Public Meetings - Round Rock, Texas

The Round Rock City Council met on October 10, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included citizen communication, proclamations for Community Planning Month and Indigenous Peoples Day/Native American Heritage Month, a staff presentation on the annual update of the Round Rock 2030 Comprehensive Plan, approval of consent agenda items, and several resolutions and an ordinance. All votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Parson (2301 Vindriff Way) expressed gratitude to the Mayor and City Council for their service, specifically thanking Mayor Craig Morgan for his message of unity and diversity. He did not address any agenda item. Proclamations - E1: Proclaiming October 2024 as Community Planning Month – Bradley (Planning and Development Services) accepted the proclamation and thanked the council for support. Councilmembers commended the planning staff. - E2: Proclaiming October 14, 2024, as Indigenous Peoples Day and November 2024 as National Native American Heritage Month – Pamela Anderson (Round Rock Historic Preservation Commission) accepted the proclamation and noted the commission's commitment to inclusive history. Discussion Items - F1: Annual Update for the Round Rock 2030 Comprehensive Plan – Bradley presented an update including: - Housing report establishing baseline housing stock (heavily single-family oriented) and missing middle housing types. - Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) survey: low response from HOAs; most ADU interest is for multi-generational households; deed restrictions often prohibit ADUs. - Progress on 12 policy areas (quality of life, economic development, downtown, neighborhoods, historic preservation, mobility, etc.). - Councilmember questions focused on ADUs, missing middle housing, and potential code changes. The report will be considered for future policy discussions. Consent Calendar - G1: Approval of minutes from September 12, 2024 and September 26, 2024 city council meetings. - G2: Ordinance amendment regarding residential, non-residential, and downtown commercial district garbage rates (second reading). - Both items approved unanimously by roll call (Councilmember Montgomery absent). Key Outcomes - H1: Resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with Texas Municipal League pool to form a joint cyber liability and data breach response self-insurance fund. Approved unanimously. - H2: Resolution authorizing a five-year, $750,000 contract with Wholesale Electric Company for building maintenance, repair, and operations supplies. Approved unanimously. - H3: Resolution authorizing supplemental contract No. 2 with HDR Engineering for the County Road 112 project (east segment), including additional engineering for intersection tie-in and signal at Paloma Lake. Approved unanimously. - H4: Resolution awarding a $26,835,030 contract to Joe Bland Construction LLC for the Red Bud Lane North widening project (four-lane divided roadway from US 79 to SH 122). Approved unanimously. - I1: Ordinance (first reading) amending Chapter 4 of the Code of Ordinances to repeal certain permit/license fees and change measurement requirements for alcoholic beverage sales from property-line-to-doorway to property-line-to-property-line, aligning with state law. Approved unanimously, and second reading dispensed with unanimously. Council Comments - Councilmembers Lee, Flores, Fleming, and Mayor Pro Tem Stevens each said "Good night, Round Rock." Mayor Morgan closed the meeting.

The Round Rock City Council held a packet briefing on October 8, 2024, at 7:30 AM in the City Council Chambers to review agenda items for the upcoming October 10, 2024 City Council meeting. The meeting began with roll call (all members present), followed by citizen communication with no speakers. Staff then presented briefings on several items, including proclamations, the consent agenda, resolutions, and an ordinance. Council members asked clarifying questions. The meeting adjourned at 7:38 AM. Consent Calendar - Staff mentioned the consent agenda but did not detail specific items. No discussion or action was taken on the consent agenda at this briefing. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the Citizen Communication portion. Discussion Items - H1: Resolution Authorizing Agreement with TML for Cyber Liability Insurance Fund – Staff presented the item to create a separate fund for cyber liability insurance, requiring TML's agreement to secure better rates from carriers. The Mayor and Council thanked the retiring HR director for their service. No questions were raised. - H2: Resolution Authorizing Agreement with Wholesale Electric Company – Staff presented a five-year, $750,000 trades contract with Wholesale Electric for electrical services (switch gear, lights, etc.), similar to an existing contract with Elliott that is expiring. The contract provides competition. No questions were raised. - H3: Resolution Authorizing Supplemental Contract No. 2 with HDR – Staff presented a $154,324 supplemental contract for engineering work on the CR112 East project, including intersection changes and signal design at CR 110. Councilmember Stevens asked about the presence of a traffic signal at Paloma Lake Boulevard and CR 112; staff indicated they would check on that. The item was noted for further information. - H4: Resolution Authorizing Contract with Joe Bland for Red Bud North Construction – Staff reported that Joe Bland was the low bidder on the Red Bud North construction project at $26,835,030. The company has an extensive history, having completed roughly $70 million in work in 2024 with $250 million in pending work. Council expressed no concerns. - Ordinance Amending Chapter 4 (Code of Ordinances) – Repealing Alcohol Beverage Permit and License Fees – Staff explained that Senate Bill 577 (passed in the last legislative session) removed the ability of local governments with a public health district to collect fees from businesses for alcohol beverage licenses or permits. The ordinance updates the city code to mirror state law and also clarifies measurement distances from hospitals, schools, or churches. No questions were raised. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; all items were presented as briefings for the October 10, 2024 City Council meeting. Council members appeared receptive and did not express opposition to any item. Further information on the CR 112 signal question was requested by Councilmember Stevens.

The City Council met on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting featured updates on the Chamber’s five-year economic development strategic plan and the Sports Management and Tourism department, followed by a consent agenda, numerous resolutions, and two ordinances. All actions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - F.1 – Authorized an agreement with Firetrol Protection Systems, Inc. for fire suppression and alarm system repair, maintenance, inspection, and installation services. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during Citizen Communication. Discussion Items - E.1 – Economic Development Strategic Plan Update - Barry Matherly of Hickey Global presented early findings from stakeholder interviews and a community survey. Key priorities identified: recruiting companies, workforce/education, quality of life, maximizing limited land, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure. The community sees itself as having a strong business environment, excellent schools, and high quality of life. Long‑term vision (5–7 years) is to become a major regional hub. The consulting team also presented industry cluster analysis, noting that Round Rock has a rare concentration of growing industries (both traded and local). Discussions included water supply concerns linked to large industrial users, the impact of data centers on power and water resources, and innovative land‑control strategies (e.g., exclusive options). The final report is expected in the next few weeks. - E.2 – Sports Management and Tourism Department Update - Director Chad reported on the past year’s activities: 3,600 participants in local sports programs, 63 weekend tournaments at the Sports Center, 60 weekend events at the Multi‑Purpose Complex, and a total economic impact of $558.7 million in travel spending, 5,300 jobs, and $22.1 million in tax revenue. Construction updates were provided for the Dell Diamond visitors clubhouse, the new visitor center (Griffith building), the Sports Center expansion (parking nearly complete, pier drilling underway), the Multi‑Purpose Complex (pre‑construction, groundbreaking late 2025/early 2026), and Forest Creek Golf Course (greens recovery after algal issues, new equipment improving fairways). Councilmember Montgomery asked about potential exit surveys for tournament visitors to gauge hotel and restaurant quality; staff agreed to explore the idea. Key Outcomes - G.1 – Approved a three‑year extension (not to exceed $1,299,000) with Arsenal Advertising, LLC for communication and marketing services supporting the Go Round Rock and Sports Capital Texas brands. (Unanimous) - G.2 – Approved an amended cooperative agreement with the Williamson County and Cities Health District to align budget cycles. (Unanimous) - G.3 – Approved the fifth Meet and Confer Agreement with the Round Rock Officers Association, effective through September 30, 2027, including market‑driven pay adjustments and increased sick‑time payouts for longevity. (Unanimous; officer Ashley Daly expressed gratitude on behalf of the association.) - G.4 – Nominated Laura Weber for reappointment to the Williamson Central Appraisal District Board of Directors. (Unanimous) - G.5 – Approved a contract with GGA Christmas LLC for holiday décor and lighting (not to exceed $900,000), with the 2024 layout similar to last year. (Unanimous) - G.6 – Approved an amended Interlocal Agreement for the Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC) to streamline new agency admissions by giving authority to the executive board. (Unanimous) - G.7 – Approved a first amendment to the Old Settlers Park Buildout Project construction manager agreement to authorize pre‑work for long‑lead items (e.g., glass for the new recreation center and multi‑purpose complex). (Unanimous) - G.8 – Approved a $3 million standard trades contract with Musco Sports Lighting, LLC for sports lighting products and installation at Old Settlers Park. (Unanimous) - G.9 – Ratified the Round Rock Transportation and Economic Development Corporation’s amendment to the Transportation Capital Improvement Program, allocating $29.5 million for three projects: Red Bud Lane North, Old Settlers Boulevard, and Wyoming Springs. (Unanimous) - G.10 – Authorized the use of eminent domain to acquire a 0.0460‑acre fee simple parcel from MS Realty Holdings, LLC for the North Mays Gap project. (Unanimous; the required state language was read.) - G.11 – Approved a $25,917,630.47 contract with Capital Excavation Company for the Wyoming Springs Segment 1 project (Sam Bass to Creekbend Boulevard). (Unanimous; discussion noted the company’s good reputation and experience.) - G.12 – Approved an amendment to the subrecipient agreement with Williamson County for the Regional Water Supply Segment A project, allowing flexibility to use $2.9 million in federal ARPA funds for a waterline extension or land purchase for a pump station and storage tank. (Unanimous) - G.13 – Approved Change Order No. 4 ($162,000) with Austin Underground, Inc. for the Lake Creek Wastewater Line Replacement Project, covering additional work required by Union Pacific Railroad to bore under the tracks. (Unanimous) - G.14 – Approved rate increases for residential and commercial refuse collection (3% CPI adjustment) and a change to bulk pickup: effective November 1, 2024, residential monthly rates rise from $23.08 to $23.67; starting January 1, 2025, bulk pickup will be on‑call (one free 5‑cubic‑yard pickup per year per address) rather than four scheduled Saturdays in April. Staff and Republic Services representatives discussed education efforts and monitoring. (Unanimous) - H.1 – Approved on first reading an ordinance amending Chapter 32 to implement the new garbage rates. (Unanimous; second reading required.) - H.2 – Approved on first reading an ordinance consolidating the Transportation Department and the Utilities and Environmental Services Department into a single Public Works Department. The second reading was dispensed with by unanimous vote. (Unanimous)

The Round Rock City Council held a work session on September 24, 2024, to discuss and receive staff briefings on multiple agenda items intended for the September 26, 2024 regular meeting. Topics included extensions of marketing and holiday lighting contracts, police officer meet and confer agreement, solid waste rate adjustments, stormwater infrastructure projects, and departmental reorganization. No public comments were made. Discussion Items - G1 - Marketing Agreement Extension with Arsenal: Staff presented a three-year extension of the agreement with Arsenal, the advertising and marketing arm for the "Go Round Rock" brand and sports tourism. The extension is valued at $433,000 per year, not to exceed $1,299,000. Council discussed digital campaigns and the firm's ongoing strategic services. - G2 - Amendment to Health District Cooperative Agreement: An amendment to the agreement with the Williamson County Cities and Health District to align their budget cycle with the city's fiscal year starting October 1. Councilmember Ortega inquired about city involvement in budget review; staff confirmed representation on the board. - G3 - Police Officer Association Meet and Confer Agreement: The fifth meet and confer agreement with the Round Rock Police Officers Association, effective through September 30, 2027, includes market-driven salary adjustments across all steps and ranks for FY 2025-2027, and increased sick time payouts on separation. The agreement was overwhelmingly approved by the membership. - G4 - Nomination for Appraisal District Board: Council discussed the nomination of Laura Weber to the Williamson Central Appraisal District Board of Directors, noting her strong performance. - G5 - Holiday Lighting Contract with GGA Christmas LLC: A new three-year contract for downtown holiday lighting and decor, not to exceed $900,000, including installation, removal, and potential expansion. The previous vendor had responsiveness issues. Council discussed repair responsibilities and electrical infrastructure assessment. - G6 - Interlocal Agreement for Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC): An amendment to streamline the process for adding new member agencies, allowing the executive board to approve new members. Round Rock has a seat on the executive board. Council discussed the value of the intelligence sharing network. - G7 - Old Settlers Park Construction Allowance Replenishment: Replenishment of a $500,000 allowance in the construction manager at risk contract, previously used to order long-lead items (bridge and underpass) to maintain schedule. - G8 - Lighting Contract with Musco Sports: A trade contract to standardize lighting controls at Old Settlers Park, leveraging a local representative. - G9 - Type B Board Additional Allocation for Transportation Projects: Request for an additional $29.5 million from the Type B board for three projects: Red Button North, Old Settlers Boulevard, and Wyoming Springs. Council requested clear presentation to avoid confusion about cost increases. - G10 - Eminent Domain Authorization for North Mays Project: Authorization to proceed with eminent domain for two parcels in the North Mays project, continuing negotiations. - G11 - Wyoming Springs Project Bid Award: Discussion of the low bid from Capital Excavation at $25,917,630 for the Wyoming Springs project. Council expressed concerns about using low-bid method given past issues with other contractors, and discussed moving toward Competitive Sealed Proposal (CSP) for future projects. Staff noted they are evaluating all procurement methods. - G12 - ARPA Funds Amendment for Water Line: Amendment to a subrecipient agreement with Williamson County to allow flexibility in using remaining $2.9 million in ARPA funds for either extending a water line under SH 130 or purchasing land for a pump station and storage tank. - G13 - Change Order for Wastewater Line Under Railroad: A $162,000 change order to Austin Underground for additional inspection and survey services required by Union Pacific Railroad to complete a bore under McNeil Road. - G14 - Solid Waste Rate Adjustment and Spring Cleanup Change: Proposed 3% CPI increase to residential, commercial, and downtown garbage rates, effective November 1, 2024. Also proposed changing the once-a-year spring bulk pickup to a scheduled on-call system (one pickup per year, limited to 5 cubic yards), effective January 1, 2025. Council discussed efficiency of collection methods and early morning pickups. - H1 - Ordinance Amending Garbage Rates: First reading of an ordinance to codify the rate increases. - H2 - Ordinance to Create Public Works Department: Ordinance amending various code chapters to combine Transportation and Utilities & Environmental Services into a single Public Works Department, following the departure of a director. The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval. Key Outcomes - Council discussed all items and provided direction to staff. Formal votes on resolutions and ordinances are expected at the September 26, 2024 regular meeting. - Staff will present the Type B allocation request and the Wyoming Springs bid award with additional context on cost phasing. - The solid waste rate increase and spring cleanup change will be brought for formal adoption at the September 26 meeting. - The public works department consolidation ordinance will be considered for approval.

The Round Rock City Council met on September 12, 2024, at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, adoption of the consent agenda, approval of the FY 2024-2025 budget and property tax rate, and a series of resolutions covering public safety technology, infrastructure projects, and interlocal agreements. All items on the agenda were approved unanimously. Proclamation - The Council proclaimed September 15 through October 15, 2024, as Hispanic Heritage Month in Round Rock. David Gordon of the Round Rock Amistad Club accepted the proclamation. Consent Calendar - F.1 Approved minutes from the August 22, 2024 meeting. - F.2 Approved an agreement with Ace Flooring Solutions, LLC for flooring installation and refinishing services. - F.3 Approved Change Order No. 1 with Fuquay, Inc. for the Cycle 3 – Basins 4 and 5 Manhole Rehabilitation Project. - F.4 Approved an ordinance amending Chapter 44 (water, sewer, reuse, and stormwater rates and deposit requirements) on second reading. A citizen, Ms. Conrad, spoke during public comment expressing concern about the rate increases, stating that residents are suffering from rising utility costs and asking for a breakdown of how water utility revenue is spent. City staff responded that the rates had not increased in over three years, that growth-related impact fees are paid by businesses, and that they would provide the requested breakdown. Ordinances - H.1 Adopted the FY 2024-2025 Annual Budget of $682.2 million on second reading. The budget includes $169 million in the general fund, 26 new staff (including 10 police officers and fire staff for new stations), $85 million for public safety, $37 million for parks and sports tourism, and $41 million for water/wastewater/storm drainage. The budget is the first year of a $1.3 billion community investment program, with 53% funded without debt. - H.2 Adopted the 2024 Property Tax Rate of $0.36 per $100 valuation (a 2.9 cent or 8.6% increase over the current rate of $0.342). This equates to an approximately $9 increase for the median homeowner. The rate is below the voter approval rate and is the lowest in the area. The increase is partly for voter-approved bond programs and public safety. - H.3 Approved an ordinance (first reading) increasing the City Manager’s authority to contract for pre-approved budgeted items from a lower amount to $350,000. A subsequent motion to dispense with the second reading was approved unanimously. Resolutions (G.1 – G.22) All resolutions were adopted unanimously. Key items include: - G.1 Authorized the City Manager to execute contracts for pre-approved budgeted items up to $350,000. - G.2 Ratified the property tax increase reflected in the FY 2024-2025 budget (state law requirement). - G.3 Approved a supplemental agreement with Witmer Public Safety Group for fire equipment (additional $200,000). - G.4 Approved a five-year, $4.386 million Software as a Service agreement with Tyler Technologies for a new public safety computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and records management system (RMS), replacing the current 10-year-old system. Funding includes $2 million from Congressman Carter’s office. - G.5 Approved a five-year, $4.446 million agreement with Axon Enterprises for body-worn camera and in-car camera system refresh and evidence storage. - G.6 Approved a $600,000 professional consulting agreement with Better Trees of Texas for tree broker services to secure tree stock for the Old Settlers Park project, addressing tree canopy loss from a freeze years ago. - G.7 Approved Change Order No. 5 ($208,396) with Patin Construction for the Heritage Trail West Project, covering painting of the spiral and rock placement. - G.8 Approved an agreement with TK Elevator Corporation for elevator modernization at the Baca Center (30-week lead time; ADA accessibility will be maintained). - G.9 Approved selection of Hensel Phelps Construction Company as Construction Manager at Risk for the Bob Bennett Complex Phases II, III, and IV project. - G.10 Approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Capital Metro for Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 program funds (FY 2025-2026). - G.11 Approved a second amendment to the interlocal agreement with Capital Metro for transit services, including fixed route and commuter service. Staff reported fixed route ridership was just over 50,000 in FY2018, peaked in 2019, declined during COVID, recovered slightly in 2022, and leveled off with a slight decrease in 2024 after eliminating Route 51. The paratransit program (Round Rock Rides) saw substantial increases after citywide expansion in July 2024. - G.12 Approved the competitive sealed proposal delivery method for the Chisholm Trail Road – South Project to allow flexibility in cost, timeline, and experience. - G.13 Approved a $13.12 million contract with Dan Williams Company for the County Road 112 West Project, well below the engineer’s estimate of over $20 million. - G.14 Approved Change Order No. 3 ($377,334) with Jordan Foster Construction for the Kenney Fort Boulevard Segment 4C Project, primarily due to excavation/embankment discrepancies. - G.15 Approved a reimbursement agreement with Google Fiber, Inc. for conduit installation related to the Gattis School Road Segment 3 Project (estimated $172,268 reimbursement). - G.16 Approved a Rule 11 Settlement Agreement with Market Plaza, LLC for acquisition of 0.064 acre fee simple and 0.159 acre temporary construction easement needed for Gattis School Road Segment 6 (total settlement $415,000; additional $229,835). - G.17 Approved a real estate contract with Menfi A. Management, LP for a 0.297 acre right-of-way parcel for Gattis School Road Phase 6 (additional $23,512; total $116,500). - G.18 Approved a $3.34 million contract with Austin Underground, Inc. for the SH29 Raw Water Line Relocation (I-35 to Wolf Ranch Pkwy) to relocate a 30-inch water line out of pavement. - G.19 Approved a $270,598 engineering services contract with Cobb Fendley & Associates for the SH45 and A.W. Grimes Wastewater Line Upsize Project, funded by developer payments. - G.20 Approved a $3.8 million contract with Royal Vista, Inc. for Round Rock West Area 5 Water, Wastewater, and Storm Drain Improvements Project (engineer’s estimate was $4.4 million). - G.21 Approved a $650,000 agreement with Zone Industries (Precision Pump Systems) for pumping equipment and repair at the regional wastewater plant (cost shared among four cities; Round Rock’s share 60%). - G.22 Approved a five-year, $1.25 million contract with Solenis, LLC for bulk flocculant polymer for the regional wastewater plant (cost shared among four cities). Appointments - I.1 Appointed Brian Coon as primary member and Gerald (last name not stated) as alternate member to the CAMPO Technical Advisory Committee. Key Outcomes - All agenda items (proclamation, consent agenda, ordinances, resolutions, and appointments) were approved unanimously with no dissenting votes. - The FY 2024-2025 budget of $682.2 million and property tax rate of $0.36 per $100 valuation were adopted. - The City Manager’s contracting authority was increased to $350,000. - Major technology investments: new CAD/RMS system (Tyler Technologies) and refreshed body/vehicle cameras (Axon) were approved. - Multiple infrastructure contracts and change orders were authorized for road, water, wastewater, and park projects.

The Round Rock City Council met on September 10, 2024, to review capital projects, interlocal agreements, and public safety programs. Staff presented updates on a downtown elevator replacement, the Bob Bennett Complex construction manager selection, a transit agreement with CapMetro, multiple roadway and utility projects, and a budget update highlighting the Crisis Response Unit. Discussion Items - Elevator Replacement (Bacchus Elevator): Staff requested approval of $145,000 to replace an elevator at the parking garage, citing a 30-week lead time and 5–6 week installation. Staff will coordinate with Rick to minimize disruption. Council asked about programming longer door delays for handicapped access; staff agreed to review current delay settings. - Bob Bennett Complex Phase 2/3/4 – Construction Manager at Risk: Staff recommended selecting Hensel Phelps as CMAR, after a close competition with Adolfson & Peterson. The fee is 3.25% with $25,000 pre-construction costs and a $425,000 initial contract. The project is estimated at five years. Hensel Phelps will work alongside Jacobs (architect/engineer). Council questioned the fee formula and the CMAR role; staff explained the competitive bidding process for subcontractors. - CapMetro Interlocal Agreement & Federal Funds: Staff presented a memorandum of understanding for direct receipt of federal funds and recommended a one-year extension of the fixed/commuter route services agreement. Council Member Brian requested ridership statistics for the Thursday meeting. - Chisholm Trail South Project (Sandbass Road to Sunset Drive): Staff recommended using a Competitive Sealed Proposal (CSP) to select a contractor, allowing flexibility on cost, timeline, and experience. A council member expressed hope that the Sunset Drive intersection and pedestrian crossing would receive careful consideration. Staff noted ADA ramp improvements, stamped concrete, and coordination with businesses to avoid the Christmas season. - County Road 112 Improvements: Staff reported the low bid of $13,119,712.35 from Dan Williams Company for converting two lanes to six divided lanes from AW Grimes to east of CR 117. The engineer's estimate was nearly $20 million; staff attributed the gap to conservative estimating and noted a tight bid band (highest bid $14.9 million) with 10 bidders. - Kenny Fort Boulevard 4C Change Order: Staff presented a change order with Jordan Foster totaling approximately $300,000 due to an engineer's calculation error on excavation/embankment, plus smaller items like riprap and signal adjustments. Council asked about mediation; staff clarified the cost would have been incurred regardless and is not being recovered from the engineer. - Gaddis School Road – Google Fiber Reimbursement: Staff requested approval of a reimbursement agreement with Google for installing conduit/ground boxes in the right-of-way, estimated at $172,000. - Gaddis School Road Segment 6 – Right-of-Way Purchases: Two purchases were discussed: (1) 2,788 sq ft from Mark Applause LLC for $229,835; (2) 0.297 acre at Gaddis/High Country for $23,512. A council member requested a map showing all Gaddis School segments. - Austin Underground Water Line Relocation: Staff recommended a $3.3 million contract to relocate a 30-inch raw water line near DB Wood Road, required by TxDOT's turn lane project. Six-month construction. Council discussed why older lines were placed in right-of-way; staff explained modern practice requires easements. - Wastewater Line Upsizing (SH-45): Staff proposed a $270,000 engineering contract with Cobb Finley to upsize a wastewater line using developer-impact fees. Work will be bored under SH-45 with no road disruption. - Round Rock West Rehab: Staff recommended a $3.8 million contract with Royal Vista for infrastructure improvements (water, wastewater, storm, roads) in Round Rock West; engineer's estimate was $4.4 million. - Regional Wastewater Plant Lift Station: Staff requested $650,000 with Zone Industries for one new 375 HP pump and repair of two existing pumps. Round Rock's share is 60%; partner cities share the rest. - Bulk Flocculant Polymer Supply: Staff recommended a five-year, $1.25 million contract with Solinus LLC for chemicals used in wastewater treatment; costs allocated annually based on flow. - CAMPO Technical Advisory Committee Appointments: Staff recommended appointing Brian Kuhn as primary and Gerald Polmar as alternate; Council also recognized Gary Hutter's service. - Budget Update & Crisis Response Unit (CRU): Fire department staff presented on the CRU, stating it improves service for mental health crises, reduces police calls for service, and allows officers to handle priority calls. The presentation was part of the budget discussion scheduled for Thursday night. Key Outcomes - Council discussed all items and asked clarifying questions; no formal vote was recorded in the provided transcript. - Several items are scheduled for formal action on Thursday night, including the Hensel Phelps CMAR contract and the budget update. - Staff committed to providing County Road / Gaddis segment maps, ridership statistics, and elevator door delay adjustments.

The Round Rock City Council met on August 22, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, appointment of a new city manager, approval of the FY 2024-2025 budget and tax rate, water and wastewater rate adjustments, and numerous resolutions related to infrastructure projects. All votes were unanimous (7-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the August 8, 2024 City Council meeting. - Authorized an agreement with Safeware, Inc. for public safety equipment. Public Comments & Testimony - Chance Reed and Greg Brill (Sleep in Heavenly Peace) introduced a new local chapter of the charity, which builds beds for children in need. They reported that 1,500-2,000 children in Round Rock ISD sleep on floors and invited community participation in a build event on September 14, 2024. Proclamations - Proclaimed August 2024 as "Children's Vision and Learning Month" in Round Rock. Dr. Nancy spoke about the importance of comprehensive eye exams, noting that school screenings miss up to 75% of vision problems. - Proclaimed August 1, 2024 as "Education Connection Day" in recognition of the organization's 15 years of literacy support in Round Rock ISD schools, where 250 volunteers served over 650 students last year. Appointments - Appointment of City Manager: Brooks Bennett was unanimously appointed as the next City Manager of Round Rock, effective December 8, 2024, succeeding retiring City Manager Lori Hadley. Council members and the public praised Bennett's long service and deep roots in the community. - Boards and Commissions: Approved a slate of appointments to the Transportation and Economic Development Corp., Planning and Zoning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Zoning Board of Adjustment/Building Standards, Ethics Review Commission, and Capital Improvements Advisory Commission. - Civil Service Commission: Reappointed Audrey Simmons to an unexpired term. - Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority: Appointed Councilmember Hilda Montgomery as the citizen director to the BCRUA Board of Directors. Discussion Items - Financial Policies (H1): Approved updated financial policies for FY 2024-25, including changes to reserve designations and an increase in the authorized purchase cap from $200,000 to $350,000. - Old Settlers Park Improvements (H2): Ratified the Type B Corporation's approval of $15 million in additional funding for multi-purpose apex fields and a track and field facility as part of the $225 million Old Settlers Park improvement project. Construction is expected to begin in late summer 2024 and take 3-4 years. - BCRUA Financing (H3): Authorized BCRUA to execute a $90.5 million financing agreement with the Texas Water Development Board (SWERT fund) for the Phase 2 raw water delivery project, including a deep water intake at Lake Travis. - Transit Grant (H4): Authorized submission of an application for FY 2024 Federal Transit Authority Section 5307 funds for public transit services. - Right-of-Way Acquisition (H5): Authorized purchase of 0.1872 acres from Weed Instrument Co. for the N. Mays Gap Road project. - Interlocal Agreements with Georgetown (H6, H7): Approved two interlocal agreements allowing Georgetown's electric and wastewater facilities to encroach on Round Rock-owned drainage and waterline easements. - Downtown Waterline Replacement (H8): Approved an engineering services contract with Waeltz & Prete, Inc. for replacement of small-diameter (1.5-2 inch) galvanized steel water mains in seven downtown locations. - Reuse Water Storage Tank (H9): Authorized a supplemental contract with BGE, Inc. for a 2 million gallon reuse ground storage tank project, with a $119,746 engineering contract. - AMI Meter System (H10): Approved a one-year extension of the agreement with HydroPro Solutions for automated meter infrastructure maintenance, adding $500,000 to the existing $1.8 million contract. - BCRUA Budget (H11): Approved the BCRUA FY 2024-2025 budget of $11.4 million, with Round Rock's share at $2.6 million for an estimated 6.5 million gallons per day. - Eminent Domain for BCRUA Phase 2 (H12-H14): Authorized the use of eminent domain for three parcels needed for electrical easements to power the BCRUA deep water intake pump station. The city is still negotiating but needs possession by January 2025. - Lease Agreement with Waste Specialties (H15): Approved a 12-month lease allowing Waste Specialties to use a city-owned property for dumpster painting in exchange for hauling away debris from the site. - Water, Wastewater, & Stormwater Rate Adjustments (I1): On first reading, approved a three-year rate adjustment for water (5% base charge increase/year, new fifth tier for high usage), wastewater (6% base increase/year, 2% volumetric increase), and a one-time $2/month increase in the stormwater fee (from $4.75 to $6.75). Also amended deposit waivers for certain customers. The total bill for a typical residential customer using 10,000 gallons water and 6,000 gallons wastewater would increase from $101.76 to $105.03 in FY25 (3.9%). - FY 2024-2025 Budget (I2): On first reading, adopted a $682.2 million budget, including a general fund of $169.2 million, 26 new staff positions, and $358 million in community investment. The budget funds 10 new police officers, 6 new firefighters, Old Settlers Park improvements, and other capital projects. - Property Tax Rate (I3): On first reading, adopted a tax rate of $0.36 per $100 valuation, an 8.6% increase over the no-new-revenue rate. For a median homeowner ($360,000 taxable value), this means an increase of $8.94/month ($107/year). The rate is the lowest among comparable Central Texas cities. Key Outcomes - All votes on the consent agenda, resolutions, and ordinances were passed unanimously (7-0). - Brooks Bennett appointed as City Manager, effective December 8, 2024. - First reading of the FY 2024-2025 budget and tax rate approved; second reading scheduled for a future meeting. - Water, wastewater, and stormwater rate increases approved on first reading. - Authorized eminent domain proceedings for three parcels related to BCRUA Phase 2 power line easements, contingent on failed negotiations. - Council recessed into executive session at 8:00 PM to discuss real property at the southwest corner of Kenney Fort and Old Settlers Park.

The Round Rock City Council held a packet briefing on August 20, 2024, at 7:30 AM in the Council Chambers to review and discuss agenda items for the upcoming City Council meeting on August 22, 2024. The session covered staff briefings, appointments, resolutions, an update on utility rates, and a detailed budget and tax rate presentation. No formal votes were taken; all items are set for action at the August 22 meeting. Consent Calendar - Councilmember Ortega raised a question regarding consent item F2, but no further details were provided. The consent calendar was otherwise accepted without comment. Discussion Items - Appointments (G1-G4): The Council subcommittee (Mayor Pro Tem Stevens, Councilmembers Ortega and Flores) presented a slate of board appointments. The new process was praised. Specific appointments include: Audrey Simmons reappointed to the Civil Service Commission; Councilmember Montgomery appointed as citizen director of Brush Creek Regional Utility Authority (BCRUA); and confirmation of Brooks Bennett as the next City Manager, effective December 8, 2024, with contract negotiations authorized. - Financial Policies (H1): Staff reviewed annual updates to financial policies. Changes include clarifying the additional bonds test language for the HOT, Type B, and Sports Center funds, and increasing the authorized purchases list cap from $200,000 to $350,000 (subject to a future ordinance change). - Transportation Economic Development Corporation (H2): Resolution to authorize the creation of a project under the Type B corporation, previously approved by the board, for City Council ratification. - BCRUA SWIFT Funding (H3): Authorization for the second drawdown ($31.5 million) of a $90.5 million state water infrastructure financing program loan for the deep water intake project. The city will use the funds in tranches to benefit from an 18% interest rate discount. - FTA 5307 Grant (H4): Annual application for $1,129,796 in federal formula funds to support the transit program. - Mays Street Gaps Property Acquisition (H5): Authorization to execute a real estate contract for $225,000 for the Mays Street Gaps project near Jeffrey Way. - Interlocal Agreements with Georgetown (H6-H7): Two agreements for utility easements to allow Georgetown Electric to cross city water lines; no cost involved. - Engineering Services for Water Line Replacement (H8): Contract with Waltz & Preets for $166,000 to design replacements of small-diameter galvanized water pipes (1.5-2 inch) in seven alley locations. - Reuse Water Storage Tank Engineering (H9): Supplemental contract with BGE for $119,000 to re-package and re-bid construction of a 2-million-gallon tank at the wastewater treatment plant, timed with Bureau of Reclamation grant funding (25% match). - Master Meter Contract Extension (H10): One-year extension of the water metering system contract with Master Meter/pro Solutions for $500,000, covering meter purchases and maintenance. - BCRUA FY25 Budget (H11): Approval of Round Rock’s share of the utility authority budget, totaling $11.4 million (includes $8.8 million debt service and operational costs based on 6.5 million gallons per day flow). - Eminent Domain Authorization (H12-H14): For three easements needed by Pedernales Electric Cooperative for a power line to the new pump station. Deadline for land acquisition is January 2025; resolution authorizes condemnation if necessary. - Lease Agreement with Waste Specialties LLC (H15): 12-month lease allowing Republic Services (via subcontractor) to use a pole barn on the Birds Tract for dumpster painting. In return, Republic will provide and haul away roll-off dumpsters to clean up debris on the property at no cost to the city. - Utility Rate Update (I1-I2): Presentation on proposed three-year rate adjustments for water, wastewater, and stormwater. Water: base rate increase of 5% per year; revised tier structure with a new fifth super tier for usage over 34,000 gallons per month; volume rates adjusted for conservation. Wastewater: base rate increase of 6% per year. Stormwater: immediate $2 increase for residential (from $4.75 to $6.75) with commercial stepped increases. The average combined utility bill (water, wastewater, stormwater, garbage/recycling) would rise from $101.76 to $107.30 in year one (3.9% increase), then 2% and 2.1% in subsequent years. Deposit waivers proposed for moving existing customers, out-of-town customers with good standing letters, residents 65+ in good standing, and returning military personnel. - Budget and Tax Rate Update (I3, E1): City Manager Brooks Bennett and CFO Susan presented the FY2025 proposed budget ($169.2 million general fund) and tax rate. The proposed tax rate is 36.2 cents per $100 valuation, a 2.9-cent increase over the current 34.2 cents. This increase is driven by voter-approved bond programs (May 2023) and additional public safety personnel (10 police officers, 6 firefighters). The median home (valued at $376,188) would see an increase of about $8.95 per month (8.6% over the no-new-revenue rate). Several state-required publications were discussed, with emphasis on the 8.6% effective increase for the typical taxpayer. A social media campaign has generated 21,000 impressions. Public hearings on the budget and tax rate will occur on August 22, with final adoption scheduled for September 12. Key Outcomes - All agenda items are recommendations for approval at the August 22 City Council meeting. No votes were taken during the packet briefing. - The utility rate ordinance and the budget/tax rate ordinances will be subject to public hearings on August 22, with second readings and final adoption on September 12.