Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC MINUTES 2026-02-02 RegularMINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD February 2,2026 THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD MET IN A REGULAR MEETING ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2026, AT 5:30 P.M. IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY HALL, LOCATED AT 910 S. FRIENDSWOOD DRIVE, FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, WITH THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS PRESENT CONSTITUTING A QUORUM: John Ellisor Mayor Pro Tern Sally Branson 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. All members were present with the exception of the absence of Councilmember Trish Hanks. 2. INVOCATION The invocation was led by Pastor David Lorenz of First Baptist Friendswood. 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 COMMENTS AND REPORTS Mayor Foreman introduced the students and teachers from Windsong Elementary. He noted 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 Teacher City Secretary No. 1 Audrey Studebaker Ms. Goodrich (Raquel Martinez) City Secretary No. 2 Easley Rich Ms. Galvan (Raquel Martinez) Councilmember Pos. No. 6 Amalia Knupfer Ms. Smith (Michael P. Ross) City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 2 of t8 Councilmember Pos. No. 5 Grayson Crabtree Ms. Williams (Joe Matranga) Councilmember Pos. No. 4 Tyler Rodriguez Ms. Smith (Robert Griffon) Mayor Jaxson Escobar Ms. Goodrich (Mike Foreman) Councilmember Pos. No. 3 Trip Coley Ms. Galvan (Trish Hanks) Councilmember Pos. No. 2 Cecilia Balderas Ms. Hendershot (Sally Branson) Councilmember Pos. No. 1 Nora Foster Ms. Smith (Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor) City Attorney Preston Baracy Ms. Hendershot (Karen Homer) City Manager Bailey Paz Ms. Williams (Morad Kabiri) A motion was made by Councilmember Nora Foster (John Ellisor) and seconded by Councilmember Cecilia Balderas (Sally Branson) proclaiming February 2, 2026, as Windsong Elementary School Day in the City of Friendswood. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Jaxson Escobar (Mike Foreman), Councilmember Nora Foster (Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor), Councilmember Cecilia Balderas (Sally Branson), Councilmember Trip Coley (Trish Hanks), Councilmember Tyler Rodriguez (Robert Griffon), Councilmember Grayson Crabtree (Joe Matranga), and Councilmember Amalia Knupfer (Michael P. Ross) Nays: None The item passed unanimously. At 5:48 P.M., Mayor Foreman recessed the meeting for the Council for a Day Reception. At 5:57 P.M., Mayor Foreman reconvened the meeting. Mayor Foreman proceeded to take the agenda out of order to first consider Items 9.F. and 9.G. 9. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT F. Recognize Patrol Officer Barry Yodzis for his over forty-five years of service and retirement with the City of Friendswood. G. Recognize Sergeant Mike Cordero for his thirty years of service and retirement with the City of Friendswood. Following Item 4.A., City Manager Morad Kabiri thanked the Mayor and Council for adjusting the agenda due to attendance. He stated that the City was recognizing two police officers retiring after a number of years of service to the city. He noted Officer Barry Yodzis has served for 45 years and Sergeant Mike Cordero served for over 30 years. When Friendswood was recognized as the safest community, it is thanks in large part to Sergeant Cordero and Officer Barry Yodzis and the foundation they established years ago. Mr. Kabiri and Council thanked the officers for their service. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 3 of 18 After the consideration of Items 9.17. and 9.G., Mayor Foreman returned to the regular order of the agenda 5. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REPORTS Mayor Foreman opened the item inviting the Councilmembers to provide their comments. Mayor Pro Tern Ellisor thanked the Friendswood Independent School District (FISD) Board for allowing the City to use their facilities while their Council Chambers was being upgraded. He reflected on his nearly 50 years in Friendswood and shared experiences with Friendswood PD. He noted that Officer Cordero made regular stops to check on his family and said he loves and appreciates the Friendswood officers. Councilmember Branson also thanked FIND and expressed appreciation for the work that went into the Council Chambers. She shared several community updates, including: 1) Community & Economic Development Committee's (CEDC) Small Business Week at the end of April, 2) the Historical Society is now accepting applications for the Joycina Day Baker Award through March, 3) Chamber of Commerce recognized La Casita for 50 years in business, 4) Ms. Denise Spruiell was honored as outgoing Chamber Chair, 5) upcoming Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation (FDEDC) downtown signs, and 6) the Friendswood Community Prayer Breakfast. She also praised Deputy City Manager Steven Rhea for his presentation on the sidewalk project at the Houston -Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) Bringing Back Main Street Roundtable. She lastly encouraged the public to attend Friendswood High School's production of Les Mis6rables. Councilmember Griffon thanked FISD for the use of their building during the upgrades. He shared a story about Officer Barry Yodzis helping him when his 1966 Mustang stalled on Spreading Oaks. He appreciated the help and thanked all the Friendswood police officers. Councilmember Matranga gave a shout -out to Friendswood High School and its science department. He volunteered for their science fair and was impressed by the youth in Friendswood. He also highlighted the January Tree Giveaway hosted by Parks and Recreation and Keep Friendswood Beautiful. He concluded by also thanking FISD for accommodating the Council meetings in their Boardroom. Councilmember Ross thanked FISD for the loaner boardroom and apologized for missing the last meeting due to business he needed to attend to. He then cautioned parents of children riding electric bikes, scooters, and motorcycles to teach them the rules of the road. He emphasized that these vehicles should be treated the same as others, must obey traffic laws and stop signs, and that he does not want a serious accident to occur in the community. Mayor Foreman closed the comments by thanking FISD for the use of the boardroom during the upgrades. He stated that Council was happy to be back home in their own Council Chambers and noted that the project had turned out remarkably well. 6. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Foreman announced the following citizens had signed up to provide a public comment. Mr. Gregg Fitzgerald requested to speak to Council to honor Officer Barry Yodzis. He shared over his family's long history in Friendswood and recalled how Officer Yodzis showed kindness and compassion to his brother while serving in patrol. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 4 of 18 Mr. Wesley Stilwell, representing the Wedgwood Village HOA and nearly 1,000 homes, spoke about the Blackhawk project. While Phase One had issues that were addressed, he relayed the HOA is against any reprieve from construction. Residents want Phase Two to move forward as rapidly as possible. On that note, Mayor Foreman responded that staff is working diligently to move the project forward. Mr. Kenneth Kruse, a resident of the Forest of Friendswood, spoke in opposition to Item I I.A. regarding the proposed rezoning. He expressed concern about patchwork zoning changes made to fit developer proposals. He warned about increased traffic, high school students crossing FM 2351, and the proximity of existing apartment complexes that already require frequent police attention. Ms. Michelle Connely discussed her opposition to Item I I.A. She shared her concerns about school overcrowding and increased traffic on FM 2351 and FM 528. She said the proposed apartment complex would add strain to their limited grocery stores. She is against large developments and more concrete, saying Friendswood is becoming less "wood". Mr. Mark Bessler, a Friendswood resident and Garage Ultimate unit owner, shared that after moving back to Texas he struggled to find the large lots and garage space Friendswood used to offer. He said this shift reflects past city decisions favoring developers and does not align with what residents originally wanted for the community. He argued that the proposed development offers nothing beneficial to the city and urged Council to vote against item I IA. He noted that over 200 residents polled opposed it. Mr. Nick Deutsch, the developer of Garage Ultimate, shared his opposition to Item I I.A. He explained that the property sits in an industrial corridor on the Future Land Use Map and that rezoning a single tract to residential would remove it from the City's Comprehensive Plan. He also argued that the noise analysis was not a true study, the private access road was never intended to serve hundreds of apartments, and urged Council to follow the full process before making changes. Ms. Connie Ratisseau spoke to encourage the public to vote in the primaries and also spoke against the 29-acre property rezoning on FM 2351. She said traffic is already difficult and raised safety concerns for students crossing busy roads. She also warned about flooding risks from removing trees and raising land. She urged Council to keep the property zoned industrial. Mr. Kevin Thomas, a Garage Ultimate owner, said the project was built by following zoning rules and selecting land already designated for industrial use. He argued the new developers chose cheaper industrial land and are now asking the City to change zoning after the fact instead of building on property already zoned for residential use. He believes that is a bad idea. 7. WORK SESSION TOPICS a. Receive and discuss the Engineering Department's Quarterly Drainage Update. Graduate Engineer Marna Blackburn presented the Engineering Department's Quarterly Drainage Update with the following highlights: UTILITY RELOCATE FRIENDSWOOD REGIONAL STORMWATER AT CLEAR CREEK DETENTION BASIN Location: Polly Ranch Subdivision; Dave Brown Memorial Location: FM 1959 & Blackhawk Boulevard Park; Terra Bella Subdivision (south of Blackhawk Wastewater Treatment Plant) Status Status • Open cut main piping for final tie-ins (Galveston County side) underway • 8" and 24" bores completed • Bridge demolition and final tie-ins upcoming • Scheduled for completion in 2026 Cost: $1,693,260 CDBG-DR Grant Funds PROPERTY DETENTION PONDS Location: FM 528 & Blackhawk Boulevard Status • Excavation for both ponds substantially complete • Bridge construction upcoming • Outfall to HCFCD ditch forthcoming. • Bulkhead construction on Pond I upcoming. Funding: Flood Control -related sources COMPREHENSIVE Location: Status • Alternative analysis under review • Draft report in progress • Initial modeling and risk assessment completed • Problem areas identified • Public Engagement Meeting scheduled Feb 12 (5:30-7:00 PM) City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 5 of 18 • Moving forward with dry -bottom detention basin option • Avoids wetlands and archeological areas • Provides over 730 acre-feet of detention • Rough grading completed • 50% design review expected this month Estimated Cost: $32,453,298.11 Funding: Flood Control Bond Funds; GCCDD; HCFCD; Galveston County WHITCOMB TERRACING to Friendswood City Centel - Detention Basins Status • Two terracing alternatives under review • Final modeling underway • Cultural Report submitted to Texas Historical Commission • ESA completed • Threatened & Endangered Species Report completed - • Existing condition modeling completed • Alternative selection pending final modeling Funding: Flood Control Bond Funds; $10M TWDB 2019 BOND LEVERAGE SUMMARY PROJECT LOCATION '2019 BOND PARTNERSHIP/ PARTNER PROJECT FUNDS GRANTFUNDS TOTAL Harold Whitaker Imperial Estates / $5,500,000 $10,000,000 Galveston County $15,500,000 Detention Basin 1776 Park Consolidated Drainage District GCCDD City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 6 of 18 Forest Bend Forest Bend Park $355,143 $3,600,189 City General Fund; $3,955,332 Detention Basin Harvey CDBG-DR Grant Friendswood Dixie Farm Road $8,000,000 $23,453,298 HCFCD; Galveston $32,453,298 Regional Stormwater at Clear Creek County ARPA Detention Basin Funds; GCCDD City Center City Center $5,000,000 $11,915,119 Private Developer $16,915,119 Development Development Detention Ponds Whitcomb Terracing Adjacent to City $4,850,000 $10,000,000 Texas Water $14,850,000 Project Center along Clear Development Board Creek TWDB Property Acquisition Various $1,789,424 $2,716,573 Harvey CDBG-DR $4,505,997 & Buyouts Along Grant Clear Creek Utility Relocation of Polly Ranch/ $16,500 $1,735,660 Harvey CDBG-DR $1,752,160 Clear Creek Utility Terra Bella Grant Bride Subdivisions Deepwood Flood Deepwood Drive — $464,219 Harvey CDBG-DR $464,219 Control Grant Master Drainage N/A $1,046,768 $676,110 Hazard Mitigation $1,722,878 Plan Grant — TDEM' Lower Clear Creek Clear Creek & $1,250,000 $3,750,000 City of League" ` $5,000,000 & Dickinson Bayou Dickinson Bayou City; HCFCD; Watershed Study Watershed Other Future Phase II — USACE Partners 203 Feasibility Bay Area Regional Adjacent to $13,150,000 $10,000,000 TWDB $23,150,000 Flood Control Blackhawk Project WWTP; Friendswood Cove; Autumn Creek; Friendswood Oaks Detention Ponds TOTALS 1 $40,957,835 $79,311,168 $120,269,003 City Manager Morad Kabiri reminded Council that the 2019 bond funds were intended as seed dollars to leverage larger regional projects. Mayor Foreman praised staff for turning the $40 million investment into nearly three times its value for flood and drainage improvements. Councilmember Griffon highlighted the Bay Area Regional Flood Control project near the Blackhawk Wastewater Treatment Plant as a major mitigation effort that could save many homes. Ms. Blackburn closed her presentation noting that each bond dollar leveraged about $1.94 in outside funding through partnerships with county, state, federal agencies, and private developers. , 8. REQUEST TO VACATE A SANITARY SEWER EASEMENT WITHIN THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CENTER SUBDIVISION A. Conduct a public hearing regarding a request to vacate a 20-foot Sanitary Sewer Easement traversing lots addressed as 3727, 3723, 3715, 3711 E FM 528 Rd and 18001 Blaelchawk Boulevard, properties also located within the Friendswood City Center Subdivision Final Plat, said easement being an approximate 0.706-acre tract of dedicated by separate instrument as evidenced by H.C.C.F. RP-2020-59908 in Friendswood, Harris County, Texas. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 7 of 18 At 6:49 P.M., Mayor Foreman opened the public hearing and asked staff to summarize the subject matter. Director of Community Development Aubrey Harbin relayed the easement in question was dedicated for a public sewer line and is impeding future landscaping for the Friendswood City Center. Thus, the request before Council is to vacate the easement. The line is being relocated to the middle of the driveways of the properties, so they will dedicate a new easement. In order to vacate, Ms. Harbin relayed the required notices were sent and the Planning and Zoning Commission held their public hearing on January 8th and has forwarded a positive recommendation. Mayor Foreman announced no citizen had signed up to speak on the item. At 6:50 P.M., Mayor Foreman closed the public hearing. B. Consider an ordinance to vacate a20-foot Sanitary Sewer Easement traversing lots addressed as 3727, 3723, 3715, 3711 E FM 528 Rd and 18001 Blackhawk Boulevard, properties also located within the Friendswood City•Center Subdivision Final Plat, said easement being an approximate 0.706-acre tract of dedicated by separate instrument as evidenced by H.C.C.F. RP-2020-59908 in Friendswood, Harris County, Texas. A motion was made by Councilmember Griffon and seconded by Councilmember Branson to approve Ordinance No. 2026-07, as submitted and related to Item 8.B. However, there was discussion prior to the vote: Councilmember Ross questioned the effective date of the abandonment and expressed concern about having infrastructure without an easement in place. Director of Community Development Aubrey Harbin explained that the new line would be installed and accepted before the new easement is recorded. City Manager Morad Kabiri added that without the easement, there would be no certificates of occupancy, plats, or permits approved without a functioning line. There is no existing line, and the change is simply a relocation with no loss of sewer capacity. The vote for the motion on the table was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert ). Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed unanimously. ORDINANCE NO. 2026-07 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, AUTHORIZING THE ABANDONMENT OF THE CITY'S INTEREST IN A TWENTY - FOOT (20') SANITARY SEWER EASEMENT TRAVERSING LOTS ADDRESSED AS 3727, 3723, 3715, 3711 E FM 528 AND 18001 BLACKHAWK BOULEVARD, AND LO- City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 8 of 18 CATED WITHIN THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CENTER SUBDIVISION FINAL PLAT, SAID EASEMENT BEING APPROXIMATELY 0.706-ACRES AND RECORDED IN THE HARRIS COUNTY CLERK'S REAL PROPERTY RECORDS UNDER FILE NO. RP-2020- 59908; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE A QUITCLAIM DEED RELEASING THE CITY'S INTEREST IN SAID EASEMENT; AND ESTABLISHING THE EFFECTIVE DATE. 9. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT A. Present an update on the Daddy Daughter Dance scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026. City Manager Morad Kabiri announced the Daddy Daughter Dance was scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026. It was noted that tickets typically sell out quickly, and appreciation was given to Parks and Recreation for hosting the event. B. Present an update regarding possibly amending the Friendswood City Code to allow staff to approve commercial site plans and plats rather than the Planning and Zoning Commission. City Manager Morad Kabiri explained this topic was recently discussed by the Planning and Zoning Commission as an informational item. In short, state law allows cities to approve certain site plans and plats at the staff level, which would allow improved efficiency in processing development applications. The current process requires staff -reviewed commercial site plans to wait for an upcoming Planning and Zoning agenda, even when items are already permitted by ordinance and not subject to denial. Thus, creating delays and confusion. This proposal will return to Council at the March City Council meeting with a public hearing and a formal recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission. C. Recognize Director of Engineering Jil Arias for being selected to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors for the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME). City Manager Morad Kabiri recognized Director of Engineering and City Engineer Jil Arias. Mr. Arias was inducted to the Society of American Military Engineers Board of Directors for a three-year term that will start in 2026. This association started in 2016 and was intended to foster engineering leadership throughout the country. Mr. Kabiri thanked him for stepping up and serving in this regard. D. Recognize Chief Building Official Brian Rouane for obtaining his ICC Master Code Professional (MCP) certification. City Manager Morad Kabiri recognized Deputy Director of Community Development Brian Rouane who achieved the International Code Council (ICC) Certification as a Master Code Professional. As such, he will have the opportunity to review all the standards associated with ICC. Mr. Kabiri applauded Mr. Rouane for his years of efforts related to achieving this certification. E. Recognize the Friendswood Public Library for receiving the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association's Achievement of Excellence in Libraries Award for 2025. City Manager Morad Kabiri announced the Friendswood Public Library was recently notified of achieving the Library Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association. This is the 12th consecutive year, and he congratulated Acting Library Director Karen Hatt and her team. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 9 of 18 Items 9.17. and 9.G. were taken out of order and considered after Item 4.A., and prior to Item 5 10. BUSINESS ITEMS A. Consider approving a three-year contract with the Friendswood Chamber of Commerce for economic development services. Deputy City Manager Steven Rhea presented an updated contract with the Friendswood Chamber of Commerce for economic development services. The Chamber allowed a three-year term at $8,000 per year with complimentary event tickets for Council and staff. He noted this is a reduction from the previous $20,000 per year agreement. Mayor Foreman thanked Pastor David Lorenz, the Incoming Volunteer Chairman of the Chamber Board, for negotiating the lower cost, emphasizing that the $12,000 per year savings is meaningful to the City's budget. Councilmember Ross wanted clarity on how the Chamber funds are used, whether events generate measurable business impact, and if the Chamber is tracking value to ensure it is getting a return on its investment. Pastor Lorenz explained that while it is difficult to quantify the Chamber's impact in strict dollars and cents, the organization hosted 88 events over the past year, including: business training, nonprofit education, 39 ribbon cuttings, and sponsoring major community events like the Christmas Lighted Parade, Halloween in the Park, and the Car and Bike Show. He said these activities bring people into the community, promote local businesses, and connect a wide range of businesses and nonprofits. Councilmember Ross shared he reviewed older Chamber budgets and acknowledged their fiscal responsibility and strong fundraising ratios but was looking for more tangible data to measure business impact. Pastor Lorenz responded that the earlier discussion prompted the Chamber board to become more intentional about measuring impact and gathering feedback from businesses and nonprofits. A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Ellisor and seconded by Councilmember Ross approving a three- year contract with the Friendswood Chamber of Commerce for economic development services, related to Item I O.A. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Councilmember Joe Matranga, Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed unanimously. Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember B. 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. Director of Engineering Jil Arias presented to Council an interlocal agreement with Harris County related to a partnership project to design and construct a new traffic signal at the intersection of Grissom Road and Bay Area Boulevard. Harris County will handle both design and construction and will maintain the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes .. February 2, 2026 Page 10 of IS signal once completed. League City will assist with half of the City's share, leaving Friendswood responsible for only 25% of the cost. The agreement is between the City and Harris County because Friendswood met the County's partnership requirements at the time of application, while League City did not. Mayor Foreman questioned if the traffic signal is being installed because the intersection had experienced accidents. Mr. Arias confirmed so and relayed that while a three-way stop helped, traffic impact analysis showed that future growth —largely from League City —will increase traffic. Councilmember Ross questioned how much traffic is generated by League City and expressed concern that their financial participation may be too low without a formal traffic impact study. Mr. Kabiri noted that League City has no obligation to participate; however, they are willing to cover half of the City's share, leaving Friendswood responsible for only 25%. There is no requirement for League City nor leverage on Friendswood's part to require a greater participation rate. Councilmember Matranga offered a different perspective, noting that many Friendswood residents use that intersection. A motion was made by Councilmember Branson and seconded by Councilmember Griffon to authorize a Joint Participation Interlocal Agreement with Harris County, related to Item 10.B. However, the motion was later amended due to City Attorney Caren Horner explaining that Council should condition approval pending receiving an amended interlocal agreement from League City reflecting the cost share. The City's portion would be $167,000 due to increased costs. An amended motion was made by Councilmember Branson and seconded by Councilmember Griffon 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, with the condition of the approval of an amended interlocal agreement from League City reflecting their cost share, related to Item 10.B. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, and Councilmember Robert J. Griffon Nays: Councilmember Michael P. Ross Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed. C. Consider authorizing an Interlocal Agreement with the City of League City regarding cost sharing for the development of a Flood Mitigation Plan for Lower Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou. Director of Engineering Jil Arias explained the interlocal agreement continues the Lower Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou Watershed Study that previously produced projects such as the Friendswood Regional 1959 Detention Project. He said this continuation will follow Section 203 and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers procedures to mirror federal study standards. The City's maximum participation is $1.25 million, with costs decreasing if additional regional partners join. Councilmember Ross asked whether this is a riverine study or also includes bay surge events like Hurricane Harvey. Mr. Arias said the largest portion would be riverine, while City Manager Morad Kabiri City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 11 of 18 added the model would be calibrated against Harvey and other storms, and require City approval of the study scope. Mr. Kabiri additionally explained the $5 million study is split among Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD), Galveston County, League City, and Friendswood at $1.25 million each, with Friendswood and League City eligible for reimbursement as additional partners such as City of Pearland join. The effort is intended to position the region for future federal funding through Army Corps procedures. Councilmember Ross expressed concern about Friendswood fronting a large share despite contributing a small portion of the drainage area and waiting for future partners to participate. Mr. Kabiri responded the agreement is limited to the study only, emphasizing the City is paying one quarter of the total cost with a three -to -one leverage benefit. Proactive planning could have reduced past flood disasters in Friendswood like Allison and Harvey. He understood the concern but reiterated the City could not force partners to the table. Mayor Foreman said focusing too much on precise cost shares can stall progress, acknowledged Friendswood may be paying more than its proportional share, but stressed the importance of moving forward now to complete flood mitigation work and keep water out of residents' homes. Councilmember Matranga asked whether completing the flood mitigation plan is intended to position the City to qualify for future federal and. outside funding. Mr. Kabiri confirmed that following federal study procedures is necessary for future authorization and funding, explaining that without this step the City would be limited to local partnerships only. Mr. Arias added that the effort is a long-term strategy and represents the first step in a larger, meticulous federal process. Councilmember Griffon reflected on his years of involvement with watershed committees and drainage districts. He supports the current effort but would like to see more collaboration between counties, drainage districts, and cities to align studies, avoid study duplication, and move more quickly from planning to actual construction. Mr. Kabiri assured that the councilmember's comments are not lost to Staff. Clear Creek has been studied for decades, and staff continues to leverage local bond funds to attract partners where possible. Nevertheless, he reiterated there is no mechanism to force other agencies to participate. Councilmember Griffon concluded by stressing the importance of wisely using taxpayer dollars and continuing strong partnerships to move projects forward. Councilmember Ross added to Councilmember Griffon's point that they need to demand they create an organization to be lead agency, similar to Harris County Flood Control, to coordinate efforts instead of relying on multiple entities. He noted that county commissioners support the idea and said it is time to move from discussion to action on creating such an organization. Mr. Kabiri noted that the next 2027 legislative session would be the best opportunity to raise the issue with state representatives. A motion was made by Councilmember Branson and seconded by Councilmember Griffon authorizing an Interlocal Agreement with the City of League City, related to Item 10.C. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, and Councilmember Robert J. Griffon Nays: Councilmember Michael P. Ross Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 12 of 18 D. Consider a Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreement with Sterling Estates, LLC, for the installation of public infrastructure related to residential infill purposes. Deputy City Manager Steven Rhea explained that this Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreement would fund the installation of approximately 1,300 linear feet of upgraded water line along Briarmeadow at a total cost of about $492,536. This is tied to a new residential subdivision on property formerly owned by FISD. The subdivision itself did not require an upgrade, but staff determined upsizing the line would benefit the City's overall distribution system. Therefore, the City proposed funding the full installation. Councilmember Matranga asked to confirm that the developer would keep the existing line for the subdivision but that upsizing it now would be the most efficient way to benefit the south end of Friendswood. Staff confirmed and noted the City has done similar infrastructure partnerships. Councilmember Ross then questioned why the work was privately bid under a Chapter 380 agreement rather than publicly bid. He noted his own recent water line project cost about half as much and expressed concern the City may be overpaying. Staff explained portions would require boring under driveways and that bid costs vary by quantities and conditions. Councilmember Matranga stressed the importance of saving money and asked if staff determined the cost was reasonable. Mr. Kabiri confirmed so, as it aligned with bids for similar projects in Friendswood. Mayor Foreman added the agreement also supports future property tax value while improving the City's water distribution system. Mr. Rhea added this is coming out of the Water and Sewer Fund, not the general fund, and would be going towards an infrastructure purpose. The approach was meant to take advantage of existing construction activity and contractors. Nevertheless, Councilmember Ross believed they were circumventing the process, regardless of how expeditious it was to do so. A motion was made by Councilmember Branson and seconded by Councilmember Griffon authorizing a Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreement with Sterling Estates, LLC, related to Item I O.D. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, and Councilmember Robert J. Griffon Nays: Councilmember Michael P. Ross Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed. 11. PROPOSED ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS A. Consider an ordinance amending the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) for the property located generally at the 4700 block of FM 2351, a tract of land containing 29.3726 acres, to change its designation from "Retail' and "Industrial' to "Mixed Use" and amending the official zoning map to change the zoning classification for such property from Community Shopping Center (CSC) and Industrial (I) to Planned Unit Development (PUD). City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 13 of 18 Director of Community Development Aubrey relayed the applicant addressed Council's previous requests by adding a requirement for a sound study during site plan approval. She noted preliminary indications show the 70-foot setback should be sufficient. A phasing plan was also added and includes multifamily and detention first, with commercial construction tied to occupancy approvals. Mr. Jeff Boutte with EHRA Engineering, the applicant, explained that a formal sound study has not yet been completed, but the Planned Unit Development (PUD) now includes a performance standard requiring a future study to show that 70 decibels at the Garage Ultimate property line would reduce to 58 decibels or less at the residential buildings to comply with the noise ordinance, with additional setbacks or sound walls if needed. Mr. Boutte additionally explained the request is a two-phase PUD, beginning with a conceptual plan and development standards, followed later by full civil, detention, and site plans returning to Planning and Zoning and City Council for compliance review. The project combines multifamily housing with roughly 85,000 square feet of office, retail, and commercial space. He added this project would include traffic impact analysis that could require roadway improvements or signals, may participate in regional detention to reduce on -site ponds, proposes a trail connection to Randolph Carter Park, and seeks a mixed -use future land use designation based on the site's transitional surroundings. Councilmember Branson asked whether the buildings highlighted in purple on the aerial presented represented the proposed commercial portion and expressed concern that commercial development often never materializes. Mr. Boutte confirmed they were commercial and explained the plan requires 25% of commercial permits to be submitted and construction started before multifamily certificates of occupancy are issued. Mr. Kabiri noted permits alone were not enough and recommended tying commercial certificates of occupancy directly to the residential development to ensure completion. Councilmember Branson agreed that she would like a `little more teeth in it." Councilmember Ross questioned what market demand analysis supported the proposed 85,000 square feet of mixed -use commercial space, noting that much of the existing retail along the corridor sits vacant or underperforming. A project engineer present said they were unaware of a completed market study by the developer, but acknowledged formal analysis typically occurs later in design. Councilmember Ross said the amount seemed excessive for the location, suggested it appeared to be a "carrot" to justify the apartments. He warned that approving rezoning now would bypass the comprehensive planning process meant to guide development in the panhandle area with community input. Mayor Foreman agreed with Councilmember Ross and did not believe the project was a good fit for that area of town. He noted residents raised great points and expressed worry that permitting 25% of the commercial space was only a way to secure apartment occupancy without real commitment to Mixed Use zoning. Councilmember Matranga agreed with the incompatibility. While he thanked the developer's investment in Friendswood, he could not support this project in this location. Councilmember Griffon commented he did not understand whyFriendswood has become animated on multifamily housing and smaller lots. He did not understand nor wants to increase their population to 55,000 as it would bring higher costs and traffic problems. Thus, he did not support this project. Councilmember Ross said he would prefer a traffic impact analysis before rezoning so Council understands roadway impacts in advance. Mr. Kabiri explained that the ordinance allows a conceptual PUD without a TIA, with the study deferred to site plan review, though applicants may submit it upfront City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 14 of 18 at their own risk. Councilmembers Griffon stressed school -related traffic as the primary issue on FM 2351 and the need for broader coordination with Clear Creek Independent School District (CCISD). A motion was made by Councilmember Griffon and seconded by Councilmember Matranga to approve the proposed ordinance, as submitted and related to Item I I .A. The vote was the following: Ayes: None Nays: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tem John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item failed. B. Consider on first reading an ordinance amending Appendix A "Signs," Section 1. "Definitions," Section 9 "Prohibited signs," 'Subsection A, and Section 25 "Nonconforming signs,!'. Subsection F "Conversion of existing billboards to changeable electronic variable message signs (CEVMS)" of the Friendswood City Code to update the CEVMS requirements and to allow the conversion to CEVMS if specified requirements are satisfied. City Manager Morad Kabiri opened the,item noting that the City currently has four billboards and their ordinance has prohibited new billboards for a number of years. In 2008, the City also prohibited converting static billboards to electronic signs. However, in 2017, Council allowed conversion at the same locations in exchange for public messaging. The ordinance before Council would allow an existing, legally nonconforming billboard to be replaced with an electronic billboard with certain restrictions and with public safety and community messaging. Mayor Foreman supported the billboard conversion policy in 2017 and stated he continues to support it. He emphasized the value of electronic billboards for quickly sharing public safety alerts, emergency information, and community messages with residents who may not use city notification systems. He also noted the ordinance does not add new billboards but replaces existing ones with improved electronic signs. Councilmember Branson agreed and supported the ordinance for its emergency messaging value and appreciated that it replaces existing billboards one -for -one without increasing. Councilmember Griffon supports electronic billboards as they are a good use of valuable airspace and are already useful in the community for sharing information. Councilmember Matranga asked whether the billboard was being moved because the existing static structure could not be structurally certified for an electronic sign. Mr. Kabiri explained the ordinance allows conversion at the same site, but the current structure cannot meet engineering requirements and noted the other billboards along FM 2351 could only convert if rebuilt within state permitting, height, and size limits. Councilmember Matranga supported this as an additional way to communicate with residents. Councilmember Ross said the city is limited in options because installing its own billboards could create legal issues, so the current approach is likely the best solution. He praised staff for navigating those constraints and improving the ordinance. From that standpoint, he supports the change. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 15 of 18 A motion was made by Councilmember Griffon and seconded by Councilmember Ross to approve a proposed ordinance, as submitted and related to Item 1 I.B. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed unanimously. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, AMENDING APPENDIX A ."SIGNS," SECTION 1 "DEFINITIONS," SECTION 9 "PRO- HIBITED SIGNS," SUBSECTION A AND SECTION 25 "NONCONFORMING SIGNS," SUBSECTION F "CONVERSION OF EXISTING BILLBOARDS TO CHANGEABLE ELECTRONIC VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS (CEVMS)" OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY CODE TO UPDATE THE CEVMS REQUIREMENTS AND TO ALLOW THE EREC- TION OF CEVMS IF SPECIFIED REQUIREMENTS ARE MET; PROVIDING A PEN- ALTY FOR VIOLATION IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED FIVE HUNDRED AND NO/100 DOLLARS ($500.00); REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDI- NANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; CONTAINING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION AND EFFECTIVE DATE. C. Consider an ordinance amending the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 by approving "Budget Amendment IV" and providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of certain funds. A motion was made by Councilmember Branson and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Ellisor to approve Ordinance No 2026-08, as submitted and related to Item 11.C. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed unanimously. ORDINANCE NO.2026-08 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 GEN- City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 16 of 18 ERAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-26, BY APPROVING "BUDGET AMEND- MENT IV" 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. 12. CONSENT AGENDA A motion was made by Councilmember Griffon and seconded by Councilmember Matranga to approve Consent Agenda Items 12.A. through 12.13 and 12.D. through 12.G., as Item 12.C. was pulled for further discussion. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The Consent Agenda passed. A. Consider a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Public Safety Office of the Office of Governor for FY2027 grant funds pursuant to the General Victim Assistance Direct Services Program; authorizing cash and in -kind matches; and appointing authorized representatives to act on behalf of the City under the grant. RESOLUTION NO.2026-03 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, DESIGNATING THE MAYOR AS THE CITY'S REPRESENTATIVE IN SEEKING ELIGI- BLE GRANT FUNDS UNDER THE GENERAL VICTIM ASSISTANCE, GENERAL DI- RECT SERVICES PROGRAM; AUTHORIZING THE SUBMISSION OF SUCH GRANT APPLICATION TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICE OF THE OFFICE OF THE GOVER- NOR; DESIGNATING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AS THE CITY'S REPRESENTA- TIVE IN SUBMITTING FINANCIAL AND/OR PROGRAMMATIC REPORTS; AUTHOR- IZING THE REQUISITE CASH AND IN -KIND MATCHES; AND PROVIDING AN EF- FECTIVE DATE. B. Consider a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Office of the Governor of Texas, Public Safety Office, Criminal Justice Division, for the Bullet -Resistant Shield Grant Program and appointing the Mayor to act as the City's authorized representative for all purposes under the grant. RESOLUTION NO.2026-04 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, DESIGNATING THE MAYOR AS THE CITY'S REPRESENTATIVE IN SEEKING ELIGI- BLE GRANT FUNDS UNDER THE RIFLE -RESISTANT BODY ARMOR GRANT PRO- City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page 17 of 18 GRAM, FY2027; AUTHORIZING THE SUBMISSION OF SUCH GRANT APPLICATION TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICE OF THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR; DESIGNAT- ING THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AS THE CITY'S REPRESENTATIVE IN SUBMIT- TING FINANCIAL AND/OR PROGRAMMATIC REPORTS; AND PROVIDING AN EF- FECTIVE DATE. C. Consider approving the Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation's payment to AT&T to prepare a cost estimate for a custom work order to remove and relocate communication lines for the downtown area. Deputy City Manager Steven Rhea explained this item for $15,000 is funded by the Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation (FDEDC) to reduce visual clutter along FM 518. The funding pays AT&T to develop a scope of work and engineering plans to remove overhead communication lines. Once completed, AT&T will provide cost estimates to filly remove and bury the lines along the corridor. Councilmember Ross asked about the estimated costs to bury the communication lines. Mr. Rhea replied earlier projections ranged from roughly $850,000 to $1.2 million for AT&T, with Comcast previously around $850,000 as well. Mr. Rhea also noted the companies say their technology is not moving back overhead and that any future repairs would stay underground. Councilmember Griffon asked whether the city pre -planned for burying communication lines during the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) sidewalk project. Mr. Rhea said pre -planning was done for lighting but not for communication lines. Mr. Kabiri explained that the FM 518 right-of-way is very congested with existing utilities, leaving little space for additional infrastructure like buried lines. Councilmember Ross asked how long the engineering study and construction might take. Mr. Rhea said construction timelines cannot be estimated until the study is complete. The engineering work would begin immediately after payment, potentially taking a few weeks based on past experience with Comcast. A motion was made by Councilmember Griffon and seconded by Councilmember Branson approving the Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation's payment to AT&T, related to Item 12.C. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed unanimously. D. Consider authorizing the final acceptance of the Ravine Drive Emergency Sinkhole Repair Project. E. Consider approving the disposal of one (1) Police Department vehicle through EBlock Houston. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes February 2, 2026 Page IS of IS F. Consider approving the ad valorem tax report for December 2025. G. Consider approving the minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting held on January 5, 2026. 13. EXECUTIVE SESSION A. Recess and convene into an executive session pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code to deliberate the annual performance of the City Attorney. At 8:15 P.M., Mayor Foreman recessed and convened into an Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code to deliberate the annual performance of the City Attorney. At 8:39 P.M., Mayor Foreman reconvened the meeting and announced that, in accordance with Section 551.102 of the Texas Government Code, no action was taken in the Executive Session. 14. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION A. Consider taking appropriate action regarding the City Attorney's annual performance evaluation. A motion was made by Councilmember Branson and seconded by Mayor Mike Foreman recommending that City Attorney Karen Homer receive a 4.5% salary increase, as discussed in Executive Session. The vote was the following: Ayes: Mayor Mike Foreman, Mayor Pro Tern John Ellisor, Councilmember Sally Branson, Councilmember Joe Matranga, Councilmember Robert J. Griffon, and Councilmember Michael P. Ross Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Trish Hanks The item passed unanimously. 15. ADJOURNMENT With there being no further business, Mayor Foreman adjourned the February 2, 2026, City Council Regular Meeting at 8:40 P.M. Attest: a Z� Raqu81 Aarlinez, TRMC, City SeMaly