06 - Boards & Commissions - MinutesItem No. 6
PARIS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
MONTHLY MEETING
Paris City Council Chambers
107 East Kaufman St.
Paris, Texas 75460
Tuesday August„17m2021
5:30 O'CLOCK P.M.
Board Members Present:
Josh Bray, Chairman
Curtis Fendley, Vice Chairman
Chase Coleman, Secretary/Treasurer
Stephen Terrell
Erik Roddy
Ex -Officio Members Present:
Pam Anglin, President, PJC
Grayson Path, City Manager
Legal Counsel:
Casey Gain, PEDC Attorney
II to Order
MINUTES
Staff Present:
Maureen Hammond, Executive Director
Chris Stout, Economic Development Associate
Stephen Kelly, Executive Assistant
Paula Brownfield, Administrative Assistant
Guest(s) Present:
Mary Madewell, The Paris News
City Council Liaison:
Clayton Pilgrim
Renae Stone
Page i of 3
Mr. Bray called the monthly meeting of the Paris Economic Development Corporation to order at 5:30 p.m. on
August 17, 2021. Board Members Dr. Hashmi and Mark Homer were absent. The Board had a quorum in
attendance.
Invocation
Mr. Erik Roddy gave the invocation.
Welcome and Ol eni Remarks
Mr. Bray thanked Paula Brownfield for her dedicated service to the PEDC for six years, and also welcomed Stephen
Kelly, the new PEDC Executive Assistant and thanked him for his active duty service.
Citizens' Inut
Mr. Bray invited those present to speak during Citizens' Input. No one came forward and the Citizen's Input was
closed.
D*uw �., ri J ,. � utesof the„Regular Meetmi held Ju1,20n2021
ss and Consider A ,,,,royal of the Min,,,,
Mr. Bray asked for discussion and approval of the minutes. Mr. Fendley made a motion to approve the July 20,
2021 minutes. Mr. Terrell seconded the motion. Vote was 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
PEDC Board Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, August 17, 2021
Page 2 of 3
Discuss and Consider Approval of the July 20 Financial Statements
Mr. Coleman reported on financials ending July 2021. He stated cash and cash equivalents are approximately $2
million and investments are at $2.1 million. Mr. Coleman added that the PEDC's net position is approximately
$5.2 million, and year to date the organization has recognized approximately $1.5 million in sales tax revenue and
total expenses of $1.1 million. Mr. Roddy made a motion to approve the July 2021 Financials. Mr. Fendley
seconded the motion. Vote was 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
Discuss and Consider Atroval of the Contract nfor µJobs E�Subscriptionreement
Ms. Hammond reported on the Jobs EQ Subscription Agreement and referred board members to the agreement
in the packet. She noted that the organization utilizes several data tools to respond to RFPs, prepare information
for prospects and analyze trends and proposed engaging Chmura for their Jobs EQ platform, citing the following
key points:
Gale is the current platform used by the organization on a one-year agreement at approximately $5,000
per year and set to end in the coming months.
JobsEQ provides an online database that can supply more comprehensive labor and meets the
organization's current needs for proposals, planning, etc.
JobsEQ will allow for customization of labor data and statistics to specified parameters for the entire state
of Texas.
Ms. Hammond proposed ending current contract with Gale and entering new one year contract agreement with
JobsEQ at approximately $6,200 a year. Following discussion, Mr. Fendley made a motion to approve and Mr.
Coleman seconded the motion. Vote was 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
Discuss and Consider Action on Updates from Land Committee
Ms. Hammond provided the following updates:
As part of the committee's goal to make PEDC sites "site -ready," staff has continued to make progress on
environmental reports on PEDC-owned properties. All properties owned by the PEDC are currently free of
environmental issues.
As another part of the "site -ready" process, staff is now taking steps to rezone 12 parcels totaling roughly_
150 acres within 30 to 60 days.
Discuss and Consider Action on Udates, from Marketing Committee
Ms. Hammond said the Marketing Committee has held four meetings to date. She added that the committee has
focused on establishing board member liaisons to industry and has hosted four industry meetings to date. Ms.
Hammond added that the committee has also worked on a social media strategy intended to increase
transparency and develop awareness on PEDC activities, mission, and accomplishments. Ms. Hammond stated
that since July, the organization's Facebook page alone has reached an estimated 5,000 individuals and had 1,400
engagements,
ss and Alen, t„a Poll Review Committee
Discu....
Mr. Bray discussed the need to evaluate the organization's policy and procedures due to the time elapsed since
last review in addition to offering clear guidance to staff. Following discussion, Mr. Bray appointed Dr. Hashmi,
Mr. Mark Homer, and Mr. Erik Roddy to the Policy Review Committee. Mr. Fendley made a motion to approve.
Mr. Coleman seconded the motion. Vote was 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
PEDC Board Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, August 17, 2021
Page 3 of 3
Convene into Executive Session:
1) Pursuant to Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code to discuss and deliberate the purchase,
exchange, lease, or value of real property.
2) Pursuant to Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code to (1) discuss or deliberate regarding
commercial or financial information that the governmental body has received from a business
prospect that the governmental body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or near the territory
of the governmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting economic
development negotiations; or (2) to deliberate the offer of a financial or other incentive to a
business prospect described by Subdivision (1), to wit:
• Project Highway
• Project Iron Horse
• Project Rocket X
• Project Fast Track
• Project Mustang
• Project Green Light
3) Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code, Consultation with Attorney, to receive legal
advice from the PEDC Attorney about (1) pending or contemplated litigation and/or (2) on
matters in which the duty of an attorney to their client under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of
Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflict with this chapter, regarding
potential loan to Paris Economic Development Corporation.
Chairman Bray convened the Board into Executive Session at 5:43 p.m.
Reconvenewnto Offen Session and, Consider Action on Item ;J
µi}iscussed in Executive Session
Chairman Bray reconvened the Board into Open Session at 6:12 p.m.
Mr. Fendley made the motion to approve the option to purchase agreement for Project Highway as presented in
Executive Session and authorize Board Chairperson Josh Bray to execute. Mr. Coleman seconded the motion. Vote
was -3 -ayes to 0 -nays.
Discuss Future Agenda Items
No future agenda items.
Ad'ourn
Mr. Roddy made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Coleman seconded the motion. Vote was 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
Mr. Bray adjourned the meeting at 6:13 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Stephen Kelly
Executive Assistant
Paris Economic Development Corporation
PARIS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
MONTHLY MEETING
Paris City Council Chambers
107 East Kaufman St.
Paris, Texas 75460
Tuesday September 28� 2021
5:30 O'CLOCK P.M.
Board Members Present:
Josh Bray, Chairman
Curtis Fendley, Vice Chairman
Chase Coleman, Secretary/Treasurer
A.J. Hashmi
Mark Homer
Eric Roddy
Ex -Officio Members Present:
Pam Anglin, President, PJC
Grayson Path, City Manager
Legal Counsel;
Casey Gain, PEDC Attorney
MINUTES
Staff Present:
-Maureen Hammond, Executive Director
Chris Stout, ED Associate
Stephen Kelly, Executive Assistant
Guest(s) Present:
Mary Madewell, The Paris News
City Council Liaison:
Renae Stone
Page 1 of 3
Call to Order
Mr. Bray called the monthly meeting of the Paris Economic Development Corporation to order at 5:30 p.m. on
September 28, 2021. Board Member Stephen Terrell was absent. The Board had a quorum in attendance.
Invocation
Mr. Erik Roddy gave the invocation.
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Mr. Bray commented on present COVID trends and voluntary precautionary measures that attendees may take at
his or her discretion during the PEDC monthly meeting.
Citlzens' In,F?ut
Mr. Bray invited those present to speak during Citizens' Input. No one came forward and the Citizen's Input was
closed.
Discuss and Consider 4p;; roval of the Minutes of the 1te�.nular Meetln held Au ;us„t 17, 2021
Mr. Bray asked for discussion and approval of the minutes. Dr. Hashmi made a motion to approve the August 17,
2021 minutes. Mr. Fendley seconded the motion.
Vote: 5 -ayes to 0 -nays
PEDC Board Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, September 28, 2021
Page 2 of 3
Discuss and Consider A:roval of the AuSust 2021 Financial Statements
Mr. Coleman reported on financials ending August 2021. He stated for the month of August cash and cash
equivalents are approximately $2.1 million and investments are at $2.1 million. Reporting on year-to-date totals,
he acknowledged sales tax revenue collections at $1.7 million, expenses totaling $1.1 million and net cash at
$211,000. Mr. Coleman added that August was a strong month for sales tax revenue totaling $177,000. He closed
with asserting that the PEDC Is currently spending less than budgeted and is over budget in sales tax revenue.
Mr. Homer made a motion to approve the August 2021 Financials, Mr. Roddy seconded the motion,
Vote: 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
.,Receive ma.nd Discuss the ..A..._nnual Re porte w Executive Director Maureen reenHammond
w
Ms. Hammond presented an annual report to members of the board, conveying information on economic trends,
committee work, business attraction, and business retention and expansion. Ms. Hammond stated there is a high
level of economic growth for Paris and Lamar County considering this occurred during the pandemic and in the
midst of great uncertainty and challenges that have ensued. She noted increased sales tax revenue from $1.2
million in 2011 to $1.7 million in fiscal year 2020-2021, as well as stable trends in new commercial and residential
development. Ms. Hammond gave remarks on several new local business and retail projects for the year and
anticipates coming out strong for 2021. She also noted that Lamar County had a 1% growth in net new jobs of 286
from first quarter 2020 to first quarter 2021 in comparison to other benchmarked areas. Overall economic trends
demonstrate steady population, growth in jobs and labor force, growth in sales tax, increased average wages, and
growth in manufacturing.
Ms. Hammond also highlighted work by board members which included committee work on Land Review,
Marketing, and Incentive Review committees. She went on to discuss projects both open and closed, including
current and in negotiations; followed by the recent announcement of Besser Pro in the NW Industrial Park. She
covered various retention efforts from local businesses such as American SpiralWeld, Turner Industries, J. Skinner,
Metro Gate Manufacturing Co., and Texas Department of Transportation. She also stated overall job impacts led
to 270 jobs that have been retained and or created with an estimated payroll of $13 million and an economic
impact of $82 million per year. Ms. Hammond concluded the annual report by expressing appreciation for the
engagement and support received from PEDC board members, City staff, Paris City Council, Paris Junior College
and Lamar County Chamber of Commerce.
Project Updates
Ms. Hammond highlighted the following on Besser Pro:
• Family-owned manufacturing company
• Besser acquired 30,000 SF in NW Industrial Park
• Added 30 new jobs at average wage of $18 per hour
• Growth opportunities and currently expanding footprint with an additional 30,000 SF
• PEDC and Besser have executed an Option Agreement on 14 acres in NW Industrial Park
Convene into Executive Session:
1) Pursuant to Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code to discuss and deliberate the purchase,
exchange, lease, or value of real property.
PEDC Board Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, September 28, 2021
Page 3 of 3
2) Pursuant to Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code to (1) discuss or deliberate regarding
commercial or financial information that the governmental body has received from a business
prospect that the governmental body seeks to have locate, stay, or expand in or near the territory of
the governmental body and with which the governmental body is conducting economic development
negotiations; or (2) to deliberate the offer of a financial or other incentive to a business prospect
described by Subdivision (1), to wit:
• Project Iron Horse
• Project Rocket X
• Project Fast Track
• Project Mustang
3) Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code, Consultation with Attorney, to receive legal
advice from the PEDC Attorney about (1) pending or contemplated litigation and/or (2) on matters
in which the duty of an attorney to their client under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional
Conduct of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflict with this chapter, regarding potential loan to
Paris Economic Development Corporation.
Chairman Bray convened the Board into Executive Session at 5:57 p.m.
o
Choi Hyena i O den Session and Consider
Chairr„Action on Items Discussed in Executive Session
man Bra reconvened the Board into Open Session at 6:31 m.
Mr. Fendley made the motion to approve the option agreements discussed in executive session and give Chase and
Josh the Authority to sign them. Mr. Homer seconded the motion.
Vote: 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
Mr. Fendley made the motion to approve moving forward with the land acquisition and securing the financing to
do so as set forth in executive session and under terms of the option agreements, pending Paris City Council
approval. Dr. Hashmi seconded the motion.
Vote: 5 -ayes to 0 -nays.
D scuss,Future endo Ite m
s
Dr. Hashmi requested that spec buildings be on a future agenda for discussion.
Adjourn
Mr. Fendley made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Coleman seconded the motion.
Vote: 5 -ayes to 0 -nays
Mr. Bray adjourned the meeting at 6:32 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Y W
p pPtt,
µ
Stephen Kelly
Executive Assistant
Paris Economic Development Corporation
SPECIAL MEETTVG
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
100 GEORGE WRIGHT HOMES
pm)
Present at the Meeting VIA ZOOM/IN OFFICE:
TK Haynes — Chairman of the Board of Commissioners (Zoom)
Jenny Wilson — Vice Chairman of the Board of Commissioners (Zoom)
Dewayne Dangerfield — Chairman of the Board of Commissioners (in office)
Shatara Moore — Commissioner of the Board of Commissioners (Zoom@) 12:17
Sally Ruthart — Executive Director (Zoom & in office)
I. Meeting Called to order at 12:04 pm on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, by Chairman of the Board
of Commissioners, T. K. Haynes.
2. Having three Board Members present (R'
, the beginning of the meeting and four members @
12:17 p.m., a quorum, Mr. Haynes thanked and welcomed everyone to the meeting.
ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN AND VICE CHAIRMAN:
Nomination of TK Haynes for Chairman was inade by Ms. Wilson and seconded by Mr.
Dangerfield. Mr. Haynes was elected Chairman 3-0.
Nomination of Jenny Wilson for Vice Chairman was .made by Mr. Haynes and seconded by Mr.
Dangerfield. M. Wilson was elected Vice Chairman 3-0.
3. Citizens' Forum Opened and closed with no one present to speak.
4. Approval of the Minutes from June 15, 2021, meeting. Minutes of the meeting were approved
with a motion made by Ms. Wilson and seconded by Mr. Dangerfield. Passed 3-0.
6. NEW BUSINESS:
A. a. Vacancies, waiting, lists, and demographics were given to the Board.. Section 8 — 283 current
vouchers with 17 vouchers out looking for places. Public Mousing —4 vacancies with 2 moving in
this week. (Ms. Moore joined the meeting)
b. Bank statements and graphs for June and July were given to the Board. Public Housing budget
came in at $76679.35 loss with, $78017.13 tenant accounts receivable in arrears. Bank statements
with ending balances for 7/30/2021 PH=$396,379.28 See 8 =$555,452.80. Ms. Ruthart also
informed the Board of the interest of Homestay, Inc. to rent the 13" Community Center offices.
The Board agreed with Ms. Ruthart's recommendation to rent out the space for $400 per month
and that Ms. Ruthart could sign a lease and be responsible for this action.
c. Ms. Ruthart infonned the Board of Commissioners that the City of Paris is changing addresses
for George Wright Homes and Booker T Washington due to 911 addresses not being in
compliance. Concerns were expressed as to the hardship this will place on the residents and the
Housing Authority Staff. Ms. Ruthart informed the Board of the meeting at the City of Paris on
the 251". Ms. Wilson and Ms. Moore told the Board that they would attend the meeting with Ms.
Ruthart. This Item is to be continued at the next Board meeting and placed on the next agenda.
d. Ms. Ruthart informed the Board of the loss of the eviction case. The Appellate Court denied
the eviction due to the PHA not allowing Mr. Harris a grievance and other technical issues they
deemed inappropriate. Ms. Ruthart explained to the Board that this would not have been handled
any differently as to security issues. Ms. Wilson stated that she backed Ms. Ruthart in her
decisions and the other Board members agreed.
e. Ms. Ruthart explained to the Board that the article in the Paris News was incorrect in some
details of the article regarding the PHA. Ms. Ruthart also explained that she had contacted the
author of the article and requested a correction to be made in the Paris News. Ms. Wilson stated
that the author- of the articlt, had already left town to return to school and the request for a
correction would probably not be printed. The article stated that the City of Paris funded the
Housing Authority vouchers and public housing units which is not the case. Other things wery
incorrect as well.
f. This Itein was "Fabled and to be added to the next Board Meeting Agenda.
Meeting
7. RESOLUTIONS:
2021 -001 SEMAP
Motion made by Ms. Wilson and seconded by Ms. Moore. Motion passed 4-0.
2021-002 Disposition of appliances
Motion made by Ms. Moore and seconded by Mr. Dangerfield. Motion passed 4-0.
8. Mr. Haynes asked the Commissioners if anything needed to be added to the next agenda. After
no one replied, Mr. Haynes asked for a motion for adjournment. The motion was made by Mr.
Dan-erfield and seconded by Ms. Moore, Motion passed 4-0. The meeting was adjourned at 1:14
in
pill.
APPRO2021.VEDTHIS day (-� . -- —11111 1-11,
'10
Sally Rui liart, Secretary
T. K. DaN nes, Chainnkdi
N
SPECIAL MEETING
MINUTES
CITY OF PARIS BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
CITY OF PARIS - CITY HALL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS CONFERENCE ROOM
PARIS TEXAS
TUESDAY OCTOBER 5,, 2021
12:00 O'CLOCK P.M.
1. The Board ofAdjustment meeting was called to order by Ruth Ann Alsobrook at 12:05P. m.
The following members were present: Ruth Ann Alsobrook, Chris Fitzgerald, Jerry
Harting, William Sanders, Larry Walker, David Hamilton and Sequoia Bruce.
Also present were Andrew Mack, Stephanie Harris, Paula Portugal and concerned
citizens.
2. Elections of officers.
Motion was made by Larry Walker, seconded by Jerry Haning to nominate RuthAnn Alsobrook
as Chairperson. Motion carried 5:0.
Motion was made by Jerry Harting, seconded by Chris Fitzgerald to nominate Larry Walker as
Vice -Chairman. Motion carried 5:0.
3. Approval of minutes from previous meeting. (September 7, 2021)
Motion was made by Larry Walker, seconded by William Sanders to approve minutes for the
September 7�', 2021 meeting. Motion carried 5:0.
4. Public hearing to consider and take action on the petition of Jaxon Rader, on behalf of
Doreen Ruthart on Lots 3&4, Block 10, of the Brookside Addition being located at 2464
Clark Lane.
The petition requested variances of Section 9-201 Area Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance which
provides as follows:
(1) 9-201 (1) Schedule minimum lot widths -Residential districts
SF -2 Zoning requires a minimum of 60' lot width
The applicant is proposing to construct a single family home at 2464 Clark Ln. This property does not meet
the schedule minimum lot width of 60'. The applicant is requesting a variance of 10' to allow the
construction of a house on a 50' wide lot.
Andrew Mack, Director of Planning & Community Development, presents variance to the board.
He states that this case is similar to several past cases since it is an existing sub -standard lot, lacking
the required minimum width. Lastly, he states that the city recommends approval with no
conditions for this variance.
Public hearing was declared open.
Jaxon Rader, of 3025 NE 33rd Street and applicant, states that he owns other properties and grew
up on the same street of this vacant lot. He has seen this lot vacant for as long as he can remember,
so he is hoping to build a 40' wide house on this lot to help the neighborhood grow and to improve
the street.
RuthAnn Alsobrook made note of citizen input forms submitted by mail as follows:
Larry Wooldridge, of 2429 Clarksville Street, in favor of the variance stating that nice housing is
needed in the City of Paris.
Bryan Glass, of 683 SE 25d' Street, in favor of the request.
No one spoke in favor or opposition.
Public hearing was declared closed.
Andrew Mack, states that these sub -standard lots are generally discovered when people come in
inquiring about building permits so during that time we determine if it's been platted and also if
any variances are needed.
Motion was made by Larry Walker, seconded by Jerry Haning to approve the variance to Section
9-210 Area Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance to allow the re -construction of a home on a 50'
wide lot vs. the required 60' width based upon the following staff recommended findings of fact.
Motion carried 5:0.
Staff Recommended Findings of Fact
1. Although there are no unique conditions or features of the property which is not generally
common to other properties with older platted lots in the city, it is the intent of the city to
pursue changing the ordinance to make such variance requirements unnecessary in the future.
2. The literal compliance with Sections 9-201 of the Zoning Ordinance would cause unnecessary
hardship given the fact that this is an existing lot of record, is substandard in lot width and the
proposed single-family dwelling cannot be constructed without a variance.
3. The granting of the variance will not violate the spirit or the intent of this article.
4. The condition or feature which creates the need for the variance did not result from the property
owner's own actions.
5. The variance by the applicant is not solely for personal convenience, financial hardship, or
other reasons unrelated to the property.
6. The proposed use of a new single-family dwelling is a permitted use in the SF -2 Zoning
District.
5. Public hearing to consider and take action on the petition of Kevin Dew, on behalf of PD
Lamar Paris, LP, on Lot 12, City Block 315, being located at 4075 Lamar Avenue.
The applicant requests a variance of Section 10-103 Off -Street Parking and Loading Regulations
of the Zoning Ordinance which provides as follows:
10-102. COMPUTING PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
The number ofparking spaces required for a specific development proposal shall be based
on the requirements listed in subsection 10-103, Off -Street Parking and Loading Space
Requirements, and the following provisions:
(1) Deviation of required spaces. The amount of parking can be reduced or increased
by twenty (20) percent with prior approval by the community development director.
Deviations in excess of twenty (20) percent must be accompanied by a parking study and
approved by the board of adjustment.
10-103 (a) In all districts except the CA district as provided herein, there shall be
provided, at the time any building or structure is erected or structurally altered, off-street
parking and loading spaces in accordance with the following requirements:
Retail store or personal service establishment, except as otherwise specified herein: One
parking space for every 200 square feet of floor area.
The applicant is proposing to construct a new retail location and are unable to meet the required
315 parking spaces. The applicant is requesting a variance of 56 parking spaces to provide only
259 parking spaces.
Public hearing was declared open.
Andrew Mack, Director of Planning & Community Development, presents variance to the board.
Mack states that the developers are carving out a piece of property in front of the old Ashley's
Furniture store to build a Scooter's Coffee. When working with the property owner PD Lamar
Paris in previous meetings it was determined that this development would eliminate some of the
required parking spaces which presented the need for the variance. He continues that while
observing this property it does appear to be over parked. Mack also mentions that there were a few
additional corrections that needed to be made along with a new plat that are already in motion.
Lastly. Mack recommends approval to the board based on the staff findings and conditions.
Lester Jones, of 10201 S Autumn Leaf Circle, and representative of Kevin Dew and ALJ Lindsey,
explains to the board the concept of Scooter's Coffee. It is a drive through, kiosk coffee shop, so
there are no customers in the building only the employees; therefore there are very few parking
spaces to accommodate the building. He continues to inform the board that there will be nine
parking spaces in the drive through to make up for the lacking spaces in the surrounding parking
lot.
Chairperson RuthAnn Alsobrook asks if the structure is going to be temporary or permanent to
which Mr. Jones replies that it will be a permanent building on a concrete foundation. Mr. Jones
continues to tell the board that Scooter's is currently built across 20 states in the southern region
and they are currently working on building 30 new locations across Texas, Oklahoma and New
Mexico.
David Hamilton, board member, asks if they are comfortable with the traffic flow that is going to
be created by development is going to be handled by the way they have it designed to which Mr.
Jones responds that he is. Mr. Jones explains that the Scooter's concept in general requires 6 to 7
parking ques in the drive through and for this location they designed it with 9 to 10 spaces, so he
is comfortable that it will be able to accommodate the area. Mr. Jones continues to tell the board
that they design a variety of business from as small as Scooter's to as big as Amazon so they are
accustomed to seeing a variety of parking needs and designs. Lastly, Mr. Jones explains that though
Scooter's is frequently compared to Starbucks that tends to remain very busy and always has a
long drive through line the difference in concept and customer interaction is different and designed
to be more efficient.
Larry Walker, board member, mentions the similar coffee chain on Collegiate that frequently has
15 to 20 cars in line that spills out into the street; his concern is how close the building is to one of
the main entrances to the parking lot being blocked by the cars and if 10 spaces will be enough to
prevent that. Mr. Jones then explains that the difference is similar to Popeye's and Chick-fil-a in
the fact that the operations of the business are different. Mr. Jones also mentions that this will be
a much smaller volume since there is no inside access for customers and the concept is made to be
efficient to reduce the wait in the drive through. Lastly, Mr. Jones states that if there is ever an
issue of not having enough ques in the drive through that Scooter's would quickly be looking into
building another location to accommodate the high demand; though that is not frequently necessary
for this chain.
Andrew Mack responds to the previous questions by informing the board that concept was
presented to and reviewed by TXDot and they did not express any concerns. Specifically with the
question of there being enough stacking in the drive through there was no concerns since the
concept is more streamline and efficient. In addition, Scooter's has provided double the minimum
5 stacking spaces required by the City. Lastly, Mack states that if there is an initial wave of traffic
due to interest in a new business additional staffing will be provided to help direct the traffic.
RuthAnn Alsobrook made note of citizen input forms submitted by mail as follows:
Carol Olson, of 130 NE 42' Street, in opposition. Stated that it would add excessive traffic to an
already high traffic area.
No one else spoke in favor or opposition.
Public hearing was declared closed.
RuthAnn Alsobrook, Chairperson, comments that she has observed parking lot for a long time
since her mother lived in the area and she has never seen it at full capacity.
Motion was made by William Sanders, seconded by Chris Fitzgerald to approve the variance to
Zoning Ordinance, Section 10-103 of the Off -Street Parking and Loading Regulations to allow the
construction of a retail business with 259 parking spaces versus the required minimum of 315
parking spaces. In the Board's approval of the variance request, they also adopted the staff
recommended conditions and findings of fact. Motion carried 5:0.
Conditions
1. Re -striping of the original approved fire lane around the rear and West side of the largest
shopping center structure.
2. Removal from the fire lane and relocation of the dumpsters in the rear of the largest
shopping center structure without the need for additional dumpster enclosure screening due
to the fact that there is full screening in the rear of the building.
3. All handicapped signage shall be updated to include the required van accessible placards.
4. A preliminary and final plat shall be approved by the City prior to issuance of a building
permit.
5. Full compliance with all other applicable City Building, Fire, Zoning and Subdivision Code
requirements.
Staff Recommended Findings of Fact
Although there are no unique conditions or features of the property which is not generally
common to other properties with older platted lots in the city, there is an oversupply of
parking on the site providing substantial reasons for allowing further parking reductions
based upon the Off -Street Parking requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.
2. The literal compliance with Sections 10-103 of the Off -Street Parking and Loading
Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance would cause unnecessary hardship given the fact that
the ordinance requires this site to have far greater parking spaces than are actually needed as
demonstrated over time and that the new coffee shop business cannot be constructed as a
new pad site in the shopping center without a variance.
3. The granting of the variance will not violate the spirit or the intent of section 10-103 given
the fact that provision is made for amending parking requirements both administratively and
by variance.
4. The condition or feature which creates the need for the variance do result from the property
owner's own actions, but this concern is offset by the need to provide for a viable and
successful business climate in the City of Paris in meeting general community retail goods
& service's needs.
5. The variance by the applicant is not solely for personal convenience, financial hardship, or
other reasons unrelated to the property.
6. The proposed use of a new retail location is a permitted use in the Commercial Zoning
District.
6. Conducted Board Training.
Andrew Mack, Director of Planning & Community Development, conducted a brief training
regarding the role of the Board and the importance of developing findings of fact and all actions
taken on variance requests.
7. Adjournment.
APPROVED THE 2ND DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2021.
M �
` w
Chairman
MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION
326 SOUTH MAIN STREET
PARISH TEXAS
MONDAY OCTOBER 18,2 21,5:30 P.M.
1. Call meeting to order by Chairperson Alix Putnam.
Chairperson Alix Putnam called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
2. Roll call and declaration of a quorum.
Members present were Alix Putnam, Connie Dodd, Reeves Hayter, James Mitchell, Taisley
Scroggins, Matthew Coyle, Lydia Fitzgerald, Chad Lindsey, Kenneth Webb, Stacy Ladell, Brenda
Cherry, Mickey Allen, and Linda Kapp
Also present were Don Edmonds, Consultant; Grayson Path, City Manager; Stephanie
Harris, City Attorney; Gene Anderson, Finance Director; and Skylar Unger, Deputy City Clerk.
Members absent were David House, Jessica Holtman, and Syble Bills.
3. Receive citizen input.
(Unless an item is posted on the agenda, the Texas Open Meeting Act prohibits the
Commission from responding to any comments.)
Chairperson Alix Putnam asked that anyone wishing to speak on an agenda item to please
come forward. With no one speaking, Ms. Putnam closed the forum.
Mickey Allen arrived at 5:32 and Kenneth Webb arrived at 5:33
4. Consider approval of the minutes of the Commission meeting of October 4, 2021.
Chairperson Alix Putnam asked for a Motion to approve the minutes. A Motion to
approve the minutes was made by Chad Lindsey and seconded by Lydia Fitzgerald. Motion
carried unanimously.
5. In connection with Sec. 18, consider the Consultant's survey of compensation for
city councils in various other area cities.
Consultant Don Edmonds stated that this item was postponed at the previous meeting. A Motion
to keep Section 18 the way it is written was made by Lydia Fitzgerald, and seconded by Kenneth
Webb. Motion passed with 9 ayes and 1 nay.
Linda Kapp and Stacy Ladell arrived at 5:39 p.m.
6. Reconsider the previously proposed amendatory language in Sec. 38, concerning disabled
employees, pensions and insurance.
Mr. Edmonds stated that this item was also previously postponed as the language needed
some clearing up. Reeves Hayter made a Motion to approve the proposed language which was
seconded by Kenneth Webb. Motion carried unanimously.
7. Consider amendatory language proposed by the Consultant in Articles V, VI, and VII.
Consultant Don Edmonds stated it was necessary to describe how things actually operate.
He began reviewing Article V, Section 48 and stated that it was necessary in order for operations
to flow more efficiently. A Motion to approve the changes to Section 48 was made by Chad
Lindsey and seconded by Lydia Fitzgerald. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds moved to Section 49 and stated that the proposed language change be made
in order to clear up any future confusion. A Motion to approve the new language in Section 49
was made by Kenneth Webb and seconded by Taisley Scroggins. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds moved to Section 50 and stated his recommendations for new language. A
Motion to approve the proposed language was made by Linda Kapp and seconded by Lydia
Fitzgerald. Motion carried unanimously.
Next, Mr. Edmonds then moved on to Section 52 and explained this section needed to
give the right to provide for the use of reserve funds as necessary. A Motion to approve the
proposed change was made by Matthew Coyle and seconded by Kenneth Webb. Motion carried
unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds continued on to Section 55 and stated how some of the language is out
dated. A Motion to approve the proposed changes was made by Linda Kapp and seconded by
Stacy Ladell. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds then went on to Section 59 and said this was simply a language clean up. A
Motion to approve the changes to Section 59 was made by Kenneth Webb and seconded by
Lydia Fitzgerald. Motion carried unanimously.
Brenda Cherry arrived to the meeting at 5:55 p.m. Mr. Edmonds moved on to Article VI,
to which Mr. Reeves Hayter asked, "Article 6 discusses the issuance and sale of bonds and
appears to only talk about general obligation bonds, and doesn't mention revenue bonds,
certificates of obligation. Are those covered under State Law?" Finance Director, Gene
Anderson, stated that The City doesn't really deal with revenue bonds anymore, they are legal,
however the interest rate is not as good. Mr. Hayter asked if it is required to hold an election for
each bond issuance, to which Mr. Anderson answered for CO's no there is no election required,
but with GO's an election may be required. City Manager, Grayson Path said he would do some
research regarding Mr. Hayter question and bring it back to the next meeting.
Mr. Edmonds moved on to Article VII and explained that the current charter ignores the
Lamar County Appraisal District, and the proposed changes removes old language. A Motion to
approve the proposed changes was made by Lydia Fitzgerald and seconded by Taisley
Scroggins. Motion carried unanimously.
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Mr. Edmonds went on to Section 69 (5) and stated the language used here is also
outdated. A Motion to approve the new language was made by Reeves Hayter and seconded by
Linda Kapp. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds continued on to Section 69(9) and let Mr. Anderson explain why it needs to
be changed. Mr. Anderson said that when the Charter was written in 1948, the city was not
nearly as busy. He stated that it is much simpler to let the experts in the departments determine
some basic expenses. A Motion to approve the new language was made by Kenneth Webb and
seconded by Stacy Ladell. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds went on to Sections 79 and 80, stating that the language in these sections is
no longer workable or practical. A Motion to approve the new language in Section 79 was made
by Kenneth Webb and seconded by Stacy Ladell. Motion carried unanimously.
A Motion to approve the new language in Section 80 was also made by Kenneth Webb and
seconded by Stacy Ladell. Motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Edmonds continued on to Section 82 and stated that this was an old time provision
and needs to be updated to match the policy currently in place. A motion to approve the new
language minus the mention of a deductible was made by Linda Kapp and seconded by Chad
Lindsey. Motion carried unanimously.
8. Adjournment.
A Motion to adjourn was made by Kenneth Webb and seconded by Lydia Fitzgerald. Motion
carried unanimously. Meeting was adjourned at 6:09 p.m.
Approved this 1 st day of November 2021.
Alix Putnam, Chai person