- charged Monday with felony theft sonal purchases. after police said she bought Bow, who had worked in the almost $11,000 in personal items department since August 1995, with a city credit card. was terminated from the post Margaret "Anel" Bow, 44, who March 29 and asked to return all recently was fired from her posi- College Station property by noon tion as program supervisor, on March 31, court documents turned herself in to College Sta- state. After reviewing accounting tion police Monday morning. The department receipts, the city Bryan resident was released from found 50 unauthorized charges the Brazos County Jail on a between April 1999 and March $40,000 personal recognizance 2000 that totaled $6,252, according bond. to court documents. Theft between$1,500 and$20,000 Police also found city property is a state jail felony,punishable by at her home, court documents six months to two years in jail and state. a fine of up to$10,000. The items charged without per- Neither Bow nor her attorney mission include: a digital cam- could be reached for comment corder, a fax machine and copier, Monday. a scanner, a television and VCR, a According to court documents, keyboard, an overhead projector, an employee in the parks depart- three book shelves and 26 Christ- ment noticed unauthorized mas compact discs, police said. charges on a department credit Boxes of other miscellaneous card,prompting the investigation. office supplies and computer soft- The charges were not for city use ware — all of which police said and were not approved by a super- visor, court documents State. The See THEFT, Page A3 Theft gation. Beachy said the money that Parks and Recreation Director paid for the credit cards most Steve Beachy said any employee likely came from the$1.32 million From Al terminated by a department recreation budget. director has a certain amount of 0 Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail were taken without authoriza- time to file an appeal with a address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com tion— also were found at Bow's review committee which is home, court documents state.The appointed by City Manager Tom total amount of theft, according Brymer. Bow has not filed an to court documents, is $10,945. appeal, officials said, but still has The case is still under investi- time to do so. Wolf Pen Creek panel told income up Wolf Pen Creek Oversight commit- tee members were told Monday that revenues from the area's tax-incre- ment finance district were higher than expected and could pay for more pro- jects than originally planned. Charles Cryan,the city's director of fiscal services, said the estimate of revenues has increased significantly because of recent construction in the area. The Eagle City of College Station News If a person on the committee has the conflict, i Pane then the board of directors would decide. ka, Everybody thought that what the city of College tion wanted was the right thing to do," said ry Mariott, a College Station city councilman the city's representative to the EDC. "The best changes to do that was to add it to our bylaws." n February, Mariott said he was uncomfortable with the bylaw provision in question. The conflict-of-interest clause, which was added recently when the bylaws were revised, states that in po licy there is a conflict when a person has a"substantial interest" in a business prospect involved in a transaction with the corporation. A substantial interest is defined as when a per- Conflict-of-interest Son: ■Owns or possesses 10 percent or more interest in a business entity. bylaws adjusted • Owns or possesses an interest of $7,500 or more. By LAURA HIPP ;.� �(I ■ Received more than 10 percent of his or her Eagle Staff Writer See CONFLICT, Page Al2 The Bryan-College Station Economic Develop- ment Corporation board of directors approved changes to its new conflict-of-interest policy Wednesday at its monthly meeting. The adjustments came after the College Station City Council indicated it might withhold funding _ from the EDC if wording in the policy was not changed. O of 1 i ct In February, council members said they were uncomfortable with provisions that allowed board members to have limited financial interest in pri- vately held business prospects being considered for economic incentives. gross income in the prior year The corporation's bylaws review committee from the business entity. added additional restrictions to the policy. The Robert Worley, EDC president changes to the policy state that: and chief executive officer, said ■A person should make every effort to disclose he was pleased with the outcome any potential or perceived conflict. of the revisions to the corpora- ■A conflict of interest is any ownership interest tion's bylaws. in a privately held company that is attempting to "It was a good process,a healthy or is receiving economic incentives from the cor process, and we probably have poration. better bylaws because of it," Wor- ■The board of directors will be told of executive ley said. committee decisions on conflict-of-interest issues. ■ A person with a conflict of interest must resolve the conflict or resign from the corporation. A person with a conflict must tell the executive committee who will decide the importance of the conflict and whether it means the member should resign. The Eagle City of College Station News Let's wait on parking �` �Y i 7 ated my bus sI sbt [=r e for more than 30 years. Only within the past five or six years has the city of College Station shown any interest in assisting the area's development. I applaud these efforts. Unfortunately, without the city's assistance, land for the new park- ing lot would never have been assembled. Likewise, the city's assistance was required for the purchase of land for the much- anticipated parking garage. However, removal of street park- ing on College Main prior to the completion of the garage does not make sense. Construction of sever- al new projects in the Northgate area will place additional stress on an already inadequate parking sit- uation. Northgate merchants are requesting that the city not remove any parking until after the comple- tion of the parking garage and an adequate study has been made. The College Station Planning Department recently held a presen- tation discussing the traditional neighborhood and mixed use devel- opment. Robert H. Dickson Jr. of the Central Texas Traditional Neighborhood Development Group in Austin said removing the park- ing from the streets in the Northgate area was contrary to the development of the area. Dickson believes that by reducing the speed limits in the area, automobiles, bicycles and pedestrians can mix safely. He indicated that cars parked on the streets give the pedestrian a comfort zone by sepa- rating the pedestrian from the automobile traffic. He also stated that when the on-street parking is removed that the speed of the traf- fic tends to increase and pedestri- ans and bicycles are placed in dan- ger. The effect of the city's decision to remove parking may make the Northgate area more dangerous. Considering this new informa. `ion, I believe that our request for a ,,,.delay in the removal of parking is reasonable and sound. What is the rush?There is no overwhelming evidence of a currently dangerous situation. JOHN N. RANEY College Station The Eagle City of College Station News • [Yr I ) I Lf, 'Looc, CS 01" "I urge you that if we cannot Landfill rely on ordinances and cannot rely on the comprehensive plan, what's left," he asked. landfill Councilmen Larry Mariott and [from Al Winnie Garner voted against the "The board is not going to be move to table the item.an "I think this is a good develop- operations-related board," he " Garner said. "I think we said. "This is pretty much a poli need to bite the bullet on this. We contractment cy focus. want to do good infill develop- It also would state that College ment, and I think this is good By COLLEEN KAVAN GH Station is the operator of the 1T1f111 development." Eagle Staff Writer /� (.F agency unless both city councils p t agree to change that policy, and The College Station City Coun- the cities would hold joint liabili- cil unanimously approved amend- ty for the landfill operation. ing the city's joint solid waste The Bryan City Council will management agreement with the i consider the amendment at its city of Bryan on Thursday, leav- ' March 25 meeting. ing its fate in the hands of the After a public hearing and dis- Bryan City Council. cussion that lasted just over an And in a 5-2 vote, the council hour, the council tabled the Qg o tabled a controversial rezon- rezoning request for 3.51 acres request in the Henton-Lincoln located in the Henton-Lincoln division with the hope that the subdivision for seven single-fami- developer and ly lots fronting Lincoln Avenue. nearby resi- The developer also proposed 10 dents could duplex units in five buildings, 6 reach a com- units in two triplex buildings and promise. one fourplex building, all located The two cities behind the single family lots. The are searching developer requested a planned for a new land- development district, and city fill site and staff said he followed all ordi- must resolve MASSEY nances, and the development issues with the complied with the comprehensive agreement plan. before they can Neighborhood residents said continue, offi- F they were concerned the multi- cials said. family rental property designed The basic for students would significantly structure of the impact the area's traffic and noise Brazos Valley and that the parking would not be Solid Waste sufficient and cars would-end up Management parked on the neighborhood GARNER Agency would streets. remain the same as the original Ashburn Avenue resident Bob agreement signed in 1990, officials. Droleskey said the development said. The new agreement would was incompatible with the neigh- state that the board of directors borhood. would focus on policy issues, and "Students just don't share the the board membership would common lifestyle as people to the hange from city staff to three south," he said. acted officials from both cities. Attorney Chuck Ellison, repre- City Manager Tom Brymer said senting the developer, said the policy advisory board members request should be granted would bring information and because the developer complied make recommendations to their with all of the city's require- councils about BVSMA. ments. See LANDFILL, Page A8 Councilman fames Massey supported the move to. table the ■ Contracted with Duncan request, asking that the two sides Associates to review the city's [ try"to figure out a way to make it development code and for revi a win-wIn situation on both sions and preparations of a uni- sides.' fled development code. The con- In other action, the council: tract will cost $99,710, and an ■ Approved the purchase of a additional $12,290 will pay for mobile command post vehicle for advertising, notification, print- the College Station Police Depart ing, binding and miscellaneous ment. The 32-foot Winnebago will `E' costs. be used during emergencies,com- }' ■ Pulled a possible bike loop munity policing efforts and by construction contract for the first ` other departments during special phase of striping and signage for events. The city is using a 1984 bike lanes in various locations in converted 24-passenger school „ the city from the agenda. bus,which officials said is unreli- During Hear Visitors, several able and in need of costly repairs, Northgate business owners asked as its emergency command post. •l the council to postpone its deci- The vehicle will cost $97,710, sion to remove 400 parking spaces which will come from the fleet, in the area until the removal's replacement fund and a $20,000 impact on area businesses can be police grant. studied' ■ Approved resolutions that, Don Ganter, who owns three would allow the city to acquire nightclubs at Northgate, said the the right-of-ways on certain prop- city's planned parking garage erties to extend Dartmouth Drive will not accommodate all of the to Krenek Tap Road and declare it parking needs in the area even necessary to condemn certain when construction is completed. property to extend George B "Looking at the arithmetic, I Drive East to Holleman Drive. just simply don't understand how ■Approved an interlocal agree-, we can do this so quickly," he ment with Texas A&M University said. for the installation of traffic sig- nals, one at University Drive and ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail Polo Road and another at Ray-, address is ckavanaghC@theeagle.com mond Stotzer Parkway and Dis- covery Drive. The university will ' pay to install the $120,000 Univer- sity Drive signal, and the two entities will equally split the cost of the $100,000 Raymond Stotzer signal. The Battalion City of College Station News ---FDate: Auril 13, 2000 Louot's has the Council's job to whine about cil passed an ordinance ban- when that time comes,I'll have p how property owners manage ning all glass containers from a place to park. their property? the Northgate area. right to reclaim I walked by the Northgate Po- How about putting the evict- Steven Gilbert substations ace lice substation yesterday, and ed officers out on the streets? Class of'01 I� it's nothing more than an emp- I think it would be rather diffi- In response to Rolando Gar- ty room with a large desk and a cult to fight street crime from cia's April 12 article. high-backed office chair. The behind a desk. station is open during the day, Maloney argues that the 27 The Battalion encourages letters to closes at 4 p.m., and re-opens parking spaces make it difficult the editor.Letters must be300 words or )oes City Council member less and include the author's name, nnis Maloney really think for an hour from 7-8 p.m. The for emergency vehicles to ac- class and phone number. station is clearly a waste of cess the Northgate area.When The opinion editor reserves the right that it is considered a temper to edit letters for length,style,and accu- tantrum for a property owner space and manpower. have you ever seen an emer racy.Letters may be submitted in person to do as he wishes with his Maloney said that "they gency vehicle responding to an at 013 Reed McDonald with a valid stu- don't care about safety here, accident circle the block look- dent ID.Letters may also be mailed to: own property? they don't care about people ing for a place to parallel park? The Battalion-Mail Call The Northgate Police Sub- throwing beer bottles or women Maloney needs to stop ha- Reed McDonald Teexaxa s A&M University station has been occupying getting assaulted,we just want rassing this property owner College Station,Tx prime commercial space rent our parking spaces." with his silly argument and 7784&1111 free for nearly a year. If the own- What kind of absurd state- start moving the Police out of Campus Mail: er of the building wants to evict ment is that?I think Maloney is that worthless sub-station. Fax:(aos)845.2647 the College Station Police from the one having the temper In a couple of weeks, I In- E-mail:battletters@hotmail.com his building that is his busi- tantrum. Maybe he has forgot- tend to buy my books at ness. Since when is it the City ten that in 1998 his City Coun- Loupot's Bookstore. Hopefully ,4113 00 4D 4I1 z oo CSPD evicted fir mom Northgate station BY ROLANDO GARCIA tities in Northgate for the revitaliza- gift,"Gessner said."We like the po- The Battalion tion project,and we will continue to lice there, but we need to get the work with them.We all want to see city's attention." The eviction of the College Sta- it prosper and develop,but they've Gessner added the city's main tion Police Department from its of- got to realize that it's a process of reason for removing the free parking fice on Northgate is a selfish politi- give and take,"she said. on College Main is to direct North- cal ploy to protest the city's removal Maloney said that so far,Northgate gate customers to the soon-to-be- of on-street parking on College merchants have done a lot more tak- built parking garage. Main,said one city council member. ing than giving. Maloney said in addition to mak- In a letter dated March 22,Susanne "When it's all done, we would ing the parking garage feasible,the Pledger,the special projects director have put$14 million into Northgate, new parking policy will make the for Loupot's Bookstore,gave the po- and for them to complain about los- Northgate area safer for bicycle and lice 30 days to vacate the office space ing a stinking 27 parking spaces,I pedestrian traffic. ' at the Loupofs building on 105 Col- just don't get it,"Maloney said. "We have to make this area safe lege-Main Street where the police de- However,some Northgate mer- and attractive for the people who use partment has housed its Northgate chants argue that eliminating the free it most the students,"Maloney said substation rent-free for nearly a year. parking on College Main will hurt The parking on College-Main; The action comes on the heels of businesses who rely on customers Maloney said, made it difficult for the city's decision to eliminate store- who do not plan on staying long. large emergency vehicles like fir i. front parking on College-Main St.,be- "People aren't gonna pay to park trucks to access the Northgate area. ' tween University Dr.and Church Rd., two blocks away to bring in their dry But Pledger said the city has been ,.� which some Northgate merchants cleaning,and that puts us at a severe unresponsive to the parking concernsof Northgate businesses. said will hurt their businesses. disadvantage,"said Bernie Gessner, Pledger also expressed dismay at Pledger said the arrangement had owner ofAggie Cleaners. comments by some city officials become too burdensome for Gessner said Loupot's is justi- suggesting Northgate merchant$ Loupot's.According to her calcula- fied in evicting the police depart- were putting personal interests ahead tions,the bookstore was subsidizing ment in light of the city's unwill- of community safety. ; the police department to the tune of ingness to work with Northgate "When I told the police chief $15,000,and not having full operat- businesses to solve the long-run- about our decision, he said would ing space had become a problem ning parking dispute. have to go to the press with this and during book rush days. "We haven't been given the prop- it could get ugly," Pledger said."I'm But City Councilman Dennis er opportunity to present our case.If tired of dealing with callous city ot= Maloney'said the eviction is a retal- they don't want to listen to us,why ficials.I think those comments were iation against the city on the part of should they be receiving this free very childish of them." Northgate businesses unhappy with the new parking policy. "That's what's known as a tem- per tantrum.What they're saying is 'We don't care about safety here,we don't care about people throwing beer bottles or women getting as- ,I saulted, we just want our parking spaces,'"Maloney said. ; Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said the # Northgate substation,one of three in the city,is a critical component of the , e .<< city's community policing efforts. "The police are there to help,and ' the best way to do that is to get to know the individuals and businesses _ they're protecting,"Mellhaney said. .. JP SEATO/e9F BATTALION Mctlhaney said that she hopes pol- The College Station Police Department was asked to leave the itics is not behind Loupot's decision. free space it was occupying on Northgate (above). They were giv- "We have worked with all the en- en the area with permission from Loupot's. The Eagle City of College Station News FDate: )r Z o(� Shame on merchants my bike, and driving the stretch of College Main between Church hame on the Northgate mer- Street and University Drive for chants involved in the deci- many years; I know from experi- sion to boot the police depart- ence that it is dangerous. All on- ment from Northgate. As a street parking along that stretch Northgate resident, citizen member should be removed for the safety of of the Northgate Revitalization the huge number of people who use Board, and taxpayer, I am disap- it daily. pointed with your self-serving deci- Also in terms of safety, crime in sion. Northgate is rising as more people The city of College Station has are attracted to the area to enjoy spent big bucks and citizen volun- the improved atmosphere made, teers have spent much time on possible by the city's Northgate 44 extensive redevelopment of the redevelopment efforts. By kicking Northgate area, which greatly ben- the police out of Northgate, you efits you, the Northgate business have done yourselves, your owners, by attracting more people patrons, and the residents of to your businesses. The increase in Northgate a great disservice. people frequenting your businesses To paraphrase what one of our as a result of Northgate redevelop- great presidents said: It is time for ment will more than offset the few you to think about what you can do clients you may lose when on-street for the people of College Station, parking on College Main is not what they can do for you— removed. they've already done a lot for you. As a long-term Northgate resi- LESLIE RANDOLPH dent, I have been walking, riding College Station The Eagle City of College Station News 7Datee Shop • CS police 41, heave-ho Northgate substation receives 30-day notice By COLLEEN KAVANAGH But two councilmembers and Eagle Staff Writer neighboring merchants see it dif- ferently. The College Station Police "It's what's known in the tee Department is being evicted from nical field as a temper tantrum," its office in Northgate in what one councilman Daniel Maloney sai council member called a "temper "They have our attention—we' tantrum" over the city's decision pumping$12 million into the area, to remove on-street parking on and we're trying to make it safer College Main. for pedestrians. The on-street In a letter dated March 22, parking prohibits safety vehicles Suanne Pledger, the special from getting through. This shows events coordinator at Loupot's that they are more interested in Bookstore, which leased the space their personal interests than in to the police rent-free, gave the community safety." department 30 days notice to College Main business owners vacate the building. said the removal of the spaces The building is located on Col- would put them at a competitive lege Main. Loupot's is on the cor- disadvantage because their cus- ner of College Main and Universi- tomers rely on the close, short- ty Drive. term, unpaid parking. City offi- The letter was sent less than cias said the plan was developed two weeks after the City Council to address safety and public approved a plan that calls for the access concerns that became mag- removal of 400 Northgate parking nified when cars parked on both spaces, including those on College sides narrowed the street. Main from Church Street to Uni- The merchants said area busi- versity Drive. Pledger could not ness owners hoped the letter be reached for comment. would provide some bargaining Police Chief Edgar Feldman power with the City Council. said the letter told the department "It doesn't have anything to do that the bookstore needed the with the police," said Bernie Gess- space for storage. The department ner, the owner of Aggieland uses the site for a community- based office front. See POLICE, Page A2 Police From Al Cleaners on College Main. "We've gone to great pains to tell them [the police department] it doesn't. It's an attempt to get city's atten- tion because we couldn't get it any other way. "We've been trying to resolve the whole thing, but it's just been very difficult to get the city's attention." Added Robert Rose, the owner of Cycles Etc: "We were hoping it The parking garage, which is in would provide us some leverage its final design stages, will have a as a. way to work with the city police substation, officials said. over parking ... This wasn't an "In the meantime, I think if they anti-police thing. We like having do try to take [the Northgate them here." office]away,and get our attention, The strategy apparently didn't I think they're hurting them work. selves," Silvia said. Councilmen Ron Silvia and Regardless, College Station Maloney said that they stand by police are trying to .decide if and the council's unanimous decision where they should relocate. because the plan addresses public "We'll continue to have a pres- safety and access concerns and ence there as we have all along as makes the area more "pedestrian far as working beats," Feldman friendly." said. "And, we'll see about other "It seems to me that it's in retal- spaces." iation to taking the parking away, Department spokeswoman Cab- and I was disappointed to see rina Scott said the Northgate loca- that," Silvia said. "I'm disappoint- tion has served its purpose. ed that they would take that space "We really hate to leave there, away, because I think it was so but we have no choice," she said. important to the Northgate area "As far as reaching out to the to have that substation there." community with all of the pedes- Both Silvia and Maloney said trian traffic here, we're calling it they had not heard from any of pretty much a success." the business owners since the plan was approved at a March 9 ■Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail address meeting, but they find the situa- is ckavanagh@theeagle.com tion disappointing. "The police were there for the safety of the Northgate area churches, businesses and pedes- trians," Maloney said. "The police station helped to make Northgate a safe area." Maloney said the city has made a conscious effort to pump money into the area to help businesses, including plans for a private stu- dent dormitory with 418 rooms. Northgate businesses will benefit because they are convenient to the students, he said. City officials said the parking plan should have come as no sur- prise—it's been part of the strat- egy for redeveloping Northgatg, which began more than a decade ago and has included adding a 115-space parking lot and plans for a four-story,725 space parking garage. The Eagle City of College Station News Date: AfX'1 1 5, 2CtrJ I Adam Group unveils4 $100 million project 900-acre community planned for E. Bryan By COLLEEN KAVANAGH 5 corporate headquarters,a retail com- Eagle Staff Writer � poi a 314-lot residential subdivision and 22 holes of golf — an 18-hole The Adam Corporation/Group on course and four practice holes that ✓ Tuesday unveiled its$100 million plan will eventually connect to 14 holes for for a golf course, hotel, conference a separate course. y' center, corporate headquarters and The second course will accommo• residential communitythat date - i guests of the hotel and will be located on more than conference center, planned 900 acres in east Bryan. for the second phase of Plans for the project, construction. The second ;r named Miramont — an phase also includes #4 Italian word for "view expansion of the residen- from the hill" — were tial portion of the project. detailed Tuesday, about Miramont will be devel- seven months after Bryan oped by TAC Realty Inc.,a '*' businessman Don Adam's subsidiary of the Adam Cor- initial announcement of the poration, which also owns Eagle photo/Dave McDermand project. First American Bank. Adam is Golf course designer Robert Trent Jones II pohrts out features on a large display bear- Internationally known Robert Trent chairman and CEO of the Adam Cor- Ing the plans for the Miramont project. Jones II,who will design the project's poration. two 18-hole golf courses,attended the "We are very proud of this project," years." try club community will be on F.M. announcement. Adam said at the news conference lun- Miramont will be located between 1158,Elmendorf said. Dave Elmendorf,managing director cheon at Christopher's World Grille. F.M.1179 and F.M.158,between Allen Jones,who has designed more than of Miramont, said the first phase of "This project is a project that I have Academy and the Copperfleld subdivi- the project includes a country club, had in my mind for many, many sion.The main entrance to the coup- See PROJECT,Page A2 News Project have collaborated on other pro- <I expect that< jests, such as Las Ventanas al construction Tans will Paraiso in Cabo San Lucas,Mex- p ico,and the Four Seasons Resort (_From Al be forthcoming. and Club at Las Colinas in Irv- ing,days, Texas. 200 golf courses on five Conti- Y + The civil engineer will be nents, said the property has should be a great Mike McClure of McClure Engi- good soil and beautiful oak 9 9 neering in Bryan,and the gener- trees. The course will have deal of activity. al contractor will be Madison green --fields, water, open _DON ADAM Construction. entrat�egr�§�.,rghd spacious Phase I infrastructure con- bunR@r;41g1@aid,sho,owing slides 'Biyaiibu ine nan struction is expected to begin c•`at;eY"in"F.3 �;.c.,as designed this fall. in across the country. Course and Country Club at Uni- Residential lot sizes will range You have a lot of great golf versity Ranch, which many say from 1/4 of an acre to one acre, courses in Texas,' he said. "I will compete with Adam's pro- and will be available for pur- hope to add one to that reper- jest.The plans for the Adam pro- chase early next year, officials toire. jest must be approved by said. Get your game ready and go Bryan's Planning and Zoning The entrance to the corporate practice," Jones said, with a Commission, which will review headquarters and commercial smile. Miramont at its Thursday meet- area is also planned on F.M. Adam announced the project ing. 1179,with a 50-foot buffer zone of last July, expecting a ground- Adam's golf course is set to landscape,Elmendorf said. breaking by January. He said open in the fall of 2001,which is "The whole idea with that is Tuesday the delay was to ensure when city officials said Tradi- that it gives you a sense of when the project would be a premier tions will open. you're in the community,you're facility and construction is The, clubhouse and office in the community, and it shuts scheduled to begin this spring. building will be designed by out everything outside,"he said. "I expect that construction HKS Architects,an internation- "It gives the whole development plans will be forthcoming," al architectural firm based in a real sense of community. Adam said. "Within 30 days, Dallas.HKS lists the Texas A&M "We think it will be a special there should be a great deal of Foundation building and the addition to the Bryan-College activity." Ballpark in Arlington on its Station community,"Elmendorf Bryan and Texas A&M Univer- lengthy resume. said. sity officials are working on a The SWA Group of Dallas Will similar development on the be the master planner and land- ■ Colleen Kavanagh's e-mail city's west side,Traditions Golf scape architect. HKS and SWA address is ckavanaghCPtheeagle.com Comforting companions i ION Lk E 4 fi- wta +wwn}� C OLL � � El dtiS { \ Ne,p74 k y r F ! AV; 1 tt NT { 7:yA F � Y t f A y F y4 7� v Jo. -'v rrP , y + 1T t. ys F, ftr. �- Eagle photo/Dave McDermand I4 Lt. Scott Simpson of the College Station Police Department and mem- Bears," are carried in squad cars and used to comfort children at acci- bers of the Hillel Jewish Student Organization stuff bags with tf dent scenes, fires and domestic disturbances. The organization • w bears at the police department Monday. The bears, nicknamed "BI, ) donated more than 100 stuffed animals to the department this ye_----� t Pr ��.rI� r' }u .. ~� �y�. ' •1r; 4 F} r .r . "ems xxtj in'ured in J dOndly car N ANAGH n't know if I could do iv, ShQk" d x '�k k «' r Police said Bryan resident mt f 4'1, Donald Sam Foster,86,was dri• al I ;,)ripgpital n tliy-Lester remembers feel- ving on the wrong side of North weeks tad ,Aeipless'as her Van spun Earl Rudder Freeway(Texas 6) CIOs t I of coqtfol after,, being on Feb.14 when his car collided tion �at;i,�,r,�' � /� p ached head;on,by a'tar that with Cathy's, Foster was killed leg were ,eat q'sed x31, *ed her off,a w so doctors e13'• in the accident. Lester, a nurse removed . e -tom, 11te remembers rin,stag inwho works for the Women, her'back w to- -at her. crushed legs as Infants and Children program said that been 'i ► L> vehicle came to a'stop. And in Bryan, was drivingto a hos• ; .a, recalls sta ' pa part +her Yin$ awake long pital in Hearne one of many "The rest viK r Rough to tell paramedics to places where she educates peo- fxatormw.herfamily z ple about breastfeeding. s Ill .,&tabilfaetY ..: well enough," lsil, "I jusir' 0 V Mnember, and:,l wish I Seven weeks and 12 surgeries keep hanging pt�.'� H n't;" the,38-year-old College later, Lester remains in Hous. tfon resident said. "h was ton,frustrated by a slow recov- NOW,11@d0Y8f� , tR In-the�'-�k�, God, ery process—one that doctors' Cath be jphoeo/9utch Ireland w ou'111et me go, WWI knew estimate will take at least twoThe Y Ba13''physfeal thera , r vas horrible, and,:I'knew it pY at They for Rehabil A cage of pins holds Cathy Lester's shattered bon as 1n on her right foot.Laster lid be a to Years — and determined to do was InJured during a deadly collision In Bryan on Feb. a other ppeemon Involved n8 Well► .I did- what she can to s d it up. See LESTER Page A6 In the accident,Donald Sam Foster,died at the scam. Bee swarm, INSIDE ..f Eagle'o>r� • � --- - Generationst 8 fam" Brazos Sunday.D1 lottery." .... t W"'�"'�'s'■' • of Roy Weave ily have Business ......E1 :Movios ,.,.ACS `"'a �� spent more than a century surrounded Classified ._.D2;Obituaries .. All wvvw,aggyespo aa'pby the and d steady buzz of honey Crossword...:.D2 Opinions.....A10 F, on��R M bees on their Grimes County property. horoscope.....pz Sports. ,.....,81 Fuse Landers ...... �G cle Brazos Business/El A7 Weather... A7 y ` e 1 N O O N N N O y 02/21/2002 11:45 FAX 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE 0 007 'Yeah,I can kick this,"' she said. room. "I think she's doing great, time out of their lives to.woky `meter oE � pe � � > y x ;"What I wassf is a recipe on how and I just hold her hand and do hen' ^by 1 � tt1:do this.and if I day this.this and what I hint. $he's mygp:,prlor"l:F, F 'Y Jane'S` e� `>virill this, then Pll get better," Cathy ty.". "�:..� s .. -r>•.' :legs ca�C.sust�id and Research at the Texas said. It doesn't work that way. I Michael said their children,10- weight S1 she can learn how-to Center after leaving ICU. qn do all those things, and that year-old James and 5-year-old stand and walk all over again. ' up daily with assistance doesn't mean I won't get an infec- Ann Claire, are in good hands in Cathy%,medical bills, wh* t she accomplished for the tion_" College Station. Cathy's boss and Michael estimates to be $5W,800 ie since the wreck three Even though she remembers good friend Donna Logan, her so far, have been covered by:an go• most of what happened on Valen- husband James and their three employee compensation plt�n ie can have no weight on tine's Day, Cathy said she has no children are caring for James and `becauW.4hd"was working at the eg and her right arm is desire to see pictures of her Ann Claire. The seven are living dime•of cadent. Her first round of reha- destroyed v�';� .; [ d, :.;iti the Les_ters' home as long as;' ' other bills to pay n will teach her how to like an accordion. necessary. F tom &'b red by the`plan- -m a bed to a wheelchair. The highway tragedy com- Anna Vitale, one of Cathy's Long-distance amounts to a n I sat up for to minutes pounded when — one hour after friends, said she and others work small fortune, hospital parking first time, I thought, Cathy's wreck and less than 100 to keep the families' lives run- costs$8 per day,and the children yards away — Siyearold Jane ning smoothly: They help the meet with a psychologist to talk i Wile=of North Wch-was killed Logans get both kids and parents about mommy being gone—all of °in a separate collision. Wilcox's around .town, which includes which add to the family's expens- soutlibound::ear reanended: a James' Little League practices es. I pickup 'E.-- tat .unexpectedly and Ann Claire's T-ball games. Vitale established the "Cathy ,changed]dnes r The Logans' car seats only five Lester Family Support Fund' at `., Cathy:'-said sh6:_doesa't resent and is not suited for the com- Aggieland Credit Union, which 'Ibster'for the accident that has biped family of seven. Cathy describes as a God-send. left: her,in !constant.pain and "We take shifts on getting peo- "We're lucky that people have away 8bm her family.- ple to or from where they need to helped with that," she said. "I "I want to be angry, but I'm go," Vitale said. "We seem to don't know what we would have not,"she said."I just feel such an have a schedule going as far as done without it. Because of it, 3 incredible sense of tragedy. who picks up whom and when." Michael's been able to be here "in my mind,I go through all of Vitale and the Lesters receive with me. It has saved our lives." the things that had to happen to calls each day from people asking To date, the community has line up the cars together.That's a if they can provide dinner. The contributed just over $5,000, huge;number.of events, and.jt -Lesters got a freezer W store the which Vitale'said helped them can't feel like it's his'fault,rwish extc'a'mealsr�ALSO, Mends do the with bills and their April house people had:helped him wlsh'it laundry And pay a maid to`keep note. r- had slot been a tragic ending for the hectic household clean. But Cathy realizes that the bills him and the other lady who died, "It gets really wild," Vitale will last much longer than the and I wish I wasn't here." said. contributions. Foster's';faxW .-vvas one at the Mike has returned' to College Michael took three months of fast Im'send:.a;®et_well card, and_ Station three tifim'since F1eb 14. medical leave from the trucking Cathy aW0gAi n't imagine bo* Catby:has seen James.five times company to help care for his wife ttsey feel ate Xo$iftg alave k70 and Ann Claire twice during her -and children. Doctors said that Y> ^� hospital stay Both dents said Cathy nos be well enough to in i canes lads`are tsyft to lsaisd�e tli tt a wTien that leave is 'aftermath df the a A"t�> �F s s i�i9 �� ➢i:; as they tat: '.-i "Our world is completely i s ►d "My son is older; and under 'jltq ss d;, We know V6reCk. stasids a little ft:mom"she said. what we have to do;but we're still th= ' she s been'r'harder on [Ann tehspv�!I'1j p�ob- . rli 4 >yea -dl tCtt Claire f' C d -In-Tdsstssee wheathey aocident ..... . .�Y_r ...k.-.� .=t. ,� obi an s.• ,..4. occurred and was at her side T° calm Ann Claire`s fears, a cash in my t�e fami= seven hours later. :., doctot let-her dress a doll in ban- ly .suippmt.-;;lend has h$lped so He sits at herbed,for-about i2 ' while explaining tubes and much I don't.know .!sow•we immobilizers ,.bu>fore she ever wo ha7 it thint- ,Iut hours a, �.-r=the,maximum Iwalked:in to her-mothees moan. ? it's�t guns g to uis f the Amount otttme the center allows ''x"It �finad� a big tliffer. . .e jt �sttbfoat'�ives." for visitors;,-His main goal is keepitsg her N `BaBi ally, tztY.jW►'ls np here. tali p i�p'on the bed- -said Michael fs�Cathy's rehab t Sttdhey�411sba� JimBu '8iu'ifsg a r'ient t►isit.Asp► ,w'hefher sbte:ahould ' lafre still=was athiid $se>�[eta� r iW the:iiutlal=autpaEieat leis • I iiiue P B'from her thoth= in Iiosrstoti or a ege.;$tatios ear's leg that keeps the shattered If atte M'arns, In a wheel-in pI ice. ,_ ' cl ir',the houseE--WWh holds a =�'james has helped`Asii&ire sssisken Is tchess=u+v ll tl I understand that it wiH take their naitly remodeledaisdi- 02/21/2002 11:47 FAX 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE f 008 �+nuy-ootu a11c{.011 lauaguin alvw t,auly 1ulb .1JCC11 V WLIV'b 11V!' Lunes 1:1 mpany to netp care Or IlIS,VVIte they feel after,losing a loved one. and Aim Claire twice during her and children. Doctors said that ey have moreo deal with hospital stay. Both parents said Cath _will not be well enough to tl�i�tl I cart imagine,„the sa[ '' the kids are trying to handle the, b� ft �p�a when.tIia leave is aftermath of the acc�iident-as best dii .rla9lFL `6 $ as they can. "Our world is completely "My son is older, and under :` sid8a down, .3�e sa' s . ,Cathy's husband,•11+Iic�i�e'L lies l��i� know been with her.since the wreck. stands a little bit more,"she said. what we have to do,but we're$till The 53-year-old truck driver was `Its been harder on {Ann try* t aw yjl prob- ir: Tennessee when the accident Claire•] _,....^,ab rhaFye eave;�iiy, ob, iand o=rred and was at her side To calm Ann Claire's fears, a cash in my retirement. The fami- seven hours later. doctor let her dress a doll in ban- ly support fund has helped so He sits at her bed for about 11 dages while explaining tubes and much ... I don't know how we hours. a day — the maximum immobilizers before she ever would have made it this far, but amount of time the center allows walked in to her mother's room. it's not going to sustain us for the for visitors. His main goal is "It made a big difference," rest of our lives." keeping her comfortable. Cathy said. "I think the hardest "Basically, my job is up here," " for her is that she can't facing the future Michael said from Cathy's rehab lump up on the bed and hug me." Cathy and her husband are still But, during a recent visit, Ann discussing whether she should Claire still was afraid of the metal receive the initial outpatient care device protruding from her moth- in Houston or in College Station. er s leg that keeps the shattered If she returns home in a wheel- bones in place. chair, the house—which holds a James has helped Ann Claire sunken kitchen— will to be understand that it will take their mom a while to get better. Cathy cagy remodeled sp Aped-accessible r said he has been "as big as a 10 "I,have a `' ''er year-old boy can be." to the house look. t W i- "Mom," James told her,,."I've ble..it. :Would be el been trying so hard.'; Michael said. 'If we'll stay in Houston"ar assist- Expenses Blount ed living place." Since the accident, Cathy said, "We have some decisions"to she has been amazed by the out- make," added Cathy. pouring of community support Vitale said she is surprised at she has received. how fast Cathy is making People she doesn't know or has- progress. But no matter how fast n't heard from in years wish her that progress continues,the fauri- well. Nurses hang the cards that ly's friends will continue to help she continues to receive on the as much as they can. drab hospital wall for encourage- "I can't do what I know she ment. would do for me," she said. "She "I've felt more strength from would bend over backwards. the support than anything I've She's Wonder Woman, and she's felt in my life, Cathy said. "As earned these friends." hard as this is,what's come out of Even with the support, Cathy this is such a tremendous love realizes that she has only taken,a and caring. I can't help but think few steps on her road to recovery. that something good is inside As a nurse, Cathy is used to something bad. I know I can [get helping other people. She said better]. All of these people took what she hates the most is that she has become dependent on oth- ers' for everything — so much The-E le that dresses at she her own wounds. `fit makes.me crazy," she said. online: "I -hate not` doing things for myself. I want to feel better des- - wwwaheeagle.com perately." ■ Cofieen ,Kavanagh's ' e-mail address is ckavanaghOtheeagle:com The Eagle Citv of College Station News conomhits ., fastest growth 313 ( rate m 16 years GDP up By MARTIN CRUTSINGER WASHINGTON — The red-hot Here is a look at the gross Associated Press U.S. economy, powered by heavy domestic product,which spending by consumers and the measures all goods and federal gov- services produced by workers ■ Business IA10 ernment, and capital located in the was roaring United States,regardless of ahead at an annual rate of 7.3 per- ownership. cent in the final three months of Percent change from previous quarter 1999, the fastest growth rate in nearly 16 years, the government 7 reported Thursday. The October-December rate of 6 increase in the gross domestic product, the nation's total output 5 of goods and services, represent- ed the strongest quarterly perfor- 4 mance for this long economic expansion, which began in 3 March 1991. Economists were left to marvel 2 at the economy's strength at a time when other recoveries have 1 long since faltered. This recovery o became the longest in U.S. histo- 1997 1998 1999 ry in February and celebrated its ninth birthday this month. Source:Department of commerce AP "We already knew that condi- tions were wonderful last year, boost to corporate profits as well. but this report confirms how After-tax profits for U.S. corpora- amazingly strong the economy tions rose 2.7 percent in the was," said Joel Naroff, head of an fourth quarter, up a sizable 15 economic forecasting firm in Hol- percent from the same period a land, Pa. "Consumers bought year ago, the best year-over-year every big-ticket item they could performance since 1995. find and businesses continued to The good news about economic invest." growth and corporate profits, The 7.3 percent growth rate however, did not stop Wall Street was the best since a 9 percent from having a bad day. The Nas- surge in the first quarter of 1984, date afternoonsoffabout 285 points in trading, on track a time when the U.S. economy was still pulling out of the 1981-82 to record its worst one-day point recession. loss in history. This was the government's The Dow Jones industrial aver- third and final look at the fourth age, which started the day in pos- quarter of 1999. Initially, the gov- itive territory, was dragged down ernment estimated growth at 5.8 by the beating taken by the tech- .` percent, then revised the figure nology-heavy Nasdaq, falling by last month to 6.9 percent. The more than 90 points in late trad- new 7.3 percent estimate sur- ing. passed economists' expectations Private economists warned of a 7 percent growth rate. that the newfound economic The Commerce Department strength exhibited in the GDP said the fourth quarter surge in See ECONOMY, Page A6 economic growth gave a healthy er revi- sion change. Economy The source of the upward on for GDP Thursday came from a slightly smaller trade Fib deficit, reflecting stronger exports and slightly lower report makes future rate imports, and strength in con- increases by the Federal Reserve struction activity, reflecting the even more certain. warmer-than-usual start to win- The central bank already has ter. raised rates twice this year, in Consumer spending, which February and last week, follow- accounts for two-thirds of total ing three rate increases in 1999. economic activity, rose 5.9 per- The higher rates are intended to cent in the fourth quarter, as slow the sizzling economy to a record high consumer confi- more sustainable pace and keep dence and low unemployment inflation under control. fueled demand. But analysts said the upward Other big increases during the revision to the fourth quarter fourth quarter were in govern- GDP and reports of strong ment spending, with federal gov- growth in employment and retail ernment purchases leaping by sales for this year demonstrate 14.7 percent, as both defense and that the Fed's rate increases nondefense spending rose. have yet to have much of an The stronger growth in the impact. fourth quarter triggered a slight "The U.S. economy is rock- upward revision for GDP growth ing," said Stan Shipley, econo- for all of 1999, now estimated at mist at Merrill Lynch in New 4.2 percent, up from an earlier York. 4.1 percent figure. Many analysts are looking for That followed gains of 4.3 per- another rate increase at the cent in 1998 and 4.2 percent in Fed's next meeting May 16 and a 1997. followup quarter-point boost in The last three-year stretch June, given their expectations with growth above 4 percent that GDP growth in the current occurred from 1976 through 1978 January-March period is likely as the economy was pulling out to come in close to 6 percent, still of a steep recession caused by well over the Fed's desired speed the first Arab oil embargo. limit of around 3.5 percent. The central bank believes with the unemployment rate hover- ing around 4 percent, the lowest in three decades, the economy must slow to avoid an inflation ary spiral that could be set off as SAFER businesses boost wages to get more workers to meet still-rising FASTER demand. ` Even with the stronger fourth- quarter growth, inflation , remained well behaved. An inflation gauge tied to the GDP was up at an annual rate of just 2 percent, little changed from a 1.7 percent increase in the third _. quarter. Physician Performed Jerry Jasinowski, the presi dent of the National Association Our innovative CYNOSURE® of Manufacturers, said he hoped Apogee 40 laser will help you the Fed would not overreact to eliminate unwanted hair from almost the big jump in GDP growth. any body part comfortably' in fewer "Fears that the economy is overheated are misplaced," he visits. said, arguing that much of the Our laser is equipped with a spenal cooling unit for your comfort. fourth quarter strength was due UNCOVER YOUR NATURAL RADIANCE to one-time factors such as JAMES N.CHH,DS,M.D.'79 inventory stockpiling as insur- MARIA V.CHrLDS,M.D. ance against supply disruptions 696-4444 1603 ROI�K PR.VRIE.RD.Sl"ITE 312 caused by the Year 20W comput- Cfflax:K STATIOS,TX 7789; O IW9 CYNOSURE®INC. The Eagle City of College Station News Opposed to method started out to be a public golf course for the citizens of Bryan, a With reference to the article city-owned conference center and a inThe Eagle on Wednes- new residential development by day about the city of private developers and turning it Bryan approving the TIF for the into a private country club subsi- Traditions Golf Course and dized by the city, a conference cen- Country Club at University Ranch ter paid for by the city and leased and reference to me as being a for$1 per year to the hotel opera- strong opponent to the project, for and forming a partnership with �C please allow me to correct the an out-of-town developer to devel- OX paper. op and sell lots in competition with I have been a long-time support- local developers. er of the project, but I am strongly Additionally, the manner in opposed to the city taking what which the city has negotiated its contracts and the amount of incen- tives that it has provided to the Election letter deadline parties involved is unbelievable. Every person I have talked to that Monday is the last day that let- has read the contracts tends to ters to the editor concerning the agree. April 11 primary elections will be Furthermore, why the city pro- accepted by The Bryan-College ceeded on Tuesday night to estab- Station Eagle. All political letters lish the TIF without first consult- will run by April 7. ing with and obtaining approval Generally, The Eagle does not from the county in advance is very run election letters from candi- puzzling. Particularly since the dates, their families or campaign city is counting on the county's managers. participation in pledging future If space does not permit print- county taxes to pay for about 40 ing all political letters about par- percent of the $18.45 million bond ticular candidates, they will be indebtedness plus another$16 mil- printed in proportion to the num- lion in interest. bers received. FRANK THURMOND Jr. Bryan The Eagle City of College Station News ID; 3 I Golf course ordinance approved � residential development with lit- ou n c 1' tle additional risk," she said, 6-member board will adding that the developers had i personally guaranteed the loan. .from Al "We've lost a lot of higher-end oversee finance zone ney Michael Cosentino. residential development to other neighboring communities By COLLEEN KAVANAGH "I feel the city can proceed because of a lack of choice for a Eagle StgQ Writer without any additional risk to the high-end subdivision." city regarding the golf course,"he Huff said the loan will be paid The Bryan City Council approved Tuesday an said, after the council unani- back as lots are sold, or no later ordinance establishing the tax-increment finance mously approved the ordinance. than 5 years from the agreement zone for a$275 million, 800-acre golf course and The council also unanimously date, according to the agree- resort project. approved an agreement with ment's terms. (( The council will Bryan Development Limited that In other action,the council: I feel the city appoint a six-member gives the developers a $5W,000 ■Approved tax abatement on can proceed board of directors to loan to help with infrastructure 4.75 acres in the Bryan Business without anyoversee the tax-incre• costs in their plans to build a Park for BETCO, a mini storage ment finance zone,also high-end residential subdivision manufacturing company that will additional risk to known as a TIF,for the on the east side of the city. be locating in Bryan. the city Traditions Golf Course Linda Huff, the city's interim ■Approved a $107,549 change and Country Club at director of development services, order to Texcon General Contrac• _regarding the University Ranch. It said 98 large lots on 47 acres are tors for road construction work golf course.>> has asked for nomina- planned for the Park Meadow on Copperfield Drive. tions from state and Subdivision, with an average ■Approved a resolution to sup- -MIKE BEAL local governmental home price of$250,000.The extra development infrastructure costs port the city of Houston as a host Councilman officials. p for the 2012 Olympic Games. Bryan resident will help with the planned land- ■ Commended eight city- Frank Thurmond, a scaping, decorative lights and employees, who are members of strong opponent to Bryan's$27 million participa- winding streets,she said. the Critical Incident Stress.Matt tion in the project, asked the council not to IHuff said the agreement offers, agement Team, for volunteering approve the ordinance at least until the Brazos more housing choices for Bryan! their time to help emergency County commissioners vote on the TIF. residents. workers during the Nov. 18 Bort "Bryan may be at the hands of the developers if This will jump start high-end fire collapse. the commissioners court does not approve it and the city passes the ordinance,"he said. County commissioners were scheduled to vote Tuesday on whether to participate in the project, but postponed the vote,saying they needed more information on the project. No date for the vote was set. About$21.3 million of Bryan's contribution to the project will come from the TIF.The county's participation would make up four-tenths of the TIF,city officials said. In tax-increment fmancing, business or resi- dential owners in the zone pay property taxes that are the same as those of other Bryan residents, but their tax payments go to the zone rather than the city and the county throughout the 25-year TIF.School taxes within the zone would go to the Bryan school district as usual. Councilman Mike Beal said he had similar questions that had been answered by City Attor- See COUNCIL, Page A2 The Eagle City of College Station News --FDa—te: Teens, off'Icials seek youth i* nvolve ent CS, Woodway leaders hold joint meeting By HOLLY HUFFMAN College Station Youth Services and Emily Towers, a Texas A&M Eagle Staff Writer coordinator Shannon Waddell. University graduate student in "We are constantly competing for the department of Recreation, Finding ways to increase teen college kids' influences." Parks, and Tourism Sciences,also involvement in community activi- The College Station Teen Advi- attended. ties was the focus of a joint meet- sory Board and the City of Wood- Waddell said teen centers offers ing Saturday of local teen leaders way Youth Council met at The a variety of programs for youths and government officials. Exit Teen Center in College Sta- including a place for help with By highlighting the needs of tion to brainstorm ideas on how to homework, a computer lab, week- teens and concentrating on giving get the most teen involvement in end dances and theater produc- those needs an outlet, student the community, and to discuss tions. The main goal of the city, leaders hope such solutions will problems each groups has however, was to be available for provide kids with positive choices endured in recruiting and retain- the kids, saying, "Whatever what when faced with today's tough ing members. The groups seek they want to do, we do. choices. members among students from "What can we do to get them "This is a college town.The only seventh to 12th grade. more involved in their own thing really for teens is a movie College Station Mayor Lynn theater and a skating rink," said McIlhaney, U.S. Rep. Kevin Brady See TEENS, Page A16 numbers in Woodway to "com- placency in the youth." She said Teens the biggest problem facing teens is that there is "nothing to do, so From A9 they turn to things they shouldn't be doing, like drinking, smoking lives?" Waddell asked the teen and drug use." board members during a round- While brainstorming, the two table discussion. boards bounced questions off of Carter Hall, 18, College Sta- each other to get a feel of what tion's teen advisory board presi- programs worked and what did- dent and a senior at A&M Consol- n't work in their communities. idated, said he joined the board College Station's council gro- in 1996 with its inception because vides more youth-oriented ser- he wanted to become involved vices for the community such as with the community. the teen center and field-trip Allison Merrill, chair of the activities. City of Woodway Youth Council, Woodway offers community was a founding member in 1998. service projects such as ringing The Woodway council has 16 bells for the Salvation Army at members,abut half the size of the Christmas, holding an annual College Station group. Easter egg hunt and community Merrill attributed the small clean-up programs. The Eagle j City of College Station News Salarysurvey The City Council established a goal to at least pay city employees higher than 60 percent of the findings, mar- ket.confir m sgap n a result of the survey's findingg s, council members unani- Pay for CS public safety jobs PAY RANGES trails 60% of markets studied Following are examples of salary ranges for a variety of employee clas- sifications. By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer SECRETARY College Station's police officers and firefighters on average are Annual salary range paid less than those in compara- Community Minimum Midpoint Maximum Average ble cities in Texas, according to a Bryan $17,992 $23,930 $29,869 $19,500 CS $17,992 $23,930 $29,869 539,500 salary survey commissioned by Texas A&M $14,714 n/a $21,274 $19.283 the city. FIREFIGHTER In November, the city hired the consulting firm Fox Lawson and Annual salary range Associates of Phoenix to compare Community Minimum Midpoint Maximum Average 48 "benchmark" employment Carrollton $39,2/a n/a $41,2/a $40$31.249 13 Lubbock n/a n/a n/a S31.213 positions with those in 28 local Longview n/a n/a n/a $30.228 and state, public and private orga- Victoria $24,396 $29,532 $34.656 $28,383 nizations to see how competitive Cs $26,616 $31,639 $37,972 $26,616 .. the city's pay, compensation and Bryan n/a n/a n/a $26,218 benefits packages are. The survey POLICE OFFICER was aimed at determining how to Annual salary range reduce turnover among,the city's Community Minimum Midpoint Maximum Average employees. Carrollton $42,120 n/a $44,171 $43,146 "I knew we would be off some," Lubbock n/a n/a n/a $33,038 said Julie O'Connell, the city's Longview 80 n/a n/4 $28,630 CS $28,080 n/a $29,494 $28,630 director of human resources, "but Bryan n/a n/a n/a $28,080 the amount we were off on police Victoria $24,396 $29,532 $34,656 $27.190 and fire surprised me." Texas A&M $25,110 n/a $36,240 $26,787 Overall, the survey concluded CIVIL ENGINEER that the city's public safety jobs are 21.7 percent below 60 percent Annual salary range of the markets the compared Community Minimum Midpoint Maximum Average y are p Carrollton $44,512 $55,661 $66,789 $55,661 to. When comparing salary Longview $45,276 $54,331 $65,197 $54.767 ranges, police officers and fire- Victoria $33,024 $40,644 $48,228 $48,221 772 fighters are 13.6 percent below 60 Texas A&M n 8 n/0 n32 $44,595 CS $38,688 $48,360 $58,032 S44,596 percent of the market. Bryan $35,500 $43,000 $50,500 $40,632 The internal average salary of a Lubbock $29,723 $37,170 $44,595 $38,178 recently hired police officer is Source:City of College Station Salary Survey $28,630 Versus the organizations Fox Lawson&Associates that pay higher than 60 percent of the market. That average salary mously approved a $1.77 million for the same position is $35,105. improvement package to begin Of the 48 positions surveyed, 32 the steps toward that goal. trailed the market. Those includ- In the plan approved Thursday ed salaried employees (the man- at a City Council workshop, Col- agement team and supervisors), lege Station will spend $771,000 to and clerical workers and employ- move 245 employees to a new min- ees in field, technical and trades imum salary. Of that total, positions,according to the survey. $485,000 will go to increase pay for Assistant public works direc- 137 police officers or firefighters. tors in College Station are paid Skill levels for 61 employees will $15,000 less than a majority of the be adjusted at an estimated cost of comparable markets; help desk $68,000. assistants less than $16,000; and Officials will begin implement- city engineers less than $10,000. - See SURVEY, Page A8 Surve ■Police by 11.08 percent y ■Fire by 11.15 percent ■ Employees on salary by 19.43 percent From A 1 J ■Clerical by 7.55 percent ing those changes on April I. The ■ Field, technical, trades by 1 city expects sales tax receipts to 10 percent. O' pay for the increases. It was not O'Connell said those percent- immediately known how individ- ages are just an average. There ual employees' salaries will be may be some that are really close to the average, and some that are survey. affected. For salaried employees that are far from it. In the past, the city made below 60 percent of the market, Also, base salaries the average °across the board" market adjust- city officials will implement a 3 are 5.9 percent below the defined ments, which did not address Par- percent market adjustment. It is labor market. ticular jobs that were significant- expected Many of the positions surveyed expected to take two to three years are extremely close to the market ly above or below the average. to bring affected employees up to The new plan, which will take totals. For example, utility cus- three years to implement, creates goal at a cost of $153,000. There tomer service representatives will be a$782,000 increase in fund- make$200 more than 60 percent of a new pay structure with fewer ing for skills, performance and the market, and purchasing ser levels. competency pay, and skill vice managers make $400 less City manager Tom Brymer said increases will be granted as a skill than many people in comparable level is achieved, officials said. positions. Those changes will begin on Oct. The results showed that 16 of 1• ty's positions were ahead o the city's goal is to put together a the ci f Each year the city surveys the t percent of the market competitive compensation plan. wages and benefits, O'Connell legal assistants and office man- "That will help o attract and said, but this was the first time retain the best employees possible agers make about $8,000 more that the survey was expanded to than many in similar positions, with the dollars we have to work include actual earnings. and public utilities division man- with," he said. "We looked at what people are agers make $9,500 more than 60 "In order to provide the quality really making," she said. "The percent of the market. Other posi- of services our citizens expect, we survey looks at the market in a tions that were ahead of the mar- need to stay competitive. That's different way. It gives you a true ket goal included: public works obviously important for a service picture of the market, and looking equipment operators, facilities organization." at actual salaries makes a big dif- maintenance technicians, and ference. first assistant city attorneys. "Now, we have a goal to pay The firm determined that Col- above the 60th percentile, and lege Station's benefits as a percent we've never had a policy like of base salary is greater than the that," O'Connell said. "We've market by 3 to 4 percent, but the never really had a philosophy of city contributes less to retirement Pay-" or pension plans than those it was Among the organizations in the compared to. survey were: Texas A&M Univer- The consultants also examined sity, Brazos County, Brazos and how College Station's benefits Colorado River Authorities, First compare to those offered by other American Bank and Cox Commu- organizations. The city offers one nications, and the cities of Bryan, more holiday, one less personal Lubbock, Carrollton, Victoria and day and no separate bereavement Longview. leave than other organizations, Jobs and pay classifications but the same number of vacation were compared to areas in which . and sick days. College Station the city would be competitive, offers comparable car allowances, O'Connell said. but does not offer equivalent cash For instance, secretaries and out or conversion plans for sick customer service representatives leave. were compared to the local mar- Once Fox Lawson obtained the ket in both public and private results, consultants identified Col- organizations, because that's i lege Station positions that need to where the city would recruit from, be adjusted upwards based on the she said. Public safety officials were compared on a local and statewide basis. The study, which cost the city $44,406,found that on average, the following's current entry rates are lower than the new market entry rates: The Eagle City of College Station News --FDate: (J Salary 3 12,q packa e The College Station City Council approved a �� a $1.77 million salary and compensation improve- ment package for city employees Thursday that is aimed at reducing turnover among its workforce. Mayor Lynn McIlhaney strongly endorsed the Measure to benefit plan, saying the city has always worked to save money, but at its employees' expense. For instance, she said, CS city employees several capital improvement projects have been paid for by y COLLEEN KAVANAGH cash instead of issuing debt, as agle Staff Writer many other cities do. "We have some pretty strong policies that a lot of cities don't have," McIlhaney said during a workshop session when the pay McILHANEY plan was approved. "Now, it's such a tight market that we're spending money training employees because we're losing them for better-paying jobs." It was not immediately known how much an employee's individual pay would increase. But the first phase of the plan will take effect April 1. The city hired the consulting firm Fox Lawson and Associates to survey other cities' salary and benefits programs, identify classifications in Col- lege Station that need to be adjusted upwards based on the survey, and then specify what the new pay structure should be. The consultants determined that the current entry-level pay schedules are below market aver- age by the following percentages: ■police, 11.08 percent ■Fire, 11.15 percent ■Exempt, 19.43 percent ■Clerical, 7.55 percent ■Field, technical, trades, 10.09 percent Also, base salaries on average are 5.9 percent below the defined labor market for some employ- ees. See COUNCIL, Page A8 Council ■ Contracted with Young Con- f raQm ,A1 = tractors for the final phase of The new plan will move 245 infrastructure at the College Sta- employees, including 137 police tion Business Center. The and fire department employees, $601,621 contract includes to a new minimum salary, adjust paving, drainage, sewer, water skill levels for 61 employees, and electrical construction. increase funding for skills, per- ■ Approved three design con- formance and competency pay tracts with McClure Engineering and add a 3 percent market Inc. for developments in the Wolf adjustment for exempt employ- Pen Creek area: a trail system ees Oct. 1. between Texas Avenue and Dart- mouth Street, channel improve- without But the plan does not come prove- without drawbacks. It will force ments from Texas to Earl Rudder the council to accommodate Freeway South,and a parking lot those changes when it works on at Holleman Drive and Dart- the budget for fiscal year 2001, mouth. city officials said. The contract for preliminary "As we go through the whole and final design for the trail sys- budget process, we'll have to tem is not to exceed $82,500, offi- make hard choices," McIlhaney cials said. The channel improve- said. "But, we're not going to do ment contract is not to exceed it on our employees' backs." $300,700 and would be funded by The salary improvement plan drainage utility funds. The park- will take three years to fully ing lot contract is not to exceed implement, city officials said. $10,000. The pay policy will come back to The council took no action on the council as a budget amend- the Wolf Pen Creek hotel and ment item that must be conference center project, Mayor approved. Lynn McIlhaney said after the In other action, the council: council ended its closed session. ■Approved the notices of sale, On Wednesday, city officials preliminary official statements sent a letter to the developers and related materials for the sale asking for the $200,000 that the of$8.5 million in general obliga- city is guaranteed in the project tion bonds, $4.05 million in cer- agreement if the development tificates of obligation and $10.5 falls through. million in utility revenue bonds . The developers, Wolf Pen The cost of the bonds were fac- Creek Limited, have missed the tored into the city's five-year deadline to close on the financ- forecast and 2000 budget. The ing for the$27 million public-pri- city will be able to issue the debt vate partnership. On March 6, within its current ad valorem tax the council denied the develop- rate and the current utility fund ers request for an extension rates, officials said. The debt will until March 24. pay for capital improvement pro- The council will discuss the jects. city's options at a later date,■ Contracted with JaCody Inc. McIlhaney said. for $428,453 in renovations to City Hall and contracted with Gomez Floor Covering .for the removal and purchase of carpet for the building. The contract is for $86,189. The renovations are the second half of a$500,000 reno- vation plan. J The Eagle City of College Station News • 2-i )Ica CS asks Wolf Pen Wolf Pen groupfor one From Al e are other and there options avail- City wants $200,000 it was guaranteed able," Silvia said. The council has not made a By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Tim White, senior vice presi- final decision about the project Eagle Staff Writer dent of Dalmac Investments, Wolf since it denied the extension, and Pen Creek Limited's development the project is listed for discussion College Station officials sent a and management corporation, in closed session at Thursday's letter Wednesday to developers of could not be reached for comment council meeting. the Wolf Pen Creek hotel and con- Wednesday. Silvia said the project's next ference center asking for the Councilman Ron Silvia said step is unknown. Possibilities i $200,000 that the city is guaran- Wednesday that he had not seen include waiting on the financing teed in the project agreement if the letter, but at this point, the and staying with Wolf Pen Creek ' the development falls through. developers are in default. Limited,finding another develop- Kim Foutz, College Station's "If they came to the council er and starting over, or abandon- economic development director, with a request and a letter of cred- ing the project entirely. said Wednesday that the city has it,I can't speak on how the council Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said not received any correspondence would react,"he said. "But,at this the council does not even know from the development team — point, it's not there. They had the status of the project from the Wolf Pen Creek Limited — since until the 13th [of March], and did- developers' standpoint. the City Council decided on n't respond as far as I know. If they have not heard from the March 6 not to extend the project's "We are not under that contract, development team by Thursday's financing deadline until March closed session, she said she 24. See WOLF PEN, Page AS expects City Manager Tom Brymer and City Attorney Har- vey Cargill to brief the council on its options. In denying the extension, the council said it would follow the _cxigiD,al cum—ti,&-ted April 15, 1998, which gave the developers until March 13 to close on their portion of the $27.5 million pub- lic-private partnership. The developers had worked to close on the financing to build a full service, 200-room Sheraton Hotel. College Station would own the $6.5 million, 45,000-square- foot conference center to be built adjacent to the hotel, paid for by city revenue bonds. On March 6, council members asked the developmen: team to write a check for a$200)00 line of credit, saying that the dty would L ... hold the check until the request- developer 60 days to finalize it, end of March. ed March 24 deadline. officials said. The project has been in the The developers said they would In January, the council post- works for more than three years. not agree to the line of credit, but poned any decision on the missed In 1997, voters gave approval for would follow the terms and condi- deadline until the end of Febru- the city to issue$6 million in rev- tions in the contract because they ary. enue bonds for the conference were only asking for an addition- Wolf Pen Creek officials said center. The additional $500,000 is al 18 days. the financial contracts have been because of increased costs. That's when the council unani- tied up with the lender, Morgan City officials said a recent fea- mously decided to deny the exten- Weinstein & Co. of California, sibility study concluded that a sion. It had its regular meeting which has committed $17 million hotel and conference center pro- three days later, where the pro- to the project. The lender has ject is still viable. ject was listed for closed session, merged with a Japanese corpora- "The council has always said but has not met again to discuss tion, officials said, causing the that we are committed to this pro- the issue. delay. ject," McIlhaney said. "We have McIlhaney said the developers On March 6, White said the people calling the Convention agreed to try and get a letter of money has been transferred from and Visitors Bureau asking when credit on the financing. Japan to a Swiss bank account. conference center would be The original deadline to close Morgan Weinstein has told the ready. The interest is there, and on the financing was Nov. 13, but development team that the again, my hope is that we can a default agreement gave the money would be available by the work to a positive result." • The Eagle City of College Station News Panel revises conflict rules for developcorporation - CS ment council insisting on tighter rules for board members By COLLEEN KAVANAGI0 hers said their leverage comes compromise that Mariott will take Eagle Staff Writer with the more than $200,000 in back to the council, and if council funding that the EDC receives members agree, back to the EDC The Bryan-College Station Eco- from College Station every year. board of directors at its April 10 nomic Development Corp.'s Councilman Larry Mariott, Col- workshop. bylaws committee revised its new lege Station's EDC representative With the additions, any person conflict-of-interest policy Wednes- and bylaws committee member, —board member or EDC employ- day after College Station City said Wednesday if a board mem- ee — with any interest in a pri- Council members hinted they ber has any ownership interest in vately held business must disclose • might withhold funding if it was- that privately held business, he or the conflict, which would then be n't tightened. she should either give up that taken to the EDC's executive com- In February, council members ownership or resign from the mittee. decided they were uncomfortable board. That committee would decide with new provisions that allowed "It is hard to distance yourself if how important that conflict is and board members to have limited you own part of a company," he whether it means the member financial interest in privately said. "Just excusing yourself is should resign and notify the EDC held business prospects being con- not good enough to us if it's public board of the conflict and its deci- sidered for economic incentives. money that's being used. sion. Although the council does not "It just doesn't pass the smell "This is a compromise from vote on the conflict-of-interest sec- test." tion of the bylaws, council mem- The committee decided on a See ETHICS, Page A8 .. TODAYS North by Nc SMILE The Eagle provides a com I'm smiling because ... f G guide to the gargantuan tt "I love life." ti: of the North by Northgate 4 #2,., Chyrese Debault, Spotlight College Station F ,l Ethics From Al absolute resignation," bylaws committee member Tim Bryan said. "What we're fighting here is not just wrongdoing but a per- ceived wrongdoing." Committee chair Teresa Galli- her also said the policy needs an additional "catch-all" statement because the committee cannot foresee every possible conflict-of nterest situation. The committee decided to add a statement to the policy that "each person should make every effort to disclose any potential or perceived conflict of interest." "I think we would all do this Now Emyway, but if we don't have it in writing, we don't have to," Galli- her said. The conflict-of-interest clause, which was added when the bylaws were revised recently, states that there is a conflict when a person has a "substantial interest" in a business prospect involved in a transaction with the corporation. A substantial interest is defined as when a person: ■Owns or possesses 10 percent or more interest in a business entity. ■Owns or possesses an interest of$7,500 or more. ■ Received more than 10 per- cent of his or her gross income in the prior year from the business entity. Any revisions to the bylaws must be approved by the EDC board. The Eagle City of College Station News Viatel begins construction ✓ System development and administration on new center ✓ Financial, data and billing systems By COLLEEN KAVANAGH 33 ✓ Customer service Eagle Staff Writer I�' , ✓ Toll-free routing Sixteen local government and Viatel Inc. officials ✓ Software development dug their shovels into the ground Wednesday, sym- bolizing the beginning of construction for the com- pany's new services support center in College Sta- tion. — an $8.5 million, 80,000-square-foot building to be More than 100 people welcomed the international finished by March 2001 and $1 million in furniture, telecommunications company to College Station's fixtures and equipment by 2008. Business Center. Michael Mahoney, Viatel's chairman and chief Viatel, which recently merged with Destia Com- executive officer, said the center is not just another munications, needs a larger facility to house its building to add to the company. rapidly growing Bryan-College Station area opera- "In many ways, it represents the heart of our tion. North American operations," he said. "Nothing "We're here for the expansion of a local busi- Viatel does in North America—from the launch of ness," said Lynn Stuart, chairman of the Bryan- a new product, to answering a customer's call, to College Station Economic Development Corpora- redesigning our bills — is accomplished without tion. "Viatel has chosen to do this in our communi- the involvement of our College Station employees ty, and we welcome that. This is a result of a team and facilities. effort." "This represents the next step in our growth to The center will provide system development and provide premiere telecommunications services," administration; financial, data and billing systems; Mahoney said. l customer service; toll-free routing; and software development. It is a $9.5 million capital investment See VIATEL, Page A14 customer service employees Viatol with a minimum average salary of between $40,421 and $48,285 and hire 95 customer service From A9 employees with a minimum average salary of$16,172, accord- The company has been in the ing to the agreement. area since 1996 and has offices in The company will retain 260 Bryan and College Station. Via- full-time equivalent employees, tel plans to consolidate the facili- the agreement states. ties in the business center. Viatel's annual payroll contri An incentive package with the bution to the community will city of College Station gives the increase by $4 million, and the { company 14.5 acres of land val facility will employ 400 people a ued at $435,000, and Viatel will when it is completed, company receive an 8-year partial tax officials said. abatement valued at about College Station Mayor Lynn $142,000. McIlhaney thanked Viatel offi- Also, the company will get a cials for choosing to stay in the $42,500 grant in building, permit Bryan-College Station area. and other fees. "We wish you much success, In return, company officials and we're here to work with you offered an almost $lo million throughout the process and capital investment. The compa- throughout your time in the ny plans to hire at least 58 non- community," she said. The Eagle City of College Station News . 3) 0o The wrong quesHam he College Station City Council approved economic incentives for Viatel Inc. to enable it to locate in the College Station Business Park. Councilman Ron Silvia expressed some con- cerns about Viatel's financial loss- es over the past few years. The council should have given more weight to Silvia's concerns. According to The Eagle, Viatel had furnished a letter that stated that the company's losses were less in 1999 than in 1998 at$18 million and$31.8 million, respectively. This is not true. In 1999 Viatel lost $219.2 million compared to$130.6 million in 1998. On an earnings per common share basis the mean ana- lyst's estimate is that the compa- ny's losses will increase another 26 percent this year. Documents filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission state that the company will remain unprofitable for the "next several years." In reply to Silvia's concerns, Viatel's David Lachur reportedly said that the financial conditions of the company were typical for tech- nology businesses and that they are also very capital-intensive. This is true. However, the council should have asked how Viatel intends to raise needed capital when the overheated financial mar- kets for these types of companies freeze over. Council members should have been well enough prepared to ask several other questions of Viatel. For example, does Viatel's business plan address the goal of profitabili- ty and when might that goal be met?What effect will the trend of declining prices for much of their services, on a per billable minute basis, have on their operational results?How has Viatel's obliga- tion to repurchase the former Destia's millions of dollars in debt been handled, and how will this affect Viatel's finances? ROGER ABLES College Station The Eagle City of College Station News __TDate: H W Blame yourselves Killing businesses This letter is in response to am an old Ag and frequented Christopher Jagge's letter businesses in Northgate while I concerning parking problems was a student. Now my wife and in Northgate (Eagle, March 14). I have made our home in Bryan When I ran for College Station and, until this past week, continued City Council three years ago, the to do business in Northgate. parking issue was present then. If I Ever since the impressive genius recall correctly, the voter turnout of the College Station City Council from the Northgate area was dis- showed up, I have found other mal—maybe 3 percent. Why then places: other cleaners, barber shops, is there so much fuss about it now? record stores,bookstores, and, yes, I commend Jagge for bringing up bars. I understand trying to make this issue. However, please back up the area "pedestrian friendly"but the statement, "The City Council the city is killing the very business- see the students as nonvoting cash es it wants to enhance. cows." What prevents the students There are other residents of from voting here? College Station and Bryan besides We, the citizens of the United students who like Northgate and States, have the most impact at the work during the day with one hour local level in regard to the power for lunch. that our one vote carries. But it That's not enough time to get seems that those who moan and there,park in the proposed areas, groan the most about the many and walk to the businesses. If the problems of the government don't short-term street parking is re- even get out and vote. moved, I think a lot of people will do It will be interesting to note what the same thing as me: move their the voter turnout will be in the business loyalties elsewhere. upcoming city and school elections. Sorry Loupot's, Holick's, Don't blame the local city govern- Northgate Barbers, Aggieland ment for anything it carries out in Cleaners, and everyone else who your name. Blame yourself for not has been there forever. College speaking up at the City Council Station doesn't seem to want you. meetings and for not voting. But we still do. CHRIS CONNER MIKE ORMAN College Station Bryan y The Eagle City of College Station News ___7Date: � ! i Eternal Winds to grace B- CS The winds, the eternal winds of change are sweeping through the College Station and Bryan community as we all embark on an exciting, challenging new millen- nium. The decisions we implement and the choices we make now will forever alter the life of this community and the lives of the people who call this home now and for generations to come. One of the ways we can ensure the legacy that is Bryan- College Station at the start of the Third Millennium is to embrace the arts that shape us, form us and identify who we are and what we strive for. To that end, at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday — appropriately the first day of spring—the Arts Council of Brazos Valley and the Brazos Valley Millennium Commission will unveil Eternal • Winds, the stunning new Brazos Valley Millennium Sculpture. Designed by noted Caldwell sculptor Joe Smith, Eternal Winds will be located in a public park at Texas Avenue and Walton Drive, across from the main entrance to Texas A&M University. There, for generations to come, Eternal Winds will serve to inspire and move the residents of this area. It will say that we looked to the future with hope, with a vision that we can make our community better. Rising some 25 feet into the air and extending six feet in depth, Eternal Winds invites residents to enter its sheltering spires wafting ever upward. Made of rolled steel, it weighs approximately five tons. Its cost of approximately $30,000 was provided by the cities of Bryan and College Station through the Arts Council and through the generosity of Don Adam and First American Bank, which contributed one-third of the cost. But art isn't about money. It isn't about shaped and twisted steel. It is about vision, the artist's and the viewers'. Each of us will bring our own preconceived likes and dislikes to the sculpture, our own preconceptions and dreams. What we take away from the sculpture may be as ephemeral as the eternal winds themselves, for each time we see Smith's magnificent work, each time we pause to lay our hands upon its cold steel, we will find new meaning, new hope. And that hope will become eternal. Eternal Winds is the latest sculpture gracing public places in College Station and Bryan. The previous sculptures were placed as part of the Arts Council's Art in Public Places pro- gram. We applaud the vision of the Arts Council of Brazos Valley, its supporters and the many artists whose works are on dis- play for all of us to enjoy. We like what we see. • „F q� a. �Fa Eagle photo/Dave McDermand John Wick(left)and members of Full House Blues entertain the crowd gathered for the dedication of the sculpture Eternal Winds by Caldwell resident Joe Smith.The structure Is meant to symbolize the community's smooth transition Into the new mil- lennium. The Eagle 4 City of College Station News Parking problem In reference to the article titled "Northgate Parking Curtailed" (Eagle, March 10): Once again, College Station has figured out how to get a few more cents out of the students at A&M. I guess we shouldn't be surprised. The City Council sees the students as nonvoting cash cows. The students don't realize the impact they have on the local econ- omy, or they would be politically organized. And speaking of the local econo- my, let this be a lesson to the mer- chants at Northgate. If the removal of parking spaces on Northgate has been in the plans from the start, why did you support the building of a parking garage?It is no use to complain now after you got what you wanted in the first place. Always remember, the govern- ment big enough to give you every- thing you want is big enough to take it all away. CHRISTOPHER JAGGE, chairman Brazos County Libertarian Party i The Eagle City of College Station News USDA office to relocate By JOHN KIRSCH Eagle Staff Writer The state headquarters of the Farm Service Agency in College Station will be moved to Temple under a consolidation plan that drew fire Friday from a local con- gressman. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman announced plans Fri- day to consolidate USDA offices nationwide in page Al2 The Bryan-College Station Eagle Saturday,March 11,2000 ■BusinessIA12 an effort to Business save $9 mil- lion and improve*vice. As part h the headquarters n Col the Ag Department announces FSA state headquarters in College Station will be moved to Temple by Sept. 30, 2002, said Wayland office.executive director of the FSA offi lans to consolidate offices FSA U.S.Rep.Kevin Brady,R-Wood p lands,said he was"disappointed" By PHI LIP BRASHER were concerned "that the process USDA used to by the plan and vowed to discuss Associated Press select the statewide headquarters did not result in his concerns with the chairman of the best use of taxpayer dollars." the House Agriculture Committee. WASHINGTON—The Agriculture Department In Texas,USDA's state offices are now located in This decision is not the end of in the process,"said Brady. announced plans Friday to combine its agencies' Temple and College Station,neither of Under is Shurley said Friday that up to state offices in 25 states, including Texas, and Combest's or Stetthohn's districts. Under USDA's half of the office's 60 employees Puerto Rico to save about $9 million a year in plan,the offices would be consolidated in Temple may choose not to make the move. administrative costs and make it easier for people two years from now. to get services. Congress required USDA six years ago to start "It's quite a shock to the employ- After the consolidation, state offices of USDA's streamlining its field operations. But farm-state ees here,"he said. Shurley said the Brazos County Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources lawmakers have criticized job reductions coon ty FSA office in College Station will Conservation Service and rural development pro- offices as excessive. remain open.Offices of the Natur- gramswill all be located at a single site in each The consolidations of state offices are to start al Resources Conservation Ser- state.No jobs are to be cut as a result. this year in Palmer, Alaska; Phoenix; Storrs,. vice and Rural Development In some states,such as Texas,North Dakota and Conn.; Des Moines; Champaign, Ill.; Jackson, Agency will also move to Temple Wisconsin, the state offices for the various agen- Miss.;Durham,N.H.;Lincoln,Neb.;Portland,Ore.; under the plan. cies are located in different cities.In other places, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico; Nashville, Tenn.; The state FSA office in College such as Des Moines,Iowa,the offices are housed in Burlington,Vt.;and Casper,Wyo. Station administers commodity different buildings in the same city. During the 2001 budget year,which starts Oct 1, programs among other functions. Moving the offices together"will help us provide state offices will be consolidated in Bismarck,N.D.; better,more efficient,less costly service to our cus- Trenton, N.J.; Reno, Nev.; Spokane, Wash.; and tomers," Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman Madison,Wis. said. Offices will be consolidated in fiscal 2002 in But the announcement immediately raised con- Montgomery, Ala.; Dover, DeL; Honolulu, Man- cems in Congress. Republican and Democratic hattan,Kan.;Annapolis,Md.;Bozeman,Mont.;and leaders of the House Agriculture Committee said Columbia, S.C., and Temple. Offices already are they would hold a hearing on the consolidations combined in the remaining states. and also have them reviewed by the General On the 'Net: Agriculture Department site: Accounting Office. http://www.usda.gov The panel's chairman, Larry Combest,R-Texas, House Agriculture Committee: http://agriculture. and ranking Democrat, fellow Texan Charles Stenholm, issued a joint statement saying they house The Eagle City of College Station News orthgate par n curtai* led CS council eliminates 400 spaces, meters 67 By COLLEEN KAVANAGH ' Council members received a petition prior to the Eagle Staff Writer I �Q 100W decision that contained more than 15 signatures from business owners and managers opposing the Almost 400 parking spaces in Northgate will be plan. moved and 67 more will become metered parking They said it would hurt their business because er a plan unanimously approved Thursday by they rely on the close, short-term, unpaid parking the College Station City Council. along College Main. Of those spaces, 27 will be removed on College "The parking on College Main is our lifeblood," Main from Church Street to University Drive, said Bernie Guessner of Aggieland Cleaners. "Think despite pleas from business owners who said it will about the dry cleaners. Would you park two blocks put them at a competitive disadvantage. No date was away? set for the changes to take effect. "I thought Northgate redevelopment was about City Council members said they have worked to make Northgate, the oldest area in College Station, See PARKING, Page A14 more "pedestrian friendly" but have tried to main- tain a partnership with business owners. "The City Council has worked with that area to the tune of$13 million in public investment,"Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said. "We are not going to be able to work and solve everyone's problems all the time. That's my frustration. "I don't want to jeopardize all the hard work you as merchants and we as the city have put in the area." City officials said the removal of on-street parking _ has been part of the strategy for redeveloping North- gate, which began more than a decade ago. That strategy has involved adding off-street, paid parking—a 115-space parking lot, which opened in the fall of 1998, and a four-story, 725-space parking garage, which is in its final design stages. The plan was developed by city employees to address safety and public access concerns that became magnified when cars parked on both sides sowed the street, officials said. • Inlow, Cross from Nagle to South all," said Robert Rose of Cycles Park ing College Avenue. Etc. On-street parking in Northgate Robert Forrest, the owner of residential areas will be Sarge's Army/Navy store,echoed From A9 removed, and a residential per- their concerns. mit-parking plan will be estab- ,Most of us will try to survive," revitalizing business, and we lished. he said. seem to have been forgotten in City officials said the change this," Guessner said. "Quite would not happen immediately, frankly,my business will not sur- and the council directed city vive if the parking goes away." employees to make the transition Also in the plan, all on-street as easy as possible. <` parking will be removed from Merchants who attended the �. Church Street, and parking along workshop session talked outside x, x University Drive from Tauber to the council chambers after the Wellborn will be metered. decision was made, many saying Parking from the Brazos that they were disappointed in Duplex Property will be removed, the outcome. along with on-street parking on "It's clear that the merchants' Culpepper, Milam , Dogwood, concerns were not considered at The Eagle ( City o f College Station lon News to alfirins , . d _W COLLEEN KAVANAGH x and LA Hipp Viatel, an internation P�n Si on Eagle Staff Writers munications com al telecom- panY that recent- and other fees. lY merged with Destia Communica_ In return, companypro- The College Station Citytions, and cityposed a insoon Thursday a o Council company needs a larger said the $9 5 million capital invest- incentive approved economic ger local faciii- meat — an $8 5 million, 80,000 Develo packages to help Viatel ty to house its rapidly grow. square-foot building by March 2001 py nt Its Station operation g and $1 million Company and ■ N01thgate spaces The company has been tunes and equipment b niture, fix- the Recharge- t0 be removed/A9 area since 1 m the companyY 2008. The able Battery 9% and has offices in also plans to hire at least Bryan and College Station. Viatel with°a customer service employees Corporation expand their business is trying to consolidate the facili- operations. a mmunum average sal ties in College Station's business been �' 421 salary of The council also a ceees nter a ffcials said. w a5 customer service tribute greed to con $35,200 to help fund a rail agreement gives Viatel 14.5 roman study to determine whether }�a acres of land valued at $16, 172 um average salary of tracks should be relocated from the Viatel will receive3S'�'and meat. according to the agree- city because of an anticipated tax abatement valued at partial e Viatel w' increase in rail traffic. $142,000.Also the coin ill retain 260 full-time a $42,500 company will get equivalent employees, according to grant in building, permit See COUNCIL, Page Ag Council From A t the agreement. City officials said there direct costs to College are no because the land is g Station by the city,and no already owned are proposed. other incentives Counc-an Ron Silvia said he was concerned about fmancial loss- es the corporation recorded in recent years. David Lacli chief corporate counselor for the New York-based company, said the financial condi- tions are typical for technology businesses. "The nature of the telephone business is the construction of ttb r Optic networks is a very capi" tal-' said. proposition," Lachur A company official wrote a letter to council members stating that the losses for 1999 were less than thos the previous year. In 1999 Via tel e $18 million compared to $31.8 million a year earli state er, the letter d. Union Yacitic-officials estimate Lachur said that once the infra that train traffic will increase structure is in place, the company through the area, and in the next Will show a positive cash flow. five to 10 years it will need to add a Councilmen Anne Haven more second rail line. The study will Dennis Maloney address whether the additional time to study the company's pay- track should be built next to the roll, but the others lwere ready to existing one or if the tracks should make a decision— passed Cor be moved. The Rechargeable Battery oCOr- in other action,the council: poration, a battery ■Contracted with Brinkley Sar- research and developmentCol- gent Architects for conceptual from ny, will receive $16, 344 planning of the future city center. lege Station,according to the agree The consultant will work with a ment that was approved unani council-appointed committee on mously. 4 344 cash site selection criteria, site analysis That includes a $ , city and a list of uses. The consultant incentive recommended by also will create at least three con staff,instead of a tax abatement.In ' return, the company will make an $840,000 capital investmentb 5 December 2002,including hiring new employees and retaining 13. The Bryan-College Station ECo- ceptual site layouts. idents nomic Development incentives*C ron In 1998, College Station res offered the followingapproved $1.56 million for the ■ $30,000 cash from the EDC acquisition of land for a future development fund• municipal office center. $12,000 cash from College Sta 0 Contracted with Mitchell & tion. Morgan L.L.P. for the rehabilita- r the tion.$10,000 cash from Brazos Coup tiongof Church contract,Mitchell street' Undc proposed$79,000 ty. $8 000 cash from Bryan. &Morgan will provide engineering will receive $5,000 design, surveying, geotechnical The company engineering a month for one year. and transportationfor the project The EDC will ask the Texas services. Money eneral project Departmbliga- ent of Economic Develop wotild come from g uni devel ment to waive out of state universi tion bonds and community ty and college tuition for all new opment block gr period light employe ns and will assist the com- Spent $57, 159 on Pe pany in the application process for ing poles and fixtures m the South- ob training Pros Funds for any and � j qualifies. side Historic District. �? in which the company q, the project are available in he- The agreement provides for a prorated recapture of the money in improve- Neighborhood fundo and theHotel Motel the event of default, and the incen- tives primarily wiIl be used for fund. leased space, officials e eat after q will total 10,000 square the expansion. planning The Metropolitan Organization will hire a consulting firm to complete the railroad study The total cost of the transportation study is $1.1 million, with local entities required to Pr vide$35,200 Texas A M each. Brazos County, already have agreed to contribute money.Union Pacific Railroad has given $40,000. The Bryan City Council will n similar action TuesdayFee cover the balance of the costs. 0 United States College Census 2000 Countz* ngOn you .f * * * Why does it matter if I fill out a Census form? This population count will determine the quality of life for residents of College Station and Texas for the next 10 years. States with larger : populations receive more representation in the U.S. House of Representatives: (Congress) and get back more of the tax dollars that are taken out of their :.pay checks. •••• To College- Station., this means more funding! Accurate Census numbers mean more funding for: -Public schools : (new schools, equipment and programs) • Health services (more hospital beds) : •New and better roads -Head Start and day care programs : -Public transportation : • Women, Infants & Children (WIC) food grants • Programs for senior citizens and troubled youth • Jobs and assistance for those who are unemployed and seeking work : • Treatment and counseling for persons with addictions Census 2000 information will also be used to redistrict Brazos County for; equal representation and to plan for government services (utility services : libraries, post offices, etc.) and commercial growth (grocery stores, banks, drug stores, etc.). 0 How do I know that my answers won't be used against me? 1 Federal law protects your answers. By law, the Census 1 Bureau cannot share your answers with the IRS, the FBI, the Immigration Service, or any welfare agency. No court of law, not ; even the President of the United States, can access your individual responses. Census data is absolutely confidential. Census workers must pass security and employment reference checks. They are sworn to secrecy and the penalty for violating this confidentiality 1 agreement is a $5,000 fine and a five-year prison term. 1 � * How does this work and what should I expect? j The Census questionnaire will be mailed to your home in mid-March. Completed questionnaires should be mailed back by Census Day, April 1, 2000. Additional questionnaire forms are available at the local Census Office or at Be Counted sites 1 jthroughout the City. All Census forms are postage-paid. If you do j not return your Census form, a Census worker will visit you to help you fill it out. In addition, Questionnaire Assistance Centers (QAC) ; have trained staff to help you fill out your form. Call the Census 2000 Office at 595-1021 or 1-888-325-7733 for hours of operation. College Station QAC Locations Lincoln Recreation Center (1000 Eleanor) jCommunity Development (903 Texas Avenue) i College Station Public Library (1818 Harvey Mitchell Parkway S.) Utility Customer Service Bldg. (310 Krenek Tap Road) Listen to Aggie 96 and Mix 104.7 - Ike official radio stations of College Station Census 2000. 'W March � I Renovations start 0 0 in WELLBORN 3Iq BY BRADY CREEL ContinWdfromlm The Battalion f Mitchell Parkway togett�: Ask Aggies what frustrates them most, and traf nd parking Mosley said they will also extend Longmire from are likely responses.But although improvements are in the works,. Birmingham to Graham Road. construction projects in College Station are likely to make matters We want to take some pressure off of the Har- worse before they get better. vey Road and Texas Avenue intersection to help Wellborn Road,one ofthe main thoroughfares that runs between main with that current traffic-carrying capacity,"Mosley campus and West Campus,will undergo a deep rehabilitation project start- said."A lot of these[improvements]are trying to ing in April. get additional north-south carrying capacity to take "It is really just it off of Texe*venue and Wellborn Road." going in there and Ross Street will receive an upgrade over the removing the old next 12 to 14 months.The section between Reed pavement and McDonald and the Chemistry Building will re- `, putting in new ceive the most work.During that time,the street pavement," said will be partially or totally closed off. Pat Williams,area Gary Jackson,Bus Aprfl Operations manager,said route 1114 engineer for the changes will be significantly revamped beginning,Fall Texas Department 2000 BusOperMonswillbegin gtheroutenaps of Transportation. after spring break in anticipation of the pedestrian pas- Duringdaytime ewa construction,working hours,one sag"I think with any co h will begin inhaver a0co- travel lane will be ,you shut down for con- struction impact,"Mosley said."We will try to mini- struction.All lanes CODY WAG HE BATTALION mize that as much as possible." will be reopened at The Texas Department of Transportation night. will be closing Wellborn road during the Pat Williams day time for four months this summer to said the Wellborn repair the pavement.The project will be project should take completed in two phases. about four months. "It is going to be during the summer,"said Tom Williams,director of Parking,Traffic,and Transportation services(PTTS)."A student pop- ulation of 15,000 is much better than one of 45,000." Tom Williams said PTTS will provide traffic direction and control if necessary,but he does not expect traffic to be any worse than it was .when Texas and University Avenues were under construction. "We are all going to have to get into queue and be patient,"Tom Williams said. The rehabilitation project of Wellborn Road is only one of many construction projects taking place in College Station over the next year. Bob Mosley,city engineer for the City of College Station,said an upgrade to Anderson Street was just completed,and it should provide additional capacity for a north-south flow of traffic. "We are trying to get a little better flow options so if[drivers]don't have Texas Avenue, they can still get in the north/south corridor," Mosley said. Mosley said new streets are currently in design for College Station. A street is slated to be built that will run from Luther to George Bush West.The second phase of that project will tie Holleman and Harvey See WELLBORN on Page 2. The Eagle City of College Station News _TD ate. aI uJ DecisionOne defended Officials tell commissioners local office safe By LAURA HIPP ple and signed a contract for $10 million a year Eagle Staff Writer with another business, he said. "They're not going to hire all these people and do Economic development officials told Brazos all this training if Tey don't have some kind of County commissioners Tuesday that the local confidence that they're going to work,"Stuart said. DecisionOne Corp. office will not be hurt by the Officials at the Bryan office could not be reached parent company's bankruptcy proceedings. for comment Tuesday. DecisionOne Holdings Lynn Stuart, chairman of the Bryan-College Corp. stock dropped to 9/32 at the close of the mar- Station Economic Development Corp., said ket Tuesday, which is 25 percent below the previ- DecisionOne in Bryan will continue to grow as ous day's price. The stock is being traded on the planned. OTC Bulletin Board. The Frazer, Penn.-based DecisionOne Holdings The company's Bryan call center opened in late Corp.filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Feb. 14. The 1999 and received an incentive package from city computer support services company filed the and county officials. The company received a par- prepackaged plan for reorganization in a Delaware tial property tax exemption from the county and federal court. city of Bryan during the next 10 years. The move turned DecisionOne's debt into egvity To continue receiving the tax abatement, and made its creditors majority owners. DecisionOne must employ 200 employees by the "If these folks had not thought that this was a end of 2000, said Robert Malaise, vice president of very good deal, they would not have taken equity," administration for the EDC. It must employ 500 he said. "We feel very positive about what's going people by 2002. to happen." The gross payroll must be at$4.8 million by Dec. A hearing is set for March 21 in Delaware to pos- 31 and$12 million by 2002, Malaise said. sibly remove the company from bankruptcy, he The package also included: said. ■A 51,000-square-foot facility owned by the EDC. _ "There's basically a new corporation to do busi- ■A capital investment of$7.6 million($4 million ness," Stuart said. by the EDC and$3.6 million by DecisionOne Corp.) Precinct 4 county commissioner Carey Cauley ■ A building occupied by DecisionOne with a Jr. said after the meeting that he was not worried triple net lease for $1 per year. (DecisionOne will about the fate of the local office. pay taxes, maintenance and insurance.) "You're always concerned with somebody who ■A 10-acre tract of land that was donated by the declares bankruptcy,"Cauley said. "It appears that developers of the University Drive Business the company in Bryan-College Station is doing Center. well." ■ An infrastructure brought to the 10-acre site Stuart said local businesses who have had trans- by the city of Bryan. actions with DecisionOne will be paid. ■A commitment by the EDC for a$4 million loan In the past month,the company has hired 60 peo- from Bank of America. The Eagle City of College Station News I CoRwKwimissioners hear plans for golt course Court may ultimately decide Bryan's role in $275 million private-public resort project By KELLY BROWN Country Club at University Ranch. zone, or TIF. The financing y y y y Eagle Stajf writer 3 I�\ ing method sioner Care Cs plan said Tuesday the tll/ The $275 million project calls for allows for that geographical area to be favor the city's plan to create a TIF. Bryan to contribute$26.8 million to the exempt from paying city and county Commissioners Bill Thornton and The Brazos County Commissioners private-public venture that has drawn taxes.In this case,it could be for up to Tony Jones said they are undecided Court could have the final say in criticism from concerned residents. 25 years. School taxes would still be and have many questions. Commis- whether the City of Bryan helps fund a About$5.5 million would come from paid and could generate an estimated sioner Randy Sims said if pressed to multimillion-dollar golf course resort, Bryan's oil and gas revenues,as well as $82.5 million over the life of the TIF. decide now, he would be against the an issue expected to go before voters on settlement money earmarked for City officials said Bryan can not sup- county's participation. March 28. improving Bryan's image that the city port the capital improvements in the Sims said even if the golf course The five-member court heard Tues- received from a now-defunct arsenic TIF zone without the county's partici- resort, which is expected to include a day from two city councilmen, who producing plant. pation, which makes up four-tenths of residential development,was not built detailed the city's proposed financial The additional $21.3 million would the TIF. role in Traditions Golf Course and come from a tax-increment finance County Judge Al Jones and Commis See DECISION,Page AS that will be created solely by this oj Decision pr"Act.tax-increment finance zone is leveraging something you LFro*'Al I don't currently have,"Coyle said. Two residents asked commis- in west Bryan, other developers sioners to vote in favor of the would build there,bringing in tax plan,not because they approve of dollars. the city giving a tax exemption to I think this project gives away a corporation, but because they too much," Sims said. "I have do not want the city to have to nothing against the city council, pay the full amount of the TIF. its such a good deal,why is rank Thurmond said resi- .ty paying so much?" dents outside the TIF will be pay- auley said he disagrees on a ing for services for those inside philosophical basis with TIF the zone. zones and tax abatements, but "That's an indirect way to help said the county and cities have others pay for their police, fire already set a precedent for eco- and other city services," Thur- nomic development. mond said. "We've been giving govern- Beth Price,who helped forma ment money to other TIFs over residents' group to oppose the the years, sometimes when the city's plan, told commissioners person is already a millionaire," that she had several problems Cauley said. "Nobody stood up with the project; including the then and said,'no.'We give to the length of the TIF; no new study eastside business,and this would has been done to see if a project be a fast on the west side, but would be valid on the west side, now people are against it all of a and no financial reports from the sudden." companies have been made avail- Cauley, a former history and able. social studies teacher, said Col- "It's amazing what they're will- lege Station is reaping the bene- ling to give away,"Price said. fits of progressive thinking. Councilman Kenny Mallard, "If A city doesn't grow,it dies," who spoke to the commissioners, said Cauley,adding that he would along with Councilman Mike have to hear a good reason for Beal, said the city has to look voting against the TIF zone. If down the road 25 years and you don't keep increasing your beyond. tax base, you end up like a "A TIF ends up paying for Detroit." itself,"he said,adding that 43 out The 27-hole golf course, which of 50 states have cities participat- will be home to Texas A&M Uni- ing in TIF zones."This project is I versity's men and women golf an investment in Bryan's future." teams,will be designed and part- ly owned by pro golfer Jack Nick- laus. Development agreements approved by the Bryan City Council call for 225 acres for the golf course and 25 acres for a hotel, conference center and resort area. The remaining land ides residential housing, .-ding to the plan. ~lubCorp USA of Dallas must sell at least Boo memberships before the development agree- ments could go forward. Jones said he would be hard pressed to vote against the Bryan TIF, especially since the county supported the Wolf Pen Creek TIF in College Station, which includes plans to for a hotel and conference center. Thornton declined to comment further. Jones said the city appears to be working with "a lot of hypo- thetical numbers," that do not seem realistic. "I'm undecided right now because I have a problem with a few things, but in the next few weeks I plan on asking a lot of questions,"Jones said. Tom Coyle,Bryan's director of development services and project director,said a TIF asks the city county to divert future taxes f t� The Eagle City of College Station News Date: U& N CS to review economic package GENDA ITEMS On Thursday, the College Station City Council will Incentive could help two local companies with expansion plans consider the following agenda items: By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Viatel, an international tele- asked to approve its share of the$1.131 Economic incentive package to help two local Fagle Staff Writer R i��1 communications company that recently million railroad study. g cam,VfIJV merged with Destia Communications, Federal funds, combined with a companies expand. The College Station City Council on needs a larger local facility to house the required 20 percent local match, will ■ Spending $35,200 to help fund a railroad eco- Thursday will consider economic incen- company's rapidly growing Bryan and fund the study. nomic feasibility and location study to see whether rail tive packages to help two local compa- College Station area operation. Bryan will consider contributing the tracks should be moved because of an anticipated nies expand. There will be a public hearing on the same amount on March 14. Brazos increase in train traffic. The council also will consider spend- incentive package. County and Texas A&M University ■An incentive package for the Rechargeable Bat- ing$35,200 to help fund a railroad eco- The council also will consider an have already agreed to pay their share, tery Corporation, a battery technology research and nomic feasibility and location study to incentive package for the Rechargeable and Union Pacific Railroad officials development company that has requested incentives see whether rail tracks should be moved Battery Corporation,a battery technolo- agreed to pay$40,000. to help expand its current University Drive location. because of an anticipated increase in gy research and development company The workshop session is set for 3 p.m. 0 Approval of College Station's share of the$1.131 train traffic. that has requested incentives to help in the council chambers of city hall,1101 million railroad study.Federal funds,combined with a Economic incentive packages will be expand its current University Drive Texas Ave. required 20 percent local match,will fund the study. considered for Viatel Inc. and the location. The regular meeting is scheduled for 7 Rechargeable Battery Corporation. In other action, the council will be p.m.in the chambers. The Eagle City of College Station News Lam. I CS council denies golf Pen Creek project extension By COLLEEN HAVANAGH 3 ,I VV service, 200-room Sheraton Hotel. College Station days. F49L St4ffWnfer would own the$6.5 million,45,000-square-foot confer- 4( The council went back into closed session,opened ence center to be built adjacent to the hotel,paid for The COntraCt the session again and unanimously voted to deny the College Station City Council members denied a by city revenue bonds. requires them to extension and adhere to the terms of the contract. request Monday from the developers of the Wolf Pen The council fast discussed the issue Monday for 1 have it[financing] '"There is still a citywide commitment to the Wolf Creek hotel and conference center to extend the pro- 1/2 hours in closed session,and then asked the devel- Pen Creek area," said Councilman James Massey. ject's financing deadline an additional 30 days. opment team to write a check for a$200,000 line of by that "'Phis is not a step backward." The council said it will follow the original contract, credit—the amount the city would receive if the [original](late 9 9 City Attorney Harvey Cargill said the council's dated April 15,1998,which gives the developers until agreement fell through, according to the contract decision meant that the city would "explore all March 13 to close on their portion of the$27.5 million The city would hold the check until the requested - —LYNN WILHANEY options as provided for by the contract,"but refused public-private partnership. March 24 deadline. to say what those options were. "Basically,the contract requires them to have it by Councilman Ron Silvia told the developers that if college S+at on mayor McMianey said the council still is under contract that date," the Lynn McIlhaney said. "If they the financing goes through as anticipated,the check with Wolf Pen Creek Limited and cannot discuss its don't,by contract,the default goes into effect,and would not be cashed. After a 10-minute closed discussion,the developers other options. they owe$200,000[to the city]." "At least we have a commitment that's more than said they would not agree to the line of credit,but "We said 'We're working with you, and we will The developers—Wolf Pen Creek Limited—have just words,"he said."A commitment on paper is the would follow the terms and conditions in the contract been working to close on the financing to build a full only thing we're comfortable with." because they were only asking for an additional 18 See PROJECT,Page A2 dent of Dalmac Investments,Wolf Project Pen Creek Limited's development and management corporation, said Monday that the money has From Al been transferred from Japan into a Swiss bank account. Morgan work with you,' but when they Weinstein has told Wolf Pen commented that they would Creek Limited that the money adhere to the contract,the council would be available by the end of decided to do the same," Mcil- March haney said. "We're hoping that 11As it turns out,the mechanics they will have the financing by of trying to get that complete and that date. re-establishing links through The Original deadline to close Switzerland took longer than was Nov.13,but a default agree- anticipated,"White told the coun- ment gave the developer 60 days to cil "We still have an awful lot of finalize it,officials said.In Janu- confidence in this pro "t ject." ary, the council postponed any White said the ]and owner decision on the �.rissed deadline would be"receptive"to selling the until the end of February. land to the city if the project fell Wolf Pen Creek officials said the through — an example of the financial contracts have been tied development team's confidence in up with the lender,Morgan Wein- the project stein& Co. of California, which Council members said they did has committed$17 million to the not think that was enough of a Project. The lender has merged commitment. with a Japanese corporation,offi- McBhaney said the council cials said,causing the delay. hopes the financing comes In 1997,voters gave approval for through by March 13 because the the city to issue$6 million in rev- project was deemed viable in an enue bonds for the conference cen- updated feasibility study. ter. The additional $500,000 is "We're hoping they know that, because of increased costs. and will have the financing com. Tim White, senior vice presi- pleted by that date,"she said. The Eagle News F1 U­11- 11 forecasts 1,000 jobs in CS By LAURA HIPP software development to College Eagle Staff Writer Station." Twister had $140 million in rev- A telecommunications compa- enues last year, he said, adding ny that recently opened a branch that he expects that number to in College Station announced almost triple by the end of this Thursday that it might employ year. 1,000 workers in the next few The Bryan-College Station Eco- years, if projections hold. nomic Development Corporation Kamal Alavi, president of hosted a reception for Alavi and Twister Communications, his company at the Bryan-College brought his Internet company — Station Chamber of Commerce Twister On-Line.com—to College office. Station in January. The company Alavi said one focus of the Col- specializes in calling cards and lege Station company will be to multimedia services. create a distance-learning pro- "As I was going to school here gram for universities. With cam- [Texas A&M University] in the eras in classrooms and a totally '70s, I never thought that in 20 interactive computer program, years we could establish in Col- students could participate in lege Station," said Alavi, "We saw classes from across the world. that we really have to bring our "IL . . , . y will get the knowl- t k Eagle photo/Dave McDermand Twister Communications president Kamal Alavi addresses a group of local business leaders at the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce office in Bryan on Thursday. edge of the university," he said. expects to employ about 100 peo- "They could participate in the ple by the end of the year, includ- class remotely." ing professionals with experience Twister On-Line.com began in developing software. developing software with about 30 The company hopes to keep graduate students from Texas graduates in town,rather than see A&M in January, said general them leave to Austin, Houston or manager Patrick Day. San Jose, Calif., he said. A&M students and graduates ., are the top resource, he said. He See TWISM, Page A2 r r Twister From Al The company's future plan for software is to create fully interac- tive e-commerce, such as a Twister shopping mall, Day said. Eventually, company officials want to create software that allows Internet users to view tele- vision, access phone services and use teleconferencing at their com- puter screen. "All of this software will be developed in College Station," Alavi said. "We want to make this a new Silicon Valley to use the potential we have in Bryan-Col- lege Station." The company employees 300 people at its headquarters in Con- roe, where it hopes to grow to 3,000 people in three to five years, Alavi said. The Earle g F. online: 3 www.theeagle.com ma(«1 Z) The Eagle News 11 Rail pro'Oect wi will 9 studget y funds31Z._ A&M, Union Pacific to make donations By LAURA HIPP A move in February to proceed Eagle Staff Writer with the study was postponed pending approval by Union Pacif Union Pacific Railroad and ic. Doug Woods,manager of indus- Texas A&M University have try and public projects at Union agreed to help fund a $1.1 million Pacific, said "we want to con- study on how best to relocate rail- tribute the$40,000 to get this thing road tracks through the Bryan- started." College Station area, officials said The cost of the study was Wednesday. reduced by $200,000 after negotia- The policy committee of the tions with Carter and Burgess, Bryan-College Station Metropoli- said Michael Parks,director of the tan Planning Organization also planning agency. He said the will ask Brazos County and the study should begin in May once cities of Bryan and College Sta- funding from Bryan, College Sta- tion to each contribute $35,200 to tion and the county is approved. the study. "I'm hopeful that we can get Texas A&M will contribute them to all equally contribute," $35,200 and Union Pacific $40,000. Parks said. Carter and Burgess Inc. will con- If a government entity does not duct the 15-month rail relocation contribute, the planning agency study. It will evaluate whether to would have to divide the remain- relocate the railroad tracks that ing cost among the participants, cut through each city. Carter and he said. Burgess officials will consider the "Ultimately, all entities will environmental and economic have a vested interest in this impact of moving the tracks, as well as gather public input. See RAIL, Page A9 Rail and Wellborn Road. he said. Robert Appleton, of the Texas Railway relocation has been y Department of Transportation's discussed since February 1998, From A7 Bryan district, said that "grade when A&M officials augges a separations will help traffic in moving the tracks away from study, and it will be a communi- and of itself, whether or not the campus and the two cities. ty-wide effort," Parks said. railroad is moved." Federal funds will cover the Work on the Villa Maria pro remaining costs. Jett will cost about$5 million and Transportation officials will is scheduled to begin in 2002, he T a �e continue with plans to create said. The land to be purchased is F grade separations at the intersec- beinga g `' L appraised. Changes at dealers lighting tions of the tracks and Villa George Bush Drive and Wellborn can dCm.��" Maria Road, George Bush Drive Road are in the planning stages, K 5;°'-'` ��"' '' m uch if The Eagle News qXJ DecisionOne still OK An exciting concept am.writing to address commu- nity concerns about Decision- he Bryan City Council mem- One. On Feb. 15,I received a let- Their ers should be applauded for ter from George De Sola, the new accomplishments rather CEO of DecisionOne. The letter than bombarded with an onslaught reinforces the'commitment of negativity. Traditions Golf DecisionOne has made to build a Course is an exciting and meticu- strong technical support business lously planned idea that benefits in Bryan. the entire county. ' Repair bad streets In the community support area, Unless 800 memberships are sold DecisionOne joined the Chamber of before construction begins, Club Commerce at the Platinum level, Corp isn't proceeding. If that feats a widow on a fixed income and it was a session sponsor for accomplished, then any doubts as JWr has owned homes in Bryan Tuesday's Bryan-College Station to the validity of the project should for the past 13 years.I think I Chamber of Commerce Economic be laid to rest. In addition, this pro- represent many other Bryan tax Outlook Conference of the Brazos ject should serve to strengthen the payers. Valley. DecisionOne moved into its ties between Bryan and Texas A&M I have been to many meetings new building on Nov. 22. University. Citizens of Bryan were about the proposed private golf " We received an article from the originally responsible for bringing course project. Last week's City Philadelphia Inquirer that explains A&M to Brazos County. Council meeting was packed with how the creditors of the company Increasingly, though, the city has College Station people who support have now become the equity own- watched as its neighbor to the the project, which will benefit for- ers in the reorganized company as south has reaped most of the bene- mer A&M students and the school's the last phase of the restructuring fits. If this project doesn't happen golf teams. Why are the Bryan tax- process. According to the article, in Bryan, it will happen in College payers expected to pay for this pri- customers, employees and general Station. vate country club?And who will R� creditors are not affected by the Naysayers, recall some of the pay for the roads, streets,fire and plan. DecisionOne has confirmed council's recent accomplishments. vices?The taxes from this sction, and epr ject' the same in writing to the Bryan- Downtown Bryan has significantl College Station Economic Develop improved. It is not the hub of acti i- money y will only which will not be paid backthe TIF ment Corp. DecisionOne has just hired and ty that some would like, but thanks for 23 to 25 years). trained another 60 employees, to city-sponsored projects like the I am very disappointed with this which brings total employment to LaSalle Hotel, the Main Street City Council for this project which 295. It has signed its second con- Program and private investment, has no benefits for Bryan taxpay- tract and will add 50 more employ- Downtown is well on its way. In the ers. ees by the end of March. At this last five years, the city-owned Blinn I would much rather my money employee level, DecisionOne will be College campus has been instru- be spent on Bryan's disgraceful 72.5 percent above its required per- mental in stimulating the area streets, namely College Avenue, formance level for 2000. served by East 29th Street and Villa Wellborn Road and 29th Street. DecisionOne has met or exceeded Maria Road. Park Hudson is prov- ELAINE K. VAN all of its contractual requirements mg to be an ingenious move. Bry 0 with the Brazos County communi- Granted, DecisionOne is having ty. It contributed$300,00o to the some trouble at the corporate level, building escrow account and paid but the local office shows no signs its property taxes for 1999. We of closing. The Physician's Center expect it to continue to perform in is nearing completion, and an exec- this same manner. utive housing development is in the LYNN STUART, chairman works. Sanderson Farms has creat- Bryan-College Station ed more than 1,000 jobs in addition Economic Development Corp. to its contribution to area agribusi- ness. Home construction is soaring in east, west and established parts of Bryan. The Bryan Business Park is expanding. The list goes on and almost all of it found a beginning with the Bryan City Council. Congratulations are in order here, not contempt. BRADLEY R. HURT College Station s How many blunders? hen annexation became the hot topic in the news last spring and summer, the cit- izens of Bryan began to notice their City Council. Until that time the council pretty well did what it pleased with little notice. When Missing the game . Citizens Against Annexation circu- lated petitions asking for a vote on Thannexation, the council quickly is is in response to the letter y bout excessive fees for Bryan stopped that by filing a lawsuit ittle League.baseball. I feel against the organization and Karen sorry for the parents who have to Hall. These petitions were signed in put up with this. Not all Bryan good faith by citizens in Bryan, not leagues are like that. Registration knowing that the City Council had fees are set by each league and can no intention of letting it stand or vary between leagues. getting the issue to ballot. My two children play in Bonham Once the citizens began to watch League. Bonham is more than the council, it became apparent that happy to help parents who cannot taxpayer money was being used for afford the fee by making payment projects as suited the council and arrangements and offering dis- with little benefit to the average cit- counts for more than one child to izen of Bryan. Just to list a few: play. Every league has fund-raisers DecisionOne, with its shaky fman- to help with operating expenses. cials which were known to the city, Bonham League sells raffle tickets, was given a tax abatement and a but children and parents are not beautiful building with free rent;, forced to sell or purchase the tick the LaSalle Hotel was restored to its ets. Bonham rewards the teams for splendor in Downtown Bryan their participation. where the merchants are not being Yes, we are missing what the helped to create an atmosphere game is all about when high fees where anyone would want to shop, prevent children from participating much less spend the night; the exis- in Little League. tence of the Bryan Utilities box at ANITA McWHORTER Kyle Field was brought to light, but Bryan no list of persons entertained was ever given to the citizens of Bryan; and now we have the private Traditions Golf Course and Country Club. No wonder that there is a call for the recall of the council. How many more blunders can the city afford before going bankrupt?Cities do go bankrupt. Bryan taxes are already higher than College Station taxes because Bryan seems to give all businesses moving here tax abate- ments. Elected officials need to remem- ber to listen to the people who elect- ed them. PAT UNDSEY-MATA Bryan ••I add a fifth floor to a new parking College Station Community Council garage. It also approved a con- Health Center. The council has tract for asbestos abatement and approved $126,000 to support the demolition of buildings at the facility. From Al garage site. ■ Pulled consideration of an and come up with a specific use." The city will, however, spend additional $26,200 for the Bryan- The me up l's decision does not $7'� for the design of a second College Station Chamber of Com- entry and exit to the 725-space merce Convention & Visitors prevent Forrest from going back garage. Maloney and Councilman Bureau to fund a full-time festival to the planning commission with Ron Silvia said College Station and events coordinator from the aamore specific use, city officials voters approved the four-story agenda. Forrest said he wants to reno plans and didn't "think it's fair to ■ Approved a resolution to vate the building, which has been change that by adding an addi- support the city of Houston's bid vacant for two years, and add a tional floor. for the 2012 Olympic Games. second floor and a roof fora ff it came to the point where _ restaurant and club. Floyd said if we needed more parking, we can h always consider adding surface e is the tenant, he does not lots intend to use the building as a Silva said. nightclub nor does he intend to The asbestos abatement and use the rooftop. demolition is for facilities at 304, The Northgate Review Board 306 and 310 Church St.; 312 and 214 Second approved of the use, aesthetics College Main and St. The and will and site plan on the condition C city wll i contract with CST Environmen that the rooftop not be used until tal for$76,600. the Northgate Parking Garage is available. In other action, the council: In January, the commission 0 Approved a memorandum of voted a to understanding for College Sta- grant the permit with tion's participation in the collab- the board's recommended condi- orative formation of the Bryan- One week later, Harry Jones, chair of the church's board of trustees, appealed the decision because of the nightclub's prox- [illaty to the church's family cen- ter. "Our Family Life Center is used for Sunday school and has been used for a 10 a.m. worship service," Jones' appeal states. "Furthermore, as we begin reno- vation of our main sanctuary this year,we will relocate all our wor- ship services to the center. So this building is certainly a Sun- day school, and arguably a sanc- tuary as well." Council members said they F hope Forrest and church mem- bers will sit down and discuss future plans because Northgate businesses have concerns about the area's uses as well. "Unfortunately, what we've got is strange bedfellows," Council- man James Massey said. "I hope we can work through that and facilitate that. I think Northgate is too important for all of the interests here to take it too light- ly.,, The council also decided not to Feb( �wj2-31 2W-) The Eagle News encourage development in areas Council other than east Bryan. Resort — Randy Birdwell said Bryan res- idents elected the council to rep- From A 1 resent their best interests — • During public hearings, the something council members have Obtains g been doing all along. council does not respond to ques- �°I like this plan, and I'm not a tions or comments made by the golfer," he said. "I see faces up 4acUng speakers. This was the second there that I trust ... I like what I hearing on the council's plan to see, and I don't need another create atax-increment finance vote." zone, which is required by state Brazos County Commissioner law. The council will have its Carey Cauley Jr. said his dad first reading on an ordinance cre- always had two sayings, one of Bryan residents ating the zone at its March 14 which is "whenever there is a meeting. commotion over something, look Last November, the council to where the money is." address council approved three development "I feel people are tiptoeing agreements for the project,and in around the issues," Cauley said, By COLLEEN KAVANAGH order for those agreements to adding that he was addressing Eagle Staff Writer move forward, the golf course the council as a private citizen. developer, C1ubCorp USA, must "There were other [finance Nearly two thirds of the resi- sell 800 memberships by June. zones] that were on the east side, dents who addressed the Bryan Since November, Citizens in and you didn't hear a word from City Council on Tuesday night in Action was created by residents nobody. Here again, it's the a public forum said they were in opposed to any use of public money. favor of the city's plan to help funds for a private development "We were beginning to think develop an 800-acre golf course without first putting the issue on that Bryan only consisted of the and resort project on the city's a ballot. east side," he said. west side. The cost of the project is esti- Members of the council listened mated at more than $200 million, intently as resident after resident with the city providing about $27 made impassioned pleas for-and million. City officials said $21.3 against - the project, the Tradi- million of that total would come tions Golf Course and Country from tax-increment financing. Club at University Ranch. In tax-increment financing, Many supporters donned stick- business or residential owners in ers with the Traditions logo and the zone pay property taxes that motto, "Stay the Course," to are the same as those of other encourage the council to move for- Bryan residents. But their tax ward with the project. Each of the payments go to the zone rather 26 speakers was greeted with than the city and the county. applause from the proponents or School taxes within the zone opponents depending on what would go to the Bryan school dis- they said during their three- trict as usual. minute speech to the council. Bryan resident Dawn Lee "You've taken insults and been Wakefield accused the council of shouted at, and for $10 a month letting City Manager Mike Con- you have been loyal to Bryan," duff run the city without over- Bryan resident Richard Rosas sight. said. "It's time for the west side of "We elected you to do this," Bryan and north Bryan ... let's Wakefield said. "I believe you make Bryan one of the most beau- [the council] are engaging in tiful places to live." highly speculative ventures, plac- Nine speakers said they either ing our hard-earned tax dollars at opposed the project outright or serious risk ... each and every favored the council putting the time you refuse to place impor- issue on a ballot. tant issues of great magnitude before the voters." See COUNCIL, Page A8 Wakefield said the council's plan to implement a 25-year tax district for the project would indebt residents for 25 years. But other speakers said the time has come for the city to r Beth Price, co-chair for CIA, ■ C1ubCorp will be given free Coyle said: The question of for BETCO Inc., a mini-storage and member Jody Quimby said water for the golf course —more noise and height in the neighbor- manufacturing company, that the project is too risky to pursue than one million gallons a day for hood, which will be near Easter- involves 4.75 acres in the Bryan without a vote. the first two years and half a mil- wood Airport, is not an issue. Business Park. "We've heard all the safety nets lion gallons thereafter. ■Much of the land is in College BETCO's incentive package the city has built in [to the pro- Coyle said: The water is from Station. includes a tax abatement, land, a ject]," Price said. "Where are the the sewer treatment plant and is Coyle said: A small portion of waiver of fee permits and an elec- safety nets for the taxpayers? We not suitable for public consump- land in College Station will not be tric service contract. The compa- elected you to serve the people tion. The city has to find uses for part of the finance zone. That ny, which is headquartered in and don't see you doing that." it, and giving away the water is property was part of the acquisi- North Carolina, will employ 84 Richard Griffin, representing likely to save the city money in tion of the property, Coyle said. people at full capacity and have a the Rosewood Homeowners' the future. Meanwhile, no one addressed gross annual payroll of$10.2 mil- Association, which is near the ■ Residents will be affected by the council on the subject of com- lion. development, said Rosewood and noise fro m the airport. mercial-industrial tax abatement Shirewood homeowners passed a resolution in support of the pro- ject. "West Bryan is an untapped resource, and the golf course will contribute to positive growth," he said. Tom Coyle, Bryan's director of development services, told the council that he wanted to clear any misunderstandings raised by the opposition group. In response to allegations by opponents, Coyle cited key claims and then provided the city's position. Among them: Rp,b�ka,qjZ2, The Eagle News 2CJ End the divisiveness toward reality. I am the third generation in t is time to end any argument my family who has been over the decision by the involved in buying, selling and Bryan City Council to support trading real estate in Brazos Texas A&M and its consultant's County and having involvement selection of a west side location in construction, development for the Traditions Golf Course and finance of real estate. And development. Even Ramiro yes, we have had holdings on the Galindo, the only formal com- west side for 20 years. petitor for our city's help with a Now, let's get down to busi- golfing center, has said that the ness. combination of Texas A&M and ■Is the city paying too much? C1ubCorp of Dallas is the best No. Quite the contrary. I solution. All Bryan should be believe it made a fair deal to all rejoicing. concerned. Instead, Donald A. Adam, Appraisal and market are not Bryan's Donald Trump, and asso- always the same price and often ciates are still touting an east- there is a wide range between side alternative barely in the the two. planning stage, and promoting ■Is the property in the flight divisiveness where divisiveness path to Easterwood Airport? did not have to be. Bryan should No. The flight path to the pri- also understand that the Citizens mary runway is well to the east In Action group does not repre- and the other is well to the west. sent any groundswell of public ■What is the city's cost to fur- opinion. It consists mainly of nish water to the golf course? Adam's friends and associates. There will be little net cost to The leading spokesman for the city—possibly even some Adam is Louis Newman of savings—as it will be furnish- Newman Printing, a director in ing "gray water" and thus saving Adam's First American Bank. an additional treatment other- David Price, husband of Beth wise required before final dis- Price, head of the CIA, is a social charge of the waste water. and business associate of Adam. ■Was the city involved in a Much of the opposition appear- "sweetheart" deal? ing at public meetings on the golf No. The city properly asked project has been requested on any firm or individual interested behalf of Adam. And so on. in the project to submit propos- Bryan needs all the help it can als and evaluated them with get. The mayor and City Council, proper procedures. none of whom have any personal Were other sites considered? ax to grind, are working hard to Yes. Three sites were consid- provide it. Meanwhile, as a pro- ered. First preference was the fessional student of government west side site. Second preference and a former elected Republican was in South College Station and precinct captain in Bryan, I third preference was the eastside strongly urge all Bryan to sup- site. port our elected representatives Is the project economically instead of a terribly self-interest- sound? ed minority pressure group. Yes. I have looked at the city of PAUL P. VAN RIPER Bryan Bryan's numbers on the project as well as other factions num- Project makes sense bers and in my opinion, the city's numbers are realistic and he city of Bryan should be the project practical. Similar pro- applauded for taking posi- jects have been done in other Ttive cities very successfully.steps in making the GLYNN A. WILLIAMS Jr. Traditions golf project move Bryan The Eagle News Tax zone hearing planned Golf course funding on Bryan's agenda By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer A public hearing on the creation of a tax-incre- ment finance zone for Bryan's 800-acre golf course and resort project is scheduled for the Bryan City Council meeting on Tues- day. A second public hear- ing on commercial-indus- trial tax abatement for BETCO Inc., a mini-stor- age manufacturing com- pany, also is on the regu- lar agenda. In July, the city teamed Y COS TRY c.z with C1ubCorp USA and Texas A&M University for Traditions Golf Course and Country Club at University Ranch, which will be the home of the A&M men's and women's golf teams.The golf course will be designed and partly owned by golfer Jack Nicklaus. The council approved three development agree- ments for the project in November. Since that time, an opposition group, Citizens In Action, has objected to the council using public funds on a private development without putting the See TAX, Page A2 r Tax ment financing. The tax abatement hearin; In tax-increment financing, involves 4.75 acres in the Bryar business or residential owners in Business Park. the zone pay property taxes that BETCO's incentive package �FI"Olil Al —� are the same as those of other includes a tax abatement, land, a Bryan residents. But their tax waiver of fee permits and an elec- issue on a ballot. Group members payments go to the zone rather tric service contract. The compa- have said they will pack council than the city and the county. ny, which is headquartered in chambers on Tuesday to put pres- School taxes within the zone North Carolina, will employ 84 sure on the council. would go to the Bryan school dis- people at full capacity and have a The city is considering putting trict.. gross annual payroll of$10.2 mil- "or about $27 million into the $200 The tax-increment finance zone lion. million plus project. City officials would be created on land located The workshop session is set for said $21.3 million of the city's between Villa Maria Road, Texas 4 p.m. in the basement training total would come from tax-incre- 47, F.M. 60 and Harvey Mitchell room of the Bryan Municipal Parkway (F.M. 2818). Building, 300 South Texas Ave. This will be the second and The regular meeting is scheduled T ONE FREE final public hearing as required for 6 p.m. in the council cham- ' by state law. bers of the municipal building. 0 car wrecksr f i. S.• iy � i.�. � iv, rV61 r-2 is Vn twil AAA By GENEVA WPIITMARSA cp Eagle Stqff Writer WRECK SITE Two people were killed and one w 4 person was . critically injured ;�•, � +� zy,� Monday morning in two traffic ao ;. • r� r, fif accidents that occurred within r yards of each other on North Earl Rudder Freeway (Texas 6) in 3 Bryan. The accidents closed both sides �- of the highway for nearly three ' hours. Traffic was rerouted onto the access roads while officials , .cleared the accident scenes. Donald Sam Foster,86,of Bryan was traveling southbound in the h:• northbound lanes between Boonville Road and Old.Reliance, f Road shortly before 9 a.m. when Ernie' Montoya 'of' the -Bryan z his Cadillac hit an oncoming L Police Department. b Chrysler Voyager. Foster was pro- The driver of the van,Catherine ' nounced dead at the scene. Criswell Lester, 38, of College Sta- r R Officials said he may have been tion was listed in critical condi- rc'n driving the wrong way on the tion Monday night at St. Joseph " highway for at least four miles Regional Health Center. r� r before the accident occurred. Officials are uncertain how and Eagle photo/Dave McDermand ,'An eighteen-wheeler swerved where Foster entered the divided out of the way to avoid hitting highway. morning from a van after a almost an hour later In a separate accident in the same area when her him, and the van following the A Brazos County Sheriffs ider Freeway (Texas 6) hit southbound Chevrolet 510 pickup rear-ended a Ford F250 pickup that had eighteen-wheeler didn't have :he accident.A woman died unexpectedly changed lanes. enough time to react," said Sgt. See WRECKS,,Page A3.0 19 0 w , 1 xa� 0 w car fit^ r aim s- S � � r B GENEVA WHYTMAR SH y Eagle Stc� Writer p Two people were killed and x . person was critically inl❑ ;Monday morning in two trz t x ft; ti ........ r+: accidents that occurred wit yards of each other on North 1 Rudder Freeway (Texas 6) n Bryan. The accidents closed both s 1�1u.,` of the highway for nearly t] . hours. Traffic was rerouted , the access roads while off< y �, , ' . • „, '' � ,; cleared the accident scenes. y Donald Sam Foster,86,of B) o was traveling southbound in z ',, k • bets nort bound lanes li 110 or:.d shortly before 91a.me v ` his Cadillac hit an oncor n Chrysler Voyager.Foster was Y nounced dead at the scene. z w Officials said he may have driving the wrong way on highway for at least four I mu", �� ,, �N yr. ;�r � ,�,�. �}}4y� j before the accident occurred. Eagle photo/Dave Mcperrnand "An .eighteen-wheeler sw� out of the way to avoid h Rescue personnel work to tree a victim Monday morning from a van after a almost an hour later In a separate accident In the same area when her him, and the van following man driving a Cadillac south on North Earl Rudder Freeway (Texas 6) hit southbound Chevrolet S10 pickup rear ended a Ford F250 pickup that had eighteen-wheelenough time toe react," s i( the van.The driver of the Cadillac was killed In the accident.A woman died unexpectedly changed lanes. 0 0 N r N 0 saw the F250 being pushed for- N Jane Wilcox, 51, old at the s ene ward by the ran he said. the r lately ran to the other N ,,IL I� w� was pronounced o +11 accident. The driver of the immed 1 Craig 'a accident." other vehicle, jU"` I Williams, 39, of Smithville was The Ee online: www.theeag dram At l issued a citation for an injured. le.com ted to lane change.He was not in} Depa�ent deputy attempted „l don't know if anyone was stop Foster's vehicle after he rubbernecking," Montoya said, spotted it traveling on the wrong „but traffic had slowed dog m for awhile the area because people were w side of the freeway. ,.lie followed him looking at the first wreck.,' eace with his lights and siren going •., precinct 4 Justice of the aPed as and saw the accident happe slowed said Chief Deputy Clyde Collins. Patrick the Fo d ith ad Fifty-three minutes wheneTher doownhwhile the Chevrolet had woman ickup Meese was at the scene of the southbound Chevrolet Sl0 pickup no rear-ended a Ford F250 p o unexpectedly changed lanes. first accident when the second r that unexp crash ... and The accident occurred less than Collision a°d a large loo yards from the first collision. rn y 0 z b C r c� 0 r v, F ainily , � r aid -wec' ' y CS woman remain xtal* A, P. By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Houston'with his wife, who was Eagle Staff Writer transferred'<,to Memorial 'Her- mann Hospi- Michael Lester was . in tal's intensive Knoxville, Tenn.,,.on Valentine's care unit.where Day when he learned that his she is receiving wife,Catherine,had been serious- care for multi- ly injured in a head-on collision ple . fractures, in Bryan. From that moment on, including bro- time mattered. ken ankles, bro Ten minutes later, the 53-year- ken leg, hip, old truck driver learned that his wrist and knee. wife was. alive"and that,rescue ,LESTER "I lose it a workers were trying to pry, her lot," Mr. Lester said. "When I'm from the Chrysler Voyager she talking to her, I try to keep from was driving on her way to rolling in a ball and crying. It's Hearne. hard to do. She's in.a lot of pain." In another 45 minutes,-,he was Police.said Bryan resident Don- on his way to the Knoxville air- ald Sam Foster,86,may have been port to catch a flight to Bryan. He driving,on the wrong side of the was by his wife's side S 1/2'hours road for':at least four miles before later when she left surgery at:St. 'his car collided with Catherine's Joseph Regional Health Center. And Thursday, Lester:was .in ,See ACCIDENT, Page A6 JSIDE The Eagle online: �12 Landers.....A7 www.iheeaglexom Cl Lottery......A9 www.aggiesports.com C B8 Movies....A13 98 Obituaries.A11 Please 14 Opinions...A10 J recycle 38 Weather.....A7 n F E a 2 " 2G02 CTY "r church members are neipmg out as much as possible, Mr. Lester 1s _ said. The Children are staying with Mrs. Lester's boss and good vehicle:He was k friend Donna Logan,and her hus- h, band,James,and their three chil- miu�ixtes later ,lane dren. Church members are coor dinatin meals for the makeshift r th Zulch, was g uthbound fAr family of seven. ckup that un - Anna Vitale, a friend, opened ed.l es. The ac6 an the "Cathy Lester Family Sup- l00 yards . y g port Fund" at Aggieland Credit Mh _ Union, and said she is working with other friends to help the family get everything it needs. val_ ,of her For instance, there is not ` 'splee enough freezer storage in the a sched r Lester home to hold all of the food that has been brought to their found rio oth � house. Parking at the hospital her husband said:` "Her.-leg was fixed today," Mr. costs $8 per day, and phone bills Lester said. "She.has;opened her are mounting, Vitale said. es.,:-and today;she reoO izetl The outpouring of help is for a me. I'd ask her questions and woman who has devoted her life she'd nod her head.',",, to helping others, Vitale said of Lester said doctors estimate Mrs. Lester, whose work takes that his wife's recovery will take her all across the Brazos Valley to about two years. help others �. The couple's two children, Mrs. Lesteer,a Texas A&M Uni- James, 11, and Ann Claire,5, are versity gradoAte, is active in La staying with family friends who Leche .League, a support group have three children of their own. and education group for breast- -But they will go to Houston this feeding mothers, the Head Start weekend to stay with their father program for preschool and and Mrs. Lester's mother. Ann kindergarten children, and the Claire is not old.enough to visit prenatal clinic. • the intensive care unit, but "She is a phenomenal woman James will see his mom as soon — someone-you want to be by as he feels ready to. your side," Vitale said. E "James will see a doctor who The Rev. Andy Doyle of St. will explain what doctors are Francis Episcopal Church,where doing to help her," Lester said. the Lesters are members, said Lester has taken a three month many -parishioners have offered medical leave from the trucking help.Anyone else who would like company to help care for his wife to contribute can call the church and children. at(409)696- 1941. Mrs. Lester, a nurse and the Lester said he is thankful that breastfeeding coordinator for Catherine's outlook is good, even Women, InfWits and Children though the road to recovery will through the;Brazos Valley Com- be long. munity, Action Agency, was on "There's nothing she wouldn't her way to work in�Hearhe at the do for someone at any time," he time of the accident. said. "If you meet her, she's a Back in•---College .Station, ,friend for life. That's the kind of friends, colleagues and fellow person she is." 1b� 0 Opinions/A10 ■ Obituaries /A11 ■ Business IA12 ■ Entertainment I& REGION BRIEFS CS woman taken to Houston hospital A College Station Woman was taken to Hermann Hospital in Houston on Wednesday to receive treatment for injuries she suffered In an accident on North Earl Rudder Freeway in Bryan on Monday morn- ing. . Catherine Criswell Lester, 38, was listed in critical condition. She ` was injured when a man,driving his Oldsmobile Cadillac southbound,in the northbound lane, collided with OR Lester's oncoming Chrysler Voy- ager. Officials said he may have been driving thANrong way on,the freeway 'for` atleast four miles before the accident occurred. The driver of the Cadillac, Donald Sam Foster, 86, of Bryan, 7 was killed in the accident. Just fifty-three minutes later, a woman was:'killed when her south- ] bo�td Cf)evriil 10.pickup.rear- Idnded a Ford�50 pickup that Onexpectedly changed lanes. The accident occurred less;than 100 guards from the first collision. Jane Wilcox, 51, of North Zulch ,�ras pronounced*dead at the scene of the accident. The driver of the other vehicle, Craig Ronald Williams, 39, of Smithville, Texas, was issued a citation for an unsafe sane change. He was not injured. Gar accidents �,. r4`y" rM1"• �µ nyA Nw.IAF,. �'�� U., �� 4 n i r r � n � STUART VILLANUW�GH6¢A Z"ION Ninety-three-year-old Donald Foster of Bryan was killed Monday morning when he drove southbound in the northbound lane of Earl Rudder Freeway and collided with a Plymouth Voyager. Foster at the scene and the driver of the Voyager,Catherine Lester of College Station,was taken to St. Joseph Regional Health Center where she remains in critical condition. A.second collision occurred less than one hour later and 100 yards away when a pickup driven by Jane Wilcox of North Zulch rear-end- ed another pickup. Wilcox died at the scene and the other driver,who was unharmed,was given a ticket for making an unsafe lane change. It is suspected that a traffic build-up round the previous accident contributed. ► ia an stru les to re x r w gg over , 48 resident: injured in deadly car wreck 6 weeks 0-4go 'COEN KAVANAGH n't know if I could'do it." She was moved oufi� ;the le Stq� Writer Police said Bryan resident intensive care unit at Mempri Donald Sam Foster, 86, was dri- al Hermann Hospital four ,'athy Lester remembers feel- ving on the wrong side of North weeks o, but doctors had to helpless as her van spun Earl Rudder Freeway (Texas 6) closely monitor three infec t of control after being on Feb. 14 when his car collided tions. farts of the bone in one ashed head-on by a car that with Cathy's. Foster was killed leg were exposed, so doctors wed her off a highway. in the accident. Lester, a nurse removed muscle tissue from ;he remembers staring in who works for the Women, her back to serve as grafts. She Tor at her crushed legs as Infants and Children program said that has,been the most vehicle came to a stop. And in Bryan, was driving to a hos- painful part of her ordeaL recalls staying awake long pital in Hearne, one of many "The rest of<it, with all the )ugh to tell paramedics to places where she educates peo- fixators [pins], ' is stabilized )ne her family. ple about breastfeeding. well enough,".she said. "I just I remember, and I wish I Seven weeks and 12 surgeries keep hanging on." n't," the 38-year-old College later, Lester remains in Hous- tion resident said. "I was ton, frustrated by a slow recov- Slow recovery ig in the car thinking, `God, ery process — one that doctors Cathy begafl`physical thera Eagle photo/Butch Ireland ou'll let me go,I will.'I knew estimate will take at least two py at The Institute for Rehabil- A cage of pins holds Cathy Lester's shattered bones in place on her right foot. Lester vas horrible, and I'knew it years — and determined to do was Injured during a deadly collision In Bryan on Feb. 14. The other person Involved ild be a long way back. I did- what she can to speed it up. See LESTER, Page A6 in the accident, Donald Sam Foster, died at the scene. I . Bee Swarm INSIDE The Eagle online: Brazos Sunday.D1 Lotter .......Al ` Generations of RoyWeaver's family have Y Y wwwtheeagle.com Y Business ......E1 Movies ........C& www.aggiespo;rts.com spent more than a century surrounded Classified .....D2 Obituaries ...All ad." by the low and steady buzz of honey Crossword.....D2 Opinions.....A10 Please bees on their Grimes County property. Horoscope.....D2 Sports .....B1 Brazos Business/El Landers ... ..A7 Weather ......A7 recycle �- s � News `Yeah, I can kick this,"' she said. room. "I think she's doing great, time out of their lives to worz•y :star "Then, there are daYS�_uvheB 'q ,but she:-s ? Mgt tt hard to hold on. _ r' i, tmat tlat� athy whole+deft side . "What I want is a recipe on how and I just hold her hand Rndodo.P-N,�'aif4 © .outpatien care_ by 1., do this,and if I do this,this and what I can. 'She's my. fop priori Y =bf June. She will and Research at the Texas this, then I'll get better," Cathy ty." er_legs care'sust4in Center after leaving ICU. said. "It doesn't work that way. I Michael said their children, 10- weight sq,she can learn how-to can do all those things, and that year-old James and 5-year-old stand an(twalk all over again.:up daily with assistance doesn't mean I won't get an infec- Ann Claire, are in good hands in Cathy'd' medical bills, whtcn t she accomplished for the tion." College Station. Cathy's boss and Michael 4timates to be $500,900 ze since the wreck three Even though she remembers good friend Donna Logan, her so far, hive been covered b :an go- most of what ha by :an can have no weight on peened on Valen- husband James and their three employee compensation p n tines Day, Cathy said she has no children are caring for James and because she was working at he eg and her right arm is desire to see pictures of her Ann Claire. The seven are living time of the:accident. Her first round of reha- destroyed van, .whlcli c. ' n will teach her how to the Lesters home as long as, ' l � e other bills to pay im a bed to a wheelchair. like an accordion. necessary. t�iat"are"i'cwered by the plan. n I sat up for 10 minutes The highway tragedy com- Anna Vitale, one of Cathy's Long-distance amounts to a first time, I thought, pounded when — one hour after friends, said she and others work small fortune, hospital parking Cathy s wreck and less than 100 to keep the families lives run- costs $8 per day, and the children yards away — 517year-old Jane ning smoothly: They help the meet with a psychologist to talk Wilcox of North Zulch was killed Logans get both kids and parents about mommy being gone—all of in a separate collision. Wilcox's around town, which includes which add to the family's expens- southbound car rear-ended a _James' Little League practices es. pickup that unexpectedly and Ann Claire's T-ball games. Vitale established the "Cathy changed lanes. The Logans' car seats only five Lester Family Support Fund" at Cathy said she doesn't resent and is not suited for the com- Aggieland Credit Union, which Foster for the accident that has bined family of seven. Cathy describes as a God-send. left her in constant pain and "We take shifts on getting peo- "We're lucky that people have away from her family. ple to or from where they need to helped with that," she said. "I "I want to be angry, but I'm go," Vitale said. "We seem to don't know what we would have not,"she said. "I just feel such an have a schedule going as far as done without it. Because of it, • incredible sense of tragedy. who picks up whom and when." Michael's been able to be here In my mind,I go through all of Vitale and the Lesters receive with me. It has saved our lives." the things that had to happen to calls each day from people asking To date, the community has # line up the cars together.That's a if they can provide dinner. The contributed just over $5,000, huge number of events, and I Lesters got a freezer to store the which Vitale said helped them can't feel like it's his fault. I wish extra,meals. Also, friends do the with bills and their April house people had helped him. I wish it laundry and pay a maid to keep note. had not been a tragic ending for the hectic household clean. But Cathy realizes that the bills him and the other lady who died, "It gets really wild," Vitale will last much longer than the and I wish I wasn't here." said. contributions. Foster's family was one of the Mike has returned to College Michael took three months of first to send a get-well card, and Station three times since Feb. 14. medical leave from the trucking Cathy said she can't imagine how Cathy has seen James five times company to help care for his wife they feel after losing a loved one. and Ann Claire twice during her and children. Doctors said that "They have more to deal with hospital stay. Both parents said Cathy will not be well enoughto ' I can imagine,"she sd< the kids are trying to handle the,_ `be it alone when that lea is aftermath of the accident as;t es dW�6 9 i'1 l s m t nw, 4 Family and friends as they can. "Our world is completely Ca y's husband,°Michael;has "My son is older, and under=Y i, dQ On, he said, Ve know 'T een.v0th her.since the`wreck. stands a little bit more,"she said. what we have to do,but we're still Its been harder on [Ann tryig tt how;I'The 53�gear-old truck driver was I'll prob in-Tennessee when•-the;�accident , Claire.]," e ablerrav eg v'oh, and occurred and was at her side To calm Ann Claire's fears, a "cash y re irement. The fami seven hours later. , doctor let her dress a doll in ban ly support fund has helped so He sits at her bed for about 11 dages while explaining tubes and much _. I don't know how we hours a day — the maximum immobilizers before she ever wo d have made it this far, but amount of time the center allows -walked in to her mother's room. it's of going to Sustain us for the for visitors. His main goal is ""It`'made a big difference," rest of our dives." keeping her comfortable. Cathy said. "I think the hardest "Basically, my job is up• here," '�g for her is that she%,A='t Facing`the future Michael said from Cathy's rehab lump up on the bed and hdgitne." Cathy and her husband are still But, during a recent visit;Ann .,discussing whether she,should Claire still was afraid of the metal receive the initialoutpatient care device protruding from her moth-erns leg that keeps the shattered in Houston or in College Station. bones she returns, home in a wheel- bones in place. chair, the house,—which holds a James has helped Ann Claire sunken kitchen—wills be understand that it will take their partly remodeled so=ii aiidi % ..duly.wuu sne c:dil L undgme now L,ainy nas seen James live tunes company to nelp care for lus.wlte they feel after,losing a loved one. and Ann Claire twice during her and children. Doctors said that wThey,have more to deal. with hospital stay. Both parents said in", not be well eno to than I can imagine,"she said. th kids are trying to handle the. e wEen"tha�Teau is aftermath of the accident-as best - i i6 iP1i t , Family and friends 13 as they can. "Our world is completely Cathy's husband,tiMichdel" has "My son is older, and under- ;am` ide dou>n,s;he saidi;"We know been,with her.since the wreck. stands a little bit more, she said. what we have to do,but we're'still The 53-year-old truck driver was "It's been harder on [Ann try].@ t how?�I'u prob- in-Tennessee when the accident Claire.]" T,ablx_ha ..,.t =Q 'jQb, and occurred and was at her side To calm Ann Claire's fears, a cash in my retirement. The fami. seven hours later. doctor let her dress a doll in ban- ly support fund has helped so He sits at her bed for about 11 dages while explaining tubes and much ... I don't know how we hours a day — the maximum immobilizers before she ever would have made it this far, but amount of time the center allows walkedinto her mother's room. it's not going to sustain us for the for visitors. His main goal is "It made a big difference," rest of our lives." keeping her comfortable. Cathy said. "I think the hardest "Basically, my job is up here," thing for her is that she can't Facing the future Michael said from Cathy's rehab Jump up on the bed and hug me." Cathy and her husband are still But, during a recent visit, Ann discussing whether she should Claire still was afraid of the metal receive the initial outpatient care device protruding from her moth- in Houston or in College Station. er s leg that keeps the shattered If she returns home in a wheel- bones in place. chair, the house—which holds a James has helped Ann Claire sunken kitchen—will veto be understand that it will take their partly remodeled s it aildi mom a while to get better. Cathy capped accessible said he has been "as big as a 10- "I have a carpe er year-old boy can be." house look' the i "Mom," James told her, "I've to to , :would be el„" been trying so hard." Michael-said. "If it ., theli we'll stay�in Houston`a assist- EXpenses Mount ed living place." Since the accident, Cathy said, "We have some decisions to she has been amazed by the out- make," added Cathy. pouring of community support Vitale said she is, surprised at she has received. how fast Cathy is making People she doesn't know or has- progress. But no matter how fast n't heard from in years wish her that progress continues,the faml- well. Nurses hang the cards that ly's friends will continue to help she continues to receive on the as much as they can. drab hospital wall for encourage- "I can't do what I know she ment. would do for me," she said. "She "I've felt more strength from would bend over backward-§. the support than anything I've She's Wonder Woman, and she's felt in my life, Cathy said. "As earned these friends." •= hard as this is,what's come out of Even with the support, Cathy this is such a tremendous love realizes that she has only taken-a and caring. I can't help but think few steps on her road to recovery. that something good is inside As a nurse, Cathy is used to something bad. I know I can [get helping other people. She said better]. All of these people took what she hates the most is that she has become dependent on oth- ers for everything — so much The.E le that she dresses her own wounds. -"fit makes me crazy," she said. online: "I hate not `doing things for myself. I want to feel better des- www theeagle.coni perately." ■ Colleen .Kavanagh's - e-mail address is ckavanagh@theeagle.com university and the image that it AP photo more of a cowboy kind of school c at least conveys that cowbc image all that's a perceptio • and perceptions;,are; Ane of ti Michigan, Ari I o n a - most difficult,things to deal with GOP race turns tow -dhe said. "That's what the univ( The Texas governor had a huge lead in`early sity is going ug against, pre By RON FOURNIER N„More political coverage 185 polling but McCain closed the gap in the past than anything else." �" '''' Associated Press 10 days.'--- only to.see Bush mount a$4 mil- A&M officials, ex.14� 'Ing d lion campaign 'with help-ttom interest satisfaction'ove the COLUMBIA; S.C. George W. Bush ral- next round," he said. its t,r th lied !Republican conservatives Saturday to With 77 percent of the vote counted, Bush groups .and surrogates who questioned have stepped up efforts to.recn defeat Sen. John McCain in South Carolina's had 225,689 votes, or 54 percent, McCain's:Conservative credentials. African American and Hispar, rcent, to McCain GOP' primary, snatching momentum from 173,902, or 41 percent. Alan Keyes ran a far, ' Interviews conducted by Voter News Ser- students from high schools in t his insurgent rival as the race heads into an away third at 5 percent. The dramatic cam- vice•indicated that Bush,won by a lopsided state's large cities and in the R 18-state sprint over 17 days. Nevertheless, paign produced a record turnout, but it dxd„`margin, among bedrock conservatives and Grande i attely financed scholarsh McCain was ]pyignacious before supporters, not help McCain as he had hoped. regular R,epubU ^Six Out of 10 voters;in p „ we blican, and Bush won program will bring more minori declaring,"We have just begun to fight. The pundits were saying a big turno%1t the'primary, students to A&M. �a landslide m New Hamp- Bush, `when, in fact, this campaign ignited McCain drew r the ,- alo I#i relieved; ",acknowledged Bush, who would be harmful to my candidacy, said two-thin drew Yll Republican moderates, Texas institutor -,no was buried in rode nd r site " spire's leadoff prir>aar Y nearly three weeks. and united the-F,e kkl :.base p?,:- x ? "Relieved, is not';the right word. I'm Bush needed to win here to staU'M6Cain's that coalition m uth Carolina is nqi nearly m�rro"rity erlrolltnent in high xCited and energizecj." surge, and indeed for months his campaign the force that created;his victory"m New educatlplt, Florida Gov Jeb Bush' h Forced to regroup, McCain both congratu- had seen South Carolina as a tradition mind Hampshire. sparked controversy with l fd Bush for his victory and criticized the' ed `firewall state," which could blunt anY See BUSH, P,a a A2 executive order ,}panning rac ernor's campaign. "I cannot wait for the damage from the chars of New Hampshire. M g and gender preferences in univ . Acclo ELDERLY DRIVERS ent . revimes issU ,a4 ve been behind the ■ Within 15 years, by one estimate, there will be By GENEVA WHITMARSH southbound lanes„of the highway a ter should poliicce were.called to the z{ ore_elderly drivers involved in crash fatalities than Eagle Staff Writer shThert distance deadly accident resurrected a Denny's restaurant when he acted dis- the 15,935 drunken driving deaths today. his T *1n Brazos County in 1998,there were 185 drivers When Donald Sam Foster eventually question that has been the subject of oar nAnd an wasadeain d latm that he 1iges�65 and older' involved in traffic accidents. Of drove away from the Denny's restau debate in y; had been given tickets because of two Se, 150 were injury accidents and one was a fatal- rant in College Station early last Mon- states:..How do p other traffic accidents in recent day after breakfast, concerns already cials decide if sorri n Texas, there are no restrictions on elderly dri- had been raised about whether.the 86- one is too p Foster, a retired general manager at ,but like other motorists,they must fill out a med- year-old man should have been dri- drive. Bryan Utilities,had stopped for break- al history form before renewing their license and ving. "You could + i fast,At Denny's less three hours take driving tests if officials believe there is cause Three hours later, Foster was dri- years old and ibefore the accident:;`Waitress Anita r concern. wing his Cadillac south into oncoming have any kin , ., ;drivers traffic on North Earl Rudder Fr Rainer said he seemed disoriented and y-/ National studies show that though elderly Freeway medical pro "not sure where he was at." She called ave a large number of fatality accidents per miles dri (Texas 6) in Bryan when he struck a we're going to en; they have fewer accidents than any other age Chrysler Voyager riven bSt Station.Fos- said Lt.Paul H ez of the Texas his car in the'parking loud not find roup>on a per capita basis and tend to show better Criswell Lester of College dgment:on the road. ter was killed and Lester was critical- Department of b Safety. "But if Officersel ster end his,c�ariirl ■.Ot �� her evidence shows that as they age, drivers ly injured. you're 100 year d as fit as any- a parking lo .,the street, x1. end. o avoid highways and limit trips to familiar and While that accident was being roves one else, whys, Q 't,we,let you. asked him Selr% V dr�ions to deMter: uch as the grocery store. tigated, another`person was killed drive?" 3 mine if he was!, a Ive, said when two vehicles collided in the Some say the ete clear signs Fos- Mike Patte�&gtdb ,the College Station P------- --101AM..,ieW".. F - may aL V.1 U *lN U.1 rV1♦ uy U lV J1uVu JLULV J A-lb, V11.11:J tUlu 111 ul, 1\1V 3.6 rid g�,;bedrock conservatives and Grande Valley. They hope a-new Y L public,�ns;^Six out of�to v�rs;ip privately financed scholarship w8 ilg publican, and Bush won program will bring more minority Of students to A&M. ell'96 Fau'99 Fair 6 Wa 99, ��t rche� h1 Republican moderates, Texas institutions are not alone butth ; i -. n'_wiccstling. with the. issue of Lion 1m SQ�tth°Carolina'is ngt'nearl '' ' minority enrollment in higher ing of state contracts. the. force that created his'victory''in New, education. In California, voters. have out- 8n d Hampshire. Florida Gov. Je'b Bush has lawed the use of race in public col- sparked controversy with his lege admissions. v�►,i share. See BUSH, Page A2 executive order banning racial �Oj and gender preferences in univer- See ENROLL, Page A3 /60d r 'nt revives ,issue ofdrivin9, age CMAISH ' ' +^ ' southbound lanes of the highway a ter should not have been behind the Police Department. - short.distance away. wheel. First, police were called to the "The options were to tow his car, The deadly accident resurrected a Denny's restaurant when he acted dis drive him home,or let him drive,"Pat- un Foster,eventually question that has been the subject of oriented and had trouble finding his terson said. "They deliberated for a the Denny's restau- debate in most car. And it was learned later that he while and decided he was lucid and ition early last Mon- states: How do offi- had been given tickets because of two would be OK on his own." st'-concerns already cials decide if some- other traffic accidents in recent About an hour and a half later, Fos- bout whether the 86- one is too old to. months. ter entered a construction site north of )uld have been dri- drive? Foster, a retired general manager at Harvey Mitchell Parkway (F.M. 2818) "You could be 20 Bryan Utilities, had stopped for break- on North Earl Rudder Freeway, said ter, Foster was dri- years old and if you fast at Denny's less than three hours Sgt. Ernie Montoya of the Bryan south into oncoming have any kind of before the accident. Waitress Anita Police Department. He was flagged 'arl Rudder Freeway medical problem, Rainer said he seemed disoriented and down by construction workers. Foster :n when he struck a we're going to take a LESTER "not sure where he was at." She called then turned around and began travel- driven by C��'therine second look at you," the police when Foster could not find ing south in northbound traffic. College Statit}n. Fos- said Lt. Paul Hernandez of the Texas his car in the parking lot. Foster continued driving in the t Lester was critical- Department of Public Safety. "But if Officers helped Foster find his car in direction of oncoming traffic for eight you're 100 years old and as fit as any- a parking lot across the street, then miles, despite the efforts of a Brazos tent was being inves- one else, why shouldn't we let you asked him several questions to deter- County Sheriffs Department deputy person was killed drive?" mine if he was able to drive, said Maj. les collided in the Some say there were clear signs Fos- Mike Patterson of the College Station See DRIVING, Page A2 they cause an accident. FRESH DdAngtions like this is the family," he NEW CROP ,u; said. "If a family member calls ,r and says, `Dad is 90, he's been in T who tried to stop him. His vehicle several accidents and he should- then. collided head-on with n t have his driver's license,' Lester's van. we re going to look into that. The She remains in critical condi- second best indicator is the med- tion at Hermann Hospital in ical evaluation form, and the Houston. third is whether we can catch any It was Foster's third accident in potential problems when we see seven months. In Au them. For example, do they seem August, he coned when they come in?Are turned in front of oncoming traf- they disoriented?" fic on Texas Avenue in College Perhaps one of the biggest ques- Station and was hit by another tions surrounding the debate on lb. car, according to police reports. elderly driving is at what age on ffi- yield right-of-way.He was ticketed for failure to cials should seek restrictions, yi � said Sgt. Robert Sawin of the The next month, he entered the intersection of East 29th Street Texas Department of Public Safe- ty's office in Bryan. and Esther Boulevard and collid- "There's no magic age limit," SALAD ed with another car, police said. he said. "People have tried in the He left the scene of the accident past to but was found later and again get age restrictions cited for failure to yield right-of passed, but it doesn't fly. How do TOMATOES vay you pick an age?" Stories like Foster's have led You don't, said Ronnie Gipson, manager of the Area Agency on officials to take a closer look at Aging, a non-profit group that driving safety issues involving the rapidly expanding population serves the Brazos Valley. of older drivers. Within 15 years, "Age has nothing to do with the ` physical and mental ability to by one estimate, there will be more elderly drivers involved in Five,"he said. "There are people crash fatalities than the 15,935 driving in th� 80s and 90s who drunken driving deaths today. are some O the safest people on the road: J. In Brazos Count y in 1998, there National studies show- that �b were 185 drivers ages 65 and older though elderly drivers have a involved in traffic accidents. Of large number of fatality accidents those, 150 were injury accidents per miles driven, they have fewer and one was a fatality. accidents than any other age In Texas, there are no restric group on a per capita basis and B E AU T I F U L B L 0 0 M I N G tions on elderly drivers, but like tend to show better judgment on other motorists,they must fill out the road. a medical history form before There is also evidence that NIU renewing their license and retake shows that as they age, drivers driving tests if officials believe tend to avoid highways and limit there is cause for concern. trips to familiar and nearby People who have a physical or mental condition that cannot be places such as the. grocery store. properly evaluated by the depart' They often forgo nighttime dri- ving, and average a low 4,500 ment of public safety are referred miles a year. to a medical advisory board. The Gipson said many elderly rec evaluation process can take.as ognize an inability to drive the 6�� long as six months, officials said. way they did when they were Pot Detecting unsafe drivers when younger and enroll in driver they renew their licenses is not refresher courses, such as always possible in Texas, where 55Alive. drivers who have not had an acci- dent or been convicted of a DWI Area Agency on Aging, takes 79-6278 SEMOOD DEFT. in the past four years have the place each year at various loca- )OD 02-20-00 THRU 02-26-00 fi by ytmaion of renewing their licenses tions across the Brazos valley Hernandez said the best solo and routinely draws a big crowd. -EPT'ED lion is to catch unsafe drivers �°ther-tluestion is basic: If ` the-elderly lose their driving before they get to the point where privileges, how will they get around? Elderly who,stop driving tend to become isolated and depressed, and those who don't drive, leave the house — even to take a walk — less than three times a week, according to the American Asso- ciation of Retired Persons. "Any time you.limit a person's ability to be mobile and indepen- dent, you directly affect their aaavvv ..L . uLCy d�C, urlvers driving tests if officials believe there is cause for concern. tend to avoid highways and Limit People who have a physical or trips to familiar and nearby e mental condition that cannot be places such as the grocery store. They often forgo nighttime .dri- properly evaluated by the depart ving, 'and average a low 4,500 ment of public safety are referred miles a year: ' to a medical advisory board. The Gipson said many elderly:rec- evaluation process can take.as ognize an inability to drive the 99 long as six months, officials said. way they did when they were 6 Pot Detecting unsafe drivers when younger and enroll in driver they renew their licenses is not refresher courses, such as always possible in Texas, where 55Alive. drivers who have not had an acci- The course, sponsored by the dent or been convicted of a DWI Area Agency on Aging, takes 79-6278 MEAT & SEAFOOD DEPT. in the past four years have the place each year at various loca- option of renewing their licenses tions across the Brazos Valley )OD 02-20-00 THRU 02-26-00 by mail. and routinely draws a big crowd. :EPTED Hernandez said the best solu- Another question is basic: If tion is to catch unsafe drivers the elderly lose their driving before they get to the point where privileges, how will they get around? Elderly who stop driving tend to become isolated and depressed, and those who don't drive, leave the house — even to take a walk — less than three times a week, according to the American Asso- ciation of Retired Persons. "Any time you.limit a person's ability to be mobile and indepen- dent, you directly affect their emotions," Gipson said. Hernandez said the ability to drive is one of the last things the elderly want to give up. "I know that when my dad had to give it up, he was adamant about the fact he could still . drive," he said. No one knows what caused Fos- ter to drive into oncoming traffic last week,but the accident raised the question of whether more could have been done to stop the deadly wreck from happening. "We felt really bad when we heard about the accident," said Rainer. "He just didn't seem to be in the right frame of mind to be driving." CORRECTION ■ On Page A9 Saturday,.a:brief incorrectly,saida that Barrington, the home of Anson Jones, who was the ,last ,president:-of the.; Republic of Texas".will be opened to the public this weekend as part of the living history farm at Wash- ington-on-the-Brazos State Histor- ical Park. TbP home itself will not be open to the public. uc wf waxy ��w u.w how .4aM�ruaaa, �Vaa uy µ #Vjl,lawGLL �w�c tc r,%; W4lCa cut1L t,#a WO #SAY ti f '�•. xbdxock.`conseryatlyes;and Grande Valley They hoped ''�: w h�CauB� Six Qu ,of's1 X!Q1t privately y' �retePublican,and ,I;�t'. ~wOn program will bring nAere ndnol ity tx ! � ~�1 students to A&M r' 71K$ ✓' tzi ltepubhcan'moderates, Texas institutions` lnot ak �q w ¢ e°bf,sityi 1 rt ,,J r, c rt ry odup ton;OW r'. ,n Florida Gov. Jeti Bush` has sparked controversy with his , _ See BUSH,.i�age,A2 executive order .banning; racial+ kr 1 and gender preferences to univer aSA ' P1d3 t f t r - esssue f L ,III. T- southbound.lams;of .the highway{h ter should not have been behind the•�.Police shott�distance away. wheel. First, police were.called to the "Tfi¢ options were to `tow his,car,. t � , The deadly accident resurrected n Denny's restaurant when he acted dis• drive him home,or let him dl ive,' Pat g nu Fos er;eventua jt; question that has been the subject ,of oriented and had trouble finding his terson said. "They-deliberated for a a #lie Denriy's restate•r�debate in most car. And it was learned later that he while and decided he was lucid and cad, early;)ast Mqn :states: How do offs had been given tickets because of two would be OK on his own." ' ,,. st,;concerns already;�r Dials decide if some-' other traffic accidents in recent About an hour and a-half later, Fos- o bout whether the W,,,-one is too old t9.: -months. ter entered a construction site north of Auld Have been drt drive? N. Foster, a retired general manager at Harvey Mitchell Parkway (F.M. 2818) -� "You 'could be 2,0 Bryan Utilities, had stopped for break- on North Earl Rudder Freeway, said vv)ter, Foster was'dri• years old and if you fast at Denny's less than three hours Sgt. Ernie Montoya of the Bryan w south into oncoming have any kind: of before the accident. Waitress Anita Police Department. He was flagged u;arl Rudder Fxeeway medical problem, Rainer said he seemed disoriented and down by construction workers. Foster n`when he struck a we going to take a t.ESTER "not sure where he was at." She called then turned around and began travel- o &Jvenc by Cq erine second look at you," the police when Foster could not find ing south in northbound traffic. " College.Stab n.Fgs-.,•said Lt.-Paul Hernandez of the Texas his car in the parking lot. Foster continued driving in the I Lester was'cri#cal• ,Department of Public Safety. "But if , Officers helped Foster find his car in direction of oncoming traffic for eight you're 100 years old and as fit as any- a parking lot across the 'street, then miles, despite the efforts of a Brazos lent was being inves-' one else, why shouldn't we let you asked him several questions to deter- County Sheriffs Departnletit deputy, pgson was killed: drive?" . E mine if he was able to drive, said Maj. les .gplWpd in the Some say thwre',were clear signs Pos• Mike Patterson of the College Station See DRIVING, Page AZ M L7 •4 N O N N N O 02/21/2002 11:55 FAX 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE Z 011 -~-•"' M7they cause dent The heit' #lidicator in situa t o ."ihe family," he member calls ands -..< ... _ 0" ' ays,rWE 90, he's been in r t „h 4 '` who '40 stop him.His vehicle `several TW and he should. r ,,� er's lcense,' ' tided head-on with we WithAb i that The rN3 `'' sec�nd`beSt ittitsitor is the med- t rains in critical condi` icai,a uati tron at Hermann Hospital in , fOre'� and the Houston. : whether' Nye can catch any potential��tn61ims when we see It n F nths. third accident in them. Foi•,exaulple,do they seem seven months. In August; he canilased;y�hen they come in?Are _ turned.ffi front of oncoming tx'af- they disoriented?„ $c on Texas Avenue in College Perhaps one of the biggest ques. .f, Station and was hit b y another tions surrounding the debate on 1b. car, according to police reports. elderly driving is at what age offi- ' =; He was ticketed for failure to cias should seek restrictions, 1; Yield right-of-way. said Sgt. Robert Sawin of the The.next month,he entered the Texas Department of Public Safe- intersection of East 29th Street ty's office in Bryan. and Esther Boulevard and collid- "There's no magic SALAD ed with another car, police said limit," He left the scene of the accident he said. People have tried in the 0ESTO1 but was found later and again past to get age restrictions Mcited for failure to yield right-of- passed' but it doesn't fly. How do T way you pick an age?" Stories like Foster's have led You don't said Ronnie Gipson, officials'to take a closer look at manager of the Area Agency on driving safety issues involving Aug' a non-profit group that serves the Brazos Valley. the rapidly expanding population "'Age has nothing to do with the of older drivers. Within 15 years, physical' and 'mental ability to by one estimate, there will be drive,"he said."There are more elderly drivers involved in drii h* �pho le crash fatalities than the 15,985 People,aid drunken ��d�ri(v1inn�g�deaths toda '_''_ are some, ., st e' �.» ul Brazos Wl.ill y - f:''- .. ' t=P County in 1998,there 'Hat btudies show; that were 185 drivers ages 65 and older though elderly"drivers have a ;t involved. in traffic accidents. Of large nuinber of fatality accidents •those, 150 were injury accidents perms driven, they have fewer ( }.• and one was a fatality. accidents than any other age �j In Texas, there are no restric- group on a per capita basis and BEAUTIFUL .BL-0 JJJ 'G bons on elderly drivers, but like tend to show better judgment on other motorists,they must fill out the roan ._ I g ' a medical history form before There;f<s also: evidence that renewing their license and retake shows that as the driving tests if officials believe tend to avoid highways and lmreit iit there is cause for concern. trips to- familiar and nearby People who have a physical or places.sueh as the mental condition that cannot be The w grocery store. properly evaluated by the depart- y often forgo nighttime W safety are referred ing, and average a low_ 4,500 - 4 ment of public safmiles a' ear ;to a medical advisory board The Gipson said many elderly.rec- evaluation process can take.as ognize an inability to drive the long as six months officials said.. ' way they'did'when they were . :� Detecting unsafe drivers when Younger,.4ind- enroll in driver they renew their licenses is not rusher courses, such as mot. sways possible in Texas where, ' Alive. :fivers who"have not had-an and-, The course, ionsored by the '�t,or-been eon victed of a DVfR .pggn ,;, ..Aging, takes=. 79-62 f$ in the'past four years have the SODr ? s ' r nptioh of tenewing'their li place each year st various lock D - 'I'I A. 62` � :y by'maii'. ' 't 0e"s tiozis �acinss:the Brazos valley.' ;gip ,It k3 ` Iernaisdez said the best routinely draws a big cro `' �- 43` �' ` Lion ie 'tbr catch unsafe drivers mother tlis basi ff before tlie�r*tothe point whore ;,elderly ,!Ton fiheir driving prr�eges hops Wilt. they. get. around?- Elderly;wha atop driving to t+n*col1W00 tW and dep' andighose"Who don't drive' 1�. eave the pause.--event to take a walk Iess &W three times a w.eeg accbrding t04116.+American Asso. ciation of Retired Persons. "Any time you.limit a person's ability to'be mobile and indepen- dent, you directly affect their 02/21/2002 11:57 FAX 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE fJ012 ► driving tests if officials believe '!"V"a """ "u'. `My , 'rivers tend to wmid'higliways and limit there is cause for concern. trips to familiar and nearby People who have a physical or places,such as the grocery store- mental condition that cannot be They often forgo nighttime .dri- properly evaluated by the depart- ving -and average;a- low 4,500 H ment of public safety are referred miles a year: to a medical advisory board. The Gipson said many elderly:rec evaluation process can take,as ognize an inability to drive the long as six months, officials said. way they did'when they were 699 Pot Detecting unsafe drivers when younger and enroll in driver they renew their licenses is not refresher courses, such as always possible in Texas, where 55Alive. drivers who have not had an acci- The course, sponsored by the dent or been convicted of a DWI Area Agency on Aging, takes 79-6278 MEAT & SEAFOOD DEPT. in the past four years have the place each year at various loca- option of renewing their licenses tions across the Brazos Valley )OD 02-20-00 THRU 02-26-00 by mail. and routinely draws a big crowd. Hernandez said the best solu- Another question is basic: If EPTED tion is to catch unsafe drivers the elderly lose their driving before they get to the point where privileges, how will, they get around? Elderly who stop driving tend to become isolated and depressed, and those who don't drive, leave the house—even to take a walk — less than three times a week, according to the American Asso- ciation of Retired Persons. "Any time you.limit a person's ability to be mobile and indepen- dent, you directly affect their emotions,"Gipson said. Hernandez said the ability to drive is one of the last things the elderly want to give up. "I know that when my dad had to give it up, he was adamant about the fact he could still drive,"he said. No one knows what caused Fos- ter to drive into oncoming traffic last week, but the accident raised the question of whether more could have been done to stop the deadly wreck from happening. "We felt really bad- when we heard about the accident," said Rainer. "He just didn't seem to be in the right frame of mind to be driving." CORRECTION ■On Page A9y,�3ief incorrectly said-,th8 $arr►ngton;; the home of AnsOttiotones, .who; was the lost pre$dent,'7 the. Republic of T_exas will be-opened to the public this Weekend as paz t of the living history far#n:at Wasli-' ington-on-the-Brazos.Site;Histor ical Park.Tbe home itself 1M not be open to-the pub 1i6.' 02/21/2002 11:35 FAX 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE 0 002 - y..�j .'xy. '.,n..-..;'K- it• � yfJ.g' , I I I � c- . i .•a f: .. I .. �� Z• .f�i: I y �won _ B „,y i rlfe, Who was kk�Q` r i; �. earorial HexHospi - Mipl i�,;,.,•, e1, x " ` , ri 3ta1's intensive KUWV 1641-14 " h1Yn�'. `• eaie unit.vrhere Day �ih� WA19­n 6d lit& 1s receiving wife,Cater lg tw een e`•'for'multi- 'ly -,lei fractures, in Br�►an..Fmf' t ... . icluding bro dine lattetie . a den ankles,bro- 'To minutes;l�'iter, @ 5 leg, hip, old•trUc�c drive *,rist d an knee kts; ve that, .. "I,_lose it a .may saud woi . i`When I'm to keep from .e ' �f :.It's s t 'tie n v t•! £'' + L r ► > �'$ Of pain �5 rcaident Don- have been post�o catch a$itt to He tlrl �;tic � ode.of the K l t J was r e's id - ,h, i ga�i rfotik''uiiles before ten `she � ` Y� rlth Catherine's • J o ti a t, - 1 .. 'ik '�,i�!3?t Nkj-t•' -r'r±�Y,`;'s, r :�9�H�"`�?.r��5 •".. « �'n, :.('. . �Fs ice, a AM*Mzz I' ►iZ'`_erlders, •x<<:,wwewnoa► C1: loi#eryi A�` 'f vnrw ti �_. -lug 14 Opinions :A10. ' 38 Weather A7 I �1 u[/zi/2002 11:37 FAX 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE �' Qhltt+Ctl A�mt19C6 IA 0 0 3 BB: a diftt r frith = p} Ir Xseven t Lti 7 ed sties a thy ��W�' - 4 At ca66�e -VlCliit �inion,,and:said she is arorkiag fi ' o ye with other:Mends to Help the ,., � 1P - funny:get everything it needs ;: ]ier ,For instance, thew is not enough fk eezer s#orage iti the Lester home to hold all of the food ' that has been brought to 'their house. Parking at the hospital 21118battd ,:;,�, costs $8 per day, and phone bills ` - -are mounting, Vitale said. "rz The outpouring of help is for a -woman who m�: Isk'heesions anii lass devoted-her Life to.,helping,others,:Vitale-said-:of ti;"I,t'sta9�' c�J ors{ firs..Leet ', whose work-flakes `; w `�►� to her all fthe B��psY�allep,� #jah011t `;�, Qr Y P-OI�ieT3 V- t ,3== > Mrs.'iest�r a Tsa as A�tid iun� vexsityf#radate: vi auies. . iongiros=,or P . f '. 1Eirnx 'mothera, #Iis'ie 5tact. iwreekettd their fa#herper; mid%Mt's: L�estefn Ant; iY�ndergarten children,• 'Claire is not d o visit prenatal clinic , but " 8cre phen pthe mtensive S003enes n , i -es he feels reedy f «James w#ll see s doer Wlev T e�'�3�And3'.:D4Y�e dI`,St. will explain what doctors are 8'Lfi�P�;vhurah; �'. ` fining to help her":Tester the said.; Le4#ers pare .riiember8, said , l;ester has Ukeu-a threknontll Zany-4 Qners;hava o8fererl medical leave h m-the a P•__ARYc�ue else iNho Wild 1�ike' ( c to co61 can Call�t chin _ �d .Lester said he.i�'i� ._ breas w ;[�ttherlrne'sutlo Is taco , Women:�y� Viand 06i ►ue t SM Yo zirk iA� atse an1►, x ' time oiithe sit. a .` the T vz zlizuoz 11:39 FAU 979 764 3468 COLLEGE STATION POLICE i . Fv r.. REGION 1 BRIEFS Cs woman taken -to Hoes on hospital SiDc1bPoma� s tatcq to f!e #�ospit ;:tn Ho1�tQrt�frY�f�l� to reoeivs �re�time�tlor,tNttcters,�e.suf�eered 6 anM-1 ri5e`f$udder Freeway irf ay MOM She �Dfioh wa$irtjured irhe lrtart:: twit*his Oldsmoblie=Cadt =spgfliboundtfo the.7llOr1lbb nld ei �1Nillf � $ foncot��g iee: . th g at four`Allies The drlyei'i9f iadi0ac San►'1=0 ' �,'`ot 8 Kiwi In Weoclda i� _ ust t thCee"iMni lateir, a fled } btd-gyp so n�Rd� 8 ford ;. aa�bn�� 4 rd5 tram w rot�ouru`ea� 6f,the acciden Qt►i�i; -vehirr�e�' '� � �V. - T Wiliiams'A ' car accidents ton *, a,J I J".. o. H F 14 C7 � Y�v U to M C ' • .. -s-j !1 °' Ninety-three-year-old Donald Foster of Bryan was killed Monday morning when he drove southbound in the northbound(ane'of'Earl Rudder Freeway and collided with a Plymouth Voyager. Foster at the scene and the driver of the Voyager,Catherine Lester of College Station, was taken to St. Joseph Regional Health Center where she remains in critical condition. w A second collision occurred less than one hour later and 100 Yards away when a pickup driven by Jane Wilcox of North Zulch rear-end- ell another pickup. Wilcox died at the scene and the other driver,who was unharmed,was given a ticket for making an unsafe lane change. It is suspected that a traffic build-up round the previous accident contributed. o , 0 ti :V :V I College 'Station Policemake Northgate safer Four emergency phones are placed along the highly trafficked area "BY MATT LOFTIS g y for safety purposes The Battalion The group formed the Northgate Safety Awareness Com- mittee,which later became Aggies for a Safe Community. Northgate's proximity to,�ampus makes it convenient Ohashi said the group first organized to raise awareness for students to grab­a quick bite to eat or buy books in be- � -```y''"�-�""'"`--''" ' " •' --- -� into an organization working for the improvement of the en- tween classes—but Northgate may be better known for its nightlife. tire community.The numerous bars bring hundreds of students to North- "It was amazing,once we started,how quick it moved," � � Ohashi said. gate,prompting the College Station Police Department to make the area safer. Seaton said the phones were a step the city had been work- ing toward for the prevention of future incidents similar to Four emergency phones were installed in neighborhoods some of the major problems on Northgate in the past, behind Northgate Thursday,as a preventive step and also as "I think it's going to be a lot of peace of mind forpeoi- a response to reported harassment in the area. living in that area,"Seaton said."It's a safety hla.&m. Rhonda Seaton,an officer with the College Station Police Josh Liggin,a sophomore biomedical science major,said Department,said there have been no major crime problems that he visits Northgate from time to time,but has never heard at Northgate recently.Seaton said in the past,there have been of any accidents or problems. problems with harassment and violence that led to an initia- Liggin said women or people by themselves should be tive to improve safety and the availability ofpolice assistance concerned with being harassed in the area,but he has the same in the Northgate area. chance of being beaten up on campus as at Northgate. International students,specifically,have in the past year, "You need them [emergency phones]there for the same been the target of harassment,whether by intention or coin- reason you need them on campus,"Liggin said."That should cidence,leading to activism on the part of the International be an extension." Student Association(ISA)in the past year. Su REDDIN Allison Snyder,a freshman mechanical engineering ma- Tatsuki Ohashi,Class of'99 and president of ISA for the Felling a little safer as she walks home,sophomore jor, said she has heard about problems at Northgate more 1998-99 academic year,said while he was atA&M there were speech communication major,Joanna Parker no- through word of mouth than in the news. Snyder said she has problems involving international students and others being tices the new red emergency phones in the North- been to Northgate with large groups of people and felt safe, harassed on Northgate. gate area. The phones were installed Thursday. but when in small groups or with other girls she has been con- The problems drew the ISA into a coalition of campus or- Students Association,Northgate Merchant Association,Stu- ce "T about safety. ganizations and local groups to advocate positive change on dent Government, College Station Police Department and der said.r I think the e's so many tho eshings taret aanea thin happen ofor anver yone o er Northgate,including the Resident Hall Association,Muslim Universi Police De artment. s. g y h' P there,especially girls." The Eagle News - = V,140.41,.s SC4-t1U,1J Someone in the crowd asked who would pay Bryan s portion if the development fails, to which many answered: taxpayers. O �O Louis Newman, co-chair of the Effreall committee, said the group had accomplished its miss on. It has obtained information through a counci series of Freedom of Information �� Act requests and has dh nat ed that information to the e Public. The group also wanted the issue to be taken the polls, but Bryan resort foes plan drive Bryan Mayor Lonniei Stabler said in January that a referendum By COLLEEN KAVANAGH ments from those who will circu- was not going to ha Eagle Staff'Writer late peen. petitions and talk to Bryan "As unfortunate as that is and voters. as frustrating as that is, we Most of the 80 or so members of "I can't step up to the plate all accomplished our mission," New. a group opposing Bryan's pro- by myself," Price said. "I think [a man said. "We completed that posed golf course and resort pro- recall] will divide the city,but not work, whether we continue in ject said Tuesday they would help because of me, because of the City this matter, I think largely in an effort to recall the Bryan Council." depends on you all."City Council. Members also said they would Members criticized the City Members of Citizens In Action pack the City Council chambers Council for other developments, were asked in an informal vote at the board's Feb. 22 meeting for specifically DecisionOne and the whether they would support the a public hearing on the creation LaSalle Hotel. effort. After an overwhelming of a tax-increment financing dis- Part of the meeting was spent "yes," the group decided to meet trict for the Traditions Golf criticizing the media, mainly The again in two weeks to formally Course and Country Club at Uni- Bryan-College Station Eagle, for organize an effort. versity Ranch. its coverage of the issue. One Beth Price, who co-chairs the "I'm not sure I think a recall is member said the newspaper and committee, said she was not right,but we do need to keep pres- television station exist for the going to try to recall the council sole purpose of serving Bryan, alone and needed firm commit- See PETITION, Page A2 College Station and Texas A&M University. P et t o n tu That comment sparked a multi- i/ de of others about the newspa- per's reporters and editors hav- From A 1 ing biases and about stories being written for uneducated people. sure up,"said member and Bryan Price immediately asked that resident Frank Thurmond. the group go back to its original "Those taxes will not be going to ` purpose: deciding its next course the rest of the city for services." of action. The group, which formed in For a recall petition to be November, is opposed to the city placed on a ballot, it must have a spending public money on a pri- certain percentage of signatures vate development. Bryan's por- from the election in which a coun- tion of the more than$200 million cil member was elected. That project is estimated to be $27 mil- means that each petition needs a lion, $21.3 million of which will different number of signatures. come from the tax-increment Member Bob Bow said that finance district,.-city officials with the exception of Council_ have said. woman Kandy Rose and Mayor In tax-increment financing, Lonnie Stabler,the number of sig- business or residential owners in natures required for each the zone pay property taxes that tion is less than 200. peti are the same as those of other Members said they wanted to Bryan residents. But their tax do something drastic in order to payments go to the zone rather get the council to listen. than to the city and the county. "A recall will create impact," School taxes within the zone said Lou Zaeske. "He's a friend of would go to the Bryan school dis- mine, but maybe we even need to trict as usual. go after [mayor] Lonnie Stabler." Ffb, I5 1 The Eagle News DecisionUne riles tor % ,napter 11 oa.iixruptLy By LAURA HIPP 15 Joe, percent of the business' reorganized receive any distribution and stock ber,the company's stock hit a 52-week Eagle Staff writerequity,and$250 million in new senior would be canceled, according to the high at $6.12 per share. Company offi- secured bank debt,officials said. agreement,officials said. cials said in a press release at the time Local jobs will not be affected as Deci- Holders of DecisionOne's 9.75 percent Holders of the company's 14 percent that they were not aware of any reason sionOne Holdings Corp. enters bank- senior subordinated notes due 2007 senior notes due 2006 would exchange for the increase.The stock price quick- ruptcy proceedings in a Delaware fed- would exchange those for about 5 per- those for warrants to purchase up to 6.2 ly dropped. eral court,officials said Monday. cent of the reorganized company's equi- percent of the reorganized business' The company's Bryan call center The Frazer, Penn.-based computer ty and warrants to purchase up to 10.8 equity at various exercise prices. opened in late 1999 and received an support services company and its oper- percent for that equity at reorganized "This is really a positive move, and incentive package from the city and ating subsidiary, DecisionOne Corp., prices,officials said. no effect on employees or customers is Brazos County officials. filed a Chapter 11 petition Monday with Holders of 11.5 percent senior dis- expected,"said John Dillard of the New The package included: its prepackaged plan for reorganization count debentures due 2008, issued by York-based Sitrick and Company."This ■A 51,000-square-foot facility owned for confirmation. the company, and its unsecured credi- is a way of vastly reducing the debt." by the EDC. Under the agreement's terms, the tors would receive about 0.4 percent of At the close of the trading Monday, ■A capital investment of$7.6 million DecisionOne's bank lending group the reorganized company's equity. stock for DecisionOne Holdings Corp. ($4 million by the EDC and$3.6 million would exchange about $542 million in Common stockholders of Deci- was down 48.14 percent from Friday.It existing indebtedness for about 94.6 sionOne Holding Corp. would not closed at 47 cents per share.In Decem- See COMMNY,page A10 The company also received a Company partial property tax exemption to the county and the city of Bryan during the next 10 years. (WI From Al I The intent of Chapter 11 is for the business to pay off debts and by DecisionOne Corp.) "come out a better company," ■A building occupied by Deci- said Robert Worley, president sionone Corp. with a triple.net and CEO of the Bryan-College lease for $1 per year (Deci- Station Economic Development sionOne Corp. will pay taxes, Corp. maintenance and insurance.) "Right now, we're assuming ■A 10-acre tract of land that that's going to happen," Worley was donated by the developers of said. the business center. DecisionOne Holding Corp. ■ An infrastructure brought also named George De Sola as to the 10-acre site by the city of the new chief executive officer. Bryan. De Sola said in a press release ■ A commitment by the EDC that the company will be able to for a$4 million loan from Bank build on operational improve- of America. ments during restructuring. L DeveI en+ Trends - Ci 0-� By4&n Itit n4er zwo vDi. 5- Traditions olf Course and Cou ntry Club at University Ranch The Beginning-The city's interest in a as Pinehurst,the world's largest golf resort C.F.Jordan- C.F.Jordan has been deliv- �Af course began in 1997. PKF Consult- and site of the 1999 U.S.Open. Its intema- ering professional construction services ing of Houston was hired to study the tional collection of more than 230 proper- across the southern half of the United States market for a proposed 150-room hotel and ties on five continents range from premier for over thirty years. Beginning from a golf course. PKF determined that there is country clubs and world-class resort desti- small base of operations in El Paso,Jordan sufficient existing and potential market nations to outstanding business and sports now serves new and repeat clients on a demand to support the project in Bryan. clubs, and exceptional semi-private golf national and international basis from of- PKF (and later CCA) selected the West courses. In addition to exceptional golf fices in Dallas, San Antonio,and College Side of town as the site of the project. The experiences,clubs cater to members through Station as well as newly established re- site off highway 47 offers interesting to- luxury clubhouses,pro shops and gourmet gional operations in San Diego, Phoenix/ pography and landscape, which will en- and casual dining facilities. The clubs also Tucson and Orlando. C.F. Jordan was hance the attractiveness and potential mar- employ top-notch golf teaching profession- chosen to be the project's residential devel- ketability of the golf course and hotel. The als to enhance every member's level of oper. The company was selected based site is within a five-minute driving distance play. ClubCorp established an early repu- upon the need of a residential development from major attractions,including the Bush tation by providing consulting services to partner with regional efforts and presence Library and Texas A&M University.A&M owners and developers of country clubs. in the Brazos Valley. (C.F.Jordan is also entered the picture in November of 1998, As corporate America boomed in the'60s working the La Salle hotel in Historical when university officials seeking a home and '70s, ClubCorp added business clubs Downtown Bryan and Blinn Junior Col- for the university's golf teams, sent out a that offered fine dining experiences and lege.) C.F. Jordan has excellent contract request for proposals. Texas A&M said management skills and construction skills. they needed a facility where they can hold At this time, a mix of housing types Big 12 tournaments. ClubCorp was chosen (townhome,custom lot,patio home,etc.)is to run the country club facility and imme- expected to be available.. Market studies diately started looking for sites to build the will determine the mix of the-residential ,mew course. ClubCorp had also decided on types. At 100 units per year,it is estimated West side of Bryan and a College that build out will to-cur in approximately Station site as their second choice. 10 years. Jordan wi l supply and construct ClubCorp, Campus Hotels, C.F. Jordan, the subdivision streets and utilities as well and the city of Bryan started working to- as market the residential units. gether on the project. A Jack Nicklaus design 18 -hole golf course (225 acres), Campus Hotels - The idea for Campus 180-room hotel and villas (25 acres), and Hotels occurred to Mr. E.Baker Jenner a about 1,000 residential (550 acres), will few years ago,when his daughters were at make up the development. Construction Boston college and Miami University in will be a shared responsibility between Ohio. Mr.Jenner,the 51 year old president CCA,Jordan,and the City of Bryan. CCA of Campus Hotels LLC in Chicago,is con- will develop the golf course and clubhouse, vinced that the campuses of large universi- Jordan will be the master residential devel- ties are fertile and relatively safe ground on oper,and the City of Bryan will coordinate corporate meeting facilities in a private which to construct full-service hotels boast- the land acquisition and infrastructure im- club setting. As members'concerns turned ing conference center and private faculty provements. The groundbreaking in an- toward healthier lifestyles in the '80s, and alumni clubs. Campus Hotels have ticipated to occur in 2000. The hotel,golf ClubCorp responded by creating city ath- been contracted to build the hotel and vil- course, and first residential phase are ex- letic clubs(now called business clubs and las. Campus Hotels was selected as the pected to open in 2001. sports clubs). The'80s also meant expan- hotel contractor for several reasons. Cam- sion into complementary lines of business pus Hotels has had past experiences with ClubCorp of America - Founded and including destination golf courses -- as ClubCorp and was highly recommended headquartered in Dallas in 1957, the $1.4 well as international. In the'90s,ClubCorp by the ClubCorp Company. The hotel billion ClubCorp is the world leader in has continued to its growth through stra- anticipates 120 rooms expanding to 180 delivering golf,private club and resort ex- tegic partnerships. The company has also rooms when feasible. At least 50 villas will Triences. Country clubs and golf clubs secured deals with Jack Nicklaus'Golden be included in the hotel project. The hotel have been the mainstay of ClubCorp since Bear International,Canada's Club Link and conference center and clubhouse will all be I its inception in 1957. C1ubCorp's private the European PGA to fortify the company's co-located in order to provide for joint country and golf clubs include some of the place as the industry leader. access to recreational amenities. finest golf courses around the country,such I �,i•, i � f i - r d � •i t �► r 1ti�'~«t 4 m �+�is .i... ...•�@�• 'r'' _�,�.-.. �- �r• 4�` ~ 14 Ab (tv V. GoL Ilk Town Center ,• etiA%r ` '`S. r �f,", 4 � Or NAw- 94 , 1.; g i A, Future .t 1 11 [w € �• IC. ems�.. ,j +'fig � Y a a+ rr 14 t-'k 1 1 1 1 1 1 to , & ASSOCIATES, P.A. TRADITIO* NS GO AT UNIV ER RAN CLUBQUESTIONS In November, 1999, the City to development are limited to a contribution How long will the project take to approved contracts for the Traditions Go of the land($250,000),reimbursement of a complete? and Country Club at University Ranch. public conference center ($2.4 million) The project is estimated to develop at 1( which is to be dedicated to the City, and a units per year,with a ten-year completion. This project involves approximately 85, ` credit enhancement not to exceed $2 acres of property west of 2818, no ' What if homes are not sold at 100 units nor- o million, which should assist the hotel � Univesity Drive, east of Highway 47, and developer with market financing. per year. " south of Villa Maria Drive. Included in the The major infrastructure will be phased project are a golf course and country club For the residential development,The TIF will consistent with market forces. If unit sales (225 acres), 180 room hotel/50 villas and contribute the major infrastructure(major do not meet expectations, infrastructure conference center(25 acres),and 1,000 resi- road, sewer, water, and drainage) construction will be delayed so as to dential units (585 acres). Jack and Jackie improvements which should total corrospond with residential sales. Nicklaus of Golden Bear International will approximately$17 million. The residential Why is the City of Bryan assisting with design the golf course and participate in developer will provide approximately the development of this type of project? ownership. Main access to the property is $30,000 an acre in subdivision In recent years, most new commercial and anticipated to be from Villa Maria Drive,with improvements, which will get streets and residential development has developed in additional access from Gabbard Road and other utilities to the home sites. College Station. As the older city in BCS, Turkey Creek Road. Were local businesses given the Bryan has numerous challenges not facing The project, a collaborative effort by opportunity to bid on this project? newer communities. Age of infrastructure, C1ubCorp,Campus Hotels,C.F.Jordan,and Yes. A "Request for Qualifications" (RFQ) development history, historical lack of the City of Bryan,is expected to commence was issued in 1997 for this project with a zoning, and downtown deterioration have construction in-2000, with completion in response deadline of January 15, 1998. A been some of these issues. To deal 2001. subsequent RFQ was issued in early 1998 as effectively with the needs of the community, Following are responses to the questions only one response was received to the initial the City is attempting to attract two sectors most frequently asked about the Traditions request. The second deadline for submittal of the economy which have not recently was may 15, 1998. No additional interest been provided for in Bryan. These are Golf and Country Club at University Ranch. was expressed by developers in response to tourism and higher income housing that second RFP. opportunities. By promoting these two What is the City involvement in the What municipal revenues will be used economic sectors, the tax burden on project? existing residents can be lessened,while the inducements?i the e n Generally, the City has assisted with the to level of municipal services can increas acquisition and mergit� $5g of the properties Approximately $6 million in Oil and Gas Additionally this new development wi- involved in the project. Additionally, the reserves and Elf Atochem settlement funds represent a major contributor to the Bryan City will establish a Tax Increment Finance will be loaned to the TIF to assist with the Independent School District tax base while Zone to pay for inducements associated with acquisition of the property. These funds will adding few students to the schools. the project. be repaid to the general fund from the TIE Moreover, 15 acres of commercial Most other inducements will be financed development will be developed in West What is a Tax Increment Finance Zone? from the proceeds of the TIF. These TIF Bryan. Currently the area west of Finfeather In a Tax Increment Finance Zone, the new funds, to fund the infrastructure has limited commercial services. Lastly,this taxincrem at is created within that tax improvements and repay the City expenses, project promotes and strengthens a zone,is"captured"within that project area, will only be available if the project is and is used to pay for the initial project developed. relationship with Texas A&M University inducements. Taxpayers within that zone Did the golf course developer consider pay the same rate of taxes as those within What does the City e Bryan receive for other sites? the City. Only City and County taxes are $236inducting this project? The golf course developer considered three involved in this financing mechanism;Bryan improvements million in new taxable property sites for this project. One was in College Iadent School District taxes accrue improvements will occur. Approximately Station and two in Bryan. The two in Bryan itnmediztelyto BISD. This is the second TIF $9.2 million from the sale of residential lots were the East Bryan site adjacent to within the City of Bryan. The first TIF was will return to the city for reimbursement of Copperfield, and the West Bryan site created to assist with the development of the land cost. Additionally,new sales taxes, Ultimately chosen by C1ubCorp. Incentives Park Hudson, which is home to Decision hotel taxes, and various fees will accrue were involved for all the other sites. One and the Brazos Valley Physicians immediately to the community. The total Organization. projected benefits are over$110 million over Why should the City of Bryan compete the 25-year life of the TIF. After the TIF is with a private developer? What is the extent of the financial dissolved, ongoing benefits to the taxing The C1ubCorp market area is not solely local. inducements to secure the project? entities exceed$8.5 million annually. As a National Golf Company,ClubCorp will The City contributed the property for the When will the project start? be able to market this facility to Texas A&M golf course,which is predominantly in the Alumni who currently reside outside the BCS floodplain and is not suitable for The project will start after the "trigger" a area. Promotion of tourism will provide a construction. Additionally, the City is CCA800 memberships have been sold re the venue to attract people,and tax revenue, assisting with a loan for construction of the economic This trigger will help to ensure the the City that would not otherwise . golf course clubhouse ($1 million) and is economic vitality of the development. available. assisting with the clearing and mass grading What happens if the "trigger" is not Who do I contact for more information? of property($1.5 million)and with drainage met? Tom Coyle is serving as project coordinator. and providing irrigation to the course($1.4 The contracts with the developer limit the He can be reached at the City of Bryan at million). city's contribution to$250,000 for planning 361-3606 or 361-3833• The inducements for the hotel and villa services. Feb, 1 q1 „ The Ea gle News Think of the noise want the developers of Tradi- tions Golf Course and Country Club to think about how close to Easterwood Airport the houses they plan on building will be. I don't think anyone will want to build a$250,000 or more expensive house in this area with jets flying overhead more often than they already do, since the jet traffic will surely increase. The Bryan council should rethink this shaky investment. It should relocate the housing plan to the Copperfield area. VIRGINIA H. RODARTE lf. Bryan ` -Ceb° I , The Eagle News zo�v CS council waryf o supplying COLLEEN Ea EDC funds Eagle Staff Writer City weighs conflict of interest issues Robert Worley, the corpora- sions that allow board members to College Station City Council tion's president and chief execu- have limited financial interest in members have hinted they might tive officer, said further restric- business prospects being consid- withhold funding from the Bryan- tions could make it difficult to ered for economic incentives. College Station Economic Devel- recruit qualified board members. Mariott's comments came late in opment Corporation if new con- Councilman Larry Mariott, one Thursday's City Council meeting flict of interest additions to the of the city's representatives to the when council members voted on corporation's bylaws aren't tight- EDC board of directors, said he is an unrelated section of the EDC ened. uncomfortable with new provi- bylaws on how corporation direc- tors are appointed. Although the council will not vote on the conflict of interest sec- tion of the bylaws, council mem- bers said their leverage comes with the funding that the Econom- ic Development Corporation board receives from College Sta- tion every year. ��IZ See COUNCIL, Page A8 Council that we don't like it," Mariott said. An EDC board committee recently reviewed the bylaws, From Al which were drafted more than a decade ago. ers decided to Worley said Friday that Bryan, add he conflict of interest me est policy, College Station and Brazos Coun- even though board members tra- ty each fund one-third of its oper- ditionally abstain voluntarily ational budget, which amounts to from discussions and votes if about$210,000 each. they have any interest in corpo- The cities and the county vote ration activities, Mallard said. only on the section dealing with Worley said an attorney draft- how board members are appoint- ed the policy, and committee ed. They have no authority on members made minor changes. other matters in the bylaws. Such The revisions were approved by matters are governed by the actu- both the committee and board al board of directors. and reviewed by a second attor- The conflict of interest clause, ney. which was added when the Worley said some of the com- bylaws were revised recently, mittee members wanted a more states that there is a conflict restrictive policy than others, when a person has a substantial and he current policy is a com- interest" in a business prospect promise between the two points involved in a transaction with of view. the corporation. "It is rare that a board member A substantial interest is has an interest in a company we defined as when a person: deal with," he said. ""If you have ■Owns or possesses 10 percent very restrictive clause, there is or more interest in a business not a banker in town who could ../ entity; serve on the board. We didn't ■ Owns or possesses an inter- want something too restrictive est of$7,500 or more; that would restrict qualified peo- ■ Received more than 10 per- ple from serving on the board. cent of his or her gross income in This really is a complex issue." the prior year from the business Bryan City Councilman Kenny entity. Mallard, an EDC board member, Mariott said that any board said Friday that there's nothing member with any interest in a wrong with the policy. He said designated business should not the policy follows state law and is participate in corporation activi- similar to he conflict of interest ty that involves the business policy that council members are when incentives are being expected to follow. offered. Worley told the council that he It is my opinion that there would take heir concerns back to should be no involvement with the board of directors meeting employees or directors when pub- scheduled for Wednesday. The lic money is being used,"he said. board is made up of three repre- College Station City Council sentatives each from Bryan, Cod- members agreed that their only lege Station and Brazos County authority in the conflict of inter- as well as two Brazos County est issue comes in the form of Industrial Foundation represen- funding. tatives and one Bryan-College "We don't have any control,but Station Chamber of Commerce we can send a strong message representative. "Goo • The Eagle News Feb , I z, 20W City secretary certified as clerk College Station City Secretary Connie Hooks recently was desig- nated a "certified municipal clerk" by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. The certification involved 100 hours of in-depth courses in man- agerial and leadership skills, social and interper- sonal con- cerns and technical train- ing needed to deal with changes taking place in gov- ernment today, HOOKS institute offi- cials'said. She joined 69 other municipal clerks in Texas who have received their cer- tification. Hooks has been employed with the city of College Station since January 1980, and was appointed to her current position in 1990. She holds an associate of arts degree in business and manage- ment from McLennan Community College in Waco and has attended educational seminars and confer- ences sponsored by the Interna- tional Institute of Municipal Clerks, Texas Municipal League and the ZIttorney general's office. • The Eaale News Decision Garage �ewlj on ara e From AloV The council also amended the -[.�' moratorium on certain building applications until 5 p.m. Friday. ostpone The moratorium which took effect Monday — d does not allow applications that would permit more than one principle struc- ture to a lot in single-family dis- C S council also OKs tricts. Property owner Greg Gorman, who had two houses on one lot moratorium revision before the moratorium, demol- ished one of the houses so he By COLLEEN KAVANAGH could move a historic home to the Eagle Staff Writer site. Gorman was denied a permit to move the house because the College Station City Council members agreed moratorium already had taken Thursday to add a fifth floor to the design of a ( effect and did not allow for any planned Northgate parking garage and then additional principle structures to changed their minds, rescinding the decision and be added to the 1.3-acre property. postponing further discussion until their Feb. 24 The historic house, propped up meeting. by two-by-fours, is sitting on a They also approved an emergency amendment trailer at the corner of two resi- to a recently approved moratorium because city dential streets — Pershing officials said there is a threat to public health and Avenue and Park Place — wait- safety ing to be moved, which could be The council had unanimously approved the a danger to nearby residents, parking garage design change with Arkitex Stu- council members decided. dios in the amount of$87,750 to add the design of a "Public safety is an issue — fifth floor and a second entry and exit. They made there are lots of families and kids that decision after city officials said the city I over there," Councilman Dennis would not be charged unless the council decided Maloney said. to proceed with a fifth floor. Later at the meeting, City Manager Tom Brymer told the council that it had mistakenly Council members said the been given incorrect information. The city would y did Mitchell Parkway South (F.M. be charged the design fee regardless of how many not want people to take advan- 2818) and Luther Street West. floors the garage has, he said. tage of the ordinance amend- ■ Approved an interlocal The council unanimously rescinded its earlier ment, so they placed the 5 p.m. agreement with the College Sta- decision and tabled discussion on spending the Friday time limit to give Gorman tion school district in which the additional money until its next meeting. time to turn in an application for city would be able to use the dis- Current plans for the garage foundation are the moving permit, which is valid trict's satellite downlink system ix months. designed to include a possible fifth floor, council for s and video equipment. members said, adding that they did not under- Also, if the house is not moved With the agreement, both enti- stand why College Station should spend$88,000 to within a "short period of time," ties will be able to obtain free pro- see what the design would look like. If a fifth floor Gorman must put a fence around gramming and information and is added, the second entry-exit will be needed to it for safety. Gorman said the have improved use of the cable assure smooth flow of traffic. fence would be put around the access channel, city officials said. Council members asked why the second entry trailer if the house is not moved Also, the city will be able to use and exit was not included in the plans if the by Monday. the video equipment for some garage was designed to be able to support a fifth In other action, the council: special events that could be floor. ■Rezoned 21 acres from single- broadcast on the cable channel. "It doesn't seem right to me," Councilman family to planned district devel- ■ Purchased software that can Larry Mariott said. opment for housing for an apart- scan, store, retrieve and compare In 1997, the council authorized a$371,803 design ment complex. The property is at file and latent fingerprints. The contract, and in 1999, it authorized what was the northeast corner of Harvey software would cost $20, 825. thought to be the final design of the garage. Z // I See GARAGE, Page A8 • The Eaale News Conflicts of interest It seems to me that among the many issues of the city of Bryan's proposed westside hotel, golf course and residential development, one of the primary issues that has received little atten- tion is the city's potential for con- flict of interest in its ongoing deci- sion making process. The city must make decisions on a regular basis regarding planning, zoning, providing utilities and city services to various developments in the city. How can the city make unbiased decisions with respect to development issues when the city has a vested interest in a compet- ing development itself?It would seem to me that the city will be in a Position to be accused rightly or wrongly of a conflict of interest if the other developers or investors were to have their requests denied or delayed by the city of Bryan. Any developer who has a request for consideration denied or delayed by the city will condemn as prefer- ential the city's treatment and involvement in the westside pro- ject. _ The fact that the city is in compe- tition with current and proposed development should be of major concern to not only the business community, but also the city gov- ernment itself. This should provide incentives to Promote development when requested and required, but the city should not be so closely tied to the developments that a conflict of interest could be suggested. I believe the city's involvement in the Traditions project will force the city into a position of having to defend itself and will result in poor development decisions for the entire city of Bryan. CLAY RIEBE College Station The Eaale News F-c b CS panel to consider zoning revisions The College Station Planning and Zoning Commission on Thursday will consider changing 15 acres on Krenek Tap Road from single family • residential to medium density apart- ment. The request, from William Dahlstrom on behalf of JPI Student Housing Division, will increase the potential residential density to 24 dwelling units per acre. The commission also will consider a permit that will allow The Rack Warehouse, at 226 Southwest Park- way East, to add a dance floor. The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m.Thursday in Council Chambers of City Hall, 1101 Texas Ave. The Eagle News f ebF Icy, CS selects Z�o� new city official Officiai Eagle Staff Report r From A7 The Kerrville, Texas, city man- Texas A&M University, and a ager has been named assistant bachelor's degree in government city manager of College Station, and history from Tarleton State officials said Wednesday. University. He has been a mem- Glenn Brown, who will start in ber of the International City Man- March, will oversee various city agement Association and the departments and special projects Texas City Management Associa- as well as serve as city manager tion since 1975. in the city manager's absence. "We are pleased to be able to He was Kerrville's assistant bring someone with Glenn's expe- city manager for two years before rience and integrity to College taking over as city manager in Station," College Station City 1986. Before that, Brown was the Manager Tom Brymer said. "He city administrator in Winters, will be a tremendous asset to our Texas, for three years. He also organization, as he has an excel- worked as administrative assis- lent reputation in city manage- tant and assistant to the city man- ment throughout Texas." ager in Abilene from 1975 to 1981. Brown holds a master's degree in political science with a public administration emphasis from See OFFICIAL, Page Al2 ` The Ea�1e News ............. . Wednesday,February 9,2000 R lwt� egion A9 College Station Unmarked burial areas secured Cemetery Texas Avenue CS cemetery committee closes unplatted sites to interments By COLLEEN KAVANAGH has hit unmarked graves. The Unmarked graves are a bigger burial in a space which may con- Eagle Staff Writer committee's recommendation problem in the Salem cemetery. tain a previous gravesite. must be approved by the City There are stones, some almost Only one unofficial guideline Two small cemeteries within Council. underground, scattered through- has been used — descendants of the College Station City Cemetery ;,F "The purpose of the motion is to out Salem, but no indication of people already buried in the ceme ❑�o may be closed for future burials to "save the city from liability of dis- whether the stones mark graves. tery are given fast opportunity to avoid problems with unmarked turbing gravesites that we don't Edwards listed three reasons be buried near their relatives. graves. know where they are,"said chair- behind the motion: Burial in the two cemeteries is After discussing the issue since woman Katherine Edwards. ■There is no provision in the free in accordance with a stipula last summer, the College Station The Shiloh cemetery,started by original land deed that gives fami- tion in the deed,officials said. Cemetery Committee voted Tues- Czechs, and the Salem cemetery, lies the right or privilege of being Cemetery Sexton Delmer Cha- day to close the Shiloh and Salem started by African-Americans, buried there. ranza said the last request for a cemeteries except in spaces that were incorporated into the city ■The city is potentially liable burial in the cemeteries was 7 Shiloh site N the cemetery sexton deems avail- cemetery in 1847. The two ceme- for the disturbance of unmarked about two months ago.There is at ®Salem site able. teries,which total four acres,date graves. least one request for a burial per 7 Current burial sites Cemetery officials asked the back to the late 1800s and were ■The only real change from the year. He said the grave-digging 9 Unused space committee to help them establish never platted. current, informal policy is that service has hit unmarked graves guidelines for the two cemeteries Most of the Shiloh graves are the sexton would be given the three times during his 16 years Eagle graphic/Bryan Butler because its grave-digging service marked, many in Czech. authority to refuse a request for with the cemetery. *ftw The Eagle News 2Q� o tions Roadprojectpweighed at forum t By LAURA HIPP Rock Prairie ramps could be changed Eagle Staff Writer Engineers will take the sugges- "We will be moving forward with Residents received a second tions and consider them when this project because it's something chance Tuesday to give their opin- finalizing a plan for the congested we need to do." ions on some proposed changes in portion of the highway. Residents viewed three aerial south College Station to entrance "Because of the growth of the photos of the area with tape mark- and exit ramps on Earl Rudder area, we're seeing a lot more traf ing the proposed changes. Each Freeway South (Texas 6). fic come through it than it was option had three similar features: About 60 people attended the designed for," Appleton said. ■ The west frontage road public hearing that was hosted by Officials originally considered between Deacon Drive and Rock Texas Department of Transporta- signal changes and moving Prairie Road would be one way. tion officials at College Station entrance ramps to ease traffic ■ The entrance and exit ramps Junior High School. Residents problems, Appleton said. But then at three spots along the highway studied three options for ramp they noticed its effect on other between Rock Prairie and Greens changes along the highway from developments. Prairie would be altered. Emerald Parkway to Greens "We were going to have to take a ■ The entrance ramp to north- Prairie Road. look at a more extensive project bound Earl Rudder at Rock The area includes the intersec- than we had foreseen," he said. Prairie would be moved north of tion of Earl Rudder Freeway and No cost estimates or starting the Texas Avenue exit. Rock Prairie Road. An estimated dates have been set for the project, In each option, highway 18,000 vehicles pass south through he said. Further analysis is need- entrance and exit ramps for Texas the intersection daily, said Robert ed, and funding is being discussed. Avenue and Rock Prairie Road Appleton, director of transporta- "We hope to do this project with- are altered to improve traffic flow. tion planning and development in the existing right-of-way, the "I think it's needed," College for the Bryan district. property we already own,"he said. Station resident Bob Anderson PROJECT Three proposed changes to the areas between Emerald Parkway and Greens Prairie Road include: ■ The west frontage road between Deacon Drive and Rock Prairie Road would be one way. ■ The entrance and exit ramps at three spots along the highway between Rock Prairie and Greens Prairie would be altered. ■ The entrance ramp to north- bound Earl Rudder at Rock Prairie would be moved north of the Texas Avenue exit. said. Anderson's neighborhood is off Rock Prairie. The highway ramps are danger- ous as they are now, he said. The ' l See PROJECT, Page A14 Project From A9 population increase and the com- mercial development has created the need for change, said Ander- son,who has lived in that area for about seven years. Herbert Booker, who lives near Rock Prairie,said he is concerned about access to businesses off of the frontage road. "You hit a majority of your traf- fic right here," Booker said. He said his church is consider- ing moving onto Graham Road at the highway. Appleton said the effect on homes and businesses off of the highway will be reviewed. "The main consideration there will be safety," Appleton said. Feb , q • The Eagle News zcoo CS council to consider funds for parking garage addition By COLLEEN KAVANAGH district development for housing. Eagle Staff Writer In other action, the council will consider: ■Changes to the city's guidelines and criteria for The College Station City Council on Thursday tax abatements. will consider spending almost$88,000 for the design ■ Purchasing software that can scan, store, of an additional floor for the Northgate Parking retrieve and compare file and latent fingerprints. Garage. The software would cost $20,825. A request to rezone about 21 acres for an apart- ■ An interlocal agreement with the College Sta- ment complex also will be heard. tion school district in which the city would be able The garage addition is needed because of growth to use the district's satellite downlink system and in the area, city officials have said. The council will video equipment. consider a change order with Arkitex Studios for If approved, both entities would be able to obtain $87,750. An additional floor would add 192 spaces. free programming and information and have In 1997, the council authorized a $371,803 design improved use of the cable access channel, city ott"i- contract, and in 1999, it authorized the final design cials said. Also, the city would be able to use the of the garage. video equipment for special events that could be A rezoning request on property located at the broadcast on the cable channel. northeast corner of Harvey Mitchell Parkway The workshop meeting is set for 3 p.m. in the South (F.M. 2818) and Luther Street West will be council chambers of City Hall, 1101 Texas Ave. The reviewed by the council. If approved, it would regular meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the coun- change the zoning from single family to planned cil chambers. • TheEagleNews Ftb. 2� Consolidate cities estate investment that should be left to private enterprise. The s the Bryan City Council exer- answer can be found in the consoli- cising good judgment on the dation of the two cities. Bryan has westside golf development? The a lot to offer College Station that Eagle has circulated much adver- will balance the perceived negative tising, letters to the editor and com- of the Bryan schools. Bryan can mentaries on this project. Both offer utility generation ownership sides of the issue have made good and lower ad valorem taxes. Power arguments but seem to have missed generation is going to be a signifi- the obvious solution. cant advantage in the years to The city is taking a big risk for come. the purpose of competing with It may be time to change the College Station. Much of the new Bryan City Council. We need peo- • upscale residential growth is going ple who will move toward consoli- to College Station. A Bryan golf dation. Let's elect Louis Newman, course project is not going to stem Beth Price and Frank Thurmond. I the tide. The real reason Bryan believe these are people who can cannot compete with College grasp the real issue and the reme- Station is because of the public dy. Perhaps our citizens should school system. People with chil- pursue consolidation of Bryan and dren are moving to College Station College Station and forget this to avoid the Bryan schools. westside white elephant. The answer to Bryan's problems R.H. HARRISON III does not lie in making a risky real 247 Bryan ?-b-, -37 The Eagle News ' Railroad relocation study put on hold By LAURA HIPP this recommendation," Parks said. Eagle Staff Writer J� 3 Each committee reviewed proposals `� from two firms and chose Carter-Burgess, A study on relocating ,the railroad which has experience with similar pro- tracks through Bryan-College Station was jects in Texas, Parks said. put on hold Wednesday until Union Pacif "The cost was viewed by many to be is Railroad makes a firm financial com- realistic because of the comprehension of Railroad mitment to the project. the study," he said. The policy committee of the Bryan-Col- Some $228,000 in federal funds already lege Station Metropolitan Planning Orga- appropriated can be used toward the cost From A 1 nization made the decision to delay the of the study, which brings the cost to cated the study during its meeting to discuss the about $1.1 million, he said. The federal Y are supportive the project, but have never o feasibility study proposal by the Carter- government would pick up 80 percent of uttll ined what the company is willing to Burgess firm. that remaining cost. commit, Parks said. The study would be completed within 15 Bryan, College Station, Brazos County, months from the starting date and is esti- Texas A&M University and Union Pacific Union Pacifies role in this pro- months to cost about $1.3 million, said would then have to pay about$43,000 each spo is unknown, railroad �chael Parks, director of the planning for the study. No Union Pacific represen- spokesman Mark Davis said, but the company's goal is always to agency.If the firm is chosen, officials said tative was at Wednesday's meeting. ensure the same level of service they would seek to negotiate a lower price. Railroad company officials have indi- to its customers. "The rail committee and the technical committee have worked for months on See RAILROAD, Page A6 "Typically, our support or our contribution is having our engi- neers work on the study to ensure that it's a workable pla• Davis said. "Each study is differ- ent as far as the railroad partici- pating." Discussion of rail relocation has been ongoing since February 1998,when A&M officials suggest- ed moving the railroad tracks away from campus and the cities and constructing new tracks along the Brazos River. The planning organization's Policy committee approved plac- ing the study on the state's trans- portation improvement program calendar as a future project. If officials do not choose to imple- ment the study, it easily can be removed from the program, Parks said. Approval of the study is expect- ed at the group's next meeting on March 1, after local officials dis- cuss Union Pacific's participa- tion with railroad officials. The Eagle News Welcome to serfdom During this election cycle, Tony Jones and Ann Cofer—a like to welcome the citizens of Republican wannabe—need not Bryan to the Kingdom of Serfs. knock on my door. I only vote for e here in College Station have real conservatives. been living in serfdom for man - W.J. "Bill" BATCHELOR Years now. We have a monarchyj College Station much like you do, only we serve a Queen and six Prime Ministers. Let the people vote You are blessed with a King and several Barons/Baronesses who n the battle of golf courses, Fred reign over individual fiefdoms Brown has come closest to hit- known as single-member districts. iting the nail on the head by his When the voters of College advocacy of a plebiscite of the Station approved a hotel-confer- Bryan citizenry. An excellent idea ence center, Bryan was destined to except for the argument which get in on the action. The stage was says, "Why vote again when the set for local governments' involve- present city leadership has already ment in the private sector. We also been selected and validated by approved(by the narrowest of mar- vote?" gins)a snazzy parking garage that Because Bryan's elected officials the club and bar owners on have by somewhat radical action University Drive are thrilled to put the city and its tax payers into have. the commercial entertainment And now I understand another marketplace without precedent or swell golf course is coming to universally acknowledged bonafide Bryan, complements of the local authority, the voters should get to serfs. Life is great here in serfdom. express themselves. The problem with this area is Both precedent and principle for that most of the largest employers the plebiscite are well established are government-controlled. With a in the Constitution, which limits large percentage of the area payroll all government fiscal authority. being tied to government, it is in Indeed, to amend the Constitution these particular voters' best inter- requires super majorities in the est to grow government as large as Congress and among the states. Possible, thereby securing their Even with such a measured and future. It is irrelevant if these ven- careful approach, we have made tures in the private sector make gross mistakes such as the "prohi- money. To these people, tax money bition" debacle. is risk capital. If the Bryan golf course idea is Call me old-fashioned, but I indeed wise and prudent and uni- believe in a small and limited gov- versally endorsed by Bryanites, cit- ernment. Too much power in the izen approval should be a slam hands of permanent politicians dunk. indicates tyranny is not far behind. Why not trust the people to vote I'm for good streets, strong police it up or down by a simple majority, and fire protection, and clean thus eliminating possible rancor, water. And don't tell me how we recourse, reprisal and regret? need to grow. That's why I don't JOE G. BERGSTAD live in Dallas or Houston. College Station din. The Eagle News Fa , /Z ) Z� Councils may coordinate By COLLEEN KAVANAG / Eagle Staff Writer (/ health code ordinanc es involve the Brazos County Health Department was just one of the topics the Bryan and Col- Bryan and College Station City Coun- lege Station City cil members agreed Tuesday that the Councils discussed two cities should coordinate health during a special joint code ordinances to help businesses and meeting. the Brazos County Health Department. The councils The two cities have slight variations talked about their in their respective sets of ordinances, concerns and possi which could make it difficult for people ble joint efforts, who wish to do business in both cities. which include It could also pose a dilemma for inspec- regional planning, McILHANEY tors checking for ordinance violations, plans for the consolidated health care officials said. facility and a joint retreat to discuss Coordination of ordinances that specific concerns in depth. "If we're going to make a difference these issues," he said. in our community, we've got to find College Station recently updated and ways to do that adopted revised health standards, and together," said Col- Bryan's are in the works. Another lege Station Mayor health issue the councils decided to dis- Lynn McIlhaney. cuss at a future joint meeting is Bryan Mayor Lon- whether the cities should require that nie Stabler said he all public swimming pools be inspect- believes the meeting ed. was the first major Currently, the only pools being step in the two cities inspected through the health depart- working together to ment are those owned by the cities, STABLER solve future prob- leaving apartment and hotel pools lems that could affect both cities. uninspected. "I think there was a real desire to get things on the table to honestly look at See COUNCILS, Page A8 councils from Al The councils decided to ask health department officials to study how many staff members it would take to inspect all public pools, how much it would cost, and whether the cities should be involved in inspections. A recent change in state law requires cities to decide whether to be fully or not at all involved in inspections, officials said. Council members asked for an update of the Bryan-College Sta- tion Community Health Center, which is being built in Bryan. Eric Todd of the Brazos Valley Community Action Agency said construction is on hold pending final approval of a state loan. The facility will help nonprofit agen- cies and health care providers become more efficient,he said. Services will include prenatal care, women's health, adult pri- mary care, pediatric care and a a pharmacy. A women, infant and children nutrition program,a vol- low unteer dentist program and a case management program also will be offered. Todd said the facility is expect- ed to serve between 25,000 and 30,000 residents per year. Mcllhaney updated both coun- cils on the Brazos Valley Council of Governments' regional plan- ning committee and subcommit- tees,currently examining ways to combine and consolidate activi- ties among the seven counties. "We really have an opportunity to protect the quality of life we enjoy in this community„while she accommodating growth, said. Council members asked for periodic updates on the commit- tee's efforts and activities. A joint retreat will be sched- uled in either June or July, offl- cials said. County commissioners will be invited to attend. The Eagle News 2� Overpass is needed,,/Z. Having recently moved to LA College Station and having a 14-year-old son who attends A&M Consolidated High School, I have observed while driving my son to school in the mornings sev- eral different incidents where some students were almost struck by oncoming traffic at the intersec- tion of Harvey Mitchell Parkway South and Welsh Avenue. One student was pushing a bicy- cle across the intersection. I real- ize there is a signal walk button on the corner, but obviously this does- n't affect traffic as a whole. I don't • know how long this has been a problem. But I do know that children regardless of age should not have to take their lives in their own hands trying to get to school. Taking this into consideration, it is obvious that there needs to be a pedestrian overpass from the A&M Consolidated campus to the College Station Library comparable to the overpass over Wellborn Road from one side of Texas A&M to the other. If the construction of an overpass saves the life of one child, then the money to build such an overpass should not be an issue. Now that the school board and City Council have been made aware of this ongoing problem, who will be liable, God forbid, should a child be struck trying to cross this intersection without any corrective measures taken? EDWARD R. ROLLINS College Station rie-b 1 The Ea le News Golf course examined at Course � From Al Public forum zens In Action, summarized the reasons the 300-member organi- By COLLEEN KAVANAGH ` zation is against Bryan's involve- Eagle Staff Writer 1 ment. He said the group objects to Bryan's proposed golf course and resort project city money being used to fund a came under scrutiny at a public forum Monday, private golf course without during which all the questions were directed at putting the issue on a ballot. City Manager Mike Conduff. `To me, that's the most damag- Conduff and the opposition's representative, ing thing of all," he said. "Why Louis Newman, each made presentations before would the council not want to the hour-longknow the opinion of its ton- program was opened to audience members. stituents?" The forum, sponsored by the Brazos Valley The forum aired live on the Chapter of Society of Professional Journalists, at local PBS affiliate, KAMU-TV. times was tense as Conduff fielded questions 4W Many of the 100 or so in the audi- about Bryan's involvement in the Traditions Golf ence were members of Citizens In Course and Country Club at University Ranch. Action. The six people who went Newman, co-chair of the opposition group Citi- to the microphone to ask ques- tions posed their concerns to See COURSE, Page A10 Conduff. No questions were directed to Newman. This is the second public forum in the past month in which the two have had a chance to voice 0 their views on Bryan's involve- ment in the $275 million project. One issue that had not been previously discussed was the development's location, which will be near Easterwood Airport. Another citizen was concerned about the amount of water it would take to maintain the 27- hole golf course. In July,the city teamed up with ClubCorp USA and Texas A&M University for the 800-acre devel- opment. The golf course will be designed and partly owned by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. Three months ago, the Bryan City Council approved the devel- opment agreements for the pro- ject. The agreements include 225 acres for the golf course and 25 acres for a hotel, conference cen- ter and resort area. The remain- ing land will include residential housing, officials said. Since that time, Citizens In Action has formed in opposition appraised value for the land; to the city's plans to use public ■Did not conduct public hear- funds on a private development. ings on the development con- The group has repeatedly asked tracts; the City Council to let voters ■Misrepresented the true cost decide whether the funds should of the project; be spent, and in January, Mayor ■ And did not provide a refer- Lonnie Stabler said there would endum. •� not be a referendum on the issue. Conduff said the entire process C1ubCorp officials have said for the project has been done that the Bryan site was chosen openly, including the annexation over a site in College Station of land for a future development. because it is close to Easterwood When the city entered the com- Airport. petitive selection process, it A Bryan resident asked about became an economic develop- the status of a joint height zoning ment issue and not just a public ordinance near Easterwood that project, Conduff said. is administered by College Sta- City officials said Bryan's por- tion, whether any FAA studies tion of the development is$27 mil- address residential developments lion, a majority of which comes near the airport and whether from a tax-increment finance property owners will be notified zone. In tax-increment financing, of the airport's location. business or residential owners in Conduff said he expects that the zone pay property taxes that property owners will be excited are the same as those of other about the airport's accessibility Bryan residents, but their tax from the "destination project," payments go to the zone rather which will be marketed to more than the city and county. School exposure during the first year of than 300,000 former A&M stu- taxes within the zone would go to agreements is $300,000, which dents who live within three the Bryan school district. covers the commitments on the hours of the development. "Without the district there is property under option and devel- He said he could not address no money, folks," Conduff said. opment of a master plan. the FAA question or the ordi- Citizens In Action members "Once you have all of the facts nance, but would have city estimate the project could cost and have all of the information, employees research it. closer to$42 million,if interest on you see that the Bryan City Coun- Another audience member the 25-year project is included. cil acted wisely," Conduff said. asked about the free water Club- One audience member asked • Newman, who was applauded Corp will be given for the golf why the city did not chose one or in his wrap-up speech, said the course — more than one million more local developers who had City Council is putting Bryan res- gallons a day for the first few submitted proposals for the pro- idents at risk without giving them years and half a million gallons ject. a choice. thereafter. Conduff said Ramiro Galindo "I do not enjoy fighting city Conduff said the water is efflu- was the only Bryan developer hall," he said. "I did not elect nor ent or "gray" water—water that did the majority of voters elect the has already passed through a council to undertake a project of submitted a project. Galindo „ sewer treatment plant and is not r,,o ld have partnered with con this nature. suitable for drinking. He said the Many audience members snick- city has to find uses for it, and mruction manager Frank called forur- ered as Conduff wrapped up his giving C1ubCorp the water will $32 m in a proposal that called for comments, prompting one audi- save the city money in the future. a32 million in city incentives and ence member to shush the crowd. Conduff cited the economics additional guarantees from "The Bryan City Council wants benefits of the development, ' Bryan, Conduff so said. you to know that it is doing what which include a strong partner- That was something the c saidun-. it was elected to do,"Conduff said. ship with A&M and adding more cil was struggling with, & said. "This is in the best long-term than $300 million to the commu ' "In the midst of that, A&M got interests of Bryan." nity. The project will be home of : involved." A&M's men's and women's golf Thurmond, now a member of teams. Citizens In Action, said one main Newman said the group is not difference in the two projects was opposed to development on the that Galindo's would have been a public golf course. city's west side or any of the t p Conduff also was asked about other partners' involvement. "All of these entities were the city's risk iri the project and offered a wonderful opportuni- who would pay if it was not the ty," he said. "They cannot be success city officials predict it blamed for accepting that oppor will be. tunity." He said the city's risk is low. Newman said the group's oppo- ClubCorp must sell at least 800 sition includes that the city: memberships — the number it qN0 ■ Will pay three times the has determined will ensure the project's success — before the development agreements move forward. The city's maximum J6A 311 The Eagle News z�yjo tic For o 1131 Bryan goycourse '0 and resortproject Monday - 7 p.m. Rudder Theater Texas A&M University Bryan City Manager Mike Conduffand Citizens In Action co-chair Louis Newman will state their positions and then answer questions. sponsored by Brazos Valley Chapter / ISOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL lftwdw JOURNALISTS® Broadcast live on KAMU-TV • Moderated by Bob Rogers J0 ,5( i The Eagle News , Not a good reason am writing in response to the Jan. 13 letter from Eddie Hare. According to Hare, the only rea- son to fund the Traditions Golf Course and Country Club is to make us "part of the university.,, That is not a good enough reason to build a multi-million dollar golf course at the taxpayers' expense. Why should we publicly fund a golf course the public will not have access to? No doubt it brings a lot of busi- ness to this community, but the risk of this particular venture is a little too speculative for the "pres- tige" of being ty.» "part of the universi- Hare also posed the question "Why can't we all get behind this and go forward?" The reason we can't get behind this very risky proposal and go forward is simple: All of the companies Hare men- tioned, aside from the city of Bryan, look to gain immensely whether or not the project is a suc- cess or a failure. That itself should make anyone think twice about this project. Furthermore, the Bryan City Council is behind this project for two reasons: community prestige and personal glory, For Hare and the rest of the golf course proponents, I say if you want a new golf course and exclu- sive country club, fund it yourself but keep your hands out of my Pockets. WILL SMITH Bryar N Thursday, January 27,2000 The Bryan-College Station Eagle page A9 C!� Region CSma test communicationsgear y Council to consider deal that would give city $100,000 worth of equipment By COLLEEN KAVANAGH permitted on a single lot or building plot in the zoning amendment at a recent meeting. Eagle Staff Writer single family residential districts. In other action, the council will consider: The moratorium would not affect commer- ■ Adopting a resolution that supports the The College Station City Council on Thurs- cial or multifamily properties in the two areas reasonable application of sales tax on applica- `L/ day will consider an agreement in which the in which it would be established. If approved, ble products and services purchased through city would receive$100,000 worth of communi- the city will not accept applications for zoning electronic commerce. Cities nationwide are cations equipment for testing. changes,conditional use permits,variances or considering similar resolutions to protect The communication interconnect equip- special exceptions on single family residential local retailers from the possibility of unfair ment would help public safety agencies with property. competition and to preserve tax bases, offi tart/ different radio systems communicate. The two proposed areas for the moratorium cials said. Under the proposed agreement, the U.S. are: ■ Approving a resolution suspending the Department of Justice would supply the city ■ The area bounded by Texas Avenue, proposed Feb. 22 rate increase proposed by with the system and on-site training on using Holleman Drive, Glade Avenue, Southwest TXU Gas Distribution for 90 days beyond the and maintaining the equipment with an 18- Parkway, Wellborn Road and George Bush proposed effective date of the rate increase. month warranty. The city will use the equip- Drive. The resolution also would authorize the hir- ment and report its findings. After the city ■The area bounded by Texas Avenue, Uni- ing of any and all professional services to pro- successfully completes the demonstration and versity Drive, Tarrow Street, Lincoln Avenue, vide the city with the information necessary assessment, the city will receive the equip- University Drive, Earl Rudder Freeway and to determine reasonable rates. ment at no charge, officials said. Harvey Road. During the workshop session, the council Two public hearings on a proposed ordi- Both zoning recommendations are the will discuss thoroughfare and highway pro- nance amendment and moratorium that result of a council, Planning and Zoning Com- jects as well as discuss traffic calming alte affect older College Station neighbor- mission and Zoning Board of Adjustments tives. hoods are scheduled, and the council will con- meeting in which the groups discussed ways The.workshop is scheduled for 3 p.m. in t e sider taking action on both. to protect and preserve older neighborhoods. council chambers of City Hall, 1101 Texas Al. If the zoning amendment is approved, no The Planning and Zoning Commission rec- The regular meeting is set for. 7 p.m. in the more than one housing structure would be ommended approval of-the moratorium and council chambers. I J a rl, 21) The Eagle News A basic right to vote 101 private enterprise paying to develop it? Many of us have learned the hard way Asprise a great supporter of the free enter- that when we stray from our chosen area system and the country that of expertise, we are seldom successful. has been blessed by its rewards, I Are not cities the same? For any munici- am very disturbed when I see this system panty to consider such an endeavor is invaded by government at the cost of the highly questionable. It is bad enough to people. invade the private sector with the taxpay- Every city charter in the state of Texas ers' money, but it is unthinkable to pro- includes the delivery of basic city services pose spending some huge amount without to its customers, the citizens. In the case public hearings and full information pro- of Bryan and College Station, that in- vided to the citizens. cludes police and fire protection; water, As a taxpayer, I want to know that my sewer, electricity, and garbage pickup; tax dollars provide me the best services good streets, nice parks; and additional services to protect the health and welfare possible. No more, no less. of the people living here. We, the citizens, I understand the importance of repre- pay for all of these services with tax dol- senting the will of the people. Decisions lars, fees and utility payments. affecting the quality of life and financial When I see a city move into areas out- responsibility of the citizens should be side of basic services and the free enter- made by those very citizens. The citizens prise system is invaded at the expense of have a right to vote when such important the taxpayers, I become concerned. If projects are on the city's agenda. there were such a great demand in Bryan FRED BROWN for a new golf course, would not there be a College Station The E4gle News CS public utilities to be commended College Station's public utilities department recently was accredit- ed by the Municipal Electric Safety Accreditation Program, which cited the department for its organization of safety operations. The city will be recognized at 3 p.m. Thursday in the City Council chambers of City Hall. Program officials said city administrators and managers have lent their support and provided direction in creating a safe working environment. The program sets a standard in seven areas: administration, plant facilities, operating equipment, tools, personal protective equip- ment and clothing, protective devices, and rescue training and equipment. An organization must excel in several areas before it can be accredited. The Electric Power Training and Safety Division of the Texas Engi- neering Extension Service, a mem- ber of the Texas A&M University System, administers the program. JM z-7, The Eagle News Bryan golf course t unveiled u plans �. ClubCorp spokesman lauds site By COLLEEN KAVANAGH "We don't have an ocean,and we're not Eagle Staff Writer in the mountains, but as far as Texas, ` this is as good as it gets,"he said of the Bryan and ClubCorp USA officials site,which includes water,hardwood Wednesday unveiled the final frees and elevation changes. plans for the 27-hole, Jack �r "There are a lot of little Nicklaus-designed golf streams and water features _ course and the logo for the that run through there," f. 800-acre resort project on Kasten said. the city's westside. The artist rendering of Bryan has teamed with the master plan shows ClubCorp and Texas three sets of nine holes. A&M University for the All three sets begin and Traditions Golf Course end at the country club in and Country Club at Uni- �,0� CO��rtRY C� the center of the project. versity Ranch project, ~ The country club and 180- which will be the home of ® room hotel will be connect- Eagle photo/Butch Ireland '&M men's and women's golf ed by some sort of structure, Ken Kasten,senior vice president of ClubCorp, points out the course for the proposed uns.The Traditions'logo fea- Kasten said. Traditions golf course In Bryan on Wednesday afternoon. ''0[izres the A&M trademark The A&M golf teams will have a emblem. building that includes offices, locker modified slightly,Kasten said,because it pus and Easterwood Airport. ClubCorp's Senior Vice President Ken rooms, meeting areas and a practice has not been fully approved by the Corps Campus Hotels of Chicago will develop Kasten said 18 holes will be built in the range,he said. of Engineers. the hotel, and CF Jordan, which has a first stage.He said the terrain lends itself "We're building a state-of-the-art facili- He said Bryan was chosen over two regional office in College Station,will be to many "signature," or oneof-a-kind, ty for the golf teams,"he said. other sites because of its unique features golf holes. The layout may have to be altered and and its close proximity to the A&M cam- See GOLF,Page A2 Golf of clubs we own in Texas," Kasten said, "I think our market extends outside of the Bryan-Col- lege Station area. From Al I It has all the ingredients W make it work,"he said. the residential developer. A discount will be offered to res- In order for three development idents of Brazos County until agreements on the project to move April 15 in order to achieve the forward, ClubCorp must sell at minimum "trigger" number of least 800 memberships by the end memberships, Kasten said, and of June. membership prices will.be equal ClubCorp will be aided in the to other clubs in the area,Kasten membership drive by A&M. Uni- said. versity officials will provide Club- Construction is expected to Corp with mailing lists or directo- begin this summer, and the golf ry information for faculty, staff, course is scheduled to open in the students and 12th Man Founda- fall of 2001. tion members to help reach its Bryan's $27 million contribu- membership goal. tion to the project,$21.3 of which Also,officials said,ClubCorp is is created through a finance zone, in the process of organizing a has drawn opposition from some board of governors to oversee the local residents who say they are membership drive. opposed to the city funding a pri- "Because of our relationship vate development without placing with the university and the num- the issue on a ballot. J �/a In The Eagle News. Residents, officials discuss future of E. Bypass By HOLLY HUFFMAN I c� maintain the trees and fields all if the ideas willis mp giant to get suggestions Eagle Staff Writer �1 between each community. City officials hosted the meeting from the residents in the area. The main concern among most to look at the east side of Earl Rud "Some of it we can do, some we residents at the East Bypass Area der Freeway South (Texas 6) and can't, and some might take some planning meeting Tuesday night identify concerns facing its resi- to hear what everybody think ohnson said, "but it's good was keeping single-family homes dents, officials said. intact and minimizing commer- Residents of Windwood, Rain- Coll la ingio sStat about change," planner cial development—such as apart tree, Emerald Forest, Foxfire, ments—along the bypass. Woodcreek and Sandstone subdi- Lee Battle said. "If nothing ever Many residents also said they visions were notified of the meet- changed, we wouldn't need to want to keep their neighborhoods ing and asked to attend. More plan." separate from each other and than 60 residents were there. After an introduction, the audi- The repavement of North Forest ence was divided into eight small Parkway in College Station was groups where they could voice also a highly talked about issue, their concerns to city employees. as was preserving the area parks. "We want to encourage citizens College Station police officer to get involved and participate," d. Larry Johnson said although not Battle sai The Ea le News croup to sponsor forum on Bryan golf course By COLLEEN KAVANAGH I 1 A a public forum." men's and women's golf teams.The golf Eagle Staff Writer 6 iWe learned ... that Sims said she encourages people to course will be designed and partl eo le had a lot of ask whatever questions they have owned by legendary golfer Jack Nick- A public forum on Bryan's golf p p about the Traditions Golf Course and laus. course and resort project has been questions concerning the Country Club at University Ranch, In August, Bryan businessman Don scheduled for 7 p.m.Monday in Rudder r0 osed golf course which will be built on 800 acres in west Adam announced plans to develop a Auditorium on the Texas A&M Univer- p p g Bryan. similar project on the eastside without sity campus. development.>> "We learned from our program that the city's involvement. Adam said he The forum, sponsored by the Brazos _BRENDA SIMS people had a lot of questions concern- had made Bryan officials aware of his Valley Chapter of the Society of Profes- ing the proposed golf course develop- project before the Traditions plans sional Journalists, will feature Bryan Brains Valley Chapter of the Society of ment" she said. "We want the resi- were made. City Manager Mike Conduff and Citi- Professional foaraaGsts dents in our community to be able to Three months ago, the Bryan City zens In Action co-chair Louis Newman, have their questions answered." Council approved the development who will state their positions and then January[Society of Professional Jour- Bryan's involvement in the public- agreements for the Traditions project. answer questions from the audience. nalists] meeting on the golf course private partnership has drawn opposi- Since that time, Citizens In Action It will be broadcast live on KAMU- development," said Brenda Sims, tion from a group of concerned resi- has objected to the City Council using TV, and retired newspaper editor and incoming president of the journalism dents. its authority to approve the project former A&M journalism professor Bob group. "The response to the program In July, the city teamed with Club- agreements without the voice of Bryan Rogers will serve as moderator. was overwhelming,and as a service to Corp USA and A&M for the project, "This public forum evolved from a the community,we decided to sponsor which will be the home of the A&M See FORUM,Page A8 Forum From Al residents. Adam — who is chair- man and chief executive officer of The Adam Corporation/Group, which owns First American Bank —is a member of the group. Tom Hughes, KAMU-TV's sta- tion manager, said the forum is an opportunity for people to hear from both sides on a topic that has stirred up debate in the communi- ty. "This goes back to the original process of politics and the pub- lic's involvement in asking ques- tions about a controversial issue," he said. I The Eagle -jon Z51Z-� More pressing needs 'm so disappointed at the city of Bryan even considering a golf course and resort when our cite streets need to be repaired. They are so bad it tears up my car. Also I have two drainage ditches at my house that desperately need attention. We will have to wait 25 years for a return on the invest- ment. I probably won't be here, if it is a profitable venture. MARLENE C. HOGUE Bryan The Eagle - ?q, Seeing red over light my experience that you have roughly a 9 percent chance of meet- ver the past several weeks I ing someone who is running the have been collecting statis- red light. tics on the new light at the WILL WHITE College Station Dartmouth Street and Holleman Drive intersection in College Station. On a purely random analysis comprising 32 trips through the light the following observations were made: Delays exceeding 8 sec- onds(the normal delay due to the former stop signs), 22; expedited trips through the light(less than 8 second delay), 6; average delay time, 21 seconds; average expedited passes, 5 seconds. Therefore the total delay is 462 seconds minus 30 seconds, 7.2 minutes. While this doesn't seem like a lot for one person, it can be substan- tial when several thousand people pass through the light on a daily basis. Additionally, the light is danger- ous. Since I moved to College Station in the summer of 1997, I've passed through this intersection more than 800 times. Until the light was installed, I never saw a single person run the stop signs. Unfortunately, during my study, I personally observed three individu- als running the light. One person stopped and then proceeded through the red light even though I was sitting at a complete stop. The other two individuals never even slowed down. It is my personal observation 11" that the light at Holleman Drive and Dartmouth Street unnecessari- ly delays traffic and has increased the chances of a serious accident. Therefore, you might proceed with caution the next time you travel through this intersection, even if you are lucky enough to "hit the light" (a less than 20 percent proba- bility of that occurring). It has been Golf course • The Eagle ro ects � a� co pared By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Officials in the Dallas suburb Eagle Ste Writer are working on the financing and final plans for the $126 million GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — project on about 1,000 acres at Joe Three months ago, voters here Pool Lake.Hart said construction went to the polls to decide if the should begin early next year. hotel occupancy tax should be The project will include a 50,000- raised in order for the city to pay square-foot conference center for part of a multimillion dollar adjacent to a 500-room, four-star golf course and resort project. hotel and two 18-hole golf courses. The 66 to 34 percent vote sent a The project also may feature a golf message to city officials — academy,an executive lighted golf absolutely. course,nature trails and a facility "We feel[the resort project]is in modeled after a lighthouse on the the citizens of Grand Prairie's lake's peninsula designed to best interests because it is an house special events. amenity that will be a strong eco- In Bryan's 800-acre project, nomic development generator," C1ubCorp USA of Dallas will Grand Prairie City Manager Tom develop the golf course, Campus Hart said."There is a void of pro- Hotels of Chicago will develop the jects like this in the entire metro- hotel and conference center and plex,and this facility will compete CF Jordan,based in El Paso with with other similar upscale, high- regional headquarters in College end developments statewide." Station, will develop the residen- t On Nov. 2, the day Grand tial component. Prairie residents went to the Bryan opposition polling sites,the Bryan City Coun- Bryan's involvement in the Tra- cil approved three development ditions Golf Course and Country gle Sunday,January 23,2000 agreements for a golf course and Club at University Ranch, a pub- in west Bryan, a project N@WS to that in Grand Prairie. See COURSE,Page A2 Course said that is not completely accu- will be the home of the A&M oil and gas funds, city officials rate. men's and women's golf teams. said. "They voted on one of the fund- The golf course will be designed Of Grand Prairie's $40 million ing mechanisms, but not on the and partly owned by legendary contribution, $20 million will From Al I project,"he said. golfer Jack Nicklaus. come from the hotel occupancy Hart said the projects seem The development agreements tax increase and$20 million from lic-private partnership, has similar, but there are some key include 225 acres for the golf a 20-year tax-increment financing drawn opposition from a group of differences. course and 25 acres for a hotel, district that will be used on resort concerned residents. Both projects would include conference center and resort infrastructure,Hart said. Citizens In Action, a political tax-increment financing as a area. The remaining land will "(Tax-increment financing]is a action committee,was formed in funding mechanism, would have include a variety of residential wonderful tool to use as a catalyst November to oppose the project private golf courses, and the housing,officials said. to put back into an area that will because, group members say, cities would own the conference About $21.3 of Bryan's contri- be extremely valuable to us in the they oppose the City Council centers, but lease them back to bution to the project will come -future,"he said. using its authority to use public the developers for$1 per year. from the creation of a tax-incre- The Estes Park Development funds for a private development However,Grand Prairie is con- ment finance zone, city officials Co. will be the developer in without the voice of Bryan resi- tributing$40 million to the pro- said. Grand Prairie.The company has dents. ject, which is much larger than In tax-increment financing, principals in Seattle and Atlanta At the November council meet- Bryan's.Bryan officials have said business and residential owners and has been involved in similar ing, the city's bond counsel said the city's contribution to the$236 in the zone pay property taxes public-private partnerships,Hart many other Texas cities— such million development will be that are the same as those of said.No development agreements as Grand Prairie, Grapevine and about$27 million. other city residents, but their have been signed yet. South Lake—are using incentive The Grand Prairie project has taxes go to the zone rather than to "We're not taking any money combinations for economic devel- no residential component, as the city and county.School taxes away from other needs," Hart opment. Bryan's does,and is not endorsed in Bryan's project within the said, referring to tax-increment Opponents of the development by a major university. zone would go to the Bryan financing. "I'm convinced that have said that Grand Prairie vot- In July, Bryan teamed with school district.In Grand Prairie, without that, this project won't ers made the decision about C1ubCorp USA and Texas A&M the school district will partici- happen.When you look at it that incentives themselves, but Hart University for the project, which pate in the zone. way, it was a pretty easy deci- The remainder of Bryan's por- sion.There are so many reasons tion will come from the Elf to do it." Atochem lawsuit settlement and Grand Prairie Councilman Richard fregoe said the project will help draw attention to a part of the city expected to grow and develop. "If developers were rushing in, we certainly wouldn't be partici- pating," he said. It's not that they aren't interested, but that everybody is looking for the best financial deal. There has to be some incentives. That's the way it's done these days." Fregoe said the city already has spent about $3 million to begin extending the infrastructure nec- essary for any development to the area. He said he has not heard CIullCorp choice of site much opposition the project. C1ubCorp deemed a site in west "I think if there was any, it would have shown in the last Bryan the best one for the project, and ranked a site in south College ' election," said."But even if for Station owned by Houston lawyer some unforeseeable reason, the Tim Crowley as the second project does not happen, we can choice. use the tax increase to build a c Cice. p Senior Vice Presi- convention center at another dent Ken Kasten said the Bryan location." site was chosen because of its Referendum urged location and topography. The Bryan City Council has "Hands down it was the top repeatedly been asked by mem- site," he said. "It has the easiest bers of Citizens In Action to put access to campus,and is the most the issue on the May ballot and interesting in terms of topogra- let voters decide. Recently, phy.If you get a good location, it Mayor Lonnie Stabler said there will work." would be no referendum on the Kasten said that without uni- project and the city would move versity support, C1ubCorp would forward on the contracts in good not have considered building a faith. golf course in the area. The group has said the city's "We will be marketing way out- cost will be closer to$45 million, side of the area,"he said."People if interest on the 25-year project already are coming for football is included.That,they say,is an games,but with a first-class hotel enormous investment made with- and golf course,it will bring peo- out consulting Bryan residents. ple back.There are 8 million Peo- City officials have said that ple within a 2-hour radius. Hav- including interest into the cost of ing the relationship is the most the project is not accurate. At a important thing for us. recent meeting, City Manager "We would talk to Tim [Crow- Mike Conduff cited an example of ley] again if it didn't happen in buying a house—just because he Bryan,"Kasten said. will end up paying$500,000 on his Hart,Grand Prairie's city man- house during the length of the ager, said Joe Pool Lake is a mortgage does not mean that it is unique location,and city officials worth a half a million dollars. did not think the project could be Hart said interest on Grand built anywhere else near Grand Prairie's project was not calculat- Prairie. ed into the city's contribution. "If we'd had competition, it Grand Prairie officials, Hart would've made it easier for them said, decided that the private to negotiate because they wanted merly owned, developed and development would benefit the more,"he said."We have a huge Course managed Golf Coast Club in entire community. amount of vacant land. There is Houston. "We think golf courses are ecb- already interest out there and I From A2 i Grand Prairie officials, on the nomic development tools because other hotels and time share inter- other hand, do not foresee major they bring people and dollars into ests that will create additional opment have asked that the city competition from neighboring your city," he said. "The last value to that area, and it's not update market studies to include projects, but hope to compete ingredient is that we think this even built." Adam's eastside development, with similar developments project will spur on other pro- Hart said Grand Prairie has a and recalculate financial esti. statewide. jects•" huge commercial and industrial mates based on the new study. A residential component is not No master plans for either base that needs conference center They said Adam's development included in Grand Prairie's part development have been finalized, space. would compete with the westside of the project,Hart said,but resi. and hotel operators have not been "We want them keeping dollars Project and question whether the dential developments in the area named in either project. Oppo- in Grand Prairie," he said. Community can support both pro- already are in the works and will nents of Bryan's project have "Grand Prairie is one of the jam. count in the tax-increment asked that the city complete a largest cities in Texas,and we do City officials have said that the finance zone. master plan before estimating not have a place here to hold eastside development was not "The project will create a new any costs or benefits. prom for high schools or ban- included in the study because a stream of revenue for the school ' In order for Bryan's develop- quets.It's an amenity that's real- hotel operator has not been district,which will participate in ment agreements to go forward, ly-needed in our community." named, and there has been no the [tax-increment finance ClubCorp must sell 800 member- Adam's project indication that the financing is in zone],"Hart said. ships by the end of June,city offi- place — two things consultants Bryan officials estimate that cials said.- That number, they In August,Bryan businessman consider when deciding what the 25-year project will bring said,ensures that the project will Don Adam announced plans todl should be incorporated into a more than $80 million to its develop a similar golf course pro- be successful. A&M will provide study. school district, in addition to C1ubCorp with mailing lists or ject on the city's east side without In recent advertising in The taxes and construction fees. the city's involvement after nego- Bryan-College g pp r directory information for faculty, ge Station Eagle, "I applaud the city of B an," tiations with the city stopped. staff, students and 12th Man Adam said development plans are Hart said. "It sounds like it is Opponents of the Bryan Bevel- well under wa Foundation members to help y,and his corpora- being very visionary and proac- reach it membership goal. See COURSE, Page A3 tion will invest more than $150. tive in trying to make things hap- million in the project. Pen. Quarter-billion-dollar pro- Recently, The Adam Corpora- jects[such as Bryan's]don't hap- tion/Group announced that Dave pen in cities every day. Elmendorf would manage the "In most large projects that you project.Ehmendorf,an All-Ameri- see going in Texas nowadays, a can football and baseball player majority of them are the result of who graduated from A&M and successful Public-private partner- spent nine years in the NFL,for- ships,"he said. UCcn 22, The Eagle 2Qoa ,Don't be afraid -,\/DV The Bryan mayor's and coun- cil's refusal for a public vote on the public-funded private golf course project is clearly cow- ardliness. . If the project were so good as the mayor and council have euphori- cally been dreaming, why should they be afraid of public voting? It seems some things are hidden and these officers do not want the citizens to know. Thirty-three years ago I left my native nation to come to this beautiful democratic country. Today I see the ugly dictator- ship has been "transplanted" to the Bryan City Council. : Come on, Mayor and council members, we the citizens shall vote for the right things for us. Don't be afraid. . J.C. LEE Bryan Aw 21 The EaRle News, Report outll'ones finances Anti-golf course committee spent three times as much as it raise By COLLEEN KAVANAGH $11,524 in the report. The docu Bryan. responsible for paying the $7,596 Eagle Staff Writer \ ment covers the period from -Karen Lundquist,general coup- difference.The report did not list November, when the group -1 for the Texas Ethics Commis- any outstanding loans from Price A group of residents opposed to formed,through December. sion, said that the expenses and or any Others- ion golf course and resort The Texas Ethics Commission contributions in such financial "I am responsible for incurring the trea- project has spent almost three requires political action-type com- reports, in general, should be anure deand l Ve signed the con times the amount that it has mittees to disclose all sources of equal.The reports don't always tracts," she said. "We've been raised to fight the development, funding and expenses. se the match up,but if it's a first report, raising funds since the beginning, according to a recently released The group formed to ent ncial document. city of Bryan's involvement in the theoretically, it should match," and are continuing to do so. Peo- Price, co-chair and trea- Traditions Golf Course and Coun- she said Thursday. "Everything ple are contributing, and we've er for Citizens In Action,listed try Club at University Ranch.The should be reported when made ore gettingwe bits, but benough the committee's total contribu- development is an 800-acre public- accepted." chunks.If not,I et enough respon- sible."as$3,928 and expenditures of private partnership in west Price said she ultimately is money,great. amount of the expenditure is The bulk of the expenditures known—not as bills are paid. has been to pay for getting the "Any expenses, if an amount is group's message to residents readily determinable, are using advertising,which accounts incurred,such as when a contract for more than$9,700 in bills• is signed for a service," she said. The Citizens in Action group "Unless it's like a phone bill, and has run ads on local radio•sta- you don't know the actual amount tions, but the expenditures were until you get the bill.if you know not included in the financial what the amount is, it should be report reported,you can't just hold up a Lundquist said all reports bill to avoid reporting if you know should include expenditures as See FUNDS,Page A3 they are incurred — the day the Fund golfer Jack Nicklaus. Adam — who is chairman and petitions. In August,Bryan businessman chief executive officer of The "It's basically open govern- Don Adam announced plans to Adam Corporation/Group,which ment,"Lundquist said,"so people develop a similar project on the owns First American Bank. can make decisions based on who From Al east side without the city's Adam is not listed as a contrib- the supporters are and know the amount of it." involvement after negotiations utor on the committee's financial what money is being spent on if Price said she placed the adver- with the city stopped. reports. they want to read the reports." tisiri over the phone while out of Three months ago, the Bryan "We don't expect him to make Price said at its last meeting, town,and did not know how often City Council approved the devel- up the shortfall,"Price said. Citizens In Action received close the ads would run or how much opment agreements for the Tradi- On Jan. 11, Bryan Mayor Lon- to $1,000 in contributions, but the bill would total. tions project. The agreements nie Stabler told a packed council that was not included because the "1 didn't know the cost include 225 acres for the golf chamber that there would be no meeting took place after Dec.31. incurred," she said. "And I course and 25 acres for a hotel, referendum on the project, and "It looks like we're in the hole a haven't seen the bill conference center and resort the city would proceed with the lot, but it won't be that much," Price and Louis Newman,who area. The remaining land will three development contracts in she said. also co-chairs the committee, include a variety of residential good faith. The next f ancial report is due each gave airs to the group. housing,officials said. Price said that Citizens In in July. Contributors who gave Since that time, Citizens In Action has not decided what its between $100 and $500 are: Action has objected to the City next course of action will be,but Cha Council using its authority to the group has previously dis- Charles and Sue Futrell 0 are:ore re, James Connor and approve the project agreements cussed circulating recall peti- Dorothy Smith Janet and Mike without the consent of Bryan res- tions. The committee's purpose Higgins, Tommy Vance and Mike idents. Price said the group has was amended in December to Bill Birdwell.All are Bryan resi- close to 300 members, including include supporting any recall dents, except for the Higgmses, who live in College Station. The greatest expenditure was $8,659,for advertisements in The Bryan-College Station Eagle. Other expenditures include:An advertisement in TV Facts for $1,105;yard signs and door hang- ers from Newman Printing Co. for$984;stakes for the yard signs from Shepler's for$221;a profes- sional answering service for$125 and photocopying costs to the city of Bryan for two sets of Open Records Requests for$320. In July, Bryan teamed with C1ubCorp USA and Texas A&M University for the project,which will be the home of the A&M men's and women's golf teams. The golf course will be designed and partly owned by legendary �j 0-,n The Eagle ews .6uUUl I. CS council adopts new statement W The College Station City Council has adopted a new mission state- ment and goals to achieve it, officials said. The new statement is: On behalf of the citizens of College Station, a unique community and home of Texas A&M University, the city council will promote the safety, health and general well-being of the community within the bounds of fiscal responsibility while preserving and advancing the quality of life resulting in exceptional civic pride. The eight goals for the city are to help citizens: ■Access the highest quality of cus- tomer-focused city services available at reasonable cost. ■ Live in a safe, secure and healthy environment. ■ Live in a clean environment that enhances and protects the quality of lives. ■ Be enriched by a range of cultur- al arts and recreational opportunities provided through citywide initiatives and collaborative efforts. ■ Participate and contribute to the health and future of our community. ■ Easily travel to, within and from the community. ■Contribute to and benefit from liv- ing in a strong and diverse economic environment. ■ Live in well-planned neighbor- hoods suited to community interests and lifestyles. The Eagle More scrutiny needed Iwas glad to read The Eagles\\A editorial on Jan. 16 supporting the concept of getting some new information about the golf course project. I have been watching the situa- tion for some time now and it appears to me that there needs to be more scrutiny applied to this issue. I believe the City Council might be missing the boat by not having a referendum on the subject. A refer- endum on the subject at this time would probably be supportive of the city's position. I've talked to many citizens about this issue. Most of the people I've talked to have little knowledge of the issues. I recently read Tim Bryan's let- ter to the editor in support of the golf course project. He stated that he believes the city has a well- structured plan that deserves the support of the community. I believe that if the project is as well deserv- ing as he states that his bank should be willing to finance it. This would relieve the city of the risk and still allow the city and its schools to reap this alleged finan- cial tax bonanza. HOWARD N. ANDERSON Jr. Bryan The Eagle �w We need new leadgiW money in her corner?Is that why she's making a big fuss about The Bryan City Council has nothing? spoken against the request of If Adam wants a golf course,let people to vote on the funding him build one.It's a free country. of a multimillion dollar develop- but he shouldn't send his little ment project,but the City Council army of yes people to try and stop cannot deny people their vote on the city of Bryan from having its replacing the council in the next golf course project. city election,and you can be Let's go Bryan.Let's move for- assured that this will be a major ward on this project. issue. MARIE RICHARD Unfortunately the City Council Bryan will have misused a great deal of city funds by the time this council Cooperation desired can be voted out of office.That is the price of freedom. have watched with interest the No amount of spin can convince developing battle lines as they me that this project as it is being formed over the golf course undertaken is in the best interest issue.I am impressed with Mayor Of the general population of the Stabler's sincerity in wanting to citizens of Bryan. '...make something big happen in The concept of a world-class Bryan."In The Eagle,Donald A. golf,residential and conference Adam has a full page letter to the complex may have merit that is citizens explaining why his idea beyond my understanding,but for a golf course,conference cen. two such complexes in the same ter,high-end exclusive neighbor- location is obviously too many.It hood,and Adam Corporation appears that one,Don Adam,a pri- headquarters is a better idea than vate citizen and business entrepre- the mayor's and council's.In addi- neur,is willing to put his own cor- tion,he comments about some porate funds into developing an other observations such'as he identical complex with or without wished he had the opportunity to the cooperation of the city.Let participate in whatever the city him. was planning. If this type of development bene- Missing from the discussion is fits the entire community by the heart of the issue:The city of bringing in new business,increas- Bryan feels that it is in some sort ing the property tax base and of reputational competition with tourism dollars,it will do so the city of College Station(and regardless of the source of devel- vice versa),and that Bryan has opment funding.Let Adam take been losing the competition.It is the risk and the rest of us enjoy possible that this same spirit of the benefits.It's called capitalism, competitiveness may be behind and it works. other decisions. Come Electiot Day,4exercise I am all for competition where your right to just repre ntation competition brings out the best in by voting in a new City Council, ekch participant—but I do not one that listens to the voice of the Believe that to be the case in the people they are charged to serve. perceived competition between the ANNE P.O'NEILL two cities. Bryan I have observed that Bryan- Best thm for B an College Station has really become g ry one community.Unfortunately, that community is divided by his- Thank you,Bryan City tory—and by two city halls,two Council,for sticking with a school districts,two fire depart- great decision and looking ments,two police departments, beyond one man and his money.A two industrial parks,etc.This lot of people are being misin- artificial civic division—and the formed on these figures the oppo- divisiveness it generates—may sition seems to be pulling out of a be the real source of the present hat. heat about the golf courses. This golf course is the best thing Instead of one community com- that can happen to Bryan.We lost ing together to work on what is Post Oak Mall because some peo- best for the whole,we wrap our- ple couldn't see beyond one man selves in"civic pride"and work to and his money.We finally get peo- beat each other at the same game. ple that want to do something for How much better it would be if Bryan,and Don Adam's yes people we worked together to do what want to recall them.Is Beth Price needs doing. planning on running for a position DONALD H.DYAL next year,so wants Don Adam's Bryan J G�� The Eagle The Adam Corporation/Group WELCOMES Dave Elmendorf Managing Director of Development Donald A.Adam is pleased to announce that Dave Elmendorf has joined The Adam Corporation/Group as Managing Director of Development. Elmendorf will manage the development of the east Bryan real estate project,which is located between FM 158 and FM 1179 behind Allen Academy. The first phase of the project will include an upscale residential subdivision,18-hole golf course,country club,office building and retail complex. Phase two of the project will include an additional 18 holes of golf,a hotel and conference center. Groundbreaking for the project is scheduled for early 2000, The project will ultimately encompass nearly 1,000 acres. Elmendorf,Texas A&M Class of'71, graduated with honors in economics. He is the well-known football color commentator for the Aggie Radio Network. At A&M,Elmendorf was recognized as an All-American in college football and baseball,and as an academic All-American. He spent nine years in the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams,completing his career in Super Bowl XIV without ever missing a start and attaining All-Pro honors. Elmendorf has substantial experience in real estate project development and golf course resort management. He was formerly owner,developer and general manager of Gulf Coast Club in Houston. He also served as general manager for American Golf Corporation in Santa Monica,CA,the world's largest golf course operator,where he directed operations for three private country clubs and one daily fee course. Most recently, Elmendorf served as director of golf for Dolce International of Montvale,NJ.As director of golf,Elmendorf managed the operations of six resort golf courses. Adam praised Elmendorfs experience and expressed pleasure in adding such a talented associate to his staff,in keeping with a long-standing tradition of enlisting the best talent available for his various endeavors. Considering Elmendorfs background and experience,Adam considers this a positive step in associating with the most qualified individual to oversee the current project "Pam very excited to have the opportunity to manage the development of what will be one of the finest golf course and country club communities in the Southwest,"said Elmendorf. The Adam Corporation/Group,through its wholly owned subsidiary,TAC Realty,has been involved in several commercial office buildings,commercial retail and residential subdivision projects throughout the Brazos Valley. V AW CORPORATION/GROUP The Eagle AN OPEN Lt�rrhX TO THE CITIZENS OF BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION AND THE BRAZOS VALLEY FROM DONALD A. ADAM: the opportunity to combine the headquarters for the Adam Corporation/Group and its subsidiaries with a premier golf course r and country,club facility within a master-planned residential and commercial development is the fulfillment of a long-held vision to contribute to the growth and quality of life for Bryan/College Station. The master-planned residential area will feature estate- sized lots and homes,golf villas,tennis villas and off-fairway residences. This project will be designed to create a community or neighborhood environment and will appeal to a wide range of homeowners and the many former students who would like to 'Come home to Aggieland." The golf course and country club of the initial phase of the project will be designed and furnished in a deep traditional style,designed by Robert Trent Jones H. The second phase of the project will add an additional 18-hole golf nurse to serve a four-star hotel and conference center. This entire development will utilize existing owned real estate on the east ,ide of Bryan along with contiguous property being acquired that will encompass nearly LOW acres, In my opinion,Bryan/College Station is one of the most vibrant communities in the nation and it is my desire to create a development that will serve to increase the Cities' risibility both nationally and internationally. The Adam Corporation/Group will invest in excess of$150 million over the life of the project. Additionally,when completed,the residential and commercial development will be valued in excess of$500 million which will complement the areas' tremendous assets,such as the$80 million George Bush Library and the$40 million Kyle Field Zone expansion. The project will be done in a most aesthetically pleasing manner consistent with upscale projects in Houston,Dallas and Austin. The overall design of the buildings,landscaping and signage will be subtle,achieving an understated luxury that all citizens can be proud of. Plans are well underway for designing the first premier 18 holes that we believe will be recognized as one of the top-rated courses in the State. Our goal is to host professional an nts to include major events,thereby focusing international media coverage on the Brazos Valley and bringing the world a little closer to the natural beauty of the area m ople. The initial 18-hole championship golf course will be complemented by an upscale country club of approximately 40,000 square feet together with tennis and aquatic amenities. Cottages or suites will be available to members'guests who are visiting Texas A&M University,the Bush Library,or who are in the area for other -ommunity-related activities. Vlr.Dave Elmendorf has joined our staff as the managing director of this project. Many of you may remember Dave as one of the most outstanding student athletes to graduate i rom Texas A&M University. His athletic abilities were exceeded only by his extraordinary academic achievements;he graduated as a baseball and football academic All- American with a degree in Economics. Dave followed his collegiate career as an all-pro defensive safety with the Los Angeles Rams and ended his career by playing in Super Bowl XIV. You would now recognize his voice as the football color commentator on the Aggie radio network. Dave has a background in country club development and management,having been with American Golf Corporation,the world's largest operator of golf courses,for the past fifteen years. With the expertise and oversight Dave will provide,we expect the development and country club to be state-of-the-art products. a four-star hotel is planned for a future date,as well as an additional 18-hole golf course that will help establish this area as a destination resort. The second course will be necessary to preclude disrupting club members'regular golf play. This project will be in the second phase of the development. We have retained the nationally recognized Economic Research Associates("ERA")consulting firm to perform a feasibility study of the development and the prospects of a successful hotel operation. ERA indicates that r resort-type hotel in Bryan/College Station is currently not feasible,as the rates and occupancy that would be required are not currently attainable in the marketplace. It is our ,elief that with all the benefits associated with the development,the hotel will be justified in time and a site is being reserved for this structure. For almost 40 years,Bryan/College Station has been an excellent place for my wife and me to rear our family and conduct our business affairs. We have been truly blessed and have come to love this community and Texas A&M even more with the passing of time. In 1988,I purchased First American Bank Texas,then known as Olney Savings and Loan Association,along with ten other financial institutions. It was my desire to move the corporate headquarters to Bryan and did so in 1989. My reasons for locating this operation in Bryan were two-fold. I felt then,as now,that the Brazos Valley provides an excellent quality of life, such as the many opportunities offered through the University, iiverse shopping,good restaurants and an outstanding cultural arts venue. Bryan/College Station has the advantages you would find in a larger city while maintaining the 's town"atmosphere and it is a wonderful place for our employees to raise their families. The other reason was to add to the economic base and stability of our o ty. This was most recently evidenced by the announced acquisition of two additional bank locations in Wichita Falls and Burkbutnett. As announced in 1998,we .required the Austin National Bank to establish our presence in our State capital. Additionally,we will soon announce plans to initiate considerable expansion in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and in Houston. Our ultimate goal is to develop a statewide,Texas-owned banking organization based in Bryan/College Station that will result in an increased -conomic benefit to Bryan/College Station. 'or over ten years,my staff and I have explored our need for new corporate headquarters as we are currently spread among four separate locations within the city. Our :mployees have been instrumental in providing our corporate success and are most deserving of a new corporate home. Therefore,the focal point of this development will be he new corporate headquarters,a currently planned multi-story 250,000 to 300,000 square foot facility. Including other tenants,this facility could house up to 1,000 people. this state-of-the-art facility will house the corporate operations of The Adam Corporation/Group and all subsidiaries. We have retained internationally renowned architects, irban planners,engineers and landscape developers who will work closely with our local architect and engineer in a combined effort to produce a structure that will serve as a :omerstone for this magnificent development. SWA Group will be the urban planner and landscape architect and HKS will design the country club and corporate home. Jver time and due to the diligent efforts of many fine people,The Adam Corporation/Group has experienced explosive growth. We currently employ over 1,000 Texans statewide and nearly 600 in Bryan/College Station. As a result of our growth,I have been approached over the past several years by a number of cities,including the City of Bryan,offering incentives to expand or relocate our business entities. While these offers have been generous and attractive,they have never been pursued or accepted. First, Bryan,Texas is my home and I choose to remain here. Secondly,it is my personal belief that our business should neither ask for or receive tax abatements or incentives to rccomplish goals that we have the resources and determination to achieve on our own. If the City has excess discretionary funds,we believe they would be best served to use hem for the benefit of all citizens. In 1998,in response to the City of Bryan's stated interest in pursuing a development partner for a proposed conference center project,we met with the City officials and advised .hem of our plans and progress to that point. It is important to note that throughout our discussion,it was made clear that we did not desire,nor would we accept,anv incentives for combining our efforts. Our purpose in requesting a meeting was simply to inform the City of our plans and invite them to locate their proposed conference center within )ur development if they so chose. At the conclusion of that meeting,the City representatives expressed favorable interest and asked that they be kept advised of our progress, rnd they said they would do likewise. In the year and six months following that time,my associates contacted the City officials on at least six occasions to report the status of )ur efforts. These contacts were always appreciated and encouraged--but never reciprocated. It was later learned that during this time,the City was planning a separate ,imilar project that was never mentioned during any of our discussions. Our preference would have been to join with the City on this project,although that does not appear to v a possibility. the time and due diligence invested in our development has only served to increase our commitment and we are proud to bring this world-class facility to Bryan/College nation. We look forward to keeping our friends in the Brazos Valley up to date on the progress of the championship golf course,country club,master-planned residential area and our new corporate headquarters. thank you for allowing me to deliver this message and for your time in reading same. Donald A.Adam The Eagle Wo 0Bryan should have new study, hearings he contracts have been signed between the city of Bryan and the private partners for the Traditions Golf Course and Country Club at University Ranch in West Bryan and a referendum on the project is not in the cards,city offi- cials say.But these officials still owe it to their employers— the people who live and work and pay taxes in Bryan—to ensure the viability of the project in light of a planned private golf course development on the east side and to answer the many questions that the citizens of Bryan have about the city plan. The first thing the city should do is'ask project consultant PKF to revisit its study, this time taking into consideration Don Adam's planned golf course-hotel-housing development in the area north of F.M. 158 and east of F.M. 1179 near the Copperfield subdivision.It is disingenuous of city officials to say that an eastside project need not be considered because no financing has been announced, and therefore his project is mere speculation.Adam could pay for the project outright if he chooses to do so. He doesn't have to arrange financing. And, he says he will build the project, which would include corporate headquarters for his multitude of business opera- tions. We take Adam at his word,and the city should,too. Perhaps the Adam development will have little effect on the city-backed Traditions project. Maybe the city can support both developments.That's great, if it can.But wouldn't it be better to know with some surety before both move forward?It isn't enough for city leaders simply to say they think Bryan can support both. In addition to including Adam's planned golf course in a revised study,PKF should take a look at what happens to the market if College Station's city-private hotel-convention cen- ter project falls through. Would that then give Bryan an opportunity—perhaps in conjunction with the city of College Station and Brazos County, as once was discussed - to enlarge the hotel and conference center at the Traditions pro- ject? A new look by PKF shouldn't take long.The consulting firm already has the basic data from its initial study of the west- side project, as well as a September update. The company already has considered what happens if the Adam develop- ment isn't built and ff the College Station project is. All the consultants have to do is look at the viability of Bryan's pro- ject assuming that Adam's project comes to fruition, as well as what happens if the hotel-convention center in College Station isn't built. Once the consultant has completed a revised study,then the city should hold a series of public hearings to provide citizens more information and to allow them to ask questions and express their opinions on the Traditions project. Perhaps those opposed to the project now will have their questions answers and their fears calmed. A public hearing will have to be held anyway before the tax increment financing district that is a key element of the city's participation in the Traditions project can be formed. The city should broaden the scope to a series of public forums throughout the city and let the citizens ask any questions they might have on the project. And, the city should make sure that all those questions are answered fully. If a revised study does answer legitimate questions that both the Adam plan and the Traditions development can be viable,then perhaps much of the opposition to the city project will dissipate. Those who remain unhappy with the project will have a chance to express that displeasure at the polls in May when the places held by council members Kandy Rose and Mike Beal are up for election. Beal represents Single Member District 5, which includes the Traditions location, and Rose represents the city at-large. A recall election of any or all of the Bryan City Council members would be very divisive to the city,and we hope that unhappy citizens don't seek one. Perhaps if the city is forth- coming with all the answers,they won't. Traditions Golf Course and Country Club at University Ranch may be a wonderful idea for the city of Bryan.But the public needs more information, more answers to their ques- tions before we can be sure. Wolf e0 * n 2doo decision postpo e CS council also passes moratorium on replats By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer After discussing the Wolf Pen MEETING HIGHLIGHTS Creek Hotel and Conference Cen ter in closed session Thursday On Thursday, the CS council: .� night, the College Station City Established a drought con Council postponed any decision tin.ncApproved an ordinance on the missed financing closing amendment for the city to absorb deadline until the end of Febru- electric rates ary, Mayor Lynn McIlhaney said. ■ Rezoned 19 acres from agri- The council also approved a cultural open to single family res- moratorium in which the city will idential not accept replats and building permits that would allow for more All of the financing commit- than one principal structure on a ments are in place for the pub- lot or tract of land in single-family lie/private partnership, but the areas. contracts have been tied up with The original deadline to close the lender, Morgan Weinstein & on the financing for the hotel and Co. of California, city officials conference center was Nov. 13, but said. a default agreement gave the Morgan Weinstein, which has developer, Wolf Pen Creek Limit- made a committment to lend the ed, an additional 60 days to final- developers $17 million, has ize it, city officials said. That 60 merged with a corporation in days expired at 5 p.m. Thursday. Japan, Mayor Lynn McIlhaney "It is our understanding that said. The merger has caused the loan has been approved, and delays in transactions, she said. it's just a matter of transferring Kim Foutz, College Station the money to the bank transfer- director of economic develop- ring the loan," McIlaney said ment, said the city and developers Thursday night. "Once those both have completed the design funds have been transferred, and development phases of the they'll be distributed to the bank project, but are not at a point to that is providing the loan." release the necessary construc- City officials received a letter tion documents. Thursday afternoon that outlined The entities that make up Wolf the cause of the delay, she said. Pen Creek Limited are proposed Mclhaney said the council felt the to finance and build the full-ser- project still is viable, so it vice, 200-room Sheraton Hotel. instructed city employees to take no action until the later date. See COUNCIL, Page A2 News Council said. the city. The first is bounded by •The building plat moratorium, Texas Avenue, Holleman Drive, which takes effect mid-January Wellborn Road and George Bush and continues through Aug. 15, Drive, including a few nearby From Al only affects two designated areas residential locations. The second College Station will own the and not commercial or multifam- is bounded by Texas Avenue, 45,000-square-foot conference cen- ily properties, officials said. University Drive, Earl Rudder ter that will be built adjacent to The proposal was drafted after Freeway(Texas 6 South)and Hhr- the hotel. a joint council,Planning and Zon- vey Road. In May, the City Council guar- ing Commission and Zoning In other action, the council: 1 anteed a maximum price of near- Board of Adjustments meeting. ■ Approved an ordinailce ly $6.5 million for the conference During that time, members dis- amendment for the city to absorb center and furnishings, a figure cussed possible regulations that increased electric rates so cus negotiated between the developer. Would protect older neighbor- tomers' rates remain the sarlie. and the city. That money will er hoods from infill development. Residential and commercial elec- made available on thewill. e Councilman Dennis Maloney, tric and water connection fees financing the who has been an advocate for also decreased. closing date, according agreement. older neighborhoods, said he was ■Established a drought contin- The developers will invest at excited that the city was taking gency plan mandated by the the first steps to protect College Texas Natural Resource Cons�r least $21 million in the project, Station's historic areas. which will allow repayment of vation Commission. bonds the city will issue to fund I am looking forward to going ■Rezoned 19 acres located east the conference center through ad on and working on ordinances [to of Earl Rudder Freeway (Texat 6 valorem taxes. further protect those areas," he South) and north of Emerald said. gave approval In 1997, voters Parkway from agricultural open Audience members thanked to single family residential. revenue bonds for thea million conference for the city to issue in the council for listening and act- ■Approved an intervention to center. The additional$500,000 on mg on their concerns that infill protect College Station residents development was destroying from TXU Lone Star Pipelinb's the price tag is a result of higher construction and other costs, offi- their neighborhoods. increase in the wholesale price of . cials said. During the moratorium, the gas that is delivered. In October, If the fmancing is not closed, city also will not accept plat TXU announced its intent for a. the city's investment so far has applications to divide a lot to $20 million increase to Texas been minimal, and there is a mow for an additional principal cities. default provision in which the structure. It will not affect appli- ■ Approved an ordinance cations that alreadyhave been establishing a drought contin- city would be paid a $200,000 penalty within 30 days if the pro- submitted. gency plan mandated by the ject does not go forward, officials The two designated areas are in Texas Natural Resource Conser- the southern and eastern areas of vation Commission. 7Date: J (W 13i 2AX)0 Wolf deal faces deadli4b Project hinges on financing By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer <<We were careful to make College Station city officials waited to sure we're diligent in looking hear from developers Wednesday on the at protecting the public's financing for the Wolf Pen Creek Hotel and interest as best as we can.> Conference Center as the Thursday dead- line approached. — LYNN MCILHANEY The original deadline to close on the College Station mayor financing was Nov. 13, but a default agree- ment gave the developers, Wolf Pen Creek Limited and Dalmac Investments, an addi- ident, Tim White, wrote that the corpora- tional 60 days to finalize it, city officials tion was working with the lender to "com- said. plete the items and activities necessary for Kim Foutz, College Station's director of financial closing" by the default deadline. economic development, said Wednesday Foutz said she is expecting some type of that all of the financing commitments are in correspondence by 5 p.m. on Thursday, but place for the public/private partnership, did not want to speculate on what it might but the contracts have been tied up with the be. lender, Morgan Weinstein & Co. of Califor- Either way, the project is on the College nia. Station City Council's agenda to be dis- "Our understanding is that it will be mov- cussed during closed session. ing forward," she said. "But we've been at a "The council decides what to do from standstill." there," McIlhaney said. "We will get an Morgan Weinstein, which has committed update in executive session to see what our to lending the developers $17 million, has options are. I think what we need to look at merged with a corporation in Japan, Mayor is `Is this a viable project?' And from every- Lynn McIlhaney said. The merger has thing I've heard, it still iS." caused delays in transactions, she said. The city and developers have both com- Foutz sent executives at Dalmac, the pleted the design and development phases development and management corporation, of the project, Foutz said. a notice of default on November 15, accord- "Neither have gotten into the construc- ing to documents released through the tion documents, which have not been Texas Open Records Act. The next day, Dalmac's Senior Vice Pres- See PROJECT, Page A3 Project From Al released," she said. "Construe- tion can't start until that time, but hotel and conference center documents will be released at the same time, so they will be in con- junction with one another." A council-appointed Wolf Pen Creek advisory board approved the design of the full-service, 200- room Sheraton Hotel, which will be owned by the developers. The hotel design and application also have been approved by Sheraton. College Station will own the 45,000-square-foot conference cen- ter that will be built adjacent to the hotel. In May, the City Coun- cil guaranteed a maximum price of nearly $6.5 million for the con- ference center and furnishings, a figure negotiated between the developer and the city. That money will be made available on the financing closing date, according to the agreement. The developers will invest at least $21 million in the project, which will allow repayment of bonds the city will issue to fund the conference center through ad valorem taxes. In 1997, voters gave approval for the city to issue $6 million in revenue bonds for the conference center. The additional $500,000 price tag is a result of higher con- struction and other costs,officials said. If the project moves forward, Foutz said, the agreement needs to be updated from its April 1998 drafting. That would not change the guaranteed maximum value [$21 million], she said, and the hotel would still be a four-star facility. If the financing is not closed, the city's investment so far has been the cost of the agreements and other related documents and the cost of the conference center design, Foutz said. The design could be used in another develop- ment, she said. Also, there is a default provi- sion in which the city would be paid a $200,000 penalty within 30 days if the project does not go for- ward. "We were careful to make sure we're diligent in looking at pro- ' tecting the public's interest as best as we can," McIlhaney said. Y II+ Date: '3(M 131 Z000 IOU proud of council Tam so proud of our City Council that serves the citizens of Bryan with the foresight of investing in our future. Just look around to see what is happening. The new Park Hudson subdivi- sion, the Brazos Valley Physicians Office Building and Hospital, DecisionOne, the North Bryan Business Park and now the new Traditions Golf Course and Convention Center. The small price of tax abatement, low interest loans and investments to bring in new businesses and building new subdi- visions to make our community grow is worth it. This will give new businesses and people a reason to give Bryan-College Station a sec- ond look. All the "hoopla" over the deci- sion to move ahead with Traditions is ridiculous. This project is a fan- tastic idea. I have lived in Bryan all my life and I am very proud of this fact. Bryan has always been on the edge looking in at Texas A&M Univer- sity and its growth. We finally have a chance to be a part of this great university. The location of Tradi- tions is perfect. It will enhance the west entrance to Bryan and it bor- ders A&M and will be one of the Premier subdivisions in Brazos County. The City Council, city employees and the private groups involved didn't just do this on a whim. A lot of planning and thought have been done on this project. Also, if A&M, C1ubCorp., Jack Nicklaus, C.F. Jordan and the city of Bryan believe in this project, then why can't Ive all get behind this and go forward? EDDIE HARE Bryan k Who gets benefits? 1 toubt one sided agreements and are with entities the city received he Bryan City Council main- no financial information on. The tams that the proposed west golf course developer agrees to fur- side golf course development nish information after the land has benefits everyone. Who is every- been deeded to him. No prudent . I I one? businessman, banker or other pub- I ■Landowners receive $6,676,486 lic entity would enter such agree- for land that the city had appraised ments without first having fman- for $2.4 million cial information an all parties. ■The golf course developer gets I do not oppose further develop- 220 acres valued at$1,962,840. The ment of land to the west of Bryan. I city pays $2.7 million for clearing, do oppose the manner in which the dirt work, storm drainage and irri- city of Bryan is subsidizing the par- gation infrastructure. The city ties involved for a private golf loans$1 million to the developer course to compete with two exist- interest free for construction of an mg courses, and for a private hotel 8,000-square-foot clubhouse (Pebble to compete with local hotels. It Creek's clubhouse is 32,000 square should not be subsidizing and feet). The developer received 4 per- becoming a partner in a residential cent override ($1.6 million)on lot development to compete vyKh local sales. Other estimated costs to the developers. city are $280,000. Estimated "bene- If the city is going to subsidize fits" for the golf course developer is the golf course, it should be a pub- $7,549,840. The city is to furnish all lic course. irrigation water free of charge for If a conference center is funded the golf course forever. The devel- by the city it should be owned and oper has the sole right to sell the operated by the city or leased for a course at any time and not be oblig- reasonable sum to the hotel opera- ated to reimburse the city for any- tor. thing except the$1 million loan. If a residential development is ■The hotel developer gets 25 planned, the land should be bought acres valued at$223,050. The city and developed by private develop- ers with the city participating only pays $7,000, one-half of the cost of in extension of utilities and streets. his study. The city pays$2.4 mil- FRANK THURMOND lion plus $2.15 million interest on Bryan bonds for the conference center, and then leases it to the hotel for$1 per year. The hotel receives all rev- enue. The city guarantees$2 mil- lion of hotel loan. Estimated bene- fit for the hotel developer is $6,782,050. ■The land developer receives a IN $1.6 million contract from the city for land clearing and dirt work without having to bid. He lands a design-build contract for infra- structure valued at$11.4 million. The city enters a partnership with the developer to develop the resi- dential lots at an estimated profit to the developer of$9.56 million. The developer gets an 8 percent management fee on lot sales for an estimated$2.8 million. The develop- er has option to purchase all devel- oped commercial land at the city's raw land cost or at an effective price of 30 percent of market value. Estimated benefits to the developer are worth an unknown millions of dollars. Having read all of the agree- ments that the city negotiated with the developers, they are without a The Eagle City of College Station News- Date: S(,ln 1 Z i er lotproposal C ouncil to cons d Building regulations would affect two areas in south, east CS By COLLEEN KAVANAGH tial locations. The second is bounded by Texas Eagle Staff Writer Avenue, University Drive, Earl Rudder Freeway (Texas 6 South) and Harvey Road, excluding com- College Station may not accept replats and build- mercial and apartment developments. ing permits that would allow for more than one prin- ` In other action, the council will consider: cipal structure on a lot or tract of land in single fain- ■ An ordinance establishing a drought contin- ily areas, if the City Council approves a proposed gency plan mandated by the Texas Natural Resource moratorium on Thursday. Conservation Commission. The moratorium, which would take effect mid- ■ An ordinance amendent for the city to absorb m January and continue through Aug. 15, only would increased electric rates so customers' rates remain low affect two designated areas and would not affect the same. commercial or multi family properties, officials 0 Rezoning 19 acres cated east of Earl Rudder Freeway(Texas 6 South)oand north of Emerald Park- said. The proposal was drafted after a joint council, way from agricultural open to single family resi en Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board tial. of Adjustments meeting, where members discussed ■ Approving an intervention to protect College possible regulations that would protect older neigh- Station residents from TXU Lone Star Pipeline's borhoods from infill development. increase in the wholesale price of gas that is deliv- During that same time, the city would not accept ered. In October,TXU announced its intent for11$20 plat applications to divide a lot to allow for an addi- million increase to Texas cities. tional principal structure. During the workshop session, the council will It would not affect applications that have already meet with board members of the city's recently cre- been submitted. ated Business Development Corporation. The two areas proposed are those in the southern The workshop session will begin at 3 p.m. in the and eastern areas of the city.The first is bounded by council chambers of City Hall, 1101 Texas Ave. The Texas Avenue, Holleman Drive, Wellborn Road and regular meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the cham- George Bush Drive, including a few nearby residen- bers. The T i Clty, of Colle e Station News _ Dater Tan 12,E 7 Vo t ers Council From Al Action, a political action commit- Wo11 tee that formed to oppose the pro- ject because public money will be spent on a private development. r The audience applauded as the liurmg his statement, Stabler et sa six speakers finished addressing referred to another issue that the council. divided the community: zoning. "It's wrong because this is our He said even though he did not money, public money," said agree with it when it was first Dawn Lee Wakefield, a member proposed, he let the officials that Council rejects of Citizens In Action. "If we vote, people had voted for make the we have a say in how our tax dol- decision, as officials are elected resort referend lars are used." to do. By COLLEEN KAVANAGH On Jan. 6, Citizens In Action Price said later that Stabler Eagle Staff Writer Chairwoman Beth Price said she opened a Pandora's Box when he would ask the council for a refer- referred to zoning. Bryan Mayor Lonnie St Stabler endum and a written response. If "Zoning was voted on by the told opponents of the golf the group was not given a people of Bryan, she said. He course and resort project on Tuolfes- response, she said, it would con- forgot to mention that. day the development will not be' sider circulating petitions to At the end of his statement,Sta- taken to the voters. recall the council members. bler asked that anyone who "I've been told for more than ' Stabler said Tuesday the pro- would like to talk about the devel- eight years that we need d make ject has been in the works for opment call him or wait until something big happen Bryan," eight years, and the council is after the meeting to discuss the committed to helping Bryan issue. With that,most of the audi- he said. "And nothings been hap-ening in Bryan. It's all going expand its tax base and bring in ence got up and reconvened in economic development. the hall outside the council cham- south. As council members, our "I've been told, as recently as bers. obligation is to look after the city today, that there may be a recall "I was just so disheartened and 'of Bryan and taxpayer interests. "I do feel that the decisions on this issue,' Stabler said. `If saddened that they were not we're making are right in the long you decide you want a recall elec- going to listen to the people, tion, I think it will divide this Price said, "and floored that they run for our community," Stabler 6t community, but the choice is didn't even take our request into said. We will not have a referen- yours. We will proceed in good consideration. Everybody that dum on this issue." faith with the contracts and what walked out was really surprised His statement, to some 40 the we see as good for the city of that being an elected official did audi- ence members who packed the Bryan." not mean that you served peo- council chambers, followed the After Tuesday's meeting, Price ple.,, Public Comments portion of the Or said Citizens In Action will In July, the city teamed with City Council agenda. Six Bryan decide its course of action at its C1ubCorp USA and Texas A&MI, residents had asked that the coon ,� next meeting, which has not et 1 University for the project, which cil place the 800-acre development " been scheduled. y in west Bryan, named Traditions "I had no idea that they'd Golf Course and Country Club at already made a decision," she University Ranch, on the ballot. said. "I'm disappointed that they Most of the audience was made are not going to allow citizens to up of members of Citizens In speak. I'm really, really disap- pointed. I hate the fact that the council is making citizens make the decision. Whoever comes to the next meeting will vote on it. Our organization listens to the people, and we will let the people of Bryan decide our direction, unlike how the city council is making decisions.Majority rules, and majority will decide." will be the home of the A&M taxes within the zone would go to men's and women's golf teams. the Bryan school district. The golf course will be designed Citizens In Action members and partly owned by legendary have said the cost will be closer to golfer Jack Nicklaus. $45 million, if interest on the 25- In August, Bryan businessman year project is included. That, Bon Adam announced plans to they say, is an enormous invest- develop a similar project on the ment made without consulting east side without the city's Bryan residents. involvement after negotiations Members also have asked that with the city ended. the city update its study on the Three months ago, the Bryan market support for the project to City Council approved the devel- include Adam's eastside develop- opment agreements for the Tradi- ment; develop a master site plan; tions project. The agreements and redo the estimates for the include 225 acres for the golf project with the new study. course and 25 acres for a hotel, In an earlier meeting, city offi- conference center and resort cials said the eastside develop- area. The remaining land will ment was not included in the include a variety of residential study because a hotel operator housing, officials said. has not been named and there has Since that time, Citizens in been no indication that the Action has objected to the City financing is in place—two things Council using its authority to consultants consider when decid- approve the project agreements ing what should be incorporated without the voice of Bryan resi- into a study. dents. Price said the group has They also said that while the close to 250 members, including deal may not be the most ideal, it Adam —.who is chairman and is a win for the city, and they chief executive officer of The think the project would be built Adam Corporation Group, which in College Station if it were not in owns First American Bank. Bryan. City officials have estimated In other action, the council: the city's cost for the project to be ■Sent a rezoning request back about$27 million, $21.3 million of to the Planning and Zoning Com- which will come from the cre mission to reconsider after two ation ybf a tax-increment finance people opposed it. The applicant zone. In tax-increment financing, asked to change the zoning on 1/2 business or residential owners in acre on the south side of Pease the zone pay property taxes that Street from single-family residen- are the same as those of other tial to commercial. Bryan residents, but their pay- ■Rezoned about 22 acres north ments go to the zone rather than of the Allen Ridge subdivision to to the city and county. School single-family residential. le/ The Eagle City of College Station News: Date: '6u) i Z000 - - Golf course The class-action }} lawsuit against Jack Nicklaus' (left) company notaffected ' `` < u Golden Bear ,� ,•; b Golf will have no x effect on the g ,_; golf course and b lawsuit resort planned �'..{.3 for Bryan. The golf course will be designed by Bryan resort project Nicklaus, who has also said he to continue as planned would be part owner. By COLLEEN KAVANAGH Eagle Staff Writer '_ 1'_Il v (� Bear International," said Nicklaus spokesman Golden Bear International and Bryan offi- Scott Tolley. "The two are not related." cials said Monday that a class-action lawsuit In December, Golden Bear Golf announced a against Jack Nicklaus' public company, Gold- proposed settlement of the lawsuit that could en Bear Golf, has no impact on the planned result in the legendary golfer buying out share- Bryan golf course and resort project. holders and making the company private. Nicklaus, Golden Bear International's According to newspaper reports, if the settle- owner, and Nicklaus Design, a component of ment is approved the company would pay 75 Golden Bear International, are involved in cents for each of the 2.7 million shares publicly Bryan's 800-acre Traditions Golf and Country held. Shareholders who lost money would be Club at University Ranch. But the corporation given an additional $3.5 million total. is completely separate from the Golden Bear In July, the city teamed with ClubCorp USA Golf corporation, officials said. See GOLF, Page A1O "The lawsuit has nothing to do with Golden g Golf articles about Golden Bear Golf and questioned how the settle- ment would affect the develop- ment. From Al Tom Coyle, Bryan's project director and director of develop- of Dallas and Texas A&M Univer- ment services, said a settlement sity for the Traditions develop- independent of the project would ment, which will be the home of not affect it. the A&M men's and women's golf "The net effect is that Mr. Nick- teams. The golf course will be laus is taking a position in this designed by Nicklaus, who has project as part of his design fee," also said he would be part owner. he said. " Nicklaus' value to the In August, Bryan businessman golf project is his ability to design Don Adam announced plans to a golf course. The issue of settle- develop a similar project on the ment does not affect his ability to east side without the city's design a superior golf course at involvement. Traditions." Three months ago, the Bryan Golden Bear International is City Council approved the devel- privately owned by Nicklaus and opment agreements for the Tradi- his family, Tolley said. The com- tions project. The agreements pany's cornerstone is Nicklaus include 225 acres for the golf Design, but it also focuses on course and 25 acres for a hotel, development of real estate and conference center and resort golf courses, he said. area. The remaining land will Golden Bear Golf contains the include a variety of residential marketing, licensing and fran- housing, officials said. chising of Nicklaus and Golden Since that time, a group called Bear brands, Tolley said. It also Citizens in Action has formed in contains the Nicklaus/Flick golf objection to the city using public schools and handles the franchis- funds on a private development. ing of Golden Bear golf centers, Adam,who is chairman and chief but does not operate or manage executive officer of The Adam the centers. Corporation Group, which owns The lawsuit claimed that Gold- First American Bank, is a mem- en Bear Golf did not live up to its ber of the group. bond agreement and withheld At two recent meetings, Citi- financial documents. zens In Action members cited low City of College Station Ne73'm—!!! - Date: (,a) moo When Will it W stop?Q 1 0100 thing about what will happen if this venture fails. here will the council mem- Another concern is why were hers,of the cityof Bryan local Y contractor s not given g an stop?First it was the opportunity to bid on such an effort LaSalle Hotel project in Downtown by the city? Can we not even keep Bryan, the private box at Kyle this money local? Field, the annexation of land and Is our tax money paying for the now the golf course on the west ads in the local newspaper to side, and not a single issue has encourage the citizens of Bryan to been voted on by the taxpayers of support this endeavor? Surely The Bryan. Eagle is not providing that space For the city of Bryan to arbitrari- for free. ly take on these ventures without Texas A&M University is indeed the citizens' vote concerns us and an important asset to our commu- nity,we wonder what is next. and to host its golf course is a Instead of investing this huge sum of money on a speculative golf Feat idea, but who wants a course that few citizens will use $200,000 home next to an airport? and waiting 25 years for a return, Come on, Bryan City Council, why not invest this money on ven- give the citizens the facts and total tures that would affect more citi- dollar amount the city will have to zens overall and still bring in rev- invest, and then put this issue to a enue immediately?This golf course vote like other cities have. The $27 return is dependent on the econo- million is a large sum of money for my continuing to improve. What if so few to toss around. the economy declines? Remember GLENN and KAREN BOONE the '80s. The city has not said any- Bryan �a Cit of College Station News 7-1 ... Date: J-6A q 12000 CS police offering A� 12-week academy The College Station Police Depart- ment is accepting applications for its Citizens Police Academy. The academy is a free, 12-week program intended to foster a better understanding of the role of law enforcement in today's society and how cooperation between residents • and police can be useful in combating crime. Classes will be in the police depart- ment's training room and will run from 7 p.m.to 10 p.m. each Tuesday. A graduation ceremony will be April 25. Those interested in participating must be at least 18 years old. Appli- ;ations must be filed by Jan. 26 and are available at the College Station 'olice Department. For more information, contact Offi- er Rick Vessell at 764-3573. • MEETING 0100 Thursday, January 6, 2000 6:30 p.m. Brazos Center Bryan 822 � 3915 THE MISSION OF CITIZENS IN ACTION Citizens in Action was formed as a group of concerned citizens who want more information about this proposed high-risk, extremely speculative Golf Course Project. Our group exists to obtain this information and to make it readily available to the general public for consideration. Our goal is to have the City of Bryan place this important issue on the ballot for a vote by the full voting public of Bryan. PLEASE JOIN US We hope that you will join in our efforts. Please call Citizens In Action at(409)822-3915 and a member of our group will contact you. A meeting to establish our immediate plans will be held Thursday,January 6,2000 at 6:30 p.m.at the Brazos Center in Bryan. LETIM US VOTE@ Paid for by Citizens in Action, Beth Price, Chairman and Treasurer, 1312 Brook Hollow Drive, Bryan,Texas 77802 Poegional News—WSJ Interactive Edition http://interactive.wsj.com/archive/retrie...CO-20000105-000125.djml&template=regional `I 1141'WAII "I'll[11, 11) "Nifli . I DI FIC11 v. ' In ten years you will be I w _ FRONT H(TION ERKETHACE January 5,2000 MIND � IVIL'TIN6 TE11 (ENTER �CALIFORNIA �FLONDA �NEWENGLAND �NOKTHW'EST SOUTHEAST �TOAS SPORTS PEOWJl►1NAI* Nk'WS Planned Resort 1'01oFCTFt�Lt` 4FO rs Aims to Target Q A&M Alumni In this Section: Marketplace Extra Small Business By Brad Reagan Marketing/Media Health&Science An unlikely foursome-- including Texas A&M University and Business Focus legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus -- is partnering up to create what it Law hopes will be a destination resort in Bryan. Who's News Columnists The project, called Tradition Golf and Country Club at University Ranch, is part of Dallas-based C1ubCorp Inc.'s growing niche of wsj.com Audio: providing private clubs for universities. This project,though, is unique Business Update for the diverse team that came together to make it happen --and for the rather narrow demographic group it seeks to attract. Markets Recap WSJ on Audible Memberships will be marketed to A&M alumni, faculty and staff with Learn More the hope that they will visit during football and graduation weekends or just come for the golf throughout the year. Non-Aggies will be Journal Atlas: accepted -- if they can tolerate the maroon and white motif in the Table of Contents clubhouse. • 1 of 5 1/5/00 9:42 AM Regional News—WSJ Interactive Edition http://interactive.wsj.com/archive/retrie...CO-20000105-000125.djm1&template=regional Headlines Business Index "If you hate the Aggies,you probably aren't going to want to be a Search member," says Ken Kasten, ClubCorp's senior vice president of News Search business development. Past Editions Construction could start as early as this summer. In addition to a Briefing Books Nicklaus-designed golf course-- the future home of Aggie golf teams-- Quotes there will be a full-service hotel, commercial development and as many as 1,000 residential units. Resources: Help Bryan is counting on the project to capture some of the growth that has New Features been going to its thriving neighbor, College Station. "For every home E-mail Center built in Bryan, there's roughly four built in College Station," says Tom Your Account Coyle, Bryan's director of development services. Contact Us Glossary The deal came together primarily because closely held ClubCorp and Bryan were both looking to get involved in agolf-course project in the Special Reports area. The Bryan-College Station area, with a combined population of Weather about 150,000, doesn't have a championship-caliber golf course. IClubCorp felt that situation --along with the loyal A&M alumni base Mod in the immediate area as well as in Houston --made the school a ► - natural fit for one of its university clubs. The company, which was l ; = x selected over one other bidder, reached an agreement with the school i�( wim before it found a site. ski WKW """"""'° Bryan had tried to interest developers in building a golf Other wsj.com sites: course/residential development on its barren west side of town. When Careers ClubCorp came to terms with A&M early last year,Bryan officials aggressively pursued the project. Homes Personal Tech Bryan offered the developers a basket of incentives in November-- Startina a Business with the city's total investment estimated at$27 million--and Travel established a tax-increment financing district to fund the project. The Bryan City Council approved the agreement in November. The Print Journal: Subscribe Not all local residents are enthusiastic about the deal, however. A Customer Service group called Citizens In Action contends the city's numbers are overly optimistic and questions whether Bryan can support a project on such a More Dow Jones Sites: large scale. "There's some really spooky things about it," says Louis dowiones.com Newman, one of the organization's leaders. Barron's Online DJ Universitv Mr. Newman says the group plans to ask the city council this month for a referendum on the issue and, if that fails, may seek a recall election of Publications Library council members. Reprints SmartMonev Under the agreement with Bryan, ClubCorp gets 225 acres on the city's (W 2 of 5 1/5/00 9:42 AM Regional News—WSJ Interactive Edition http://interactive.wsj.com/archive/retrie...CO-20000105-000125.djml&template=regional Dow Jones& Co., southwestern border and a $1 million interest-free loan to help build the clubhouse. In return, the company will build a Nicklaus-designed Corrections course valued at $10 million on the site. The course will be in Bryan, but only two miles from the A&M campus. Chicago-based Campus Hotels LLC gets 25 acres and a commitment from the city to pay for a $2.4 million conference center next to the hotel. Campus Hotels agreed to build a 120-room hotel with at least 50 individual villas. For the residential developer, C.F. Jordan LP of El Paso, the city will build the major streets to the subdivision. The-developer promises to build approximately 1,000 residential units --primarily single-family homes and townhomes --and pay the city 30% of property sales. Once the financing is paid off in 2025, the city projects, the Bryan school district will have collected $82 million in additional property-tax revenue. At that time, the city, school district and Brazos County also will begin sharing as much as an additional $8 million annually in tax revenue. The city stands by the deal. "We're having to get more aggressive in going after these facilities or they go somewhere else," Mr. Coyle says. Mr. Nicklaus, a frequent partner of ClubCorp's, will design the course along with his son, Jackie. His private company, Golden Bear International Inc., will also have a minority ownership interest. A&M has no active involvement in the project other than giving ClubCorp licensing rights and access to alumni mailing lists. For that, the school will receive 3% of dues and 10%of the initiation fees from 1 the club. School officials estimate its share could total $1 million over 1 10 years. But school officials say they aren't particularly concerned about the revenue--after all, golf is a money-losing sport at most universities. More important is the question of whether the school is attaching its name to a successful venture. "How responsive will our former students be to something like this?" asks Rick Floyd, A&M's vice president of finance. "I think we'll know a lot within 60 days" of the beginning of marketing late this month. Initiation fees will be about $6,000 for local members-- people who live within 50 miles of Bryan--and $300 for nonresident members, not including monthly dues, Mr. Kasten says. Construction will start once ClubCorp sells 200 local and 400 nonlocal memberships. The �w company is optimistic that target will be met within six months. 3 of 5 1/5/00 9:42 AM Regional News—WSJ Interactive Edition http://interactive.wsj.com/archive/retrie...CO-20000105-000125.djml&template=regional ClubCorp has developed six university clubs since 1991, including one 1 at the University of Texas. Most of the clubs are more like business clubs than country clubs; A&M and the University of Florida-- which will begin construction on its club later this year--are slightly different because they are built around golf courses. `1 i Despite a somewhat inauspicious beginning, the University of Texas Club,which opened in Darrell K. Royal-Memorial Stadium in 1998, has exceeded expectations. Soon after the project was announced, it was disclosed that UT Chancellor William Cunningham had a complimentary membership at ClubCorp's Barton Creek Country Club in Austin. He began paying his own dues after critics argued that the gift was a potential conflict of interest because of C1ubCorp's pending bid for the club. In addition, ClubCorp Chairman Robert Dedman, a UT graduate, contributed $3 million to UT athletics while the school was considering the bid. (The executive also gave$1.5 million to Florida State University in 1994 when that school was considering offers to run its new private club.) Mr. Dedman, whose net worth is put at more than $1 billion, had previously given large sums to UT and his other alma mater, Southern Methodist University. He and school officials deny any connection between the gifts and the contracts. 1 Mr. Kasten says ClubCorp sponsors an internship program with A&M, but"that has no effect on this nor did the gift Mr. Dedman made at Texas." A&M officials say neither Mr. Dedman nor ClubCorp has made donations to the school, although the A&M athletic department will receive six memberships as part of its agreement with ClubCorp. Controversy aside,Mr. Kasten sees the golf-course concept becoming a 1, bigger part of the company's venture into university clubs. "We'd love 3 to do one at the University of Texas," Mr. Kasten says. But so far,the company hasn't been able to find property near enough to campus to make the project feasible. uat Jill G 'ante 4 of 5 1/5/00 9:42 AM City of College Station Te " — Date: JW i I 1 000 Under the current zoning ordi- nance, two houses can be construct- ed on a residential lot if it has an area equal to two minimum lots. The amendment would change that to one house per lot or building plot. In com- mercial, industrial, duplex and multi- family districts, more than one princi- pal structure would still be allowed. CS pane to consider City employees drafted the amend- ment and presented it at a Nov. 9 amending ordinance meeting of the commission, City Council and the Zoning Board of The College Station Pianning and Adjustments. Zoning Commission will consider on The moratorium would be on any Thursday an amendment to a zoning zone change, variance, special excep- ordinance that would limit the number tion and conditional use permit appli- of principle structures on a lot in cations in two areas: one bounded by areas zoned single family residential. Texas Avenue, Holleman Drive, Well- A moratorium on zoning applica- born Road and George Bush Drive tions in two neighborhood areas and another bounded by Texas where the ordinance is applicable Avenue, University Drive,the Earl Rud- also will be considered. der Freeway and Harvey Road. ------ - The commission can recommend that the council approve the agenda items, recommend approval with modifications, recommend denial or table the items. . The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday in the council cham- bers of city hall, 1101 Texas Ave.