HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2019-07-01 Regular 07/01/19 4957
' STATE OF TEXAS )(
CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD )(
COUNTIES OF GALVESTON/HARRIS )(
JULY 01, 2019 )(
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY COUNCIL THAT WAS HELD ON
MONDAY, JULY 01, 2019, AT 4:30 PM AT FRIENDSWOOD CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 910 SI
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 BRENT ERENWERT
CITY ATTORNEY MARY KAY FISCHER
CITY MANAGER MORAD KABIRI
CITY SECRETARY MELINDA WELSH (Left at 5:02 PM, returned at 5:45 PM)
DEPUTY CITY SECRETARY MICHELLE PEREZ(Arrived at 5:02 PM, left at 5:45 PM)
REGULAR SESSION
Mayor Foreman called the meeting to order.
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' The invocation was given by Pastor Justin Baldwin with The Harbor Church.
Mayor Foreman led the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and to the State of Texas.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
Ron Lovely, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated Council should let voters decide
regarding the bond for flood control. The Drainage Subcommittee provided a technical solution that
would save a thousand homes and retain the natural meandering of Clear Creek. The cost analysis was
not finished, and should have never been characterized as finished. The$32 Million figure does not meet
25% matching, have an algorithm for buyouts, or account for inflation. The Citizen Advisory Team (CAT)
picked up where the Drainage Subcommittee left off and finished the cost analysis, cost basis provided
for each line item, algorithm for each buyout is provided, property counts and contingencies are included!
inflation is accounted for at 3% per year, plan requires integrating drainage into the park system, and
results in a bond amount of $47.5 Million. Keep information simple, honest, give the voters an honest
proposition and let the voters decide.
Gail Lovely, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she served on the Citizen Advisory
Team (CAT) Drainage subcommittee, focused on Clear Creek drainage, without sufficient funding
drainage on Clear Creek cannot be achieved, budget accounts for cost over 15 years and includes
inflation, subcommittee worried less about politics and more about what would work for Friendswood
citizens, and the project must be completed in full to achieve the desired results. Inform citizens of the
cost to fix the drainage problem, and let citizens make an informative decision in the voting booth.
Linda Jenkins, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she moved to the City of
Friendswood the summer before Hurricane Harvey to be near family, lost most of what they owned in
' Hurricane Harvey, feels lucky because so many in her neighborhood are living in garages or in their
homes while work is being done. She joined the Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) because she found out
there had been numerous proposals in the past to fix Clear Creek and none were acted on. Still on edge
when there is a rainstorm, urges city leaders to let Clear Creek drainage be top priority and make it their
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legacy to fix Clear Creek, support the CAT drainage bond proposal in its entirety, and fix the creek '
forever.
John Cole, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated he noticed that downtown has exercised
the ability to be tax free, shifts taxes to others, noticed at last Council meeting there was a chart for
population and it shows it has grown 3% each year since 1990, not true, and gave historical data with
census information. Is important to get correct population data when configuring how much debt each
taxpayer should pay. Due to limited growth, further debt should not be issued because the city cannot
handle that kind of debt.
Sarah Van Riper, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she was a flood victim,
volunteered on the Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) to make sure something is done about drainage, do not
want to be known as the city that floods, CAT Drainage subcommittee did not just go out to try and
increase the number, and left contingency the same as the Drainage Subcommittee. The Food Lion
project has been combined with drainage projects, is not to prevent flooding, should be removed from the
drainage portion. A Clear Creek green belt will look awesome and will be a jewel for the city.
WORK SESSION
Mayor Foreman opened the discussion regarding a Traffic Study update. Public Works Director Rene
Ibarra stated in 2018 the city commissioned a citywide traffic study, and Brown and Gay Engineers, Inc.,
was hired as consultants to study the city's traffic throughout the community. Mr. Ibarra introduced
Megan Siercks with Brown and Gay Engineering, Inc., to present the Citywide Traffic Study. Ms. Siercks
presented a PowerPoint presentation regarding the Citywide Traffic Study, included evaluating existing
traffic characteristics, such as travel times on major corridors, determine projected growth and impacts to
local roads based on population growth, develop a calibrated traffic signal model, evaluate future
conditions for five-year, ten-year and 20-year horizon, and develop preliminary mitigation measures for '
each of the study years. Data collection included 24-hour traffic counts, roadway and intersection
inventory, and planned projects. Discussed travel times, traffic growth rates, level of service criteria, and
year 2019 existing conditions, year 2025 improvements, year 2030 improvements, and year 2040
improvements for the FM 518 and FM 2351 corridor. Year 2025 proposed improvements for FM 518 and
FM 2351 corridor include the existing left-turn lanes be lengthened to 200 feet storage. Year 2019
existing conditions, year 2025 improvements, year 2030 improvements, and year 2040 improvements
were discussed for the FM 518 and Sunset Drive corridor. Year 2040 proposed improvements for FM
518 and Sunset Drive corridor included 30% of traffic would be rerouted to Friendswood Lakes Boulevard
connection.
Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, Megan Siercks with Brown and Gay Engineers, Inc., and
Staff regarding a proposed future improvement to make FM 2351 a four-lane road, Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDOT) is in agreement, and the project is not yet funded. The city funded the traffic
study to have their own model and ability to monitor conditions, pursue solutions, and move faster than
waiting on TxDOT.
Ms. Siercks continued the PowerPoint presentation with year 2019 existing conditions, year 2025
improvements, year 2030 improvements, and year 2040 improvements for the FM 518 and FM 528
corridor. Year 2025 proposed improvements for FM 518 and FM 528 corridor include dual left-turn lanes
at FM 518, and year 2030 proposed improvements for FM 518 and FM 528 corridor include dual left-turn
lanes at FM 528 and dual left-turn lanes at Sunset Drive. Year 2019 existing conditions, year 2025
improvements, year 2030 improvements, and year 2040 improvements for the FM 518 corridor. Year
2019 existing conditions, year 2025 improvements, year 2030 improvements, and year 2040
improvements for the FM 2351 corridor. Year 2025 proposed improvements for the FM 2351 corridor
include Harris County improvement plans to provide turn lanes at Beamer Road. Year 2040 proposed
improvements for the FM 2351 corridor includes completion of the boulevard south of Beamer Road and '
road widening of 500 feet to each approach. Year 2019 existing conditions, year 2025 improvements,
year 2030 improvements, and year 2040 improvements for the FM 528 corridor. Year 2025 proposed
improvements for the FM 528 corridor include proposed dual left-turn lanes FM 528 and Bay Area
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' Boulevard and road widening of 500 feet from the intersection. Year 2030 proposed improvements for
the FM 528 corridor include turning movement adjustments to account for Blackhawk Boulevard
extension. Year 2040 proposed improvements for the FM 528 corridor includes extending the right-turn
lane to have 400 feet storage at Blackhawk Boulevard and adding a possible additional connectivity to the
Grand Parkway. Year 2019 existing conditions, year 2025 improvements, year 2030 improvements, and
year 2040 improvements for the FM 528 and Falcon Ridge Boulevard corridor. Year 2019 existing
conditions, year 2026 improvements, year 2030 improvements, and year 2040 improvements for the
Greenbrier Drive corridor. Year 2025 proposed improvements for the Greenbrier Drive corridor includes
road widening for left-turn lanes for Friendswood High School driveways. Year 2040 proposed
improvements for the Greenbrier Drive corridor includes realigning Wilderness Trail at Briarmeadow
Avenue and connect Greenbrier Drive to the north. The next steps in the citywide traffic study include a
public meeting, incorporating feedback from the public meeting into the study, and present findings to
Council at a future City Council meeting.
Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, Megan Siercks with Brown and Gay Engineers, Inc., and
Staff regarding the logistics of holding a public meeting for input from citizens, future planning and needs
once the city reaches a population of 50,000, and the pros and cons of removing medians to widen
roadways in the future.
Mayor Foreman opened the discussion regarding Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) recommendations. City
Manager Morad Kabiri stated at the June 24, 2019, Council meeting Council had the opportunity to hear a
presentation from the Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) that highlighted a proposal of five propositions to'
present to voters in November. The five proposed ballot measures included a civic center/shelter for$7.8
Million, drainage/Public Works building for $49 Million, park improvements for $6.5 Million, public safety
items for $9 Million, and transportation items for$7.6 Million. Staff is in support of how Council chooses
to proceed whether it is to move forward with the five propositions proposed from CAT, or some
' combination thereof.
Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and Staff regarding a breakdown of estimated costs
associated with the proposed drainage proposition, and an explanation of the Drainage Subcommittee's
estimated cost versus the Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) Drainage subcommittee's estimated cost. A
terracing project on Clear Creek will be a project that is monumental in scope, City of Friendswood will
need to partner with other entities, will take a number of years to identify partnerships, CAT Drainage
subcommittee adjusted partnership percentage to 25% and added inflation into their estimated cost. Aq�
explanation was given of costs associated with buyout properties in the drainage proposition, floodplairi
maps in relation to insurance premiums, current Galveston County Drainage District projects being done
on Clear Creek in the City of Friendswood, and proposed amount of a drainage proposition in relation to
the other four proposed bond propositions. The deadline for Council to call a November bond election is
August 19, 2019, and an ordinance will need to be very specific in terms of bond language. Council
needs to begin providing direction to Staff to determine the number of propositions and the proposition
language desired. Further discussion was held on how the propositions should be presented, proposed
transportation proposition total due to the uncertainty with the school district's plans for Cline Elementary
all ballot language will be reviewed by bond counsel and the Secretary of State's Office, and Staff will
present packaging options for Council's consideration at a special meeting in July or the August 05, 20191
Council meeting.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 9A, West Ranch Managemen
District Annual Report.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL REPORTS
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City Manager Morad Kabiri stated the West Ranch Management District Board Member J.J. Stanford was
' unable to attend the meeting. The West Ranch Management District's Annual Report related to their
activities for the past year was provided to Council as backup material in the agenda packet. Nothing
major to report beyond the plan to continue to reduce the tax rate associated with the management
district and the completion of various projects.
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With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 10, Discussion and possible action '
regarding appointments and reappointments to committees, boards, and commissions.
ACTION ITEMS
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the appointment of Thomas Hinckley to the Community and
Economic Development Committee to fill a vacancy with a term to expire July 2022, and reappointment of
Jennifer Whitley and Pauline Moore to the Community and Economic Development Committee with terms
to expire July 2022.
Seconded by Councilmember Hanks. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve the appointment of Billy Enochs as a new board member to
the Gulf Cost Authority.
Seconded by Councilmember Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Scott moved to nominate Sally Branson as Mayor Pro-Tem for 2019-2020.
Seconded by Councilmember Hanks. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the dedication of a sidewalk easement at 2205 West Parkwood
Avenue for the Grease Monkey site.
Seconded by Councilmember Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously.
RESOLUTIONS
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve Resolution R2019-21 — A resolution of the City of
Friendswood, Texas, Galveston/Harris Counties, authorizing the end of license and support with Hart '
Intercivic for election equipment and authorizing the return of equipment to Hart Intercivic.
Seconded by Councilmember Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 15D, Ordinance No. T2019-27.
ORDINANCES
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-27 —An ordinance
amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Chapter 34 providing for adoption
of the "Flood Insurance Study for Galveston County, Texas and Incorporated Areas" (FIS) and Flood
Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Galveston County, Texas, dated August 15, 2019; providing a penalty of
an amount not to exceed $2,000 for each day of violation hereof; and providing for severability.
Seconded by Councilmember Hanks. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Rockey moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-28—An ordinance
of the City of Friendswood, Texas, amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 70, "Streets, Sidewalks,
and other Public Places" by amending Section 70-196 "Line Location and Identification"; repealing all
ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith; providing for severability, publication
and an effective date.
Seconded by Councilmember Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
Discussion took place between Mayor, Council, and Staff regarding temporary pavement markings
associated with projects done in the city's right-of-ways will require use of a chalk-based material or use
non-permanent markings and make it the responsibility of the on-call agencies to clean up anything that
does not wash away. Staff is currently working on a solution to remove current markings located on
pavers. '
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No. 2019-29 — An
ordinance amending City of Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2018-28, passed and approved October
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1, 2018, same being an ordinance approving and adopting the' City's General Budget for Fiscal Yea{2018-2019 by approving "Budget Amendment IX" 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 Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBERS
Councilmember Erenwert stated Council wants to do what is best for the city, an investment in the city,
want to determine the cost to each citizen, all are working to try and find the best solution, thanked the
Citizen Advisory Team(CAT)for their work, and appreciates their input.
Councilmember Scott thanked Council for allowing him to be Mayor Pro-Tem for the past year, enjoyed
the experience and only had to give one speech, appreciates Council having the confidence in him. The
Fourth of July celebration is coming up, and the band "Molly Ringwalds"will play.
Mayor Foreman thanked Councilmember Scott for the great job he did as Mayor Pro-Tem, did a fantastic
job thinking outside the box on issues, and appreciates him very much.
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Councilmember Griffon stated God Bless America and the City of Friendswood, and wished everyone
Happy Fourth of July.
Councilmember Hanks thanked Councilmember Scott for his leadership the past year, it has been good
for her to get to know him better and his opinions. Wished everyone a Happy Fourth of July, Apollo flags
up and down FM 518 look awesome, and she is excited about the upcoming month.
' Councilmember Branson wished everyone a Happy Fourth of July, month of the 501h anniversary of Apollo
11 landing on the moon, Apollo banners along FM 518 were a private donation through fundraising, and
Friendswood Rotary Club made a donation and are underwriting activities. Thanked Communication
Specialist Jeff Newpher for coaching the Mayor for a Mayor's Mike Minute. July will be a month of fun'
and exciting things, look up events at www.50thapollo11.com. Thanked the Citizen Advisory Team (CAT)
for the work they have done, and thanked Council for allowing her to serve as Mayor Pro-Tem, she is
honored, appreciates the confidence, and will try not to let them down.
Councilmember Rockey stated a gentleman did an Eagle Scout project at the Perry House and it got him
thinking that he has been involved in several Eagle Scout projects. Would like Council to consider if
someone earns an Eagle Scout or Gold Award to have them attend a Council meeting to thank them for)
their service and give them recognition, and particularly if their project was for the public.
CONSENT AGENDA
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve all items on the Consent Agenda as presented: A. Approving
the disposal of two Police vehicles through Houston Auto Auction. B. Approving the appointments of City
Council Liaisons to Committees, Boards, and Commissions. C. Approving a Fuel Partnership Agreement
with Friendswood Independent School District (FISD). D. Approving a School Zone Agreement with
Friendswood Independent School District (FISD). E. Accepting the May 2019 Property Tax Report. FI
Approving the Minutes of the June 03, 2019, Council Meeting.
Seconded by Councilmember Hanks. The motion was approved unanimously.
Mayor Foreman recessed the meeting at 6:35 PM, and reconvened the meeting at 7:00 PM.
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With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 9B, Declaration of Independence.
' COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL REPORTS (continued)
A video was shown of Friendswood's next generation reading the Declaration of Independence.
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With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 6, Public Hearings. '
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Mayor Foreman called a Public Hearing to order to receive comments from the public, both oral and
written, regarding a zone classification change request for .7471 acres of land out of Reserve G (G4),
Forest Bend Subdivision Section 3, located at 17158 Blackhawk Boulevard, Friendswood, Harris County,
Texas, from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Neighborhood Commercial/Specific Use Permit
(NC/SUP) to allow NAICS Use No. 8131 Religious Organizations.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained the request is for Calvary Chapel
Church, main campus faces FM 528, also owns the building that faces Blackhawk Boulevard, previously
a daycare, and-after Hurricane Harvey the daycare has not reopened. The church is currently using the
building for classes and a possible food pantry, and request is to expand the church's Specific Use Permit
to this property. The Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation was unanimous approval.
Mayor Foreman asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in opposition of the request. No one
spoke.
Hearing no comments from the public, Mayor Foreman closed this portion of the Public Hearing.
Mayor Foreman called a Public Hearing to order to receive comments from the public, both oral and
written, regarding a zone classification change request for 1.7243 acres of land, consisting of two tracts of
1.477 acres and .2473 acres, out of Lot 4, Block 11, Friendswood Subdivision, located at 108 Whispering
Pines, Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas, from Single Family Residential (SFR) to Downtown
District(DID). '
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin stated the Planning and Zoning
Commission's recommendation was unanimous approval.
Mayor Foreman asked if anyone would like to speak in favor of the request.
Greg Crinion, representative of the Harris family, stated the property has been owned by the Harris family
since the early 1900's, property is a large part of the family's savings, looking to sell, received an offer to
purchase 110 Whispering Pines, user has proposed a memory care facility, and the offer for 110
Whispering Pines came in after the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) meeting. Both properties
are located in the Downtown District, 108 Whispering Pines is one and half acres of land, pad site for
commercial use, 110 Whispering Pines proposal is for a single-story building, will have low impact on
neighbors, and will be the best use for property besides residential. It was suggested at a Planning and
Zoning Commission meeting that perhaps the rules could change so rezoning would not be allowed until
all of the development plans have been prepared, and that is not feasible. P&Z has recommended the
rezoning of 108 Whispering Pines, and the Harris family requests that 110 Whispering Pines be rezoned
as well.
Mayor Foreman asked if anyone would like to speak against the request.
Tracey Dinh, Friendswood resident, stated she represents Timberfield Estates Homeowners Association
along with Vice President Katie White, concerned with traffic, heard if both lots are not rezoned to
Downtown District they would not consider commercializing the property, already hard to exit the area,
any commercial business would make exiting harder, asked that Council reconsider and assess traffic
flow before approving designation.
Katie White, Friendswood resident, stated flooding is also a concern, if property is rezoned onsite '
detention would not be required, affecting watershed runoff, existing storm sewer infrastructure would be
overloaded, would impact Timberfield Estates, risk of flooding and runoff would be inevitable, all but one
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home in Timberfield Estates flooded during Hurricane Harvey, risk of pedestrian accidents would be
' likely, risk of car accidents, entering and exiting the neighborhood is tricky, and any additional traffic is not
good in any way.
Hearing no further comments from the public, Mayor Foreman closed this portion of the Public Hearing.
Mayor Foreman called a Public Hearing to order for receive comments from the public both oral and
written, regarding a zone classification change request for 1.8367 acres of land out of Lot 4, Block 11
Friendswood Subdivision, located at 110 Whispering Pines Avenue, Friendswood, Galveston County}
Texas, from Single Family Residential (SFR) to Downtown District(DD).
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Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's (P&Z) motion to approve failed with a 2-5 vote, P&Z had a negative recommendation. The
primary reason the commission opposed the request was not knowing how the property would be
developed, created too many unknowns for nearby homeowners, lot is adjacent to Single Family
Residential with Downtown District zoning, could build a multi-story building, and could negatively impact
property values. The primary reasons in favor of the zone change was the property is located within the'
Downtown District boundary with commercial located nearby along Whispering Pines Avenue.
Mayor Foreman asked if anyone would like to speak in favor or in opposition of the request. No one I
spoke.
Mayor Foreman asked what assurances would the city have that a one-story memory care facility would
be developed.
Greg Crinion, representative for the Harris family, stated the community is changing from a farming
' community to a residential community, a community that will eventually be able to support itself
economically, use that has been proposed is a memory care facility, and has pictures of the proposed
facility if Council would like to see them.
Mayor Foreman asked how the proposed use that came after the Planning and Zoning Commission's
(P&Z) meeting would affect P&Z's vote for 110 Whispering Pines.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Joe Matranga stated he thought it would have an impact, topics
have been actively discussed, spent quite a bit of time discussing 110 Whispering Pines, biggest concer�
for P&Z was the use of the property, and obviously no guarantees.
Councilmember Griffon clarified that the Planning and Zoning Commission was in favor of Downtow
District zoning for 108 Whispering Pines but not in favor for 110 Whispering Pines.
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga stated that was correct, 108 Whispering Pines is nex
to or adjacent to the Downtown District, and is bordered on one side by commercial property already.
Councilmember Erenwert asked if the two properties are next door why did the commission have a
unanimous vote for one and trouble with the other one, and Planning and Zoning Commission Chan
Matranga answered 108 Whispering Pines was adjacent to commercial property that is part of the
Downtown District and has been for many years, seen as a natural use to convert to downtown zoning,
other property is Single-Family Residential, and until recently it has been outside the Downtown District
boundary.
Councilmember Griffon asked if anyone had heard from the homeowner at 204 Whispering Pines, and
Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga answered the Planning and Zoning Commission had
' not.
John Martin, Friendswood resident, stated he lives at 204 Whispering Pines, does not want to live next
door to commercial, but may ask to rezone his property later.
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Councilmember Rockey asked if both property's backyards are against the Downtown District already, '
and Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Matranga stated 110 Whispering Pines is a long piece of
property, 108 Whispering Pines is a little bit squarer, so they border different properties.
Councilmember Branson stated the traffic study earlier in the meeting discussed the intersection, there
are rules and regulations for new developments in regards to flooding. When someone is developing a
new property they have the responsibility to not flood their neighbors, and asked Community
Development Director/City Planner Aubrey to explain.
Community Development Director/City Planner Aubrey Harbin explained that the properties are eligible
for regional detention, will have to install some kind of catch basin, and would pay a fee to the drainage
district to be able to purchase regional detention.
Councilmember Branson stated the plans would have to be blessed by Galveston County Consolidated
Drainage District.
City Manager Morad Kabiri stated currently the existing conditions of the intersection during early morning
rush hour is a service level B, during the evening the service level is an E, can discuss improvements to
signal time, and there are modifications that could be made to the intersection. The proposed use of an
Alzheimer's facility will not produce much traffic.
Councilmember Branson asked if the timing of the traffic signals would have to be negotiated with Texas
Department of Transportation, and City Manager Morad Kabiri answered yes, would provide information
from the city's traffic study to help justify the change.
Hearing no further comments, Mayor Foreman closed this portion of the Public Hearing. '
COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
Kristyn Weaver Pearson, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she understands the bond
proposals are expensive and Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) numbers are high, encourage Council to
consider recommended numbers, give citizens a chance to fully fund the bonds, not just solving a
flooding problem, current was so strong during Hurricane Harvey it forced open their back doors, and
during evacuation their son capsized in 15 to 20 feet of water at the end of their street. Encourages
Council to do their homework on the bond, necessary to get it right, cannot be halfway done, do it once,
do it right, and do not do it again.
Gail Lovely, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated she was a member of the Citizen
Advisory Team (CAT) Drainage subcommittee, very frustrating to not tell Council all the work done, are
citizens and prefer lower taxes, heard innuendos that the group did not have a top number, tried to keep
numbers low as possible, knew drainage problem needed to be solved once and for all, one real chance
to solve catastrophic flooding, did not have lists of houses proposed for buyout so examined all resources
available, did not just come up with $18 Million for buyout properties, do the whole funding, if bigger
partnerships are formed then all the bond money will not be needed, inclusion for green space and
parkland was important to the CAT Drainage subcommittee, ten miles of green space that would be
available to citizens, seek out members of the CAT and ask them questions, Council should be proud of
all the work done by the CAT, and they tried to represent all Friendswood citizens.
Connie Ratisseau, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and thanked Council for the workshop
discussion regarding the bond, frustrating to sit in the audience and not be able to respond, served on the
Citizen Advisory Team (CAT) Drainage and Parks subcommittees, her husband served on CAT Drainage
and Facilities subcommittees. Everyone knew drainage was the number one priority in the city, everyone '
was conservative on recommendations as a result, and the idea of a park on the green belt came at the
end of the first meeting that all subcommittees came together. If the drainage issue is fixed, evacuation
routes like Friendswood Parkway would not be needed, and shelters like the community center would not
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' be needed. She is concerned with adding the community center and seed money for Friendswood
Parkway in with the drainage proposition.
Tracey Dinh, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated her neighborhood backs up to
Cowards Creek which is right next to Clear Creek, great idea to convert park for drainage to mitigate
floodwaters, during Hurricane Harvey the bridge was underwater, and could not escape from their
neighborhood.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported the City of Friendswood and the Friendswood Rotary Club are proud
to announce the 2019 Movies in the Park at the Evelyn B. Newman Amphitheater and the Friendswood
Sesquicentennial Swimming Pool. The movie series will begin July 12, 2019, and runs every Frida)
through August 9, 2019. Thanks to the sponsors, all movies are free to the public, theater seats may be
limited, so feel free to bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on the lawn. Do not forget your picnic dinner
and/or snacks.
The City Manager reported that the Fourth of July Steering Committee and the City of Friendswood would
like to invite all to participate in the city's 124rh Annual Friendswood Fourth of July Celebration. The
daylong celebration is packed full of entertainment, food and fun for the entire family. The theme for this
year's celebration is "There's No Place Like Home." The day will kick off with the Grand Parade that will
travel down Friendswood Drive. The parade will begin at 10:00 AM at the corner of FM 518 and Heritage
Drive, and will feature over 100 entries from Friendswood and around the State of Texas. The parade will
conclude at Stevenson Park where over 50 vendor booths, rides, games, food, live entertainment, and
fun for the entire family will take place. The activities will begin shortly after the conclusion of the paradef
and will conclude at approximately 3:30 PM. The evening program will be held at Centennial Park and
' begins at 7:30 PM. The band "Molly Ringwalds"will headline the night's entertainment and will be playing
music from the 80's. The evening will conclude with a fantastic fireworks extravaganza that will light up
the sky beginning at approximately 9:20 PM. The fireworks will be choreographed to patriotic music and
the show is expected to be one of the best fireworks displays in the Houston area. Public parking will not
be available at Centennial Park for the evening program, but a free shuttle service is provided to gain
admittance into the park. The shuttle service will be available from Friendswood United Methodist Church
and Friendswood High School, and will begin running at 6:30 PM.
The City Manager reported that the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers (TAMIO) is an
affiliate of Texas Municipal League. Recreation Aide Katy Blanchard from the Parks and Recreation
Department submitted a project for award consideration at the annual TAMIO conference in June. The
city received third place in the Award of Honor in the Marketing category — Most Creative with Least
Dollars for the Flapjack Mascot Costume handmade by Ms. Blanchard. Congratulations to all who were
involved in this project. The city appreciates Ms. Blanchard's dedication and creativity.
The City Manager reported that members of the Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department/Emergency
Medical Services and Friendswood Police Department received the 2019 Emergency Medical Services
for Children (EMSC) Crew of the Year Award for outstanding care for a child in an emergency medical
event. The EMSC state partnership presented the 2019 EMSC Crew of The Year Award to
Telecommunications Officer Lundry Reynell, Telecommunications Officer Ashley Hempel, Emergency
Medical Technician David McCord, Officer Shaun McCaffrey, Officer Marcelo Bini, Officer James
Ruthstrom, Emergency Medical Service Assistant Chief Roy Hunter, Emergency Medical Service Captaid,
Blake Brazzel, Paramedic Andrew Chalk, Emergency Medical Technician Mark Lavelle and their
colleagues at Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department and Friendswood Police Department. These
dedicated professionals have gone above and beyond the call of duty to assure the highest possible
quality of pediatric emergency medical care.
' The City Manager reported that Staff recently received word that both buyout applications have been
approved by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), approximately 26 homes in the Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program —Acquisitions, four homes in the Flood Mitigation Assistance program through
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the Texas Water Development Board, nearing a resolution with FEMA on the Deepwood facility, and '
hopefully closing out that project in the coming weeks.
The City Manager reported that Staff has been notified the city was evaluated for Scenic City and will be
recognized as platinum, designation moved from bronze to platinum, which is unheard of, and thanked
the Community Development Department, Parks and Recreation Department, and Public Works
Department for their hard work on this great accomplishment.
With concurrence of Council, Mayor Foreman moved to Agenda Item 15A, Ordinance No. T2019-24.
ORDINANCES (continued)
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-24 —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 1.7243 acres of land, consisting of two
tracts, 1.477 acres and .2473 acres, situated in the Sarah McKissick League, Abstract 51, being out of
Lot 4, Block 11, Friendswood Subdivision, Galveston County, Texas; amending the zone classification
from Single-Family Residential (SFR) to Downtown District (DID); 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 Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-25 —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 1.8367 acres of land, situated in the
Sarah McKissick League, Abstract 51, being out of Lot 4, Block 11, Friendswood Subdivision, Galveston
County, Texas; amending the zone classification from Single-Family Residential (SFR) to Downtown '
District (DID); 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 Branson. The motion was approved unanimously.
City Manager Morad Kabiri stated Staff was notified earlier in the meeting that the property use would be
a memory care facility, a Specific Use Permit is required, in addition to the Downtown District zoning, and
would still have to come back to Council for approval on the Specific Use Permit.
**Councilmember Scott moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. T2019-26 —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 .7471 acres of land being out of
Reserve "G' (unrestricted), in Block 19 of Forest Bend, Section 3, a subdivision in Harris County, Texas,
according to the map or plat thereof, recorded in Volume 180, Page 73 of the Harris County Map Records
(H.C.M.R.), City of Friendswood, Harris County, Texas; amending the zone classification from
Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Neighborhood Commercial/Specific Use Permit (NC/SUP) to allow
NAICS Use No. 8131 'Religious Organizations;" 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 Griffon. The motion was approved unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:51 PM.
C
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Mayor I i Forem n I
Attest:
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Melinda Welsh, TRMC
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City Secretary
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