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Summary
City Summary Table of Contents
Georgetown Century Plan
Georgetown’s Long-Term Planning Process........................................................................1
Century Plan Policy Statements, Goals and Strategies........................................................3
Annual Operating Plan Calendar of Events.........................................................................17
Organization
Organizational Chart ...........................................................................................................18
Community Profile
Overview .............................................................................................................................19
Historic Georgetown............................................................................................................19
Cultural Activities.................................................................................................................19
Recreation...........................................................................................................................20
Education ............................................................................................................................20
Georgetown – Then and Now ..........................................................................................................21
1
Georgetown’s Long-Term Planning Process
Georgetown Century Plan
The City of Georgetown is guided by a comprehensive strategic plan called the Georgetown
Century Plan. The Century Plan (the Plan) was created by a broad-based group of Georgetown
citizens, elected and appointed officials, and staff during the late 1980's. The Plan documents
and formalizes the goals and processes by which Georgetown will strive to enhance its quality of
life. Its foundation is the City’s mission statement and a set of 17 policy statements, which are
updated at least once every five years.
Mission Statement and Policy Statements
The City’s Mission Statement serves as a broad statement of purpose. There are seventeen
citizen defined policy statements intended to support the City's mission. Each describes in
specific terms a desired ending state or result. The Policy Statements are the vision of
Georgetown at its very best and represent the ultimate target at which all activities of the City are
aimed. Policy Statements are addressed with goals and strategies and assigned to each City
Division. Each goal represents a specific Council or citizen direction given toward achieving the
more general Policy Statement. Policy Statements may or may not have specific goals and
strategies planned for the upcoming fiscal year. More detailed planning and additional resources
may be required to identify the goals and determine the necessary strategies to achieve them.
Functional Plans
The Century Plan is further defined through periodic updates and through the development of
Functional Plan Elements that address the 17 policy statements. The Functional Plans are
created by citizen work groups and provide more detailed direction for accomplishing the Policy
Statements. Generally, one functional plan is prepared and adopted each year. Each Functional
Plan may address one or more policy statements. The policy guidance from each new Functional
Plan is incorporated into the Century Plan and determines each Policy Statement’s specific goals
and strategies. The Functional Plan elements adopted to date are:
Land Intensity Plan Transportation and Utilities Plan
Economic Development Strategic Plan Parks & Recreation Plan
Facilities and Services Plan Urban Design Plan
Airport Functional Plan Overall Transportation Plan
Downtown Master Plan
A planned update of the overall Century Plan Document is scheduled to begin in the upcoming
fiscal year.
Link to Annual Budget
The City staff and elected and appointed City Officials rely on the Policy Statements to provide
direction and guidance for recommending and authorizing the expenditure of public funds. The
budget is the Annual Operating Plan element of the Century Plan. It is prepared around the
17 policy statements, and the Functional Plans for each area set by the City Council at its budget
workshops. Community input is also a factor in determining use of resources. Not all Policy
Statements are addressed in each Annual Operating Plan element. The Annual Operating Plan
specifically defines the methods or processes by which the City Manager and City staff will go
about achieving the desired results for each policy statement.
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Goals, Strategies and Objectives
Goals represent specific outcomes that will promote or enhance Policy Statements. Strategies
are the specific actions needed to accomplish goals. Both goals and strategies are identified
through strategic planning sessions with the senior management team and key division staff
guided by the Century Plan and Council priorities. The Annual Operating Plan Element is a
detailed look at each operational area, or department, within the City's divisions.
Each division/department within the City has developed it own unique set of Major Department
Goals which enhance its purpose and connection to the Policy Statements. Annually, each
department reviews and updates these goals and determines its Major Department Goals for
the upcoming year. Major Department Strategies are specific plans to achieve Major
Department Goals, which in turn reflect both the various Policy Statements and the specific
purpose of the particular department. Strategies may require multiple years to be achieved.
Five-Year Plans
The City uses a five-year planning horizon to prepare the capital projects program and financial
forecasts. The five-year capital projects program and the anticipated funding sources are
incorporated into and adopted with the Annual Operating Plan. The capital planning process is
discussed in more detail with the Capital Projects section. Five-year financial forecasts are
prepared to guide policy and priority decisions of staff and Council. The financial forecasts meet
fiscal and budgetary policies (see Reference Section) and are based on historical trends,
programs, and projects outlined during the other planning processes, and reasonable economic
and growth projections. The revenue forecasts from these models are included in the Financial
Summary section.
The following pages provide an overview of the Century Plan Policy Statements and the goals
and strategies planned for the upcoming year.
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City of Georgetown
Century Plan Policy Statements
2005/2006 Goals and Strategies
1.0 Policy Statement:
The community enjoys the benefits of well-planned land use in which conflicting needs are
balanced.
Community Development – Current Planning:
Goal: Support the implementation of a quality growth strategy which seeks to balance economic
expansion, the effective stewardship of natural resources, and quality of life concerns.
Strategy: Work closely with all stakeholders involved in the revitalization efforts for Williams
Drive Gateway redevelopment project.
Strategy: Continue work with the major stakeholders in the development of the Rivery Town
Center, Wolf Ranch and Cowan Springs developments.
Strategy: Develop a Conservation Subdivision ordinance to promote community well being and
uniqueness through well planned land use and preservation of natural features.
Community Development – Long Range Planning:
Goal: Promote growth management strategies to guide the City’s land use, transportation,
infrastructure, and economic development decisions that will provide long-term quality of life.
Strategy: Complete process for involuntary annexation of approximately 4,719 acres in various
locations contiguous to the current city limits.
Strategy: Manage consultant selection process for Comprehensive Plan update.
Strategy: Implement new Graphic Information System (GIS) Plan: “Phase II – Moving Toward
Enterprise GIS” including aerial photography update.
Management Services – City Council
Goal: Develop policies that enhance the quality of life for the community while preserving its unique
character and natural resources
Strategy: Adopt a conservation subdivision and landscape ordinance that will encourage the
preservation of green space.
Strategy: Complete involuntary annexation of approximately 4,719 acres in various locations
contiguous to the current city limits.
Management Services – City Manager’s Office
Goal: Promote revitalization and future economic growth of underdeveloped areas within the City.
Strategy: Implement the Master Plan for the Williams Drive Gateway redevelopment project.
Strategy: Work with Community Development to develop Conservation Subdivision and
Landscape ordinances to preserve natural features and protect green space within the City.
Strategy: Work with Community Development to update the City’s Comprehensive Plan to guide
development and preserve the character of the community.
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2.0 Policy Statement:
Georgetown’s natural and physical resources are managed so that citizens enjoy the benefits
of economic and social development.
Community Services – Convention & Visitors Bureau:
Goal: Promote the area's cultural, recreational, historical and educational attributes to a wide
audience.
Strategy: Utilize the visitgeorgetown.com website and new kiosk project to promote local
tourism products and offer special visitor incentives.
Community Services – Main Street Program:
Goal: Promote a positive image of the downtown and its cultural and historical attributes.
Strategy: Develop economic incentives to retain, expand and recruit downtown businesses.
Strategy: Encourage downtown building and business owners to maintain and or rehabilitate
their building by developing a list of design professionals to assist in the work.
Community Services - Parks:
Goal: Provide on-going maintenance and operation of City park system to provide beautiful, safe
parks and opportunities for personal growth.
Strategy: Install lights and 911 emergency call boxes on North San Gabriel River hike and bike
trail for citizen safety.
Strategy: Implement Phase Two of a large community park on the west side of IH35 to expand
recreational opportunities.
Community Services - Recreation:
Goal: Initiate, cultivate, and maintain effective partnerships with other departments, agencies,
organizations, and citizens to provide quality service to the City.
Strategy: Host Texas Amateur Athletic Federation Games of Texas in conjunction with other
cities in Williamson County.
Management Services – Economic Development:
Goal: Develop economic development programs that highlight and promote the elements
commonly held as the most important contributors to the quality of life of our community.
Strategy: Develop in-depth information on Georgetown’s workforce, key economic indicators,
business trends, etc. to strengthen both business retention and recruitment programs.
Strategy: Assist City Manager’s Office in implementing the Williams Drive Gateway Master Plan.
Police – Animal Services:
Goal: Promote the value of wildlife and peaceful coexistence except in extreme circumstances.
Strategy: Develop comprehensive wildlife information in an easily read format to disseminate to
customers encouraging the value of our wildlife resources.
3.0 Policy Statement:
City owned, sponsored or managed health and human services enhance the quality of life of
the citizens of Georgetown.
Georgetown Utility Systems - Administration:
Goal: Maintain quality utilities and transportation systems that promote well-planned development.
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Strategy: Begin regional wastewater implementation for the San Gabriel Basin.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Water Services - Wastewater:
Goal: Maintain or exceed all regulatory standards for wastewater service.
Strategy: Continue the transfer for the responsibility for Edwards Aquifer Testing from outside
contractors to City staff to reduce cost and promote synergy with maintenance and repair efforts.
Strategy: Implement Year 4 (of 8 year plan) of testing for Edwards Aquifer requirements, and
complete repairs identified in Year 3 of testing.
Finance & Administration – Utility Office – Sanitation:
Goal: Protect the environment and contribute to community cleanliness and appearance.
Strategy: Upgrade the Citizens’ Collection Station to a fully operational transfer station in order
to reduce costs by decreasing fuel use, reduce traffic in San Gabriel Park, and expand the
recycling drop off center.
Strategy: Expand offsite recycling opportunities by providing a recycling station in downtown
Georgetown.
Strategy: Create an E-waste Recycling Center at the Citizens’ Collection Station to provide a
local option for disposal of computers and other electronic waste.
Police – Animal Services:
Goal: Ensure that no pets in Georgetown are killed only because they are homeless.
Strategy: Utilize the new PETsMART store in Wolf Ranch as a base for pet adoptions, thus
increasing pet adoptions and reducing pet euthanasia.
Goal: Eliminate any significant threat of people contracting rabies in Georgetown.
Strategy: Continue promotion of pet license sales.
4.0 Policy Statement:
Prehistoric and historic resources are preserved, protected and promoted for the benefit of
the citizens of Georgetown.
Community Services – Main Street Program:
Goal: Maintain and increase the aesthetic appeal of the Downtown Overlay District by promoting
historic preservation and high quality design.
Strategy: Develop Downtown Marketing Plan to complement the objectives of the Downtown
Master Plan, the Branding initiative and the overall City goals as they pertain to the Downtown
Overlay District.
Goal: Enhance the unique character of the Downtown Overlay District through partnerships and
community involvement.
Strategy: Partner with the new Arts & Culture Board to increase the presence of art projects and
events in the Downtown Overlay District through continued implementation of the Downtown
Master Plan.
Community Development – Current Planning:
Goal: Support the implementation of a quality growth strategy which seeks to balance economic
expansion, the effective stewardship of natural resources, and quality of life concerns.
Strategy: Work with Finance Administration in developing a Historic Tax Abatement program
within the historic downtown.
Strategy: Continue coordination of staff on development projects within the Downtown Overlay
District to ensure a streamlined, expedited process.
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Finance & Administration – Administration:
Goal: Plan for the City’s future financial growth, thus protecting and enhancing the City’s quality of
life.
Strategy: Work with Community Development to develop a Historic Tax Abatement program
within the historic downtown.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Transportation Services – Stormwater Drainage:
Goal: Utilize the Regional Stormwater Master Plan (RSMP) by building detention ponds and
upgrading waterways as needed within the City.
Strategy: Construct water quality ponds on 2nd Street at Main and at College to alleviate
drainage issues in the downtown area.
Strategy: Repair historic retaining wall in San Gabriel Park.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Energy Services – Electric Operations:
Goal: Provide reliable, cost effective electric service for our customers.
Strategy: Continue to convert overhead facilities to underground facilities within the historic
downtown area.
5.0 Policy Statement:
All citizens have access to safe and adequate housing opportunities.
Management Services – City Council:
Goal: Develop policies that enhance the quality of life for the community while preserving its unique
character and natural resources.
Strategy: Develop an Affordable Housing Program based on recommendations of the Affordable
Housing Task Force appointed in 2004/05.
Strategy: Fund fee waivers for the Habitat for Humanity housing redevelopment project located
on 17th Street.
Management Services – City Manager’s Office:
Goal: Facilitate community activities to address public request for needs and services.
Strategy: Work with Affordable Housing Task Force to develop recommendations that ensure
that all citizens have safe, sanitary and affordable housing and facilitate self-sufficiency for
targeted populations within the community.
Community Development – Inspection Services - Code Enforcement:
Goal: Ensure that quality and safe land use is maintained through integrative code enforcement
activity within adopted ordinances.
Strategy: Improve the City’s image by reducing the amount of dangerous buildings through the
Dangerous Building ordinance.
Strategy: Improve the City’s image and public relations by increasing the number of code
violation notices by 50% through aggressive code enforcement.
Strategy: Initiate a review of all currently adopted nuisance codes and ordinances for updating
and readoption.
Strategy: Enhance the program for routine inspections to achieve 100 % commercial coverage
annually.
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6.0 Policy Statement:
City owned, sponsored or managed public information and education services enhance the
quality of life of the citizens of Georgetown.
Community Development – Inspection Services – Building Inspections:
Goal: Promote a cooperative effort with the building community to provide long-lasting, quality
structures and encourage use of the most current building codes for the community to reduce
insurance rates for the public.
Strategy: Conduct a public forum and ongoing educational sessions with developers and
construction contractors to review the permitting and inspection process, especially in the area of
affordable housing.
Goal: Promote the use of automated technology in the permit and inspection areas to streamline
process and reduce cost.
Strategy: Continue to research workflow processes, development tracking and technological
systems for construction permitting and inspections to increase efficiency for all users.
Community Services – Public Library:
Goal: Create opportunities for life-long learning.
Strategy: Initiate different, more cost-effective technology for providing internet access to the
public.
Finance and Administration – Accounting:
Goal: Provide financial information in the form, frequency and timeliness needed for management
decisions.
Strategy: Provide quarterly financial reports on the City’s website.
Strategy: Enhance capital projects budgeting and reporting to provide better information to
managers and the public.
Finance and Administration – Utility Office - Sanitation:
Goal: Increase participation in sanitation programs and events through proactive communication
with citizens.
Strategy: Continue to provide targeted community education on sanitation requirements and
recycling opportunities.
Strategy: Conduct five neighborhood clean up events in targeted areas of the community.
Strategy: Educate the public on the benefits of recycling, recycling opportunities available, and
how to take advantage of them.
Finance and Administration – Utility Office:
Goal: Increase public awareness of utility issues and topics though proactive communication with
customers.
Strategy: Implement an e-mail bill distribution option for customers who would rather receive
their bills electronically, as opposed to the US Postal System.
Management Services – Information Technology:
Goal: Provide timely and accurate public information via the City’s websites.
Strategy: Redesign all seven City websites to provide dynamic content and encourage e-
Commerce.
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Police – Support Services Bureau:
Goal: Reduce crime through public education and collaborative community efforts.
Strategy: Conduct training for students in Georgetown Independent School District (GISD)
related to bullying, gangs, drug and alcohol use, and peer pressure.
Strategy: Conduct training for Southwestern University students in areas of date rape,
dangerous drugs and hazing.
7.0 Policy Statement:
Citizens of Georgetown are well protected from crime and disorder, natural disasters and
emergencies.
Finance and Administration – Facilities Maintenance:
Goal: Provide quality maintenance of City of Georgetown public facilities which fosters a safe and
positive atmosphere for our employees and citizens.
Strategy: Provide oversight and project management for the construction of the library and Fire
Station.
Strategy: Improve security at the Animal Shelter and Parks Administration buildings by installing
security cameras.
Fire - Fire Administration:
Goal: Provide efficient and effective management of the Fire Department.
Strategy: Identify strategic locations for future fire station locations in the east and northwest
areas of the City.
Strategy: Research and identify the response levels, service delivery options and records
management needs of the Williamson County Emergency Services District (ESD) #8 for the
future contract for fire protection with the City of Georgetown Fire Department.
Strategy: Complete an Insurance Services Office (ISO) review of fire protection services, water
supplies, and dispatch services for a potential reduction in our Public Protection Classification.
Fire - Fire Operations:
Goal: Maintain an operational readiness level that will meet the emergency demands of the
community.
Strategy: Apply for grand funding for the national standard candidate physical ability testing
(CPAT) program.
Strategy: Replace the hydraulic rescue tool sets due to aging and lack of reliability on
emergency scenes.
Strategy: Implement year 2 of 3 year staffing plan by hiring 5 additional firefighters for relief
staffing.
Goal: Ensure the fire protection needs of the community are efficiently delivered through fire station
design and placement, apparatus response and type and staff performance and capabilities.
Strategy: Design a comprehensive master plan for a fire training facility.
Management Services – Human Resources:
Goal: Attract, retain, and develop a quality workforce.
Strategy: Implement 2005/06 Employee Benefit Plan, which includes increasing employee
retirement contribution from 6% to 7% and increasing the City’s contribution to employee
dependent and family health insurance.
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Strategy: Coordinate an employee job classification review project.
Strategy: Facilitate a market salary adjustment plan to match employee compensation to 95% of
Round Rock’s pay plan.
Police – Administrative Services Bureau:
Goal: Ensure employees receive training as mandated by the Texas Commission of Law
Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (TCLEOSE).
Strategy: Provide training for all employees on quality customer service and collaborative
problem solving techniques.
Strategy: Develop a first-line supervisors program.
Goal: Deliver quality police services to the citizens of Georgetown.
Strategy: Implement year 2 or 3 year staffing plan by hiring 6 additional police officers to
improve service delivery in area parks, as well as, through creation of a 5th police district within
the City.
Police – Animal Services:
Goal: Ensure that persons walking on public property in the city are free of reasonable concern for
being threatened by dogs running at large.
Strategy: Expand and enhance a proactive approach to “leash law” enforcement through routine
code enforcement patrols.
Police – Field Operations Bureau:
Goal: Promote a safe, drug free community through education and enforcement.
Strategy: Coordinate multi-jurisdictional narcotics investigation to target illegal drugs within the
Georgetown Independent School District.
Goal: Improve partnerships with the community through collaborative problem solving efforts to
reduce crime.
Strategy: Reduce the number of forged and counterfeit check cases through undercover
investigations for local businesses.
Strategy: Develop and provide fraud and forgery prevention training to new and existing
businesses.
Strategy: Reduce the number of calls for service to specific apartment complexes through
collaborative problem solving and community policing strategies.
Police – Support Services Bureau:
Goal: Resolve traffic issues through prevention, education, and enforcement.
Strategy: Utilize comprehensive traffic management plan to identify and reduce problem areas
associated with traffic.
Strategy: Provide post-incident debriefing training and education for all department members.
8.0 Policy Statement:
Parks, open space, recreation facilities and services, and social and cultural activities
contribute to an enhanced quality of life for the citizens of Georgetown.
Community Services – Public Library:
Goal: Provide open and equal access to information.
Strategy: Continue to work with the Library architect to assure that possible design flaws are
addressed during the construction of the new library.
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Strategy: Assist the Georgetown Library Foundation and the Friends of the Georgetown Library
in actively pursuing a campaign to raise funds for furnishing the new library.
Community Services - Parks:
Goal: Continue to maintain a high quality park system that is recognized at both the state and
national level.
Strategy: Complete the Garey Park Master Plan for development of a 525 acre regional park that
preserves the beauty and richness of the property.
Strategy: Continue playground equipment replacement in City parks.
Community Services - Recreation:
Goal: Consistently meet or exceed the expectations of our customers through proactive
communications and the continuous improvement of our services.
Strategy: Renovate the River Ridge and Williams Drive swimming pools to bring them up to
date with modern filtration systems.
Finance & Administration - Facilities:
Goal: Provide quality maintenance of City public facilities which foster a safe and positive
atmosphere for our employees and citizens.
Strategy: Begin design for expansion of the Recreation Center.
Strategy: Coordinate the expansion and renovation of the City’s Community Center in San
Gabriel Park.
9.0 Policy Statement:
Citizens and commercial goods move safely and efficiently throughout all parts of the City.
Community Development – Long Range Planning:
Goal: Promote growth management strategies to guide the City’s land use, transportation,
infrastructure, and economic development decisions that will provide long-term quality of life.
Strategy: Monitor and participate in regional transportation through the Austin-San Antonio
Corridor Council, Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO), Capital Area
Planning Council (CAPCO) and Williamson County.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Administration:
Goal: Provide reliable utility services and efficient transportation systems that protect the
community and reflect its values.
Strategy: Assist in developing the goals and direction of the newly created Georgetown
Transportation Advisory Board to assist efforts in funding roadway projects.
Strategy: Update 10-year Transportation Plan process for the Georgetown Transportation
Enhancement Corporation (GTEC).
Strategy: Complete right of way acquisitions needed for planned GTEC and City transportation
projects.
Strategy: Develop plan for assuming responsibility for signalization of traffic lights within the city.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Systems Engineering:
Goal: Provide superior quality inspection and quality control for Capital Improvement Projects (CIP)
and development infrastructure constructions.
Strategy: Develop standards and specifications for electronic documentation of infrastructure
files and plans.
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Strategy: Expand the engineering, geospatial and inspection capability of the department to
meet the needs of its customers.
Strategy: Implement a business process for maintaining the pavement management plan as
part of asset management.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Transportation Services – Streets:
Goal: Protect the investment in the public transportation system through preventive maintenance
and on-going rehabilitation of streets and sidewalks.
Strategy: Begin implementation of maintenance programming identified by the recently
implemented pavement management system.
Strategy: Assume maintenance responsibility for Austin Avenue from the Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDot).
Management Services - Airport:
Goal: Ensure the safety of the flying public.
Strategy: Complete construction of the air traffic control tower following Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) grant requirements.
Strategy: Begin implementation of Airport Master Plan update recommendations.
Strategy: Construct an emergency access road form Fire Station No. 4 to the Airport.
10.0 Policy Statement:
Georgetown’s citizens and businesses enjoy an attractive community with a unique sense of
place and a positive, identifiable image, at a cost which is consistent with other city social
and economic priorities.
Community Development – Inspection Services - Code Enforcement:
Goal: Promote a positive image to the community by bringing services to the neighborhoods and
soliciting community involvement
Strategy: Provide a more efficient Code Enforcement and Fire Prevention Inspection process
under the Unified Development Code, International Fire and Building Codes in order to meet City
Council policies.
Community Services – Convention & Visitors Bureau:
Goal: Assist visitors and potential visitors to the area by offering comprehensive visitor information
and promotional services.
Strategy: Expand the advertising and marketing efforts in increase visibility through the City’s
new branding initiative.
Strategy: Promote special events on the square the increase overnight stays at local hotels and
bed and breakfasts.
Management Services – City Manager’s Office:
Goal: Improve citizen awareness and understanding of City programs, services and issues and
promote a positive public image of the organization.
Strategy: Implement and expand the wayfinding and signage program to promote Georgetown
as a tourist destination.
Management Services – Economic Development:
Goal: Promote the elements commonly held as the most important contributors to the quality of life
of our community.
Strategy: Identify research and implement advertising and marketing opportunities, latest
technology and industry trends.
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11.0 Policy Statement:
City owned, sponsored or managed utilities are competitively priced and provide safe,
adequate and reliable services to all customers.
Finance and Administration – Purchasing:
Goal: Provide the City of Georgetown user departments with needed materials and services by
utilizing best value purchases in a timely manner.
Strategy: Proceed with using E-commerce for City purchases to improve efficiency and reduce
cost.
Strategy: Seek other cooperative purchasing groups that the City can utilize to improve their
purchasing power.
Strategy: Relocate the Electric stockyard from 1101 North College Street to a more secured and
convenient area.
Strategy: Research implementing bar coding in City warehouses to assist in inventory
management.
Finance and Administration – Utility Office:
Goal: Ensure the efficient delivery of timely and accurate billing and payment information to our
customers.
Strategy: Research new utility billing and Customer Information System (CIS) software that will
meet new and developing billing needs.
Goal: Develop and maintain quality utility programs and innovative services that are administered in
a friendly, helpful manner.
Strategy: Implement a Check by Phone bill payment option to make bill payment more
convenient.
Strategy: Implement a call center environment for the Telephone Customer Service
Representatives to make handling and tracking customer calls more efficient and effective.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Energy Services – SCADA – AMR:
Goal: Assist utility customers in conservation efforts by providing accurate, individualized water and
electric consumption data.
Strategy: Work with the Information Technology department on the expansion of the City’s fiber
network.
Strategy: Install Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) interface and controls for the
new Georgetown South electric substation to allow for daily reporting of substation and feeder
loads, and to assist during power restoration.
Strategy: Develop an in-house maintenance and testing program for the electric substation
SCADA system.
Strategy: Develop expansion plan of Automated Meter Reading (AMR) fixed radio network into
new growth and non-networked sections of the service area.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Energy Services – Electric Operations:
Goal: Provide reliable, cost effective electric service for our customers.
Strategy: Complete construction of major electric feeder tie lines on Highway 29 West and IH-35
from Highway 29 to Leander Road.
Strategy: Implement substation operations and maintenance crew for newly constructed
Georgetown South substation.
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Georgetown Utility Systems – Water Services - Water:
Goal: Operate and maintain the system in a cost-efficient manner to provide for the lowest possible
service rates.
Strategy: Continue the implementation of the water storage tank maintenance plan by
coordinating the rehabilitation of the Central Elevated Storage tank.
Strategy: Establish a native landscape implementation plan to enhance our long-term water
conservation plan.
12.0 Policy Statement:
The City provides for the safety of its citizens and supports the responsive delivery of
coordinated services by the City and other public agencies.
Finance & Administration – Vehicle Service Center:
Goal: Decrease vehicle down time through efficient, cost-effective operations.
Strategy: Initiate Fuel Man program for public safety and utility departments that will allow them
to utilize other fueling sites when needed or more cost effective.
Strategy: Implement a hybrid vehicle testing program to measure cost effectiveness and
efficiency for possible expansion as future vehicle replacements to various City departments.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Energy Services:
Goal: Explore viable options to control and reduce our purchased power expenses
Strategy: Continue participation in the Lower Colorado River Authority’s (LCRA) Market Pricing
Option for a minimum of 10% of our energy requirements.
Strategy: Complete early discussions with LCRA, at their request, for 2016 contract discussions
and negotiations.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Transportation Services – Stormwater Drainage:
Goal: Reduce the threat of property damage and personal injury, and enhance public safety
through proper maintenance and operation of the City’s drainage system.
Strategy: Construct concrete rip-rap drainage way along the railway, from 17th Street to 21st
Street to alleviate drainage backup in the area.
Strategy: Develop and implement an on-going stormwater drainage way preventive
maintenance program.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Water Services – Reuse Irrigation:
Goal: Maintain or exceed Texas Commission for Environmental Quality (TCEQ) standards for reuse
irrigation service (water quality).
Strategy: Complete the reuse irrigation line from Pecan Branch Treatment Plant to the Airport
irrigation pump station to provide reuse water to the station for use at Sun City.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Water Services – Wastewater:
Goal: Expand the wastewater system to provide service and minimize the proliferation of septic
systems.
Strategy: Establish a wastewater franchise area following completion of the Regional
Wastewater Study.
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Goal: Maintain an adequate treatment capacity to allow for future growth of the community.
Strategy: Complete the update of the wastewater system master plan for the proper
development of future impact fee studies and 5 year capital improvement planning.
Management Services – Human Resources:
Goal: Provide services, tools and open communication to create an environment where individuals
are treated fairly and consistently.
Strategy: Develop and implement an on-line benefits open enrollment process.
Strategy: Identify areas in need of increased workforce diversification.
Goal: Provide each employee with a safe work environment.
Strategy: Expand customer service by extending Human Resources work hours to better service
field and shift workers.
Police – Administrative Services Bureau:
Goal: Provide employees with the necessary resources to provide quality customer service to the
community.
Strategy: Conduct a needs assessment evaluation for existing and future police facilities.
Strategy: Upgrade technologies for collection, access, analysis, mapping and dissemination of
information.
13.0 Policy Statement:
All municipal operations are conducted in an efficient business-like manner and sufficient
financial resources for both current and future needs are provided.
Finance and Administration - Administration:
Goal: Plan for the City’s future financial growth, thus protecting and enhancing the City’s quality of
life.
Strategy: Assist Community Development in updating the city’s comprehensive plan to ensure
the City’s future financial stability.
Strategy: Assist in the finalization and implementation of an involuntary/voluntary annexation
program and identify related financial impacts.
Strategy: Work with Georgetown Utility Systems in developing an electric franchise service
agreement with the City of Round Rock.
Goal: Evaluate and make recommendations on City operations and procedures to make the City
more effective in providing services to the citizens of Georgetown and more efficient the use of City
resources.
Strategy: Work with other City departments in researching and developing system requirements
for an integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to meet the needs of multiple City
departments.
Finance and Administration – Municipal Court:
Goal: Increase Court efficiency through streamlined procedures and automation.
Strategy: Implement a Records Management System to enhance the efficiency of court
processes and reduce offsite storage.
Strategy: Implement additional and upgraded Autocite ticket writers to provide judicial support for
the traffic deterrent program.
Strategy: Implement upgraded phone system to increase court efficiency and improve customer
service.
Georgetown Utility Systems – Administration:
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Goal: Ensure excellent customer service to the Georgetown community.
Strategy: Develop training plan to transition utility dispatchers to system operator status to
improve emergency utility response.
Management Services – City Manager’s Office:
Goal: Ensure the delivery of quality services to citizens through effective management and efficient
administration.
Strategy: Assist Code Enforcement in developing a more aggressive property maintenance and
code enforcement program.
Strategy: Finalize and implement the Airport Master Plan to ensure that airport operations are
conducted in an efficient manner.
Management Services – Human Resources:
Goal: Provide services, tools and open communication to create an environment where individuals
are treated fairly and consistently.
Strategy: Continue development and implementation of additional modules for Human
Resources Information System (HRIS) in order to increase efficient processing/maintenance of
employee data/records.
Management Services – Information Technology:
Goal: Provide cost effective information technology services.
Strategy: Implement city-wide iChain project for internal intranet service and external access to
network drives utilizing cellular services.
Strategy: Implement Invision Data Warehouse to improve system reporting and provide
customer information options.
Strategy: Expand records imaging program, as outlined in the City-wide Records Management
Program.
14.0 Policy Statement:
A high level of cooperation and involvement exists among Georgetown’s citizens and
governmental organizations.
Management Services – Governmental Contracts:
Goal: Provide resources necessary for community agencies to operate in Georgetown.
Strategy: Continue to ensure that community and social service s providers meet their results-
oriented performance objectives and prevention issues and form service partnerships as
appropriate.
Strategy: Continue commitment to funding equal to 1% of General Fund operating budget for
social services.
15.0 Policy Statement:
The City manages its resources in a sound and fiscally conservative manner.
Finance and Administration - Administration:
Goal: Be a leader in providing the highest level of service in administering the operating and capital
budgets and implementing innovative approaches toward budgeting.
Strategy: Receive the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget
Award for the 17th consecutive year.
16
Management Services – City Council:
Goal: Ensure the long-term financial viability of Georgetown.
Strategy: Continue adherence to the City’s financial policy that promotes long-term financial
responsibility to ensure future economic viability of the community.
16.0 Policy Statement:
Georgetown City government will operate openly and under the highest ethical standards.
Management Services – City Council:
Goal: Promote community involvement and participation in local government.
Strategy: Expand the City’s current records management process by adopting a city-wide
Records Management Program to increase the efficiency and accessibility of public records.
17.0 Policy Statement:
All citizens of Georgetown are treated in a fair and impartial manner.
Finance and Administration – Municipal Court:
Goal: Foster a “customer service” philosophy with court defendants, treating all with professional
courtesy and respect.
Strategy: Improve customer service and response through the addition of a Staff Assistant to
handle administrative duties within the Court office.
Police – Administrative Services Bureau:
Goal: Provide quality of life in the workplace to promote good customer service and reduce internal
and external complaints.
Strategy: Upgrade technologies for collection, access, analysis, mapping and dissemination of
information.
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2005/2006 Annual Operating Plan (AOP)
Calendar of Events for Budget Adoption & Implementation
Planning and Preparation
January – February • AOP process schedule set.
Five-year Capital Projects Plan updated using systems engineering models and
City-wide review team.
March – April • Five-year strategic planning issues and assumptions identified by senior
management team.
• Finance and Administration and Information Technology staff meets with
divisions on Internal Service Fund (ISF) needs for 2005/06.
• Five-year Capital Improvements Plan reviewed by City Manager and senior
management team.
• Council holds 2005/06 Budget Priority setting sessions.
• Five-year Capital Improvements Plan presented to Council and public.
May • Mid-year Review of 2004/05 Annual Operating Plan presented to Council.
• Preview 2005/06 budget concerns.
• Council Budget priorities discussed at public workshop.
• Base Budget preparation for existing programs.
• Finance finalizes five-year utility models.
June • Five-year financial forecast models updated.
• Departmental narrative and program request information provided to divisions.
Budget packages prepared in accordance with Council guidelines and
Georgetown Century Plan.
• Revenue and expenditure projections finalized.
July • Work sessions with divisions conducted with Finance.
AOP workbook prepared by Finance and Administration and distributed to
Council.
• Annual review and update of Fiscal and Budgetary policy.
• Tax roll finalized.
• Property tax rate and revenue projections finalized.
Adoption
August – September • Finalize 2005/06 programs.
• Finalize 2005/06 proposed tax rate.
• Certified tax roll is accepted by Council.
• City Manager’s budget is presented to Council for review.
• Final recommendations and AOP summary distributed to Council and public.
• Public hearings on proposed budget and tax rate held.
• Budget and tax rate ordinances presented to and adopted by Council.
October 1 • Implement 2005/06 Annual Operating Plan.
Budget Amendments Budget amendments may be made during the year in accordance with state law and City
Charter. See detailed requirements in the budget and Financial Policies included in the
Reference Section. Typically, budget amendments are proposed to Council as part of the
Mid Year Annual Operating Plan Review in May of each year and at fiscal year end.
18
PoliceFinance &
Administration FireGeorgetown
Utility Systems
Assistant City
Manager
Transportation
Services
Electric Services
Water Services
Community
Services
Engineering Municipal Court
Purchasing
Support Services
CVB
Main Street
Tourism
Parks
Recreation
Library
Planning &
Development
Services
Inspection
Services
Airport
Information
Technology
A HOME RULE CITY
CITY COUNCIL
MAYOR (elected at large)
SEVEN COUNCIL PERSONS
(elected by district)
CITIZENS OF
GEORGETOWN
CITY SECRETARYCITY ATTORNEY MUNICIPAL
COURT JUDGE
BOARDS &
COMMISSIONSCITY MANAGER
Utility Billing
Economic
Development
Human
Resources
Community
Development
Support Services
Administrative
Services
Animal Services
Field Operations
Administration
Operations
= City Divisions
Accounting
19
Community Profile
Overview
Founded July 4, 1848, Georgetown was originally the agricultural trade center for the county and surrounding
area. After the Civil War, reconstruction brought prosperity to Georgetown
through four main industries -- cattle, cotton, the university and the
railroad. Georgetown has enjoyed consistent growth and
development through the years. In recent years the City has
become more industrialized and commercially oriented. Along
with the commercial growth, Georgetown has successfully
promoted tourism. Tourism has become a significant economic
benefit to the community.
The City of Georgetown’s estimated 2005 population was
38,265 within the city limits, with an estimated population of
82,000 including the extraterritorial jurisdiction. Georgetown is a
Home Rule Charter City and operates under the Council-Manager
form of government. A mayor and seven council members are elected
from single-member districts. Elections are held the first Saturday in May.
Historic Georgetown
Since the 1980's Georgetown has been synonymous with Main Street, a downtown economic development
effort administered through the Texas Historical Commission and the National Main Street Center. Over $30
million has been reinvested in our economy through the revitalization efforts of the downtown area. Private and
public entities joined in partnership to restore and renovate downtown commercial structures, public buildings
as well as building new structures to help anchor the commercial district. This unprecedented success has
made our community the shining star of the Texas Main Street program and an example for small cities
nationwide to follow. It has been the building block for Georgetown’s recent economic development gains.
The restoration of Georgetown’s "living room", one of a few remaining
Victorian era downtown squares in the country, has revitalized the
heart of Georgetown into a thriving district with shops and
restaurants. In 1997, Georgetown gained recognition for
the successful effort of its citizens to preserve the historic
character and charm of the city when it won the Great
American Main Street Award. The Georgetown Square
is considered by many to be the finest example in the
state of a Victorian town square. Our historic square is
certainly the magnet that draws people to Georgetown.
However, once they're here, people soon realize there's
much more to our community. It's a town with a strong
identity and people who care about it... people that make sure
we never stop trying to enhance both Georgetown's appeal and
the lives of those who choose to live here.
Cultural Activities
Cultural activity thrives in Georgetown. Southwestern University's contribution of
quality theater, dance, fine arts and lecture events add a valuable dimension to our
cultural life. The Art deco-styled Palace Theatre, located on the downtown square,
was renovated and rejuvenated by townspeople. The Palace Theatre showcases
events such as singing acts, plays, talent shows and every second Saturday of the
month the Theatre hosts the Georgetown Opry. Georgetown always has a full
calendar of local events including a fall Antique Show, a Fourth of July celebration
with music, food and fireworks and ethnic celebrations. Other major annual events
include the Christmas Stroll, Red Poppy Festival, and the Fiddlin’ Fair.
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Recreation
Georgetown offers a wealth of recreation. In Georgetown
there are currently twenty three city parks comprising
nearly 380 total acres. The parks range from a half-acre
neighborhood park to the one hundred-acre city wide San
Gabriel Park. The parks include a wide range of facilities
including: softball and baseball fields, soccer fields,
playground equipment, individual and group picnic
shelters, basketball and tennis courts, disc golf, a hike and
bike trail and five swimming pools. The San Gabriel Park
also has a community center, sunken garden, gazebo,
football stadium, rodeo area, and a Creative Playscape for
children. The Georgetown Recreation Center has a full
basketball and volleyball court, two racquetball courts, a
game room, weight room, kitchen, conference room and large and small activity rooms. The City purchased
and opened the Georgetown Tennis Center in September 1999. The facility includes a full size swimming pool
and baby pool, 11 tennis courts and activity center on 7 wooded acres. The City of Georgetown Parks and
Recreation Division was presented with an “Outstanding Park Award” from the National Softball Association
(NSA) for McMaster Athletic Complex. The complex has won the National Softball Association’s award every
year since its opening in 2001, and is recognized by the Association as one of the most outstanding softball
complexes in the state.
Education
Georgetown Independent School District (GISD) serves a diverse population of Williamson County students
from pre-K to 12th grade, having a current enrollment of over 8,900 students. The district serves elementary
students in three pre-K-2 campuses, three 3-5 campuses, and three K-5 campuses. Secondary students attend
one of three middle schools and a ninth-grade campus before attending the district's high school. An alternative
high school campus serves students who participate in a self-paced general curricular program. There are also
three private schools and two parochial schools in the area.
The public school system is exceptional in the quality of teachers and programs offered. The district is fully
accredited by the Texas Education Agency. During their most recent visit, members of TEA commended the
District for individual teacher excellence, including good daily lesson planning, good classroom organization,
and above-average student test scores, and recognized the student body as well for good behavior.
Georgetown is the home of Southwestern University, an
independent, selective four-year undergraduate college, offering
a traditional liberal arts and sciences curriculum. Southwestern
was the first institution of higher learning in Texas, chartered
by the Republic of Texas in 1840 and has received national
recognition for its academic program and cost-effectiveness.
The 2004 Princeton Review identified Southwestern as the
nation’s #7 “best value” undergraduate institution,
underscoring the University’s value-added educational
experience. Southwestern has a favorable 10:1 student-faculty
ratio, with 99 percent of the full-time faculty having doctorates or
the highest degrees in their field. The University has a current
enrollment of 1,300.
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Georgetown – Then and Now
This is a comparison of Georgetown today and as it was a decade ago.
• Population has doubled
• Growth has been constant
• Tax base has quadrupled
• Tax rate, including debt portion, is lower
1995/96 2005/06
Population 20,300 41,294
Customer Growth 5% 5.8%
Building Permits Issued 1,269 1,062
Unemployment Rate 2.60% 4.10%
Appraised Values $538,947,506 $2,643,057,606
Average Home Value $81,819 $166,458
Total Budget $58,935,620 $131,834,745
Total Tax Rate $0.37 $0.34626
Maintenance on Streets $190,000 $2,491,000
Debt Service Tax Rate $0.17 $0.13913