Public Meetings - North Richland Hills, Texas

The North Richland Hills City Council met on November 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Jack McCarty called the meeting to order with a quorum present (one vacancy). Mayor Pro Tem Kelvin Deupree led the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Canvassing Special Election Results: City Secretary/Chief Governance Officer Alicia Richardson presented Resolution No. 2025-045 to canvass the official results of the November 4, 2025 Special Charter Amendment Election. All six propositions (A through F) passed by substantial margins. The vote tallies were: - Proposition A: 8,018 for, 2,250 against - Proposition B: 8,145 for, 2,158 against - Proposition C: 9,215 for, 1,069 against - Proposition D: 7,550 for, 2,505 against - Proposition E: 7,866 for, 2,237 against - Proposition F: 8,262 for, 1,738 against - Out of 48,889 registered voters, 10,716 cast ballots, a voter turnout of 21.92%. - A council member commented that the city outperformed the countywide turnout percentage (not specified) and expressed satisfaction with the results, noting that despite some opposition to certain propositions, the measures passed decisively. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-045 Approved: City Council voted 6-0 to approve the resolution, officially canvassing the election results and declaring the outcome of the Charter Amendment Election. The motion was made by Council Member Matt Blake and seconded by Council Member Danny Roberts. - No executive session was held. - The meeting adjourned at 5:06 PM.

The North Richland Hills City Council convened on Monday, November 10, 2025, for a work session at 5:00 PM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM at City Hall, 4301 City Point Drive. Mayor Jack McCarty presided, with Council Members Cecille Delaney, Ricky Rodriguez, Danny Roberts, Billy Parks, Russ Mitchell, and Mayor Pro Tem Kelvin Deupree present. Council Member Matt Blake was absent. The work session featured presentations of final operational efficiency audits for Fleet Services and Permitting by Matrix Consulting Group. The regular session included three public hearings on zoning matters, all approved unanimously, and action on consent agenda items and general items. Council Member Ricky Rodriguez announced his resignation. Consent Calendar - Approve Minutes: Council approved the minutes of the October 27, 2025 City Council meeting. - Roadway Milling Services Agreement: Council authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with TexOps Construction, LP for roadway milling services, not to exceed $200,000 per fiscal year, using Tarrant County contract F2024-052. - Roadway Lime Slurry Materials Agreement: Council authorized the City Manager to execute an agreement with Martin Marietta Materials, Inc for roadway lime slurry materials, not to exceed $200,000 per year, using Tarrant County contract F2024-066. Discussion Items - Fleet Services Operational Efficiency Audit: Aaron Baggerly of Matrix Consulting Group presented the final report, covering 28 recommendations across governance, procurement, utilization, maintenance, staffing, and technology. Key findings included: the recent move of fleet under Public Works was viewed positively; data availability for decision-making is lacking; the fleet consists of 441 assets with an average age of 8.7 years (above industry average); there is opportunity for increased centralization of fire and fleet maintenance. Recommendations included creating a Fleet Steering Committee with quarterly meetings, adopting a tenure replacement plan, implementing a utilization policy, establishing a formal preventive maintenance program, creating a key-for-key replacement policy, and adopting telematics. Staff has already begun implementing several recommendations. Council Member Roberts questioned about mechanic certifications, the recommendation to consolidate fire and fleet mechanics, and the 3.8 out of 5 overall rating. Council Member Parks asked about electric vehicle adoption and infrastructure needs. Mayor McCarty noted the average fleet age of 8.7 years and asked about asset class breakdown. - Permitting Process Operational Efficiency Audit: Aaron Baggerly presented the final report for the permitting study, covering community development, planning, fire marshal, and public works engineering. The report made 60 recommendations across processes, technology, management, customer service, and staffing. Key findings included: the city has an online permitting system that is underutilized; there are challenges meeting performance timelines; customer service is strong generally; and there are opportunities to enhance self-service options. Recommendations included: standardizing review timelines, modifying the development review committee approach, requiring all resubmittals go through the online portal, consolidating inspection requests through the portal, integrating plan review software with the permitting system, equipping field staff with tablets for real-time inspections, creating a virtual one-stop shop web page for permitting information, developing a development fee calculator, updating fee schedules through a user fee study to establish cost recovery goals, and transitioning to a plan review and permit fee model to avoid unrecoverable costs. Staff noted the software (Intergov) is not being used to full capacity. A fee survey and review is already underway. City Manager Hartman noted these audits focus on process improvement, not primarily cost savings. Council Member Deupree asked about the composition of the development review committee and whether community members should be included; staff clarified it is an internal staff committee for ordinance compliance. Council Member Rodriguez asked about forcing applicants to use the portal for tracking. Council Member Rodriguez asked about AI technology for plan review and completeness checks. Council Member Roberts asked about the percentage of plans that do not reach final issuance and about benchmarking with peer cities. Council Member Deupree noted the creation of committees and the need for application fees for plans that do not reach permit issuance to recover costs. Council Member Parks noted that these audits met expectations for process improvement and that they usually require IT investment but yield long-term savings. - Generator Replacement Project Bid Rejection: Director of Facilities and Construction Chris Amarante presented the item, explaining that five bids were received ranging from $2.4 million to $7.6 million, but the city's budget was approximately $1.9 million. Staff recommended rejecting all bids and instead using cooperative purchasing for generators and automatic transfer switches, returning to council on December 8, 2025 for approval, and then going out for separate bids for installation labor and materials in March 2025 for value engineering. - Executive Session: Council entered closed session at 6:17 PM under Texas Government Code Sections 551.071 (consultation with city attorney regarding pending litigation, Jessie Goodfellow vs. City of North Richland Hills, et al), 551.072 (deliberation on real property at 8851 Bud Jensen Drive, 6020 Walker Boulevard, and 9015 Grand Avenue), and 551.087 (economic development negotiations at 8851 Bud Jensen Drive, 6020 Walker Boulevard, 9015 Grand Avenue, 4401 City Point Drive, and 8800 Mid Cities Boulevard). The session concluded at 6:54 PM. Mayor McCarty announced no action was necessary as a result of the executive session. Public Hearings - ZC25-0147, Ordinance No. 3935 (6918 Walter Street): Public hearing and consideration of a special use permit for a permanent accessory building submitted by Platinum Pro Renovations LLC. Principal Planner Clayton Husband presented the staff report. Applicant Andrew Bertucci stated they are requesting a special use permit for a 2,174-square-foot accessory building with a 13-foot wall for a 12-foot garage door and a restroom. The property is zoned RE-1 (Residential Estate) and designated low-density residential on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 7-0 on October 16, 2025. No public speakers. Council approved unanimously 6-0. - ZC25-0146, Ordinance No. 3936 (7000 Iron Horse Boulevard): Public hearing and consideration of a revision to Planned Development 120 for 5.010 acres submitted by Cambridge NRH Development LLC. Applicant representative Bill Hardee stated they are requesting to replace a planned wrought iron fence with a solid fence to reduce visual and sound impact for adjacent homeowners from the bank drive-through. The property is zoned RI-PD (Residential Infill Planned Development) and designated office commercial on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 7-0. No public speakers. Council approved unanimously 6-0. - ZC25-0148, Ordinance No. 3937 (8217 Sayers Lane): Public hearing and consideration of a zoning change from R-3 (Single-Family Residential) to Residential Infill Planned Development (RI-PD) for 0.493 acres submitted by MJ 6 Enterprises LLC. Applicant Jerrod Goff stated they are requesting the zoning change for future development, specifically to build a house for their granddaughter. The standards are the same as a neighboring PD approved in August 2025. The property is designated low-density residential on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 7-0. No public speakers. Council approved unanimously 6-0. - TR25-08 (Withdrawn): Mayor McCarty announced the public hearing for city-initiated text amendments to Chapter 118 regarding single-family residential parking requirements was withdrawn and no action was required. Key Outcomes - Fleet Services Audit 28 Recommendations: Presentation completed. City Manager Hartman noted staff has already begun implementing several recommendations including policy updates, pre-trip inspections, key-for-key replacement, and working on a comprehensive vehicle replacement plan. Technology recommendations will be considered in next year's budget. - Permitting Audit 60 Recommendations: Presentation completed. A user fee study and review is already underway, with recommendations expected in early 2026. The city is working with IT and the software vendor to incorporate system changes. - Consent Agenda: Approved 6-0 (Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Deupree, second by Council Member Mitchell). - Ordinance No. 3935, Special Use Permit (6918 Walter Street): Approved 6-0 (Motion by Council Member Roberts, second by Council Member Rodriguez). - Ordinance No. 3936, PD Revision (7000 Iron Horse Boulevard): Approved 6-0 (Motion by Council Member Parks, second by Council Member Rodriguez). - Ordinance No. 3937, Zoning Change (8217 Sayers Lane): Approved 6-0 (Motion by Council Member Rodriguez, second by Council Member Parks). - Resolution No. 2025-044, TAD Board Votes: Council cast all 16 votes allocated to North Richland Hills for Mike Alfred in the Tarrant Appraisal District Board of Directors Election. Approved 6-0 (Motion by Council Member Rodriguez, second by Council Member Mitchell). Staff noted Alan Blaylock resigned from the TAD Board, and an item will be placed on the December 8, 2025 agenda for another nominee. - Generator Replacement Project Bid Rejection: Council rejected all bids for the replacement project at Fire Stations 1, 4, and 5. Staff will use cooperative purchasing for generators and automatic transfer switches, bring that to council on December 8, 2025, and then go out for bids for installation labor in March 2025. Approved 6-0 (Motion by Council Member Roberts, second by Council Member Delaney). - Council Member Resignation: Council Member Ricky Rodriguez announced he submitted his notice of resignation from Place 2 after filing for another office, expressing gratitude for serving and stating North Richland Hills remains his home. Upcoming Events - Veterans Day Celebration, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, 11:00 AM at City Hall - City Council meeting to canvass November 4 City Charter Election, Monday, November 17, 2025, 5:00 PM - Thanksgiving Holiday closures: City Hall and non-emergency offices closed November 27-28; garbage collection schedule adjusted - NRH Christmas Tree Lighting, December 4, 2025, 6:00 PM at Stormy Plaza - Run Run Rudolph 5K, December 6, 2025, 8:00 AM at NRH Center - Stories with Santa, December 11, 2025, 5:00 PM at NRH Library - Flutissimo Flute Choir, December 16, 2025, 6:30 PM at NRH Library

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session and regular meeting on 2025-11-06. The agenda included a zoning change for 7133 Douglas Lane, a continued discussion on a text amendment for garage enclosures, and a work session on potential lot coverage requirements. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes from the October 2, 2025 and October 16, 2025 regular meetings by a unanimous vote of 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Glenn Spencer (7305 Douglas Lane) spoke during the public hearing for ZC25-0151. He stated that he and his neighbors oppose the rezoning, preferring the area's current large-lot, agricultural character. He also expressed concern about the potential loss of mature oak trees on the property. Discussion Items - Work Session - Zoning Change (ZC25-0151): Staff (Clayton Husband, Principal Planner) presented the request to rezone 0.949 acres from AG to R-1. The applicant, Chris Trent, intends to subdivide the property into two lots facing Woodbend Park Road. Commissioners discussed lot dimensions, driveway access, fencing, and the impact on existing trees. Staff clarified that R-1 is a standard residential zone with a 13,000 square foot minimum lot size, consistent with the Vision 2030 Land Use Plan. The applicant stated he would try to work around the two large oak trees on the property. The commission noted the primary question is the appropriateness of the zone change, not the specific development plan. - Garage Enclosure Text Amendment (TR25-08): Staff (Corey) presented a revised draft of the amendment, changing the requirement from requiring three parking spaces for a two-car garage conversion to a flat requirement of two parking spaces on the lot. The amendment applies to homes with construction permits issued on or before November 22, 1999, the date the covered-parking requirement was added to the code. Commissioners debated the fairness of the 1999 date. Commissioner Justin argued for a uniform policy allowing conversion on any home, noting the date creates a non-level playing field. Staff noted the immediate goal was to resolve pending code enforcement issues for pre-1999 homes where garage enclosures occurred without permits. Commissioners agreed to postpone the companion item on lot coverage to a later meeting to ensure front-yard paving issues were not exacerbated by new parking space requirements. - Regular Meeting - Item C1 (ZC25-0151): The public hearing was re-opened and testimony was received from the applicant and an opposing neighbor. Staff confirmed the R-1 zoning is appropriate and consistent with the plan. The commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval to City Council. - Item C2 (TR25-08): The public hearing was opened and closed with no additional public comment. After brief discussion, the commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval. The approved text allows pre-1999 homes to convert garages to living space without a variance if two parking spaces remain on the property. Key Outcomes - Zoning Change ZC25-0151: Recommended for approval (6-0). It will be forwarded to the City Council hearing on December 8, 2025. - Text Amendment TR25-08: Recommended for approval (6-0). The amendment adds a new section to Chapter 118 (Zoning) allowing garage enclosures for homes permitted before November 22, 1999, provided two off-street parking spaces remain on the property. The City Council hearing is scheduled for December 8, 2025. - Lot Coverage: Discussion on maximum lot coverage requirements in lieu of rear-yard open space was postponed to a future meeting, as the revised garage amendment was deemed less likely to exacerbate front-yard paving concerns. - Future Agenda Items: No items were brought forward by commissioners for discussion at a future work session.

The North Richland Hills City Council met for a work session at 5:00 PM and a regular meeting at 7:56 PM on October 27, 2025, at City Hall (4301 City Point Drive). The agenda included the 2025 Employee Engagement Survey, a development ordinance update work plan, an electric vehicle infrastructure grant application, public hearings on zoning changes, and items on public works and personnel. All votes during the regular meeting were unanimous 7-0 unless otherwise specified. Consent Calendar The Consent Agenda was approved 7-0 and included the following items: - Approval of the minutes from the October 13, 2025 City Council meeting. - Annual cybersecurity managed detection and response services from Freeit Data Solutions, Inc. (not to exceed $200,000 annually through May 19, 2031). - Amendment No. 2 for OpenGov asset management software with Vertosoft, LLC, ratifying $122,494.28 in prior purchases (cumulative total not to exceed $437,990 through October 19, 2027). - An interlocal agreement with the City of Richland Hills for cooperative purchasing. - A five-year copier equipment lease and managed print services agreement with Novatech, Inc. ($360,864). - Purchase of three 2025 Hino dump trucks from Rush Truck Centers ($512,450.01). - A contract instructor service agreement with Julia Geske for tennis instruction at Richland Tennis Center ($99,000 for FY2026). Public Comments & Testimony - Charles Scoma (8300 Cardinal Lane) spoke in favor of Item G.2, the creation of an Advisory Committee on Senior Affairs, calling it an essential and commemorative step for the community. - Kevin and Linda Leckey (8625 Caddo Court) opposed the zoning change at 8459 Shady Grove Road (ZC25-0145), arguing the property owner has a history of code violations, was uncooperative with city staff, and allowed the property to become a nuisance (rodents, mosquitoes, unfenced pool). They requested a future public hearing requirement should the property be subdivided. Staff clarified that a subdivision plat would trigger review by the Planning and Zoning Commission. - Gopi Kantamneni (7012 Bursey Road), during Citizens Presentation, addressed the short-term rental (STR) ordinance. He stated he had spent $45,000 to legally convert his garage for an STR and was willing to pay the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) moving forward, but he requested the tax be collected from the date of the ordinance's passage rather than applied retroactively, as he could not collect from past guests. Public Hearings - ZC25-0144 (Ordinance No. 3931): A request from James Stewart to rezone 2.001 acres at 8912 Eden Road from Agricultural (AG) to Residential Estate (RE-1). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval (7-0). No public opposition was voiced. The ordinance was approved 7-0. - ZC25-0145 (Ordinance No. 3932): A request from Santos Catalan to rezone 1.319 acres at 8459 Shady Grove Road from Agricultural (AG) to Single-Family Residential (R-2). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval (7-0). It was approved 7-0 despite opposition from neighbors who expressed concerns about the current owner's past conduct and potential future subdivision. Council discussed the subdivision process with staff. Discussion Items (Work Session) - 2025 Employee Engagement Survey: City Manager Paulette Hartman presented results conducted by Probolsky Research showing an 84.6% average positive sentiment. Key strengths included 96% of employees understanding job expectations and 93% rating the city as a great place to work. Key opportunities for improvement were cross-departmental communication (65.7%), decision-making at appropriate levels (47.8%), and adequate staffing (58.8%). Council discussed survey methodology, participation rates (274 of 600 FTEs), and the importance of benchmarking trends over time. - Development Ordinance Updates: Director of Planning Cori Reaume presented a phased work plan to streamline and clarify city development codes. 2025 priorities include regulations for garage enclosures, residential parking, rear-yard open space, and lot coverage. 2026 priorities include accessory structures, platting process improvements, and uniform code updates. Future topics may include noise, battery energy storage systems, and drone regulations. - Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Grant: Cori Reaume presented a proposal to apply for federal funding through the NCTCOG for EV charging stations at four city-owned sites (Babe's, City Hall, NRH2O, Animal Shelter). The grant covers 100% of infrastructure costs (city pays upfront and is reimbursed) and five years of operations. Council members discussed the actual demand for EV charging, the long-term maintenance obligations, and enforcement of parking rules. Council directed staff to proceed with submitting the application. - City Manager Report: Hartman reported high positive social media engagement regarding the Patriotic Pig announcement and noted the Capital Program Advisory Committee (Bond Committee) is actively reviewing library space needs and will shift focus to street projects in future meetings. Key Outcomes - Sanitary Sewer Discharge Updates (E.1): Approved Ordinance No. 3934, amending prohibited discharges to align with TCEQ and Trinity River Authority regulations. (7-0). - Safe Routes to School (E.2): Awarded the $472,445 Smithfield Middle School project construction contract to C. Green Scaping, LP. The project is 100% federally funded via Transportation Development Credits, requiring no local match. (7-0). - NRH2O Nitro Blast Change Order (G.1): Approved $453,349.52 Change Order No. 4 with CGC General Contractors for pump room modifications to fix hydraulic pressure deficiencies that prevented the ride from opening in summer 2025. Funding is solely from water park revenue and does not involve property tax dollars. (7-0). - Advisory Committee on Senior Affairs (G.2): Approved Ordinance No. 3933, creating a seven-member committee of residents aged 55 and older to meet quarterly and provide an annual report to the council. (7-0). - Economic Development Agreements (H.1, H.2): Following the initial executive session, council authorized the City Manager to negotiate and execute economic development agreements with Greenway Parks, LLC (for properties at 8851 Bud Jensen Drive, 6020 Walker Boulevard, and 9015 Grand Avenue) and Convergence Capital, LLC (for 8800 Mid Cities Avenue). (7-0 for each). - Personnel Actions (H.3, H.4): Following a second executive session, council approved the Third Amendment to the City Manager's Employment Agreement (7-0) and the First Amendment to the City Secretary's First Amended Employment Agreement (6-0-1, with Councilmember Blake abstaining). Announcements & Recognitions - Councilmember Mitchell announced that early voting continues through October 31, a senior craft fair is on October 29-30, a shredding event is on November 1, and recognized Belinda Pruitt in the Water Office for outstanding customer service in resolving a resident's high water bill issue.

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission met for a work session at 6:30 PM, followed by a regular meeting at 7:23 PM (the agenda noted the meeting would begin no earlier than 7:00 PM) on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Alternate Mike Kerby served as a voting member in place of absent Commissioner Amy McMahon. The Commission approved three zoning cases by 7-0 votes and continued a public hearing on a city-initiated text amendment regarding garage enclosure parking requirements to allow for further study and the provision of visual examples. Work Session & Staff Reports - Director Cori Reaume reported that City Council approved three previously recommended SUPs (Martin Drive, commercial drive, Little Ranch Road) without changes. - Council adopted short-term rental regulations. STRs are permitted by right in TOD zones (except historic). Non-TOD zone permittees include Neighborhood Core, R7MF, C1, C2 in existing houses only. Council did not adopt the P&Z recommendation for a density cap or spacing requirement. Existing operators must register between Nov 12, 2025 and Jan 31, 2026. - Staff presented the proposed garage enclosure text amendment (TR25-08). Commissioners extensively discussed the complexity of the date requirement, parking formulas, and potential impacts from added paving. - Discussion of possible updates to rear-yard open space standards was postponed to a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the Commission during either the public comments portion of the agenda or any of the four public hearings. Discussion Items - [ZC25-0146] Revision to Planned Development 120 (Cambridge Manor, 7000 Iron Horse Blvd): Applicant Bill Hardee (Sandlin Homes) requested a revision to allow a solid 6-foot cedar privacy fence with stone or brick columns to screen a bank parking lot and dumpster from new homes. Staff (Principal Planner Clayton Husband) recommended approval. Commissioner Justin Welborn suggested a hybrid metal/wood fencing option for long-term maintenance. The motion was amended to include options for varying fence designs. - [ZC25-0147] Special Use Permit for Permanent Accessory Building (6918 Walter St): Applicant Andrew Bertucci requested a SUP for a 2,175 sq ft detached garage with a bathroom and covered porch, exceeding standard limits in floor area and height. Staff confirmed no public feedback was received. Commissioner Jayashree Narayana noted the potential conflict with future lot coverage standards. - [ZC25-0148] Zoning Change from R-3 to RI-PD (8217 Sayers Lane): Applicant Anthony Washington requested rezoning of 0.493 acres for three residential lots, matching standards approved in August 2025 for the adjacent property. Commissioner Narayana expressed concern about using the PD process for small infill lots due to lot depth, but acknowledged it is standard for the Residential Infill PD district. Plat approval will be administrative. - [TR25-08] Text Amendment for Garage Enclosure Parking Requirements: Director Cori Reaume presented a proposed amendment to allow garage enclosures without a Board of Adjustment variance for pre-1984 homes if the property maintains "lost enclosed spaces + 1" off-street parking. Several commissioners expressed opposition to the 1984 date and specific parking formulas, advocating for simplification and universal standards. Commissioner Welborn opposed the date and formula, suggesting one new space per enclosure. Commissioner Narayana raised concerns about impervious lot coverage from added paving and suggested removing the "+1" requirement. Commissioner Paul Epperley requested plotted examples before a decision. Chair Greg Stamps encouraged simplification. Key Outcomes - ZC25-0146: Approved (7-0, Motion by Kerby, Carpenter). Motion included options for varying fence designs. City Council hearing scheduled for Nov 10, 2025. - ZC25-0147: Approved (7-0, Motion by Welborn, Pekurney). City Council hearing scheduled for Nov 10, 2025. - ZC25-0148: Approved (7-0, Motion by Kerby, Welborn). City Council hearing scheduled for Nov 10, 2025. - TR25-08: Public hearing continued to November 6, 2025 (Motion by Kerby, Carpenter). Staff will bring back plotted plans and alternative regulatory options for commission consideration.

The North Richland Hills City Council convened for a work session at 5:00 PM and a regular meeting at 7:14 PM on October 13, 2025. The work session included discussions on items from the regular meeting, the creation of an Advisory Committee on Senior Affairs, the 2025 Citizen Survey schedule, and updates to short‑term rental ordinances. The regular meeting featured special presentations, public hearings on three special use permits and on proposed short‑term rental regulations, culminating in the adoption of ordinances establishing short‑term rental regulations, zoning amendments, and fee schedules. The Council also approved consent agenda items, contracts, a nomination to the Tarrant County Appraisal District Board, and a settlement agreement in two municipal court cases. Work Session Discussions - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU): Council Member Blake inquired about consistency of ADU special use permit requests. Staff explained that the applications were typical for cases slightly exceeding code allowances. - Advisory Committee on Senior Affairs: City Secretary Alicia Richardson presented a draft ordinance. Council provided direction on membership: a City Council liaison appointed by the Mayor as alternate; ex‑officio members from local senior‑serving organizations; two‑year terms aligned with Council places; three‑consecutive‑term limit; representatives from local churches to rotate presentations rather than hold a seat. - 2025 Citizen Survey: City Manager Paulette Hartman presented the survey schedule by Onpointe Insights. Survey opens late October, closes before Thanksgiving, results presented in January 2026 via an online dashboard. Multiple household members may respond, limited per device. - Short‑Term Rental (STR) Ordinances: Director of Planning Cori Reaume reviewed the four STR‑related agenda items (C.4, C.5, D.1, D.2). She explained the intent and content of each ordinance, including the creation of a consolidated ordinance (3922‑B) covering TOD and non‑TOD zones. Regular Meeting Highlights - Special Presentations: Chief of Police Jeff Garner recognized Don Buehrer for 30,000 volunteer hours in the Volunteers in Police Service (VIP) program. Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock presented the city with Traditional Finances and Debt Obligation Transparency Stars Awards. - Consent Calendar: Approved 7-0, including minutes of September 22, 2025; a contract with Casco Industries for firefighting gear ($77,302 annual); and Resolution 2025-043 denying Oncor Electric's rate change application. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comments (A.4): No requests to speak. - Public Hearing – Short‑Term Rental Ordinances (C.4/C.5): Over 20 residents spoke or submitted comments. According to the meeting minutes, the following individuals spoke in opposition: Joel Brown, Stacey Luke (on behalf of an operator), Jonathan Hernandez, Michael Molthan, Karlee Wilcox, Tracy Bennett, Charla Anderson, Reign Bezalel (on behalf of an operator), Evan O'Brien, Jasmine O'Brien, Trey Hudgins, and Vladimir Nalivayko. Qin Jin submitted opposition in writing. Supporting the regulations were: Emily Page (who asked for the exclusion of the Town Center neighborhood center), Wesley Oksanen, and Roger Owens. Written support was submitted by W.D. Johnston, Janice Owens, Deborah Dodson, Karen Ruff, Ann Johnston, Bonnie Woody, and Wade Woody. Gopi Kantamneni and Aishwasya Kantamneni spoke without a recorded position; they advocated for balanced regulations, prospective hotel occupancy tax enforcement, and occupancy tied to square footage rather than bedrooms. Common themes among opponents included concerns about neighborhood character, safety, parking, noise, and ensuring that existing operators are grandfathered. Supporters argued that well-regulated STRs provide economic benefits and property rights. - Citizens Presentation (F): Bryan Downer, CEO of the Community Enrichment Center, reported that the center has provided 2.7 million meals year-to-date, served 33,270 families, and moved 2.4 million pounds of food. Discussion Items - Zoning Public Hearings (C.1‑C.3): Three special use permits approved 7-0: Accessory dwelling unit at 9200 Martin Drive (995 sq ft detached ADU for family care). Contractor office/shop at 5105 Commercial Drive (3,500 sq ft office, 6,000 sq ft warehouse, fence improvements). Permanent accessory building at 6809 Little Ranch Road (2,400 sq ft detached garage for construction storage, lift, and RV). - Short‑Term Rental Regulations (C.4/C.5, D.1, D.2): Following the public hearing, Council discussed key elements: Property rights versus neighborhood protection; overwhelming resident opposition to STRs. Need for registration, inspections, and enforcement to prevent adverse selection. Fairness of retroactive hotel occupancy tax (HOT) enforcement; city attorney noted that out of over 200 operators, only 7 had paid HOT. Maximum occupancy: Council debated and ultimately amended to "two per bedroom plus two" with a maximum of 14 persons, effective 30 days after adoption. Minimum stay: New draft included a two-night minimum; staff confirmed most operators already exceed this. Councilmembers expressed support for balanced regulations, with several emphasizing that existing operators are grandfathered. The consolidated zoning ordinance (3922‑B) was approved with an amendment to exclude the Town Center Neighborhood Center from permitted districts. - Open Rewards Shop Local Program (G.2): Director Craig Hulse presented year-two program (10% reward). Approved 7-0; $104,740 contract with Bludot Technologies, mostly for user rewards. - Veterinarian Services Contract (G.3): Awarded to RSVP for spay/neuter and wellness; $76,000 annual, 1 + 4 renewal years. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes (Votes and Decisions) All votes passed 7-0 unless noted. - Consent Agenda (minutes, fire gear, Oncor resolution) – Approved. - Ordinance 3928 (ADU, 9200 Martin Dr) – Approved. - Ordinance 3929 (Contractor office, 5105 Commercial Dr) – Approved. - Ordinance 3930 (Accessory building, 6809 Little Ranch Rd) – Approved. - Ordinance 3922‑B (STR zoning amendments, excluding Town Center Neighborhood Center) – Approved. - Ordinance 3925 (Chapter 18 STR regulations, with amendment: occupancy 2 per bedroom +2, max 14, effective 30 days after adoption) – Approved. - Ordinance 3926 (Master fee schedule: $450 annual STR permit fee, $100 reinspection fee) – Approved. - Resolution 2025-042 (Nominating Michael S. Alfred to Tarrant County Appraisal District Board) – Approved. - Professional Services Agreement with Bludot Technologies (Open Rewards, $104,740) – Approved. - Bid 25-034 to RSVP (Veterinarian services, $76,000 annual, 1 + 4 renewals) – Approved. - Settlement Agreement (Case Nos. CC240015 and CC240019) – Approved. - Future Agenda Items: Council requested future work session discussions on ADU processing and Colorado Boulevard access.

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission met on October 2, 2025, for a work session and regular meeting. The work session primarily featured discussions on potential updates to residential parking requirements for older homes and a review of the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) short-term rental (STR) text amendment. The regular meeting included two approved zoning changes and a public hearing on adding STR regulations to the TOD code, which was forwarded to the City Council with a recommendation to consider density and spacing restrictions. The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the September 18, 2025, meeting. - Approved PLAT25-0094, a replat for DFW Home Solutions LLC at 4032 Rita Beth Street. Public Comments & Testimony On ZC25-0145 (Shady Grove Zoning Change): - Kevin Leckey (8625 Caddo Court) spoke in opposition, expressing deep concerns about the current property owner's history with the city regarding liens, code enforcement, and the poor physical state of the property. - Nneka Nweke (8704 Woodbury Court) stated concerns about rodents, mosquitoes, and weeds from the property affecting her home. - Fabio Videira (8517 Fresh Meadows Road) echoed concerns about the property's condition and raised questions about potential drainage issues and the feasibility of splitting the lot. On TR25-06 (TOD Short-Term Rental Text Amendment): - Tracy Bennett (3825 Scruggs Drive) expressed concern over the potential outright ban on STRs in single-family residential areas, suggesting a density or spacing requirement as a compromise. She also noted the limited applicability of the multifamily cap. - Vladimir Nalivayko (6613 Carston Court) shared his personal experience as a short-term rental operator facing financial hardship, implementing strict house rules, and acknowledged the need for some limitations on STRs to protect neighborhoods. - Gopi Kantamneni (7012 Bursey Road) detailed his family's investment in creating a high-quality STR and requested a modification to the proposed occupancy limit, stating that limiting occupancy to two people per room would severely impact his ability to service his mortgage. - Charla Anderson (7205 Crabtree Lane) advocated for owner-occupied STRs, sharing her positive experience operating an accessory master suite as a luxury rental to supplement her retirement income. She argued the marketplace naturally manages bad actors. Discussion Items - Work Session: Residential Parking & Garage Conversions: Director Reaume discussed a proposal to address older homes (pre-1980) with converted garages. The current code requires 4 spaces. The proposal would reduce this to 2 paved spaces for a converted 1-car garage or 3 for a 2-car garage. Several commissioners (Welborn, Narayana, Kerby) advocated for a broader reduction of parking requirements citywide, arguing the market should determine needs and the standard penalizes homeowners, forcing them through the variance process. - ZC25-0144 (8912 Eden Road): Public hearing for a zoning change from AG to RE-1 for 2.001 acres. Applicant Kelly Stewart stated the intent is to build an accessory structure. Staff noted the change is consistent with the surrounding low-density residential land use plan. No public testimony was offered. - ZC25-0145 (8459 Shady Grove Road): Public hearing for a zoning change from AG to R-2 for 1.319 acres. The applicant, Santos Catalan, proposed building a single-family residence. Staff confirmed the plat submitted is for a single lot, although the parcel is large enough to potentially be subdivided under R-2 zoning, which has a 9,000-square-foot minimum. Commissioner Welborn discussed the procedures for property liens. - TR25-06 (TOD City-Initiated Text Amendment): Staff presented a proposal to add Short-Term Rentals as a permitted use in the TOD zoning districts, mirroring conditions adopted for the rest of the city. Commissioner Welborn raised concerns about the lack of spacing or density requirements, arguing concentrated STRs could harm neighborhood character. Commissioner Peckurney supported STRs in the TOD but agreed further study on density was warranted. Commissioner Narayana suggested a Special Use Permit (SUP) route. Key Outcomes - ZC25-0144 (Eden Road): Approved 7-0. The zoning change from AG to RE-1 was passed. The item will go to City Council on October 27, 2025. - ZC25-0145 (Shady Grove Road): Approved 7-0. The zoning change from AG to R-2 was passed. The item will go to City Council on October 27, 2025. - TR25-06 (TOD Short-Term Rentals): Recommended for Approval 6-1. The motion approved adding STRs to the TOD code with conditions but included a recommendation that the City Council study and implement a spacing or density requirement for STRs within the district. The item will be considered by City Council on October 13, 2025. - Residential Parking Requirements: Staff will draft a proposed ordinance amendment regarding parking requirements for pre-1980 homes with garage conversions, taking commission feedback into account. The item will return in a future meeting for a public hearing. - Rear Yard Open Space: Discussion on rear yard open space regulations was deferred to a future meeting.

The North Richland Hills City Council convened on Monday, September 22, 2025, for a work session at 5:00 PM followed by a regular meeting at 7:00 PM. The work session focused on legislative updates from the 89th Texas Legislature, utility billing challenges, and proposed short-term rental regulations. The regular meeting included public comments, approval of a consent agenda, appointment of Youth Advisory Committee members, and an amendment to the tax rate adoption ordinance. Key actions included unanimous approval of the consent agenda and youth committee appointments, while the short-term rental public hearing was continued to October 13, 2025. Work Session – Legislative Update (89th Texas Legislature) - Trudy Lewis presented an overview of bills from the regular session (140 days, January 14 to June 2) and two special called sessions (July 21-August 5 and August 15-September 4). - Key effective changes include: bidding threshold increase from $50,000 to $100,000; new cybersecurity and AI training requirements; expanded cottage food vendor definitions (gross income ≤ $150,000); limitations on city code enforcement licensing; new deannexation petition processes; and restrictions on city regulation of no-impact home-based businesses (HB 2464). - Staff noted that several bills apply to cities with populations 150,000 and thus do not directly affect North Richland Hills. The city will bring back ordinance revisions as needed. Work Session – Utility Billing Issues - Trudy Lewis and Paulette Hartman detailed the city's transition from a 27-year-old legacy system to a new software launched in March 2025, coinciding with a lockbox banking change and a citywide meter replacement project. - The utility billing department (7 staff) received over 6,000 calls per month initially; three temporary staff were added. Billing cycles (zones 11-18) experienced delays and compressed billing periods (as short as three weeks between bills). - Meter replacement is nearly complete; a lockbox transition from Frost Bank to JP Morgan Chase caused payment delays. No disconnections have been enforced for several months. - The city plans to hire an additional permanent staff member in fiscal year 2026 (starting October 1, 2025) and implement a chatbot and voice AI to improve customer service. An efficiency audit is scheduled. - Councilmember Mitchell asked about an after-action review; staff confirmed the audit will address lessons learned. Councilmember Ricky requested clarification on billing normalization; staff stated all cycles should return to normal by end of October 2025. Work Session – Short-Term Rental Regulations - Corey presented proposed changes to the draft ordinance based on extensive public feedback (hundreds of pages of comments, town halls, and public hearings). - Key amendments include: removing the 50-unit minimum for multifamily complexes; allowing tenants to apply with owner consent; adjusting the initial registration deadline to January 31 (aligned with annual renewal); and replacing administrative warrant provisions with permit suspension/revocation if reinspection is not possible. - Parking regulations were discussed: the original draft prohibited on-street parking for STRs. Council consensus leaned toward aligning with home occupation parking rules (parking in driveway or immediately adjacent curb). Councilmember Bradley noted Arlington’s similar prohibition was upheld in court. - The zoning component would permit STRs by right in R7MF, C1, C2, and Town Center Neighborhood Core, but the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended removal of Town Center Neighborhood Center. Staff will present a final draft at the October 2 P&Z meeting and to council on October 13. - City Attorney Bradley provided a legal analysis, noting that all three constitutional challenges (retroactivity, due process, equal protection) raised in public comments have been rejected in cases against Arlington, Grapevine, and Fort Worth. He emphasized that the proposed ordinance’s occupancy limit (tracking Fair Housing Act recommendations) is distinct from the invalidated limit in the Austin Zatari case. - Councilmember Roberts expressed concern about removing inventory from the housing market; other members noted the ordinance aims to address nuisance complaints. Public Comments & Testimony - Lindsay Bednar (6609 Central Ave): Argued that well-managed STRs can prevent issues and that a zoning ban is an outright prohibition; questioned data linking STRs to housing affordability. - Gopi Cantamanini (7012 Bursey Rd N): Described investing life savings into an STR property based on staff assurance that future regulations would likely grandfather existing operations; asked for occupancy limits that allow 3 per room plus 2 additional guests to sustain debt payments. - Tracy Bennett (3825 Scruggs Dr): Reported that only two multifamily complexes in the city (managed by same company) allow STRs, implying the multifamily provision is ineffective; argued housing affordability issues stem from post-COVID migration, not STRs. - Citizens Presentations: Diana Duran (Potato King food truck) requested revision of the COVID-era ordinance prohibiting tents, tables, and chairs outside food trucks; William Bach (6640 Brookshire Trl) requested parking accommodations for recreational vehicles and trailers. Consent Calendar (Unanimously Approved 7-0) - B.1: Minutes of September 8, 2025 City Council meeting. - B.2: Resolution No. 2025-040 – participation in national opioid settlement agreements (Purdue Pharma, Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun, Zydus). - B.3: First and second amendment to TxDOT Multiple Use Agreement for additional Flock Safety ALPR cameras. Discussion Items - Youth Advisory Committee Appointments (G.1): Paulette Hartman presented Resolution No. 2025-041 appointing eight new members (Reagan Russell, Rehan Suleiman, Tyler Sonye, Abigail Parks, Gift Shone, Ian Settlmeyer, Holden Hayes, Kira Loney) for the 2025/2026 academic year. Six current members were recognized. Unanimously approved 6-0 (Councilmember Roberts abstained due to conflict of interest). - Tax Rate Disclosure Amendment (G.2): Chase presented an amendment to Ordinance No. 3924 to include omitted statutory disclosure language for the no-new-revenue maintenance and operations rate. The adopted tax rate of $0.497841 per $100 valuation remains unchanged and below the no-new-revenue rate. Unanimously approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (Items B.1, B.2, B.3) was approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution No. 2025-041 appointing the Youth Advisory Committee was approved (6-0 with one abstention). - The amendment to Ordinance No. 3924 regarding tax rate disclosure was approved (7-0). - The public hearing on short-term rental regulations was continued to the October 13, 2025 regular meeting. Staff will incorporate council feedback on parking (align with home occupation rules) and present a revised draft to the Planning and Zoning Commission on October 2. - Council will consider possible abatement of penalties for back hotel occupancy taxes in executive session.

The North Richland Hills Planning and Zoning Commission held a work session at 6:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:01 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at City Hall, 4301 City Point Drive. Seven voting members were present, including alternates Mike Kerby and Jacob Whittaker seated for absent regular members Paul Epperley and Amy McMahon. The Commission approved the prior meeting's minutes and all three special use permit requests on the agenda by 7-0 votes. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Minutes of the September 4, 2025, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting were approved 7-0 on a motion by Vice Chair Aaron Carpenter, seconded by Alternate Mike Kerby. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comments portion of the regular meeting, and no one testified for or against any of the three public hearings. Work Session Highlights - Planning Director Cori Reaume gave community updates and summarized recent City Council actions. She reported that the City Council continued the initial short-term rental zoning ordinance public hearing to October 13, 2025, because of overwhelming public feedback, and that the related short-term rental item that had been expected at this meeting would be re-noticed for the October 2, 2025, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting so both zoning pieces could move forward together. - Principal Planner Clayton Husband reviewed the three special use permit cases scheduled for the regular meeting. - Commissioner Justin Welborn suggested that, before ordinance changes are adopted, staff should reach out to home builders and metal building manufacturers, such as Mueller, to identify unintended consequences. The discussion was informational only; no formal future agenda item was requested. Public Hearings / Discussion Items ZC23-0064 - Accessory Dwelling Unit at 9200 Martin Drive - The applicant, Marisol Pedroza, requested a special use permit for an accessory dwelling unit on a 0.516-acre property described as Lots 3 and 4, Block 1, Thompson Park Estates. - Jocelyn Pedrosa, representing the applicant, said the unit would house her grandmother, who has Parkinson's, allowing her to maintain independence while remaining on the family property. - The detached unit contains approximately 995 square feet of living area. The request included modifications to two by-right standards: the building is about 40 feet from the main house rather than within 25 feet, and it exceeds the 650-square-foot maximum living area. - Staff recommended approval. The Commission approved the permit 7-0 on a motion by Commissioner Kyle Pekurney, seconded by Commissioner Justin Welborn. ZC25-0140 - Contractor's Office with Shop and Garage at 5105 Commercial Drive - Avid Roofing & Waterproofing requested a special use permit for a contractor's office with shop and garage on a 0.621-acre property described as Lot J, Block 14, Richland Terrace Addition. - Applicant Dave Wasson said the company planned to purchase and renovate the 9,500-square-foot building, using about 3,500 square feet for office space and the remainder for warehouse/storage. The roofing contractor use requires a special use permit in the C2 zoning district. - Proposed improvements included replacing chain-link fencing with cedar fencing, including an 8-foot cedar fence along the residential west property line instead of the standard 6-foot masonry screen, a new front gate, and upgraded building lighting. - Staff recommended approval. The Commission approved the permit 7-0 on a motion by Alternate Mike Kerby, seconded by Commissioner Justin Welborn. ZC25-0143 - Permanent Accessory Building at 6809 Little Ranch Road - MKG Homes, on behalf of owners Mark and Lucio Fly, requested a special use permit for a permanent accessory building on a 1.836-acre property described as Lot 7, Block 1, Morgan Meadows. - Applicant Kelly Pollard said the 2,400-square-foot detached garage would store an RV and materials while the existing house is eventually replaced with a larger home; the existing barn would be demolished. - The request sought modifications to three standards: building size (2,400 square feet versus 2,000 allowed by right), wall height (16 feet versus 12 feet), and roof pitch (2/12 versus 4/12), with an overall building height of 20 feet. - Staff recommended approval, noting that similar accessory structures exist in the neighborhood. The Commission approved the permit 7-0 on a motion by Vice Chair Aaron Carpenter, seconded by Alternate Mike Kerby. Key Outcomes - All three special use permits and the September 4, 2025, minutes were approved unanimously by 7-0 votes. - Each approved special use permit case will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration on October 13, 2025. - The work session adjourned at 6:59 p.m., and the regular meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m.