HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN 03.27.2018 CC-WMinutes of a Meeting of the
Governing Body of the
City of Georgetown, Texas
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
The Georgetown City Council will meet on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 3:05 PM at the Council Chambers, at 101
East 7"' St., Georgetown, Texas
The City of Georgetown is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you
require assistance in participating at a public meeting due to a disability, as defined under the ADA, reasonable
assistance, adaptations, or accommodations will be provided upon request. Please contact the City Secretary's
Office, at least three (3) days prior to the scheduled meeting date, at (512) 930-3652 or City Hall at 113 East 81h
Street for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
Policy Development/Review Workshop — Call to order at 3:10 PM
Mayor Ross called the meeting to order at 3: 10 PM. All Councilmembers were in attendance, with the exception of
Ty Gipson, Councilmember District 5. Mayor Dale Ross, Anna Eby, Councilmember District 1, Valerie Nicholson,
Councilmember District 2, John Hesser, Councilmember District 3, Steve Fought, Councilmember District 4, ,
Rachael Jonrowe, Councilmember District 6, and Tommy Gonzalez, Councilmember District 7 were in attendance.
A. Presentation and discussion regarding the Texas State University Citizen Survey -- Dr. Thomas Longoria,
Professor and Director of the Center for Research, Public Policy and Training at Texas State University,
Paul Diaz, Budget Manager, Keith Hutchinson, Public Communications Manager and Jackson Daly,
Assistant to the City Manager
Jack Daly, Assistant to the City Manager, opened the presentation on the Citizen Survey and introduced Dr.
Longoria from Texas State University.
Longoria said that he would provide a review of the survey, a project timeline and discuss efforts to improve
response. He began with a Survey Overview.
Longoria described the 12 Focus Areas of the Survey.
• Quality of Life
• Mobility
• Development
• Public Safety
• Service Quality (GUS)
• Service Quality (Parks/Library)
• Service Utilization
• Media Usage
■ Perception of Government
• Employee Interaction
• Perception of Safety
• Value for Taxes
Longoria next described the Project Timeline
• March: Council Direction on the Survey
■ April: TXST Finalizes the Survey Instrument
• April & May: Analyze the Results
• Summer: Final Product is Delivered and Presentation of Findings is Provided for Council
Longoria described the efforts to Improve Response.
• Continue Direct Mail Survey
• Promote Survey Online to Entire Community
• Synthesize Results to Ensure Data Reflects Household Data
• More Robust Efforts to Improve Renter Response
Councilmember Gonzalez asked if it was possible to make sure that the same respondent does not reply
multiple times. Longoria explained that IP addresses are monitored to control this and keep the survey from
being skewed.
Longoria spoke on the effort to include more renter respondents.
Councilmember Fought said it seems that they are aggressively pursuing renters, subsidized housing
residents and students. He asked why those 3 groups would be specifically pursued instead of others.
Longoria explained that these groups have been under represented. Fought asked how they determine
under representation. Longoria said there is a federally known number of renters across the nation and the
last Georgetown survey fell well below that percentage in renter respondents. He explained that there will
be an effort to encourage all responders.
Councilmember Gonzalez asked if 27% of the population are renters, does the survey analysts make sure
27% of the portion of the population gets the survey. Longoria said they will over sample the areas they are
looking for. Longoria said the survey will be available in both English and Spanish. Gonzalez asked if over
sampling skews the results. Longoria said yes, but there are trade-offs in methodology. He explained that a
group not represented in the results, also skews results, and makes it is out of balance.
Councilmember Hesser asked how a disproportionate sampling would be handled. Longoria said this will
not happen, but if renters are over represented then the numbers would be adjusted accordingly.
Councilmember Jonrowe said she likes the continuity of service, with follow-up surveys and analysis from
the same institution. Jonrowe said there were groups over represented in the 2016 survey. She said that
one more population to be examined would be the homeless. She said she would like to know their
perception of services. Longoria said they will be working with non-profit organizations that can encourage
people to fill out the publicly available survey. Jonrowe said she will be doing her part to help, as well.
Ross asked about the next steps. Jack Daly said they would need to know if the Council approved of the
Survey Instrument.
Hesser asked if there is a way to evaluate the numbers of homeless, renters, or those who walk or bike to
work. Daly said they use census household data to determine these type of numbers at large.
City Manager, David Morgan, said the survey would not necessarily do this. Dr. Longoria said the current
methodology is to do a random survey of utility accounts, but walking or riding to work could be added as a
specifically asked question on the survey.
Councilmember Gonzalez said the language is crucial in these types of questions. Morgan said they will
easily add these specific questions with Council direction. Ross asked how accurate the results would be.
Longoria said these would be self-reported answers, so accuracy is difficult. Mayor Ross noted that those
walking to work because they do not own a car, would not likely be the person whose name is on the utility
account.
B. Presentation and discussion regarding the Home Repair Program and a potential partnership with Habitat
for Humanity -- Susan Watkins, Housing Coordinator
Housing Coordinator, Susan Watkins, spoke on the Home Repair Program and a possible partnership with
Habitat for Humanity. She noted that the purpose of the presentation would be to review the program, and
present and discuss a partnership with Habitat for Humanity for administration of the program
Watkins spoke on Council Direction and Feedback that would be needed.
• Would Council like to pursue a partnership with Habitat for Humanity?
■ If so, is there additional information they would like prior to setting goals, eligible activities, budget,
measures of effectiveness and a reporting process
She explained that the presentation would be divided into 4 portions.
• Program History
• Current Program Overview
• Habitat for Humanity Repair Program
• Administration Options
Watkins described the Program History.
• Pre -2008, the City provided utility bill assistance through non -profits
• City modified the program in 2008 to direct funding toward home repairs
o Budget between $25,000 - $40,000
o Mix of volunteers and contractors
o Roof repairs
o Painting
o Windows
o Electrical work
• 2010-2014 — 24 homes were repaired
o Average of $4,200 per home
• 2010-2013 Community Restore partnership
o $35,759 spent
■ 2014 — Program policies modified by Council
• 2015 — Neighborhood Cleanup & Community Restore
o $14,608 spent
Watkins explained that high utility bills were coming from needed repairs.
Councilmember Fought said he supports this program. He explained that the City ended up having to
excuse utility bills in certain circumstances, and said that this makes sense. Fought said that discussion
needs to take place on how to fund this and attaching a lien on the home that could be recovered at the time
of sale is a smart way to go. He said he wants to look at this again. Fought said he would like to see the
reimbursement go back into the pot and be available to help others. City Manager, David Morgan, said staff
will do additional research and look into this. Councilmember Eby noted that this is shown on page 16 of
the presentation and would likely be discussed further into this presentation.
Watkins provided before and after images of repair projects.
She spoke next on the Current Program Goals and noted that the funding allocation of $24,000 would be a
part of the Planning Department budget.
■ Provide home repairs to homeowners with limited resources
• Avoid demolition by neglect by code enforcement
• Maintain neighborhood (neighborhood revitalization)
• Safety
• Accessibility
Watkins described the Current Application Process.
Watkins spoke on Current Program Guidelines.
• Property must be:
o Located inside the City limits
o Owner occupied
o Owned for at least 2 years
o Taxes must not be outstanding
• Income eligibility:
0 60% Area Median Income
• Homeowner agrees to repay if the home is sold within 2 years
• Under $10,000 Repair
0 Reviewed by staff
• Over $10,000 Repair
o Reviewed by the Housing Advisory Board
o Lien placed against the property for the value of repairs over $10,000
Councilmember Fought said he would like to delete the $10,000 dollars and the 2 year requirement and
simply require payment for the repairs at the time of sale He explained that this would build the program
over time.
Councilmember Hesser asked if repairs under $10,000 are considered a gift. Watkins confirmed. She said
anything over $10,000 is given a lien.
Councilmember Gonzalez suggested setting a 75% pay back, if the home owner lives in the home a number
of years. Mayor Ross said this would allow the homeowner to sell the home and move out of Georgetown.
Ross said he agrees with Fought. Hesser said he agrees, as well. Ross said 2 years is not enough
Watkins spoke on the History of Habitat for Humanity partnerships in Georgetown and Habitat for Humanity
Home Repair.
• 43 Home built
• 2017/2018 funds granted for Home Repair
o Strategic Partnership Grant Funds of $23,000
Habitat for Humanity Home Repair
■ 24 Repairs between 2013-2017
Five currently under repair
Watkins described the Habitat for Humanity Home Repair Program Requirements.
• Own and live in the home
• Meet income limits (50% AMI)
• U.S. Citizen or permanent resident
• Current mortgage and property tax payments
• Active homeowner's insurance
■ Be present during the repair project
• Demonstrated need for repairs based on inspection
Watkins said that the Habitat Home Repair Program partners with the City of Round Rock. She explained
that staff had reached out to Round Rock and had received favorable comments on the partnership.
Watkins spoke on Options for Administration and the City of Georgetown Role.
She provided a list of Benefits to Partnering with Habitat for Humanity.
Watkins explained Staffs Recommendation.-
Partner
ecommendation:Partner with Habitat for Humanity
• Direct staff to return in Spring 2018 with
o Goals
o Eligible activities
o Budget
o Measures of effectiveness
o Reporting process
o Draft contract with Habitat for Humanity
Councilmember Jonrowe asked about the Habitat requirements and how they determine a permanent
resident. Debbie Hoffman, Executive Director for Habitat, spoke and introduced Debbie Sloan, the
Administrator of the program. Sloan said documented identification is required and pertains to government
documentation of a permanent resident of the Country, not a permanent resident of Georgetown. Jonrowe
asked how much was spent, on average, for repairs. Hoffman said the average was $2,500 and noted that
volunteers are used for a lot of the labor. Jonrowe asked about Habitat's requirements to maintain
ownership after repairs. Sloan said there are different agreements with different funding requirements. She
said some agreements require 5 years, and some have no requirements.
Councilmember Hesser said he is in favor of the partnership. He noted that Habitat is better equipped to
administer this program. Councilmember Gonzalez agreed. Councilmember Fought said hurray for Habitat.
He stressed the distinction of owning the property and how people take care of something they own. He
said he wants more people in Georgetown to be able to own their property.
Hoffman said that the repair program is important in helping to maintain homes and giving individuals the
opportunity to stay in their homes.
Mayor Ross asked to see the options slide and asked for the role of Habitat. Watkins said it was tricky to
illustrate and only the Georgetown role was illustrated. She explained that, if a partnership is pursued,
these roles would go to Habitat because they would then be administrating the program.
Ross spoke on other City contributions such as donated staff time and waived development fees. Watkins
said that fees have been waived historically in order to help, but as of January 1, 2018, Council direction is
required to waive fees.
Watkins asked if Council had any additional information that they needed before staff moved forward with
their recommendation.
City Manager, Morgan, asked Council if they are in favor of pursuing the partnership. He noted that he is
hearing a yes. He said that Council seemed to want discussion on liens to properties and the administrative
process. Morgan said staff will come back with recommendations for these things and fee waivers. Ross
asked that staff look at in kind services as well.
C. Presentation and discussion of the City's Interim Municipal Utility District (MUD) Policy and a new Public
Improvement District (PID) policy and discussion on establishing revised/new policies -- Wayne Reed,
Assistant City Manager, and Laurie Brewer, Assistant City Manager
Assistant City Manager, Wayne Reed provided a presentation on MUD Policy. He said that Assistant City
Manager, Laurie Brewer, would follow with a presentation on PID Policy.
Reed had provided handouts to the Council of some of the slides, for their ease of review. These included a
summary of staff recommendations, a map of MUDs 2004 to present and the January 9, 2018 spreadsheet
of 9 MUDS spread across 10 subdivisions. He asked Council to look at the backside of the handout,
highlighting 4 subdivisions in the City limits. Reed said that an error had been found in the Shadow Canyon
subdivision numbers and explained that it should be the same at 2.296 tax rate, with a maximum tax rate of
2.956.
Reed said that the purpose of the presentation is to seek direction from Council on desired updates to the
City's Interim Municipal Utility District (MUD) Policy, based upon practice and lessons learned since the
policy was adopted in 2014. He noted that creating a Comprehensive Annexation and MUD Strategy has
been determined as a City Council strategy.
Reed thanked the presentation team for their hard work.
Reed noted that the presentation would be divided into 5 parts:
• Recap of Council Presentation on 1/9/18
• Response to Council's questions from 1/9/18
• Practices in the past 4 years
• Staff recommendation
• City Council direction
Maps of Georgetown MUDS from 2004 — 2017 were provided. Reed explained that there are 9 approved
MUDs and staff is currently working with 4 new applicants interested in forming special districts. He said
that the reason for 9 MUDs and 10 subdivisions is because one MUD is in 2 different subdivisions.
Reed provided a recap with specific answers to the Council's questions posed at the January 9, 2018
meeting.
Recap of Council's Questions from January 91h
• Acreage and Number of Homes in MUDs
4 410 acres in 9 developments with a maximum of 13,184 DU
Georgetown has approved 4 204 single-family lots (final plats) in
larger developments between Oct 1. 2014. and Feb 28, 2018, of
which 1 516 lots or 38% were located in MUDs (in -city and E TJ)
• Tax Rate in MUDs
— MUDs inside city limits have a total tax rate of S2 839 - 52-946
— MUDs in the ETJ have a total tax rate of S2 869 - S3 005
• Foreclosure Information
Analysis of Williamson County s foreclosure data of residential
properties located in Georgetown between January 2016 and
February 2.018 showed foreclosures were more numerous in
residential areas without MUDs than with MUDs This may be due
to subdivisions with MUDs bung relatively new except for Terra
ista Parmer Ranch and Shadow Canyon are undeveloped
Recap of Council's Questions from January 911
Price Point of Single-family Housing In MUDs
Saddle Creek MU(.) S22.Os to high 5200s
Oaks at San Gabriel- S280s to mid-S500s
Water Oak S250s to high S400s
Crescent Bluff-. S25Os to high S400s
I erra Vista .. low S200s to S700s
Hillwood at Wolf Ranch... S300s to mid-S500s
Cimarron Hills S3 -,')Os to in excess of S1.000.000
• Type of Housing
— Predominantly single-family (;-90%)
— Hillwood at Wolf Ranch has 1.690 SF and 895 MF
I 1 \ \
Mayor Ross asked what would be an advantage to an Out of City MUD. Reed said a development in the
ETJ might not develop in the same fashion as in the City and the City would have the opportunity to ensure
design and similarity, with opportunities for a strategic partnership. Ross asked if an In -City MUD had any
disadvantages. Reed said there could be slightly higher taxes, but that would be the only disadvantage. He
explained that these developments have higher building standards and generally are highly developed with
amenities such as recreational facilities. Ross asked if the City could require higher building standards.
Morgan confirmed. Ross mentioned park land. Reed said it would be the quality of the park land rather
than more park land.
Jonrowe asked for a price range and said that she was under the understanding that the average home in
Georgetown was worth $262,000.00. Jonrowe asked the average of MUD home pricing. Reed asked if
Jonrowe was asking for information on sold homes in order to create an average. Morgan said they will ask
the developers for the average sales price. Jonrowe asked that non -mud developments also be included,
and a side by side comparison provided.
Councilmember Gonzalez said it would be easier to ask developers for ranges, such as how many of their
homes are in the 220s, 250s, 300s, etc. He noted a home sold for $220,000 today might sell for $230,000
within time.
Morgan said there are ways to compare apples to apples and staff will come back to the Council with more
data. He said if Councilmember Jonrowe is trying to determine if MUD homes are priced lower, this can be
done. Mayor Ross said the MUD developers could use a lower sales price as a marketing tool, but then
these home owners will experience higher taxes. Jonrowe said she wants the information to see what type
of community that Georgetown is building. Morgan said MUDs have a time limit and a length of time for debt
and a length of time between first and last sale. He said the utility infrastructure becomes a part of the City's
utility infrastructure and when the MUD is paid off, the debt goes away.
Gonzalez noted the good opportunity with a development such as Saddlecreek. He said purchasing a home
with good quality for $220,000 in Williamson County is a great opportunity for some and there is nothing
available cheaper than that anywhere. Morgan said the establishment of a MUD allows developers to be
competitive and drive affordability with the price point and provide much needed affordable housing.
Reed continued with his presentation with Practices in the Past 4 Years
Practices Past 4 Years
• Policy 6. Utilities
- Utility Infrastructure (extend, oversize, and partnerships)
• Crescent Bluff MUD contributed roughly S1 5 million to the SSGI
wastewater line
• Saddle Creek MUD extended wastewater system
• Parmer Ranch MUD to extend wastewater system along Ronald
Reagan Blvd
• Policy 7 Debt
— Bond Maturity and Issuance Period
• City has approved 25 year vs 20 year for bond maturity
• City has maintained 10 year issuance period in most instances
• Water Oak MUD was provided 20 year issuance period
Practices Past 4 Years
• Policy 7. Debt
- Tax Rate
• Out -of -city MUDS have SO 90 to SO 95;5100 AV tax rates
• In,city Ml1Ds have lower tax rates of about SO 55/$100 AV with
Hillwood as one exception (SO 66;S100AV)
• Hillwood allowed to issue debt for 'hard costs" associated with on
and off-site water.wastewater, roads and parks and trails
• Policy 8. Annexation
Provision for future annexation of development
• City has consistently addressed potential for annexation of
districts in the future
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Practices Past 4 Years
• Policy 9. Land Development
- Development Standards Exceed Minimum in UDC
• Enhanced architectural standards for residential in all MLJ[)s
• Policy 10. Parkland and Trails
- Parkland
• Fullwood MUD has enhanced parkland development standards
for parklands along with private amenity center and trail network
• Crescent Bluff MUD will develop parkland along with private
amenity center and trail network and construct a public trailhead
with parking along South San Gabriel River
• Parmer Ranch MUD will develop parkland and extend regional
trail along Ronald Reagan Blvd. corridor
Practices Past 4 Years
• Policy 11. Transportation
Transportation Infrastructure
• Crescent Bluff MUD to contribute S 1 million toward Water Oak
Parkway bridge supplement Water Oak MIJI) s funding
• Water Oak MUD amendment (2017) clarified requirement to
build all d lanes of Water Oak Pkwy and complete the bridge
• Saddle Creek MIJI) is contributing to arterial that runs through
the development
• Strategic Partnership Agreements
- Sales Tax
•
City has required SPA to ensure City collects its sales tax frOrTI
future retail development located in out -of -city MUDS
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Staff Recommendation
Changes to the Policy will require amending Section
13.10 of the UDC (purpose and conditions):
• Policy 1. Location
- Revise threshold questions
- In city MUDs should be preferred due to recent changes in State
law conceming annexations
• Policy 2. Unique Factors
- No change. Encourage conservation subdivision design (where
appropriate). greater tree preservation, greenways and trails along
rivers or creeks, and regional transportation and utility facilities
• See Polices 9 and 10
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Staff Recommendation
• Policy 3. Submit MUD creation petition and info.
- Remove as a policy and require as part of process in UDC
• Policy 4. Cross Departmental MUD Review Team
Remove as a policy and require as part of process in IJDC
• Policy 5. Public Services and Safety
- No change Continue to incorporate fire stations and/or SIP fee
• Policy 6. Utility Service Issues
No change Require extension of utility master plan lines and
granting of easements: continue to require City to be provider of
water, sewer, sold waste. and electric (wherever possible)
Staff Recommendation
• Policy 7. Debt
- Bonds Provide up to 25 years for bond maturity and 10 years for
issuance between first and last bond sales
- Tax Rates
• Out -of -city (ETJ) MUDs at SO 90 to SO 9515100 AV tax rates
• In -city MUDs at max of SO 55rS100 AV
• Allow in -city MUDs to issue debt for -hard costs' associatedwith
on and off-site wateriwastewaler. roads. and parks and trails
• Policy 8. Future Annexation when in ETJ
- Maintain but unlikely to be actionable ;see Policy 1)
Staff Recommendation
• Policy 9. Exceed minimum UDC Development Stds
- Require concurrent PUD application to memorialize standards ,,vith
in -city MUDs
- Remove criteria for all MUDs to contain at least 20°o nonresidential
land uses, seek consistency With Future Land Use Plan
- Remove criteria for portion of commercial land uses to develop in
first five years of first building permit
- Remove criteria for workforce housing and include criteria for
diversity in housing products
- Evaluate rnerrt of requiring gross impervious cover— less than UDC
- Require higher architectural standards for residential and
nonresidential land uses
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Councilmember Jonrowe asked about impervious cover. Reed said the MUD Policy currently requires less
pervious cover for MUDS and staff proposes that MUDs have the same requirements as rest of the City.
Reed spoke on the proposal to update fees. He noted the immense amount of staff time required for these
developments. He said that Georgetown currently charges $3,050 for the creation of a MUD and $1,550 for
amendments to existing MUDs, while other communities charge between $5,000 and $30,000. He
explained that it is costly to process muds and said that staff would come back with proposed fees if Council
directs.
Mayor Ross said it seems that Council is in favor of revised fees. Councilmember Hesser asked that staff
come back with the revised fees.
Councilmember Jonrowe asked about exceeding the minimum UDC development standards. Reed said
staff would evaluate the components that are "less" than the UDC requirements and will require the same
impervious cover.
Eby asked about workplace housing and diversity in housing products. Reed said refers to providing
multiple family housing or single family products and town homes. Morgan said this will be revisited after the
new Comp Plan is adopted.
Reed said staff will come back with a proposed MUD policy and fee schedule. Ross asked about the
timeline of when this would come back. Morgan said within the next month. Ross asked that Council get
the information ahead of time, so that they have the opportunity to be prepared.
Assistant City Manager, Laurie Brewer, spoke on Public Improvement Districts (PIDs). She said that she will
be seeking Council's guidance and input for policy. Brewer noted that the City has had recent discussions
with developers who are requesting PIDs as a form of financing. She said that Council has limited this type
of development tool in the past, as various PIDs across the state have struggled. She explained that MUDs
have an oversight by the TCEQ, but PIDs are solely a dependent of the approving government.
Brewer provided the basics of a Public Improvement District.
■ Allowable under Chapter 372 LGC
• Created by a City or County
o Defined area in City of ETJ
o Dependent District — financial responsibility
• Reimburse costs of development
o Can fund on-going maintenance of specified public improvements
• Resources
o Assessments are levied on property owners within the PID based upon the percentage of
benefited property
o Liens placed on individual property owners — land/homeowner responsible for payment
o Assessment liens subordinate only to taxes
■ Financing
o PID (City or County) may sell assessment revenue bonds
o Annual revenues pledged toward debt payment
• Governance
o Appointed by Council (dependent district)
• Eligible Costs — Public infrastructure and development
o Landscaping, parks, lighting, signage
o Transportation, parking
o Utilities
o Administration and Operations
Brewer described a PID Creation.
• Petition by landowner
o Feasibility study and findings
• Created by resolution
o Service Plan with improvements and related costs
• Public Hearing is required
o Must evaluate feasibility before PH
• Assessment Plan
o Adopted by ordinance
Brewer described the types of PIDs. She noted that, for most PIDs, developers are planning to use debt
toward development. Brewer said that reimbursement bonds are similar to how the City had treated MUD
consent agreements.
• Debt PIDs
o Dirt Bonds — bonds issued by City to fund improvements (up front)
o Project Finance Bonds — bonds issued during development
o Reimbursement Bonds — developer provides financing for infrastructure, City agrees to
issue bonds after benchmarks are met
Brewer spoke on the PID Assessment Plan and the Georgetown area PIDS.
PID — Assessment Plan
• "Levy" amount determined by either:
— Set amount to repay proportional cost of
infrastructure
— Per valuation rate pay cost of maintenance of
infrastructure
— Assessment roll is prepared for property
• Ordinance adopts Assessment Plan & levies
the assessment
— Can include interest and penalties
Georgetown Area PIDs
• Cimarron Hills PID — master planned
community established in 2000 - 517.500.000
• Debt never issued — didn't build out as planned
• Village PID — master planned community
established in 1999 — Maintenance PID
• Per valuation assessments fund enhanced
landscaping & other amenities
PID policy
• Outlines when the Council could support
using a PID for development
• Provides for a process to review and
analyze
• Establishes safeguards for successful debt
issuance (if appropriate)
• Provides administration guidelines
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PID policy
• Protects future homeowner/property owner
interests
• Ensures consistency in review
• Provides guidelines to ensure project is
viable and sustainable
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Policy - Proposed Standards
• PID should provide a higher standard of
development (like MUD policy) to justify
additional assessment
— Follow same enhanced standards
• PID improvements must be accessible to
general public (no gated communities)
• No City property will be assessed in a PID
• PID must not adversely impact the service
delivery of the City
Policy — Application process
• Complete plan provided by petitioner
— Third party market study
— Include comps for tax/assessment levy
—Engineering report
— Phasing plan with costs
— Up front financing identified
— All entitlement and utility service issues are
identified and resolved
• Fee paid for legal and financial review
Brewer spoke on Bond Safeguards.
• If bonds are issued — suggest reimbursement only
• Additional requirements
o Value to lien ratio — minimum 3:1, suggest 4:1
o Environmental and lien issues resolved
o Developer disclosures prepared
o Debt service fund established with a one year debt service payment minimum
o Bond maturity limitations
Brewer explained that state law limits bond maturity to 40 years, but the City would want to consider
something more conservative, yet feasible from an annual affordability standpoint. She noted that the City
would need to budget for legal and administrative review. She said that the City would want to hire a 31d
party administrator to work for the City to prepare assessments and service plans and the City would need
to secure a bond underwriter with PID experience.
Brewer asked the Council if they wanted to add PID financing as a tool for development and if there was any
other information regarding PID Policy that they would like to see. She noted that Council could be more
selective in types of improvements for these developments and the advantage of higher development
standards.
Councilmember Fought said he favors PIDs. Fought asked about the proposed policy that PIDs would not
be considered for gated communities, which would have prohibited the PID in Cimarron. He asked for the
logic of not allowing a PID in a gated community. Brewer said there is an advantage to public improvements
rather than private. Fought said the PID in Cimarron was for water, wastewater and sewer. Brewer
confirmed. Fought said this would expand the City's infrastructure and collect monies and the public
benefits from improved water and wastewater infrastructure. Fought said he understands the philosophy
that public funds should have a public benefit, but suggested changing the phrasing pertaining to gated
communities.
Brewer asked if Council wants to move forward with establishing PID Policy. The Council confirmed their
approval.
D. Update and direction regarding the City Council's Vision and Strategies -- David Morgan, City Manager and
Jack Daly, Assistant to the City Manager
David Morgan, City Manager, provided the Council with an update on their vision and strategies. Morgan
began the presentation with a review of the background.
Background
• Revisited Council goals on November 1 and 2, 2017
• Confirmed
o Role of Council
o Rules of Engagement
o Vision Statement
o Council Goals
• Refined Council Strategies
o Went from 14 to 9 Strategies
Morgan noted that 9 strategies have been identified to achieve the goals of the Council. He explained that
staff developed narratives around each goal to confirm its meaning. Morgan said that staff then reviewed
and confirmed each narrative, which gives clear direction for staff developed tactics.
Morgan spoke on each narrative focusing on the strategies for each.
1. Become a destination for
unique experiences
• Dcwntown
— Continue MUSIC on the Square
— Increase opportunities to have music year round In commercial and
public areas
— Continue to pursue the festival street bet,veen 8m and 9" Streets
• Rlv(%rsJ.ahs
Improve signage along trails promoting access to downtcv:n, the
Sheraton and trail extensions
Continue to explore a fiver crossing on the North San Gabriel River
• C�fire'� F`arYc
.. Promote Garet' House as an event Yenue'destiraation
k1arket Garey Park to a '.vide variety of users due to the dl;ersit•, of
amenities in the park
Develop Special Events trial bring ^ew visitors to Gare; :'are;
�• Rs3is�ik
— Encourage destination retai' that takes advantage, of Gecrgetcv: 's
unique assets
2. Create a strategy to increase
mobility
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aisc mcludEs collaboratiri g •on mu'i i-modaG pr'mKts s::cn :as sidev:alk an.^'
bicycie irafr2slruclure,
2. Create a strategy to increase
mobility
• Continue to review and update development standards
to ensure good connectivity standards for vehicles and
pedestrians
• Complete 2015 transportation bond
• Continue progress on future mobility planning
• Bike plan and sidewalk plan implementation
• Maintain relationships with key intergovernmental
partners (Wilco, TXDOT, CAMPO)
• Explore innovative tools to supplement public
transportation
3. Promote greater diversity in our
population and our businesses
City Council recognizes that diversity across all aspects of
society helps ensure better decision making. Diversity in
thought leads to better outcomes. Diversity helps the City
hedge against changes in the environment and economy. A
broad range of businesses and employers should be
recruited to Georgetown. Generally, growing the
commercial tax base in the City will help alleviate over
reliance on residential property taxes. A diverse business
sector necessitates a diverse housing stock. A variety of
services, resources, and amenities should be made
available to residents. including seniors, families. and
young professionals.
3. Promote greater diversity in our
population and our businesses
• Update the Comprehensive Plan for development
- Complete a housing analysis for a more in-depth understanding of
housing needs and drversity of existing inventory
- Implement development policy that encourages mixed use development
that enhances density and accessibility to services and amen t:es
• Implement targeted recruitment of companies within
targeted industries (professional services, life sciences,
advanced manufacturing. destination retail) to aid in the
diversification of industries
• Encourage speculative development and site readiness
to aid in business recruitment and development.
• Work to diversify workforce development and recruitment
with special emphasis on young professionals and
veterans.
4. Create and maintain outstanding
aesthetics and a welcoming appearance
and spirit
Georgetown has several key gateways leading into the
City. Moreover, Georgetown serves as the northern
gateway to the Austin region. As such, particular attention
and resources need to be directed towards ensuring
gateways are well-maintained and adhere to a high
development standard. As the City progresses through the
comprehensive plan update, specific focus needs to be
placed on developing a more refined vision and master
plan for the City's gateways. Costs associated with
maintaining publically owned rights-of-way (including state-
owned property) need to be appropriated and expended at
a level consistent with Council's vision.
4. Create and maintain outstanding
aesthetics and a welcoming appearance
and spirit
Identify and Review Development Standards
Complete c=,preners•:e .r--as'z Flan to estadls!: -!sior,fof•ga!evra,,s
Es!abisr, goals :o! PJDs !o crnp,adze aes!rc•I:cs ane ',vcica^ :rg appcararcc
anc sprf;t
Re,viev,, GateWvJy locations to ensure foCUS and priority on the
correct locations
Prlontize gate.va.vs and e-stati.sp a loud of sr-�:+ cfor'i!!cr p•ci�p, laadscap ng
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5. Annexation and MUD strategy
an-.CteS ir, St tela„ dr -.d sign tiL.ant opl;a ion ctrn;x ih t�:xve
a :.".ele-rater;
rhe neer] tot C;llkv Coun- to adoF ' new arinexat an
str_itegtes- fhe ortmt_ ed inflr x of PIAuri�iparl tiiity )Istrlr.,t;''.1 3i:;
rec7tle$t5 1$ irlgC?r. 1le need for the (;ounCa1 to re-v?sit its . Qir,G'<es and
procedelre.s reiated to t"iese types of de'velopment5- These ive
challenges ,n tandem exacerbate the neer; for the Oily to ad(JregS its
strategies, policies, and procedures related to, NI C)s and, annexation.
'rhe ti;ity has °,vorked extensively i,vith developers to asi!-st them in
delivering cre.ative1y finarif-ed residential products to Georgetown. As
laws related to annexation change, the C.;ity must be thoughtful n its
approach to permitting development in the extraterrltonal iur�5dic,tlo.n
that may negatively impact the City in the future, PromeUng high-quaitty
growth and equitable ta.xahon and senfices is a priority for the City.
5. Annexation and MUD strategy
Annexation Strategy
— Move forward with annexation and development
agreements as prioritized by Council
MUD and PID Policy
— Finalize review of interim policies
— Adopt policies
— Amend UDC for compliance with new policies
6. Monitor, promote, and communicate a
long-term water and utilities plan and
strategy
City Council recognizes the importance of thoughtful utility
management. As a purveyor of water. electricity. and
wastewater services. it is imperative that the City both
effectively manage and communicate plans associated with
all city -owned and operated utilities. Acknowledging that
the Texas electric and water markets are continually in flux
and will always experience changes. solutions need to be
presented to ensure the City's financial position remains
strong, rates remain competitive, high-quality customer
service is emphasized. and ample resources are available
to serve the continually growing population in the City's
service area.
6. Monitor, promote, and communicate a
long-term water and utilities plan and
strategy
• Financial Position Remains Strong
— Quarterly financial updates to Boards & Council
(ongoing)
• Rates Remain Competitive:
— Complete Rate Studies
• High Quality Customer Service Emphasis
— Communicate customer centric features of CIS
— Outreach events (ongoing)
6. Monitor, promote, and communicate a
long-term water and utilities plan and
strategy
• Ample Resources
- Continue providing Council with annual Electric/Water Integrated
Resource Plan (IRP) updates (ongoing)
- Based on IRP, appropriately secure resources and evaluate
demands
- Incorporate key points of IRP (Why's) into utility communications
• Water Conservation
- Improve community understanding of the relationship between
Ample Water Resources' and the long term need for Water
Conservation (ongoing)
- Complete the 2019 Conservation Plan Update
- Continue existing water conservation programs (ongoing)
- Develop customer specific. direct marketing programs
7. Expand on our reputation as
a City of Innovation
The City executed purchased power agreements to cover
Georgetown's energy usage with 100% renewable energy,
making Georgetown one of the largest city -owned utilities
to do so. This alone has helped Georgetown brand itself as
an innovative city and garnered international acclaim.
City Council recognizes that in an environment where
taxation is limited and there is increasing regional
competition for taxable value and natural resources, the
City must find effective solutions and inventive methods of
service delivery. Being a forward -thinking organization will
allow Georgetown to elevate its profile in the region and
recruit like-minded businesses and residents.
7. Expand on our reputation as
a City of Innovation
• Cultivate a culture of continuous improvement
— Citywide implementation of performance
management program (PMP)
— Deploy GUS Business Improvement Program (BIP)
citywide
Leverage opportunities and encourage discipline
to partner on innovative ideas
- Bloomberg Philanthropies, DOE Grant, Community
Resource Coordinator, Georgetown Health
Foundation
• Explore feasibility of developing an Innovation
Road Map
8. Increase our influence with
State Government
The City of Georgetown and the State of Texas are
partners. Increasingly, the Texas Legislature has raised
concerns about city decision making, and State pre-
emption of local authority continues to be a topic of interest
at the State Capitol. As Georgetown continues to elevate
its presence in the region and in the state. the City Council
recognizes the importance of dedicating time and
resources to ensure the City's interests are protected The
City must work with State officials to find common ground
and shared goals. That said, there will be disagreements.
However. it is important that the City work to build and
maintain positive relationship with state agencies and
elected officials.
8. Increase our influence with
State Government
• Be deliberate and proactive in relationship
building with elected officials and staff
• Continue to work and become more involved
with TML's legislative initiatives
• Continue work with legislative consultants
• Refine communications strategy and legislative
agenda for next legislative session
9. Expand our role to develop collaborative
strategies with GISD, Southwestern,
and other entities
To remain competitive in the region. City Council
recognizes the importance of investing in opportunities for
young people. A healthy educational systems is critical to
ensuring a successful community. Georgetown I.S.D. and
Southwestern University are integral pillars in the
community and key city partners with the City. All three
entities must work in concert to maximize the impact of
limited resources. The City is well-positioned to provide
services and opportunities for youth to further their
education or career in Georgetown. The City is also
fortunate to be able to partner with Southwestern University
to capitalize on their thought -leadership and resources to
further opportunities for college students and graduates.
9. Expand our role to develop collaborative
strategies with GISD, Southwestern,
and other entities
Parks - Leadership Camp (June 25 - 28)
— Challenge Course
— PD.TD
City Hall
Animal Shelter Service Project
Youth Advisory Board
Flevate board to liaison position behveen G I S D and City of
Georgetown
— Involve YAB with youth portion of PD s CornmUNITY Initiative
— Broader city involvement with Georgetown Protect
Collaborate with GISD and the Chamber on
Manufacturers Day and Career Day for juniors and
seniors
9. Expand our role to develop collaborative
strategies with GISD, Southwestern,
and other entities
• Southwestern Interns
- Centralize or coordinate intemship program
- Bigger City presence at SU Job Fair
- Coordinate intemship requirements to not preclude SU students
• PD
- Continue to promote Explorer Post
- Youth Academy (June 11-14, June 18-21, July 9-12, July 16-19,
July 23-26)
- Continue Chase -the -Chief
9. Expand our role to develop collaborative
strategies with GISD, Southwestern,
and other entities
• FD
- Continue to promote Explorer Post
- Youth Fire Camps (June 4 - 8. June 18 -22)
- Explore feasibility of fire academy at high schools
• Library
- Continue to promote Library Advisory Board
- Continue summer youth employment program with the
Georgetown Project
- Continue offering youth volunteer opportunities
- Continue supporting youth programming on weekends, school
holidays, and summer
• GUS
- Continue to support sustainability efforts of G I S D and SU
Councilmember Eby said the presentation was good and thorough. She asked Morgan for the timeline for
the Bike Plan. Morgan said a University of Texas Austin class is looking at this and it is being
incorporated in the fall semester. He said the funding is in place for the Bike Plan and it will be initiated
before the end of the year.
Jonrowe asked if there is a staff person to coordinate the collaboration with GISD and Southwestern
University Morgan said the staff developer, a department director, is in charge of each strategy and will
coordinate these collaborations. He explained that dashboards are also in place to track this.
Mayor Ross recessed the meeting to Executive Session under Section 551.071, Section 551.072, Section
551.074 and Section 551.087 at 5.05 PM.
Executive Session
In compliance with the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551, Government Code, Vernon's Texas Codes, Annotated, the
items listed below will be discussed in closed session and are subject to action in the regular session.
Sec. 551.071: Consultation with Attorney
Advice from attorney about pending or contemplated litigation and other matters on which the attorney has a duty to advise the
City Council, including agenda items
Sec. 551.072: Deliberation Regarding Real Property
- Parcel 2 (101 FM 971) and Parcel 8 (302 Apple Creek) Discussion of Appraisals and Initial Offers to Acquire, Northwest
Boulevard Project -- Travis Baird, Real Estate Services Coordinator
Sale of a portion of Lot 5, Block 49 to Lofts on Rock, LLC — Travis Baird, Real Estate Service Coordinator
- Forwarded from the Georgetown Transportation Enhancement Corporation (GTEC):
Consideration and possible action to approve the purchase of approximately 10.8 acre tract on South East Inner Loop, west of
FM 1460 -- Travis Baird — Real Estate Services Coordinator
Sec. 551:074: Personnel Matters
City Manager, City Attorney, City Secretary and Municipal Judge: Consideration of the appointment, employment, evaluation,
reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal
- Municipal Court Judge Update to Council
- City Manager Update to Council
Sec. 551.087: Deliberation Regarding Economic Development Negotiations
- Project Badge
Adjournment
Mayor Ross adjourned the Workshop meeting to begin the Regular City Council Meeting at 6:00 PM
Approved by the Georgetown City Council onD� ao00
Date
A,, 6 a, -
Dale Ross, Mayor
Attest: City Secy ary