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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/23/2023 - Regular Minutes - City CouncilCCM 022323 Minutes Page 1 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING IN-PERSON WITH TELECONFERENCE PARTICIPATION CITY OF COLLEGE STATION FEBRUARY 23, 2023 STATE OF TEXAS § § COUNTY OF BRAZOS § Present: John Nichols, Mayor Council: Mark Smith William Wright Linda Harvell Elizabeth Cunha Bob Yancy Dennis Maloney City Staff: Bryan Woods, City Manager Jeff Capps, Deputy City Manager Adam Falco, City Attorney Leslie Whitten, Deputy City Attorney Tanya Smith, City Secretary Ian Whittenton, Deputy City Secretary 1. Call to Order and Announce a Quorum is Present. With a quorum present, the meeting of the College Station City Council was called to order by Mayor Nichols via In-Person and Teleconference at 4:01 p.m. on February 23, 2023, in the Council Chambers of the City of College Station City Hall, 1101 Texas Avenue, College Station, Texas 77840. 2. Executive Session Agenda. In accordance with the Texas Government Code §551.071-Consultation with Attorney, and §551.074- Personnel, the College Station City Council convened into Executive Session at 4:02 p.m. on February 23, 2023, to continue discussing matters pertaining to: 2.1. Consultation with Attorney to seek advice regarding pending or contemplated litigation, to wit:  Kathryn A. Stever-Harper as Executrix for the Estate of John Wesley Harper v. City of College Station and Judy Meeks; No. 15,977-PC in the County Court No. 1, Brazos County, Texas; and  McCrory Investments II, LLC d/b/a Southwest Stor Mor v. City of College Station; Cause No. 17-000914-CV-361; In the 361st District Court, Brazos County, Texas; and  Shana Elliott and Lawrence Kalke v. City of College Station, et al., Cause No. 22-001122-CV- 85, in the 85th District Court, Brazos County, Texas; and CCM 022323 Minutes Page 2  Robert Danny Clack, II v. City of College Station, et al., Civil Action No. 4:22 -cv-02404, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division; and  Kristin Marriott v. City of College Station, Cause No. 22-002259-CV-272, in the 272nd District Court, Brazos County, Texas; and  SOAH Docket No. 473-22-2464 and PUC Docket No. 52728 – Application of the City of College Station to Change Rates for Wholesale Transmission Services; and  LaLa Vida, LLC v. City of College Station, Cause No. 23-000374-CV-272, in the 272nd District Court, Brazos County, Texas. 2.2. Deliberation on the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer; to wit:  City Manager  Council Self-Evaluation 3. The Open Meeting Will Reconvene No Earlier than 6:00 PM from Executive Session and City Council will take action, if any. Executive Session recessed at 6:03 p.m. No action was taken. 4. Pledge of Allegiance, Invocation, consider absence request. 5. PRESENTATION - PROCLAMATIONS, AWARDS, AND RECOGNITIONS. 5.1. Presentation and recognition for the 100th Anniversary of the A&M United Methodist Church. Mayor Nichols presented a proclamation recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the A&M United Methodist Church to Pastor Preston Greenwaldt, extended family, Steve Beachy, extended family, Todd and Kristie Wood and their children Nathan, Rebecca, Abbie, and Emerson. Extended family: David and Linda Brochu, grandparents of kids. 6. Hear Visitors Comments. Phil Adams, Bryan, stated that at the behest of Chancellor Sharp, an expert tree specialist explained a letter provided a regarding the impact of the proposed sewer service through Beverley Estates. Mr. Adams explained that based on understanding of the sewer construction’s intended installation to clear within 50 feet of the right of way, Mr. Adams’s and the other trees along Rosemary will be at significant risk. Scott Hickle, Bryan (HOA representative), came before Council in concerns with the sewer line for in on Rosemary in the Beverly Estates. He thanked Council for always having Neighborhood Integrity in mind when making decisions and with that in mind asked them to take another look at the available options. Sharon Hickle, Bryan, came before Council concerned with the sewer line that is being placed on Rosemary in the Beverly Estates. She explained that this neighborhood is as beautiful as a park and to uproot these trees will destroy the neighborhood. CCM 022323 Minutes Page 3 John Halsell, Bryan, thanked the Council for allowing him to address the Council regarding his concerns with the sewer line that is being placed on Rosemary in the Beverly Estates and the uprooting of the trees in their neighborhood. Abbie Krolczyk, Bryan, came before Council to oppose the trunk line planed through Beverly Estates and request that developer fees be used to pay for another option which will not disturb the area. Diane Davis, College Station, came before Council regarding the Thomas Pool design and went into the history of the revitalization phases. She is requesting the council too look at usage date and determine if the city has enough pools for its citizens. David Buras, Bryan, came before Council to state his concerns and not in support of the sewer line that is being placed on Rosemary in the Beverly Estates. Richard Miles, Bryan, is requesting that council review the relative merits of the alternative routes weigh it against the impact and cost of the projected route. Andrew Nelson, Bryan, gave brief history of his background in Beverly Estate and he requested Council to reconsider the lift station and the impact of the proposed sewer service through Beverley Estates. 7. CONSENT ITEMS Presentation, discussion, and possible action on consent items which consist of ministerial, or "housekeeping" items as allowed by law : A Councilmember may request additional information at this time. Any Councilmember may remove an item from the Consent Agenda for a separate vote. No items were pulled for discussion. 7.1. Presentation, discussion, and possible action of minutes for:  February 9, 2023 Council Meeting 7.2. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding an annual price agreement award to Techline, Inc. for the purchase of Electric Distribution Poles for an amount not to exceed $8,980,493.38. 7.3. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding a purchase order to KBS Electrical Distributors for electric meter sockets for $125,311.70. 7.4. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding a contract with Kimley-Horn for the design of the George Bush Bike Lanes Project for $235,000. (Pulled to future agenda) 7.5. Presentation, discussion, and possible action on the second reading of a Franchise Agreement Ordinance No. 2023-4420 with Brannon Industrial Group dba BVR Waste and Recycling for the collection of recyclables from commercial businesses and multi-family locations. 7.6. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding an amendment to the rental agreement with Big Truck Rental, LLC for the rental of a front-end loader for solid waste collection for $10,000 per month. CCM 022323 Minutes Page 4 MOTION: Upon a motion made by Councilmember Harvell and a second by Councilmember Maloney, the City Council voted seven (7) for and none (0) opposed, to approve the Consent Items with the exception of Item 7.4. The motion carried unanimously. 8. WORKSHOP ITEMS 8.1. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding an Economic Development program update. Brian Piscacek, Economic Development, provided an overview of strategic planning efforts, 2022 highlights, and priority focus areas for 2023. Staff discussed the industry and retail recruitment, retention and expansion of existing businesses, and redevelopment opportunities. Economic Development Master Plan Strategic Areas Regional partnerships Retail development Redevelopment opportunities Corporate expansion and relocation Destination entertainment and hospitality Geographic Priorities 1. Midtown Business Park 2. College Station Business Center 3. Providence Park 4. Bio corridor Retail Recruitment, new developments in South College Station (28+ acres, etc.), backfill spaces. The Retail Coach, retail consultant: retail recruitment and development strategy.  Retail trade area, data reports  Prospect identification and recruitment  Broker/developer contacts  Regular meetings, collaborative recruitment at events BRE, or Business Retention & Expansion  Heart of Aggieland Visitors Pass: program linking College Station retailers with out-of-town visitors; over 60 participating retailers.  Holiday Deals Pass  Business Over Breakfast: local business stakeholder group event; last event in August had over 60 attendees; next one scheduled for November 1st  Hospitality Insider: monthly newsletter to over 160 business contacts highlighting upcoming events.  Chamber/BVEDC events Mr. Piscacek explained that the total sold of Strategic Investments (Real Estate) is $5,105,539 and under contract is $10,813,222.  FedEx property now appraised at $5 million.  Costco property – improvement value averages $8.6 million in Houston area  Downstream effects: prepare surrounding properties for development (infrastructure, catalyze development) CCM 022323 Minutes Page 5 Strategic Investments: Project Management : 8.2 Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding updates to the City's Event, Program, and Activity Sponsorship Policy. Jeff Kersten, Assistant City Manager, stated that the city is frequently asked to purchase tickets/tables, and to sponsor events to benefit organizations in the community. This item is for updated procedures for City sponsorships and to ensure City sponsorships enhance and foster the strategic goals of the city. Mr. Kersten explained that there are two sponsorship categories: Community sponsorships and marketing sponsorships. The City Council or City Manager may provide direction for these events. The City Manager’s Office will coordinate all marketing sponsorships to avoid duplication. If a marketing sponsorship is not budgeted it may only be approved by the Council or City Manager. The City Manager has authority to purchase of tables, tickets, or other forms of sponsorship at community events ensuring the City is not duplicating representation or marketing efforts. The City Manager has discretion to delegate spending authority or approval as appropriate. Community Sponsorships  Opportunities for the City to demonstrate goodwill towards organizations serving the College Station community.  The city may purchase tables, serve as event sponsors, or purchase individual tickets. CCM 022323 Minutes Page 6 Marketing Sponsorships  Public events where the sponsorship will provide an opportunity to promote the city, its departments, or activities.  Staff must ensure appropriate use of the City’s logo/marks.  Marketing sponsorship decisions must be made through the annual budget process. Guidelines & Oversight  City Council will review & allocate the total funding available for sponsorships.  Outside Agency Funding Agreements specify sponsorship of events, programs, and activities with those organizations.  If the City funds an entity $5,000 or more in one fiscal year, they will pursue an Outside Agency Funding agreement with that entity. Event, Program and Activity Sponsorship Policy Policy Objectives a) Provide a City of College Station (City) policy for sponsorship of events, programs, and activities that further a public purpose, including purchasing tables and seats at events from community organizations furthering a public purpose. b) Establishing procedures for City sponsorships be administered by the City Manager as directed by the City Council. c) Ensuring City sponsorships enhance and foster a public purpose and the City’s strategic goals. 9. REGULAR ITEMS 9.1. Public Hearing, presentation, discussion, and possible action approving Ordinance No. 2023-4421 vacating and abandoning a 0.041-acre variable width Public Utility Easement, said Public Utility Easement being located in the Crawford Burnett Survey, Abstract No. 7, College Station, Brazos County, Texas and being the same easement recorded in volume 1164, page 639 of the Official Records of Brazos County, Texas. Parker Mathews, Planning and Development, stated that the public utility easement abandonment is being requested by the applicant because of a desire to redevelop this lot and construct a commercial building. The previously existing gas, communications, and electrical infrastructure that was existing in the easements have been removed and rerouted making the easement no longer necessary for the City’s use. The 0.041-acre public utility easement is located within the redeveloping property abutting Holleman Drive. At approximately 7:42 p.m., Mayor Nichols opened the Public Hearing. There being no further comments, the Public Hearing was closed at 7:42 p.m. MOTION: Upon a motion made by Councilmember Yancy, and a second by Councilmember Maloney, the City Council voted seven (7) for and none (0) opposed, to adopt Ordinance No. 2023- 4421, vacating and abandoning a 0.041-acre variable width Public Utility Easement, said Public Utility Easement being located in the Crawford Burnett Survey, Abstract No. 7, College Station, Brazos County, Texas and being the same easement recorded in volume 1164, page 639 of the Official Records of Brazos County, Texas as it appears on the dais. The motion carried unanimously. CCM 022323 Minutes Page 7 9.2. Presentation, discussion, and possible action regarding appointments to the following boards, committees, and commissions:  Arts Council of Brazos Valley  CDBG Public Service Review Committee  Spring Creek Local Government Corporation Services Tanya Smith, City Secretary, presented the applicants for each following boards, committees, and commissions for appointments. Arts Council  Warren L. Finch for 3-year term  Sara Mirza for 2-year term MOTION: Upon a motion made by Mayor Nichols, and a second by Councilmember Harvell, the City Council voted seven (7) for and none (0) opposed, to appoint members as stated to the Arts Council. The motion carried unanimously. CDBG Public Service Review Committee  Gary Balmain for 1-year term  Mark S. Browning for 2-year term  Suzanne Droleskey for 3-year term  Mike A. Holmgreen for 2-year term  Carla Robinson for 3-year term  Carolyn H. Young for 1-year term MOTION: Upon a motion made by Mayor Nichols, and a second by Councilmember Yancy, the City Council voted seven (7) for and none (0) opposed, to appoint members as stated to the CDBG Public Service Review Committee. The motion carried unanimously. Spring Creek Local Government Corporation Services  Jason O. Cornelius for 2-year term MOTION: Upon a motion made by Councilmember Harvell, and a second by Councilmember Wright, the City Council voted seven (7) for and none (0) opposed, to appoint members as stated to the Spring Creek Local Government Corporation Services. The motion carried unanimously. 10. Council Calendar Council reviewed the calendar. 11. Items of Community Interest: The Council may receive reports from a Council Member or City Staff about items of community interest for which notice has not been given, including: expressions of thanks, congratulations or condolence; information regarding holiday schedules; honorary or salutary recognitions of a public official, public employee, or other citizen; reminders of upcoming events organized or sponsored by the City of College Station; information about a social, ceremonial or community event organized or s ponsored by an entity other than the City of College Station that is scheduled to be attended by a Council Member, another city official or staff of the City of College Station; and announcements involving an CCM 022323 Minutes Page 8 imminent threat to the public health and safety of people in the City of College Station that has arisen after the posting of the agenda. Councilmember Cunha on February 25th is the 22nd annual banquet for the Brazos Valley African American Museum. Mayor Nichols recognized Parks and Recreation Department staff for their efforts during the renaming ceremony for Gary Halter Nature Center. Councilmember Maloney recognized that Saturday, February 25th,will mark the 84th anniversary of the first Council Station City Council Meeting. 12. Council Reports on Committees, Boards, and Commission: A Council Member may make a report regarding meetings of City Council boards and commissions or meetings of boards and committees on which a Council Member serves as a representative that have met since the last council meeting. (Committees listed in Coversheet) Nothing to report at this time. 13. Future Agenda Items and Review of Standing List of Council Generated Future Agenda Items: A Council Member may make a request to City Council to place an item for which no notice has been given on a future agenda or may inquire about the status of an item on the standing list of council generated future agenda items. A Council Member’s or City Staff’s response to the request or inquiry will be li mited to a statement of specific factual information related to the request or inquiry or the recitation of existing policy in response to the request or inquiry. Any deliberation of or decision about the subject of a request will be limited to a proposal to place the subject on the agenda for a subsequent meeting. No future items at this time. 14. Adjournment. There being no further business, Mayor Nichols adjourned the Meeting of the City Council at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 23, 2023. ________________________ John P. Nichols, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Tanya Smith, City Secretary