Public Meetings - Carrollton, Texas

The City Council of Carrollton, Texas, held a worksession beginning at 5:45 PM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on November 4, 2025. The meeting included presentations, consent agenda approvals, public hearings on a new Municipal Drainage Utility System and fees, three Special Use Permit requests, and a worksession discussion on the Nob Hill Street Reconstruction Project. Key decisions included unanimous approval of the drainage utility and fee structure (effective October 1, 2026), approval of two special use permits for recreational facilities, and approval of a third with an amendment to operating hours. Consent Calendar - Item 8 (Fuelman fuel card): Authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Corpay Technologies (Fuelman) for fuel purchases not to exceed $200,000 annually through an interlocal agreement with OMNIA Cooperative Purchasing Network. Approved unanimously. - Item 9 (Axon contract amendment): Authorized an amendment to the contract with Axon Enterprise, Inc. for additional Tasers, body cameras, vehicle fleet cameras, and software licensing, increasing annual expenditure to $639,609.64 and total contract to $5,796,273.16. Approved unanimously. - Item 10 (Ammunition purchase): Authorized a contract with Precision Delta Corporation for ammunition not to exceed $66,870.34 for Police Department training. Approved unanimously. - Item 11 (Halff Associates feasibility study): Authorized Contract Amendment No. 2 with Halff Associates for additional engineering services (traffic impact study, survey work, hydraulic modeling) not to exceed $72,000, bringing the total to $632,000 for the District 35E feasibility study. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizen Comment (agenda items 8–11): No speakers appeared. - Public Hearings: - Items 12 and 13 (Drainage Utility System and Fees): No public speakers. - Item 14 (Dallas Padel Club Lighting): The applicant's representative, Michael Black, was present to answer questions but made no formal statement. - Item 15 (Coded Lounge Cafe): Applicant Kenechi Nnamani addressed Council, expressing concern that staff’s recommended 2:00 AM closing time (Monday through Sunday) was based on future assumptions about alcohol or hookah sales, which are not part of his current business model. He requested the original proposed hours of 11:00 AM–2:00 AM Monday–Thursday and 11:00 AM–4:00 AM Friday–Sunday. He described the concept as an alcohol-free, non-smoking social lounge serving pre-packaged food. - Item 16 (Claw Up Arcade): Applicant Thao Nguyen spoke, emphasizing the family-friendly claw machine arcade concept with no food or alcohol. She confirmed compliance with all stipulations. - Public Forum: No speakers. Discussion Items - Worksession – Nob Hill Street Reconstruction Project: Director of Engineering Jonathan Wheat presented the project history, noting that design began in February 2018 and that 32 retaining walls (20 with encroachment issues) are the primary challenge for the remaining phase. Two options were presented: - Option 1: Skip the problematic sections (leaving some streets and sidewalks unrepaired). - Option 2: Provide a six-month notice to property owners with encroaching walls, informing them that they are responsible for ensuring their walls are structurally sound before the City reconstructs streets and sidewalks using standard methods (but with more care). Staff reported that multiple outreach efforts (letters, certified mail, phone calls, door knocking) had been made, but 20 wall owners did not sign off on the proposed reconstruction. Council unanimously supported Option 2, with direction to send notices, continue outreach, and consider phasing the bid to encourage compliance. The project also includes replacement of water and wastewater lines. - Mayor and Council Reports: Council members shared updates from the Texas Municipal League conference, volunteer recognition, community events (Switchyard, Dragon Boat Festival, Toys for Tots), and noted the City’s growing digital footprint (20% year-over-year increase). The Mayor reported ongoing DART funding discussions and a forthcoming update. Key Outcomes - Item 12 (Drainage Utility System): Ordinance adopted unanimously to establish a Municipal Drainage Utility System under Chapter 177 of the City Code. The system will provide dedicated funding for stormwater maintenance and capital improvements. - Item 13 (Drainage Utility Fees): Fee schedule adopted unanimously, effective October 1, 2026. Residential fees: Tier 1 (less than 2,100 sq. ft. impervious area) = $4.00/month; Tier 2 (2,100–4,500 sq. ft.) = $7.25/month; Tier 3 (greater than 4,500 sq. ft.) = $11.40/month. Non-residential: $8.40 per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU = 3,300 sq. ft. impervious area). Exemptions include state property, City, County, school districts, and religious institutions. - Item 14 (Dallas Padel Club Lighting, PLSUP 2025-119): Special Use Permit approved unanimously to allow lighted athletic fields at 3000 Belmeade Drive. Stipulations: lighting limited to 21 feet in height and compliance with glare regulations. Planning & Zoning Commission had recommended approval 7-0. - Item 15 (Coded Lounge Cafe, PLSUP 2025-150): Approved with a vote of 6-1 (Councilmember Palomo opposed). The motion approved the SUP for "All Other Amusement and Recreation Uses and Activities" with staff’s stipulations except that operating hours were amended to Monday–Thursday 11:00 AM–2:00 AM and Friday–Sunday 11:00 AM–4:00 AM (applicant’s original request). Other stipulations: no smoking, hours posted, and future hookah or BYOB would require separate permits. - Item 16 (Claw Up Arcade, PLSUP 2025-151): Approved unanimously. The amusement arcade (excluding adult arcade) is limited to 25 game stations, with no simulated gambling. Stipulations also include clear windows, labeling of devices, posting of Certificate of Occupancy, and operating hours: Monday–Friday 11:30 AM–9:00 PM, Saturday 11:30 AM–10:30 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM–9:00 PM, with hours posted at the entrance.

The Carrollton City Council met on October 28, 2025, for a Worksession beginning at 5:30 PM and a Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM, presided over by Mayor Steve Babick. The agenda included discussions on short-term rental regulations, a briefing on the District 35E development project, the approval of a consent agenda and board appointments, and a lengthy public forum where multiple residents spoke on a proposed management change at the Oak Creek Tennis Center. Consent Calendar - Agenda Item 8: Approved a contract with Dayforce (Equalis Group) for HRIS improvements ($490,604 first year, $1,109,886 total over three years). - Agenda Item 9: Approved an agreement with HdL Companies for sales tax compliance review and recovery services (up to $110,000 annually, $770,000 over seven years). - Agenda Item 10: Approved an economic development incentive agreement with The Kogi House, LLC for renovations ($159,932). - Agenda Item 11: Approved an economic development incentive agreement with Hadrian Properties, LLC for renovations ($9,640). - Agenda Item 12: Approved an economic development incentive agreement with Kevin S. Jamison and Karen L. Stephens for renovations ($17,558.49). Public Comments & Testimony - Con Lee (Citizen): Discussed Dart governance, urging the council to be cautious of a board size of 22–23 based on historical gridlock. - Oak Creek Tennis Center: A large majority of speakers opposed a proposed management change from city-run management to Impact Activities. - Siri Arabali (Player): Opposed the change, highlighting thriving community, attendance, and revenue under current management. - Claire Carr (12-year-old Player): Emotionally opposed, describing the center as a second home and pleading against the change. - Bruce Davidson (Head Tennis Coach, PCA): Opposed, citing a lack of transparency in the process and the success of the current model. - Annie Jiang (Player): Opposed, praising current coaches and the community. - Tasha Mahaley (Citizen): Opposed, expressing her love for the center and desire for it to stay the same. - Shyler Lee (Parent): Opposed, detailing a negative experience with Impact Activities at Courts of McKinney. - Hamel Shah (Parent): Opposed, detailing poor experiences with Impact Activities elsewhere and praising Oak Creek. - Leah Sanchez (Teacher): Opposed, advocating for community-driven management over profit. - Daniel Hensley (Resident): Opposed, preferring local control over a corporate operator. - Hai P (Parent): Opposed, questioning the source of profit for Impact Activities under the contract. - Susannah Dooling (Former Parks Board): Opposed, stating the facility was intended to serve residents, not generate profit. - Lisa Ratcher (Newly appointed CTA President): Expressed support for Impact Activities, citing positive experiences at their other managed facilities. Discussion Items - Short Term Rentals (Worksession): Environmental Services Director Cory Heiple presented the final benchmarking report. Council discussed a range of potential new regulations, processes, and notices. Council reached consensus on a prospective prohibition of new short-term rentals and a suite of new requirements for existing operators, including a second trash bin, sworn owner application statements, exterior noise and video monitoring, occupant history requests, mandatory sex offender registry checks, and annual anti-trafficking training. Staff was directed to bring back a formal ordinance for a vote on December 2, 2025. - District 35E – Former NTTA Site (Worksession): Executive Director of Development Ravi Shah updated the council. The TOD Committee selected Alpine X as the master developer for the 121-acre site based on their experience with entertainment venues and utilization of negative space. The target is to reclaim over 50 acres for development. An RFP response is expected by November 21, 2025, with council action anticipated in early 2026. - Mayor and Council Reports: Councilmembers reported on community events including the Dart Silver Line opening, Diwali celebration, Coffee with the Cop, and boards and commissions appreciation events. City Secretary Chloe Sawatzky announced the Texas Municipal League conference (October 29-31). A council mini-retreat was scheduled for December 12, 2025 at the Crosby Recreation Center. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Items 8-12 were approved unanimously. - Board & Commission Appointments: Resolutions 13-22 were approved individually as amended. Councilmember Richard Fleming heavily criticized the process as lacking public transparency and alleged a candidate was selected due to a personal relationship rather than merit. He specifically noted the nominee had sued the city and other officials. He voted against or abstained on several of the resolutions. The Mayor and City Attorney defended the closed-session process as consistent with past practice to allow open discussion. - STR Regulation Direction: Council directed staff to draft an ordinance imposing a prospective ban on new short-term rentals and implementing new requirements for existing ones. The ordinance is scheduled for a vote on December 2, 2025. - District 35E: The master developer process will proceed with Alpine X, pending review of their RFP response and subsequent council approval.

The Carrollton City Council convened for a Regular Worksession and Meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 5:45 PM in City Hall, 2nd Floor. Mayor Steve Babick was absent due to a family bereavement; Mayor Pro Tem Christopher Axberg chaired the meeting. The council discussed amendments to animal regulations, a downtown street conversion proposal, and short-term rental zoning findings, then held a regular meeting with a consent agenda and three public hearings. Key votes included approval of a senior living redevelopment (5-2) and two zoning amendments (unanimous). Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the September 23, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes. - Contracts & Agreements: Authorized purchases including eight Stryker Lucas chest compression systems ($209,000), HVAC services ($100,000 annually/four-year total $400,000), grant management support with CSRS ($800,000), two Ford F-150 trucks ($105,383.25), one ambulance body ($350,183), and eleven Tahoes ($950,086.83). Also approved an interlocal agreement for Hebron Parkway reconstruction ($6,375,000) and three design contracts with Dunaway Associates (EW Brake Neighborhood Rehab $512,975; Josey Lane Screening $30,920; Francis Perry Neighborhood Rehab $753,970). - Resolutions: Approved resolutions for a rifle-resistant body armor grant ($51,836.40), denial of Oncor's rate increase request, AECOM contract amendment (corrected to Amendment No. 3, $1,550,000), and an interlocal agreement for Frankford Road reconstruction ($3,250,000). - All consent items were approved unanimously with item 18 approved as amended (correcting the amendment number from 2 to 3). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 24 – Aspens Rosemeade Senior Living: Approximately 20 residents and family members spoke in opposition, citing displacement concerns, financial hardship, lack of affordable senior housing, and emotional distress. One speaker noted the property owner stated the current facility is financially insolvent. The applicant (Aspen Senior Living) argued the redevelopment is necessary for viability and will provide enhanced amenities. Discussion Items - Animal Regulations Amendments (Worksession Item 4): Staff presented proposed updates to Chapter 91, including court hearings after three at-large violations, mandatory sterilization for repeat offenders, requiring dog waste bags, and permitting urban beekeeping. Council gave consensus to move forward with most items but requested further review on pet store sale restrictions (Options: permit, prohibit new, or prohibit all). - Main & 4th Streets One-Way Conversion (Worksession Item 5): Staff discussed converting two downtown intersections to one-way streets as part of Quiet Zone Phase 3. Staff noted the two-way design would require non-traversable medians that limit access. Council expressed hesitation, wanting more public input (HTCA), traffic simulations, and analysis of parking/walkability benefits before deciding. - Short-Term Rentals Zoning Findings (Worksession Item 6): Planning staff presented a comparative analysis of other Texas cities' regulations on STR density, buffer distances, and caps. Council received the information without action; the discussion was followed by an executive session on legal matters. Key Outcomes - Aspens Rosemeade Senior Living (Item 24): Approved 5-2 (Councilmembers Fleming and Palomo opposed). The ordinance amends PD-39 to allow a three-story assisted living facility with villas, maintaining 126 units. Council acknowledged land-use justification despite public opposition. - Avenida Carrollton Covered Parking (Item 25): Approved unanimously. Allows 77 additional covered parking spaces (first phase: 35) with no new parking spaces added. - CZO Corporate Commercial District Amendment (Item 26): Approved unanimously. Removes conditional use restrictions, reclassifies uses, simplifies definitions, and removes a duplicate temporary construction office provision. - Direction to Staff: On animal regulations, staff will incorporate council feedback and return with a revised ordinance. On one-way streets, staff will engage with the Historic Downtown Carrollton Association, conduct traffic studies, and report back. On short-term rentals, further legal discussion occurred in executive session.

The Planning & Zoning Commission of Carrollton, Texas, held its regular meeting on Thursday, October 2, 2025. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Of the nine commission members, Vice Chair Kramer and Commissioner Yarborough were absent. The meeting included the unanimous approval of the consent agenda, public hearings for three Special Use Permits (SUPs), and a staff report on previous City Council actions. The meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved: Minutes of the September 4, 2025 meeting. - Approved: Replat of AER Manufacturing Addition, Lot 1, Block A (Case PLRP 2025-144) for an approximately 13.535-acre tract at 3405 Wiley Post Road. - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Written Comments: Staff received one written comment in opposition to the Claw Up Arcade (Case PLSUP 2025-151) from a single address. - In-Person Testimony: No members of the public approached the podium to provide oral testimony during any of the public hearings. The only speakers in the public hearing portions were the applicants and staff. Discussion Items Claw Up Arcade (Case PLSUP 2025-151) - Staff (Case Coordinator Shad Rhoten) presented a request for a Special Use Permit (SUP) to allow an amusement arcade (excluding adult arcade) at 2760 East Trinity Mills Road, Suite 120 in the (LR-2) Local Retail District. Staff recommended approval with stipulations. - Commissioner Overholt asked if previously approved arcades had migrated to adult uses. Staff stated they were unaware of any such migrations. - Applicant Tao Ween described the business as a family-friendly claw machine arcade, targeting the nearby martial arts school's clientele. The applicant stated the business would not serve food or alcohol, would close by 9:00 p.m., and would be monitored by staff and security cameras. - Commissioner Martin asked about targeted ages (six years old to young adults) and concerns about surrounding businesses (cannabis dispensary, hookah lounge). The applicant expressed confidence in targeting families. - Vote: Motion to approve with stipulations passed 7-1. First Vice Chair Foster voted against. Dallas Padel Club Lighting (Case PLSUP 2025-119) - Staff (Case Coordinator Michael McCauley) presented a request for a SUP to allow lighted athletic fields on an approximately 4.86-acre tract zoned Light Industrial (LI) at 3000 Belmeade Drive. The outdoor lighting was confirmed to comply with Article 27 of the zoning ordinance. Staff received no public comments and recommended approval. - Applicant Fernando Vulnis answered commissioner questions about the sport of padel and confirmed the facility has three indoor courts and plans for seven outdoor courts. - Vote: Motion to approve with stipulations passed unanimously. Coded Lounge Cafe (Case PLSUP 2025-150) - Staff presented a request for a SUP to allow a lounge (classified as "all other amusement and recreation uses and activities") at 2661 Midway Road, Suite 110, in the (LI) Light Industrial District. Staff received no public comments and recommended approval. - The applicant described a background in corporate hospitality and highlighted operating Cafe Nubia with over 150,000 guests served and zero police incidents. The applicant stated the Coded Lounge Cafe would host special events and provide meals and non-alcoholic beverages, with a narrative stating "no alcohol sales on the premises." - Commissioners deliberated on the operating hours. The applicant's narrative cited a Sunday closing time of 4 a.m., but the staff stipulation (confirmed during the motion by Commissioner Martin) set the maximum closing time at 2 a.m. for all days. - A discussion on alcohol and BYOB occurred. Staff clarified that BYOB is regulated by the state and not restricted by the SUP. The motion was explicitly for the use without alcohol sales regulated by the city. - Commissioner Foster questioned the general crime rate in the shopping center. The Chair ruled that the commission could only consider information specific to the applicant and use, and no such concerns were raised by the police department for this applicant. - Vote: Motion to approve with staff stipulations passed 6-2. Commissioners Overholt and First Vice Chair Foster voted against. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Claw Up Arcade (PLSUP 2025-151): Approved 7-1 (Foster dissenting). Forwarded to City Council scheduled for November 14, 2025. - Dallas Padel Club Lighting (PLSUP 2025-119): Approved unanimously. Forwarded to City Council scheduled for November 14, 2025. - Coded Lounge Cafe (PLSUP 2025-150): Approved 6-2 (Overholt and Foster dissenting). Forwarded to City Council scheduled for November 14, 2025. Staff Reports - Case Coordinator Michael McCauley provided an update on two cases decided by the City Council in September: - The Special Use Permit for the North Josie Carleton Event Center (which P&Z recommended for approval) was approved by the City Council on a 4-3 vote. - The zoning request for the indoor tennis club at 2763 East Trinity Mills Road (which P&Z recommended for denial) was approved by the City Council.

The Carrollton City Council convened for a regular worksession and meeting on September 23, 2025, at City Hall. Mayor Pro Tem Christopher Axberg presided in the absence of Mayor Steve Babick. The council discussed establishing a stormwater drainage fund, reviewed crime and safety issues related to short-term rentals, received an update on a regional emergency exercise, approved a $1.8 million economic development incentive for Pennymac Loan Services, and presented several proclamations and awards. Presentations and Proclamations - Hispanic Heritage Month – Mayor Pro Tem Axberg read a proclamation recognizing September 15–October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring contributions of Hispanic and Latino residents. Councilmembers Daisy Palomo and Andrew Palacios were acknowledged, and the Los Stangs folklorico dance group from Creekview High School performed. - Mayor’s Spotlight Award – Presented to Buzzballs (represented by Vice President Sammy Nassery), recognizing its growth from a startup to over 1,200 employees and 630,000 square feet. The company now produces 40,000 cases per day. - Live United Month – A proclamation for United Way of Denton County highlighted its impact on 54,000 residents annually. Christine Jones, Chief Development Officer, accepted. - Emergency Preparedness Month – September proclaimed as Emergency Preparedness Month. Emergency management staff emphasized preparing emergency kits, family plans, and multiple warning methods. - Life Saving Award – Public Works Manager Josh Cohron received a commendation for aiding a passenger with respiratory distress on American Airlines Flight 1290 on August 20, 2025, averting an emergency landing. Presented by Fire Chief Thompson. Consent Calendar The consent agenda included items 14–24 and 26, as amended: - Approval of minutes from August 5 and August 19, 2025. - Contracts: pet adoption trailer ($65,000 one-time), risk management software change order ($9,618.50 annually), street reconstruction ($4,244,054), collector street panel replacement (up to $6,000,000 over three years), brick and retaining wall repairs (up to $600,000 over three years), citywide sidewalk condition assessment ($597,700), Amazon Business renewal (up to $910,500 over three years). - Ordinance designating number of police sergeant positions. - Resolutions: nominating candidates for Denton Central Appraisal District board (Mike Hennefer and Ann Pomacole, amended), supporting individual representation for member cities on DART board with weighted voting (wording amended). Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony Citizen Comment (Agenda Items 25 and 26) - Item 25 (Pennymac incentive): A former councilmember spoke in opposition, arguing the $1.8 million grant lacks return on investment (no property tax increase, minimal sales tax), questioned the company’s history relative to the 2008 financial crisis, and suggested the property owner should provide incentives. A second speaker (Lisa Sutter) supported the incentive, noting past successful incentives like the Ranch 99 development and the value of 1,800 jobs. - Item 26 (DART representation): Two speakers supported the resolution but urged proportional representation to prevent underrepresentation of Dallas. They emphasized fairness and regional equity, cautioning against diluting Dallas’s voice while still giving suburbs a seat. Public Forum (Non-Agenda Items) - Natalie Laflora requested that the city implement a compost program, citing environmental benefits and potential revenue from selling compost. - Kavisha Shaw invited the council and residents to a Diwali celebration at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Irving on October 21. Discussion Items Stormwater Drainage Fund (Worksession Item 4) - Diana Bond (Finance) and consultants from Freeze and Nichols presented the proposal to create an enterprise fund for stormwater management, funded by user fees. The city currently spends on stormwater from existing funds; the new fee would cover operations, maintenance (O&M), and capital improvements (CIP). - Three service levels were presented for O&M and CIP. The Finance Committee recommended O&M Level 3 ($7 million/year, including proactive maintenance, additional crew, more street sweeping, pipe inspection, and channel maintenance) and CIP Level 2 (funding high-priority projects including a $24 million Woodlake Dam rebuild and nine other projects). - Monthly residential fees would vary by impervious area: smallest properties $4 (10% of residents), median $7.25 (80% of residents), largest $11.40 (10% of residents). Commercial properties would pay $8.40 per equivalent residential unit (ERU) for the combined recommended service level. The average residential rate is $7.25/month. - The council gave consensus on exempting religious institutions and school districts (state-allowed exemptions), approved the recommended service levels, and directed staff to begin advertisement for a public hearing on November 4, with ordinance adoption planned thereafter. Short-Term Rentals: Crime, Trafficking, and Child Safety Zones (Worksession Item 5) - City Attorney Meredith Land and criminologist Dr. Alex Del Carmen presented findings from a three-year analysis of short-term rentals (STRs) in Carrollton (81 total properties). Key data: 60% of STRs received code enforcement citations annually (vs. 10–15% for non-STRs); calls for service were 4–5 times higher for STRs; non-compliance rates reached 36% in zip code 75010; property and disturbance calls predominated among 488 total incidents. - Dr. Del Carmen recommended enhanced background screening, mandatory sex offender registry checks, guest ID verification, targeted enforcement, human trafficking prevention programs, and potential zoning restrictions. The city attorney discussed child safety zone regulations and links between STRs and trafficking, citing national trends. No consensus was sought; the discussion was informational for future ordinance development. Regional MetroX Emergency Response Exercise (Worksession Item 6) - Emergency Management Coordinator Elliot Rip and Gabby from the Olsen Group outlined a full-scale drill on October 28–30 at McKinnish Sports Complex. The exercise simulates a complex coordinated terrorist attack during a large sporting event, testing interagency coordination across 70–80 agencies and 2,500 participants. Carrollton will host a simulated active shooter scenario at a fan zone site, involving SWAT teams (200+ participants), drones, EMS, and hospital partners. Volunteers are still needed, especially for patient roles. Pennymac Loan Services Economic Development Incentive (Item 25, Separate Vote) - The item was pulled from the consent agenda for individual discussion. The agreement authorizes a job creation grant of up to $1.8 million for Pennymac to relocate and consolidate operations, with a job creation target of 1,200 employees (expected total up to 1,800) at 5025 Plano Parkway. Funding is from the Economic Development Fund (part of the General Fund). - Councilmember Fleming opposed, citing minimal tax revenue (no real property improvements, low business personal property tax, limited sales tax) and questioning the benefit to Carrollton given the location near city borders. Councilmember Carpenter supported, emphasizing the importance of filling a vacant building and attracting a financial services company to boost economic development. After debate, the resolution passed 6–1 (Fleming dissenting). Key Outcomes - Stormwater Fee: Consensus to exempt religious institutions and schools, adopt O&M Level 3 and CIP Level 2 service levels, and proceed with advertisement for a November 4 public hearing and subsequent ordinance adoption. - Short-Term Rentals: Presentation received; council will continue considering regulatory changes in future meetings. - Emergency Exercise: Staff will continue preparations; volunteers sought; drill scheduled for October 28–30. - Pennymac Incentive: Approved 6–1 (Councilmember Fleming dissenting). - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (items 14–24, 26 as amended). - Proclamations and Awards: All presented and accepted. - Council Reports: Various councilmembers reported attending community events, including MMC concert, Children’s Advocacy Center gala, Baylor Scott & White Urgent Care grand opening, United Way breakfast, and others. Upcoming events noted: Culture Fest (September 27), TML conference, and Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations. Councilmembers also recognized outgoing Parks Director Scott Whitaker for his service.

The Carrollton City Council met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, for a combined Worksession and Regular Meeting. The worksession included briefings on the IH-35E Phase 2 construction project, the Lower Dudley Branch drainage study, and the Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget. The regular meeting featured presentations, public hearings on the budget and tax rate, and votes on zoning cases. The Council adopted the FY 2025-2026 operating budget of $325.9 million and a total tax rate of $0.5375 per $100 valuation. While the tax rate was reduced for the 12th consecutive year, the total property tax levy increased by 4.45% over the previous year due to rising property values. Presentations - National Service Dog Month: The Council proclaimed September as National Service Dog Month in recognition of organizations like Canine Companions for Independence. Lori-Ann Cash of the Lone Star Chapter spoke and introduced Strudel, a 12-week-old service dog in training. - Library Card Sign-Up Month: The Council declared September as Library Card Sign-Up Month. Library Director Jonathan Scheu reported second-quarter statistics including 81,399 checkouts and 11,235 program participants. A promotion for new and existing cardholders runs through September 30. - National Payroll Week: The Council recognized National Payroll Week, honoring payroll professionals. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 14 (Decorum Ordinance): Former Councilmember Adam Poulter spoke against codifying the public forum at the end of the meeting, calling it an accessibility barrier. He requested the Council table the item for more discussion. - Item 20 (Indoor Tennis Club): Multiple speakers, including representatives from the USTA and Carrollton Tennis Association, expressed strong support for the private indoor tennis facility, citing a need for indoor courts. Michael Pouncey, the project geologist, testified that Phase I and II environmental site assessments found no contamination on the property. Mike Boos, a neighbor and licensed professional geoscientist, withdrew his initial objection after reviewing the clean results and receiving a commitment from the applicant to address drainage. - Item 21 (Carrollton Event Center): Several members of the public spoke in favor of the event center, including clients, vendors, and the owner of a neighboring property (2121 N. Josey Lane). No members of the public spoke in opposition, but a letter from the owner of 2125 N. Josey Lane opposing the use was noted. Discussion Items - IH-35E Phase 2 Project Briefing: TxDOT and One Star Constructors provided a project update. The 6.39-mile project from I-635 to the Denton County line is adding a lane in each direction. The Luna Road bridge deck was completed on September 6, with partial opening expected by end of September. The project is behind schedule but is accelerating. TxDOT confirmed parking arrangements for a November event would not be impacted. - Lower Dudley Branch Study Results: HDR Engineering presented findings on mitigating flooding in the Frankford Road area and at the Eisenhower Street bridge. Recommendations included a Frankford Road berm ($1.01M) and a flood wall ($359K). The Eisenhower bridge replacement ($3.8M) is not funded. The proposed Fire Station 6 site was confirmed to be outside the 100-year floodplain in all modeling. - Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget: Finance Director Melissa Everett reviewed the proposed $325.9 million operating budget which includes a 2.26% market raise and 1.25% one-time payment for employees, $133.4 million in capital spending, and a 12th year of tax rate cuts. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the Consent Agenda (Items 12-13, 15-18) via a single motion, which included: HVAC contracts for City Hall (Trane air handlers, $509,273 and Schneider Electric controls, $122,415); the Comprehensive Fee Schedule amendment; the negotiated Atmos Energy rate settlement (average residential increase of $7.83/month, 9.27%); the redemption of $1,000,000 in 2014 bonds (net savings of $193,875); and a development plan for 1430 S. Broadway. Key Outcomes - Public Meeting Decorum Ordinance (Item 14): The Council approved the ordinance adding decorum rules and a progressive enforcement policy to the City Code. Councilmember Axberg pulled the item for individual consideration. The motion, which passed unanimously, included an amendment sponsored by Councilmembers Palacios and Axberg to strike language requiring the public forum to be held at the end of the meeting, preserving the Mayor’s discretion. - FY 2025-2026 Budget Adoption (Item 22): The Council adopted the operating and capital budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025. 6-1 vote (Fleming dissenting). - Tax Rate Adoption (Item 23): The Council adopted the property tax rate of $0.5375 per $100 valuation (M&O: $0.387652, Debt Service: $0.149848). The Mayor stated this is the 12th consecutive year the rate has been reduced. The motion, which passed 6-1 (Fleming dissenting), required state-mandated language stating the rate effectively represents a 4.45% increase in the total levy. - Property Tax Increase Ratification (Item 24): The Council ratified the property tax increase reflected in the budget. 6-1 vote (Fleming dissenting). - Carrollton Indoor Tennis Club (Item 20): The Council approved a Planned Development District for 2763 E. Trinity Mills Road. The 46,800-square-foot indoor tennis center exceeds standard lot coverage limits. Since the Planning & Zoning Commission previously denied the request, a supermajority vote was required, and the motion passed unanimously. - Carrollton Event Center (Item 21): The Council denied a Special Use Permit for an event center at 2129 N. Josey Lane. A motion by Councilmember Palomo to approve the permit with modified hours of operation failed by a vote of 3-4, citing land use concerns associated with shared parking capacity (SUP 270). - Public Forum (Non-Agenda Items): No speakers attended the final public forum.

The Carrollton Planning and Zoning Commission met on September 4, 2025, at 6:34 PM. Seven of nine members were present, with Vice Chair Kramer and Commissioner Doyle absent. The commission approved a consent agenda and forwarded three zoning items to the City Council for its October 14, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: Approved the August 7, 2025 meeting minutes. - Life Time Carrollton Preliminary Plat (PLPP 2025-135): Approved the preliminary plat for an approximately 55.91-acre tract at the northwest corner of Parker Road and Plano Parkway. A modification was made to strike the second line of stipulation number three before the unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Aspens Rosemeade Senior Living (PLZ 2025-132): Keith Wilson spoke in opposition, expressing concern for his mother-in-law, a current resident, who may be displaced without affordable alternatives. - Avenida Carrollton Covered Parking (PLZ 2025-137): No public testimony was provided. - CZO (CC) District Text Amendment (PLZT 2025-120): No public testimony was provided. Discussion Items - Aspens Rosemeade Senior Living: The commission considered a proposal to amend PD-39 for an 11.2-acre site at 3500 Old Denton Road. The project involves complete redevelopment of an existing assisted living facility from two stories to three stories, adding 94 apartments and 32 single-story villas while maintaining the same density. The applicant stated the property owner would assist current residents with relocation to other similar communities. Commissioner Foster motioned for approval with staff stipulations, specifically removing stipulation 2B.4 concerning villa height. The motion passed unanimously. - Avenida Carrollton Covered Parking: The commission considered a request to amend PD-132 for a 10-acre site at the northwest corner of Josey Lane and Arbor Creek Drive to permit 77 additional covered parking structures, bringing the total to 125. Discussion covered the phasing of the project. Commissioner Foster motioned for approval with staff stipulations. The motion passed 6-1, with Commissioner Martin voting against. - CZO (CC) District Text Amendment: The commission considered a city-initiated text amendment to the zoning ordinance. The amendment removes conditional use restrictions in the Corporate Commercial District, reclassifies uses, and revises the definition of building coverage. Commissioner Herman motioned for approval. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All three public hearing items were forwarded to the City Council meeting scheduled for October 14, 2025. - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Aspens Rosemeade Senior Living: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Avenida Carrollton Covered Parking: Approved (6-1, Commissioner Martin dissenting). - CZO (CC) District Text Amendment: Approved unanimously (7-0).

The Carrollton City Council convened for a Worksession and Regular Meeting on August 19, 2025. The worksession included presentations from the Capital Improvements Plan Advisory Committee (CIPAC) and the Community Service Committee, alongside extensive deliberations on the Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget, tax rate, and fee changes. The regular meeting featured the unanimous approval of a substantial consent agenda, public comments, and a public forum. The council established a strawman budget for adoption in September and concluded with an executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the July 22, 2025 regular meeting and the July 25-26, 2025 strategic retreat. - Approved purchases including library service desks and cabinets ($126,996.00) and recreation center fitness equipment ($269,295.22). - Authorized a 5-year, $68,602,936 solid waste contract with Republic Services, Inc., and an 8-year, $6,773,735 citywide janitorial contract with Andrews Building Services, LLC. - Approved a $2,736,523 detention center renovation contract with JonesCo General Contractors, LLC. - Adopted an ordinance amending the solid waste and recycling code (Chapter 50), effective October 1, 2025, to streamline operations including expanded yard waste bag options. - Authorized economic development incentives: UEP, Inc. (aerospace components expansion) up to $1,231,703 total, and AER Manufacturing, LP (engine assembly expansion) up to $277,663 total. - Suspended the September 17, 2025 effective date of the CoServ Gas GRIP rate adjustment by 45 days to allow for city study. Public Comments & Testimony - Jin Lim (CEO, ACT Ion Battery Technologies) introduced his company's recent move to Carrollton, expressing enthusiasm for creating a partnership with the city on advanced battery manufacturing. - Rick Husek (resident) requested a long-term safety solution for vehicles running the stop sign at Lou Allen and Peters Colony, providing video evidence to the council and police. - Todd Smith (business representative) thanked the council for the economic development incentives approved that night, allowing a long-standing Carrollton company to expand its campus. - Adam Poulter (former council member) criticized staff presentations on the TC Rice project as imbalanced and lacking full risk assessment, urging the council to require staff to provide balanced information to boards and committees. Discussion Items - CIPAC Recommendations: CIPAC Chair Karim Ali presented priority capital recommendations for surplus funds: 1) Residential street lights, 2) Alleys, 3) Sidewalks, 4) Trails, and 5) Public safety, noting alignment with the 2040 Vision Plan. - Community Service Funding: Councilmember Nancy Cline reported a 33% increase in applications. The committee recommended allocating approximately $65,000 in grants and in-kind services. A $51,000 request from Denton County MHMR was referred to the Public Safety department for evaluation of a specialized partnership. - FY2026 Budget Deliberations: Council conducted extensive deliberations to finalize a strawman budget. - Library Access: Funded holds pick-up lockers and self-service study rooms ($13,000 recurring, $90,000 non-recurring). - Parks FTE: Funded a half-year contract-to-permanent FTE for the Perry Homestead Museum ($38,972 non-recurring) to build programming ahead of the barn opening. - Samsara Cameras: Funding for the full rollout was deferred pending results of the initial program phase. - TC Rice: All funding allocations for the TC Rice project were removed from the budget proposal. - Employee Compensation: Council approved a 2.26% merit raise and an increased one-time Carrollton Difference payment to remain competitive with the market (estimated at 2.3%). - Tax Rate: The strawman maintains an 8-cent reduction from the effective tax rate. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (items 9-20) was approved unanimously. - A strawman budget was established for formal adoption on September 9, 2025. - Economic development incentives authorized for UEP, Inc. and AER Manufacturing, LP. - The CoServ gas rate increase was suspended for a 45-day review period. - Council adjourned to Executive Session for legal consultation and the annual performance review of the City Manager.

The Carrollton Planning and Zoning Commission held its regular meeting on August 7, 2025, starting at 6:33 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Eight of nine members were present (Commissioner Yarborough absent). The commission approved a consent agenda and held two public hearings, resulting in the denial of an indoor tennis club and the approval of an event center with stipulations. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the July 3, 2025 meeting. - Approved Development Plan PLDP 2025-045 for a mixed-use project at 1430 S. Broadway Street. - Unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Tennis Club (PLZ 2025-118): Supporters (Marvin Reeder, USTA's Mark Hodge, Carrollton Tennis Association's Vito Wynn) emphasized the lack of public indoor courts. Opponents (adjacent property owners Mike Booz, Chris Lemke, Micah Jackson) cited property contamination and flooding hazards. - Event Center (PLSUP 2025-101): Supporters (adjacent owner David Williams, vendor Jaime Chavez, community members) praised the applicant's experience and the project's design. No oral opposition was presented, though a written comment from a neighboring property owner was on record. Discussion Items and Key Outcomes Indoor Tennis Club (PLZ 2025-118) – Motion Fails on Tie Vote - Proposal: A Planned Development request to exceed 40% building coverage to build a 46,000 sq. ft indoor tennis facility. Note: The agenda listed Michael McCauley as case coordinator, but Loren Shapiro presented the case to the commission. Staff recommended approval. - Deliberation: The commission debated the scope of its review, with staff clarifying that drainage and environmental concerns are addressed separately. Environmental Services Director Corey Heipel confirmed no contamination assessment was filed with the city. - Outcome: A motion to approve resulted in a 4-4 tie, which failed. The applicant has 10 days to file a written appeal to City Council. Event Center (PLSUP 2025-101) – Approved with Full Staff Stipulations - Proposal: A Special Use Permit to operate an event center (125 person max). Note: The agenda listed the space at 6,177 sq. ft., while the application and discussion used 5,077 sq. ft. Staff recommended denial over parking allocation and traffic concerns. - Deliberation: The commission reviewed parking studies and traffic patterns. Several stipulations (hours, capacity) were debated in multiple motions. - Outcome: A final motion to approve with all staff stipulations (hours limited to Friday-Sunday 6pm-12am, 125 occupancy, doors closed during events) passed 7-1. The case proceeds to the September 9, 2025 City Council meeting. Other Business - Staff provided an update on recent cases approved by the City Council, including the Southwest Nursery Transportation Thoroughfare Plan (TTP) amendment (Aug 5), the CZO amendment for car ports (Aug 5), the Harcourt rezoning (July 8), and a vape shop SUP (July 8). --- Note: The meeting took place on August 7, 2025, as specified.