HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2020-11-02 Regular11 /02/20 5171
STATE OF TEXAS
CITY OF FRIENDSWOOD
COUNTIES OF GALVESTON/HARRIS
NOVEMBER 2, 2020
7 PM — REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIENDSWOOD CITY COUNCIL THAT
WAS HELD ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 20207 AT 7:00 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 TRISH HANKS
COUNCILMEMBER STEVE ROCKEY
COUNCILMEMBER SALLY BRANSON
COUNCILMEMBER ROBERT J. GRIFFON
COUNCILMEMBER BRENT ERENWERT
CITY ATTORNEY MARY KAY FISCHER
CITY MANAGER MORAD KABIRI
CITY SECRETARY MELINDA WELSH
COUNCILMEMBER JOHN SCOTT WAS ABSENT FROM THE MEETING.
'I. Call to order
Mayor Foreman called the meeting to order.
2. Invocation — Reverend Robert T. Flick, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church
The invocation was given by Reverend Robert T. Flick with Good Shepherd Episcopal
Church.
Pledge3. _•.Texas
ALLEGIANCE(HONOR THE TEXAS FLAG; I PLEDGE
UNDER GOD, r'
Mayor Foreman led the Pledge of Allegiance of the United States and to the State of
Texas.
4. Communications from the Public
Communications from the Public (To comply with provisions of the Open Meetings
,Act, the City Council may not deliberate on items discussed under this agenda
item. The Council may refer this item to the City Manager or direct this item to be
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placed on the next regular Council agenda. Out of respect for those speaking
during public comment, please refrain from any outbursts or interjections to
include, but not limited to, applause and/or disparaging noises from the audience.
Doing so discourages others from voicing their thoughts and opinions, and
disrupts the meeting. Furthermore, any personnel complaints against a City
employee aside from the City Manager, City Secretary, City Attorney or Municipal
Judge cannot be discussed under this section. Please contact the City Manager's
office for concerns involving a City employee.)
Don Johnson, Friendswood resident, addressed Council and stated for the past two
decades, he has been involved in watching Clear Creek, flooding, stormwater, and trying
to mitigate the problems that he has seen. There has been some recent events which he
deems very hopeful. He stated he has questioned many times why there was such a
problem with the creek flooding, heard for years there was a strong wind pushing in water
from Clear Lake inhibiting the flow of the creek, or there happened to be a high tide, or
there was a surge that came up through Galveston Bay. All of those things circle around
a problem with controlling the water level in Clear Lake. He was thrilled to see in the
feasibility study that are now looking at gates and pumps for the mouth of Clear Lake into
Galveston Bay, which is great news. With something like that, when a storm comes in,
the gates can be closed at low tide and the pumps will lower the level of the lake and the
water can come down Clear Creek and get out. Although this is no guarantee, do need
to get behind and support this, will help greatly in the attempt to get water out of town. If
not, there will be a flooding problem. Would like to get a plan together to support this and
get other cities on board such as League City and Clear Lake Shores to support this plan
because it helps all of them. This is what is needed to make flood reduction plans
successful.
5. Special Recognition and Acknowledgements
A. Presentation from the Friendswood Rotary Club of a donation to the City of
Friendswood Parks and Recreation Department for the purchase of a new movie
projector
Mayor Foreman thanked the Rotary Club for their donation and stated Movies in the Park
has been sponsored by the Friendswood Rotary since its inception. The Parks and
Recreation Department had determined that a new projector was needed and James
Toney, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, made the call to Rotary and
asked if there was any way they could help. The Rotary Club donated $10,000, which
helps tremendously. Mayor Foreman let the Rotary Club know how appreciated they are,
gives so much to the city in so many different ways. James Toney also gave thanks to
the Rotary Club members that were present. Mayor stated that he guarantees Council
will match the funds to get the system needed, and the Rotary Club are wonderful partners
of the City of Friendswood.
6. Public Hearing
To receive comments from the public, both oral and written, regarding:
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A. To receive comments both oral and written regarding Proposed amendments to
Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance "Section 7.Q.2. Commercial Regulation Matrix" to
add sub note "k." defining height maximum, "Section 7.Q.3. Area and Height
Exceptions" to amend the height exceptions, and "Section 20. Definitions - Height"
to remove a duplicate requirement
Mayor Foreman called a Public Hearing to order to receive comments from the public,
both oral and written, regarding proposed amendments to Appendix C, Zoning Ordinance
"Section 7.Q.2. Commercial Regulation Matrix" to add sub note "k." defining height
maximum, "Section 7.Q.3. Area and Height Exceptions" to amend the height exceptions,
and "Section 20. Definitions - Height" to remove a duplicate requirement.
Aubrey Harbin, Director of Community Development/City Planner stated this is an
ordinance change that has been in process for a while regarding exceptions to a change
in building height requirements. The proposed amendments provide exceptions to the
maximum height in downtown and clarified exceptions in other districts. The language
has been relocated under the Regulation Matrix to help make it clearer, communication
towers have been separated, either freestanding or attached into a new category of their
own, and other corrections have been made as well. The exception in the Downtown
District is going to be 18 feet above your roof. If you have a 40 foot building, you will still
only get the 18 foot exception. If you go to the maximum of 70 foot, you still have an 18
foot exception. All of the other commercial districts have a 10 foot exception, their
maximum height is 40 feet and they get a 10 foot exception. The other districts also have
a bit of leeway, if they can provide a further setback they can have a taller building. The
Planning and Zoning Commission held their meeting on October 8, 2020, and had a
negative recommendation. The vote was 1-5, with one commissioner absent. Ms. Harbin
stated the Commission's primary objections to the revised ordinance were not a reflection
on the ordinance changes themselves, but opposition to increasing the Downtown District
maximum height above 70 feet and then once directed by City Council to accommodate
the new maximum height, making the change by ordinance versus using the Special Use
Permit process. The Commission felt that the Specific Use Permit (SUP) was the better
option to be able to consider exceptions for individual properties rather than changing the
ordinance for a whole zoning district and possibly allowing unintended exceptions.
Another concern raised by the Commission was that changing an ordinance for an
individual property owner was contrary to the training that they had received regarding
the use of City ordinances and actions of the Planning and Zoning Commission and City
Council. The dissenting Commission opinion was that the revised ordinance was
specifically requested by City Council and therefore this vote was for the revised language
of the ordinance and not for the need of the ordinance; the revised ordinance was as well
written as possible.
Mayor asked if anyone would like to speak in favor of or against the proposed ordinance.
No one spoke.
7. City Manager's Report
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A. Friendswood Library Annual Poetry Contest
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported that the Friendswood Library hosted their annual
poetry contest on October 3 with over 60 participants and guests online via Zoom. Local
writers had the opportunity to share their poems with writers from across the region, state,
and as far away as Manchester, England. Friendswood Library's annual event continues
to grow each year, now finding an international audience.
B. Keep Friendswood Beautiful's Annual Fall Haul Clean Up Event November 14
The City Manager reported that in conjunction with America Recycles Day, the City and
Keep Friendswood Beautiful are holding the Annual Fall Haul, community clean-up and
garage sale event on Saturday, November 14, at Centennial Park, 2200 S. Friendswood
Dr., from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. This is not an area wide event, but is presented for the benefit
of the citizens of Friendswood. Residents will have to show proof of residency to
participate. Only non -hazardous items will be accepted. Examples of non -hazardous
items that will be accepted include tree limbs, grass clippings, old appliances, old
furniture, wood, metal, and plastic items, large and small Free paper shredding will be
available from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. or until the truck is full. There is a 200 lb. limit of paper
per vehicle. Please, no three ring binders, cardboard, floppy disks, hanging file folders,
newspaper, microfiche, or video tapes. Paper shredding will be available on site.
Electronic recycling and the garage sale have been cancelled this year.
C. VIRTUAL Flapjack Fun Run
The City Manager reported that the 2020 Flapjack Fun Run will be held virtually on
Saturday, December 5th. Participants can register at parks.friendswood.com and will
use the City's Fun Run app to make their own 5K race from virtually anywhere. Swag
bags will be provided and can be picked up on Friday, December 4th. Traditionally, the
Flapjack Fun Run is named after the delicious pancake breakfast served by Whataburger
after the race. This year, the city is continuing with the pancake breakfast by providing
Whataburger pancake mix to the first 100 participants who register, along with
Whataburger breakfast coupons in this year's swag bags. All proceeds will be used for
City park improvements.
D. Home for the Holidays Lighted Christmas Trail
The City Manager reported that due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, Santa in the Park has
been cancelled, in its place, the City of Friendswood and Keep Friendswood Beautiful
(KFB) present Home Town Bank of Friendswood's Home for the Holiday's Lighted
Christmas Trail From November 27 through January 1, Stevenson Park will have a
lighted Christmas Trail with 100,000 lights, with opportunities to take family Christmas
photos, food trucks, and to mail your letters to Santa in our very own North Pole mailbox!
Please come enjoy some socially distanced holiday fun at Stevenson Park.
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E. Police Department's Crime Victim Assistance Program
The City Manager reported that the Police Department's grant application for the Crime
Victim Assistance Program was awarded on October 16, 2020. The Governor's Office
did administratively reduce the budget due to budgetary constraints — this was done
across the board with all applicants, not just Friendswood. The program is in it's 21st
year and has been grant funded every year totaling more than one million dollars in federal
funds during it's existence.
F. Friendswood Police Officers' Association Blue Santa Program
The City Manager reported that after much thought and despite COVID-19, the police
department will have it's Blue Santa Program this year. Applications will be accepted until
November 20th at the Police Department, Monday — Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Donations may be dropped off at the Police Department until December 18th.
G. Hurricane Harvey Update
The City Manager reported that the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program —
Buyouts/Acquisitions; 24 properties included in the initial application, 3 properties have
closed, deadline given on 7 properties under negotiations, 14 properties declined offers,
and demolition services have started. Texas Water Development Board - Flood
Mitigation Assistance Grant; 4 properties included in the initial application, 3 properties
closed, I property has declined offer, and demolition services have started. Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG)-Disaster Recovery (Harris County); Preparing to
commence appraisal and request advance funding for Blackhawk Facility (old Food
Lion), Engineering and environmental services underway for the Forest Bend Detention
Project. CDBG-Disaster Recovery (Galveston County); Solicited qualifications for
engineering services: (1) utility line burial; and (2) Deepwood flood mitigation, finalizing
project management contract for the acquisition project (Deepwood and Frenchman's
Creek). FEMA Disaster Assistance, FEMA has approved the Deepwood/Shadwell
damage costing/project efforts; awaiting obligation of funds Page 34 of 342, and Staff
anticipates closing on the Blackhawk Facility in November or December. CDBG
Mitigation Applications; Engineering staff working on a mitigation application to be
submitted later this month.
H. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Update
The City Manager reported that as a result of the Coronavirus, staff has implemented
and continues to follow the Continuity of Operations and Pandemic Plans, continue to
monitor the pandemic, city facilities reopened to the public in October, a number of
annual events have been altogether cancelled or modified, annual Veteran's Day
Luncheon hosted by the Senior Program is being modified and will be held virtually, no
businesses have been closed by the City of Friendswood due to COVID, no citations
have been issued by the City of Friendswood relative to compliance with Governor
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Abbott's Executive Orders, disinfecting workspaces and vehicles continue, extended
screening protocols for public meetings, previously applicable only to Staff, to all
participants, partnered with Friendswood Independent School District (FISD) on the use
of some Coronavirus Relief Funding, and submitted for the reimbursement of eligible
expenditures under the CARES Act (may be able to secure the totality of the original
$1.5M allocation). A Public Health Event Declaration has been made in accordance with
the Pandemic Plan.
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported there has been an uptick in positive rates of the
Coronavirus in the past several weeks. Staff has continued to provide services across
the board and all facilities are currently open to the public with increased safety measures
in place to ensure the provision of vital services, and city facilities reopened to the public
October 5, 2020. The city continues to clean and disinfect vehicles on a routine basis
and keep things as sanitary and clean as possible. The city has partnered with
Friendswood Independent School District (FISD) to offer funding that it has received from
the state for Coronavirus related relief to help FISD out for when they have gone virtual.
There has been an impact to only two of our businesses in Friendswood. No business
have been closed by the City due to COVID. No citations have been issued by the City
relative to compliance with Governor Abbott's Executive orders.
Chief Wieners, Chief of Friendswood Police addressed Council and stated the Police
Department is certainly seeing the effects of COVID-19. The Police Department
transitioned to a new protocol last year for the reporting of crime. There are some
statistics that were audited that are not the result of that and are troubling. There is an
uptick in aggravated assaults, simple assaults and driving while intoxicated (DWI). The
aggravated assaults are obviously the most troubling because either they involve serious
bodily injury or they involve a weapon. There has been 22 aggravated assaults compared
to five last year, which makes it a 320% increase with two months left to go in the year.
One was related to road rage, five are juvenile related, which could be attributed to
students not in school and having very little structure related to COVI D-1 9, and 11 are
related to domestic disturbances. Several have also been related to business
establishments. There were 169 simple assaults last year compared to 132 so far this
year. As far as DWI's there was a total of 284 last year, 155 in 2018 and the number is at
273 right now. COVID-19 is not the sole source of DWI problems, are going to exceed
that number and can expect the numbers to rise during the holiday period. Does not want
anyone to be surprised by the end of the year crime report. Some categories may remain
less, while others may seem troubling, which can be associated with COVID-19. The
Police Department intends on committing to keeping the roadways safe especially during
the holidays. Our officers are the community guardians looking after the safety of our city.
Mayor Foreman stated City Council will support the Friendswood Police Department
forever, the safety of the citizens is one of the top priorities, and are proud of the fact
that Friendswood is one of the safest cities in Texas, if not the nation. Thanks to Chief
Wieners and the police officers. If the Police Department ever needs something, they
have got it.
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Chief Wieners stated the department has always felt supported by Council and have
enjoyed the community support. In place of doing the annual National Night Out, citizens
stepped out and put out a sign campaign. Will see many of those signs out there.
Friendswood is a great community, and a great place to live and work. Chief Wieners
wished a happy birthday to the Marines.
Councilmember Erenwert thanked Friendswood Police, they are the number one reason
a lot of people live in Friendswood, appreciates all they do to keep the city safe.
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported on the Veteran's Day event that the Friendswood
Senior Citizen Program will host on Thursday, November 12 at 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM with
a drive -by for a breakfast taco and coffee. If you served our country, please stop by for
free breakfast and coffee.
City Manager Morad Kabiri reported on the 2020 Houston Bay Area Heart Walk, which
will be held on November 12, 2020. It is a virtual event with the Team Coach being Mayor
Mike Foreman, who has a Friendswood team. It is an annual competition, titled Mayors
with Heart at https://www2. heart.
Mayor Foreman reported that this challenge was issued a couple of years ago with the
mayors in the surrounding area, Kemah won first year, Clear Lake Shores won last year,
and the Friendswood Team is trying to raise more money to win this year.
S. Communications from Committees and Special Reports
A. Annual report from the Friendswood Historical Society
Friendswood Historical Society was not in attendance to present the annual report. Mayor
thanked Councilmembers Branson and Rockey for serving and asked everyone to check
out the history videos that Public Information Officer, Jeff Newpher made with
Friendswood Historian Joycina Baker.
9. Discussion and Possible Action
A. Discussion and possible action regarding approving a contract with the Friendswood
Historical Society in the amount of $15,000 for the maintenance and preservation of
historical sites in the City and authorizing the Mayor to execute the contract.
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve a contract with the Friendswood Historical
Society in the amount of $15,000 for the maintenance and preservation of historical sites
in the City and authorizing the Mayor to execute the contract.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
B. Discussion and possible action regarding the disposition of RFQ No. 2020-15 Utility
Relocate at Clear Creek Utility Bridge.
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the disposition of RFQ No. 2020-15 Utility
Relocate at Clear Creek Utility Bridge and award to Kimley Horn & Associates.
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The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
C. Discussion and possible action regarding reappointments to the following boards,
committees, and commissions:
Fourth of July Steering Committee — Reappoint Renae Rives, Kathy S. Molinaro,
Barbara Blanchard, Terry McKee and Terri Corbett each to a 3 year term expiring
November 2023
Keep Friendswood Beautiful Committee — Reappoint Todd Mendenhall, Natasha
McAdoo and Michael Fernandez each to a 3 year term expiring November 2023
Senior Citizens Advisory Committee — Reappoint Nancy Mastrofrancesco, Dorothy
Montz and Dennis Rundell each to a 3 year term expiring November 2023
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the reappointment of Renae Rives, Kathy
S Molinaro, Barbara Blanchard, Terry McKee and Terri Corbett to the Fourth of July
Committee with terms to expire November 2023, reappointment of Todd Mendenhall,
Natasha McAdoo and Michael Fernandez to Keep Friendswood Beautiful Committee with
terms to expire November 2023, reappoint Nancy Mastrofrancesco, Dorothy Moritz and
Dennis Rundell to Senior Citizen Advisory Committee with terms to expire November
2023.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
10. Resolutions
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A. Resolution No. R2020-22: A resolution of the City of Friendswood, Texas, hereby
designating as representative and as alternate to the
Houston- Galveston Area Council 2021 General Assembly and Board of Directors.
**Councilmember Griffon moved to approve Resolution No. R2020-22 — A resolution of
the City of Friendswood, Texas, hereby designating Sally Branson as representative and
Mike Foreman as alternate to the Houston -Galveston Area Council 2021 General
Assembly and Board of Directors.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
B. Resolution No. R2020-23 A resolution of the City Council of the City of
Friendswood, Texas, approving the 2018 Community Development Block Grant —
Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), acquisition guidelines.
**Councilmember Rockey moved to approve Resolution No. R2020-23 — A resolution of
the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, approving the 2018 Community
Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR); acquisition guidelines.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
C. Resolution No. R2020-24: A resolution of the City Council of the City of Friendswood,
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Texas, approving and adopting a Section 3 Policy, a Limited English Proficiency
Plan, an Excessive Force Policy, a Section 504 Policy and Grievance Plan, a Code
of Conduct Policy and a Fair Housing Policy pursuant to the requirements
established by the Texas General Land Office as they relate to Community
Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery grants and appointing compliance
officer.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve Resolution No. R2020-24 — A resolution of
the City Council of the City of Friendswood, Texas, approving and adopting a Section 3
Policy, a Limited English Proficiency Plan, an Excessive Force Policy, a Section 504
Policy and Grievance Plan, a Code of Conduct Policy and a Fair Housing Policy pursuant
to the requirements established by the Texas General Land Office as they relate to
Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery grants and appointing
compliance officer.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
11. Ordinances
Consideration and possible action regarding the following:
A. Ordinance No. T2020-38: Second and Final reading of an ordinance amending
Appendix itc)) "Zoning", of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Friendswood, Texas,
Section 3, "Provision for Official Zoning Map", rezoning the property located at 213
E. Heritage Drive, same now consisting of 2.504 acres out of Lot 12, Block 2 of
Friendswood Subdivision, as recorded in Volume 7, Page 20 of the Galveston
County Map Records (G.C.M.R.), being that certain tract of land described in deed
to Friendswood Realty under File No. 2010040672 of the official public records of
Galveston County, Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas, to change from Single
Family Residential (SFR), Multi -Family Residential Low Density (MFR-L), and
Multi -Family Residential Low Density/Specific Use Permit (MFR-L/SUP) to Planned
Unit Development (PUD), more fully described in Exhibit "A", incorporated by
reference, with such Planned Unit Development (PUD) to be governed for all
purposes and conditions pursuant to the attached site plans included in Exhibit "B",
all as more specifically provided herein; providing for the 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.
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance
No. 2020-38 — An ordinance amending Appendix "C" "Zoning", of the Code of Ordinances
of the City of Friendswood, Texas, Section 3, "Provision for Official Zoning Map", rezoning
the property located at 213 E. Heritage Drive, same now consisting of 2.504 acres out of
Lot 12, Block 2 of Friendswood Subdivision, as recorded in Volume 7, Page 20 of the
Galveston County Map Records (G.C.M.R.), being that certain tract of land described in
deed to Friendswood Realty under File No. 2010040672 of the official public records of
Galveston County, Friendswood, Galveston County, Texas, to change from Single Family
Residential (SFR), Multi -Family Residential Low Density (MFR-L), and Multi -Family
Residential Low Density/Specific Use Permit (MFR-L/SUP) to Planned Unit Development
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(PUD), more fully described in Exhibit "A", incorporated by reference, with such Planned
Unit Development (PUD) to be governed for all purposes and conditions pursuant to the
attached site plans included in Exhibit "B", all as more specifically provided herein;
providing for the 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.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
B Ordinance No. T2020-39: Second and Final reading of an ordinance of the City of
Friendswood, Texas, establishing a curfew for persons under the age of 17 years
between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. on any day of the week and between
the hours of 9:00 a m. and 2.30 p.m. for school -aged children on school days;
providing it is unlawful for any person subject to a curfew hereunder to remain in any
public place or on the premises of any establishment within the City of Friendswood
during curfew hours; providing it is unlawful for any parent or guardian of a person
subject to a curfew hereunder to knowingly permit or by insufficient control, allow
such person to remain in any public place or on the premises of any establishment
within the city during curfew hours; providing it is unlawful for any person owning,
operating, or in the employment of any establishment during curfew hours; providing
defenses to prosecution for violations hereunder; providing an effective date;
providing a penalty of an amount not to exceed $500.00 for each day of violation of
any provision hereof; making certain findings; repealing all other ordinances or parts
of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith; and providing for severability.
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the Second and Final reading of Ordinance
No. 2020-39 — An ordinance of the City of Friendswood, Texas, establishing a curfew for
persons under the age of 17 years between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. on any
day of the week and between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. for school -aged
children on school days; providing it is unlawful for any person subject to a curfew
hereunder to remain in any public place or on the premises of any establishment within
the City of Friendswood during curfew hours; providing it is unlawful for any parent or
guardian of a person subject to a curfew hereunder to knowingly permit or by insufficient
control, allow such person to remain in any public place or on the premises of any
establishment within the city during curfew hours; providing it is unlawful for any person
owning, operating, or in the employment of any establishment during curfew hours;
providing defenses to prosecution for violations hereunder; providing an effective date;
providing a penalty of an amount not to exceed $500.00 for each day of violation of any
provision hereof, making certain findings; repealing all other ordinances or parts of
ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith; and providing for severability.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
C. Ordinance No. T2020-42: First and Final reading of an ordinance amending City of
Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2019-38, passed and approved October 7,
2019, same being an ordinance approving and adopting the City's General Budget
for Fiscal Year 2019-2020 by approving "Budget Amendment X11" to the "Original
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General Budget of the City of Friendswood, Texas, for the Fiscal Year 2019-2020 )) ;
providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of certain funds; providing
for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject.
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No.
2020-42 — An ordinance amending City of Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2019-38,
passed and approved October 7, 2019, same being an ordinance approving and adopting
the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2019-2020 by approving "Budget Amendment
X11" to the "Original General Budget of the City of Friendswood, Texas, for the Fiscal Year
2019-2020 )) ; providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of certain funds;
providing for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
D. Ordinance No. T2020-43: First and Final reading of an ordinance amending City of
Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2020-35, passed and approved September 14,
2020, same being an ordinance approving and adopting the City's General Budget
for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 by approving "Budget Amendment I" to the "Original
General Budget of the City of Friendswood, Texas, for the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 3) ;
providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of certain funds; providing
for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject.
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the First and Final reading of Ordinance No.
2020-43 — An ordinance amending City of Friendswood, Texas, Ordinance No. 2020-35,
passed and approved September 14, 2020, same being an ordinance approving and
adopting the City's General Budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 by approving "Budget
Amendment I" to the "Original General Budget of the City of Friendswood, Texas, for the
Fiscal Year 2020-2021 ); ; providing for supplemental appropriation and/or transfer of
certain funds; providing for severability; and providing other matters related to the subject.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
E. Ordinance No. T2020-44: First reading of an ordinance amending Appendix C —
"Zoning," "Section 7.Q. District Area and Height Regulations" to amend and clarify
the height regulations and exceptions in all commercial zoning districts and "Section
20. Definitions." to remove a duplicate requirement; 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.
**Councilmember Branson moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. 2020-44
— An ordinance amending Appendix C — "Zoning," "Section 7.Q. District Area and Height
Regulations" to amend and clarify the height regulations and exceptions in all commercial
zoning -districts and "Section 20. Definitions," to remove a duplicate requirement; 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.
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The motion was seconded and approved 5-1 with Councilmember Rockey opposed.
F. Ordinance No. T2020-45: First reading of an ordinance amending the Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 34, Floods, Article 11. Flood Damage Prevention, Division 1.
Generally, by amending Sections 34-19, 34-21, 34-24) 34-257 34-317 34-33) 34-34)
and by adding Section 34-35; and amending Division 2. Flood Hazard Reduction, by
amending Sections 34-60 through 34-64; providing a penalty for violation in an
amount not to exceed $2,000 for each violation, or as otherwise provided by law;
repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent or in conflict herewith;
and providing for severability, publication and effective date.
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the First reading of Ordinance No. 2020-45 —
An ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 34, Floods, Article 11. Flood
Damage Prevention, Division 1. Generally, by amending Sections 34-19, 34-217 34-247
34-257 34-317 34-337 34-34, and by adding Section 34-35; and amending Division 2. Flood
Hazard Reduction, by amending Sections 34-60 through 34-64; providing a penalty for
violation in an amount not to exceed $2,000 for each violation, or as otherwise provided
by law; repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent. or in conflict herewith;
and providing for severability, publication and effective date.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
12. Communications from the Mayor and Councilmembers
Councilmember Rockey reported that he participated as a judge in a poetry contest and
had a lot of fun. The groups that are doing the scarecrow contest, continues to grow
every year, are doing a really wonderful thing, every time he goes by he sees people
taking pictures, and has been really nice. He hopes we can all take the election results
calmly however they come out In the 1800 election, there was a duel from two
participants after the election. In 1838, Jackson, the opposition accused his wife of being
adulterous and he threatened to murder John Quincey Adams once the election was over.
Abraham Lincoln had to sneak into Washington D.C. incognito because there were
assassination attempts on him. The United States have been through these difficult
elections, and will get through it again, whoever wins tomorrow wins, however many days
it takes to figure it all out, hopes we accept it, move on and hopes the new president does
a good job.
Councilmember Branson stated she agrees with Councilmember Rockey regarding the
scarecrow contest, it makes you happy to drive down Friendswood Drive. This year the
scarecrow stroll was added, her office happens to look out over it, and all day everyday
there are kids and parents going through and taking pictures, is such a breath of fresh air
despite the many months of COVID-19 we have all been dealing with. Councilmember
Branson thanked the entire community for participating and gave additional thanks to the
Parks and Recreation Department for the Christmas Trail, the lights are inspirational.
People are coming up with really fun and unique things. Appreciated the breakfast taco
drive thru on Veteran's Day. She thanked the Rotary Club for the generous donation and
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stated the one last thank you is for the money that came in for the Food Lion building, is
very excited.
Councilmember Hanks stated she was a judge for the scarecrow contest, was hard to
choose a winner, everyone did a great job and it was a lot of fun. She is the liaison for
Keep Friendswood Beautiful and has already heard it is going to be a very exciting event
in the park this year, are making it special for everyone since they are unable to have the
activities they had in previous years. She echoed what Councilmember Rockey stated
that we live in the greatest country in the world and we live in a great city. We are resilient
and she is proud to be an American.
Councilmember Griffon stated his Father has been raising and breeding thoroughbred
racehorses at his house in Friendswood since 1996. He had a horse named Dynomite
Babe and she had a son named Just Might, and Just Might may win the Breeder's Cup
World Championship in Race No. 5 this Saturday. He would like to extend an invitation
to everyone in Friendswood to tune into NBC Sports Live. The Griffon clan is all going to
Kentucky. Just Might is running what is called the "Turf Sprint" and is a long shot, will be
coming out of the number 2 gate, which is good, and right where he needs to be. He is
very fast and a gorgeous animal, is very excited and this is the biggest race he has ever
been in. Tune in at noon, it will be the 5th race. Let's bring Friendswood home!
Councilmember Erenwert thanked the Police and stated they are a very important part of
this community. It was tough not having Historween this year, is one of the top events in
the city. He reminded everyone to go out and vote tomorrow.
Mayor Foreman stated he is a part of the Galveston County Mayor and Council
Association and asks that fellow councilmembers vote for Jason Tabor for President of
this association. Mayor stated he is a part of several organizations with one of them being
Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership, where he serves on the Board of Directors.
They meet monthly as a board and discuss legislative agenda items they want to push
for the upcoming year. BayTran is transportation focused, and in this area the things they
are pushing as a number one priority is the coastal barrier which requires federal funding,
but takes Texas State Legislation backing. The second is the Port of Houston, the focus
is to continue to improve Ship Channel, is important to all residents, and the third is Grand
Parkway Segments A-C, which is not built yet, but would take those segments all the way
from Highway 288 to Highway 146. Would like to start reporting more on the meetings
he attends, including Mayor's Roundtable which meets monthly. Mayors from all around
the lake attend, including City of Houston's Mayor Pro-Tem. They discuss the same thing,
which is legislative agenda and what they would like to push for in this region. Mayor
Foreman reminded those who have not yet to get a flu shot.
13. Consent Agenda
Consideration and possible action regarding the following. -
A. Authorizing the Mayor to call a Regular Meeting of the City Council on Tuesday,
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November 17, 2020, to canvass the November 3, 2020, Special Election for
Reauthorization of the Local Sales and Use Tax for Maintenance and Repair of
Municipal Streets
B. Approving an Interlocal Agreement with Friendswood Independent School District
for purchases to enable compliance with COVID-1 9 precautions and authorizing the
Mayor to sign the agreement
C. Authorize the final acceptance of the Old City Park restroom and pavilion
improvements at the completion of the contractor's one-year maintenance period
D. Approving the September 2020 Tax Report
E. Approving the minutes of the October 01 and October 05, 2020, City Council
Meetings
**Councilmember Hanks moved to approve the Consent Agenda.
The motion was seconded and approved 6-0.
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The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 PM.
Attest:
Melinda Welsh, TRIVIC
City Secretary