HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 1982-12-14 Minutes
NOTES ON PRE COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 14, 1982 6:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Dick Faram Mayor
Jim Ramsey Mayor Pro Tem
Jim Kenna
J. C. Hubbard Councilmen
Harold Newman
Rodger Line City Manager
Dennis Horvath Assistant City Manager
John Whitney Purchasing Agent
Marjorie Nash Secretary of Planning &
Zoning Commission
'ABSENT: Dick Fisher
Richard Davis Councilmen
Marie Hinkle Councilwoman
ITEM
DISCUSSION
The meeting opened with Mr. Line mentioning that
Rex McEntire had a conflict of schedule and would
arrive later in the evening. He stated that the
subject of the Lone Star Gas Ordinance would come
up later in the evening and he asked Council to
postpone action on the item if Rex was not here.
ZONING ORDINANCE Mayor Faram opened discussion on Ordinance No. 955.
AMENDMENT
(ORDINANCE 995) Councilmen Hubbard, Kenna and Ramsey all expressed
support of the Ordinance prohibiting the building
of multi-family in local retail/neighborhood retail
zoning. Councilman Ramsey produced some figures
from the Staff concerning the 450 acres currently
zoned multi-family and the 620 acres currently
zoned local retail. Councilman Newman had a few
questions in his mind as to the implication of
this ordinance and it was explained by Mayor Faram
ASSIGNMENT
N/A
Jeanette--
Readvertise &
list on Agenda
for January 10
·pze Council Meeting Notes
December 14, 1982
Page 2
ITEM
STREET LIGHTING
IN NEW SUB-
DIVISIONS
RUFE SNOW
DRIVE, PHASE II
CONSTRUCTION
DISCUSSION
and Councilman Ramsey. Marjorie Nash reiterated
what the Planning and Zoning Commission had
recommended which was holding off for one year for
those owners currently possessing LR or NR zoning to
allow obtaining a building permit within that year to
the extent possible.
The next item for discussion was street light
requirements. Mr. Line advised the Council that
we presently have no requirements for street lights
in our Subdivision Ordinance, and summarized the
various cities' policies pertaining to street lights
and Mr. Riddle's recommendation. The decision on
this was that there should be a street light at
every intersection and a light at mid-block if the
block is excessively long. The Staff will recommend
mid-block lighting requirements when a proposed
ordinance is submitted.
There has been no word on the railroad crossing
and there is a delay with Bell Telephone on
utility relocation. Mr. Line indicated he would
call the railroad on December 15 and once again
ascertain where the permit is. He also stated
that the bids will probably go out in February
for construction.
ASSIGNMENT
Gene Ridd1e-
Prepare proposed
ordinance
Rodger Line-
Call Railroad
.company
Representative
·.
, . .,
Pr~.Counci1 Meeting Notes
December 14, 1982
Page 3
"
-.LTEM f
WALKER BRANCH
. STORM DRAIN
PROJECT
TRA CONTRACT
MODIFICATION
DISCUSSION
Councilman Ramsey indicated he would like Council
to .schedule a council workshop for February to
discuss the planning to meet the serious traffic
congestion problems.
Mr. Line briefed the Council on Agenda Item #25
which is how the owners would like to see Walker
Branch Channel realigned.· Mr. Line indicated he
would recommend denial of relocating the channel
because of the cost which is $450,000. The Council
seemed to agree on that decision and will act upon
in open Council session.
The need to modify our contract with TRA to provide
for industrial waste monitoring was discussed.: It
was agreed that this will have little effect on
North Rich1and Hills and we will act when this
matter is initiated by TRA.
The Mayor asked Mr. Line if he had heard anything
from the State Highway Department on a scaled
down model of the Davis Blvd. Hwy. 26 interchange.
ASSIGNMENT
Rodger Line-
Consult with
Mr. Ramsey
Rodger Line-
Notify Mr. Kurtain
of Council's
decision
N/A
f'V~" C~
tJ ¡e S';i~ .
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS,
TEXAS, HELD IN THE CITY HALL, 7301 NORTHEAST
LOOP 820, DECEMBER 14, 1982 - 7:30 P.M.
1. Mayor Faram called the meeting to order December 14, 1982
at 7:30 p.m.
2. Present:
Dick Faram
Jim Ramsey
Jim Kenna
Harold Newman
J. C. Hubbard
Councilmen
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tem
Staff:
Rodger N. Line
Jeanette Moore
Richard Albin
John Hhitney
City Manager
City Secretary
City Engineer
Purchasing Agent
Board Members:
Marjorie Nash
Planning and Zoning
Commission
Board of Adjustment
Jack Roseberry
Press:
Les Harper
Jeff Yates
Star Telegram
Mid Cities
Absent:
Richard Davis
Dick Fisher
Marie Hinkle
Rex McEntire
Councilman
Councilman
Councilwoman
City Attorney
3. The invocation was given by Mayor Pro Tem Jim Ramsey.
4. Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey,
to approve the minutes of November 22, 1982.
Motion carried 4-0.
5. Mayor Faram advised the Council the Planning and Zoning
Commission had recommended approval subject to the Engineer's
comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey moved, seconded by Councilman Hubbard,
to approve PS 82-37.
Motion carried 4-0.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
INVOCATION
APPROVAL OF
MINUTES OF THE
REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 22, 1982
APPROVED
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-37, REQUEST
OF THE CHURCH OF
THE LATTER DAY
SAINTS FOR SHORT
FORM PLATTING OF
LOT 3, BLOCK 10,
RICHLAND HEIGHTS
ADDITION (LOCATED
ON THE NORTHHEST
CORNER OF ROGAN
DRIVE AND LOOP 820)
APPROVED
December 14, 1982
Page 2
6. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Planning and
Zoning Commission had recommended approval subject to
the Engineer's comments and all had been met.
Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey,
to approve PS 82-54.
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-54, REQUEST
OF B. A. NIKIRK
FOR FINAL PLAT OF
LOTS 3 & 4, BLOCK
1, HENRY ADDITION
(LOCATED ON THE
HEST SIDE OF
SCRUGGS DRIVE AT
THE INTERSECTION
OF CROSS STREET)
APPROVED
Motion carried 4-0.
7. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Planning and
Zoning Commission had recommended approval subject to
the Engineer's comments and subject to modificatVon to
clearly delineate the lot line. All comments had been
met and corrections made.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Newman,
to approve PS 82-56.
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-56, REQUEST
OF DOYLE D. SMITH
FOR FINAL PLAT OF
LOT 1, BLOCK 6,
MORGAN MEADOHS
ADDITION (LOCATED
AT THE NORTHHEST
CORNER OF MEADOH
ROAD AND CHAPMAN
ROAD)
APPROVED
Councilman Hubbard stated that the approval of this
plat would not have any bearing on the flooding problem
in Morgan Meadows.
Motion carried 4-0.
8. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Planning and
Zoning Commission had recommended approval subject to
the Engineer's comments and subject to the surveyor
changing the statement to meet State Board requirements.
All comments had been met, but the changes were not made
on the plat.
Mr. Albin stated yes.
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-58, REQUEST
OF LEXUS MURPHY
ASSOCIATION FOR
FINAL PLAT OF LOT
1, BLOCK 3, DIAMOND
LOCH APARTMENTS
ADDITION, UNIT 2
(LOCATED ON THE
SOUTHHEST SIDE OF
GLENVIEH DRIVE AND
BOUNDED ON THE
HEST BY DIAMOND
LOCH APARTMENTS)
APPROVED
Mr. Albin stated he had talked with the Developer's
Engineer and the changes would be made on the plat.
Mayor Faram asked Mr. Albin if he was satisfied with
the changes.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey moved, seconded by Councilman
Hubbard, to approve PS 82-58.
Mayor Faram advised that he had a request to speak
from Mr. David Hashington.
Mr. David Hashington, Engineer, appeared before the
Council.
December 14, 1982
~a~e 3
Mr. Hashington stated he wished to speak only if the Council
had any questions.
Motion carried 4-0.
9. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Planning and
Zoning Commission had recommended approval subject to
the Engineer's comments. They agreed to the comments but
felt the additional easement for Texas Electric Service
Company was not needed.
Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey,
to approve PS 82-59.
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-59, REQUEST
OF LYLE CHERRY
AND MIKE MCKOOL
FOR REPLAT OF
LOTS 9R AND lOR,
CLEARVIEH ADDITION
(LOCATED AT THE
NORTHEAST CORNER
OF MAPLEHOOD AND
DAVIS BOULEVARD
APPROVED
Mayor Faram asked the City Engineer if he was satisfied
with the present easement that served Seven-Eleven.
Mr. Albin stated he would have to defer comment to
the Developer's Engineer.
Mr. Delbert Stembridge, Consulting Engineer, 3729 Flory,
appeared before the Council.
Mr. Stembridge stated this was a standard request from
the Utility Companies; they request a five foot easement
on either side of the lot line. Mr. Stembridge stated
there was already some equipment behind the Seven~
Eleven and it was already receiving electric service.
Mr. Stembridge stated that since Seven-Eleven could
receive power from Maplewood or Davis Boulevard
he could not see any reasons for adding the easement
l50 feet from the street.
Mayor Faram asked if Seven-Eleven was being enlarged.
Mr. Stembridge stated no, the property behind Seven-
Eleven was sold to Mr. Cherry, and in order for him to
get a building permit he platted the lot and at the
request of the City Staff rep1atted the two lots.
Mr. Stembridge stated he thought this was an effort
on the City's part to get as much of the City platted
as possible.
Mayor Faram asked what the proposed use of the lot was.
Mr. Stembridge stated Mr. Cherry wanted to build an
extension of his automotive repair service.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated that before the lots were
rep1atted Texas Electric had a five foot easement and
now that the lots were being platted they want an
additional five foot easement.
December 14, 1982
;E'fl¡ge 4
Mayor Faram asked Mr. Albin if he was satisfíed with not
having the additional five foot easement.
Mr. Albin stated he could not speak for TESCO; that he did
not know their needs for servicing the property.
Mr. Delbert Stembridge, Consulting Engineer, reappeared
before the Council.
Mr. Stembridge stated Texas Electric could service the
property from Map1ewood or Davis Boulevard. Mr. Stembridge
stated Seven-Eleven had been there for ten years without
the easement and he did not feel there was a great need
for the additional easement.
Mayor Faram asked if there would be a building or
structure that would interfere with the easement.
Mr. Stembridge stated he thought there was air conditioning
equipment there at the present time.
Mr. Albin stated that if the building was already being
served by Texas Electric then he would agree the easement
was not needed.
Motion to approve carried 4-0.
lO. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Planning and
Zoning CQmmission recommended approval subject to the
Engineer's comments and all had been complied with.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Kenna,
to approve PS 82-60.
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-60, REQUEST
OF NORTH TEXAS
DINING INCORBO-
RATED FOR SHORT
FORM PLATTING OF
LOT 4, BLOCK l,
CARDER ADDITION
(LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHEAST CORNER
OF AIRPORT FREE-
HAY AND BLACKFOOT
TRAIL)
APPROVED
Motion carried 4-0.
11. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Planning and
Zoning Commission has recommended approval subject to
the Engineer's comments and all had been complied with.
Motion carried 4-0.
PLANNING & ZONING
PS 82-61, REQUEST
OF EPOCH DEVELOP-
MENT CORPORATION
FOR FINAL PLAT OF
UNIVERSITY PLAZA
ADDITION, 4th
FILING (LOCATED ON
THE SOUTH SIDE OF
HARHOOD AND
BOUNDED ON THE
EAST BY HAY STACK
APARTMENTS)
APPROVED
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey moved, seconded by Councilman
Hubbard, to approve PS 82-61.
December 14, 1982
ra¡ge 5
12. Mayor Faram stated he had several requests to speak and
felt it would be appropriate to open this consideration
to a Public Hearing.
Mayor Faram asked that anyone wishing to speak on the
proposed ordinance to please do so.
CONSIDERATION OF
ORDINANCE NO. 995,
ORDINANCE AMENDING
ORDINANCE NO. 179,
ZONING ORDINANCE
APPROVED
Mr. Don Ferguson, 203 Bedford Eu1ess Road, Hurst,
appeared before the Council and made the following
statements:
"This particular ordinance, Ordinance No. 995, is heading
in a direction of doing away with the pyramid zoning. Why
is this particular ordinance being pulled out of the
package that is being revised in the City Zoning Ordinances?
I think in fairness to those that have made tremendous
investments in the City, the land owners and land developers
that now have contracts on properties, to make it effective
on this date forward would be very unfair, a financial
strain would be put on those that have already done a lot
of engineering work and spent much time raising finances,
and it would hurt the future of the City. I think we need
to reach some type of agreement to where this could be
phased in over a period of time that would be acceptable
to those who have made tremendous financial investments."
CITY ATTORNEY, REX McENTIRE, NOW PRESENT.
Mr. Larry Schuerman, 10830 North Central, Dallas, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"I am here to represent Mr. and Mrs. Sam Hudgins who own
property at Rufe Snow Drive and Hightower. They have a
tract that is 34 acres. I have been working on this
property for approximately six months for the Hudgins.
It was represented to me by the City that the property
was zoned Local Retail and it did include Multi-Family
zoning. It has now been announced there is a subject
change to this. This is presently under contract with
clients of mine and would directly affect their develop-
ment plans. We do not feel that it is justified to
request this change at this time and have a cut-off at
this time. We do feel that a time given for future
development - three to five years or some period of time
would be fair."
Mrs. Sam Hudgins, Rt. 4, Box l88, Fort Worth, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"We bought this 38 acres twenty-eight years ago with the
intention of moving our hog farm on it. Approximately two
years later North Richland Hills annexed it. He knew the
the City would not want a hog farm so we put in a hay field.
In 1969 with the help and advise of an ex-City Manager, we
had it zoned Local Retail because of the variety of uses.
It was voted unanimously by the Planning and Zoning
Commission and the Council. We have tried to sell it for
several years and every time we had a buyer they would say
you don't have a road to get to your property. The City
came along and said we are going to build the road, and I
said good, now we can sell the property. We had it sold
in 1979 and because of the water situation, the City said
no building permits for apartments until the TRA line was
complete. By the time the line was put in interest rates
were so high no one wanted to buy. We were the second
ones to sign up to give the right-of-way for Rufe Snow Dr.
We have tried to cooperate in every way we could. I am
going to ask you to please consider what you are doing
to the reputation of the City and the growth of the
City, the old and new land owners. It is not fair."
Mr. Bob Brady, 7001 Grapevine Hwy., appeared before the
Council and made the following statements:
"I am a resident of the City and do my business in the
City. I have a deep interest in the City, my business
is real estate. None of my contracts deal with local
retail property. I am not here for a self-interest item.
I am here because I am concerned with the rights of the
citizens of North Rich1and Hills. As a citizen I hope
I can speak on the morality of what is proposed. In an
article published earlier concerning this amendment it
was mentioned that we were trying to close up a loophole.
I don't know the definition given to you, but my own
definition is it is an escape mechanism. I don't think
that when this was passed in 1967, the City Fathers and
Planning and Zoning Commission put it in as a loophole.
I think they put it in as a needed flexibility that was
needed in those days. Time may have caught up with that
plan. Perhaps we need a new one, but we need a whole new
plan. It is a difficult decision you are faced with and it
is being made in a short period of time. The amendment, the
way I understand it, speaks specifically to deny multi-
family in local retail. I think, however, it speaks to
a larger issue. I think it speaks to the denial of
the rights of the citizens and land owners of the full
use of their property. I think the passage of this
ordinance would destroy the image of this City. I
think it would undermind the confidence our citizens have
in the peers of the City and red flag warnings to
developers to stay away from North Richland Hills. I
December 14, 1982
Page 6
think it is unfair and an inexcusable act for the City
Council to deny the citizens of their rights. The other
night as I sat in the audience at the Planning & Zoning
meeting, one of the members commented that it was not their
job to be fair and that it was their task or job to review
the health, welfare and sanitary aspects of the zoning. It
appears he was right. I don't believe Planning and Zoning
was fáir, but they did recommend approval. It seems to me
the City Council, in its wisdom is not required by the Charter
to be fair either, but the citizens expect that of you. As
I read an article in the Star Telegram, I realized the reason
we are here this evening is because one of you feels that
apartments are inappropriate to a certain location. He
mentioned parking problems by the High School. I suppose
he knows Birdvil1e School District owns land on the far
adjacent side. Perhaps they could be persuaded to park
the students' cars there. The article mentioned drugs;
five cases in the City and all in apartments. I suppose
that could be a way of proving that apartments were the
root of the drug problem. If we are going to eliminate
apartments perhaps we could eliminate the drug problem.
I think the most unkind and unfair consideration of this
ordinance is the City paid over $30,000 for a Comprehensive
Plan and that a piece of property was recommended as Multi-
family zoning in the Plan. I do have a compassion for
my City. When you deny the rights of anyone citizen you
are in effect denying the rights of all citizens. I
don't believe that is your intent tonight. I believe
firmly that you must deny this amendment to the Zoning
Ordinance."
Mr. Delbert Stembridge, 5213 Cloyce Court, appeared before
the Council and made the following statements:
"I am here tonight to express my displeasure on a zoning
change aimed at one specific property. I am not saying
we don't need to eliminate some pyramid zoning, but I think
it should be considered at the same time the other ordinances
are being rewritten. I think this amendment should be
denied."
Mr. Daryl Barrett, 315 Westpark Hay, Eu1ess, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"I am a partner in a development that is to be apartments
located on Rufe Snow and G1enview. The preliminary plat
on the first tract of land has been approved by the Planning
& Zoning Commission, and we have a preliminary plat pending
on the second tract that is also to be developed as
apartments. The final plat on the first tract is pending
to be heard by the Planning and Zoning Commission on
December 14, 1982
~a¡ge 7
December 2l, 1982 and hopefully by the Council on January 10, 1983.
I sent the Council a letter that defines our situation. Our
plat that has been approved can be used under the current
Local Retail zoning as apartments without a law suit. We are
asking for a zoning change so we can eliminate parking on the
rear of the property because of the 160 feet depth required
in Local Retail. He obviously have gone through a lot of
plans and financial expenses and would plead that these
things be taken into consideration in your deliberation."
Councilman Kenna asked Mr. Barrett if he had requested the
zoning change.
Mr. Barrett stated that on November 15, 1982 they requested
a zoning change to Multi-Family.
Councilman Kenna asked if the Planning & Zoning Commission
had voted on the request.
Mr. Barrett replied no, it would be heard by the Planning
and Zoning Commission on December 21, 1982.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey asked how many acres of apartments
there would be.
Mr. Barrett stated the first phase was 8.6 acres and phase
two was 12.63.
Mayor Faram asked where the property was located.
Mr. Barrett stated at G1enview and Rufe Snow Drive.
Councilman Kenna advised Mr. Barrett that if the proposed
ordinance passed it would in no way affect his request for
Multi-family zoning.
Mr. Barrett stated that if the zoning request was denied
and the ordinance passed, then he could not build apartments.
Mr. John Cook, 7001 Grapevine Highway, appeared before the
Council and made the following statements:
"I am one of the partners of Cross Road Developers that
owns one of the tracts of land this ordinance would affect.
Contrary to what most people think, most developers agree
there is a need for good planning and a need to work closely
with the cities they are involved in. I feel that much of
the property that is affected by this amendment change is
best suited for Multi-family. The best measure the
developer has in trying to decide or determine the value of
land or what it should be used for is the activity they
December 14, 1982
ra~e 8
get from potential users in their attempt to develop or sell
the land. Hotels, motels, restaurants, strip shopping
centers, grocery stores, or whatever goes in they have their
own study or criteria for what they need in order to develop
this land. This is usually what determines what we as
developers study to make our determination. Much of the
land we have that is zoned Local Retail is between Rufe
Snow and the High School, and the activity that we have
had on it are in the areas that are fronted on Rufe Snow
where there is heavy traffic. The fact that the high
school borders one side and the Texas Electric easement
splits the land really curtails the use we could have for
it. He have had access to some professional studies that
have been done in the area and on our land and most of
the recommended use on Local Retail has been Multi-family."
Mr. Charles Holbrook, 3201 Coronado, Irving, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"My reason for being here tonight is because I have
an economic interest in an apartment development project
upon the land that John Cook was speaking to.
COUNCILMAN RICHARD DAVIS NOH PRESENT.
Last July we entered into a contract with them for
approximately ten acres to build apartments. One of the
intended uses by the City's ordinance was multi-family and
that was part of my reason for purchasing the property.
I did my feasibility studies, engaged architects, engineers,
attorneys and am now at the point of the risk of subsidizing
a large amount of money. I am a businessman and take
risks on various matters everyday. In dealing with risk, I
always try to develop a sense of fairness about how I
enter into the risk and that is my second reason for
speaking to you tonight. I was due to close on this property
on December 6th, but in a sense of fairness John Cook came
to me and said they had just found out about Ordinance No. 995.
Being a fair person, I believe he brought this to my
attention when he had no obligation to do so. I think
in a sense of fairness and as public officials, you are
entrusted with certain responsibilities by the City Charter
and by the people that voted you into office, but likewise
you have a certain amount of discretionary power in how you
utilize those responsibilities. I think that any time
you take a single category of zoning and single it out,
especially in light of moving forward towards redoing your
entire Zoning Ordinance, that possibly you have abused your
discretion of powers. I would encourage you not to do any-
thing to take away the most fundamental rights that we have
and that is the right to use our property for the use it
was intended.
December 14, 1982
\l?age 9
Mr. Michael Carrancejie, 5750 Rufe Snow, appeared before
the Council and made the following statements:
"I am here as a land owner and a third party to the land
transaction that involves Mr. Cook and Mr. Holbrook. I
think we have a city in North Rich1and Hills that has
become of age and is attracting a lot of attention from
different developers. It is a prosperous community and
most developers look at it from a prosperous view. I
think as a fairness issue these developers have come here
in good faith. They have looked at the city and received
information from the city that they would be allowed to
develop the property for its intended purpose which is
multi-family under Local Retail zoning. I think what the
City Council is about to do is an important issue. I
think it is so important that it should be looked at when
they write the entire City Ordinance and it shouldn't be
singled out and separated from it. As I understand, the
Zoning Ordinance is going into its third writing. I think
it is a misnomer that we are trying to find a loophole in
the ordinance to do multi-family zoning. According to city
records, when this particular piece of land was zoned in
1968 the owner at that point and time discussed with the
city his intent to develop it as multi-family. It seems
tonight that the use may be taken away. In this particular
category of the Zoning Ordinance there are some fifty plus
uses. There are probably several more in various opinions
that do not fit the Local Retail. It is hard for me to
justify to myself that we are not singling out our one
project, but are looking at all the Local Retail property.
It is hard for me to see how you can go into Local Retail
zoning, pullout multi-family and leave some of the other
uses. I think all the developers and land owners want to
work with the City. I don't think we are here with any ill
will towards anyone. We would just like to go forward with
our projects. I would like for you to consider turning down
this amendment."
Mr. C. T. Beckham, 16816 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"In 1966 I purchased four different tracts of land totaling
200 or so acres. A few years ago I sold 160 acres to Sandlin
and Hamm for single family homes. We then had about 50 acres
left that was zoned in 1969 for Local Retail and Multi-family.
The Birdvi11e School District came to me and after a great
deal of discussion, we sold two-thirds of our zoned property
leaving us with 13 acres. In the last 2~ years a lot of money
has been spent on litigation trying to preserve zoning that
December 14, 1982
\l?a~e 10
had been attempted to be back zoned. I really have not
seen the proposed amendment, just simply heard about it.
I am very concerned about what seems to be another attempt
to back zone property. I think that if the Zoning Ordinance
is changed it would be well and good, but it should be
effective from this date. To retroactively change the zoning
without due notice would be a problem. I have owned the
property many years and sold off a lot of it for single
family and to the school. Our tract will require a
substantial amount of engineering and we have hired an
engineer. I would ask that you delay or at least not
retroactively change the zoning that has been relied upon."
Mr. James Moore, 6521 Sabrosa Court, Fort Worth, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"He are a Market Research Firm in Tarrant County. Most
of our work is in the growth and development in this area.
Several years ago, before you retained your Planner to
do your plan, you consulted with our firm about how to
finish out the growth prospects of North Rich1and Hills.
Our business is working with municipalities as well
as the private sector. The point that I would like to
make is that in our businesses, if we are employees of
large firms or if we are a city, the market place determines
our destiny. The market place starts with roof tops. Many
of the leading site users key on roof tops. Hithout roof
tops you don't have adequate tax base. The housing
affordabi1ity has hit everywhere. We are going to have
to come to grips in higher density and a much higher ratio
of rental units in the next ten years. We conducted a
study for Ron Lusk and James Walker on this particular site
in question. It was our conclusion that the site was not
suitable for the substantial commercial development that
one would see in the terms of an office building or heavy
retail. It was our conclusion that this site was suitable
for multi-family units. It is my opinion this Council
should allow more time for input on this project and give
the City time to carefully think through the precedent that
will be set, if not from a citizen's standpoint, from a hard-
core economic standpoint. The second thing I would like
to request is that through this process of more time there
be a feasibility study developed between the private and
public sector that are involved in this particular issue
because ultimately the market place will decide what happens
to that land."
Mr. Allen Wilson, Attorney, 2600 Fort Horth National Bank
Building, appeared before the Council and made the following
statements:
December 14, 1982
rage 11
"I am here at the request of Dick Russell who owns and
represents the owners of the property at Rufe Snow and
G1enview. The ordinance you are considering would have
an impact on all of the Local Retail and Neighborhood
Retail property in North Richland Hills. If there is a
problem with a particular site, such as the High School,
it doesn't seem like an ordinance which will affect all
of the Local Retail and Neighborhood Retail in the City
is the proper way to address the problem. Perhaps you
need to balance the harm of the specific situations against
the harm to all of those who would be affected by the
adoption of this ordinance. I think perhaps there are
legal problems with the adoption of this ordinance when
you are in effect taking away and denying a very sufficient
use of the property to those persons who own Local Retail
or Neighborhood Retail and are considering selling the
property. It almost amounts to a form of condemnation in
that you are affecting the value of their property, but no
compensation to them. Perhaps there has not been enough
consideration to the affect of this ordinance on properties
other than that property that apparently caused the proposed
ordinance to be drafted. The effect of this affects everyone
who owns this type of property in North Rich1and Hills."
Mr. Theron Botham, President, TLB-GSC, 1625 Weyland, appeared
before the Council and made the following statements:
"I have a single family subdivision in North Rich1and Hills,
and I also own some land that is zoned Multi-family. I do
not have any land which is in the zoning in question. I
would urge you to give considerable thought and not to pass
this tonight. I would urge you not to make it retroactive
but to go from this date forward on any future things."
There being no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Faram closed
the Public Hearing.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey moved, seconded by Councilman Hubbard,
to adopt Ordinance No. 995 to be effective immediately.
Councilman Davis amended the motion, seconded by Councilman
Newman, to state "that anyone that is able to obtain a building
permit in one year would still be able to build in Local Retail,
but anyone that came in for a zoning change would fall under the
new c1assifcation."
Mr. McEntire asked Councilman Davis if his intent was to approve
the ordinance the same as the Planning and Zoning Commission had
approved it.
December 14, 1982
;I:'age 12
Councilman Davis stated yes, which meant that if someone obtained
a building permit that had Local Retail zoning and they
intended to build multi-family within the next year they could
still build. Councilman Davis stated this would allow people
that had already started their projects not to be damaged.
Councilman Davis stated there were some people that had already
started their projects and they still had the option to come
back and ask for new zoning. Councilman Davis stated he felt
everyone was missing the point, they still have the opportunity
to request other zoning.
Motion to approve the amendment failed by a vote of 3-2; Councilmen
Kenna, Ramsey and Hubbard voting against, Councilmen Davis and
Newman voting for.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated he would like to publicly commend
Mr. Cook, he was a gentleman and it had been a great pleasure
to work with him in the course of the last four or five months.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated the intent of what the Council was
doing, or the way he saw it, was not to take anyone's rights away.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated the Council was trying to protect
the rights of the people that have to live in North Rich1and
Hills. Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated he was about resigned that
the development was going to go in by the High School; he
felt there was no recourse. Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated that in
the last 30 to 45 days there had been three or four parties,
not including the Hudgins, that had come forward with Local
Retail zoning and wanted to build apartments. Mayor Pro Tem
Ramsey stated the way he saw it they were not willing to go
forward and get the zoning to which the land developers back
in the late 1960's and early 1970's decided the way the City
should be divided up. Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated the
developers wanted to take Local Retail, build multi-family,
then go to the Board of Adjustment and get all the variances,
when in effect they were getting Multi-family zoning. Mayor Pro
Tem Ramsey stated that in 1968 and 1969 when the land use study
was developed there were certain sections of the City that
was decided to be Local Retail. He stated that at that same
time 20% to 30% of the property in North Rich1and Hills was
being developed for apartments. Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated
the City did have a current problem and the High School was
just a small part of the problem. Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated
if time were spent in front of the High School, the parking
problems and the traffic problems would be recognized. Mayor
Pro Tem Ramsey stated the Chairman of the Board of Adjustment
had made the statement that he was scared to death to take
his daughter to school because of the traffic. Mayor Pro Tem
Ramsey stated the City did have problems and the Council
was going to try and take the City forward in the proper
manner as long as the citizens elected them. Mayor Pro Tem
Ramsey stated that times did change and the decisions made
December 14, 1982
r~8e 13
today may not be the decisions you would make in eight months.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey stated you could hardly move in this City
and it was being discussed to develop thirty acres in front
of the High School, forty-four acres west of Rufe Snow, another
forty-four acres at the corner of Rufe Snow and G1enview,
and whatever the Hudgins wanted to develop in apartments. Mayor
Pro Tem Ramsey stated that with 2,000 units going in that would
be approximately 4,000 cars, or he would come down 50% and say
1,000 cars in this City. Therefore he would urge the Council
to adopt the motion he urged.
Councilman Hubbard stated the City was certainly not taking
any rights away from anyone. Councilman Hubbard stated any
person that owned property in the City could seek rezoning
to Multi-family at any time -through the_ proper channels.
Councilman Hubbard stated that this particular ordinance did
not keep anyone from seeking Multi-family. Councilman Hubbard
stated he had heard the word "loophole" mentioned several
times and he had not heard one member of the City Councilor
Staff use the word "loophole." Councilman Hubbard stated
he had heard the word "impact" used several times; what
impact it was going to have on the City if this ordinance
was approved. Councilman Hubbard stated he had made several
surveys of his own. He stated the schools were overcrowded,
traffic was overcrowded, there would have to be more police
and fire protection and medical facilities if the city went
into higher density. Councilman Hubbard stated that further-
more the taxes received from apartments or high density did
not cover the total cost of police, fire, or medical as a
rounded base of home or industrial. Councilman Hubbard stated
the traffic problem would certainly be a very big problem.
Councilman Hubbard stated that one gentleman mentioned the
fact that they had run a survey and 96% of the high density
åpartments were full at this time, and they ran this survey
several times a year which lead him to believe there was a
high turnover in apartments or a high growth rate of
apartments. Councilman Hubbard stated the word "drug
problem" had been mentioned. He stated he was sure some
apartments caused drug problems. He stated the school also
had the same problem. Councilman Hubbard stated he submitted
to this Council that the citizens thought of the extra cost
of police, fire, medical, traffic, schools and roads and he
did not feel anyone's rights were being taken away. Councilman
Hubbard stated that anyone could seek zoning for high density.
Councilman Kenna stated he basically did not have anythi~g
against apartments but did think that when the current zoning
was set up in the City it was set up in an effort to create in
the future a structure that would support the wants of the
city ten or fifteen years from now. Councilman Kenna stated
December 14, 1982
;I:'age 14
that apartments on all of the Multi-family and Local Retail
property would not support the needs of the City in ten
or fifteen years. Councilman Kenna stated that in many cases
after the developer moves on, the apartments are sold two or
three times and become a drag on the City. Councilman Kenna
stated he did not feel anything was being taken away from
anyone. Councilman Kenna stated the City had a Zoning
Ordinance and anyone had the opportunity to request a zoning
change. Councilman Kenna stated that Local Retail zoning was
placed in the areas that seemed to be the best use of the
land. Councilman Kenna stated that to put apartments right
on some of the thoroughfares, such as Rufe Snow and Loop 820,
would not be proper. He stated there had to be some Local
Retail there also. Councilman Kenna stated the way the present
Zoning Ordinance was written, all of the Local Retail could
be created into Multi-family and there would not be anything
the City could do about it. Councilman Kenna stated he felt
that the City could work with those who had already invested
money, and he did not know of any reason why the appropriate
zoning could not be arrived at.
Councilman Davis stated that in no way did he feel that the
Council was against the development of the City. Councilman
Davis stated the Council's concern was that the City was
developed in a planned manner that would be beneficial ten
or fifteen years from now. Councilman Davis stated that
when he made a decision on the Council, he wanted it to be
a decision he could live with ten years from now. Councilman
Davis stated this ordinance did affect a lot of people.
Councilman Davis stated he felt the City had an obligation to
the citizens. He stated the citizens were not ready for multi-
family, but some of it would eventually happen and hopefully
with the Council's judgement the appropriate place would be
found for it. Councilman Davis stated a lot of hours and
planning had been put into the new Zoning Ordinance and he
encouraged input at the Public Hearings to be held. Councilman
Davis stated that some say they cannot develop their property
if the amendment is approved, but they can come in for a
zoning change.
Councilman Newman stated he did not believe any of the Council
members were against the growth of the City, but felt there was
a correct place for apartments and that was what the City was
trying to do.
Councilman Davis stated there had been a lot of discussion about
one piece of property by the High School. He stated this could
not be a one item issue, but it had to be what would affect the
entire City.
Councilman Kenna stated the Council saw Multi-family as
a problem in the future if all of the Local Retail land
were used as apartments. Councilman Kenna stated that
someone asked earlier why this amendment was being singled
December 14, 1982
Page 15
December l4, 1982
;I:'age 16
out of the Zoning Ordinance. He stated that in his opinion
Multi-family being built in Local Retail was one of the
prime problems. Councilman Kenna stated the new Zoning
Ordinance was almost ready and if the City had waited
until February or March there would be more developers
in the condition that some were in at the present time.
Mayor Faram stated that he wanted to refer back to the
minutes where one speaker stated that a Planning and
Zoning Commissioner made a statement that it was not the
Commission's obligation to be fair, but they were charged
with the health, welfare and safety of the community.
Mayor Faram stated he could certainly see what he was
saying. Mayor Faram stated that what one thinks is fair,
another may not. Mayor Faram stated he felt this Council
was charged with protecting the health, welfare, and
safety of the City of North Rich1and Hills. Mayor Faram
stated that when he came back into office in 1978 Rufe Snow
was nothing less than a mess and he proposed to the Council
to designate right-of-way because he could see the growth
coming to the City. Mayor Faram stated the City acquired
as much as they could get designated, as recommended by
the engineer, all the way to the north end of the City.
Mayor Faram stated that he felt the Council was very wise
in making that decision because the traffic on Rufe Snow
was terrible. Mayor Faram stated it was put before the
electors for permission to sell the bonds because it appeared
at the time that Rufe Snow was a thoroughfare and would
probably become income producing property. Mayor Faram
stated he would remind the citizens that Rufe Snow was built
from bond funds that were paid for from taxes by the home-
owners, businesses and property owners within the City.
Mayor Faram stated that only nine percent of that project
was taken on by those people adjacent to Rufe Snow. Mayor
Faram stated there was an obligation to move traffic in the
City and there were some cities that failed to address the
traffic problem and they now had a severe problem. Mayor Faram
stated the City of North Richland Hills had some severe
problems facing it right now and in an effort to avoid those,
the City Council was trying to get a handle on what went in
to certain areas. Mayor Faram stated he felt that if a
City was over built, you simply added to the problems. Mayor
Faram stated the City had a problem at the present time with
traffic on Davis Boulevard and they were working with the
Highway Department to try and get some kind of grade separation
to join onto the Loop. Mayor Faram stated there was a problem
at the High School and it was going to get worse. Mayor Faram
stated the City was something like forty percent developed now,
and if the density of the city was increased then it may not
be forty percent developed. He stated the problem at the High School
was there was close to 2,200 students. Mayor Faram stated
that he may be repetitious to some that had gone before
the Zoning Board of Adjustment and he apologized, but he
felt the City has an obligation to the school children.
Mayor Faram stated he felt the Council was obligated to
the City of North Rich1and Hills to see that the City was
not overdeveloped. Mayor Faram stated the amendment did
not in any manner strike out a persons preference for
zoning if they want to rezone to Multi-family and that
was the highest and best use for the land. Mayor Faram
stated the zoning was wide open now and for the first
time has faced the City with a very intense problem.
He stated he thought the Council was obligated to address
the problem. Mayor Faram stated the City wanted to hurt
no one financially. Mayor Faram stated there were people
that had bought their homes that want to make it their
home forever and the Council had an obligation to protect
the community.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey called for the question.
Motion to approve Ordinance No. 995 carried by a vote of
5-0.
Mayor Faram called a fifteen minute recess.
Mayor Faram called the meeting back to order. The same
were present as recorded at the beginning of the meeting
and including Councilman Davis and City Attorney Rex
McEntire.
l3. Mr. McEntire stated that this ordinance first came up in
Rich1and Hills and he asked them to delay it because he
was in the process of trying to get some of the other
cities, other than the four he represented, to join on
a stand at the Railroad Commission. Mr. McEntire stated
he had learned today that 99% of the other cities had
passed the Lone Star Gas Ordinance. Mr. McEntire stated
he did not feel there was a chance with the Railroad
Commission and his recommendation was for the Council
to deny Ordinance No. 991, the ordinance he prepared, and
approve the Lone Star Gas Company Ordinance.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Davis,
to deny Ordinance No. 991.
Motion carried 5-0.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Kenna,
to approve Ordinance No. 992, Lone Star Gas Company
Ordinance.
Motion carried 5-0.
December 14, 1982
?a~e 17
RECESS
BACK TO ORDER
CONSIDERATION OF
ORDINANCE DENYING
LONE STAR GAS
COMPANY RATE
INCREASE
ORDINANCE NO. 991
DENIED
ORDINANCE NO. 992
APPROVED
.,
December 14, 1982
J:>fl~e 18
l4. Councilman Davis moved, seconded by Councilman Kenna,
to approve Resolution No. 82-29.
Motion carried 5-0.
CONSIDERATION OF
RESOLUTION AUTHOR-
IZING THE POLICE
DEPARTMENT TO
APPLY FOR AMERICAN
EXPRESS CREDIT
CARD
RESOLUTION NO.
82-29
APPROVED
l5. Mayor Faram advised the Council the Staff had recommended
the contract be awarded to Sto1aruk in the amount of
$58,554.30.
Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Councilman Davis,
to award the contract to Sto1aruk in the amount of
$58,554.30.
CONSIDERATION OF
AHARDING CONTRACT
FOR JERRI JO AND
ELDORADO STREET
AND DRAINAGE
IMPROVEMENTS
APPROVED
Motion carried 5-0.
16. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Staff had
recommended the contract be awarded to Sto1aruk in
the amount of $279,090.90.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey moved, seconded by Councilman
Davis, to award the contract to Sto1aruk in the amount
of $279,090.90.
CONSIDERATION OF
AHARDING CONTRACT
FOR HOLIDAY NORTH
STREET AND
DRAINAGE PROJECTS
APPROVED
Motion carried 5-0.
17. Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey,
to approve partial payment to Austin Road Company in the
amount of $41,408.46 for Dawn Drive Street and Drainage
Improvements.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey asked if the contractor was on
schedule.
CONSIDERATION OF
PARTIAL PAYMENT TO
AUSTIN ROAD CO.
IN THE AMOUNT OF
$41,408.46 FOR
DAWN DRIVE STREET
AND DRAINAGE
IMPROVEMENTS
APPROVED
Mr. Albin stated yes, the project was 68% complete.
Motion carried 5-0.
18. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Staff had
recommended the contract be awarded to East Side
Office, not to exceed $14,000, 42.5% discount.
CONSIDERATION OF
AWARDING CONTRACT
FOR OFFICE SUPPLIES
APPROVED
Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey moved, seconded by Councilman Newman,
to award contract to East Side Office not to exceed
$l4,000.00 and with a 42.5% discount.
Motion carried 5-0.
19. Mayor Faram advised the Council the Staff had recommended
the contracts be awarded to all three bidders, Austin
Road, SRO Asphalt and Reynolds Asphalt not to exceed
$205,000.
Mr. Line stated the Staff recommended the contract be
awarded to all three bidders which would allow the city
to purchase asphalt based on spot market and best
availability.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Kenna,
to award the contracts to all three bidders, Austin
Road, SRO Asphalt and Reynolds Asphalt not to exceed
$205,000.
Motion carried 5-0.
20. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Staff had
recommended the bid be awarded to Jack Williams Chevrolet
in the amount of $18,344.00.
Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey,
to approve the bid of Jack Williams Chevrolet in the
amount of $18,344.00.
Motion carried 5-0.
21. Mayor Faram advised the Council that the Staff had recommended
the bid of Witch Equipment in the amount of $32,004.00.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Newman,
to reject the bid and go out for new bids.
Councilman Kenna moved to amend the motion to state "reject
the bid and rebid without the city stipulating the time on
the guarantee, the bidder to submit his own guarantee."
Amended motion carried 5-0.
Orgina1 motion as amended carried 5-0.
22. Mayor Faram stated the Staff had recommended the bid of
Hudiburg Chevrolet in the amount of $30,027.00.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Kenna,
to accept the bid of Hudiburg Chevrolet in the amount
of $30,027.00.
Motion carried 5-0.
December 14, 1982
;Page 19
CONSIDERATION OF
AWARDING CONTRACTS
FOR ASPHALTIC
CONCRETE
APPROVED
CONSIDERATION OF
AWARDING BID FOR
TWO (2) UNMARKED
POLICE UNITS
APPROVED
CONSIDERATION OF
AWARDING BID FOR
TRENCHER-BACK HOE-
TRAILER
PUBLIC WORKS
REJECTED
CONSIDERATION OF
AWARDING BID
FOR FOUR (4) ~ TON
TRUCKS - UTILITY
AND PARKS DEPT.
APPROVED
December 14, 1982
\l?a¡ge 20
23. Mayor Faram advised the Council the Staff had recommended
the bid of Jack Williams Chevrolet in the amount of
$8,008.00.
Councilman Hubbard moved, seconded by Councilman Newman,
to accept the bid of Jack Hil1iams Chevrolet in the
amount of $8,008.00.
CONSIDERATION OF
AWARD ING BID FOR
ONE (1) 3/4 TON
PICKUP TRUCK
UTILITY DEPARTMENT
APPROVED
Motion carried 5-0.
24. Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Councilman Hubbard,
to cancel the December 27, 1982 Council meeting.
Motion carried 5-0.
CONSIDERATION OF
CANCELING THE
DECEMBER 27, 1982
COUNCIL MEETING
APPROVED
25. Mr. Line stated that on November 16, 1982, he and the
City Engineer had met with residents affected by the
proposed Walker Branch storm drain project in an
effort to answer questions and facilitate the acquisition
of easements for the project. Mr. Line stated there
was a request made to have the southerly portion of
the channel relocated to the back of the lots facing
Oakridge Terrace. Mr. Line stated there would be an
additional cost of $450,000 if this was approved.
Mr. Line stated the Staff recommended denying this
request.
CONSIDERATION OF
WALKER BRANCH
DRAINAGE IMPROVE-
MENT
DENIED
Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramsey,
to deny the request to move the channel, at a cost of
$450,000.
Councilman Davis asked if there would be a problem in
obtaining the easements if the request was denied.
Mr. Line stated it was not unanimous of all the residents
in the area to move the channel.
Motion carried 5-0.
26. Mr. Line stated this ordinance would set the speed limit
at 40 miles per hour on Rufe Snow Drive from and including
the 5300 block through the 5800 block.
Councilman Kenna moved, seconded by Councilman Hubbard,
to approve Ordinance No. 993.
CONSIDERATION OF
ORDINANCE AMENDING
ORDINANCE NO. 722
SPEED ZONE ORDINANCE
APPROVED
ORDINANCE NO. 993
Motion carried 5-0.
27. None
CITIZEN PRESENTATION
28. Mayor Faram adjourned the meeting of December l4, 1982.
~
~j;-d~
; CK ARAM - MAYOR
December 14, 1982
Page 21
ADJOURNMENT