Public Meetings - Richland Hills, Texas

The Richland Hills City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) convened jointly on October 26, 2026, at 5:30 PM for a work session to discuss accessory structure regulations and the Comprehensive Plan. Following the joint session, P&Z considered an amending plat and adjourned. The City Council then continued with its own work session covering the Booth Calloway Road project and proposed utility rate adjustments, followed by a public hearing and regular business meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the October 12, 2026 regular meeting. - Adopted Resolution No. 670-26, canceling scheduled regular City Council meetings on November 23, 2026, December 28, 2026, June 28, 2027, and July 12, 2027. - Adopted Resolution No. 672-26, adopting a Vacation Buyback Policy for City employees. Discussion Items Accessory Structure Height and Setback Requirements (Item 4A) - City Manager Jason Moore presented proposed amendments to clarify height measurement from average grade to roof peak, excluding cupolas or chimneys. - The current rule caps accessory structures at the lesser of 28 feet or the height of the principal structure. - Staff proposed an exception for lots of 20,000 square feet or more, allowing a structure up to 5 feet taller than the primary residence if set back at least 50 feet from all primary structures and public streets. - Councilor Barton and Commissioner Roland discussed the risk of creating non-conforming structures through neighbor expansions and whether the setback should scale with height. A chart with graduated setbacks was suggested for staff consideration. - Staff was directed to refine the ordinance and return for a formal public hearing before both bodies. Comprehensive Plan Utilization (Item 4B) - Council and P&Z discussed strict adherence to the Comprehensive Plan. P&Z sought clarification on applying the plan's land-use recommendations for corridors like Baker Boulevard. Council reaffirmed the plan as the guiding document for future zoning applications, discouraging piecemeal deviations that undermine long-term goals. Booth Calloway Road Project (Item 7A) - David from Halff presented a proposed $375,000 professional services agreement for an initial phase including survey, drainage study, and utility investigations to reach roughly 30% design. - This phase would allow Richland Hills to utilize Tarrant County bond funds and better understand downstream drainage requirements for the Calloway Branch storm drainage system. - Council directed staff to bring the agreement back as a formal action item for approval. Proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Water/Wastewater Rate Adjustments (Items 7B & 11A) - Staff presented rate adjustments needed to cover increased wholesale costs from Fort Worth. - Residential users consuming 15,000 gallons per month would see an increase of roughly $12 per month, driven primarily by wastewater costs. - Water impact fees (pass-through from Fort Worth) increased significantly. A $3,000 fee for a new irrigation meter connection was noted. - A public hearing was held with no public comment, and the fee schedule was adopted under Ordinance 1547-26. Amending Plat for Vance Road Properties (Items 5 & 12A) - The P&Z recommended approval, and the Council approved an amending plat combining two lots at 3305 and 3309 Vance Road into a single lot to simplify ownership and property tax homestead status. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Approved the Consent Agenda. - Approved Ordinance 1547-26, adopting the Fiscal Year 2027 Municipal Fee Schedule, including water and wastewater rate adjustments. - Approved Resolution 671-26, authorizing the write-off of uncollectible utility billing and fire department accounts receivable. - Approved the Amending Plat for 3305 and 3309 Vance Road. - Directives & Next Steps: - Staff to draft and present a formal zoning text amendment for accessory structure regulations, including feedback on scaled setbacks. - Staff to prepare a formal professional services agreement for the Booth Calloway Road project for council consideration.

The Richland Hills City Council held its work session at 5:30 PM on October 12, 2026, at City Hall, 3200 Diana Drive. After the work session, the council entered executive session, reconvened at 6:43 PM, and began the regular session at 6:44 PM, adjourning at 7:24 PM. The agenda included FY27 schedules, holiday and training discussions, a City Secretary personnel matter, consent agenda approvals, the Cecil Drive street project, a one-time civilian salary supplement, and adoption of updated building and fire codes. All formal votes were unanimous. Work Session – FY27 Schedules, Training, and Holidays - Staff reviewed the posted agenda; no action was taken during the work session. - The council discussed the FY27 meeting calendar, including proposed cancellation of the second November and December meetings and certain summer meetings, with the option to call special meetings if needed. An action item is planned for the October 26 meeting. - Training options were presented, including required online cybersecurity and Public Information Act courses, a state sales tax workshop, and conferences. Councilmembers were asked to submit training interests to the City Manager and City Secretary for a future sign-up matrix. A potential Urban Land Institute city membership, estimated at $400, was discussed. - The holiday schedule was reviewed: the city currently observes 10 holidays plus one floating holiday. There was discussion about using a floating holiday for the Friday after Thanksgiving rather than closing an extra day, and about coverage for resident services such as water turn-ons during extended closures. Staff agreed to formalize contingency plans. Executive Session - The council recessed into executive session under Texas Government Code 551.074 to deliberate the evaluation, duties, and responsibilities of the City Secretary position. - After reconvening, the council unanimously authorized the creation of the Director of Administration/City Secretary position with pay class 39. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the September 28, 2026, regular meeting minutes. - The council unanimously excused the absences of Mayor Curtis Bergthold, Councilmember John Skier, and City Manager Jason Moore from the September 28, 2026, meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Vicky Hamilton, a resident, expressed gratitude to the fire chief, police, and city staff for their response to recent flooding. She stated that for the first time in 49 years, she and her husband felt that the administration cared. Council Comments & Community Interest Items - Councilmembers highlighted National Night Out, which involved six or seven resident hosts across the city and conversations with more than 100 citizens, and three city market events held on Saturday. - Councilmembers also noted a demonstration by Ed's Electric to illuminate the city tower from its base; the project is not currently city-funded. - Community interest items were announced, including the Kate Baker Park grand reopening on October 17, the RH 101 Citizens Civic Academy beginning October 22, and Haunted Hills on October 23. Reports & Discussions - Republic Services notified the city that its contract requires moving trash pickup to automated carts. The city will receive more details; Councilmembers raised questions about grass clippings, bundled branches, extra carts, lid issues, and experiences in other cities. Jerry Harwell is expected to give a future presentation. - Parks and Recreation staff recapped the Bark Barktober event at Creek Trail Park, estimating 200 to 250 attendees and 30 to 35 vendors, with one councilmember noting 36 actual vendors. The event cost the city $300 for a portable restroom and hand-washing station. The vendor proposed additional events through the end of the year; staff will continue evaluating locations, vendor coordination, and impacts on city parks programming. New Business - Resolution No. 668-26: The council unanimously awarded the 2026 Street Project – Cecil Drive construction contract to JR West Texas Concrete. The resolution included a construction contract of $870,798, an owner's contingency of $87,079.80, Halff Associates inspection and construction phase services not to exceed $106,300, Terracon materials testing not to exceed $40,000, and total project funding not to exceed $1,104,177.80 from the 2023 Street Bond Funds. There were eight valid bidders; staff stated a notice to proceed could be issued after approval. - Resolution No. 669-26: The council unanimously approved a one-time, non-compounding salary supplement of up to 3% of annual base salary for eligible civilian employees in FY27, funded from the Strategic Initiatives Fund with a budgeted amount of $114,057. It is intended as a retention measure and is in lieu of a merit or COLA increase. Public Hearing - The public hearing was opened at 7:23 PM for Ordinance No. 1548-26. No members of the public spoke. - The council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1548-26, which adopts the 2024 International Codes and the 2026 National Electrical Code, including North Central Texas Council of Governments regional amendments and local amendments. Staff noted the responsible department will be filled in before publication. Key Outcomes - All motions in the regular session carried unanimously by voice vote, with no opposing votes noted. - The council directed staff to bring the FY27 calendar action item to the October 26 meeting and to compile council training interests. - Staff was directed to follow up on Republic Services cart implementation details and formalize holiday service contingency plans. - Parks and Recreation staff will continue coordinating with the outside vendor and city departments on future special events.

The Richland Hills City Council met on September 28, 2026, beginning with a 5:30 p.m. work session and reconvening for the regular session at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 3200 Diana Drive. The work session featured department reports from Parks and Recreation, Public Works, the Library, Fire, and Police. The regular session opened with an invocation by Doug Nolton and the Pledge of Allegiance, approved the consent agenda, cast the city's Texas Municipal League (TML) Region 8 Director vote, and adjourned at 6:39 p.m. There were no citizen comments, presentations, or public hearings. Work Session Department Reports Chief Sylvester recommended bringing department presentations, item 9A, to the work session; the presentations were informational and no action was taken. - Parks and Recreation Director Andrew Saxon reported 2,271 membership scans and 7,000 total visitors in August, and the department crossed 90,000 visitors the Friday before the meeting. Day-pass purchases were reported as '58 up to 712 for the year.' Volleyball passes are averaging about 50 per month at $12 per month, exceeding pickleball pass sales. Revenue is led by private rentals and child care. The Winstar senior trip, a strong performer, will be offered quarterly rather than twice a year. Membership totals are 512, with 41 private rentals and an after-school program average of 54. Creek Trail Park is officially open after passing its fall-zone inspection; the splash pad's UV issue is fixed but a DMX controller issue awaits parts from Canada; Cape Baker Park passed inspections with a grand reopening scheduled for October 17; Rosebud Park is set to start 180 days of construction on October 5; and landscaping repairs are underway at the Parks and Recreation building. Saxon noted that Pastor Frank DeLeo, a nine-year weekend rental tenant at the Link, is relocating to Halton City, and a councilmember described the rental as a significant revenue source for the Link. - Public Works Assistant Director Kelly Morris said the dry weather caused soil cracking and 11 water line breaks since May. The department uses repair clamps but is now replacing 20-40 foot sections with multiple clamps to save money. Tarrant County Precinct 3 wants to schedule full-depth reclaim and mill-and-overlay work in spring, prioritizing by PCI scores. He explained mill-and-overlay removes about two inches of asphalt, while full-depth reclaim restabilizes the subgrade, doubling road lifespan. Eight bids were received for the Cecil Drive replacement and came in substantially lower than estimates; a contract award is planned for the next meeting. Crews checked drainage channels and cleared blockages, and monthly checks of the lift station/pump house at the levy continue. - Library Director Chantel Hancock reported the 2026 summer reading program had 13 programs, down from 19, but attendance increased by about 300 people. Circulation increased 23%, especially in the children's department. Summer reading had 271 participants, up from 254 last summer; adult registration had the biggest jump, teen participation declined, and children's registration was 140, about 10 more than last year. The 'Splashdown' finale included giant water slides, a foam party, and Raising Cane's food. A councilmember noted the library door motion detector was not working, and Hancock said it may need a battery or a low-cost replacement. - Fire Chief Rhodes reported 1,165 calls for service through August, putting the department on pace for about 1,800 calls in 2026, roughly average over a five-year lookback. August had 146 emergency calls. About 50-60 percent of calls are EMS-related, lower than neighboring cities at 70-80 percent; citizens-assist calls are 16 percent, sometimes near 20 percent. Overall response time was 6 minutes 18 seconds, and turnout time was 1 minute 1 second; Fort Worth EMS averaged about 10 minutes from 911 call to scene. Training included joint training with Halton and Watauga, NEFTA Leadership Academy, career survival training, and fire inspections training. Staff completed 34 business inspections, pre-plans for target hazards, and two child seat installs. Both outdoor warning sirens passed a recent test after software-related issues; the sirens cover about a two-mile area and are meant for outdoor notification. Two probationary firefighters will be recognized October 8, Captain Mickey Haynes starts October 2, and 11 applicants are vying for a driver vacancy. Flood-detection cameras are on order for the Airline Drive flood area, and bids are being sought for an emergency access gate at Leslie and Norma. Chief Rhodes also marked his one-year anniversary in October. - Police Captain Ronnie Miller reported Officers Bateo and Kuiper finished their 17-week field training; Officer Fall, a former Nevada state trooper, is in accelerated field training expected to finish October 8; recruits Hepner and Do graduate December 14 from NCTCOG; recruit Frazier graduates January 11 from Hill College. Officer Strong took the school resource officer position at Jack S. Binion, filling all SRO spots with Birdville ISD; Officer Russell returned part-time for traffic and court bailiff duties, with the traffic unit expected back in the second quarter of next year. Crime rates are currently down, but holiday-season increases in family violence, DWI, and theft are anticipated. Mental health-related calls have increased, including three serious crises and one officer-involved shooting; RHPD is coordinating with mental health coordinator Candace Hadnot and local providers. In a commercial burglary case on Boulevard 26, Flock LPR data and interagency cooperation led to burglary charges and four additional drug charges, including manufacturing/delivering controlled substances; $32,000 cash and a vehicle were seized, with 60 percent of forfeited cash going to the city and 40 percent to the DA's office. Texas Night Out on October 6 has seven confirmed block parties and one pending, with about 12 expected; council will receive the public party list the day before. The IT network refresh with Totovarde is nearly complete, with new switches, firewalls, servers, fiber-ring redundancy, and security features installed with minimal service impact. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent agenda by voice vote. It included: - Approval of the minutes from the August 14, 2026 City Council regular meeting. - Resolution No. 667-26 approving a contract with Nico's Landscape LLC for citywide landscape services for $178,500 and authorizing the city manager to sign the contract. - Resolution No. 665-26 amending the authorized representatives for the Texas Local Government Investment Pool (TEXPOOL). - Excusing Councilmember Athena Campbell's absence from the September 14, 2026 regular meeting. During the reading, the dates for the minutes item and the absence item were misstated and corrected. The agenda lists the minutes item as August 14 and the absence excuse as September 14; the council's discussion indicated those agenda dates were the intended ones. Public Comments & Testimony No citizen comments were received, and no public testimony was presented. No public hearings were scheduled. New Business The council considered the city's vote for the Texas Municipal League Region 8 Director. The mayor pro tem recommended the incumbent, Mary Sarver. A motion and second were made, and the council approved the recommendation by voice vote with no opposition stated. Community Announcements Council comments included upcoming community events: Texas Night Out on October 6, with block-party registration at RichlandHills.com/TNO or 817-616-3783; the Kate Baker Park grand opening on October 17 at 10 a.m.; the Link after-school program; Senior Lunch Bunch and Bingo on the second Thursday of each month; Trail Tale at the library on the second Tuesday; Library Lab on September 29 from 5 to 6 p.m.; and a senior trip to the National Soccer Hall of Fame for $15 per person. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda unanimously, including the landscape services contract, TEXPOOL representative amendment, minutes approval, and absence excuse. - Directed Richland Hills' TML Region 8 Director vote to Mary Sarver. - Received department reports from Parks and Recreation, Public Works, the Library, Fire, and Police; no formal action was taken on those reports. - Adjourned at 6:39 p.m.; no public hearings were held.

The Richland Hills City Council held a work session and regular meeting on September 14, 2026. The work session covered accessory structure amendments, international code updates, the municipal judge appointment process, utility rate and fee schedule amendments, and the fiscal year 2026 budget timeline. The regular session included citizen comments, an update on the Flash Vote survey, and the FY27 mill and overlay schedule. An executive session for economic development project 26-02 resulted in no action. Consent Calendar - Item 10A & 10B: Unanimously approved. These included the minutes from the August 24, 2026 city council meeting, and the appointment of Kelly Morris (voting) and Eric Valdez (alternate) to the Fort Worth Wholesale Water and Wastewater Customer Advisory Committee for FY2027. Public Comments & Testimony - Jenny Clark (6973 Hardesty Street): Questioned the validity of the FY2027 budget, arguing that if a council member's actions were ruled invalid under parliamentary procedure at a prior meeting, the subsequent vote on the budget could be voidable. She requested clarification from the council. - Jim Shabble: Recommended the city update its FEMA flood zone reports via representative Angela Davidson to address inaccurate flood insurance costs for residents. He advocated for improving drainage infrastructure by reclaiming land from a drainage trough. He also expressed support for amending city rules to allow shipping containers as accessory structures when placed behind fences. He announced his intention to run for city council. Discussion Items - Accessory Structure Amendments (Item 1B): Staff presented proposed revisions to accessory structure regulations, introducing a tiered system where taller structures require larger setbacks. The goal is to provide predictable height limitations tied to lot size and zoning, addressing issues raised by previous projects. Staff will return in October with a final draft ordinance for a joint work session with the Planning and Zoning Commission. - International Code Adoption (Item 1C): Staff recommended adopting the 2024 International Codes and the 2026 National Electrical Code. Chief Rhodes reported that failing to update could cost the city its elite ISO 2 fire rating, potentially increasing residential insurance premiums by approximately $75 annually and commercial premiums by hundreds to thousands of dollars. The new codes also provide critical standards for lithium-ion battery storage and mandatory carbon monoxide detection. Council was generally supportive. - Municipal Judge Appointment Process (Item 1D): Council favored a joint solicitation process with the cities of North Richland Hills and Watauga to appoint a new presiding municipal judge to replace Judge Bass. Staff will coordinate with the other cities over the next 60 days. - Utility & Court Fine Write-Offs (Item 1E): Staff presented aging reports showing over $4.6 million in outstanding court citations and $856,000 in old utility balances over three years. Council agreed that an initial significant write-off should come before the council as a body, with future annual write-offs delegated to staff as part of the audit process. - Proposed Citizen Civic Academy – RH 101 (Item 1F): A proposed pilot 8-session citizen academy was discussed, set to begin in October. The program aims to educate residents on city operations, budgeting, and public safety. Council supported the program, suggesting it target active residents and those with questions about city services. - Utility Rate Updates for FY27 (Item 1G): Staff proposed a water and sewer rate adjustment to address wholesale cost increases from Fort Worth (10.68% water, 18% sewer) and TRA (3.5% sewer). The proposed increase for a typical residential customer is approximately $6.95 per month (roughly 7%). Without any rate adjustments, the utility fund balance is projected to hit zero by 2031. A full presentation by the WaterWorth modeling tool was postponed to the October 12th meeting. - Draft Fee Schedule Amendments (Item 1H): Staff proposed updating various fees to cover actual costs, including increases to utility deposits, building permit fees, and code enforcement abatement fees. Council directed staff to research and prepare a credit card convenience fee across all city departments to offset processing costs. - FY27 Mill & Overlay Schedule (Item 9B): Kelly from Public Works reported that Tarrant County Precinct 3 recommends full-depth reclamation over standard mill and overlay for most of the 9 identified roadways, offering a 15-20 year lifespan. The county's cost estimate is $1.33 million. Staff will meet with the Infrastructure Committee to finalize road selections and develop interlocal agreements. Construction is anticipated for late spring or early summer 2027. - Flash Vote Update (Item 9A): Currently 160 residents are enrolled in the Flash Vote survey platform, short of the 200 needed for statistical significance. Staff will heavily promote sign-ups at the upcoming National Night Out event on October 6th. Key Outcomes - No Action Taken: Executive session for Economic Development Project 26-02 concluded with no action taken or requested. - Pending Actions: Staff will bring forward formal ordinances for the adoption of new international codes, utility rate adjustments, and fee schedule amendments for a vote in October. - Write-Off Approval: Staff will prepare a formal resolution for the initial write-off of uncollectible court and utility balances for council consideration. - Marketing Directed: Staff instructed to create promotional materials for the Flash Vote survey and the RH 101 Citizen Academy. - Credit Card Fees: Staff directed to develop a resolution implementing a credit card convenience fee.

The Richland Hills City Council met on August 24, 2026, starting with a work session at 5:31 p.m. and convening the regular meeting at approximately 6:30 p.m. The agenda centered on code enforcement strategy, adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, ratification of a property tax increase, and setting the FY2027 tax rate. Work Session: Code Compliance Communication Strategy - Staff described an updated code compliance approach using iWorks and Trello, with a “pendulum” between immediate notices of violation and courtesy letters. They reported that recent tree-limb letters produced compliance without citations. - Council members discussed a seven-day compliance window and directed staff to combine a courtesy/resource letter with the notice of violation, including contact information for residents needing help, while sending repeat offenders and health/safety hazards directly to enforcement. - Council members also raised concerns about tall grass and tree limbs blocking visibility and fire-truck clearance, commercial corridor nuisances, and use of liens on vacant or chronically non-compliant properties. A proposed citywide tree-trimming user fee was rejected. - No formal action was taken during the work session. Work Session: FY2027 Budget and Tax Rate Discussion - Jason presented the proposed FY2027 budget spanning 19 funds, with total revenues of $25.19 million and expenditures of $26.71 million, including a $1 million distribution related to the Tarrant County TIF closeout. - The proposed property tax rate was $0.569027 per $100 valuation, composed of a $0.430632 maintenance-and-operations rate and a $0.138395 debt-service rate. This rate is the voter-approval rate and would raise $90,351, or 1.78%, more property tax revenue than FY2026. - Staff discussed a possible FY2028 move of about $327,000 in vehicle lease payments from maintenance-and-operations to debt service to create future budget capacity. Citizen Comments - Sayyid Al-Sayed, identified as Richland Hills’ representative to the Tarrant Appraisal District, expressed concern about the appraisal district’s performance, stating Tarrant County lost 12% of taxable value in 2025, 13.2% in 2026, and expects a 17% loss next year, partly due to automatic business personal property exemptions. - Bernadette Reed, a Kevin Drive resident, asked for aggressive attention to a rental property at Chaffin and Landy with downed trees, a half-open garage door, and overgrown conditions. She said senior residents on her street were receiving grass citations while struggling to maintain properties, and she praised the fire department’s response to an emergency at her home. Council Comments and July Department Reports - Council members provided community announcements and thanked staff for budget analysis, police for utility support, and public works for water-meter leak detection. - Terry Lee presented the state-required quarterly investment report for the quarter ending June 30, 2026: portfolio holdings decreased from about $31 million to $29.2 million; interest earnings were about $209,000; the average interest rate was 2.74%; checking accounts held 54% of the portfolio and pools held 46%. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the August 17, 2026 minutes and Resolution 664-26 approving a negotiated settlement between the Atmos Cities Steering Committee and Atmos Energy Corp., Mid-Tex Division regarding the company’s 2026 rate review mechanism filing. New Business: FY2027 Budget Adoption - Council members debated whether to adopt the budget at the proposed voter-approval rate or at a higher rate, with one member proposing $0.58 per $100 for additional margin. - GW, a public speaker, opposed asking residents for more money, arguing the tax increase would be bad optics and that residents are tightening their belts. - Doug Knowlton expressed concern about aging infrastructure but said he could support either rate. - The council adopted Ordinance 1544-26 on a 6-1 vote, with Councilmember Skier voting no. Ratification of Property Tax Increase - In a separate 7-0 vote, the council ratified the property tax increase reflected in the FY2027 budget, which raises $90,351, or 1.78%, more in property tax revenue than the FY2026 budget. Public Hearing and Tax Rate Adoption - No additional speakers appeared during the public hearing for Ordinance 1546-26, which sets the FY2027 tax rate. - Staff noted the median homestead taxable value is $241,063. Under the adopted $0.569027 rate, city taxes on that home would be about $1,371.72, compared with $1,216.88 in FY2026 and $1,340.31 at the no-new-revenue rate. - The council adopted the tax rate ordinance on a 7-0 vote. Key Outcomes - FY2027 budget adopted 6-1; property tax increase ratified 7-0; FY2027 tax rate set at $0.569027 per $100 valuation by a 7-0 vote. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Code compliance staff were directed to use a combined courtesy/notice-of-violation letter with resident resources, maintain a seven-day compliance window, and prioritize repeat offenders and health/safety hazards.

The Richland Hills City Council held a work session and regular meeting on August 17, 2026. The primary focus was on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and tax rate. Council opted to propose the voter approval tax rate instead of the higher de minimis rate, which reduced the property tax burden on residents but created a general fund deficit offset by the Richland Hills Development Corporation (RHDC) budget. Public hearings were held and budgets were adopted for the Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) and RHDC. A public hearing was held for the overall FY2027 city budget, with a final adoption vote scheduled for August 24, 2026. Council also adopted a Title VI Non-Discrimination Plan. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the August 10, 2026 City Council Meeting. - Appraisal Roll: Unanimously ratified the City's acceptance of the 2026 Certified Appraisal Roll and related Under Review Value Estimates. - Tax Rate Setting: Unanimously ratified the record vote proposing a maximum ad valorem tax rate for Tax Year 2026/FY2027 and formally set August 24, 2026, as the date for the public hearing and vote on tax rate adoption. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during Citizen Comments or the public hearings on the CCPD budget, RHDC budget, or the annual city budget. Discussion Items - Work Session: FY2027 Budget and Tax Rate Options: - City staff, led by Jason, presented revised budget options. After evaluating the de minimis tax rate ($0.609494 per $100 valuation), which would have created a $48,000 general fund surplus, staff recommended moving to the voter approval rate. This lower rate was intended to minimize the financial impact on residents, especially in light of pending water and sewer rate increases from the City of Fort Worth (15% water, 18% sewer) and TRA (3% sewer). - The voter approval rate creates a $314,000 deficit in the general fund. The budget is balanced by using RHDC funds to cover costs previously allocated to the general fund, including a $150,000 LINK subsidy and $314,000 in parks and recreation expenses. - Staff detailed the impact on a median-valued home ($241,063). The current city tax bill is approximately $1,216.88. Under the voter approval rate proposal, the bill would be an estimated $1,371, which is roughly $200 less than the de minimis proposal ($1,469.26). - New Business: Title VI Non-Discrimination Plan: - Council adopted Resolution No. 663-26, adopting the City of Richland Hills Title VI Non-Discrimination Plan. This was a routine item required to comply with federal guidelines for receiving federal funding and was needed for a scheduled desk audit by TxDOT. - Public Hearings: - CCPD Budget (FY2027): The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. Revenues are estimated at $1.5 million in sales tax and $32,000 in interest, against expenditures of $2.141 million. The budget utilizes $608,892 in fund balance. - RHDC Budget (FY2027): The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. The 4B sales tax revenue is projected at $870,000, with total revenues of $905,000. The budget utilizes $567,678 in fund balance, covering the LINK subsidy and park costs. - FY2027 Proposed Annual Budget: The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. The proposed budget operates 19 different funds. The general fund is balanced and projects an ending fund balance of $3.67 million, exceeding the 90-day reserve requirement of $2.57 million. Revenue from sales tax is now the second-largest source for the general fund, behind property tax. The Strategic Initiatives fund will receive over $1 million from the closed TIFF fund. Key Outcomes - Tax Rate Direction: Council expressed strong support for moving forward with the voter approval tax rate to minimize the increase on residents. The formal tax rate adoption hearing and vote are scheduled for August 24, 2026. - CCPD Budget Adoption: The Fiscal Year 2027 CCPD budget was approved unanimously. - RHDC Budget Adoption: The Fiscal Year 2027 RHDC budget was approved unanimously. - FY2027 Budget Vote Scheduled: Council voted unanimously to schedule the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 Annual Budget for August 24, 2026, at 6:30 PM at City Hall. - Continuing Reviews: Staff committed to conducting department and personnel audits to ensure workloads and resources are aligned appropriately for the coming fiscal year.

The Richland Hills City Council held a work session and regular meeting on August 10, 2026. Key actions included advancing a grant for electric vehicle charging stations, accepting the certified tax appraisal roll, proposing a maximum tax rate, dissolving Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Number One (TIRZ 1), and appointing members to the Richland Hills Development Corporation (RHDC) board. A five-year service award was presented to Recreation Supervisor Cinthia Mendieta. Consent Calendar - Item 10A: The minutes from the July 27, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public submitted speaker cards or provided testimony. Discussion Items - EV Charging Station Grant (NCTCOG CFI): JP DuKay (Community Development) presented a proposal for two Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations with four dedicated parking spaces at The Link recreation center. The total estimated project cost is approximately $87,000. The grant from the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) would reimburse 80% of eligible construction costs ($70,000), with a third-party vendor covering the remaining 20% ($17,000). The city must advance eligible project costs, with a 45-day reimbursement window. Ongoing operations and maintenance costs are estimated at $3,200 annually, primarily covered by the vendor. Council members discussed location options, power requirements, and the need to carefully negotiate vendor agreements regarding user fees and operational risks. Council reached a consensus to proceed with the grant. - Certified Appraisal Roll & Tax Rate: City Manager Jason reviewed details of the certified property appraisal roll. The total taxable value exceeds $1 billion, but a significant decrease in commercial personal property values (driven by a new state law) resulted in a 6.95% drop in that category, requiring a higher tax rate to generate the same revenue. Staff proposed a maximum (de minimis) ad valorem tax rate of $0.609494 per $100 of valuation, which includes an increase to support public safety compensation. Vicki Rodriguez (Finance Consultant) detailed the budget, fund balances, and the transition to a new ERP system. - Termination of TIRZ 1: An ordinance was presented to dissolve Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Number One. The zone has no outstanding obligations or debt. Staff proposed distributing the remaining fund balance of $1.136 million, with approximately $136,000 going to Tarrant County and roughly $1 million transferred to the city's Strategic Initiatives Fund for future one-time capital or programmatic needs. - Tree Trimming Notices: Councilmember Malone expressed concern about over 200 property owners receiving notices to trim trees despite the summer heat and associated costs. City Manager Jason noted the notices were prompted by fire apparatus access issues. Staff agreed to investigate a potential one-time city-assisted program and pause enforcement pending council discussion on August 24. - Council Comments on Budget and Safety: Mayor Pro Tem Mike Witt praised the staff's budget presentation for its transparency. Councilmembers discussed school starting, asking for police presence at intersections, the Citizens Police Academy, and community events. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Unanimous approval of the July 27, 2026 meeting minutes. - Item 11A (Appraisal Roll) Accepted: Council voted unanimously to accept the 2026 certified appraisal roll and directed staff to use the values in required tax rate and budget calculations. - Item 11B (Maximum Tax Rate) Proposed: Council unanimously passed a record vote (roll call vote: Councilmembers Malone, Alison, Witt, and Curtis voting aye) to propose a maximum tax rate of $0.609494 per $100 valuation and set the public hearing and adoption vote for August 24, 2026, at 6:30 PM at City Hall. - Item 11C (TIRZ 1) Terminated: The ordinance terminating the TIRZ was approved unanimously. Staff was directed to complete closeout, distribute the proportional funds to Tarrant County, and transfer the remaining city portion to the Strategic Initiatives Fund. - Item 11D (RHDC Appointments) Approved: Council appointed a new slate of members to the Richland Hills Development Corporation Board: Councilmembers Roland Govias, John Skeer, and Mike Witt, along with citizen members Doug Knowlton, Lynette Hart, and Bill Garrison. The appointments were approved unanimously. - Service Award Presented: Cinthia Mendieta, Recreation Supervisor, was recognized for five years of service, particularly her work coordinating city special events.

The Richland Hills City Council held a regular meeting on July 27, 2026, beginning with a work session at 5:31 PM, followed by executive session, and then the regular session at 6:22 PM. The meeting covered the proposed FY 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Program, FY 2027 tax rate options, the FY 2027 operating budget, and an interlocal agreement with Tarrant County for the Booth Calloway Road reconstruction. The council also took action on several routine items. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as presented, which included: - Excusing the absence of Councilmember Roland Goveas from the June 8, 2026 regular meeting. - Approving the minutes from the June 22, 2026 regular City Council meeting. No items were removed for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the citizen comments portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - Proposed FY 2027–2031 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP): - Staff presented a CIP with 10 total projects: three tier-one (scoring 75 or above) and seven tier-two (scoring 60–75). Tier-one projects include Booth Calloway Road ($17.2 million), Cecil Drive, and Spruce Park Drive. Funding sources include debt/CO proceeds, external partners (federal and Tarrant County), utility fund cash, and RHDC (Type B sales tax) funds. The total program is heavily weighted toward Booth Calloway, which constitutes 86% of the proposed spending. - A splash pad project originally included was recommended for removal by the Infrastructure Committee due to persistent operational failures; funding would instead be redirected to enhance the playground at The Link. Council members expressed strong support for this change. - A drainage stabilization project at Hoven Camp ($865,000) was also discussed. - The council adopted the CIP unanimously after a public hearing. - Proposed FY 2027 Tax Rate Options: - Staff presented three options: the no new revenue rate, the voter approval rate, and the de minimis rate. The de minimis rate (0.600068 total) would generate an additional $500,000 in M&O revenue but carries a risk of a petition election if 5% of registered voters (approximately 50 people) request one within 90 days of adoption. The recommended approach is to use the de minimis rate while drawing down $745,000 from the debt service fund balance to keep the interest and sinking (I&S) rate lower (0.1343 instead of 0.1671). Council members expressed support for the de minimis rate, citing the city's financial needs and low probability of a petition. - Proposed FY 2027 Operating Budget: - Staff reviewed major funds: General Fund (revenues $9.5M, expenditures $9.9M, deficit partly due to flat sales tax and increased personnel costs), Crime Control District (projected $500,000 deficit), Road and Street Fund (fully allocated to mill and overlay work), Type B Sales Tax (RHDC), Utility Fund (needs rate adjustment due to Fort Worth pass-through increases of 15% water and 18% wastewater), Drainage Utility Fund, and Debt Service Fund. - No pay increases are currently included; staff proposed one-time compensation options for public safety and other employees using the Strategic Initiatives Fund, with safeguards such as retention requirements. Council discussed the challenge of competing with neighboring cities that do not pay Social Security tax. - Interlocal Agreement for Booth Calloway Road Reconstruction: - The council approved a resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with Tarrant County for $5,821,025 in funding from the 2006 and 2021 Transportation Bond Programs. The funds were originally allocated for Glenview but are being reallocated to Booth Calloway. Staff clarified that $99,000 of that amount has already been spent, leaving an effective match of approximately $5.7 million. The agreement is 50% reimbursement-based, with about $410,000 in discretionary funds available immediately without matching. The item will go to Tarrant County Commissioner's Court on August 18, 2026. - TIRZ Dissolution (Withdrawn): - The item regarding the dissolution of Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Number One was withdrawn because the required action is an ordinance, not a resolution. It will be brought back at a future meeting as an ordinance. Key Outcomes - Adopted the Proposed FY 2027–2031 Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (motion carried unanimously). - Approved the Interlocal Agreement with Tarrant County for Booth Calloway Road Reconstruction (motion carried unanimously). The city manager is authorized to execute the agreement and related documents. - Withdrew the TIRZ Dissolution item; to be re-presented as an ordinance. - Council provided direction to proceed with the de minimis tax rate and to develop one-time compensation options for staff to be presented at a future public hearing on the budget. - The next steps include publishing tax rate notices, holding public hearings in August, and adopting the budget in late August/early September.

The Richland Hills City Council held a regular meeting on June 22, 2026, starting with a work session at 5:30 PM and the regular session at 7:36 PM. The council discussed financial updates, IT infrastructure replacement, a five-year capital improvement plan, and various other items. Multiple resolutions were approved, and a citizen comment was heard. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the June 8, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Garrison (resident, 3616 Landy Lane) encouraged participation in the Richland Hills Parade Band for the U.S. Semiquincentennial and announced a meeting on June 27, 2026 at 9:30 AM at the City Marketplace to organize live music for the parade. Requested a vehicle/trailer volunteer and suggested combining the band with the city council entourage. Work Session Discussions - Financial Update (Item 2B): Finance staff reported that general fund revenues are tracking below budget, with sales tax about $1.5 million short of the $4.9 million projection. Year-end net revenue is projected at negative $1.1 million, offset by eliminating the strategic initiatives fund transfer. Fund balance is expected to end at about $3 million, with a 90-day reserve of $2.4 million, leaving $527,000 above policy minimum. Staff noted the same budget pressure will continue into FY2027 unless the de minimis tax rate is adjusted (potential $500,000 additional revenue). City financial advisor Marty Shu (Hilltop Securities) presented a "Bonds 101" overview, explaining general obligation bonds and certificates of obligation, and estimated the city has $2.5 million in debt capacity within the current I&S tax rate without a tax increase. A $5 million bond over two years would require a 5.7 cent I&S rate increase. - IT Infrastructure Replacement (Item 2C): Staff presented three options: a seven-year Meter managed infrastructure subscription ($43,763/year), a Fortinet network equipment purchase ($208,000 via TIPS contract), and Dell server/storage equipment ($388,451). The combined total for purchase options is about $597,000. Staff recommended purchasing Fortinet and Dell equipment using oil and gas fund reserves, with a reimbursement resolution to allow future debt proceeds to reimburse the general fund. This approach is cheaper over seven years than the Meter lease and avoids operational expense. Council discussed support, warranties, and remote management capabilities. - Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (Item 2D): Staff presented a draft project list with 45+ projects scored using a nine-criteria framework (public health, regulatory compliance, infrastructure condition, etc.). Top-ranked project: Cecil Drive reconstruction (design underway, bids in September). Other high priorities include TPO roof at The Link, Booth Callaway streetscape (with $2 million in potential federal funds), and Creek Trail Park (flooding damage, playground closures). Total tier-one projects estimated at $13.6 million. Available funding includes $2.5 million in debt capacity and $5.2 million in unspent 2023 bond proceeds and savings. Staff proposed a 10-year outlook with a five-year funded plan to be presented July 27, 2026. Discussion Items (Regular Session) - Permitting and Inspection Services Strategic Discussion (Item 8C): Staff reviewed the 10-year contract with Bureau Veritas (BV), which has a $100,000 annual cap but exceeded it in FY2024-25 ($117,000) due to new home builds. Revenues from permits were $109,000 that year. Staff identified issues with inspection oversight (setbacks, building heights not checked initially) and communication challenges. Three alternative providers were preliminarily evaluated: Atlas Municipal, Willdan, and Metro Code. Council directed staff to continue exploring alternatives, emphasizing the need for improved communication, local code compliance, and cost-effectiveness. Councilmember Skeeter shared a negative personal experience with BV. Staff will return with refined options. - Major Project Updates (Item 8B): - Street Projects (6 Streets, 2023 CO bonds): Substantial completion reached; contractor finishing punch list. Key issue: sod replacement required rework due to inadequate watering. $1.5 million in savings realized from not needing full underground utility replacement on all segments. Cecil Drive next project. - Park Restrooms: Kate Baker restroom foundation poured, block delivered, masonry underway; expected completion by August 2026. Rosebud Park restroom delayed; Wi-Fi tower installed, transformer upgraded; expected completion by October 2026. - Street Sweeping: Staff reported limited effectiveness, dust, and resident complaints. Council expressed dissatisfaction; staff will explore other vendors or consider discontinuing the service. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Resolution 7A (CIP Framework): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 7B (Meter Network Subscription): Motion to table indefinitely passed unanimously. - Resolution 7C (Fortinet Network Equipment, not to exceed $210,000): Approved 4-1 (Councilmember Skeeter dissented). Actual quote $208,000; funding from oil and gas fund reserves. - Resolution 7D (Reimbursement Resolution for future tax notes): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 7E (Dell Servers and Equipment): Approved unanimously, with amendment to cap spending at $388,451.74 (actual quote). - Council Comments: Pro Tem Witt read community interest items including summer programs, events, and the Red, White & You parade on July 4, 2026. - Meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.