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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/25/2000 - Regular Minutes City CouncilMayor Lynn Mcllhaney Mayor Pro Tempore Larry Mariott City Manager Thomas E. Brymer City Council James Massey Ron Silvia Winnie Garner Dennis Maloney Anne Hazen MINUTES College Station City Council Workshop and Regular Meetings Thursday, May 25, 2000 at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Mcllhaney, Mayor Pro Tem Mariott, Councilmembers Massey, Maloney, Silvia, Hazen and Garner STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Brymer, Assistant City Manager Brown, City Attorney Cargill, Jr., City Secretary Hooks, Director of Development Services Callaway, Director of Fiscal Services Cryan, Parks and Recreation Director Beachy, Budget Manager Kersten, OTIS Director Piwonka, Human Resources Director O'Connell, Public Communications and Marketing Director Cole, Asst. City Secretary Casares, StaffPlanner Kuenzel, Public Works Director Smith Mayor McIlhaney called the workshop meeting to order at 3:05 p.m. Agenda Item No. 1 - Presentation of service plaques to Lynn Mcllhane% Ron Silvia~ Larry Mariott and Anne llazen. Service plaques were presented to Mayor Mcllhaney, Ron Silvia, Larry Mariott and Anne Hazen for their two years of service from 1998-2000. Agenda Item No. 2 -Discussion of consent agenda items listed for Regular Council Meeting. 12.12 City Manager Tom Brymer and BVSWMA Director Jim Smith explained that the original contract for five-year term began in May, 1995. This contract provided for one-year renewal extensions. This is the first renewal request to extend the contract to May 15, 2001. Agenda Item No. 3 - Presentation~ discussion and possible action of a request from the Brazos Heritage Society to provide partial funding for a historical film and book project. Julie Schultz of the Brazos Heritage Society made a presentation on potential participation of funding for a historical film and book project. Schultz stated the society is requesting monies to support the production of a historical documentary of the Brazos County area. The historical Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 2 documentary will be available in book and video form to students, visitors, tourists and the community at large. The documentary film will be a high quality narrative of approximately two hours in length. The book will include 176 pages and authored by Dr. Henry Dethloff. The production of the book is estimated to take six months after funding is approved. The total project cost estimate is approximately $250,000. The funding request from College Station is $50,000. Council addressed a number of issues concerning the different funding sources available. Staff was directed by Council to refer this proposal to the Historic Preservation Committee for further review and bring back a recommendation to Council. Based upon their recommendation, this proposal shall be considered during the upcoming budget process. In addition, Council requested input from Chamber of Commerce on this project in terms of an overall marketing plan. Agenda Item No. 4 - Discussion and possible action on Citizen Committee's reports on committee's accomplishments from the past twelve months and future eoals. The Chairman or Vice Chairman listed below presented reports from various citizen committees: Library Committee - Larry Ringer Cemetery Committee - Katherine Edwards Construction Board of Adjustments - Kevin Kuddes Business Development Corp - Harry Green Historic Preservation Committee - Deborah Jasek Joint Relief Funding Review - David Decker Northgate Board - Elton Abbott Parks and Recreation Board - Chris Barzilla Planning and Zoning Commission - Karl Mooney WPC Design Review Board - Kay Henryson Zoning Board of Adjustments - Randall Bond Copies of the reports are attached to the minutes. Agenda Item No. 5 - Presentation~ discussion and possible action on the Employee Health Benefits. This item was delayed to the regular agenda item 13.3. Agenda Item No. 6 - Committee Reports. Councilman Ron Silvia reported that the Sister Cities Association is planning a trip to Greifswald, Germany in June. There will be four students and two adults traveling to Germany. The city of Greifswald will be celebrating its 600th anniversary and will plant 600 trees. During this Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 3 celebration, the City of College Station, as its sister city, will be recognized by also having a tree planted. He invited the Council to join the delegation if available. Aeenda Item No. 7 - Council Calendars: Council Strategic Planning Retreat, 5/22-5/23, Del Lago Resort Council Workshop and Regular Meetings, 6/8 and 6/22 Joint Meeting with City of Bryan Council & County Commissioners to include dinner with spouses, 6/14, Brazos Center Texas Transportation Summit, 6/21-6/23, Irving Joint Council Retreat with City of Bryan, 7/14 & 7/15 AMCC Conference, 7/27-7/30, Corpus Christi Agenda Item No. 8 - Hear Visitors (5:45o.m.~ Betty Neville, 4914 Spearman Drive discussed a concern about the review of city ordinances addressing zoning in a single-family residential neighborhood. Dock Burke, 502 West Dexter discussed a concern about a project at 600 Welsh Avenue. Mr. Burke asked Council to rescind the building permit until the appropriate paper work has been signed and filed in the court. Agenda Item No 9 - Executive Session. At 6:00 p.m. Mayor McIlhaney announced that the council would convene into executive session pursuant to Sections 551.071 and 551.086 of the Open Meetings Act to seek the advice of the City Attorney with respect to pending and contemplated litigation, and to consider Economic Development negotiations. Pending and Contemplated Litigation {Gov't Code Section 551.071 } Cause No. 43,098-85, Brazos County-Bryan v. College Station Cause No. 96-03168, Travis County - Bryan, et al. v. PUC (intervention) Cause No. 97-02587, Travis County - Bryan, et al. v. PUC (intervention) Cause No. 98-13391, Travis County - Bryan, et al. v. PUC (intervention) Cause No. 96-06940, Travis County - Bryan, et al. v. PUC (intervention) Cause No. 97-07000, Travis County - TMPA v. PUC (intervention) Cause No. 98-11817, Travis County - TMPA v. PUC (intervention) Cause No. 49,367-CCL2, Brazos County - Wilkerson v. College Station Civil Action No. 01-98-01056-CV, Court of Appeals - Gold v. College Station Docket Nos. TX96-2-000 and TX96-2-001, FERC - College Station, applicant Cause No. 377-CC, Brazos County - College Station v. Annie Mae Hughes, et al. Cause No. 50,813-85, Brazos County - College Station v. Phillips Swager Associates, Inc.; et al. TXU Gas Distribution Rate Request Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 4 TXU Gas Pipeline Rate Request Economic Development {Gov't Code Section 551.086} a. Hotel Conference Center Council concluded its executive session at 6:59 p.m. and returned to the regular meeting. Reeular Meetin~ Mayor Mcllhaney opened the regular meeting at 7:05 p.m. All councilmembers present. She led the audience in the pledge of allegiance. Mayor McIlhaney presented a Certificate of Achievement to Roxanne Nemcik, First Assistant City Attorney. Mayor Mcllhaney read the proclamation for Garden Week, June 5-11, 2000. Judy Schaefer from the A&M Garden Club accepted the proclamation. Consent Aeenda 12.1 Approved b~, common consent minutes for City Council workshop and regular meeting on May 11, 2000. 12.2 Bid No. 00-46 - Approved by common consent a resolution approving a contact for electrical system construction and maintenance. Awarded to lowest, responsible bidder meeting specifications, Finway Incorporated for an annual estimated expenditure of $1,038,301. Funds available and budgeted in the Electric Fund, Operations division. 12.3 Bid No. 00-63 - Approved by common consent an annual agreement for ultraviolet parts to be used at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Awarded to lowest responsible bidder for each item. Annual estimated expenditures by vendor are Irdilco Degremont in the amount of $9,267.80 and Ema-Components in the amount of $9,400 for a total expenditure of $18,667.80. Funds available and budgeted in the Wastewater Fund, Operations Division. 12.4 Bid No. 00-69 - Approved by common consent a resolution approving an annual agreement for the purchase of concrete curb/gutter and flatwork to be installed as needed. Awarded to lowest responsible bidder meeting specifications, Texcon, for an annual estimated expenditure of $272,312.50. Funds available in the General Fund, Capital Improvements Fund and Water/Wastewater Fund. 12.6 Bid No. 00-73 - Approved by common consent an annual agreement for the purchase of coverstone material. Awarded to lowest, responsible bidder meeting specifications, Vulcan Construction Materials for an annual estimated expenditure of $52,280. Funds available in the General Fund, Streets Division. Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 5 12.7 Approved by common consent a resolution approving a professional service contract for the Semi-Annual Groundwater Monitoring at the Rock Prairie Road Landfill Project to CSC Engineering and Environmental Consultants, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $35,000. Funds available in the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Agency Fund. 12.8 Approved by common consent the adoption of Ordinance No. 2450 on the third and final reading of a franchise agreement with Enviromed for the collection and disposal services for treated and untreated medical waste. Mayor Mcllhaney abstained. 12.9 Approved by common consent an advanced funding agreement with Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) widening of University Drive from E. Tan'ow Street to the Carter's Creek Relief Bridge. The advanced funding agreement is in the amount of $146,600. 12.10 Approved by common consent an exemption fi.om competitive bidding for professional legal services as allowed in LGC 252.022(a)(4) for expenses related to Fire Station #1 Litigation, Coats, Rose, Yale, Ryman and Lee PC for an estimated $50,000. Funds available in the Property Casualty Fund. 12.11 Approved by common consent an amendment and renewal of a contract for the cleanup of Northgate Promenade. Awarded to The Sanitation Specialist in the amount of $20,400. Funds available in the Northgate Parking Fund. 12.12 Approved by common consent the amendment and renewal of lease agreement for slant- top, fi.ont-end loading refuse containers. Awarded to Texas Commercial Waste for an annual estimated expenditure of $100,068.72. Funds available and budgeted in the Sanitation Fund, Commercial Collection Division. 12.13 Approved by common consent a request for oversize participation in the amount of $53,845 for a 385 fi. extension of a 16-inch sewer line under Highway 6 South, approximately 800 feet north of the intersection of Highway 6 South with Nantucket Drive. The line will be constructed with Phase One of South Hampton subdivision. 12.14 Approved by common consent the Community Development Block Grant public service funding for City Departments for the 2000-2001 fiscal year. The public service programs include the Teen Apprenticeship Program and Kids' Klub. a. Parks Department Kids Klub - $35,000 b. Human Resources Teen Apprenticeship Program - $20.008 12.15 Approved by common consent a recommendation to the Brazos County Commissioners Court to appoint John Woody as the College Station representative to the Brazos Valley Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors. Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 6 12.16 Approved by common consent a resolution approving the Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services, Universal Hiring Supplement three-year grant for adding three police officers. Grant award for three-year funding is $225,000. 12.17 Approved by common consent a resolution approving a Juvenile Accountability Grant for first offender decision making class. The grant is in the amount of $17,100 with the city's match of $1900 from General Fund Contingency. Regular Agenda Agenda Item No. 13.1 - Public hearing, discussion and possible action on an ordinance rezoning 46.46 acres located at 200 Greens Prairie Road from C-1 General Commercial to R-lB single Family Residential for the Texas Centroid Ranch subdivision. Staff'Planner Sabine Kuenzel presented this item. She stated that the applicant has requested this rezoning in order to prepare the property for development as a single-family neighborhood. The property had originally been planned for additional commercial development on the Master Development Plan. The Land Use Plan showed the area as low-density single family at a maximum density of two dwelling units per acre. The proposed rezoning would allow four dwelling units per acre. The down-zoning, while technically not in compliance with the Land Use Plan, is considered a more compatible zoning district with the existing R-1 zoned Pebble Creek neighborhood that is abutting the property to the south. The orientation of the site in relation to the abutting property to the south would leave the subdivision isolated and disconnected from the remainder of Pebble Creek neighborhood. Staff requested the applicant provide pedestrian connection for future residents of the subdivision to the parks and school sites in Pebble Creek and to address these concerns with the pending Preliminary Plat. Ms. Kuenzel pointed out another potential problem in terms of a single access drive into the subdivision. Emergency vehicle access could be an issue. She further added that the City should avoid approval of subdivisions that will result in congestion as their residents attempt to leave the areas, especially where left turn movements back up traffic on the single entrance street. The concerns regarding access should be addressed with a revision to the Pebble Creek Master Plan, but any changes in zoning should occur pursuant to a revised plan. Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing on May 4, 2000 and recommended approval by a vote of 4-1. Staff recommended tabling the item to provide the applicant an opportunity to work with staff to address emergency access, vehicular access, and pedestrian/bike access. Mayor McIlhaney opened the public hearing. Craig Browne, co-developer of the project addressed the council. He stated that the property was purchased as C-1 but the proposed residential rezoning request is the best use for this tract. The Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 7 developers agreed to move the street according to the guidelines staff presented. Also, they contacted about 25 residents in Pebble Creek and received their support. The lot size is 85 x 120 and will include a sidewalk from entrance of the subdivision to Lakeway Drive. This subdivision will not include a park site due to the limited size of the subdivision. The following persons spoke in opposition to the request: Betty Neville, 4914 Spearman Jim Keblinger, 1005 Muirfield Village Jeanine Edwards, 810 Southern Hills Court Sera Koseoglu, 810 Hook Court. Benito Flores-Meath, 901 Val Verde made a comment about a small block park for the subdivision. His concern is the safety of children going so far to access a park. Mayor Mcllhaney closed the public hearing. Councilman Maloney made a motion to table the rezoning per staff recommendations, and give the applicant an opportunity to work with staff to address emergency, vehicular, pedestrian/bike aCCeSS. Motion seconded by Councilman Hazen, which carried by a vote of 6-1. FOR: Mcllhaney, Maloney, Garner, Silvia, Massey, and Hazen AGAINST: Mariott Agenda Item No. 13.2 - Presentation~ discussion and possible action on a master plan for the development of Veterans Park and Athletic Complex. Parks and Recreation Director Steve Beachy provided an overview of the Veterans Park Master Plan. The Master Plan was developed jointly with the O'Malley Engineers, Parks Planning Staff and a subcommittee that consisted of John Crompton, John Nichols and Glen Davis. The proposed Master Plan included nine softball fields, thirteen adult soccer fields, pavilions, parking, Highway 30/60 access, maintenance building, Veterans Memorial, volleyball, batting cages, basketball courts, 1-mile hiking trail and potential water resource from Carter Creek. The proposed Master Plan would take approximately 10 years to develop based upon funding. Phase I would include 2 softball fields, up to 6 soccer fields, small maintenance building, initial road, utility and parking development and 2 small restroom buildings. This will include the lighting of the soccer fields. Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 8 The Parks and Recreation Board approved the Master Plan on May 9, 2000. Councilman Massey made a motion to approve the Master Plan for development of Veterans Park and Athletic Complex. Motion seconded by Councilman Silvia, which carried by a vote of 7-0. Aaenda Item No. 13.4 - Presentation~ discussion and possible action on a policy for City. participation in up~radinll private alleys and accepting them as public infrastructure. Public Works Director Mark Smith made a presentation on the City's possible participation in upgrading private alleys and accepting them as public infrastructure. Mr. Smith stated that the city has 78 private alleys that are not built to city standards. To bring all 78 alleys up to City Standards it would cost about 2.5 million in current construction cost. A policy requiring 2/3 private owner participation would reduce that exposure to $833,333. Request could be considered and agreements made depending on the availability of funding to complete a project. For any participation to occur, a policy should be implemented. Mr. Smith presented the following criteria for the City's alley participation with Chimney Hill Business Park Owners Association. The alley in question is an area platted as a private alley or access easement. It serves single-family dwellings, duplex or townhouse developments An alley width of 20 feet exists and can be dedicated such that the alley in question can be constructed to City standards without conflicting with other property interest such as parking and landscaping. A public need for the improvements can be identified. The City uses the alley for garbage collection and no acceptable alternatives exist. The alley is used for access to public utilities. The property owners dedicate the alley to the City at the time of payment for their share of the project costs. A required 2/3 financial participation by the property owners paid in advance The City's 1/3 of the project cost be available. Mr. Smith further noted that a number of cities were surveyed regarding such a policy. None of the cities surveyed had programs assisting private property owners in making improvements to private alleys. Mayor Pro Tem Mariott made a motion to direct staffto prepare an ordinance amending the appropriate chapters in the Code of Ordinances establishing policies that reflect staff recommendations. Seconded by Councilman Silvia. Motion failed by a vote of 2-5. FOR: McIlhaney and Mariott AGAINST: Maloney, Hazen, Garner, Silvia and Massey Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 9 Council recessed for a short break. Council reconvened the meeting at 9:03 p.m. ARenda Item No. 13.3 - Presentation~ discussion and possible action on the Employee Health Benefits Fund. Mayor Mcllhaney abstained from discussion held on this item. Human Resources Director Julie O'Connell explained that City is currently under a self-insured health benefits plan. Due to higher claims and administration costs, as well as projected increases based on medical trends and our current usage, plan changes are necessary to maintain the fund and meet the City's financial policies. Currently the city has three self-supporting funds: spouse only, child only and full family coverage. Staff'reviewed each of the programs based on a cost of service approach. Ms. O'Connell presented the following recommendations: Increase the City's contribution from $208.00 to $243.00 Increase full family coverage from $200.00 to $235.00 Increase Emergency Room Facility Co pay from $50.00 to $75.00 Outpatient Mental/Nervous Co pay from $0.00 to $15.00 Laboratory-in-network from 80/20 to deductible 80/20 Prescriptions Generic 30/90 day from $5.00/$10.00 to $10.00/$15.00 Brand Name-Formulary 30/90 days from 15.00/$20.00 to $20.00/$30.00 Brand Name-Non-Formulary 30/90 day from $15.00/$20.00 to $30.00/$60.00 Staff recommended the proposed change effective January 1,2001. Council directed staff to proceed with the proposed recommendations. A~enda Item No. 13.5 - Discussion and possible action on appointment of Mayor Pro Tempore. Councilman Silvia made a motion to re-appoint Larry Mariott as Mayor Pro Tem. Motion seconded by Councilman Garner, which carried unanimously, 7-0. Agenda Item No. 14 - Council Monitoring Report Councilman Garner stated that the meeting was productive and council followed procedures. Aeenda Item No. 15 and 16 - Executive Session Council did not reconvene into executive session. No action was taken. Council Meetings 5/25/00 Page 10 Workshop Agenda Item No. 4 - Discussion and possible action on committee report on committee's accomplishments from the past twelve months and future ~oals. Mayor Mcllhaney asked the Council to review the schedule for the citizen committee review. At, er a brief discussion, Council agreed to the following schedule for June 7t~ special meeting. Sunset review of council appointed citizen committee, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. Interview applicants, 5:00 p.m. Agenda Item No. 17 - Adiourn Hearing no objection, Councilman Maloney moved to adjourn the workshop, regular, and executive session meetings at 10:00 p.m. Motion seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Mariott and passed unanimously. City Secretary Connie Hooks APPROVED: Mafor Lynn Mcllhaney/ College Station Cemetery Commi~ee Annual Repor~ May 25, 2000 The Cemetery Committee has spent the last twelve months dealing with the following issues: 1. Site selection for the new municipal cemetery. 2. Possibility of an Aggie cemetery or an Aggie section in the new municipal cemetery. 3. Guidelines for the Shiloh and Salem portions of the existing cemetery. 4. Use of the Madeley request. 5. Effect of future TxDot reconstruction of Texas Avenue. 6. One request for variance. The Cemetery Committee hopes to see the following accomplished in the next twelve months: 1. Identification and purchase of property for the new municipal cemetery. 2. Establishment of an "urn garden" in the existing cemetery. 3. Closure of the Shiloh and Salem portions of the existing cemetery to future burials, except as stipulated, by revision of Ordinance #2178. 4. Establish a policy/plan of action regarding the need for an Aggie section in the new municipal cemetery. Long-term goals include: 1. Obtaining financing for the development of the new cemetery site. 2. Surveying, platting, and initial landscaping of the new cemetery site. 3. Development of a policy regarding the operation of the new cemetery. 4. Enhancement of the back entrance to the existing cemetery for use during reconstruction of Texas Avenue. 5. Continuing growth of the Endowment Fund (est. 1996; currently $450,000). Parl II¢crcation City o{ College: &ration College Station Business Development Corp. Report to City Council ACCOMPLISHMENTS since December 1999: · Developed and considered by-laws, officers, and presented to City Council · Presentations and discussions with EDC and City Manager regarding role and structure of Board · Joint workshop with City council · Multiple meetings for strategic planning/visioning · DraR copy of incentive guidelines . · Researched and made recommendations to City Council on new business center sites Made recommendations on incentives for retail and commercial prospects PLANNED FOR 2000 - 2002: Define Preferred Images and Businesses Therein - FY 2001 The purpose of this issue is to define an image for the City of College Station and develop a list of types of businesses (examples) that fit that image. e Design Incentive Guidelines - FY 2000 This strategic issue would create a set of incentive guidelines that can be used for retail, commercial, and tourism related projects for which there are no current guidelines. In addition, the board would review and make recommendations on those guidelines proposed by the EDC with specific criteria for the City of College Station. Work With City Council, Staff, EDC And Other Committees To Pursue Desired Businesses Ongoing This strategic issue involves the 4B Corporation's assistance in providing input into the types of businesses and industries recruited into College Station Create An Overall Economic Development Plan for Recruitment- FY 2001-02 This Plan would include City Council objectives and all elements of the Overall Plan as defined by the'adopted bylaws. Create a Structure For The Board - FY 2000 and as needed This strategic issue involves developing subcommittees and ad hoc committees to provide expertise and make recommendations to the Board. 6(TIE) Inventory Of Available Real Estate Assets FY 2001 and on-going updates Create a database of available real estate sites and buildings for economic development clients College Station Business Development Corp. Report to City Council 6(TIE) Create Short and Long Range Plans for Business Spaces FY 2000 thr 2002 Continue development of existing business park Continue development of new business parks (Class A and B++) Review business park design standards Create a short and long term plan for business park, retail, and commercial development including master plans 7(TIE)Explain/educate public on need for sales tax base growth. Explain 4B Corporation and Economic Development Benefits To Citizens - FY 2001 This would be an effort to inform citizens of the benefits and structure of economic development in College Station. 7(TIE)Acknowledge Expanding/Growing Local Companies - Ongoing This could be done through a letter or visit by members of the board to show the City's appreciation and recognition of the City's prospering corporate citizens. Seek Input From Local Businesses and Private Developers - FY 2002 This strategic issue would provide for more targeted input concerning economic development and image in College Station Gather a "Bank of People" - FY 2002 This strategic issue would create a database of people that might be interested in moving to College Station for particular businesses recruiting employees Understand How To Define Impact Of Recruited Businesses - FY 2002 The Board desires to gain a stronger understanding of the existing impact analyses system. Promote Inception Of Current Marketing Materials - FY 2000 and 2001 Improve web page for economic development - FY 2001 The board would assist with the development of economic development marketing materials for the City of College Station with the hope of incorporating and promoting the city's targeted "image" Historic Preservation Committee Projects flor 'gL9.O and 200o Highl~hts Historic Neighborhood Lighting Project - This is an ongoing project to place period lighting in the older historic neighborhoods. These lights have several positive aspects. First they increase the period flavor of the older neighborhoods and second they provide additional lighting security. Many of the older neighborhoods have large trees with full canopies. The overhead street lights are filtered by the tree canopy causing dark spots. The lower'period lighting is better for sidewalk and pathway lights. Local response by residents has been very positive. Delineation of older neighborhoods - In cooperation with the city GIS folks the HPC delineated the boundaries and created maps of the older neighborhoods in College Station. These neighborhood areas were created by identifying and plotting all dwellings built prior to 1950. The HPC plans to forward these maps to Planning and Zoning and the Council in the next month. Book on the history of College Station - A book tentatively titled "The Ridge Between Two Rivers" is being written by noted author Jeff Carroll. The book is a compilation of anecdotal stories regarding the settlement of College Station area and the beginning of the city. Over ten chapters have been completed and the book is scheduled for completion in the fall. Bonfire Memorial - One avenue explored to continue the neighborhood period lighting project is use of these streetlights for memorialization and recognition. This would be accomplished by placing a small bronze plaque at the base of the streetlight to honor the person being memorialized. The lighting project plans place 12 lights in Brison Park. The committee proposed and is planning on using those lights as the first of the memorialization oroiects bv usina those liahts to remember the twelve Aaaies killed in Bonfire. The plaques will have the student's name, class year, and hometown identified. A site marker explaining the significance will also be located near the lights. The proximity of the park to the school and the former Bonfire site as well as its use by students make it a tiffing location. This project is expected to completed for a late fall dedication. Historic Zoning and District Ordinances - The HPC made a concerted effort this past year to gather information and become informed about the nuances of Historic Districts and Ordinances and Heritage Development. Information was compiled from documents from the Texas Historic Commission and copies of a number of ordinances enacted by several Texas Cities were reviewed and evaluated. These cities include: Bryan, Lockhart, and Granbury. New and Future Pra]¢cts Neighborhood Recognition Program - A proposal to develop a program to recognize citizens who make the extra effort to improve a residence in the older neighborhoods is one of the projects being considered for the fall. This program would be along the lines of the "Brazos Beautiful" selections only it would recognize the efforts to make improvements in the older neighborhoods within the context of the neighborhood. The idea is to give people who are doing the right thing in regards to Historic Preservation a "pat on the back." Honorees would receive a certificate and public acknowledgment of their efforts. Education Hall of Honor - This proposed project is being considered for this fall. The project would recognize College Station educators in a Hall of Fame type of setting. The exact location and type of recognition has not been determined as of this date. Northgate Revitalization Board Accomplishments in FY 1999-2000 Goal · Analyze and make recommendations on Patricia Street parking lot · Northgate parking garage · Improve pedestrian access/traffic controls · On street parking plan · Capital projects in Northgate · Northgate Parking Survey · Speed limits in Northgate · Police Call Boxes Design Guidelines and ordinance Review/Update ' · Project Design Review · Review Church Ave. design · Public restrooms in Northgate Action Made recommendation to lower daily parking rate - approved by City Council. Made recommendation to add an additional floor and additional entry/exit on Second St. Made recommendation to install traffic light at the comer of Boyett St. and University Dr. and to continue median North along University Drive Made recommendation to approve plan with the recommendation that parking in the old Brazos Duplex Property not be removed until the garage is completed Made recommendation on the prioritization of capital projects in Northgate. Projects submitted for consideration by City Council. Approved a parking survey to be distributed to Northgate businesses Recommended reducing speed limits on Northgate streets to 25 mph Recommended that police call boxes be installed in Northgate Currently working to revise Northgate Design guidelines and ordinances with the assistance of independent consultants On-going review of Northgate Development projects as they are submitted Review design and components of Church Avenue redevelopment Explored public restrooms and determined not to pursue idea Northgate Revitalization Board Proposed Goals for FY 2000-2001 Initiate update of the Northgate Redevelopment Plan · Appoint a subcommittee to work on entering into an agreement with Texas A&M to participate in the signalization of Boyett Street. Attempt to get approval from TXDOT. · Appoint a subcommittee to work on the addition of a median along University Drive between Wellborn and College Main. Attempt to get approval from TXDOT. · Develop a concept plan and fimding alternatives for a park in Northgate. · Review and make recommendations on design guidelines and Northgate zoning ordinance including: parking requirements, landscaping, multi-family standards, standards for small/medium scale development, increase green space requirements, consistency in design · Make recommendations for capital improvements; review designs if funded · Review design of proposed Second Street Plaza, if funded PROJECTS WHICH MAY EXTEND INTO FY 2002-03 · Identify ways to involve the private sector in further redevelopment. RFP process? Economic Development proposal? Incentives? Public Improvement District? Tax Increment Financing? · Identify ways to deal with fragmented land ownership in Northgate 2. 3. 4. Parks & Recreation Boards Goals 1999-2000 In Progre~ Implementation of the approved Capital Improvement Program Implementation of the Wolf Pen Creek Master Plan Investigate the feasibility of cooperative ventures with CSISD Incorporate public art into the park system l-ligh~P_riQrity Enhance the public perception of the Wolf Pen Creek Corridor Encourage the early development of the former landfill site on State Highway 6 Support the implementation of the Greenways Master Plan M~diurn Pri~it~ Establish an on-going re-appraisal of existing parks, facilities, and services offered by the department Encourage arboretum/garden parks and color emphasis in existing parks Ottbcr_P~/or/ty Proje~c_t~ 10. Develop an Urban Forestry Plan for College Station 1 I. Investigate the feasibility of cooperative ventures with TAMU on facilities and programs 12. Explore the feasibility of a commercial ice skating facility * Complete Completion of the Recreation, Park, and Open Space Master Plan Emphasize Lincoln Center leadership development and program enhancement Completion and dedication of Edelweiss Park The search for alternative financing for regional parks Working on numerous other projects from Art in the Parks to a Urban Forestry Plan Completion of the Veterans Park and Athletic Complex Master Plan City o¥ o11¢g¢ tation Revised May 25, 2000 iP~NiNINGiii&iZONliNGi iiiii~iiiiiiiiiiiCOMMI. SSlON,: ~iiiiiiiiiiiiiACTIVITY REPioR~iii!: : iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiMay 1~991~iMay::2000ii:iiiii~ iiii! iiii~: · 41~OONDITIONAL USEP:ERMITS!!ii!: ~ · OMERiTO · GREENWAYS MASTER · SPECIAL'DISTRICTS · UNIVERSITY DRIVE OVERLY · DRAINAGE · ETHI~/CONEEICT~OF INTEREST] 2 ..... SUB COM M i.T~EE~i~WORK · · WPiC::ORDINANCE ::: ::.~: :ii.!:.!!.!!:!~!!!: i:!~::. ::i :i:::: · ii~::..(RIFE, ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: .:.:::::::::::::: ii~iii~iiiii~,/~CO:.NFEREN~E::iiiiiii~.i:~i~i --::: .... ¢~!~ERENCE!~~i~R!SITi: ":~ :::::::.. :::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ========================= -::.::::::.:::::: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::: .::::::::.. :::::::::::::::: 3 ARCHITECT WOLF PEN CREEK DESIGN REVIEW BOARD May 25, 2000 The Wolf Pen Creek Design Review Board is charged with looking at design issues of proposed structures and landscaping within the context of the entire District and the property's relationship with the park and trails proposed for the development along Wolf Pen Creek. Using the information from the Wolf Pen Oversight Committee as well as the~ technical requirements provided by staff for development of the property, the DRB reviews structures for site plan orientation and building design including color scheme and signage. We try to focus on how the structure and parking relate to the creek and trails, and how the site plan relates to adjacent properties in order to provide continuity in sidewalks, vehicular circulation, landscaping and relationship to existing or proposed structures. During the last twelve months we have reviewed projects for the restaurants along Harvey Road, the George Bush East bridge, the Hotel and Conference Center and the drainage and trail systems along the creek itself. Where I think our interface with the projects is critical is in situations where a project is technically correct, but where there is room for improvement in aesthetics or where we can suggest changes which will better bring the project into the overall design concept of the corridor. Often because we have knowledge of the surrounding projects and park that the project developer may not, we can provide input that will improve the Owner's project. One of our greatest concerns occurs when projects come before us which do not fit well with oUr understanding of the current Wolf Pen Creek Master Plan. Our ability to provide input at the front end of a project, rather than after the design is complete is limited- however with the addition of predevelopment conferences we have been able to provide some input early on in a few cases. IO~Y HENRYSON, AIA 7607 EASTMARK DR. SUITE 245 COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS 77840 (979) 693-8283 Page 2 Wolf Pen Design Review Board The planned design charette for this summer and fall is an excellent way to provide creative, visual images for future development of the area from the George Bush Bridge to the East Bypass as well as a forum for communication between Owners, developers, staff and residents - it will also be a way to communicate the constraints which will define the drainage area directly around the creDk imposed by the Corps of Engineers and how that will impact future development. It will also take into account the actual developments that have occurred since the original master plan and look at their impact on the overall concept. · We are in the process of defining the goals of the charette, but items that may be addressed include traffic issues such as city parking availability, access to public transportation, locating bus pullouts which will not impede traffic flow once the hotel/conference center property is developed, Gateway issues into the district, landscaping and lighting along the creek and trail system and proactive marketing to target businesses that would enhance the district and be compatable with the goals of the master plan. From a process standpoint, some ordinance revision would be helpful in addressing the protection of major trees- while we try diligently to inspire owners to take advantage of the value of existing large trees, two things impede our ability to carry this through to the actual construction. The first is that in the landscape ordinance there is no provision for giving large existing and healthy trees more "points" than new plantings- so it is easier to bulldoze a site and start with new landscaping than it is to provide protection and creative site planning to keep the larger and aesthetically superior trees. Second, although the DRB and Owner may agree to protect and take advantage of these trees, the man clearing the lot hasn't been privy to these conversations and often the tree is damaged and will not survive. An ordinance which would provide for protective barriers to drip lines of major trees which are planned to remain prior to any work being done on the site would be welcome. For these trees to survive, there needs to be a visual barricade in place prior to construction. There are also times when the.problem occurs during the city's own utility installations in the property easements- we must hold ourselves to the same standards as we require for others. Page 3 Wolf Pen Design Review Board In respect to the actual DRB meetings, I feel it would be beneficial for there to be a 15-20 minute meeting with staff prior to the Owner presenting the project so that we can understand the technical revisions they are requesting and with the laison to the Oversight committee to provide the balance of the DRB with any other pertinent information. It might also be beneficial if one of the three PRC members present would also be a repreSentative from the Oversight Committee. Thank you for the privilege of working with this committee. Ka~ M. Henryson, AIA Chairman, Wolf Pen Design Review Board COMMITTEE REPORT TO: FROM: DATE: RE: College Station City Council Zoning Board of Adjustments (ZBA); Board Member Randall S. Bond May 25, 2000 Requested committee reports to be submitted for council workshop session (5/25/00) ZBA Chairman David Alexander asked that I assist in this report as he has other commitments on the date of the council workshop. Since I am the newest member of the ZBA, I may not have a perspective that would allow for me to compare or contrast this board with any other ZBA that has recently served in College Station. So, I will briefly review our committee actions for the past year as requested by council. It may be difficult to describe the actions of the ZBA in the form of"highlights" or "accomplishments", as was requested, because the ZBA is most similar to a panel of judges who make case-by-case determinations limited by those powers granted by city ordinance. As you know, these powers along with the guidelines for case review are set forth in Section 15 of the Zoning Ordinance. Most of our recent cases have involved variances to sign ordinances and minimum set-back requirements. However, we had one case involving an appeal of a Zoning Official's decision regarding the Welsh Street residential construction project. That particular case, unlike most of our other cases, was brought by a neighbor to the property instead of the property owner. The board upheld the Zoning Official's decision based on each member's interpretation of the relevant ordinances. As was discussed in joint workshops after the Welsh Street hearing, this case was an example of the issues facing some of our older neighborhoods. In February, upon request by city staff, ZBA voted to meet once a month instead of the previous schedule of twice a month. This seems to work well, and if it helps city staff and even ZBA members with respect to preparation time, I think it's a change we can all live with. The main thing the board wanted to insure is that the citizens had access to a full hearing in a time period suitable to their needs. We were satisfied that this would not be a problem for citizens and that, if need be, hearings could be called as necessary. I requeste Alexander, as our chairman, offer some of his thoughts on how the year went. I thought that would be most appropriate given his position and board experience. His report is attached hereto. Please let us know if you have any questions or comments about board activities. i o: r~anoaH b~ona From: DAVID ALEXANDER 409-268-1167(O)/409-695-2962(H) 5/24100 22:37:04 Page 1 of 1 FACSIMILE COVER PAGE Date: Time: Page: 5/24/00 22:36:58 1 To: Fax #: Randall Bond 268-5323 From: Company: Address: Fax #: Voice #: DAVID ALEXANDER ALEXANDER PROPERTIES PO BOX 5445 BRYAN, TX 77805 USA 409-268-1167(O)/409-695-2962(H) 409-846-9087 Message: Re: CS Council Workshop Randy: I hope this isnl too little to late. Again, thanks for standing in for me. 32 cases heard. 28 variances granted. This past February, after hearing testimony from staff regarding its greater work load related to P&Z meeting preparations, the Board voted to reduce the number of regular monthly meetings from two to one. ZBA functioned well this past year. Regular member absences were rare. All members had a good grasp of each case. The highlight of this past year was the Welsh St. case in which a property owner challenged how a neighboring owner was developing his property. It is unusual for ZBA to hear a protest of a city official's decision (this case was a challenge to a zoning officials ruling) coming from an aggrieved party who is not the owner of the property in question. ZBA upheld the zoning official's decision but this case, in which an owner made three buildable lots out of two, demonstrated the need for council to review and possibly strengthen ordinances regarding neighborhood integrity issues. It is important that ZBA members be drawn from as broad a pool of citizens as possible. Keys elements of their character should be that they are independent thinkers, have a deep respect for private property rights balanced against th~ need to provide a "livable" environment in our neighborhoods and community at-large. City of College Station Council Workshop Meeting I~Y 25, 2000 Sign In Sheet City of College Station / ! / 17. 18. 19. 10. 20. City of College Station Council Regular Meeting ~ 25r 2000 Sign In Sheet City of College Station City of College Station Council Regular Meeting MAY 2~, 2999 Sign In Sheet City of College o 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. Station o 17. o 18. 19. 10. 20.