HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/21/1987 - Workshop Minutes City Council MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
4:00 P.M.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT:
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
VISITORS PRESENT:
Mayor Ringer, Councilmen Jones, Brown,
Boughton, Haddox, Bond, and Tongco
None
City Manager Cole, City Secretary
Jones, City Attorney Locke, Assistant
City Manager Ragland, C.I.P. Director
Ash
See guest register.
The meeting was opened by Mayor Ringer with all council members
present except Councilman Bond.
Agenda Item No. 1 - Executive Session to discuss administrative
personnel [6252-17(2) (G)] .
City Manager Cole introduced Jerry Oldani, a partner in Jensen-
Oldani and Associates, and explained that Mr. Oldani was present
to give the council an opportunity to voice concerns or ask ques-
tions about the search for a new police chief. Mr. Cole asked
the councilmembers to express recommendations about the qualities
they would like to seek in the candidates for the position.
Mr. Oldani expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to work
with the City of College Station. He stated that he found the
city staff to be very cooperative and frank in the interviews he
held, and he noted that the councilmembers were welcome to ex-
press their concerns.
Mayor Larry Ringer pointed out that College Station is a univer-
sity town composed largely of students. He noted that this seg-
ment of the population tends to act with youthful exuberance, and
the police department needs to be aware of that and treat the
situation accordingly. He explained that the police need to
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 2
recognize the particular problems in this community as opposed to
other communities; he referred to crowds and pranks as examples
of the problems often faced by College Station Police. He noted
that the police in this community deal with nuisance problems
more often than with violent crime.
Mayor Ringer expressed his opinion that the police chief should
maintain a visible position by visiting civic clubs, school
grounds, etc. where he would become known to the public. He also
enumerated a number of programs in which the police are engaged;
he noted the desirability of maintaining these endeavors.
Councilman Pat Boughton stated that Mayor Ringer had covered her
main concern, that being the relationship between university stu-
dents and the police; she stressed the importance of this con-
sideration. She stated that she would also like for the crime
prevention programs to continue.
Mr. Oldani agreed that College Station possesses a unique envi-
ronment and the police must maintain a tolerant relationship with
the student population and not an adversary one.
Councilman Terri Tongco stated that she considers it important
that the chief be visible. She noted that she would like to see
more emphasis on programs between police and citizens. She
pointed out that the community may be facing an increase in seri-
ous crime and should be making preparations to handle it.
Mr. Oldani concurred that the current number of aggravated crimes
are reduced here in comparison to other communities; he agreed
with the points mentioned by Councilman Tongco.
Councilman Fred Brown stated that he would like to see an empha-
sis placed on having open lines of communication.
Councilman Dick Haddox said that although visibility is a good
point, he believes that a very important consideration should be
the relationship between the College Station Police and the po-
lice departments of the City of Bryan and Texas A&M University.
He stated that efforts should be given to maintaining the good
relationship that now exists; he noted that progress has been
made toward all elements working together as a community. He
mentioned the growth of College Station and commented that the
City is at a transitional stage in its development. Councilman
Haddox referred to letters written to the EAGLE reflecting that
some citizens question the council's employment of a consultant
q06001
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 3
to search for a chief. He pointed out that a determination may
eventually be made that the best applicant is already in the Col-
lege Station Police Department; he explained that the council
members want to be sure that the final selection will be the best
one to be made from a number of well-qualified candidates.
Mr. Oldani stated that College Station would probably receive a
lot of applications, but noted that a number of police jobs are
currently open. He explained that the job of his firm will be to
separate the "wheat from chaff" and to help find an employee who
will be willing to give long-term service to the City.
Councilman Tongco inquired about the procedures to date and asked
Mr. Oldani if he is satisfied.
Mr. Oldani responded that he has talked with representatives from
different levels of the police department; he named some of the
positions involved. He stated that he has received good exposure
to the situation and has had a good response. He noted that the
police personnel appear to feel comfortable about the interviews,
and he anticipates that some of them will contact him again to
make further comments.
Councilman Tongco stated that the relationship between chief and
troops is very important and is a factor to consider.
Mayor Ringer stated that at an earlier meeting, Councilman Bond
expressed his opinion that a person from this section of the
country would be more adaptable to the position than would some-
one from another area; the candidates should be familiar with the
local outlook and the general philosophy of this community. The
Mayor added that he was aware of the point being made by Council-
man Bond, and his personal experience has shown that different
areas do exhibit different philosophies.
Mayor Ringer noted that the College Station Police Department has
grown over the years and has developed into a professional oper-
ation; he added that the only complaints he has received about
the police have been the "sour grapes" type of comments. He
stated that the general public perceives the College Station
Police personnel to be professionals.
Mr. Oldani stated that his firm will be trying to match the can-
didates to the profile of this community.
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CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 4
Councilman Tongco stated her opinion that the homebase of an ap-
plicant should not be a priority but that emphasis should be on a
candidate's ability to do the job. Councilman Brown commented
that although the employee might work out fine, the family may
not be happy in the College Station environment if it is differ-
ent from their previous home. Mr. Oldani agreed that an impor-
tant consideration is that the persons involved should be sat-
isfied to live here.
Mayor Ringer named other concerns to be included in the selection
of a chief. He stated that important qualities are the capabil-
ity to manage big groups, the faculty to lead by example and
guidance, and the ability to offer criticism in a constructive
manner.
City Manager Cole asked the councilmembers for their opinions on
whether the search firm should principally seek a manager-admin-
istrator or a police officer; he also asked the council about
what they perceive the community to feel. Mr. Cole commented
further and referred to the large size of the police department.
Councilman Tongco stated her preference for a manager-administra-
tor. Mayor Ringer commented that many College Station citizens
do not realize the size of the police department and the numbers
involved. Councilman Haddox pointed out that a good administra-
tor knows what needs to be done and has experience; he noted the
importance of the manager not losing touch with what is happen-
ing.
City Manager Cole clarified the connotation meant by "manage-
ment'' in the discussion. Councilman Haddox agreed that a blend-
lng of both postures is needed. Councilman Tongco concurred.
The council went into executive session to conclude the discus-
sion.
Agenda Item No. 2 - Signing of a proclamation designatin9 the
week of February 16-22, 1987 as "National Patriotism Week."
Mayor Ringer presented a proclamation designating the period of
February 16-22, 1987, as "National Patriotism Week". On behalf
of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, Gene Oates
accepted the proclamation and explained the background of the an-
nual event. Mayor Ringer expressed his appreciation for the ef-
forts of the Elks in sponsoring the "Youth Government Day" activ-
ities.
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CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 5
A~enda Item No. 3 - Siqning of a proclamation desi~natin~ the
month of February 1987 as "American Heart Month".
Mayor Ringer presented a proclamation designating the month of
February 1987 as "American Heart Month". On behalf of the local
chapter of the American Heart Association, Mr. John Nethercutt
accepted the proclamation and outlined the activities planned for
the month.
A~enda Item No. 4 - Council Concerns.
Councilman Brown described the "gate-keeper concept", a program
designed to allow meter-readers to identify and check on elderly
citizens. City Manager Cole stated that he was not familiar with
this particular program but was aware of similar ones. Council-
man Brown stated that it should be easy to implement. Councilman
Boughton noted that the College Station Fire Department had a
telephone project to call and check daily on the welfare of a
number of elderly residents; she added that she did not know if
the program was still intact. Mayor Ringer said that the letter
carriers had a project of this type; he commented that Councilman
Brown's suggestion was to have the meter-readers notice and re-
port problems. Councilman Boughton stated that elderly citizens
interested in the program could make application to have their
residences included. Councilman Brown said that the program
could ward off possible problems for some of the elderly.
Councilman Tongco noted that such an activity would help in the
projection of this community as a retirement area.
City Manager Cole asked Councilman Brown what the actual duties
would be for the meter-readers. Councilman Brown suggested that
a meter-reader would knock on the citizen's door and find out if
everything was fine, then read the meter and leave. If no one
responded to the knock, the meter-reader would notify the police
so that a follow-up check could be made. Mr. Cole pointed out
that a cost would be associated with such a program; the meter-
readers are on tight performance schedules and the project would
require additional personnel. Councilman Brown requested that
the concept be investigated. Councilman Tongco commented that
even if the program could not be implemented immediately, it
could be initiated as soon as the economy improves. Mayor Ringer
said that it could be started as a simple operation of having the
meter-readers notice if the mail and newspapers have not been
picked up at an address. Councilman Haddox expressed his inter-
est in the program. City Manager Cole stated that he would
investigate and make a report.
q06004
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
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PAGE 6
Councilman Brown stated that a number of residents of the Deacon-
Rio Grande-Ponderosa area contacted him about the speed limit in-
crease. He asked that the new speed limits for those streets be
returned to the Council for further examination. Mayor Ringer
asked Councilman Brown if he would like another speed study made;
Councilman Brown replied affirmatively.
Councilman Haddox noted that a speed study shows the speed of the
vehicles but does not describe other factors, such as children
playing in the area. He stated his opinion that the study should
be more inclusive. Mayor Ringer reviewed the criteria for the
percentile type of speed study and commented that it does not ac-
count for other elements that may be present, such as pedestrians
and bicycles. He agreed that a lot of concern has been generated
by the new changes in the speed limits. Councilman Brown stated
that having as many as twenty or twenty-five streets in a speed
study to be decided at one time presented a problem.
Councilman Boughton noted that this area was the only neighbor-
hood voicing objections about the new speed limits; she stated
that she also would like a review. She referred to the pedes-
trian traffic and suggested that the staff study the streets in
the Southwood Valley area to determine the amount and type of
traffic other than vehicles. Mayor Ringer stated that attention
should especially be given to the hours when children are going
to and from school. Councilman Haddox agreed that this type of
consideration should be included in the speed study. City
Manager Cole observed that a difficulty exists in quantifying in-
formation of that nature.
Councilman Tongco suggested that if a study identified the type
of transportation used by school children and where and when the
school children would be on the streets and sidewalks, then a
time zoning plan could be used for speed limits.
Mayor Ringer stated that another comment made by residents con-
cerned the lack of crosswalks or stop signs at some of the
streets intersecting Rio Grande. City Manager Cole stated that
Traffic Engineer John Black is studying that situation; he point-
ed out that the circumstances are the same for streets in many
other sections of College Station, and drivers are under the
traffic laws relating to "Yield and Stop." Mayor Rinqer referred
to the intersection of Rio Grande and Deacon as possibly being
the problem mentioned by residents.
Mayor Ringer directed staff to place on the Pending Agenda an
item to review the speed limits for the previously mentioned
streets. ~06005
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 7
Councilman Haddox suggested that stop signs would appear to be
more effective than speed limits, in slowing the traffic on a
long street.
Mayor Ringer recalled that in previous conversations about stop
signs, legal constraints about the placement of stop signs were
mentioned. He asked Elrey Ash, Director of Capital Improvements,
to clarify. Mr. Ash explained that the City of College Station
had adopted the federal and state Manual of Uniform Traffic Con-
trol to be used in planning and placing traffic control devices.
He pointed out that the Manual specifies criteria for each type
of sign, and it does not allow a stop sign to be used as a speed
control device. He commented that major thoroughfares are de-
signed to carry traffic, and the state laws require motorists
traveling on minor streets to stop and yield before entering an
intersection at a major street. He noted that the City has a
large investment in traffic control signs, and that the engineer-
ing department has conformed with the Manual in the placement of
the signs.
City Manager Cole added that national research has indicated that
stop signs may have an opposite effect; motorists speed up be-
tween signs, and people tend not to see stop signs that are
placed where they are not expected. He noted that the overall
concern in this matter is for the safety of the children; and,
use of the stop signs could give children a false sense of secu-
rity.
Councilman Tongco referred to the need for children to learn
safety rules but noted that a study should be made to determine
if the area has heavy traffic relating to children and vehicles
at specific times of the day. She suggested that staff look at
the situation again and bring the information so that Council
will be able to reassess the matter.
Mr. Ash stated that the City and the State Highway Department had
a contract and a joint project that would soon conclude with a
reimbursement of approximately $34,000 to the City from the high-
way department; the monies will be designated as unappropriated
bond funds. He said that the amount will be used to purchase and
install flashing signals at each of the eighteen school zones
within the City. He suggested that after the signals are in
operation, the number of complaints will be reduced.
Councilman Brown observed that whatever the speed limit is, some
drivers will consistently drive eight miles above the limit.
06006
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 8
Mayor Ringer asked if all councilmembers agreed that the speeds
for the Southwood Valley area should be re-studied. The council
concurred, and after additional discussion established that the
information to be presented should include a map of the proposed
location of the flashing signals at school zones, a report on the
speeds now being traveled on the streets where speed limits were
raised, and a pedestrian count on Rio Grande and Deacon Street.
Councilman Boughton stated that she is concerned about the inter-
section at Holleman Drive and Texas; she noticed that the "no
right turn on red" sign was no longer there and wondered why it
was removed. City Manager Cole said that he would check.
Councilman Boughton stated that an area under construction on
Southwest Parkway near the Bee Creek Bridge needed markings to
indicate plainly the exact location of the detour.
Councilman Haddox asked the councilmembers for their opinions
about initiating some type of program to enlarge the opportunity
for council/citizen communication. He mentioned a television or
radio interview format that would allow citizens to telephone and
ask questions. He suggested that a committee be set up to ex-
plore the possibilities. Councilman Jones asked if such a pro-
gram would come under the new position of Public Information
Office. City Manager Cole agreed that one of her primary duties
will be to establish better information channels between the
public and the city organization. Councilman Haddox stated that
he believes a need exists for this effort and having someone to
put a program together would be helpful. He noted that he would
like to Give the community more opportunity to ask questions of
the Council.
Mayor Ringer stated that the idea is a good one and that the City
Affairs council committee could study it and make a recommenda-
tion. Councilmembers discussed ways of reaching the public, in-
cluding the use of a newspaper column, suggestion boxes, enve-
lope stuffers, and the possible costs of each method. City
Manager Cole stated that the City has numerous suggestion boxes
used for suggestions from employees.
Councilman Tongco reported on the Energy Conservation Committee
meeting, where members were presented a synopsis of the plans for
the base case study. Explanation was Given on the methods, in-
cludinG consultations, to be used in compiling the information
for the base case. The operation will be completed in about
ninety days.
06007
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 9
Agenda Item No. 5 - City Manager Concerns.
No concerns were stated by City Manager Cole.
Agenda Item No. 6 - Discussion of funding request for Lone Star
Municipal Power Agency 1987 Budget.
City Manager Cole stated that this request is out of the budget
cycle. He explained that the city was notified by North Bardell
that the funding of LSMPA by the City has ceased and the amount
of $83,078.50 is requested for their 1987 budget. Mr. Cole noted
that several councilmembers had questioned the continuation of
funding support for the LSMPA; he expressed his opinion that at
the current time, the City was not prepared to address that is-
sue. He suggested that the council consider accepting alterna-
tive method No. 3 from the recommendations offered by staff; this
method would provide support for the first six months of the
year, to be funded in the amount of $41,539.30 from the Energy
Project Funds, and later put the remaining six months in the
operating budget, FY 1987-88. During the budget process, the
Council will have the opportunity to discuss more in depth the
relationship between the City and the LSMPA.
Councilman Tongco inquired how the city currently funds the
LSMPA. Utilities Office Manager Piwonka replied that the monies
are budgeted from the Energy Projects Fund. Councilman Tongco
asked if the funding had ever been provided through an adder to
the electricity bills. Ms. Piwonka explained that an adder was
not used.
Councilman Bond arrived at the meeting.
Councilman Tongco expressed concern at supporting the LSMPA
through the use of funds committed for energy conservation pro-
jects planned to benefit the community. She stressed the impor-
tance of keeping these energy programs in motion and the need to
keep the principal intact; she stated that she would prefer an
adder rather than take money from the rebate fund. She suggested
that the council provide the six months funding by changing the
PCA formula to include an adder on electricity billing.
Mayor Ringer noted that the adder which had been mentioned would
be $0.025 per kilowatt hour, for an estimated total of $0.23 on
an average bill.
06008
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 10
Councilman Tongco pointed out that the appropriation for the data
base study currently underway, as well as another study to be
conducted soon, had already reduced the rebate principal.
Councilman Boughton inquired about the status of the fund. Ms.
Piwonka replied that the unappropriated fund balance totaled
$350,000.00. Councilman Boughton asked the amount of the orig-
inal rebate, which was designated for the energy projects. Ms.
Piwonka stated that the fund at one time exceeded one million
dollars. Councilman Boughton explained that at the time of the
original rebate, the council intended to keep the amount of the
principal intact and to use the interest for energy project; as
the first rebate was $250,000.00, the original amount has not
been depleted. Councilman Haddox commented that if $41,000.00
for the LSMPA request is deducted from the current unappropriated
balance, the fund will still have over $300,000.00. Mayor Ringer
pointed out that the City had cooperated with the LSMPA and LSMPA
member cities in the Gulf States Rate Case, and that the LSMPA
had done much of the work. The joint efforts resulted in a sav-
ing to College Station and improved the position of the City.
Councilman Jones inquired why the staff would recommend Alterna-
tive No. 3 at this time instead of No. 2, the use of an adder.
City Manager Cole explained that for a period of only six months,
the funding procedure could be simplified by using a method other
than an adder which would require reprogramming the utility rate
structure.
Mayor Ringer commented that the information provided by staff did
not mention a reason he considered important. He stated that he
was referring to the utility rate study in progress. He noted
that usually changes to the utility rates are made in conjunction
with the budget process. He stated that if the council decides
to continue funding the organization, the six months would give
council adequate time to tie the LSMPA into the regular budget
process. Also, this action would allow council to simplify any
utility rate changes by making the revisions all at one time.
Mayor Ringer stated that this request was on the agenda for
council action at the regular meeting, January 22nd.
A~enda Item No. 7 - Discussion of proposals for liability and
property insurance coverages.
City Manager Cole stated that Deputy Director of Finance Glenn
Schroeder would report on this item. Mr. Schroeder presented a
summary of the proposals received for liability and property
06009
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 11
insurance coverage. He pointed out that the City had been re-
searching insurance possibilities for many months and had actu-
ally been without general liability coverage for about a year.
He noted that bid packages were prepared in line with directions
provided at a previous meeting by the Council. He explained the
bidding schedule and the types of insurance subsequently bid; he
pointed out that the bid specifications were designed to give the
bidders as many coverage options as possible. Mr. Schroeder re-
ferred to the information provided in the packet and said that
Schedule I displayed the best bid package received. He discussed
the terms offered, and recommended awarding general liability,
auto liability, ($500,000/10,000) and auto physical damage to
Employers Insurance of Texas and property damage on buildings and
contractor type equipment to Foss, Cates, Hudson & Sims Agency.
Quotations in the bid submitted by Employers' Insurance were
questioned by Councilman Haddox. Mr. Schroeder stated that he
had requested a clarification of the bid, but had not received a
response. Councilman Haddox inquired about part of the computa-
tion in the bid from Foss, Cates, Hudson & Sims Agency. Mr.
Schroeder explained that the physical damage bid was not bid as
requested per bid specifications; he clarified how their bid dif-
fered. Following further questions about differences in the
figures submitted, Mr. Schroeder replied that Foss, Cates, Hud-
son & Sims underwriter will not write the automobile liability
unless they also write the general liability. He stated that the
Texas Municipal League bid also had more requirements attached to
it than indicated in the bid schedule summary. The restrictions
in relation to the individual bids were explained in more detail
by Mr. Schroeder. He noted in particular the limiting features
connected to the TML bid. Mr. Cole pointed out that even though
the bids may not be entirely satisfactory, at least the city had
someone willing to write the insurance.
Councilman Haddox asked if any of the bids excluded electrical
coverage. Mr. Schroeder referred to Schedule II giving basic
coverages; he stated that TML does exclude the electrical as-
pect. Councilman Bond inquired if he meant the consequential
damage type aspect, which Mr. Schroeder confirmed. Mr. Schroeder
added that Foss, Cates, Hudson & Sims also limits that specific
coverage, but Employers Insurance does cover the "failure to sup-
ply" aspect. To point out the importance of coverage of electri-
cal service, Councilman Haddox referred to a previous loss incur-
red by the City.
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CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 12
Councilman Haddox asked what bid specifications were included for
deductibles. Mr. Schroeder replied that on most of the coverages
the City asked for a $10,000 deductible, a $50,000 deductible,
and a $100,000 deductible. Those three options were provided,
plus the option for the bidder to use any other deductible de-
sired. Councilman Haddox asked if the companies came back with
the $100,000. Mr. Schroeder said that was the case in a few in-
cidences, but generally they did not.
Mayor Ringer stated that consideration of the bids was on the
council agenda for the regular meeting.
Agenda Item No. 8 - Preliminary City Council Input on 1988 Annual
Operatinq Budget.
City Manager Cole stated that the staff was beginning their prep-
arations for the new budget and that the final document, of con-
siderable size and complexity, would be given to the Council ap-
proximately thirty days before it would go into effect. As the
process becomes very intense and the document is difficult to
study and comprehend thoroughly in such a short period of time,
City Manager Cole explained that he was seeking direction from
the council about what areas of emphasis they would like to see
incorporated into the budget process; having this information
provided at an early time would allow staff to prepare a budget
that will have an imprint of the council's desire in regard to
the city's financial direction. Mr. Cole added that he was not
expecting a detailed response from the council but would like a
general directional approach.
Mr. Cole referred to an income statement prepared by the staff to
indicate their perception of next year's budget condition. The
anticipation is that the city will not particularly be well off
and the budget will be tight if current economic trends contin-
ue. Mr. Cole noted that this projection shows that if the
city's existing programs are continued at their current levels of
funding and employment, and with no salary increases, the city
will face a $320,000 deficit. He explained that the figures are
preliminary, but do give an indication of the months ahead. He
noted that sales tax is running below projections, the loss of
revenue sharing means about one-half million less per year, and
the municipal court revenue is below the amount budgeted. Mr.
Cole pointed out that the city predicts that in the coming fiscal
year, the city will reach its goal of the total needed in the
debt service fund; accordingly, the $700,000 annual appropriation
q06011
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 13
for debt service will go into the general fund instead. This
assumption allows a 77 tax increase that goes to the general fund
and a 77 tax decrease that goes to the debt service fund. He
pointed out that may or may not be the policy the council decides
to adopt.
Councilman Haddox asked about the supplemental packages. City
Manager Cole explained how they are used in the budget determina-
tions. In relation to the decision packages, the council discus-
sed the purchase of police vehicles and the time schedule for
their need.
Councilmembers discussed the various categories of requests re-
ceived and which funds are applicable. Mayor Ringer pointed out
that the staff was requesting some guidance from the council.
Councilman Haddox asked about the funding for street repair.
Mayor Ringer explained that if the council pushes for street re-
pair this year, they may have to cut back in another area; how-
ever, if preventive maintenance is cut back, the subsequent re-
pairs will cost significantly more. Councilman Boughton agreed
that she would like to see the current level of street repair
continued.
Councilman Tongco expressed her concern at trying to specify
areas to fund, until the needs of the staff are known. City
Manager Cole emphasized that information of that nature would
soon be presented to council, and that the current discussion was
for generalities. Councilman Tongco referred to the priorities
listed by the Council during their Galveston retreat.
Councilman Brown asked for clarification of the difference in
funding from the operating budget and funding from the capital
improvement funds. The application of these monies to the vari-
ous types of projects was discussed, especially in regard to the
overpass construction and the extension of Dartmouth. The status
of the drainage study was mentioned. Mr. Cole stated that the
complete report will be made soon. Councilman Bond commented on
the obligation of the city to provide its citizens with a well-
designed and constructed street network.
Mayor Ringer requested that the staff give consideration to user
fees and permit fees. He pointed out that years ago the council
developed the philosophy that some of the fees should approach
the cost of providing the service, and he did not know if the
fees had been kept up to date.
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CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
PAGE 14
Councilman Boughton commented that the trend is to have user fees
reflect the cost of service and that some cities have even gone
to the concept of hiring private firms to manage the parks.
Councilman Bond stated his belief that taxes should pay for
thesefacilities, to allow use and availability for all citizens.
Following some general discussion of the budget format, Mayor
Ringer pointed out the need for the council to discuss the com-
puterization recommendations in relation to the budget, as well
as the management study recommendations. He asked council if
they would like for the Finance council committee to meet and be
involved with the budget process. The council concurred that
finance committee members Haddox, Boughton, and Brown should do
SOo
Item No. 9 - Adjourn.
Mayor Ringer adjourned the meeting at 7:10 p.m.
APPROVED:
Mayor~a~~in~.~
ATTEST:
Dian Jo. nes~ City Secretary
. 06013
GUEST REGISTER
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP MEETING
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21, 1987
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11.
28.
12.
29.
13.
30.
14.
31.
15.
32.
16.
17.
33.
34.
18.
006014