Public Meetings - Carrollton, Texas

The Carrollton City Council met on February 20, 2024, beginning with a worksession at 5:45 PM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM. All members were present except Councilmember Daisy Palomo (ill) and Councilmember Andrew Palacios (on FMLA). The meeting featured presentations recognizing life-saving efforts and Black History Month, unanimous approval of a consent agenda with two amendments, and discussions on information technology projects, floodplain management, and community funding policies. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously, with item 11 (minutes) amended to correct a vote tally and item 16 (street reconstruction contract) amended to correct the total amount to $2,987,485.50. The consent agenda included: - Purchase of audio-visual equipment for the Senior Center Texas Room ($212,579.91) - Water and sewer supplies bid to five vendors (annual $315,000; three-year total $945,000) - IT products and services from Freeit Data Solutions ($830,000) - Fiber optic network from Astound Business Solutions (20-year total $7,750,000; Year 1 $5,150,000) - Construction contract with 3D Paving for Jackson Road and Study Lane reconstruction ($2,987,485.50 inclusive of contingency) - Public drainage easement purchase at 4201 Wilson Lane ($500) - Investment Officer's Quarterly Report for Q1 ended December 31, 2023 - Billboard rental contract with OUTFRONT Media ($179,925 for two years) - Professional services agreements with AECOM and Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam ($525,000) - Appointment of Lisa Stavinoha to the Museum and Historic Advisory Committee Presentations & Proclamations - Recognition of Life-Saving Efforts: Fire Chief Michael Thomson recognized bystanders and NTECC telecommunicators for two incidents of sudden cardiac arrest survival. Barney Shupe, Kelcey Jenkins (via representative), Bekkah Dorrough, Chris Frazier, Sterling Moxley, and Iisha Haggard (via representative) received certificates and challenge coins. Survivors Vicki Shupe and Brenton Croley were present. - Black History Month Proclamation: Mayor Babick read a proclamation declaring February 2024 as Black History Month. Representatives from NAACP, PACE, and Christ Community Connections accepted. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers appeared during the public comment period for agenda items (Item 10) or the public forum for non-agenda items (Item 22). Discussion Items - Information Technology Project Update: CIO Chris Chiancone reported that IT staffing shifted from 5% project-focused in 2021 to 70% project-focused currently. Accomplishments included new ERP, HR, utility billing systems, mobile app (70% complete), network upgrades, security improvements, and 51% desktop refresh. Future work includes cloud migration planning, CRM consolidation, and data warehouse for predictive analytics. Councilmember Axberg requested a cloud migration roadmap. - Floodplain Management and Mapping Project: Director Jonathan Wheat provided a briefing. Last maps updated in 2011; a new study with Walter P. Moore is in review. Carrollton maintains a Community Rating System Class 6, giving residents a 20% flood insurance discount. Maps will be updated watershed-by-watershed; further presentations planned. - Community Service and Event/Special Project Funding Policies: Mayor Pro Tem Cline presented committee-recommended guidelines: events must be hosted in Carrollton or by a Carrollton partner, or attract statewide/national attention. Annual partner list is set through a budget application process. Councilmember Axberg urged inclusion of PACE, which had not applied. Consensus was to encourage PACE to submit an application. No formal vote; direction given to staff. Mayor and Council Reports - Councilmember Axberg attended Metrocrest Hospital Board meeting and planned to attend Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce Lunar New Year event. - Councilmember Carpenter visited fleet services and praised operations. - Councilmember Fleming attended NAACP Community Builders event and shared Black History Month trivia. - Mayor Babick reported on community engagements: CPR training with fifth graders, a park cleanup (16-20 bags of trash), DART transit planning meeting, and CFB ISD culinary academy event. - Mayor Pro Tem Cline attended Harlem Wizards basketball game and Love Packs food delivery. - Councilmember Pendleton participated in multiple events including acts of kindness and a DART meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with amendments. - IT project update and floodplain briefing received; no formal action taken. - Community funding policy discussion provided staff direction; no vote.n- Upcoming events: Vision 2040 kickoff with Gensler (Feb 22), Text Fest (Mar 2).

The Carrollton City Council convened for a worksession at 5:45 PM followed by a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at City Hall. The worksession included updates on the 10-20 year Vision 2040 plan by Gensler, selection of the Metrocrest Chamber Rising Star honoree, and scheduling the annual strategic retreat. The regular meeting featured proclamations, acceptance of county infrastructure funding, a contested grounds maintenance contract, approvals for mixed-use development and arcade permits, and a public forum with multiple speakers calling for a ceasefire resolution regarding Gaza. Presentations & Proclamations - Blalack Middle School Honor Winds Band: The council recognized the band for its selection to represent Carrollton at the Music for All Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana, on March 22, 2024. Preview concerts are scheduled for February 20 and March 19 at Creekview High School. - Community Groups Exemplifying Council’s Vision: The council recognized the American Legion Post 597 for its Veterans Day celebration and community service. The Carrollton Giving Garden was honored for donating 4,688 pounds of fresh produce in the last quarter and over 18 tons since its founding in 2010 to local charities addressing food insecurity. - County Infrastructure Funding: Denton County Commissioner Kevin Falconer presented $4,350,000 for the Hebron Parkway (Segment 1) project and $1,500,000 for the Frankford Road project, approved unanimously by the Commissioners Court on January 30, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 19 (Branch Hollow Playground): Susanna Dooling urged the council to postpone the vote to incorporate more inclusive playground equipment for children with disabilities, including sensory items and universally accessible merry-go-rounds. - Public Forum (Non-Agenda – Ceasefire Resolution): Six residents (Zahra Kutri, Iman Fahmi, Alina Elasmar, Samina Ali, Andrea Valaderas, and Tubasalun) spoke in support of placing a ceasefire resolution for Gaza on a future council agenda. Speakers cited over 27,000 casualties, the displacement of 85% of the population, and a rise in anti-Palestinian and Islamophobic hate crimes, urging the council to take a stand against the violence and genocide. Worksession - Vision Plan Update: Kevin Turner of Gensler presented the facilitation plan for the city’s vision strategy. Council feedback sessions are set for February 22 and March 7. Two public engagement sessions are planned for early April, with a virtual follow-up in early May. - Rising Star Honoree: Councilmembers nominated Marty Rubio (Make It Count) and Susan Stevens (Grace Christian Preschool). Marty Rubio was selected as the 2024 Rising Star to be honored at the Metrocrest Chamber awards luncheon in early March. - Retreat Date: The 2024 Annual Council Strategic Planning Retreat is scheduled for July 26-27. Consent Calendar The council unanimously approved Items 12-14 and 16-24 en masse. Key approvals include: Item 13 (Indian Creek Golf Course cart barn renovation, $262,680), Item 14 (Rosemeade Rainforest starting blocks, $57,941.84, partially funded by the Aquatic Racers), Item 16 (Fair Housing Study, $25,000), Item 18 (Library digital materials, $273,157 over two-years, reflecting a 9% increase in digital checkouts), Item 19 (Branch Hollow Playground replacement, $329,686.50), Item 20 (Webb Chapel screening wall, $899,600), Item 23 (City Hall Remodel Phase II architectural design, $250,000), and Item 24 (MOU for DFW Intelligent Transportation Systems). Discussion Items - Item 15: Grounds Maintenance RFP (24-007): The council considered a contract for mowing and landscape maintenance across multiple departments totaling $709,000 annually over six years. Councilmembers Fleming and Palomo questioned the award process after the lowest bidder, Richmond Associates (a Carrollton business), was not selected for all nine categories. Councilmember Fleming noted the decision represented an approximate $1.8 million increase over the contract term and questioned the 55% pricing versus 45% reference weighting. Staff defended the recommendation as “best value,” citing the selected vendors’ capacity, experience with complex areas (e.g., tollway medians), and past failures with lowest bidders. The motion to approve passed 6-1, with Councilmember Fleming opposed. - Item 25 & 26: Kiddleton Arcades (H-Mart & 99 Ranch): The council approved retroactive Special Use Permits for amusement arcades. The H-Mart location (Item 25) will house 57 machines, and the 99 Ranch location (Item 26) will have 32 machines. Both are restricted to store hours and prohibit gambling devices. Both passed unanimously. - Item 27: IBP 190 (GBT & Midway): The council approved a rezoning and plan development for a 55-acre vacant site at the northwest corner of George Bush Turnpike and Midway Road. The applicant, Lucy Billingsley, outlined a phased development with 910,000 sq. ft. of office, over 700 multi-family and townhome units, and retail. The plan includes an 8-foot masonry wall, a 22-foot landscape buffer, and a 75-foot setback from adjacent single-family homes. The ordinance prohibits more intensive uses (e.g., auto repair, adult businesses) allowed under the previous heavy commercial zoning. The rezoning passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 15 (Grounds Maintenance Contract): Approved 6-1. Councilmember Fleming voted in opposition. - Item 27 (IBP 190 Rezoning): Approved 7-0. - Item 25 & 26 (Kiddleton Arcades): Approved 7-0 each. - Rising Star Selection: Marty Rubio selected. - County Funding: Approximately $5.85 million in county funding accepted. - Retreat Date: July 26-27, 2024. - Referral: Council discussed scheduling a future worksession to review the procurement process for city contracts.

The Planning & Zoning Commission of Carrollton, Texas held a regular meeting on February 1, 2024, beginning at 6:34 p.m. and adjourning at 9:08 p.m. The meeting included consent agenda items, public hearings on zoning changes, special use permits, and transportation plan amendments. Commissioners voted on 14 agenda items, with decisions ranging from unanimous approvals to a denial and continuances. Consent Calendar - Agenda Items 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 were approved unanimously (with Commissioner Yarborough absent) as part of the consent agenda after Commissioner Martin motioned and Commissioner Foster seconded. Item 4 was pulled for individual consideration. - Agenda Item 4 (Technical Site Plan for drive-through windows at International Business Park PH II) was approved unanimously with an additional stipulation to extend the western drive-through barrier to the north sidewalk, as allowed by city traffic engineering. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 7 – Teso Arcade: Two residents (Kimberly Hawkins of 2505 Oakwood and Linda Wade of 2509 Oakwood) spoke in opposition, citing noise, parking, and safety concerns related to businesses on that corner. The applicant, Xiao Ling, responded that the arcade machines are in the front of the store and business hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., causing minimal disruption. - Item 8 – Yasha Auto Care: Multiple residents and business owners spoke in opposition. Doug McCracken (neighborhood representative) opposed the paint and body shop and outdoor storage, citing health and nuisance concerns. Anthony Wynne (son of a neighboring business owner) and Kevin No (employee of Fox Express restaurant) also opposed, focusing on health hazards. Pega Genji (real estate agent for the applicant) and John F. Latoony (broker) spoke in support, emphasizing the applicant’s history of property improvements. The applicant, Hom Sapasi, clarified he could forego the paint and body shop if needed. - Item 9 – J Auto: No public comments were made besides the applicant’s presentation. - Item 10 – Skylane Motors: No public testimony; the applicant did not appear. - Item 11 – Fujifilm Canopy Renovation: No public comments. - Item 12 – Maridoe Golf Club: One resident (Aim Kimball of 2649 Via Ventura Circle) spoke in support. Three written oppositions were noted but speakers not present. - Items 13 & 14 (Broadway PD and transportation plan): No public comments; both were continued. Discussion Items - Item 4 (drive-through barriers): Commissioners discussed safety concerns about a pinch point and oncoming traffic. The applicant’s engineer agreed to extend the barrier; staff confirmed feasibility. - Item 7 – Teso Arcade: Staff recommended approval with stipulations. Commissioner Foster questioned the arcade’s proportion relative to retail; the applicant explained the arcade occupies about 400 sq ft of the 1,400 sq ft suite. Commissioner Foster voted against, but the motion passed 7-1. - Item 8 – Yasha Auto Care: Staff recommended denial due to the paint and body shop use near residences. After the applicant indicated he could remove the paint and body shop and focus on mechanic work and screened outdoor storage, the commission shifted. The final motion: close public hearing, approve with staff stipulations, remove stipulation 1 (allow paint/body shop), and add “all auto repairs shall occur indoors.” Passed unanimously. - Item 9 – J Auto: Staff recommended approval for indoor display of up to 12 vehicles; the applicant explained his niche serving Japanese expats. Approved unanimously. - Item 10 – Skylane Motors: Staff recommended denial, noting the applicant failed to provide required information, has code violation history, and has not complied with current SUP (outdoor display prohibited). Commissioners criticized the incomplete application and violations. A motion to approve with stipulations failed; the item was effectively denied, with a 10-day appeal window. - Item 11 – Fujifilm Canopy Renovation: Staff recommended approval after verifying that a hazardous materials plan was already approved; they requested removal of stipulation 3. The commission unanimously approved with that removal. - Item 12 – Maridoe Golf Club: Staff recommended approval for a new maintenance facility on the southwest corner of the golf course. The applicant’s engineer noted existing temporary facilities on the northwest corner would be removed within 30 days per stipulations. Unanimously approved. - Item 13 – Broadway-IH35E-Jackson (PD for multifamily): Applicant requested a continuance to March 7, 2024, to submit revised plans. The commission voted to keep the public hearing open and continue the item. - Item 14 – Broadway Street transportation plan (companion to Item 13): Also continued to March 7, 2024, with public hearing kept open. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda items (1-3,5-6): Approved unanimously. Item 4 approved unanimously with an added barrier stipulation. - Item 7 (Teso Arcade): Approved 7-1 (Commissioner Foster dissenting). Forwarded to City Council March 5, 2024. - Item 8 (Yasha Auto Care): Approved unanimously with modifications (no paint/body shop; all repairs indoors). Forwarded to City Council. - Item 9 (J Auto): Approved unanimously. Forwarded to City Council March 5, 2024. - Item 10 (Skylane Motors): Motion to approve failed; effectively denied. Applicant has 10 days to appeal to City Council. - Item 11 (Fujifilm Canopy): Approved unanimously with stipulation 3 removed. Forwarded to City Council March 5, 2024. - Item 12 (Maridoe Golf Club): Approved unanimously. Forwarded to City Council March 5, 2024. - Items 13 & 14: Continued to March 7, 2024; public hearings kept open. - Staff Reports: City Council actions from January 9, 2024, noted: approved Wisdom Academy (PD for school), used car sales at 1206 Tappan (indoor only), and selected Gensler as consultant for downtown master plan update. - Commissioner request: Commissioner Overholt requested a summary sheet of past council actions and a red-light timer for public speakers; staff agreed to implement.

The Carrollton City Council convened for a Regular Work Session at 5:45 PM and a Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM on January 23, 2024. The work session included briefings on the Downtown-Belt Line Road Master Plan Update, the Dudley Branch Trail realignment costs, Qualified Hotel Legislation, and the North Texas Emergency Communications Center (NTECC). During the regular meeting, the Council approved consent agenda items, a proclamation for School Board Appreciation Month, and board appointments. Several residents spoke during the Public Forum regarding the conflict in Gaza. Councilmember Andrew Palacios was absent. Proclamation - Mayor Babick and Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Cline presented a proclamation recognizing January 2024 as School Board Appreciation Month. Trustees from the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District (CFBISD) and the Lewisville Independent School District (LISD) were recognized for their partnership with the city. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 9, 2024 Regular Meeting. - Awarded Bid 24-005 for the Crockett Drive Alley Reconstruction to Cam-Crete Contracting, Inc. (not to exceed $415,192.00). - Approved purchase of one 144-inch Lazer Z X-Series mower ($76,412.33) and multiple Case heavy equipment units for fleet replacement and addition ($445,850.00). - Authorized the City Manager to reject all bids for the Plano Parkway Park Project due to costs significantly exceeding the $2.995 million estimate; the low bid of $4.2 million represented a 40% increase and the project will be rebid as two separate contracts. - Approved an ordinance amending the Operating and Capital Budget, transferring $1,700,000 from the General Facilities Capital Fund to the Parks Capital Fund for the Woodlake Pond Enhancements Phase 1 project (a bond project approved by 80% of voters). - Ordered a Charter Election and a General Election to be held on May 4, 2024. The Charter Election will feature Propositions A, B, and C regarding residency requirements, resignation of elected officials, and redistricting. The General Election will fill Council Places 1, 3, 5, and 7. - Approved a resolution revising the Single-Family Rehabilitation Incentive Policy to allow staff-level approval for specific straight, non-curved driveway expansions under 10 feet and $3,000 completed in conjunction with a NOTICE project. - Approved a resolution authorizing a professional services contract with M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates for the Downtown-Belt Line Road Corridor Master Plan Update (not to exceed $374,659.00). - Authorized the purchase of 16.2 acres in fee simple and a 0.58-acre easement from CFBISD near Creekview High School for the Dudley Branch Hike and Bike Trail (not to exceed $125,366.00). - Authorized the City Manager to acquire necessary utility easements for the Ridgecrest Phase 1 Reconstruction project, with authorization to pursue condemnation if necessary. - Authorized an amended interlocal agreement with DART for the Downtown Carrollton Multi-Modal Transit Hub FTA Grant. - Appointed Dave Hermon to the Planning and Zoning Commission (Item 24, separate vote, unanimous). - Appointed Rebecca Madsen Mercado to the Neighborhood Advisory Commission (Item 25, separate vote, 5-1 with Councilmember Fleming dissenting). Discussion Items - Downtown-Belt Line Road Master Plan Update Briefing: Ravi Shah and Loren Shapiro presented the TOD committee's selection of Gensler for the master plan update. Gensler team members Barry Han and Kim Dressner presented their vision, highlighting Carrollton's unique historic downtown, visibility from I-35E, and opportunities for corporate recruitment and placemaking. The study area encompasses the station area, downtown, and the Belt Line Road corridor. The timeline for completion is estimated at 12 to 15 months. - Dudley Branch Trail Realignment Update: Jonathan Wheat, Director of Engineering, presented the cost and time impacts of realigning the trail from the current approved alignment. A realignment would require an estimated 15-month extension and result in total additional costs of approximately $3.1 million, including the potential loss of a $3 million federal grant, partially offset by estimated construction savings of $500,000. Following discussion, Council reached a consensus to move forward with the current City Council-approved alignment to preserve the federal funding and meet construction deadlines. - Qualified Hotel Legislation Briefing: Robert Winningham, Economic Development Director, briefed the Council on a state tool allowing cities to capture 100% of the state's portion of hotel/motel and sales tax for ten years to finance convention center and hotel projects meeting specific requirements. The tool requires a city to be placed on a specific legislative list, granting a four-year window to use it. Council expressed strong interest, deeming it a catalyst for economic development and placemaking. Consensus was given to pursue inclusion in the legislation. - NTECC Briefing: Rex Redden, Executive Director of Public Safety, provided an update on the North Texas Emergency Communications Center. A feasibility study determined that building a new 23,000 square foot facility would save approximately $12 million for the City of Carrollton over 30 years compared to remaining in the current 11,800 square foot leased space. The board of directors has recommended building a new facility. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comment on Agenda Items: No members of the public spoke on the consent agenda items. - Public Forum: Several residents (Lourdes Mendez, Dulce Flores, Lina Alasmar, Iman Fahmi, Rola Hamza, and Andrea) addressed the Council regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict. Speakers urged the Council to adopt a ceasefire resolution and expressed concerns that U.S. tax dollars are funding military operations in Gaza. Six other citizens registered their support for these speakers without providing individual testimony. Mayor Babick stated that under the Texas Open Meetings Act, the Council could not engage in a dialogue on the topic. Mayor and Council Reports - Councilmembers reported on recent activities including the MLK Parade, Hoya Park Grand Opening, DART meetings regarding the Silver Line, hospital board meetings, and an economic development meeting with a South Korean province governor. Councilmember Carpenter announced he had filed for re-election to his seat. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Items 11 through 23 were approved unanimously. - Appointments Approved: Dave Hermon appointed to the Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous). Rebecca Madsen Mercado appointed to the Neighborhood Advisory Commission (5-1 vote). - Proclamation Approved: Recognized January 2024 as School Board Appreciation Month. - Direction Given: Staff was directed to continue with the current alignment of the Dudley Branch Trail to meet the federal funding deadline. - Direction Given: Consensus was reached to pursue placement on the Qualified Hotel Project legislative list in the upcoming session. - Motion Carried: Budget amendment for a $1.7 million transfer to the Parks Capital Fund was approved. - Meeting Adjourned: The Regular Meeting was adjourned at 7:04 PM.

The City of Carrollton City Council met on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, for a combined Worksession at 5:45 PM and Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM at City Hall. Councilmembers Richard Fleming (family emergency) and Andrew Palacios (early departure) were absent. An Outstanding Performance Award was presented to IT Project Manager Calvary Zender. The meeting adjourned at 7:27 PM. Consent Calendar Items 8 through 29 were approved unanimously. Major approvals included: - Fleet Purchases (Items 10-16): Approval of 17 vehicles totaling $1,396,136.63, including two new fleet additions (a Chevrolet Colorado for Building Inspections and a Peterbilt concrete mixer for Public Works) and 15 replacements for end-of-life vehicles. - Rosemeade Rainforest Repairs (Item 16): $95,823.75 for flood damage repairs, covered by an insurance risk claim. - Woodlake Lake Enhancement (Item 18): Construction contract for $3,587,868.52, exceeding the $2.5 million bond budget. - Frankford Road Design (Item 23): $3,697,938.25 for engineering design services, with construction partially funded by Denton County. - Lead and Copper Rule Study (Item 20): $342,500 for compliance with the October 2024 federal deadline. - Police Technology (Items 24, 25): Renewal of Vigilant Solutions crime investigation software ($60,690 for 3 years) and Flock Safety LPR cameras ($276,400 for 5 years, adding 8 cameras). - Duncan Heights Right-of-Way (Item 21): Resolution authorizing acquisition, including eminent domain if negotiations fail. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing Item 30 (Used Auto Sales): Applicant Sylvia Condado spoke in favor of the Special Use Permit for indoor auto sales at 1206 Tappan Circle, agreeing to the Planning & Zoning Commission recommendation. No public testimony was offered in the hearing. - Public Hearing Item 31 (Wisdom Academy): Applicant Luke Franz spoke in favor of the PD amendment for a private school at 1800 Golden Trail Court, accepting the 285-student cap and TIA conditions. Several supporters submitted cards. - Public Forum (Non-Agenda): Imam Fahmi addressed the Council regarding the conflict in Gaza. He expressed opposition to the use of U.S. tax dollars in the conflict and urged the Council to pass a resolution calling for a ceasefire. The Mayor advised that the Council could not respond under the Texas Open Meetings Act. Discussion Items - Dudley Branch Hike and Bike Trail (Worksession Item 4): Director of Engineering Jonathan Wheat reviewed the project history, noting the $3 million federal COG grant requires construction to begin by August 2024. Staff presented four fence alignment options. Staff recommendation was Option 1 (a 5-foot offset from property lines connecting to existing fences). Councilmember Cline expressed her position that the project should explore utilizing the 30-foot pedestrian easement to preserve trees and avoid drainage complications. Councilmember Axberg and staff responded that a redesign would risk the August grant deadline. Councilmember Pendleton noted that any fence alignment would require removing existing resident improvements (gardens, sheds, fences) located within the utility easement. - Council Reports: Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Pendleton announced his retirement at the end of his current term. Councilmember Palomo promoted a United Acts of Kindness campaign. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 8-29): Approved unanimously. - Item 30 (Used Auto Sales Online): Approved unanimously. Stipulations require indoor vehicle display only, prohibit on-street parking, and require removal of three parking spots in the right-of-way. - Item 31 (Wisdom Academy): Approved unanimously. The school is capped at 285 students and must comply with a Traffic Impact Analysis including staggered start times. - Dudley Branch Fence Alignment: Council reached consensus to support Option 1 (5-foot offset connecting to existing fences) over the zero-offset or no-fence options. - Dudley Branch Gates: Consensus was reached to offer gates at specific driveways upon resident request. Residents must sign an acknowledgement that the City-owned gates cannot be locked. - Trail Redesign Inquiry: Councilmember Axberg requested, and the Mayor directed, that staff prepare a report for the next meeting analyzing the feasibility, cost, and timeline impact of redesigning the trail within the 30-foot pedestrian easement.

The Carrollton Planning & Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on January 4, 2024, called to order at 6:30 PM and adjourned at 8:30 PM. The agenda included three public hearings: two Special Use Permits (SUPs) for amusement arcades and a major Planned Development (PD) amendment for a 55-acre mixed-use project. The commission also elected officers and recognized outgoing Commissioner Catherine Taylor. Consent Calendar - Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes from December 7, 2023. Public Hearings & Testimony Special Use Permits: Kiddleton Arcade (Items 2 & 3) - Case PLSUP 2023-125 (H-Mart): Public hearing for a 602 sq ft arcade with 57 arcade machines at 2625 Old Denton Rd, Ste 232. No public testimony was offered. Staff recommended approval. - Case PLSUP 2023-126 (99 Ranch): Public hearing for a 283 sq ft arcade with 32 arcade machines at 2532 Old Denton Rd, Ste 105. No public testimony was offered. Staff recommended approval. PD Amendment: IBP 190 (Item 4) - Case PLZPD 2023-116: Public hearing for a 55-acre tract at the NW corner of George Bush Turnpike and Midway Road. The applicant, Billingsley Company, sought to amend Planned Developments 54 and 66 to allow a mix of multifamily, single-family townhouses, office, and retail, replacing a prior heavy commercial plan. - Project Summary: The plan includes multi-story office and residential buildings, retail, a campus quad, and over 800 parking spaces above minimum requirements. Setbacks from neighboring Oak Creek Estates are proposed at a minimum of 75 feet with a 22-foot landscape buffer and 8-foot fence. - Public Testimony: The chair reported 4 written comments and emails in favor, 10 against, and 3 with unstated positions. Eleven residents spoke in opposition or with strong concerns during the hearing. Key positions included: - Safety and Privacy: Multiple residents (Andrew Watkins, Marty Whitaker, Rick Kirby) argued an 8-foot wrought iron fence is insufficient for privacy and security, universally requesting a solid brick masonry wall. - Soil Conditions: Residents contradicted the city's general concerns about brick wall maintenance. They stated the soil in Oak Creek Estates is rocky (limestone) approximately 18 inches down, unlike expansive clay found elsewhere. Applicant Henry Billingsley confirmed this based on his experience building nearby, arguing a brick wall would not heave. - Building Height: Several residents (Joshua Marler, Jamie Marlar, Diane Panazzo) opposed the three-story townhomes near the property line, citing direct sightlines into their backyards and children's play areas. - Rental vs. Ownership: A resident (Ryan Finnegan) noted a discrepancy in the project's characterization, stating the units are entirely rental apartments, not owned "townhomes," which raised concerns about community stability and transience. - Environmental & Traffic: One resident (George Mediola) raised concerns about stormwater runoff from eliminating green space. Commissioners and residents questioned traffic flow on Rosemead Road, which the applicant clarified is a right-in/right-out access subject to City of Dallas approval. Staff confirmed a traffic study was completed and satisfied city criteria. The applicant confirmed no dumpsters would be located within 200 feet of adjacent property lines. - Applicant Position: The applicant emphasized the new plan prohibits heavy commercial uses currently allowed by right (auto repair, adult businesses), dramatically increases setbacks from the existing neighborhood, and removes proposed pedestrian connections specifically to address resident feedback. Applicant representatives stated they were willing to install a brick wall if required. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Overholt expressed strong opposition to the entire project, stating the site should remain a future office campus given the ample existing multifamily supply in the area. Other commissioners focused on resolving the fence conflict. An attempt by Commissioner Kramer to suggest an automated parking system to reduce parking structure heights did not gain traction. The commission leaned towards modifying the fence stipulation to a brick wall given the unified resident request and the applicant's stated willingness. Key Outcomes - Items 2 & 3: Both SUPs were approved unanimously and forwarded to the City Council meeting scheduled for February 6, 2024. - Item 4: The PD amendment was approved with an 8-1 vote (Commissioner Overholt opposed). The approval included a modification to staff stipulations, specifically requiring a brick masonry wall in place of the proposed wrought iron fence. The case will be forwarded to the City Council meeting on February 6, 2024, for a public hearing. - Elections & Recognition: Commissioner Willadine Martin was elected Vice Chair. Commissioner Mark Yarborough was elected First Vice Chair. The commission formally recognized and thanked outgoing Commissioner Catherine Taylor for her service.

The Carrollton Planning & Zoning Commission convened on December 7, 2023, at 6:33 p.m. in Council Chambers. Seven of nine commissioners were present. The meeting included a consent agenda, two public hearings, and other business items. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the November 2, 2023 meeting minutes unanimously. - Replat of Kim Park Addition (PLRP 2023-111): Approved a replat of Lots 1, 2, and 3, Block A, an approximately 0.813-acre tract on the west side of North Denton Drive, west of Cotton Street, to modify property lines for Lots 1R, 2R, and 3R, Block A. Motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 – Used Auto Sales Online (PLSUP 2023-110): - Applicant (Sylvia Condado): Representing Perfect Motor Cars, she expressed willingness to limit vehicle display to indoor storage only, stating the business is online-based with delivery/pickup. Repairs are performed off-site at 1411 Westway Circle. She noted that the site can accommodate the operation without outdoor inventory. - Public Opponent (Stanford Friend): Owner of adjacent and nearby properties (1204 Tappan Circle, etc.), he opposed the use due to concerns about overflow parking onto his property, uninvited visitors, and uncertainty about property boundaries shown on the map. - Item 4 – Wisdom Academy Private School (PLZ 2023-115): - Applicant (Luke Franz): Representing Wisdom Academy, he requested approval with staff-recommended stipulations. He stated that the school will start with approximately 75 students and grow to a maximum of 285 over 7–10 years. No bus service is planned; traffic mitigation includes staggered drop-off/pick-up times. - Public Support: Multiple appearance cards were submitted in favor; no one spoke in opposition. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Used Auto Sales Online: Commissioners discussed staff’s initial recommendation for denial due to potential visibility of outdoor inventory after a future street extension (Fourth Street). After applicant offered to keep vehicles indoors, staff clarified they would support indoor-only display with modified stipulations. Commissioner Overholt noted that a new opaque fence could screen outdoor vehicles, but the applicant’s concession made that unnecessary. The commission ultimately moved to approve with indoor-only storage and removal of the outdoor screening requirement (stipulation 2B). - Item 4 – Wisdom Academy: The commission reviewed the proposed amendment to PD-122 to allow a private school (Pre-K through 12th grade, up to 285 students). Discussion included traffic impacts: a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) was submitted and approved by transportation engineering. Commissioners raised concerns about left-turn difficulties onto Josie Lane, especially during peak hours. The TIA addresses these by recommending extended queuing at Arbor Creek for U-turns. A stipulation was added requiring decorative wrought-iron perimeter fencing (instead of masonry) to preserve existing mature vegetation on the west property line. - Other Business: - The commission agreed to change the July 4, 2024 meeting to Wednesday, June 26, 2024, due to the holiday. - Staff reported on recent City Council actions, including unanimous approval of Texas Car One (auto sales on Broadway), Dallas Billiards (Old Denton Road), L Plaza (Josie Lane/Parker Road), and three text amendments (historic preservation, airport map update, dwelling units). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0) with Commissioner Doyle and Commissioner Yarborough absent. - PLSUP 2023-110 (Used Auto Sales): Approved 7-0 with adjusted stipulations: indoor vehicle display only (removal of outdoor inventory and associated screening requirements). Forwarded to City Council on January 9, 2024. - PLZ 2023-115 (Wisdom Academy): Approved 7-0 with staff recommendations plus an additional stipulation for decorative wrought-iron perimeter fencing. Forwarded to City Council on January 9, 2024. - Meeting Date Change: Approved moving the July 4, 2024 meeting to June 26, 2024.

The Carrollton City Council convened on December 5, 2023, starting with a worksession at 5:45 PM followed by the regular meeting at 7:00 PM. The agenda included presentations on environmental awards, a large consent agenda, several public hearings for zoning and land use changes, and a public forum. Key highlights included the approval of economic development incentives for DuraPlas Inc. and JBB Advanced Technologies, the adoption of a revised nuisance ordinance with a specific 45/30-day holiday decoration provision passed by a 5-2 vote, the initiation of the 4 Minute City AED program, and the approval of multiple zoning cases including the Texas Car One SUP, the El Paisa PD amendment, and a new Dallas Billiards and Academy SUP. Consent Calendar - Items 9 through 15 and 17 through 22 were approved unanimously in one motion. These included the purchase of firefighter protective equipment ($465,000), renewal of the Mark43 Police RMS licensing subscription ($162,441.77 first year, $836,240.17 total), approval of short-term rental software from Deckard Technologies ($23,750 annually), and the renewal of Microsoft Unified Support ($65,000). Economic development incentive agreements were authorized for DuraPlas Inc. (up to $481,284) and JBB Advanced Technologies ($217,000). The Council also approved the 4 Minute City AED program with Avive Solutions ($108,000 first year, $508,000 total contract), a court security agreement with Twin City Security ($64,087.86 annually), and the appointment of new members to the Carrollton Police Reserve. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers addressed the Council during the public comment period for the consent agenda (Items 9-22). - A written comment opposing the Dallas Billiards and Academy Special Use Permit was received from the Carrollton Asian Town Center. - During the Public Forum (Item 30), resident Don Plasing urged the Council to address the unauthorized use of city electric vehicle charging stations by non-city vehicles, characterizing it as theft from taxpayers. Discussion Items - Worksession: Residential Streetlight Infill Prioritization: Jonathan Wheat, Director of Engineering, presented the Traffic Advisory Committee's (TAC) prioritization list. Using $500,000 from the 2022 bond, a benefit formula analyzed darkness (spacing over 500 ft), crime data, proximity to schools and parks, and resident requests. TAC recommended proceeding first with the Carrollton Highlands and Crosby Estates neighborhoods. - Worksession: Potential Charter Propositions: City Attorney Meredith Ladd introduced three propositions for the May 2024 election: Proposition A aligns the 12-month residency requirement with state law; Proposition B updates the resign-to-run provision to comply with the Texas Constitution; Proposition C changes the redistricting cycle from every 5 years to every 10 years, aligning with the federal census and state law (HB 3613). - Environmental Awards: Councilmember Axberg presented the Environmental Leadership Award to ten facilities and the Environmental Distinction Award to Century Products and Ralcorp Frozen Bakery Products for their pollution prevention and sustainability efforts. - 4 Minute City AED Program (Item 21): Fire Chief Michael Thompson presented a new program to deploy 200 hyper-connected AEDs with citizen volunteers, aiming to reduce response times to sudden cardiac arrest. The program is fully funded by the Metrocrest Hospital Authority. Councilmembers expressed strong support for the initiative. - Nuisance Ordinance Amendment (Item 16): The Mayor noted that Item 16 was pulled for separate consideration. Staff prepared an alternative to the original proposal, changing the holiday decoration allowable timeframe from 30 days prior to 45 days prior, while keeping the removal requirement at 30 days after. Councilmember Axberg thanked the Mayor and staff for the compromise. The item passed with Councilmembers Carpenter and Fleming voting against. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Amendments (Items 9-15, 17-22): Approved unanimously. - Ordinance Amending Chapter 92 (Nuisances) (Item 16): Approved 5-2 (Councilmembers Carpenter and Fleming opposed). The approved amendment includes the 45-day prior / 30-day after provision for holiday decorations. - Adoption of PY22 CDBG CAPER (Item 23): Approved unanimously, adopting the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report. - Texas Car One SUP (Item 24): Approved unanimously, amending SUP-486 at 1729 S. Broadway to allow a repair garage and paint/body shop as accessory uses. - El Paisa PD Amendment (Item 25): Approved unanimously, re-establishing PD-185 for a limited-service restaurant with a drive-through at 1912 Parker Road. - Dallas Billiards and Academy SUP (Item 26): Approved unanimously, establishing SUP-495 for a billiard hall at 2630 Old Denton Road with no alcohol sales. - Airport Zoning Map Update (Item 27): Approved unanimously, updating the referenced map date from April 1979 to September 2016. - HP Overlay District Text Amendment (Item 28): Approved unanimously, updating duties and procedures for the Museum and Historic Advisory Committee. - Dwelling Unit Definition (Item 29): Approved unanimously, refining the definition in Article XXXIV to explicitly exclude transient lodging such as hotels and short-term rentals.

The Carrollton City Council convened for a Worksession at 5:45 PM and a Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM on November 21, 2023, at City Hall. The Worksession included discussions on water and wastewater rates, council meeting dates for February through June 2024, and council reports. The Regular Meeting addressed a consent agenda, a separate vote on the Denton Central Appraisal District board appointment, and a public forum. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:12 PM. Consent Calendar - Items 8–10: Minutes from October 10, October 24, and November 7, 2023 meetings, approved as amended (correction: Councilmember Palacios' name added to attendee list; correction to Oct 24 minutes regarding holiday decoration options). - Item 11: RFP 24-003 for City Hall Pond Dredge Project 2 from HK Dredging LLC for up to $113,132.25. - Item 12: Purchase of sand filters from Sunbelt Pools through BuyBoard inter-local agreement for up to $194,547.10. - Item 13: Award of RFP 23-042 for the 90/10 Matching Grant Sidewalk Replacement Program to Talbert Companies, LLC (primary) and B&E Concrete Paving, LLC (secondary) for up to $300,000 annually, $900,000 total over three years. - Item 14: Award of RFQ 23-027 for a Vision Planning Facilitator to Gensler for up to $142,500. - Item 15: Authorized City Manager to enter into a five-year agreement with MHC Software Services via SHI Government Solutions for up to $41,250 in the first year, $179,260 total. - Item 16: Ordinance amending Chapter 31 (Comprehensive Fee Schedule) to increase water and wastewater rates, adjust Esports Center and pool rental fees, and update special event permit fees. - Item 17: Ordinance amending the Operating and Capital Budgets for FY 2024, decreasing Utility Operating Fund uses by $883,329 and adjusting related funds. - Item 18: Resolution authorizing acquisition of real property rights (including potential condemnation) for the Carrollton Heights Reconstruction Project (2018 Bond Program). - Item 19: Resolution casting the City's vote for Richard "Rick" Grady for the Collin Central Appraisal District Board. - Item 20: Resolution casting the City's vote for Michael Hurtt for the Dallas Central Appraisal District Board (as a fourth member). - Item 22: Resolution supporting a Municipal Setting Designation application by the City of Farmers Branch for properties at Valwood Parkway and Dennis Lane. - Item 23: Resolution authorizing sale of approximately 42,216 sq. ft. of city-owned land at 2415 Country Club Drive to DART for the Silver Line/Mercer Yard relocation for $366,543. - Item 24: Resolution supporting DART Resolution No. 230038, authorizing DART to exercise eminent domain for right-of-way acquisition (Parcel CB2-037) for the Silver Line project. - Item 25: Resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with Denton County for Hebron Parkway reconstruction (Hamilton Dr to SH 121) with a county contribution up to $4,350,000 (total project est. $8.7M). - Item 26: Resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with Denton County for eastbound Frankford Road Bridge repair at Furneaux Creek with county contribution up to $255,000 (total project est. $510,000). - Item 27: Resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with Denton County for Frankford Road reconstruction (Commodore Dr to Eisenhower St) with county contribution up to $1,500,000 (total project est. $3.0M). - Item 28: Resolution denying CoServ Gas, Ltd.'s proposed rate increase, finding rates unreasonable, and seeking reimbursement of city's rate case expenses. The consent calendar (items 8–20, 22–28) passed unanimously on a roll call vote. Separate Consideration: Item 21 - Item 21: Resolution casting the City's 105 votes for Roy Atwood for the Denton Central Appraisal District Board. Councilmember Fleming voted in opposition; the motion passed 6–1. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comment (Agenda Item 7): No speakers. - Public Forum (Agenda Item 29): - Kate Huey, 2311 Green Meadow Dr: Representing Leadership Metrocrest, requested donations (toys, clothes, food, hygiene products) for Operation Kindness and Metrocrest Services through December 8. - Arthur John Hanscom, 221 Old Denton Rd, Apt 1108: Spoke on protecting senior citizens from scams and fraud, citing that seniors (age 50–80) are 32% of Carrollton's population. He offered a 60-page program developed with Police Chief Arredondo and Director Rex Redden to make Carrollton a model city for senior scam prevention. Worksession Discussion Items - Utility Fund, Water and Wastewater Rates (Item 4): Chief Financial Officer Diana Vaughn presented. The Utility Fund is an enterprise fund that must maintain a 90-day cash reserve and a AAA bond rating. Major cost drivers include Trinity River Authority (TRA) wastewater treatment costs (projected to increase 50% over five years). The recommended rate increases are: water 3%, irrigation 5%, wastewater 5%, generating approximately 5.3% additional revenue. For an average 2,000-gallon user, monthly bills increase by about $1.27 (water +$0.45, wastewater +$0.82). The Audit, Finance, and Governance Committee unanimously recommended approval. Council discussed options for potential future subsidies from other funds to moderate increases, with staff noting that one-time funds and annual budget reviews could inform such decisions. Carrollton's rates remain comparatively low among neighboring and similarly sized cities. - February Through June 2024 Council Meeting Dates (Item 5): Council reviewed calendar adjustments: May meetings moved to the 14th and 21st (to accommodate Memorial Day and election canvass); June meetings set for the 4th and 25th (to allow for possible runoff election). Other months generally follow the first and third Tuesday schedule. - Mayor and Council Reports (Item 6): Councilmembers shared activities including attendance at Veterans Day events, the BAPS Diwali Festival, Metrocrest Services board meetings, DART State of the Agency, the Steve Northam Memorial Golf Tournament, the NMC Patriotic Concert, a 100th birthday celebration, and various community events. A holiday council dinner was tentatively set for December 19, 2023. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 8–20, 22–28): Approved unanimously on a roll call vote (7–0). - Item 21 (Denton CAD Board Vote): Approved 6–1, with Councilmember Fleming opposed. - Utility Rate Increases: The proposed increases to water (3%), irrigation (5%), and wastewater (5%) rates, along with other fee schedule amendments, were adopted via Item 16 (Consent). Effective January 1, 2024. - Budget Amendment: The budget ordinance (Item 17) was adopted, decreasing the Utility Operating Fund uses by $883,329 and adjusting related funds. - Interlocal Agreements with Denton County: Three agreements were authorized (Items 25, 26, 27) for road and bridge projects under the TRIP-22 bond program, with county contributions totaling $6,105,000. - DART Agreements: Council authorized the sale of city land (Item 23) for $366,543 and supported eminent domain authority (Item 24) for the Silver Line project. - CoServ Rate Denial: Council denied CoServ Gas's proposed $10.3 million annual rate increase (Item 28), initiating a 30-day period for CoServ to appeal to the Railroad Commission. - Future Actions: Staff will provide additional information on a potential traffic signal at the Hutton Drive/Belt Line Road intersection and will continue to explore options to moderate future utility rate increases through budget subsidies.