Special - City of Eagle Pass
Transcripción
Special - City of Eagle Pass
City Council Special Meeting April 15, 2014 1 AGENDA CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING TUESDAY, APRIL 15, 2014, AT 5:30 P.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL BUILDING 100 S. MONROE STREET, EAGLE PASS, TEXAS ESTABLISHMENT OF QUORUM MOMENT OF REVERENCE CITIZENS COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. Public hearing on the proposed final Re-plat of Lots 13 and 14, Block 10, Hillcrest Addition; closing of public hearing and possible action regarding same. MINUTES 2. Approval of minutes of April 1, 2014. REPORTS 3. Monthly Departmental. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT 4. Update on Boards and Committees. 5. Proposed updates to Garage Sales Ordinance. ORDINANCES 6. Second reading of an Ordinance amending Section 2-222, Article VI of Chapter 2, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Eagle Pass, by deleting Section 2-222(b)(3) in its entirety; and adopting New Section 2-222(b)(3) for appointment of relatives; and providing for an effective date. OTHER BUSINESS 7. Consideration and possible approval of a final Re-plat of Lots 13 and 14, Block 10, Hillcrest Addition. 8. Consideration and possible action on a subdivision variance request submitted by Maria Antonia Rodriguez to eliminate the requirement to plat a property, legally defined as "Lot 295" (Northerly 40-feet of lot 295), Chula Vista Heights Subdivision, Unit 2 (100 Block of Mesquite Street)", prior to obtaining city services and related building permit approvals for a new residence. Page 1 of 2 2 9. Consideration and possible action of an agreement with Congressman Pete Gallego for the lease of office space at City Hall. 10. Consideration and possible action on a recommendation for the architectural/engineering firm for renovations to the Public Safety Complex. EXECUTIVE SESSION 11. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code Consultation with legal counsel regarding Union Pacific Railroad Company blockage of City Streets; and possible action in open session regarding same. 12. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government Cod e Consultation with legal counsel regarding AT&T pole on Rio Grande and Monroe Streets preventing ADA compliance work to be completed; and possible action in open session regarding same. 13. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government CodeConsultation with legal counsel regarding Subdivision Construction Agreements for the Town Square Subdivision and the Replat of the Park Commercial Subdivision; and possible discussions and action in open session regarding the same. 14. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code– Consultation with City Attorney regarding Dos Republicas Coal Partnership coal mine project permit hearing status; and possible action in open session regarding same. 15. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code Consultation with legal counsel regarding litigation in Cause No 13-09-28850-MCV, styled, City of Eagle Pass, Texas v. Benjamin Martinez and Maria Isabel Berchelmann Martinez in the 293rd Judicial District Court, Maverick County, Texas; and possible action in open session regarding same. ADJOURNMENT The City Council reserves the right to consider business out of the posted order and the right to adjourn into executive session to discuss items which are not listed as executive session items but which qualify to be discussed in closed session under Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. Entrance and parking spaces for disabled persons are available in front of City Hall. CERTIFICATION I, the undersigned City Secretary, do hereby certify that the agenda mentioned above was posted on the Bulletin Board located in the Lobby at City Hall, 100 South Monroe Street, Eagle Pass, Texas, on Friday, April 11, 2014 at 4:35 p.m. _________________________________ Imelda B. Rodriguez City Secretary Page 2 of 2 3 Item #2 4 THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF MAVERICK CITY OF EAGLE PASS )( )( )( The City Council of the City of Eagle Pass held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 100 South Monroe Street, Eagle Pass, Texas. All legal notices were duly posted in accordance with the law. ESTABLISHMENT OF QUORUM Present: Mayor Ramsey English Cantu; Mayor Pro Tem Luis Sifuentes; Council Members, Gloria Hernandez, Rudy Villalpando and William Davis. Absent: None. Staff present: City Manager, Gloria Barrientos; City Attorney Representative, Heriberto Morales; City Secretary, Imelda B. Rodriguez; Interim Finance Director, Jesse Rodriguez; Police Chief, Alberto Guajardo; Executive Director of Public Works, Hector Chavez; Library Director, Thomas Eggers; Bridge Director, Mario Diaz ; Municipal Court Director, Irma Morales; Human Resources Director, Isabel Perez; Tax/Assessor Collector, Mary Pete Ramirez; Fire Chief, Jesus Rodriguez; PARD Director, Jorge Sanchez; Executive Director of Community Development, Brian Shea; Main Street Manager, Joe Cruz; Chief of Staff, Rafael Garza. With a quorum being present, Mayor English Cantu called the meeting to order and the City Council considered the items as follows. MOMENT OF REVERENCE Mayor English Cantu requested the Council and members of the public present to have a moment of silence as a sign of respect to those who are serving in the military forces and those who have lost their lives protecting our country. CITIZENS COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS Mayor English Cantu asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to express their comments on items which did not appear on the agenda, reminding them at the same time, that although they were unable to take formal action on such items, they would be glad to take it under advisement. Ms. Jessica Castillo from Castillo Arts Academy approached the Council and stated that their dance team recently won at a National event and were invited to complete in a World Championship. They would be competing with teams from all over the world, representing the United States. This would be the first time the City of Eagle Pass would participate in an event of 5 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 2 this caliber. Ms. Castillo then stated that they are currently having fund raiser to be able to participate in this world-wide event and asks for support from the City of Eagle Pass. Mayor English Cantu congratulated the team on all their efforts and stated that they would be working on assisting with necessary funds; be it as individual capacity as Council Members and staff. 1. Proclamation for Fair Housing Month. City Manager Barrientos advised the Council that this proclamation is required by Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and also presented a short video regarding fair housing. Mayor English Cantu presented a proclamation to Executive Director of Community Development, Brian Shea proclaiming the month of March as Fair Housing Month. Council Member Davis arrived to the meeting at this time. MINUTES 2. Approval of minutes of March 18, 2014. Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: Nays: Absent: To approve minutes. Davis Villalpando 4 0 Sifuentes REPORTS 3. Monthly Departmental. Bridge-Traffic status: vehicles 170,345; commercial vehicles 10,003; pedestrian 53,459; having increases and declined in numbers from previous year. Council Member Sifuentes arrived to the meeting at this time. Mayor English Cantu posed a question regarding the delay in the Grant funding for the Bridge II expansion. Bridge Director Diaz responded they are awaiting an issues pertaining to the Mexican side and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 6 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 3 Council Member Hernandez posed a question regarding the decrease in vehicular traffic, Bridge Director Diaz responded it was related to an increase in waiting time to come into the United States. Some travelers are opting to walk across instead of coming in their vehicles. Finance- Revenues are at 3 Million dollars; proposed budget to be presented in August. Fire-Participated in festivities of International Friendship Parade and fundraiser contest. Human Resources- Interviews; Police Officer and Assistant Planning Director will be conducted this week. In response to a question posed by Council Member Sifuentes regarding several vacancies, HR Director Perez responded that the Recreational Supervisor and Communications Operator had closed and would re-advertise. She then stated that the Senior Library Assistant position was on hold due to restricting of department. Library-National Library Week is in April and all late fees will be forgiven for this month. Main Street- New members appointed to the Board; 3 projects will be presented to board; 3 new business in the downtown area. Municipal Court- Director took this time to publicly thank all her staff for a job well done; MC goals to have all clerks certified; Ticket rider is almost at 100%; Ticket rider devise training to be held for Police Officers. Mayor English Cantu thanked the Municipal Court Judge and Staff and also Police Department for a job well done. Council Member Hernandez posed a question regarding the keeping of Parking Meter. MC Director Morales responded that the Public Works department handles the parking meters and when an issue arises she forwards information to pertaining department. PARD- Beginning with Baseball and Softball season with 72 teams; stage setup for Abrazo Ceremony and Noches Mexicans at Shelby Park; continuing work on baseball and soccer fields. Mayor English Cantu thanked all the workers from this department on a job well done on all the festivals. Planning & Building- Interview for Assistant Planner to be held this week; working with Finance Department to select rehabilitation of 10 houses; Building inspector was recertified. Mayor English Cantu posed a question regarding abandoned homes, in response 7 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 4 Executive Director of Community Development, Shea stated that the abatement process needs to be finished. This issue is long overdue and will be presented within the next month. Police- Abrazo Ceremony had few incidents in the Noches Mexicans event; filled vacancy in the records division; 7 applicants to be interviewed for Police Officer vacancies; committee was formed to review Police Department Policies and Procedures; received a perfect finding score from the Commission of Law Enforcement. Public Works-Continuing with CIP reconstruction and maintenance of streets, two months to complete projects; Code Enforcement Office issuing citations for improper Garage Sale Signage; send out invoices for lot cleaning. Tax- Total collected $5,243,461.86. Of this $154,009.41 were collected from the taxes; 89.40 % current and 91.54.55% of current and delinquent; Garage Sales permits issued 196. Council Member Villalpando posed a question regarding having neighborhood garage sales. Tax Collector/Assessor, Ramirez responded that currently the Executive Director of Public Works and Executive Director of Community Development were working to add a fee to garage sales permits. At this moment Council Member Davis stepped out of meeting. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT 4. Update on the Annexation Plan. City Manager Barrientos informed the Council that a sample annexation service plan being worked on in conjunction with Legal Counsel, Administration, Planning and Public Works departments. She briefed on dates and purpose of meeting held to move forward with this project. She then stated once all information is gathered and reviewed there will be a workshop with Council for recommendations and guidance. 5. Update on the Community Centers. City Manager Barrientos updated on the Centers and stated the following: Benavides: completely remodeled; pending only plaque and Americans with Disability Act (ADA) doors; total expenditures $80,499. Loma de la Cruz, San Luis, and Roy P. Benavides are in the process of preparing plans for remodeling; have a budget of $50,000. All center will be painted to be uniform. Roy P. Benavides and San Luis Centers have constructed sidewalks and ADA ramps. 8 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 5 Pending quotes for exterior painting of 3 buildings. 6. City Engineer. City Manager Barrientos advised the Council that Administration, Legal, Finance, Public Works and Planning Departments have been working on a number of projects that require an engineer’s certification. For this reason we have been considering different options that the City can take in hiring an engineer either on a full time basis or under contract. ORDINANCES By consensus, the Council agreed to address item number 7 in executive session along with items 13, 14, 15 and 16. OTHER BUSINESS 8. Consideration and possible action regarding the selection of an architectural/engineering firm for renovations to the Public Safety Complex. City Manager Barrientos informed them that a total of four firms were interviewed by a Committee composed of Fire Chief, Executive Director of Public Works, Executive Director of Community Development, Police Lieutenant, Mayor and City Manager. The Committee selected Gignac and Associates, LLP based on experience on similar projects and knowledge. The recommendation from the Committee is to authorize City Manager to initiate contract negotiations in order to move forward with this project. Council Member Sifuentes posed a question regarding as to what were the projects for the Public Safety Complex. In response City Manager Barrientos stated that the project for the current Amory were for a Police Station equipped with impounding of vehicles facility, and Fire Station equipped with training tower. Motion: To authorize City Manager to enter into negotiations with Gignac and come back to City Council for final approval. Moved: Hernandez Second: Villalpando Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Absent: Davis 9. Presentation and possible approval of the City of Eagle Pass Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), Single Audit Supplement for fiscal year ended September 30, 2013, as 9 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 6 conducted by the Firm of Martinez, Rosario, L.L.P. City Manager informed the Council that a revised and modified CAFR will be presented. Martinez, Rosario, L.L.P. Representative, Ismael Martinez presented a revised and modified CAFR and brief on modifications of the report document contents and asked the Council if they had any questions. No questions were posed. Motion: To approve revised and modification to CAFR and Single Audit Supplement as presented. Moved: Hernandez Second: Sifuentes Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Absent: Davis 10. Consideration and possible approval of an agreement between the City of Eagle Pass and Calumet Computers Inc., for Internet Administration and Internal Maintenance Services of the City of Eagle Pass Public Library. City Manager Barrientos advised the Council that this is a yearly agreement that has been in place since 2006. The cost is $12,500 effective from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015, most of this covered by a grant. Legal has reviewed and Administration is recommending for approval. Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: Nays: Absent: To approve as agreement as presented. Hernandez Sifuentes 4 0 Davis 11. Consideration and possible approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement with Maverick County for the mutual use of services and equipment. City Manager Barrientos advised the Council that this agreement is the same as in previous years no changes have been made. She then stated Administration is recommending for approval. Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: To approve agreement as presented. Villalpando Sifuentes 4 10 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 7 Nays: Absent: 0 Davis 12. Consideration and possible approval of an agreement between the City of Eagle Pass and the Eagle Pass Youth Baseball-Softball Association (Babe Ruth Baseball Division). Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: Nays: Absent: To table item. Sifuentes Villalpando 4 0 Davis EXECUTIVE SESSION The Council adjourned into executive session at 7:07 p.m. to consider the items below. The Council reconvened in open session at 10:34 p.m. to take action as noted below. During executive session Council Member Davis returned to meeting and did not participate in item number 7. 7. Consideration and possible approval of an ordinance amending section 2-222(b)(3) Article VI of Chapter 2, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Eagle Pass, by deleting in its entirety; and adopting New Section 2-222 (b)(3) for supervision of relatives; and providing for an effective date. City Attorney, Morales gave the legal recommendation for the subsection (3) to be modified as follows: Appointment of Relatives, A city official may appoint any relative within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity to any non-paid board or committee within the city. Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: Nays: Abstained: To approve Ordinance on first reading with changes mentioned above. Villalpando Sifuentes 4 0 Davis 13. Executive session pursuant to Section 551.074, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code – Discussion of personnel matter - Evaluation of City Manager; and possible action regarding same. 11 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 8 Mayor English Cantu stated that City Manager Barrientos was evaluated on several performance measures pertaining to her responsibilities. By consensus the Council commended City Manager Barrientos for her work and service to the City of Eagle Pass and looked forward to working with her in the years to come under her professional capacity. No action taken on this item. 14. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code Consultation with legal counsel regarding legal advice on matters related to the Management Letter, Single Audit Supplement, and the Governance Letter from Martinez, Rosario, L.L.P.; and possible action in open session regarding same, including possible approval and acceptance of the Management letter. Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: Nays: To approve Single Audit Supplement, Governance Letter and Management Letter. Sifuentes Hernandez 5 0 15. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, 551.072, & 551.087, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code - Consultation with legal counsel; deliberation regarding real property; and deliberation regarding economic development negotiations regarding matters related to the Airport Feasibility Study and Report; C.C. Winn Family real estate donation offer; and possible discussions and negotiations with Maverick County regarding Maverick County Airport; and possible action in open session regarding same. Motion: To authorize the Mayor to meet with County Judge for the purpose of entertaining options to move forward with the Municipal airport that would resolve any County airport issue. Moved: Hernandez Second: Davis Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 16. Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code – Consultation with City Attorney regarding Dos Republicas Coal Partnership coal mine project permit hearing status; and possible action in open session regarding same. Motion: meeting. Moved: To comply with directive given to Legal Counsel and report at the next City Council Villalpando 12 City Council Regular Meeting April 1, 2014 Page 9 Second: Ayes: Nays: Sifuentes 5 0 ADJOURNMENT Motion: Moved: Second: Ayes: Nays: To adjourn. Davis Hernandez 5 0 ATTEST: ______________________________ Ramsey English Cantu Mayor ______________________________ Imelda B. Rodriguez City Secretary 13 Item #6 14 ORDINANCE NO. _________ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 2-222, ARTICLE VI OF CHAPTER 2, OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF EAGLE PASS, BY DELETING SECTION 2-222(b)(3) IN ITS ENTIRETY; AND ADOPTING NEW SECTION 2-222(b)(3) FOR APPOINTMENT OF RELATIVES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EAGLE PASS, TEXAS, as follows: SECTION 2. Sec. 2-222(b)(3), Article VI, Chapter 2 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Eagle Pass, Texas, is hereby deleted in its entirety and adopting new section 2-222 (b)(3) for supervision of relatives is hereby adopted to read as follows: Section 2 - Unfair advancement of private interests (a) (b) General Rule. A city official or employee may not use his or her official position to unfairly advance or impede private interests, or to grant or secure, or attempt to grant or secure, for any person (including himself or herself) any form of special consideration, treatment, exemption, or advantage beyond that which is lawfully available to other persons. Special Rules. The following special rules apply in addition to the general rule: (1) Acquisition of Interest in Impending Matters. A city official or employee shall not acquire an interest in, or affected by, any contract, transaction, zoning decision, or other matter, if the official or employee knows, or has reason to know, that the interest will be directly or indirectly affected by impending official action by the city. (2) Reciprocal Favors. A city official or employee may not enter into an agreement or understanding with any other person that official action by the official or employee will be rewarded or reciprocated by the other person, directly or indirectly. (3) Appointment of Relatives. A city official may appoint any relative within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity to any non-paid board or committee within the city. (4) Supervision of Relatives. No official or employee shall be permitted to supervise directly a relative within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity. Department heads are responsible for enforcing this policy. If an employee, by reason of marriage, promotion, reorganization, or otherwise, is placed into an immediate 15 supervisory relationship with a relative, one of the employees will be reassigned or other appropriate arrangements will be made for supervision. (c) Recusal and Disclosure. A city official or employee whose conduct would otherwise violate the above subsections shall adhere to the recusal and disclosure provisions stated in Section 2-221(b). SECTION 2. This Ordinance shall become effective from and after its final passage as provided by law. This code of ethics only pertains to acts arising on or after the effective date. READ, PASSED, AND APPROVED ON FIRST READING on this 1st Day of April, A.D., 2014. ______________________________ Ramsey English Cantu Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Imelda B. Rodriguez City Secretary AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: ABSTAINED: English Cantu, Sifuentes, Hernandez, Villalpando None None Davis APPROVED AS TO LEGALITY: ___________________________ Langley & Banack, Inc. City Attorney 16 READ, PASSED, AND APPROVED ON SECOND READING this 15th Day of April, A.D., 2014. ______________________________ Ramsey English Cantu Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Imelda B. Rodriguez City Secretary AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: APPROVED AS TO LEGALITY: ___________________________ Langley & Banack, Inc. City Attorney READ, PASSED, AND APPROVED ON THIRD AND FINAL READING this ______ Day of __________, A.D., 2014. ______________________________ Ramsey English Cantu Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Imelda B. Rodriguez City Secretary AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: APPROVED AS TO LEGALITY: 17 ___________________________ Langley & Banack, Inc. City Attorney 18 Item #7 19 20 Planning and Zoning Commission REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL Final Re-Plat of Lots 13-14 in Block 10 of Hillcrest Addition I. BACKGROUND A. General Information Applicant: Texmoramex LTD 401 Quarry Street Eagle Pass, Texas 78852 Roberto and Elba Benavides Route 2, Box 357 Eagle Pass, Texas 78852 City of Eagle Pass 100 South Monroe Street Eagle Pass, Texas 78852 B. Location: 1211 and 1225 Rio Grande Street Legal Description: Lots 13-14 in Block 10 of Hillcrest Addition Property ID Numbers: 9813, 9812, and 9811 Request: The grant of final approval for the re-platting of two approximately 8872-square-foot lots into an approximately 5,360-square-foot lot, an approximately 6,432-square-foot lot, and an approximately 5,953-square-foot lot, including variances (a) to proceed directly to final plat approval without first having obtained preliminary plat approval, (b) to reduce the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size of the R-3 Duplex District, and (c) to reduce the rear yard building setback line from 25-feet to 5-feet. Subject Property Information Parcel Size: 17,846-square-feet Topography: General decrease in elevation from east to west. 21 Soils: The United State Department of Agriculture Soil Survey for Maverick County appears to indicate that the property is underlain with Copita-Pryor-Dant association soils: Nearly level to gently sloping and undulating, moderately deep and deep sandy clay loams and clay loams. The survey states, in part on page 5, that this association consists of moderately permeable to slowly permeable soils on broad, smooth upland plains. Slopes are mainly 1-percent to 3-percent, but range from 0-percent to 5-percent. This association makes up about 37-percent of Maverick County. It is about 39-percent Capita soils, 23-percent Pryor soils, and 7-percent Dant soils. The remaining 31-percent is mainly Catarina, Darl, Elindio, Mavco, Maverick, Montell, Olmos, and Verick soils. Copita soils are moderately deep. They have a surface layer of grayish-brown sandy clay loam about 12-inches thick. The next layer is sandy clay loam that is moderately permeable. The underlying material is cemented sandstone. Pryor soils are deep. They have a surface layer of grayishbrown clay loam about 8-inches thick. The next layer is clay loam and clay that is slowly permeable. The underlying material is clayey shale. Dant soils are deep. They have a surface layer of dark grayish-brown clay loam about 11-inches thick. Below this is clay that is slowly permeable… C. Vegetation: Residential landscaping on the developed lot, with grass and shrubs on the undeveloped lots. Existing Use: The proposed 5,360-square-foot lot contains an apartment building, the proposed 6,432-square-foot lot is undeveloped, and the proposed 5,953-square-foot lot contains a City of Eagle Pass drainage system arroyo. Zoning District: R-3 Duplex District Master Plan: Residential Vicinity Data The surrounding area is comprised of a mixture of residential and commercial land uses at a density consistent with the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size of the R-3 Duplex District. D. Infrastructure The property is currently served by public utilities/franchises, including water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, telephone, electric service, and garbage service. Access to the site is provided by Rio Grande Street. 22 2 II. RECOMMENDED FINDINGS OF FACT A. Conclusions 1. The applicant's request contains sufficient information for consideration by the City Council. Information contained in this report and the Planning and Zoning Commission’s March 13, 2014 public meeting will be used as part of the City Council’s deliberation process for the subdivision. Please refer to Attachment 1. 2. The application also consists of a variance from the preliminary re-plat requirements of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-36(a), a variance to reduce the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size of the R-3 Duplex District, and a variance to reduce the rear yard building setback line from 25-feet to 5-feet. Please refer to Attachment 2 for a copy of the subdivision variance requests. 3. The final approval of this re-subdivision rests entirely upon whether the applicant has demonstrated that the proposal complies with the subdivision variance criteria set forth in Section 23-11(a) and Section 23-11(c). First Variance Decision Criteria Section 23-11(a)(1). The variance regarding final re-plat approval is consistent with this section of the city code, as the strict application of the requirement to receive preliminary re-plat approval for a 3-lot re-subdivision that currently contains all required supporting public infrastructure, including easements, would deprive the applicant of the reasonable subdivision of their land. A review of a preliminary re-plat by both the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council constitutes a procedural exercise that is not warranted. The variance from the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size requirement set forth in Section 7(D) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is also consistent with this section of the city code, as the strict application of the minimum lot size requirement would deprive the applicant of the reasonable resubdivision of their land to reflect the 3 lots that had previously been conveyed via deed. The variance from the 25-foot rear yard building setback area requirement set forth in Section 7(C)(3) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as the strict application of the rear yard building setback area requirement would deprive the applicant of the reasonable re-subdivision of their land in a manner enjoyed by surrounding properties in the neighborhood. Second Variance Decision Criteria Section 23-11(a)(2). The variance regarding final re-plat approval is consistent with this section of the city code, as the variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right of the applicant. As the re-subdivision design is consistent with the residential-related purpose of the R-3 Duplex District, the residential use of the site will allow for the enjoyment of a property right permitted by the zoning code. 23 3 The variance from the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size requirement set forth in Section 7(D) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as the variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right of the applicant. The proposed sizes for all 3 lots conform to the property ownership reflected in the conveyance deeds for the properties. Any adjustment in the size of the lots in order to conform to the minimum lot size requirements of the zoning district would deny the 3 owners of the enjoyment of a property use right permitted by the zoning code. The variance from the 25-foot rear yard building setback area requirement set forth in Section 7(C)(3) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as the variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right of the applicant. The reduction in the 25-foot rear yard building setback area required in the R-3 Duplex District will afford the property owners the enjoyment of a property use right permitted by the zoning code. Third Variance Decision Criteria Section 23-11(a)(3). The variance regarding final re-plat approval is consistent with this section of the city code, as there is no anecdotal evidence which indicates that the granting of the variance would be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to other property in the area. The variance from the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size requirement set forth in Section 7(D) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as there is no anecdotal evidence which indicates that the granting a variance to reduce the minimum lot size would be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to other property in the area. The variance from the 25-foot rear yard building setback area requirement set forth in Section 7(C)(3) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as there is no anecdotal evidence which indicates that the granting of a variance to reduce the rear yard building setback area would be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to other property in the area. Fourth Variance Decision Criteria Section 23-11(a)(4). The variance regarding final re-plat approval is consistent with this section of the city code, as there is no documentation which indicates that granting the variance would have the effect of preventing the orderly subdivision of other land in the area in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 23. The variance from the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size requirement set forth in Section 7(D) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as there is no documentation which indicates that granting the variance would have the effect of preventing the orderly subdivision of other land in the area in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 23. 24 4 The variance from the 25-foot rear yard building setback area requirement set forth in Section 7(C)(3) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is consistent with this section of the city code, as there is no documentation which indicates that granting the variance would have the effect of preventing the orderly subdivision of other land in the area in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 23. Fifth Variance Decision Criteria Lastly, the variance regarding final re-plat approval is also consistent with Section 23-11(c), as the granting of the variance will allow for the creation of a re-subdivision that is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23. The re-subdivision contains design features which will secure the public health, safety and welfare and provide for the fair and equitable processing of the final plat. The variance from the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size requirement set forth in Section 7(D) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is also consistent with Section 23-11(c), as the granting of the variance will allow for the creation of a re-subdivision that is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23 because the subdivision contains design features which will secure the public health, safety and welfare. The variance from the 25-foot rear yard building setback area requirement set forth in Section 7(C)(3) of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Appendix A is also consistent with Section 23-11(c), as the granting of the variance will allow for the creation of a re-subdivision that is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23. There is no evidence to suggest that the reduction in the required rear yard building setback area will subdivision will adversely impact the public health, safety or welfare in the neighborhood. Based upon the above-referenced findings, the subdivision variances are consistent with the with the subdivision variance decision criteria set forth in Section 23-11(a) and Section 23-11(c) and, as a result, should be granted. 4. The Master Plan emphasizes the importance of maintaining the character of the residential and commercial neighborhoods located in the City. The re-subdivision is consistent with the Housing Goals of the Master Plan, as the subdivision process will ensure appropriate land development regulation with appropriate lot sizes, paved streets with curb and gutters, and adequate utility services. The re-subdivision is consistent with the Land Use Development Goals of the Master Plan, as the project is designed to provide for a building lot density that is generally consistent with the purpose of the R-3 Duplex District. This design will allow for the continuing development of the community while retaining the neighborhood character and scale while providing utility services in the most efficient and equitable manner. 25 5 The re-subdivision is consistent with the Street Goal of the Master Plan, as access to the site from Rio Grande Street has been designed to provide the residents of and visitors to Eagle Pass with a street system that will enable them to travel safely and conveniently. The re-subdivision is consistent with the Thoroughfare Goals of the Master Plan, as Rio Grande Street has been designed to be part of a safe and efficient thoroughfare system. The re-subdivision is consistent with the Storm Drainage Goals of the Master Plan, as the size of the lots and the resulting development will not adversely impact area drainage. 5. The re-subdivision design is consistent with the residential purpose of the R-3 Duplex District. 6. The re-subdivision is consistent with City design and specifications, as the project is designed and conditioned to conform to the following sections of Article IV in Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23: Section 23-62 governing utility easements Section 23-64 governing sidewalks Section 23-66 governing sanitary sewage disposal Section 23-67 governing potable water supply and fire flow Section 23-68 governing storm drainage Section 23-69 governing the size of building lots, including lot width, lot depth, lot orientation, and building setback areas, as the applicant obtained a subdivision variance from the minimum lot size and rear yard building setback area requirements of the R-3 District as part of the final plat approval process. Section 23-71 governing the installation and inspection of utility lines Please refer to Attachment 3 for a copy of the final engineering report for the proposal. 7. The re-subdivision is also consistent with City design and specifications for landscape and tree preservation set forth in Article VI in Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23 8. The re-subdivision will conform with the parkland dedication requirements set forth in Article V in Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23, as the original plat in which this re-plat is located was recorded prior to the enactment of the City’s parkland dedication requirements in 2005. 9. The re-subdivision's conformance with the provisions of the Master Plan and the Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances will facilitate the following benefits: 26 6 Protect private rights while considering public health, safety and welfare. Provide for efficient and economical ways to move people and goods outside the City by an adequate plan for streets and highways. Guide future development in an orderly manner, by stages according to a pattern, so that the City may have a balanced land use. Encourage a diversified economic base, and encourage public and private investments in land and improvements. Prevent and eliminate blight and slums, making the City attractive to people, commerce, and industry. Create the desire for a more pleasing appearance of the City, and incorporate into its physical development the basic principles of good design. Protect and preserve the identity of each neighborhood through use of the guidance provided by the Master Plan and the Code of Ordinances. Locate all land uses on land best suited for their needs, arranged in such a way as to be mutually beneficial and functional, with ample area to meet long-term needs. Establish a proper relationship between open space, developed areas, building bulk, light and air space, in all future development programs of land use. Encourage and abet the development of civic, cultural, and other public and quasi-public buildings in harmonious and functional groupings. Please refer to Attachment 4 for a copy of the Master Plan Map. 10. The re-subdivision will allow for a use of the property that is both consistent with the residential purpose of the R-3 Duplex District, as well as the surrounding area for the following reasons: A. The subdivision design bears a substantial relationship to the public's health, safety, and welfare. B. The subdivision is in accordance with the Master Plan and the residential purpose of the R-3 Duplex District. C. The subdivision is warranted because of the necessity to create additional building lots in both the R-3 Duplex District, and because the proposed development is appropriate for the reasonable use of the property. D. The subject property is suitable for development in general conformance with development standards of the R-3 Duplex District. E. The subdivision will benefit the City as a whole and will not be detrimental to nearby land uses of a similar nature. 27 7 F. The subdivision has been designed and conditioned to comply with all applicable subdivision criteria and standards of the City of Eagle Pass. Please refer to Attachment 5 for a copy of the City Zoning District Map. 11. The final approval of this re-plat request is warranted, as the project conforms to the City of Eagle Pass Master Plan and the City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances as noted in Conclusion 1 through and including Conclusion 10 of this report. B. Planning and Zoning Commission Action The Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing on March 13, 2014 to consider the final re-plat request. Upon due consideration of the written record and comments provided at the public hearing, the Commission voted unanimously to (1) grant the subdivision variances and (2) recommend final re-plat approval to the City Council. C. Planning and Zoning Commission Recommendation The Eagle Pass City Council GRANT final approval to re-plat Lots 13-14 in Block 10 of Hillcrest Addition into an approximately 5,360-square-foot lot, an approximately 6,432square-foot lot, and an approximately 5,953-square-foot lot, including variances (a) to proceed directly to final plat approval without first having obtained preliminary plat approval, (b) to reduce the 7,000-square-foot minimum lot size of the R-3 Duplex District, and (c) to reduce the rear yard building setback line from 25-feet to 5-feet, subject to the following condition: 1. The final re-plat shall comply with the provisions of Article III in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23. TRANSMITTED to the parties listed hereafter: Texmoramex LTD via e-mail Eagle Pass City Council via e-mail Gloria Barrientos, Eagle Pass City Manager via e-mail Imelda Rodriguez, Eagle Pass City Secretary via e-mail Paul Fletcher, Eagle Pass City Attorney via e-mail Planning and Zoning Commission Record of Action dated March 15, 2014 Copies of Attachments are available at City Secretary’s Office. Attachment 1 Attachment 2 Attachment 3 Attachment 4 Attachment 5 28 8 Item #8 29 30 Planning and Zoning Commission REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL Maria Antonia Rodriguez Subdivision Variance Request I. BACKGROUND A. General Information B. Applicant: Maria Antonia Rodriguez Route 1, Box 381 Eagle Pass, Texas 78852 Location: 100 Block of Mesquite Street Legal Description: Northerly 40-feet of Lot 295 in Chula Vista Heights Subdivision Unit 2 Property ID Number: 7138 Request: A request to eliminate the requirement to plat a property prior to obtaining city utility services and related building permit approvals for a new residence. Subject Property Information Parcel Size: 14,147-square-feet Topography: Generally flat Soils: The United State Department of Agriculture Soil Survey for Maverick County appears to indicate that the property is underlain with Catarina-Maverick association soils. The survey states, in part on page 5, that the association “consists of slowly permeable to very slowly permeable soils in broad, uneven areas of uplands. Slopes are mainly 0-percent to 3percent, but range from 0-percent to 5-percent. This association makes up about 11-percent of the soils in Maverick County. The remaining 22-percent is mainly Brundage, Copita, Dant, Elindio, Mavco, Olmos, Pryor, and Verick soils. Catrina soils are deep. They have a surface of layer of grayish-brown clay about 22-inches thick. The 31 underlying material is clay that is slowly permeable. Maverick soils are moderately deep. They have a surface layer of grayish-brown clay about 5-inches thick. The underlying material is clay that is slowly permeable”… C. Vegetation: Grass and shrubs Existing Use: Undeveloped Zoning: Not Applicable Master Plan: Not Applicable Vicinity Data The surrounding area is comprised of single family residences at a density less than the 7,700-square-foot minimum lot size for the R-1 First One-Family Dwelling District. D. Infrastructure The property is currently served by public utilities/franchises, including water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, telephone, electric service, and garbage service. Access to the site is provided by unimproved Mesquite Street. II. RECOMMENDED FINDINGS OF FACT A. Eagle Pass City Charter Article IX: Municipal Planning and Zoning Section 9.1 Planning and zoning commission. The city council shall appoint a city planning and zoning commission consisting of five (5) regular members who shall be residents of the City of Eagle Pass and who own real estate within the city, and such ex-officio members as are provided herein. The regular members shall receive such compensation as the council shall prescribe by ordinance and shall hold no other elective position in the city government. The ex-officio members shall include the mayor, the city manager, and such other ex-officio members as the council may by resolution provide. Exofficio members shall participate in the work of the commission, but shall not have a vote in its official actions. (a) Term of office. The term of the appointive members shall be five (5) years, except that, of the five (5) members first appointed, one shall be appointed for a term of one year, one for two (2) years, one for three (3) years, and one for four (4) years. (b) Powers and duties. The commission shall have the power and shall be required to: (1) Make, amend, extend, and add to the Master Plan for the physical development of the city. 32 2 (2) Approve or disapprove plats of proposed subdivisions submitted in accordance with Section 9-2 of this article and any other applicable laws. In considering such plats, the commission shall require that the proposed subdivisions shall meet all the standards of layout and street and sidewalk construction on comparable property within the corporate limits of the City of Eagle Pass as specified in the City of Eagle Pass Construction Standards Manual. Upon approving such plats, and before they are released for recoding, the planning commission shall submit all copies of approved plats to the city council for final approval. (3) Draft, and recommend to the council for adoption, an official map of the city and recommend or disapprove proposed changes in such map. (4) Make, and recommend to the council for adoption, a zoning plan and recommend or disapprove proposed changes in such plan. (5) Make, and recommend to the council for adoption, plans for the clearance and rebuilding of slum districts and blighted areas which may develop within the city. (6) Compile, and recommend to the council for adoption, a building code, which code shall include the minimum standards of construction for buildings, the minimum standards for plumbing, and the minimum standard for wiring and gas piping. (7) Submit annually to the city manager, not less than ninety (90) days prior to the beginning of the budget year, a list of recommendations for capital improvement which, in the opinion of the commission, are necessary or desirable to be constructed during the forthcoming five (5) years. Such list shall be arranged in order of preference, with recommendations as to which projects shall be constructed in which year. (8) Meet not less than once each month; meetings to be held at the city hall unless prior notice of change of meeting place be given by publication in the official newspaper of the City of Eagle Pass. (9) Perform such other duties and be vested with such other powers as the council shall from time to time prescribe. (c) Rules of procedure. The commission shall elect annually, one of its members chairman, and shall establish its own rules of procedure which shall include the following: A quorum shall consist of a majority of the members of the commission qualified and serving. The affirmative vote of a majority of those present shall be necessary to pass upon pending questions. All meetings shall be open to the public and a record of all proceedings shall be kept, which record shall be filed with the person performing the duties of city secretary and shall be a public record. (d) Vacancies. Membership of the commission shall be accompanied by active participation in the activities of the commission, and any member 33 3 who is absent from three (3) consecutive meetings of the commission without valid excuse, as determined by the commission, shall automatically be dismissed from membership. The commission shall at once notify the council that a vacancy in the commission exists. Vacancies occurring in the commission, for whatever reason, shall be filled within thirty (30) days by appointment by the council for the remainder of the unexpired term. Section 9.2 Platting of property. (a) Hereafter, every owner of any tract of land situated within the corporate limits of the City of Eagle Pass, who may divide the same in two (2) or more parts for the purpose of laying out any subdivision or any addition to the city, shall comply with the provisions of all applicable laws. (b) The provisions of section 9-2(a) above shall apply similarly to the owner of any tract of land situated within a maximum distance of five (5) miles beyond the corporate limits of the City of Eagle Pass, or as provided by law. Section 9.3 Master plan. The Master Plan for the physical development of the city, with the accompanying maps, plats, charts, descriptive and explanatory matter, shall show the commission's recommendations for the development of city territory, and may include, among other things, (a) the general location, character, and extent of streets, bridges, parks, waterways, and other public ways, grounds and spaces; (b) the general location of public buildings and other public property; (c) the general location and extent of public utilities, whether publicly or privately owned; (d) the removal, relocation, widening, extension, narrowing, vacation, abandonment or change of use of such existing or future public ways, grounds, spaces, buildings, property or utilities; and (e) the general extent and location of public housing projects and slum-clearance projects. (a) Adoption of Master Plan. The commission may adopt the Master Plan as a whole by single resolution, or may by successive resolutions adopt successive parts of the plan, said parts corresponding to major geographical sections of the city or to functional divisions of the subject matter of the plan, and may adopt any amendment or extension thereof or addition thereto. The adoption of the plan, or of any part, amendment, extension or addition, shall be by resolution carried by the affirmative votes of not less than a majority of the commission, but before the adoption of the plan or any such part or any modification, extension or addition, the commission shall hold at least one public hearing on the proposed action. An attested copy of the plan or part thereof shall be certified to the council. (b) Legal effect of Master Plan. No street, park, or other public way, ground or space, no public building or structure and no public utility whether publicly or privately owned, shall be constructed or authorized in the city, nor shall any real property be acquired by the city, until and unless the location and extent thereof shall have been submitted to and approved by the commission; provided that, in case of disapproval, the commission shall communicate its reasons to the council, which shall have the power 34 4 by two-thirds (2/3) vote to overrule such disapproval, and, upon such overruling, the council or the appropriate office, department or agency shall have the power to proceed. The widening, narrowing, relocation, vacation or change in the use of any street or other public way or ground or the sale of any public building or real property shall be subject to similar submission and approval, and failure to approve may be similarly overruled by the council. The failure of the commission to act within thirty (30) days after the date of official submission to the commission shall be deemed approved, unless a longer period be granted by the council or the submitting official. 2005 Master Plan The Master Plan provides direction to both the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council in their consideration of preliminary subdivision application. The Master Plan contains goals, strategies, and objectives concerning housing, land use development, streets, thoroughfares, and drainage. Land Use Development The formulation of a land use development plan includes establishing goals and objectives, with broad goals for land uses and achievable objectives for the implementation of the desired development. The following land use development goals and objectives were proposed in the Master Plan after local participation in the planning process. Land Use Development Goals The sound development of the local land resources to achieve a balance between the man-made and natural environments. The continuing development of the community while retaining the community’s character and scale. The ultimate development of urban uses in a compatible arrangement, which will make the community attractive to both residents and visitors while desirable to quality investments. Provision and use of utility services in the most efficient and equitable manner. Preservation of the natural and man-made beauty of Eagle Pass. Improvement in the condition of the business and commercial districts. Land Use Objectives Enhance the local capacity to monitor, evaluate, and promote the sound development of the community. 35 5 Promote development standards and guidelines to minimize wasteful land subdivision to improve local resource utilization in a compatible land use relationship. Coordination with area-wide, county, and state agencies that deal with land and resource utilization to eliminate substandard development in the City’s Extra Territorial Jurisdiction and beyond, and improve existing substandard areas. Short-Term Land Use Objectives Establish the planning process as a continuing municipal function. Review planning studies and material from agencies, such as the American Planning Association, the Texas Municipal League, and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, that can be applicable to the City of Eagle Pass. Continue enforcement of the provisions of the zoning and subdivision ordinances. Strict review of proposed subdivisions, particularly those located in environmentally sensitive areas such as sloping areas or those areas with soils which pose limitation to development. Annex colonia areas located within the City’s Extra Territorial Jurisdiction which affect the City. B. Eagle Pass City Code of Ordinances Chapter 23: Subdivisions Article I General Section 23-1 Authority. This chapter is adopted under the authority of the Constitution and the laws of the State of Texas including particularly Chapter 212 of the Texas Local Government Code and Subchapter J in Chapter 16 of the Texas Water Code, and Section 2-1 and Article 9 of the City of Eagle Pass Charter. Section 23-2 Purpose. This chapter is adopted for the purpose of protecting and promoting the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the community and to achieve the safe, orderly and helpful urban development through land subdivision of undeveloped areas within the city and its extraterritorial jurisdiction by providing for lots of sufficient size, to provide for adequate improvements and facilities, and appropriate design for the purpose for which they are used; by the provision, construction and installation of streets, easements, alleys, sidewalks, public utilities and other facilities, by providing uniformity of street width, access to lands, minimization of traffic congestion and safety hazards, and prevention of the subdivision of land which is subject to flooding or otherwise unsuitable for subdivision; and to promote and develop the utilization of land to assure the best possible community environment; and to provide adequate municipal services 36 6 and safe streets in accordance with the development plan of the City of Eagle Pass, Maverick County, Texas. Article I: In General Section 23-5 Definitions. (a) Specific terms, phrases, etc., defined. For the purposes of this chapter, the following terms, phrases, words and their derivatives shall have the following meaning ascribed to them in this section: …Lot: A "lot" is an undivided tract or parcel of land having frontage on a public street and which is, or in the future may be, offered for sale, conveyance, transfer or improvement; which is designated as a distinct and separate tract, and which is identified by a tract or lot number or symbol in a duly approved subdivision plat which has been properly filed of record… …Plat: A "plat" is a complete and exact subdivision plan submitted to the commission for final approval in which, if approved, will be submitted to the county clerk for recording… …Subdivision: A "subdivision" is a division of any lot, tract or parcel of land situated within the city, or within its extraterritorial jurisdiction, into two (2) or more parts, or the assembly of lots or portion(s) of lot(s) into a single lot, for the purpose of laying out any division of any tract of land or any addition to any city or town, or for the laying out of suburban lots or building lots, or any lots and streets, alleys or parks or other portions intended for public use or the use of purchasers or owners of lots fronting thereon or adjacent thereto. "Subdivision" includes the re-subdivision and vacation and correction platting, and when appropriate to the context, relates to the process of subdivision or to the land or area subdivided… Section 23-7 Enforcement. (a) No public utility such as water, sewer, electricity, gas, etc., which is owned, controlled, or distributed by the City of Eagle Pass, will be provided to a lot in a subdivision within the corporate limits of the city or lying within its extraterritorial jurisdiction that has not been platted in the manner prescribed by this chapter and the plat duly recorded in the office of the office of the Maverick County Clerk. (b) No building, repair, plumbing and/or electrical permits shall be issued by the city for any structure or a lot in any subdivision within the corporate limits of the city, which has not been platted in the manner prescribed by this chapter and for which a final plat has not been approved and duly recorded in the office of the Maverick County Clerk. Section 23-9 Extraterritorial applicability. (a) The rules and regulations of the city established by this chapter governing plats and subdivisions of land are hereby extended to and shall apply to all of 37 7 the area under the extraterritorial jurisdiction of said city, as provided for in Texas Local Government Code § 212.003. (b) Any violation of any provision of this chapter establishing rules and regulations governing plats and subdivisions of land outside the corporate limits of the city, or within the area under the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city, shall not constitute a misdemeanor under this chapter nor shall any fine provided for in the chapter be applicable to a violation within such extraterritorial jurisdiction. (c) Any violation of the provisions of this chapter establishing rules and regulations governing plats and subdivisions of land outside of the corporate limits of the city but within the area under the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city shall be reported to the city council for whatever action said council may deem proper, and the city attorney shall, when so directed, institute an action in the district court to enjoin the violation of any provision of this chapter in such extraterritorial jurisdiction. Section 23-11 Variances. (a) The commission may authorize a variance from these regulations when, in its opinion, undue hardship will result from requiring strict compliance. In granting a variance, the commission shall prescribe only conditions that it deems necessary or desirable to the public interest. In making the findings herein below required, the commission shall take into account the nature and the proposed use of the land involved and existing uses of land in the vicinity, the number of persons who will reside or work in the proposed subdivision, and the probable effect of such variance upon traffic conditions and upon the public health, safety, convenience and welfare in the vicinity. No such variance shall be granted unless the commission finds: (1) That there are special circumstances or conditions affecting the land involved such that strict application of the provisions of this chapter would deprive the applicant of the reasonable use of his land. (2) That the variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right of the applicant. (3) That the granting of the variance will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to other property in the area. (4) That the granting of the variance will not have the effect of preventing the orderly subdivision of other land in the area in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. (b) The applicant shall submit in writing to the city manager a letter addressing the facts upon which he believes a variance is warranted. The city manager shall review the facts and distribute the letter to the appropriate departments and/or agencies of the city and the planning commission. The city manager and such departments and/or agencies shall, within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of the letter, respond in writing to the applicant and to the planning commission as to the following: 38 8 (1) The section and specific requirement of the subdivision regulations and the respect in which the proposed plat does not comply. (2) An evaluation of the specific plat submitted by the applicant and the factors indicated above for use by the commission in making its findings. (3) The recommendation containing any conditions which the commission may wish to consider in granting the variance. (c) Such findings of the commission, together with the special facts upon which such findings are based, shall be incorporated into the official minutes of the commission meeting at which such variance is granted. Variances may be granted only when in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this chapter so that the public health, safety and welfare may be secured and substantial justice done. Pecuniary hardship to the subdivider, standing alone, shall not be deemed to constitute undue hardship. (d) Owners of any tract of land which has been subdivided, and of which at least 60-percent of the total lots or tracts thereof have been sold to bona fide purchasers, and for which deeds of transfer have been executed prior to 1984, may have such tract of land platted, as it exists on the ground, by a duly licensed land surveyor and may present such plat for approval in accordance with all of the requirements of this chapter, including the payment of all stipulated fees and costs, save and except that such plat shall be considered as having met all other requirements of this chapter, other than the requirements for street paving and for the installation of water and sewer lines, if this last is deemed necessary or desirable. Said street paving and said installation of water lines and sewer lines, if such sewer lines are necessary or desirable, shall be done in strict compliance with the provisions of this chapter at no cost to the City of Eagle Pass. Proof of purchase by all owners shall be required at the time that the plat referred to herein is submitted for approval. (e) Construction of curb and gutter and sidewalks shall not be required for any subdivision which is an additional unit of a subdivision wherein such construction was not previously required and whose plat was filed for record with the county clerk prior to 1984, and for which a valid and unexpired master plan is on file in the permanent records of the City of Eagle Pass under the care and custody of the city secretary. C. Section 23-14 Validation by city council. (a) No action of the planning and zoning commission, taken under the provisions of this chapter, shall be valid until such action has been ratified and validated by a majority vote of the members of the city council qualified and serving, at a meeting of said council called and held in accordance with the Open Meeting Law of the State of Texas, except as provided in Section 23-48 of this chapter. Texas Local Government Code Section 212.004 Plat required. 39 9 (a) The owner of a tract of land located within the limits or in the extraterritorial jurisdiction of a municipality who divides the tract in two or more parts to lay out a subdivision of the tract, including an addition to a municipality, to lay out suburban, building, or other lots, or to lay out streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other parts of the tract intended to be dedicated to public use or for the use of purchasers or owners of lots fronting on or adjacent to the streets, alleys, squares, parks, or other parts must have a plat of the subdivision prepared. A division of a tract under this subsection includes a division regardless of whether it is made by using a metes and bounds description in a deed of conveyance or in a contract for a deed, by using a contract of sale or other executory contract to convey, or by using any other method. A division of land under this subsection does not include a division of land into parts greater than five acres, where each part has access and no public improvement is being dedicated… D. Texas Water Code Section 16.343 Minimum state standards and model political subdivision rules. (a) The board shall, after consultation with the attorney general and the commission, prepare and adopt model rules to assure that minimum standards for safe and sanitary water supply and sewer services in residential areas of political subdivisions, including rules of any state agency relating to septic tanks and other waste disposal systems, are met. (b) The model rules must: (1) Assure that adequate drinking water is available to the residential areas in accordance with Chapter 341, Health and Safety Code, and the Rules and Regulations for Public Water Systems and the Drinking Water Standards Governing Water Quality and Reporting Requirements for Public Water Supply Systems adopted by the commission and other law and rules applicable to drinking water; and (2) Provide criteria applicable to tracts that were divided into two or more parts to lay out a subdivision and were not platted or recorded before September 1, 2005. (c) The model rules must: (1) Assure that adequate sewer facilities are available to the residential areas through either septic tanks or an organized sewage disposal system that is a publicly or privately owned system for the collection, treatment, and disposal of sewage operated in accordance with the terms and conditions of a valid waste discharge permit issued by the commission or private sewage facilities in accordance with Chapter 366, Health and Safety Code, and the Construction Standards for On-Site Sewerage Facilities adopted by the commission and other law and rules applicable to sewage facilities; and 40 10 (2) Provide criteria applicable to tracts that were divided into two or more parts to lay out a subdivision and were not platted or recorded before September 1, 2005. (d) The model rules must prohibit the establishment of residential developments with lots of five acres or less in the political subdivision without adequate water supply and sewer services. Also, the model rules must prohibit more than one single-family, detached dwelling to be located on each lot. (e) The model rules must provide criteria governing the distance that structures must be set back from roads or property lines to ensure proper operation of water supply and sewer services and to reduce the risk of fire hazards. (f) Repealed by Acts 2005, 79th Legislative Session, Chapter 927, Section 15 effective September 1, 2005. (g) Before an application for funds under Section 15.407 or Subchapter P, Chapter 15, or Subchapter K, Chapter 17, may be considered by the board, a political subdivision must adopt the model rules pursuant to this section. If the applicant is a district, nonprofit water supply corporation, or colonia, the applicant must be located in a city or county that has adopted such rules. Applicants for funds under Section 15.407 or Subchapter P, Chapter 15, or Subchapter K, Chapter 17, may not receive funds under those provisions unless the applicable political subdivision adopts and enforces the model rules. E. Conclusions 1. The applicant's request contains sufficient information for consideration by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Please refer to Attachment 1. 2. Copies of the subdivision variance request were forwarded to both eh Water Works System and the Public Works Department for their review and comment No comments were received by the Planning Department regarding the application. Please refer to Attachment 2 for a copy of the Planning Department e-mail memorandum to the Water Works System and the Public Works Department. 3. The property was not created in conformance with the provisions of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23 prior to its conveyance in 1992. Please refer to Attachment 3 for a copy of the Maverick County information regarding the property. 4. City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-7 states that city water and sewer service cannot be provided or a construction-related permit issued for a lot that has not been created and conveyed in conformance with City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23. It appears that the adoption of Section 23-7 was intended, in part, to create a check-and-balance between City utility service and the Texas Water Code. Section 16.343(g) of the Water Code creates a nexus between state water system improvement funding and the provision of adequate water and sewer for 41 11 residential developments. Additionally, Water Code Section 16.343(d) states that no more than 1 single family residence may be located on a lot. Both Water Code Section 16.343(b)(2) governing adequate water service and Water Code Section 16.343(c)(2) governing adequate sewer service direct the City of Eagle Pass to provide criteria for tracts that were divided into two or more parts before September 1, 2005. Such is the case with this property. Lot 295 of Chula Vista Heights Subdivision Unit 2 was divided into 2 lots in 1992. City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23 provides criteria to address tracts that were divided into two or more parts before September 1, 2005, as directed by Water Code Section 16.343(b)(2) and Water Code Section 16.343(c)(2). The criteria that is intended to provide this governmental oversight is found in the Section 23-11 governing subdivision variances. The granting of this variance, if found by the Planning and Zoning Commission to comply with the approval criteria set forth in Section 23-11, would therefore be consistent with the legislative intent of the Texas Water Code by assuring the provision of adequate drinking water and adequate sewage disposal for a singlefamily residence. 5. The City of Eagle Pass does not possess building safety permit authority in the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction. The City does, however, perform sewer service connection inspections on behalf of the City of Eagle Pass Water Works System and electrical service connection inspections on behalf of either Rio Grande Electric Co-Operative or American Electric Power of Texas (AEP), depending upon the location of the lot in relation to each utility’s respective service area. 6. The variance request is consistent with the decision criteria for Commission approval of a variance request as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-11(a) because undue hardship will result from requiring strict compliance with the provisions of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-7(b). It is highly probable that the cost of platting the property as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23 would exceed the cost of connecting the new residence to City water and sewer service. The enforcement of such a requirement would fail the basic principle of a cost-tobenefit analysis. 7. The variance request is consistent with the decision criteria for Commission approval of a variance request as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-11(a)(1) because there is a special circumstance or condition affecting the land involved such that strict application of the provisions of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-7(b) would deprive the applicant of the reasonable use of his land. A mobile home residence has been in place on the southern portion of Lot 295 since 1996. Please refer to Attachment 4 for information and a photograph of the residence located at 147 Mesquite Street. A check-and-balance method used in the enforcement of the subdivision code and the enforcement of the building code typically takes place at the time of building permit application. A preliminary review of a building permit application involves a review for compliance with the subdivision code and the zoning code. In this case, as there is no building permit-related authority in the Extraterritorial 42 12 Jurisdiction, the property owner was unaware that the conveyance of the northerly 40-feet of Lot 295 did not comply with all provisions of the City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances, including Chapter 23. This is a special circumstance created by the lack of a check-and-balance between the codes. 8. The variance request is consistent with the decision criteria for Commission approval of a variance request as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-11(a)(2) because the variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right of the applicant. The property was originally conveyed in 1992 and, given its 40-foot width, provides the applicant with a very limited range of residential development opportunities. The most likely development scenario would involve the installation of a mobile home. The requirement to perform a subdivision of Lot 295 would most likely exceed the cost of installing a mobile home, which would include the provision of water and sewer service to the unit. As such, the requirement to subdivide the lot would significantly impair the substantial property right of the applicant. Please refer to Attachment 5 for a copy of the 1992 deed of conveyance. 9. The variance request is consistent with the decision criteria for Commission approval of a variance request as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-11(a)(3) because there is no direct or anecdotal evidence to support a contention that the granting of the variance would be detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare, or injurious to other property in the area. 10. The variance request is consistent with the decision criteria for Commission approval of a variance request as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-11(a)(4) because there is no direct or anecdotal evidence to support a contention that the granting of the variance would have the effect of preventing the orderly subdivision of other land in the area in accordance with the provisions of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23. 11. The variance request is consistent with the decision criteria for Commission approval of the variance request as set forth in City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Section 23-11(c) because the variance, if granted, would be in harmony with the general purpose and intent of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23-2, which states that the purpose of City of Eagle Pass Code of Ordinances Chapter 23 is to protect and promote the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the community and to achieve the safe, orderly and helpful urban development through land subdivision of undeveloped areas within the city by (1) providing for lots of sufficient size, to provide for adequate improvements and facilities, and appropriate design for the purpose for which they are used, (2) providing for the construction and installation of streets, easements, alleys, sidewalks, public utilities and other facilities, (3) providing uniformity of street width, access to lands, minimization of traffic congestion and safety hazards, and prevention of the subdivision of land which is subject to flooding or otherwise unsuitable for subdivision, (4) promoting and developing the utilization of land to assure the best possible community environment, and (5) providing adequate municipal services and safe streets in accordance with the development plan of the City of Eagle Pass. There is no direct or anecdotal evidence that would indicate that the granting of this variance would lead a reasonable person to conclude that the public health, 43 13 safety and welfare would be endangered or that substantial justice would not be served by such an approval. (12) F. The subdivision variance request, based upon the findings set forth in Conclusion 1 through and including Conclusion 11 of this Report, should be granted. Planning and Zoning Commission Action The Planning and Zoning Commission conducted a public hearing on April 11, 2013 to consider the subdivision variance request. Upon due consideration of the written record and comments provided at the public hearing, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the subdivision variance and recommend same to the City Council. G. Planning and Zoning Commission Recommendation The City Council RATIFY and AFFIRM the Planning and Zoning Commission’s April 11, 2013 grant of a subdivision variance to eliminate the requirement to plat a property legally defined as the “North 40-feet of Lot 295 in Chula Vista Heights Subdivision Unit 2” prior to obtaining city water and sewer service and any building permit-related inspection for the construction of a residential dwelling unit. TRANSMITTED to the parties listed hereafter: Maria Antonia Rodriguez City of Eagle Pass Planning and Zoning Commission via e-mail Planning and Zoning Commission Record of Action dated April 4, 2014 Copies of Attachments are available at City Secretary’s Office. Attachment 1 Attachment 2 Attachment 3 Attachment 4 Attachment 5 44 14 Item #9 45 NO LEASE OR ATTACHMENT CAN BE SIGNED BEFORE THEY HAVE BEEN APPROVED FOR SIGNATURE BY THE ADMINISTRATIVE COUNSEL. The term for a District Office Lease for the 113th Congress may not commence prior to January 3, 2013. Members should endeavor to lease space through the last day of a congressional term rather than the last day of a calendar year. For the 113th Congress, leases should end on January 2, 2015, not December 31, 2014. • The preamble has three blank lines to be filled in: (1) Landlord’s name; (2) Landlord’s address; and (3) Member/Member-Elect’s name. • Section 1 has three blank lines to be filled in: (1) Square footage of office that is being leased (optional); (2) Street address of office being leased; and (3) City, state and ZIP code where office is being leased. • Section 2 has four boxes that can be checked on whether any parking is included in the lease – two of the options each have a blank line to be filled in if the lease includes any assigned and/or unassigned parking spaces. • Section 3 has two blank lines to be filled in: (1) Date lease begins (must be on or after January 3, 2013); and (2) Date lease ends (must be on or before January 2, 2015). • Section 4 has one blank line for the monthly rent amount (write “zero” if no rent is to be paid). • Section 5 has one blank line – the number of days’ notice required for either party to terminate the lease before the end of the term. A standard period is 30 days, but any figure is acceptable. If the lease may not be terminated early, enter “N/A” in this blank. • Sections 1–10, other than filling in the blanks, may not be altered or deleted. • Section 11 has space provided to list any additional lease provisions. • Prior to either party signing a lease, the Member/ Member-Elect must submit the proposed lease, accompanied by a copy of the District Office Lease Attachment for the 113th Congress, to the Administrative Counsel for review and approval. If the proposed terms and conditions of the lease are determined to be in compliance with applicable law and House Rules and Regulations, the Administrative Counsel will notify the Member/Member-Elect that (s)he may proceed with the signing of the lease. Please submit the proposed lease and District Office Lease Attachment either by e-mail in PDF form ([email protected]) or fax (202-225-6999). • The Member/ Member-Elect is required to personally sign the documents. A signed and dated District Office Lease Attachment must accompany this lease. • Once signed by both parties, the Lease and the District Office Lease Attachment must be submitted to the Administrative Counsel for final approval. They may be sent by email in PDF form or faxed to 202-225-6999, but the originals still must be submitted by inter office mail (217 Ford House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515) after emailing or faxing. • If approved, Administrative Counsel will send them to Finance so that payment can begin. If there are errors, you will be contacted and required to correct them before the lease is approved. 46 Pursuant to 2 U.S.C. § 57, and the Regulations of the Committee on House Administration (as modified from time to time by Committee Order) relating to office space in home districts, ___________________ City of Eagle Pass c/o City Manager 100 S. Monroe Street, Eagle Pass, Texas _______________________________, _____________________________________________________ (Landlord’s name) (Landlord’s street address, city, state, ZIP code) Congressman Pete Gallego (“Lessor”), and _________________________________, a Member/Member-Elect of the U.S. House of Representatives (“Lessee”), agree as follows: 1. 142.6 Location. Lessor shall lease to Lessee _____________ square feet of office space located at 100 S. Monroe St. ______________________________________________________________________________ (Office street address) Eagle Pass, TX 78852 in the city, state and ZIP code of __________________________________________. (Office city, state and ZIP) 2. Parking. The Lease includes (please check any and all that apply): □ ____ parking spaces that are assigned ✔ □ ____ parking spaces that are unassigned □ General off-street parking on an as available basis □ No off-street parking 3. Term. Lessee shall have and hold the leased premises for the period beginning January 18 14 January 3, 2015 ________________, 20______ and ending ________________, 20______. The term of this District Office Lease (“LEASE”) may not exceed two years and may not extend beyond January 2, 2015, which is the end of the constitutional term of the Congress to which the Member is elected. 4. $0.00 Rent. The monthly rent shall be ________________, and is payable in arrears on or before the last day of each calendar month. Rent payable under this LEASE shall be prorated on a daily basis for any fraction of a month of occupancy. 5. 30 Early Termination. This Lease may be terminated by either party giving ______ days’ prior written notice to the other party. The commencement date of such termination notice shall be the date such notice is delivered or, if mailed, the date such notice is postmarked. 6. Payments. During the term of this Lease, rent payments under Section 4 shall be remitted to the Lessor by the Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives (“CAO”) on behalf of the Lessee. 7. District Office Lease Attachment for 113th Congress. The District Office Lease Attachment attached hereto is incorporated herein by reference, and this Lease shall have no force or effect unless and until accompanied by an executed District Office Lease Attachment for the 113th Congress. 8. Counterparts. This Lease may be executed in any number of counterparts and by facsimile copy, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same instrument. 47 9. Section Headings. The section headings of this Lease are for convenience of reference only and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions hereof. 10. Modifications. Any amendments, additions or modifications to this Lease inconsistent with Sections 1 through 9 above shall have no force or effect to the extent of such inconsistency. 11. Other. Additionally, the Lessor and the Lessee agree to the following: IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have duly executed this District Office Lease as of the later date written below by the Lessor or the Lessee. Pete P. Gallego ______________________________________ Print Name (Lessor/Landlord) ______________________________________ Print Name (Lessee) ______________________________________ Lessor Signature ______________________________________ Lessee Signature ______________________________________ Date ______________________________________ Date Save January 15, 2014 Print 48 The District Office Lease Attachment (“Attachment”) is a four-page document that must accompany every Lease or District Office Lease Amendment (“Amendment”) that is submitted for a Member/Member-Elect’s District Office. NO LEASE, AMENDMENT OR ATTACHMENT CAN BE SIGNED BEFORE THEY HAVE BEEN APPROVED FOR SIGNATURE BY THE ADMINISTRATIVE COUNSEL. The term of a District Office Lease or Amendment for the 113th Congress may not commence prior to January 3, 2013. Members should endeavor to lease space through the last day of a congressional term rather than the last day of a calendar year. For the 113th Congress, leases should end on January 2, 2015, not December 31, 2014. Four things are required: 1. The signature of the Landlord and date; 2. The signature of the Member/ Member-Elect of Congress and date; 3. Contact information for the person in the Member/ Member-Elect’s office whom we should call if there are any problems or questions (scheduler, etc.); and 4. The signature from the Office of the Administrative Counsel. A few things to keep in mind: • The Member/ Member-Elect is required to personally sign the documents. • The Attachment SHALL NOT have any provisions deleted or changed. • Even if rent is zero, an Attachment is still required. • Prior to either party signing a Lease or Amendment, the Member/ Member-Elect must submit the proposed Lease or Amendment, accompanied by a copy of the Attachment, to the Administrative Counsel for review and approval. If the Administrative Counsel determines that the proposed terms and conditions of the Lease or Amendment are in compliance with applicable law and House Rules and Regulations, the Administrative Counsel will notify the Member/Member-Elect that (s)he may proceed with the execution of the Lease or Amendment. Please submit the proposed Lease or Amendment and Attachment either by e-mail in PDF form ([email protected]) or by fax (202-225-6999). • Once signed by both parties, the Lease or Amendment and the Attachment must be submitted to the Administrative Counsel for final approval. The Attachment should be submitted at the same time the Lease or Amendment is sent to the Administrative Counsel. They may be sent by email in PDF form or faxed to (202-225-6999), but the originals still must be submitted by interoffice mail (217 Ford House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515) after emailing or faxing. • Without a properly signed and submitted Attachment, the Lease or Amendment cannot be approved and payments will not be made. • The parties agree that any charges for default, early termination or cancellation of the Lease or Amendment which result from actions taken by or on behalf of the Lessee shall be the sole responsibility of the Lessee, and are not reimbursable from the Member’s Representational Allowance. 49 1. Incorporated District Office Lease Attachment. Lessor (Landlord) and Lessee (Member/Member-Elect of the U.S. House of Representatives) agree that this District Office Lease Attachment (“Attachment”) is incorporated into and made part of the Lease (“Lease”) and, if applicable, District Office Lease Amendment (“Amendment”) to which it is attached. 2. Performance. Lessor expressly acknowledges that neither the U.S. House of Representatives (“House”) nor its Officers are liable for the performance of the Lease. Lessor further expressly acknowledges that payments made by the Chief Administrative Officer of the House (“CAO”) to Lessor to satisfy Lessee’s rent obligations under the Lease – which payments are made solely on behalf of Lessee in support of his/her official and representational duties as a Member of the House – shall create no legal obligation or liability on the part of the CAO or the House whatsoever. Lessee shall be solely responsible for the performance of the Lease and Lessor expressly agrees to look solely to Lessee for such performance. 3. Modifications. Any amendment to the Lease must be in writing and signed by the Lessor and Lessee. Lessor and Lessee also understand and acknowledge that the Administrative Counsel for the CAO (“Administrative Counsel”) must review and give approval of any amendment to the Lease prior to its execution. 4. Compliance with House Rules and Regulations. Lessor and Lessee understand and acknowledge that the Lease shall not be valid, and the CAO will not authorize the disbursement of funds to the Lessor, until the Administrative Counsel has reviewed the Lease to determine that it complies with the Rules of the House and the Regulations of the Committee on House Administration, and approved the Lease by signing on page 4 of this Attachment. 5. Payments. The Lease is a fixed term lease with monthly installments for which payment is due in arrears on or before the end of each calendar month. In the event of a payment dispute, Lessor agrees to contact the Office of Finance of the House at 202-225-7474 to attempt to resolve the dispute before contacting Lessee. 6. Void Provisions. Any provision in the Lease purporting to require the payment of a security deposit shall have no force or effect. Furthermore, any provision in the Lease purporting to vary the dollar amount of the rent specified in the Lease by any cost of living clause, operating expense clause, pro rata expense clause, escalation clause, or any other adjustment or measure during the term of the Lease shall have no force or effect. 7. Certain Charges. The parties agree that any charge for default, early termination or cancellation of the Lease which results from actions taken by or on behalf of the Lessee shall be the sole responsibility of the Lessee, and shall not be paid by the CAO on behalf of the Lessee. 8. Death, Resignation or Removal. In the event Lessee dies, resigns or is removed from office during the term of the Lease, the Clerk of the House may, at his or her sole option, either: (a) terminate the Lease by giving thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to Lessor; or (b) assume the obligation of the Lease and continue to occupy the premises for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days following the certification of the election of the Lessee’s successor. In the event the Clerk elects to terminate the Lease, the commencement date of such thirty (30) day termination notice shall be the date such notice is delivered to the Lessor or, if mailed, the date on which such notice is postmarked. 50 9. Term. The term of the Lease may not exceed the constitutional term of the Congress to which the Lessee has been elected. The Lease may be signed by the Member-Elect before taking office. Should the Member-Elect not take office to serve as a Member of the 113th Congress, the Lease will be considered null and void. 10. Early Termination. If either Lessor or Lessee terminates the Lease under the terms of the Lease, the terminating party agrees to promptly file a copy of any termination notice with the Office of Finance, U.S. House of Representatives, B-245 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515, and with the Administrative Counsel, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer, U.S. House of Representatives, 217 Ford House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515. 11. Notification upon Occurrence of Certain Events. Lessor agrees to promptly notify Lessee in writing in the event Lessor sells, transfers, or otherwise disposes of the leased premises; in the event Lessor is placed in bankruptcy proceedings (whether voluntarily or involuntarily); in the event the leased premises is foreclosed upon; or in the event of any similar occurrence. Lessee shall promptly file a copy of any such notice with the Office of Finance, U.S. House of Representatives, B-245 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515. 12. Estoppel Certificates. Lessee agrees to sign an estoppel certificate relating to the leased premises (usually used in instances when the Lessor is selling or refinancing the building) upon the request of the Lessor. Such an estoppel certificate shall not require the review and approval of the Administrative Counsel. 13. Maintenance of Common Areas. Lessor agrees to maintain in good order, at its sole expense, all public and common areas of the building including, but not limited to, all sidewalks, parking areas, lobbies, elevators, escalators, entryways, exits, alleys and other like areas. 14. Maintenance of Structural Components. Lessor also agrees to maintain in good order, repair or replace as needed, at its sole expense, all structural and other components of the premises including, but not limited to, roofs, ceilings, walls (interior and exterior), floors, windows, doors, foundations, fixtures, and all mechanical, plumbing, electrical and air conditioning/heating systems or equipment (including window air conditioning units provided by the Lessor) serving the premises. 15. Lessor Liability for Failure to Maintain. Lessor shall be liable for any damage, either to persons or property, sustained by Lessee or any of his or her employees or guests, caused by Lessor’s failure to fulfill its obligations under Sections 13 and 14. 16. Initial Alterations. Lessor shall make any initial alterations to the leased premises to prepare the leased premises for Tenant’s initial occupancy thereof, as requested by Lessee and subject to Lessor’s consent, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. The cost of such initial alterations shall be included in the annual rental rate. 17. Federal Tort Claims Act. Lessor agrees that the Federal Tort Claims Act, 28 U.S.C. §§ 267180, satisfies any and all obligations on the part of the Lessee to purchase private liability insurance. Lessee shall not be required to provide any certificates of insurance to Lessor. 51 18. Limitation of Liability. Lessor agrees that neither Lessee nor the House nor any of the House’s officers or employees will indemnify or hold harmless Lessor against any liability of Lessor to any third party that may arise during or as a result of the Lease or Lessee’s tenancy. 19. Compliance with Laws. Lessor shall be solely responsible for complying with all applicable permitting and zoning ordinances or requirements, and with all local and state building codes, safety codes and handicap accessibility codes (including the Americans with Disabilities Act), both in the common areas of the building and the leased space of the Lessee. 20. Electronic Funds Transfer. Lessor agrees to accept monthly rent payments by Electronic Funds Transfer and agrees to provide the Office of Finance, U.S. House of Representatives, with all banking information necessary to facilitate such payments. 21. Refunds. Lessor shall promptly refund to the CAO, without formal demand, any payment made to the Lessor by the CAO for any period for which rent is not owed because the Lease has ended or been terminated. 22. Conflict. Should any provision of this Attachment be inconsistent with any provision of the attached Lease or attached Amendment, the provisions of this Attachment shall control, and those inconsistent provisions of the Lease or the Amendment shall have no force and effect to the extent of such inconsistency. 23. Construction. Unless the clear meaning requires otherwise, words of feminine, masculine or neuter gender include all other genders and, wherever appropriate, words in the singular include the plural and vice versa. 24. Fair Market Value. The Lease or Amendment is entered into at fair market value as the result of a bona fide, arms-length, marketplace transaction. The Lessor and Lessee certify that the parties are not relatives nor have had, or continue to have, a professional or legal relationship (except as a landlord and tenant). 25. District Certification. The Lessee certifies that the office space that is the subject of the Lease is located within the district the Lessee was elected to represent unless otherwise authorized by Regulations of the Committee on House Administration. 26. Counterparts. This Attachment may be executed in any number of counterparts and by facsimile copy, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall be deemed to be one and the same instrument. 27. Section Headings. The section headings of this Attachment are for convenience of reference only and shall not be deemed to limit or affect any of the provisions hereof. [Signature page follows.] 52 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have duly executed this District Office Lease Attachment as of the later date written below by the Lessor or the Lessee. ______________________________________ Print Name (Lessor) Pete P. Gallego ______________________________________ Print Name (Lessee) ______________________________________ Lessor Signature ______________________________________ Lessee Signature ______________________________________ Date January 15, 2014 ______________________________________ Date From the Member’s Office, who is the point of contact for questions? Rene Munoz 202 225-4511 rene.munoz Name_____________________ Phone (_____) __________ E-mail [email protected] This District Office Lease Attachment and the attached Lease or Amendment have been reviewed and are approved, pursuant to Regulations of the Committee on House Administration. Signed _________________________________________________ Date ________________________, 20______. (Administrative Counsel) Save Print 53