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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2012-04-02 Regular 04/02l12 3908 STATE OF TEXAS )( CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD )( COUNTIES OF GALVESTON/HARRIS )( APRIL 02, 2012 )( MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY COUNCIL THAT WAS HELD ON MONDAY, APRIL 02, 2012, AT 430 PM AT FRIENDSWOOD CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 910 S. FRIENDSWOOD DRIVE, FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, WITH THE FOLLOWING PRESENT CONSTITUTING A QUORUM: MAYOR DAVID SMITH MAYOR PRO-TEM JIM HILL COUNCILMEMBER MICHAEL BARKER COUNCILMEMBER BILLY ENOCHS COUNCILMEMBER PAT MCGINNIS , COUNCILMEMBER JOHN SCOTT COUNCILMEMBER DEIRDRE BROWN CITY ATTORNEY ARNOLD POLANCO CITY MANAGER ROGER ROECKER CITY SECRETARY MELINDA WELSH i REGULAR MEETING Mayor Smith called the meeting to order. The invocation was given by Pastor McCauley Austin of Friendswood Baptist Church. Mayor Smith led the Pledge of Ailegiance to the United States and to the State of Texas. ACTION ITEM j "Councilmember Scott moved to approve suspending Rule 7 of the Council Rules of Procedure I regarding procedure for submitting agenda items and suspending Rule 16 regarding Order of Business. Seconded by Councilmember Enochs. The motion was approved 4-3 with Councilmembers Barker, Brown and Hiil opposed. � Mayor Smith explained why this is needed, stated he spoke to Councilmember Scott about the necessity, ! needed more than advice from the City Attorney. Councilmember Enochs asked if there was time i sensitivity and Councilmember Scott stated yes there is. Councilmember Brown asked why this was II posted on the agenda and not timely, has tried and not been able to proceed, and does not know why an , Executive Session is necessary. Mayor Smith explained that Councilmember Scott called him and ' explained the time sensitivity so it was put on the agenda and is on the agenda for CounciPs vote. I City Attorney Arnold Polanco stated a super majority vote is needed on Rule 7, but oNy a majority vote on Rules 16 and 17. Mayor Smith stated will have to vote separately on each rule. ', *"Councilmember Scott amended the motion to approve suspending Rule 7 of the Council Rules of ; Procedure. ' Seconded by Councilmember Enochs. The amended motion failed 4-3 with Councilmembers Barker, ' Brown and Hill opposed. 04/02/12 3909 I ""*Councilmember Scott amended the motion to approve suspending Rule 16 of the Council Ruies of i Procedure. Seconded by Councilmember Enochs. The amended motion was approved 5-2 with Councilmembers Barker and Brown opposed. Council did not convene into Executive Session in accordance with the Texas Government Code Section 551.072, Deliberation regarding Real Property. '*Councilmember Brown moved to consider making an offer on 42 acres at Lundy Lane. The motion died for lack of a second. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC There were no communications from the public at this time. WORK SESSION Mayor Smith opened discussion regarding the Fiscal Year 2011-2012 General Budget of the City. City Manager Roger Roecker introduced and explained the foundation of this agenda item. Tonight's discussion will cover the Community Development Department and will provide additional benchmarking information for other departments. This process is not original to the City of Friendswood but is from a model used by two other cities. The main difference between the City of Friendswood and those cities is that the other cities used consufting services and the City of Friendswood's Staff is creating its modei in- house. Staff will identify service levels and cost data on a per capita basis. Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri stated Staff reviewed the City's current service levels with an application to the analogy of � the purchase of a Toyota with a choice between a Corolla, a Camry, or a Lexus and a comparison of the features of each, with the understanding that cars with more features tend to cost more. For this exercise picture the upper end as a Lexus, midrange as a Camry, and lower end as a Coroila, and what is appropriate depends on the purchaser's needs, preferences, and ultimately budget. Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri presented the Gommunity Development Department (CDD). He further explained department by function, what fund, service Ievel, where the service levels fall and why, and per capita comparison, and the reasons why the Community Development Department was ranked as Camry. The department by function is Planning & Zoning, Building and Inspections, Code Enforcement, Stormwater Management, Engineering, and Projects. The Community Development Department is comprised of lwo funds; the General Fund and the Water and Sewer or Utifity Fund. Service Level Criteria answers where does the department fall and why. The department provides next day inspections, gives contractors an AM/PM ballpark for inspections, has same-day data entry on a majority of activities, conducts ten day plan reviews on just about alI projects, with some in even less time such as less than three days, has a combination proactive/reactive code enforcement, has a combination � proactive/reactive stormwater management, outsources GIS services, outsources engineering il design/modeiing services but provides.in-house design on some City-funded projects, has predominately in-house project and construction management capabilities with minimal outsourced assistance. City Secretary Melinda Welsh presented the City Secretary's Office and informed that the departments by i function are Municipal Clerk, administrative, records management, elections, and Mayor and Council, and � explained funding sources, service Ievel, where the department falis in service levels and why, and per capita comparison. Low volume Public information Request responses are sent electronically, are hampered by the inability to send out Iarge documents, large volume, or maps out electronically. Most records are available to Staff and the public through Laserfiche Weblink, which is a Camry Ievel, Lexus level would be that all documents are available through Laserfiche Weblink. Council agendas are ' ; completed on a Camry Ievei through hyperlinking by Thursday before the Monday Council meeting. ; 'I �I I 04/02/12 3910 A Lexus Ievel would be to use automated agenda management software. The alcohol permits are issued the same or next day they are received, contracts and agreements are mailed out one to two days after Council approval which is a bit above a Camry level. Public Information requests are usuaily filled within one to two days from the date of request depending on the complexity, scan and index Council approved documents the day after Council approval and completed by the end of the week. The department uses an outside records consultant for the annual records review for adherence to adopted retention schedule, ', document shredding annually. AII agendas and minutes for Council for committees, commissions and boards are posted on the website and sent out on M-Logic the same or the day after received. The City Secretary's Office processes all of Mayor and Council's correspondence and provides all aspects of general office support, and conducts all in-house elections. Most other cities contract with the county to hold eiections on their behalf. Councilmember Brown asked what safeguards are in place to make sure aicohol permits are requested and City Secretary Melinda Welsh stated expiration notices are sent to businesses with existing permits. Businesses requesting new permits provide the City Secretary's office with the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission's (TABC) pre-qualification application and if all applicable City departments determine compliance of the City's Gode of Ordinances and zoning guidelines, the applicant returns that information to TABC and receives their permit. Councilmember Brown asked what happens when the City Secretary's office knows that a business is selling alcohol with no TABC permit and the City Secretary responded that in the one instance the City Secretary's office sent a letter to the business outlining the consequences of non-compliance and they became compliant. Planning ManagedPublic Information Officer Nick Haby presented the City Manager's Office and explained department by function ,funding sources, service Ievel, where the department falls in service �� Ievels and why, and per capita comparison, includes administration, Council meeting agenda preparation, I communications, and economic development, and is funded by the General Fund and Water and Sewer. Councilmember Scott briefly left Council Chambers at this time. Administrative Services Director Cindy Edge presented Administrative Services Department (ASO) which includes receptionist, Municipal Court and Utility Billing, explained department by function, funding sources, service level criteria, where the department falls in service levels and why, and per capita comparison. Ms. Edge presented Utiliry Billing and explained, then presented Information Technology (IT) next and explained about outdated software, has some deficiencies there, is at a Corolla. She then presented Municipal Court, and stated they have court once a week, have it weekly and evening, a Lexus service would be another day of court, looked at components and diverse divisions, were shy of a Camry Ievel, and presented the per capita comparison. Councilmember Enochs asked why Friendswood's spending is higher than other organizations. Cindy Edge answered it is difficult when reviewing the services and departments in Administrative Services. Municipa� Court is not in ASO in other cities, and there are core functions in Administrative Services that � takes a certain number of employees whether the City has 50,000 residents or 10 residents. Police Chief Bob Wieners presented the Police Department and expiained the department by function, i funding sources, service Ievel criteria, where the department falls in service levels and why, what are the � features of a Corolla, Camry and Lexus that they provide, is a service Ievel mix, crime rate is lowest of , area cities, there was no gap as far as the chain of command when Captain Mike Hurley passed away. i Councilmember Brown asked what the need is for unmarked cars. Chief Wieners stated they have a il substantial number of units that service detectives and administrators but not all are fully equipped, uses I seized vehides that are appropriate for service, save about 50 percent using seized vehicles, and ' unmarked units are not used for traffic duty. ill I 04/02/12 3911 Assistant Fire Marshal Brian Mansfield presented the Fire Marshal's Office and explained department by function, funding sources, service Ievel, where the department falls in service levels and why and per capita comparison, includes Fire Department and Emergency Management Services which also includes the contract with the Fire Department. Public Works Director Kaz Hamidian presented the Public Works Department and explained department by function, funding sources, service level, where the department falls in service levels and why, and per capita comparison, are providing an excellent service for citizens, a work order is generated for all tasks as soon as possible within two days or less, makes sure customer is contacted either with a phone call or door tags, e�ters data in system for future reference, unplugs private sewer Iines, provides N inspection of service lines, helps with determining where the problem is located, and replaces small sections of the street where possible. Councilmember Enochs asked if this was total spent per capita and Mr. Hamidian stated yes, it is actual expenditures. Mayor Smith asked if this money is spent to buy water from Houston, and the City Manager stated no. Mr. Hamidian stated buying additional capacity is not included. Councilmember Hill stated the amount does include the amount of money purchased from the City of Houston but more capacity comes from bond money. Library Director Mary Perroni presented the Library and explained department by function, funding sources, service Ievel, and where the department falls in service Ievels and why, and per capita comparison, compared service Ieveis to State of Texas standards. Some standards were municipal libraries and some were not, some were for a county system. Councilmember Brown asked what it means that others are part of a county system and asked why Friendswood is not part of that system and Ms. Perroni explained the other libraries are a part of Brazoria, Harris and Fort Bend Counties, and all libraries in Galveston County are municipal except Rosenberg Library in Galveston. Community Services Director James Toney presented the Community Services Department and explained department by function, what fund, service Ievel, and where the department falls in service levels and why, and per capita comparison, is mostly a Camry, Lexus would mean to be more proactive in the commu�ity, would need to add a basketball league, disc golf, parkland, works closely with school ' districts and Homeowners Associations. City Manager Roger Roecker stated the next slide is overall per capita spending and explained, needs direction from Council and citizens, takes time to make changes in the desired direction. Self-assessment is difficult and the departments did a great job. The next phase of the process is a professionai citizen ; survey and the cost of which will be a Decision Package in the next budget. The goal was to determine � where the City is regarding the Ievel of service, another goal was to learn what Ievel is desired by Council and citizens, and the Iast goal was to identify funding for higher Ievels of service, working with Council will determine the answer to the question of"what is the bill", so to speak, that is what the slide is intended to say. The next step is to have that Ievel of discussion between Council and Staff. Gouncilmember McGinnis thanked the City Manager and Staff for their input and added that Library I Director Mary Perroni is the only one that stated she viewed state or national standards. City Manager Roger Roecker stated that most departments do not have national or state standard so they were , discretionary. ' � �� i I i I 04/02/12 3912 ' The department gathered information individualiy and the group worked on it, went through a number of iterations, if standards that can be found for departments such as the Police Department, it would be easier to make determinations. The question is if Council agrees and Staff is open to suggestions. Police Chief Bob Wieners stated the Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigations provided statistics to the Police Department but the staffing ratios are what they are and are straightforward, some are easy to measure side by side and some are not according to their organizational structure. Mayor Smith stated this job of quantifying and comparing services to other cities has aiways been a difficult thing, this community is unique and services provided can�ot be measured. However, developing a service plan is a great step in the right direction. The next step is developing a system for feedback from citizens so they can have input as to what is being done, and professional services may be required at some point. Council and Staff are too close to it to do its own assessment, sometimes it is better to bring objective component, and welcomes input because it is always constructive. City Manager Roger Roecker stated Staff would welcome the feedback from a professional service, have taken steps to get input in certain areas and does look for ways to provide it. Mayor Smith stated is sometimes difficult to get objective opinions from customers when they know that they will come back often to do business, is difficult to create a vehicle which allows to be critical when there is a concern about the effect that might have on the police power the City brings to the equation. Councilmember Brown stated she wants to encourage reaching out to citizens who are a large part of the customer base regarding economic development specifically. Citizens can be educated and can provide feedback as to how they see Friendswood in the next twenty years. Councilmember Enochs asked about the general puise from the survey, is Staff happy with what they are providing. City Manager Roger Roecker stated all departments would like to be a Lexus but part of the process was having to evaluate what it takes to get there and are resources available to make it possible, , and as Assistant City Manager Kabiri stated being a Corolla is not a bad thing if it is the best o�e can be. Other Staff members critiqued where they placed themselves, there were questions, and severai times others saw departments at a higher Ievel of service than they thought they were. Those who do not pay their utility bills on time get a phone call before disconnection and most cities do not do that, is a Lexus service. Clearing private sewer lines is a great Ievel of service. The City Manager then opened the floor to Staff and Mr. Kabiri stated service Ievels that are currently provided were from policies from past Staff. Service levels that were appropriate ten years ago may not be appropriate today so Staff needs feedback on current service Ievel desires. The City Manager stated Staff is trying to back up the service Ievels provided and say here is the service that is provided and what does Council think about it. When it is time to go further into the budget, Staff will bring back to Council efficiencies that have been developed over time when looking for solutions that do not cost money, is a different discussion to have with Council I and hopes it is more fruitful long term. If streets are the level of service that needs to be improved upon � then the funds must come from somewhere and that corresponds to service levels as well. I Mayor Smith stated he sees the issue from both perspectives; his input will be less and less as time goes � by and even less after next month. Remember that every dollar that does not come to the City and the I departments to provide that Lexus level of service is still a benefit to the community because Staff is providing excellent service that is valuable. The question is how far does the envelope get pushed and I what is acceptable from a fiscal responsibility standpoint, is comfortable being between a Camry and a , Lexus when it comes to the tools that are availabie to get that exce�lent service. Staff is conservative and I Iets citizens keep their money to help them provide a standard of living for their families and that is where ', it should be. He does not see a great need for change but there are critical paths that will need to be ' reached with streets, may not need to be a Lexus model if doing welL , 04/02/12 3913 Mayor Smith thanked the City Manager and Staff for providing this to CounciL � With concurrence of Council, Mayor Smith moved to Agenda Item 9, Special Recognition and Acknowledgements. SPECIAL RECOGNITION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Planning ManagedPubiic Information Officer Nick Haby explained that some time ago the City spoke to Friendswood Independent School District for an opportunity to get together to create some educational videos for the City, purpose was to have content for the Public Information and Government (PEG) channel and students would get some grades and experience. He introduced the students who participated as Stephen Azbill, Ally Fluker, Kendall Harris, Christina Lockridge, Madesyn Mueller, Juliana Ramirez, Kelley Reynolds, and Peter Rodriguez and explained what videos were done and showed clips from each one. Mr. Haby introduced the teacher Meredith Wise who stated the students enjoyed getting to work with subjects outside of the classroom and to report to someone other than her. The students received important feedback and had the opportunity to go through a complete process and helped the community. Mr. Haby stated the students had a lot of fun and thanked the students for helping the City. With concurrence of Council, Mayor Smith moved to Agenda Item 8B,Work Session discussion regarding the input received at the Single Family Residential-Estate(SFR-E)Town Hall meetings. WORK SESSION Mayor Smith opened discussion between Council, Staff, and the Planning and Zoning Commission subcommittee regarding the input received at the Single Family Residential-Estate (SFR-E) Town Hall � meetings. Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri explained the foundation behind the SFR-E meetings and gave communication to Council as to what Staff found at those meetings. Mr. Kabiri stated the majority of concerns that came up were property rights issues, residents bought those properties so that they can do what they wish with them, others stated their concem was they bought property for the estate feel. Staff received mixed concerns and asked what level of support do residents need from areas impacted, is not a one-size-fits-all soiution but is a mixed bag. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Kevin Holland opened the Planning and Zoning Commission's subcommittee portion of the Joint Work Session regarding discussion of Single Family Residential-Estate Zoning and gave the floor to Planning and Zoning Commission subcommittee member Mark Tibbitts who stated the subcommittee had a series of five meetings that began in February, had a diversity of opinions. Those who attended the meeting were more in favor of some type of approach toward it more than they were against it. Citizens appreciated the neighborhood approach process, one size does not fit ali, process going forrrard for subcommittee is to meet and craft a formal recommendation and bring it to the Planning and Zoning Commission and then to Council. Mr. Tibbitts opened to questions for Council, and repeated Planning and Zoning Commission member Jim Gibson's recommendation for the subcommittee to determine what the "straw man" opinion would be, the answer to that recommendation is that it has been done but not yet brought before the Planning and Zoning Commission and Mr. Tibbitts' recommendation is not to move forward with that at this time. Planning and Zoning Commission member Jim Gibson stated his opinion is that a vast majority was in favor; perhaps at Ieast 80 percent of those who spoke were in favor, and the minority not in favor wanted to divide at some time. Citizens seemed to Iike the idea of a geographical area opting in as a group, and one of their recommendations will probably be not to approve zoning estate requests that are pending. I � � I 04/02l12 3914 Planning and Zoning Commission member Mark Tibbitts stated most were in favor and those that were most vocal in support had lived in an area where someone had subdivided, and put a road right in the middle. Planning and Zoning Commission Vice Chair Mark McLean stated the subcommittee will have to discuss size of the lot, is currently two acres as minimum, will discuss further, have not had formal discussion with the Planning and Zoning Commission yet and have not received report from the subcommittee yet. I Mayor Smith stated what he heard is that the subcommittee is happy with the process and asked about ' attendance of the Town Hall meetings and Mr. Kabiri stated twenty or thirty attended at most and some � were ten. Planning and Zoning Commission Jim Gibson stated they lasted about an hour or more and they got a Iot of input. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Kevin Holiand asked how many properties were affected and City Planner Mona Milier stated 2,500 acres and Mr. Kabiri stated that translates to at least 200 properties citywide. i Mayor Smith stated it sounds like the subcommittee will next make a recommendation to the Planning and Zoning Commission for a collective agreement and then bring it back to Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission and P&Z subcommittee member Mark Tibbitts answered yes. The Planning and Zoning Commission subcommittee adjourned their portion of the Work Session to the upstairs conference room. Mayor Smith opened discussion between Council and Staff regarding traffic calming measures and policy I by giving the floor to Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri who stated Council has heard input from numerous citizens regarding traffic through residential subdivisions and the need for some level of City involvement to curb. The City has an unwritten policy in place but Staff has now formalized a written policy and is presenting the draft for Council's input and feedback. Typically if a concern is submitted I regarding a traffic issue within a residential subdivision it is categorized as either an enforcement procedure such as posting signs, estabiishing warning signs, police presence, or self-enforcing such as a traffic calming device which would change the characteristics of the roadway in the form of narrowing the roadway, severing connections to other areas, putting slight hindrances to visibility in the right-of-way, or rumble strips. The dilemma is there is no money to do studies, or to cover the cost of implementing the solutions, have Staff but no resources to look at it comprehensively. Staff has to physicaily take resources elsewhere and by the time the data is gathered it is outdated. Historicalfy the City has i encouraged the Homeowners Associations (HOA) to get citizens input on what needs to be done, and � then fund their own traffic study. The policy is before Council tonight as a flow chart. , Councilmember McGinnis asked what a licensed professional engineer for a traffic study costs and Mr. Ii Kabiri stated the cost is about �200 for a simple study, a more complex study is approximately $15,000- I $25,000. Councilmember McGinnis stated his HOA does not have those types of resources, should the il City be upfront and state it does not have the Staff or the funds to follow through on any recommendation, and asked if they can do a Iess formal study. Mr. Kabiri stated if the HOA would fund data collection the City can do the data analysis. The City has the capability to look at and monitor a specific location, ' sometimes the study comes back with no speeding issue. If the HOA were to fund data collection and then give the City the data, the City can anaiyze and if it warrants change, would have to be funded as a ' Decision Package. ' 04/02/12 3915 � Councilmember Brown stated it seems that traffic concems are triggered by new construction adjacent to I residential areas, asked what types of traffic studies are being required before approving those projects and Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri stated the junior high was required to do a traffic analysis before construction began, is a difference from typical growth and gave the example of the dilemma of Falcon Ridge being a dead end street and is now not. If proposed development exceeds 5,000 trips a day then it warrants a traffic study before the project is approved. The amount of trips that warrant a study is determined by the Institute of Transportation. A typical single family residential neighborhood generates about 10.2 trips per day, the other criteria is roadway geometrics that does not impede the visual line of sight. Councilmember Brown stated she appreciates the work and the homeowners that have raised concerns. Forest of Friendswood has raised concerns although it has not yet been built out with commercial. When Northfield Estates was built it created some growing pains, there is a perception Ievel to which residents become accustomed and this is causing the friction, is unwarranted to rely on HOA's given the City's policy on HOA's, does not think that is a good way to create traffic calming policies unless the City changes its HOA policies. Mr. Kabiri stated Staffs suggestion for including HOA's stems from the standpoint that some citizens in HOA's may not agree and the City needs HOA involvement to garner consensus before taking unilateral action. Councilmember Brown stated because of prior discussions there has been a disincentive for HOA's to be reached out to. Mr. Kabiri stated Staff has taken a comprehensive look at the measures, and has Staff level support if HOA has questions, someone on Staff has attended two HOA meetings recently to discuss traffic issues. Mayor Smith stated this is not an item to be adopted tonight but rather Staff is looking for information from Council. Having seen dozens of these over the years, aii have a different flavor, have tried to go in and help before and helped one and not another, if there is someone that is vocal and wants to make a change, make the change and then hears from others affected. Is a good idea to have a guideline but must be careful not to over-help. He likes the idea of having discussions with all residents before a small � number of residents come before Council to voice their concerns. ' Mayor Smith recessed the meeting at 6:40 PM and reconvened the meeting at 6:55 PM. With concurrence of Council, Mayor Smith moved to Agenda item 11, Communications from the Public. Counciimember Brown made a point of information that the new City policy governing the use of City I property and political speech is not being implemented by a candidate speaking here. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC Heidi Theiss addressed Council and stated she is a candidate for the Texas House of Representatives for this district. She stated she has visited Austin every week to help with conservative Iegislation and while she was there she thought she could join this fight and that comes from a true heart of service, joined Army at 17 years old, went to Airborne School and served in Germany, and is concerned about the direction of our country these days. The salvation of the country or state is found in the 10th amendment regarding state's rights, which should be asserted, wants to earn votes the hard way by putting herself out � there on the issues, invited all to go to heidifortexas.com for more information, is a constitutional i conservative, and thanked Council for the time. With concurrence of Cou�cil, Mayor Smith moved to Agenda Item 10, Joint Docketed Public Hearing. Ili � I 04/02/12 3916 JOINT DOCKETED PUBLIC HEARWG Mayor Smith and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Kevin Holland called the Joint Docketed Pubiic Hearing to order to receive comments from the public, both oral and written, regarding the zone classification change designating four existing parking spaces and a 10' x 15' office area inside the Friendswood Auto Center existing building located at 304 W. Parkwood Avenue, Lot 3, Block 1, Prets Lumber Company Plat, Friendswood, Galveston County, TX, from Community Shopping Center (CSC) to Community Shopping Center with a Specific Use Permit (CSC/SUP} to allow NAICS Use #44112 Used Car Dealer. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Kevin Holland asked if anyone would Iike to speak in favor of the request. David Esmaeillou, appiicant, stated he has had a business in Friendswood for the last twelve years, and a small business called Friendswood Auto Center, have customers that have been asking for this, have been doing business for five or six years and wants to make it official, is not Iike big dealership, only five spaces, wants to Iet customers know that there is a place to do this legally, is a small place and will not jeopardize his current business for this one. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Kevin Holland asked if anyone would like to speak in opposition of this request and no one spoke. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Holland closed the Pianning and Zoning Commission's portion of the Joint Public Hearing and adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission to the upstairs conference ' room. Mayor Smith left CounciPs portion of the Joint Public Hearing open. With concurrence of Council, Mayor Smith moved to Agenda Item 12, Communications from Committees and Special Reports. COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL REPORTS Mayor Smith stated Parks and Recreation Board Chair Thomas Goodwin could not attend tonight's meeting; therefore he directed Council to the written annuai report provided to each of them. Councilmember Brown asked with respect to possible acquisition for property on Lundy Lane, a report can go back to the Parks and Recreation Board that Council is not interested for at least ninety days because a vote was taken earlier. Mayor Smith stated that Councilmember Brown should speak for herself. Councilmember Hill stated he was not aware that was the property that was being talked about and Councilmember Brown's motion to buy it was out of the blue, does not think Council should do business on the spur of the moment. Councilmember Enochs asked for Councilmember Scott to give comments regarding the annual report as the Council liaison to the Parks and Recreation Board. Councilmember Scott stated the report is good and summarizes their position from the last decade. The Parks and Recreation Board has done a terrific I job through the years on the Parks Master Pian, is continually going to the City to Iook for land to acquire, ', the earlier presentation Community Services Director James Toney provided uses state standards for ! park space allocation, need to sit with Parks and Recreation Board and work in a direction to purchase ' property for uses that are needed. 04/02/12 3917 I Tonight's action of making a motion to purchase land without going through this report and without talking I to the Chair of the Parks and Recreation Board was not appropriate, wouid be more appropriate to meet and see how City officials can meet needs. Councilmember McGinnis stated in the past year he and Councilmember Hill have talked to the City of League City about doing something jointly with them, one thing they are doing on Clear Creek is having a series of portages, disagrees with Councilmember Brown's statement that Council is not interested in this property, and it shouid have been discussed in Executive Session. Mayor Smith stated there are several pieces of property listed as possible solutions to the parks problems, appreciates Councilmember Scott saying the Parks and Recreation Board has been notifying Gouncil for a long time that this is needed, is well below the standard but the best process is not to bring it forv✓ard in a public venue to begin with because it alerts the property owner and other potential buyers which will adversely affect the negotiating position, was more appropriate to discuss in Executive Session first and engage with the Parks and Recreation Board as part of the process. Councilmember Brown stated she agreed with having a discussion with the Parks and Recreation Board, has been discussed with Parks and Recreation Board in Executive Session, and is no need to have an Executive Session since they are now in a public report. The Lundy Lane property has been considered publiciy in the past because there was a potential purchase that fell through, have discussed all of these tracts in the past and takes offense to the statement that the motion was inappropriate because all issues ' have been discussed since 2008. Counciimember Barker stated Councilmember Brown should know that making a motion to purchase something without a designation of funds is not appropriate. Councilmember Barker asked the City Attorney if it is appropriate and City Attorney Arnold Polanco stated additional due diligence would be in order. Mayor Smith stated the approval of a motion without it being in the proper order would violate law, for a Council to agree to purchase property without having aIl in place would be jeopardy. Councilmember Brown stated her motion was to make an offer. Mayor Smith asked if anyone has anything new for the Parks and Recreation Board report and no one had additional comments. Administrative Services Director Cindy Edge reported on the 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) with Weaver and Tidwell, ILP, auditor Kevin Sanford, CPA. Administrative Services I Director Cindy Edge stated documents were delivered to Council and thanked Deputy Director of , Administrative Services Rhonda Bloskas and her Staff for keeping records in good financial shape to get the City where it is. Mr. Sanford stated the first document is page 15 of document and numbered page 1, is independent auditors report on the financial statement, is an unqualified opinion, as independent auditors it is the highest Ievel of assurance that they can provide in a set of financials and it states that the City's financials are accurate. Moving on to financial statements on page 12 -Statement of Net Assets- it encompasses all of the funds of the City, total assets are $179,769,296, total liabilities which represent I claims on those assets are $65,683,052, the amount that assets exceed Iiabiiities are net assets which total �114,086,244 and the largest component is invested in the City's capitai assets, which is the total number of assets less the debt used to acquire them which is a�92,831,395 and the second highest is the unrestricted assets which are$19,600,565. � I I I 04/02/12 3918 ' The totai expenses are $33,736,187, charges for services for direct users is �15,038,234, grants and contributions were $3,150,808, total net expenses paid for by general revenues are �15,547,145 net expense, total general revenues that are primarily property and sales taxes are $19,890,840, the City had an increase in its net assets year over year of$4,343,695, to end the year with just over$1097 million in net assets and end the year at $114.1 million. The balance sheet for governmental funds' assets in General Fund had total assets of $11,336,750, totai liabilities of $2,421,346 and the amount that assets exceed liabilities is the fund balance of $8,915,404 of which $7,511,998 is unassigned and available for the City's general use and that includes the City's 90 day reserve fund as Council mandated. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT City Manager Roger Roecker reported that Staff participated in the 2012 Great Texas Warrant Round Up during the month of February. This was the City's third consecutive year of participation and joined over 400 jurisdictions across the State in this event. The participating entities have found it beneficial to work together on this annual event. Each entity advertising their participation creates increased media awareness. The weeklong event is not an amnesty program; it is a concentrated effort to clear warrants. In addition, the program serves to promote respect for law enforcement and the court. This year, Staff cleared 391 cases with $88,939 paid to the court. This compares to �69,598, or 309 cases, in 2011, and $87,681, or 379 cases, in 2010. The efforts were a success due to the commitment and contributions of the Friendswood Municipal Court, Fire Marshal's Office, and Police Department. The City Manager reported that the Governor's Community Achievement Awards are presented each year to Texas communities with the best grassroots environmental programs in the state. Communities are judged based on their popuiation size in ten categories, which is derived from population estimates from the Texas State Data Center. The efforts of these communities to involve citizens, businesses, schools, Iocal government, and youth to keep their city, county or region beautifui will earn ten of them a share of �2 million i� Iandscaping monies from the Texas Department of Transportation. These prizes are designated for la�dscaping projects along local state rights-of-way. The Keep Friendswood Beautiful Board (KFB) submitted a grant appiication and received third place in their population category. They earned more than 90 points which will help achieve a higher affiliate status toward another award for earning 90+ points. The City of Coppell won first place and $210,000 in the same category and Copperas ; Cove came in second place. While they did not receive any grant money this year, KFB continues to improve their efforts and will try again next year. This third place award is exceptional for a city that has only been participating as Keep Friendswood Beautiful for three years. It is a tribute to the hard work of the KFB Board and the Community Services Department Staff. Special recognition should go to the Grant writing subcommittee from KFB - Sherry Goen, Chair, Susan Delcambre, Loretta Murphy, Patty Steinke, Susan Stephens, Martha Cotton, James Toney, Kimberly Ramirez, and the entire KFB board for all their hard work throughout the year. I The City Manager reported that the Keep Friendswood Beautiful (KFB) Board and the City are sponsoring � the annual Spring Sparkle event for the citizens of Friendswood at Centennial Park, 2200 S. Friendswood ', Drive on Saturday, April 14, 2012. KFB Board members have teamed with the City's solid waste services provider, IESI, and the Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District (GCCDD} to provide the I community with a clean-up day. Copy Dr. will also be onsite to accept paper for shredding. Items that will i be accepted inciude green waste such as tree limbs and grass clippings, old appiiances, old fumiture, I miscellaneous wood, metal, and plastic. No household hazardous waste, such as tires, paint, batteries, oil, or any other hazardous waste will be accepted. Residents can also donate garage sale items to Keep ' Friendswood BeautifuL KFB will be accepting fumiture, household items, bikes, etc. in good condition. Clothing will not be accepted. Garage sale items can be dropped off the moming of the event at Centennial Park. AII proceeds from the garage sale will benefit the beautification of City facilities and , parks. KFB would also like to encourage residents to bring animal habitat items that would benefit the wildlife rescuerslrehabbers. 04/02/12 3919 They need aquariums, dog and cat carriers, clean towels/shirts, and shallow crock bowis. These I volunteers take care of the many injured wild animals that make their homes in Friendswood's shrinking green space. The City Manager reported that the Friendswood community and visitors will soon be admiring many beautifully maintained classic, restored, and custom automobiles and motorcycles at Stevenson Park. The Eighth Annual F.I.G. Festival and Car Show is planned for Saturday, April 21, 2012. The popular family event is coordinated by the Friendswood Chamber of Commerce, the Friendswood Historical Society, and the City of Friendswood. Title sponsor for the event, AMOCO Federal Credit Union, expects over 200 auto entries this year to compete for the awards ceremony. The Historical Society wants to remind residents of the heritage of Friendswood. They will have baked goods and fig trees for saie, and bus tours of the Frank J. Councilmember Brown Museum, the Perry House, the Friends Church Cemetery, and other historical Iocations. Many businesses, organizations and churches have signed up for booths and more than 25 craft booths are expected. HEB is sponsoring the Kid Zone again this year, which will have games and rides for children and benefits the March of Dimes. A variety of food booths are expected including, hamburgers, hotdogs, sausage on a stick, homemade Iemonade, barbeque, and possibly crawfish. "F.LG."stands for"Friendswood Is Great°, and this is the perfect event to prove it. � The City Manager reported on the upcoming KIDFISH event. The Tenth Annual KIDFISH event has been scheduled for Saturday, April 21, 2012, at the Centennial Park pond. The KIDFISH Foundation will stock over 300 pounds of adult catfish in the Centennial Park pond for participants to catch. Bait, tackie, and loaner rods wiil be provided to children who do not have their own equipment. The title sponsor for this event is the Lutheran South Academy. KIDFISH is a non-profit outreach program designed to give children 16 and under the chance to experience the sport of fishing and the outdoors. No pre-registration is required for this free event, however, a minimum donation of �10 will allow participants to receive ( awards such as t-shirts, hats, and trophies with the funds going toward expanding the KIDFISH Program. All children will receive a goody bag, KIDFISH ribbon, and diploma. Longest fish winners, first and ( second place in each age group, will receive a large trophy. This event will qualify event participants for the 2012 KIDFISH Classic. Qualifiers for the classic will be the top fundraisers over $50, the children catching the longest fish in their age group and any child fundraising $100 or more. The Classic will feature unforgettable fishing for trophy catfish up to 30 pounds. First prize will be a$1,000 savings bond for the child and �1,000 cash for the child's school. This is a fun event not to be missed. The City Manager reported that the Community Services DepartmenYs Senior Citizen Program will host Senior Fish on Tuesday, April 24, 2012. Locai seniors are encouraged to join at the Centennial Park pond for an afternoon of fishing, food, and fun. Bait, tackie, and loaner rods will be provided; however, participants are free to bring their own lucky equipment. Catch of the day wiil be catfish and rainbow trout. A fishing license is not needed to keep any fish caught in the pond. Fishing stories will be swapped over a fresh, grilled lunch provided by the Community Services Program. This event is made possible by the Alton Todd Law Firm. ACTION ITEMS I "Councilmember Barker moved to award the disposition of RFP No. 2012-02 for Meal Catering for Emergency Responders for Natural and Man-Made Disasters to both Cardinai Culinary Services and Southwest Barbeque Management, Ina (dba Joe's Barbeque Company of Alvin). ! Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. ' "Councilmember Barker moved to award the disposition of RFP No. 2012-03 for Emergency Response �i Equipment and Services to Gamer Environmental Services. Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. , ' ' I il I ; 04/02/12 3920 **Councilmember McGinnis moved to discuss a site plan for a personal care facility to be tocated at 103 Diamond Lane, Friendswood. City Attorney Arnold Polanco stated a motion to only discuss is not appropriate. •*•Mayor Smith moved to approve a site plan for a personal care facility to be located at 103 Diamond Lane, Friendswood. Seconded by Councilmember Barker. '*"Councilmember Brown moved to tabie a site plan for a personal care facility to be Iocated at 103 Diamond Lane, Friendswood. Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion to tabie was approved 5-2 with Mayor Smith and Councilmember Scott opposed. '*Counciimember Hiii moved to approve a design services contract with Costello, Inc., for Lift Station No. 3, and authorizing the appropriation of funds accordingly. Seconded by Councilmember Enochs. The motion was approved unanimously. **Councilmember Hill moved to approve a design services contract with Costelio, Inc., for Lift Station No. , 6, and authorizing the appropriation of funds accordingly. ' Seconded by Gouncilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. "Councilmember Scott moved to approve a design services contract with Freese and Nichols, Inc., for Water Plant No. 2, and authorizing appropriation of funds accordingly. Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. ' �"Councilmember McGinnis moved to approve a design services contract with Freese and Nichols, Inc., for Water Plant No. 7, and authorizing appropriation of funds accordingiy. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approved unanimously. "*Gounciimember Scott moved to approve, with an exemption from insurance requirement, a license , agreement with the Regency Estates Homeowner's Association for installing a neighborhood bulletin i board on City property. Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. "Councilmember Barker moved to approve giving direction to the City Manager to provide to Council a Decision Package on the option for in-house legal representation. Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. Lengthy discussion took place between Mayor Smith and Council regarding rising costs of current legal representation, need for in-house attorney, and cost effectiveness. *`Mayor Smith made a point of order by asking Councilmember Brown to stay on the subject matter on the fioor, which is to ask Staff to do research for Council. `*Councilmember McGinnis moved for Council to allow its members to utilize internet and/or wireless ' communication while in position at the dais, repealing a self-imposed rule established in August 2010. ; Seconded by Councilmember Brown. The motion failed 1-6 with Mayor Smith and Councilmembers ' Barker, Brown, Enochs, Hill and Scott opposed. i i I ', 04/02/12 3921 � Councilmember McGinnis explained his agenda item and gave the history, saw a Councilmember doing i frequent texting at the Iast Council meeting, instead of making it an issue of that Councilmember he thought to bring it up again for new Gouncilmembers to reconsider this rule to determine if it is still practical or all honor the rule placed upon ourselves. Councilmember Brown stated this was generated because others had been seen using wireless communication, is shocking to her that it is being violated, whoever was texting should admit it and Council should admonish them. Have had more access put on computers at dais, texting or any use of cell phones is risky, provided an Attorney General opinion about text messages, which is hitting the forefront in Texas, is open to more internet access but not texting, the City should have a policy in place . and have the Attorney General approve. Mayor Smith stated some of the explanation is true but the issue in developing this policy and concern was distraction and getting input from audience with Council, use of internet was more "gotcha" opportunities than useful information, would cause extending the meeting, more appropriate to tabie than sit here and do research on the internet. "'*Mayor Smith amended the motion to keep the existing rule with the exception of use during a family emergency or family matter. Seconded by Counciimember Scott. Councilmember Scott stated one of the concerns he has is that opening this back up would prolong certain topics, would help streamline, would think that when someone is interrupted by texting or when a call is received one can step outside, and would Iike to keep it the way it is. Councilmember Barker stated do not limit to family emergency but emergency. I ""Mayor Smith amended the amended motion to keep the existing rule with the exception of use during an emergency. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The amended motion failed 3-4 with Councilmembers HiII, Brown, McGinnis, and Enochs opposed. � Councilmember Enochs stated they should be able to utilize the tools provided to them as Iong as it does not delay the meeting but stay focused on the task at hand and cell phones are a distraction. Councilmember Hill stated if there is an emergency if it is that dire should not come to the meeting. When one signs up for this job one should come prepared and pay attention. Councilmember Brown stated she has not been a fan of the use of smart phones, cannot do at dais with wireless communication, it only mentions wireless, would like to see computers have internet access. I Council would have to do on honor code. Staff can track computer usage, should be used judiciously, and is already a provision to allow for family emergencies the way it is currently written. Rule does not need to be amended, can step aside during meeting, and would propose an amendment to allow for internet access on laptops at the dais. Mayor Smith stated Council has to vote on the amendment first. The history was that it had already I become a distraction with internet use during the meeting, appreciates Councilmember Enochs desire to have all of the tools possible be available but the decision at the time of the rule was that it was becoming , a difficulty. i I I I �I i 04/02/12 3922 "'""'Councilmember Brown amended the main motion to specifically authorize the use of intemet which is currently available on the laptops. The amended motion died for Iack of a second. *'****Councilmember Brown amended the main motion to allow for POP3 access to the City email accounts on the laptops. The amended motion died for Iack of a second. Counciimember Brown stated Council can currently access Municode and the City website but no e-mail on the laptops at the dais. RESOLUTIONS "Counciimember Hiii moved to approve Resolution No. R2012-06 -A resolution of the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, amending Rules of Procedure for the conduct of City Council meetings by amending Rule 16 to change the order of business; and repealing alI other resolutions inconsistent or in confiict herewith. 'I Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved 6-1 with Councilmember Brown opposed. **Councilmember Barker moved to approve Resolution No. R2012-07-A resolution of the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, approving a settlement agreement with the City of Houston, Texas for True-Up compensation claims; and repealing all other resolutions inconsistent or in conflict herewith. Seconded by Councilmember HiII. The motion was approved 6-1 with Councilmember McGinnis opposed. Lengthy discussion was held by Mayor Smith, Council and Staff regarding the prudence of a settlement with the City of Houston, Texas, for True-Up compensation claims, justification for a settlement, the i financial aspects of the settlement, and the possibiiity of an entity other than the City of Houston to manage. "Councilmember Barker moved to approve Resolution No. R2012-08 -A resolution of the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, in accordance with 12 U.S.0 1701u, (Section 3), in which the City of i Friendswood agrees to implement the following steps, which, to the greatest extent feasibie, will provide job training, employment and contracting opportunities for Section 3 residents and Section 3 businesses of the areas in which the Community Development Block Grant— Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) project is being carried out; and repealing all other resolutions inconsistent or in conflict herewith. Seconded by Mayor Smith. The motion was approved unanimously. i '"Mayor Smith moved to approve Resolution No. R2072-09 -A resolution of the City Council of the City of li Friendswood, Texas, establishing ruies and reguiations regarding the use of excessive force during I nonviolent civil rights demonstrations, including physicalfy barring entrance to a facility or location which is i the subject of such demonstrations, in the City of Friendswood, Texas; and repealing all other resolutions ', inconsistent or in conflict herewith. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approved unanimously. I '*Mayor Smith moved to approve Resolution No. R2012-10 -A resolution of the City Council of the City of �I Friendswood, Texas, adopting an intemal grievance procedure providing for prompt and equitable ! resolution alleging any action prohibited by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ' Regulations (24 CFR SUBPART A SEC. 8.4(a)) implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of ; 1973 as amended (29 USC 794); and repealing all other resolutions inconsistent or in conflict herewith. ' Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. ', 04/02/12 3923 I i ORDINANCES **Councilmember Hill moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2012-09 - An ordinance approving a vacation of a pubiic right-of-way situated along the southeasterly property Iine of Lot 118 and along the southeasterly and southwesterly property lines of Lot 117 of the partial replat of Slone Subdivisions, Friendswood, Texas; authorizing the Mayor Smith to execute and the City Secretary to attest a quitclaim deed by and between the City and Autumn Creek Development, Ltd. Seconded by Councilmember Barker. The motion was approved unanimously. *`Councilmember Scott moved to approve the Second and Final readi�g of Ordinance No. 2012-10 -An ordinance amending Appendix C of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Appendix C being the Zoning Ordinance of the City, by changing the zoning classification of 500 square feet of Iease space located in the Kroger building located at 151 N. Friendswood Dr., Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas, from Community Shopping Center (CSC) to CSC with a Special Use Permit (CSC/SUP) to allow NAICS Use#522298 aIl other Non-Depository Credit Intermediation (I.E. Pawn Shops); providing for an amendment of the City's official Zoning Map; providing for a penalty in an amount not to exceed $2,000 for each day of violation of any provision hereof; and providing for severability. Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion failed 2-5 with Mayor Smith and Counciimembers , Barker, Brown, Enochs, and Hill opposed. I Lengthy discussion was held by Mayor Smith, Council and Staff regarding the prudence of zoning a portion of the City to allow for pawn shops and specifically Gold and Silver Buyers, discussed safety concerns, the fit of the establishment into the community, and the question of the lack of increased revenue to the City. *"`Councilmember Scott called the question. There was no objection to the question being called. i *"Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2012-12 - An ordinance amending Appendix C of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Appendix C being the Zoning Ordinance of the Ciry, by changing the zoning classification of property located at 304 W. Parkwood Avenue, Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas, from Community Shopping Center (CSC) to CSC with a Special Use Permit (CSC/SUP) to allow NAICS Use#44112 Used Car Dealers; providing tor an amendment of the City's Official Zoning Map; providing for a penalty in an amount not to exceed $2,000 for each day of violation of any provision hereof; and providing for severability. Seconded by Councilmember Brown. The motion was approved 5-2 with Mayor Smith and Councilmember Enochs opposed. Mayor Smith closed all open Joint Public Hearings. � Pianning and Zoning Gommissio� Vice Chair Mark McLean came down from the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting and stated there was a unanimous vote of 7-0 not to recommend approval of the application for proposed ordinance No. T2012-12. Mayor Smith asked the points that caused the vote and Vice Chair McLean stated parking, unintended consequences, and the fact that the zone change goes with the property. Further discussion took place between Mayor and Councii. "*Councilmember Barker called the question. Mayor Smith asked for any objection to calling the question. Councilmember Enochs and Mayor Smith objected to calling the question. The objection to � calling the question was not approved so the question was called. The vote to call the question was �, approved 5-2 with Mayor Smith and Counciimember Enochs opposed. ', I I' li � 04/02/12 3924 '*Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2012-13 - An ordinance amending City of Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2011-31, passed and approved October 3, 2011, same being an ordinance approving and adopting the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2011-2012 by approving "Budget Amendment VI" to the "Original General Budget of the City of Friendswood, Texas, for the Fiscal Year 2011-2012"; providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of certain funds; providing for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject. Seconded by Councilmember Barker. The motion was approved unanimously. Counciimember Brown asked for a copy of the adopted policies that support the newly created position of Assistant City Manager. "`Mayor Smith called a point of order that Councilmember Brown cannot give a directive to Staff during a City Council meeting as an individual. COMMUNICATIONS PROM THE MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBERS Councilmembers Scott and Enochs stated they had no report. Councilmember Barker stated the City recently Iost a valued citizen and employee with the death of Friendswood Police Department Captain Mike Hurley, who was a valued part of this City and will be missed. Councilmember Hill stated he and Captain Hurley spent several long days after Hurricane Ike at the ' Federal Emergency Management Agency's Point of Dispensing (POD}, he was his friend, a good employee, and will be missed. Councilmember McGinnis stated he attended the Library Board meeting. The Board is excited about the consultanYs report to expand the Iibrary, was invited by the Texas Municipal League (TML) to participate in one of their committees, the Committee on Revenue a�d Tax, which they use to inform of their Iegislative policies and the first meeting is May 04, 2012, and will report the results of that meeting to Council. i Councilmember Brown stated an Ad Hoc meeting for Homeowners Associations (HOA's) is tentatively scheduled for April 28, 2012. Mayor Smith spoke of Captain Mike Hurley, was impressed by the "send-off' by the Friendswood, Houston, and Pasadena police departments as well as individual members of Deer Park and League City police departments as well as other poiice departments and the wonderful job of letting Mike Hurley's family know how much he meant to us aII. Captain Hurley spent 20 years with the Houston Police Department and 17 years with the Friendswood Police Department. The Friendswood Police Department did a great job with the ceremony, thanked Houston Police Chief Charles McClelland and the Pasadena i Police Department for hosting the ceremony and providing services for the buriaL Friendswood's police i officers were spit shined and ready to show what Captain Hurley meant to the City of Friendswood. He il thanked Captain Hurley's family for the years of service they allowed him to serve, was a true public i servant and will be sorely missed. ' I � i 04/02/12 3925 CONSENT AGENDA "'Mayor Smith moved to approve aII items on the Consent Agenda as presented with the exception of Agenda item G. A. Authorizing the disposai of three Police Department vehicles through saie or auction. B. Authorizing the Mayor Smith to execute an agreement with Friendswood Area Swim Team (FAST) for the use of the Sesquicentennial Swimming Pool. C. Authorizing acceptance of public paving and utility improvements for the West Ranch Enclave at Lakeside for the contractor's one-year maintenance period. D. Authorizing acceptance of public utility improvements for the FM 2351/Beamer Road Utilities Project for the contractor's one-year maintenance period. E. Authorizing the Mayor to execute a contract with Hill Sand Company for debris management services for emergency management purposes. F. Ratifying and confirming the Mayor Smith's signature to accept a federal grant award from Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) for the Police Department. H. Accept February 2012 Property Tax Report. I. Approve Minutes of February 06, 2012, and March 05, 2012, Meetings. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approved 6-1 with Councilmember Brown opposed. "Councilmember Barker moved to approve Consent Agenda Item G with amendments. G. Authorizing Council to invoke Rule 1(A) of the Rules of Procedure to schedule the first regular May City Council meeting for May 07, 2012, with the starting time at the discretion of the City Manager. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion to amend was approve 6-1 with Councilmember Brown opposed. CLOSED EXECUTNE SESSION , Council convened into Executive Session in accordance with the Texas Government Code, pursuant to Section 551.074: Personnel Matters; to deliberate the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee. (Evaluation of the City Secretary) Council reconvened into Open Session at 9:54 PM with action taken later in the meeting. � RECONVENE INTO OPEN SESSION '"Councilmember Scott moved to approve a merit increase of 2.25 percent for the City Secretary. Seconded by Councilmember Enochs. The motion was approved 6-1 with Councilmember Brown opposed. Council expressed positive comments and suggestions regarding the pefformance of the City Secretary I and the office for which she is responsible, merit increase is well deserved. The meeting was adjourned at 10:35 PM. Mayor avid J.H. S ith I! i s����� �'• I : � '* I Melinda elsh, TRMtZ.;' •.,0'� City Secretary . U; :O • ', :0 ; :N'., ,1*: � , �••. ••�9TF O F'(E�p'y�• �,