MIN CC 02/17/2009MEETING of FEBRUARY§. 2009 BOOK "U" 182
MINUTES FROM THE HUNTSVILLE CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THE 17TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2009, IN
THE CITY HALL, LOCATED AT 1212 AVENUE M IN THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, COUNTY OF WALKER, TEXAS
AT 6:OOPM.
The Council met in a regular session with the following:
COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: J. Turner, Wayne Barrett, Tom Cole, Charles Forbus, Clarence Griffin, Melissa
Mahaffey, Lanny Ray, Mac Woodward, Dalene Zander
OFFICERS PRESENT: Bill Baine, City Manager; Stephanie Brim, City Secretary; Interim Counsel Leonard Schneider
WORK SESSION [5:15- 5:45pm]
City Council conducted a work session on modifications to the Council Rules of Procedure.
REGULAR SESSION
CALL TO ORDER (6:OOpm]
Mayor Turner called the meeting to order.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE to US and TEXAS FLAGS, INVOCATION
Councilmember Griffin led the invocation.
PRESENTATION
a. Mayor Turner read Proclamation 2009 -02: Severe Weather Awareness Week, accepted by John Waldo, I
Emergency Management Coordinator.
b. City Manager Bill Baine introduced Dr. Sherry McKibben as the new contract Community Development
Specialist.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (regarding agenda items only)
Tamara Chasteen. Ms. Chasteen spoke in support of proposed bike lanes.
George Russell. Mr. Russell spoke in support of the green plan, mentioned several ROW mapping projects, and
mentioned mapping greenbelts.
John Smither. Mr. Smither spoke in support of the green plan.
CONSENT AGENDA
a. Approve the minutes of the City Council meetings held on January 20, January 27, and February 3, 2009.
b. Authorize City Manager to execute a one -year contract with two (2) additional one -year options to renew with
MDN Enterprises, J & S Valve, HD Supply and Municipal Water Works for water and sewer supplies, with future
price adjustments, plus or minus.
c. Authorize the City Manager to purchase a 2009 new and unused sewer cleaning truck from Vac -Con, Inc. in the
amount not to exceed $254,892.95.
d. Approve Ordinance 2009 -22, amending the fiscal year 2008 -09 budget for the purchase of said vehicle.
City Manager requested items 'c' and'd' be pulled from consideration.
Mahaffey seconded the motion. The motion passed 9 -0.
STATUTORY AGENDA
No items.
MAYOR/CITY COUNCILMEMBER/CITY MANAGER REPORT
a. Presentation, discussion and/or possible action on appointment to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
Mayor Turner moved to appoint Chris Cirrito to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board: and
Councilmember Woodward seconded the motion. The motion passed 9 -0.
b. Presentation, discussion and /or possible action on the revised contract with John Gaines for services as the
Huntsville Municipal Court Judge.
Councilmember Mahaffey moved to approve the revised contract with John Gaines for services as the
Huntsville Municipal Court Judge; and Councilmember Forbus seconded the motion. The motion passed 9-0.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING of FEBRUARY 17, 2009
163
Presentation, discussion and/or possible action on the revised contract with Stephanie Brim for services as the
Huntsville City Secretary.
EXECUTIVE SESSION [6:20- 6:50pm]
City Council conducted a closed session as authorized by Texas Government Code, Chapter 551, Section
551.071, consultation with counsel on legal matters; specifically on the revised contract with Stephanie Brim for
services as the Huntsville City Secretary.
City Council reconvened in Open Session. Mayor Turner stated that this item was being withdrawn from
consideration.
d. Presentation, discussion and/or possible action on vacation accrual for City Manager Bill Baine.
e. Presentation, discussion, and possible action on staff direction for implementing the Huntsville Green Growth
Package, involving promoting growth in Huntsville through beautification and environmentally sound policies
including: a recycling pilot program; bicycle routes; neighborhood electric vehicle usage; and greenbelts.
Councilmember Ray provided a brief overview of the proposed curbside recycling
Councilmember Ray continued discussion of the proposed program, stating that part of the program would
include taking down signs currently in place, and establishing safe bike routes. Councilmember Forbus reported
that SHSU is very interested in developing routes for students and the City should coordinate with them. City
Manager Bill Baine reported he had a copy of their plan and would begin work on it.
Councilmember Ray requested an amendment to Section 2 subsection c to include: coordinate routes with
Sam Houston State University representatives.
Councilmember Mahaffey suggested disallowing bicycles in dangerous areas, such as the northbound
feeder road between Lake Road and Smither Overpass. Councilmember Forbus suggested exploring TXDOT
for funding opportunities. Councilmember Zender suggested including mapping trails in the project as well.
Councilmember Barrett stated the need for significantly stepping up education for motorists about the
program in order for it to be safe and effective. Mayor Turner stated he thought the ordinances presented and
passed show the community is progressive and sensitive.
The motion passed 9 -0.
f. Presentation, discussion, and possible action on Holiday Inn Express (Landmark Hotels, Ltd.) sign issue and
Ordinance 2009 -19 (tabled on February 3, 2009). [7:25:10 -7:30]
Councilmember Ray moved to approve Ordinance 2009 -26, amending Title 32, Community Development
of the Huntsville Texas Municipal Code to include provisions for directional signs: and Councilmember Barrett
seconded the motion.
Councilmember Zender asked if the size would be 32 square feet; City Manager Bill Baine stated the City
staff could force a smaller size if there were a safety issue.
The motion passed 9 -0.
Councilmembers discussed the current landfill situation [transferring garbage to Polk County], and whether
the sixty -day time frame would allow enough time to bring forward a program for consideration and
implementation.
The motion passed 9 -0.
Councilmember Ray provided a brief overview of the proposed Neighborhood Electric Vehicle program.
Councilmember Ray moved to approve Ordinance 2009 -24, directing the establishment of neighborhood
electric vehicle routes throughout the City of Huntsville; and Councilmember Mahaffey seconded the motion.
'
Councilmembers discussed the desire for citizen input on routes.
Councilmember Mahaffey stated the use of NEVs is already legal and the City would be advertising
options, and mentioned the marketing possibilities if Huntsville is the first Texas town to utilize this.
Councilmember Cole asked if there are safety records where this law is already in place. Councilmember
Ray stated they had a high safety rating. Councilmember Cole stated he would like to see safety profiles.
Staff was directed to present a plan in 30 days.
Councilmembers continued to discuss current legal practices and future regulatory aspects (such as
naming streets not to be used).
The motion Passed 9 -0.
Councilmember Ray provided a brief overview of the proposed bicycle route program.
Councilmember Ray continued discussion of the proposed program, stating that part of the program would
include taking down signs currently in place, and establishing safe bike routes. Councilmember Forbus reported
that SHSU is very interested in developing routes for students and the City should coordinate with them. City
Manager Bill Baine reported he had a copy of their plan and would begin work on it.
Councilmember Ray requested an amendment to Section 2 subsection c to include: coordinate routes with
Sam Houston State University representatives.
Councilmember Mahaffey suggested disallowing bicycles in dangerous areas, such as the northbound
feeder road between Lake Road and Smither Overpass. Councilmember Forbus suggested exploring TXDOT
for funding opportunities. Councilmember Zender suggested including mapping trails in the project as well.
Councilmember Barrett stated the need for significantly stepping up education for motorists about the
program in order for it to be safe and effective. Mayor Turner stated he thought the ordinances presented and
passed show the community is progressive and sensitive.
The motion passed 9 -0.
f. Presentation, discussion, and possible action on Holiday Inn Express (Landmark Hotels, Ltd.) sign issue and
Ordinance 2009 -19 (tabled on February 3, 2009). [7:25:10 -7:30]
Councilmember Ray moved to approve Ordinance 2009 -26, amending Title 32, Community Development
of the Huntsville Texas Municipal Code to include provisions for directional signs: and Councilmember Barrett
seconded the motion.
Councilmember Zender asked if the size would be 32 square feet; City Manager Bill Baine stated the City
staff could force a smaller size if there were a safety issue.
The motion passed 9 -0.
C?
CITY COUNCIL MEETING of FEBRUARY$, 2009 BOOK "U" 184
g. City Manager Bill Baine reported on the status of: Revising solid waste pick up limits — a new policy will require
that citizens will have to pay $60.56 1ton for pick -ups of over one dump truck load; and Refinancing existing debt —
recommendations will be presented to the Finance Committee next week.
No action was taken on this item.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (open)
Tamara Chasteen. Mrs. Chasteen thanked the Council for implementing wi -fi, as it has facilitated volunteer work in the
community; and also invited the Council to the Wynne Home for the Empty Bowls program next Tuesday.
Michael Mansfield. Mr. Mansfield spoke on behalf of the Seeds of Discovery non - profit, stated they would be starting a
community farmers program, giving away plants seed and instructions for community gardens and beautification
efforts.
George Russell. Mr. Russell requested the City coordinate with him on University Avenue with respect to bicycle route
development, and stated he attended meeting at the Chamber of Commerce in Livingston, reading from The
Conservation Fund mission and other marketing materials.
Caleb White, Mr. White spoke on behalf of the Change Huntsville campaign — dedicated to expanding progressive,
closer ties between the City and University students, and urged the Council to look into clean public transportation.
ADJOURNMENT (7:46pm]
Mayor Turner adjourned the meeting.
�6D r-i�;L-
Stepl a ie A. Brim, City Secretary
CITY COUNCIL MEETING of FEBRUARY 17, 2009 BOOK "U" 185
MINUTES FROM THE HUNTSVILLE CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THE 17TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2009, IN
THE CITY HALL, LOCATED AT 1212 AVENUE M IN THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, COUNTY OF WALKER, TEXAS
AT 6:OOPM.
The Council met in a regular session with the following:
COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: J. Turner, Wayne Barrett, Tom Cole, Charles Forbus, Clarence Griffin, Melissa
Mahaffey, Lanny Ray , Mac Woodward, Dalene Zander
OFFICERS PRESENT: Bill Baine, City Manager, Stephanie Brim, City Secretary; Interim Counsel Leonard Schneider
WORK SESSION [5:15- 5:45pm]
City Council conducted a work session on modifications to the Council Rules of Procedure.
REGULAR SESSION
CALL TO ORDER [6:OOpm]
Mayor Turner called the meeting to order.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE to US and TEXAS FLAGS, INVOCATION
Councilmember Griffin led the invocation.
PRESENTATION
' a. Mayor Turner read Proclamation 2009 -02: Severe Weather Awareness Week, accepted by John Waldo,
Emergency Management Coordinator.
b. City Manager Bill Baine introduced Dr. Sherry McKibben as the new contract Communi +y Development
Specialist.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (regarding agenda items only)
Tamara Chasteen. Ms. Chasteen spoke in support of proposed bike lanes.
George Russell. Mr. Russell spoke in support of the green plan, mentioned several ROW mapping projects, and
mentioned mapping greenbelts.
John Smither. Mr. Smither spoke in support of the green plan.
CONSENT AGENDA
a. Approve the minutes of the City Council meetings held on January 20, January 27, and February 3, 2009.
b. Authorize City Manager to execute a one -year contract with two (2) additional one -year options to renew with
MON Enterprises, J & S Valve, HD Supply and Municipal Water Works for water and sewer supplies, with future
price adjustments, plus or minus.
C. Authorize the City Manager to purchase a 2009 new and unused sewer cleaning truck from Vac -Con, lnc. in the
amount not to exceed $254,892.95.
d. Approve Ordinance 2009 -22, amending the fiscal year 2008 -09 budget for the purchase of said vehicle.
City Manager requested items 'c' and 'd' be pulled from consideration.
STATUTORY AGENDA
No items.
'
MAYOR/CITY COUNCILMEMBER/CITY MANAGER REPORT
a. Presentation, discussion and /orpossible action on appointment to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
Mayor Turner moved to appoint Chris Cirrito to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and
Councilmember Woodward seconded the motion The motion passed 9 -0.
b. Presentation, discussion and/or possible action on the revised contract with John Gaines for services as the
Huntsville Municipal Court Judge.
Councilmember Mahaffey moved to approve the revised contract with John Gaines for services as the
CITY COUNCIL MEETING of FEBRUARYI, 2009 BOOK "U"
Huntsville Municipal Court Judge? and Councilmember Forbus seconded the motion The motion Passed 9 -0.
Presentation, discussion and/or possible action on the revised contract with Stephanie Brim for services as the
Huntsville City Secretary.
EXECUTIVE SESSION [6:20- 6:50pm]
City Council conducted a closed session as authorized by Texas Government Code, Chapter 551, Section
551.071, consultation with counsel on legal matters; specifically on the revised contract with Stephanie Brim for
services as the Huntsville City Secretary.
City Council reconvened in Open Session Mayor Turner stated that this item was being withdrawn from
consideration.
d. Presentation, discussion and/or possible action on vacation accrual for City Manager Bill Baine.
e. Presentation, discussion, and possible action on staff direction for implementing the Huntsville Green Growth
Package, involving promoting growth in Huntsville through beautification and environmentally sound policies
including: a recycling pilot program; bicycle routes; neighborhood electric vehicle usage; and greenbelts.
Councilmember Ray provided a brief overview of the proposed curbside recycling program.
Councilmembers discussed the current landfill situation [transferring garbage to Polk County]; and whether
the sixty -day time frame would allow enough time to bring forward a program for consideration and
implementation.
The motion passed 9 -0.
Councilmember Ray provided a brief overview of the proposed Neighborhood Electric Vehicle program. '
Councilmember Ray moved to approve Ordinance 2009 -24 directing the establishment of neighborhood
electric vehicle routes throughout the City of Huntsville and Councilmember Mahaffey seconded the motion
Councilmembers discussed the desire for citizen input on routes.
Councilmember Mahaffey stated the use of NEVs is already legal and the City would be advertising
options, and mentioned the marketing possibilities if Huntsville is the first Texas town to utilize this.
Councilmember Cole asked if there are safety records where this law is already in place. Councilmember
Ray stated they had a high safety rating. Councilmember Cole stated he would like to see safety profiles.
Staff was directed to present a plan in 30 days.
Councilmembers continued to discuss current legal practices and future regulatory aspects (such as
naming streets not to be used).
The motion passed 9 -0.
Councilmember Ray provided a brief overview of the proposed bicycle route program.
Councilmember Ray continued discussion of the proposed program, stating that part of the program would
include taking down signs currently in place, and establishing safe bike routes. Councilmember Forbus reported
that SHSU is very interested in developing routes for students and the City should coordinate with them. City
Manager Bill Baine reported he had a copy of their plan and would begin work on it.
Councilmember Ray requested an amendment to Section 2 subsection c to include: coordinate routes with
Sam Houston State University representatives.
Councilmember Mahaffey suggested disallowing bicycles in dangerous areas, such as the northbound
feeder road between Lake Road and Smither Overpass. Councilmember Forbus suggested exploring TXDOT
for funding opportunities. Councilmember Zander suggested including mapping trails in the project as well.
Councilmember Barrett stated the need for significantly stepping up education for motorists about the
program in order for it to be safe and effective. Mayor Turner stated he thought the ordinances presented and
passed show the community is progressive and sensitive.
The motion passed 9 -0.
Presentation, discussion, and possible action on Holiday Inn Express (Landmark Hotels, Ltd.) sign issue and
Ordinance 2009 -19 (tabled on February 3, 2009). [7:25:10 -7:30] I
Councilmember Ray moved to approve Ordinance 2009 -26 amending Title 32 Community Development
of the Huntsville Texas Municipal Code to include provisions for directional signs and Councilmember Barrett
seconded the motion.
Councilmember Zander asked if the size would be 32 square feet; City Manager Bill Baine stated the City
staff could force a smaller size if there were a safety issue.
The motion passed 9-0.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING of FEBRUARY 17, 2009 BOOK "U"
187
g. City Manager Bill Baine reported on the status of: Revising solid waste pick up limits – a new policy will require
citizens will have to pay $60.56 /ton for pick -ups of over one dump truck load; and Refinancing existing debt –
recommendations will be presented to the Finance Committee next week.
No action was taken on this item.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (open)
Tamara Chasteen. Mrs. Chasteen thanked the Council for implementing wi -fi, as it has facilitated volunteer work in the
community; and also invited the Council to the Wynne Home for the Empty Bowls program next Tuesday.
Michael Mansfield. Mr. Mansfield spoke on behalf of the Seeds of Discovery non - profit, stated they would be starting a
community farmers program, giving away plants seed and instructions for community gardens and beautification
efforts.
Geome Russell, Mr. Russell requested the City coordinate with him on University Avenue with respect to bicycle route
development, and stated he attended meeting at the Chamber of Commerce in Livingston, reading from The
Conservation Fund mission and other marketing materials.
Caleb White. Mr. White spoke on behalf of the Change Huntsville campaign – dedicated to expanding progressive,
closer ties between the City and University students, and urged the Council to look into clean public transportation.
ADJOURNMENT [7:46pm]
Mayor Turner adjourned the meeting.
7—
Stepha a A. Brim, City Secretary