Public Meetings - Coppell, Texas

The Coppell City Council met on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, for a Regular Called Session that included a Work Session from 5:30 PM to 6:45 PM and a Regular Session from 7:30 PM to 7:55 PM. The previously scheduled Executive Session regarding economic development prospects was postponed to the August 11, 2026 meeting. The council addressed a significant consent agenda, held an in-depth discussion on the 2027 state legislative priorities, and received project updates. Consent Calendar - Approved July 14, 2026 meeting minutes. - Awarded Bid Q-0526-01 to Cole Construction Inc. for the Andrew Brown East Park Pond Restoration in the amount of $356,385.84. - Approved Contract Addendum No. 1 with Teague Nall and Perkins Inc. for East Sandy Lake Road Median Improvements design services in the amount of $114,415. - Adopted the City of Coppell Investment Policy. - Awarded contract to Sunbelt Pools for resurfacing plaster at The CORE outdoor leisure pool in the amount of $171,311.00. - Approved purchase and installation of new play structures from Sunbelt Pools for The CORE outdoor leisure pool in the amount of $510,077. - Awarded TIPS Contract to Custard Construction for remodeling Andrew Brown Park Central, Wagon Wheel restrooms in the amount of $276,245.06. - Approved purchase of new playground equipment at Riverchase Park from The PlayWell Group Inc. in the amount of $131,356.60. - The consent agenda was approved via a single unanimous motion by Mayor Pro Tem Jim Walker, seconded by Councilmember Don Carroll. Public Comments & Testimony - Monica Panda (114 Arbor Manors Drive) addressed the council regarding her experience with complaints during the recent McDonald's construction. She argued the city should be more proactive in harnessing data from complaint systems to better track issues and allocate resources, rather than responding to each incident in isolation. Discussion Items - 2027 Legislative Priorities (Work Session): The council received a comprehensive presentation from legislative consultant Jennifer Rodriguez on the upcoming 90th Texas Legislative Session (convening January 12, 2027). Key topics included the state budget, property tax relief, data center regulations, and the attrition of legislators. The council identified three main advocacy priorities: street maintenance funding, the special district for Old Town Coppell, and protecting sales tax sourcing. A significant discussion was held on e-bike regulation. Councilmember Brianna Hinojosa-Smith advocated for the city to take a leadership role in pursuing state legislation allowing local regulation of e-bikes for safety, citing growing dangers. The council directed staff to survey the landscape for existing legislative efforts while exploring local ordinance options to address the issue. - CRDC Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds (Item 9): The council discussed and approved a resolution authorizing the Coppell Recreation Development Corporation to refund its Series 2014 bonds using a parameter sales method to secure lower interest rates. Financial advisor Jason Hughes stated that current rates were 0.3 to 0.4 percent above the set parameters, but the authorization allows swift action if market conditions become favorable within 180 days, with no downside risk to the city. - City Manager Reports (Item 10): Deputy City Manager Kent Collins provided updates: the Bullock and Howell street project is nearing completion (driveways in progress), Royal Lane Reconstruction is ongoing (storm drains, gas line, subgrade), the Justice Center remodel is on schedule for completion in August, and Fire Station 3 foundation work is in progress. Key Outcomes - Executive Session Postponed: Discussions on economic development prospects were deferred to the August 11, 2026 meeting. - Consent Agenda Passed: All eight consent items (8A through 8H) were approved by a unanimous vote. - Bond Refunding Approved: The resolution for the CRDC Sales Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds was approved unanimously (Enactment No: RE 2026-0728.1). - 2027 Legislative Platform Direction: Council provided guidance on the 2027 legislative platform. Staff was directed to revise the document, including clarifying the alcohol sales restriction language regarding the Old Town special district and adding e-bike regulation as a priority. The finalized platform will be presented for formal adoption at a future meeting. - Proclamation Presented: A proclamation was presented to ADA Coordinator Kori Allen, designating July 2026 as "Americans with Disabilities Act Month" in Coppell. - Future Meetings Noted: The final budget workshop is scheduled for August 4, 2026. Board and Commission applications open on August 3, 2026.

The Coppell City Council held its second Financial Strategy Session on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Town Center from 6:01 p.m. to 9:56 p.m. Seven council members were present. Councilmember Brianna Hinojosa-Smith was absent, and Councilmember Mark Hill joined remotely at 7:30 p.m. Staff presented forecasts and sought feedback on the General Fund, Debt Service Fund, assessed valuations, and Service Organization Requests. Presentation and Discussion: General Fund - Introduction: Kim Tieien, Director of Strategic Financial Engagement, stated that the forecast provides a balanced budget with operating expenditures increasing 3.33%, below the May 2025 to May 2026 CPI increase of 4.2%. The forecast assumes state sales tax Rule 3.334 remains in effect per council direction. Strategies were used to close the projected "Austin gap." - Expenditures: Kent Collins reviewed department budgets. Public Safety proposals include eliminating two vacant firefighter positions, spending $150,000 on a state-mandated rewrite of the emergency management plan, and establishing a Public Safety Replacement Fund with a $5 million transfer from the general fund balance. Police operations underwent a full budget scrub for efficiencies. Public Works proposes reducing one senior maintenance worker through a vacancy. - Community Experiences Adjustments: A major debate surrounded the Core facility. Staff proposed discontinuing the underutilized adult athletic leagues ($34,000 savings), closing the Sunshine Room child watch service (93 members, 2,047 check-ins, $35,760 savings), and closing the Core at 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday ($24,000 salary savings). The Kaleidoscope event will be merged into the One Coppell Conference. - Revenues: General fund revenues are forecasted at $78.9 million. Property tax (61%) is based on a 3.499% increase, and sales tax (21%) assumes a 3% increase. Interest income is held flat with overages flowing to fund balance. - Fund Balance: Projected at $127 million. The intentional decrease of $10.7 million funds the Public Safety Replacement Fund, the Infrastructure Maintenance Fund (IMF), and 2040 work plan items. The reserve for "Lawsuits after Certified Values" was discussed as a critical buffer against appraisal protests. Presentation and Discussion: Assessed Valuations & Debt Service Fund - Assessed Valuations: Preliminary values show a 6.88% increase over 2025 certified values. Staff noted the impact of the voter-approved increase in the business personal property exemption to $125,000, which flattened growth in that category to 0.06%. The $1 million reserve for tax revenue loss from lawsuits was supported by council. - Debt Service Fund: The fund forecasts $8.6 million in revenue to cover $12 million in principal and interest. Total tax-supported debt outstanding is approximately $95.4 million. Discussion and Council Direction on Service Adjustments - Core Hours and Sunshine Room: Councilmembers Biju Mathew and Kevin Nevels expressed opposition to the proposed closures and hour reductions. Nevels requested a one-year evaluation and exploration of alternative funding, such as from the CRDC fund. Councilmembers Jim Walker and Mark Hill supported the staff recommendations, arguing that meaningful reductions to close the spending gap must eventually impact staffing and services. No formal vote was taken; staff was directed to further analyze the CRDC option and provide more detailed data. - Service Organization Requests: Council reviewed over 20 requests. - Ramesh Premkumar advocated for a strict 3.499% cap on increases, tying it to the city's revenue limit. He voted against several increases. - Most requests were generally approved as presented or with minor adjustments (e.g., Coppell Humane Society $10,000-$15,000; Coppell ISD Education Foundation $10,000). - Coppell Historical Museum: Councilmembers raised concerns about the organization's financial reporting and long-term sustainability. Staff was directed to structure the $135,000 request into a performance-based payment schedule to ensure accountability. - Discover Coppell: The $288,000 marketing request funded by the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) was broadly supported by council. Key Outcomes - Budget Direction: Staff received general direction to prepare the proposed FY27 budget for formal presentation on August 4, 2026. - Core Operations: No final decision. Staff will explore alternative funding for Core hours and Sunshine Room and return with more data. - Service Organizations: Verbal direction on funding levels was given, with most organizations receiving their full requests. Staff will adjust amounts based on the discussion. - Fund Balance Policy: Staff will not recommend any changes to the current policy. - Attrition Strategy: City Manager Mike Land emphasized that council support for ongoing service adjustments, particularly relating to staffing through attrition, is critical to managing the long-term revenue gap created by state legislation.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on July 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a Work Session and 6:30 PM for the Regular Session. Commissioners considered a temporary batch plant plat, a major zoning change for a commercial center, and a related replat. The public hearing on The Shops at Sandy Lake drew significant opposition from residents. All items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of May 21, 2026, Planning and Zoning Meeting Minutes: Approved 5-0 (Commissioner Dobmeier absent). - Ready Mix Addition Lot 1, Block A, Minor Plat: Approved 5-0. The plat includes a variance from required public street frontage and public utility extension for a temporary concrete batch plant (less than six months) on 4.47 acres at 1200 feet west of the city limit line on East Belt Line Road. Staff recommended approval, and the applicant confirmed the operation is for a specific project. The commission noted a forthcoming text amendment to limit such permits to once every five years. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens Appearance (Item 4): No one signed up to speak. - The Shops at Sandy Lake – Public Hearing (Item 7): Eight residents spoke in opposition, citing concerns over traffic congestion, safety, cut-through traffic, loss of green space, noise, and quality of life. Speakers included Monica Panda (114 Arbor Manors Dr.), Debasish Mukherjee (148 Amberwood Dr.), Vishy Subramanian (126 Wild Plum Dr.), Nilesh Pagare (140 Juniper Dr.), Shanty Subramanian (126 Wild Plum Dr.), Prakash Arumugam (100 Shady Dale Ln.), Priyadarsan Biswal (139 W Braewood Dr.), and Atin Kulkarni (122 Wild Plum Dr.). They disputed the traffic study findings and requested further analysis, smaller building size, and a traffic signal at Arbor Manors Drive and Sandy Lake Road. - The Shops at Sandy Lake Replat – Public Hearing (Item 8): Initially no speakers, but the hearing was reopened to allow Nilesh Pagare (140 Juniper Dr.) to speak again in opposition, echoing traffic and safety concerns. Discussion Items - The Shops at Sandy Lake PD-214R11-C (Item 7): Staff recommended approval of a zoning change from PD-214R2-C to allow a 14,480-square-foot commercial center with retail and medical uses (no restaurant/patio) on 2.03 acres at the south side of Sandy Lake Road, 560 feet west of Denton Tap Road. Changes from the prior denied application include: building moved 10 feet forward (now30-foot rear setback), driveway shifted200 feet west,55 existing trees saved,31 new trees planted,71 Nellie R. Stevens along the rear property line, and a $100,000 contribution toward a potential traffic signal at Arbor Manors Drive and Sandy Lake Road (if installed by the city). A city-commissioned traffic study found no evidence of cut-through traffic and concluded the intersection did not meet signal warrants. Commissioners discussed the developer’s compromises and the inability to deny outright due to existing commercial zoning. They expressed support for the mitigated plan. - The Shops at Sandy Lake Replat (Item 8): The replat revises the lot to include mutual access, fire lane, and utility easements for the building. Staff recommended approval. - City Council Update (Item 9): The commission noted that the application period for 2027 Boards and Commissions opens August4,2026. Key Outcomes - Item5 (Minutes): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Item6 (Ready Mix Plat): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Item7 (The Shops at Sandy Lake PD): Approved unanimously (6-0) subject to staff conditions: detailed engineering review; landscaping as shown; monument sign as shown; updated downstream drainage analysis; all other signage per city requirements. - Item8 (Replat): Approved unanimously (6-0) subject to additional comments during detailed engineering. - Adjournment: 8:07 PM.

The Coppell City Council met on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, for a combined Financial Strategy Session 1 starting at 5:30 PM, followed by a Regular Session at 7:30 PM, and an Executive Session. The meeting focused on funding requests from six service organizations, strategic financial planning, special revenue fund reviews, the water and sewer budget, a public hearing for an alcohol variance for St. Ann's Catholic Parish, citizens' appearances regarding neighborhood nuisances and a demolition order, and various consent agenda items. Council provided direction on three specific financial transfers. Consent Agenda A motion was made by Councilmember Kevin Nevels and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Jim Walker to approve the entire Consent Agenda (Items A through F) by unanimous vote. Items included: - Approval of the June 9, 2026 meeting minutes. - Adoption of Ordinance No. 2026-1648, amending the FY 2025-2026 budget. - Adoption of Ordinance No. 91500-A-845 for a Special Use Permit revision (S-1113R3-SF-7) to allow St. Constantine School to operate at the Church of the Apostles (322 S. MacArthur Blvd) with a maximum enrollment of 130 students. - Approval of the purchase of three vehicles from Caldwell Country Ford for $150,733.00. - Approval of the purchase of three vehicles from Sam Pack's Ford for $192,518.65. - Approval of Contract Amendment No. 1 with Quiddity Engineering LLC for the Deforest Lift Station Rehabilitation in the amount of $90,000.00. Public Comments & Testimony - Financial Strategy Session - Citizens' Appearance: No residents signed up to speak. - Regular Session - Citizens' Appearance: - John Murphy (931 Laguna Drive): Spoke regarding ongoing noise issues from the Kroger Fuel Center, specifically new 40-ton air conditioning units installed on the roof which produce 58 decibels of noise. He requested the council use its influence to address the noise with Kroger. - Greg Martinez, Mary Knight Tyler, and George Cooper (Stratford Lane residents): Spoke in favor of the city proceeding with the demolition of the property at 631 Stratford Lane. They cited safety concerns, prolonged vacancy (over 10 years), structural issues from the 2020 freeze, and code compliance failures. - Salman Ahmad and Roohi Ahmad (631 Stratford Lane): Spoke against the demolition of their home. Mr. Ahmad stated they have a contract and deposit paid to a contractor for rebuilding, have shown proof of funds to the city, and are addressing pest control and structural inspections. He alleged some city staff have not been forthcoming in helping them move forward with construction permits. Roohi Ahmad pleaded with the council to save the house, stating their daughter, a recent Harvard Law graduate, has contributed $90,000 of her savings to save the home. - Public Hearing (Item 8 - St. Ann's Catholic Parish): No public comments were received opposing the resolution. The applicant, Ken Wistler, thanked the council for their continued support. Discussion Items - Service Organization Funding Requests (Financial Strategy Session): The council heard six presentations from organizations requesting city funding. A key theme was the transition of some organizations (Community Garden, Farmers Market) from being city programs to independent non-profits. - Coppell Community Garden Corporation: Requested $22,000. Noted it is the city's largest volunteer organization and a top-ranked donation garden in North Texas. - Coppell Farmers Market Association: Requested $131,000 to fund staff salaries and operating expenses. It reported over 6,600 visits in May and June and over $2.5 million in annual vendor sales. - Coppell Humane Society: Requested $13,500 for a marketing and outreach campaign to grow volunteer and foster capacity. The organization is 100% volunteer-run and foster-based. - Coppell ISD Education Foundation: Requested $61,000 to support its 'Give for Grants' program. This is the organization's first request to the city. Councilmembers expressed a desire for future requests to be tied to specific, measurable programs. - Coppell Community Chorale: Requested $25,000 (an increase over the usual $13,000) largely for its 40th-anniversary celebration. This was characterized as a one-time ask. - Coppell Historical Museum: Requested $135,000. The Executive Director noted significant fundraising and grant applications are underway to reduce the city's share of the budget (currently 80-85%). - Councilmember Ramesh Premkumar initiated a discussion on establishing a funding ceiling (e.g., a percentage of the general fund) and encouraging service organizations to cover a majority of their own operating expenses. - Financial Strategy: Investing in Coppell's Future (Kim Tiehen): Director Tiehen presented a framework emphasizing long-term resilience. She highlighted the city's use of conservative revenue budgeting (budgeting under sales tax Rule 3.334), expenditure strategies, and strategic transfers (over $31M to Infrastructure Maintenance Fund, $5.5M to Municipal Drainage Utility District) to build financial strength and avoid reactionary decisions. - Special Revenue Funds (Kent Collins): Staff presented the six major special revenue funds. - Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Fund: Proposed using up to $50,000 for marketing consultant support for resident arts companies at the Arts Center. - Municipal Drainage Utility District (DUD): A rate study is scheduled for August. Needs are outpacing current revenues. - Infrastructure Maintenance Fund (IMF): Recommended a $5 million additional transfer from the General Fund undesignated fund balance to support rising project costs. - Rolling Oaks Memorial Cemetery (ROMC): Staff requested a decision on the annual $250,000 transfer back to the General Fund, which was paused last year. - Water and Sewer Budget (Kent Collins): The presentation covered the fund's sustainability principles. Staff highlighted that despite planned reinvestments, the city's water and sewer rates remain among the lowest compared to other Dallas Water Utilities customer cities. - City Manager and Mayor Reports: Mayor Mays reported over 15,000 attendees at the July 4th celebration and over 80 attendees at the One Coppell 'Together We Dine' event. Councilmember Premkumar reported on the North Texas Commission. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Items A through F were approved unanimously. - Public Hearing (St. Ann's Catholic Parish): Resolution RE 2026-0714.1 granting a 241-foot distance variance for the temporary on-premise sale of alcoholic beverages was approved unanimously. - Financial Strategy Direction (Items 2D and 9 - End of Meeting): The council provided direction on three specific staff recommendations: 1. Approved: Up to $50,000 in marketing support for resident arts companies from the HOT Fund. 2. Approved: A $5 million additional transfer from the General Fund undesignated fund balance to the Infrastructure Maintenance Fund (IMF). 3. Approved: A return to the annual $250,000 transfer from the Rolling Oaks Memorial Cemetery (ROMC) fund to the General Fund. - Executive Session: The council met in closed session to consult with the City Attorney regarding legal advice on the property at 631 Stratford related to the Board of Building Standards Order of Demolition. No action was taken as a direct result of this session, though the matter was discussed. - Deferred Items: Formal approval of the service organization funding allocations was deferred to a future meeting for further deliberation.

The Coppell City Council met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, beginning with a Work Session at 6:08 p.m., followed by a Regular Session at 7:37 p.m., and concluding with a resumed Work Session at 8:35 p.m. that ended at 9:15 p.m. The meeting covered bond refunding parameters, a proposed special district for Old Town, a non-park facility naming policy, several proclamations, public comments on drainage issues, approval of a school special use permit, and consent agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Approved the minutes from May 26, 2026, by unanimous vote. - Resolution Supporting Mayor Wes Mays for TML President‑Elect: Approved unanimously (Enactment No. RE 2026-0609.1). - Contract with Emergicon, LLC for ambulance debt collection services under interlocal agreement with Euless; City Manager authorized to sign. Approved unanimously. - Award of $443,918.29 to Custard Construction for locker room remodel at The CORE, funded by CRDC. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Kimberly Herald (104 Heather Glen Drive) addressed the Council regarding severe flooding and drainage issues on Heather Glen Drive. She stated that the city recently replaced the sewer system but did not address drainage, which she called a hazard, and requested that the drainage project be moved to the top of the city's priority list. She provided photos and video not displayed during the meeting. - During the Work Session (not open for citizen comments per policy), no public comment was heard. Proclamations - New Driver Safety Week (August 23–29, 2026): Presented by Mayor Mays to Sunya Ajani, a Coppell High School graduate who survived a crash at Parkway and Denton Tap in 2022 and now advocates for safe driving. - Park and Recreation Month (July 2026): Presented to members of the Coppell Community Experiences team. Megan Beaujean highlighted upcoming events including a July 14 celebration in Old Town and July 4th festivities for America’s 250th anniversary. - Ainsley Bramer Day (May 16, 2026): Recognized Ainsley Bramer, a Coppell High School student who won the UIL state shot‑put championship with a throw of 45 feet. She signed with the University of Texas. Discussion Items - Bond Refunding (Agenda Item 8) : Kim Tiehen, Director of Strategic Financial Engagement, and Jason Hughes, Senior Managing Director of Hilltop Securities, presented a revised parameter sale ordinance for refunding the 2013 and 2016 Certificate of Obligation bonds (totaling $10.34 million outstanding). The previous ordinance required a true interest cost (TIC) no higher than 2.75% and minimum present‑value savings of 5%, which were unattainable because of market volatility (the 10‑year municipal rate had moved from 2.91% to 3.17% and back to 2.95%). The new recommended parameters set maximum TIC at 3.25% and minimum savings at 3% (approximately $310,200 in present value). Current savings stood at 2.17%. If rates drop about 0.2 percentage points, the 3% threshold would be met. Councilmember Ramesh Premkumar, who had earlier advocated for a higher threshold, stated he now supports the 3%/3.25% parameters after understanding industry standards. The Council also received a preview of a separate CRDC revenue bond refunding (outstanding $21.295 million) with similar parameters, which will go before the CRDC Board on July 20 and return to Council on July 28. - Proposed Old Town Special District (Work Session Item C) : Staff presented foundational framework decisions. Discussion centered on four components: - Alcohol Consumption Provision: Council agreed to include a statutory provision allowing alcoholic beverages purchased from permitted establishments to be carried and consumed within the district boundaries, subject to future local ordinances. Mayor and Council expressed support for broad flexibility, with the ability to tailor rules (e.g., restricting consumption to certain hours or areas) through city ordinance. Residents and businesses must be regulated by the city’s charter or ordinance. - Naming: Council selected “Old Town Entertainment District” (OTED) to convey the intended purpose. Five of six members present (excluding Councilmember Biju Mathew, absent) gave verbal or visual approval. - Governance Structure: Council directed that the initial board shall be the City Council itself (temporary council board), with a mechanism to change board composition via ordinance adopted by a majority (or supermajority) in the future. This allows future flexibility to create a hybrid board that could include business or residential representatives or appointed directors. Spending authority for tax‑revenue reinvestment will remain with the City Council. - Geographic Boundaries: Staff presented a map with expansion areas. After debate about including residential neighborhoods and the senior center area, Council directed that the initial boundaries be the full proposed area (yellow plus areas 1‑5) as presented, with an understanding that the senior center area (east side) would be included but would be clearly delineated. A final map and language will be brought back for future approval. Council member Kevin Nevels advocated for including the wooded tract east of the senior center for future redevelopment flexibility. - Non‑Park Facility Naming Policy (Work Session Item D, held after Regular Session) : Deputy City Manager Traci Leach presented a draft policy for naming facilities not covered by the park ordinance (e.g., Town Center, service center, fire stations, Justice Center, Life Safety Park, hangar, animal services building). After discussion, Council reached consensus on the following modifications: - Eligibility service thresholds: City Council members: 9 years (minimum three terms, non‑consecutive okay). Volunteers: 10 years. Employees: reduced from 25 to 20 years of service to the City of Coppell. - Initiation process: All naming proposals must be sponsored by a City Council member. Citizens may request a council member to sponsor a nomination. - Funding: The requirement for the applicant to pay for signage was eliminated entirely; all costs will be covered by the city whether council‑initiated or community‑sponsored. - Renaming restrictions: Once a facility is named, no changes are allowed for 25 years. After that period, renaming requires a supermajority vote (6 out of 7 Council members). This moratorium applies even if no living descendants remain in Coppell. - Approval threshold: Any new naming or renaming will require a supermajority vote (6/7). - One facility per person: An individual may only be honored on one facility. - The policy does not apply to parks; those are governed by the existing code. Key Outcomes - Bond Refunding Ordinance (Agenda Item 8): Unanimously adopted (Ordinance No. 2026-1647), repealing Ordinance No. 2026-1646 and authorizing issuance of General Obligation Refunding Bonds with maximum TIC of 3.25% and minimum present‑value savings of 3%. - Special Use Permit for St. Constantine School (Agenda Item 9): Unanimously approved, with conditions that the school must be licensed under state law, serve Pre‑K3 through 12th grade, and have a maximum enrollment of 130 students. The school currently has 69 students (from 32 families) and expects 97 enrolled for the upcoming year. - Consent Agenda: All four items approved unanimously (Enactment No. RE 2026-0609.1 for the resolution; contract and award approved). - Old Town Entertainment District Framework: Council provided direction to include the alcohol provision, adopt the name “Old Town Entertainment District”, establish a temporary council board with a future amendment mechanism, and proceed with the geographic boundaries as presented (with the east‑side expansion noted). Staff will return with refined language and a finalized map. - Non‑Park Facility Naming Policy: Staff directed to revise the draft policy incorporating the consensus points listed above, and will bring it back for formal adoption at a future meeting. - Other: The Coppell Arts Center update was deferred to the July 14, 2026 City Council agenda (due to absent Councilmember Biju Mathew).

The Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) Board met in regular session on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 5:31 p.m. at Council Chambers, Town Center, 255 E. Parkway Boulevard, Coppell, Texas. Board President Brianna Hinojosa-Smith presided, and a quorum was present. The board heard a presentation on the proposed FY 2026-2027 CCPD budget, held the required public hearing, adopted the budget as amended, reviewed the FY27 budget calendar, and elected new officers. The meeting adjourned at 6:07 p.m. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes of the previous CCPD meeting. The agenda identifies these as the June 23, 2025 minutes, while the meeting transcript references "June 3rd, 2025"; this discrepancy is noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizens signed up to speak during the Citizens' Appearance portion. - The board opened the required public hearing on the FY 2026-2027 CCPD proposed budget. No members of the public registered or spoke, and the board unanimously closed the public hearing. Discussion Items - Jessica Almendares, Budget Manager for Strategic Financial Engagement, presented the FY 2026-2027 proposed CCPD budget. She explained that the CCPD is a special-purpose district funded by a quarter-cent sales tax and must use all revenues exclusively for crime prevention programs and services. She also stated the proposed budget invests in the city's officers, maintains critical public safety infrastructure, and ensures full school resource officer coverage on every campus for the first time. - Voters established the district in November 2007, with collections beginning April 2008; reauthorization votes extended the district to April 2033, and the next reauthorization vote must occur on or before November 2032. - Total FY27 revenues were projected at approximately $5.2 million, assuming a 3% increase in sales tax revenue over the FY26 adopted budget. Sales tax was projected to generate $4.2 million, about 81.9% of total revenues; Coppell ISD salary reimbursements for school resource officers were budgeted at $794,550, or 15.3%; interest earnings were $150,000, or 2.9%. - Total FY27 expenditures were projected at $6.38 million, with a planned strategic use of fund balance totaling $1,177,480 and an ending fund balance of $19.2 million. Personnel accounted for 35.8% of the budget and funded 15 positions, including school resource officers, another sworn or non-sworn position, and an administrative compliance officer; salary and benefits totaled about $2.289 million. Supplies totaled $181,000, or 2.8%, including uniforms, license plate recognition camera leases, and ALPR camera/software upgrades. - Services were the largest expenditure category at about $2.5 million, or 38.6%. This included about $1.61 million for North Texas Emergency Communications Center dispatch operations, plus a first-year contribution for a six-year NTEC radio system replacement project described as approximately $685,000 total, with $385,001 budgeted in the CCPD budget and $300,000 funded from the E911 fund. It also included a continuing contract with the City of Grapevine for jail services and an administrative services reimbursement to the general fund. - Capital expenditures of about $1.28 million covered one-time replacement of portable mobile radio equipment, and transfers of about $175,000 (2.76%) went to the capital replacement fund for future police vehicle replacement. - Staff asked the board whether to keep or exclude the $794,550 Coppell ISD salary reimbursement from the budget. Board members also asked about the relationship between budgeted and actual sales tax revenue; staff clarified that the FY25 actual revenue of $7,085,621 reflected full collections rather than a reduced amount, while the FY27 sales tax estimate was based on about 45 percent of the full amount. - Board member Carroll asked about the roughly $8 million increase between the original and amended budget amounts. Staff replied that it was encumbrance carryover for the Justice Center and NTEC projects, with associated budget brought forward through amendments because the projects were not yet complete. - Board member Neville asked the cost of one school resource officer; staff answered about $125,000 in salary and benefits. Staff also confirmed the City of Grapevine jail services agreement was $123,000 annually, with the term length to be provided later. - Staff then presented the budget resolution. The resolution would adopt the FY27 CCPD budget, allow administrative adjustments between accounts without increasing the total budget and only for money not already committed or spent through purchase orders, and ratify FY25-26 actual expenditures as lawful. Staff said the city attorney recommended the resolution and staff recommended approval. Board member Carroll expressed concern about ratifying actual expenditures before the end of the fiscal year; staff explained it was a housekeeping measure consistent with past practice and was being codified for continuity. - Staff reviewed the FY27 CCPD budget calendar. The required CCPD public hearing was held and the board adopted the budget that evening. The budget will go to the City Council strategic planning session on July 13, 2026; the City Council will hold a public hearing and consider adoption on August 11, 2026. The September 8, 2026 hearing relates to the city's overall operating budget and tax rate. Staff noted the CCPD budget must be adopted 30 days before the fiscal year begins, which is why it is handled before September. - During officer elections, Board member Neville nominated Ramesh Prem Kumar for president, and Prem Kumar accepted. For vice president, the city secretary identified Mark Hill as having served furthest in the past, as president in 2018; Hill was nominated and accepted. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the minutes. - The board unanimously closed the public hearing with no speakers. - The board unanimously approved the Resolution approving the FY 2026-2027 CCPD budget as amended to remove the $794,550 Coppell ISD salary reimbursement from the budget, with administrative adjustments and adoption by the Coppell City Council. - The board unanimously elected Ramesh Prem Kumar as President and Mark Hill as Vice President. - Next steps: The amended CCPD budget will be reviewed by the City Council on July 13, 2026; the Council will hold a public hearing and consider adoption on August 11, 2026. In July, staff will bring an ordinance amending the budget for encumbrance carryover of about $8 million related to NTEC and the Justice Center, plus about $1,400 for sales tax recovery.

The Coppell City Council met in Regular Session on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, beginning at 7:31 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Center, following a closed Executive Session (5:30 p.m.) and an open Work Session (6:07 p.m.). Mayor Wes Mays presided. All seven council members were present (Jim Walker, Brianna Hinojosa-Smith, Don Carroll, Kevin Nevels, Ramesh Premkumar, Biju Mathew), with Councilmember Mark Hill absent. Key actions included approving a demolition contract for a substandard property at 631 Stratford Lane, awarding a $115,000 Smart Cities Master Plan contract, and removing an inactive member from the Smart City Board. Proclamations - Mayor Mays proclaimed May 3-9, 2026, as Municipal Clerks Appreciation Week, recognizing City Secretary Lauren Thoden for her eight months of dedicated service. - Mayor Mays proclaimed May 17-23, 2026, as National Public Works Week, recognizing Public Works Director Mike Garza and his team. Councilmembers offered extensive remarks highlighting the team’s critical role in maintaining the city’s infrastructure, including 400 lane miles of pavement, and their positive, problem-solving attitude. Public Comments & Testimony Three neighboring residents from Stratford Lane addressed the council in strong support of the city-initiated demolition of 631 Stratford Lane (Agenda Item 8.F): - Ann Dragon (626 Stratford Lane) described the property as a biohazardous site, citing seeing three armadillos emerging from underneath the foundation. - Jason Ramey (630 Stratford Lane) detailed over five years of issues including trespassing, fire hazards, and the property owner repeatedly removing official notices without taking corrective action. - Rob Nickell (634 Stratford Lane, Stratford Manor HOA member) emphasized ongoing safety risks to neighborhood children and the owner’s persistent stalling tactics. Consent Calendar Items A through E were approved unanimously on a single motion (7-0). - A. Minutes of May 12, 2026, approved. - B. Resignation of Satya Rallabandi from the FOARD Task Force accepted. - C. Water/Wastewater purchase contract with Core and Main, LP approved ($93,150.00). - D. Purchase of 22 traffic signal controllers from Texas Highway Products approved ($91,696.00). - E. Interlocal Agreement with TML-IRP for Group Critical Illness insurance for eligible retired police and firefighters approved. - F. (Pulled for individual consideration, see Discussion Items). Discussion Items 8.F. Demolition of 631 Stratford Lane Assistant Director Luay Rahil presented a detailed case history. The property was damaged in the 2021 winter storm, fell into severe disrepair, and became a long-term code enforcement case. The Building and Standards Commission (BSC) issued a final order for demolition in February 2026. The original contract amount in the agenda was listed as $63,760, but staff revised the contract to $58,128. City Attorney David Berman confirmed the owner had not appealed the BSC order and that it was final. A motion by Councilmember Premkumar to postpone the decision to June 9, 2026, failed for lack of a second. A motion by Councilmember Biju Mathew to amend the main motion for a 30-day extension was withdrawn after council conferred with the City Attorney in Executive Session (8:28-8:35 PM), who clarified that the council lacked the authority to delay the final order. Councilmember Walker argued the council owed a fiduciary duty to the neighbors and the community to proceed. Councilmember Nevels voiced empathy for the owner’s initial hardship but stated the timeline had passed. Key Outcome: A motion by Councilmember Nevels, seconded by Councilmember Carroll, to approve the demolition contract for $58,128 passed by a unanimous vote (7-0). Staff indicated they will file a lien against the property to recover costs and remain willing to work with the owner if a binding agreement with strict milestones is signed. 9. Smart Cities Master Plan (Contract Award to Innocity Partners LLC) Director of Enterprise Solutions Josh Littrell presented the proposal for a $115,000 Smart Cities Master Plan consultant contract, intended to create a strategic roadmap aligned with the city’s Vision 2040. Key Outcome: The motion to approve the contract passed by a vote of 4-2. - Ayes: Hinojosa-Smith, Carroll, Nevels, Premkumar. - Nays: Walker, Mathew. - Absent: Hill. During debate, Mayor Pro Tem Walker voiced strong opposition, arguing the proposal was overly ambiguous and the Smart City Board should provide more concrete direction. Councilmember Premkumar countered that the consultant’s experience was necessary to effectively guide the volunteer board and staff, comparing it to the city’s use of experts for park and other master plans. 10. Review of Lynn Jenkins’ Appointment to Smart City Board City Secretary Lauren Thoden reported that Alternate Member Lynn Jenkins had not attended any meetings in the past year, and all contact attempts were unsuccessful. Key Outcome: A motion by Councilmember Premkumar, seconded by Councilmember Nevels, to remove Lynn Jenkins from the Smart City Board passed unanimously (7-0). The position will be considered during the upcoming Boards and Commissions recruitment cycle. Work Session (Informal Discussion, No Formal Votes) - Council Committee Appointments: Mayor Mays announced committee assignments for council members, honoring their specific requests and ensuring each member serves on one or two committees. - Service Organization Funding Requests: Staff presented a list of 15 eligible General Fund and 8 Hotel Occupancy Tax organizations. Based on criteria, five organizations were recommended to present at the July workshop: Coppell Community Garden Corporation, Coppell Farmers Market Association, Coppell Humane Society, Coppell ISD Education Foundation, and Coppell Community Corral (requesting over $20,000 with a 50% increase). Council agreed to also add the Coppell Historical Museum to the presenter list. - Proposed Old Town Special District: Staff provided an extensive informational overview. Discussion covered (1) Board Composition (Council-led, Appointed, or Hybrid; board size of 3, 5, or 7 members; terms of 2, 3, or 4 years); (2) Naming Convention (Improvement, Management, or Entertainment district); and (3) Geographic Boundaries (core Old Town area plus potential expansion to Freeport Parkway and the railroad tracks). Councilmembers explored the governance authority, noting the district could enable alcohol sales, support programming and activation, and potentially capture a portion of sales tax generated within the boundaries to self-fund without a property tax. The City Manager noted legislative strategy will depend on the November 2026 election outcomes, but local bills historically have a high success rate. Key Outcomes Summary - Approved demolition contract for 631 Stratford Lane ($58,128) (Unanimous, 7-0). - Awarded Smart Cities Master Plan contract to Innocity Partners ($115,000) (Passed 4-2). - Removed Lynn Jenkins from Smart City Board (Unanimous, 7-0). - Approved unanimously Consent Agenda Items 8.A through 8.E. - Set recommended list of service organizations for July budget presentations (added Coppell Historical Museum). - Provided initial direction for Old Town Special District framework to be refined at the next work session. City Manager Project Updates - Bullock & Howell: Concrete pour completed on Howell Drive; subgrade prep underway for Bullock. - Royal Lane Reconstruction: Utility installations have begun. - Service Center: Punch list items in progress; staff move-in scheduled for June 1. - Justice Center: Masonry work starting. - Fire Station 3: Demolition of living quarters complete; slab preparation to begin this week.

The Planning and Zoning Commission of Coppell, Texas, met on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a work session and 6:30 PM for the regular session at Town Center, 255 Parkway Boulevard. The commission considered and approved a special use permit (SUP) revision for Saint Constantine School to increase the maximum enrollment from 100 to 130 students. No members of the public spoke during citizens' appearance or the public hearing. The meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved the April 16, 2026, Planning and Zoning meeting minutes unanimously (5-0) on a motion by Commissioner Patel, seconded by Commissioner Maurer. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens' Appearance: No one signed up to speak. - Public Hearing (Item 6): Chairman Haas opened the public hearing for the Saint Constantine School SUP revision. No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. The public hearing was closed by a unanimous motion (Vice Chair Blankenship, seconded by Commissioner Hafemann). Discussion Items - Saint Constantine School SUP Revision (S-1113R3-SF-7): Senior Planner Mary Paron-Boswell presented the staff report. The school began operating in August 2025 at the Church of the Apostles, 322 S. MacArthur Boulevard, with 69 students from 32 families. The requested revision increases the enrollment cap for the second year from 100 to 130 students. The school operates on a split schedule: 66 students attend Monday-Wednesday-Friday, 39 attend Tuesday-Thursday, and 3 attend on an as-needed ("a la carte") basis. A traffic study and real-life observations showed a maximum queue of 17 vehicles, well within the site's capacity of 36. Staff recommended approval with conditions: 1) Additional comments during detail engineering review, 2) The charter school shall be licensed per state law and may provide instruction for PreK-3 through 12th grade, and 3) Enrollment under this SUP shall not exceed 130 students. Applicant Catharine Clayton (2717 Vista Bluff Blvd, Lewisville, TX) answered questions, stating the school would need to turn away students if the cap remained at 100. Commissioners discussed queuing, potential after-school care extending pickup to 5 PM, and whether a condition on the split schedule was needed. It was noted that the original SUP was for two years, so this request covers the second year. The commission ultimately approved the item with staff conditions (motion by Commissioner Maurer, seconded by Vice Chair Blankenship, unanimous 5-0). - City Council Update (discussed in work session): Staff reported that at the April 28 City Council meeting, three items were addressed: 1) Smarten's Purse ordinance was approved, 2) A concrete batch plant was not approved (required supermajority, failed), 3) The Shops at Sandy Lake proposal failed on a 3-3 tie vote (one council member abstained due to living in the neighborhood; one was absent), meaning the previously approved plan for that site remains in effect. Key Outcomes - Approved the April 16, 2026, meeting minutes (5-0). - Approved Saint Constantine School SUP revision S-1113R3-SF-7 to allow up to 130 students with staff conditions (5-0). - Noted City Council actions on other projects. - Meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM.

The City Council of Coppell, Texas met on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, starting at 5:30 PM with an Executive Session (evaluation of City Manager), followed by a Work Session and Regular Session at 7:32 PM. Six council members were present; Brianna Hinojosa-Smith and Mark Hill were absent. The meeting included swearing-in ceremonies, three proclamations, a Metrocrest Services presentation, public testimony, unanimous approval of the consent agenda, appointment of a Mayor Pro Tem, and approval of an amended City Manager employment contract. Opening and Proclamations - Swearing-In of Councilmembers: Judge Sandra White administered the oath of office to Jim Walker (Place 1), Don Carroll (Place 3), and Ramesh Premkumar (Place 5). - Swearing-In of Fire Chief: Judge Sandra White also swore in Ryan Arthur as Fire Chief. Chief Arthur expressed gratitude and commitment to the department's tradition of excellence. - Proclamation – Coppell High School Cheer Day (May 12, 2026): Recognized the team's second consecutive national championship. Coach Lindsey Bates accepted, noting the difficulty of a back-to-back title. Councilmember Kevin Nevels thanked the team. - Proclamation – National Water Safety Month (May 2026): Austin Galvan, Aquatics Coordinator, and staff accepted, promoting Water Wednesday events and pop-up safety activities. - Proclamation – Emergency Medical Services Week (May 17-23, 2026): 52nd anniversary with theme "Improving Outcomes." Chief Ryan Arthur accepted on behalf of the fire department. Consent Calendar - All five items (A through E) were approved unanimously (motion by Mayor Pro Tem Don Carroll, second by Councilmember Ramesh Premkumar). - A. Minutes of April 28, 2026. - B. Contract with Momentus Technologies for venue management software at the Coppell Arts Center, total cost $57,274.89. - C. Resolution appointing members to the Coppell Crime Control and Prevention District Board with staggered two-year terms. - D. First Amendment to Grant Agreement with Woven Health Clinic extending expiration to December 31, 2026 using ARPA funds. - E. Ordinance for PD-296R-LI Detail Site Plan for a 29,388 sq. ft. office building with parking. Public Comments - Naiya Patel (2255 Doggett Drive, Coppell), a 7th-grade student and BAPS Charities volunteer, invited the community to the 23rd Annual Walkathon on Sunday, May 31, 2026 at 8:00 AM at Levi Event Plaza in Irving. Proceeds benefit Children's Health, The Main Place, and Metrocrest Services. Presentation: Metrocrest Services Update - Gabe Madison, newly appointed Chief Operating Officer, reported that Metrocrest served approximately 29,000 people in 2025. Programs include a client-choice food pantry, housing assistance, senior services, and innovations such as Food RX and on-site clinics. The organization is requesting $196,625 from Coppell for FY2027 (same as prior year). Councilmembers expressed strong support, with Councilmember Premkumar sharing his volunteer experience and Mayor Pro Tem Carroll praising Madison's leadership. Discussion Items (Work Session) - One Coppell Update: Director of Employee Experience Matthias Messmer presented the community connection initiative's five-year rollout (year three: strengthening). To date, events include five Together We Dines (219 participants), six roadshows (100 participants), and a mini-conference (113 attendees). Total spending so far is $99,509. Councilmember Ramesh Premkumar encouraged increasing attendance tenfold and requested an FAQ on the website explaining benefits. Councilmember Kevin Nevels asked about interfaith group involvement. No action taken. - Five-Year Financial Forecast (FY2026-2030): Assistant Directors Justin Vaughn and Sherry Vaughn described the process. An initial $4.4 million gap was reduced to $483,000 through strategic adjustments, alternative funding (Vision 2040, strategic reserves, special revenue, bonds), and targeted reductions. Revenue strategies include a consultant-led fee review and cost recovery. Councilmembers discussed sales tax assumptions, property tax limitations, and legal constraints (City Attorney Bob Hager noted fees must cover costs and not constitute taxes). The consultant will present recommendations before the budget cycle ends. No action required. - Mayor Pro Tem Discussion: Mayor Mays proposed following the traditional rotation, appointing Councilmember Jim Walker as Mayor Pro Tem. Outgoing MPT Don Carroll supported the move, and Walker accepted. Formal appointment occurred later in Regular Session. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously. - Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem: Councilmember Jim Walker was appointed by unanimous vote (motion by Don Carroll, second by Kevin Nevels). - City Manager Contract: Approved amended employment contract for Mike Land with a 5% base salary increase and term extension from 2026 to 2029 (motion by Jim Walker, second by Don Carroll; unanimous). - Received Reports: The council received project updates (Hunterwood Park, Bullock/Howell, Arbor Brook, Royal Lane, Service Center, Justice Center, Fire Station 3) and reports from Mayor (Fun Food Grooves success, primary runoff voting dates, Leadership Coppell graduation) and Councilmember Kevin Nevels (Coppell ISD: budget deficit reduced to $2.4M, bond projects; Coppell Seniors: Mother's Day event, Mahjong expansion). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.