HomeMy WebLinkAboutMIN 06.23.2020 CC-RNotice of a Meeting of the
Governing Body of the
City of Georgetown, Texas
une 23, 2020
The Georgetown City Council will meet on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 6:00 PM at the Council
Chambers at 510 West 91h St., Georgetown, Texas 78626.
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 808 Martin Luther King, Jr Street for additional
information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
Mayor Ross called the meeting to order at 6:18 p.m. The following Council Members were in
attendance: Mayor Dale Ross; Mary Calixtro, Council Member District 1; Mike Triggs, Council
Member District 3; Steve Fought, Council Member District 4; Kevin Pitts, Council Member District
5; and Rachael Jonrowe, Council Member District 6; and Tommy Gonzalez, Council Member
District. Council District 2 is vacant. All Council Members present via videoconferencing and a
roll call was performed.
Regular Session
(This Regular session may, at any time, be recessed to convene an Executive Session for any
purpose authorized by the Open Meetings Act, Texas Government Code 551.)
A. Call to Order
Invocation
Kyle Cheatam with Terrallova Church provided the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance
Council Member Pitts led both pledges.
Comments from the Mayor
Mayor Ross shared some Black Lives Matter postcards that he received in the mail and
thanked the senders for their thoughts and artwork.
City Council Regional Board Reports
There were no reports.
Announcements
There were no announcements.
Action from Executive Session
There were no actions out of Executive Session.
Statutory Consent Agenda
The Statutory Consent Agenda includes non -controversial and routine items that may be acted upon
with one single vote. An item may be pulled from the Consent Agenda in order that it be discussed
and acted upon individually as part of the Regular Agenda.
B. Consideration and possible action to approve the minutes of the Workshop and Regular
Meetings held on June 9, 2020 -- Robyn Densmore, City Secretary
C. Consideration and possible action to approve a Resolution to grant a license to encroach to
H4WR, LLC for the the encroachment of two (2) way -finding signs into the right of way of
Wolf Ranch Parkway; and to authorize the Planning Manager to execute the license -- Travis
Baird, Real Estate Services Manager
D. Consideration and possible action to approve a Resolution expressing official intent to
reimburse costs related to the purchase of the HVAC replacement at the Recreation Center
Natatorium, in an amount not to exceed $800,000.00 with proceeds from bonds that will be
issued in the Spring of 2021 -- Leigh Wallace, Finance Director
Motion by Pitts to approve the entire consent agenda as presented, second by Fought.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro - Yes
Triggs - Yes
Fought - Yes
Pitts - Yes
Jonrowe - Yes
Gonzalez - Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
Legislative Regular Agenda
E. Public Hearing and First Reading of an Ordinance on a request for a the voluntary
annexation of an approximate 2.213-acre tract of land, out of the W. Roberts Survey No. 4,
Abstract 524, and a 0.939 acre tract of land, out of the W. Roberts Survey No. 4, Abstract 524,
being over and across a portion of Shell Road, a right-of-way of varying width described to
Williamson County, Texas, with the initial zoning designation of General Commercial (C-
3) upon annexation, for the property generally located southwest of the intersection of Shell
Road and State Highway 195 -- Sofia Nelson, CNU-A, Planning Director
Nelson stated that this item was pulled at the request of the application.
Council had no discussion and took no action on this item.
F. Second Reading of an Ordinance amending the FY2020 Annual Budget for mid -year
obligations that were not known at the time the budget was adopted; appropriating the
various amounts thereof; and repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict
therewith -- Leigh Wallace, Finance Director
Laurie Brewer, Assistant City Manager, presented the item for the mid -year budget
amendment and noted that the Workshop and First Reading were on June 9 and included
updating beginning fund balances after acceptance of audit; various capital projects budgeted
in FY2019 and rolled forward into FY2020; and one-time purchase order budget amendment
due to new accounting system. She noted that the following changes were included for 2nd
Reading: increased Public Education and Government Fee Special Revenue appropriation
with $51,000 from available fund balances utilized towards studio remodeling in second floor
of City's Art Center that was covered at a previous Council workshop with Communications
and Public Engagement team; and increased developer reimbursements in Water Fund of $1.6
million for Water and Wastewater improvements and the Highland Village, Saddle Creek,
Carlson Cove, Kasper, Lively projects. Brewer explained the following:
FY20
MYBA
MYBA
Fund
Approved
1st Read
2nd Read Change
General Fund
$
75,373,906
$
77,207,474
$
77,207,474
General Capital
$
50,197,694
$
57,682,085
$
57,682,085
Tourism
$
1,440,916
$
1,452,654
$
1,452,654
Streets Mai ntTax
$
4,639,308
$
6,147,579
$
6,147,579
Public, Education, GovtFee*
$
20,000
$
-
$
71,000 $ 51,000
Cemetery
$
103,500
$
110,086
$
110,086
Village Public Imp District
$
975,740
$
1,033,439
$
1,033,439
Police Seizures
$
115,846
$
120,598
$
120,598
Police Abandoned Vehicles
$
5,000
$
64,209
$
64,209
Animal Services Special Revenue
$
75,000
$
85,000
$
85,000
Downtown Tax Increment
$
688,600
$
700,395
$
700,395
GTTransportation Enhancement Corp
$
22,160,360
$
22,988,374
$
22,988,374
GT Economic Deve Corportation
$
9,554,305
$
9,499,540
$
9,499,540
Facilities Internal Service
$
8,555,129
$
3,765,852
$
3,765,852
Fleet Internal Service
$
7,038,513
$
8,393,702
$
8,393,702
Joint Services Fund
$
18,397,156
$
18,477,541
$
18,477,541
Information Technology
$
7,979,204
$
8,012,204
$
8,012,204
Airport
$
4,884,411
$
4,134,411
$
4,134,411
Electric
$
92,565,824
$
93,494,028
$
93,484,028
Stormwater
$
5,708,073
$
5,720,428
$
5,720,428
Water
$
139, 654, 887
$
149, 282, 699
$ 150,886,166 $1, 603,467
$ 450,133, 372 $ 468, 362, 298 $ 470, 036, 765 $1,654,467
*Fund Not included in first reading $ 18,228,926 $ 19,903,393
Brewer read the caption.
Motion by Pitts, second by Gonzalez.
Council had no questions or comments.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro — Yes
Triggs — Yes
Fought — Yes
Pitts — Yes
Jonrowe — Yes
Gonzalez — Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
G. Second Reading of an Ordinance for a Zoning Map Amendment to rezone an approximately
0.34-acre tract of land out of the C. Stubblefield Survey, Abstract No. 558, from the Office
(OF) district to the Residential Single -Family (RS) district, for the property generally located
at 609 W 15th St -- Sofia Nelson, CNU-A, Planning Director
Nelson presented the item and stated that there had been no changes since the First Reading.
Nelson read the caption.
Motion by Pitts, second by Triggs.
Council had no questions or comments.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro — Yes
Triggs — Yes
Fought — Yes
Pitts — Yes
Jonrowe — Yes
Gonzalez — Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
H. Second Reading of an Ordinance for a Special Use Permit for the Personal Services,
Restricted specific use in the Local Commercial (C-1) zoning district to allow a tattoo parlor
and body piercing studio on the property located at 1202 Williams Dr, bearing the legal
description of Lots 10 through 12, Block 3, Country Club Estates -- Sofia Nelson, CNU-A,
Planning Director
Nelson presented the item and stated that there had been no changes since the First Reading.
Nelson read the caption.
Pitts asked for clarification that the condition placed at first reading would be implied. Nelson
responded that those conditions were listed in the second reading.
Motion by Pitts, second by Gonzalez.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro - Yes
Triggs - Yes
Fought - Yes
Pitts - Yes
Jonrowe - Yes
Gonzalez - Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
I. Second Reading of an Ordinance for the voluntary annexation of an approximate 36.035 acre
tract out of the Francis A. Hudson Survey, Abstract No. 295 and the John Powell Survey,
Abstract No. 491 with an initial zoning of Planned Unit Development (PUD) District with a
base district of Local Commercial (C-1) and High Density Multi -Family (MF-2); and a
Zoning Map Amendment to rezone from the Residential Single -Family (RS) district
approximately 18.105 acres, all out of the Francis A. Hudson Survey, Abstract No. 295, John
Powell Survey, Abstract No. 491, J.S. Patterson Survey, Abstract No. 502, and the E. Evans
Survey, Abstract No. 212, to Planned Unit Development (PUD) District with a base district
of Local Commercial (C-1) and High Density Multi -Family (MF-2), for the property
generally located at 401 Westinghouse Road, to be known as the Chapel Hill PUD -- Sofia
Nelson, CNU-A, Planning Director
Nelson presented the item and stated that there had been no changes since the First Reading.
Nelson read the caption.
Motion by Pitts, second by Triggs.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro - Yes
Triggs - Yes
Fought - Yes
Pitts - Yes
Jonrowe - Yes
Gonzalez - Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
J. Consideration and possible action to direct the Legal Staff to conduct a City Council
Workshop on the topic of a Charter Review Committee -- Council Member Fought and
Council Member Pitts
Fought noted that last Charter revision was in 2003 and in 2012 there was a committee formed
that provided changes that the Council decided to not act upon. He continued that there are
some changes that are known that need to be changed. Fought stated that the voters should
have a chance to review the Charter and vote on revisions. He asked that the Legal
Department provide guidance and how to proceed.
Motion by Fought to direct the Legal staff to conduct a City Council Workshop on the topic
of Charter Review Committee, second by Pitts.
Calixtro asked if anything is found by Legal would it be brought to the attention of Council.
Fought stated yes, Council will review all proposed changes that could be placed on a ballot.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro - Yes
Triggs - Yes
Fought - Yes
Pitts - Yes
Jonrowe - Yes
Gonzalez - Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
David Morgan, City Manager, asked if it was acceptable to bring this forward in August.
There were no objections.
K. Consideration and possible action to approve directing staff to move forward expeditiously
in the development and creation of Neighborhood Plans for the San Jose and TRG
neighborhoods, in coordination with appropriate consulting firm(s), with a budget of
$100,000.00 from the Council Contingency fund -- Council Member Jonrowe, Council
Member Fought, and Council Member Calixtro
Jonrowe made a motion to direct staff to move forward expeditiously in the development and
creation of Small Neighborhood Plans for the San Jose and TRG neighborhoods, in
coordination with appropriate consulting firm(s), with a budget of $100,000.00 of the specifics
to be determined from the Council Contingency fund, second by Calixtro.
Jonrowe thanked Council for their consideration on this item and noted informative materials
she had provided to Council. She added that she feels that this would align with 2030 Plan
that was approved by Council. Jonrowe stated that other cities are using similar plans for
similar areas. She added that this item would broaden the scope of the 2030 plan, provide a
timeline, and secure a funding source.
Fought thanked Jonrowe for the opportunity to cosponsor and thinks it makes sense for the
areas.
Calixtro stated that she lives in her Grandmother's home and she has six generations of her
family in the San Jose neighborhood. She added provided history of the area and noted the
richness of its history. Calixtro stated that this would let people feel welcome in the area. She
thanked Jonrowe and Fought for working on the item.
Triggs stated his support for the item.
Pitts stated prior discussion about the areas and stated that he is also supportive of the item.
Gonzalez stated the need to preserve the history of the areas and provided his support.
Morgan stated that in staff's budget proposal for next year the TRG area plan was proposed
as $50,000. He added that with the expanded scope of including San Jose, staff will work on
doing a Workshop to clarify the scope of the project. Jonrowe stated she was fine with the
suggestions and asked for a possible timeline. Morgan stated that the timeline will be
discussed at the Workshop. Calixtro also agreed with the suggestion and had no additional
comments.
Karen Frost, Assistant City Secretary, read public comments that were submitted via email in
the following order (comments appear exactly as submitted):
Paulette Taylor - The Williamson County Sun's article indicated a development and creation
of a Neighborhood Plan for the San Jose neighborhood with a budget of $100,000 did not
include the TRG Neighborhood. However, the City Council's agenda item K did. Please
discuss details of the proposed budget's usage, along with a proposed timeline for the project.
Documentations of TRG neighborhood concerns from previous meetings with Rachael
Jonrowe, Sofia Nelson and Susan Watkins should be included in the development/creation
package. Also, if a consultant is hired, will there be current input from both neighborhoods?
Norma Clark & Cecilly Clark (daughter) - Will the neighborhood residents be included in the
development of the neighborhood plan? If so what will their role be in developing/executing
the plan? Will any neighborhood resident have a voting role on any committee involved in
the neighborhood plan or only the council member and consulting firm? What is the $100,000
to be spent on, i.e. only the development of the plan or the execution of the project within the
future plan? What are the elements/aspects of a neighborhood plan? How are those aspects
identified to form a neighborhood plan, i.e. by the consulting firm, a committee,
neighborhood residents or other? What other meetings should be expected for
development/execution of the plan because the TRG neighborhood would like to be involved
to preserve the historic character of the neighborhood and not have the neighborhood overly
commercialized or negatively impact aging residents.
Ron L. Swain - Mr. Mayor and Members of the City Council of Georgetown,
I am Ron Swain, Executive Director of the Getsemani Center at 412 E. 19th Street in
Georgetown.
I am pleased to support the efforts of the residents and property owners of the historic Track -
Ridge -Grasshopper (TRG) and San Jose neighborhoods in the Southeast section of
Georgetown who have been working with the City's Planning Department to create
Neighborhood Associations and develop Neighborhood Plans.
I believe that Neighborhood Associations will give the residents and property owners a
needed voice into what type of construction and other developments taking place in these
neighborhoods. In the past, there has been encroachments into these neighborhoods, creating
traffic congestion, parking problems and other adverse conditions for the residents. Recent
construction in the areas is often viewed as gentrification leading to increases in both property
values and property taxes. There is little, if any, viable and vital commercial services in these
neighborhoods. I believe that a qualified consultant, working with the residents and property
owners and the City's Planning Department can create Neighborhood Plans, including
zoning, construction and development guidelines that will enhance these neighborhoods and
contribute to the rich diversity of our Beloved Georgetown as a Caring Community of
Excellence and Compassion.
Thank you.
Yvonne Martinez - Please why did someone not get us all together in the neighborhood and
form a council to get all this done. It would have been more helpful and cost efficient.
The following comments were made in person via the City Hall viewing room:
Frances Cunningham — She stated that she agreed with the comments that have been made
about the community. She asked that the resident be allowed to work with the consultants.
Cora Marie Espy — She stated that wished the residents has been asked to be included. She
also noted other problems in the area due to lack of respect for the area as well as safety issues.
The following comments were made during the meeting using the Zoom client:
Liz Weaver — She supported the providing historic designations for both TRG and San Jose.
She explained her worry about property prices increasing even with the historic designation
and that sometimes designation leads to restriction. She asked that there is plenty of
communication to residents about the plus and negative side of a designation.
There was one more comment read aloud:
Mark Johns - I am glad the City has finally put this item on the agenda but it saddens me that
it has taken so long. So many areas around town have been designated as historic areas but
what about the black and mexican communities on the Ridge and San Jose that have been
apart of the community for just as long? How is it that there are historic churches and even
the Old Georgetown Cemetery on the ridge, yet it is not designated a historic district? How
are there no restrictions on what can be built in these areas? As time passes, properties get
sold and builders start building but there is no limit on what can be placed on the lot. You
have $500k+ homes mixed in with what were once low income housing. This item has taken
so long to make it to the agenda that many of the families that have lived here for decades
have been pushed out. This is due to the nonexistent limit on what can be built which leads
huge houses that stick out like sore thumbs, along with increasing property taxes that our
neighbors can't keep up with. I would like for the council to please consider approving this
agenda to keep those families who helped build Georgetown stay in Georgetown and in the
neighborhoods they love.
Council had no additional questions or comments.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro - Yes
Triggs - Yes
Fought - Yes
Pitts - Yes
Jonrowe - Yes
Gonzalez - Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
L. Consideration and possible action to approve the creation of a Resolution asking the members
of the Williamson County Commissioners' Court to support the following actions: (1) a
historic plaque being placed next to the Confederate Sons of America (CSA) statue, through
the auspices of the Texas Historic Commission, that provides context about the time & place
in which it was erected; and either (2) relocating the statue to the IOOF cemetery in
Georgetown, to a location that will be donated by the city, or (3) in conjunction with other
Williamson County cities willing to participate, cause to be formed a Committee, comprised
of local historians, artists, and community leaders, which shall oversee the creation and
implementation of an Educational & Historic Plan for the outdoor area surrounding the
courthouse. This Plan shall incorporate cultural and artistic elements, both new and old,
representing every known group that has called Williamson County home, and provide
residents and visitors with the opportunity to learn about our shared history — that which is
worth celebrating, and that from which we should learn -- Council Member Jonrowe and
Council Member Calixtro
Motion by Jonrowe the Council moves forward with creating of a Resolution asking the
members of the Williamson County Commissioners' Court to support the following actions:
(1) a historic plaque being placed next to the Confederate Sons of America (CSA) statue,
through the auspices of the Texas Historic Commission, that provides context about the time
& place in which it was erected; and either (2) relocating the statue to the IOOF cemetery in
Georgetown, to a location that will be donated by the city, or (3) in conjunction with other
Williamson County cities willing to participate, cause to be formed a Committee, comprised
of local historians, artists, and community leaders, which shall oversee the creation and
implementation of an Educational & Historic Plan for the outdoor area surrounding the
courthouse. This Plan shall incorporate cultural and artistic elements, both new and old,
representing every known group that has called Williamson County home, and provide
residents and visitors with the opportunity to learn about our shared history — that which is
worth celebrating, and that from which we should learn, second by Calixtro.
Mayor Ross noted that because there are 20+ speakers each speaker will be allowed 2 minutes.
Frost read public comments that were submitted via email in the following order (comments
appear exactly as submitted):
I.C. - I work several low wage jobs as a single parent to provide for myself and child and due
to that I don't much time to keep up with much of anything. I learned about this confederate
statue, that currently stands in mockery of and as a display of contempt towards the U.S.
justice system, through a quick glance at social media. The idea that a statue that
commemorates traitors to the U.S. and the U.S. Constitution, erected in front of a building
that embodies the protection and implementation of the U.S. Constitution, is ignorant. The
confederate soldiers fought to protect the Confederate States Constitution predicated by the
wish to continue slavery on premise that some groups of humans were actually subhuman
and deserved to be treated as such. Some people think this way to this day and I am a witness
and victim of this. Ask yourselves why in 2016 when the Williamson County Commissioners
had a chance to do a very minimal act to euphemize the acts of racism, violence and treason
that the confederate statue stands for, they chose not to act? Complete removal of an object
that glorifies hatred, denying human rights to all humans and treason, from a public space
that is paid for by the diverse group of law abiding tax paying citizens, is the best way to
declare that all those things are disgusting and that this council is not going to just sit and
decorate our ugly past with feel good actions. The confederacy will live on in history books
and in the hearts of the most die hard lovers of hate and a statue for that is not required. Thank
you for your time.
Shelby K. Little - My name is Shelby K. Little and I am a resident of Georgetown.
I urge the Council to reject this resolution by voting "NO" on all the proposed
"options". Appeasing the anarchists on this matter will only lead to further, even more, radical
demands. You have seen the truth of this statement played out in real time on TV. It is obvious
that these people want to destroy not only Confederate history, but all American history and
start over with their own interpretations with no rebuttals allowed. Do not let that happen
here!
The moving or alteration of the Williamson County Confederate Soldiers and Sailors
Memorial is a matter for the Commissioners Court of Williamson County to decide, not the
City of Georgetown or any other community in our County. This Memorial has stood at the
South entry to the Courthouse for over a century. It is a Veterans Memorial, not a monument
to the Confederacy, secession, racism, or anything else - just the Confederate Veterans of that
terrible conflict.
This resolution is nothing more than a flagrant attempt, on the part of the leftists on this
Council, to override or unduly influence another autonomous level of government - the
County Commissioners Court.
Resist the pressure to "show at least symbolic support" for the activists by sacrificing your
long -held principles for the very brief adulation of the mob.
Nothing is to be gained by the passing of this resolution other than increased division and
animosity among our citizens. Vote "NO"!
Thank you.
Jayson Sherman - Good afternoon to the members of the Georgetown City Council,
My name is Jayson Sherman and I am a resident of District 7. I am a teacher and have been
blessed to have called Georgetown my home for many years. I want to introduce myself to
you and express my concerns about a symbol of white supremacy, racism, and hate that is
located right on the steps of this city's courtroom. I am writing to ask you to take action to
remove the Confederate Sons of America statue from the Georgetown city square. You, as the
council, and we as the community, cannot anymore accept that state -sponsored symbols of
institutional racism reside in our community.
When the statue was put up in 1916, the Williamson County Judge at the time stated that
"This monument is erected to the heroism of the men who, for four years, made sacrifices,
endured hardships and incurred dangers for a cause they believed to be right." The cause that
they believed to be right was wrong. Fighting for the continued enslavement and oppression
of African Americans was wrong. Celebrating the Confederate cause of white supremacy and
hatred with this statue is wrong. In Item letter L you are considering taking action for an
Educational and Historic plan to celebrate a shared history -that which is worth celebrating.
White supremacy and the Confederate cause should be historically studied, but not
celebrated, just as white supremacy and the causes of Nazism should be historically studied
but not celebrated. Statues like the one in the city square are a constant reminder of the
dehumanization of African Americans and the pushback against the civil rights and human
rights of the black community. We cant change the culture of racism unless we change the
celebration of racism. Removing this symbol of hatred and oppression is a start to making
Georgetown an inclusive city that we can be proud of. Now is the time to take action and to
prove that all lives matter by showing that Black Lives Matter. Please help us take a stand and
remove this symbol of hatred and oppression from Georgetown's city square.
Madelyn Vaughn - I believe the Confederate statue on the Square should be relocated from
its place of prominence. It serves as a reminder of the racist past. If we seek to remember
history, we should see it through the eyes of the people who were persecuted. I read an article
that said this statue of the Confederate soldier was built in order to honor the soldiers for
fighting a cause they believed to be right. I think it is time to acknowledge that this cause does
not align with our world anymore. It certainly doesn't align with our values. This statue is a
glorification of everything we need to move away from and stands as a symbol for hate. If we
want to remember the people of Texas history, we should remember those who fought for
their freedom rather than those who sought to keep them down.
Heidi Beemer - I grew up in VIrginia, the heart of the Civil War. I attended the Virginia
Military Institute, where Andrew Jackson taught and is Commemorated with a statue at the
main entrance of the schools barracks. Seeing that statue every day for four years, even being
forced to salute it for 7 months my freshmen year, has had a momentous impact on my life.
But not in a good way. Watching the cadets of color around me and how these symbols
personally affected them where eye opening. Even in a place of true history for the civil war,
at a school where cadets actually fought in a major battle, history can be remembered or used
as a means to instill fear in a percent of the population. The statue in the Georgetown square,
was not built to honor history, it was built to instill fear and actions must be taken to correct
this 100 year injustice.
I am now a resident of Georgetown and have lived here for four years. I have been disgusted
by the placement of the Confederate Soldiers and Sailors Monument since we arrived to live
in this town. This statue was built in 1916 at the height of the Jim Crow era, with the intent of
showing black Texas residents that they are not welcome and will not be fairly provided
justice. These statues across the country were paid for and lobbied for be white supremacy
and they exist, not to represent history in any form, but to remind a portion of the population
of their inferiority compared to whites. The "most beautiful square In Texas" can not rightly
maintain this title when fear and hate stands on the steps of government buildings. The only
tolerable action would be to move the statue to a Cemetery. Any other action would be a
statement that supports racisms and hate towards the citizens of Williamson county.
Nothing is lost by moving the statue, but there is so much to gain. Schools will continue to
teach the history of our country; books, Museums, Historic battlefields, and the internet will
be around to tell the stories of this war. Removing one statue will not lead to Wilco citizens
forgetting that it happened. But moving the statue to a cemetery will allow all citizens to feel
safe and included in Georgetown Texas. We have the opportunity to be on the right side of
history and I beg that this council does not waste that opportunity.
Thank you for your time.
Tom Sourbeer - It's 2020, not 1920. Time for the Confederate statue in the Square to be
relocated.
Saul Zuniga - I am a student of Southwestern University majoring in history. I highly value
the study of history. However, the presence of a Confederate statue in front of a state building
made to represent it's people, is problematic. I ask that the city officials bring the statue down
and have it be placed at the local museum.
Finally, I would like to remind people that Williamson county was one of the handful of Texas
counties that voted against the ordinance to withdraw from the Union. There were stories of
people from Williamson county fleeing to Mexico for many reasons including not wanting to
play a part in the war. The family of Sam Houston, a known unionist, would spend much of
their time in Georgetown after the war. The people of Georgetown already voiced their
opinion about the Confederacy 159 years ago.
Deena Bosier - Remove the statue and put it in the cemetary or a park.
Cameron Eagle - Please remove the statue.
Debbie McGuyer - The time to remove this statue glorifying the traitors who fought against
the US army is overdue. This was placed long after the civil war ended by white supremacists.
Until it is removed Georgetown can not claim to be "The most beautiful town square in Texas
"as this is a symbol of a very ugly period in our history.
Marcial Guajardo - I vote for removal of the Confederate statue. Also, I'm in favor of private
citizens funding the removal themselves, if city council members balk on removal due to
costs.
Audrey Farias - I would like to start by thanking the council for their service and willingness
to address this sensitive issue with the care and consideration it deserves. I have lived in
Williamson county most of my life. My parents still live in the house I grew up in, in round
rock, and my husband and I are proud to call Leander home. We love this county for it's
diversity and inclusion. It is just as welcoming to new arrivals as it is to Texas natives, like
myself. This monument, while purported to serve as commemoration of Confederate heroes,
is a vestige of a time when our community was less accepting. It stands as a symbol of our
racist past. This does not represent the community I know or want to be a part of. It's time to
move it from it's place of prominence in the city square of our county seat to a place where it
can be viewed in its full historical context, and replace it with a celebration of the inclusive
county I know and love. Thank you for your time, I have full faith that y'all will make the
right decision to remove this monument to hate that causes nothing but pain.
Michelle Augustine - I am in support of Item L and I am asking City Council to create and
pass a resolution asking the Wilco County Commissioners to take action on the Confederate
Monument on the Georgetown Square.
Even though a member in my household has a great grandfather who fought in the Civil War,
my family realizes the importance of educating the public with a historical narrative, one that
provides a more accurate and broader scope of history, rather than what is being taught today
and perpetuated by a select group.
I have been actively trying to raise awareness of the history of this monument and have been
part of several groups who have tried to offer their perspective to the Wilco Commissioners -
- all to no avail, it seems.
Anthony James Deuser - My name is Jim Deuser, a resident of Georgetown and a member of
the Courageous Conversations movement. I wish to lend my support to the creation of a
resolution requested by Ms Jonrowe and Ms Calixtro regarding the request to the Williamson
County Commissioners Court that some action be taken as pertains to the Confederate statue.
Such action is long overdue and the racist message conveyed by the statue without historical
context is abhorrent. Thank you.
Molly Hornbuckle - I write to express support for the resolution requesting the Williamson
County Commissioners Court address the issue of the memorial on the county courthouse
grounds.
Surely there are no more words needed to convince thoughtful citizens of our community
that this monument represents a time in our country when intimidation, segregation and
discrimination of black citizens was acceptable. There is no historical value for the monument
to remain, especially without an explanation of context. All the monument represents now,
after the unspeakable and countless tragic deaths of black people at the hands of white people
over many decades, is that we are in denial of the racist lens through which we see our
neighbors of color. We do not need a monument that accepts and glorifies this racism.
Bill Hornbuckle - I speak in support of the resolution requesting the Williamson County
Commissioners consider relocation of the confederate monument located at the Williamson
County courthouse grounds.
The monument was constructed during an historical time when white people needed and
wanted to express their dominance over people of color. Surely, we do not need to honor this
expression any longer. The courthouse is the seat and symbol of America's intention to
exercise equal justice to all, and thereby live up to the principles on which our country was
founded. The monument remains a symbol of inequality, should be relocated, and replaced
by thoughtful, interpretive information providing the true historical context of this region.
Maurine Rothschild - I strongly support City Council Members Jonrowe and Calixtro's
resolution, Item L, to ask Wilco County Commissioners to take action on the Confederate
monument. The Civil War/slavery and their ramifications will never end until we stop
glorifying those who fought for the Confederacy. The South fought to preserve white
supremacy, not to preserve states' rights or what they considered their "honorable" way of
life. It's time to tell the truth, and the full Council should support this resolution.
Matthew Shappell - Many confederate memorials and celebrations began to spring up in the
United States in the 1910s, mostly sponsored through organizations such as the United
Daughter of the Confederacy. This particular statue was erected in 1916, around the time the
KICK reformation in 1915, after its original form was smashed by Grant during his presidency.
These new statues were mass produced and glorified the south as having a righteous cause
in an attempt to re -write history that its war and separation was all about "state's rights." To
which, the follow-up must be, the state's right to do what? Obviously, for the south it was to
own slaves. It was part of the Confederate Constitution, and the Cornerstone of the nation
according to its own Vice President, Alexander H. Stephens. Prominently and proudly
displaying this statue invokes memories of the wicked institution as a reminder and threat to
the black community. This is hurtful and unbecoming of a welcoming community and nation.
The statue belongs in a museum so it can be studied in context of history, rather than
glorifying the lost cause.
Anna Thompson - Please remove the confederate statue from the front of the courthouse. It is
inappropriate to honor traitors to our country in public spaces. I encourage you to use the
space for something for the public good, or to allow for empty green space instead.
Mark Costenbader - Even Robert E. Lee knew it was wrong:
"In this enlightened age, there are few I believe, but what will acknowledge, that slavery as
an institution, is a moral & political evil in any Country. It is useless to expatiate on its
disadvantages. I think it, however, a greater evil to the white man than to the black race, &
while my feelings are strongly enlisted in behalf of the latter, my sympathies are more strong
for the former. The blacks are immeasurably better off here than in Africa, morally, socially &
physically. The painful discipline they are undergoing, is necessary for their instruction as a
race, & I hope will prepare & lead them to better things. How long their subjugation may be
necessary is known & ordered by a wise Merciful Providence."
The statues are there as a point of pride and honor, of which white supremacy and slavery
are neither. It also subconsciously solidifies the superior/inferior doctrine. Read up on what
the Daughters of the Confederacy were doing and why. It's not just symbols, it's the science
of subliminal messages.
Remove the statue.
Kari Darr - I am protesting for the confederate statue to be removed from public. None of the
three options on the agenda actually take it down. The first option to simply add a plaque is
weak and does not take enough action. The option to move it to the cemetery is better than
having it in front of the courthouse, but again it still does not remove it from public. The
proposal to create an art park would be the best option ONLY if it actually included removing
the statue, which it does not. Some people who are against removing confederate monuments
are saying that it erases history and that we need to keep them as a reminder. But statues do
not teach history- schools and books do. If it is a piece of history, why not move it to the
history museum on the square? (assuming the figure on the plinth is separate and removable).
Why not create a monument to historical Black people and people of color who have lived in
Williamson county? This would be a much more positive and inclusive reminder of our
history.
As I final note I'd like to point out that many statues across the country that have been left up
are being vandalized or destroyed by angry protestors. Leaving this statue in public makes it
vulnerable to potential vandalism, so moving it to the museum (if possible) would protect it
from any possible vandals now and in the future.
The following comments were made in person via the City Hall viewing room:
Carleton S. Wilkes - He stated that destroying the statue does nothing and asked that Council
not poison the well. He added that confederates were not convicted of treason. He noted that
the first acts of war were by the North. He stated that people should understand their history
and provided many historical references to support his statement.
Linda Turner - She stated that statues have been erected for years and that 2020 sentiments
are being placed on everyone. She noted the possibility of removing all statues and history is
not for citizens to like or dislike. She added that the past is where you learn the lesson and
the future is where you apply it. She noted that racism doesn't live in a statue but in the
human heart and proposal be examined. Ms. Turner did not finish her statements as her time
had run out.
Joseph Johnson - He thanked the Council for brining forward this item. He noted his family
history including fighting in the Civil War. He stated that this statue causes pain and noted
the offensive comments he saw on social media and other actions related to this item.
Sally Zaleski - She supported the removal of the statue as it is not a proper representation of
the City. She stated that she supported moving the statue to either the cemetery.
Thomas Hutchison - He noted Alexander Stephen's Cornerstone Speech and its references to
slavery. He stated the statue should be removed.
The following comments were made during the meeting using the Zoom client:
Kim Denning - She spoke as an advocate and historian. She noted that she is very familiar
with ugly side of racism in Georgetown. She stated that she is writing a book about
Georgetown that will be based around the time when the statue was erected. She referred to
acts of violence against minorities in the area and the KKK trails.
Jonrowe stated that the City has moral obligation to discuss the future of the statue and even
though it lies on County property it is located on the City Square. She added that her
preferred option is the place statue at the IOOF cemetery with a plaque providing information
and move forward with an education plan. Jonrowe wondered why people get passionate
about symbols and added that it is because they matter. She added that symbols do not
represent all of history but do assist in telling the story of history. Jonrowe stated that these
Confederate remnants no longer hold value. She noted the need for action to contextualize
the statue, similar to other action taken across the nation. Jonrowe quoted Robert E. Lee and
stated that his words support the proposed action.
Calixtro provided a statement from the National Trust for Historic Preservation related to
Confederate monuments. She added when she is on the Square she tries to avoid viewing the
monument because the monument is painful. Calixtro wants everyone to be able to walk the
Square and feel safe and happy. She stated that the young people are organizing and think
differently which is a good thing because they will move the Country forward. Calixtro stated
that the she feels the best place for statue is in the cemetery standing watch over the dead
soldiers. She stated that she wants people to be able to respect one another not matter their
beliefs.
Pitts stated that he has heard many arguments regarding the removal of the statue. He added
that this is not about the statue, but about one governing body telling another one what to do.
Pitts stated that Council has made it a policy to no issue non -legislative Resolutions, not to
bring national politics to the City. He added that this is a County issue and Council should
concentrate on City issues. Pitts stated that he has spoken with his County Commissioner but
does not support the item.
Triggs stated that he's not quite sure what the Resolutions is attempting to do, and he would
prefer to listen to other Council Members comments.
Fought stated that Council has a long-standing practice of focusing on actionable items. He
added that the last time Council was asked to do something like this was several years ago
by Southwestern students related to beef production, which produced a hearty debate and
Council opted not to pass the Resolution. Fought stated that even if Council has supported
the Resolution it would have been for nothing. He added that Council then decided to stay
within their purview. Fought stated that even tough it is an important topic, but it is not up
to Council. He added that he would support a veteran's cemetery. Fought stated that this
would have been better suited for a Workshop and this is the wrong process to address the
topic. He added that he has expressed his concerns about the statue, but he will continue to
do so as an individual.
Gonzalez stated that he doesn't believe in removing historic statues or markers as they
represent snapshots of history. He added that the City should look at the good and learn
from the bad and vow not to repeat the bad. Gonzalez stated that the City doesn't control the
monument. He then noted that two of the founders of Southwestern University were slave
owners. Gonzalez provided information about racist related event related to Southwestern
University. He added that the City has never address the University and suggested the City
disassociate itself based on its racist history. Gonzalez stated that if the City is going to do
this, then it should start with things the City can control and then suggested putting these
types of issues on a Countywide ballot. He added that history needs to be protected and
learned from.
Jonrowe stated that she doesn't shy away from learning the uglier parts of history and she
would be happy to engage Southwestern University students and discuss the history of the
university. She added that she feels Southwestern staff and students would likely embrace
the discussion. Jonrowe noted she finds it ironic that Gonzalez suggest that the City has not
authority over the County and yet proposed working on university related changes where
City also does not have authority. She stated the Civil War is one of the most written about
points of history. Jonrowe stated that the statue is not about teaching history, but about
showing what the community represents. She added that related to when a Council Member
brings about an item for action or workshop is not defined. Jonrowe stated that she feels the
City has an obligation as representatives of the City to work on moving the statue.
Calixtro stated that she does not feel this is about erasing history. She added that the statue
is a divisive symbol and noted that Fought's suggestion of a veteran's cemetery would also
be appropriate.
Pitts stated that this is not a debate about a statue, but instead about process and sending a
Resolutions will do nothing to move the statue.
Triggs stated that he is a product of the Vietnam War and there were a lot of soldiers who did
not support the war but had to go fight in it. He added that this statue is not about a famous
general but is a statue about possible poor farmers who got caught up in things. Triggs stated
that he would rather deal with it by discussing with the County which he has already done.
Gonzalez stated that he would also be willing to discuss history with Southwestern and he is
happy that people are talking about history. He added that people can interpret history
differently and it is up to individuals to teach their ancestors what that statue represents to
them. Gonzalez stated that we are a country forgiveness and there is no place for racism. He
noted that teaching and discussing history is the best learning tool. Gonzalez stated that
Southwestern University is a great institution that has a racist past like many universities in
the South. He added that he does not know anyone who honors a Confederate family
member, but still supports slavery.
Mayor Ross provided Jonrowe the last word. She had no additional comments. He then
thanked Council for how they addressed the issue.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro - Yes
Triggs - No
Fought - No
Pitts - No
Jonrowe - Yes
Gonzalez - No
Motion failed 4-2 (Triggs, Fought, Pitts, and Gonzalez against, Calixtro and Jonrowe for;
and District 2 vacant).
Public Wishing to Address Council
On a subject that is posted on this agettda: Please fill out a speaker registration form which can be
found on the table at the entrance to the Council Chamber. Clearly print your name and the letter
of the item on which you wish to speak and present it to the City Secretary on the dais, prior to the
start of the meeting. You will be called forward to speak when the Council considers that item.
Only persons who have delivered the speaker form prior to the meeting being called to order may
speak. Speakers will be allowed up to three minutes to speak.
On a subject not posted on the agenda: An individual may address the Council at a regular City
Council meeting by contacting the City Secretary no later than noon on the Wednesday prior to the
Tuesday meeting, with the individual's name and a brief description of the subject to be addressed.
Only those persons who have submitted a timely request will be allowed to speak. The City
Secretary can be reached at (512) 931-7715 or cs(Poorgetown.org. Speakers will be allowed up to
three minutes to speak.
M. At the time of posting no one had signed up to speak.
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.
N. 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
- Litigation Update
Sec. 551.086: Certain Public Power Utilities: Competitive Matters
- Purchase Power Update
Adjournment
Motion by Fought, second by Gonzalez.
Roll Call Vote
Calixtro — Yes
Triggs — Yes
Fought — Yes
Pitts — Yes
Jonrowe — Yes
Gonzalez — Yes
Approved 6-0 (District 2 vacant).
Meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.
Approved by the Georgetown City Council on l _(A I H-1 W
Date
Dale Ross, Mayor N Attest: Cit ecretary