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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2019-05-06 Regular 05/06/19 4928
STATE OF TEXAS X
' CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD X
COUNTIES OF GALVESTON/HARRIS X
MAY 06, 2019 X
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY COUNCIL THAT WAS HELD ON
MONDAY, MAY 06, 2019, AT 5:30 PM AT FRIENDSWOOD CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 910 S.
FRIENDSWOOD DRIVE, FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS, WITH THE FOLLOWING PRESENT
CONSTITUTING A QUORUM:
MAYOR MIKE FOREMAN
MAYOR PRO-TEM JOHN SCOTT
COUNCILMEMBER STEVE ROCKEY
COUNCILMEMBER SALLY BRANSON
COUNCILMEMBER TRISH HANKS
COUNCILMEMBER ROBERT J. GRIFFON
COUNCILMEMBER CARLGUSTAFSON
CITY ATTORNEY MARY KAY FISCHER
CITY MANAGER MORAD KABIRI
CITY SECRETARY MELINDA WELSH
REGULAR SESSION
Mayor Foreman called the meeting to order.
The invocation was given by Pastor Mike Cervantes with New Hope Church.
' Boy Scouts Michael Coleman and Lee Meyer with Boy Scout Pack 452 led the Pledge of Allegiance to th
United States and to the State of Texas.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
Gail Lovely, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she would like to encourage Council to
add the recommended Clear Creek flooding Staff position, long-term, constancy of purpose is important
suggested to add a board related to drainage, drainage projects will take a long time, and the public could
follow the board through agendas and minutes.
Brent Erenwert, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated he would like to thank a few people
including his family for standing by him throughout the election process, thanked all the voters who
supported him and the ones that did not. Low voter turnout continues to be seen and he believes it is
important to keep trying to increase voter turnout as the city's population grows. He thanked Galveston
County for conducting the city's election, and Council for approving the contract, was a great idea. He
further stated he is truly honored to have accomplished a seat on City Council, a special accomplishment
as a 30-year resident of the City of Friendswood and growing up here, excited to bring charisma, vision]
and a business skill set to the city as Council prepares for the future. He hopes to provide the highest level
of service to Friendswood's citizens at the greatest value as the city's mission statement says.
Deirdre Brown, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she has been a harsh critic of severs
councilmembers in the past, including Councilmember Gustafson. Post Hurricane Harvey, Councilmember
Gustafson was one of the few that questioned drainage issues and kept the issue alive, and appreciates
Councilmembers Hanks and Griffon for their help on the floodplain map. Ms. Brown stated she agrees with
Ms. Lovely that a permanent committee or subcommittee should be created and led by citizens working
with a Council liaison. She thanked Councilmember Gustafson and his family for their service to the city.
She further stated that she found the past election to be one of the worst in the history of the City of
Friendswood, believes the city will be sorry to find qualified candidates in the future if families will get
attacked, and leadership should denounce such attacks. It was challenging for her to decide who to vote
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for, thanked Councilmember Gustafson on behalf of the community and apologized to him and his family. '
Encourages everyone to be mindful of when you attack someone it can be hurtful, speak out against attacks
when you see them, and thank those who give their time and serve the community.
WORK SESSION
Mayor Foreman opened the discussion regarding Drainage Subcommittee recommendations. City
Manager Morad Kabiri presented a PowerPoint presentation regarding recommendations from the
Drainage Subcommittee. At the April Council meeting, the Drainage Subcommittee gave a presentation
related to the subcommittee's activities over the prior nine months, quite a bit of information conveyed to
Council, placed this agenda item on the agenda to allow Council another opportunity to review the
recommendations, and allow Council to offer input and ask questions. There were eleven
recommendations found by the Drainage Subcommittee ranging from things as simple as evaluations of
future opportunities and issues that may exist to concrete actions that the subcommittee would like Council
to address in the immediate future. Recommendation No. 1 is that Council needs to clearly state, through
a resolution, that the work of the subcommittee generates a cause for action to mitigate rainstorm flood
events. There is a resolution later on the agenda for Council to consider, outlines that Council believes
flooding is an issue of concern and the findings of the subcommittee warrant a call for action.
Recommendation No. 2 is related to work the city did in conjunction with Rice University Professor Doctor
Phil Bedient and his team. Dr. Bedient was hired by the city to do a drainage model of the entire Clear
Creek Watershed with focus on the City of Friendswood in order to get a better understanding of how rainfall
throughout the watershed impacts the city. Recommendation No. 2 is that Council accepts that there are
a number of mitigation projects that involve the main stem of Clear Creek that need to be pursued to
completion to significantly reduce flooding in the City of Friendswood. With the assistance of Dr. Bedient
and his team, a number of projects were modeled and stimulated, moving forward a project can be
approached for the city to get the best return on the investment. A number of the findings.determined that
terracing helped improve not the width of Clear Creek but the width of Clear Creek above the ordinary high '
water mark during major storm events and would greatly enhance flood mitigation within the City of
Friendswood. Moving forward, the city will have to do further engineering and scoping to understand the
full benefits of these improvements, and the project modeling is only conceptual. The biggest thing from
this recommendation is that the city needs to be working and focused on projects that impact the main stem
of Clear Creek and not focus as much on other tributaries that come into the main stem. Recommendation
No. 3 is to propose a bond proposition to voters of approximately $32 Million worth of drainage projects
over the next 15 years. The$32 Million would be the city's share of the work, all projects would involve the
main stem of Clear Creek, seed money the city would need to put forward to find partnership opportunities
with other agencies, estimation of the costs of projects and grant opportunities, estimated total costs of
projects with the best benefit for the City of Friendswood is $173 Million, would greatly reduce flooding in
Friendswood, but would not fix everything.
Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and Staff regarding Recommendation No. 3 to propose a
bond proposition of$32 Million worth of drainage projects,would have to be for projects within Friendswood,
have to also weigh other demands that exist in the city with facilities and transportation, consider impact to
taxpayers, costs associated with projects increase over time, and an example was given of the Blackhawk
Boulevard project. The ballot language would be fairly broad, will have flexibility in the bond language, $32
Million worth of projects along Clear Creek drainage system within the City of Friendswood to tackle flood
mitigation projects, as future grant opportunities present themselves in future years the city does not want
to be hamstrung to the projects it can pursue, and intent is to issue the debt as projects and partnership
opportunities come up. The project that will have the biggest benefit to the City of Friendswood is terracing.
City Manager Morad Kabiri continued with the Drainage Subcommittee recommendation presentation.
Recommendation No. 4 is to hire a long-term Clear Creek Watershed Drainage Coordinator to create a
long-term strategy and constancy of purpose. The city has historically operated with one Professional
Engineer (PE) on staff dedicated to engineering activities. Daily demands on the organization as well as '
the impact of Hurricane Harvey necessitates the need for two Professional Engineers. A dedicated person
is needed to oversee drainage needs of the community. Recommendation No. 5 is that the city should
review and change its current permitting criteria regarding drainage to reflect the realities of the types of
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storms that occur here. Since Hurricane Harvey, the city has adopted the latest and greatest Flood
' Insurance Rate Maps, and. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) established new
rainfall intensity curves for properties that are currently in the floodplain. Recommendation No. 6 is for the
city to acquire properties along Clear Creek to meet the demand for drainage projects along the main stem
of Clear Creek. Staff has identified a number of properties that still need to be acquired, and the intent is
to pursue buyouts through annual programs that exist in areas where there are no homes or structures.
Recommendation No. 7 is the city should be proactive in regards to the management of the flow of water
down Clear Creek. The city should take the leadership role in organizing municipalities along Clear Creek
to create a common purpose in fixing the creek. With additional engineering help, greater regional
participation/coordination activities will take place with neighboring agencies. The Flood Vulnerability Study
by Dr. Bedient can be taken on the road to share with the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Harris
County Flood Control District, City of Pearland, City of League City, Galveston Consolidated Drainage
District, and other neighboring agencies. Recommendation No. 8 is to evaluate various efforts to
restructure watershed management currently being contemplated at the county and state levels. There
have been proposals to create additional layers of government and additional layers of taxes to have an
authority to oversee development within the watershed and to be the regulatory agency. Recommendation
No. 9 is to focus on the future and do not seek redress for changes that have occurred to Clear Creek in
years' past. Recommendation No. 10 is that localized areas in Friendswood impacted by smaller storms
then that of Hurricane Harvey should be addressed by the city separate and apart from the mitigation
projects proposed on Clear Creek. Recommendation No. 11 is to increase monitoring resources and
technology along Clear Creek and its tributaries to improve response capabilities.
I
Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and Staff regarding that the proposed $32 Million bond
projects are identified as terracing, bridge elevations, and buyouts. Other projects mentioned or other
recommendations are not part of the $32 Million proposed bond projects. Projects outside the proposed
projects and items improving localized drainage issues will be tackled with partnership opportunities)
' available grants, or the city's operating budget within the Public Works Department. The Drainage
Coordinator position is estimated to cost $200,000, includes salary and benefits, plus dollars to pursue
additional study efforts to keep drainage model moving forward. All current budget funds have been spent
for Dr. Bedient's survey, any future studies would need to be authorized by Council for additional funds.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 8, Special Recognition and
Acknowledgements.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Deer Park Library Director Rebecca Pool, representing the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association,
presented the Achievement of Library Excellence Award for 2018 to Library Director Matt Riley. Ms. Pool
stated the Friendswood Public Library was in the top 10% of libraries in the state of Texas. Mr. Riley
introduced library Staff members and Library Board members who were present at the meeting.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 6, Closed Executive Sessions.
CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Foreman asked if anyone would like to speak regarding Executive Session. No one spoke.
Council convened into Executive Session in accordance with Texas Government Code, pursuant to Section
551.072—Deliberations about Real Property—to deliberate the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real
property if deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governing
body in negotiations with a third party with possible discussion and action related thereto in open
session.(park land), and Section 551.074—Personnel Matters; to deliberate the appointment, employment,
' evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee with possible
discussion and action related thereto in open session (Evaluation of the City Manager).
RECONVENE INTO OPEN SESSION
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Council reconvened into Open Session with action taken later in the meeting regarding Section 551.074— '
Personnel Matters;to deliberate the appointment,employment,evaluation,reassignment,duties,discipline,
or dismissal of a public officer or employee with possible discussion and action related thereto in open
session (Evaluation of the City Manager).
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 9, Joint Public Hearings.
JOINT PUBLIC HEARINGS
Mayor Foreman and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Joe Matranga called a Joint Public Hearing
to order to receive comments from the public both oral and written, regarding amending-the City of
Friendswood Code of Ordinances, Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance "Section 8.N.1. Geographic limits"
regarding proposed amendments to the established boundary of the Downtown District.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained that recently the Planning and
Zoning Commission workshopped these changes with Council, changes are to the Downtown District, and
broke changes into five different categories or ordinances. This request is to amend the Downtown District
boundary to include property located at 110 Whispering Pines, original Downtown District boundary was
established in 2007, and the boundary was amended shortly thereafter in 2008 to expand the Downtown
District to the creek. Other regulations that use the Downtown District boundary as a reference include the
Neighborhood Empowerment Zone, and sales tax election for the 4B funds managed by Friendswood
Downtown Economic Development Corporation. This request would expand the Downtown District
boundary to include the one additional property.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in
opposition of the request. No one spoke. '
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's
portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Foreman left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open.
Mayor Foreman and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Joe Matranga called a Joint Public Hearing
to order to receive comments from the public both oral and written, regarding amending the City of
Friendswood Code of Ordinances, Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance "Section 8. F. Off-street parking and
loading regulations" to relocate Downtown District (DD) related language to "Section 8.N.3. Parking" and
amendments to reduce the head in parking distance requirement from 400 feet to 75 feet, including minor
grammatical corrections.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained that the current head in parking
requirement in the Downtown District is at least 400 feet from FM 518, and the Planning and Zoning
Commission's recommendation is to reduce the distance requirement to 75 feet, consistent with spacing
requirements for a driveway from a major thoroughfare per the Design Criteria Manual. Staff drafted
changes in language for clarity and duplicate parking requirements that pertain to the Zoning Ordinance
that includes Downtown District regulations.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in
opposition of the request. No one spoke.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's
portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Foreman left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open.
Mayor Foreman and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Joe Matranga called a Joint Public Hearing
to order to receive comments from the public both oral and written, regarding amending the City of ,
Friendswood Code of Ordinances, Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance "Section 7.1." and "Section 8.N.4." to
allow cement fiber board installed as lap siding in the Downtown District(DD); "Section 8.N.4." to change
the fenestration requirements in the Downtown District (DD), and "Section 8.N.4." to restate that service
06/06/19 4932,
laterals must be installed underground, prohibit garage bay doors from fronting FM 518 in certain situations,
' limit exterior building colors to earth tone colors, require that screening materials match the main structure
and add a reference to dumpster screening requirements, including minor grammatical corrections.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained the proposed change is to allow
cement fiberboard in the Downtown District to reduce fenestration requirements and to institute some
aesthetic criteria from the Community Overlay District into the Downtown District. The recommendation is
also to allow cement fiber board but installed only as lap siding, reduce the fenestration requirement on
interiors sides of first floors, and add requirements to the Downtown District that already exist in the
Community Overlay District, such as requiring underground service laterals, earth-tone colors, prohibiting
garage bay doors from fronting FM 518 in certain situations, requiring screening materials to match the
main structure, and to add a reference to the dumpster screen requirements recently added.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in
opposition of the request. No one spoke.
i
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's
portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Foreman left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open'
Mayor Foreman and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Joe Matranga called a Joint Public Hearing
to order to receive comments from the public both oral and written, regarding amending the City of
Friendswood Code of Ordinances,Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance"Section 8.N.8.Adjacent property, buffer
maintenance and installation" duplicating requirements for buffering from "Section 1.2. Perimeter
landscaping and screening;" and amendments to "Section 8.N.3. Parking" duplicating requirements for
parking from "Section 1.2.c. Off-street parking landscaping;" and relocating language Planned Unit
Development (PUD) modification from "Section B.H. Modification of standards proposed within a PUD" to
' "Section 7.J. PUD, Planned Unit Development, general purpose and description," including minor
grammatical corrections.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained the proposed change is to relocate
landscape buffer and parking requirements that apply to the Downtown District to the correct section of the
Zoning Ordinance, and relocate the Planned Unit Development modification procedures to the correct
section of the Zoning Ordinance.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in
opposition of the request. No one spoke.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's
portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Foreman left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open
Mayor Foreman and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Joe Matranga called a Joint Public Hearing
to order to receive comments from the public both oral and written, regarding amending the City of
Friendswood Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Sign Ordinance "Section 9 Prohibited Signs" to prohibit
LED storefront lights in Downtown District.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained the proposed change would
prohibit LED signs within the Downtown District boundary, and any existing lighting that violates the
proposed requirement be removed within 90 days of the adoption of the ordinance.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in
opposition of the request. No one spoke.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga adjourned the Planning and Zoning Commission's
portion of the Joint Public Hearing. Mayor Foreman left Council's portion of the Joint Public Hearing open.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
05/06/19 4933
John Cole, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and read from the city's 2017-2018 budget and '
discussed salaries and read them aloud, city currently has 228 full-time employees, read holidays and
benefits provided, compared to debt and suggested debt could be paid off in five years if workforce was
reduced by half.
Rudy Gonzales, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated city administration is well paid, in
January commented on road conditions on Rustic Lane from FM 2351 to city limits, called two or three
people at the city about road conditions, even sent the Mayor a letter, taxpayer money is to maintain the
city's roadways, and currently the roadways are not being maintained to the city limit. Provided pictures for
Council to demonstrate the condition of the roadways in Brazoria County, over the past 20 years Brazoria
County has done well maintaining their roadways, and the no right turn at FM 2351 on Sunset Boulevard
has been modified. Christmas lights celebrate a religious event, and should not be displayed on city owned
facilities.
Deirdre Brown, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she believes there needs to be better
communications and teamwork with Harris County in regards to drainage. The city should reach out to
Harris County elected officials, particularly Harris County Judge Hidalgo and Harris County Commissioner
Ellis, there is a disconnect at the city level, suggested the Mayor reach out and provide a tour of the City of
Friendswood, and there is definitely interest in this area.
Janis Lowe, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she believes there is a need for Code
Enforcement to strengthen the city's sign ordinance, needs teeth in the language, should be addressed at
the next Council retreat,there are 183 days before a candidate can place a sign for the upcoming primaries,
she would be happy to help, gave a rundown of the current sign ordinance, budget allocates for 500 sign
cases, become proactive instead of reactive, and take fines more strenuously.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT '
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported that this year's Spring Sparkle was a huge success. There was great
attendance with 502 cars and trucks coming through the gates. Waste Connections reported to have
hauled away almost 32.98 tons of compacted waste and 35.01 tons of roll-off waste. CompuCycle collected
6,530 pounds of electronics. Simple Recycling collected 392 pounds of textiles. Shred-It Document
Shredding destroyed several pounds of paper. The garage sale brought in $300 with all proceeds from the
garage sale benefiting city facilities and parks. Bay Area Wildlife Rehab picked up animal habitat items that
were donated to benefit the injured wild animals that make their home in Friendswood's green space.
Sponsors for the event included the City of Friendswood, Waste Connections, Clear the Air, JSC Credit
Union, and Sonic.
The City Manager reported that on May 27, 2019, a Memorial Day ceremony will be held at the Veteran's
Memorial adjacent to Friendswood City Hall. The ceremony will feature patriotic songs and music, a tribute
to the flags, and a special guest speaker. All local veterans are invited to attend and come together for a
group photo at the close of the ceremony. For additional information, call the City of Friendswood Parks
and Recreation Department.
The City Manager reported that this year's Mitch &Artha Wright Concerts in the Park Series will take place
on Friday nights during the months of May and June. Concerts will take place at Stevenson Park in the
Gazebo. All concerts will begin at 7:00 PM and end at approximately 9:00 PM. Attendees can look forward
to Pop, Rock, Funk, Latin, Blues, and Zydeco music. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, refreshments, dinner
or snacks and be ready to sit back and enjoy an evening of fun and family entertainment brought to you by
the City of Friendswood's Parks and Recreation Department. There will be give-a-ways and"door' prizes,
and vendors will be selling kettle corn, hot dogs, and snow cones as well. If anyone is interested in being
a sponsor or providing a door prize, please contact the City of Friendswood Parks and Recreation ,
Department.
The City Manager reported that each year the Texas Division of Emergency Management, National
05/06/19 4934,
Weather Service and officials from local jurisdictions join together to recognize Hurricane Preparedness
' Week. This year May 5, 2019, through May 11, 2019, has been designated as Hurricane Preparedness
Week in Texas. This is an excellent time to remind residents to be prepared for hurricane season, which
begins June 1, 2019. It is important to encourage the general public to make plans for what they will do
before and after a storm, double-check their emergency supply kits, register functional needs in the State's
211 State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) database, and plan for their pets. The
Friendswood Office of Emergency Management(OEM) has sent out a city utility bill mailer to all residents
of the city. The mailed contains helpful information for the public regarding methods to stay informed;
evacuation routes,zip zones, and windstorm inspections. Additional hurricane preparedness materials will
be made available at City Hall, the Friendswood Library, the Chamber of Commerce and the Senior
Activities building. The OEM will host the annual citywide hurricane response meeting on May 16, 2019
with contractors, school districts, service providers, utilities, and other cities, along with our Mayor;
Councilmembers and city Staff to discuss their particular hurricane preparedness plans for the coming
season. Two public Hurricane Preparedness Meetings have been scheduled for the general public at the
Friendswood Public Library. The first one is scheduled on May 30, 2019, and the second one is scheduled
for June 6, 2019.
The City Manager reported that the Keep Friendswood Beautiful (KFB) Facebook Photo Contest is
accepting entries between April 15, 2019 and May 13, 2019. Pictures can be uploaded to Facebook using
the hashtag VFriendswoodproud" and "Like" the Keep Friendswood Beautiful Facebook page, or email
your photos to rec(&friendswood.com. Photos will be judged on creativity, quality, composition, and how
well the photo demonstrates the essence and beauty of Friendswood. Winners will be announced at the
"School's Out for Summer" Concert in the Park"on June 1, 2019, at Stevenson Park.
The City Manager reported that Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB) recently recognized Keep Friendswood
Beautiful (KFB) as a Gold Star Affiliate which is a designation granted to 85 affiliates of KTB, nearly 300
' affiliates, Gold Star recognition is the highest recognition status for KTB membership.
The City Manager reported that Staff continues to work with Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) representatives to finalize projects. Resolutions have not been reached with FEMA regarding the
old Public Works and Parks facility on Deepwood Drive. Buyout and elevation applications through the
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Texas Water Development Board are being reviewed by FEMA.
The City Manager reported that Police Officer Carlos Granillo has been recognized as the recipient of the
Fifty Club Officer of the Year Award for his efforts as a police officer in the City of Friendswood. Mr. Kabin
congratulated Officer Granillo for the wonderful job he does serving the City of Friendswood.
i
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 17A, Resolution R2019-12.
RESOLUTIONS
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve Resolution R2019-12—A resolution of the City of Friendswood
Texas, suspending the May 10, 2019, effective date of CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric, LLC's
requested rate change to permit the city time to study the request and to establish reasonable rates
approving continued cooperation with the Gulf Coast Coalition of Cities; hiring Lloyd Gosselink Attorneys
and Consulting Services to negotiate with the company and direct any necessary litigation and appeals
requiring reimbursement of cities' rate case expenses; finding that the meeting at which this resolution is
passed is open to the public as required by law; requiring notice of this resolution to the company and legal
counsel.
Seconded by Councilmember Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 12, Communications from
' Committees and Special Reports.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL REPORTS
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Fourth of July Steering Committee Vice Chair Barbara Blanchard presented the annual report and stated
this year's parade is the 124rh annual Fourth of July Celebration. The theme is "There is no place like '
home." The parade will begin at 10:00 AM. This year Allen Rasmussen, Senior Executive Vice President
of HomeTown Bank will be honored as the Parade Grand Marshal. Mr. Rasmussen was chosen as the
Parade Grand_ Marshal this year due to his overwhelming generosity in supporting all events in the City of
Friendswood. There will be over 50 vendor booths, rides,games, food, live entertainment, fun for the entire
family will take place, and daytime activities will conclude at approximately 3:30 PM. The evening program
will take place at Centennial Park at 7:30 PM with "Molly Ringwald's" as the entertainment for the night.
Fireworks will follow the evening entertainment, and there will be a shuttle service for the evening program
from Friendswood United Methodist Church and Friendswood High School. Vice Chair Blanchard
recognized all members of the Fourth of July Steering Committee, Council Liaison Trish Hanks, and Parks
and Recreation Department staff members.
ACTION ITEMS
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve the reappointment of Sawyer Blackburn to the West Ranch
Management District Board with a term to expire June 01, 2023, and appointment of Meredith Levine to fill
a vacancy with a term to expire June 01, 2023.
Seconded by Councilmember Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve membership to Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
(BAHEP).
Seconded by Councilmember Rockey. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the termination of a Joint Agreement with Galveston County
Consolidated Drainage District(GCCDD)for Election Services.
Seconded by Councilmember Hanks. The motion was approved unanimously. '
**Councilmember Gustafson moved to approve implementation of the recommendations of the Drainage
Subcommittee.
Seconded by Councilmember Rockey. The motion was approved unanimously.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 17B, Resolution R2019-13.
RESOLUTIONS (continued)
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve Resolution R2019-13 —A resolution of the City Council of the
City of Friendswood,Texas,authorizing and approving the 2019 Urban Area Security Initiative(UASI)Grant
Program application. (Combat Casualty Care Training for first responders)
Seconded by Councilmember Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve Resolution R2019-14—A resolution of the City Council of the
City of Friendswood, Texas, affirming the Drainage Subcommittee's findings that Friendswood is subject to
high intensity historic level of flooding events caused by Clear Creek being incapable of containing
watershed rainwater within its current banks; necessitating a cause for action to pursue mitigation activities
to better position the city for future flood events.
Seconded by Councilmember Rockey. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve Resolution R2019-15 — A resolution adopting Rules of
Procedure forthe Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Friendswood,Texas, pursuant to authority
contained in Section 2-3 of the Code of the City of Friendswood, Texas; and repealing Resolution No.
R2010-09.
Seconded by Councilmember Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously. '
**Councilmember Rockey moved to approve Resolution R2019-16 — A resolution of the City of
Friendswood, Texas, Galveston/Harris counties, endorsing the reappointment of four (4) members and
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appointment of one (1) new member to the Galveston County United Board of Health.
' Seconded by Councilmember Gustafson. The motion was approved unanimously.
ORDINANCES
**Councilmember Rockey moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2019-11 —An
ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood,Texas,Appendix C—"Zoning," by
amending the zoning classification for a tract or parcel containing 115.998 acres of land along the future
Friendswood Lakes Boulevard between West Ranch and Friendswood Lakes Subdivisions, Friendswood)
Galveston County, Texas, to change from Single Family Residential (SFR) to Planned Unit Development
(PUD) for a residential development, "Avalon at Friendswood", consisting of the following tracts: 1) 87.774
acres, more or less, being a portion of a called 96.944 acres tract in the Mary Fabreau Survey, Abstract
No. 69 in Galveston County, Friendswood, Texas, save and except a 9.170 acre portion of the same tract;
and 2)28.2240 acres of land, more or less, being a portion of a called 194.21 acre tract described as Tract
"A" as conveyed to Yellowstone Hill Country Ranching, LLC, Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas;
amending the zone classification from Single Family Residential(SFR)to Planned Unit Development(PUDj
for a residential development, "Avalon at Friendswood'; 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 provisio
hereof; and providing for severability.
Seconded by Councilmember Branson. The motion was approved 4-3 with Councilmembers Griffon, Scott)
and Gustafson opposed.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2019-13 -
An ordinance amending Appendix C—"Zoning,"section"Amendments"and Chapter 70"Vacation of Street!
Drainage, Utility or other Public Easement" to change from Joint Public Hearings to separate Public
Hearings and to amend ordinance wording to be consistent with state law; providing a penalty for violation
' in an amount not to exceed 12,000, 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 Rockey. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2019-14—An
ordinance approving the execution of a Developer Participation Agreement between the City of
Friendswood (city) and Coastal Bend Property Development, LP (developer) and Ser Construction
Partners, LLC, (contractor), for the purpose of making certain public improvements as authorized by law.
Seconded by Councilmember Gustafson. The motion was approved unanimously.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin reported that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's vote for Agenda Item 18D, First reading of Ordinance No.T2019-16,An ordinance amending
Appendix C — "Zoning," Section 8.N.1., "Geographic limits," to amend the established boundary of the
Downtown District map failed 1-5.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-16 —An ordinance
amending Appendix C—"Zoning," Section 8.N.1., "Geographic limits,"to amend the established boundar�
of the Downtown District map; providing a penalty for violation in an amount not to exceed $2,000, 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 Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin reported that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's vote for Agenda Item 18E, First reading of Ordinance No.T2019-17,An ordinance amending
Appendix C — "Zoning," "Section 8.F. Off-street parking and loading regulations" and "Section B.G. Off-`
street loading regulations"to relocate Downtown District(DID) related language to"Section 8.N.3. Parking"
' and amendments to reduce the head in parking distance requirement from 400 feet to 75 feet, including
minor grammatical corrections was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-17—An ordinance
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amending Appendix C — "Zoning," "Section 8.F. Off-street parking and loading regulations" and "Section
8.G. Off-street loading regulations" to relocate Downtown District (DD) related language to"Section 8.N.3. ,
Parking" and amendments to reduce the head in parking distance requirement from 400 feet to 75 feet,
including minor grammatical corrections; providing a penalty for violation in an amount not to exceed
$2,000, 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 Scott. The motion was approved unanimously.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin reported that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's vote for Agenda Item 18F, First reading of Ordinance No.T2019-18,An ordinance amending
Appendix C—"Zoning,""Section 7.1."and"Section 8.N.4."to allow cement fiber board installed as lap siding
in the Downtown District (DD); "Section 8.N.4." to change the fenestration requirements in the Downtown
District (DD), and "Section 8.N.4." to restate that service laterals must be installed underground, prohibit
garage bay doors from fronting FM 518 in certain situations, limit exterior building colors to earth tone colors,
require that screening materials match the main structure and add a reference to dumpster screening
requirements, including minor grammatical corrections was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No.T2019-18—An ordinance
amending Appendix C—"Zoning," "Section 7.1." and "Section 8.N.4." to allow cement fiber board installed
as lap siding in the Downtown District(DD); "Section 8.N.4."to change the fenestration requirements in the
Downtown District(DD), and"Section 8.N.4."to restate that service laterals must be installed underground,
prohibit garage bay doors from fronting FM 518 in certain situations, limit exterior building colors to earth
tone colors, require that screening materials match the main structure and add a reference to dumpster
screening requirements, including minor grammatical corrections; providing a penalty for violation in an
amount not to exceed $2;000, 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 Rockey. The motion was approved unanimously. '
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin reported that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's vote for Agenda Item 18G, First reading of Ordinance No.T2019-19,An ordinance amending
Appendix C—"Zoning,""Section 8.N.8. Adjacent property, buffer maintenance and installation"duplicating
requirements for buffering from "Section 1.2. Perimeter landscaping and screening;" and amendments to
"Section 8.N.3. Parking" duplicating requirements for parking from "Section 1.2.C. Off-street parking
landscaping;" and relocating language PUD modification from "Section B.H. Modification of standards
proposed within a PUD" to "Section 7.J. PUD, Planned Unit Development, general purpose and
description," including minor grammatical corrections was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-19 — An ordinance
amending Appendix C—"Zoning," "Section 8.N.8. Adjacent property, buffer maintenance and installation"
duplicating requirements for buffering from "Section 1.2. Perimeter landscaping and screening;" and
amendments to"Section 8.N.3. Parking"duplicating requirements for parking from"Section 1.2.C. Off-street
parking landscaping;" and relocating language PUD modification from "Section B.H. Modification of
standards proposed within a PUD"to"Section 7.J. PUD, Planned Unit Development, general purpose and
description," including minor grammatical corrections; providing a penalty for violation in an amount not to
exceed$2,000,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 Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin reported that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's vote for Agenda Item 18H, First reading of Ordinance No.T2019-20,An ordinance amending
Appendix A, signs, "Section 9. Prohibited signs" to prohibit LED storefront lights in the Downtown District
boundary was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-20—An ordinance '
amending Appendix A, signs,"Section 9. Prohibited signs"to prohibit LED storefront lights in the Downtown
District boundary; providing a penalty for violation in an amount not to exceed $2;000, or as otherwise
05/06/19 4g3g
provided by law; repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith; and
' providing for severability.
Seconded by Councilmember Rockey. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2019-21 — An
ordinance amending City of Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2018-28, passed and approved October
1, 2018, same being an ordinance approving and adopting the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2018L
2019 by approving "Budget Amendment VII" to the "Original General Budget of the City of Friendswood�
Texas, for the Fiscal Year 2018-2019"; providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of certain
funds; providing for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject.
Seconded by Councilmember Hanks. The motion was approved unanimously.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBERS
Councilmember Rockey stated he is concerned with the road that is going behind Starbucks on FM 528,
asked Staff to look at the traffic situation and bring back recommendations to Council that will improve
safety of the area. New paver sidewalks in front of City Hall and Stevenson Park are marked with utility,
graffiti, directed staff to see if the city can require a paint that comes off easier and speak with utility
companies to figure out a solution. The library recently hosted the May the Forth celebration, was well
attended, a lot of kids attended in Star Wars costume, had a great time, and it was a terrific event.
Councilmember Branson stated during the month of July the city will celebrate the 50'h Anniversary of the
Apollo 11 splashdown, will be a community-wide celebration, National Aeronautics and Space
Administration (NASA) is pretty much what put the City of Friendswood on the map, would like as many
people as possible to participate, will be a month-long celebration of NASA, and reach out to her if anyone
is interested.
' Councilmember Hanks complimented the Community and Economic Development Committee and the
Fourth of July Steering Committee, Fourth of July event is a lot of work, a special tradition, and Economic
Development Coordinator Karen Capps has organized facilities visits with local businesses. Bay Area
Alliance for Youth and Families have-been involved with Clear Creek schools for years,works with families
and youth to make healthy choices regarding drugs and alcohol, cannot have a vibrant community and safe
place if we do not raise our youth right, reported she is participating in their Dancing with the Stars event in
September, go online and vote, and she is the only person representing the City of Friendswood.
Mayor Foreman congratulated City Manager.Morad,Kabiti on his first anniversary as City Manager, has
stepped up and hit it out of the park, and has done a magnificent job.
Councilmember Griffon stated the Clear Creek Watershed Steering Committee is having a workshop
immediately following the Galveston County,'Consolid'ted Drainage District meeting with the Texas General
Land Office on May 14, 2019, and the publicJs welcome.
Councilmember Scott stated he would like=to'congratulate.City Manager Morad Kabiri on his one-yea
anniversary, was on Council when the Assistant City.Manager position was created in an effort to hold on
to Mr. Kabiri, knew how valuable he would be fo the community, and he is everything Council thought he
would be and more. There will be a meeting on May 13, 2019, to canvass the election, is a lot for those
that volunteer and put themselves out there and subject themselves to a campaign for zero pay, and foir
people badmouthing candidates try running for the position yourself, many people like to sit behind their
computer and take cheap shots. Over the last six years, he has not seen eye to eye with Councilmember'
Gustafson, but that does not take away Councilmember Gustafson's contributions to the city and his desire
to serve the community. He thanked Councilmember Gustafson for his service, and is looking forward to
working with Brent Erenwert. It is a humbling experience to be able to serve the community and be elected
' by citizens.
Councilmember Gustafson stated it is no secret there was an election on Saturday and it did not work out
too well for him, has enjoyed his six years on Council, thanked everyone he has served on Council with,
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thanked Staff, those that have not spent a lot of time with city staff do not realize the gem the city has in
their Staff, have some of the most capable, well qualified people anywhere, would put them up against ,
anyone, have been a tremendous help to him, dependable, reliable, accountable, and thanked those that
supported him.
ACTION ITEMS (continued)
**Councilmember Gustafson moved to approve giving the City Manager a 5.5% salary increase.
Seconded by Councilmember Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously.
CONSENT AGENDA
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented: A. Authorizing the Mayor to
call a regular meeting of the City Council on May 13, 2019, to canvass the May 4, 2019, election results.
B.Approving an Interlocal Agreement regarding use of Friendswood Independent School District assets for
City Events and Programs. C. Ratify the City Manager's signature approving a request by American Tower
for equipment installation at 1606 Whitaker Drive(Public Safety Building). D.Approving the disposition and
replacement of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) vehicle Ambulance 47. E. Authorizing the final
acceptance of the Friendswood Lakes Boulevard paving and utilities improvements at the completion of the
contractor's one year, maintenance period. F. Authorizing acceptance of Industry Park waterline
improvements into the contractor's one-year maintenance period. G. Approving an application for utilities
outside of the city limits—18625 County Road 548(Baker Road), Pearland,Texas. H.Accepting the March
2019 Property Tax Report. I. Approving the Minutes of the April 01, 2019, Council Meeting.
Seconded by Councilmember Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 PM.
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Attest:
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Melinda Welsh, TRMC •� '� �L•'
City Secretary
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