Live Blog: Monday’s city council meetings (May 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 Monday, May 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.
5:10 p.m.
The workshop has started. No action was taken out of executive session.
5:16 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:
- Northgate Parking Meter Agreement: The $109,450 contract with IPS Group is for an upgraded on-street parking meter system in Northgate. The use of parking meters is designed to encourage turnover for businesses and to provide short-term parking options.
5:34 p.m.
RVP Compliance Report
The council heard a presentation by the Research Valley Partnership on project compliance in 2017.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
5:49 p.m.
Controlled Burns
The council heard a presentation from College Station Fire Marshal Eric Dotson about the city’s controlled burn policies.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
5:52 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.
6:04 p.m.
The regular meeting has started. Councilman Barry Moore is absent tonight.
6:08 p.m.
Arts Council College Arts Scholarships
Chief Executive Officer Chris Dyer presented the Arts Council of Brazos Valley’s annual College Arts Scholarships, which are awarded each year to deserving young artists in the Brazos Valley. This year’s recipients are Anna Miller ($5,000) and Charlotte Brumbelow ($3,000) both of A&M Consolidated.
Miller (below) plans to study music education at the University of Oklahoma, and Brumbelow will pursue a theatre degree from the University of Texas. Also pictured are ACBV board members Pam Smits and Coleen Bradfield, ACBV executive director Chris Dyer, and Mayor Mooney. Brumbelow was unable to attend.
6:12 p.m.
National Public Works Week
Mayor Mooney proclaimed May 20-26 as National Public Works Week to recognize public works for providing, maintaining, and improving the structures and services that assure a higher quality of life for the nation’s communities. Pictured below are (L-R) Mark Mcauliffe, Troy Rother, Raquel Gonzales, Susan Monnat, Mayor Karl Mooney, Donald Harmon, Martin Mcgehee, and Jason Best.
6:15 p.m.
National Bike Month
The mayor proclaimed May as National Bike Month to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to try it. Click here for more about biking and here for a map of local biking facilities. Receiving the proclamation (below, l-r) were Bicycle, Pedestrian & Greenways Board Member Jonathan Coopersmith, Councilwoman Linda Harvell, committee members Tina Evans and Neal Johnson, CSPD Bike Patrol Officer George Humes, and Bicycle, Pedestrian & Greenways Senior Project Manager Venessa Garza.
6:24 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.
- Lisa Halperin criticized what she sees as the biased nature of the city’s recent survey about possible changes to its Unified Development Ordinance.
- Hugh Lindsay spoke against Texas A&M’s bike share program and how the yellow bikes are left all over town.
6:25 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- A service and extended warranty contract for $109,450 with IPS Group to upgrade Northgate on-street single-space parking meters and for monthly operating and credit card transaction fees not to exceed $15,000 per year.
- A $128,736 contract with Jamail and Smith Construction for improvements to Gabbard Park.
- A $199,410 contract with Hawkins Architecture for renovating and rebuilding park structures in Bee Creek Park and Beachy Central Park.
- A $124,722 purchase order from Fouts Brothers for one light rescue response vehicle.
- An inter-local agreement with the City of Grapevine for cooperative purchasing activities.
- Renewal of an annual contract not-to-exceed $100,000 with Larry Young Paving for the repaving of utility cuts as needed.
- The Brazos Valley Wide Area Communications System’s FY19 operating budget, the city’s payment not-to-exceed $170,103.03, BVWACS FY19 capital equipment replacement reserve fund budget, and the city’s payment not-to-exceed $58,795.30.
6:47 p.m.
Naming the Arts Council Building
The council voted 4-2 to approve a request to change the name of The Bob and Wanda Meyer Community Center to The Bob and Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center. Councilmen James Benham and Jerome Rektorik voted against the motion.
In March, the council approved The Bob and Wanda Meyer Community Center as the building’s name. In April, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board voted 7-1 to recommend renaming the building The Bob and Wanda Meyer Senior and Community Center. Consequently, the Senior Advisory Committee and Parks and Recreation Board asked the council to reconsider its earlier decision.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:27 p.m.
Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan Update
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved the updated Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Greenways Master Plan. Since the original plan was adopted in 201, the city has grown and changes warranted a re-evaluation of the community’s needs.
As a component of the city’s Comprehensive Plan, the updated plan provides goals and strategies and focuses around the need to improve connectivity and accessibility, enhance safety, increase bicycling and walking, and encourage environmental stewardship.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:35 p.m.
RVP Board Appointment
The council unanimously selected Johnny Burns to finish an unexpired term as the city’s representative on the Research Valley Partnership board of directors. The term ends in June.
7:37 p.m.
After the council discussed and reviewed future agenda items, Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again Thursday, May 24.
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!
5 things to watch at Monday’s city council meetings
By Colin Killian, Public Communications Manager
The College Station City Council gathers Monday at city hall for its workshop (5 p.m.) and regular (6 p.m.) meetings.
Here are five items to watch:
- RVP Incentives Compliance Report: The council will hear a workshop presentation by the Research Valley Partnership about project compliance in 2017.
- Controlled Burn Permits: The council will have a workshop discussion on the city’s policies regarding controlled burn permits.
- Gabbard Park Improvements: As part of the consent agenda, the council will consider a $128,736 contract for replacement of the fence, fishing pier, and walking bridge at Gabbard Park.
- Park Structures Contract: Another consent item is a $199,400 contract for architectural services regarding the renovation and rebuild of the Bee Creek concession building and Beachy Central Park’s pavilion and restroom.
- Bicycle, Pedestrian & Greenways Master Plan: After a public hearing, the council will consider accepting updates to the city’s Bicycle, Pedestrian and Greenways Master Plan, which was adopted as part of the Comprehensive Plan in 2010.
The meetings can be watched live on Suddenlink Channels 19 or online. We’ll post a detailed live blog 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 (April 26)
(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, April 26. 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. No action was taken out of executive session.
5:18 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:
- CSISD Agreement: The inter-local agreement is for the College Station Independent School District’s cost participation in the reconstruction of Holleman Drive from North Dowling Road to Rock Prairie Road West. The traffic impact of the new River Bend Elementary led to the addition of a traffic signal and pavement, and utility relocations. CSISD will reimburse the city up to $395,500.
6:18 p.m.
Automated Metering Infrastructure
The council voted unanimously to move forward with the implementation of Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) for the city’s electric utility but to defer the transition to AMI for water. The process will take about three years to complete. Water will continue to install AMI-ready meters for future AMI implementation.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:44 p.m.
Regional Mobility Authority
The council unanimously directed the mayor to submit a letter of support to Brazos County regarding the creation of a Regional Mobility Authority (RMA), a county-wide independent government agency focused on regional transportation problems such as congestion and travel times. Nine RMAs already have been created across the state.
The RMA would work with the local Texas Department of Transportation district. While it would not have taxing authority, it would have eminent domain powers.
The RMA would have to be authorized by the Brazos County Commission, then a petition would be submitted to the Texas Transportation Commission for consideration. If the TTC issues a minute order, the county would create an RMA board consisting of directors appointed by the county commission and a presiding officer appointed by the governor.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:45 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The regular meeting will start after a short break.
6:54 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
6:58 p.m.
International Firefighters Day
The mayor recognized May 4 as International Firefighters Day.
7:10 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. David M. Fraser as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 25-year-old Houston native died Nov. 26, 2006 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq.
- Weston Salanty expressed concerns about roadway improvements needed in some areas of the city.
- Hugh Stearns spoke about his recommendations for the city to better communicate and interact with residents and neighborhood groups.
7:11 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve the entire consent agenda:
- An annual agreement not-to-exceed $125,000 with the Brazos Valley Softball Umpires Association for officiating services for city athletic leagues, programs, and tournaments.
- A $346,260.81 contract with Jamail & Smith Construction for various facilities corrective maintenance services.
- An inter-local agreement with the College Station Independent School District for cost participation in the city’s Holleman Drive South Widening Project. CSISD will reimburse up to $395,500 for costs of the deceleration lane, traffic signal, and utility relocations related to the new River Bend Elementary School.
- A $312,000 contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for design and construction phase services for Phase 2 of the Northeast Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line Phase 2 Project.
- A 171,469 contract with C. F. McDonald Electric for the Municipal Court/Traffic Control Center Backup Generator Project.
- A resolution authorizing a license agreement with Thomas and Stephanie Adams for the encroachment of part of an underground pool structure in the Pebble Creek subdivision.
- A lease amendment with JAR Capital Investments extending the term for two years for space at 511 University Dr. East.
- The second reading of a franchise agreement with Premier Metal Buyers for the collection of recyclables from businesses and multi-family locations.
- The second reading of a franchise agreement with Pronto Services for the collection of recyclables from businesses and multi-family locations.
7:51 p.m.
Summitt Crossing Phases 4-6 Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a request to rezone about 36 acres from Planned Development District to Townhouse near the intersection of Buena Vista and Summit Crossing Lane. Councilman Bob Brick and Councilwoman Linda Harvell voted against the motion.
The change allows for Phases 4-6 of the Summit Crossing development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:57 p.m.
Summitt Crossing Multi-Family Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-2 to approve a request to rezone about 12 acres from Planned Development District to Multi-Family near the intersection of Summit Crossing Lane and Harvey Road. Councilman Brick and Councilwoman Harvell voted against the motion.
The change allows for development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:04 p.m.
Amendment to Food Park Conditional Use Permit
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to amend the conditional use permit for the Wayside Food Park in Northgate, eliminating the requirement for certified peace officers.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:14 p.m.
West College Station Annexation
The council voted unanimously to annex about 65 acres near Rock Prairie Road West, Holleman Drive South, and North Graham Road. The council conducted a pair of public hearings on the annexation in March.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:27 p.m.
Certificates of Obligation
The council voted unanimously to authorize the issuance of up to $55 million in certificates of obligation to fund various capital projects, Including streets, parks, land for a future fire station, city hall design, information technology, and electric, water, and wastewater system improvements. The council approved the projects as part of the FY18 budget.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:34 p.m.
Police Facility Construction Manager at Risk
The council voted unanimously to approve J.T. Vaughn Construction as the construction manager at risk for the College Station Police Headquarters project.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:45 p.m.
RVP Board Appointment
The council postponed until the May 10 meeting making an appointment to fill an unexpired term as the city’s representative on the Research Valley Partnership board of directors. The term ends in June, but the appointee would be eligible to be reappointed for two additional three-year terms.
8:47 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
8:50 p.m.
The council wished Interim City Manager Chuck Gilman well in his new job with the San Jacinto River Authority. Gilman’s final day with the city is Friday. Gilman has been with the city for a decade, also serving as deputy city manager, public works director, and capital projects director.
Best wishes, Chuck — and thank you for your service!
8:50 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Thursday, May 10.
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 (Sept. 25)
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 Monday, Sept. 25. 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.
6:26 p.m.
The workshop has started. Council took no action out of executive session. Councilman James Benham is absent tonight.
6:54 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:
- Research Valley Partnership Bylaws: In June, the RVP voted to amend its bylaws. College Station, Bryan, Brazos County and other oversight entities must approve any changes to the bylaws concerning the appointment and qualifications of directors. A provision allows Texas A&M to join the RVP as a full-funding partner. Existing full-funding partners are the cities of Bryan, College Station and Brazos County, which invest about $350,000 each per year.
- Hot Mix Asphalt Contract: Four sealed competitive bids were received and opened in August 2015, and Brazos Paving was the lowest responsible bidder. The total contract award for Type D hot mix asphalt is $2,990,750 and the emulsion is $22,800 for a total not to exceed $3,013,550 for materials to be installed on city streets as needed. This is the second of two possible one-year renewals.
- Royder Road Interlocal Agreement: Due to the traffic impact of the proposed Wellborn Middle School, the need for a traffic signal at Greens Prairie Trail and Royder, a right-turn deceleration lane into the school, and the associated utility relocations were added to the city’s planned roadway project. A total budget of $4.93 million is included for this project in the Streets Capital Improvement Projects Fund. CSISD will reimburse the city up to $450,000 for the deceleration lane, traffic signal improvements, and necessary utility relocations.
- Arrington Road Interlocal Agreement: The agreement allows Brazos County to finance the improvements to Arrington Road in the College Station city limits. The county will provide property acquisition, grading, drainage, flexible base/asphalt pavement, pavement markings, permanent vegetation, and appropriate signage and maintenance.
- Hands-Free Ordinance Repeal: A new state law preempts a city ordinance that prohibits the use of a hand-held electronic communication device while driving. The Texas law simply bans texting while driving.
- Dark Fiber Lease Agreement: On March 26, 2015, council approved an Ordinance permitting the lease of city fiber optic cable facilities. This item is the second lease authorized by the ordinance. The lease will have a financial impact on the city since modest revenue will be obtained from fiber or conduit leases.
7:22 p.m.
Affordable Housing Update
The council reviewed the city’s efforts and programs to promote affordable housing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:25 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The regular meeting will start after a short break.
7:32 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:40 p.m.
Joe Orr, Inc. cited as Texas Treasure Business
Joe Orr, Inc. was recognized by Mayor Mooney for receiving a Texas Treasure Business Award from the Texas Historical Commission. Joe Orr is one of only 383 businesses from across the state to make this prestigious list, which pays tribute to businesses that have provided employment opportunities and support to the state’s economy for 50 years or more. Pictured below with Mayor Mooney is Henry Mayo, Joe Orr’s vice president.
Here’s Mr. Mayo’s PowerPoint presentation:
7:45 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.
- Ben Roper recognized Marine Lance Cpl. Pedro Contreras as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial Program. The 27-year-old from Harris, Texas, died from hostile fire on June 21, 2004, in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
- Casey Oldham introduced Matt Prochaska as president and CEO of the Research Valley Partnership.
7:52 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted unanimously to approve these consent agenda items:
- Modifications to Article III of the Bylaws of the Research Valley Partnership, Inc.
- FY18 funds for items exempt from competitive bidding as described in the Texas Local Government Code and other expenditures for interlocal contracts or fees mandated by state law greater than $100,000.
- First renewal of a $256,078.42 annual contract with Andrews Building Service for janitorial services for city facilities and the Northgate District.
- An interlocal agreement for the cost participation by the College Station Independent School District in the Royder Road Widening Phase I Project.
- Prohibited left turns for vehicles traveling northbound on Brothers Boulevard into the Southwood Valley parent pick-up and drop-off driveway 815 feet north of Deacon Drive.
- An interlocal agreement with Brazos County regarding Arrington Road.
- Authorized the city manager or his designee to execute documents necessary for a grant application for Criminal Justice Division funds from the Officer of the Governor.
- Prohibited parking on the west side of Boyett Street beginning 60 feet north of the intersection with University Drive and ending 130 feet north of University Drive.
- An amendment to the Brazos Valley Wide Area Communications System interlocal agreement that adds Grimes County as a BVWACS party.
- A bid award not to exceed $479,168 for the annual blanket purchase of three-phase pad-mounted transformers.
- An annual water meter purchase of a maximum amount of $463,000 with National Meter & Automation, Inc.
- Repealed the city ordinance regarding the use of wireless communication devices while operating a motor vehicle or bicycle.
- A license agreement with Lakeridge Living for a 69.55-square-foot encroachment into the public utility easement located at 1198 Jones Butler Road.
- An agreement for CEO, Etc., to lease city fiber optic cable facilities.
- FY17 funding of $1,493,809 to Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) OPEB trust.
- FY18 insurance premiums not to exceed $500,223 for excess liability and workers’ compensation, property/boiler & machinery, commercial crime, EMT liability, auto property damage, cyber liability and special events policies.
This item was pulled for a separate vote:
- The council voted 5-1 to approve an annual contract not to exceed $3,013,550 with Brazos Paving for Type D hot mix asphalt and emulsion. Councilwoman Julie Schultz voted against the motion.
7:58 p.m.
FY17 Budget Amendment No. 3
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved Budget Amendment No. 3, which amends the FY17 budget by $114,357 and includes a contingency transfer of up to $400,000 to cover expenses related to hurricanes Harvey and Maria.
The amendment includes $49,957 to cover expenses incurred by members of the Police Department to participate in the presidential inauguration in January. Another $4,000 is for expenses for a homicide investigation seminar hosted by CSPD. Funds for both of those items were subsequently reimbursed.
In addition, the Fleet Maintenance Fund is expected to be over budget by about $60,000 because of unexpected expenses for parts, repairs, and overtime.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:03 p.m.
FY18 Budget Adoption
The council voted unanimously to adopt the city’s $365.7 million budget for FY18 and 5-1 to ratify a $5.8 million increase in property tax revenue. Councilman Jerome Rektorik voted against the ratification.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:11 p.m.
FY18 Tax Rate Adoption
The council voted 5-1 to adopt the FY18 property tax rate of 49.75 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, which includes .220339 cents for debt service and .277161 cents for operations and maintenance. Councilman Jerome Rektorik voted against the motion.
The 2½-cent increase from FY17 is entirely on the debt side and will be used to fund a new police station. The new rate is expected to generate about $43.3 million to fund the city’s general debt service and part of its operations and maintenance costs.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
Councilwoman Linda Harvell was not feeling well and has left the meeting.
8:18 p.m.
Utility Rate Ordinance Modification
The council voted 5-0 to implement two changes to utility fees and rates.
The first change establishes a unified account creation fee and deletes the existing connection fees that cause confusion and are not compatible with the city’s new billing system. The change simplifies the fee to create an account with College Station Utilities. The next item on tonight’s agenda establishes the amount of the account creation fee, which is revenue neutral.
The second change implements a council decision from November to add a 50 percent surcharge to water and sewer customers in Brazos County Municipal Utility District No. 1, also known as the Speedway MUD or Southern Point development. The surcharge will help offset the cost of adding utility capacity to meet the development’s demands. It provides the same revenue as impact fees would but stretches it over 20 years.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:23 p.m.
Fitch-Rock Prairie Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to approve a request to change the zoning designation from Rural to Suburban Commercial, Estate and Natural Areas Protected for about 35 acres northwest of the intersection of William D. Fitch Parkway and Rock Prairie Road. The change will allow for development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:06 p.m.
Rezoning East of Emerald Forest
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to deny a request to change the zoning designation from Rural to Restricted Suburban and Natural Areas Protected for about 46 acres east of the Emerald Forest Subdivision near the Carters Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. The change would have allowed for a single-family residential development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:09 p.m.
Northgate Easement Abandonment
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to abandon a public utility easement at 203 First St. to allow for the development of the mobile food truck park in Northgate.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:13 p.m.
Associates Avenue Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to approve a request to change the zoning designation from Commercial Industrial to Multi-Family and Natural Areas Protected for about six acres on Associates Avenue behind Sam’s. The change will allow for a multi-family residential development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:17 p.m.
Barron Cut-Off Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 4-0 to approve a request to change the zoning designation from Rural to General Suburban for about 14 acres at 3387 Barron Cut-Off Road. The change will allow a single-family residential development.
Councilwoman Julie Schultz recused herself from the discussion because of a conflict of interest.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:24 p.m.
White’s Creek Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-0 to approve a request to change the zoning designation from Rural to Estate for about five acres at 15590 White’s Creek Lane. The change will allow for residential development.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
9:25 p.m.
BVSWMA Appointment
The council voted 5-0 to appoint Rick Floyd to the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency’s board of directors.
9:30 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
9:30 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again for a special meeting on Monday, Oct. 2. The next regular meeting is Thursday, Oct. 12.
Thanks for joining us. Good Night!
About the Blogger
Colin Killian (@ColinKillian) has been with the City of College Station since 2010 after 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 (Aug. 24)
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, Aug. 24. 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.
5:34 p.m.
The workshop has started. Councilwoman Julie Schultz is absent tonight.
No action was taken out of executive session.
5:57 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:
- Graham Substation Equipment: The equipment purchased through this bid requires a significant delivery time from the date of purchase and is be installed during the construction of the Graham Road Substation in 2018. The equipment to be purchased includes transformers, a gas circuit breaker, circuit switchers, and 3-phase electric substation transformers. The bid includes delivery, set-up of the transformers on the foundations, filling with oil, and testing.
- Four-Way Stop at Thomas/Dexter: The intersection of Thomas Street and Dexter Drive has stop signs on the Thomas Street approaches. An area resident expresses concerns about appropriate sight lines. Traffic Engineering found that the sight line for vehicles at the stop sign on the westbound approach was inadequate to see vehicles approaching the from the left on Dexter. Consequently, Traffic Engineering recommends making it a four-way stop controlled intersection.
- Brazos Valley Recycling: Staff recommends renewal of years 3-5 of a five-year franchise agreement and general services contract with Brazos Valley Recycling for the collection, processing, and marketing of recyclable materials. The city pays an annual cost of $880,000. Recycling collection services and associated public education programs account for $3.18 of the $14.40 monthly sanitation fee charged to each customer.
- Water Well No. 9: The project includes the installation of Well No. 9 and a collection line on city property to add additional pumping capacity to match population projections and state requirements. Final project costs are expected to be less than what was budgeted in FY17.
- Water Line Relocation: Staff recommends approval of a construction contract for the installation of a water line west of the FM2818-FM60 intersection. The existing 30-inch water line will be removed or filled with grout.
6:04 p.m.
BVSWMA FY18 Budget
The council approved the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency’s proposed budget for FY18, which includes $8.92 million in revenues and $9.44 million in expenses. The budget also reduces the gate rate from $20.50 to $20.00 per ton from Bryan and College Station.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:20 p.m.
Park Preserves in ETJ
The council heard a presentation about potential parkland in the city’s 3½-mile extraterritorial jurisdiction. The discussion covered parkland needs and possibilities and included the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, current parks and greenways properties, current land purchase efforts, the Parkland Dedication Ordinance, and possible funding.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:28 p.m.
Traffic Control Center Award
The council heard a presentation about the national Public Agency Council Achievement Award received by the Traffic Systems and Traffic Engineering divisions for the city’s Traffic Control Center (TCC). The award was presented at the Institute of Transportation Engineers annual meeting in Toronto. Pictured below (L-R) are Traffic Signal Technician Jimmy Pletzer, Traffic Signal Technician Juan Gonzalez, Jr., Traffic Systems Superintendent Lee Robinson, Mayor Mooney, Traffic Engineer Troy Rother, and Traffic Systems Foreman Garrett Martinek.
This award recognizes agencies that have achieved excellence through implementing innovative ideas and delivering outstanding transportation engineering, planning, and operations. The TCC helps improve traffic conditions with new technologies and allows signal timings to be changed in real-time during special events or roadway incidents.
Signal performance measure software also allows city staff to better monitor and adjust traffic signal operations. The City of College Station was the first agency in Texas to implement signal performance measures, and others are following our lead.
The TCC pulls together video streams from more than 100 cameras that are shared with the Police and Fire Departments as well as Texas A&M. The video streams are critical when moving 120,000 fans away from Kyle Field after football games. Staff from Traffic Systems, Traffic Engineering and the Police Department man the TCC during the postgame operations, observing the video streams and manipulating signal timings. The TCC is in constant communication with the Kyle Field command center.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
6:42 p.m.
Bloomberg Mayors Challenge
The council discussed the city’s participation in Bloomberg Philanthropies 2017 Mayors Challenge. The initiative is designed to help city leaders think big, be bold and uncover inventive and shareable ideas to tackle problems, deliver results and improve life for residents.
Entrants will receive expert guidance to develop their ideas and will join Bloomberg’s cities network, which identifies, elevates, and promotes innovations that work. The 35 Champion Cities will win up to $100,000 to test their ideas and build local support. The five cities with the best ideas will receive millions to implement their ideas at scale.
6:47 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the workshop after the council discussed its calendar and received committee reports. The regular meeting will start at 7 p.m.
7:06 p.m.
The regular meeting has started.
7:11 p.m.
The mayor proclaimed September as Still Creek Ranch Month.
7:20 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.
- Ben Roper recognized Marine Lance Corporal Todd R. Bolding as part of the Fallen Heroes Memorial program. The 23-year-old Manvel native died June 3, 2004, after being wounded in hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.
- Fred Dupriest of the Southside Neighborhood Advocacy Group spoke about the city’s planning terminology, specifically how mitigation is not necessarily a benefit.
- Michael Kuitu and Cathy Liles submitted written comments.
7:23 p.m.
Consent Agenda
The council voted 6-0 to approve the consent agenda:
- A $316,746 purchase of various long lead time major equipment for the proposed Graham Substation.
- A purchase not to exceed $1,145,926 of two 3-phase electric substation transformers for the proposed Graham Road Substation.
- Renewal of the recycling collection franchise ordinance and service agreement with Brazos Valley Recycling not to exceed $880,000 or the number of customers multiplied by the approved agreement rates.
- A $5.6 million contract with Garney Construction to install water well No. 9 and a collection line.
- A $433,552 contract with Dudley Construction to relocate the 30-inch water line at FM2818 and FM60.
This item was pulled from tonight’s agenda:
- Modifications to the Research Valley Partnership’s bylaws.
This item was voted on separately:
- The council voted 6-0 to approve the addition of a four-way stop intersection at Thomas Street and Dexter Drive. Councilwoman Brick requested this item be pulled for a separate vote so she could thank the neighborhood residents and city staff.
7:49 p.m.
Plantation Oaks Addition Land Use
After a public hearing, the council voted 5-1 to deny a request to change the land use designation from Suburban Commercial to General Commercial for about 1.3 acres north of University Oaks Boulevard on the west side of Earl Rudder Freeway. Councilman Barry Moore supported the motion. Three people spoke against the change in the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
7:59 p.m.
Plantation Oaks Addition Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted 6-0 to deny a request to change the zoning district boundaries from Office to General Commercial for the same property in the previous item. Two people spoke against the change in the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:04 p.m.
Koppe Bridge Land Use
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the land use designation from Suburban Commercial to General Commercial for about 1.7 acres on the east side of Wellborn Road where Koppe Bridge Bar & Grill is located. The change will make the tract conform with property to the north that will be developed into an HEB store.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:06 p.m.
Koppe Bridge Rezoning
After a public hearing, the council voted unanimously to approve a request to change the land use designation from Rural to General Commercial for the same property in the previous item.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:51 p.m.
Off-Street Parking Standards
After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved amended off-street parking standards in the city’s Unified Development Ordinance to provide flexibility and reduce regulatory barriers. One person spoke in the public hearing.
Here’s the PowerPoint presentation:
8:56 p.m.
The council discussed and reviewed future agenda items.
8:56 p.m.
Mayor Mooney adjourned the meeting. The council meets again on Monday, Sept. 11.
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 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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Live Blog: Thursday’s city council meetings (Aug. 10)
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, Aug. 10. 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 p.m.
The workshop has started. Councilman James Benham is participating via teleconference. No action was taken out of executive session. (more…)
