Extracted Council Minutes

I. PETITION FOR INCORPORATION -- 27 MAR 1963

[Ed. note -- To be recognized by the courts the petition for incorporation needed to be signed by 10% of the qualified voters (in communities of 200+ and less than 1000) and the area not exceeding 2 square miles. This petition also requested an election to elect a mayor and two commissioners to serve until the "first Tuesday in April of 1964." The undersigned constitutes the required 10% of the population within the 2 square mile area.]

Coke H. MartinFloyd Tinsley

Mrs. T. C. WitcherMrs. Coke H. Martin

Tinsley Naomi GrubbsR. E. Boubel

Mrs. R.E. JohnsonCurby H. Mirike

J. V. GibsonAaron Hays

Oscar E. KitchensMrs. J.V. Gibson

G. H. SteadmanNelma M. Kitchens

T.W. Grubbs, Jr.W.T. Self

Mrs. B.H. BaileyDurwin Dill

J.H. DillCharlotte Mindlin

T.C. WitcherMrs. J. H. Dill

J.D. St. ClairMrs. Floyd

Mrs. J.D. St. ClairMrs. Mary Ann Boubel

W. W. Starkman[sic]Mrs. Aaron Hays

B.H. BaileyA.J. Green

Mrs. G.H.SteadmanMrs. Curby Mirike

II. GRANTING OF PETITION AND ELECTION -- 29 MARCH 1963.

County Judge Gabe T. Vick granted the petition and appointed J. D. St. Clair and G. H. Steadman as election judges with Mrs. G.H. Steadman and Mary Ann Boubel as clerks to assist with election. The election was to be held in the "Club House*" to determine whether or not the territory "shall be incorporated for municipal purposes as a Town, under the Commission form of government, and also...for the purpose of electing a Mayor and two Commissioners..." It was also ordered that the election was to be held on 29 April 1963, and the ballots should read "FOR COMMISSION" and "AGAINST COMMISSION".

Of the ballot returns, 29 votes were cast for, 12 votes against, and 4 were void. The vote to form a town was "decided by a majority of 17". Elected to mayor was J.D. St. Clair and the two elected commissioners were W. E. "Tony" Self and T. W. Grubbs.

The Commission of Willow Park, Texas and mayor and two commissioners was ordered by County Judge Gabe T. Vick on 10 October 1963

The first duty of Mayor St. Clair and the commissioners was to certify the election results.

14 October 1963 - Comm. Grubbs motioned the office of Town Secretary/Treasurer which passed by unanimous vote. He also motioned that Mrs. Mary Ann Boubel be appointed Town Secy/Treas. and that set meetings be established on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the "Club House".

*The Club House was located at 201 Ranch House Road. It was probably built around 1935 and is still standing today and is being used as a private residence. It originally served as a fishing lodge for the property owner (W. C. Stripling) who brought friends from near and far to enjoy the various entertainments. Some even flew in and landed on a landing strip nearby next to the Beggs Ranch. It later served as the site for town meetings when the development was in its infancy. Prior to its being bought and made into a private residence by Stephen Bolton in 1979, it also served as a meeting place for the Willow Park Church of Christ and later as a meeting place for the Willow Park Baptist Church. While renovating, Mr. Bolton found many old playbills and scraps of paper between the walls of the original lodge and subsequent additions. This helped to date the property.

21 October 1963 - The meeting was called to order and O. P. Leonard, Sr. and children petitioned to have more land annexed into the city which was approved unanimously. Commissioners also unanimously granted consent of Brazos River Gas easements throughout the town to lay gas lines, and passed an ordinance fixing natural gas rates at $1.75 per 1000 cubic feet and $1.50 per month meter charge. Commissioners next granted access to Texas Electric Service Co. They heard requests of several property owners to be de-annexed which they accepted. Following that, they heard and accepted a letter of resignation from T. W. Grubbs who is "no longer a resident" of the town. Commissioner Self then moved that G. W. Stevens be appointed to serve the unexpired term of T. W. Grubb.

21 November 1963 - The meeting was called to order and the Commissioners established First National Bank of Weatherford as the designated bank to hold the town's checking account. The council then passed an ordinance establishing annual rental fees (franchise taxes) for utility companies using streets/highways in the town (2% per gross receipts derived from the sale of utility services) due on April 1 of each succeeding year at 6% interest. Tarrant Utilities Company (represented by Leland Hodges - son- in-law of O.P. Leonard) requested, and was granted the right to build and operate a sewer system and to furnish and distribute an "adequate supply of water to inhabitants". A committee was established (O.E. Kitchens, W. W. Sparkman, and L.E. Boubel) to study gas line proposals.

18 December 1963 – All present. Mayor St. Clair recognized Comm. Stevens to give the recommendation of the committee studying the franchise ordinance regarding gas service. A motion by Comm. Self gave the franchise solely to Brazos River Gas, denying a request by Tarrant Utility Co. simultaneously. The motion passed unanimously.

20 January 1964 – All present. Comm. Stevens made a motion regarding the purchase of refreshments and postage for a community gathering on 27 Jan 1964 at the Clubhouse. The motion passed unanimously.

17 February 1964 – All present. Present. Comm. Self proposed a resolution and motion for a 7 April election of mayor and 2 commissioners. The motion passed unanimously. Comm. Self proposed a motion to reimburse Secretary Boubel $8.48 for refreshments. The motion passed unanimously. Secy. Boubel presented a communication from Tarrant Utility Co. which included a check for $1.94 (2% of gross water sales from 21 Nov through 31 Dec.) The report was approved unanimously and filed. Comm. Self made a motion to suspend the required reading of new ordinances under the emergency clause. The motion was approved unanimously. The ordinances annexing several new parcels of land owned separately by O. P. Leonard and J. R. Neil were passed unanimously.

16 March 1964 – All present. Comm. Stevens made a motion to suspend the required reading of new ordinances under the emergency clause. The motion was approved unanimously. The ordinance establishing Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. as the town's phone company with all accompanying responsibilities including franchise fees was passed. The ordinance establishing Texas Electric Service Co. as the town’s electric service with all accompanying responsibilities including franchise fees was passed. A letter of resignation from Mayor St. Clair was read and accepted in order for him to run as a commissioner in the upcoming April election. The motion passed unanimously. A motion was made and accepted for J. Howard Dill to be appointed Election Judge for the April election. A motion was made and accepted for Harold Coney to be reimbursed for his notary bond and filing fee of $6.00. The Secretary-Treasurer presented the town balance to date as $43.46. Comm. Stevens made a motion that Aledo ISD Superintendent Charles McAnally be invited to make a presentation regarding the proposed School Bond and Election to be held in Aledo on 4 Apr 1964. The motion passed.

9 April 1964 - After the call to order and approval of minutes the Commissioners elected J.D. St. Clair as Mayor, and W.E. (Tony) Self and J.C. Gilliland as Commissioners. The regular meeting date was changed to the 3rd Monday of each month.

18 May 1964 - Following the call to order and approval of minutes, Willow Park Commissioners voted to join the Texas Municipal League. Mayor St. Clair verbally offered his resignation (due to ill health) to be formally offered again at the next regular meeting.

15 June 1964 - Following the call to order and approval of minutes, the Commissioners accepted the Mayor's resignation and Commissioner Gilliland moved to appoint G. W. Stevens as Mayor for the unexpired term. Mrs. M. H. Cuthbertson presented a plat for Clear Fork Estates along with a proposed water franchise for the Clear Fork Water Company.

20 July 1964 - First on the agenda, a letter of concern was presented by Mayor Stevens from Ralph Darling, President of the Willow Park Civic League. Their concerns centered around the following issues: fire protection, burning regulations, highway billboard restrictions, trash dumping, and animal control. Appointed to a "Planning Committee" to study the requests were Comm. Gilliland (who was elected Chairman), Ralph E. Darling, and H. G. Knutson.

17 August 1964 - After the call to order and approval of the minutes, a report from the Planning Committee was requested. The main outcome of the study was that a building site would be needed for a fire hall and that Block 27 (at the southwest corner of Ranch House Rd. and Stagecoach Rd. might be a good location. Dumping on Blocks 31 and 32 could be eliminated after a new dumping ground is made available. The other areas of concern -- burning, building, billboard and animal control -- could be addressed in yet to be protective covenants.

19 October 1964 - The meeting was called to order and a Building and Moving Permits ordinance was presented and accepted by the Commissioners. Claude Mason was appointed the first Town Marshall. Ralph Darling was appointed as the Town Inspector and Town Engineer.

16 November 1964 - Following the call to order and approval of minutes, a motion was made and passed for The Weatherford Democrat to be the official publication for the Town of Willow Park. A building permit fee was established by Commissioners at $1.00 for a copy of the ordinance, and a $5 construction fee.

21 December 1964 - Following the call to order and reading of the minutes, several ordinances were read and the Secretary reported the City's cash balance as $90.51.

18 January 1965 - The meeting was called to order, minutes were read and accepted, and Ralph Darling, Town Engineer, presented a map of the Willow Park area and requested for it to be considered as the "official map" of the town. A motion was made to have all dog owners register vaccinated animals and dog tags would be furnished by the City.

15 February 1965 - Following the call to order and reading of the minutes, the Secretary (Mary Ann Boubel) presented 100 dog tags and links along with a bill for $8.40. Later her letter of resignation was read, but eventually rejected by the Commissioners. A dog ordinance was presented and passed and the Town Secretary was ordered to "maintain and keep a record of all dog tags issued..."

15 March 1965 - After the call to order and reading of the minutes, Mayor Stevens and Commissioner Self rejected the resignation of the Town Secretary. The Commissioners received a remittance of a 2% franchise tax from Texas Electric Service Company for $167.97. The Secretary presented the City's balance on hand of $246.03.

19 April 1965 - Following the call to order and reading of the minutes [it should be noted here that all were present, including the Town Secretary Mrs. Boubel who wished to resign], Commissioner Self presented a motion for the purchase of a filing cabinet and lock box. The Commission accepted a check for franchise tax from Brazos River Gas for $26.14. The Secretary reported the City's balance as $272.17.

17 May 1965 - All were reported present for the call to order and reading of the minutes. A franchise tax check for $23.53 was presented from Tarrant Utilities Company. Also a check for $13.51 was presented from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company.

21 June 1965 - Although Mayor Stevens was absent, the Commissioners constituted a quorum and continued to conduct business. They approved bills for a Notary Bond and Filing Fee for the Town Secretary ($9), postage and lock for desk ($2), and a desk and filing cabinet ($10.20). A motion by Commissioner Gilliland was passed for stamps and postcards to be purchased when needed. They also voted to pay Ralph Darling, Town Engineer, $23.28 for maps and a photo negative of the Willow Park area.

19 July 1965 - All members were present except for Town Secretary Mary Ann Boubel, and following the call to order and reading and acceptance of the minutes, Commissioner Self presented a motion to discontinue the City's membership in the Texas Municipal League. The Mayor and Commissioners reviewed a letter from the lawyers of Jack Porter who owned land southwest of Willow Park, regarding sewage from septics flowing into a ditch under the highway into a ravine which flowed into the Clear Fork of the Trinity River and killing a cow that cost $175. The Commissioners authorized that a water sample be taken.

16 August 1965 - Once again all were reported present except for the Town Secretary. Following the call to order and passing of the minutes, the Mayor reported that Tarrant County officials would be making an analysis of the water. No further business was conducted.

11 September 1965 - All were present at this called meeting including the Town Secretary, and following the call to order and reading of the minutes, a request by G. L. Cudd for a building permit to add on to his residence was approved unanimously.

20 September 1965 - All members were reported present except Secretary Boubel, and the minutes were read following the call to order by Mayor Stevens. The Mayor stated that Mr. Roy Cypert, Health Engineer of Tarrant County, had advised the Town Commissioners to "let the burden of proof lie with the supposed injured party in regard to any possible water contamination."

16 October 1965 - All members were present for this called meeting including the Secretary. Mr. Clarence Lewis presented an application for a building permit to build a residence on Chuck Wagon Trail. The request was passed unanimously.

18 October 1965 -Although Commissioner Gilliland was absent, the Mayor and Commissioner Self conducted business as usual. Secretary Boubel presented a cash balance of $273.62. The Mayor stated that dog vaccinations would be required and that Dr. W. H. Wohler, Jr. would be present on 23 October from 10:00 a.m. until 12 p.m. for a fee of $2. The secretary was requested to notify citizens of same.

20 October 1965 - All were present for the called meeting and Mr. L. L. Johnson presented an application for a building permit which was passed unanimously.

15 November 1965 - The Town Secretary was absent for this regular meeting but all others were present. Following the call to order and reading of the minutes, Commissioner Self made a motion that the Town Commission give support to the development of a Volunteer Fire Department. A motion to reimburse R. E. Darling for $50.20 for labor, materials, and repair of a pumping unit placed on the VFD fire truck was passed. The balance on hand was presented as $289.62.

20 December 1965 - The regular monthly meeting was cancelled by the Mayor.

17 January 1966 - All were present and following the call to order and reading of the minutes, Mrs. M. S. Cuthbertson presented a plat of 45 lots with protective covenants for approval of the Clear Fork Estates; she also presented a franchise plan for water from the Clear Fork Service Co. for consideration. Both were tabled for further study, phraseology and clarification corrections. J. E. Morrison asked for an opinion from the Town Commission in regards to a gas franchise which might be submitted by the Tarrant Utility Co. A letter of thanks from Secretary Boubel was read. It thanked the Commission for the Christmas greeting and gift certificate. Next a motion was made for the Mayor to be reimbursed for same. Secretary Boubel reported a cash balance of $239.42. The Commissioners received franchise fees of $26.68 from Tarrant Utility Co.

21 February 1966 - All members were reported present and the minutes read and accepted. The Commissioners tabled for reconsideration the corrected Clear Fork Water franchise ordinance presented by Mrs. M. S. Cuthbertson. An application for a building permit from Milner G. Duvall was presented, but Town Engineer Ralph Darling recommended the Commissioners not approve it until the road to his property be brought up to standard. Commissioner Self also moved that the permit also not be granted until a plat and floor elevation be presented as well. The Secretary presented a bill from Bennett's Mobile Service for 15 gallons of gas, battery, and tax ($14.05) for the Volunteer Fire Department truck which was then approved. She then reported a cash balance of $251.35. The Mayor then read a communication from the Texas Highway Department about the location of the new highway Interstate 20 from approximately 7.5 miles east of Weatherford to the present U.S. Highway 80 west of Mary's Creek with attachments of the area map and the new highway superimposed. Hearing dates and locations were stated as well.

25 February 1966 - All were present for this called meeting. Commissioner Self made a motion for a resolution calling for an election to be held on 5 April 1966 at the Club House and Mrs. G. L. Cudd to be Presiding Judge "who shall select 2 judges and 2 clerks to assist". Qualified voters were to be those who had lived in the town for 6 months preceding the election. The Mayor was requested to then direct that a notice of such be posted in three public places for 30 days. A motion was made by Commissioner Self that Mayor Stevens be reimbursed for a battery charger for the VFD truck ($15.25) which passed.

21 March 1966 - All members were present except for Secretary Boubel. Following the call to order and reading of the minutes, the Commissioners approved the annual reports of Texas Electric Service Co., and accepted checks for the franchise tax amount of $161.37 and Brazos River Gas Co. tax of $39.30. Bills for gas and oil for the fire truck ($5.16) and $15.00 to Shirley Peters for typing were approved. They then rejected again a plat of Clear Fork Estates due to the routing of Interstate Highway 20. They approved a building permit for Milner Duvall.

6 April 1966 - All members were present for this special meeting and the votes for the preceding election were canvassed. Elected were Mayor G.W. Stevens, and Commissioners W.E. Self, and J. C. Gilliland. A motion by Commissioner Self to pay the Town Secretary a fee of $5.00 per month was passed.

18 April 1966 - All were present for this regular meeting and following the roll call and reading of the minutes, the Mayor presented a building permit application to build a shed on his property which the Commission approved. The Commission then accepted a letter of resignation from Town Secretary Boubel. They approved the franchise tax from Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. of $11.21. The Town Secretary presented a balance of $402.52.

16 May 1966 - All were present and following the reading of the minutes, bills for the fire truck were approved (parts and labor -- $46.17 and $23.19). Commissioner Gilliland moved that Mrs. Daphne Duvall be appointed Town Secretary which passed unanimously. The Commissioners approved the purchase of a notary seal from Mary Ann Boubel. A building permit for H.J. Mixson to build a house was approved. The cash balance of $402.52 was presented.

20 June 1966 - The new Town Secretary Mrs. Daphne Duvall was absent, but following the call to order Commissioner Gilliland served as Secretary "Pro Tem" and Mayor Stevens stated that a letter of resignation from Mrs. Duvall was to be expected.

8 July 1966 - Commissioner Self was absent from this called meeting. Mayor Stevens and Commissioner Gilliland heard a petition from Mr. O.P. Leonard for the city to annex an additional 160 acres into the city.

18 July 1966 - All were present, the minutes accepted and the balance presented as $338.09. Building permits for B.J. Robinson and T.R. Wigley were approved.

15 August 1966 - All were present, minutes were approved and a building permit for E. R. Chandler was approved. A public hearing on annexation was held on 29 July 1966 with no objections noted.

19 September 1966 - All were present and following the reading and acceptance of the minutes the mayor read a letter from City of Weatherford attorney Harry Hopkins regarding the portion of land to be annexed which lies within Weatherford's ET J and Weatherford does not wish to relinquish rights. The Commission then reviewed and accepted a letter of resignation from City Secretary Mrs. Milner Duvall. Commission then appointed and voted on Mr. H. G. Knutson as Secretary -Treasurer. Commissioner Self proposed a motion to buy a cord of wood for heating.

17 October 1966 - All were present and the minutes were approved. Mayor Stevens announced that E. C. Cantrell of Everman, TX will provide refuse service for $1.75 a month providing cans are left on the street.

21 November 1966 - Mayor Stevens recommended that Mr. Self be reimbursed for one cord of wood for $20. Then $17 was received from Vernon Adams for a building permit. A plat was presented by the Progressive Development Co. for approval -- "La Guna [sic] Estates". Commissioner Self requested approval following the completion of several additions and changes.

26 December 1966 - All were present except the Town Secretary. The Commission approved the plat of "La Guna [sic] Estates". Next they approved payment to Bennett's Mobile Service of $5.34 for oil and gas for the Volunteer Fire Department truck.

16 January 1967 - All were present; minutes were read and accepted. The commission approved $20 payment to Mrs. Peters for typing services rendered. They received a franchise tax check from Tarrant Utility Co. for $13.73.

20 February 1967 - All were present and minutes were approved. Mayor Stevens discussed the feasibility of the Parker Co. Water and Sewer Survey.

3 March 1967 - All were present at this called meeting to consider support of House Bill 164 of the Texas Legislature and sending letters to Sen. Tom Holmes and Sen. Tom Creighton: "An act to provide for the creation of special improvement districts within this state under and by virtue of Art. 3, Sec. 52 of the constitution, to be known as Municipal Special Improvement Districts, for the purpose of construction, maintaining and operating macadamized, graveled, or paved roads and turnpikes"

20 March 1967 - All were present and following approval of the minutes, Mayor Stevens read letters of response from Sen. Holmes and Sen. Creighton, both of whom agreed to support HB 164. The mayor reported on a recent fire in Willow Park. Secretary reported receipt of franchise taxes: TESCO. $183.87; Brazos River Gas - $41.59.

17 April 1967 - All were present and the minutes were approved. Mr. Holeyfield and Mr. L. H. Manning of Tri-County Electric of Azle, TX discussed the flexibility of an electric franchise. No decision was reached following the discussion. Mayor Stevens presented a letter from County Judge Bill Ward and requested the Commissioners' objections to the resolution proposed in regards to the Comprehensive County Plan.

1 May 1967 - All were present at this special meeting except the Secretary. This meeting was called to grant 3 building permits: 2 to Lee W. Rogers ($15 and $20), and one to E. L. Trimble ($16.70).

15 May 1967 - All were present and the minutes were approved. Mr. Manning and Mr. W. Casparis of Tro- County Electric Co. attended. Comm. Self moved to table the application for electric franchise presented by Tri-County Electric Co. Mayor Stevens then read a letter from Bill Ward, Parker Co. County Judge, regarding the County Comprehensive Plan and selection "of Mr. Sturdivant of Springtown as representative of one other governmental body as expressed by the Federal requirements." The Mayor then presented a letter of response to the Federal Housing Assn. still disagreeing with the manner Parker County used to establish its County Comprehensive Planning Commission. Portions of "La Guna Estates" plats were rejected for various reasons. Comm. Self motioned to pay the Town Engineer $5 per month for services rendered which passed.

22 May 1967 - This special meeting was called for approval of "La Guna[sic] Estates". Comm. Gilliland and the Town Secretary were absent. The plat was approved.

19 June 1967 - Regular meeting was called to order with Comm. Gilliland absent; minutes were approved and the Secretary reported a balance of $579.44. No further business.

5 July 1967 - All members were present at this called meeting. The Commission proposed and passed a resolution that TESCO service the town's electric utility solely following the termination of Tri-County's service to a small portion of the city on 14 October 1973 at which time Tri-County would be expected to remove their facilities serving Willow Park. Comm. Gilliland moved that salaries of the Town Secretary and Town Engineer be raised to $10 per month which passed. Comm. Gilliland proposed the suspension of rules for presentation of ordinances due to an emergency situation and proposed a comprehensive sub- division ordinance.

17 July 1967 - Mayor Stevens and Comm. Gilliland were absent at this regular meeting; no quorum; no business.

21 August 1967 - Comm. Gilliland was absent at the regular meeting; minutes were approved and the balance was presented -- $672.55. No further business.

18 September 1967 - All were present at this regular meeting; minutes were read and accepted. Mayor Stevens reported receipt from Tarrant Utility Co. for the first half of 1967 -- $13.65. The bank balance was reported at $638.20.

16 October 1967 - All were present at this regular meeting and the minutes were read and accepted. The Commissioners discussed the need for an Occupancy Ordinance, but no action was taken. The bank balance was reported at $690.85.

13 November 1967 - Comm. Gilliland and the Town Secretary were absent from this regular meeting. The Mayor read the corrected sub-division ordinance. No further business was conducted.

20 November 1967 - Following the call to order and the reading of the minutes, Mr. Ralph Darling reported on the preliminary work of the Planning Ordinance. The Secretary reported on the receipt of mercury vapor lamp rates. The Commission allowed a building permit for W. H. Grace - $17.64. Mr. Richardson reported having an analysis made of the present water and reported it as acceptable to State standards. Mr. Hand of Weatherford was provided a copy of the Subdivision Ordinance.

18 December 1967 - Although the Mayor was absent, all others were present and following the call to order and reading of the minutes, Commission Gilliland motioned that $20 be sent to Mrs. Peters for typing services rendered, which passed. Secy. Knutson presented a bill from The Weatherford Democrat for the legal notice of the Subdivision Ordinance - $44.97.

15 January 1968 - All were present at this regular meeting and following the reading and acceptance of the minutes, the Secretary-Treasurer reported a balance on 1 January 1967 of $366.54 and balance on 31 December 1967 of $767.04. The year-end balance was $1024.79 which included franchise fees of $370.74, building permits of $284.24, plus miscellaneous. A motion was passed regarding dog vaccinations. The Secretary presented a list of all building permits since the City's incorporation. [See list following:]

Building Permits Since Incorporation:
* 4. C. C. Lewis $ 17.89
5. W. M. Johnson 14.25
* 7. M. Duval 5.00
8. G. Stevens 5.00
9. H. Mixson 32.00
10. L. Cudd 5.00
* 14. E. R. Chandler 18.90
15. Vernon Adams 17.00
16. L. W. Rogers 35.00
17. L. W. Rogers [no entry]
18. M. G. Lee 16.70
19. L. W. Rogers 20.00
20. D. Lynch $ 20.00
21. R. Odom 19.35
22. C. K. Alford 18.00
23. W. T. Hardie 19.91
24. W.H. Grace 17.64
25. L. W. Rogers 25.00 
26. L. W. Rogers 25.00
27. Z. L. Simpson 16.00
28. D. J. Lynch 18.00
29. M. H. Boyles 14.84
30. R. E. Lawson 18.80
31. W. M. Curtis 19.50 
*[No explanation for gap in numbering system.]

19 February 1968 - All were present and the minutes were read and accepted. Mayor Stevens read a letter of resignation for City Secretary Knutson which was accepted. Franchise tax receipts included Tarrant Utility Co. for the second half of 1967 ($17.03) and Brazos River Gas Co. ($43.99). Comm. Gilliland proposed a resolution for calling an election on 6 April 1968 at the Club House. A Presiding Election Judge was appointed (Mrs. G. L. Cudd) plus approval of 2 selected clerks. Qualified voters would be those who had lived here for 6 months prior to election. A resolution was to be posted at 3 public places for 30 days prior to the election.

18 March 1968 - The Mayor and two Commissioners were present for the meeting and the minutes were read and accepted. Comm. Gilliland served as Secretary Pro Tem. Franchise tax was received from TESCO ($235.98). Mayor Stevens announced a dog vaccination to be held at the city Club House on 23 March 1968 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Regarding the coming election, running for Mayor would be Curby Mirick and G. W. Stevens. Running for Commissioners were Ralph Darling, W. E. (Tony) Self, Z. C. Baker, and W. W. Sparkman. A motion was made by Tony Self for an "Increased allowance for expenses incurred in conducting the Town's business."

8 April 1968 - This special meeting was called to canvass the votes of the election. All were present. Comm. Self served as Secretary Pro Tem. G. W. Stevens was elected Mayor and W. E. Self and Ralph Darling were elected Commissioners.

15 April 1968 - All members were present and minutes were read and accepted. Receipt of franchise tax from SW Bell ($76.96) was reported. Comm. Self made a motion for Mrs. Edna Grace to be appointed Secretary-Treasurer. It was approved.

2 May 1968 - Comm. Tony Self was absent for this special meeting which was called to consider joining the Parker Co. Regional Planning Commission which was being activated for the purpose of county-wide planning of water and sewer needs and resources. The Commission created a Regional Planning Commission for Parker Co. and the City's representatives were to be G. W. Stevens and R. E. Darling.

20 May 1968 - All members were present for this regular meeting. A bill for Notary Bond and Filing Fee of $9 was presented and accepted. Comm. Self made a motion to set up a petty cash fund which was approved unanimously. Comm. Darling made a motion which was approved to renew the City's membership with the Texas Municipal League. Comm. Darling made a motion to appoint a committee to canvass the residents to determine street sign needs on Ranch House Rd. -- type and locality. An appointed committee included Mr. Lee, Mr. Barton, and Mr. McConnell.

11 June 1968 - All were present for the regular monthly meeting and following the reading of the minutes the Commission entertained a report from M. G. Lee on street signs. Comm. Darling made a motion to spend up to $100 on signs. A notation was made in the minutes that Mayor Stevens attended the initial meeting of the Parker Co. Planning Commission.

28 June 1968 - At this called meeting all were present except for the Town Secretary. Commissioner Darling served as Secretary Pro Tem. The meeting was called to discuss the application for a building permit by Progressive Development Co. (0. L. Pounds, Manager) and construction of unapproved streets north and northeast of Laguna Vista Estates and unanimous denial of same with letter to be sent to applicant and copy to Talley and Karnes Construction Co.

15 July 1968 - Comm. Self was absent at this regular meeting. No new business or motions were passed.

19 August 1968 - All were present and following the reading and acceptance of the minutes, the meeting was adjourned with no new business or motions.

16 September 1968 - The Town Secretary was absent at this regular meeting and Comm. Darling acted as Secretary Pro Tem. The minutes were read and approved. A financial report showed a balance of $962.24. Mr. Z. C. Baker and Comm. Darling reported on the status of the road sign project: signs were purchased and signposts were delivered; arrangements were made for assembly and installation and drilling of post holes; Mr. Baker would be organizing a crew of volunteers to complete the job. Comm. Darling reported on the coordination with developers regarding revisions of subdivision ordinances. Major points of issue were reviewed by Bob Brown of Brown and Davies Engineering Co. (consultants to the Progressive Development Co.) and Mr. R. L. McClure.

21 October 1968 - All were present and the minutes were read and accepted. Comm. Darling made a motion to suspend rules which required ordinances be read at more than one separate meeting. That motion passed along with a new ordinance adopting the thoroughfare standards portion of the Comprehensive Plan for Development of the Town of Willow Park which clarified and delineated the specific requirements for thoroughfares in and around the Town of Willow Park. Then Mr. Bob Brown presented a plat for further development in the Laguna Vista Estates. Comm. Darling made a motion for tentative approval of the plat.

17 November 1968 - All were present and following the reading and approval of the minutes the meeting was adjourned and no further business was conducted.

16 December 1968 - All were present and following the reading and approval of the minutes Mayor Stevens presented a report on the telephone rates for the Town of Willow Park. Bob Brown then presented a preliminary plat of Laguna Vista Estates. Comm. Darling made a motion to approve and it was passed unanimously. Comm. Darling made a motion that they express their thanks to Mr. Ferguson, Mr. Baker, and Mr. Kitchens for erection of the Town's traffic signs. Comm. Self then made a motion that a Christmas gift of $25 be sent to Mrs. Peters as appreciation for her typing services. Both motions passed unanimously.

20 January 1969 - Freese, Nichols & Endress Engineering firm was placed on retainer for their services to the City.

17 February 1969 - The Mayor read a letter of acceptance from Freese, Nichols & Endress Engineering firm.

17 March 1969 - A letter of complaint dated 17 Feb. 1969 to Mr. Dick Richardson, President of Tarrant Utilities regarding rates and lack of provision and requiring his attendance at a meeting was read into the record. A letter back to the City donating ten acres of land to be used for a City Hall, fire station, and park on the corner of Ranch House Rd. and Stagecoach Trail from O. P. Leonard was read. It also included land for location of another fire station north of "the big tank on the hill."

21 April 1969 - The final plat for the remaining portion of Laguna Vista was approved.

19 May 1969 - A savings account for the City was begun with the transfer of $1800. The first discussion of "taxes to provide support of highway maintenance and police enforcement" were brought before the council.

[No record of a meeting in June of 1969 was in the minute books.]

21 July 1969 - The council established the Municipal Maintenance Ordinance which authorized the Mayor of the City to execute agreements with the State of Texas for maintenance, control, supervision, and regulation of state highways within the city limits of Willow Park.

18 August 1969 - A rate increase for Tarrant Utilities Company was approved.

15 September 1969 - Mayor Stevens resigned citing work obligation conflicts. Commissioner Darling was appointed to fill his unexpired term. Mr. Bob Brown, Manager of Republic Land Co. presented a proposed plat for Villa Verde Subdivision, proposed for mobile homes. Mayor Darling appointed a water committee to investigate complaints against Tarrant Utility Co. water system franchise. Members included AI Rice, Claude Baker, Ralph Darling, and Chairman Gilbert Marsh.

20 October 1969 - The Squaw Creek West subdivision was approved. Further discussion was held on the Villa Verde Subdivision which was to be 492 small lots open to mobile homes and conventional construction.

25 October 1969 - This called meeting was for the purpose of creating a Planning and Zoning Commission. Five members were appointed with 3 year terms. Also the council established a building permit ordinance and emergency zoning ordinance. They also designated the Aledo Aristocrat as the official paper for publishing notices of city business. In further business the Republic Land Company's plat of Villa Verde Subdivision was rejected.

17 November 1969 - Members appointed to the first Planning and Zoning Commission included AI Rice (3 year term), Bob Phillips (3 years), Gene Ward (2 years), J. C. Gilliland (1 year), Michael Lee (2 years). An ordinance was passed to repeal the franchise previously given to Tarrant Utility Company for installation and operation of a sewer system.

15 December 1969 - Several reports were heard by the Council. Water Commission Chairman Gil Marsh reported that booster pumps had been added to Laguna Vista wells, but that the chlorine level was "so excessive as to burn the nose and throat." Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman Bob Phillips reported on a public hearing and presented maps. Mayor Darling presented the first reading of an ordinance proposed by General Dynamics Recreation Association for the use of a street right-of-way for a water line to carry raw water from Lake Weatherford to Squaw Creek Reservoir for the purpose of maintaining a constant water level.

19 January 1970 - The Council heard the second reading of the ordinance giving GDRA right-of-way for a water line to Squaw Creek Reservoir. The regular meeting date was changed to 9:00 a.m. on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Following discussion, the Council passed an ordinance requiring the election of officers for the town. The Council heard a motion for a 1 % local sales and use tax.

21 February 1970 – All were present and previous minutes were read and accepted.  Mayor Darling gave the 3rd reading of an ordinance proposed by General Dynamics Recreation Assn. for the use of street right of ways to lay a water line to carry water to the Squaw Creek Reservoir.  An ordinance calling for a 4 April election of city officers and the adoption of a sales tax was passed.

21 March 1970 - Mrs. Betty Paget of SW Bell Telephone Co. announced that the "mileage charge" currently being imposed upon residents in the 441-exchange would be withdrawn after 28 March 1970. Four-party lines would also be discontinued, and two-party service fees would be lessened.

10 April 1970 - During this meeting the Council canvassed election votes. The results included the following:

For Mayor -- Ralph E. Darling - 46 votes;
W. W. Sparkman - 37 votes;
W. W. Starkman [sic] - 1 vote

For Commissioners -- Z. Claude Baker - 72 votes;
W. E. (Tony) Self - 80 votes;
Gene Ward - 3 votes;
H. E. Ward - 8 votes;
Jack Gibson - 1 vote;
J. C. Gilliland - 2 votes.

Also the Council adopted the proposed 1 % sales and use tax following a town vote with a 32 vote margin: 57 votes for, 25 votes against.

Town Secretary Edna Grace received the oath of office.

16 May 1970 - Mayor Darling and Commissioner Self were the only two attending and made up a quorum. A motion was passed to pay the SW Bell Telephone and Aledo Aristocrat bills. Discussion was held on the City Sales and Use Tax, the installation and operation of the city water system, and the status of zoning ordinances.

20 June 1970 - Mayor Darling and commissioner Baker were present. A letter of resignation was read from the Town Secretary Mrs. Grace. A motion to appoint Mrs. Genette Lee was passed. She assumed secretarial duties immediately. Mayor Darling suggested that Comm. Baker attend the Texas Municipal League in Arlington.

11 July 1970 - This was a called meeting with all present. Mayor Darling submitted a letter of resignation due to his new employment at Baylor University. The motion to appoint AI Rice as Mayor for the unexpired term was passed.

18 July 1970 - All members were present with new Mayor AI V. Rice presiding. Michael G. Lee was appointed Town Engineer. Meeting times were set at 7:00 p.m. on the third Monday of each month. Discussion was held over the need of fire department support.

21 September 1970 - All were present for a discussion regarding mutual fire support with Aledo Volunteer Fire Department and their requested permission to solicit financial support from Willow Park residents. A legal question regarding liquor sales was awaiting the County Attorney's ruling. An application for re- subdividing Laguna Vista Estates by Mrs. Whitworth of Tyler was presented, and the Planning and Zoning Board was requested to meet and advise the Commission immediately following the regular meeting. Mr. Harris then presented to the Commission a plan for 24-hour security protection for the 421 homes in the area at the cost of $5 per month. A petition was then presented against the current zoning map concerning commercial property. Mayor Rice reported that he had discussed several problems with Mr. Leonard and that things should be improving. Following adjournment and a review of the Laguna Estates rezoning, Mayor Rice called the meeting back to order and the subdivision plat was approved.

19 October 1970 - Mayor Rice reported that a contract with Tarrant Utility Co. assuring 40# of water pressure for Laguna Vista residents had been agreed upon by the Leonards. The budget was approved for 1971 projecting a need for $1155, nearly $100 over the 1970 budget. Comm. Baker made a motion that the City send Mayor Rice to the Texas Municipal League's Annual Conference which was approved unanimously.

16 November 1970 - Mayor Rice reported on the TML Annual Conference which he attended. Mr. Jim Davies and Mr. Pounds presented a preliminary plat for Squaw Creek West subdivision.

14 December 1970 - Squaw Creek Estates West subdivision plat was approved subject to the completion of water lines and streets. Mr. Grace was appointed to be chairman of an organizational committee on fire prevention. Mayor Rice reported that the water pressure in Laguna Vista Estates was now 20 pounds.

18 January 1971- Commissioner Baker was absent. Discussion was held over a charter for a Willow Park Fire Department.

11 February 1971 - Mayor Rice noted a donation from the Republic Land Co. to the future Willow Park Volunteer Fire Department. A motion was made by Z. C. Baker to adopt the Willow Park Volunteer Fire Department as the official fire-fighting organization of the community. Mayor Rice read a statement creating the office of Fire Marshall. Mr. Grace was appointed the City's first Fire Marshall.

15 March 1971 - Squaw Creek Estates West application for a 2-acre lot subdivision was approved. 19 April 1971 - No new or old business.

17 May 1971 - Council discussed the number of horses per acre and a building to house the fire truck.

28 June 1971 - Commission Self was absent. The Council held more discussion about the number of horses per acre. The County Health Officer was contacted. G. L. Cudd presented plans for the fire department and city building. A motion was made by Z. C. Baker to accept the plans and the Fire Department Commission would serve to oversee the building, which passed unanimously.

19 July 1971 - Commissioner Self was absent. Building permi1 #71 was issued for the building of a combined City Hall and Fire Department on Tract 27 of EI Chico Estates. Mrs. Marsh complained about the water system again and Mayor Rice suggested the water board reconvene to study the problems.

16 August 1971 - Comm. Self was absent for the third meeting in a row. No new or old business.

20 September 1971 - A check in the amount of $605.10 for construction of the Municipal Building was accepted from Mrs. Little of the Willow Park Fire Department and Auxilliary.

18 October 1971 - All were present and following the minutes being accepted, Sid Deckert of TESCO presented to the Commissioners an electric service agreement to furnish the town with electricity for $.025 per kilowatt hour. A motion was made by Comm. Self to install a street light in front of the Municipal Building. The motion was accepted.

15 November 1971 - All were present for this first meeting in the new Municipal Building. A building permit was issued for block 3516 in Laguna Vista. G. L. Cudd gave a cost breakdown for the Municipal Building which totaled $5,133.53.

22 November 1971 - A special session was called to accept utility easement changes proposed by P. O. Reynolds of Arizona-Texas Co.

20 December 1971 - All were present for this meeting. There was no old business, and the Commissioners held a discussion on placing "Posted" and "No Hunting" signs around the City. No motions were made.

17 January 1972 - All were present. The minutes were read and accepted. There was no old business. Commissioner Baker made a motion to appoint Hal Ferguson as Maintenance Supervisor of the Municipal Building.

21 February 1972 - Sid Deckert of Texas Electric Service Company proposed a 6% rate increase. Commissioner Baker made a motion to accept which passed unanimously. Comm. Baker then made a motion for a $50 floating maintenance fund for upkeep of the Municipal Building which also passed unanimously. An ordinance preparing for the forthcoming election to be held on 1 April 1972 to elect a mayor and 2 commissioners was passed unanimously. Foy M. Burnes was appointed election judge with 2 clerks to be selected to assist. Qualified voters should have lived in the City for the previous 6 months. A notification of election would be posted in 3 public places for 30 days prior to the election.

20 March 1972 - All were present and following the call to order and reading of the minutes, Comm. Baker made a motion to approve the preliminary drawing for Squaw Creek North subdivision. Motions were also made for the replatting of Tracts 40 - 66 of EI Chico Estates.

1 April 1972 - This special meeting was called to canvass the election votes. Elected officials received the following number of votes out of the total of 19 votes cast: Z. C. Baker - 19 votes for Mayor; A. V. Rice and W. E. Self - 19 votes each for Commissioner, Baker and Rice were sworn in.

17 April 1972 - All were present for this regular meeting, and Secretary Genette Lee read the minutes which were corrected and then approved. Mr. W. E. Self was sworn in as a Commissioner since he was absent at the last meeting. The Commissioners heard a report from Mr. Pounds on grading and the replatting of the EI Chico addition. A final plat of Squaw Creek North subdivision was approved. Commissioner Rice made a motion to approve funds for a sign to identify the Municipal Building. A letter was to be written to R. F. Richardson to paint the name of the town on the water tower located on Highway 80.

15 May 1972 - All were present and the minutes were read and approved. Mayor Baker brought up the wording on the Municipal Building sign. Tarrant Utility Co. was to paint the wording on the sign. There was no other new business.

19 June 1972 - Commissioner Self was absent, but Mayor Baker called the meeting to order and the minutes were read and accepted. Mayor Baker discussed Mr. Hal Ferguson's need of an additional $50 for the maintenance fund which would include expenses for the new Municipal Building sign. There was then a discussion over replacing stolen road signs. Comm. Rice made a motion to approve the replatting of EI Chico Subdivision.

[No minutes were in the minute book for the month of July.]

21 August 1972 - All were present and Mayor Baker noted the census bureau questionnaire and suggested it be returned. He also noted there is currently no franchise or promise of franchise for garbage collection within the City.

18 September 1972 - All were present and the minutes were read and approved for the last two meetings. Comm. Rice made a motion to approve the replat of lots 2D and 3D in Laguna Vista Estates by William H. Pope. Comm. Self made a motion to pay Mr. Richard Feuilly $212.50 for the installation of a septic tank and lines at the Municipal Bldg.

16 October 1972 - Comm. Rice was absent, but following the reading of the minutes, they were approved as read. Mayor Baker discussed regulation aluminum wiring being used in home building and paving of the area around the Municipal Bldg. Comm. Self made a motion to give Mr. Muncie permission to order material for partitions in the Municipal Bldg.

20 November 1972 - All were present. The minutes were read and accepted, but there was no new or old business.

18 December 1972 - Commissioner Rice was absent. Following the reading of minutes and their acceptance, Mayor Baker adjourned the meeting since there was no new or old business.

This concludes the extraction of minutes from the City of Willow Park's first ten years of being. Minutes of subsequent meetings may be obtained at the Municipal Building.

-- Kay W. Davis -- 5/15/03