Public Meetings - North Richland Hills, Texas

The Charter Review Commission of North Richland Hills, Texas, met on March 3, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Workroom at City Hall. Chair Ricky Rodriguez called the meeting to order; the meeting adjourned at 5:56 p.m. The commission focused on proposed charter amendments regarding term limits for elected officials, discussing terms for City Council members and the Mayor. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the February 24, 2025, Charter Review Commission meeting were approved unanimously (8-0) on a motion by Tito Rodriguez, seconded by Russell Mitchell. Discussion Items - D.1 and D.2: Term Limits and Terms of Mayor and City Council The commission considered recommendations for charter amendments related to the length of terms, number of terms, and other rules for elected officials. Key discussion points included: - Term length: A consensus emerged for three-year terms, supported by members Tito Rodriguez, Suzy Compton, Blake Vaughn, Kelvin Deupree, and others who cited continuity and the ability to see long-term projects through. - Number of terms for Council: A limit of three three-year terms (nine years total) was agreed upon. - Resign-to-run requirement: Council members must resign their seat to run for Mayor (consensus). - Treatment of unexpired terms: Terms served by appointment or election to fill a vacancy (partial terms) do not count toward term limits. However, if an official vacates office early, that time counts toward the limit. - Mayor term: The number of terms for the Mayor remained unresolved, with proposals for two or three three-year terms. - Combined service cap: There was discussion on whether to combine Council and Mayor service into a single cap (e.g., 15 years) or keep them separate. The final consensus, as summarized by City Attorney Bradley Anderle, leaned toward a nine-year total for Council service, with the Mayor's cap to be determined. - Sit-out and return: The issue of whether a break in service would allow new term limits was discussed but not settled; the prevailing view was against resetting limits after a break. - D.3: Future Meeting Dates The next meeting was scheduled for March 24, 2025, to review draft ballot language. Key Outcomes - The commission reached consensus on the following elements for proposed charter amendments: - Three-year terms for all elected officials. - City Council members may serve a maximum of three terms (nine years). - A council member must resign to run for Mayor. - Unexpired terms (appointed or elected to fill a vacancy) do not count toward term limits. - Leaving office early counts toward the term limit. - Total service on the City Council is capped at nine years, regardless of seat. - The number of terms for the Mayor remained unresolved (two or three terms) and will be discussed further. - City Attorney Bradley Anderle will prepare draft ballot language reflecting the consensus items for the commission's review at the March 24 meeting.

On Monday, February 24, 2025, the North Richland Hills City Council met in a work session at 5:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall, 4301 City Point Drive, North Richland Hills, Texas. All seven council members were present. The work session included a quarterly financial report, a traffic signal technology briefing, an efficiency study RFP update, and a closed executive session. The regular meeting included a police chief oath, public presentations, consent approvals, five public hearings, street maintenance approval, and fee ordinance approvals. The meeting adjourned at 10:05 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved 7-0 the minutes of the February 10, 2025 City Council meeting. - Authorized purchase of two 2025 Ford pick-up trucks, one 2024 Ford passenger van, and one 2024 Ford pick-up truck for a combined $334,779.06 from Sam Pack's Five Star Ford-Carrollton using BuyBoard Contract 724-23. - Authorized Amendment No. 1 to the cooperative agreement with Wireless Watchdogs, LLC for managed mobility services, ratified prior purchases totaling $46,273, and set a cumulative limit of $81,250 through fiscal year 2026. - Authorized hardware and software maintenance and additional technology purchases through a Department of Information Resources cooperative agreement with Red River Technology, LLC, not to exceed $2,500,000 through January 7, 2030. - Authorized purchase of six 2025 Ford F-150 and three 2025 Ford F-150 4x4 pick-up trucks for $420,166.92 from Sam Pack's Five Star Ford-Carrollton using H-GAC Contract VE05-24. Public Comments & Testimony - A procedural dispute arose over a citizen's request to show a video during citizens presentation. Mayor McCarty said city practice prohibits videos, flash drives, and embedded links on city property to minimize infrastructure risk, with the Birdville ISD bond presentation as a past exception. Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Blake Vaughn appealed the ruling; the appeal failed 5-2. Council Members Tito Rodriguez, Suzy Compton, Russ Mitchell, Associate Mayor Pro Tem Ricky Rodriguez, and Mayor Pro Tem Kelvin Deupree voted against; Vaughn and Council Member Matt Blake voted in favor. - Dustin Perkins, representing the Mid-Cities Arts Collective, said about 60 local residents supported a new community theater and requested the council create an NRH Arts Theatre Grant Program funded by Hotel Occupancy Tax and place it on a future agenda. He described community theater benefits, including social connection, economic activity, and family-friendly arts access. - Bill Finstad of Terry Drive presented a petition signed by 32 people requesting a four-way stop sign at Terry Drive and North College Circle, citing a 300-foot stretch between road humps and nearby apartment parking issues. - There were no requests to speak during the A.5 Public Comments portion. Discussion Items - At the start of the work session, Mayor McCarty raised the request to show a video during citizens presentation. City Attorney Bradley Anderle said the procedural question fell outside the scope of the posted work-session item; the issue was taken up later during citizens presentation. - Director of Budget and Research Chase Fosse presented the quarterly financial report for the quarter ending December 31, 2024. He said 91% of property tax revenue had been collected as of the meeting, in line with budget; general fund sales tax was about $230,000 (6.3%) ahead of budget, largely due to a confidential state audit adjustment; general fund expenditures were about 23% of budget; and utility fund revenues exceeded expenditures by about $160,000. In response to a council request, Assistant City Manager Trudy Lewis said staff were reviewing options for posting accounts payable and registered vendor reports online and would report back in coming months. - Director of Public Works Boe Blankenship presented on traffic signal technology. The city has 61 traffic signals, five TxDOT-maintained, and is deploying the iTerrance Clear Guide software platform; 44 signals are complete, five are planned in the current fiscal year, and 12 remain over the next two years. The presentation covered non-recording video detection cameras, emergency vehicle preemption, battery backup, maintenance alerts, reduced side-street wait times, and use of traffic data by police, planning, and economic development. Blankenship said about 15% of vehicles in a Davis Boulevard and Starnes Road analysis entered during red clearance and 48% during yellow clearance in the studied period. - City Manager Paulette Hartman introduced Cori Reaume as the city's new Director of Planning; February 24 was her first day. Council Member Matt Blake asked staff to bring a future agenda item on live-stream analytics and possible Facebook streaming; no opposition was stated. - Hartman reported efficiency study RFP responses: 13 for the permitting audit, 12 for the information technology audit, and eight for the fleet services audit. Staff planned to review proposals, meet with the council committee, and bring award recommendations. The minutes state the target was the April 14 council meeting, while the work-session discussion noted review could extend into late March or April and studies might begin later. - Hartman reminded council of the revised March meeting schedule: March 3 and March 24. - The council entered executive session under Texas Government Code Sections 551.072, 551.087, and 551.074 at 6:02 p.m.; the minutes note the session began at 6:09 p.m. and concluded at 6:40 p.m. After reconvening, the council acted on the personnel item under Section 551.074. Public Hearings & Land Use Decisions - C.1 (ZC25-0126, Ordinance No. 3892): Approved 7-0 a special development plan for a Ragle Inc. office building at 6320 Smithfield Road, 3.698 acres. Applicant representative Matt Shaylor said the district office would serve as a central hub for Ragle Inc. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 5-0; no one spoke in the public hearing. - C.2 (ZC24-0120, Ordinance No. 3893): Approved 7-0 a special use permit for Lifetime Commercial Roofing for a contractor's office with shop and garage at 5109 Commercial Drive, 1.046 acres. Applicant Joel Webb outlined improvements to the dumpster enclosure, fire lane, ADA access, lighting, and parking. P&Z recommended approval 5-0; no public speakers. - C.3 (ZC24-0121, Ordinance No. 3894): Denied 5-2 a special use permit for a secondhand goods dealer at 6350 Glenview Drive, 1.72 acres. Applicant Jasmine Rangel presented Juanito's Giving Tree, said it would be a for-profit business, source inventory from cleaning-company clients, would not solicit donations from the community, and would address lighting, cameras, and trash. Staff reported written opposition from 26% of properties within 200 feet, requiring six affirmative votes; P&Z recommended approval 4-1. Eight Diamond Loch-area residents spoke in opposition, citing vagrancy, after-hours donations, trash overflow, safety, narrow alley visibility, lack of on-site storage, and proximity to homes. A motion to approve failed 2-5, with Council Member Tito Rodriguez and Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Vaughn in favor. A motion to deny carried 5-2, with Associate Mayor Pro Tem Ricky Rodriguez, Compton, Blake, Mitchell, and Deupree in favor and Vaughn and Rodriguez against. - C.4 (ZC25-0123, Ordinance No. 3895): Approved 7-0 a revised special use permit for Wing Aviation LLC's heliport and landing field at 6401 NE Loop 820, 25.09 acres. The approval extends the special use permit three years and requires permanent power within one year, removing generators from operation. - C.5 (ZC25-0124, Ordinance No. 3896): Approved 7-0 a revision to Planned Development 36 authorizing a heliport and landing field as a permitted accessory use at 9101 North Tarrant Parkway, 24.65 acres. The two Wing Aviation items were presented jointly; applicant Josh Bucci said the sites support Walmart drone delivery, averaging about 30 deliveries per day per site. P&Z recommended approval 5-0 for both; no public speakers. Additional Agenda Items - A.3.a: Chief of Police Jeff Garner took the ceremonial oath of office, administered by City Manager Paulette Hartman. Garner said North Richland Hills is his home and that the department is stronger than ever. - E.1: Approved 7-0 the 2025 Preventive Street Maintenance Program. Public Works Director Boe Blankenship reported the 2023 program, the largest in city history at the time, covered 17.46 centerline miles and 128 streets with a $2.7 million budget. The combined 2024/2025 program includes 78 streets, 11.3 centerline miles, and about $6.4 million, focused on asphalt overlays and rehabilitation, beginning in the northwest quadrant. - F.1: Approved 7-0 Resolution No. 2025-019 appointing Marc Trevino to Place 7 on the Zoning Board of Adjustment, term ending June 30, 2025. - F.2: Approved 7-0 Ordinance No. 3897 authorizing ambulance service fees, effective March 1, 2025. Director of Finance Jay Patel said the change from itemized billing to bundled ALS/BLS charges aligned with regional practices and should improve insurance reimbursement while keeping the 15% resident discount. - F.3: Approved 7-0 Ordinance No. 3898 establishing notary service fees at the library consistent with Texas Secretary of State fee limits. - G: Approved 7-0 authorization for the City Secretary/Chief Governance Officer to participate in the HUD/DCTA Texas City Clerk Pilot Program, as discussed in executive session. - H.1: Council Member Matt Blake announced Play Today NRH at Green Valley Park on March 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., a pop-up art gallery at City Hall from March 4 through April 18 with an opening reception March 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and recognized Public Works employees Cory Widener, Tanner Gray, Will Taylor, and Vanessa Moreno for a timely sewer response. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 7-0; all consent purchases and contract amendments authorized. - C.1 and C.2 approved 7-0; C.3 denied 5-2; C.4 and C.5 approved 7-0. - 2025 Preventive Street Maintenance Program approved 7-0. - Zoning Board of Adjustment appointment, ambulance fee ordinance, and notary fee ordinance all approved 7-0. - The council authorized participation in the HUD/DCTA Texas City Clerk Pilot Program 7-0. - A future agenda item was added for staff to present live-stream analytics and explore Facebook streaming capabilities.

The Charter Review Commission met on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Workroom at North Richland Hills City Hall. City Manager Paulette Hartman called the meeting to order. All eight commission members were present: Jack McCarty, Tito Rodriguez, Ricky Rodriguez, Suzy Compton, Matt Blake, Blake Vaughn, Russell Mitchell, and Kelvin Deupree. Staff included City Manager Paulette Hartman, Assistant City Managers Trudy Lewis and Caroline Waggoner, City Secretary/Chief Governance Officer Alicia Richardson, City Attorney Bradley Anderle, Communications Director Mary Peters, and Assistant City Secretary Traci Henderson. The meeting focused on electing leadership, reviewing the City Council's charge regarding term limits, and discussing potential changes to Article V, Section 3 of the city charter. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public requested to speak. Action Items - The Commission elected officers. Jack McCarty moved to nominate Ricky Rodriguez as Chair and Matt Blake as Vice Chair, seconded by Kelvin Deupree. The motion carried 8-0. Ricky Rodriguez later chaired the remainder of the meeting and adjourned it at 4:39 p.m. Discussion Items - City Attorney Bradley Anderle explained that the City Council charged the Commission with reviewing term limits for elected officials. - Anderle reviewed three types of term limits for consideration: - Consecutive term limits: limit the number of back-to-back terms an official can serve; the official may run again after sitting out an election cycle. Examples included two successive terms for Mayor or Council member and a three-consecutive-term council limit with eligibility returning after the next general election. - Cumulative term limits: limit total consecutive years of service, regardless of position, with eligibility returning after sitting out a cycle. Examples included 18 consecutive combined years as Council member and Mayor and 16 consecutive years on the City Council. - Strict term limits: limit total terms and do not allow a person to run again after serving the full allotment. Example language barred a person after two full terms from serving again in any place or position on the City Council. Anderle noted strict limits are rare at the local level. - Anderle encouraged the Commission to draft clear language on how terms are counted, including partial terms, vacancies, appointed versus elected service, and when eligibility resumes. He said lack of clarity has been a common problem in charter provisions. - Anderle presented four transition options for moving from two-year to three-year council terms: 1. 2026: two 3-year terms and two 2-year terms; 2027: three 3-year terms and one 1-year term; 2028: three 3-year terms. 2. 2026: three 3-year terms and one 2-year term; 2027: three 3-year terms and one 1-year term; 2028: two 3-year terms. 3. 2026: two 3-year terms, one 2-year term, and one 1-year term; 2027: three 3-year terms, one 2-year term, and one 1-year term; 2028: two 3-year terms; 2029: one 3-year term. 4. 2026: four 3-year terms; 2027: four 3-year terms; 2028: off year. - After discussion, the Commission favored Option 4, which would elect four positions in one election cycle, four positions in the next cycle, and then have an off year. Several members supported the off-year approach for simplicity and reduced election costs, and some noted that county-run elections in off years would reduce city election expenses. - Anderle noted related charter provisions that might need adjustment if council terms change: the municipal judge's two-year term tied to the Mayor's term, Planning and Zoning Commission terms, and the current 180-day vacancy-filling threshold. He distributed sample charter language from other Texas cities for the Commission to review. - Note: The written minutes show the transition options beginning in 2026, but during the meeting Anderle cautioned that the chart dates might be a year off depending on whether the charter amendment is placed on the November 2025 ballot. Key Outcomes - The Commission elected Ricky Rodriguez as Chair and Matt Blake as Vice Chair by an 8-0 vote. - The Commission expressed consensus favoring a three-year term with an off-year election cycle, but took no formal action on term limits or ballot language. - The next meeting was scheduled for March 3, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. to discuss and decide the type and length of term limits. A subsequent meeting was planned for March 24, 2025, to discuss and decide ballot language for the charter amendment.

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission convened on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 7:01 PM. Vice Chair Stamps called the meeting to order. The sole substantive item was a request for preliminary plat approval for the Stonybrooke Park subdivision, including two requested exceptions regarding utility locations and masonry screening walls. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the designated public comment period. - Keith Hamilton of Graham Hart Builders (civil engineer for the project) presented the request for preliminary plat approval for Stonybrooke Park, located at 8600 Rumfield Road. Discussion Items - Plat 25-0084: Stonybrooke Park Preliminary Plat: The commission considered a request from Hamilton Duffy PC for a preliminary plat of a 7.993-acre property zoned R-2 (single-family residential). The proposed subdivision includes 31 lots, ranging from 9,004 to 17,000 square feet, with an average lot size of approximately 9,700 square feet, typically 73 feet wide and 124 feet deep, yielding a density of 3.88 units per acre. All lots meet the R-2 zoning standards. - Waiver Request 1: Front Yard Utility Easements: The applicant requested an exception to the city's 2003 subdivision regulation requiring underground utilities (telecommunication, electrical, and cable) to be located in the rear of lots. The request was supported by the utility provider Encore and based on easier access for maintenance during emergencies and maximizing usable backyard space for homeowners. Staff noted the planning commission can consider these exceptions on a case-by-case basis. - Waiver Request 2: Masonry Screening Wall Exceptions: The applicant requested a waiver from the requirement to construct a masonry screening wall along two specific corner lots fronting Royal Ridge Drive, arguing it would look out of place on those lots. The masonry wall was still planned for required perimeter streets (Rumfield Road and Stonybrook Drive). - Commissioner Deliberation: Commissioners discussed the aesthetics of front-yard utilities versus the logistical benefits of rear-yard access, the history of the code requirement, the potential future extension of Royal Ridge Drive into adjacent agricultural land, and the potential establishment of a homeowners association (HOA) to manage common areas and screening walls. Key Outcomes - Vote: Commissioner McMahon moved to approve Plat 25-0084 with the development review committee (DRC) conditions and the granting of both exception requests. Commissioner Goetz seconded the motion. - Result: The motion carried unanimously with all voting commissioners in favor. - Next Steps: The preliminary plat will be considered by the North Richland Hills City Council on March 3, 2025. The commission's action on the waivers is final unless the applicant appeals the decision to the city council.

The North Richland Hills City Council held a work session at 5:00 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:15 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025, at City Hall, 4301 City Point Drive. All seven council members were present: Mayor Jack McCarty, Council Members Tito Rodriguez, Ricky Rodriguez, Suzy Compton, Matt Blake, Blake Vaughn, Russ Mitchell, and Kelvin Deupree. The work session covered emergency preparedness, the Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Center program, a proposed fund balance policy, and town hall meeting format. The regular meeting included recognitions, public comments, a unanimous consent agenda, public works ordinances, general items, and action on an executive session economic development item. Work Session – Emergency Preparedness - Emergency Management Coordinator Raelyn Darnell presented an overview of the City's emergency preparedness program, including prevention, mitigation, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), continuity of operations, public education, and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). - In 2024, the EOC was formally activated for 90 hours, with typical annual activation around 100 hours. - The City's hazard mitigation plan is renewed every five years and is currently being updated; the updated plan will be brought to Council in the coming months. - The City has approximately 2,500 fire hydrants, and public works works closely with the fire department on water system reliability. - Council discussed hypothetical scenarios, including an F5 tornado, EOC redundancy, cybersecurity, and the backup EOC located at the Public Safety Training Center. - Staff cited lessons learned from COVID-19 and Winter Storm Uri, including public works staff manually operating water valves during Uri. Work Session – Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Center Program - Interim Police Chief Ed Wright, Assistant City Manager Trudy Lewis, and former Chief Jimmy Perdue presented on the North Texas Anti-Gang Center program. - North Richland Hills has served as fiduciary for the TAG grant since 2015; the North Texas TAG became operational in 2016 and is one of nine TAG centers statewide. - The TAG center involves 19 partner agencies and covers 11 counties; the city is obligated as fiduciary through August 31, 2025, and has been asked to continue through August 31, 2026. - As fiduciary, the city manages grant applications, purchases, contracts, reimbursements, compliance, and a required single audit. The city fronts grant-related costs and files quarterly reimbursements. - For FY25, the city budgeted $37,500 for five TAG contracts and could receive up to $62,720 in indirect costs if all approved purchases occur. For FY26, potential indirect costs could reach $149,600. - Staff noted the city does not fully recover the time spent by the police department grant specialist and finance grant specialist on TAG duties; in FY24, the PD grant specialist was reimbursed for 34% of her time and the finance grant specialist for 6%. - Council members and former Chief Perdue discussed the alternative of dedicating a full-time employee to TAG versus remaining fiduciary. Council members expressed support for retaining the fiduciary role because it provides regional access, priority resources, and a seat at the table without pulling an officer from local duties. - The City Council directed staff to continue serving as the fiduciary for the TAG program. Work Session – Proposed Fund Balance Policy - Director of Finance Jay Patel presented a proposed fund balance policy establishing minimum fund balance targets for each city fund. - Proposed targets: 33% or 120 days for General and Utility Funds; 25% or 90 days for Drainage, Economic Development, Parks Development, and Crime Control District Funds; 15% or 60 days for the NRH Centre Fund; 10% or 45 days for Aquatic Park and Golf Course Funds; and 50% or 180 days for the Self-Insurance Fund. - Staff stated all funds are currently above the proposed minimums, and the policy includes replenishment measures such as reducing expenditures, delaying capital purchases, increasing fees or taxes, and salary or hiring freezes. - Council members praised the policy as a responsible stewardship tool and a step forward from the existing policy, which only addressed the General Fund. Work Session – Town Hall Meetings - Mayor McCarty proposed two town hall meetings before the May 2025 election, one at the NRH Centre and one at Iron Horse Golf Course. - The proposed format would include a 30-minute presentation by the Mayor and staff, followed by up to one hour of public Q&A with one question per person. - Council discussed the possibility of a Saturday meeting and agreed that two meetings before the election, with additional meetings later in the year, would be appropriate. Staff was directed to propose dates. Work Session – Future Agenda Item and City Manager Report - Council Member Tito Rodriguez proposed a future resolution honoring former Tarrant County Commissioner Gary Fickes for his contributions to transportation and roads. - City Manager Paulette Hartman reported the Efficiency Audit RFP deadline was extended to February 19, 2025, with awards expected at the second City Council meeting in March. - Cori Reaume was hired as Planning Director, starting February 24, 2025; she is a certified planner and former city manager. - Stefanie Martinez was promoted to Managing Director of Community Development, adding oversight of building inspections and permits. - Jeff Garner was selected as the new Chief of Police; a ceremonial swearing-in is scheduled for the February 24 City Council meeting. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved 7-0 with no items removed. It included: - Approval of the January 27, 2025 City Council meeting minutes. - Purchase of an entry sign for NRH 2O Family Water Park from Signs Manufacturing Corporation for $83,277 under TIPS Contract 2301040. - Purchase of ballistic vests from GALLS for $68,930 through BuyBoard Contract No. 670-22, funded by the Office of the Governor's FY25 Criminal Justice Grant 4994501. - Service subscription for 60 Flock Safety Falcon automated license plate reader cameras for $61,479.60, funded by Texas Anti-Gang Center Grant 2848910, and Resolution No. 2025-018 authorizing a Regional Asset Transfer Addendum with the City of Arlington. - Resolutions No. 2025-010 through 2025-014 designating the Chief of Police as the grantee's authorized official for multiple state and federal grants. - Payment to the City of Fort Worth of $153,162 for the annual public safety radio system subscription. Special Presentations and Recognitions - Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Blake Vaughn presented a proclamation to former State Representative Stephanie Klick, recognizing her service to North Richland Hills and District 91 since 2013. - United Way Committee Chair Katherine Ratcliff reported the 2024 employee campaign exceeded its $45,000 goal, raising $45,900. A check was presented to United Way of Tarrant County CEO Adam Powell and Senior Corporate Relations Manager Patty Morris. Public Comments and Testimony - Hayden Casey, 8355 Harwood Road, spoke on behalf of ten or more people and requested financial assistance for Birdville High School's Theatre Department to attend the International Thespian Festival. He stated the trip costs approximately $30,000, or $2,000 per student, reduced to about $1,500 per student after booster club support. - Bill Finstad, 7701 Terry Drive, discussed road humps, provided social media posts, and asked the City Council to consider additional traffic-calming options. - Angela Finstad, 7701 Terry Drive, commented on Ordinance No. 3889 and stated she is opposed to the proposed parking restriction on North College Circle, asking that parking be prohibited on neither side or both sides. Public Works - E1: Council approved Resolution No. 2025-015, recommending Tarrant County award a construction contract to Capital Underground Utilities, LLC for the Matson Street Sanitary Sewer Improvements Project in the total amount of $157,349. The project replaces approximately 800 linear feet of sewer serving 20 residential properties using pipe-bursting methods with CDBG funding. Motion carried 7-0. - E2: Council approved Ordinance No. 3889, restricting parking on the north side of North College Circle, by a 6-1 vote, with Council Member Matt Blake voting against. Discussion included safety concerns, pedestrian crossings, apartment parking, road humps, and the curvature of the street. - E3: Council approved Ordinance No. 3890, expanding school speed zones on North College Circle, Bogart Drive, and Abbott Avenue and establishing a school speed zone on Holiday Lane for Fort Worth Christian School. The motion was amended to extend the zone to the 6000 block of Holiday Lane and the 7300 block of Bogart Drive. Motion carried 7-0. General Items - F1: Council approved Resolution No. 2025-016, calling the May 3, 2025 City Council Election for Places 1, 3, 5, and 7, authorizing early voting April 22-29, 2025, establishing voting locations at City Hall and the Public Library, and authorizing a joint election agreement with Tarrant County. Motion carried 7-0. - F2: Council approved Resolution No. 2025-017, appointing Andrew "Tyler" Chambers to the Library Board, Paul Epperley and Thomas Kerby to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and Phyllis Scott to the Teen Court Advisory Board. Motion carried 7-0. - F3: Council approved amending the Open Rewards Shop Local Program by increasing the restaurant rewards percentage from 5% to 10% and extending the program through the end of April 2025 or until funds are exhausted. Staff reported 2,100 users, 4,573 transactions, and $6,100 in awards distributed to date. Motion carried 7-0. - F4: Council approved Ordinance No. 3891, repealing the November 30, 2025 sunset provision for Backyard Chicken regulations and making the ordinance permanent. Council noted the annual permit renewal process may be reviewed as part of the broader animal ordinance revision. Motion carried 7-0. - F5: Council authorized the City Manager to execute an amendment with Readiness Group, LLC to expand the department-wide peer support program in an amount not to exceed $145,660 through November 1, 2026, using COPS FY24 Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Grant funds. Motion carried 7-0. Executive Session Action - Council unanimously approved a motion authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute an economic development agreement with C2C Smithfield LP or assigns for properties at 7813, 7821, 7829 Arthur Drive, 7801 Guy Street, and 6405, 6413, 6417, 6421 Smithfield Road, as discussed in executive session. Motion carried 7-0. Announcements - Council Member Compton announced the candidate filing deadline for the May 3 election is Friday, February 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. - The Common Ground Community Garden Spring Gardening Seminar will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the NRH Centre. - Author C.J. Box will appear at the NRH Library on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. - Kudos were given to Teen Court Coordinator Rafael Martinez, Marshal Greg Pena, and Deputy Marshal Bryan Grote for positive feedback from a parent about the Teen Court Program. Key Outcomes - The City Council directed staff to continue serving as fiduciary for the Texas Anti-Gang Center program. - Staff will bring forward updated hazard mitigation plan and proposed fund balance policy for further action. - Town hall meetings will be scheduled before the May 2025 election. - All consent agenda items were approved 7-0. - Ordinance No. 3889 was approved 6-1; all other voting items were approved 7-0. - The meeting adjourned at 8:52 p.m.

The meeting is recorded as having taken place on 2025-02-06 12:30:00+00:00 (the Work Session began at 6:30 PM CST, with the Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM CST). It was Managing Director Clayton Comstock's 218th and final meeting for the commission, serving 13.5 years with a 95% attendance rate. Corey Reim was announced as the incoming Planning Director. The commission acted on five public hearings and one continuation item. Consent Calendar - Minutes (B1): The minutes from the January 16, 2025 meeting were approved 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comments (A2): No speakers came forward. - Item C2 (Thrift Store - ZC24-0121): Nine Diamond Loch residents spoke in opposition to the secondhand goods dealer special use permit. Residents cited existing problems with trash, rodents, loitering, drug use, and safety concerns at the Diamond Lock Plaza, arguing a thrift store accepting donations would exacerbate these issues. Many speakers stated they supported the applicant's mission but believed the location was inappropriate. - Items C3/C4 (Wing Drone Delivery - ZC25-0123 & ZC25-0124): Bernice Espinosa of Kimley Horn spoke in support of the three-year extension, emphasizing the move toward permanent shore power and permanent structures. Discussion Items - C1 (Lifetime Commercial Roofing - ZC24-0120): Applicant Joel Webb presented a plan to convert a 13,500 sq ft space into a contractor's office and warehouse. The project includes new ADA-compliant sidewalks, a screened dumpster enclosure, parking lot re-striping, and lighting upgrades. The masonry screening wall on the west side was waived to preserve mature trees. - C2 (Juanito's Giving Tree - ZC24-0121): Applicant Jazmin Rangel proposed a 1,600 sq ft thrift store. Discussion focused on whether site-wide improvements (fencing, landscaping) should be required of a tenant when the property owner is not present, with staff recommending against disproportionate requirements. Commissioners debated the history of code enforcement on the property and the potential for donation dumping. - C3 & C4 (Wing/Walmart Drone Delivery - ZC25-0123 & ZC25-0124): The applicants requested a three-year extension for the drone delivery sites at both Walmart locations. Operations average 40-60 deliveries per day per site. Key discussion points included FAA regulation of airborne noise, the requirement to replace generators with permanent shore power within the first year, the aesthetics of the shipping container storage, and whether a shorter term might better align with future ordinance updates. - C5 (Ragle Inc. Office Building - ZC25-0126): Applicant Troy Shaylor proposed a 23,000 sq ft office building at the corner of Smithfield Road and Newman Drive. The sole variance requested was a 25-foot setback from Smithfield Road instead of the required 0-5 foot build-to zone, necessitated by a 25-foot gas pipeline easement. - D1 (Scott Hoberer Plat Exception): The applicant requested waiver of the platting requirement to build a $4,500 carport, citing the $5,000 cost of platting the property. Commissioners discussed whether a monetary cost constitutes a hardship or a mere inconvenience under the code. Key Outcomes - ZC24-0120 (Lifetime Roofing): Approved 7-0. Conditions require exterior lighting brought up to code and a screened refuse enclosure. - ZC24-0121 (Thrift Store): Approved. A discrepancy exists in the official record: the formal minutes document the motion carried 7-0, while the raw meeting transcript reports the chair announcing a vote of 4-1. - ZC25-0123 (Wing Loop 820 SUP): Approved 7-0. Granted a three-year special use permit extension with a requirement for permanent shore power by February 25, 2026. - ZC25-0124 (Wing N Tarrant PD Revision): Approved 7-0. Granted a three-year revision with the same shore power condition. - ZC25-0126 (Ragle Office Building): Approved 7-0. The special development plan was approved including the setback variance for the pipeline easement. - D1 (Plat Exception): Approved 7-0. The plat requirement for the accessory structure at 8900 Amundson Drive was waived.

The North Richland Hills City Council, sitting as the Sign Review Board, met on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 9:17 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber, immediately following the regular City Council meeting. All eight board members were present. The board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 24, 2024 meeting and conducted public hearings on two variance requests to Chapter 106 (Signs) of the City Code, approving both by 8-0 votes. The meeting was adjourned at 9:34 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board approved the minutes of the June 24, 2024 Sign Review Board meeting by a vote of 8-0 (motion by Ricky Rodriguez, second by Kelvin Deupree). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak or addressed the board during the public comment period or the public hearings. Discussion Items - SRB24-0014 – 1611 Golf Club Sign Variance: Principal Planner Clayton Husband introduced the request from 1611 Golf Club (correcting the agenda typo of "1161 Golf Club") for a variance to allow wall signage on four elevations of a 6,400-square-foot retail building at 6001 Parker Boulevard. The code permits wall signs on a maximum of three building faces with street frontage or a public entrance. The applicant representative, Aaron Adair, presented interior renderings and sign elevations, explaining that the unusually shaped building—a corner site with a curved front—led them to request that two elevations facing Boulevard 26 be considered one. The proposed signs met all other size and area standards. Staff reported that the building had recently been approved for three elevations, but because the curved front was considered a separate elevation, four elevations were now requested. The board could approve the variance as presented, approve with conditions, or deny. No one from the public wished to speak. A motion to approve the variance as presented was made by Kelvin Deupree, seconded by Ricky Rodriguez, and carried 8-0. - SRB25-0015 – NRH2O Family Water Park Sign Variance: Principal Planner Clayton Husband presented the request on behalf of NRH2O Family Water Park (as Parks Director Adrien Pekurney answered board questions). The park sought a variance for a new monument sign at 9001 Boulevard 26 to replace an existing sign built around 1994–1995. The proposed sign would be 92 square feet overall (15.5 feet wide by 6 feet tall) with a 32-square-foot electronic message sign and 36 square feet of graphic components, exceeding the code allowance of 75 square feet structure area and 50 square feet message area. The sign design included a masonry base and cap but not masonry on the sides. Staff recommended approval. In response to a board question about tree obstruction, Director Pekurney noted that one dead tree had already been removed and the new sign would be moved slightly closer to Boulevard 26, improving visibility. No public testimony was offered. A motion to approve the variance was made by Matt Blake, seconded by Tito Rodriguez, and carried 8-0. Key Outcomes - Approval of SRB24-0014: The variance for 1611 Golf Club to allow wall signs on four building elevations was approved unanimously (8-0). - Approval of SRB25-0015: The variance for NRH2O Family Water Park to install a monument sign exceeding standard size and area limits was approved unanimously (8-0). - Both variances were approved as presented without additional conditions.

The North Richland Hills City Council convened for a work session at 4:30 PM and a regular meeting at 7:35 PM on Monday, January 27, 2025, at City Hall. The work session included discussions on ethics training, ambulance service fee adjustments, credit card processing recovery fees, and carport regulations. The regular meeting featured public comments on the rental inspection program and carport rules, followed by the approval of a full consent agenda, multiple grant applications, a zoning case for a Starbucks, and several policy ordinances. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 13, 2025 meeting. - Authorized compensation increases for three Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Center positions (Kevin McRory to $193,596, Rebecca Ciferri to $100,760.40, Jessica Mast to $95,002.70). City Manager Paulette Hartman clarified the city is the grant fiduciary and these are state grant funds, not city funds. - Authorized submission of multiple grant applications: Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant, Assistance to Firefighters Grant for vehicle acquisition ($852,500, $85,250 city match), Violence Against Women Justice and Training Program, and General Victim Assistance Program. - Awarded the Sewer Main Replacement – Lowery Lane Project to Circle C Construction ($178,000). - Approved an annual purchase agreement with Wheco Electric for SCADA system purchases ($100,000), amendments to the Sanitary Sewer System code (Ordinance 3887), and a cooperative purchase agreement with Sam Pack's Five Star Ford. Public Comments & Testimony - Rental Inspection Program: Matt Bryant (Southlake) and Eileen Miller (Keller) urged the council to end the city’s rental inspection ordinance. Ms. Miller stated the program has deterred investors and reduced rental inventory by approximately 50% since it began in 2012. - Police Response System: Twyla Reese-Hornsby (8309 Euclid Avenue) requested an automated confirmation for email submissions to police after receiving no response to a road rage report. - Carport Regulations: Bill Finstad, Markos Drago, and Sean Nutt advocated for relaxing front-yard carport restrictions, citing property rights and the need for affordable covered parking. - Charter Review Commission: Sean Nutt expressed disagreement with the council appointing itself as the sole Charter Review Commission, urging citizen involvement. Discussion Items (Work Session) - Ethics Training: City Attorney Bradley Anderle provided mandatory ethics training covering state law, city charter provisions on conflicts of interest and nepotism, and the internal ethics compliance policy. - Ambulance Service Fee Adjustments: Director of Finance Jay Patel proposed raising rates to the 70th percentile of market rates, adopting bundled billing to improve insurance reimbursement, and maintaining at least a 15% discount for residents. Staff was directed to prepare an ordinance. - Credit Card Processing Fees: Council discussed a proposed $3.50 per transaction fee to offset processing costs. Staff was directed to place the item on a future agenda for a vote. - Carport Regulations: Managing Director Clayton Comstock presented current rules, historical context, and a review of nearby city standards. Council members debated property rights versus neighborhood character and safety. The council generally agreed to conduct a citywide FlashVote survey, update website FAQs, and compile data on carport permit requests. - City Manager Report: Ms. Hartman reported that general donations on water bills could be unconstitutional as a gift of public funds. Efficiency audit RFPs saw strong vendor interest (33-63 downloads). Three finalists remain for the Police Chief position, with a council meet and greet scheduled for February 5. - Future Agenda Items: Mayor McCarty proposed planning community town hall meetings. Staff will add a discussion item to a future work session. Key Outcomes - Zoning Case (C.1): Approved a revision to Planned Development 114 for a Starbucks quick-service restaurant with drive-thru at 7601 Boulevard 26. (Ordinance 3885, 7-0). - CDBG Program (C.2): Approved Resolution 2025-006, adopting the 51st Year Community Development Block Grant Program and allocating funds for the reconstruction of David Court (7-0). - Sign Ordinance (D.1): Approved Ordinance 3886, updating standards for electronic message boards and wall signs. The council voted 7-0 with an amendment reducing the maximum wall sign area from 15% to 10% of the exterior wall area. - Pedestrian Facilities Plan (D.2): Approved Resolution 2025-007 authorizing a grant application to TxDOT for up to $500,000 (city match up to $100,000) for a Pedestrian Facilities Master Plan (7-0). - Utility Contracts (E.1): Authorized contracts with Tex-Pro Construction and Westhill Construction for street cut and concrete repairs ($350,000 annually each) (7-0). - Water Meter Connectivity (E.2): Approved a 10-year, $1,508,637.20 cellular LTE service agreement with Badger Meter Inc. for water meter connectivity (7-0). - Charter Review Commission (F.4): Approved Resolution 2025-008, appointing the seven city council members as the Charter Review Commission to consider term limits (7-0). - Naming City Facilities (F.5): Approved Ordinance 3888, amending facility naming guidelines. The council voted 6-1 (Councilwoman Compton opposed) to remove a section detailing a process to rename facilities named after individuals convicted of a felony. - LiNKS-U Subcommittee (F.6): Approved Resolution 2025-009, appointing Mayor McCarty, Councilman Rodriguez, and Councilman Vaughn to the NRH LiNKS-U subcommittee (7-0). - Joint Victim Assistance (F.2/F.3): Approved resolutions for a victim assistance grant and an interlocal agreement with Haltom City, Watauga, and Richland Hills to continue the shared Crime Victim Assistance Program (7-0).

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission met in work session at 6:30 PM and regular session at 7:05 PM on Thursday, January 16, 2025 at City Hall. Commissioners Justin Welborn (Chair), Greg Stamps (Vice Chair), Jared Ross (Secretary), Amy McMahon, Brianne Goetz, and Alternate Aaron Carpenter were present. Commissioners Bryan Kidd and Jayashree Narayana were absent. Staff included Managing Director Clayton Comstock, Planner Chad VanSteenberg, Planning Technician Jailan Hadnot, and City Engineer Nathan Frohman. The commission considered a final plat, a waiver request for platting, and a planned development revision for a Starbucks. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period or the public hearing. Discussion Items Approval of December 2, 2024 Minutes – The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Final Plat of Willow Springs Addition (Plat24-0081) – The commission considered a final plat for an 18.962-acre property at 6900-7100 Davis Boulevard. The applicant, represented by Kimley-Horn, proposed 63 single-family residential lots and nine open space lots (18.3% of the site). Discussions covered lot sizes, the street connection to Brookhaven Drive, the Davis Boulevard/Willow Shade Road intersection, and future TxDOT median installations (anticipated advertisement by end of 2025). A motion to approve with conditions from the Development Review Committee carried 6-0. Exception to Platting Requirement for Accessory Structure (C.2) – The commission considered a request from Scott Hoberer to waive Section 110-41 of the Subdivision Ordinance to avoid platting his 0.73-acre property at 8900 Amundson Drive for a carport. The applicant was not present. Staff detailed the timeline: the carport was installed after the applicant was notified of the platting and zoning requirements. Estimated costs: carport $10,000, survey and platting $3,000–$4,000, city fees $340 (plat) and $239 (building permit); the applicant had already paid $594 for a zoning change. Commissioner Goetz moved to waive a portion of the fees, but after staff clarified that fee reductions are not within the commission’s authority, she withdrew the motion. Commissioners debated whether the cost constituted a hardship under the four waiver criteria. Vice Chair Stamps argued the high percentage (30–60%) was a hardship; Commissioner Goetz contended the request didn’t meet the standards and noted the applicant’s non-attendance. A motion to approve failed 3-3 (Chair Welborn, Commissioner Ross, and Commissioner McMahon opposing). A motion to deny also failed 3-3 (Vice Chair Stamps, Commissioner Goetz, and Alternate Carpenter opposing). A motion to continue to the February 6, 2025 meeting passed 5-1 (Commissioner Ross opposed). Planned Development Revision for Starbucks (ZC24-0116) – The commission held a public hearing for a revision to Planned Development 114 at 7601 Boulevard 26 to allow a quick-service restaurant (Starbucks) with a drive-through on 0.66 acres. The applicant, Michael Thomas of MJ Thomas Engineering, presented a 2,200-square-foot building with brick and synthetic wood, a single-lane drive-through with a bypass lane, a widened driveway (24 to 30 feet), and a future connection to the adjacent Sunoco station. The site includes 18% landscaping and signage on three facades. There were no public speakers. Commissioners spoke positively about the project. A motion to approve carried 6-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes from December 2, 2024 approved (6-0). - Final plat for Willow Springs Addition approved (6-0), subject to DRC conditions. - Waiver request for 8900 Amundson Drive continued to February 6, 2025 (5-1). - PD 114 revision for Starbucks approved (6-0).