Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Oct. 25)
(L-R): Bob Brick, Linda Harvell, Jerome Rektorik, Karl Mooney (mayor), John Nichols, Barry Moore, James Benham.
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Oct. 25. 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.
5:12 p.m.
The workshop has started.
Bryan Woods
5:13 p.m.
Woods named City Manager
The council unanimously selected Bryan Woods as College Station’s city manager, effective Dec. 3. He has been New Braunfels’ assistant city manager since 2017.
Woods replaces Kelly Templin, who left last spring to lead the Texas A&M University System’s new RELLIS Campus. Jeff Capps has since served as interim city manager.
Press release: Woods named College Station City Manager
5:14 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda during tonight’s regular meeting. No items were pulled for workshop discussion.
5:50 p.m.
Dockless Bike Share Update
The council was updated on Texas A&M’s dockless bike share program. The city issued a permit to Ofo, the program’s vendor, on Aug. 23, and revoked it on Oct. 12 after the company lost its auto liability insurance. To be reinstated, Ofo must update its insurance, present rebalancing and communication plans, and replenish its escrow account with the city.
The university will assume operational control and will also seek a new vendor for 2019. The existing 2,300 yellow bikes will be collected, donated, repurposed or recycled at the end of the fall semester.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:11 p.m.
BioCorridor Board Powers and Duties
The council discussed the powers and duties of the BioCorridor Board. The consensus was to keep the board in place.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:15 p.m.
Mayor Karl Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The regular meeting will start after a short break.
6:28 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:35 p.m.
Brazos Fellowship Church Recognition
Police Chief Scott McCollum and Fire Chief Jonathan McMahan recognized Brazos Fellowship Church for its community service in supporting first responders during a 16-hour standoff with an armed man in August at a local bar and grill.
6:39 p.m.
Municipal Court Week
Mayor Mooney proclaimed Nov. 5-9 as Municipal Court Week in recognition of the importance of municipal courts, the rule of law, and the fair and impartial administration of justice.
6:46 p.m.
Community Planning Month
Mayor Mooney proclaimed October as National Community Planning Month to highlight the important role planning plays in addressing our community’s most daunting challenges, including housing affordability and availability.
6:50 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.
- Councilman Jerome Rektorik recognized Jeff Capps for his service as interim city manager since March.
6:51 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- Renewal of a $130,000 award for city-branded uniforms for parks and recreation athletic programs and other city departments with CC Creations ($65,000) and M&M Apparel ($65,000).
- A $589,787 contract with Marek Brothers Construction for the renovation of the Bob and Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center (formerly the Arts Council Building).
- Renewal of the annual award not to exceed $503,214.55 for the blanket purchase of three-phase pad-mounted transformers.
- An $859,640 annual bid award to Techline for electric distribution poles.
- A $1.42 million contract with Larry Young Paving for the rehabilitation of parking lots and lighting at Bachmann and Beachy Central parks.
- Resolutions declaring an intention to reimburse certain expenditures with proceeds from debt for Public Works, General Government, and Wastewater projects in the FY19 Capital Improvements budget.
- The 2018 Property Tax Roll of $46.99 million.
- An amended ordinance modifying the location, dates and times for voting in the Nov. 6 general and special election to elect two city council members (places 4 and 6), and to submit to voters five proposed amendments to the city charter.
6:54 p.m.
Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved the abandonment of a 20-foot wide public utility on the State Highway 6 bypass north of Pavilion Avenue to allow for development. No existing city utilities are located in the easement, which has no planned use.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:10 p.m.
Daiquiri Barn Conditional Use Permit
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a conditional use permit for a nightclub, bar or tavern in the shopping center northwest of the Texas Avenue-Southwest Parkway intersection. Councilwoman Linda Harvell and Councilman John Nichols voted against the motion.
The land use request for the Daiquiri Barn included a drive-up window, potential food sales, retail sales, limited interior seating, and alcohol sales for on- and off-site consumption.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:33 p.m.
City Hall Construction Manager at Risk
The council unanimously approved a contract with CORE Construction to be the construction manager at risk for the new city hall project.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:34 p.m.
Groundwater Conservation District Board
The council unanimously appointed Bill Harris to the Brazos Valley Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors, subject to approval by the Brazos County Commissioners Court.
7:35 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
7:35 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Thursday, Nov. 8.
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 (Sept. 13)
(L-R): Bob Brick, Linda Harvell, Jerome Rektorik, Karl Mooney (mayor), John Nichols, Barry Moore, James Benham.
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
Welcome to our live blog from the College Station City Council’s workshop and regular meetings on Thursday, Sept. 13. 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.
5:05 p.m.
The workshop has started. No action was taken out of executive session.
5:14 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:
- Wellborn-Holleman Intersection Project: The $382,122 contract with Binkley & Barfield is for engineering services related to the design of the Wellborn Road-Holleman Intersection Project. Wellborn Road will be elevated to reduce the grade difference with the railroad crossing. Holleman will be widened to accommodate dedicated right and left turn lanes in both directions. The city will manage design and TxDOT will manage bidding and construction.
- Hawkwood Energy Water Contract: The two-year contract will allow Hawkwood Energy to pump water from ponds on the Hanson South property. Hawkwood will bear the costs and pay the city 10 cents a barrel with a contractual guarantee for at least $150,000 in the contract’s initial year.
- Hawkwood Energy Franchise: This is the first reading of a non-exclusive pipeline franchise ordinance for oil or gas operations with Hawkwood Energy Midstream, which will pay the city an annual franchise fee of $1 per linear foot of the pipeline franchise area, plus an annual fee of $1,000 for each road or street boring/crossing.
5:22 p.m.
False Fire Alarm Fees
The consensus of the council was to allow the Fire Department to charge a fee for more than three false alarms in 12 months. The Police Department has had false alarm fees in place for several years. The proposed fees range from $85 for four or five false alarms to $143.65 for eight or more alarms.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
5:27 p.m.
After-Hours Fire Inspections
The consensus of the council was to allow the Fire Department to charge $75 per hour for requests for inspections anytime other than weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
5:29 p.m.
Mayor Karl Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The regular meeting will start at 6 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:06 p.m.
Thank a Police Officer Day
Mayor Mooney proclaimed Sept. 15 as Thank a Police Officer Day.
6:12 p.m.
Constitution Week
Mayor Mooney proclaimed Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week.
6:19 p.m.
Historical Marker No. 96
The Historic Preservation Committee presented Historical Marker No. 96 for the home at 1106 Carolina St.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:30 p.m.
Hear Visitors
Three people spoke during Hear Visitors when citizens might address the council on any item that doesn’t appear on the posted agenda.
- James Benham recognized Marine Lance Cpl. Seth Huston as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 19-year-old Perryton native died Aug. 21, 2004, due to enemy action in Iraq.
- Mary Troy and Susan Adams spoke against closing the Ringer Library for eight months (November-June) during heavy construction work that’s part of its renovation and expansion.
6:31 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- A contract not to exceed $2.04 million with Kirksey Architecture for the design of a new city hall building.
- A $382,122.55 contract with Binkley & Barfield for engineering services related to the design of the FM2154 and Holleman Intersection Project.
- The second renewal of a $259,978.42 contract with Andrews Building Service for janitorial services for city facilities and the Northgate District.
- A temporary all-way stop at the intersection of Keefer Loop and Rock Prairie Road West during construction of the Holleman Drive South construction project.
- A $4.26 million contract with Primoris T&D Services for construction of the Graham Road Substation.
- A contract with Hawkwood Energy to purchase pond water from the city’s water wellfield property called Hanson South.
- The first renewal of annual copy and print services blanket orders not to exceed $120,000 with AlphaGraphics ($80,000) and Copy Corner ($40,000).
- The first reading on a non-exclusive pipeline franchise ordinance for oil or gas operations with Hawkwood Energy Midstream to construct, operate, maintain, remove, replace and repair pipeline facilities for the transportation of petroleum products and byproducts.
- The second renewal of a $256,384 contract with Utility Restoration Services for padmount equipment repair and restoration.
- FY18 funding of $1,073,572 to the Public Agency Retirement Services OPEB Trust.
- A $101,248.30 contract with Hurricane Fence Company to replace the security fencing at three city water well facilities along Sandy Point Road.
- A negotiated settlement between the Atmos Cities Steering Committee and Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division regarding the company’s 2018 rate review mechanism filings and a settlement agreement.
6:43 p.m.
Tax Rate Public Hearing
The council conducted the final public hearing on the city’s proposed FY19 tax rate of.505841 cents per $100 of assessed value. The .8341-cent increase would offset the revenue loss from the five percent homestead exemption the council approved earlier this year.
Two people spoke against the tax increase in the public hearing.
The council will vote on the tax rate on Sept. 27.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:45 p.m.
FY19 Budget Public Hearing
The council conducted the final public hearing on the city’s FY19 budget, which totals $360.68 million. The council will vote on the budget on Sept. 27.
No one spoke during the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:47 p.m.
Church Street Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council voted 6-0 approved the abandonment of a 15-foot wide public utility easement at 603 Church Ave. to accommodate the expansion of St. Mary’s Church. Councilman John Nichols abstained.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:10 p.m.
Single-Family Parking
After a public hearing, the council voted 6-1 to amend the city’s Unified Development Ordinance to remove the cap of requiring no more than four parking spaces for a single-family dwelling unit in areas designated Neighborhood Conservation in the Comprehensive Plan. The cap will remain for other areas.
Councilwoman Linda Harvell voted against the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:25 p.m.
BioCorridor Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 6-0 to approve a request to amend the terms and development standards for the BioCorridor Planned Development District, which covers about 147 acres between State Highway 47, Raymond Stotzer Parkway, Turkey Creek Parkway, and the city limit. Councilman Barry Moore abstained.
The action amended Sec. 1.2.d to add “Stand-alone multi-family on property located between Turkey Creek Road and the proposed Atlas Pear Drive extension” and Sec. 1.2.e to add to the prohibition, “Multi-Family not part of a mixed-used development except as otherwise allowed in Sec. 1.2.d.”
The remaining sections will be sent back to the BioCorridor Board for review.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:32 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
8:32 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Thursday, Sept. 27.
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 (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.
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