5 things to watch at Thursday’s city council meetings
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
The College Station City Council gathers Thursday at city hall for its workshop (5 p.m.) and regular (6 p.m.) meetings. Here are five items to watch:
- Comp Plan 10-Year Update: In the workshop, the council will hear a presentation on the 10-year update of the city’s Comprehensive Plan.
- Reatta Meadows Park: As part of the consent agenda, the council will consider a $467,980 contract for the development of Reatta Meadows Park, along with upgrades to Crescent Pointe Park.
- Rezoning at Raintree and Highway 6: After a public hearing, the council will consider a request to change the zoning from General Suburban to General Commercial for about two acres on Raintree Drive north of the State Highway 6 intersection. The change would allow for development.
- Land Use at Rock Prairie and Fitch: After a public hearing, the council will consider a request to change the land use designation from Restricted Suburban to General Commercial for about 29 acres south of the Rock Prairie Road-Fitch Parkway intersection. The change would allow for development.
- Non-Residential Architectural Standards: After a public hearing, the council will consider easing the city’s non-residential architectural standards related to screening, architectural features, and the color palette.
The meetings can be watched live on Suddenlink Channel 19 or online. We’ll post a detailed live blog post on this site.
Related Links:
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 (Feb. 8)
(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, Feb. 8. 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.
5:43 p.m.
The workshop has started.
5:44 p.m.
Gilman Appointed Interim City Manager
The council unanimously appointed Chuck Gilman as interim city manager, effective April 1. Gilman has been deputy city manager since 2014. Before that, Gilman served as the city’s public works director. He will fill the role vacated by Kelly Templin, who will leave at the end of March to become director of the RELLIS Campus for the Texas A&M University System.
6:10 p.m.
Texas Weekend of Remembrance
The council unanimously endorsed the Texas Weekend of Remembrance, a special event scheduled for Memorial Day weekend (May 25-27).
The event will be a time for military members, veterans, and their families to come together and honor the memory of their lost loved ones through camaraderie and commemoration of their sacrifice. The TWR could become a precursor to Memorial Day and restore its original intent by allowing everyone to show their pride and respect to the men and women who have paid the ultimate price.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:16 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:
- Electric Switchgear: The not-to-exceed $539,000 bid award to Techline is for the annual purchase of pad-mounted 15 kV solid dielectric switchgear.
- Southeast Park Design Project: The $1.22 million contract with Halff Associates is for design and construction phase services for the Southeast Park Project. The facility will ultimately include 8 ballfields with associated infrastructure and amenities. The contract provides construction services for Phase 1, which is proposed to include four ballfields. The overall project will be funded by $6 million in certificates of obligation and $4 million in hotel occupancy tax revenue. The debt for the project hasn’t been issued, but expenditure in advance of issuance was authorized by the council in November.
6:17 p.m.
Mayor Mooney suspended the workshop, which will resume after the regular meeting.
6:17 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:25 p.m.
CSHS State Championship Football Team
The council recognized College Station High School’s state champion football team. The Cougars began their 2017 season with a 1-2 record but won its remaining 13 games to finish the year at 14-2. The Cougars defeated Aledo High School, 20-19, in the 5A-Division II state championship game on Dec. 23 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The district opened the doors of College Station High School not six years ago and did not achieve full enrollment until the 2014-15 school year.
6:30 p.m.
2-1-1 Day
The mayor, acting on behalf of the City of Bryan and Brazos County, proclaimed Feb. 11 as 2-1-1 Day. 2-1-1 Texas is a program of United Way of the Brazos Valley in partnership with the State of Texas Health and Human Service Commission.
6:32 p.m.
Shen Yun Performance Day
The mayor proclaimed Feb. 13 as Shen Yun Performance Day.
6:41 p.m.
Science and Technology LEGO League
The council heard a presentation from the Science and Technology LEGO League about a water conservation app. Pictured below with Mayor Mooney are members of H2Owls (l-r): Yura Song, Sami Mahapatra, Izzy Toth, Miriam Demlow, Bowen Tian and Claire Connally.
6:50 p.m.
Hear Visitors
Three people spoke as part of Hear Visitors when citizens address the council on items that don’t appear on the posted agenda.
- Councilman James Benham recognized Army Lt. Tim Cunningham as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 26-year-old College Station native died April 23, 2008, in a vehicle accident in Balad, Iraq.
- Morgan Heien spoke against item 2f on tonight’s consent agenda, which would remove parking along one side of Oney Hervey Drive.
- Larry Johnson spoke in favor of item 2f on tonight’s consent agenda, which would remove parking along one side of Oney Hervey Drive.
6:51 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- A not-to-exceed bid award of $539,000 to Techline for the annual purchase of pad-mounted 15 kV solid dielectric switchgear.
- A contract amendment for PGAL to use the Construction Manager-at-Risk project delivery method for the design of the new police headquarters.
- A $109,060 bid award to Techline for materials related to transmission pole replacement.
- An advance funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation for voluntary local government contributions to transportation improvement projects with no required match for the FM 2818 Widening Project.
- Removed parking on the west side of Oney Harvey Drive to the end of the road, on the east side from Holleman Drive to 140 feet down the east side of Oney Harvey Drive, on the north side of Southland Street to the end of the road, and from Wellborn Road to 125 feet down the south side of Southland Street.
- A change order reducing reduction the contract with Larry Young Paving by $253,599.11 for the Royder Road Expansion Project.
- A $1.22 million contract with Halff Associates for design and construction phase services for the Southeast Park Project.
- An annual not-to-exceed $150,000 contract with All-Around Tree Service for landscaping and tree trimming and removal services.
- The annual traffic contact report required by the state.
6:58 p.m.
Angry Elephant Conditional Use Permit
After a public hearing, the council voted 6-0 to approve a conditional use permit for a bar called the Angry Elephant in an existing commercial space at 650 William D. Fitch Parkway, which is near the southwest corner of the intersection with Arrington Road. Councilman Barry Moore recused himself from the vote.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:16 p.m.
Comp Plan Amendment and Rezoning Criteria
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to amend the city’s Unified Development Ordinance regarding the criteria used in considering Comprehensive Plan amendments and rezonings. An earlier amendment to change some of the wording in the amendment also passed unanimously.
No criteria in the UDO assists applicants and guides decision makers in their consideration to amend the Comprehensive Plan. The questions asked of applicants are taken from guidance provided by the Comprehensive Plan to analyze amendment requests. While the amendment adds language to the UDO, it offers predictable expectations for applicants, and sound decision points to policymakers when considering changes to the city’s long-range plan.
The criteria in the UDO for rezonings have been criticized for being difficult to understand and confusing to apply. The amendment is intended to establish clear standards for rezoning with less redundancy.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:20 p.m.
Wolf Pen Creek Design District
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve criteria for administrative approval of site plans, buildings, and signs in the Wolf Pen Creek Design District. The changes are intended to streamline the development review process.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:36 p.m.
FY18 Budget Amendment No. 1
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to amend the city’s FY18 budget by $3,079,541 and to increase the full-time employee count by two. A $54,000 inter-fund transfer was also included.
See pages 104-105 of the regular meeting packet for more details of the budget amendment.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:47 p.m.
Board and Committee Appointments
The council voted unanimously to make these appointments:
- Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeal: Joseph Fix, Janet Kountakis, Bill Mather, James Sharp, Rachel Smith, Elianor Vessali (alternate).
- Design Review Board: Ray Holliday.
- Historic Preservation Committee: Gerald Blackmon, Gerald Burgner (chair), Shirley Dupriest, Helen Frisk, Louis Hodges, William Wright.
- Joint Relief Funding Review Committee: Nancy Berry, Chace Murphy.
- Zoning Board of Adjustments: Howard Mayne, James Sharp (alternate).
7:49 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
7:49 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the regular meeting. The workshop will resume after a short break.
7:59 p.m.
The workshop has resumed.
8:12 p.m.
Capital Improvement Plan Update
The council discussed the status of the city’s Capital Improvement Plan, including projects recommended by the Citizen Advisory Committee.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:23 p.m.
Krenek Tap Overlay
The consensus of the council was to move forward with a city-initiated rezoning to remove the Krenek Tap Overlay zoning district. The concept of deleting the zoning district from the city’s Unified Development Ordinance requires the rezoning of properties under the overlay to remove its application.
The Krenek Tap Overlay zoning district was adopted in 2004 to enhance the views along Krenek Tap Road and create a sense of identity for the city, not only along the municipal property but along Krenek Tap Road. At the time, the city was pursuing a City Centre Concept for the development of the municipal property.
The overlay heightens the development standards for properties along Krenek Tap — including single-family — by requiring parking behind structures and limitations on façade and fence materials and roof and signage options. The overlay is applied to properties from the Krenek Tap right-of-way and back 750 feet in each direction.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:36 p.m.
Public Hearing Notifications
The council discussed community notification requirements and practices for cases involving a public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:46 p.m.
Non-Residential Landscaping Standards
The council discussed the city’s non-residential landscaping requirements, including streetscaping, buffer standards, and options for encouraging water conservation.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:49 p.m.
Gulf Coast Strategic Highway Coalition
The consensus of the council was to provide a budget for a council representative to attend meetings of the Gulf Coast Strategic Highway Coalition. The estimated cost would be about $900, which includes airfare and hotel accommodations but not meals.
8:53 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The council meets again on Thursday, Feb. 22.
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. 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, Jan. 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.
5:03 p.m.
The workshop has started. No action was taken out of executive session.
5:21 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:
- Annexation Plan: The proposed ordinance directs staff to prepare a service plan for the area west of College Station identified for annexation. The service plan will contain the details related to the provision of specific municipal services to the property upon annexation and must be complete and available for public inspection before the public hearings. The ordinance also establishes the two required public hearings: March 19 at 6 p.m. and March 22 at 6 p.m., both at city hall. A fiscal impact analysis will be performed as part of the annexation process.
- Water Oversize Participation: The city is requesting construction of an 18-inch water transmission line associated with the development of the Brazos Valley Auto Complex. The developer’s engineer demonstrated that a 12-inch water line was adequate for the proposed development. The agreement covers the difference in cost between the 12-inch water line and the 18-inch water line along State Highway 6 South. A total of $149,805.60 is recommended for this project from the Water Capital Improvement Projects Fund.
- Pershing Point Parking Removal: The proposed ordinance removes on-street parking on the north side of Hayes Lane from the intersection with Towers Parkway west to Papa Bear Drive, on both sides of Regiment Way, and on the north and west sides of Papa Bear Drive from the intersection with Towers Parkway and extending west and south to 120 feet southwest of the intersection with Hayes Lane. The developer of the Pershing Pointe Villas subdivision chose to construct a standard-width residential street and remove some on-street parking to comply with the Unified Development Ordinance. No parking signs were installed when the roads were built.
- Summit Crossing Parking Removal: The proposed ordinance removes on-street parking on the north side of Alamosa Street between Summit Crossing Lane and Dakota Lane, on the south side of Buena Vista between Summit Crossing Lane and Dakota Lane, on the east side of Dakota Lane between Alamosa Street and Buena Vista, and on both sides of the public alley between Alamosa Street and Buena Vista. The developer of the Summit Crossing subdivision chose to construct a standard-width residential street and remove some on-street parking to comply with the Unified Development Ordinance.No parking signs were installed when the roads were built.
- Holleman South Widening: The $9.44 million project will reconstruct Holleman from North Dowling to Rock Prairie Road West. Improvements include replacing the two-lane asphalt pavement with a four-lane concrete section, a median/center turn lane, curbs, gutters an underground storm sewer, a sidewalk on the west side, and a multi-use path on the east side. The project also includes the installation of a traffic signal at Rock Prairie West and the new elementary school entrance, as well as illumination along the corridor.
5:38 p.m.
Historic Preservation Committee
The council reviewed the Historic Preservation Committee’s annual report.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
5:42 p.m.
Procurement Card Program Audit
The council received the results of an audit of the city’s procurement card program, which found the city is mitigating risk, encouraging the efficient and effective use of procurement cards, and achieving the program’s objectives. The report said some controls could be strengthened to further reduce risk. For the full document, go to pages 7-23 in tonight’s workshop packet.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:47 p.m.
Neighborhood Conservation Overlay Districts
The council discussed providing additional flexibility in single-family Neighborhood Conservation Overlay districts.
Overlay districts are designed to provide additional standards for new construction and redevelopment in established neighborhoods to promote development that is compatible with the neighborhood’s existing character. A primary goal is to balance the need for the renewal of vacant or underused properties.
Planning and Development Services Staff is working with the Southside neighborhood on an application to form an NCO District for the College Park, Oakwood, and Dulaney neighborhoods. The neighborhoods feel the Unified Development Ordinance language governing NCO options are overly restrictive and rigid and asked for additional flexibility to allow more customization to better target neighborhood issues without overregulating other areas.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:56 p.m.
Arts Council Building Renovation
The council discussed the renovation of the Arts Council building on Colgate Drive and its use as a community center that emphasizes senior programming. The $973,000 project includes reconfiguring the layout to better accommodate community activities, addressing ADA issues, and replacing the HVAC.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:56 p.m.
Mayor Mooney suspended the workshop until after the regular meeting, which will begin after a short break.
7:07 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:13 p.m.
Historical Marker Presentations
Two historic markers were presented by College Station’s Historic Preservation Committee.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
Plaque No. 92 will be placed on the home at 700 Thomas, which is owned by Jim and Stephanie Russ. This home, built in 1953, is the former residence of Dr. O.D. Butler and his family. The late Dr. Butler was a legendary figure in the history of Texas A&M through his leadership in agriculture. The Russes are pictured with Mayor Mooney and HPC Chairman Lou Hodges.
Plaque No. 93 will be placed on the home at 601 Montclair, which is owned by Jeff and Brenda Hood. This home — likely built by members of Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets in 1910 or 1911 — is among the original faculty homes to have been moved from campus into a nearby neighborhood. Pictured below with Mayor Mooney and Chairman Hodges is resident Paul Dutton.
7:16 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 James Benham recognized Army Sgt. Glenn D. Hicks, Jr. as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 24-year-old College Station native died April 28, 2007, when he was struck with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire during combat operations in Salman Park, Iraq.
7:17 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- A $560,900 contract to JaCody Construction to purchase and replace screw lift pumps at the Carters Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant.
- A change order decreasing by $52,182 a contract with McDonald Municipal & Industrial. The new contract total is $1,074,287.
- The second reading of a franchise agreement with Brazos Valley Recycling for the collection of recyclables from commercial businesses and multi-family locations.
- Annual tire purchases and retread services not to exceed $230,000 from Southern Tire Mart through the BuyBoard Purchasing Cooperative.
- An annual blanket purchase order not to exceed $120,000 with Siddons-Martin Emergency Group for repair parts and labor for fire trucks through the BuyBoard Purchasing Cooperative.
- An ordinance directing staff to prepare a service plan and establish public hearing dates and times for the annexation of about 65 acres on the city’s west side.
- A $149,805.60 oversize participation agreement with Bkck Ltd. for a new water main along State Highway 6 South near its intersection with Sebesta Road.
- Removed parking on the north side of Hayes Lane from the intersection with Towers Parkway west to Papa Bear Drive, on both sides of Regiment Way, and on the north and west sides of Papa Bear Drive from the intersection with Towers Parkway extending west and south to 120 feet southwest of the intersection with Hayes Lane.
- Removed parking on the north side of Alamosa Street between Summit Crossing Lane and Dakota Lane, on the south side of Buena Vista between Summit Crossing Lane and Dakota Lane, on the east side of Dakota Lane between Alamosa Street and Buena Vista, and on both sides of the public alley between Alamosa Street and Buena Vista.
- A $9.44 million contract with Larry Young Paving for the construction of the Holleman Drive South Widening Project.
- A resolution for the Strong and Sustainable Grant Program that repeals a previous resolution and delegates authority to the city manager to administer and implement the program policy.
7:45 p.m.
Rezoning in 200 Block of Holleman
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning district boundaries to Planned Development District for about 5.6 acres in the 200 block of Holleman Drive in the Pooh’s Park Subdivision. The change will allow the development of 62 detached townhouses designed for students.
Here are the PowerPoint presentations:
8:44 p.m.
Land Use at Rock Prairie and Fitch
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to deny a request to change the land use designation to General Commercial and Natural Areas Reserved for about 35 acres north of the intersection of Rock Prairie Road and William D. Fitch Parkway. Councilmen Jerome Rektoik and Barry Moore voted against the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:56 p.m.
Rezoning on Greens Prairie Road West
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning district boundaries to Planned Development District for about eight acres at 3596 Greens Prairie Road West. The change will allow the development of senior assisted-living housing that looks similar to nearby homes.
Here are the PowerPoint presentations:
9:57 p.m.
Parks & Recreation Board Appointment
The council voted unanimously to reappoint Ann Hays to another term on the Parks & Recreation Board.
9:59 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
9:59 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the regular meeting and will resume the workshop.
10:00 p.m.
The council discussed its calendar and received committee reports.
10:00 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop. The council meets again on Thursday, Feb. 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 (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 (Dec. 14)
(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, Dec. 14. 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.
Employee Recognition
Earlier this afternoon, the council recognized Sgt. Kevin Harris as the city’s employee of the year along with employees who have reached 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service.
Employee of the Year Kevin Harris and Mayor Karl Mooney
5:26 p.m.
The workshop has started. No action was taken in executive session.
5:40 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:
- Francis Street Rehabilitation: The $3.7 million contract for the rehabilitation of Francis Drive includes pavement from Munson to Glenhaven and Walton to Munson. The project also includes replacing existing sidewalks along with water, wastewater and drainage improvements.
- University Drive Pedestrian Improvements: The $6 million construction contract is for Phase II of pedestrian safety and mobility improvements along University Drive from College Main to South College Avenue/Bizzell Street. Sidewalks along the north side of University Drive will be widened, median islands will be constructed, and traffic signals will be replaced and will have enhanced pedestrian timings. Also included are illumination improvements and an overlay of asphalt pavement.
5:41 p.m.
Benham Elected Mayor Pro Tem
The council voted unanimously to elect Councilman James Benham to a one-year term as mayor pro tem. Benham will act as mayor if Mayor Karl Mooney is absent or otherwise unable to fulfill his duties.
6:16 p.m.
Planned Development Districts
The council discussed Planned Development Zoning Districts (PDDs) and associated concept plans. The purpose of PDDs is to promote innovative development that’s sensitive to surrounding land uses and to the natural environment. If a proposed development varies from specific standards, it should demonstrate community benefits.
PDDs are appropriate where the land use plan reflects the specific commercial, residential, or mix of uses in the proposal. A PDD may be used to permit new or innovative concepts in land use not permitted by other zoning districts. While greater flexibility is given to allow special conditions or restrictions that wouldn’t otherwise enable the development to occur, procedures are established to ensure against misuse.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:17 p.m.
The workshop has been suspended until after the regular meeting, which will start after a short break.
6:25 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:29 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 James Benham recognized Army Spc. Chad H. Drake as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 23-year-old Garland native died Sept. 7, 2004, when his patrol vehicle came under attack by enemy forces in Baghdad, Iraq.
6:29 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- The 2018 Council Calendar.
- An agreement to purchase eight Zoll Medical X Series Manual Monitors/Defibrillators for $239,228.80 with a three-year extended warranty contract for $20,995.
- Renewal of four master agreements for real estate appraisal services: Atrium Real
- Estate Services (not to exceed $30,000), CBRE (not to exceed $30,000); JLL
- Valuation & Advisory Services (not to exceed $30,000); and S.T. Lovett & Associates (not to exceed $30,000).
- Renewal of an annual contract not to exceed $250,000 with DIJ Construction for pavement markings and roadway striping.
- A bid award not to exceed $286,650 to BPI Materials for cement stabilized material.
- A $3.7 million contract with Hassell Construction for the Francis Drive Rehabilitation Project.
- A $243,965 contract with Quality Works Construction for a security fence at the city’s public works facility on William King Cole Dr.
- A $6 million contract with Larry Young Paving for the University Drive Pedestrian Improvements Project.
- Authorized the city manager to approve contract documents and expenditures totaling $11.3 million for employee benefits for 2018 and a contract with Cigna for stop-loss reinsurance for 2018.
- Ratified additional expenditures up to $187,500 to pay current and future invoices under the current contract with Brenco Marketing Corporation for diesel fuel and gasoline. The total annual estimated cost is $1.09 million.
- Renewal of the annual one-year contract with Brenco Marketing Corporation for gasoline and diesel fuel and the annual estimated expenditures of $1.4 million.
- Repealed a resolution concerning the administration of the city’s contract forms, delegating authority to the city attorney to administer the forms and providing for a periodic legal compliance review of the forms.
- Amendments to the city’s Code of Ordinances related to civil parking offenses and civil parking fines.
- A five-year inter-local agreement establishing the Community Emergency Operations Center staffed by Brazos County, College Station, Bryan, and Texas A&M and contracting for equal sharing of facility rental costs, which comes to $340,695.90 for the City of College Station over five years.
- The city internal auditor’s Examination Engagement of the Research Valley Partnership.
- A bid award of $112,037.50 to Midsun Group for electric substation wildlife protection equipment to reduce substation outages.
- Partial assignment of the Infrastructure and Economic Development Agreement with College Station Town Center.
- A change order to increase a design contract by $33,925 with Pierce Goodwin Alexender & Linville for renovations to the Arts Council building located on Dartmouth Drive. The increase allows for civil engineering services provided by Kimley-Horn and Associates.
6:41 p.m.
Medical District Sewer Line
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to establish a 30-foot wide public utility easement on parkland and greenway property in the Medical District area that’s needed for the development of College Station Town Center and other parts of the city.
The route on parkland and greenway property is the only one feasible since it’s located directly between the developer’s property and the sewer trunk line along William D. Fitch Parkway. The easement is not expected to have any negative impact, and the site will be restored to its original condition, including the hike and bike path.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:48 p.m.
Jackson Hole Planned Development District
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the zoning district boundaries to Planned Development District for about 2.2 acres at 3747 Rock Prairie Road West. The change to the concept plan’s preserve area mitigates unpermitted clearing that took place on the property, and a supplemental landscape plan provides for additional plantings.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:51 p.m.
Land Use Change on State Highway 47
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a request to change the land use designation from Business Park to Urban for about 11 acres east of the intersection of State Highway 47 and Raymond Stotzer Parkway. Councilman Bob Brick and Councilwoman Linda Harvell voted against the motion.
The change will allow for development that includes multi-family and other uses.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:58 p.m.
Rezoning on State Highway 47
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a request to change the zoning from Planned Development District (PDD) to Rural and PDD for about 11 acres east of the intersection of State Highway 47 and Raymond Stotzer Parkway. Brick and Harvell voted against the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:11 p.m.
Preliminary Plan Approval Process
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to amend the city’s Unified Development Ordinance to streamline the development review process by allowing preliminary plans to be approved administratively unless the applicant is seeking a waiver or discretionary item.
In August, city staff hosted two public meetings to solicit feedback on proposed changes to the UDO, including preliminary plans. In September, staff briefed the Planning & Zoning Commission on the results of the public meetings and was directed to move forward with the changes to the ordinance.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:20 p.m.
Board and Committee Appointments
The council discussed the appointment of council members to represent the city on joint committees and with other governmental agencies and community groups. The council will consider citizen appointments in January.
8:22 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
8:22 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the regular meeting. The workshop will resume.
9:05 p.m.
Privatizing Solid Waste Services
The council discussed the pros and cons of privatizing the city’s solid waste services. The consensus was to continue the discussion at the annual council retreat in early 2018.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:08 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports.
The council meets again on Thursday, Jan. 11.
Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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: Monday’s city council meetings (Nov. 20)
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. 20. 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.
4:50 p.m.
The workshop has started. Council took no action out of executive session.
4:53 p.m.
Canvassing of Election Returns
The council canvassed the Nov. 7 election returns and unanimously declared the results. Linda Harvell, Bob Brick, and John Nichols are elected to the city council.
4:57 p.m.
Oaths of Office
Harvell, Brick, and Nichols were sworn in as council members by Municipal Court Judge Ed Spillane. We’ll post photos here later.
John Nichols
Linda Harvell
Bob Brick
5:38 p.m.
Farewell to Outgoing Council Members
Council members, city staff, and citizens bid farewell to outgoing Mayor Pro Tem Julie Schultz and Councilwoman Blanche Brick, who each served two terms since their initial election in 2011. As a parting gift, Brick presented a large print of Norman Rockwell’s “Freedom of Speech” for display in city hall.
The council will take a short break for a reception honoring the new and former council members.
Firefighters with Blanche Brick and Julie Schultz
Norman Rockwell’s “Freedom of Speech”
6:14 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:19 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 James Benham recognized Army Capt. Andrew R. Houghton as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 25-year-old Houston native died Aug. 9, 2004, when a rocket-propelled grenade detonated near his vehicle in Ad Dhuha, Iraq.
6:22 p.m.
Consent Agenda Discussion
The council will vote on items listed on the consent agenda. Councilmembers pulled these consent items for discussion:
- Christmas Parade Banners: The city has been approached about erecting and displaying seven banners at various locations from Nov. 21-Dec. 4 to recognize the annual Christmas parade. Banners may be exempt from regulations when they promote a positive image for the city that attracts business or tourism, depicts an accomplishment of an individual or group, or creates a positive community spirit.
- FY18 Certificates of Obligation: The FY18 Budget includes several Parks and Recreation, Public Works and Information Technology projects funded with certificates of obligation that haven’t been issued. The “Resolution Declaring Intention to Reimburse Certain Expenditures with Proceeds from Debt” would cover spending that is estimated to occur in advance of the scheduled FY18 debt issue.
- Greens Prairie Trail Project: The change order would reduce the contract for the Greens Prairie Trail Widening Project by $198,223.18. The project included reconstruction of Greens Prairie Trail from Wellborn Road through the intersection of Royder Road. Quantities actually used were less than estimated in the original contract.
6:22 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- Banners for the annual Christmas Parade.
- A resolution declaring intent to reimburse certain expenditures with proceeds from debt for Parks and Recreation, Public Works and Information Technology projects in the FY18 Capital Improvements Program Budget.
- A reduction of $198,223.18 to the contract with Hassell Construction for the Greens Prairie Trail Widening Project.
- The $136,470 purchase of 15 traffic signal cabinets from Paradigm Traffic Systems.
6:29 p.m.
UDO Master Plan Amendments
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to amend the city’s Unified Development Ordinance to recognize locational flexibility to ensure consistency among various master plan components and clarify that plan depictions may be updated as development occurs.
The UDO is intended to implement planning policy as provided in the city’s Comprehensive Plan and associated plans. Since thoroughfare and bikeway alignments in these plans are generalized locations, the plans authorize discretion for those elements to be refined as needed up to a distance of 1,000 feet without an ordinance amendment.
As part of reviewing thoroughfares for the proposed Thoroughfare Plan update, it was identified that several thoroughfares remain depicted as conceptually shown in the 2009 Comprehensive Plan, although development plans and surrounding conditions have provided refinement when implemented.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:07 p.m.
Comprehensive Plan Thoroughfare Amendments
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve an amendment to the city’s Thoroughfare Plan and Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan to reflect recent revisions to the Bryan/College Station Metropolitan Planning Organization’s 2050 Thoroughfare Concept.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:09 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
7:09 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the regular meeting. The workshop meeting will resume after a short break.
7:14 p.m.
The workshop has resumed.
7:46 p.m.
Suburban Commercial Zoning Requirements
The council voted 6-1 to approve the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recommendations for changes to Suburban Commercial zoning as part of the 10-year update to the Comprehensive Plan. Councilwoman Harvell voted against the motion.
Most current and future Suburban Commercial locations are located near neighborhoods along major highways and thoroughfares, which creates tension between neighborhood concerns and market demands for higher intensity.
The council voted 5-2 against an earlier motion to approve the recommendations with the exception of gas stations and drive-thru establishments. Harvell and Councilman Brick voted for the motion.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:39 p.m.
Bicycle Parking Requirements
The council discussed the city’s bicycle parking guidelines and ways to increase development flexibility and reduce requirements. The consensus of the council, with the exception of Councilman Jerome Rektorik, was for staff to bring back an ordinance reflecting the recommendations.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:46 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports.
The council meets again on Thursday, Dec. 14.
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!
