HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2025-12-01 Regular MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD
December 1, 2025
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD MET IN A REGULAR MEETING ON
MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2025, AT 5:30 P.M. IN THE BOARDROOM OF THE FISD
ADMINISTRATION ANNEX BUILDING, LOCATED AT 402 LAUREL DRIVE,FRIENDSWOOD,
TEXAS, WITH THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS PRESENT CONSTITUTING A QUORUM:
John Ellisor Mayor Pro Tem
Sally Branson Councilmember
Trish Hanks Councilmember
Robert J. Griffon Councilmember
Joe Matranga Councilmember
Michael P. Ross Councilmember
Mike Foreman Mayor
Morad Kabiri City Manager
Karen Horner City Attorney
Raquel Martinez City Secretary
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Foreman called the meeting to order with a quorum present at 5:30 P.M. and all members present.
2. INVOCATION
The invocation was led by Pastor Stephen Kimpel of LifePoint Church.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE -United States and State of Texas
Mayor Foreman led the Pledge of Allegiance of the United States and the Pledge to the State of Texas.
4. COUNCIL FOR DAY
A. Consider a proclamation declaring December 1, 2025, as Cline Elementary School Day in the
City of Friendswood,Texas.
Mayor Foreman introduced the students and teachers from Cline Elementary. He relayed the Council for
a Day Program allows second graders from the four elementary schools in Friendswood to "take over"
the council dais and sit-in for Council and Staff. Mayor Foreman welcomed all the students, their
families, teachers, and school administrators. The participants included:
Position Student Name Teacher Name
City Secretary Austin Smith Ms.Carter
(Raquel Martinez)
Councilmember Pos.No.6 Sophia Carter Ms. Salazar
(Michael P.Ross)
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Councilmember Pos.No.5 Sophia Silvas Ms.Ackerman
(Robert Griffon)
Councilnember Pos.No.4 Charlotte Maelzold Ms.Folkes
(Joe Matranga)
Mayor Garrett French Ms.Ramsey
(Mike Foreman)
Councilmember Pos.No. 3 Olivia Carter Ms. Salazar
(Trish Hanks)
Councilmember Pos.No.2 Gage Hanson Ms. Carter
(Sally Branson)
Councilmember Pos.No. 1 Nora McQuinu Ms.Ramsey
(Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor)
City Attorney Jonathan Chester Ms.Hanks
(Karen Horner)
City Manager Archer Bridges Ms.Folkes
(Monad Kabiri)
A motion was made by Councilmember Nora McQuinu (John Ellisor) and seconded by Councilmember
Gage Hanson (Sally Branson) proclaiming December 2, 2025, as Cline Elementary School Day in the
City of Friendswood. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Garrett French (Mike Foreman), Councilmember Nora McQuimr (Mayor Pro Tem
John Ellisor), Councilmember Gage Hanson (Sally Branson), Councilmember Olivia
Carter (Trish Hanks), Councilmember Sophia Silvas (Robert Griffon), Councilmember
Charlotte Maetzold (Joe Matranga), and Councilmember Sophia Cat-ter (Michael P. Ross)
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
At 5:46 P.M., Mayor Foreman recessed the meeting for the Council for a Day Reception.
At 5:52 P.M.,Mayor Foreman reconvened the meeting.
5. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REPORTS
Mayor Foremen invited the councilmembers to provide their comments. In the theme of Thanksgiving,
Mayor Pro Tem Ellisor expressed gratitude for Friendswood, Council, his family, and his relationship
with God. Councilmember Branson reported on the Transportation Policy Council meeting. She noted
Friendswood has now increased small-city representation on the Technical Advisory Committee from 3
to 4 seats. She highlighted the Historical Society's recent Life Member Celebration with 10 new members
and the upcoming Christmas tree lighting. Lastly, she announced that she will seek reelection for
Councilmember Position No.2 in May for her fourth and final term.
Councilmember Hanks echoed earlier gratitude for living in Friendswood and thanked Councilmember
Branson for her continued willingness to serve. She wished everyone a good holiday season.
Councilmember Griffon hoped everyone enjoyed Thanksgiving and wished residents a wonderful
Christmas. He also thanked Councilmember Branson for running again and expressed appreciation for
being allowed to serve. Councilmember Matranga wished everyone a great Thanksgiving and Christmas.
He shared that he volunteered for the city's Fall Haul event with participation of over 470 residents with
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December 1,2025
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52 tons of waste collected and 12,000 pounds of paper shredded. He thanked city staff and over 40
volunteers for their effort. Lastly, he announced his intent to run for reelection for Councilmember
Position No. 5 in May 2026 for another three-year term.
CoUncilmember Ross thanked Councilmember Matranga for volunteering at Fall Haul and said he would
be willing to join next time. He expressed concern about children riding e-bikes on city streets and
reminded parents to be mindful of safety.Mayor Foreman closed the item by praising the city's Christmas
decorations and thanked Parks and Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation
(FDEDC)for their work.
6. PUBLIC COMMENT
Mayor Foreman announced the following citizens had signed up to provide a public comment.
Mr. Don Johnson encouraged Council to support Mayor of Ketnah Robin Collins for Galveston Central
Appraisal District (GCAD), emphasizing her understanding of small city needs, appraisal timing, and
budget responsibility. He noted prior challenges in keeping the GCAD budget reasonable and expressed
confidence that Collins would continue that direction.
7. SPECIAL RECOGNITION AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
A. Present the City of Friendswood Five Star Spirit Award for the Third Quarter of 2025 to Ashley
Huynh, the Animal Services Supervisor in the Police Department.
City Manager Morad Kabiri recognized Animal Services Supervisor Ashley Huynh for receiving the 5
Star Spirit Award for the third quarter of 2025. He noted that one of the things that she was nominated
for was her handling of a possum issue,but more importantly the initiative she has instilled in our Animal
Services Department. Adoptions have gone Lip way up and they have been attending multiple events and
all thanks to Ashley's leadership. Additionally, Councilmember Matranga praised her dedication to
finding lost pets and securing forever homes for strays.
8. WORK SESSION TOPICS
A. Discuss various service contracts, into which the City has routinely entered with nor-profit and
other governmental entities, in which the City pays to secure specific services furthering a
public purpose.
City Manager Morad Kabiri introduced an overview of the city's annual funding agreements with
nonprofits and other government entities, noting amounts ranging from —$3,500 to $30,000, and that
these are service-based agreements—not membership dues. He presented the following information
before turning over the discussion to Councilmember Griffon, who originally requested review of all
contracts before future renewals.
City of Friendswood Partnerships
Historical Costs
Organization I FY21 I FY221 FY231 FY241 FY25
Bay Area Houston Local,state,and federal
Econornic Partnership economic development $ 17,000 $ 17,000 $ 17,000 $ 17,000 $ 17,000
BAIJ, nact and planning
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Bay Area Houston Local,stale,and Federal _
Transportation mobility impact and planning $ $2,500 $3,500 $ 3,500 $3,500
PartnershipBATRAN
Friendswood Chamber of Business partnerships,ribbon
Conuuerce** cuttings,business $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000
gatherings
Friendswood Historical Museum Sponsorship $ 15,000 $ 15,000 $ 17,500 $ 17,500 $ 17,500
Society
Friends of the Library Programming
Friendswood Public Assistance $- $- $- $- $ 15,000
Libras
Friends of Downtown Downtown development impact _ _ _ _ _
Friendswood Association and planning $ $ $ $ $
Harris-Galveston Water Conservation Program $ 18,668 $ 18,126 $ 16,720 $ 8,664 $ 19,380
Subsidence District Sponsorship
Galveston County Health Pollution Control and Water $24,254 $25,707 $28,278 $29,833 $30,779
District Testis
TOTAL $52,000 1$54,500 1$58,000 $58,000 $73,000
*In FY22,the City paid an additional$1,300 for tickets to the nABEP annual banquet.
**In addition to the amount shows,annually,the City pays$2,700 to$2,900 for tickets to Chamber of Commerce functions.
Councilmember Griffon raised concern over the total $73,000 spent across partner organizations in
FY2025. While lie voiced his support for some agreements (BAHEP, Friends of the Library, Historical
Society), he questioned the allocations to the Chamber of Commerce ($20,000) and Subsidence District
($19,380). He noted other cities contribute significantly less to chambers ($300-$1,000 range), and
suggested Friendswood consider reducing or eliminating those two allocations. He inquired for
comparative contributions from other cities and requested analysis of partner organizations' operational
need and return of investment(ROI). Mr. Kabiri presented the following information.
Chamber of Commerce
Memberships and/or Service A reements Comparison
City Chamber Membership Membership Fee Service Agreement Annual Cost Term
Friendswood Friendswood Chamber O /A YES $20,000 l-year
Pearland C ahambembe r O /A YES $296,222 3-year
C
Webster League City &YES Less than$1,000 each NO /A N/A
Clear Lake
Alvin Alvin-Manvel YES $300 NO /A N/A
Chamber
*Webster holds membership in the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce and League City Chamber of Connnerce.
Mr. Kabiri confirmed Friendswood's contribution to the Chamber is substantially higher than Alvin,
Webster, and others. He noted Pearland's larger amount fronds a startup-incubation hub, which is not
included in the City of Friendswood contract.The City of Friendswood is currently the only entity paying
$20,000,which initiated the concern and conversation. It was noted that the school district pays $400.
Mayor Pro Tem Ellisor agreed and would like the opportunity to vote on lowering that amount.
Councilmember Matranga supported looking at the scope of services and the value returned.
Councihnembers Ross agreed on the importance of quantifying the ROI with the investments to the
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Chamber and other organizations. Councilmember Griffon commented that this is the taxpayers' money
and they are custodians of it. They should make sore they spend it wisely.
Councilmember Hanks added that organizations should have the opportunity to justify how funding
amounts were set. She questioned why the Chamber charges the City full price for event heals despite
receiving city funding and stated each organization should present rationale behind their requested
amount. Mr. Kabiri noted that determining ROI is straightforward for groups like Friends of the Library
but more nebulous for others, particularly the Chamber. Mayor Foreman directed staff to negotiate,
evaluate contract value, and return in 1-2 months with recommendations.
9. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
A. Present an update regarding the Christmas Lighted Parade to be held on Saturday,December
13,2025, at 6:00 p.m.
City Manager Morad Kabiri announced the Christmas Lighted Parade will take place Saturday,December
13°i at 6:00 p.m.,which is put on by the Chamber of Commerce.The parade starts at Friendswood Baptist
Church and will end at Stevenson Park.
B. Present an update regarding the Santa in the Park event to be held on Saturday,December 13,
2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
City Manager Morad Kabiri relayed Santa in the Park is also scheduled for Saturday,December 131h from
3:00-8:00 p.m., following the Christmas Lighted Parade. Festivities include tree lighting and fireworks.
A lot of the Christmas decorations have gone up but if anybody paid particular attention to the tree, it is
beautiful, it is large and it is absolutely gorgeous.
C. Present an update on the Friendswood Annual Blue Santa Program.
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported that toy donations for Blue Santa are being accepted through
December 19t1i. Residents may now donate via Amazon Wish List to ship directly to the Police
department. The program supports families in need and community participation was encouraged.
D. Present an update regarding Council candidate application and packet.
City Manager Morad Kabiri noted the Council candidate applications and packets were not yet completed
and will be discussed in their January meeting.
E. Recognize Assistant City Manager Katina Hampton for her completion of the 2025 Class of the
Texas Women's Leadership Institute Program.
City Manager Morad Kabiri recognized Assistant City Manager Katina Hampton for completing the
Texas Women's Leadership Institute program, a year-long leadership development series. Council
applauded her achievement and contributions.
F. Recognize Captain Stacy Kohn for being honored as a 2025 American Ambulance Association
Star of Life recipient.
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City Manager Morad Kabiri, recognized Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Captain Stacy Kohn for
being a 2025 American Ambulance Association Star of Life recipient. Her years of service and impact
on the community were acknowledged and appreciated.
G. Recognize Officer Shelby Smith for being the first Friendswood Police Cadet to attend the
Pearland Police Academy and earned the horror of Valedictorian.
City Manager Morad Kabiri recognized Officer Shelby Smith for becoming the Friendswood Police
Department's first cadet to attend the Pearland Police Academy and graduated valedictorian with a 97.46
average. She set two female athletic academy records, holds a master's degree in leadership and
management, and played Division I softball. The city welcomed her proudly as a new officer.
H. Recognize the Friendswood Police Department for being awarded grant funding through the
Office of the Governor's for the Comprehensive Crime Victim Assistance Program for the 26th
consecutive year.
City Manager Morad Kabiri announced that the City of Friendswood received Crime Victim Assistance
Program funding for the 26th consecutive year. Crime Victim Liaison Gina Hunt was recognized for
extensive work supporting victims beyond police report filing. The grant ensures continued services for
justice navigation and victim support.
He closed his report noting that Waste Connections is rerouting Wednesday trash pickup due to previous
service delays, resulting in schedule changes for multiple areas. The new schedule begins January 5th,
with backup trucks provided for the first few weeks to assist anyone who misses pickup during the
transition.The City will notify residents of upcoming trash schedule changes through social media,utility
inserts, school folders, subdivision signage, and push notifications via a new mobile app.
10. BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Consider approving a city-wide branding guide with accompanying Logo and Al policies.
The business item was not ready for discussion, so Council proceeded to the next item.
11. PROPOSED ADOPTION AND UPDATES TO INTERNATIONAL BUILDING AND FIRE
CODES
A. Conduct a public hearing concerning the adoption of local amendments to the 2024
International Building Code (IBC) and the 2024 International Residential Code for One- and
Two-Family Dwellings (IRC).
At 6:28 P.M., Mayor Foreman opened the public hearing and asked staff to summarize the subject matter.
Chief Building Official Brian Routine presented to Council a proposed adoption of updated 2024 IBC
and IRC codes, noting this is his third code update in ten years as updates occur every 3-4 years. He
explained the revisions include building, residential, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, energy
conservation, and swimming pool codes. The benefit is intended to modernize material use, improve
sustainability, and maintain insurance compliance by staying within the two code iterations. He
emphasized Friendswood is not impacted as heavily as other regions due to already established efficiency
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December 1,2025
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standards. He noted since larger cities 'adopted these updates first, contractors are familiar with the
changes.
Mayor Foreman announced a citizen had signed up to speak on the public hearing.
Mr. Dave Yelovich,a builder of 40+years and ICC R5 code-certified instructor,cautioned Council about
adopting the 2024 codes without strategic amendments. He noted the energy section was completely
rewritten and contains costly, controversial requirements. He referenced upcoming state amendments,
which he would send to the City Secretary so she may forward to Council, and highlighted specific
concerns such as penalties for gas lines, oversized homes, and electrical changes.
Fire Chief of Prevention and Investigations Bryan Holmes took a moment to explain that the city is also
moving to adopt the 2024 International Fire Code and Life Safety Code,which evolve alongside building
construction codes. He noted fire codes often stem from past critical incidents and help maintain safety
for residents,visitors,and firefighters.Updating ensures regulations remain effective as building methods
change.
At 6:36 P.M.,Mayor Foreman closed the public hearing regarding the local code amendments discussed.
B. Consider on first reading an ordinance amending (i) Chapter 2 "Administration, Article 11
"Boards, Committees, and Commissions," Division 1 "Generally," Section 2-21 "Definitions"
and Division 5 "Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals," Section 2-46 "Created;
membership" and Section 2-48 "Powers and duties" and Division 12 "Zoning Board of
Adjustment," Section 2-83 "Powers and duties" of the Friendswood City Code; (ii) Chapter 14
"Building and Building Regulations" of the Friendswood City Code; and (iii) Chapter 30 "Fire
Protection and Prevention," Article III "Fire Codes," Division 2 "International Fire Code,"
Section 30-84 "International fire code adopted; amendments" and Division 3 "Life Safety
Code," Section 30-119 "Appeals" of the Friendswood City Code to update the name of the
Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals and the duties of such board as well as the
duties of the Zoning Board of Adjustment and to adopt the 2024 International Code Council
Model Construction Codes, the 2023 National Electrical Code, and local amendments thereto.
Couneilmember Griffon raised concerns about the inability to distinguish what was new versus what was
already in the Code. As they have done in the past, he requested that anytime there is going to be a change
in the current ordinances,for it to be written in blue, and changes by the International Business Code, be
written in red. He noted condensing 52 pages to a paragraph was unfair to council and could have real-
world impacts on residents and builders. He proposed they postpone this item.
A motion was made by Couneilmember Robert J. Griffon and seconded by Councilmember Michael P.
Ross to postpone Item I I.B. However, there was discussion prior to the vote.
Mayor Foreman asked what would happen if the item were postponed. Community Development
Department(CDD)Director Aubrey Harbin explained the planned effective date is March 1,2026. Staff
have already been discussing the update with contractors for over a year and want time to advertise
starting in January. City Manager Morad Kabiri added that postponement can be accommodated if
council wishes, while reminding them that the State will be moving to the same code adoptions as well.
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Councilmember Matranga questioned how state adoption of the 2024 building codes affects Friendswood
and whether state rules would override local ordinances.Mr.Kabiri clarified that Friendswood maintains
its own authority unless the state supersedes but warned that falling more than two code cycles behind
could increase homeowner insurance rates. Ultimately, staff recommended adoption effective March 1,
2026, to avoid insurance consequences, offering to provide a version highlighting changes.
Councilmember Hanks relayed she would like a list of the local amendments so Council can evaluate
them without going through all 52 pages. Mr. Kabiri pointed out that approving a first reading would not
lock the city into final adoption; they could still review, request changes, or reject the ordinance before
second reading once the red-lined document is provided.
The vote for the motion on the table to postpone was as follows:
Ayes: Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe Matranga, and Councilmember
Michael P. Ross
Nays: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, and
Councilmember Trish Hanks,
The item failed to pass.
A motion was made by Councilmember Sally Branson and seconded Mike Foreman to approve the first
reading of a proposed ordinance, as submitted, related to Item I I.B. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, and
Councilmember Trish Hanks
Nays: Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe Matranga, and Councilmember
Michael P. Ross
The item passed.
PROPOSED ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
AMENDING CHAPTER 2 "ADMINISTRATION," ARTICLE B . 'BOARDS,
COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS," DIVISION 1 "GENERALLY," SECTION 2-21
"DEFINITIONS"AND DIVISION 5 "CONSTRUCTION BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT AND
APPEALS," SECTION 2-46 "CREATED;MEMBERSHIP"AND SECTION 2-48 "POWERS
AND DUTIES"AND DIVISION 12 "ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT," SECTION 2-
83 "POWERS AND DUTIES" OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE TO UPDATE THE
NAME OF THE CONSTRUCTION BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT AND APPEALS AND
THE DUTIES OF SUCH BOARD AS WELL AS THE DUTIES OF THE ZONING BOARD
OF ADJUSTMENT; CHAPTER 14 'BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS," OF
THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE; AND CHAPTER 30 "FIRE PROTECTION AND
PREVENTION," ARTICLE III "FIRE CODES," DIVISION 2 "INTERNATIONAL FIRE
CODE," SECTION 30-84 'INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE ADOPTED; AMENDMENTS"
AND DIVISION 3 "LIFE SAFETY CODE," SECTION 30-119 "APPEALS" OF THE
FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE, TO ADOPT THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL CODES AND
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Page 9 or 17
LOCAL AMENDMENTS THERETO; PROVIDING A MAXIMUM PENALTY OF TWO
THOUSAND AND NO/100 DOLLARS ($2,000.00) FOR FIRE SAFETY AND PUBLIC
HEALTH AND SANITATION VIOLATIONS AND A MAXIMUM PENALTY OF FIVE
HUNDRED AND NO/100 DOLLARS ($500.00) FOR ALL OTHER VIOLATIONS;
REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT OR IN
CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, PUBLICATION AND AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
12. PROPOSED ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS
A. Consider on second and final reading an ordinance granting a franchise agreement to Waste
Connections of Texas, LLC, for the collection, hauling, recycling, and disposal of municipal
solid waste and recyclable materials in the City of Friendswood.
A motion was made by Councilmember Sally Branson and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor to
approve Ordinance No. 2025-33, as submitted and related to Item 12.A. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman; Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J.
Griffon, and Councihnernber Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-33
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
GRANTING TO WASTE CONNECTIONS OF TEXAS, LLC, THE RIGHT, PRIVILEGE,
AND FRANCHISE TO PROVIDE FOR THE COLLECTION, HAULING, RECYCLING,
AND DISPOSAL OF MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS IN
THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS; PRESCRIBING COMPENSATION FOR THE
RIGHT, PRIVILEGE, AND FRANCHISE CONFERRED HEREUNDER; CONTAINING
OTHER PROVISIONS RELATED THERETO; PROVIDING A REPEALING CLAUSE;
CONTAINING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION
AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
B. Consider on second and final reading an ordinance amending Appendix D "Schedule of fees,
Rates, Charges, Deposits, Bonds, and Insurance Amounts" of the Friendswood City Code to
update the solid waste fees commensurate with the solid waste franchise agreement.
A motion was made by Councilmember Sally Branson and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor to
approve Ordinance No. 2025-34, as submitted and related to Item 12.13. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Maya: Mince Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J.
Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
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December 1,2025
Page 10 of 17
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-34
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
AMENDING THE FEE SCHEDULE CONTAINED IN APPENDIX D "SCHEDULE OF
FEES, RATES, CHARGES, DEPOSITS,BOND AND INSURANCE AMOUNTS" OF THE
FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE TO UPDATE "SOLID WASTE — CHAPTER 66" FEES
CONSISTENT WITH THE CITY'S FRANCHISE AGREEMENT WITH WASTE
CONNECTIONS OF TEXAS, LLC; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF
ORDINANCES INCONSISTENT OR IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY,PUBLICATION AND THE EFFECTIVE DATE.
C. Consider an ordinance repealing Chapter 70 "Streets, Sidewalks, and Other Public Places,"
Article III "Construction," Section 70-74 "Duties of abutting property owners; failure of
property owners to have work done" and Section 70-75 "Altering lines or grades when putting
down permanent street pavement" in their entireties to eliminate certain property, owner
responsibilities and to conform the Friendswood City Code to current practices and amending
Chapter 70 "Streets, Sidewalks, and Other Public Places," Article III "Construction," Section
70-81 "Extending into Street" of the Friendswood City Code to differentiate between the
permitted height of plants, trees and branches in and over public streets frmn those over
pedestrian areas within public rights-of-way.
City Manager Morad Kabiri explained that the ordinance updates two things: 1) sets a firm height
requirement of 10 feet for tree limbs over sidewalks instead of the vague term "reasonable height," and
2) clarifies that sidewalk maintenance within the right-of-way is the city's responsibility. The goal was
to remove confusion for residents and staff regarding enforcement and upkeep.
Councilmember Ross commented that Friendswood is known for its trees and wanted to protect them.
He supported 15 feet over streets but protested the 10-foot height requirement on sidewalks, noting
Friendswood would be the only Texas city requiring it. He hoped to amend the standard to 8 feet, so the
city is not cutting off substantial branches and butchering trees when enforcing it. Mr. Kabiri clarified
that the city does not want its crew to trim private trees. The onus is placed on the homeowner. By law,
the city cannot enter private property and can only cut at the right-of-way line. He added that if council
prefers an 8-foot clearance height, staff can accommodate that.
Councilmember Branson noted this is complaint-driven, and that specific height standards make
adjudication clearer. She supported keeping it at 10 feet. Mayor Pro Tern Ellisor noted that at 62", lie
hits low branches and would be okay with 8 feet. Councihmember Ross refuted that complaint driven
should not be how they operate the city, they should be service driven. He then formally made the motion
to amend the height clearance over public right-of-way from 10 to 8 feet.
Councilmember Branson clarified that Friendswood prides itself on "white glove"-level service to
residents,especially regarding trash collection. She emphasized that her comment about being complaint-
driven meant that they were not going to go around measuring all the trees in Friendswood for exactly
the reason Staff just described, but to provide excellent customer service to their citizens. She requested
he not take her comment out of context.
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December 1,2025
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A motion was made by Councilmember Michael P. Ross and seconded by Councilmember Robert J.
Griffon to approve a proposed ordinance, related to Item 12.C., amending the height clearance over the
public right-of-way to property line from 10 to 8 feet. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Trish Hanks,
Councilmember Joe Matranga, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
Nays: Councilmember Robert J. Griffon and Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor
The item passed.
PROPOSED ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CPfY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
REPEALING CHAPTER 70 "STREETS, SIDEWALKS, AND OTHER PUBLIC PLACES,"
ARTICLE III "CONSTRUCTION," SECTION 70-74"DUTIES OF ABUTTING PROPERTY
OWNERS; FAILURE OF PROPERTY OWNERS TO HAVE WORT{ DONE" AND
SECTION 70-75 "ALTERING LINES OR GRADES WHEN PUTTING DOWN
PERMANENT STREET PAVEMENT" OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE IN THEIR
ENTIRETIES TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN PROPERTY OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES TO
CONFORM THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE TO CURRENT PRACTICES;
AMENDING CHAPTER 70 "STREETS, SIDEWALKS, AND OTHER PUBLIC PLACES,"
ARTICLE III "CONSTRUCTION," SECTION 70-81 'EXTENDING INTO STREET" OF
THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE TO DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN THE PERMITTED
HEIGHT OF PLANTS,TREES AND BRANCHES IN AND OVER PUBLIC STREETS AND
THOSE OVER PEDESTRIAN AREAS WITHIN PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY;
PROVIDING A MAXIMUM PENALTY OF FIVE HUNDRED AND NO/100 DOLLARS
($500.00); REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES
INCONSISTENT OR IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY,
PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
D. Consider an ordinance amending the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 by
approving `Budget Amendment II" and providing for supplemental appropriation and/or
transfer of certain funds.
A motion was made by Councilmember Trish Hanks and seconded by Councilmember Joe Matranga to
approve Ordinance No. 2025-35,as submitted and related to Item 12.D. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J.
Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
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December 1,2025
Page 12 of 17
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-35
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 2025-23, PASSED AND APPROVED AUGUST 25, 2025,
THE SAME BEING AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE CITY'S
GENERAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-26, BY APPROVING "BUDGET
AMENDMENT II" THERETO; PROVIDING FOR SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION
AND/OR TRANSFER OF CERTAIN FUNDS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR OTHER MATTERS RELATED TO THE SUBJECT;AND PROVIDING
FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE.
1;. Consider a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a finance contract with
Government Capital Corporation for the financing of a ladder truck for Friendswood
Volunteer Fire Department,Inc.
City Manager Morad Kabiri explained that instead of commissioning a new build, the city found a truck
already in production, which shortens the timeline. He noted the cost requires financing over 10 years,
as promised during prior discussions,due to high expense and lack of available lump-sum funds.
Councilmember Ross asked how long before another ladder truck might be needed. Mr. Kabiri slated the
previous truck lasted around 25 years, though heavy repairs had become frequent and expensive.
However, one truck should remain sufficient unless major redevelopment occurs,-especially because
sprinkler requirements reduce ladder reliance.
A motion was made by Councilmember Trish Hanks and seconded by Councilmember Sally Branson to
approve Resolution No. R2025-37, as submitted and related to Item 12.E. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe
Matranga, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. R2025-37
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,
TEXAS, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A FINANCE
CONTRACT WITH GOVERNMENT CAPITAL CORPORATION FOR THE FINANCING
OF A LADDER TRUCK AND RELATED APPURTENANCES FOR THE FRIENDSWOOD
VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED TWO MILLION
TWO HUNDRED NINETY-NINE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED EIGHTY-NINE AND
NO/100 DOLLARS ($2,299,689.00); AUTHORIZING ADVANCE FUNDING AND
EXPRESSING INTENT TO FINANCE EXPENDITURES TO BE INCURRED; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE.
F. Consider a resolution to consider authorizing the City Manager to execute a five-year
Municipal Lease-Purchase Agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for the purchase and
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
December 1,2025
Page 13 of 17
installation of AXS Dispatch Console equipment and APX N70 portable radios to replace end-
of-service life radios and console systems in the Friendswood Police Department.
A motion was made by Councilmember Trish Hanks and seconded by Councilmember Sally Branson to
approve Resolution No. R2025-38, as submitted, related to Item 12.F. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Robert J. Griffot, Councilmember Joe
Matranga, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. R2025-38
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,
TEXAS, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A FIVE-YEAR
MUNICIPAL LEASE-PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS,
INC., FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF AN AXS DISPATCH CONSOLE
SYSTEM AND APX N70 PORTABLE RADIOS FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THIRTY-FIVE
THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED SIXTY-SEVEN AND 29/100 DOLLARS ($1,535,967.29);
AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE.
G. Consider a resolution casting its votes in the election of members of the Board of Director of
the Galveston Central Appraisal District(GOAD) for 2026.
Mayor Mike Foreman recommend that the Council cast its votes for Matt Doyle and Thomas Farmer as
indicated on the resolution and ballot attached to the agenda item.
2026 Board of Directors Election
BALLOT
Number of Votes Taxing Unit is Eligible to Cast: Voting Unit:
129 City of Friendswood
CANDIDATES VOTES
Collins,Robin -
Do le,Matt 65
Farmer, Thomas 64
Ross,James -
A motion was made by Mayor Mike Foreman and seconded by Couneiltnember Trish Hanks to approve
Resolution No R2025-39, as submitted and related to Item 12.G. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe
Matranga, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
City Council Regular Meeting Miautes
December 1,2025
Page 14 or 17
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. R2025-39
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
CASTING ITS BALLOT FOR THE ELECTION OF UP TO TWO CANDIDATES TO THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE GALVESTON CENTRAL APPRAISAL DISTRICT;
AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF,
13. CONSENT AGENDA
A motion was made by Councilmember Joe Matranga and seconded by Councilmember Trish Hanks to
approve Consent Agenda Items 13.A. through 13.K., with the exception of items 13.C., 13.D., and 13.I.
which were pulled for further discussion. The vote was the following:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe
Matranga, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The Consent Agenda passed.
A. Consider a resolution verifying the percentage of completion of cybersecurity training and
ratifying the City Manager's submission of all documentation required by Section 2054.5191
of the Texas Government Code.
RESOLUTION NO. R2025-40
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD,TEXAS,
VERIFYING THE PERCENTAGE OF COMPLETION OF CYBERSECURITY TRAINING
AND RATIFYING THE CITY MANAGER'S SUBMISSION OF ALL DOCUMENTATION
REQUIRED BY SECTION 2054.5191 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE TO THE
TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION RESOURCES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
B. Consider a resolution suspending the December 19, 2025, effective date of Texas-New Mexico
Power Company's requested rate change; approving the cooperation with other TNMP Cities
to evaluate the filing to determine whether the filing complies with law and to determine the
appropriate course of action; hiring Lloyd Gosselinh attorneys and consulting services to
negotiate with TNMP and direct -,my necessary litigation and appeals.
RESOLUTION NO. R2025-41
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS,
SUSPENDING THE DECEMBER 19, 2025, EFFECTIVE DATE OF TEXAS-NEW
MEXICO POWER COMPANY'S (TNMP'S) REQUESTED RATE CHANGE TO PERMIT
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
December 1,2025
Page 15 of 17
THE CITY TIME TO STUDY THE REQUEST AND TO ESTABLISH REASONABLE
RATES; APPROVING CONTINUED COOPERATION WITH OTHER TNMP CITIES;
HIRING LLOYD GOSSELINIC ROCHELLE&TOWNSEND, P.C.,AND CONSULTANTS
TO NEGOTIATE AND DIRECT ANY NECESSARY LITIGATION AND APPEALS;
REQUIRING REIMBURSEMENT OF CITIES' RATE CASE EXPENSES; REQUIRING
NOTICE OF THIS RESOLUTION TO TNMP AND LEGAL COUNSEL FOR THE GULF
COAST COALITION OF CITIES; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
C. Consider authorizing a Joint Participation Interlocal Agreement with Harris County for the
design and construction of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Grissom Road and Bay
Area Boulevard.
The item was pulled from the agenda due to not being ready.
D. Consider authorizing a License Agreement with Friendswood Bristol,Ltd., for the installation
and maintenance of a sixty-inch (60") storm sewer line and a six inch (6") utility sleeve for
telecommunication services within a portion of the Chelsea Line right-of-way.
A motion was made by Councilmember Sally Branson and seconded by Councilmember Trish Hanks to
authorize a License Agreement with Friendswood Bristol, Ltd.,related to Item 13.1).However; there was
discussion prior to the vote.
City Manager Morad Kabiri explained that the developer for the Bristol(senior living)requested a license
agreement to install a 60-inch storm sewer line and utility sleeve across Chelsea Lane to outfatl their
detention ponds. The developer will cover installation and ongoing maintenance, backed by bonds and
insurance requirements. If they fail to maintain the line, the city can perform repairs and place a lien to
recover costs. Staff confirmed that this agreement runs with the land long-term, similar to past
arrangements like Sterling Creek,ensuring responsibility remains with current or future property owners.
The vote for the motion on the table was as follows:
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe
Matranga, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
E. Consider accepting the Castle Biosciences Infrastructure Improvements Project and
authorizing the commencement of the contractor's one-year maintenance period.
T. Consider approving the Memorandum of Understanding with the Texas Division of
Emergency Management (TDEM), a member of the Texas A&M University System and an
agency of the State of Texas, and the Texas Emergency Management Assistance Teams.
G. Consider ratifying the City Manager's signature on the Pension System Contract Amendment
with the Texas Emergency Services Retirement System and the Friendswood Volunteer Fire
Department to increase the monthly contribution rate for the Department's pension.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
December I,2025
Page 16 of 17
H. Consider approval of the disposal of four (4) Police Department vehicles through EBlocic —
Houston.
L Consider appointing the members of the City Council as members of the Board of Directors
of Reinvestment Zone Number One, City of Friendswood and receive in update concerning
the 2025 ad valorem taxes/assessments title for properties within such zone.
A motion was made by Councilmember Sally Branson and seconded by Mayor Mike Foreman to approve
appointing the members of the City Council as members of the Board of Directors of Reinvestment Zone
Number One, City of Friendswood, related to Item 13.I. However, there was discussion prior to the vote.
City Manager Morad Kabiri explained that the item: 1) reappoints city council members to the Tax
Increment Reinvestment Zone No. I board by position rather than by individual name; and 2) clarified
recent property tax bills. He relayed that in the City Center development; property owners pay Public
Improvement District (PID) assessments in addition to taxes. These assessments fiord debt service on
previously issued PID bonds.
He displayed the following examples of Lone Star's more than $1 million assessment, emphasizing that
these charges were voluntarily accepted as a condition of development. Mr. Kabiri noted the PID and
TIRZ were key in turning land valued at $1.8 million into a projected $750 million development that
would not have materialized otherwise.
Account\o:H432150000231 Appr.Dist No.:0432150000231 Parcel Address;3801 E FM 528 RD
As of Date: 1 112 112 02 5 _ Print Date: 11/21/2025
Market Paine Total Market Assessed Appraised Homesite Agrkulturnt Nou-Qunllt)iug
Land I impeuceme„t Value \'able Vnitle Value 3lmket Valve Value
S828,5521 $0 $828,551 $828,552 $0 $ $0 5828,552
Taxing Assessed I Exemptions Taxable Tnx Tax
Cldt Value(1000) Code _amount Value Rate
FRIENDND CITY CENTER PID $828.5521 S0.00 S828.552 ObD000001 $18,714.07
FRIE-NDR'D CITY $828,552 $0.00 5825,552 0.51417201 $4,260.18
_s61464
Account'So:H432150000130 Appr.Dist.No.:0432150000130 Pmrei Address:3801 E FM 528 RD
As of Date: 11/26/2025 Prlut Date: 11/26/2025
Markel Value Total\Inrket Assessed Appraised Homesite Agrkulim nl Non-Quallf)iug
Land 111111101-e,nf111 Value Value Value Value Markel Value 1 Value
5975,711 S176,540 $1,152.295 S1,152,295 $0 5 50 .S1.152,295
Truing Assessed Exemptions Taxable Tax
Unit Value(D)M) Code Amount Value Role Tax
FRIENDIVD CITY CENTER PID - -� S1.152.295 - �$0.00 $1.152,295 _ 0,0000000 $1,013,78431
FRIENDIVD CITY SI.152.295 NC'AP $147.614.00 $1.001.681 05141720 $5.165.79
0
Councihnember Hanks thanked Mr. Kabiri for the clarification and noted that a citizen email caused
confusion. She emphasized that although the bills come through Galveston County Tax Office, the
charges shown are property taxes and PID assessments not taxes alone. She reiterated in her own words
that neither the City nor the bonds are paying these PID assessments; the property owners are.
The vote was as follows:
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
December 1,2025
Page 17 of 17
Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson,
Councilmember Trish Hanks, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, Councilmember Joe
Matranga, and Con ncihnember Michael P. Ross
Nays: None
The item passed unanimously.
J. Consider approving the ad valorem tax report for October 2025.
K. Consider approving the minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting held our November 3,
2025.
14. ADJOURNMENT
i
With there being no further business, Mayor Foreman adjourned the December 1, 2025, City Council
Regular Meeting at 7:34 P.M.
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Mik oremau, t ayor
Attest: ?0E.N S
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Raqu i 1 a tinez,TRMC, City e taty �
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