Public Meetings - North Richland Hills, Texas

The North Richland Hills City Council met in a work session at 5:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:15 p.m. on Monday, October 26, 2026. The work session included updates on legislative tracking software, EMS billing and fee schedule proposals, an Emergify fire-response insurance reimbursement proposal, lift-assist data, and a Code of Ethics review. The regular meeting opened with invocation and Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Mitchell, approved the consent agenda 6-0, heard one citizen presentation, and approved two executive session action items, both 6-0. The regular meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m. Legislative Tracking Software Update - Staff presented an update on Quorum, an AI-based legislative tracking platform replacing spreadsheets and an old Access database. In the Texas legislature, more than 7,000 bills are introduced each session, about 2,000 could impact city operations, and Texas Municipal League anticipates as many as 3,500 bills this year that could affect municipalities. - Quorum will provide real-time bill alerts, categorize bills as support, oppose, or watch, and launch a public dashboard in January. The internal go-live is November 9, when bill filing begins. Residents can already sign up as legislative ambassadors. - Staff noted that city ordinances were not uploaded into Quorum, but internal AI tools could be used to analyze local ordinance impacts. The legislative task force will also have access to the platform. EMS Billing Provider and Fee Schedule Update - Chief Tenny said the city has used its current EMS billing provider since 2014, moved to bundle billing in 2024, and is currently on a month-to-month contract. Staff recommended switching to Emergicon, described as the largest EMS biller in Texas, serving nearly 200 Texas cities and 12 of the 12 NEFTA cities that provide EMS transports beyond North Richland Hills. - The proposed commission rate would increase from 5 percent to 6.5 percent. Staff said they expect no decrease in revenue and likely an overall increase. Two nearby cities using Emergicon reported year-to-date average collection per transport increases of 45 percent or greater. - Proposed EMS rate changes include increases of $100 for ALS1, $150 for ALS2, and $100 for BLS, with a $30 decrease in oxygen charges. Staff said rates would generally remain below regional averages. The proposal also would eliminate the resident and non-resident rate difference because non-resident collections average about 21 percent lower than resident collections. - Chief Cook presented a separate Emergify proposal to bill insurance providers for non-EMS fire department responses. There would be no balance billing and no bill to individuals. Emergify would charge 15 percent of collected reimbursements, or 18 percent if not bundled with Emergicon. Residential structure fire fees are generally capped by insurers at $500 per incident, and level two and level three hazmat reimbursements would largely go to NEFTA. - Staff estimated that Emergify could offset more than $150,000 in expenses annually, based on 2025 incident responses and 2026 year-to-date responses. The contract and fee schedule changes are planned for November. - Chief Tenny also reviewed lift-assist data from the last 18 months across 14 senior facilities: 3 skilled nursing, 3 Type A assisted living, 3 Type B assisted living, and 6 independent living. Those facilities generated 2,878 calls, of which 105 were lift assists; 69 were transported, 26 refused transport after a medical assessment, and 10 required no medical assessment. Chief Tenny recommended against a lift-assist fee, saying the city does not have a lift-assist abuse problem and fees could discourage calls or be passed on to residents. Code of Ethics Policy Review - Bradley reviewed the Code of Ethics adopted on April 13, 2026, and identified two areas for improvement: ethics complaint procedures and clarification of the meaning of ethical standards. Proposed issues included rules for clarifications or supplements to complaints, notification requirements, timeline impacts, and the difficulty of requesting an extension under the current public notice schedule. - Council discussed creating a subcommittee to review the code. A councilmember asked that the subcommittee also consider preventing multiple council members from filing identical ethics complaints in a way that could weaponize the process and cost the city resources. Staff will bring back an action item in November to establish the subcommittee. City Manager Report - Paulette outlined upcoming items: the November 9 work session will include proposed updates to the animal ordinance, utility billing study efficiency recommendations, a proposed Kemper Sports contract amendment for Iron Horse Golf Course, and the NRH legislative program. December meetings will include facilities efficiency study recommendations, the City Point TIF annual report, the 2027 city council schedule, and presiding judge applications. Consent Calendar - No items were removed from the consent agenda. The consent agenda passed 6-0 and included: - Approval of the October 12, 2026 city council meeting minutes. - Resolution No. 2026-055 authorizing submission of a Bureau of Justice Assistance Bulletproof Vest Partnership grant application and acceptance of up to $16,000 if awarded. - Casting a ballot for Mike Browning in the Texas Municipal League Region 8 Director Election. - Purchase of mobile device computers from GTS Technology Solutions, Inc., up to $391,950, using DIR Cooperative Contract No. DIR-CPO-5225. - Purchase of Absolute Secure Access software maintenance and cloud subscription services from GTS Technology Solutions, Inc., up to $147,000 through July 17, 2031, using DIR Cooperative Contract No. DIR-CPO-5859. - Purchase of four 2027 Hino XL 8 dump trucks from Rush Truck Centers of Texas, LP, in the amount of $773,800.76, using BuyBoard Contract No. 723-23, and approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Cooperative Purchase Customer Agreement. - Amendment to the cooperative purchasing agreement with Blagg Tire through BuyBoard Contract No. 729-24, increasing the tire purchase ceiling to $175,000. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers signed up for the public comments portion of the regular meeting. - During citizens presentation, Brett Boone, a Shriner from Fort Worth, asked the council to allow elephant rides for three days, November 6-8, during the Shrine Circus at NYTEX. He said the elephant provider would not bring elephants without rides and referenced ordinance 14-167 as the obstacle. He requested any ordinance exemption, exception, interpretation, variance, or clarification. City Manager Paulette responded that staff had already discussed the matter and that Stephanie Martinez would speak with him. Executive Session and Action Items - The council entered executive session at 6:32 p.m. under Texas Government Code Sections 551.071, 551.074, and 551.087 for pending litigation, city manager personnel matters, and economic development negotiations at 7656 Boulevard 26. - After reconvening, the council voted 6-0 to authorize the city manager to negotiate and execute an economic development agreement with M3 Hospitality LLC or assigns for the property at 7656 Boulevard 26. - The council voted 6-0 to approve amendments to the city manager's base compensation and deferred compensation. Announcements - Councilmember Delaney announced early voting for the November 4 election continues through October 30 at North Richland Hills City Hall and the Northeast Tarrant County Courthouse. - The Senior Center Craft Fair will be held October 28-29 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Grand Hall at the NRH Centre. - A free outdoor movie night featuring The Big Green will be held November 6 at Green Valley Park, with seating at 6 p.m. and the movie starting around 7 p.m. - Kudos Corner recognized Tammy Lopez in the water office for exceptional customer service. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved 6-0. - The council authorized the city manager to execute an economic development agreement with M3 Hospitality LLC for 7656 Boulevard 26 by a 6-0 vote. - The council approved amendments to the city manager's base compensation and deferred compensation by a 6-0 vote. - Council directed staff to bring back an action item in November to establish a Code of Ethics subcommittee. - Staff will bring the Emergicon EMS billing contract, related EMS fee schedule changes, and the Emergify fire-response billing ordinance to council in November. - Quorum legislative tracking goes live internally November 9, with the public dashboard launching in January. - No action was taken on Brett Boone's elephant ride request because it was made during citizens presentation.

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session at 6:32 PM and a regular meeting at 7:05 PM on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The main agenda item was a public hearing and consideration of a special use permit (ZC26-0166) for a landscape contractor's office with shop and outdoor storage at 3821 Flory Street. The commission also postponed action on a second special use permit (ZC26-0175) for a car wash due to a notice error. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the September 17, 2026 and October 1, 2026 Planning and Zoning Commission meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided testimony or comments on any agenda item. Discussion Items - Special Use Permit ZC26-0166 – Landscape Contractor’s Office with Shop/Outdoor Storage: The applicant, JRMZ Construction LLC (represented by Aldo Morales of McCarthy Architecture), proposed a 3,200 square-foot metal building on a 0.895-acre site at 3821 Flory Street. The site is zoned C2 commercial and is located in an area with a mix of commercial, industrial, and residential uses. The proposal included a gravel parking/loading area, an 8-foot masonry screening wall along street frontages, and an outdoor storage area (currently about 8% of the lot). The Development Review Committee (DRC) recommended denial as presented, but if approved, recommended conditions: allow up to 20% of the lot for outdoor storage (via SUP), prohibit smooth-face concrete masonry units for screening, require concrete or asphalt for parking/maneuvering surfaces, remove two existing driveway approaches on Harmonson Road, and require compliance with architectural design standards (including roof articulation, awnings, etc.). The applicant indicated willingness to remove the driveways, improve architectural design (e.g., dormers, canopy), and potentially replace aging chain-link fencing on the west and south sides. Discussion focused on the gravel surface (code requires hard paving), the flexibility of phased development, and the need to upgrade fencing and maintain unpaved areas. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve ZC26-0166 with Conditions: Commissioner Susie moved to approve the special use permit with all DRC recommendations, plus additional conditions: (1) the 20% outdoor storage area does not need to be contiguous, (2) the chain-link fence on the west and south property lines shall be replaced with an equivalent or wood fence, and (3) any portion of the site not used for parking, storage, or building shall be sodded and maintained with ground cover. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Jay and passed 7-0. The case will go to City Council on November 9, 2026. - Postponement of ZC26-0175 (Car Wash): The commission postponed action on the special use permit for a car wash at 6360 Davis Boulevard to the November 5, 2026 meeting due to an error in property owner notification. No action was taken.

The North Richland Hills Sign Review Board met on October 12, 2026, at 7:34 PM (scheduled for 7:00 PM) and adjourned at 7:47 PM. The board considered one public hearing request for a sign variance from Fort Worth Christian School and approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 8, 2026): The board unanimously approved the minutes of the June 8, 2026 Sign Review Board meeting as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Finstead (address: North Snow, 76180) spoke in support of the Fort Worth Christian School sign. He noted that the sign is nearly completed and praised the school's efforts to be a good neighbor, including plans for a sidewalk and other campus improvements. - No other members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. No written comments were received from nearby property owners, despite nearly 100 notices being mailed. Discussion Items - SRB26-0023 – Fort Worth Christian School Sign Variance: The request concerns a new masonry monument sign at 6200 Holiday Lane (actually located on the Bogart Drive side of the property, over 100 feet from the property line). The variance seeks approval for two deviations from Chapter 106 (Signs) of the North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances: - Height: The proposed sign is just under 17 feet tall. However, approximately 3.5 feet of that height consists of the cross extending above the masonry base, which is about 13 feet tall. The sign is set far back from the road, reducing visual impact. - Masonry Surround: The code requires at least 8 inches of masonry surrounding the entire sign. The proposed design features substantial masonry but does not meet that specific requirement due to the cross shape. Staff noted that future code amendments may address such designs, potentially eliminating the need for a variance. - Staff Presentation: Corey, planning staff, presented the request, noting that the old maintenance building on the site was demolished, and the sign structure is already partially built (masonry base for landscaping). The sign is internally illuminated. No opposition was received from neighbors. - Applicant Statement: Joel Priest (address: 7721 Bogart), representative of Fort Worth Christian School, explained that the sign and flowerbed serve as a placeholder for the former building, help direct traffic for elementary drop-off/pick-up, and are part of ongoing campus beautification efforts. - Board Deliberation: Board members asked clarifying questions about the sign's location, setback (no standard setback for signs beyond visibility triangles), and lighting. Councilmember Getz noted the sign appeared well-designed and appreciated the masonry work. Councilmember Delaney expressed surprise that the sign came before the board given its distance from the street, but supported the request. Key Outcomes - Approval of Variance SRB26-0023: The board voted 8-0 to approve the requested variance for both the height and masonry surround requirements for the Fort Worth Christian School monument sign. - Next Steps: The sign construction may proceed as planned. Staff indicated that future revisions to the sign ordinance may be brought before the board to simplify approval for similar high-quality, set-back signs.

On October 12, 2026, the North Richland Hills City Council held a work session (11:00 AM) and a regular meeting (7:00 PM). The work session included discussions on the Texas Municipal League Region 8 Director election, a comprehensive review of the city’s sign ordinances, and an educational update on the November 2026 bond election. The regular meeting featured a public hearing on a zoning change, approval of a preliminary plat, appointment of the Youth Advisory Council, authorization of the Restaurant Rewards Program, and standard consent agenda approvals. The council also heard one citizen presentation and held an executive session. Consent Calendar - The council approved all consent agenda items during the regular meeting (motion by Councilmember Parks, second by Councilmember Mitchell, vote 7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers signed up for public comments at the start of the regular meeting. - During Citizens Presentation, Janie Jackson (5208 Bob Drive) expressed full support for the bond propositions and urged the city to plan for future expansion by purchasing larger land parcels and designing foundations to allow vertical growth. She also raised concerns about parking enforcement on North Ridge Boulevard, where “no parking” signs near a fire hydrant are frequently ignored, and about commercial vehicles and multiple vehicles from home-based businesses crowding residential streets, which she argued could impede emergency vehicle access. Discussion Items - Texas Municipal League Region 8 Director Election (Work Session): Staff presented candidates Mike Browning (Aubrey council member) and Mary Sarver (Grandview mayor pro tem) for the open Region 8 Director seat. After brief deliberation, council consensus favored Mike Browning. Staff will prepare a resolution for formal vote at the next regular meeting. - Sign Ordinance Review (Work Session): Building Services and Planning staff reviewed the city’s sign regulations, distinguishing temporary from permanent signs and emphasizing that enforcement is based on placement, not content, following the Reed v. Gilbert (2015) decision. Discussion focused on whether to permit limited off-premise temporary signage, prompted by a recent case where a church (Creekstone) was denied an off-premise sign. Councilmembers weighed the desire to help the church gain visibility against concerns about setting a precedent exploitable by other businesses, enforcement challenges, and potential impact on the city’s Platinum Scenic City designation. Some proposed restricting off-premise temporary signs to a few times per year tied to a property owner’s own temporary sign allowance, while others worried this could still lead to a proliferation of portable advertising. No action was taken; the discussion was informational. - Bond Election Education (Work Session): Mary Peters presented the voter education campaign for the November 3, 2026 bond election, including an informational video and online resources detailing the four propositions: - Proposition A: $26.3 million to rebuild Fire Stations 2 and 3. - Proposition B: $84.26 million to reconstruct 50 streets. - Proposition C: $24.7 million to rebuild the City Services Complex. - Proposition D: $10.71 million for library improvements (expand community room from 102 to 500 capacity). The property tax rate would increase up to 2.5 cents ($5.86 per month or $70.37 per year for the average homeowner; no increase for those with a senior/disabled tax freeze). Early voting runs October 19–30; Election Day is November 3. Councilmembers praised the video and outreach efforts. - Public Hearing – Zoning Change (Item C1): The council held a public hearing on a request to rezone 8701 Rumfield Road from Agriculture (AG) to Single-Family Residence (R1) for a new home on a one-acre lot. The applicant, Chris Johnson, stated the existing 50-year-old home would be replaced. Planning and Zoning had recommended approval (5-0). No public comment was offered. The council approved Ordinance 3980 (motion by Councilmember Dupree, second by Councilmember Delaney, vote 7-0). - Preliminary Plat – Smithfield Terrace (Item D1): A preliminary plat for a 33-lot single-family subdivision at 6821 Smithfield Road was presented, consistent with zoning approved in August. Planning and Zoning recommended approval (7-0) with minor Development Review Committee conditions. The council approved the plat with those conditions (motion by Councilmember Roberts, second by Councilmember Gadus, vote 7-0). - Youth Advisory Council Appointments (Item G1): Nine returning and seven new members from Birdville, Richland, and Collegiate Academy high schools were appointed to the Youth Advisory Council for the 2026-27 academic year. Resolution 2026-054 passed (motion by Councilmember Delaney, second by Councilmember Matt, vote 7-0). - Restaurant Rewards Program (Item G2): Craig presented the third-year renewal of the program (January 1 – April 30, 2027), funded by promotional dollars (not property/sales tax). Year 2 results included a 129% increase in participation, 92% increase in restaurant spending, and 102% increase in reward payouts (nearly $100,000). The professional services agreement with Open Rewards Inc. (not to exceed $104,740) was approved (motion by Councilmember Parks, second by Councilmember Matt, vote 7-0). Key Outcomes - Votes & Decisions: - Consent agenda approved 7-0. - Ordinance 3980 (zoning change at 8701 Rumfield Road) approved 7-0. - Preliminary Plat for Smithfield Terrace approved with conditions 7-0. - Resolution 2026-054 (Youth Advisory Council appointments) approved 7-0. - Professional Services Agreement for Restaurant Rewards Program approved 7-0. - Directives: - Staff directed to prepare a resolution supporting Mike Browning for TML Region 8 Director for a vote at the next meeting. - No consensus was reached on sign ordinance changes; staff will not pursue amendments at this time. - Next Steps: - The TML Region 8 Director resolution will be considered at the next regular meeting. - The bond election will be held November 3, 2026; early voting begins October 19. - Final plat approval for Smithfield Terrace will be handled administratively and by the Planning and Zoning Commission. - Executive Session: The council convened at 5:32 PM to discuss legal (pending/contemplated litigation), real property (purchase/exchange/lease), personnel (municipal court judge and city secretary/chief governance officer), and economic development negotiations, as authorized by Texas Government Code.

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission convened for a work session at 6:30 PM followed by a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at City Hall (4301 City Point Drive). The meeting consisted of a single action item: the approval of the preliminary plat for Smithfield Terrace. Work Session Highlights - Staff Reports: Principal Planner Clayton Husband provided community announcements including a pop-up art gallery (running through October 31st), Autumn Sounds concerts (October 3rd and 10th), and a community bike ride (October 8th). He also reported that City Council approved several zoning ordinance cleanup items concerning building materials, notification procedures, and Board of Adjustment updates. - Agenda Item Preview: Mr. Husband and City Engineer Nathan Frohman presented the Smithfield Terrace preliminary plat. The 7.494-acre site at 6821 Smithfield Road is proposed to be developed into 33 single-family lots. Staff confirmed that drainage from the development would be self-contained, and that a separate City CIP project is being scoped to address broader neighborhood drainage issues north of the property. - Future Agenda Items: No items were proposed by Commission members for future discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public requested to speak or provided testimony during the regular meeting. Discussion Items Plat 26-0119: Smithfield Terrace Preliminary Plat - Proposal: A request from Neel-Schaffer Inc. for a preliminary plat of Smithfield Terrace, a 7.494-acre tract located at 6821 Smithfield Road, to create 33 single-family residential lots. - Staff Position: Principal Planner Clayton Husband recommended approval. He noted the plat conforms to the zoning approved earlier in the year and that the lots are generally larger and wider than the minimum standards to address prior feedback. - Key Details Provided: - Average lot size is slightly over 8,100 square feet. - Density is approximately 4.4 dwelling units per acre. - Four open space lots are planned for frontage beautification along Hewitt Street and Smithfield Road. - A Homeowners Association (HOA) will be established to maintain the common areas. - Commission Deliberation: The Commission discussed drainage design, specifically whether the plat's design would mitigate or exacerbate existing drainage issues raised by nearby residents on Hewitt Street. City Engineer Nathan Frohman confirmed that the development is designed to contain its own drainage and will not negatively impact the area. He also mentioned a city-funded Capital Improvement Project (CIP) in the early stages (scope and fee negotiations) aimed at addressing off-site drainage concerns. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Cheryl Lyman moved to approve Plat 26-0119 with the conditions outlined in the Development Review Committee (DRC) comments. Vice Chair Kyle Pekurney seconded the motion. - Vote: The motion carried 7-0 (Commissioners Carpenter, Pekurney, Welborn, Kerby, Lyman, Narayana, and Compton voting in favor; Alternates Whittaker and Harris were present but did not vote). - Next Steps: The approved preliminary plat is scheduled to go before the City Council on October 12, 2026, for final action.

The North Richland Hills City Council met for a work session at 6:00 PM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on September 28, 2026, at City Hall. Mayor Jack McCarty was absent; Mayor Pro Tem Kelvin Deupree presided. The council unanimously approved all action items and discussed updates to the childcare ordinance, zoning amendments, infrastructure contracts, and public safety regulations. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 14, 2026 City Council meeting and the September 16, 2026 Special City Council meeting. - Authorized a contract with Alman Construction Services, LP for generator and automatic transfer switch installation at Fire Stations 1, 4, and 5 for $553,038. - Authorized the purchase of fitness flooring and carpet for the NRH Centre from Vector Concepts, Inc. for up to $173,370. - Authorized payment to Stryker Sales, LLC for non-disposable EMS equipment up to $600,000 through June 30, 2030. Public Comments & Testimony - Jay Bruner (6210 Roaring Springs Drive, founding pastor of Center Point Church and operator of Kids City Learning Center) spoke during Public Comments on the childcare ordinance updates. He highlighted that approximately 90% of city requirements duplicate state regulations, noted that providers face five inspections per year from various agencies, and requested the city eliminate overlap, accept state-approved training, provide clear guidance, and include stakeholders in discussions. - Hyacinth Szabo (6305 Iron Horse Boulevard) spoke during the public hearing on TR26-05, expressing support for the zoning amendments aligning with state law. - Shawna Stiles (3908 Lochridge Court) during Citizens Presentation expressed disappointment over a recent special session incident and urged the council to adopt a clear ethics code of conduct prohibiting bullying and name-calling. - Shellie Embrey (4908 Lariat Trail) during Citizens Presentation requested traffic safety improvements on North College Circle, citing proximity to a school, poor visibility, lack of sidewalks, and high traffic volume. She asked for consideration of a stop sign or other traffic control device. Discussion Items - Work Session – Childcare Ordinance Updates (Chapter 18, Article II): Managing Director Stefanie Martinez presented proposed revisions after a survey of 23 child care operators (9 responses). Key changes include removing universal tuberculosis testing, reducing city inspections from two to one per year (with additional inspections if needed), removing redundant language, while retaining annual oversight , local permitting, food safety enforcement, and Child Care Worker Card training. Council discussed state inspection frequency, licensed vs . unlicensed facilities, and a request from Jay Bruner to meet with providers. Council directed staff to send the proposed ordinance to operators for feedback before bringing it back for action. - Future Agenda Item: Council Member Goetz requested revisiting the city's ethics policy; no opposition was raised. - City Manager Report: Update on two efficiency audits (Utility Billing and Facilities) near completion. Utility Billing report to be presented at November 9 work session; Facilities report at December 14 work session. Also noted upcoming events and ribbon cuttings for Jake's Burgers, Tacos and Avocados, and Public Pita Market. - Executive Session: Council met in executive session from 6:23 PM to 6:41 PM to consult with the city attorney on pending litigation (Jessie Goodfellow v. City, Bank of the West v. G.Q. Enterprises, Amy Vore v. City), housing finance corporations, and data center regulations, and to deliberate on economic development proposals for four properties. No action was taken as a result. - Public Hearing TR26-05 (Ordinance No. 3978): Director of Planning Cori Reaume presented text amendments to Chapter 118 (Zoning) to comply with recent state laws: adding financial hardship criteria for Board of Adjustment variances, updating protest petition thresholds (increased from 20% to 60% for residential density increases, removing supermajority requirement), removing building material regulations (e.g., masonry requirements) except in planned development districts, and defining “no-impact home-based businesses” per state law. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 5-0. The council approved unanimously 7-0. - Public Works (E.1): Public Works Operations Manager Kenneth Garvin presented a recommendation for non-exclusive contracts with Alderink Enterprises, Inc. and Apex Concrete Construction for citywide supplemental concrete services over five years, collective amount not to exceed $9,301,153. Seven bids were received; Cam Creek Contracting was not reachable. Council approved 7-0. - General Item G.1 (Ordinance No. 3979): Chief of Police Jeff Garner presented amendments to Chapter 50, Article IV on sex offender residency. Changes include expanding the residency buffer from 1,000 to 2,000 feet, establishing a defined term “Child Safety Zone,” adding a loitering restriction within 500 feet of such zones, and prohibiting sex offenders from performing Halloween activities (e.g., turning on outdoor lights as an invitation, handing out candy). The violation fine is $500 per day. Council approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous 7-0. - Childcare ordinance: Staff will circulate the proposed revisions to operators for feedback before returning to council. - Ethics policy: An item will be placed on a future agenda to revisit the policy. - Zoning amendments (TR26-05): Ordinance No. 3978 approved, aligning local code with state law. - Concrete contracts: Contracts awarded for five-year term, with first year contingent on budget appropriation. - Sex offender residency: Ordinance No. 3979 approved, effective immediately, with notification to registered offenders to be conducted. - Upcoming events: Kenned by Council Member Mitchell: Harvest Hugs art gallery opening (Oct. 1), Autumn Sounds concert series (Oct.3 and 10), shredding event (Oct.10), and recognition of Fire Department employees Charles Sanchez and Nathan Daniels for excellent service.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session at 6:30 PM followed by a regular meeting at 7:07 PM on September 17, 2026, at City Hall. The commission approved a zoning change for a residential property and adopted amendments to the zoning code to comply with recent state legislation. All votes were unanimous 7-0. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 3, 2026, regular meeting (Motion by Commissioner Lyman, second by Commissioner Narayana; carried 7-0). Discussion Items - ZC26-0174: Zoning Change from AG to R-1 at 8701 Rumfield Road – Principal Planner Clayton Husband presented the request from applicant Chris Johnson to rezone a 0.956-acre lot from Agricultural to Single-Family Residential to allow demolition of an existing house and construction of a new single-family home. The property is not platted; the rezoning is necessary to finalize the plat. The applicant stated he had discussed the plan with neighbors and received no opposition. No public comments were made. Staff recommended approval as consistent with the Vision 2030 land use plan. - TR26-05: Amendments to Chapter 118 (Zoning) Regarding Building Materials, Public Hearing Notices, Home Occupations, and Board of Adjustment Hardships – Planning Director Cori Reaume presented the comprehensive text revision. Key changes include: - Adding criteria for Board of Adjustment hardship considerations, including a financial hardship threshold of greater than 50% of the appraised value of the structure. - Streamlining public hearing notice requirements to comply with state law, including removal of specific local requirements for signs and mailings in favor of state mandates. - Updating protest thresholds for residential zoning changes from 20% to 60% of adjacent property owners and removing supermajority vote requirements; only a simple majority is now needed. - Removing masonry and other building material percentage requirements from residential and commercial sections, except where regulated by voluntary agreements (e.g., planned developments) or historic districts. - Adding a new section for no-impact home-based businesses as defined by state law, which cannot be regulated, and clarifying that other home occupations in residential zones remain subject to city regulations. - Staff noted during discussion that additional clarifications would be added: specifying that the home-occupation section applies to residential zones only, and ensuring that planned development references to removed masonry sections remain enforceable. Key Outcomes - ZC26-0174 approved 7-0. The case will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration on October 12, 2026. - TR26-05 approved 7-0, with modifications as discussed by staff (adding residential-zone applicability language to Section 118-727 and preserving planned development references in Sections 118-671 and 118-693). The amended ordinance will be considered by the City Council on September 28, 2026.

The City Council held a special meeting on September 16, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers to address Ethics Complaint EC2026-01 and related personnel matters concerning Council Member Place 4 (Matt Blake). The meeting began with a prayer led by Council Member Roberts. Three members of the public provided comments before the Council entered a nearly three-hour executive session. Following the closed session, the Council reconvened and approved a statement condemning the referenced statements in the complaint and directing Council Member Blake to remove them from his social media. Public Comments & Testimony - Karran Martin (5614 Westchase Drive) expressed disappointment over Council Member Blake's recent conduct, describing his online comments as arrogant, rude, and condescending. She urged him to take responsibility and learn from the situation, noting she had supported him in previous campaigns. - Bill Finstad (7701 Terry Drive) echoed concerns about the conduct and broader patterns of influence and manipulation within the Council, citing resident complaints about ongoing drama. - Shelly Hollon (6309 Green Castle Court) stated that elected officials should be held to a high ethical standard, similar to volunteers, and argued that public conduct matters for those representing the city. Executive Session The Council entered executive session at 6:42 PM and concluded at 9:11 PM. The session was held under Texas Government Code Sections 551.071 (consultation with the city attorney on pending or contemplated litigation) and 551.074 (personnel matters – discussion of a public officer or hearing a complaint against an officer) to discuss Ethics Complaint EC2026-01 and the conduct of Council Member Place 4. Action Following Executive Session Upon reconvening at 9:14 PM, a motion was made by Council Member Delaney and seconded by Council Member Parks to issue a statement as discussed in executive session. Council Member Goetz read the following statement: "The Code of Ethics as drafted is not the appropriate vehicle to address the conduct referred to in the complaint regarding Council Member 4. We as a group condemn, in the strongest of terms, the referenced statements in the complaint. Council Member Blake will remove referenced statements from his social media. This is the response to our complaint." Key Outcomes - The motion to approve the statement passed 5-0 (Council Members Delaney, Goetz, Roberts, Parks, Mitchell in favor; Council Member Blake abstained). - Council Member Blake agreed to remove the challenged statements from his social media. - The meeting adjourned at 9:15 PM.

The North Richland Hills City Council convened for a work session at 5:31 PM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on September 14, 2026, at City Hall. The work session featured updates on the Destination Marketing Program and the city's strategic goals. The regular meeting included the unanimous adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 Operating and Capital Budget and the Tax Year 2026 Tax Rate, which represents a 3.97% effective increase. The Council also approved a special development plan for a meadery, a zoning change for residential development, a water master plan contract, and an economic development incentive agreement. Council Member Matt Blake was absent; six members were present for all votes. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the August 24, 2026, City Council meeting. - Approved Resolution No. 2026-052, adopting the Certified Tax Roll for Tax Year 2026. All consent agenda items were approved by a 6-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony Fiscal Year 2027 Budget (Item C.3) - Kevin LeVan (8440 Glenann Drive) spoke against increasing property taxes, advocating for a zero property tax system in Texas and questioning the city's financial priorities. - Christine Powell (6737 Bartay Drive) expressed frustration with proposed tax and water rate increases and questioned specific capital expenditures, including an NRH2O kiddie area renovation and street maintenance costs. She urged the city to focus on core services and improve transparency. Citizens Presentation (Item F) - Luke Carnevale (5610 Southern Hills Drive) urged the Council to adopt stricter regulations for data centers, specifically mandatory distance requirements and measures to address EMF and infrasonic sound emissions. He argued modern data centers expose residents to harmful levels of microwave radiation 24/7 through walls and structures. Discussion Items Destination Marketing Program Update (Work Session) Director of Economic Development Craig Hulse and Darren Drewitz of Flat Five Marketing provided an update on the new Destination Marketing Program. They shared that visitor analytics (Placer AI) identified three core personas: Hometown Loyalists, North Star Achievers (grandparents), and Young Families. An advisory committee developed the positioning statement "More to do, attraction for all ages" and the tagline "The Place You Never Outgrow." A new logo was unveiled, featuring a simple, teal and orange design distinct from other city tourism brands, intended to be memorable and multi-generational. The media strategy will primarily utilize digital channels (Facebook, Instagram, Google, OTT streaming) targeting audiences within a 15-minute to one-hour drive time to attract new visitors. The 3-year agreement with Flat Five requires annual council renewal. Strategic Goals and Priorities Update (Work Session) City Manager Paulette Hartman reported that the city has completed 18 strategic objectives since December 2025, leaving 56 active objectives (95% in progress). Key achievements included receiving the 2026 Top Workplace in Culture Excellence and Top Woman-Led Workplace awards, earning three Texas Comptroller Transparency Stars, launching an in-person Citizen Civic Academy (19 residents), establishing a Legislative Task Force, creating an AI policy, and implementing an employee suggestion box. Staff identified over $458,000 in cost savings. The City Manager praised the council's leadership and the quality of the city's staff. Water Master Plan (Item E.1) Public Works Operations Manager Kenneth Garvin presented a request to authorize an agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates for a comprehensive Water Master Plan. The city operates a vast system of 379 miles of water mains, five booster stations, eight storage tanks (16.5 million-gallon capacity), five wells, and over 2,000 fire hydrants. The last plan was completed in 2009. The 12-month study will analyze hydraulic performance and develop a prioritized capital improvement plan. The agreement is for a fixed fee not to exceed $325,000. Key Outcomes - ZC26-0173 – Special Development Plan for Meadery (Ordinance 3976): Approved 6-0. The Council approved a request from Corey Smith (Axe & Horn Meadery) for a small-batch mead manufacturing facility at 8204 Northeast Parkway within an existing industrial suite. No on-site consumption or public taproom is permitted. - ZC26-0172 – Zoning Change to R-1 (Ordinance 3977): Approved 6-0. The Council approved a zoning change from Agricultural (AG) to Single-Family Residential (R-1) for 1.92 acres at 7412 Bursey Road to allow construction of a single-family home. - Fiscal Year 2027 Operating and Capital Budget (Ordinance 3974): Approved 6-0. The Council adopted the $181.9 million budget. This includes a General Fund of $69.6 million (48% from property taxes) focused on public safety and streets. A separate motion to ratify the increased property tax revenues also passed 6-0. - Tax Year 2026 Tax Rate Adoption (Ordinance 3975): Approved 6-0. The Council adopted a tax rate of 55.5144 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, a 3.97% effective increase. The rate is comprised of a Maintenance & Operations rate of 40.4249 cents and an Interest & Sinking rate of 15.0895 cents per $100 valuation. (Note: The order of the three required motions differs between the official minutes and the transcript, but all three were approved unanimously.) - Water Master Plan Agreement (Item E.1): Approved 6-0. Authorized the City Manager to execute an engineering services agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates for an amount not to exceed $325,000. - Heart of NRH Award Subcommittee (Item G.1): Approved 6-0. Appointed Council Members Delaney, Goetz, and Deupree to the selection committee. - Economic Development Agreement (Item H): Approved 6-0. Authorized the City Manager to negotiate and execute an economic development agreement with Rugovan Import, LLC at 6201 Davis Boulevard as discussed in executive session.