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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAnnual Report (1991-1992)O College Station, Texas Table of Contents College Station? Now where is that? 1 And who are its leaders? 2 You say its ahead of economic trends? 4 Cooperative Efforts 6 City Financial Conditions 7 How about safety and protection? 8 Tell me about infrastructure and environmental issues. 10 Capital Improvements 12 What about recreation and education? 14 Can you get there from here? 16 What about neighborhood revitalization? 18 So tell me about the people. 19 Comments From Citizens 20 Facts And Figures Back cover 1991 - 92 Annual Report College Station, Texas College Station ?... Now where is that? The City of College Station, with a population of 52,456, is a "home rule" city located in East Central Texas near the Brazos River. It is within 200 miles of nearly every major city in Texas. College Station is an energetic and progressive community that is proud to be the home of a world class university such as Texas A &M. Eighty -two percent of the population is under 50 years of age with the median, according to the 1990 census, being 21.6 years of age. This is because College Station is home to many students attending college. Almost twenty percent of the population has four or more years of college. The city was incorporated in 1938 by city fathers who had backgrounds in city planning. Many of these early leaders were professors who lived on the campus until it was no longer possible for the college to provide the services they needed. They began plans for the model community they had often taught their students about. The desig- nation of "the College Station" had been given to the railway stop by the Postal Service in 1877. So the town continued the name College Station. It re- mained a quiet little bedroom community for the college for almost 30 years. When Texas A &M College became a university and opened its doors to women in the early 60's, College Station and the university began to grow. Steady growth has occurred over the past 30 years, even though the 1980's had some ups and downs due to the oil "boom and bust ". Today, College Station continues to take pride in the early munici- pal planning started by its first leaders. College Station has high standards and a high quality of life due to planning. It continues to encourage and welcome commercial development and clean industry, and is looking forward to the future with great expectations. 1991 - 92 Annual Report — I College Station, Texas And who are its leaders? College Station is led by a City Council comprised of the Mayor and six Council Mem- bers elected at -large for two year terms. As in 1938, some Council Members are profes- sors at Texas A &M, but others are businessmen and women, all who volunteer endless hours to see that College Station has a vision and philosophy that will continue to attract and keep the best in their city. City Council Members have a broad perspective, and also participate in leadership roles at the state level. They serve on committees for the Texas Municipal League, not only to make College Station a better community ` but to make Texas a better place to work and live. Recently, the City Council created a Council Relations Policy, which guides them in their relation- ship with one another, with the city staff, and with the news media. Teambuilding exercises have also developed stronger working relationships among Council Members giving them better group problem solving skills. Sixteen citizens boards and commissions serve in an advisory capacity to the City Council, allowing for maxi- mization of the citizen participation process. 2 —1991 - 92 Annual Report Mayor Ringer exhibits his courage. Teamwork between the council and staff is essential. Councilman Brown lends a hand to fellow council members Mc/lhaney and Crouch. Councilman Gardner contemplates the situation. College Station, Texas The city administration is headed by the City Manager with an executive team of two Assis- tant City Managers, two Execu- tive Directors, and the City Attorney. One point of interest is that in 1944, College Station was the first general law city in Texas to employ a city manager. Teamwork is the guiding principle throughout the organi- zation of over 527 employees. Annually, the philosophy, policies, and priorities as set forth by the City Council are developed into goals and objec- tives by management teams, and carried through to implementa- tion and evaluation by all levels of the organization. There are 20 different employee teams or committees established for problem solving, productivity, and improving work conditions, involving over 150 eMDI0V P-, ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Citizens of College Station I Mayor and City Council Appointed Boards Municipal Judge City Attorney City Secretary City Manager Executive Director Assistant City Manager Assistant City Manager r xecutive Director Fiscal/ Community Services Operation Human Resources p Management Services Finance Police Public Utilities Budget Evaluation Fire Public Relations & Accounting Development Services Parks & Recreation Marketing Purchasing Public Services Management Personnel Information Services Risk Management Utility Customer Municipal Court Services Energy Management Services Library 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 3 - -• ti•• .. — -- ve z eam participate m teambuilding exercises. College Station, Texas You say its ahead of national economic trends? What they are saying about us... In August 1991, The Kiplinger Washington Letter listed College Station -Bryan as having one of the fastest rates of job growth in Texas. The Col- lege Station -Bryan area has maintained one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state and nation for several years. The September 1991 issue of Money Magazine listed the College Station -Bryan area as one of the top three places to live in the nation. College Station continues to have great potential for growth due to several advantages: being the home of a major research institution like Texas A &M University; a central location where 14 million of the 17 million Texans are within a 200 mile radius; the availability of affordable land for development; and a highly skilled and educated work force with a strong work ethic. Development activity... Residential and commercial development and construction figures are rising. In 1991 -92, several national chains located in College Station indicating that, nationally and regionally, the College Station -Bryan metro- politan area has a healthy eco- nomic outlook in which investors are showing an active interest. New commercial structures recently located in College Station are Sam's Club, Randall's, Albertson's, Chili's, Target, H. E. B., Greensworld Golf Course, James Coney .s— Island, and the College Station Medical & Professional Build- ing, a multi -story medical off and therapy building across the street from the Humana Medical Complex. New residential subdivisions are developing as others are expanding. In 1991, Woodcreek, Brandon Heights, and South- wood Valley expanded, while Pebble Creek was being devel- oped. Altogether, this added a total of 256 new lots offering a wide range of housing. Building permits, both residential and commercial, increased from 477 in 1990, with a value of over $17 million, to 552 in 1991 with a value of $37.5 million. The building division did 466 plumb- ing, 571 electrical, and 335 mechanical inspections in 1991. Building Inspection Increases $40 mill. $35 mill. $30 mill. $25 mill. $20 mill. $15 mill. $10 mill. $5 mill. $0 � Canmerc�al ❑ Resideritlal 4 —1991 - 92 Annual Report 1990 1991 College Station, Texas Oil and gas activity. Recent months have seen an increase in the drilling of oil and gas wells within the city limits. This has given the city an opportunity to lease several tracts of land for exploration for which it receives royalties. This exploration has an added benefit in that it provides new ad valo- rem taxes. Regional Medical Facilities... College Station -Bryan is becoming a notable regional medical center. Since 1986, over $34 million has been spent on four general and psychiatric hospitals. This does not include dollars spent on smaller auxiliary medical services. Scott and White Clinic, located in College Station, has purchased an addi- tional 19.4 acres to expand their present operation. Recently, the city has experienced consider- able outside interest in their industrial park. According to the Bryan- College Station Economic Development Corporation, medical instrument manufactur- ing is one of the industries targeted for location in the 200 acre park. 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 5 New home construction is increasing in College Station. Scott & White Clinic has plans for expansion. College Station, Texas Cooperative efforts... One community. College Station shares overlapping jurisdictional boundaries with several other organizations and agencies. Texas A &M University is located within the city limits of College Station, while College Station is located within Brazos County. The City of College Station, the College Station Independent School District, and Brazos County have taxing jurisdiction over many of the same people and, when you add the neighboring city of Bryan right next door, the jurisdictions can become confusing. This close proximity has caused College Station's leaders and others to seek higher levels of cooperation and more shared resources to benefit all. Some of the jointly shared and cooperative efforts presently underway are: • the Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency, a regional landfill agency jointly owned by the cities of College Station and Bryan; • the Brazos Animal Shelter, a cooperative effort between both cities and the county; • the Emergency 911 District approved in Brazos County by the cities and the county to provide emergency response services to residents; an intedurisdictional Civil Defense and Emergency Management Agency, formed among both cities, the county , and Texas A &M University; a Law Enforcement Task Force, jointly funded by the cities and the county; social services through the Brazos Valley Development Council are jointly funded by the cities and the county; county wide health services are provided by both cities and the county through the Brazos County Health District; College Station formed a cooperative agreement with the College Station Indepen- dent School District to share resources and provide an award winning after school program for children; two years ago the two cities formed the joint B -CS Eco- nomic Development Corpo- ration with a full -time direc- tor to identify, pursue and locate new industry to the area. All local agencies coop- erated to get a new state prison located in Brazos County; and new areas of cooperation between the city and Texas A &M University continue to steadily open up as both agencies seek to utilize local resources to the advantage of all concerned. The announce- ment in 1991 of the decision to locate the Bush Presidential Library in College Station has brought about another surge of the cooperative spirit, and promises to become a focal point for the tourist industry in the College Station - Bryan area; -the Brazos Valley Public Purchasing Association is a newly formed association among both cities, the county, both school districts, Texas A &M, the Small Business Development Center of the Chamber of Commerce, Texas Municipal Power Agency and St. Joseph Hospital to get better prices through group buying and to help local vendors do business with public agencies; the Brazos County Appraisal District is shared by all taxing entities; the county, both cities and both school districts. This represents only a some of the joint efforts that are underway in the community. 6 —1991 - 92 Annual Report Mary Johnson is pleased with "Mindy" from the Animal Shelter. College Station, Texas City financial conditions... College Station ended 1991 in very sound fiscal condition. The firm of Deloitte & Touche, Inc. completed the annual audit of the financial records in accordance with generally accepted accounting standards. The City received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Report- ing, and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award during 1991. These awards are presented by the Government Finance Officers Association to governments where reports are judged to meet high standards in their financial planning and reporting. Attainment of these awards represents a significant accomplishment by a govern- ment zind its management. Net Operating Budget Fiscal Year 1991 -92 $57,632 ($ x 1,000) lity Fund 3,837 Landfill Fund $52S Debt Service Fund $3,873 Hotel /Motel Tax F $700 General Fund $ 16,891 General Fund Uses Fiscal Year 1991 -92 $17,681 ($ x 1,000) Poli Community Services $123 Fiscal /Human Resources $1,507 General Government $677 Management Services $1,532 Parks _ .._.,. $2,597 Contributions to ncies $102 =ire $3,144 Sales Tax $6,573 Contingency d Misc. $210 Development Services $1,360 vices $2,326 Solid Waste Collection Fund $ 1,806 General Fund Sources Fiscal Year 1991 -92 $16,760 ($ x 1,000) Administrative Ini—.1 C­ Tranafera 19 r er Tsxes $330 sc. $117 Fines b Forfeitures $561 Property Tax $1,395 Permits $107 fer in 1f Taxes $3,890 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 7 Charges $353 Parks Revenue $386 College Station, Texas safety and How about sa y protection? The College Station Police Department officially became an accredited law enforcement agency in November of 1991. College Station is one of 195 agencies nationwide to claim this level of professionalism, and one of only 11 in Texas. To become accredited, a department must meet over 900 standards, impact- ing four basic areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services. The department began working toward accreditation in 1987. A comprehensive policy and procedures manual, ballistic vests for officers, additional hand -held radios, validated selection and promotional procedures, and more efficient delivery of law enforcement services to the community are only a few of the benefits realized. Perhaps even greater is the sense of accomplishment and pride in being among the most professional of all law enforce- ment agencies in the state and the nation. This is a pride in which all citizens of College Station can share. In 1991, the College Station Police Department answered 36,598 calls for service, up 10 percent over 1990. While de- mand for service by citizens increased, major offenses de- creased. Since 1986, major offenses in College Station have decreased from 3947 to 2627. For two years in a row, between 1990 and 1991, there were no murders at all in College Station. In those same years, 6 rapes and 11 robberies occurred. In fact, while Texas' record in violent crime stands at 9.7 percent of all crime committed, College o Station's violent crime is only 4.5 percent of the city's total crime. The highest incidence of crime in College Station is theft. A number of crime preven- tion program have been estab- lished in College Station to help avoid crime. The Neighborhood Watch Program, a Citizen's Police Academy, and tie Com- munity Oriented Policing Pro- gram help citizens to become a part of the prevention,process by becoming more aware of how the department operates. These also build good relationships between police officers and the commu- nity and help to prevent crime. A bicycle patrol initiated in the Northgate area around the Texas A &M campus has been instru- mental in reducing some com- mon problems such as parking congestion, disorderly conduct and public intoxication. Since 1987, the Drug Abuse Resistance Education; (D.A.R.E) program has trained and gradu- ated over 3000 5th graders, helping them recognize and resist peer pressure, build self - esteem, display assertiveness, and adopt ways to say "no ", particularly to the drug culture. In 1992, this program was started in the Brazos Christian School where an additional 50 children participated. It has become a highly respected and popular program with students, teachers, and parents. 8 —1991 - 92 Annual Report Community oriented policing builds relationships with the residenus. College Station, Texas The College Station Fire Department is also in the busi- ness of community education. In 1991 the department implemented the first KID SAFE program, a nationwide program to introduce and train pre - school age children about the dangers of fire and what to do in the event of such an emergency. A pilot program was developed through the First Baptist Church of College Station's day care program and approximately 80 children graduated in May 1991. In 1992, the program will continue at the First Baptist Church, and a new program has begun at A &M Methodist Church's day care program. Since the programs arc self - sustaining after the first year, it is the department's plan to initiate the program and train teachers in all of the local pre- school day care programs eventually. The Fire Department also conducts fire safety surveys of local businesses to help prevent loss of life or property. Engine crews thoroughly examine all areas of local businesses and make recommendations to management regarding preven- tion procedures and fire regula- tions. This thorough survey allows for maximum protection for all businesses in the event of an emergency because crews have a better knowledge of the business layout and site, and a working relationship with the management. Each year the College Station Fire Department makes plans for the annual Texas A &M Bonfire by notifying all homes in the surrounding neighborhoods reminding residents of fire Prevention measures and which streets will be open or closed. Although incidents are generally few, these early prevention measures on the part of fire Personnel help to save loss of property during a potentially hazardous time. In 1991, the College Station Fire Department answered 1886 Emergency Medical Service calls and 176 fire calls as well as conducting 1233 prevention activities and 203 public educa- tion programs. 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 9 Kid Safe class receives instruction from fire personnel. College Station, Texas Tell me about infrastructure and environmental issues. a Utilities College Station provides utilities for over 20,000 ac- counts. Many of these accounts are students who are very mobile and come and go as the semester and school year changes. During the months of August, December and May, as many as 1000 work orders for connections and disconnections may be processed by utility workers in a single day. The cost of utilities is always a high priority with residents and businesses. Historically, College Station has had a reputation for having higher than average electric rates while the water, sewer, and garbage were lower than average, along with a low property tax rate. Former city leaders adopted this policy because of their philosophy that in a transient community, utilities were something that everyone used and paid for equally, whereas property taxes were only paid for by a few who were permanent residents. At the time, it seemed to be the most equitable way to pay for services. But in the last five years, the City Council has adopted a new philosophy in order to be competitive in the economic development arena and offer affordable utilities to residents. They developed a policy to reduce electric rates, and bring water, sewer, and garbage rates up to a level that is referred to as "cost of service ". A five year plan has been imple- mented to reach that goal. The city's contract for wholesale electricity with Gulf States Utilities ended December 31, 1991. After many months of discussions and ncbotiations, the Texas Municipal Power Agency member cities were awarded the new contract. As of January 1, 1992, College Station formed a new relationship with the TMPA member cities which include Garland, Denton, Greenville and Bryan. This new relationship will allow College Station to eventu- ally become a partner and owner in its own electrical supply system, and ultimately have more control of its rates. 10 —1991 - 92 Annual Report Serving the customer is the highest priority. Months of electrical line work went into the TMPA switch. College Station, Texas possible. An Energy Manage- ment Office provides free surveys to residents and busi- nesses, and makes recommenda- tions for electrical cost reduc- tions. The Good Cents Energy Conscious Home Program is another way in which the city promotes energy conservation and cost reductions. Since 1989, the percentage of homes permit- ted that qualify for the Good Cents program has increased from 7 percent to 28 percent in 1991. College Station is also proud of its high quality water supply system. In September, the City of College Station's Water Produc- tion and Distribution Divisions received the 1991 EPA Award for,Environmental Excellence. This award recognizes excellence in: the quality of ground water produced; outstanding opera- tions, maintenance, administra- tive and fiscal management; and a high degree of sensitivity and responsiveness to the customer. Carter Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant has undergone substantial change over the past year. The city has just completed a $900,000 upgrade to the plant for installation of a chlorination/ dechlorination facility. This means the City is now required to chlorinate the final effluent and then dechlorinate it before discharging it into the creek. Though this is a costly proce- dure, it will have a positive long- range impact on the environ- ment. Waste Collection/ Disposal In 1991, College Station took new steps to assure higher standards for waste collection and disposal, and to educate the community regarding the values of recycling. A pilot curbside recycling program was imple- mented in October 1991 involv- ing approximately one -third of the single family residences in the city. Participation was on a voluntary basis and, because of the success of that program, in March of 1992 the city imple- mented city -wide curbside recycling for all single family residences. Also in March 1992, a new fully- automated waste collec- tion system was put into opera- tion, allowing one man to drive and operate the automated truck. Through an automated arm the truck lifts and dumps the 70 gallon refuse container rolled to the curb by the resident. This container allows for a more uniform, pleasant appearance in the neighborhoods on collection days, as well as saves money in man -hours and reduced workmen's compensation claims. The Brazos Valley Solid Waste Management Agency (BVSWMA), comprised of the cities of College Station and Bryan, is in the process of creating a co- composting opera- tion. This waste disposal service would combine sewer sludge and yard waste to create a soil enriching compost, while divert- ing a significant amount of solid waste from the landfill, saving landfill space. In fiscal 1991 the BVSWMA landfill disposed of 128,000 tons of solid waste. 1991 - 92 Annual Report —11 Customers watch the automated trucks with fascination. College Station, Texas Capital Improvements 1990 Bond Election In December of 1990, the city held a municipal bond election. Bonds were approved by the voters in the amount of $4.5 million for streets and sidewalk improvements. An additional $1 million in bonds was approved for park improve- ments and development. Parks improvements... Woodcreek Park was one of the neighborhood parks devel- oped as a result of the passage of thew hnnds_ This 6.6 acre park was designed to maintain much of the natural beauty of the heavily wooded areas with a small creek meandering through it. It also has a playground, a one -third mile jogging trail, a half basketball court, volleyball court and two bridges. Light- ing was installed for greater enjoyment as well as security. New basketball courts and other improvements have also been completed in Merry Oaks and Central A new frog slide is lifted into place at Adainron Pool to delight youngsters this swruner. Park. New 10 foot fences have been installed at Central Park's softball fields to improve safety and will increase usage for state and national tournaments. Adamson pool received renovations to increase usage including new shade structures, extended fencing on the north side, and a jungle mural painted on the wall at the west side of the pool. The high dive board was removed for safety reasons and will be replaced with a new slide. A master plan for the pool is being developed to create a theme based water recreation facility with water slides and other related amenities. Future plans include renova- tion to Oaks Park, lights installed at Georgia K. Fitch Park, and jogging trails constructed at Gabbard, Thomas, Anderson.. and Raintree Parks. The develop- ment of Sandstone is expected to occurin 1994. Streets and sidewalks... Streets scheduled or under construction for improvements are Krenek Tap Road, Eleanor Street, Sebesta Road, and Ander- son/Timber Street. Streets scheduled or under construction for extensions are Marion Pugh and Rock Prairie Road. Welsh Street has recently been com- pleted. The sidewalk plan approved for construc- tion was organized into three phases. The first of those phases is complete and the other two are under design. A preliminary plan for a streetscape that would incorporate street and landscape design, signage, sidewalks, jogging trails and bikeways is under review by the City Council. The site of a streetscape pilot plan is located at the Emerald Parkway median, with funding coming from the Emerald Parkway project. 12 —1991 - 92 Annual Report College Station, Texas Other Improvements The 1990 Municipal Bond Election found voters willing to pay additional taxes for streets, sidewalks and park improve- ments. Two items they chose not to pay additional taxes for were cemetery renovations and Phase II of Wolf Pen Creek. For this reason, the College Station City Cemetery was renovated at a cost of $81,000 from existing bond interest monies. New wrought iron fencing, a new fountain, and an irrigation system, along with a widened entrance, will improve the appearance and maintenance ability of this very visible public area. In 1988, the College Station City Council approved a Wolf Pen Creek Corridor Master Plan. The corridor along the creek was recognized as an area with drainage problems that, without creative multiple usage, could one day become a liability. The purpose of the plan was to recognize the interrelationships of drainage, erosion control, and recreation along Wolf Pen Creek, while creating a community attraction for residents and visitors. Phase I of this plan, which includes an amphitheater, lake, picnic shelter, playground, trails, bridges, and restrooms, is being funded by three sources: the City of College Station, $1,400,000; the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, $500,000; and the Nina Heard Astin Foundation, $100,000. Phase II of the plan, the portion of the plan turned down by the voters on the 1990 bond election, is not presently being pursued. Phase I is expected to be complete by the Fall of 1992, and will be the site for the annual College Station Jazz Festival, the Brazos Folk Festival, and the summer concert series. HeaxgAy p �. s WoM Pon l'[ crook Fwk J"miK -,r An. +ry t The plan for Phase I of Wolf Pen Creek. 1991 - 92 Annual Report —13 The extension of Welsh Street makes travel to schools easier for many . College Station, Texas What about recreation and education? In order to maintain a community with adequate green space for recreation and leisure, the city has a policy regarding parkland dedication, in which developers must dedicate a portion of their subdivision to neighborhood parks to later be developed by the city. College Station is blessed with 28 parks, located throughout the city, totalling 895 acres. These parks offer a variety of amenities, including an adult softball complex, Little League complex, Jr. Girls softball complex, numerous tennis and basketball courts, three swim- ming pools, pavilions, picnic tables, and playground equip- ment. The unique Lick Creek Park offers miles of natural trails, and is home to numerous native wildlife and plant species. A variety of adult and youth athletic and recreational pro- grams are offered through the award winning College Station Parks & Recreation Department. From soccer leagues to tennis and swim lessons, from urban fishing programs to festivals, concerts and movies in the park and an annual Christmas lights display, parks programs are sure to meet needs and interests of all ages. The City of College Station has received the prestigious "Member City Award" from the Texas Amateur Athletic Federa- tion, and is one of 27 cities in Texas to be designated as a "Tree City" by the National Arbor Day Foundation. One of the most successful programs to come along in the last few years is Kids Klub, an after school adventure for children operated in cooperation with the College Station Inde- pendent School District. For only $17 per week, children receive the attention of one staff person for every ten children, accident insurance, a healthy snack, vigorous physical activity, and most importantly, a safe place to stay after school. Presently, the program has over 360 children participating and has been recognized "The Best of Texas" by the Corporate Child Develop- ment Fund. College Station has a state- wide reputation for quality athletic events. In 1991, it was proud to be the home to two football championship teams: the A &M Consolidated Tigers and the Texas A &M football team, winners of 1991 Southwest Conference Championship. Amateur softball leagues and tournaments are the greatest users of the parks facilities, with an increase in participation from 1989 of 52,000 players to over 97,000 players in 1991. State, regional and national tournaments are also popular events in College Station. In 1993, College Station will host the Texas Firefighter Olympics and Amateur Softball Association's National Men's A Industrial Slowpitch Tournament. 14 —1991 - 92 Annual Report Children participate in Kid's Klub after school. College Station, Texas Each year the community hosts the Straight Shot, a 10 K run, a 5K run and 5K walk, with over 800 local and out -of -town participants of all ages. A "Fun and Fitness" series is held every month to encourage and provide healthy outdoor aerobic activi- ties. Events include a variety of walks, runs, and biking activi- ties. In 1988, College Station and Bryan hosted the Games of Texas, a statewide gathering of over 10,000 amateur athletes participating in 22 events. College Station -Bryan has been selected again as the site of the 1994 Games of Texas and expects to host as many as 13,000 participants in 26 events. This spectacular event involves hundreds of local volunteers and organizations, and has proved to be a community event that fills both participants and spectators with tremendous pride. a 3 An interloan library system is now in place between the Bryan and College Station Libraries. Library The College Station Library is operated as a branch library in cooperation with the Bryan Public Library. January 1992 marked the fifth anniversary for the College Station Library, and in the past five years circulation has increased 93 percent. A new interlibrary loan system is now available where books may be requested from the Bryan Li- brary and transported to College Station for checkout and return. This cooperative effort saves the taxpayers money as it eliminates the duplication of books. Public Schools The College Station public school system is known for its strong academic programs throughout all grade levels. Students and staff have received numerous state and national honors for academic and extra- curricular achievements. In 1991, the high school football team brought additional distinction to the community by winning the 1991 Class 4A State Champion- ship. 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 15 College Station's high school football teams have made the community proud. College Station, Texas Can you get there from here? As was mentioned earlier, College Station is located within 200 miles of nearly every major city in Texas. For many years the drive distance was considered inconsequential to most major cities, and the majority of travel was done by automobile. How- ever, air travel increased from 30,000 enplanements in 1983 to over 80,000 in 1990. This is due in large part to the construction of a new terminal and improved facilities at Easterwood Airport, which is owned and operated by Texas A &M University. The offering of reasonably priced flights daily in and out of Col- lege Station by three major carriers has also improved air travel. AMTRAK makes daily trips between Houston and Dallas with a stop in College Station for the leisurely traveler. And to accommodate rail travelers with less time, the Bryan- College Station Chamber of Commerce's High Speed Rail Task Force continues to work with the Texas High Speed Rail Authority to bring a high speed rail terminal to Bryan- College Station. Recent cooperative efforts by College Station and Bryan, Texas A &M, and the Chamber of Commerce were instrumental in keeping the regional office of the Texas Department of Transporta- tion located in College Station - Bryan. The growth potential of this area, along with high quality highway needs for the future, were vital factors in the decision of the Department of Transporta- tion to remain in College Sta- tion- Bryan. Presently, the department has four projects under construction or committed for construction. 16 —1991 - 92 Annual Report The new McKenzie Terminal at Easterwood Airport has enhanced air travel. Amtrak now makes daily trips between Dallas and Houston with a stop in College Station. College Station, Texas 18 The Texas Avenue widening project upgrades Texas Avenue from a four -lane roadway with a center turn lane to a six -lane road- way with a center turn lane. This project will provide addi- tional capacity and improved safety for the most heavily travelled section of Texas Avenue. City staff is currently working with Texas A &M University and the Texas Depart- ment of Transpor- tation to incorpo- rate some areas of the Streetscape Plan into the project. The project is in the final stages of design and could begin as early as the Spring of 1993. The FM 2818 extension project improves Miller's Lane and extends FM 2818 from Texas Avenue east to the SH -6 Bypass at Emerald Parkway, the entrance to the Emerald Forest Subdivision. This project effectively completes the FM 2818 loop on the south side of College Station and provides for improved routing from Emerald Forest to area The opening of the 2818 Extension will vastly improve the highway network. shopping and to Texas A &M University. The extension opens up previously unaccessible land to develop- ment and is scheduled for completion in the Summer of 1992. Southwest Parkway overpass project extends Southwest Parkway across SH 6 to Raintree Drive. The overpass will provide improved access and circulation along with conversion of SH -6 frontage roads from two to one -way. This project is scheduled for completion during the Fall of 1993 or Spring of 1994. State Highway 6 frontagf, roads project converts the frontage roads serving SH6 from two to a one -way operation. One -way frontage roads will improve the safety and capacity of the roadway. Overpasses at Emerald Parkway and Southwest Parkway will support this conversion. The project includes construction of new SH -6 entrance and exit ramps and is scheduled for comple- tion in the Fall of 1993 or Spring of 1994. 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 17 College Station, Texas What about neighborhood revitalization? I - A Safe, affordable housing and neighborhoods that meet community standards are needs and desires for all humans beings. College Station is attempting to meet that need through a number of Community Development programs. A city -wide Housing Assistance Program consists of six basic components: housing rehabilitation, emer- gency repairs, urban homesteading program, relocation assistance, rental rehabilitation, direct loans, and a weatherization/ security program. Infrastructure improve- ments such as streets, storm drains, curb and gutters, and water and sewer lines in low income neighborhoods continue to be a budget priority. Planning and development of the Lincoln Center/Wayne Smith Park master plan to improve traffic circulation, community appearance, and recreational opportuni- ties for residents within this target neighborhood. To increase the quality of life for low- moderate income families, a number of public service agencies such as the Brazos Food Bank, the Brazos Valley Community Council, Brazos County Rape Crisis Center, the Brazos Valley Children's Founda- tion, Junction 505, and the Brazos Maternal and Child Clinic, Inc., are funded with Community Development Block Grant Funds. • A Code Enforcement pro- gram has been established to retain the integrity of the community's safety and appearance through enforce- ment, cleanup and clearance activities. • In cooperation with Texas A &M's "Big Event" volun- teer day and other volunteer organizations, a neighborhood cleanup and assistance cam- paign is conducted annually in specified low- income neigh- borhoods. • Funds are also allotted for city -wide demolition and clearance of dilapidated structures. An Optional Relocation Assistance program allows for relocation expenses for a family while their home is being renovated. The first family to take advan- tage of this program was placed in their new home in January 1992. The city takes a proactive position regarding the care and maintenance of prop- erty according to community. standards. An anti- neglect ordinance prohibits property owners from allowing their property to become a danger or an eyesore to the community. Ordinances also deal with keeping grass and weeds cut to a safe height, while allowing for the natural reseed- ing of perennial wildflowers. Also, due to a large number of students and multi - family living situations in single family neighborhoods, parking of vehicles on lawns became a problem. It is now prohibited in order to maintain community standards. While these ordi- nances may seem excessive to some, the majority of residents take pride in the high standards of their community. 18 —1991 - 92 Annual Report The tlanillon family is happy with their new home. College Station, Texas So tell me about the people! College Station is proud of its people, from its residents to its employees. These people are what make the community. A friendly, laid back atmosphere is felt by most visitors and resi- dents who come to College Station. It seems to be the thing that continues to bring them back again and again. Many who come here to go to school never leave, or if they do, many of them come back. That's because its a great place to live and work. The City of College Station employs, over 527 employees, and that increases in the sum- mers with part-time, temporary help to assist with the summer recreation programs. All city employees go through an exten- sive customer service training program to give them the confi- dence and skills to deal posi- tively and effectively with customers and citizens. In 1991, the City of College Station Austin Bovey gets some batting tips. received the International City who exemplify outstanding Management Association's customer service in their day to Award for "Citizen As Cus- day operation. tomer ". This award recognizes communities who have created and implemented the most effective training programs, and And not only do employees know how to treat people, they really have a heart. They give generously to the United Way annually, having one of the highest levels of per capita giving of any local public service agency, and of other cities of comparable size nationwide. And in addition to full work sched- ules, employees give to their community in volunteer time ... as Little League coaches, Sunday School teachers, Boy Scout and 4 -H Leaders, and homeroom parents. 1991 - 92 Annual Report —19 Water/Wastewater employees host games at the Water Awareness Fair. College Station, Texas How do the residents feel? But the people you really need to talk to are the residents. Here are just a few comments. "Our family truly enjoys College Station. We deeply appreciate the civic atmosphere so conducive to family life, the progressive attitude of city leaders, and the caring nature of the community. Each of these character- istics combine to give College Station a bright future! Our family is grateful for the opportunity to call College Station home." Craig Borchardt Pastor Peace Lutheran Church "I enjoy living and working in College Station because of the warm hospitable people who live here. 1 have been in the restaurant business in College Station for 21 years. I enjoy being friends and working with the others such as in our local restaurant association because we work in a spirit of friendly cooperation. I think that is what this community is all about." Jose' Montemayor Owner, Jose's Restaurant "Through the years I have observed young College Station natives counting the days until they could get out of this town. Now I see them as adults, counting the day s until they can come back and raise their families. It is the ultimate place to live." Sara June Goode Long time resident and club woman 20 —1991 - 92 Annual Report Pastor Craig Borchardt Jose Montemayor Sara June Goode College Station, Texas "I like living in College Station because it's a great place to bring up a family and the crime rate is low. The City of College Station has a number of programs to aid poor families who cannot help them- selves. Groups of residents and students often go out into the community to aid the elderly who might need someone to paint their home or cut their lawn. It is a place where people seem to care for others. 1 also like it because it is easy to get to shopping malls, schools, churches, and restaurants. But I think the most important reason why I like College Station is that it is peaceful." Lillie Hamilton Recipient, Optional Relocation Home a rc Lillie Hamikon "Our family chose to return to College .Station when my husband retired after a career as a military officer in the Marines. We had lived here during the time he was in graduate school at A &M, and also when he was serving in Viet Nam. Having lived from coast to coast we all loved College Station best of all. I love the friendly, caring people and find it refreshing to live around so many quality � people who come here to go to school at our outstanding university. I also enjoy living close to ,he major cities of Texas and the Interior Design t enter, since my work is in that field. The cultural dvantages are many, including marvelous pro - rams such as OPAS, the Brazos Valley Symphony, and programs of the Brazos Arts Council. The churches, sporting events, city services, and variety of clubs is another reason I know our family made a wise choice in calling College Station our home." Aimee' Allen Designer, Aimee' Allen Interiors 1991 - 92 Annual Report — 21 Aimee Allen College Station, Texas Facts and Figures Land Area (sq. mi.) 28.2 Area of TAMU (sq. mi.) 5 Population (College Station) 52,456— Population (Brazos County) 121,862 Median Age 21.6 Average Household buying income $41,771 Tax Rates Fiscal & Human Resources City of College Station $.40 per $100 Brazos County $.44 per $100 College Station School Dist. $.76 per $100 County Education Dist. $.78 per $100 Sales Tax (state /county /city) 8.25% Hotel/Motel(state/ local) 13% Major Employers Texas A &M C.S.I.S.D City of College Station Westinghouse Agency Records Control Number of utility accounts 19,941 Single family residences 9,041 Multi - family residences 9,287 Permanent City Employees 527 Sworn Police Officers 67 Fire fighters/EMT's 50 Paramedics /Firefighters 16 Sidewalks 30 miles Parks 28 Swimming Pools 3 Library circulation 51,685 Water Number of wells 4 Miles of waterline 200 Source- Simsboro Sand Sewer Sanitary sewer lines 200 miles Treatment Facilities 2 Electric Distribution lines- 205 rdiles Transmission lines -11 miles Streets Paved - 157 miles This annual report was written, designed and produced by City of College Station employees. Peggy Calliham, Public Relations & Marketing Manager, designed and directed the project. Editor /Writer Graphic design Photography Printing Peggy Calliham Mary Morse Chandler Arden City Staff Lang Printing A special note of thanks goes to a group of city employees known as the Public Relations Team. This group, representing each department in the city, was responsible for collecting information and ideas from their departments and assisting in the project from beginning to end. They also were responsible for production of a slide presentation to accompany this document. Their involvement has been vital to the project. Donna Banse Student Intern, Coordinator for slide presentation Wayne Onstott Police Department Frank Simpson Public Utilities Jim Smith Public Services Deborah Grace Development Services Bridgette George Parks & Recreation Department Virginia McCartney Fiscal & Human Resources Phil Teinert Management Services Shirley Sicinski Fire Department Linda Piwonka Executive Liaison May 1992 —1991 - 92 Annual Report