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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2013-10-07 Regular 10/07/13 4201 STATE OF TEXAS ' CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD )( COUNTIES OF GALVESTON/HARRIS )( OCTOBER 07, 2013 i MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY COUNCIL THAT WAS HELD ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 07; 2013, AT 4:30 PM AT FRIENDSWOOD CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 910 S. FRIENDSWOOD DRIVE, FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, WITH THE FOLLOWING PRESENT: CONSTITUTING A QUORUM: MAYOR KEVIN HOLLAND MAYOR PRO-TEM BILLY ENOCHS COUNCILMEMBER STEVE ROCKEY COUNCILMEMBER JIM HILL COUNCILMEMBER PAT MCGINNIS COUNCILMEMBER JOHN SCOTT COUNCILMEMBER CARLGUSTAFSON CITY ATTORNEY ARNOLD POLANCO CITY MANAGER ROGER ROECKER CITY SECRETARY MELINDA WELSH REGULAR SESSION Mayor Holland called the meeting to order. The invocation was given by Pastor Danny Mercer with Friendswood Church of Christ. ' Mayor Holland led the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and to the State of Texas. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC Mayor Holland asked if anyone would like to speak. No one spoke. CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Holland asked if anyone would like to speak regarding the Executive Session. No one spoke. Council convened into Executive Session in accordance with the Texas Government Code, pursuant to, Section 551.071 - Consultation with attorney concerning pending or contemplated litigation; a settlement offer; or a matter in which the duty of the attorney requires it (Wight Realty Interests, Ltd. vs. City of Friendswood). RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION Council reconvened into Open Session with no action taken later in the meeting. WORK SESSION Mayor Holland opened the discussion with the Community and Economic Development Committee regarding the FM 528 strategy. Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC) Chair Jeremy Magnuson gave a history of how the FM 528 strategy report was developed, is a tool for Council to use, is not solely the views of CEDC, input was received from property owners, reviewed report and ' received input from the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z), Parks and Recreation Board, and Keep Friendswood Beautiful (KFB). Mr. Magnuson presented a PowerPoint presentation, discussed why the FM 528 corridor is important to the City, the corridor has the largest amount of commercial acreage left in the City and therefore has the greatest potential to diversify the tax base, free market has determined the 10/07/13 4202 FM 528 corridor area to be the most attractive for commercial development, FM 528 is linked to 1-45 with great visibility and physical attributes of being a seven-lane road that carries more than 31,000 cars per , day, there are large commercial tracts available along the corridor, and records show the area generates a substantial portion of the City of Friendswood's property and sales tax. Between February 13 and June 19, 2013, eighteen commercial property owners and/or their representatives were visited by members of CEDC. These eighteen property owners account for 95% of the 1,348 acres of undeveloped commercial land along the FM 528 corridor. Some of the concerns of the FM 528 commercial property owners are that neighborhood's objections deter future developments, noncommercial developments have devalued their land and made it less attractive to developers, a severe lack of infrastructure, feels the City is not business friendly and sends mixed signals in regards to commercial development. The FM 528 corridor must be utilized at its "highest and best use" because everyone wants to build homes in the City of Friendswood. The City is running out of residential land and residential developers would like to encroach on the available commercial property. There are currently 71 undeveloped commercial property lots abutting FM 528 which accounts for the majority of all undeveloped land. The City has just enough prime real estate to reach the 80/20 (residential/commercial) goal. Every year the City relies more heavily on residential property values as a source of tax revenue and at the pace of current development, residential property will build out first leaving only undeveloped commercial land. As the City runs out of residential zoned land there will be ever-mounting pressure to rezone commercial property to residential in order to meet the market demand. The City Council can help by adopting a resolution of support for the FM 528 strategy, improve infrastructure on FM 528, seek CEDC input on all downzoning requests, require an economic/fiscal impact analysis on zone change requests from commercial to residential, seek CEDC input when utilizing incentives and special financing districts, formulate a unified FM 528 policy to ensure all boards and committees work cohesively in promoting, protecting, and developing Friendswood's most valuable commercial land, and launch a public awareness campaign to help communicate the FM 528 strategy and the overall importance to diversify the tax base. City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission, CEDC, Keep Friendswood Beautiful, and the Parks and Recreation Board need to work cohesively to ensure the City can achieve the "highest and best use" of the FM 528 ' commercial land. Further discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC) Chair Jeremy Magnuson regarding the success of HEB and why there are not more commercial developers clamoring to come to the City of Friendswood. Infrastructure needs are a problem, differing areas of concern such as near Alvin and in particular a large lot in Harris County will not develop until residential expands to that portion of Friendswood. Economic Development Coordinator Karen Capps stated there are large chunks of land by 1-45 with no infrastructure, another tract that's a master plan on a large tract and has been owned by the bank since 2006 or 2007, price has been dropped but is still high, yield on the property is also an issue, floodway affected the property after the Planned Unit Development (PUD) had been approved, and when commercial developers want to come into the City and develop residents complain. Mr. Magnuson stated Council has to be firm and say no regarding downzoning changes, whole City needs to be surveyed and not just the impacted area in order for Council to make a decision. The citizen survey found that residents want more retail and diversification of the tax base. Councilmember Hill stated residential complaints also affect the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z), asked would it be appropriate to have P&Z have a say in the hearing, and City Attorney Arnold Polanco answered P&Z could state their opinions during a Joint Public Hearing. Councilmember Rockey asked what was the plan for better public awareness of nearby property owners and Ms. Capps stated all committees need to be on the same page regarding the FM 528 corridor, suggests having the Mayor on video on the Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Channel to educate the public. Councilmember McGinnis asked if additional buffers could be established between commercial and residential properties such as possible hike and bike trails and Mr. Magnuson answered CEDC agrees but hard to get a developer to agree, if developer agrees to a buffer zone there will still be opponents to the commercial development being along residential. Ms. Capps thanked CEDC member Tony Anan who met with all the property owners, stated tools CEDC thought would be helpful to Council regarding future zone change requests would be to follow the Future Land Use Plan, have a policy ' against downzoning, seek CEDC input for any rezoning request that goes from commercial to residential, and request a fiscal impact analysis. Mr. Anan stated he builds retail schools, was approached by the committee to reach retailers regarding their interest in coming into the City of Friendswood, feedback 10/07/13 4203 I received was 1-45 is a power retail corridor, attracts big box retailers, has the infrastructure, are competing ' with that and is not realistic for Friendswood, smaller retail is realistic, one to five acre developments, expect the property to be ready to go with infrastructure, corner of FM 518 and FM 528 is the hub right now, eventually will spread out, in communication with potential end users they want to see other retail go, in first, CEDC spent a lot of time on the report, all but two pieces of property are owned by individuals, who have no interest in developing, City's job is not to squander that opportunity, FM 528 is the most: sought after property the City of Friendswood has, commercial generates more tax revenue than residential, does not use as many City resources as a residential neighborhood, behooves the City to try and promote commercial development, small business owners are frustrated in dealing with the City,; larger developers felt the City of Friendswood was very progressive, when Council receives a request for, downzoning consider the long term effects. Councilmember McGinnis asked if a new church or nursing' home would like to come into a prime spot on FM 528 is there a plan to re-route to another area of the City that would be more ideal, and Ms. Capps answered P&Z is working on the Permitted Use Table (PUT) and will try to manage it that way. Councilmember Gustafson asked what would be an effective means to promote the FM 528 corridor to developers and Mr. Anan answered Council giving CEDC some direction would be helpful, there is a lot of misinformation that the City is not commercial friendly and, favors residential over commercial and that needs to be cleared up. Mayor Holland stated if Council wants to show that the City of Friendswood is user friendly then attend the upcoming Annual Broker/Developer event. Mayor Holland opened the discussion with the Parks and Recreation Board regarding changes to the policies and procedures for City Parks. Parks and Recreation Board members Tom Goodwin, David Montz and Mary Wise, along with Community Services Director James Toney, appeared before Council to present the proposed changes to the policies and procedures. The changes proposed are to provide a listing of general rules in order to have a common set of policies and procedures for all parks, rules regarding destruction of park property, dumping, sign posting, parking, unauthorized vehicles, security ' and pets would be addressed. The sale of alcohol would be prohibited at all parks, glass containers and smoking would be prohibited at all parks, alcohol may only be possessed during events not specifically designed for the participation of minors. Firearms rules would be updated to reflect current State Law which permits concealed firearms to be carried by licensed individuals. As needed, rules will be updated, or added to the facility specific listings. The security policy is added to all listings where it applies. "Glass' containers and smoking are prohibited" is added to all listings. A full listing of all new rules for the Splash Pad is proposed to be added under Stevenson Park. Sesquicentennial Pool rules would be updated and added under Stevenson Park. The Fire Marshal's building capacity is proposed to be updated for indoor, facilities. Centennial Park and the Evelyn B. Newman Amphitheatre, previously not included in the City, Council approved Policies and Procedures, would be added and updated. The fee structure for all facilities available for reservation would be updated to reflect building improvements and to remain consistent with neighboring cities. Council was provided a list of current and proposed fees. Further discussion took place between Mayor, Council, Staff, and the Parks and Recreation Board regarding proposed policy and procedure changes to the Community Services Rules and Regulations for the Parks and Recreation Facilities. The sale of alcohol would not be permitted, Staff would determine if an event was designated for the participation of minors, alcohol would be allowed at Jones Hangar, policies regarding the consumption of alcohol have been in effect since the beginning of the Rules and Regulations, and some language has been added to the policies and procedures to make enforcement easier. Further discussion was held regarding the difference in fees charged to residents and nonli residents. Councilmembers Rockey and Enochs stated they believed there should be a higher percentage and a designated matrix to determine the difference in fees charged to residents versus non residents, surrounding communities were consulted regarding fee scale, pool usage and fees, rules for user groups, security requirements, and smoking requirements. Councilmembers Scott and Gustafson made the suggestion to clarify the difference in user groups versus groups that will be required to provide security for groups with 75 or more people. The Parks and Recreation Board will bring changes back to ' Council for their approval. Mayor Holland opened the discussion regarding the November 5, 2013, Bond Election. City Manager Roger Rocker presented a PowerPoint presentation regarding the upcoming Bond Election and stated the I 10/07/13 4204 presentation is what Staff has worked on and will be presented upon request for factual information at Homeowners Association meetings or any groups interested. The City Manager began the PowerPoint ' presentation by stating the City Attorney has reviewed the presentation, Election Day will be Tuesday, November 5, 2013, and Early Voting will be held October 21, 2013, through November 01, 2013. A General Obligation Bond is a financing tool that a City can use to finance large capital projects over a multi-year period, similar to a home mortgage. The reason for issuing bonds is that municipalities constantly face the challenges of replacing and repairing aging infrastructure and maintaining the community's quality of life. Similar to ignoring a "check engine" light in your car, neglecting infrastructure can eventually cost much more than periodic scheduled maintenance when a catastrophic failure eventually occurs. Councilmember Enochs stated he was concerned with the analogy used and wording on the Why issue bonds slide, bullet No. 2, and the City Manager stated Staff would work on the wording with the City Attorney. Councilmember Hill stated he had a concern with bullet No. 2 stating that infrastructure has been neglected, sounds strong to him, and the City Manager explained the statement was not specific to the City of Friendswood. City Manager Roger Roecker continued the PowerPoint presentation and stated many Capital Project costs exceed the City's ability to fund on a "pay as you go" basis so bonds are used to allow the City to pay for more costly projects over a longer period of time. The City of Friendswood has a Standard & Poor's credit rating of AA-, is based on the City's strong financial liquidity and solid ability to meet existing debt service obligations, and indicates a low risk investment for lenders and results in the City's ability to obtain lower interest rates on municipal bond issuances. An ad-hoc Citizen Bond Advisory Group of over 80 residents volunteered their time to gain input from citizens regarding a future bond election. The group began working in January 2013, and divided into smaller groups focusing on facilities, parks, streets and drainage, and finance. The group reviewed the City's planning documents such as Capital Improvements Plan, financial info, and met with City Staff and other boards, commissions, and committees to gather , facts. In June 2013, the group recommended the City call a November 5, 2013, Bond Election with four propositions which are new facilities and upgrades for the Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department, library expansion and renovation, acquire new parkland, expand and improve existing parks, including Lake Friendswood, and street improvements. In August 2013, Council passed an ordinance calling for the November bond election, and the ballot follows the Bond Advisory Group's ultimate recommendations. Proposition No. 1 will state the issuance of$6,565,000 tax bonds for designing, improving, expanding and equipping City Fire Station No. 4 and designing, constructing, improving, and equipping a new fire station adjacent to the Public Safety Building in the City. Proposition No. 2 will state the issuance of$2,525,000 tax bonds for the purpose of design, improving and expanding the municipal library. Proposition No. 3 will state the issuance of$7,285,000 tax bonds for the purpose of designing, improving and expanding parks and recreational facilities in the City, and the acquisition of land and interest in land for such purposes, including improvements to and expansion of, Centennial Park, Lake Friendswood, Sports Park, Stevenson Park and the acquisition and improvement of land for new parks in the City. Proposition No. 4 will state the issuance of$7,710,000 tax bonds for road and street improvements in the City, including, but not limited to, improving Blackhawk Boulevard, Mary Ann Drive, Shadow Bend Avenue, Townes Road, Winding Road and Woodlawn Drive. A summary of each proposition was given with slides showing architectural renderings of the proposed new fire station, expansion of the library, improvements to City parks, and improvements to streets and roads throughout the City. Councilmember Enochs stated on Proposition No. 4 slide, the streets slide should state street improvements such as and then include a list of streets, to allow flexibility, also concerned with the Proposition No. 1 Fire Station slide about stating improved response times, and the City Manager stated improved response times was discussed with the City Attorney and it is a fact that response time would be improved. Councilmember Rockey asked if it would be possible to include a slide stating that money cannot cross the bonds, has heard from several residents regarding if funds could be crossed if a proposition did not pass. The City Manager stated Staff can add a slide discussing that. ' The City Manager continued the PowerPoint presentation and explained what it would do to taxes if the propositions were approved. The City would work with a group of professional financial advisors to try to I 10/07/13 4205 i minimize the impact on the City's property tax rate, and, if approved, the bonds would be sold in multiple ' issues over several years. Further discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and the City Manager regarding the projected tax, rate change if all four bond propositions are approved, proposed tax rate increase if all propositions pass• is estimated to be five and a half cents, bonds are projected to be issued in 2015, 2017, and 2019 stretching the tax rate increase over a period of years, estimated a 25 year issuance of bonds, Council can accelerate payment of bonds if desired, interest rates vary on the market at the issuance of the bonds. The City Manager continued with the PowerPoint presentation and discussed when construction would begin if a proposition is approved. Before construction, the City must take steps to plan, design, and bid a project, depending upon the type of project, and the process from planning to construction may take a number of months. If the bond propositions are not approved by the voters and funding is not available to complete the work, that project is held for possible inclusion in any future bond packages. Councilmember McGinnis stated he believes the public needs to be made aware that the fifth bond; issuance for West Ranch Management District has nothing to do with the bond propositions for the City. The City Manager stated Staff will get the word out to the public. Mayor Holland recessed the meeting at 6:46 PM and reconvened the meeting at 7:06 PM. With concurrence of Council, Mayor Holland moved to Agenda Item 8, Communications from the Public. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC ' Faye Roberson, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she would like to speak regarding parks policies in regards to alcohol consumption and smoking, is opposed to both. Troy Elmore, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated he was at the meeting to speak• regarding a permanent solution to Northfield Estates traffic issue and temporary speed bumps, volume) has gone down slightly along with speed, there are two options to either remove the speed bumps or offer) another permanent solution. Lori Ferazzi, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she lives in Northfield Estates, concerned with traffic issues, asked Council to create an ad hoc committee on this problem, still seeing speeders, consider temporary barrier, speed bumps have helped but have caused a nuisance. Kelly Kramer, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she would like Council's help with thei Northfield Estates issue, survey that Forest of Friendswood Homeowners Association conducted was not• accurate, consider temporary closure of Westward Lane, she and her neighbor put boulders in their yards) because people were driving up in their yards to avoid the speed bumps. Stephanie Lacombe, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated speed bumps in Northfield Estates bookend her home, they work but still are a problem, please do not remove until another solution is found. With concurrence of Council Mayor Holland moved to Agenda Item 7, Joint Public Hearings. JOINT PUBLIC HEARINGS I I Mayor Holland and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Mark McLean called a Joint Public hearing to ' order to receive comments from the public, both oral and written, regarding a zone classification change request for 400 E. Parkwood Ave., also known as Friendswood Retirement Living Center (plat) being a tract of land containing 13.3288 acres out of Lots 3 thru 6, Block 8, of Antoinette Voss Subdivision and also being a portion of the replat of "The Park", located in the Sarah McKissick League, Galveston i 10/07/13 4206 County, Texas, to amend Specific Use Permit No. 86-14 to clarify the previously approved "Retirement Home for the Ambulatory Elderly" by adding NAICS Use No. 6233 Community Care Facilities for the ' Elderly and to amend the previously approved site plan by adding a new building and altering an existing building. Planning Manager Nick Haby stated there was an error in the ordinance that was posted, NAICS Use No. 623 "Nursing and Residential Care Facilities" is the actual NAICS Use No. used in the ordinance, NAICS Use No. 6233 "Community Care Facilities for the Elderly" was posted in the Joint Public Hearing, both Use No.'s will be considered by the Planning and Zoning Commission, gave a brief explanation of request. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in favor of the request. David Clement, applicant, stated he represents the owner of Village on the Park, has been in Friendswood for 25 years and is an independent living facility, have requested for more space and to add units, additional need for healthcare in the area and will license this one section for residents as they age in place. Mayor Holland asked about a two-story building for aging citizens, and Mr. Clement answered there will be an elevator. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in opposition of the request. No one spoke. . Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Holland left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open. ' Mayor Holland and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Mark McLean called a Joint Public Hearing to order to receive comments from the public, both oral and written, regarding amending Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance of the City of Friendswood Code of Ordinances, regarding amendments to Section 8. Supplemental District Regulations, M. Commercial Activities and Outdoor Sales by adding regulations for Farmers Markets. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in opposition of the request. No one spoke. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Holland left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open. Mayor Holland and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Mark McLean called a Joint Public Hearing to order to receive comments from the public, both oral and written, regarding a zone classification change request for a tract of land containing .333 acres, Lot 1, Block 1, of Winding Hollow located at 107 Shadwell, Galveston County, Texas, to amend Specific Use Permit No. 2011-11 and allow NAICS Use No. 812112 Beauty Salons. Planning Manager Nick Haby stated the applicant would like to add a use for beauty salons, is located on the other side of Stevenson Park. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in favor of the request. Monique Campbell, applicant and Friendswood resident since 1988, stated she has done business in , Friendswood since 2012, the business is eyelash extensions and not hair, there will not be any changes made to the building or parking spaces. i 10/07/13 4207' Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in opposition of the: ' request. No one spoke. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Mark McLean adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's) portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Holland left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open. Mayor Holland and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Mark McLean called a Joint Public Hearing to; order to receive comments from the public, both oral and written, regarding a zone classification change request from Planned Unit Development (PUD) No. 2004-13 to Community Shopping Center (CSC) and Single Family Residential (SFR) at 3801 FM 528, being a total of 135.778 acres: 1. Tract 1 from PUD to SFR: 123.20 acre tract of land situated in the Sarah McKissick Survey, Harris County, Texas. 2. Tract 2 from PUD to CSC: 3.197 acre tract of land situated in the Sarah McKissick Survey, Harris County, Texas. 3. Tract 3 from PUD to CSC: 9.4 acre tract of land situated in the Sarah McKissick Survey, Harris County, Texas. Planning Manager Nick Haby stated the property is referred to as the Whitcomb property, current PUD is, 135 acres with numerous uses, applicant submitted an application to change the lot to 123 acres of SFR j with approximately 12.5 acres zoned for CSC. Mayor Holland asked if the tract would be divided into three parcels, divided by the road coming in from Blackhawk Boulevard, and Mr. Haby stated yes the land will be divided into three parcels and the CSC is split in two. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in favor of the request. ' Jeff Anderson with Beazer Homes stated they currently have the 123 acres under contract with Wells Fargo Bank, is requesting a zoning change to SFR and CSC on the tracts, CSC is split due to Blackhawk; Boulevard, not requesting any variances on lot sizes, tract of land has been extremely difficult to develop, many groups have shown interest in the tract but have not been successful, has spoken to the. Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC), knows CEDC would like to keep the whole tract as commercial, if the interest was there it would have sold already, can create value and continue to make the City of Friendswood a great place to live. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean asked if anyone would like to speak in opposition of the request. Mark Perry, Community and Economic Development Committee (CEDC) member, stated the CEDC opposes the rezoning and asks Council to not approve the request, refer to work session earlier in this meeting regarding commercial property, important not to downzone because of value it brings economically to the City of Friendswood, position is City cannot keep chipping away at the remaining commercial properties and not expect to have to raise property tax rates, commercial raises more tax revenue, City labeled property as prime commercial real estate in the 1990's, physical attributes are high traffic count, a major thoroughfare, Blackhawk Boulevard extension, best use would be commercial and Mixed Use Development, recent survey by citizens was diversification of tax base and attract businesses, does not conform to current zoning map, CEDC believes there is no economic benefit to the City or taxpayers, strongly recommends the City not approve the zone change request, wait for a Mixed Use Developer that matches the land's commercial potential. Mike Hess, Friendswood resident, stated the property is along the creek, whatever is developed should maintain pristine view on the lake for wildlife and waterfowl, Whitcomb Cemetery is also on the land, need to make sure it is maintained, known and protected. ' David Smith, Friendswood resident, stated he would like to encourage Council to vote against the rezoning request, does not believe it meets the test of the City's underlying documents that memorializes past decades of City Council meetings, Planning and Zoning Commission meetings, Community and 10/07/13 4208 Economic Development meetings and Public Hearings, documents such as Vision 2020 that talks about economic diversity within the community, Comprehensive Land Plan that designates this property as a ' piece of major commercial development, does not support shrinking the gap in the City's financial requirements in a long term financial plan, City does not need another subdivision and strip center, have been successful with that from a family planning standpoint but it has hurt the City as far as revenue to support that same residential base of homeowners, need to start making some changes, this is one of the very few properties available that abuts the creek and road that does not buffer a neighborhood, many developers have looked at this property but it was around the time that the economy downturn took place, financial money shrunk and financing was not available, many developers went out of business, the economy is getting better, suggested the opportunity for commercial development will increase not decrease, should wait and take advantage of the opportunity. He further stated the within the next two years new roads will be connected to FM 528, new subdivisions will be built outside the City of Friendswood, will increase traffic and influence, and the City needs to take advantage of bringing those commercial tax dollars into the City of Friendswood. If the zoning does not remain as a Planned Unit Development (PUD) the City forgoes the opportunity of the property being developed into things such as appliance stores, bowling alleys, clothing and shoe stores, movie theaters, engineering firms, biomedical research facilities, strip centers will not do it. There is one benefit of rezoning the property that must be acknowledged, part of the property could become church property, and God's work would be done. Without the rezoning this could be done in conjunction with a larger commercial development. George Adler, Friendswood resident, stated he moved to the City of Friendswood in 1988, was quiet and peaceful, currently can hear sirens every night, traffic and crime has tripled through the years, would rather see parks or churches but not another subdivision. Planning and Zoning Commission Chair McLean adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's portion of the Joint Public Hearing to convene in the upstairs conference room. Mayor Holland left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open. , With concurrence of Council, Mayor Holland moved to Agenda Item 9, Communications from Committees and Special Reports. COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL REPORTS Senior Citizen Advisory Committee Chair Paul Gordner reported on the activities at the Senior Center. Staff is doing an excellent job at the Senior Center. The bi-monthly newsletter is now being distributed by e-mail with a few being published at the Center upon request. Daily transportation to and from the Senior Center is being provided by the new bus, diverse activities are provided to improve seniors physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. Average daily attendance at the center is 100. Events for the year included a spaghetti luncheon, spring and fall picnics, fishing tournament, volunteer luncheon, watermelon bash and bingo, casino extravaganza, health fair, Go Texan luncheon, tea party, BBQ fundraiser, celebration of marriage, rodeo, Christmas in September, pie social, quarterly breakfast, cookie social, and a Fashion Show. The holiday events included a Valentine dance, Thanksgiving potluck, Christmas Luncheon, Cinco de Mayo celebration, and Veterans luncheon. Over 60 trips to various attractions were made. Accomplishments and improvements for the year were the purchase of 45 new chairs, completion of the bus awning, completion of a new sidewalk to the parking lot, a productive garden, addition of three handicap parking spaces, and the completion of a new storage room to better utilize existing space. Some classes now have as many as 45 participants so a larger facility may be needed in the future. It has been a very busy year and the committee is expecting better things to happen in the future, invited Council to come visit the Senior Center. Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) Executive Director Dan Seal gave the annual report and stated it has been a busy year and a pleasure working with the City of Friendswood. BAHEP is a 37 year old, member-driven organization which provides leadership to stimulate regional economic ' development and employment. More than 260 member companies, business professionals, local governments, and educational institutions are engaged to bring about prosperity to the 800,000 people who live and work in this region. He further reported on BAHEP's work to recruit, retain, and expand i 10/07/13 4209 i companies and jobs. This year almost half of BAHEP's leads are heavy industrial companies, whichl many of their employees will choose to live or shop in the City of Friendswood. BAHEP is working to, counter the negative Biggert-Waters federal legislation which is making flood insurance more expensive for homeowners and businesses. Mr. Seal stated on behalf of BAHEP he would like to thank, Friendswood City Council for recently passing a resolution of support in favor of amending the damaging bill. BAHEP is also working with Dr. Bill Merrell of Texas A&M University to advance storm surge suppression technologies to protect the region from hurricane surges. In 2013, BAHEP conducted eight advocacy trips, two trips to Washington D.C., and six trips to Austin during the Texas Legislature Session. A group went to Washington D.C., for the Annual Citizens for Space Exploration Advocacy to meet with Congress to discuss the benefit of space exploration, message of the importance of NASA was delivered to each congressional office with the help of Councilmember Rockey. In Austin, BAHEP advocated at' Space Day Texas and at Texas Chemical Day, advocated for local education partners and for the region's Texas Aerospace Scholars program. BAHEP hosted four national site consultants this year and attended several conferences including the Heli-Expo Conference, the Commercial Real Estate Expo, and the Biotechnology Conference. In November, BAHEP will support the City of Friendswood in the Annual Commercial Broker and Developer Day Lunch and Learn, and Economic Development Coordinator Karen Capps will attend the International Shopping Center Council's Conference with BAHEP to promote retail opportunities in the City of Friendswood. BAHEP is working with officials at Friendswood's neighboring Ellington Airport to help Ellington become licensed as a commercial spaceport. BAHEP is also working with State Senator Larry Taylor to get Ellington Field certified during the next legislative session as a base that has been realigned according to Base Realignment and Closure. It has been a busy year and BAHEP is proud of their successful relationship with the City of Friendswood. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT ' City Manager Roger Roecker reported in October of 2003, the City teamed up with the Friendswood Chamber of Commerce to conduct the first Annual Broker Event on the same day as the Chambers. Annual Golf Tournament. This year's 111h Annual Broker and Developer Day Event and 161h Annual Swing into Fall Golf Tournament will be held on, October 17, 2013, at Timber Creek Golf Club. Each year, there are about 50 attendees at the workshop, and more than half of the participants at the Chamber's golf tournament are from the broker event. The event is sponsored by CenterPoint Energy's Economic Development Department. The Chair of the Community and Economic Development Committee, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, and Economic Development Coordinator will makes presentations and interact with the commercial brokers and developers interested in doing business in the, City of Friendswood. The Mayor and Council's involvement in this important event is appreciated. The City Manager reported the Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department (FVFD) will host their AnnuJ Open House on Sunday, October 13, 2013, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It will be held at Fire Station No. 1 in)' front of Stevenson Park on Friendswood Drive. The City contracts with the FVFD to provide fire and! emergency medical services to the citizens of Friendswood. The department responds to an average ofl 2,400 calls per year with approximately 90 volunteers operating from four fire stations. Emergency, service is provided with three Mobile Intensive Care capable ambulances, four Emergency Medical Service first responder vehicles, five engines, one ladder truck and other support vehicles. This will be a great opportunity for the residents of Friendswood to learn about the Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department and the services they provide to the community. The City Manager reported in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the City and Keep Friendswood Beautiful are holding the Annual Fall Haul-A-Day, cleanup and garage sale event on Saturday, November, 2, 2013, at Centennial Park. This is not an area-wide event, but is presented for the benefit of the citizens of Friendswood. Free paper shredding is being sponsored by Copy Dr. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until the truck is full. There is a 200 pound limit of paper per vehicle. Only non-hazardous items will be accepted. ' Residents can donate garage sale items to Keep Friendswood Beautiful (KFB). Garage sale items can be dropped off the morning of the event at Centennial Park. All proceeds from the garage sale will benefit the beautification of City facilities and parks. KFB would like to encourage residents to bring items that would benefit the wildlife rehabbers in Friendswood. They need aquariums (do not have to hold water), 10/07/13 4210 dog and cat kennel carriers, clean rags (towels/shirts), and shallow crock bowls. These volunteers take care of the many injured wild animals that make their homes in Friendswood's green space. Hazardous ' Waste will not be accepted. The City Manager reported as a result of being affected by Hurricane Ike in 2008, the City of Friendswood received approximately $2.5 Million in disaster recovery funding for generators at lift stations and water plants as well as improvements to Fire Station No. 3. This was a part of the State's"Round V of disaster recovery funding. The State's General Land Office (GLO) is responsible for managing and allocating these federal disaster dollars. A second round of disaster recovery funding was subsequently made available and the City was allocated approximately $4.5 Million dollars. Staff worked with the State for a number of months to determine which projects in the City would be eligible for this funding. The State ultimately approved funding for the expansion of Friendswood Link Road from Blackhawk Boulevard to FM 518. The City Manager gave an update of the City's Round 1 and Round 2.2 disaster recovery projects. Regarding Round 1, the City's emergency generator projects and Fire Station No. 3 rehabilitation have been completed, and Staff is pleased with the added readiness that these projects will provide in the event of another natural disaster. Staff was informed by the State soon after these projects were complete that there was approximately $496,000 in leftover funding (out of the original $2.5 million) that the City is still eligible to use. Working with the City's administrators and with the State, Staff was able to submit a 'draw request' for an approximate$117,000 cash reimbursement to pay the City back for local funds spent on Fire Station No. 3 (for the bay extension portion of the fire station) during the Round 1 Fire Station No. 3 work. After this reimbursement, the City will have $378,909 remaining in Round 1 grant funds. Staff is working with the City's grant administrator and plans to use these funds to install an improved electronic monitoring Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System that will be designed to monitor and collect data from critical water and wastewater systems, and communicate this information to the Public Works Department on a 24 hour basis. This is a vital system in helping Public Works operate and maintain the City's lift stations and water plants. Staff is currently working with the State to amend the City's "performance statement" to include the SCADA System project in the City's ' Round 1 set of the State's GLO eligible projects. Assuming it receives approval from the State, the project will need to be designed and bid. Regarding Round 2.2, the City has received environmental clearance on the Friendswood Link Road expansion project, and Staff is currently working on right-of-way (ROW) acquisition associated with the expansion. Engineering design is approximately 98% complete. Once the ROW acquisition process is finalized, the City will advertise and bid the project. Staff is aiming to advertise the project in the coming weeks, however the timing of this is contingent upon the finalization of the ROW acquisition, along with the State's review and approval of the City's GLO right-of-way acquisition documents. Staff will continue to keep Council updated on the status of these important projects as they move forward. The City Manager reported that Council approved the ordinance calling a bond election to be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2013. Staff is planning an Open House for Tuesday, October 15, 2013, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at City Hall. This is planned to be an educational forum to provide information to the public about each of the four bond propositions. A PowerPoint presentation regarding the proposed projects will be played continuously throughout the evening, written material will be available, and architectural renderings will be displayed in the City Hall lobby. Staff will also be on hand to answer questions. Another event related to the November 5, 2013, Bond Election is an opportunity for the citizens to visit Lake Friendswood on Saturday, October 19, 2013, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The development of the lake into a City park is included in Proposition No. 3, therefore, Staff is setting up this visit as a chance for the citizens to see the lake property. All of these activities are intended to provide information to help the citizens become more informed about the projects to be voted on in the upcoming election. ACTION ITEMS "Councilmember Enochs moved to approve the reappointment of Thomas McDonald, Corey Kirkland, Anthony Scarpa, Judy De Alejandro, Michelle Scarpa, Christine Scarpa, Stefanie Karecostas, Stacy , Scarpa, and Rufino Ramirez to the Fourth of July Steering Committee with terms to expire November 2016; reappointment of Robert Bozka and Alan Rasmussen to the Investment Committee with terms to expire November 2016; appointment of Katy Blanchard to Keep Friendswood Beautiful Committee with 10/07/13 4211 a term to expire November 2016; reappointment of Sara Eakin, Patricia Steinke, and Susan Stephens toll Keep Friendswood Beautiful with terms to expire November 2016; appointment of alternate members; Robert Zurawski, Elizabeth Stacy, and David Broom to the Library Board with terms to expire November 2016; and reappointment of regular member Irma Trevino, and alternate member Dennis Rundell to the; Senior Citizens Advisory Committee with terms to expire November 2016. Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. Councilmember Hill stated he will not be supporting the reappointment of Penny Burke to the Parks and Recreation Board, had a conversation with her earlier in the year and she stated she thought the City was poorly managed, when he attends other organization's events the City of Friendswood is used as the gold standard, have other members not wanting to return or attend the Parks and Recreation Board meetings because Ms. Burke takes up most of the time in the meeting. Councilmember Scott stated having served on the Parks and Recreation Board for three years prior to becoming a Councilmember he has not had any issues with Ms. Burke, she brings historical perspective to meetings, her passion does not always align with the rest of the board, need a diverse group of perspectives. Councilmember Scott stated that he supports the reappointment of Ms. Burke. "Councilmember Scott moved to approve the appointment of Justin Kimball to fill a vacancy of an unexpired term on the Parks and Recreation Board with a term to expire November 2015; appointment of Frank Stephen Hever to the Parks and Recreation Board with a term to expire November 2016; and reappointment of Lee Revere and Penny Burke to the Parks and Recreation Board with terms to expire November 2016. Seconded by Councilmember Gustafson. The motion was approved 6-1 with Councilmember Hill opposed. "*Mayor Holland moved to approve the traffic calming policy in Northfield Estates to include speed humps ' Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion failed 3-4 with Councilmembers Rockey, Enochs, Scott, and Gustafson opposed. Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri gave a brief explanation of the Northfield Estates traffic calming issues, and stated Staff is looking for direction from Council, speed bumps are not currently permitted in the City's current Traffic Calming Policy. Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and Staff regarding traffic calming measures in Northfield Estates. If Council decides to keep the speed humps in place Staff recommends a more permanent solution, speed humps were removed by people other than City Staff. Councilmember Hill stated he believes the speed humps have been effective in lowering vehicle speed, he would like to see permanent speed humps installed. Traffic counts have not been affected, traffic volume has remained consistent since the installation of the speed humps, has lowered the level of speed, does give a higher level of safety. Councilmember Enochs stated he believes it is too soon to declare victory or failure, need a multi- faceted approach to reach a solution. The Homeowners Association (HOA) conducted surveys, Staff and the HOA are awaiting direction from Council, Staffs recommendation is to follow the traffic calming policy, have the HOA come back to Council with a recommendation, and Staff has not seen anything from an engineering perspective to justify drastic measures in Northfield Estates that cannot be applied in other parts of the City. Councilmember Scott stated he will not support keeping the speed humps, issue was originally brought to Council as a problem with the volume of traffic not speeding, residents wanted the traffic reduced, only true answer to the problem is to get HOA and the majority of the residents in the neighborhood to petition Council for a resolution. Councilmember Scott stated further he does not believe currently that a majority of the neighborhood supports keeping the speed humps. Councilmemberi Gustafson stated there was not an overwhelming support of the speed humps by the residents, people are driving around the speed humps, and property values could be impacted negatively due to the speed ' humps being unsightly. Councilmember Rockey suggested that the Police Department increase patrols in Northfield Estates in an effort to alter driver's behavior, and Friendswood Police Chief Bob Wieners stated the Police Department had previously increased patrols and wrote tickets. Clarification was made on the motion, a vote in favor of the motion would be to keep the speed humps and create permanent 10/07/13 4212 speed humps in Northfield Estates, and a vote against the motion would be to remove the speed humps from Northfield Estates. ' **Councilmember Rockey moved to approve disposition of RFP No. 2013-08 for Utility Rate Study and award to Water Resources Management. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approve unanimously. **Councilmember Hill moved to approve a contract with Motorola, Inc. for dispatch consoles in the Police Department. Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. **Councilmember Rockey moved to approve an amended agreement with Harris County for election services for a November Band Election and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approved 6-1 with Councilmember Gustafson opposed. With concurrence of Council, Mayor Holland moved to Agenda Item 17, Resolution. RESOLUTION **Councilmember McGinnis moved to discuss Resolution No. R2013-19—A resolution of the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, approving the fifth Bond Issuance of the West Ranch Management District, for the proposed amount of$1,270,000. Seconded by Councilmember Rockey. No action was taken. Discussion between Mayor, Council, Staff, and Tim Austin, West Ranch Management District's General and Bond Council, regarding the fifth Bond Issuance of the West Ranch Management District for the ' proposed amount of$1,270,000. A brief history was given, in 2005 the City entered into an agreement that outlined to cap the overall debt at $14 Million, later the cap was raised to $15.4 Million. Further discussion was held regarding the maturity of the bonds, the City limits all Bond Issuance to no more than 30 years maturity, and all bonds will mature and be retired the same year. Mr. Austin explained the issuance cost, first bond issues always have a higher soft cost, pertains to the construction cost, cost of issuance of the fifth issuance is a good rate at 26%, management districts do not consist of the same credit rating of a municipality therefore the interest rate is higher, if Bond Issuance is delayed the 30 year maturity deadline is compressed and the management district has a harder time paying off the debit, causing a higher tax rate. Councilmember Rockey asked if Council did approve the Bond Issuance would the residents of West Ranch experience a tax rate increase incrementally, and Mr. Austin answered no, in the agreement with the City the management district cannot issue bonds if they cannot be serviced with a maximum 65 cent tax rate. Councilmember Rockey asked if Council does not approve the bond issuance what would happen, and Mr. Austin answered the bonds could not be issued, the agreement states the City will approve if conditions lined out in the agreement are met. Councilmember Enochs clarified that this bond issuance would not show on the City's November 05, 2013, Bond Election ballot. Councilmember Gustafson stated he has concerns over the issuance cost and presumes it is developed as a percentage of the amount of bond. Councilmember McGinnis asked what exactly makes up the issuance cost, and Mr. Austin answered payment for lawyers and financial advisors, developers interest, bond discount, capital interest, and the Attorney General receives a portion. Mayor and Council, with approval from the City Attorney, came to the consensus to take no action and revisit the issue in one month. ORDINANCES **Councilmember Rockey moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2013-30 - An ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Appendix C — , "Zoning," Section 15, "Amendments," Subsection D. "Notice of joint hearings," by revising and updating notice requirements for amendments to comply with H.B. 674 requiring notice of certain proposed municipal zoning changes to school districts; repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent 10/07/13 4213 or in conflict herewith; providing for severability; and providing for effective date of September 1, 2013. ' Seconded by Councilmember McGinnis. The motion was approved unanimously. i **Councilmember Enochs moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2013-34 - An ordinance amending City of Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2012-26, passed and approved October 1, 2012, same being an ordinance approving and adopting the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2012-2013 by approving "Budget Amendment XVI" to the "Original General Budget of the City of, Friendswood, Texas, for the Fiscal Year 2012-2013"; providing for supplemental appropriation and/or, transfer of certain funds; providing for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject. I Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approved unanimously. **Councilmember Rockey moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2013-35 - An ordinance amending the code of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Chapter 74 'Taxation" to create a new: Article III, 'Impact Fees", for purposes of amending and updating Land Use Assumptions and Capital. Improvements Plan for Impact Fees (Impact Fees), pursuant to the Texas Local Government Code; annotated, § 395.001 ET. SEQ., providing provisions for adequate public facilities to serve new, development by requiring each such development to pay its pro rata share of the costs, fee assessment, calculation and connection; the use of proceeds; provision for appeals, refunds and related matters;' providing a penalty in an amount not to exceed $500 for violation of any provisions hereof by inclusion in the Code of Ordinances; repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith; providing for severability; and providing for notice and effective date. Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. Planning Manager Nick Haby reported the Planning and Zoning Commission vote for Agenda Item 18 D, amending the Code of Ordinances to allow for Farmers Markets was approved unanimously. ' **Councilmember Hill moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2013-36 - An ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Appendix C — "Zoning," Section 8, "Supplementary District Regulations," Subsection M., "Commercial Activities and Outdoor Sales," Subpart 2 "Outdoor Sales," to allow for Farmers Markets, by adding a new Subparagraph K. "Farmers Markets," defining and regulating such use; providing a penalty for violation in an amount not to exceed $2000, or as otherwise provided by law; repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith; and providing for severability. Seconded by Councilmember Enochs. The motion was approved unanimously. **Councilmember Rockey moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2013-37 - An ordinance approving and adopting the City of Friendswood, Texas, General Budget for the Fiscal Year 2013/2014; making appropriations for the City for such Fiscal Year as reflected in said budget, and making certain findings and containing certain provisions relating to the subject. Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. **Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2013-38 - An ordinance providing for the levy and collection of ad valorem taxes of the City of Friendswood, Texas, for the tax year commencing October 1, 2013 and ending September 30, 2014; providing the date on which such taxes shall be due and payable; providing for penalty and interest on all taxes not timely paid; providing for severability; and repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith. Seconded by Councilmember Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. Planning Manager Nick Haby reported the Planning and Zoning Commission vote for Agenda Item 18 G, amending Ordinance 84-16 Planned Unit Development - Special Use Permit for 400 East Parkwood Avenue was approved with a vote of 6-1. **Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2013-39 - An ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Appendix C — "Zoning," by amending Planned Unit Development-Specific Use Permit (PUD-SUP) Ordinance 84-16 creating PUD #1 10/07/13 4214 for 400 East Parkwood Avenue, Friendswood retirement living center, a 13.3288 acre tract of land out of Lots 3 thru 6, Block 8 of the Antoinette Voss Subdivision as recorded in Volume 254-A, Page 9 of ' Galveston County Clerk's records, and also being a portion of the replat of"The Park" as recorded in Plat Book 17, Maps 85-86, Galveston County plat records, located in the Sarah McKissick League Survey Abstract 151, Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas, more specifically described in Exhibit"A", attached hereto, located in the "Community Overlay District" (COD); to clarify and approve use as NAICS #623 "Nursing and Residential Care Facilities" in place of the previously approved "Retirement Home for the Ambulatory Elderly" use, allowing revision of the prior site plan for addition of a new 2-story building for 20 new assisted living units, alternative exterior facade materials, alteration of an existing building by removing 16 independent living quarters, converting the interior for 5 assisted living units and 14 Alzheimer's Care Units, providing for setback requirements and related amendments for such purposes as depicted in Exhibit"B", attached hereto, but otherwise subject to the prior regulations, restrictions, and conditions of Ordinance 84-16 and specific conditions herein; and providing 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 Hill. The motion was approved unanimously. "Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2013-40 - An ordinance of the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, supplementing Ordinance No. 2013-31 calling a Bond Election to be held within the City on November 5, 2013; making provision for the conduct of the election; and containing other provisions incidental thereto. Seconded by Councilmember Rockey. The motion was approved 5-2 with Councilmembers Enochs and Gustafson opposed. Planning Manager Nick Haby reported the Planning and Zoning Commission vote for Agenda Item 18 I, rezoning for 107 Shadwell Lane was approved unanimously. "Councilmember Hill moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2013-41 - An ordinance ' amending Appendix "C" of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, being the Zoning Ordinance of the City, by amending the zoning classification of a .333 acre tract of land, located at 107 Shadwell Lane , Lot 1, Block 1 of Winding Hollow , according to the map or plat thereof recorded in Plat Record 18, Map Number 1062 in the Map Records of Galveston County, Friendswood, Texas, providing for the granting of an amendment to the Specific Use Permit(PUD-SUP) approved by Ordinance 2011-11 on May 5, 2011, to allow for NAICS Use #812112 "Beauty Salons," in addition to the uses and any applicable conditions or regulations contained in prior Ordinance 2011-11 for the subject property; correcting prior ordinances 99-26 and 2000-38 clarifying prior ordinances in relation to the property located at the subject address; providing for amendment of the official Zoning Map; providing_ 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 Scott. The motion was approved unanimously. With concurrence of Council, Mayor Holland moved to Agenda Item 16, Discussion and possible action regarding accepting or rejecting a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission regarding a zone change request for 135.778 acres at 3801 FM 528 (Whitcomb Property). Mayor Holland closed Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearings. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBERS Councilmember Gustafson stated he had nothing to report. Councilmember Scott stated Mike Hopkins, a Friendswood resident that he coached football with last year, is at the International Space Station. Mr. Hopkins invited Councilmember Scott and his family to the launch and it was amazing, is a great guy, wife is a teacher, great family and great people. ' Councilmember McGinnis stated the 4rh Of July Steering Committee is hard at work already for next year's 10/07/13 4215 ' celebration. If anyone would like to get involved with a great committee consider the 4th of July Steering Committee. Councilmember Hill expressed his condolences to Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri and his family for the passing of his mother, they are in his prayers. Councilmember Enochs stated the City of Friendswood will host the Galveston County Mayor's and Councilmembers'Association (GCMCA) meeting in July 2014. Hears a lot of things stating libraries are a thing of the past but not the City of Friendswood's Library, gave stats, circulation is up 3%. Councilmember Rockey stated he appreciates the City letting him sit in on the Enterprise Software, very interesting and well done, enjoyed the experience, discussed how election results will be notified, and spoke with Galveston County Commissioner Ken Clark regarding how much Galveston County is, charging for election services, and Mr. Clark will be sending an email out with an explanation, new i furniture store on FM 2351 is now open, very nice shop, feels very much like Friendswood. Mayor Holland expressed his condolences to Assistant City Manager Morad Kabiri, and stated for residents to beware of Halloween kids out trick or treating, be careful out on the streets. CONSENT AGENDA "Councilmember Rockey moved to approve all items on the Consent Agenda as presented: A. Approving a Congregate Meal Program Interlocal Agreement with Galveston County Parks and Senior Services Department for the City's Senior Citizen meal program. B. Authorizing amending the Economic ' Development agreement with Masa Sushi Japanese Restaurant to extend the construction commencement date for 90 days. C. Accepting the August 2013 Property Tax Report. D. Approving the Minutes of August 05, August 12, and August 26, 2013, Council Meetings. Seconded by Councilmember Scott. The motion was approved unanimously. ACTION ITEMS No action was taken regarding accepting or rejecting a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission regarding a zone change request for 135.778 acres at 3801 FM 528 (Whitcomb Property). The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM. Mayor Ke in olland Attest: '•FRIE � ' Melinda Welsh, TRMC City Secretary 1 .•N�A •'�TF OF SE�P.