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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCharter Committee Review Minutes 10/9/1968Minutes Organizational Meeting Citizens' Charter Committee October 9, 1968 CALL TO ORDER The organizational meeting of the Ghorter OomT!ttep for the City of Euless was called to order at 2;10 P. M „ in the Council Chambers of Euless City Hall, by City Attorney James Cribbs, Committee Mgm,bers present are listed as follows: Mesdms, Mary Heartsfield end Anne Martin; Messrs. Bert E. He,yl, bobby Fuller, Pill Pasteur and Tony Anthony. (Absent: Messrs. Blease Tibbets, Searcy DQbkins, W, J, "Doc' Hyde and Lenard Sowell.) Also present were City Manager C. J. Griggs, City Secretary Vado Ferrjs and Recording Secretary Florence Murr, VISITORS Mrs, Betty Potthoff, representing Mld- Cities Daily News was, else present. M PRESENTATION OF �ETTER AND CHARTER Copies of the Euless City Charier and a 1pttler dated August ?%, 19;6 , from City At•�orney James Cribbs were presented �o Members of the Charter Committee for their review. ELE�TION OF OFFICERS CHAIRMAN Mr. Cribbs advlsed that the first item of �osingss is the election of o Chairmen and requested nominations. Mr. Heyl nominated Mr. Pgbby Fuller for the office of Chairmen. Mr. resteur seconded the nomination and mgved that the nomination cease and Mr'. Fuller be elected by acclamation. The vote is as follows: Ayes: Mesdms. Heartsflold and Martina Messrs. Hoyl, Pasteur and Anthony Nets: None Abstained: Mr, FNllpr Temporary Chpirmpq Cribbs deplared Mr. Fuller duly elected, and Mr. Fuller was spated as Cha i rmot'i. ITEM XIV Council Minutes November 26, 1968 Q4qe Two. Minutes of Citizens_' Chat -ter Committee Meeting, October �, 1P684) UUCE CHAIRMAN Chairman Fuller advised that the floor is oppn for nominations for Vice Chairman, Mr. Anthony nominated Mr.. Bert Hey]. Mr. Pasteur seconded the nomination and moved that Mr. Hey] be elected by acclama- tipn, and the vote is as follows: Ayes: Mesdms. Heortsfield and Martin; Messrs. Fuller, Anthony and Pasteur Nays: Nona Abstained; Mr, HeYI Chairman Fuller dpciarpO Mr. Hey] duly elected to serve as Vice Chairman?. SECRETARY Concerning the election of a Secretary, City Manager Griggs advised that the City will wgrlf with this group in its endeavors and offered the services of the staff, unless the group desired to elect Its own secretary. The Charter Committee's consensus was that Mrs. Murr should serve as recording secretary. RRQPQSED CHARTER AMENDMENTS Chairman Fuller requgstod that City AtT tgrney James Cribbs review spveral suggested Charter Amendmgnt�, advising Membprs of the Committpp pf their duties. Mr. Cribbs advised that the E,ule�s City Charter was adopted Qn July 21, 1962, and has never been amended. Mr. �rjbb� �tpted that this Charter contains the construction of city government arld is G1eper than the information set out in the laws pf the Statq of Texas. Mr. Crlh[s advised that p Charter can be changed only once every two years after itj adgption 17 that the orlgiilal Charter Commission was epmpgspd of ipprgxi- mately twenty men and that a grp�t deal of study and planning went into the drafting of this Charter _., that it is not the desire of the City Council that the Charter ba re,Written; however, the Council is of the opinion there are one or two items which should be evaluated by a citizens' committee. Mr. Cribbs referred to his letter dated Augu§t 27, 196$, which reviews the changes that have been suggested to the City Council. He stated that the Council does not have a firm position on any of these changes, but is hopeful that this group will consider these phangas, and other phanges that might come to mind, and present a recgmmenda- tlpn to the Council. Mr. Cribbs emphasized the fact that the changes dg not have to be made Tr that the Committee may deem it advisable to ]pave the (Paae Three, Minutes of Citizens' Charter Committee Meeting, October 9, 1961.) Charter as is for the pre§ent, He commented that. the Charter Committee may grant to held a Public Hiearing on this matter, advertising in the newspaper and inviting citizens to express their opinions on Charter changes, iJente,d, as follows; Mr. Cribbs reviewed his letter and com- PARAGRAPH_ 1 i_ A The question of whether or not the Municipal Election date should be changed to cojncjde with the School Election date has been disT cussed by the Council, Mr. Pasteur Inquired if this change would save the City money. Mr. Cribbs repljed negatively. He advised that both entities. would!be required to publish a Notice of Election and that Election Officials and separate balloting would be regyired for each. Mr. Cribbs advised that proponents in this matter are of the opinion that mprq people would vote if the elections were held on the same day. He advised that the City Electron is held on the first Tuesday pf April - that the School Elections are held on Saturday, and it i impossible, locally, to change the date fqr School Elections. Mr. Cribbs stated that opponents are of the opinion that in malting this change there is risk and danger of involving city politics and ¢chpol politics. Mr. Cribbs commented that this has been a very prpgrpssive gpmmunity -- that no bona glectipn has failed -- that the City of Pulps has had good leadership and enjoyed pglitical tranquility, and in his opinion, the question this ComT mittep must ask is f'Oo you want to overlap political questions in a combined election?►'. PARAGRAPH II B Mr. Cribbs staked that this Committee may desire to evaluate the Place System for q9 uncilmgn -- that there are thpse of the opinion that each Councilman should run for a certain place. He stated that the Ptacq $aystpm is in existence in some of the larger cities of the area, Mr. Cribbs reminded members that in our present form of governmpnt, the Councilmen run at large, ,and the top three men are elected to office. He stated, further, that this change js not a regommendatjpn of the, Council or himself -- that this is q matter for, possible, discussion. PARAGRAPH II C Mr, Cribbs advised that the Ward System for Councilmen has been discussed, primarily, in connection with the merger of the Cities of Bedford and Euless. Mr. Cribbs stated that, in his opinion, (�a ae Four, M i notes of C i't i dens' Charter Cr)mrni ttge M(aaL "n � October I $ ) r--� - -this is not a favorable type of structure -- that -few cities in Texas have it; however, it is prominent in the Cast. Mr. Cribbs commented, further, that most cities prefer that a Councilman runs at large. PARAGRAPH II D Mr. Cribbs stated that there has been some discussion concerning a possible increase of membership of the Planning ,and Zoning Commission. PARAGRAPH II C Concerning -the possible increase i r9 COMIG i 1 rnembersh i p, Mr. Cribbs commented that, as communities grow., Councilmen may be added; soimetlmes have a commun, (ration problem. Mr. Cribbs advised that Article IV of the Euless City Charter provides for initiative, referendum and recall, commenting that these are favorable provisions which many Charters do not have, Mr, Pasteur inquired concerning the defini- tion of the word "initiatives' when used in this respect. Mr. Cribbs explained that should a citizen desire the adoption of a particular type of ordinance, he can sit down and draft an ordinance, then acquire enough signatures from citizens and present the 9rdinance to the City Secretary. The City Secretary checks the signatures, then presents the ordinance to the City Council 9nd the Council may either approve it or call an ejection for citizens to ballot on the ordinance. Mr. Cribbs explained the word "referendum" as follows: If a citizen desires to force an election, he can get a petition, demanding an election; thereby, forcing the City Council to call the election, IV. 01 SOl1SS I ON Chairman FUIIer commented that, in his opinion, the citizens were given an opportunity 'to institute a change in the form of government and legislative procedures when the referendum was included in the Charter and, in hls opinion, a public hearing might attract those citizens with a negative attitude. Mr. Cribbs stated that the Charter Committee Members must take an ove r,-all picture of the City and make recommendations eccgrOingIy. He suggested that the Committee Members read 'the Charter and consider the suggestions which have been made. Mr. Cribbs commented that action has not been taken previously concerning charter amendments, for feat' that the City would need something badly and would have to wait two years to do anything about it. (Page Five, Minutes of Citizens' Charter Committee Meetinq, October 9, 1968.) Mr. Cribbs commented that people who are active in City Government are concerned that the controversy which has transpired with the School Board might effect our City, should our election date be changed to coincide with the School District. Mr. Cribbs stated that % holding a joint -election, the risk of overlapping City and $chool Board business would exist -- that he would hate to see school politics injected into city politics. Mrs. Martin stated that, in her opinion, Mr. Cribbs is discrediting the public Wry that the public should be given credit for having sense to judge mw that she considers Saturday the better day for an election, as it is a -free day. Mr. Cribbs replied that he was only relating discussions held by others for the use and benefit of the Committee in its deliberations. Mr. Hey] cited the recent election which involved both city and school and asked if the people voted on the sale of the water and sewer system because of their interest or Just because they were there. Mr. Hey] commented that fie agrees that Saturday might be the better day, but would study the question further. Chairman Fuller inquired of Mr. Cribbs his opinion concerning the amount of time which should be devoted to this study. City Attorney Cribbs stated that, in his opinion, this would not take a great deal of time, that there are not that many changes to be considered, and he considers it would be wasteful from the Committee's standpoint to do so. Vo SETTING TIME AND PLACE FOR NEXT MEETING In a discussion concerning the most con- venient time for this Committee to meet, it was determined that 4:00 P. M, would be the most suitable hour and October 23, 1968, was set for the date of the next meeting, to be held in the Council Chambers of Euless City Hall. City Manager Griggs advised that an Agenda Gan he prepared in the City Offices and suggested that members submit all sub, jects which they with to discuss two or three days prior to the date of the meeting, allowing time for preparation of the Agenda. The secretary was instructed to mpil copies of the City Charter and the City Attorney's letter dated August 27, 1968, to (Charter Committee Members who were absent from this meeting. VI, ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 2:45 P. M. APPROVED; Chairman �m� - M!nuteg Citizens' Charter Committee Meeting October 23, 1968 CALL TO ORDER The meeting of the CYtY?ens/ Charter C,xn- mIttaa for the City of Euless was called to ordpr at 4:15 P. M. by Chairman Bobby Fuller. Members present are listed as follows: Mrs, Mary H*artoFYeld; Messrs, Bill Pasteur, Lenard Sowell, A. P, Anthony, Bert Heyl and Bobby Fuller. (Mr. U. $. DobkYne arrived later in the meeting.) (Absent: Mrs. Anne Martin; Mes�[4, W, J^ /`Ducn Hyde and Bleuoe TY66ets.\ Also present were Recording Secretary Florence Murr and City Attorney James Crlbbs' (Mr. Crlbbs arrived shortly after the meeting was called to order.) APPROVAL OF MINUTES ' Minutes of tke previous meeting dated OptVbar 9, 1468, were approved as written. D|SCV5S|ON.OPEULESS CITY CHARTER ^ ' ' Chairmen Fuller lnqqired if there were any qupstYons concerning the Euless City Charter. (Members of the Committee were prTpented copies of the Charter at the organizational meeting, with the request thet each of them study the Charter prior to this meeting,) Mr. Pasteur commented that he had read the Charter and is of the opyni4n it is a flna piece of work, with exception of those points mentioned in City Attorney James Cr76bs/ letter of August �7, 1968 -� that he considers it on exceptional Charter, Mr. Hey] stated that there are only two changes which he considers, and t6ay were mentioned in Mr, CrYhboi letter. Mr. Anthony stated that the recommended changes were the only ones he w0uld consider. Mrs. HeartsfYeld inquired concerning the number of cities in this area which pay the Councilmen and Mayor for their s#rvlcey. Chairman Fuller advised that he 1­1as that information and prefers to present it later in the meeting, Mrs, HeartafYeld stated that, in her pp`nlon, this should be considered ~- that a lot of time Is donated by these nffiola)o, ITEM X|V Council Minutes November 26, 1968 / Mimutes of Charter Committee meathno' Dntubmr Zb,l468,1 PROPOSED -CHANGE CITY ELECT1ON3 Chairman Fuller advlsed that the qWe�LYun "Whether or not the Municipal Election should be changed to coincide with the Gchoul Election" will be considered at this time. Chairman Fuller stated that in pompllance with the Euless City Charter, the Municipal Election is held each year p� the first Tuesday in April, and that the School Board Election is held on the first Saturday in April. Mr. Fuller advised that area cities have been contacted' concerning some of the questions to be studied by this committee, and his report pn this question is as follows; The Cities of Arlington, Grand Prairie, Haltom City and Richland Hills do not have -their MunYuYpe( ElentYorf on thp sm*a date a$ the School E\motion, The City of Irving does not, at this 'time; however, plans are in the makYng, The City of Hurst does hold its Municipal Election on the same date as the SohpVl Election. Mr, Pasteur stated that, In his opynlpn, the election would be a nmrq Ympprtant event, if the two were held An the same 4ay, and there would be larger participation of citizens voting; ho��vor, he questions the feasibility of intermingling city and school politics, Mr. Pasteur q9mmentad that, in his opinion, it would be good to get larger partYqipation; however, he is inclined to believe it might be best to leave that portion of the Charter along. Mr. Anthony stated that his objection i@ having to vote in the School Elections at Hurst City Hall, Hr. Anthony commented that he agrees that more people would come out to vota^ If the election datm$ coincided; however, he would like to consider getting more voters by holding the election on a different Saturday frqm the one for the School Election, Mr. �nthuny stated that, in this area, there are a number of citizens who travel a 1pt' which necessitates �baentee balloting, and many times they consider this t00 much trouble -- that most all of them are at home on Saturday and changing the � election date to Saturday would make it possible for them to vote personally, Mr. Sowell stated that he has tall�e6 with several individuals concerning the feasibility of changing the Municipal, ElactYqn d te to coincide with that of the School Election, and he would have to, vote against this proposed change. Mr, Sowell commented that he agrees Saturday, possibly, is a better day; however/ in his opynYon/ citizens have not considered the issues to be Voted upon, if they must have another reason for coming out to vote. Mr. Sowell advised that he is not in favor of intermingling the school elections and city elections; however, Saturday may be a better day. (Mr. O. S. DuhkYns arrived at this time.) ueThree, _Minutes of Chorte.r Committee-0ot Mr. DobkYn5 questioned the comparative post of holding elections on different dates with that of e joint election. Mr, Dwbklns was advised that there would be no difference in election expenses -- that each entity must prpvide Election Officials and publish an Election Notice, Mrs, Heartsfleld stated that she is in favor of leaving the date set for Municipal Elections as it is -- that, in her opinion, If the citizens are not interested, they will not vote anyway; howe she is agreeable to changing the data to Saturday, if it is not the same Saturday on which the School Election is held. Mr. DobkYno stated that, in his opinion, Saturday is a more convenient day then Tuesday for people to get out and vote. Chairman Fuller Inquired if Mw. Dubklna considers the Saturday on which the school election is held to be satisfactory, Mr. Dobkims replied affirmatively. Mr. Hey] stated that, in his opinion, it would be detrimental to the City to hold the two elections on the same d'y -- that the City has waver had trouble getting an election through -- that he is of the opinion the second Saturday In April would be e good day, as it would give the traveling people a chance to vote. Mr. Hey] made the motion to recommend that the date for Municipal Elections be changed from the first Tuesday in April to the second Saturday in April. Mr. Anthony seconded the motion. In a discussion of the motion, Mr. 5Qwell stated that he is in favor of this change; providing the Charter is amended; however, if this is the only recommended change, it might not be worth while to amend the Charter at this time. Members of the Committee were in agreement that the Charter should be amended only if the number of changes recommended mode it feasible to do so. Chairman Fuller called for a Vote on Mr, Heylls motion, and the vote is as follows: Ayes: Mrs. HaartsFYeld; Messrs. Pasteur, Sowell, Anthony, Hey], DnhkYns and Fuller Nays: None Chairman Fuller declared the motion carried. CONS) DERAT|ON UF-— PKOPOSED CHARGE - FROM AT -LARGE SYSTEM TO WARD SYSTEM OR PACE SYSTEM |R ELECTION COUNCIL MEMBERS .' ' ' — ' Chairman Fuller explained the Place. System (9aoe Four,Minutes of Charter Committee MeetlnqOctober_23, 1968^) and Ward System for election of Council Members, stating that he, personally, Is got in favor of the Ward System, Chairman Fuller advised that a survey of area cities revealed systems used for election of Councilmen, as follows: Arllngton - Places Hurst ~ Places Irving ~ Places Grand Prairie - At Large, Haltom City ~ At Large Richland Hills - At Large Mr, Burt Hey] stated that, in his ppypiuU, the At Large System, which is used by the City of Eulessat this tlme is as gupd as anything o)se ­ that it is an e�my system which he likes personally and doesn't sea anything ijjrong with. Mr. Dobkins stated that he prefers the At -Large System -~ that he considers it much more democratic. Mrs. Heertsfye\d stated that she prefers the At -Large System. Mr. Sowell stated that he prefers Places - At -Large -- that he, personally, would like to have a system where the incumbent, announces for a place. Mr. Sowell explained that this would give the voters an opportunity to vote for one man against another men, eliminating one or all in each election. Mr. Anthony advised that he is in ogrepMpnt with Mr. Sowell -- -that he prefers the Places -At -Large System. - Mr. Sowell cited a recent School 8uarJ Election, in which there were candidates of opposite thinking, which gave the yotera a choice. Mr. Sowell commented that he likes to study the candidates and work for the one who will represent him. Mrs. Haartsfye\d inquired if there was frequent fussing between the candidates in the Place System and commented thet �he likes to hear thelr differences of opinion, as long as it is kept on an lm, personal basis. Mr. Sowell stated that there are d7ffmr- pnces of opinion of candidates and that he likes to know their opinion, so that he can vote intelligently -- that you usually vote for your friends. Mr. Sowell pdyYoed that, in his opinion, the Place System would give the citizens better ropresentetYon. Mr. Pasteur stated that he has no strong feelings concerning the system used for election of the Council -- that he thinks the At -Large System is good but, perhaps, the Place System would be better. Mr. Pasteur commented that, in his opinion, under the Place System, the candi- dates will be filing for the place occupied by the less popular Incumbent -- (Lane Five,_Minutes [_23`_9-68.) that two or three candidates will file against one incumbent which will necessi- tate a run-off election, thereby increasing the cost bf the election. Mr. Pasteur commented further that he doesn't think the Place System would be bad; however, the City has progressed in the At -Large Syatmm. Chairman Fuller m/gUesLmJ that this question he tabled until a future meeting, a|\uwio8 time for further study and consideration of this matter. Committee Members were in agreement with Chairman Fuller's suggestion. |V. CONSIDERATION PROPOSED INCREASE IN NUMBER OF -COUNCIL MEMBERS Chairman Fuller advised that a survey of area cities oonuerniny the number of members serving on the City Council reflects information at follows: Arlington ` Mayor and six Councilmen Hurst ~ Mayor and six Councilmen Irving - Mayor and six Councilmen Grand Prairie - Mayor and Four Commissioners Haltom City ~ Mayor and seven Councilmen Richland Hills - Mayor and five Councilmen. In a discussion of whether or not it would be feasible to increase the number serving on the Euless City Council, Mr. Pasteur commented that he is of the opinion it would be fine to increase the number by perhaps one member. M C lbbadvised that Lhe Euless C|t r. r e y Charter states that the Mayor Juey not vote, except in a tie -~ that he, personally, Feels that the Mayor should be allowed to vote; however, it was thought that perr haps having an odd number would reduce the number of ties. Chairman Fuller stated that he had d|u- pussed this matter with the former Mayor of the City of Hurst' who advised that it was necessary for him to vote only a few times. Mr. Sowell stated that a "touchy" issue Qould be voted on by secret ballot, o,xj the Mayor could vote ~~ that he understand5 that it could put the Mayor on the aPnt, Chairman Fuller inquired as to when the additional Councilman would be elected, if the Charter is amended to increase the City Attorney Crl6bo advised that a pro- vision in the City Charter would have to be changed. Mr. Heyl stated that he prefers an odd number -- that he would rather see it changed to seven members rather than six, (PpeSix, Minutes of Charter Committee Meetinq,_October2j, QQQ� Mr, Pasteur commented that the only reason he can see for increasing the number serving on the Council would be to gat a wider representation of the cross-section of People; however, the City has progressed wary well with the current system, Mr. Anthony stated that, in his opinion, five Councilmen is sufficient, at this time, that perhaps the City will have grown enough to necessitate an increase in the future. Mr. Sowell stated that he is in favor of leaving the nmnhor of Council members at five. Mrs. Heertmf<elJ advised that she agrees with Mr. Sowell, preferYwg not to change the number of Council members at this time. Mr, 0ohkUno stated that, in his opYpToD, this number should not be *hanged at this time -- that an increase might be con, sldmred at a future date, as the population increases, Mr. NayT stated that he prefers to leave the matter as it is for the time being. Mr. Anthony inquired as to the populotipn 0f the City of Euless at the time of the adoption of the City Charter. City Attorney Crlbbo advised that the population was about 5,000 at that time. � In a discussion of this issue, City At- torney Cr7bbs stated that the Mayor of Arlington is allowed to vote. Mr. Pasteur made the motion to make no recommendation for o change in the number of Council Mmmberm, Mrs, Hmartsfyel6 seconded the motion, and the vote is as follows: Ayes: Mrm, Heertsfield; Messrs. Pasteur, Sowell, Anthony, Heyl, DohkYns and Puller Nays: Nona Chairman Fuller declared the motion carried. V, CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED INCREASE /N - ' -- '-' N A CDMMiSSklN 'EMBERS �-- ChaYrnan Fuller advised that the survey reveals the number of Planning and Zoning Commission Members of neighboring towns, as follows: Arlington ~ Seven Hurst ~ Seven Irving ~ Seven Grand Prairie - Six (8) / Minutes *f Charter Committee ' - ' _ _ � Haltom City ~ Semen Richland Hills - Six (6) ChmYnna)n Fuller stated that, in his opinion, the committee should consider adding two members to serve on this pVmmysaion -- thaL people from surrounding cities appear before this Commission, and it is embarrassing to the City when business cannot be transacted for lack of a quorum. Mr, Hayl stated that he agrees with Choir - man Fuller -- that he Formerly served on this Commission, and with the City/s ContTnoe6 growth, he is of the opinion it is import,-:1nt that therm be seven Mr. Pasteur commented that an increase in the. number would mean more participa-tion and ri brorider cross­so,�tion. Mr. Dobklms advised that, in his opinion, five members is sufficient and he would prefer leaving it as is. Mrs, HeartsflmlJ Stated that she does not know which would be better in th1a case ~- that she will go along with the majority on thYe question. Mr. Sowell stated that his original de- cision was to leave the membership as it ls, with five members ~- that he doubtn that increasing the number would help tu acquire a quorum -- that he doesn't think it would holp percentage -wise. Mr. Anthony stated that he considers th# City will do e lot of growing in the next few years -- that perhaps it would be better to have more representation; therefore, he approves increasing the Planning and Zoning membership to seven. r Mr. Pasteur commented that 'Five members would be sufficient, if 'the City could got flwa competent men; however, in his opinion, it is very difficult to got competent man to serve YD this capacity - that it might be more difficult with seven members than it is with five; however/ that he has no strong feelings in this matter. be tabled until a future meeting. with Chairman Fuller, DISCUSSION 0F WHETHER OR NOT THE _ _ _ MAYOR ANDCOUNCIL SHOULDRECEIVE A_SALARY Chairman Fuller suggested that this item Members of the Committee were in agreement V|, Chairman Fuller advised that area cities Were contacted concerning the payment of salaries to their Mayor and Clty CounuYl� (Paoe Eight., Charter tober23 Arlington pays m token fae, Hurst City Officials are not paid. Irving pays $50.80 per meeting. Grand Prairie pays $25,00 per month. Haltom City pays $10.00 per month. Richland Hills pays $10.00 per moriffi. Mr. Pasteur stated that, in his opinion, these officials should be paid ­ that he is mot in favor of paying a great enough salary to xmkm people run for the office, but he feels they should re- ceive some compensation. Mr. Pasteur commented further that a man fee\s more obligated, if he receives pay and that he would definitely be Yn favor of pay- ing something like $20.00 a meeting. Mr. Anthony advised that he agrees with Mr. Pasteur ~- that they should receive some payment for their -time and that they would fael more, if they r,--�ooJved poyne-nt. Mr. Anthony ­�ta_ted �thnL, in his opinion, the City cannot afford tn pay them what they are worth -- that he would be in 'Favor of paying them; however, he would not he in favor of paying them an little as $10,00 a month ~- that he considers that small amount an lnau)t[ Mr- Sowell stated that he is of the opinion that most men serve in this capacity in order to be of service to their community -- that he egnsms they cannot be paid whet they are worth, Mr. Sowell commented that he has no strong feelYnga in this matter, Mrs. Heartsfleld stated that she is definite- ly in favor of paying these citizens for their services -- not by the month, bgt by the meetings which they attend -~ that in her opinion, they should not be paid f they do not attend the meetings. Mrs. HaartsfYeld commented that these citizens have expenses incurred as the result of their holding office, and she thinks thpy ' deserve'some compensation. Mrs. HeartsfYeld stated that her comments apply to the Mayor, as well as the Councilmen. City Attorney CrYbbs commented that many times a Councilman is expected to take his car and go out and look at property to be zoned and, in his opinion, the poln±`about expense money Is a valid one, , Mr. DobkYns stated that, in his opinion, you should not pay people to serve on the Council; however/ he will go along wit h it if they will So out and look at a property to be zoned. Mr. DubkYns advised that he is of the opinion the City of Euless cannot compete with Dallas or Fort Worth, Mr. Hey| advised that, in his opinion, these men should be paid by the meeting, but not by the month -~ that this might also be considered for Planning and Zoning Commission Members, and maybe they would attend better. Mr. Hayl stated further that, in his opinion, the Mayor should be paid a monthly salary. Mr. Do6kins asked Mr. Hey] how much he thinks the Mayor Should be paid. Mr. Heyl stated that he has no definite figures; however, he feels that the Mayor is entitled to a salary. /Peo� NYne ��^ l `__- ' _�68,1 City Attorney Urlbbs advised that the City of Euless is vary fortunate in having a Mayor who tends to City business all of the time. Mr' Reyl commented that he egmaem with Mr, Anthony ~- that $10,00 is an insult. (Mr. Sowell left the meeting at this time, benaqse of a meeting in the City of Commerce.) Mr. Dobkiws advised 'that he is in favor of a token gift. Mr. Hoyl suggested that the Mayor and Members of the Council should receive $25.00 per meeting' which would amount to $58,00 pmr month. Chairman Fu\l�-,r suggested that further consideration be given this item at a future, meeting. Members of the Committee agreed to table the question, V\!. SETTING DATE FOR NEXT MEETING - � - _ _ -' Members of the Committee agreed that the next meeting will be held on Monday, November 4, 1968' at 4:00 P. M., in Euless City Hall, Vil|, DISCUSSION Chairman Fuller asked the City Attorney if, in his opinion, there are any areas in the Euless City Charter which are obsolete because of recent legislation, Mr. Crihbs replied that he proposes a few minor changes, if the Charter is amended -- one of which pertains to Appeal Bonds and another oonuerWngyowarnmont entities and the Cyty's status in law suits. Mr. CrYbbm stated that he is attempting to get information on the letter matter from the Texas Municipal League; however, it is not available at this time. Mr. Hey] inquired if the City Attorney foresees anything which may need t" he changed within the next two years. Mr. CrYb6s stated that he does not know of anything at th[s time -- that if you have progressive ideas, you must unn- lnue to Up -date an instrument. The City Attorney advised that, in his opinion, Ynutes of Cherter Co�mYttee ber Z3"l96A 1 _ _ ���� the payment of expanse monies to the Mayor and Councilmen is a good thing and a change would be worthwhile ~- that the City could gamble on the two years. City Attorney CrYbbs commented further that the annexation laws have changed, and he had hoped to have a re -wording of this, but has not had time to prepare it at this time -- that information on all of these points will be presented at a future date. |X, ADJO-ORNMENT The meeting adjourned at 5:1-5 P. M. APPROVED: C|`aYrman fsm Citizens/ Chartqr Cpnooittoe Mmwtin9 CALL TO ORDER The nmoth"q of thp, citizens' Charter Com- mittee for the City of Euless was called to order at 4-05 P. M,, in the C9nferonce Room of Euless City Hall, by Chairman Bobby R. Fuller. Members present are listed as fpl| ; M*sdm,5, Mary HeartsfYmld ai-l6 Anne Martin; Messrs. O. S. DobkYns/ Bert Hoyl, Blenae Tib6ets, A. P. Anthony, Lenard Sowell, Bill Pasteur and 8n66y Fuller. (Absent: Mr. N. J. "Doc" Hyde) Also present were Reoord7nQ Secretary Florence Murr and City Attorney James CrYbbm. (Mr. Crib6a arrived later in the meeting,) APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chairnap Fuller inquired if there were rrpPtYpns to thl minutes qf the p[evlmus meeting, datod October 23, 1968, (A, 9ppy of the minutes �Ps mailed to each member prior to -this \ Mrs. Martin stated that she questions Mr, $owell's statement on page four, with reference to plapes~At~Largm System for e\eptyon of Council Me ' mbqrs. Mrs. Mertin mteta6 that she was of the opinion th*rq was the P{ace $ymtem and the At -large System. Mr. Sowell explained that this 6epYgna- ypn is made to distinguish the system from the Ward System and advised Mrs. Mprtyn that in Ploqes-Mt"Larga a candidate may announce for any Rlace he cnm4seo° Minutes of the previous mp9tYUg" dated Qc�o�pr 23, 196�, were approved as written. CONSIDERATION F PROPO$Fp CHANGE �At-LARGE SYSTEM'TO 'PLACE $.-TGM FOR ' `ELEIC— OF' �O T| [ COUNCIL )' '' |L MEMBERS Chairman Fuller reminded Committee Mem6ero of their deoYslux to t9lw the question "Whether or not the present At -Large $ystoM for election of Council Members should be changed to the Place System". Chairman Ful|qr inquired if there were members who wish to comment in this matter. Mrs. Martin stated that she is definitely In fgvpr of Cuuncilmmp running for places _- 'that this system would enable the oYtY�anm/ retaining the Coungilmign who was doing o good job and ellminat- Ing he one who Is not duYng a good job, Mrs. Martin commented that, in her op[Dl4 , this Is tkp damnorat c way ~~ that the other system is a popularity contest, more or less, any $h6 would like to see the City of Euless change tp tho plape Systom, Mrs. Martin referred to the $urvey of area cities made by Chairman Fuller, which was dYmo4aae6 at the previous Meeting and commented, ITEM X|V Council Minutes November 26, 1968 of citizens, Ghorter Conti�flttr:,,n Mpetiwi�i, November 4 1 c)68 that these cities Para} 'larger -than the City of I;liless, Mrs,. Martin advised that she Is Interested in cities the, size of Euless. Ghairivi:qn Fuller advised that Grand Prairie is somewhat largor thaia the City of ri-116S.5 — that thu, At -Large System is used in that city -for election of Couricil Members. Chairman Fuller stated, further, that In ryiakiqg that survey, he attempted to get a cross-section that this Committee needs to decide what Is best for the City of Euless. Mr. Tibbets stated that he has mixed pmotiogs concerning this question ­- that, in his opinion, the City or Euless has been fortunate in the past, in its election of Councilmen -- that the Place System might encourage more people to run for office. Mrs. Martin made the motion to recotTitriQnd that the City of Euless change frotil the At -Large System to the Places-At- Lprge System for ejection of Council Meri-ibers. Mr. Sowell seconded the motion, and the vote is as fojloW$: Ayes: Mesdms. Martin and Heortsfield; Messrs. Dobkins, Heyl, Tibbets, Anthony, Sowell and Fuller Npys: Mr. Pasteur ChVrman Fuller declared the motion carried. C�NSIDERATION Or PROPOSED INCREASE I PLANNING AND Z'ON'INQ MEMBERSHIP Chairman Fuller stated that the Planning and Zoning Commission is composed ?f five (5) members --- that three members are ' appointed by the Council one year and two members are appointed the following year. Mr. [ley] stated -that, In his opinion, It would be good to Increase the membership to ;even (7) -- that you would come n9arer having a quorum, and he considers you would get a better cross-section. Mrs. Martin advised that, In her opinion, zoning Is one of the most Important things In Our City's growth -- that any- thing would be art I trip rovement — that there has been some unhappiness with the City's Zoning board, and she considers that seven (7) members would be a good number. Mrs. Heartsfield asked the question, if "Would you be more apt to have a quorum with seven members than with five? Mr. Sowell advised -that It is 60% one way and 56% the other -- that, In his opinion, the larger the membership, the less importance each member places on his being present. Mr. Sowell agreed ghat you might get a greater cross -sect Ion by Increasing the membership. (PAgo Three Minutes of Citl?ens l C11a - r oif�iL S�l rj!4 Nuveigber 4, 19 8) Mr, Heyl made the motion to recommQr4d that the memhershI[.,, olthe Plat'inInc ,I and b_rolnq Commisslon be increased from f I ve members to seven members , wi th four members 1)(. I nq appo I nted on the even years, and three metribprs being appointed on the odd years, Mr. Anthony soqonded the motion, and the vote is as l'olk)ws: I Ayes: Mesdms. Martiij and Heartsfield; Messrs. Heyl, Tibbets Anthony, Sowell, Pasteur and Fuller Nays: Mr. DobkIns Chairman Fuller declared the motion carried. DISCUSSION OF WHETHCR OR NOT THE MAYOR 'A N D C 6 U WE TFS'WO L D ' R8 G J VW VULOY Chairman Fuller reminded Committee Members that the question of paying a salary to the Mayor and Members of the City CQvnyll had been d1scyssed at a previous meeting; however, no decision was reqQhed at that time. Chairman Fuller inquired if anyone wished to rportiment, at this time. Mrs, Martin stated that she does not know about the CIty15 budget and inquired if there is funds to absorb this gaymept. Chairman uller stated that, in his opinion, this would not'be a problem -- that �t would not be effective until aft6r the Charter Amendment Electlon which, possibly, would be held In cop - junction with the City glection in April, 1969. Mrs, Martin advised that she operates her hlqp�? gn a budget and that she would like to see the City do the same. Chairman Fuller assured Mrs. Martin that the City Is operated on a budget. Mrs. Heartqflelo inquired If this payment would be only for meetings which were at -tended. SQveral members were In agreement that this stipulation should be made. Mr. Pasteur stated that he is in favor of this - that he would like to see the City of Euless pay its Mayor and CoiAnqTlmen per meeting, an amount which Would not be out-moded and trivial In a few years as Is the $10.00 which Is paid by some of our area cities. Mr. Ppsteur suggested that they be paid $?5.00 'For each meeting which Is, attended. Mr. DoWns commented that sometimes numerous special meetings are called. M Clt6 ens' Ch Wiet i icg9, Novemb(q 4 i 1 Chairman Faller si.iqgested that this commit- tee specify that this payment is for regulatirly scheduled meetings, Mr. hstwir made the motion to recommend t�e paymerit of $25,00 per iii&,etlng for the Mayor -,�o-id Council Members, with pay- mbnt being based upon their attendance at each regularly scheduled meeting, not to exceed $50.00 por month. Mrs. Heartsfield seconded the motion, and the vote is as follows: Ayes: Me�drns. Heartsfield and Martin; Messrs. DobkIns, Hey], Tibbots , Anthony, Sowe I I , Pasteur and Fuller Nays: None Chairmarl Fuller declared the motion carried. i(City Attorney Cribbs arrived a� -t102; IVI DIUUSSION OF AMENDMENTS N,8C,8$SITATEb BY'RECENT, L15G''I $LATION Chairman Fuller recognized City Attorney Jqmpy Cribbs, who discussed amendment] nqcessitated by recent legislation and certain sections which might be re -worded. Annexation of Propertied City Attorney Cribbs advised that Article Wa restricts the annexation of properties, and he previously considered an amendment in this area. However, all available territory, In every direction, has been annexed by the City, and in his opinion, there is no use in adding this Article to this list. Notice of Claim Mr. Cribbs stated that the City Charter states that a claim must be filed with the City Secretary within thirty (30) days after the time at which It is claimed such damages were inflicted upon such person or property that the charter should state that "a written claim must be filed ... Mr. Gribbs stated that he recommends that the Nodfae of Claim provision be amended to include the word "Written". Posting AppeaI Bonds Mr. Cribbs stated that he proposes ail pmenomerit concernipq the posting of appeal bonds, in the event the City of Euless Is engaged In litigation, Mr. Crlbbs advised that he plan,.; to Incorporate these amendments Into the propositions Presented by this committee, and that a cppy will be sent 'to each Committee Member. (pa«e Five,Minutes of Qitizerisl Chnrter Coirimittee 68' Members of the Gommittee were In agreemont with Mr. Cribbn/ plans, V, SUMMARY Chairman Fuller reviewed each of the que�tlVnm considered by thi§ committee. / Mr. Su»ma|l nmda the motion to recommend that the Euless City Couno[| cell an election to consider �mendmenta to the Euless City Charter, and that consideration he given this CommitteaYa reoum~ mep6atYon$, listed as fn\lNwa: l. That the date for Municipal Elections be changed from the first Tmas6ay in April to the second SatUrday in AprYl. 2. That the system for eleotiVn of Council Members be changed from the At -Large System to the Places -At -Large Syatem, 3. That no ohapOa in the number of Council Members be madp at this time, 4. That the number serving on the Planning and Zoning Com- mission be increased from five members to seven members, with three being appointed on the odd years and four being appointed on the even years. �. That the Mayor and Council Mmnberp shall receive a salary of $�5.00 for each regular monthly meeting, based on attendance -~ not to exceed $50-00 per mopth, 6. That Section 6 of Article X|| entitled "Notice of C)aYn// be emended by adding the word v\wrTttenp after the word "true" in the seventh lYno of such Section. 7. That the following wording exempting the City of EulPo5 from Appeal Bonds be added as Section 19, Article X|i° entitled "General Provisions" of the Charter of the City of Euless: //|t shell not he necessary in any action, molt or pro- ceeding in which the City of Euless Is a pert for ally bond, undertaking or security to he executed by or on behalf of the said City, but all such actions, suits, appeals or proceedings shall be ooUdmzted in the same manner mm jf such bond, undertaking or security has been given and said City shall be liable as if *uch obligation had been dyly given and executed." Mr. Pasteur seconded the motion, and the vote Is as follows: Ayes: Mam6ms^ Martin and HaartsfYelJ; Measr$, DobkiUs, Hmyl^ TYbbets, Anthony, 3oywell, Pasteur and FUller (» Cha���� Cmmoar -_____—______-) Chairman Fuller dMorod the motion carried. VU° ADJORNMENT The meeting adjourned at 4:35 P. M. APPROVED; fom CHARTER COMMITTEE MEMBERS Mr. Bill Pasteur 903 Oakwood Res. 283-3115 Mr. W. J. 'Doc'' Hyde 400 Koen 283-1143 Mr. Blease Tibbets First State Bank 283-3803 Mr. Lenard Sowell 1604 Toplea 283-2323 Mr. Searcy Dobkins P. 0. Box 236 283-1431 Mrs. David Martin 8l8 Eastcliff 283-2067 Mr. A. P. Anthony 1311 Tanglewood Trail 282-1689 Mrs. Gene Heartsfield 801 Eastcliff 283-3621 Mr. Bert Hey] 1502 Pebble Creek 282-1050 Mr. Bobby Fuller P. 0. Box 252 Off. 283-4491 267-2424