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1995-08-15CITY OF SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS 667 NORTH CARROLL AVENUE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 15, 1995 MINUTES COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENTS: Mayor Gary Fickes; Mayor Pro Tem Andy Wambsganss; Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Pamela Muller. Members: Sally Hall, Michael Richarme, and W. Ralph Evans. COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT: Ron Maness STAFF PRESENT: Curtis E. Hawk, City Manager; Shana Yelverton, Assistant City Manager; Greg Last, Director of Community Development; Bob Whitehead, Director of Public Works; Ron Harper, City Engineer; Karen Gandy, Zoning Administrator; E. Allen Taylor, City Attorney; and, Klm Bush, Acting City Secretary. INVOCATION: Councilmember W. Ralph Evans. WORK SESSION: The work session was held where agenda items for tonight's meeting were discussed by Council and staff. The Regular City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Gary Fickes. Agenda Item #2-A. Executive Session Mayor Fickes advised the audience that Council would be going into executive session pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Sections 551.071,551.072, 551.074, 551.076 of the Open Meetings Act, to seek the advice of the City Attorney with respect to pending and contemplated litigations, to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease or sale of real property and to consider the appointment and evaluation of public officials, and regarding the deployment of specific occasions for implementation of security personnel or devises. Council adjourned into executive session at 7:00 p.m. Council returned to open session at 7:45 p.m. Ag¢llda Item #2-B. Action Necessary/Executive Session No action necessary. City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 2 Agenda Item//3. Approval of the Minutes of the August 1. 1995 City_ Council Meeting Motion was made to waive approval of the Minutes of the City Council Meeting held on August 1, 1995 until the next regular meeting on September 5, 1995. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Richarme Wambsganss Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Agenda Item #4-A. Mayor's Report Mayor Fickes announced that City Secretary Sandra L. LeGrand was out ill, but should be back at the office soon. Mayor Fickes informed the audience that construction on the Adventure Alley playground will begin September 19, 1995, and at least 3,000 volunteers are needed, so please sign up. Agenda Item #4-B. City Manager's Report City Manager Curtis E. Hawk commented that everything he needed to report was included in the City Council packets. A_~enda Item #4-C. SPIN Report Martin Shelling, SPIN #2 representative, informed the City Council about the joint meeting held for neighborhoods 1, 2, 3, 4, and 11 with guest Tom Allen of Maguire Thomas Partners (MTP). Mr. Shelling commented that MTP presented their plans for a new residential/commercial planned development. The meeting was informative, and gave members an opportunity to ask direct questions. Mr. Shelling also commented on the meeting area SPIN groups had with Park Project Manager Kim McAdams regarding the future "West Beach" park development. Some of his neighbors commented that they had hoped this area would always remain "country,' but they also recognized that there might be an opportunity for sewer and an increase in property value as a result of the improvements. Cara White, SPIN #1 representative, expressed to the City Council her appreciation for the support and efforts of the City Council and City staff to the SPIN program. She thanked Chairman Rex Potter and the City staff for all their efforts in keeping the community involved and informed through SPIN. City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 3 Agenda Item//5. Consent A_eenda Mayor Fickes announced that the Consent Agenda consisted of the following items: 5-A. Authorizing the Mayor to execute a contract with Tarrant County Tax Office for collection of City of Southlake Ad Valorem Taxes. 5-B. Approval of reader board sign for Bicentennial Park. Motion was made to approve Consent Agenda items #5A and 5B. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Evans Ayes Item #5A: Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Ayes Item #5B: Nays: None Abstained: Fickes Approved: 5-0-1 Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON CONSENT ITEMS An agreement by and between June Garrison, Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector, and Tan'ant County, referred to as Assessor/Collector, and the City of Southlake to provide for the assessment and collection services of Ad Valorem taxes levied by the City. The agreement is for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 1995 and ending September 30, 1996. Tarrant County charges $0.40 per financial transaction, defined as a payment or refund on an account. This is the same per transaction fee as the previous year. For the 1996 fiscal year, $4,000.00, representing 10,000 transactions has been budgeted in the Finance Division for tax collection. #5-B. Approval, by City Council, for a reader board sign is required by ordinance. The Souttflake Women's Club has donated the reader board sign for the new entrance to Bicentennial Park at 450 W. Southlake Blvd. It is a monument sign with a masonry base, 6' tall 8' long and 4' wide with a back lighted reader board sign. The sign meets the requirements of the sign ordinance. A_eenda Item #6. Public Forum Scott Martin, president of Keep Southlake Beautiful, 590 E. Dove Road, presented to City Council a public communique on Community Deforestation (copy attached to the minutes). Mr. City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 4 Martin informed the City Council that the current City ordinances in place such as the Tree Preservation ordinance are not adequate enough to address the problem. On behalf of KSB members, Mr. Martin requested that City Council begin immediately to take steps to end the rapid deforestation that is occurring in Southlake, and presented a 16-point plan proposed by the directors of KSB. Councilmembers Richarme and Hall suggested that perhaps this issue should be placed on the agenda for consideration in light of the current budget considerations that are taking place. Agenda Item g7-A. 2nd Reading~ Ordinance No. 480-176. (ZA 95-62~. Huckabee Zoning Administrator, Karen Gandy, presented Ordinance No. 480-176 a zoning request for 0.47 acres situated in the H. Grandberry Survey, Abstract No. 581, being Tract 2A. Current zoning is "AG" Agricultural, with a requested zoning of "O-1" Office District. Owner: Vernon O. And Wanda Jackson. Applicant: Dr. Timothy Huckabee. Five (5) notices were sent. One written response was received from within the 200' notification area from Pulte Home Corp. who was originally opposed to the request, but has now rescinded their opposition because there will be no public access to Lake Crest Blvd; access will be from F.M. 1709 only. Dr. Huckabee, applicant, was present to answer questions of the City Council. Dr. Huckabee commented that a new concept plan was being reviewed by City staffto present to the Planning and Zoning Commission at their next meeting. Besides an office for his practice, the plan will include office rental space. There were not comments from the audience during the Public Hearing. Council discussed the Medium Density Residential Land Use Category and the fact that "O-1" Office District is allowed in this category. Motion was made to approve the 2nd Reading of Ordinance No. 480-176 (ZA 95-62) for "O-1" Office District zoning. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Richarme Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nay s: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #7-B. 2nd Reading. Ordinance No. 480-177 (ZA 95-63). Fahrenbrook Zoning Administrator Karen Gandy presented Ordinance No. 480-177 (ZA 95-63) zoning request for 9.976 acres situated in the T.Beedy Survey, Abstract No. 72, being Tract 2A2A. Current zoning is "AG" Agricultural, with a requested zoning of"RE" Single Family Residential Estates District. Owner/Applicant: Lee Fahrenbrook. Ms. Gandy commented that ten (10) notices were sent. One written response was received from within the 200' notification area from Mr. Alan Egerton in favor City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 5 of the request. Ms. Gandy informed the Council that on June 29, 1995 the Board of Adjustment approved the applicant's variance request to allow a 230' lot width instead of the 300' lot width required by the "RE" district. Councilmember Hail questioned the drainage impact this development would have. City Engineer Ron Harper commented that the applicant would have to provide a drainage plan, to be reviewed by staff and checked for adverse impacts and culvert sizing, prior to a building permit being issued. Mr. Harper informed Councilmember Hail that this type of requirement was not in place a year ago. Mr. Lee Fahrenbrook, applicant, was present to answer questions of the City Council. Them were no comments from the audience during the Public Hearing. Motion was made to approve the 2nd Reading of Ordinance No. 480-177 (ZA 95-63) for "RE" Single Family Residential Estates District zoning. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Richarme Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agelada #7-C. 2nd Reading. Ordinance No. 480-178 I'ZA 95-69). PIMA Zoning Administrator Karen Gandy presented Ordinance No. 480-178 (ZA 95-69) zoning request for 5.035 acres situated in the Francis Throop Survey, Abstract No. 1511, Tracts 5D1A and 3A. Current zoning is "AG" Agricultarai, with a requested zoning of "SF-1A" Single-Family Residentiai District. Owner: Carl R. Unmh; Applicant: PIMA Properties, Inc. Ms. Gandy stated that fourteen notices were sent. Four written responses were received from within the 200' notification area: Elizabeth Higgin, in favor; W.P. etax Frances Hogue, in favor; Cmwford C. Hall, in favor; and Gary Glanton, opposed if it involves doing away with the pond. Ms. Gandy commented that no plat has been submitted for this property; therefore, staff does not know if the property will be subdivided prior to development. Councilmember Hall expressed concern for drainage issues. Ms. Hail has spoken with Phyllis Canton who receives a stream of water on her property--both front and back. Ms. Hall's concern is that with development more water will be added to the pond and cause a back up of water. Councilmember Wambsganss questioned whether sewer would be provided. David McMahan, representative for PIMA Properties, informed the City Council that there were 2 drainage areas and that there development will not cause problems to Hunter's Ridge--his project is down stream from Hunter's Ridge. Mr. McMahan commented that a dam and pond aiready exist, City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 6 and they do not have any plans to change it. Mr. McMahan commemed that because this is a zoning request only, they have not prepared a drainage study, but he does feel that they will be improving on the drainage. He commented that they are also planning to provide sewer at the lift station. Councilmember Richarme questioned the drainage structure going under Dove Road and whether or not it is considered a crfical drainage structure. He questioned whether it would be able to handle any additional water. City Engineer Ron Harper commemed that the City is having improvements made to increase the capacity of the culvert in this area in conjunction with the Dove project. Ron Harper explained the areas of flood way and flood plain. Mr. Harper commented that staffis doing a final review now of the Lonesome Dove drainage structure improvements. Construction is projected to begin within the next 3-4 months. Councilmember Richarme questioned whether or not improvements in this drainage structure will alleviate or eliminate the need for the retention pond on the subject property. Mr. Harper commented that this improvement is designed to take all of the runoff in that drainage basin. The pond is not considered to have any hydraulic value to the basin. There were no comments from the audience during the Public Hearing. Motion was made to approve the 2nd Reading of Ordinance No. 480-178 (ZA 95-69) for "SF-1A" Single Family Residential District. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Evans Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #7-D. 2nd Reading. Ordinance No. 646. Park and Recreation Park Project Manger Kim McAdams presented m the Council Ordinance No. 646, amending Ordinance No. 515, an ordinance establishing a Park and Recreation Board, including Park Rules and the creation of a Youth Park and Recreation Board. Superintendent Bill Branum has informed City staff that the Board had not taken formal action on this item, but that they were fully supportive of this since they had requested this through the Joint Utilization Committee. Ms. McAdams commented that the Park and Recreation Board recommended approval with minor changes at the meeting on Monday, August 14. Councilmember Richarme stated his concerns with the proposed "floating" schedule of meeting days. He believes that the community would be able to keep up with the meetings better if they were held on set dates. P/R Board member Bethann Scratchard commented that she did not see any problem with continuing with a regular scheduled meeting time. City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 7 Council discussed the need for attendance records of the Board members and suggested that the same guidelines be followed as with other Boards. There were no comments from the audience during the Public Hearing. Motion was made to approve the 2nd Reading of Ordinance No. 646 including: (1) holding the regular meetings on the 2nd Monday of each month; (2) changing the excused absences to two consecutive regular meetings; and (3) incorporating the administrative changes received this evening. Motion: Richarme Second: Muller Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #7-E. 2nd Reading. Ordinance No. 643. RE: Contractor Registration Public Works Director Bob Whitehead introduced Building Official Paul Ward. Mr. Whitehead explained that this ordinance would help strengthen Ordinance No. 568 which provided for the registration of contractors engaged in construction work within the City of Southlake. Through Ordinance No. 643 the Building Official would have the ability to suspend or revoke a contractor's registration if they become negligent in their responsibilities. The ordinance includes a means of appeal through the Building Board of Appeals. Councilmembers questioned the defmition of "gross negligence," and City Attorney E. Allen Taylor explained that the City's hands would less likely be tied down without a definition. The City would have mom ability to argue for safety to citizens if the call is left to the Building Official's discretion on a case-by-case basis. Them were no comments from the audience during the Public Hearing. Motion was made to approve 2nd Reading of Ordinance No. 643. Motion: Richarme Second: Hall Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #7-F. Trail System Master Plan. Public Hearing City Manager Curtis E. Hawk briefed the City Council on the number of citizens' surveys that have been conducted over the past several years. In each of the surveys, trails were a number one priority among the citizens of Southlake. Mr. Hawk commented that consultants were hired to draft a trail City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 8 plan. At a joint meeting of the Park and Recreation Board and the Planning and Zoning Commission, a large number of people in attendance were quite vocal in opposition to the plan as presented. Mr. Hawk informed the Council that he appointed an ad hoc City Manager's Joint (P&Z/P&R) Review Committee for Trail System Master Plan, with an intent to resolve the contentious issues. The Committee met several times and came up with a compromise plan based on citizen concems. The revised plan was then taken again to the Park and Recreation Board on July 10 and the Planning and Zoning Commission on July 20 for public hearings and discussion. This time, very little citizen opposition surfaced. Both the P&Z and the P&R recommended the proposed plan as revised by the Committee. Park Project Manager Kim McAdams presented to the City Council the trail plan map as recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Park and Recreation Board. City Council discussed the possibility of including funds in the FY95-96 budget to begin implementing the trail plan. City Manager Curtis E. Hawk commented that the City is at least a year away from building trails other than those which will be built by developers. Mr. Hawk commented that there are some things the City can do such as signs, etc. Councilmember Hall suggested that the a trail map be provided in the Council Chamber and should include a legend that shows the size of trails and distinguish type of trail--bike, equestrian, off/on road, etc. Public Hearing: Rex Potter, 303 Waterford, commented that he was strongly involved with the process of reviewing the trails plan as the SPIN representative. He commented that he thought that the process of involving SPIN groups was very useful and hoped this type of involvement would be continued in the future. Mr. Potter did express concern with placing signs on roadways at this point and hoped that the City would be very careful on directing bikers on roads that were not ready to handle safely. There were no other comments from the audience. Councilmember Muller questioned why the trails were not continued on South Peytonville, Kirkwood Blvd. through the proposed MTP-IBM project, South and North Kimball near Wal-Mart through to Continental Blvd., west Southlake Blvd. to Pearson, and east Southlake Blvd. to SH 114. Community Development Director Greg Last commented that South Peytonville, with the tree issues, was too narrow to include. Other areas mentioned could be included. Motion was made to approve the Trail System Master Plan including: (1) the extension of the trail system along Kirkwood Blvd. to City Limit line and continue through the proposed MTP-IBM project along the new Kirkwood Blvd; (2) continue the North Kimball trail south to Continental City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 9 Blvd.; (3) cont'mue on West Southlake Blvd. to Pearson; (4) continue on East Southlake Blvd. to SH 114; and, (5) include in the map legend the size of trails and distinguish whether off road or on road. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Muller Richarme Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Mayor Fickes announced that he was going to change the order of the agenda i~0ms. He also commented that the meeting may need to be continued to August 22. 1995 because of the time. Ag0nda Item #8-D. 1st Reading. Ordinance No. 647. Tax Levy_ City Manager Curtis E. Hawk informed the City Council that this ordinance will set the tax rate at $0.42200 per $100 valuation for FY1995-96. The tax rate listed in the budget filed with the City Secretary has a rate of $0.42262. Staffhas rounded the number off as suggested by City Council during the budget work session. This rate is a decrease of $0.027 per $100 from the FY1994-95 rate of $0.449. Mr. Hawk commented that the total rate of $0.422 represents a rate of $0.26285 for maintenance and operations and a rate of $0.15915 for debt. Motion was made to approve 1 st Reading of Ordinance No. 647 as presented. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Richarme Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #8-E. 1st Reading. Ordinance No. 648. FY1995-96 Annual Budget City Manager Curtis E. Hawk commented that he recognizes there are still items to be reviewed, but has placed this item on the agenda in order to stay on the budget schedule. Finance Director Lou Ann Heath summarized for Council the projected total revenues and the proposed total expenditures. Lou Ann commented that no increase in the utility rate was being proposed. Council discussed the possibility of splitting the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mayor Fickes suggested that a committee be appointed to study the advantages or disadvantages, costs, and what other cities are doing, and then, depending on the Committee's recommendation, implement the program mid-year. City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 10 Councilmember Richarme commented that he wanted to continue with discussions on providing funds in the FY1995-96 budget for the trails system, the corridor improvements, and the KSB 16- point plan presented by Scott Martin. Councilmember Richarme expressed the need to start the process of providing funds for multi-year projects. Councilmember Hall questioned what provisions if any were being planned for the neighborhood sewers. City Manager Curtis E. Hawk explained that funds have been provided in the proposed budget year to begin the process. Public Hearing: Dennis McGrath, 2403 N. Carroll Ave., expressed to the City Council that he felt the splitting of the Planning and Zoning Commission needed to be done now. Mr. McGrath commented that this was part of a platform that some of the Council ran on in the last election--and he believes that promise needs to be kept. Councilmember Hall and Mayor Fickes explained that time was needed to study what the City needs and how it needs to be implement, plus advertisements for appointments will take some time. Mayor Fickes stated that no formal planning has been discussed up to this point on the splitting of the P&Z. Rex Potter, SPIN Standing Committee representative, commented that the committee members had made, a couple of months ago, recommendations to the Council for road improvements, sewer, etc., but he does not see where those recommendations are in the proposed FY1995-96 budget. He requested that City Council take steps to show what projects will take place and which will not. On those items that will not be addressed, he would appreciate receiving an explanation. City Manager Curtis E. Hawk explained that more detailed discussions of particular items will be discussed at the work sessions. Scott Martin, 591 E. Dove Rd., expressed thanks to Councilmember Richarme for his verbal support of the KSB project for prevention of community deforestation, and asked that City Council seriously consider the project. Councilmember Richarme commented that the budget proposes $3,000.00 for KSB. He questioned Mr. Martin on the costs and the actual possibility of implementing this KSB project. Mr. Martin commented that he would work on getting together an action plan and costs. There were no other comments from the audience during the Public Hearing. City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 11 Motion was made to approve 1st reading of Ordinance No. 648, adopting Fiscal Year 1995-96 Annual Budget and revising Fiscal Year 1994-95 Annual Budget. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Muller Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #8-A. ZA 95-70. Plat Showing. Lots 1.2. & 3. W.R. Eaves No. 500 Addition Motion was made to table ZA 95-70, Plat Showing, until September 5, 1995 at the request of the applicant. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Richarme Muller Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Agenda Item #8-B. ZA 95-75. Plat Revision. Lots 5R1 and 5R2. Block 5. Diamond Cr. Estates Zoning Administrator Karen Gandy presented ZA 95-75 a plat revision request for Lots 5R1 and 5R2, Block 5, Second Installment, Diamond Circle Estates, being 2.044 acres situated in the W.W. Hall Survey, Abstract No. 687, and being a revision of Lot 5, Diamond Circle Estates as shown on the Plat recorded in Volume 9496, Page 1119, Plat Records, Tarmnt County, Texas. Locaf~ of Emerald Blvd.. and north and west of Pearl Dr. Current Zoning: "SF-1A" Single Family Residential. Owner: June D. Stevenson; Applicant: Dennis Luers. Ms. Gandy commented that two (2) responses have been received within the 200' notification area: (1) Robert L. Stevenson in favor; and (2) Amy Archambeau opposed. No representative for this item was available at the meeting. Motion was made to approve ZA 95-75, Plat Revision, subject to staffPlat Review Summary dated August 11, 1995. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Muller Richarme Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Agenda Item #8-C. 1st Reading~ Ordinance No. 642. Setting Speed Limits on certain roadways City Manager Curtis E. Hawk explained to City Council that Ordinance No. 642 provides for the lowering of the speed limit on F.M. 1938 as recommended by TxDOT, lowering the speed limit on City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 12 S. White Chapel as requested by residents along White Chapel, and establishing speed limits in school zones. Mr. Hawk provided to the City Council a list of the school crossing zones to be included in the ordinance. Motion was made to approve 1st Reading of Ordinance No. 642. Motion: Richarme Second: Wambsganss Caption was read by Mayor Fickes Ayes: Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 Agenda Item #9-A. Resolution No. 95-32. SPIN Appointments to Neighborhoods #5 & #8 Motion was made to approve the appointments of Shelly Minton to SPIN #5 and Pattie Mender to SPIN #8. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Wambsganss Evans Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Agenda Item #10-A. Developer Agreement for Ridgewood I Addition Public Works Director Robert Whitehead presented to City Council the Developer Agreement for Ridgewood I Addition. Mr. Whitehead informed the Council that the usual requirements are included in the agreement. Additional items unique to this agreement include: Off-site and/or Sewer Pro-rata. Developer has requested to construct the off-site sewer line (approximately 1,500 feet) to connect to the S-2, Section 2 Sewer (which is currently under design), and waive the sewer pro-rata that may be due to him should any other subdivision or property owners wish to tap into this sewer line, but have the home builders pay sewer impact fees prior to acquiring building permits. Off-site drainage. Developer agrees to pay the off-site drainage in the amount of $3,680; critical drainage structure is located on Johnson Road. Park Fees. Developer agrees to pay the park fees in the amount of $14,500 (29 lots at $500 per lot). Street Access Fees. Developer is requesting to have the home builders pay Street Access Fees in lieu of the Perimeter Street Fee knowing that the roadway impact fee has not been adopted at this time. Through the developer's agreement, the Developer City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 13 will acknowledge that he understands this, and that any variation between the anticipated and actual fee shall be collected prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy. Early Building Permits. Developer has requested early building permits for Lots 1, 44, and 45 which are adjacent to Johnson Road and have access to a fire hydrant. Since these lots are on a paved street, the Developer does not want these three early releases to be considered as any of the 10% (3) release of lots after the installation of water, sewer, and streets. Mr. Whitehead informed the Council that the clause concerning liens is still being worked on by the attorneys. Mayor Fickes commented that he would like to see that the clause is a part of all developer agreements. Motion was made to approve the Developer Agreement for Ridgewood Phase I. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Wambsganss Evans Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Agenda Item #10-B. Developer Agreement for Bull Run Lakes Addition Public Works Director Robert Whitehead presented to Council the Developer Agreement for Bull Run Lakes Addition--a two lot development. Mr. Whitehead stated that an agreement is required since the Developer wants to bring sewer to the property. In addition to the usual requirements for the agreement, the following are also included: There are two lots within the addition. Sanitary sewer will be extended to this addition. Plans and specifications for the construction must be designed by a State of Texas licensed Professional Engineer. Reference to water line construction and street paving have been deleted from the standard agreement. The Developer agrees to pay the park fees of $1,000. Developer has requested to pay the Road Access Fee in lieu of the Perimeter Street Fee. Motion was made to approve the Developer Agreement for Bull Run Lakes Addition. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Wambsganss Evans Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 City Council Meeting August 15, 1995 Minutes Page 14 Executive Session Mayor Fickes advised the audience that Council would be going into executive session pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, Sections 551.071,551.072, 551.074, 551.076 of the Open Meetings Act, to seek the advice of the City Attorney with respect to pending and contemplated litigations, to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease or sale of real property and to consider the appointment and evaluation of public officials, and regarding the deployment of specific occasions for implementation of security personnel or devises. Council adjourned into executive session at 11:40 p.m. Council returned to open session at 11:55 p.m. Action Necessary/Executive Session. Motion was made to authorize the City Manager to proceed with land acquisition as discussed in executive session. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Wambsganss Richarme Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 Agenda Item #12. Ad_iournment At 12:30 p.m., motion was made to continue to August 22, 1995 at which time items #8-F, #10- C, and #10-D would be considered. Motion: Second: Ayes: Nays: Approved: Richarme Wambsganss Richarme, Wambsganss, Muller, Hall, Evans, Fickes None 6-0 ATTEST: · "~Iayor G~ickes Regular City Council Meeting Minutes August 22, 1995, continued from August 15, 1995 Page 16 THIS MEETING WAS CONTINUED ON AUGUST 22, 1995 FROM THE AUGUST 15, 1995 CITY COUNCIL MEETING. COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: MAYOR GARY FICKES; MAYOR PRO TEM ANDY WAMBSGANSS. MEMBERS: RON MANESS, SALLY HALL, AND W. RALPH EVANS. COUNC1LMEMBER ABSENT: PAMELAMULLER. COUNCILMEMBER MICHAEL RICHARME PRESENT The continuation of the Council meeting was Called back to order by Mayor Gary Fickes at 7:30 p.m. on August 22, 1995. Agenda Item #10-C. Special Develoner Agreement for Huse Homeplace Addition. Bob Whitehead, Director of Public Works, presented the Special Developer Agreement for Huse Homeplace Addition, noting this is a single issue agreement prior to developing engineering plans and the formal Developer Agreement. The developer for Huse Homeplace has requested he "be allowed to developed as a private, gated community." Tom Matthews has requested to be on the Council agenda stating, before proceeding with the time and expense of any further engineering and construction drawings and taking up both his and the City's time, he is making the request for a private, gated community. Matthews stated he has reviewed the latest decisions by the current Council and feels this project fits within the unstated fi'amework for gaining approval. Huse Homeplace is a very small subdivision, similar to La Paloma Addition. Matthews referenced people accessing the lake through this property. Councilmember Richarme asked does this have to go in as a gated community or can it be incorporated as in Carmel Bay, if there becomes a real need for the community to be gated. It was noted that the costs to retrofit will increase substantially. Mr. Matthews stated he cannot afford to have the access public, he feels the lots will go for $100,000 plus and it will be unacceptable to have the public going through it. The issues of security and public safety were addressed as was the "knox box." City Attomey Allen Tayor stated if the gated community were approved, and if the City had to force emergency access, the City would not be liable. There is a 9-1-1 exemption under the Texas Tort Claims Act. Rod Zielke, 1090 Burney Lane, Southlake. Mr. Zielke stated in reference to Mr. Matthews comments, "if the people want gated, they should buy elsewhere." Mr. Zielke noted he met with Mr. Regular City Council Meeting Minutes August 22, 1995, continued from August 15, 1995 Page 17 Charles Burger, Corps of Engineers concerning the issue of neighborhood access to the trails or public access to the trails. Agenda Item #10-C. Continued City Attorney Allen Taylor stated with "no gate" at the corps land, the Corps of Engineers does not have any rights. Diane Patrick, 875 Harbor Court, Southlake. Ms. Patrick stated she has been coming down to City meetings for several years concerning this property. She stated she feels Mr. Matthews has not been fair. This is the first time she has heard about a "gate" at this property. Ms. Patrick stated with the development of a trail plan, it will release some of the problems that may exist. If we need a gate, why not put it at Carroll Avenue and Burney Lane. Why not put a gate near the Corps entrance instead of at the entrance to Huse Homeplace. Linda Stewart, 2920 Burney Lane, Southlake. Ms. Stewart stated while Mr. Matthews feels like his plan has been amended, they feel the same way. She stated she moved into the area because of horse access to Corps property. She said they were warned at the Planning and Zoning meeting that the existing property owners did not cooperate. She stated she feels cheated because the gate was not mentioned. She does not want a gated community. If Matthews needs an area to gate, let it affect him more than them. Stewart stated she wants the issue with the Corps resolved, including, "how to make Corps land accessible to horses." She lives within the 200' notification area. When she purchased her property, she was told it abutted to Corp property. Councilmember Richarme stated at some point, Council needs to come up with a consistent policy regarding gating. Councilmember Wambsganss noted, periodically, people don't get notices when this comes up. We need to adopt a resolution to the city's policy on this issue. Mayor Fickes commented when La Paloma Addition is gated, everyone who will purchase a lot will have a reason for needing it gated. Councilmember Evans commented, if you tie it to safety reasons, it is not a problem. Councilmember Richarme stated he is not sympathic to economic issues. Motion was made to deny the request for a gated community in the Special Developer Agreement. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Richarme Ayes: Wamgsganss, Richarme, Maness, Hall, Evans, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 vote Regular City Council Meeting Minutes August 22, 1995, continued from August 15, 1995 Page 18 Agenda Item #6. Public Forum. Continued Julio Bejarano, 1006 Southlake Hills Drive, Southlake. Mr. Bejarano referenced the Bond Election held of street improvements. He informed Council of problems with West Continental Blvd. between Davis Blvd. and South White Chapel Blvd. and the fact that this roadway has become dangerous. He stated he came before Council one year ago and said "let's get it done." This is the biggest growth area in the City and the City is going to have to find the funds to get the road paved. He noted it is a non-marked roadway. He stated he feels the city needs a new bond committee for another bond issue. Mr. Bejarano called attention to the new railroad crossing with no road to it. Agenda Item #10-D. Dveloper Agreement revision for South Hollow Addition. According to Bob Whitehead, Director of Public Works, the developer of South Hollow Addition has requested that the City Council consider three points in this Special Developer Agreement: "provisions for private streets to be constructed within a separate street lot owned by the homeowners association;" "provisions in the Developer Agreement for homeowners association documents indicating streets w/thin the development are private, and owned and maintained by the association through a reserve fund;" and, "a modification of our earlier request of July 18 to the City Council to make provisions for a guard house at the main entrance to be staffed by a security guard with a provision for limited access entrance gates to be guard-operated." Grant Morrow and Art Clayton, developers, made a presentation noting the above issues. City Attorney Allen Taylor advised Council that it is better for Council to not get involved with escrowing funds for road repairs for private roads. With assessment paving, the City would get money over a period of time. Motion was made to deny the request for Special Developers Agreement for South Hollow. Motion: Wambsganss Second: Evans Ayes: Wambsganss, Evans, Hall, Richarme Nays: Maness, Fickes Denied: 4-2 vote Agenda Item #8-F. Ordinance No. 649. 1st reading. Establishin~ Adminiatrative Departments. Curtis Hawk, City Manager, introduced the updated ordinance, establishing an administrative department to include a Department of Parks and Recreation. Activity in the Parks and Recreation Division has dramatically increased since the passage of the 1/2 cent sales tax in November, 1993. Regular City Council Meeting Minutes August 22, 1995, continued from August 15, 1995 Page 19 This change is a timely initiative that follows an established pattem of responding to changing needs in this city. Motion was made to approve the 1 st reading of Ordinance No. 649. Motion: Maness Second: Richarme Mayor Fickes read the caption of the ordinance. Ayes: Maness, Richarme, Hall, Evans, Wambsganss, Fickes Nays: None Approved: 6-0 vote Agenda Item #2-A. Executive Session. Continued Mayor Fickes advised the audience that Council would be returning to executive session pursuant to the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, of the Texas Govemment Code, Sections 551.071, 551.072, 551.074, 551.076 to discuss pending or contemplated litigation, land acquisition or personnel issues. Council adjourned for executive session at 9:45 p.m. Council returned to open session at 10:20 p.m. Agenda Item #2-B. Action Necessary/Continued No action was taken as the result of the executive session. Agenda Item #12. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned by Mayor Fickes at 10:22 p.m. ~ayor G~(ry Fi[kcs ~ Sandra L. LeGrand City Secretary City of Southlake, Texas CITY COUNCIL MEETING SIGN UP IF YOU WISH TO SPEAK DURING THE MEETING DATE: 4 ki4 - 7 5 /i LS NAME ADDRESS TELEPHONE AGENDA I'T'EM 2(4 alljsf ales gad 7>r - (' iki jk I Vild Reyor-1-- ic74BLie t-OL) ail c e77 /x1i / _ /.'v V / E, 17i ii, 6 re-s . - V Zia r q c Xt�- L . -ti � f 1 City of Southlake, Texas CITY COUNCIL MEETING SIGN UP IF YOU WISH TO SPEAK DURING THE MEETING DATE: 0 6 2 - S 4k . 1 ADDRESS TELEPHONE AGENDA ITEM if 41 1066 tfilt 1)(L ee Sovth / a� Keep Southlake Beautiful ?.0 + A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council On 1111- Community Communi Deforestation — ea u t ►{ �� � Page 1 of 7 The thick brown smog hung like a curtain across the treeless yard. "Grandpa, I don't see why I should have to wear that crummy respirator anyway. I can breath just fine out there! I promise I won't run or anything - I just can't stand that thing on my face when I'm trying to play! Pleeease!" The pleading little voice rasp. "Now young man, you know the rules" Grandfather chided. "Have you ever in your life been able to go outside in the summer without your respira- tor?" Will this be us talking to our grandchildren in twenty to thirty years? On behalf of all our grandchildren and their grandchildren I beseech you, don't allow the lung of our planet to be systematically bulldozed out of existence. Yes, trees are in fact our planet's lungs. In addition to everything else they do for the inhabitants of our planet, trees pump oxygen back into our atmosphere, cool and purify the air by helping to remove dirt, sand, dust, smoke, fumes and smog from the air. You can easily feel the difference that a tree makes on a hot day by moving from the sun into the shade of a tree. This cooling effect is much more apparent when you walk into a wooded area containing many trees standing close together. As much as we depend on trees, they also depend on us. Carelessness in building and land development is the leading cause of the deforestation of Northeast Tarrant county. Government health organizations have been warning us for many years now that our local atmosphere is becoming unhealthy during more and more days each summer. These warnings and even threats of punitive penalties appear to be going unheeded. We are, on average, long distance travelers everyday. We commute to the more densely developed commercial sectors of the Metro - plex and more commonly the world at large via, our neighbor, DFW Airport. Our boats and jet -skis race up and down the waters of our local lakes. We spend hours running our mowers over our large expanses of lawn. Our wives and children travel incessantly from school to shopping, then on to soccer or baseball practice, then dash back home for dinner before the cub scout meet- ing or band practice. Drive... Drive... Drive... As we should be able to clearly see, all these activities continuously contribute to the air pollution problem rapidly growing around us. I know that we in Southlake cannot solve the problems of the Metroplex, but we can "Lead by Example" in our own corner of the county. I believe the citizens of this town take genuine pride in the many innovative programs already initiated by the broad spectrum of our city staff, elected officials, boards and commissions. It seems only logical that in order to protect the health and welfare of our citizens that we have in fact an obligation to see to it that the inevitable wave of development does not "swamp the boat ". Prevention is always cheaper and more painless than treatment of deadly diseases and pollution is most certainly a potentially deadly man -made disease of this planet. Trees are an important weapon against air, water and noise pollutions. They miti- gate rainwater run -off and control soil erosion. Forests are our best defense against the serious environmental conditions known as Global Warming. All day every day trees are on the job creating an environment beneficial to our physical and mental health. Their pollution cleanup goes • e e $ O Ut h/a e Keep Southlake Beautiful y A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council ir On Community Deforestation ea uti�v Page2of7 on noiselessly and without cost. They cut our fuel bills, reduce our dependence on imported oil and increase our property values. At the same time they are home to and food for millions of the earth's creatures. And their beauty rivals that of any artistic work. Studies by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service and the American Forestry Association determined that each year a single 50- year -old urban tree supplies: air conditioning worth $73, soil erosion and storm -water control worth $75, wildlife shelter worth $75, air pollu- tion control worth $50. Based on these figures alone, compounded at 5 percent, over its lifetime a tree's value is more than $57,000. In another recent study by the U.S.D.A. Forest Service of trees in Chicago, researchers determined that trees removed about 650 tons of air pollutants in 1991. They estimated the value of this pollution removal to be $1 million, based on current costs for emission controls. I note here that this study was conducted in the Chicago area, where trees are leafless 6 months of the year. In most of Texas, where winters are mild and spring comes early, trees keep their leaves for a much longer period of time, given adequate water, they are likely to absorb even greater amounts of pollutants. A study done of the City of Tucson, Arizona, demonstrated that for every dollar spent to maintain trees, $2.62 worth of benefits were returned in the form of energy savings, dust removal, and the slowing of storm -water runoff. The U.S.D.A. Forest Service reports that "Many of our community forests are declining in this country. Surveys show many more trees are being removed than planted. The urban forest decline in most cities is now reaching crisis proportions." This situation is exemplified here in our own and surrounding communities and is accelerating rapidly. This same report documents that our community forests serve us every day in the following ways: • Improving air quality by trapping and holding dust particles that can damage our lungs, as well as absorbing poisonous gases. One acre of trees provides oxygen for 18 people and will absorb the amount of carbon dioxide each year equivalent to that produced by a car driven 26,000 miles. • Saving precious energy through cooling in the hotter months and serving as a windbreak during winter. As a result, you burn less fossil fuels for heating and cooling with the associated economic and environmental benefits. • Reducing noise pollution by absorbing unpleasant sounds from the urban environment. • Increasing economic stability by attracting and keeping businesses in a community. Studies by the U.S.D.A. Forest Service have shown that healthy, mature trees add an average of at least 7 and up to 27 percent to a property's value. In an article, "Selling Green ", in Builder, the monthly publication of the National Association of Home Builders, reports that a 34 -acre resort community outsold the competition two to one, even though its units were more expen- sive than comparable projects, while profits exceeded 20 percent per unit with the tree and natural resource protection program only adding two percent to the average unit cost. The ee S / a te Keep Southlake Beautiful -' �, C A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council On Community Deforestation � ea u t iiv Page 3 of 7 developer attributed much of the project's appeal to its green image. • Improving personal health by helping relieve psychological stresses and reducing stress re- lated disease, associated with living & working in urban areas. Trees create feelings of relax- ation and well- being. Medical research, from the University of Delaware, indicates that pa- tients assigned to rooms with a natural view of trees and green open spaces have shorter post- operative hospital stays by 8 percent, receive fewer negative comments on nursing reports, and took fewer pain killers than those patients who had no such view. The study further showed that based on This 8 percent reduction in hospital stays, the results in national health cost savings could be as much as several hundred million dollars a year. • Improving water quality by reducing runoff and erosion. A U.S. Forest Service study found that the tree canopy of the urban forest reduced surface runoff by 17 percent. This allows more recharging of the ground water supply, which is significantly reduced by buildings and paving, and can, in turn, reduce the demand on the city water system and the homeowners checkbook. Wooded areas also help prevent the transport of sediment and chemicals into our lakes and streams, while reducing the clogging of our existing storm -water drainage systems. Natural vegetative buffers serving such functions can help eliminate or reduce the need for the costly "engineered" solutions to these environmental problems which have been dictated by the E.P.A.. • Creating wildlife diversity by providing a local ecosystem. Trees and wooded areas provide a suitable habitat for a large variety of small animals and birds that would otherwise be absent from our community. • Adding beauty and dignity to our surroundings by softening the harsh lines of human occupa- tion. Trees often give visitors the first impression of a community. Picture our town without trees. Is it still a place we would like to live? Trees improve the quality of life for all of us - now, and in the years ahead. The Council has in the past acknowledged the significant benefits contributed by our Community Forest in its ability to serve us in the above areas. Being that these facts have been clearly substantiated by hundreds of scientific studies over the past three to four decades and, in turn, affirmed by the City Council in the preamble to the Tree Preservation Ordinance avowing that we all have a vested interest in all trees and vegetation within our community. It is not unreasonable for the citizens to expect conscientious administration of all the existing ordinances, as well as, the formulation of new controls on deforestation within our community. As the new president of KEEP SOUTHLAKE BEAUTIFUL I have received numerous demands that we, KEEP SOUTHLAKE BEAUTIFUL, do something about the deforestation of our community. Additionally they express disbelief that we, in fact, have a Tree Preservation Ordinance with regard to the perceived lack of protection for the few trees that seem to have been spared the bulldozers blade within developments in virtually every corner of our city. I had re- e e $OUth/4c 1p Keep Southlake Beautiful a .''�'' - A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council 14 Community Deforestation e eauti{` 1 \ Page 4 of 7 cently initiated action to address this matter within our organization's current 1995 - 96 Action Plan, but recent events within my own neighborhood have prompted more expeditious action. These calamitous events resulted in the destruction of two dozen ancient (200+ year old) hard- wood trees conservatively estimated to equate to a total in excess of 4,800 to 5,000 years of tree growth bulldozed over in a matter of minutes. I am obliged to note that, according to law, and the limited amount of unverified information required by our existing ordinance, this action was, in fact, legal and permissible, but I believe extremely regrettable. Not withstanding these facts, this all too typical illustration of rapid deforestation decries that we respectfully request the follow- ing steps be taken by our esteemed City Council: • An immediate evaluation of the official position of the current council in regard to the admin- istration of the existing Tree Preservation ordinance and its discretionary clauses and then new directions be given the City Staff accordingly. • An evaluation of the strengthening of our existing Tree Preservation ordinance with regard to the following points: 1. Protection of all remaining trees and understory vegetation within harm's way on subject parcels; 2. Reduction of the permissible "killing zone" surrounding the building foundation to a maxi- mum of 6 feet from the excessive 12 feet current exemption zone; 3. Establishing a Restrictive Design /Layout clause requiring the submission and approval of complete documentation (detailed site plan, tree survey, explanation and tracking system) for all Protected Trees prior to the execution of any work on the property (refer to recommended "Tree Survey" and "Excavation Ordinance" below) in order to best "site" the proposed work so as to mitigate the overall damage upon the subject parcel; 4. The elimination of the "Carte Blanche killing zone " for any driveway, sidewalk, patio, septic tank and lateral lines, parking area, pool and associated deck areas; 5. Establishing a formula for the required replacement of all removed Protected Trees that more equally represents the true value of the removed trees. Replacement could be either within the subject property, on other private property of the applicants choice, elsewhere on public property, via contributions to a Reforestation Fund for acquiring wooded property within our city or tree planting through the Council's existing Street Tree Partnership Pro- gram or on public Right Of Ways, etc.; 6. Eliminate the "discretionary" aspect for the Tree Flagging, Open Space Flagging, Protec- tive Fencing and/or Bark Protection requirements; 7. Increase the staff's enforcement capabilities thru greater numbers and training; 8. The addition of a "Specially Protected Tree" classification to make special provisions for those trees that have stood their ground for centuries having been able to survive mankind's onslaught while he has continuously degraded their environment. Qualification for this clas- �e South/ Keep Southlake Beautiful # �+co ''� '' A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council y On l�l! Community Deforestation �e -,v\ Y cautl{ Page5of sification would be determined by specie size and/or age. 9. Increase the fine for violations while establishing it as the minimum allowable fine, as the only levied fine in the two year history of our Tree Preservation ordinance was a mere $200 which was actually less than the value of the firewood cut from the "Protected" tree, allow- ing the convicted lawbreaker to potentially reap a profit from his crime; and • 10. Implement a "Tree Survey " addendum requiring the execution of a tree survey or, at least, a professionally produced plan and associated log of all trees within the proposed area of development illustrating the tag number, specie, size and location of all trees 6" caliper and over. This is the only viable method of establishing the "baseline " for each parcel of land in order to be able to verb compliance with all applicable ordinances through easily executed field inspections prior to and then during tree removal and construction activities. We also request that you: • Establish an inventory of our Community Forest and formulate a Master Plan on how we might best manage this precious resource. • Implement an "Excavation or Land Disturbance Ordinance ", currently under study, control- ling the use of any piece of earth moving /land disturbing equipment on any parcel of land without approval of their complete engineering documentation indicating the full extent of the work to be executed with professional certification that all necessary engineering calculations have been executed according to all pertinent federal, state and local codes, as well as all drainage and rainwater run -off ordinances and that all activities will comply with the updated Tree Preservation ordinance. • Establish a "Wildlife Habitat Area" designation where upon voluntary application and ap- proval of a management plan the applicant's property would be exempt from certain nuisance ordinance provisions as well as receive certain tax abatements. The Directors of KEEP SOUTHLAKE BEAUTIFUL do not come to this forum empty handed!! We have approved the following 16 Program Offerings to the City Council, we pro- pose to: 1 Assist the City Council and City Staff by submitting written ordinance proposals for the re- quested revisions and additions to our existing Tree Preservation Ordinance; 2 Help develop and promote educational programs for homeowners, landowners and land devel- opers - i.e. "Know the Law ", "Save Your Trees ", Memorial Tree Planting program, "Everybody's Backyard Wildlife Habitat" program, etc.; 3 Develop a Tree Rescue Program for removing and relocating trees, where feasible, to a new and safe location when the Bulldozer's Blade of Progress threatens them; , Sovth�a Keep Southlake Beautiful A � : + A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council On �1! Community Deforestation - � eauti {v Page 6 of 7 4 Develop a Tree Watch Program whereby local citizens observe and report suspected viola- tions of these various environmental ordinances; 5 Develop a Tree & Natural Habitat value analysis system & group whereby we might better understand the true value of our remaining woodlands & natural habitat; 6 Actively participate in the Street Tree Partnership Program; 7 Muster community resources (both human & financial) & community awareness in order to best address and solve these important issues; 8 Develop a program to divert, from the landfills, removed trees to be recycled through a mulching/composting program; 9 Develop a "Build America Beautiful" program based on the Keep America Beautiful model to aid our local contractors and developers so that they might Build Clean & Green; 10 Work with the city council, city staff & park board to establish a Reforestation Fund for acquiring wooded property within our city; 11 Continue our involvement in the Durham Arboretum / Naturescape Project, an important joint design, joint build and joint use educational project for all our citizens; 12 Help establish an inventory of our Community Forest and assist in the formulation of a Com- munity Forest Master Plan on how we might best manage this precious resource; 13 Continue in our own and joint efforts to add to the many hundreds of trees already planted throughout the city since our inception; 14 Assist the city council & city staff in the establishment of a "Wildlife Habitat Area" private property designation as described earlier; 15 Establish a new Highway Beautification program jointly with the City and the Texas Depart- ment of Transportation under their Landscape Cost Sharing Program whereby we could es- tablish new tree stands adjacent to our several state highways while incorporating the major Urban Design Elements approved in our new Corridor Study Overlay districts; 16 Work in conjunction with the Park Board, S.P.D.C. and C.I.S.D. toward the establishment of an Educational Nature Center at the new West Beach park site so that education and under- standing might insure a more fully cooperative and participatory community. It may seem frivolous or soft - hearted to justify the protection of trees for their beauty alone, but we must recognize that scenic beauty, as declared in our national anthem, is an impor- e e .4 South/ Keep Southlake Beautiful .� e A Public Communique to the Southlake City Council On *1 Communit y Deforestation l ea u t i {v Page 7 of 7 tant national and local resource. If our mature trees are removed, we will miss not only their majestic form against the broad Texas sky, but also the other members of their ecosystems - song - birds who serenade our Sunday morning coffee on the back porch, small forest animals who dart undercover at the first disturbance of their early morning foraging, spring wildflowers and the smaller understory trees and shrubs that edge the forest and field. KEEP SOUTHLAKE BEAUTI- FUL's logo exemplifies all that I have attempted to convey to you this evening, a family, nay, our family sheltered under the broad boughs of an ancient hardwood tree while the birds of our coun- tryside seek food and shelter within its expansive canopy. I believe that we all acknowledge that trees are a major contributing element to environmental viability, community appearance and economic appeal. Additionally, trees are increasingly being recognized as important elements of building a positive overall community image, which more and more is recognized as a key factor in loca- tional decisions being made by business executives for their companies. In the past twenty years, Quality-of -Life criteria has emerged dramatically as a factor to be reckoned with, particularly since local governments can do something about it, whereas other factors such as labor costs may be beyond their control, or major tax abatement beyond economic feasibility. A recent study by the Conway Site Selection Handbook, a "Bible" for business development and location officials, concluded that Quality -of :Life factors and the environment are key elements when managers rate sites for headquarters and research and development facilities, often more important than eco- nomic factors, such as taxes. These are the very class of new business development our city has been targeting for location within our undeveloped corridor areas. I believe, as a recent community-level study in Austin concluded, that local business development strategies must fo- cus on quality of life if they were to be successful. "Quality of life has important implications for business expansion and future economic prosperity. Not only does a favorable quality of life help hold down wages required to remain competitive, but it is especially important for recruiting and retaining the highly skilled workers required by Austin's high -tech economy. Austin is particu- larly reliant on quality of life because of the strong research and development orientation develop- ing here. Those workers have many options for employment in other locations, some of which have a quality of life rated even higher than Austin's." Let us work together to make Southlake a viable competitor not only to Las Colinas and Alliance but also to Austin. Most importantly, we must remember that in many instances, protecting trees will bring with it significant economic gain as well as environmental and scenic. I would like to close with a slightly modified quote from one of our greatest Presidents and pro- active supporter of the preservation of our wondrous natural habitat areas and the creator of our National Parks System, President Theodore Roosevelt. "We are not creating this community for a day, but for all time." l ea t i {v� 01 0 4 6/ 4 '4 14% el, 1■4t 1P-riika