Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Jan. 11)
(Standing, L-R): Bob Brick, Jerome Rektorik, John Nichols, James Benham. (Sitting, L-R): Linda Harvell, Karl Mooney (mayor), Barry Moore.
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Jan. 11. It’s not the official minutes.
The meetings can be watched live on Suddenlink channel 19 or online. An archive of previous council meetings is available on the website.
5:51 p.m.
The workshop has started. No action was taken out of executive session.
6:13 p.m.
Affordable Housing Developments
The consensus of the council was to support an affordable housing development through the state’s Low Income Housing Tax Credit. The city received proposals for six senior developments and one family development. A resolution of support for the application is part of tonight’s consent agenda.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:14 p.m.
The workshop has been suspended and will resume after the regular meeting.
6:14 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:21 p.m.
Hear Visitors
Two people spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens might address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda.
- Councilman James Benham recognized Army Capt. Eric A. Allton as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial The 34-year-old Houston native died Sept. 26, 2004, when he was struck by a mortar round in Ar Ramadi, Iraq.
- Nate Tidwell invited the council to join the Red Cross on Saturday, Jan. 20 to promote smoke alarm safety.
6:33 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve these consent agenda items:
- A change order of $55,043 to a construction contract with Acklam Construction for additions or modifications related to ADA compliance and other improvements in The Barracks Park.
- A $486,761 contract with Palasota Contracting for electric conduit bores across TXDOT right-of-ways.
- The purchase of three police motorcycles for $61,204.50 from The Ranch Harley Davidson, along with an additional one-year extended warranty ($2,754) and the trade-in of three 2015 Harley Davidson Road King motorcycles for $18,000.
- A contract not to exceed $1.36 million with Palasota Contracting for concrete curb, gutter and flatwork installation to maintain city infrastructure.
- A change order of $97,584.48 to a contract with Brazos Paving for concrete curb, gutter, and flatwork.
- The first reading of a franchise agreement with Brazos Valley Recycling for the collection of recyclables from commercial businesses and multi-family locations.
- An inter-local agreement transferring surplus radio equipment from the City of College Station to the Rocky Creek Volunteer Fire Department.
- The second amendment to the Axon Master Services and Purchase Agreement, increasing the term from five to seven years, increasing the contract value from $706,186.31 to $1,166,698.62, and adding new in-car video camera system hardware, including implementation, warranty, and data storage.
This consent item was pulled for a separate vote:
- The council voted unanimously to approve a resolution of support for The Huntington at College Station’s application to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for a 9 percent housing tax credit.
6:44 p.m.
Science Park Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to abandon a 70-foot wide street and public utility easement in the Science Park Subdivision to allow for development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:46 p.m.
Willow Branch/Oakwood Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to abandon a 7,086 square-foot portion of a 10-foot wide public utility easement on the Willow Branch and Oakwood school sites.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:58 p.m.
UDO Amendment – Nonconforming Uses
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve an amendment to the city’s Unified Development Ordinance to provide additional flexibility and leniency on non-conforming uses and structures.
A non-conforming use or structure are properties developed under a previous set of regulations but don’t comply with the Unified Development Ordinance. Allowing for a broader range of modifications can encourage incremental infill and redevelopment, especially on challenging sites.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:00 p.m.
Southside Plaza Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning from Rural to General Commercial and Natural Areas Protected for 2.26 acres at 4075 State Hwy. 6 South, which is the site of the former Silk Stocking nightclub. The change will allow for development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:05 p.m.
University Heights Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning from Multi-Family to General Commercial for about 5 acres along Holleman Drive between Paloma Ridge Drive and Kenyon Drive. The change will allow for development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:24 p.m.
Spring Creek Gardens Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning from Office to Planned Development District for about 1½ acres at 4320 Decatur Dr. The change will allow for the development of a self-storage facility.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:39 p.m.
Annual Comp Plan/UDO Review
After a public hearing, the council accepted the yearly review of the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:54 p.m.
Citizen Committee Appointments
The council made citizen appointments to represent the city on various boards and committees. We’ll fill in the appointment list after the meeting.
Architectural Advisory Committee: Bradford Brimley and Ward Wells
B-CS Library Committee: Larry Ringer (chair) and Daniel Rudge
Bicycle, Pedestrian & Greenways Advisory Board: TBA
Design Review Board: Jesse Durden
Parks & Recreation Board: Michael Bota, Joel Cantrell, Paul Dyson, Megan Fuentes, and Madeline Giroir
Planning & Zoning Commission: Dennis Christiansen, Jane Chair (chair), Casey Oldham, and Elianor Vessali
Zoning Board of Adjustments: Randal Allison (alternate), Sherri Echols, Justin Lopez, Howard Mayne (alternate), and Keith Roberts (chair)
7:54 p.m.
Arts Council Appointment
The council voted unanimously to reappoint Patricia Burchfield to another term on the Arts Council board.
7:55 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items, and Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The workshop will resume after a short break.
8:04 p.m.
The workshop has resumed. Mayor Mooney announced that the items regarding the procurement card audit and the neighborhood conservation overlay districts have been moved to the Jan. 25 meeting.
8:25 p.m.
New Police Station Design
The council voted unanimously to approve the final design concept for the new $28 million police facility at the corner or Krenek Tap Road and Dartmouth Street.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:30 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports.
The council meets again on Thursday, Jan. 25.
About the Blogger
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian) has been with the City of College Station since 2010 after serving 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also worked as a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (July 27)
Back (L-R): Linda Harvell, Jerome Rektorik, James Benham, Barry Moore. Front (L-R): Blanche Brick, Mayor Karl Mooney, Julie Schultz.
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, July 27. It’s not the official minutes.
The meeting is being broadcast live on Suddenlink Channels 19 and 119 (HD) and online. An archive of previous council meetings is available on the website.
6:05 p.m.
The workshop has started. Councilman James Benham is participating tonight via teleconference. (more…)
Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Feb. 9)
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Feb. 9. It’s not the official minutes.
The meeting is being broadcast live on Suddenlink Channel 19 and streamed online. An archive of previous council meetings is available on the website.
6:02 p.m.
The workshop has started. Councilman James Benham is absent tonight.
6:03 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda during tonight’s regular meeting. No consent items were pulled for workshop discussion.
6:37 p.m.
Affordable Housing Development
The council unanimously supported the concept of an affordable housing development off Rock Prairie Road East and applications by developers for low-income housing tax credits through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. The development will still need to come back to council for approval at a later date.
The 2015 Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan identified rental housing as a priority need for low-to-moderate income individuals and families, as well as the city’s elderly and disabled populations. The FY17 Action Plan and adopted budget allocate funds for acquisition and infrastructure costs related to supporting the development of affordable housing units.
Here are the PowerPoint presentations:
7:17 p.m.
Suburban Commercial Zoning Districts
The council reviewed the uses and design standards associated with Suburban Commercial zoning districts.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:20 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and heard committee reports.
The regular meeting will start after a short break.
7:29 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:36 p.m.
2-1-1 Day Proclamation
Mayor Karl Mooney proclaimed Saturday as National 2-1-1 Day. United Way of the Brazos Valley’s 2-1-1 Texas program is a free information and referral center that connects residents to community resources. When callers dial 2-1-1, they are connected to specialists who ensure the caller’s specific needs are addressed with accurate and prompt referrals.
Pictured below are (L-R): Debbie Eller (City of College Station community services director), Peggi Goss (vice president of community impact), Mayor Mooney, Hilda Salazar (2-1-1 program manager), Katharine Gammon (program and resource coordinator), and CeAnne Jones (communications and outreach coordinator).
7:41 p.m.
Local Housing Assistance Partnerships
The council recognized the city’s collaborative partnerships that address local housing assistance. State Farm also presented a check for $8,900 to Rebuilding Together-BCS, whose mission is to transform the lives of low-income homeowners by improving the safety and health of their homes and revitalizing their community. Click here to read Community Development Analyst David Brower’s recent blog post about the partnerships.
Pictured below are (L-R): Ron Lightsey (RT BCS board president) Bruce Boyd (State Farm agent), Kelli Smith (State Farm sales leader), Steve Godby (RT BCS executive director), and Janis Godby (RT BCS board secretary/treasurer).
7:46 p.m.
Hear Visitors
One person spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens might address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda.
- Ben Roper recognized Army Spc. Adolfo C. Carballo as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 20-year-old Houston native died April 10, 2004, when he was struck by shrapnel in Baghdad, Iraq.
7:47 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- Added the local government investment pool, LOGIC.
- Added the prime account in the local government investment pool, TexPool.
- The second renewal of an annual agreement not to exceed $190,000 with the Brazos Valley Softball Umpires Association to provide officiating services for city athletic leagues, programs, and tournaments.
- Authorized the city manager or his designees to execute grant applications for Criminal Justice Division funds from the Office of the Governor.
9:00 p.m.
Arrington Road Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to approve a request to rezone about 10.5 acres at the intersection of Arrington Road and Old Arrington Road.The change will allow the development of an apartment complex called Caprock 10. Councilman Barry Moore recused himself because of a conflict of interest.
In the public hearing, seven people expressed concerns about traffic and other issues created by the development.
Here are the PowerPoint presentations:
9:04 p.m.
Crescent Point Land Use Change
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the land use designation for about six acres at the intersection of Crescent Pointe Parkway and Copperfield Parkway. The change will allow the development of The Crescent Pointe Townhomes. No one spoke during the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:07 p.m.
Crescent Point Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning designation for about six acres at the intersection of Crescent Pointe Parkway and Copperfield Parkway. The change would allow the development of The Crescent Pointe Townhomes. No one spoke during the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:09 p.m.
Stasney and Nagle Easement Abandonments
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to abandon a pair of public utility easements on Stasney Street and Nagle Street to accommodate the design of a new apartment complex in Northgate. No one spoke during the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:12 p.m.
RELLIS External Advisory Council
The council voted unanimously to nominate Mayor Mooney to the external advisory council for the Texas A&M University System’s new RELLIS campus. The nomination was made at the request of Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp.
9:15 p.m.
The council discussed future agenda items.
9:15 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Thursday, Feb. 23.
About the Author
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian) has been with the City of College Station since 2010. He previously served 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also been a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Dec. 8)
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Dec. 8. It’s not the official minutes.
The final council meeting of 2016 is being broadcast live on Suddenlink Channel 19 and streamed online. An archive of previous council meetings is available on the website.
Woolwine Named City Employee of the Year
Earlier this afternoon, the council recognized Recycling & Environmental Compliance Manager Heather Woolwine as the city’s employee of the year. Woolwine’s year was highlighted by transitioning the city from a curbside sort-and-bag recycling system to a single-stream recycling program.
Other nominees for the award were also honored, along with employees receiving 20, 25, 30 and 35-year service awards. Woolwine is pictured below with Mayor Karl Mooney and City Manager Kelly Templin.
6:09 p.m.
The workshop has started.
Coming out of executive session, the council voted unanimously to authorize the city manager to settle the dispute involving contracts with N. Harris Computer Corporation related to the city’s Enterprise Resource Planning System. The City of College Station will receive a payment no less than $260,000.
6:11 p.m.
Schultz Elected Mayor Pro Tem
By a 5-2 vote, the council elected Councilwoman Julie Schultz for a one-year term as mayor pro tempore to act as mayor during times when the mayor may be absent or disabled. Councilwomen Blanche Brick and Linda Harvell voted against the motion.
6:19 p.m.
Water Demand Forecasting Audit
The council reviewed the city internal auditor’s Water Demand Forecasting Audit. The audit found the city’s existing forecasting methods have been sufficient but as the city grows and diversifies, risks may become more apparent. The auditor said the city could benefit from more complex in-house water demand forecasting approaches that allow for more thorough analysis.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:38 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda during tonight’s regular meeting. Councilmembers pulled these consent items for workshop discussion:
- Neighborhood Sidewalk Projects: The $203,269 contract with Palomares Construction is for sidewalks on the west side of Eisenhower Street, the south side of Live Oak Street, the north side of San Saba Drive, and an ADA accessible sidewalk on the south side of Cross Street. The projects will be funded by federal Community Development Block Grants.
- LED Street Lights: The $2.6 million contract with Seimens Industries will replace the city’s 5,500 street lights with more efficient LED (light emitting diode) fixtures. When the city installed the state’s first street light monitoring system in 2009, it used high-quality bulbs with a plan to investigate LED replacement options when the bulbs’ six-year warranty expired. College Station Utilities estimates a 7-8 year payback on the new system, which should have a 30-year life expectancy.
- Employee Benefit Expenditures: Total benefit expenditures for 969 city employees, retirees and COBRA participants in 2017 is expected to be about $11.23 million. This represents a cost of about $965 per employee each month, or $11,580 per employee each year. Benefits include Blue Cross Blue Shield (medical, dental, prescription, stop-loss coverage), vision insurance, basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term disability, long-term disability, critical illness/accident insurance, and the employee assistance program.
- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses: The not-to-exceed $956,480 contract with Casco Industries is for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment for the fire department. The department’s existing SCBA packs are 1999, 2002, and 2007 editions. Manufacturer support and service for the older packs is limited and in some cases obsolete. The National Fire Protection Association mandates that air bottles have a 15-year life span, and more than half of the city’s bottles will be out of service in 2017. The purchase will bring the department into compliance with the NFPA standard.
- Electronic Credit Card Contract: The $85,000 monthly contract with OpenEdge is for banking fees and service charges related to electronic credit card processing and merchant account services.
7:00 p.m.
Wastewater Master Plan Update
The council reviewed a recent update to the city’s Wastewater Master Plan, including population and demographic projections, demand forecasts, an analysis of the collection system, the strategy for expanding the treatment plants, and the capital improvement plan.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:01 p.m.
The workshop has been suspended and will resume after the regular meeting, which will begin after a short break.
7:13 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:17 p.m.
Hear Visitors
One person spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens may address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda. Ben Roper recognized Marine Lance Cpl. Michael B. Wafford as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 20-year-old Spring native died April 8, 2004, from injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
7:18 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- A $203,469 contract with Palomares Construction for sidewalk improvements along Eisenhower, Live Oak, Cross Street, and San Saba.
- A $2.56 million contract with Siemens Industries for converting street lighting to LED light fixtures.
- Renewal of an inter-local agreement with BVSWMA for continued city sponsorship of BVSWMA, Inc. as an Associate Member of the Brazos Valley Wide Area Communications Service.
- Renewal of an inter-local agreement with BVSWMA for communications services provided by the city.
- $11.23 million for employee benefits for 2017 and the rejection of a request for proposal for stop-loss reinsurance.
- A purchase not-to-exceed $956,480.73 for self-contained breathing apparatus equipment from Casco Industries.
- Renewal of a month-to-month agreement with estimated banking fees and service charges not exceeding $85,000 monthly with OpenEdge for electronic credit card processing and merchant account services.
- Renewal of four master agreements for real estate appraisal services: Atrium Real Estate Services, CBRE, Inc., Integra Realty Resources – Austin, and S.T. Lovett & Associates.
- A $197,720 contract with H2O Partners for pavement and right-of-way data collection.
- A $250,000 contract with DIJ Construction for the installation of roadway markings.
- A $651,644.50 contract with Palasota Contracting the construction of the Well Field Collection System Loop Project.
- The 2017 Council Calendar.
- The first renewal of the annual blanket order with Techline for pad-mounted 15 kV solid dielectric switch gears.
7:22 p.m.
Falcon Point Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to abandon a 355-square-foot portion of a public utility easement at 1915 Dartmouth Street to allow for development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:24 p.m.
Fee Conflict Ordinance
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance resolving fee conflicts in the city’s Code of Ordinances.
In October, the council approved a resolution adjusting application and permit fees for Planning & Development Services and consolidated fees into Chapter 14 of the Code of Ordinances. The resolution had a delayed effective date of Jan. 1 and included fees that were embedded in other sections of the Code of Ordinances, creating temporary conflicts. The ordinance amends the applicable sections to remove the respective fee and states, “Fees shall be as established from time-to-time by resolution of the city council.”
9:35 p.m.
Land Use Change on Corsair Circle
After a public hearing, the council voted 4-3 to change the land use designation from Suburban Commercial to General Commercial for about two acres on Corsair Circle just north of Pavilion Avenue. Brick, Harvell, and Mooney voted against the motion. The change will allow for the possible development of a hotel.
In the public hearing, 20 people spoke against the change, and three submitted written comments.
An earlier motion by Councilwoman Brick to postpone the item to failed by a 4-3 vote. Brick, Harvell, and Mooney supported the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:53 p.m.
Corsair Circle Rezoning
The council has been conducting a public hearing on the rezoning of the Corsair Circle property. The hearing will resume after a short break.
10:00 p.m.
The regular meeting has resumed.
10:20 p.m.
Corsair Circle Rezoning (continued)
After a public hearing, the council voted 4-3 to change the zoning from Light Industrial to General Commercial for about two acres on Corsair Circle just north of Pavilion Avenue. Brick, Harvell, and Mooney voted against the motion. The change will allow the development of a hotel.
In the public hearing, 10 people spoke against the change, and one submitted a written comment.
An earlier motion by Councilwoman Brick to postpone the item for three months failed by a 4-3 vote. Brick, Harvell, and Mooney supported the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
11:40 p.m.
Sebesta Road Land Use Change
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a request to change the land use designation from Suburban Commercial to General Commercial for about 18 acres at 1370 Sebesta Rd. along State Highway 6. Brick and Harvell voted against the motion. The change will allow for the development of an automobile dealership and other commercial uses.
In the public hearing, 11 people spoke against the change, two supported it, one proposed a planned development district, and one submitted a written comment.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
11:47 p.m.
Sebesta Road Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a request to change the zoning from General Suburban, Rural and Research & Development to General Commercial for about 18 acres at 1370 Sebesta Road along State Highway 6.Brick and Harvell voted against the motion.The change will allow for the development of an automobile dealership and other commercial uses.
In the public hearing, two people spoke against the change, and two submitted written comments.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
11:49 p.m.
Committee and Board Appointments
The council voted unanimously to approve these appointments to various boards and commissions:
- Arts Council of the Brazos Valley: Linda Harvell replaces former councilman Steve Aldrich.
- BioCorridor Board: James Benham replaces former councilman Steve Aldrich.
- Blinn College Brazos County Advisory Committee: Karl Mooney replaces former mayor Nancy Berry.
- Brazos County Health Department: Linda Harvell replaces former councilman John Nichols.
- Bryan/College Station Convention & Visitors Bureau: Jerome Rektorik replaces former councilman John Nichols.
11:50 p.m.
The mayor adjourned the regular meeting. The workshop will resume after a short break.
12:01 p.m.
The council has gone into executive session and will complete the workshop agenda afterward. Since all that remains are discussions about the council calendar, future agenda items, and committee reports, your loyal blogger is calling it a night.
The council meets again on Thursday, Jan. 12.
We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
About the Author
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian) has been with the City of College Station since 2010. He previously served 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also been a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
Live Blog: Monday’s city council meetings (Nov. 21)
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Monday, Nov. 21. It’s not the official minutes.
The meeting is being broadcast live on Suddenlink Channel 19 and streamed online. An archive of previous council meetings is also available on the website.
6:00 p.m.
The workshop has started. Councilwoman Julie Schultz is absent tonight.
6:02 p.m.
Canvassing of Election Returns
The council canvassed the Nov. 8 election returns and declared the results. Karl Mooney is elected mayor and Jerome Rektorik, Linda Harvell and Barry Moore are elected to the city council.
6:07 p.m.
Oaths of Office for New Mayor, Council Members
Karl Mooney took the oath of office as College Station’s 15th mayor and Barry Moore, Jerome Rektorik and Linda Harvell were sworn in as council members. We’ll post photos here later.
6:28 p.m.
Welcome and Farewell
A short reception welcomed the new council members and bid thanks and farewell to outgoing Mayor Nancy Berry and Councilmen Steve Aldrich and John Nichols. New Mayor Karl Mooney proclaimed today “Nancy Berry Day” in honor of her 6 1/2 years in office. We’ll post photos here later.
The meeting will resume shortly.
6:56 p.m.
The workshop will resume.
6:59 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda during tonight’s regular meeting. Councilmembers pulled this consent item for workshop discussion:
- School Resource Officers: The inter-local agreement establishes the Police Department’s intent to provide school resource officer services to the College Station Independent School District through the end of the 2016-17 school year.
7:03 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar, future agenda items, and committee reports.
7:03 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:10 p.m.
Hear Visitors
Two people spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens may address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda.
- Ben Roper recognized Army Sgt. Gerardo Moreno as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 20-year-old Orange native died April 5, 2004, from injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
- Christopher Gold asked the council to provide adequate funding for the city’s greenways and to improve accessibility to pathways.
7:11 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- A $530,177 contract with Halff Associates for engineering services related to the Capstone & Barron Alignment project.
- An inter-local agreement with the College Station Independent School District regarding school resource officers.
- Renewal of an annual one-year contract estimated at $900,000 with Brenco Marketing Corporation for gasoline and diesel fuel.
- A $580,400 contract for replacement screw lift pumps at the Carters Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant.
- A contract not to exceed $907,200 with Brazos Paving for concrete curb, gutter and flatwork installation.
- A license agreement with Pitman Custom Homes allowing a small encroachment into a public utility easement in the Creek Meadows Subdivision.
Item 2d was pulled from tonight’s consent agenda and will return at a later date. It was a $203,469 contract for sidewalk improvements along Eisenhower Street, Live Oak Street, Cross Street, and San Saba Drive.
7:27 p.m.
Comp Plan, UDO review
After a public hearing, the council accepted the annual review of the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance. The review is part of a continuing effort to keep the documents current and relevant.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:29 p.m.
Caprock Crossing Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved the abandonment of a 0.76-acre portion of a 50-foot wide public access easement near Old Arrington Road in the Caprock Crossing area. The abandonment allows future development of the property.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:39 p.m.
Committee Appointments
Ty Elliott, Internal Auditor, provided information on a proposed change to the Audit Committee. The council voted 6-0 to change the make-up of the committee to include three councilmembers and two accounting or audit professionals as non-voting members.
Here’s his PowerPoint presentation:
7:40 p.m.
The council has gone into executive session.
8:25 p.m.
After the executive session, the council made the following committee appointments:
- Brazos Valley CEOC Policy Advisory Board: Karl Mooney
- BVCOG Board of Directors: Karl Mooney
- BVCOG Intergovernmental Committee: Karl Mooney, Blanche Brick
- BVSWMA: John Nichols, Karl Mooney, Richard Floyd
- BVWACS: James Benham
- Brazos Valley MPO: Karl Mooney, Blanche Brick
- Regional Transportation Committee for Council of Governments: Blanche Brick
- Research Valley Partnership: Karl Mooney, Julie Schultz, Jim Jett
Internal Committees:
- Audit: Jerome Rektorik, Linda Harvell, Karl Mooney (chair)
- Budget and Finance: Karl Mooney, Barry Moore, James Benham
- Compensation and Benefits: Jerome Rektorik, Blanche Brick, Karl Mooney
- Economic Development: Karl Mooney, James Benham, Julie Schultz
- Transportation and Mobility: Karl Mooney, Linda Harvell, Blanche Brick (chair)
8:29 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Vote Delayed
The council decided to delay the election of a mayor pro tempore until Councilwoman Julie Schultz returns for the next meeting. The mayor pro tem acts as mayor during the mayor’s disability or absence.
8:29 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Thursday, Dec. 8.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
About the Author
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian)has been with the City of College Station since 2010. He previously served 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also been a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
If you found value in this blog post, please share it with your social network and friends!
Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Nov. 10)
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Nov. 10. It’s not the official minutes.
The meeting is being broadcast live on Suddenlink Channel 19 and streamed online. An archive of previous council meetings is available on the website.
5:46 p.m.
The workshop has started. Councilwoman Julie Schultz announced the following action taken in executive session:
“I move that the city manager is hereby authorized to settle the claim brought by Kathleen M. Ritch, individually and on behalf of Alannah Ritch and Andrew J. Ritch, in an amount not to exceed $250,000 and to execute a settlement and release containing terms as are customarily contained in settlement agreements.”
6;03 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda during tonight’s regular meeting. Councilmembers pulled these consent items for workshop discussion:
- Viasat Economic Development Agreement: The agreement provides for Viasat’s expansion into a new 85,000-square foot building on about nine acres in the Biocorridor. The company’s total investment is about $20 million with a minimum property valuation of $15 million by 2019. By the end of the second year following construction, Viasat will add at least 150 new full-time jobs with an average salary of $64,000 and the current payroll will increase by $9.6 million for a total of $17.2 million. In exchange, Viasat will receive an annual cash incentive for six years equal to the ad valorem taxes assessed and paid not to exceed $450,000. Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
- Bee Creek Trunk Line Rehabilitation: The $4.6 million contract with Elliott Construction includes the installation of about 2,000 linear feet of 60-inch and 4,000 linear feet of 54-inch sanitary sewer main along Bee Creek from Carter’s Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant to west of State Highway 6. This contract is for the second of four phases to replace the Bee Creek Trunk Line that runs from Carters Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant to about 1,100 feet west of Jones Butler Road. Much of the existing trunk line was constructed in 1973 and was shown to have several surcharging line segments in the 2011 Wastewater Master Plan. The project will install a gravity line to increase the capacity of the trunk line to accept the anticipated build-out demand.
- Utility Agreement with MUD No. 1: Approval of this item will modify the utility agreement with Brazos County Municipal Utility District No. 1 to include a surcharge for water and wastewater rates in the MUD without the charge of impact fees. It also specifies that city staff will recommend that the city council establish a Public Utility Corridor across Lick Creek Park for a sewer line to the Lick Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. The diversion of parkland is on tonight’s regular agenda. The change would allow the Southern Pointe development to proceed. The surcharge would provide the same revenue as impact fees but would be spread over about 20 years. The PUC will have zero cost to the city.
- Roadway Maintenance Fees: The results of the 2016 Citizen Survey suggested citizens prefer to see additional resources invested in the area of street maintenance. As part of the 2016 budget process, staff evaluated alternative sources to help fund the needed maintenance. After a detailed evaluation of various options, staff recommended implementing a roadway maintenance fee to be paid by citizens and businesses. The fees are based on reasonably equal shares in the total number of vehicle miles generated by all properties in the city limits and would be added to utility bills. The monthly fees would be $7.78 for single family, $6.10 for multi-family and a commercial range of $17.23 to $250. The fee would generate about $4.5 million per year. Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:33 p.m.
Pavement Standards
The council voted 4-3 for the city to use concrete in street construction rather than asphalt. Voting against the motion were Councilwoman Julie Schultz, and Councilmen Karl Mooney and Steve Aldrich. A study found that initial construction costs for rigid pavement were higher than for flexible pavement, while the maintenance and life cycle costs for rigid pavement were lower than for flexible pavement.
An earlier motion to provide a combination of concrete and asphalt standards was defeated, 4-3. Mooney, Schultz, and Aldrich supported the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:44 p.m.
Appraisal District Building
The council heard a presentation about the new office building proposed by the Brazos Central Appraisal District to address concerns with growth, security, customer service, and technology. Approval of the building is on tonight’s consent agenda.
The district’s board of directors has recommended building rather than leasing office space to give the property owners the best value for their tax dollars and to provide improved security, efficiency, and technology for staff and the public.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:12 p.m.
Itinerant Vendor Ordinance
The consensus of the council was to move ahead with new requirements related to itinerant vendors. The changes would exempt mobile medical vendors that provide infusion therapy and would allow more days per year for tent sales.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:12 p.m.
The mayor adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar, future agenda items, and committee reports. The regular meeting will start after a short break.
7:25 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:37 p.m.
Hear Visitors
Two people spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens may address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda.
- Councilwoman Julie Schultz, speaking as a citizen, thanked Mayor Nancy Berry for her service to the community. Berry has been mayor since May 2010 and is presiding over her final council meeting tonight. She will hand the gavel to Mayor-elect Karl Mooney at the Nov. 21 council meeting.
- Ben Roper recognized Marine Lance Cpl. Shane L. Goldman as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 20-year-old Orange native died April 5, 2004, from injuries received from hostile fire in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
- Cecelia Yip, Mike Green, and Matthew Fontaine spoke in support of pickleball and encouraged the city to provide adequate facilities for the sport.
7:40 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve these consent agenda items:
- An economic development agreement with Viasat regarding nine acres on Health Science Center Parkway.
- A $3 million contract with Saber Power Services to modify the ring bus and relocate transformer No. 2 at the Greens Prairie Substation.
- A $4.6 million contract with Elliott Construction for Phase 2 of the Bee Creek Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line Rehabilitation.
- An ordinance recognizing water and sewer utility rates and surcharges established by contract.
- An amendment to an agreement with McAlister Opportunity Fund that designates an alternate fire station site.
- Modified the utility agreement with Brazos County MUD No. 1 to include a surcharge for water and sewer service without the charge of impact fees and other related matters.
- A contract not to exceed $7,880 with Sungard Public Sector for adding the roadway maintenance fee to accounts in the utility billing system.
- A resolution authorizing banners for the annual Christmas Parade.
- A resolution approving the purchase of property and construction of a new office building by the Brazos Central Appraisal District.
This item was voted on separately:
- By a 6-1 vote, the council approved an ordinance approving a roadway maintenance fee to help fund maintenance of city streets. Councilmen James Benham voted against the motion
Note: An inter-local agreement with Brazos County creating an economic development program was pulled from tonight’s agenda.
8:29 p.m.
Parking Removal near Fire Station No. 6
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to remove parking on one side of the streets in the neighborhood behind Fire Station No. 6. Affected streets are Payton, Banks, Pearce, Columbus, Preston, Churchill, Chappel, Pasler, Turner and Avenue B. The change was recommended to allow adequate access for emergency vehicles.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:32 p.m.
Design Review Board Membership
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved changes to membership qualifications for the Design Review Board, which is responsible for considering requests largely related to subjective matters such as alternative buffer standards and site plan design in the Wolf Pen Creek zoning district. The changes address concerns about the challenges of making appointments to the board.
The city’s Unified Development Ordinance defines membership criteria of appointees so that expertise is balanced between those with business acuity, personal experience in a design district, and general public opinion.
8:34 p.m.
Drainage Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to abandon a small public drainage easement at Holleman Drive South and Market Street to accommodate the recent development of The Junction, a multi-family project. The property owner will maintain the existing drainage area and infrastructure.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:42 p.m.
Utility Corridor in Lick Creek Park
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to establish a public utility corridor across Lick Creek Park needed for the development of Brazos County Municipal Utility District No. 1, also known as Southern Pointe. Since the park lies directly between Southern Pointe and the Lick Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, the route is the only feasible option.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:42 p.m.
The council is taking a short break.
8:51 p.m.
The meeting has resumed.
9:51 p.m.
Rezoning on Earl Rudder Freeway South
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to deny a request to change the zoning from Suburban Commercial to Planned Development District for about seven acres north of Raintree Drive along Earl Rudder Freeway South. Mayor Berry and Councilwoman Schultz voted for the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
10:06 p.m.
Roadway Impact Fees
After a public hearing, the council voted 6-1 to approve an ordinance implementing roadway impact fees on new development, effective Dec. 1. Councilman James Benham voted against the motion. The fees are estimated to generate about $12 million in the next decade to help fund the capital costs of new roads needed to accommodate the city’s growth.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
10:17 p.m.
College Hills Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved a request to change the zoning from General Suburban to General Commercial for about 1.2 acres on George Bush Drive East in the College Hills Estates. The change will allow for commercial redevelopment opportunities.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
10:17 p.m.
Before adjourning, Mayor Berry noted it was her final council meeting. She thanked her fellow council members and city staff for the positive working relationship they’ve had since she was first elected in My 2010.
The council meets again on Monday, Nov. 21.
About the Author
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian)has been with the City of College Station since 2010. He previously served 23 years as associate media relations director for the Texas A&M Athletics Department. Killian has also worked as a reporter and editor for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Lewisville News. A native of Hobbs, N.M., he graduated from Texas Tech with a bachelor’s degree in journalism/political science.
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