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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