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Home My WebLink AboutCC 2003-01-27 Agendas . CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS PRE-COUNCIL AGENDA JANUARY 27,2003 - 6:00 PM For the Meeting conducted at the North Richland Hills City Hall - Pre-Council Chambers 7301 Northeast Loop 820. . NUMBER ITEM ACTION TAKEN 1. Discuss Items from Regular January 27,2003 City Council Meetinq (5 Minutes) Discuss Federal Legislative Program (10 Minutes) [Agenda 2. I R 2003-006 Item No. 13J Discussion of Special Use Permit Requirement for Fueling 3. I R 2003-007 Stations (10 Minutes) Discussion of Requirements for Placement of Political Signs 4. I R 2003-008 (10 Minutes) 5. *Executive Session - The Council may enter into closed Executive Session to discuss the following: Consultation with City Attorney as Authorized by Government Code §551.071 Curtis v. North Richland Hills 16. I Adjournment I 1 *Closed due to subject matter as provided by the Open Meetings Law. If any action is contemplated, it will be taken in open session. NSTEp "/~'f'6~ Dat~ 1 I)'. 60 (. M . . Time ~. CinJ Secre~. ., µ:, f.AÅ) ""~ 1/27/03 City Council Agenda Page 1 of 4 By . CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS CITY COUNCIL AGENDA JANUARY 27,2003 -7:00 PM For the Meeting conducted at the North Richland Hills City Hall Council Chambers 7301 Northeast Loop 820, at 7:00 p.m. The below listed items are placed on the Agenda for discussion and/or action. 1. Items on the consent agenda will be voted on in one motion unless a Council Member asks for separate discussion. 2. The Council reserves the right to retire into executive session concerning any of the items listed on this Agenda, whenever it is considered necessary and legally justified under the Open Meetings Act. 3. Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need assistance should contact the City Secretary's office at 817-427-6060 two working days prior to the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made. . NUMBER ITEM ACTION TAKEN 1. Call to Order 2. Invocation - Girl Scout Troop 1262 Troop Leader: Lisa Juren 3. Pledge - Girl Scout Troop 1262 Troop Leader: Lisa Juren 4. Special Presentations 5. Removal of Item( s) from the Consent Agenda . 1/27/03 City Council Agenda Page 2 of 4 . . e t NUMBER ITEM ACTION TAKEN 6. Consent Agenda a. Minutes of the Pre-Council Meeting January 13, 2003 b. Minutes of the City Council Meeting January 13, 2003 GN 2003-006 c. Appointment of Replacement Election Judge at the Dan Echols Senior Center Polling Location for the February 1, 2003 Bond Election PU 2003-004 d. Authorize Annual Contract for Microcomputer Hardware to Gateway - Resolution No. 2003-006 PU 2003-005 e. Authorize Interlocal Purchasing Agreement with the City of Euless and Purchase of Automated Citation Management System - Resolution No. 2003-007 7. GN 2003-007 Resolution Adopting 2003 Economic Development Strategic Plan - Resolution No. 2003-008 8. GN 2003-008 Public Hearing to Consider Extending Ordinance No. 1994 Juvenile Curfew Ordinance for Three Years - Ordinance No. 2683 9. GN 2003-009 Youth Advisory Committee Mid-Year Report & Acceptance of Report 10. GN 2003-010 Approval of Amendment to Youth Advisory Committee By-Laws 11. GN 2003-011 Replacement of Members on the Youth Advisory Committee for Non-Attendance 12. GN 2003-012 Appointment of Alternate to Keep NRH Beautiful Commission 13. GN 2003-013 Consider 2003 Federal Legislative Program 1/27/03 City Council Agenda Page 3 of4 . NUMBER ITEM ACTION TAKEN 14. GN 2003-014 Adoption of 2003 CAPP Legislative Agenda - Resolution No. 2003-004 15. Action on Any Item Discussed in Executive Session listed on Pre-Council Aqenda 16. a) Citizens Presentation b) I nformation and Reports 17. Adiournment . p<;>sTEp ~ I ~.., ( b ~ Dat~ \ 0', VÒ £.~. e Time ,~, City Secretary A .6t ~ 1£.1t wJI-- p.,. . 1/27/03 City Council Agenda Page4of4 INFORMAL REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL No, IR 2003-006 "' Date: T Subject: January 27,2003 Discuss 2003 Federal Legislative Program The purpose of this report is to provide you with information regarding our legislative priorities for this session, as the 2003 Federal Program is on the City Council agenda for approval. As in the past, we have used four guiding principles to determine positions on the city related issues we expect will come forward during this session of the legislature. These guiding principles are local control, a predictable and sufficient level of revenue to provide for our citizens, opposition to unfunded state mandates, and quality of life. We expect the priorities this session to include: · Local Priorities for Homeland Security · Public Safety and Collective Bargaining · Water Infrastructure Financing · Modernization of Flood Maps · CDBG Funding Issues · Local Law Enforcement Block Grant · Telecommunications . Electric Deregulation · Transportation Issues · Air Quality · Internet Sales Tax · Library and Museum Funding Issues · Trade Promotion Authority · Amusement Park Regulation We look forward to discussing this with you Monday, and hearing whether you have any additional items to add to the program. a)UZ1 Assistant City Manager e ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS INFORMAL REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL + No. IR 2003-007 January 27, 2003 Discussion of Special Use Permit regulations for fueling stations Following the approval of the recent QuikTrip service station, Tim Welch has requested a discussion item to consider future regulations for allowing fueling stations under the Special Use Permit regulations. There were some concerns over the ability for convenience stores with 8 pumps or less having the right to construct without an SUP. Our current regulations allow service stations by right in the C2 (Commercial) or HC (Heavy Commercial) zoning districts and require an SUP in the C1 (Retail) or CS (Community Service) zoning districts. This is set up primarily by the definition for service station being 9 or more fueling pumps. A convenience store however is allowed by right in the C1, C2 and CS and HC zoning districts. A convenience store is considered a retail store with a maximum of 8 fueling pumps as a secondary use. This use would also be appropriate for fueling stations as part of a grocery store with 8 or less fueling pumps. This includes most major grocer stores including Wal Mart, Sams, Albertsons, Kroger and Tom Thumb. The definition changes for convenience store and service station were made in March 2001. To consider changes to the current ordinance would require a zoning ordinance revision in the automotive related uses or include new definitions for convenience stores and/or service stations. Staff requests Council direction whether to pursue ordinance revisions in these areas. Sincerely, ~0k2~ John Pitstick Development Director ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS INFORMAL REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL No. I R 2003-008 + January 27, 2003 Discussion of Requirements for Placement of Political Signs Questions continue to arise regarding the proper placement and effective enforcement of political signs in North Richland Hills. Currently political signs are allowed to be placed in the city as a temporary sign for 30 days prior to a city or county election, 60 days prior to a state election and 90 days prior to a national election and must be removed within 7 days after an election. In residential districts political signs shall not exceed 6 square feet or more than 3 feet in height. In all other districts political signs shall not exceed 50 square feet and 6 feet in height. Political signs are generally not allowed on public property or on public rights-of- way. However there is a section in the ordinance that allows political yard signs less than 3 square feet in size to be placed in the right-of-way with permission of the abutting owner. When the City gets complaints regarding placement of political signs in the right-of-way it becomes difficult to determine adjacent property permission, particularly on vacant tracts of land. Placement of signs on private property is generally accepted to be at least 10 feet behind the edge or curb of the street. Staff is suggesting that all political signs be allowed on private property and not in the right-of-way. By requiring political signs at least 10 feet behind the curb will remove questions or confusion about placement of political signs and allow for consistent enforcement of our sign ordinance. Staff requests Council direction whether to pursue ordinance revisions in these areas. Sincere~ r\ --1Q kÞJ.JJ John Pitstick Development Director ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS · Political Sign Ordinance 1999 version 6. Political Signs. . . i. Political signs shall not be placed on public property or within public right of way. 2000 version (current) 6. Political Signs. . . I. Political signs shall not be placed upon public property or within public rights-of-way except that political yard signs (less than 3 square feet in size) may be placed in the public right-of-way with permission of the owner of the abutting property. · · ·" ..- MINUTES OF THE PRE-COUNCIL MEETING OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS, HELD IN THE PRE-COUNCIL ROOM AT CITY HALL, 7301 NORTHEAST LOOP 820 - JANUARY 13, 2003 - 6:10 P,M. - Present: . ITEM CALL TO ORDER DISCUSS ITEMS FROM REGULAR JANUARY 13, 2003 CITY COUNCIL MEETING IR 2003- 003 DISCUSS 2003 STATE LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM Oscar Trevino Frank Metts, Jr. Lyle E. Welch Scott Turnage JoAnn Johnson David Whitson Joe D. Tolbert Timothy J. Welch Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Councilman Councilman Councilwoman Councilman Councilman Councilman Larry J. Cunningham Steve Norwood Greg Vick Karen Bostic Paulette Hartman Patricia Hutson George Staples John Pitstick Larry Koonce Mike Curtis Jenny Mabry Tom Shockley Thomas Powell Clay Caruthers Chris Swartz City Manager Assistant City Manager Assistant City Manager Managing Director Administrative/Fiscal Services Assistant to City Manager City Secretary City Attorney Director of Development Finance Director Public Works Director Communications Director Police Chief Support Services Director Budget Manager Aquatic Manager DISCUSSION ASSIGNMENT Mayor Trevino called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. No items discussed. Mr. Greg Vick highlighted the city's state legislative priorities for the 2003 session. The City's legislation positions will be determined by four guiding principles - local control, a predictable and sufficient level of revenue to provide for our citizens, opposition to unfunded state mandates and quality of life. Several Ie islative items were mentioned and discussed /' ..- IR 2003- 004 COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE ADJOURNMENT ATTEST: . Pre Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 2 that the City would be monitoring, Le., manufactured housing, restrictions to City's ability to amend or adopt zoning regulations, erode the property tax base through property tax exemptions, elimination of the Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund, support adequate funding for Small Urban Transportation Providers, such as NETS, etc. The 2003 State Legislative Program was on the regular agenda and was approved by Council durin the re ular meetin . G.Vick Councilwoman Johnson present at 6:26 p.m, Council was asked to consider the scheduling of three Council meetings so that the Planning & Zoning Development Review Process Schedule can be adjusted accordingly. Three of the Council meetings will conflict with future conferences. The consensus of the Council was to move the March 10,2003 meeting to March 13, 2003, December 8, 2003 to December 15, 2003 and the March 8, 2004 to March 11, 2004. P.Hutson Mayor Trevino announced at 6:29 p.m. that the Council would adjourn to Executive Session for consultation with City Attorney as authorized by Government Code 551.071 for Risheg v. North Richland Hills and Davis v. North Richland Hills. Mayor Trevino announced at 6:56 p.m. that the Council would adjourn to the regular Council meeting Oscar Trevino - Mayor Patricia Hutson - City Secretary e e e MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS, HELD IN THE CITY HALL, 7301 NORTHEAST LOOP 820 - JANUARY 13, 2003 -7:00 P,M. 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Trevino called the meeting to order January 13, 2003 at 7:06 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Oscar Trevino Frank Metts, Jr. Lyle E. Welch Scott Turnage JoAnn Johnson David Whitson Joe D. Tolbert Timothy J. Welch Mayor Mayor Pro Tem Councilman Councilman Councilwoman Councilman Councilman Councilman Staff: Larry J. Cunningham Steve Norwood Greg Vick Karen Bostic Patricia Hutson Alicia Richardson George Staples City Manager Assistant City Manager Assistant City Manager Managing Director Administrative/Fiscal Services City Secretary Assistant City Secretary Attorney 2. INVOCATION Mr. Larry J. Cunningham, City Manager, gave the invocation. 3, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. Larry J. Cunningham, City Manager, led the pledge of allegiance. 4. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 2 Ms. Pam Burney, Environmental Services Director, and Mr. Don Sharp, Manager of North Richland Hills Animal Adoption and Rescue Center, recognized Ms. Caralee Woods as the recipient of the Texas Animal Control Association Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award. Councilman Lyle E. Welch and Councilman Turnage presented Ms. Woods with the Texas Animal Control Association Volunteer of the Year Award. 5, REMOVAL OF ITEM(S) FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA None. 6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS APPROVED A. MINUTES OF THE PRE-COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 09, 2002 B. MINUTES OF THE PRE-COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 16, 2002 C. MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 09, 2002 D. MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 16, 2002 E, PS 2002-43 CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FROM REBEL PROPERTIES LLC FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE FINAL PLAT OF LOTS 1AAND 1B, BLOCK 1 NOB HILL CENTRE ADDITION (LOCATED AT 6605 PRECINCT LINE ROAD - .91 ACRES) F. PS 2002-45 CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FROM DAVIS BOULEVARD PARTNERS FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE FINAL PLAT OF LOTS 2R1 AND 2R2, BLOCK 30 OF THE HOLIDAY NORTH ADDITION (LOCATED AT 5583 AND 5587 DAVIS BOULEVARD -1.67 ACRES) G, GN 2003-001 SET DATE FOR PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER EXTENDING ORDINANCE NO. 1994 JUVENILE CURFEW ORDINANCE FOR THREE YEARS - RESOLUTION NO. 2003-001 H. GN 2003-002 RESCHEDULING FEBRUARY 10, 2003 CITY COUNCIL MEETING TO FEBRUARY 5, 2003 I. PU 2003-001 AWARD BID FOR FOUR MOWERS TO SAGINAW IMPLEMENT e COMPANY IN THE AMOUNT OF $56,487 e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 3 e J. PU 2003-002 AWARD PURCHASE OF IBM AS/400 COMPUTER AND HARDWARE MAINTENANCE TO KS2 TECHNOLOGIES - RESOLUTION NO. 2003-003 K. PU 2003-003 AWARD ANNUAL CONTRACT FOR THE PRINTING OF NEWSLETTER AND BROCHURES L. PAY 2003-001 APPROVE FINAL PAY ESTIMATE #7 TO CRAIG OLDEN, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,142,47 FOR BIG FOSSIL CREEK EROSION CONTROL, PHASE II MAYOR PRO TEM METTS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILWOMAN JOHNSON TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. Motion to approve carried 7-0. Mayor Pro Tem Metts advised that Mr. Jay Bruner, 421 Cannon Drive, Hurst, and Mr. Brad Sullard, 105 Marseille Drive, Hurst, wished to go on record as being in support of Consent Item 6e, PS 2002-43. 7. PZ 2002-30 CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FROM CENTER POINT CHURCH FOR SITE PLAN APPROVAL OF A CHURCH (LOCATED IN THE 7700-7800 BLOCK OF MID-CITIES BOULEVARD - 8.5 ACRES) APPROVED Mr. Kip Bruner, 3072 Hightimber Court, Grapevine, representing Center Point Church, introduced other Church representatives available to answer Council questions. Mr. Gaylen Laing, Architect, presented the request for a site plan approval and responded to Council questions. Mr. Laing was asked to address the vision for the building and future and long term plans for the remainder of the property. Mr. John Pitstick, Director of Development, summarized request. The applicant is proposing a single-story all masonry facility. Access to the site will include two 35' full- access points, one from Mid Cities Boulevard and the other from Abbott Avenue. The proposed signage will consist of a single monument sign located near the intersection of Mid Cities Boulevard and Abbott Avenue and a wall sign located on the Mid Cities building façade. The Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of PZ 2002-30. e e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 4 Councilman Lyle E. Welch commented that he would like to see the Church maintain the property that is not part of Phase I. COUNCILWOMAN JOHNSON MOVED TO APPROVE PZ 2002-30. COUNCILMAN WHITSON SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion to approved carried 7-0. 8. PZ 2002-38 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST BY LINDA AND LARRY KJELDGAARD FOR A ZONING CHANGE FROM "AG" AGRICULTURAL TO "R-1-S" SPECIAL SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL AND "R-1" RESIDENTIAL AT 7300 BURSEY ROAD - 5,9 ACRES - ORDINANCE NO. 2682 APPROVED Mayor Trevino opened the public hearing. Ms. Linda Kjeldgaard, 7316 Wesley Court, North Richland Hills, was available to answer Council questions. Mr. Pitstick informed Council that the request would validate the current use of the property at the 7300 block of Bursey Road. The Kjeldgaards are proposing to sell the existing house on the property and to build a new house on the southern portion of the tract. The Kjeldaards have submitted a preliminary plat to place the tract into two lots. The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of PZ 2002-38. Mayor Trevino called for public comments. There being no one wishing to comment, Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing. COUNCILMAN TIM WELCH MOVED TO APPROVED PZ 2002-38, ORDINANCE No. 2682. COUNCILMAN TOLBERT SECONDED THE MOTION, Motion to approve carried 7-0. e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 5 e 9. PZ 2002-32 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST FROM MIKE CLARK REPRESENTING MARGARET CHASE CHAMBLESS AND CARDINAL LANE INVESTORS LLc FOR A ZONING CHANGE FROM "I-L" LIGHT INDUSTRIAL AND "AG" AGRICULTURAL TO "0-1" OFFICE AT 8901 CARDINAL LANE 18,278 ACRES- ORDINANCE NO. 2677 (CITY COUNCIL CONTINUED ITEM AT THEIR DECEMBER 9, 2002 MEETING) APPROVED Mayor Trevino continued the public hearing that was opened on December 9, 2002. Mr. Mike Clark, applicant, presented request and was available to answer Council questions. Mr. Pitstick advised at applicant's request Council continued item at their December 9, 2002 meeting. The request is to rezone property to accommodate an expansion of the existing UICI Insurance development located immediately to the east of this site. The Comprehensive Plan indicates retail uses for this area and the proposed office-campus setting is consistent with the non-residential nature of the plan. In addition to the rezoning request, the applicant has submitted a preliminary plat and request to revise the Thoroughfare Plan. The Planning and Zoning Commission voted for approval and recommendation of the preliminary plat and Thoroughfare Plan. The revision to the Thoroughfare Plan is listed on tonight's agenda for Council consideration. Mayor Trevino called for public comments. There being no one wishing to comment, Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing. COUNCILWOMAN JOHNSON MOVED TO APPROVE PZ 2002-32 (ORDINANCE No, 2677). COUNCILMAN WHITSON SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion to approve carried 7-0. 10, PZ 2002-37 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A REQUEST BY UICIINSURANCE COMPANY FOR A REVISION TO THE THOROUGHFARE PLAN IN THE 8900 BLOCK OF CARDINAL LANE - ORDINANCE NO, 2678 (CITY COUNCIL CONTINUED ITEM AT THEIR DECEMBER 9, 2002 MEETING) APPROVED Mayor Trevino continued the public hearing that was opened at the December 9, 2002 e Council meeting. City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 6 e Mr. Michael Clark, representing applicant, explained the request involves two roadways - Road A and Road B. Applicant is requesting abandonment of a portion of Road A as part of the expansion of UICI. The request for Road B allows the road to be deleted from the Thoroughfare Plan upon development of the property as a single lot. If the lot is subdivided in any manner, then Road B will remain on the Thoroughfare Plan. Mr. Pitstick advised Council that in conjunction with UICl's zoning change they requested to abandon a portion of a proposed commercial street. Staff is in favor of removing this section of street from the Thoroughfare Plan. UICI is also requesting a thoroughfare revision ordinance for future abandonment of a perimeter street. Mr. Pitstick advised Council that staff has agreed in concept to remove the commercial street from the Thoroughfare Plan in the future if the major portion of the land is used in a campus type setting with a single user. If UICI's new property is platted as a single lot the proposed ordinance would obligate the City to remove the proposed road from the Thoroughfare Plan. If UICI subdivides the lot in any other manner the road would remain on the Thoroughfare Plan. Mayor Trevino called for public comments. There being no one wishing to comment, Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing. e COUNCILMAN TOLBERT MOVED TO APPROVE PZ 2002-37 AND ORDINANCE No. 2678, COUNCILMAN TIM WELCH SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion to approve carried 7-0. 11. PZ 2002-27 PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN APPEAL BY BOBBY KUBAN FOR A SPECIAL USE PERMIT (SUP) IN THE 'C-1" COMMERICAL DISTRICT FOR A GASOLINE SERVICE STATION IN THE 6300 BLOCK OF DAVIS BOULEVARD- ORDINANCE NO. 2681 (DENIED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION A T THEIR DECEMBER 19, 2002 MEETING) APPROVED Mayor Trevino opened the public hearing. Mr. Chad Stanford, 8220 Pecan Ridge Drive, North Richland Hills, real estate manager for QuickTrip in DFW area, spoke on behalf of the applicant. Mr. Stanford briefed the Council on the business background of QuickTrip and presented their request for a specific use permit for a QuickTrip Convenience Store and self-service gasoline station containing 24 gasoline pumps. Mr. Stanford showed Council an architectural rendering of what is being proposed at the southwest corner of Davis and Mid Cities Boulevard. Mr. Stanford showed Council a site plan that was different from the site plan denied by the Planning and Zoning Commission and different from the site plan provided to e e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 7 e Council in their agenda packets. The site plan presented to Council during Council the meeting showed an access point connecting the site to Newman Road. This access point was not shown on the site plan request that the Planning & Zoning Commission heard last month. Applicant explained that the Newman Road connection was not included in the site plan reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission because of comments that Newman Road might be abandoned in the future. Mr. Stanford explained the connection was added after the Planning and Zoning meeting because of comments made by the commissioners at the meeting. Mr. Stanford requested that Council allow the revisions to the site plan. Mr. Stanford pointed out the following: - they were not requesting any median breaks on Mid Cities Boulevard site plan allows 50 foot right of way dedication along Mid Cities 12 foot right of way dedication on Davis Boulevard - site plan has a through lane on Mid Cities. Mr. Stanford explained that as a result of the traffic impact analysis, City Staff is requesting that the through lane be built. Mr. Stanford addressed the issues pertaining to the Comprehensive Plan mentioned in the Staff report. Mr. Stanford showed Council a conceptual concept plan for the corner. Mr. Stanford stated that the concept plan was not required as part of submittal, but staff indicated they would like to see one. Mr. Stanford stated that they prepared one for presentation purposes that was viewed by the Planning & Zoning Commission. Mr. Stanford stated that the concept plan is conceptual in nature only. The conceptual plan showed their facility on the hard corner with a restaurant, bank and an office building. The concept plan was shown for illustrative purposes to show that the remainder of the property could be developed into attractive retail uses that staff has indicated they would like to see come to this area. Mr. Stanford stated that developing the corner pad does not ruin the developability of the remainder of the tract. Mr. Stanford stated the only thing proposed tonight is the QuikTrip Convenience store on corner. Mr. Stanford addressed staffs concern that approving use would attract future automotive related uses on the tract. Mr. Stanford stated that the land use is proper for the location, the site plan meets the expectations of the Comprehensive Plan with the exception of the additional fueling pumps and future development of the site is controlled by Council through specific use permits. Mr. Stanford stated they did not intend to bring future automotive related uses to this site and they do not feel QuickTrip will deter other uses from this site. Mr. Stanford reviewed the building design and characteristics of facility. The building façade has been upgraded to blend with area and landscaping exceeds what is required by ordinance. Mr. Stanford addressed Staffs request to pitch the canopy and his concerns with pitching the canopy. In response to questions from the Council, Mr. Stanford showed renderings of the landscaping, graphics of the building elevations, and canopy and fuel pump elevations. e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 8 e Council verified that the access point off of Smithfield Road had been eliminated. Concerns were expressed that the right-in / right-out on Davis Boulevard needed to be larger to deter people from trying to turn left. Mr. Stanford was asked that sign age be installed before cars enter into the triangle to indicate that cars are not to turn left. Mayor Trevino questioned why the concept plan showing the other businesses was not submitted as a conceptual drawing to the Planning & Zoning Commission. Mr. Stanford advised it was submitted at the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, but it was not presented as a formal part of application to the city staff. Mr. Stanford stated that it was not a formal requirement of submittal but after they learned the City would like to see one, it was prepared. Mr. Pitstick gave a summary of the case, Planning & Zoning Commission actions and staff's recommendation. Mr. Pitstick advised Council that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of PZ 2002-27 by a vote of 3-2 and that the applicant submitted a letter requesting an appeal of Planning and Zoning's recommendation. Mr. Pitstick advised Council the applicant is requesting a Specific Use Permit in the "C-1" Commercial District for a QuikTrip Convenience Store and self-service gasoline station. The store would be located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Mid-Cities Boulevard and Davis Boulevard. Mr. Pitstick advised the Comprehensive Plan recommends retail uses for this intersection and the proposed use is considered an automobile-oriented use that is best suited to a commercial area. This intersection is one of the last undeveloped commercial areas and staff believes the character of any proposed development should be given careful consideration. Staff is recommending denial of PZ 2002-27, Ordinance No. 2681. Mr. Pitstick reviewed the primary concerns of the Planning and Zoning Commission and Staff. Concerns are 1) the intersection of Davis and Mid Cities is one of the few undeveloped prime areas remaining and the Comprehensive Plan does not support an automobile-related use at this location 2) site plan needs to be included for the entire 7 acre tract, rather than a piece-meal approach to the development 3) site has a 6 foot rise and concern with 23' high canopy - not sure trees will shadow unless large caliper trees, 4) the Planning & Zoning Commission has not had the opportunity to review the revised site plan 5) Staff requested a conceptual plan that could be approved with entire tract and QuickTrip chose not to submit one for approval. Council questioned and discussed the following: pitch roof, the improvement of Newman Road by the applicant to a 24 foot driving surface, the right-in / right-out, the right of way dedication on Mid Cities and Davis Boulevard, the addition of the continuous through lane on Mid Cities to the east, and the location of the sidewalks adjacent to the curb. Mayor Trevino called for public comments. Mr. Chad Stanford spoke in favor of the request as a citizen of North Richland Hills. Mr. Stanford further advised that in response to concerns raised by Council, they would be City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 9 e willing to asphalt and improve both sides of Newman Road end to end (Smithfield Road to Davis Boulevard). They are also planning to cut the site nearly 8 feet so finished floor of building will be lower. Mr. Stanford requested that Council approve the site plan presented to Council tonight. There being no one else wishing to speak in favor, Mayor Trevino called for those opposed to come forward. Mayor Trevino advised that Charles & Alice Scoma had submitted a letter in opposition to the special use permit There being no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Trevino closed the public hearing. COUNCILWOMAN JOHNSON MOVED TO DENY PZ 2002-27. COUNCILMAN LYLE E, WELCH SECONDED THE MOTION, Motion failed 3-4; with Councilman Lyle E. Welch, Mayor Pro Tem Metts and Councilwoman Johnson voting for denial and Councilmen Turnage~ Whitson, Tolbert and Councilman Tim Welch voting against. e COUNCILMAN TURNAGE MOVED TO APPROVE PZ 2002-27, THE SITE PLAN PRESENTED TO COUNCIL BY APPLICANT TONIGHT, TO INCLUDE THE PITCH ROOF CANOPY OVER THE GAS PUMPS, THE IMPROVEMENT OF NEWMAN ROAD BEING ASPHALT FROM SMITHFIELD TO DAVIS BLVD - 24 FOOT WIDE. COUNCILMAN TIM WELCH SECONDED THE MOTION, COUNCILMAN TOLBERT ASKED FOR THE FOLLOWING AMENDMENTS: 1) APPROVE THE SUP WITH ELEVATIONS AS PRESENTED AT COUNCIL MEETING (ATTORNEY STAPLES ADVISED ELEVATIONS SAME AS PRESENTED TO PLANNING & ZONING) 2) lANDSCAPING PLAN AS SUBMITTED 3) SIDEWALKS BE MOVED BACK (AWAY FROM STREET) FIVE FEET IF APPROVED BY PUBLIC WORKS 4) PITCH ROOF MEET THE CURRENT ORDINANCE 5) SIGNAGE ON THE RIGHT-IN AND RIGHT-oUT CLEARLY INDICATES THAT IT IS A RIGHT -IN AND RIGHT-oUT ONLY AND SIGNAGE ON MID CITIES BOULEVARD SHOWING THAT IT IS ONE-WAY OUT TO THE RIGHT. 6) QUIKTRIP TO DEDICATE THE RIGHT-OF-WAY NEEDED FOR MID-CITIES IMPROVEMENTS AT DAVIS BOULEVARD. e 7) PLANTING OF THE TREES BE A MINIMUM OF 12 FEET. City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 10 e Councilman Turnage accepted the amendment to the motion. Councilman Tim Welch seconded the amendment. Motion to approve carried 6-1; with Councilwoman Johnson, Councilmen Lyle E. Welch, Turnage, Whitson, Tolbert and Tim Welch voting for approval and Mayor Pro Tem Metts voting against. Mayor Trevino called a recess at 9:24 p.m. Mayor Trevino called the meeting back to order at 9:35 p.m. with same members present as recorded. 12. GN 2003-003 CONSIDERATION OF 2003 STATE LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM APPROVED Mr. Greg Vick, Assistant City Manager, summarized item for Council. COUNCILWOMAN JOHNSON MOVED TO APPROVE THE GN 2003-003. COUNCILMAN LYLE E. WELCH SECONDED THE MOTION, e Motion to approve carried 7-0. e 13, GN 2003-004 CONSIDER RESOLUTION URGING STATE LEGISLATORS TO PROVIDE FULL FUNDING FOR THE TEXAS EMISSION REDUCTION PLAN (TERP) OR SENATE BILL 5 ENACTED DURING THE 77TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION- RESOLUTION NO. 2003-002 APPROVED Mr. Greg Vick advised Council the purpose of the resolution is to urge our state legislators to provide full funding for the Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP) or Senate Bill 5 which was enacted during the last legislative session. TERP provides incentives for owners and operators of heavy construction equipment to replace or retrofit equipment with new technology that will cut polluting emissions. There are other provisions that call for more scientific research to be done on the air quality problem so that its cause can be better defined and so the most effective and cost efficient methods for remedying the problem can be determined. Funding TERP is important because the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has notified the State of Texas that failure to fully fund the TERP will most likely result in the Dallas/Fort Worth area State Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality mitigation not being approved. Upon approval from Council staff will forward resolution to our State Legislators. e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 11 e COUNCILMAN TIM WELCH MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMAN WHITSON TO APPROVE GN 2003-004. Motion to approved carried 7-0. 14, GN 2003-005 RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR FEBRUARY 1, 2003 BOND ELECTION - RESOLUTION NO. 2003-005 APPROVED Mr. Steve Norwood, Assistant City Manager, advised Council that the resolution would show Council's support for the February 1 2003 Bond Election. COUNCILMAN LYLE E. WELCH MOVED TO APPROVE GN 2003-005 AND RESOLUTION No, 2003-005. MAYOR PRO TEM METTS SECONDED THE MOTION. Motion to·.approve carried 7-0. 15. A. CITIZENS PRESENTATION None. B.INFORMATION AND REPORTS Councilman Whitson announced the following. A Bond Election has been called for Saturday, February 1. Early voting begins this week on Wednesday, January 15th and will continue through January 28th. Registered voters can vote at City Hall, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 817-427-6060. MasterWorks Concert Series 2003 begins in the NRH Public Library! Colleen Mallette will kick off the season by performing American Cabaret on Tuesday, January 14th. The concert is FREE and begins at 7pm. The NRH Public Library is located at 6720 NE Loop 820. For further information, call 817-427-6800. A Parenting Seminar will be held on Saturday, January 25th at Birdville High School. The seminar will be from 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Interested participants must register by Friday, January 17th. To register, call 817-427-6600. e e City Council Minutes January 13, 2003 Page 12 e The annual Enviro Fair will be held on Saturday, January 25th at the Birdville Fine Arts/Athletic Complex. It is FREE and will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. For more information, call 817-427-6650. January 18 Critter Connection North Hills Mall 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 817-427-6570 January 23 Citizens Police Academy Class #17 begins 17. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Trevino adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m. Oscar Trevino - Mayor ATTEST: Patricia Hutson - City Secretary ~partment: City Secretary CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS Council Meeting Date: 1/27/03 Subject: Appointment of Replacement Election JudQe at the Dan Echols Senior Center Voting Location for the February 1, 2003 Bond Election Agenda Number: GN 2003-006 Mr. Norman Peterson was appointed by Council to serve as the Election Judge at the Dan Echols Senior Center voting location for the February 1, 2003 Bond Election. The City Secretary was notified on January 17 that Mr. Peterson passed away. Mrs. Barbara Horne has agreed to serve as Election Judge at the Dan Echols Senior Center voting location. Recommendation: To appoint Mrs. Barbara Horne as the Election Judge for the Dan Echols Senior Center voting location for the February 1, 2003 Bond Election. - Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds Ävallal:>le /7 . . "flu t;~·I:tú,((j( d ~ Department Head Signature Finance Director ~~re r CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS . Department: Finance / I nformation Services Council Meeting Date: 1/27/2003 Subject: Authorize Annual Contract for Microcomputer Hardware to Gateway - Resolution No. 2003-006 Agenda Number: PU 2003-004 At the 3/25/02 meeting, Council awarded the annual contract to supply Gateway microcomputer hardware to OMTEX Systems (PU 2002-012). The OMTEX proposal was for an 8-percent discount off the list price. The contract was awarded for three years with the option to extend for a fourth year. OMTEX has informed the City they are going out of business. Gateway also submitted a proposal for this contract and the discount offered was identical to the OMTEX discount. Gateway has stated they will honor their original proposal and increase the discount to 10-percent off list price for the remaining two years of the original contract. The City has standardized on Gateway computers since 1995 and Staff recommends authorizing the contract with Gateway. Recommendation: To authorize the contract to supply microcomputer hardware to Gateway Companies for two years with the option to extend for one additional year and pass Resolution No. 2003-006 authorizing the City Manager to execute the contract. Finance Review w Budget Director Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other Æ..€4,~~~ Departm nt Head lanature Finance Director Paae 1 of 1 J . RESOLUTION NO. 2003-006 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS, that: 1. The City Manager is hereby authorized to execute the contract for microcomputer hardware with Gateway, as the act and deed of the City. PASSED AND APPROVED this 27th day of January, 2003. APPROVED: Oscar Trevino Mayor ATTEST: . Patricia Hutson, City Secretary . APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY: Attorney for the City APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: · CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS Department: Finance / Information Services Council Meeting Date: 1/27/2003 Subject: Authorize Interlocal PurchasinQ AQreement with the City of Agenda Number: PU 2003-005 Euless and Purchase of Automated Citation Management System Resolution No. 2003-007 Funds are available in the Municipal Court Technology Fee Restricted Cash account for the purchase of an Automated Citation Management System. The eight handheld citation computers will be used by the motorcycle officers to issue traffic citations. The units will be pre-programmed with information such as street names, block numbers, violation codes and vehicle types. The units will be equipped with a magnetic swipe feature so officers can enter driver licenses information without additional writing. The information will be downloaded instead of hand entered by clerks. The units will be a good time saving tool for the officers and the Municipal Court. The City of Euless issued request for proposals for this system and awarded the contract to Enforcement Technology. The City can take advantage of cost savings by entering into an interlocal agreement with the City of Euless for the purchase of this system. Purchased through this agreement, the cost of the equipment will be $56,399.20. The interlocal agreement will also be mutually beneficial to Euless and North Richland Hills because combining purchases of various items will reduce the overall expense to each agency. Each agency will place their orders and pay the vendors directly. North Richland Hills or the City of Euless may change or cancel the agreement with a 30-day written agreement. Recommendation: Authorize the interlocal agreement with the City of Euless and pass Resolution No. 2003-007 authorizing the City Manager to execute the agreement and authorize the purchase of the Automated Citation Management System from Enforcement Technology in the amount of $56,399.20 through the interlocal agreement with Euless. Finance Review Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other Account Number 001-4001-512.74-05 Sufficient Funds Avai a e - 'Ui 1l."v;tl::1h.~ \: Depart ent Head Sianature Budget Director Paae 1 of 1 . . . RESOLUTION NO. 2003-007 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS, that: 1. The City Manager is hereby authorized to execute the interlocal agreement with the City of Euless authorizing each City to purchase goods and services from vendors selected through the competitive bidding process. PASSED AND APPROVED this 27th day of January 2003. APPROVED: Oscar Trevino Mayor ATTEST: Patricia Hutson, City Secretary APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY: George Staples, Attorney for the City APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: . . . INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF EULESS AND THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS This agreement is made this day of the City of North Richland Hills, Texas. , 2003, between the City of Euless and Pursuant to the authority granted by the "Texas Interlocal Cooperation Act", Chapter 791 Texas Government Code, providing for the cooperation between local governmental bodies, the parties hereto, in consideration of the premises and mutual promises contain herein agree as follows: Whereas, the parties, in performing governmental functions or in paying for the performance of governmental functions hereunder shall make that performance or those payments from current revenues legally available to that party; Whereas, the governing bodies of each party find that the subject of this contract is necessary for the benefit of the public and that each party has the legal authority to perform and to provide the governmental function or service which is the subject matter of this contract; furthermore, the governing bodies find that the performance of this contract is in the common interest of both parties; and that the division of cost fairly compensates the performing party for the services performed under this contract. I. The City of North Richland Hills, hereby makes, constitutes and appoints the City of Euless its true and lawful purchasing agent for the purchase of various commodities or services provided by contracts or purchase agreements, hereinafter referred to as contract, awarded by the City of Euless. Conversely, the City of Euless hereby makes, constitutes and appoints the City of North Richland Hills its true and lawful purchasing agent for the purchase of various commodities or services provided by contracts awarded by the City of North Richland Hills. To utilize one or more of existing contracts, the non-contract awarding City must request authorization, in writing, from the contract awarding City. Upon receipt of request, the contract awarding City will seek approval from the contracted provider. The non-awarding City agrees that the awarding City shall serve as the purchasing agent for selected items, and agrees that the bidding shall be conducted by the awarding City according to its usual bidding procedures. II. Each party to this agreement agrees that all specifications for selected items or services shall be as determined by the contract awarding City. III. Each party agrees to pay the supplier for its respective goods and services purchased pursuant to this agreement. The successful bidder or bidders shall bill directly the City placing the order for all goods and services purchased, and that City shall be responsible for the supplier or contractor's compliance with all conditions of delivery and quality of the procurement. 1 . IV. Donna Hurst Enos, or her successor, is hereby designated as the official representative to act for the City of North Richland Hills in all matters relating to this agreement. Gary Gerland, or his successor, is hereby designated as the official representative to act for the City of Euless in all matters relating to this agreement. V. This agreement shall take effect upon execution by both signatories. VI. Either party may terminate the Agreement by giving the other party at least thirty (30) days written notice of termination, provided all work accomplished or goods or services provided shall be paid for in accordance with the contract up to the date the termination becomes effective. VII. . Either party agrees to be responsible for any and all liability or damages to itself or any other party, individual or entity arising from the sole negligence of said party. The two (2) parties agree that damages or liability occurring during the performance of this Agreement caused by the joint or comparative negligence of both parties, their agents, servants and employees, shall be determined in accordance with the comparative responsibility requirements of the State of Texas. VIII. If it is larger public works project, there will be statutory bid, performance, payment and materialmen bonds. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this agreement to be executed by their authorized officers the day and year first above written. CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS CITY OF EULESS By: By: Title: City Manager Title: City Manager Date: Date: Approved as to Form: . '~fJ,¡J(JJ , ~ 2 '" ..i . CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS .., Department: Economic Development Council Meeting Date: 1/24/03 Subject: Resolution Adopting 2003 Economic Development Strategic Plan - Resolution 2003-008 Agenda Number: GN 2003-007 . CASE SUMMARY: TIP Development Strategies was hired to assist the City of North Richland Hills in a Strategic Economic Development Plan for the City. Tom Stellman and Jon Roberts have worked with staff, the Economic Development Advisory Committee, the Planning & Zoning Commission and the City Council over several work sessions to reach a consensus on future direction on economic development for North Richland Hills. The three major strategies identified by the plan are: 1) Redeveloping and Reusing Vacant and Underutilized Properties 2) Promoting a Positive Business Climate 3) Developing and Promoting an Attractive, Diversified, and Thriving Community Primary and secondary objectives were identified under each major strategy. Specific actions are also identified in the plan. As backup material for the plan specific appendix's are included. These include a Metroplex overview, a demographic overview and business activity in North Richland Hills over the past four years. Tom Stellman with TIP Strategies will be making a presentation to City Council and staff is requesting formal adoption of this multi-year economic development plan. Staff believes it is essential to develop and follow an economic development strategic plan that will help focus the city's future efforts to assure that essential economic development issues are directed in a prudent, cost-effective manner. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that City Council adopt Resolution 2003-008 and establish an Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City of North Richland Hills. Finance Review Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) _ Operating Budget = ) Other ~ -Jck!~ Account Number Sufficient Funds A vallable Finance Director Department Head Signature ~ '££:::::~ GN 2002- Tax Abatement Guidelines Page 1 of 1 -\ i e e e A RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS RESOLUTION NO. 2003-008 WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council of North Richland Hills believe it is essential to look forward and plan for future economic viability to support the quality of life in North Richland Hills; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council further believe that to move forward and address future needs of citizens, businesses and the community it is important to establish an Economic Development Strategic Plan; and WHEREAS, TIP Strategies, Inc. was hired as a consultant to assist in the formulation of an Economic Development Strategic Plan by establishing three major strategies for pursuing and supporting future economic viability for the City of North Richland Hills; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council, Planning & Zoning Commission and Economic Development Advisory Committee with City Staff and TIP Strategies set forth to establish specific strategies and objectives for directing economic development efforts in the future for the City of North Richland Hills by participating in a series of joint work sessions held August through October, 2002; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council understand that with a changing environment it is necessary to annually review economic development strategies and objectives to assure that they remain current and address the needs and desires of the community; NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS HEREBY ADOPTS THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN AND RESOLVES: That the following economic development strategies shall be established for the City of North Richland Hills: Strategy One: Redeveloping & Reusing Vacant and Underutilized Properties · Targeting Reuse of Vacant Retail · Redevelop South Grapevine Highway · Redevelop North Hills Mall · Redevelop Loop 820 Land Uses · Redevelop Existing Neighborhoods 1 .., ~ e Strategy Two: Promoting a Positive Business Climate e e · Retention of Existing Businesses · Support Diversified Business Recruitment · Facilitate Street Reconstruction Projects Strategy Three: Developing and Promoting an Attractive, Diversified and Thriving Community · Promote High Development Standards · Promote Commuter Rail Service · Enhance Davis Boulevard · Support the City Image Study · Promote the Smithfield Historical Area · Promote Tourist and Entertainment Venues · Actively Market to Improve the Image of NRH · Promote the HomeTown Development PASSED AND APPROVED this 27th day of January, 2003. CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS By: Oscar Trevino, Mayor ATTEST: Patricia Hutson, City Secretary Approved as to form and legality: George A. Staples, Attorney 2 e North Richland Hills Economic Development Plan . J~. ~~" ~___I~~~(~~' .....,...,..........!wt !..!.2.lli M~~,~".' ,,~..",',.. 11'11"".". ""01 I. p.,~ ~'t·j<l'.. . F",~;.< ",,,..,.. . .."..'. '>'~'''F' J,;;NI t .~, r" 1~ e e January 2003 e Acknowledgements The project team would like to thank the members of the North Richland Hills City Council, the Economic Development Advisory Board, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the staff of the City of North Richland Hills for contributing their valuable insight and feedback to this plan. CITY COUNCIL Oscar Trevino, Jr. - Mayor Frank Metts, Jr. - Mayor Pro Tem Joe Tolbert JoAnn Johnson Scott Turnage Lyle Welch David Whitson Tim Welch e PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION Don Bowen· Chairman Ted Nehring - Vice Chairman George Tucker Bill Schopper John Lewis James Laubacher Brenda Cole ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY BOARD Janet Golightly Jim Makens Randy Moresi Dan Quinto Linda Timmons Terry Willey Alan Young CITY STAFF Larry J. Cunningham, City Manager Steven p, Norwood, Assistant City Manager John Pitstick, Director of Development Services Consulting Team e TIP Strategies, Inc. Tom Stellman, President Jon Roberts, Managing Director-Economic Development Ahrey Smith, Project Director i North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e CONTENTS Acknowled~ements ..................................................................................................... i Contents. . . . . . ....... . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . .... . ....., . . . . . ..... ... . . .. . . . . . . . . ..... .... . . . . . . ....... . . . . . . . .... ...... . . . .. ii Executive Summary..................................................................................................... 1 Strategy 1: Redeveloping and Reusing Vacant and Underutilized Properties............................. 3 Strategy 2: Promoting a Positive Business Climate. ................ ....... .......... .................... .......6 Strategy 3: Developing and Promoting an Attractive, Diversified, and Thriving Community........... 8 Appendix A: Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex Overview.............................................................. 12 Demographics....................................................................................................... 12 Economy ............................................................................................................. 12 Industrial Real Estate.............................................................................................. 15 e Reta il .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. .. .. .. . . .. . . . . . . .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. 1 5 Office................................................................................................................. 15 Housing............................................................................................................... 17 Appendix B: Demographic Overview.................................................................................. 19 Appendix C: Business Activity in NRH ................................................................................ 23 Appendix D: Economic Development Strategies & Action Items................................................ 27 e it North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e Executive Summary e e Successful economic development is the result of careful planning that considers a community's needs, wishes, and vision. In early 2002, the North Richland Hills City Council adopted a set of goals that represents the vision for the city. Wanting to create a well-crafted plan for economic development, the City of North Richland Hills engaged TIP Strategies, Inc., an Austin-based consulting firm, to build upon the council's vision. The city, with assistance from TIP Strategies, Inc., began the strategic planning process in order to prioritize resources and identify actionable items for successful, sustainable economic development. The team focused on identifying North Richland Hills' most pressing economic development issues by considering current demographic data and information garnered from interviews with members of the community. Once the urgent issues were identified, solutions were suggested and analyzed to ensure compliance with the council's "Citywide Goals." These goals addressed: · Safety and Security · Quality Development · Financially Responsible City Government · Quality Redevelopment and Reinvestment · Quality of Life Amenities for the Community · Effective Transportation System With these goals in mind, the NRH Economic Development Department set out to draft an economic development plan to guide the city. The purpose of this plan to provide a framework for the city council regarding the allocation of resources and to provide a roadmap for city staff. The findings and recommendations herein result from research and analysis by city staff and TIP, with input and validation from the city council, economic development advisory board and the city's planning and zoning commission. The plan supports the city council's vision, sets forth the main strategies for economic development, and suggests actions to support these strategies. Based on research and input from the city council, chamber of commerce, economic development board, and the development department, city staff and TIP Strategies, Inc. created a list of three strategies and sixteen actionable items for further debate and prioritization by the council. 1 1 A complete listing of the strategies and action items, which were compiled from a list of issues presented by the joint task force, is included as Appendix B of this document. 1 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e . Strategy 1: Redeveloping and reusing vacant and underutilized properties Although sites are currently available, the city is expected to run out of prime tracts of developable land in the next 5 to 7 years. Given the city's inability to expand by annexation, the continued growth of NRH will be dependent upon the preparation of a plan for the redevelopment and reuse of existing land, both commercial and residential. . Strategy 2: Promoting a positive business climate Businesses expand and move to communities in which they feel they are welcome. Promoting a positive business climate encourages business investment and growth and keeps existing businesses from moving to other communities. Some of the best marketing and economic development efforts are a result of word of mouth testimonials from local business leaders. It is important for North Richland Hills to have an active business marketing, communication and retention plan to grow companies that support the existing business base. Since the process and results are not easy to quantify, these efforts must be part of a determined and consistent effort. Strategy 3: Developing and promoting an attractive, diversified, and thriving community Finally, the community must define and promote an appealing identity. North Richland Hills can become a family entertainment destination of choice for North Texas. The city already offers a wide variety in family recreation. NRH should build from this base by continuing to enforce high development standards while improving and beautifying public spaces and historical areas to differentiate North Richland Hills from other communities in the area. e The DFW Metroplex continues to grow and NRH occupies an advantageous position within the region, both literally and figuratively. NRH is strategically located in the center of the Metroplex with easy access to transportation corridors. The city is also positioned to develop into a more vibrant, unique community within the Metroplex. By pursuing the three strategies outlined in this plan, the city will realize sustainable economic and community benefit. e 2 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e Strategy 1: Redeveloping and Reusing Vacant and Underutilized Properties BACKGROUND North Richland Hills experienced dramatic growth during the 1990s, adding an average of 1,000 residents per year between 1990 and 2000. The city's location in the burgeoning Dallas-Fort Worth consolidated metropolitan statistical area (CMSA), one of the fastest growing metro areas in the United States, provides an opportunity for NRH to attract new residents and employers. e The city's continued economic TABLE 1: POPULATION GROWTH, 1990-2000 expansion, however, is threatened by the fact that NRH is rapidly approaching build-out, a state in which all developable land is occupied. Failure to take action on this issue can cause significant financial burden and hamper the Source: us. Census Bureau city's ability to attract new businesses. Currently, the city is about 85 percent developed, with land still available for traditional industrial uses as well as high-traffic retail corners, prime office locations, and residential subdivisions. However, the city will likely run out of prime tracts in the next 5 to 7 years. Given the community's inability to expand further through annexation, there is only one option for economic growth: the reuse or redevelopment of existing properties, both commercial and residential. 1990 2000 % Change Texas Dallas-Ft Worth CMSA 16,986,510 3,885,415 1,170,103 45,895 20,851,820 5,221,801 1,446,219 55,490 22.8% 34.4% 23.6% 20.9% Tarrant County North Richland Hills The prime redevelopment corridor is the South Grapevine Highway Corridor south of Loop 820, a long- standing retail area bounded by North Hills Mall to the north and Richland Business Centre to the south. North Richland Hills has a strong retail concentration, with approximately 2.5 million square feet available for retail. Under current market conditions, however, NRH is experiencing vacancy rates in the 20 percent to 25 percent range. Some old retail centers have been converted successfully to flexible space and high-density office use. The cities in Northeast Tarrant County compete fiercely for retail outlets. In the past, North Richland Hills has benefited from sales tax revenues garnered from retail leakage from surrounding cities. Retail leakage is the degree to which residents of other communities spend retail dollars, and pay sales tax, in North Richland Hills rather than their own communities. Neighboring communities such as Keller, South lake and Watauga, in an attempt to curb the outflow of sales tax revenues, have focused on attracting major retailers. North Richland Hills has responded by adding big boxes such as SuperTarget, Super Wal-Mart, and Home Depot in the northern part of the city. This strategy will not be sustainable as prime retail space becomes more limited. As land supplies are depleted, the city will be forced to address redevelopment of existing properties. Indeed, such projects are already beginning. For instance, developers are in the process of "reinventing" the local mall. Currently, the North Hills Mall has only one major anchor (Mervyns). If the e mall continued to compete against other retail centers, it would almost certainly fail. However, the 3 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e owners of this property are proposing to convert the facility from traditional retail to an entertainment center with an aggressive skate park, ice skating rink, restaurants, movie theatres, comedy club and other night-time and weekend family entertainment. This project can build on other local attractions, such as NRHzO, Blue Line, and Mountasia, to expand North Richland Hills' family-entertainment opportunities. Furthermore, the new vision of the mall will not compete with other area retail centers for revenues; rather it will further diversify the City's sales tax base. In order to facilitate continued growth, NRH must encourage redevelopment and reuse of vacant and underutilized properties. In doing so, not only will the city achieve economic benefit through the expansion of its property tax base, the community will also evolve to meet the needs of residents and industry . ACTIONS A. Targeting Reuse of Vacant Retail NRH currently houses 2.5 million total square feet of retail space in the City with a 20 to 25 percent vacancy rate. Proactively marketing reuse of retail properties with targeted growing businesses will be very important in maximizing North Richland Hills commercial property base as the city approaches build out. e B. Redeveloping South Grapevine Highway The South Grapevine Highway is an older retail corridor on the south end of town-away from newer development. By redeveloping this corridor the city would help support older areas of town while minimizing the impression of Loop 820 as a barrier within the community. Funds have been set aside in the 2002/2003 budget year to plan for the South Grapevine Highway redevelopment. The initiative is a combined effort between NRH and the City of Richland Hills, with each city funding 50 percent of the project. C, Redeveloping North Hills Mall This is a major effort to redevelop an older traditional mall that has been hit hard. The City has signed a multi-year property and sales tax rebate agreement to facilitate the redevelopment of North Hills Mall. A major element in the redevelopment will be to reposition and attract entertainment and sports enthusiasts rather than traditional clothing and fashion customers. Redevelopment of the mall is important for the city and for continued redevelopment south of the freeway. 0, Evaluating Highest and Best land Use of loop 820 Area loop 820 is about to experience a total reconstruction. The freeway will be expanded from 6 lanes to 10 lanes with HOV lanes and frontage road improvements. Upon completion, this road is expected to become a major regional freeway. With the predicted increase in traffic, this development will encourage a change in land uses surrounding the freeway. Although the project will not be completed until 5 to 7 years from now, it is imperative that the city begin its planning efforts soon. e 4 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e E. Redeveloping Existing Neighborhoods NRH's population continues to grow steadily, with about 350 new single family starts each year and about 1,000 new residents. The city should continue to support the Neighborhood Identity Program for redevelopment and enhancement of older or previously developed residential areas to accommodate further residential growth. 5 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e Strategy 2: Promoting a Positive Business Climate BACKGROUND NRH is home to roughly 1,100 businesses employing 25,000. The area offers a diverse mix of businesses including traditional industry, retail, entertainment, and medical services. City leaders have developed an aggressive mix of incentives to attract quality development, including tax abatements for relocations and expansions, and triple Freeport exemption. These incentives have benefited several area businesses and help the city attract new business to the community. TABLE 2: MAJOR EMPLOYERS, 2003 Number of Employees UIO- The Insurance Center! 1176 North Hills Hospital 820 Kimberly Clark 531 Tarrant County College-NE Campus 502 Super Wal Mart - 820 400 Tyson Foods 400 Triad Financial Corporation 350 Silver Leaf Resorts 328 Super Waf Mart - N. Tarrant Pkwy 309 Five Star Ford 264 Sealy Mattress 200 Source: City of North Rich/and Hills Number of Employees Bates Container 198 Sam's Club 195 Auto Nation-Hudiburg 190 CTS Con-Way Transportation 178 Olive Garden 170 Richland Hills Church of Christ 150 Home Depot- 820 150 Home Depot Expo 137 ManorCare Health Services 136 Allen Samuels Dodge 135 Huggins Honda/Mitsubishi 120 Major employers are a significant source of job creation, adding approximately 320 new jobs in 2000. In 2001, businesses in NRH participated in a survey that sought to identify attributes that helped the city retain existing operations, Businesses identified four major areas as "very important" for their continued tenancy in North Richland Hills: 1) proximity to customers (86 percent), 2) an expanding market (80 percent), 3) freeway access (73 percent), and 4) community support (62 percent). NRH's central Metroplex location offers direct access to freeways, a factor that has contributed to the e city's evolution from a suburban environment to a more urban center. However, the city has some 6 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e transportation infrastructure liabilities as well. New road construction is interrupting access to existing businesses. For example, the city is currently expanding Rufe Snow from 5 lanes to 7 lanes. This roadway is a major retail corridor and the project, with its corresponding inconveniences and disruption to traffic and businesses, is expected to continue for at least the next 2 years. North Tarrant Parkway is also in the process of being expanded from 2 lanes to 6 lanes. The state has plans to widen Grapevine Highway in the next few years, which will exacerbate major business interruptions. Finally, Loop 820 will be completely reconstructed from 6 lanes to 10 lanes with 2 HOV lanes and significant frontage road improvements. This project, which will include the construction of a bridge over Loop 820 on Rufe Snow, should start within the next 3 to 5 years. The increase in access and visibility resulting from the Loop 820 project will change the face of the suburban developments that currently surround the freeway. Business establishments and the City will see increased receipts if this land is redeveloped as higher density, urban uses. However, the city should take action to facilitate these construction projects and minimize the burden on affected businesses. ACTIONS A. Retaining Existing Businesses In the course of economic development discussions, many communities focus solely on recruiting new businesses. While it is important to attract new businesses, it is equally e important to keep existing businesses in North Richland Hills. B, Supporting a Regional Approach to Business Recruitment Efforts are underway to form a Northeast Tarrant "Quality of Life" Foundation made up of B.I.S.D. and the cities of North Richland Hills, Richland Hills, Watauga and Haltom City to help promote and recruit businesses on a regional basis. The foundation will promote the assets of all member communities to actively recruit business relocations into the region. c. Facilitating Street Reconstruction Projects The City of North Richland Hills has been fortunate to receive federal, state and local funding to improve roadways throughout the community. However, the timing of major reconstruction of Rufe Snow, North Tarrant Parkway, Loop 820 and possibly other thoroughfares such as Grapevine Highway will cause major disruptions for the traveling public and local businesses. e 7 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e Strategy 3: Developing and Promoting an Attractive, Diversified, and Thriving Community BACKGROUND Formerly a bedroom community of Fort Worth, North Richland Hills is now the third largest city in Tarrant County, following Fort Worth and Arlington. While residential population continues to grow steadily-with roughly 350 new single family starts each year and about 1,000 new residents-NRH is becoming increasingly urban, adding approximately 1,500 new jobs each year. The North Central Texas Council of Governments forecasts continued growth for the area during the next 20 years, with growth in employment outpacing residential growth. TABLE 3: DEMOGRAPHIC FORECAST, 2025 1995 I 2025 ~ Estimate Projection I Gr~:th I ...~~~:~~ge Population 50,300 82,750 Households 18,500 31,150 Jobs 12,800 23,350 Source: North Central Texas Council of Governments 32,450 12,650 10,550 65% 68% 82% e As a result of the city's steady growth, a number of major development projects have been undertaken in the area. One of the largest, the HomeTown development, was approved by community leaders in 1999. This 300-acre mixed use development located near the center of the city calls for 650 custom homes; 800 multifamily dwellings; 160,000 square feet of retail; and approximately 650,000 square feet of office space. Improvements in this development are partially financed using a tax increment financing district. The funds collected under the TI F will fund the construction of a major recreation center, central library and performing arts and conference center. The development is progressing well, with the second phase of single-family homes about to begin. TABLE 4: MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS 2000 - 2002 Project Description H&M Food Systems expansion $15 million; 18,000 sq. ft Richland Plaza Mall redevelopment $5 million; 305,000 sq. ft. Richland Pointe Mall redevelopment 210,000 sq. ft. Master-planned Town Center 287 acres; 650 SF homes; 800 MF units; 160,000 sq. ft. retail; 650,000 sq. ft. office The Crossing shopping center $24 million; 285,000 sq. ft.; anchored by Kohl's and Minyard's grocery e 8 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan · e e e Tarrant Parkway Plaza shopping center 102,000 sq. ft.; anchored by Albertson's Home Depot Expo Design Center $5.1 million; 92,475 sq. ft. Blue Line Ice Complex $10 million; 140,000 sq. ft. Second Super Wal Mart $6.4 million; 212,000 sq. ft. Super Target $6 million; 174,000 sq. ft. UICI addition $12 million; 128,000 sq. ft. Source: City of North Richland Hills As a result of the city's continued growth, the city council has recently upgraded development and aesthetic standards dramatically, with new requirements for masonry, architectural features, landscape buffers and tree preservation. While most businesses are accepting of these standards they often point to existing properties that are grandfathered and, therefore, less expensive to develop. Higher development standards, prime location and shrinking real estate reserves have increased the cost of land and, as an extension, the overall cost of developing land. At present, there is no real effort to promote the image of North Richland Hills. Current residents are aware of the city's advantages, such as quality schools, safe neighborhoods, clean streets, good shopping, abundant entertainment, and low crime rate. Several entities in Tarrant County, including the cities, school districts, and the chamber have recently been discussing a consolidated "quality of life" campaign to help promote the image of Northeast Tarrant County. Each entity is planning to help fund this effort. The goal of this marketing effort is to create a positive image to aid communities in the region when recruiting major business prospects. In addition to participation in this regional initiative, the development of a marketing campaign for NRH should be undertaken to foster a desirable image for the city and help differentiate it from other communities in the Metroplex. ACTIONS A, Promoting High Development Standards The city continues to promote high development standards. Many communities pursue "growth at any cost" and, as a result, are overrun by short lived, unattractive, and poorly constructed developments. North Richland Hills is determined to grow in an attractive, meaningful manner through the use of high development standards such as all masonry construction, improved landscaping, appropriate screening, tasteful signage, and other beneficial development standards. B. Promoting Commuter Rail Service A Dallas Area Rapid Transit rail line runs directly through North Richland Hills. Within the past year, commuter rail service has linked downtown Fort Worth to downtown Dallas. The rail line 9 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e that runs through North Richland Hills is expected to become one of the next major commuter lines in the Metroplex connecting the northern cities to DFW airport and the central cities. North Richland Hills has great access to the rail line and prime real estate near the rails. The rail service could breathe new life into the Smithfield Historic Area and increase the market appeal of the nearby HomeTown development. Commuter rail is an important development issue and appears to be on a 5 to 7 year horizon. C, Enhancing of Davis Boulevard North Richland Hills has an entrance and exit ramp from Loop 820 to Davis Boulevard, the main roadway running down the center of town. This interchange is the gateway to the community and fuels the perceptions of commuters on the freeway. The city should improve the look of and access to Davis Boulevard in order to build a more positive city image. This project could help advertise North Richland Hills' attractions and amenities and should build on the community's branding and marketing efforts. This project will become more important as more commuters utilize the improved Loop 820 to access the central core of the Metroplex. D. Support City Image Study North Richland Hills recently underwent a full city image study. The recommendations resulting from this work are inseparable from the city's economic development strategies and objectives. The city image study identified several infrastructure needs, including burying overhead utilities, improved street signals, medians, street signs, special pavements and decorative banners to help improve the overall look and curbside appeal of the city. By e addressing these issues, NRH can facilitate other development efforts. E. Promoting the Smithfield Historical Area The Smithfield Historic District is in the center of the community. It has some historical significance and could be the future location of a commuter rail stop. Funds have been set aside to develop a plan for redevelopment of the Smithfield area. Redevelopment efforts should be historically sensitive, economically viable, and sustainable. F, Promoting Tourist and Entertainment Venues The City of NRH has been successful in funding a family water park (NRHzO) and golf course (Iron Horse) that are competing successfully in the region. NRH is home to Mountasia-a miniature golf, games and sports center. Blue Line Ice Complex is a three-sheet ice complex that houses a minor hockey league team and abundant league play. The redevelopment of North Hills Mall will also be more related to entertainment than fashion or clothing. The city has not had a concentrated effort to promote these entertainment venues. As NRH gains an image, it is important to actively promote the city's tourist and entertainment venues. e G. Actively Marketing to Improve the Image of NRH Successful suburbs have images. NRH has neither a positive nor a negative image, partially a consequence of having only limited marketing. In the past, North Richland Hills has used hotel/motel taxes to help fund its promotional efforts. However, this fund is diminishing. It is important for the city to establish and foster an image in order to differentiate itself from other communities in the DFW Metroplex. 10 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e H, Promoting the HomeTown Development The 300-acre HomeTown development is an important project that currently includes housing with plans for retail and other services. This development represents an opportunity to begin to establish a center and identity for the community. 11 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e ApPENDIX A: DALLAS-FoRT WORTH METROPLEX OVERVIEW TABLE A-1: EMPLOYMENT GROWTH, 1996-2000 DFW Sector Metroplex* Texas Mining -19% -4% Construction 42% 29% Manufacturing 5% 3% Transportation & Public Utilities 24% 20% Communications 34% 36% Wholesale Trade 19% 15% Retail Trade 16% 13% Finance, Insurance, & Real Estate 22% 18% Services 25% 22% Total Government 14% 7% Total Employment 19% 14% Source: Texas Workforce Commission, Current Employment Statistics *Includes Dallas MSA and Fort Worth Arlington MSA e Demographics The Dallas-Ft. Worth consolidated metropolitan statistical area contains more than 9,106 square miles, and consists of the following 12 counties: Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Henderson, Hood, Hunt, Johnson, Kaufman, Parker, Rockwall, and Tarrant. The DFW Metroplex reported a population of 5,221,801 in 2000, slightly more than one-fourth of the Texas population. Other notable facts regarding the DFW Metroplex population over the past decade include: · The Metroplex was the fastest growing metro area among the top 10 most populous metro areas in the United States (29.3 percent growth rate). · It had the 3rd largest absolute growth rate in the United States of 1,184,519 people. · It is the 9th largest metro area in the United States. Tarrant County, with a growth rate of only 23.6 percent, grew more slowly than many of its neighbors from 1990 to 2000. Fast-growing counties included Collin County (86.2 percent), Rockwall County (68.3 percent) and Denton (58.3 percent) Economy The Metroplex is home to one of the world's most vibrant economies and is ranked first in economic productivity in the United States. The Metroplex commands a substantial share of the Texas economy, accounting for 29 percent of employment, 37 percent of employment growth, 33 percent of gross sales, and 30 percent of retail sales in the state. It has been named the American city with the fastest growing economy by Fortune Magazine. Non-farm employment in the DFW Metroplex grew by about one-fifth from 1996 to 2000. Construction was the fastest growing sector during the five-year period, with employment surging by 42 percent. This dramatic increase reflects the boom in residential, commercial, office, transportation, and industrial construction the Metroplex has experienced over the last several years. The only sector to lose employment was mining, reflecting the continued loss of oil and gas jobs in the area and the state. e 12 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e Employment data for the Metroplex also reveal the increasing importance of service producing sectors to the area. While manufacturing employment grew by 5 percent, employment in all service related sectors increased at double-digit rates. Table C-2 provides a breakdown of industry employment growth in more detail. The industries registering the largest percentage increase in employment were in construction, professional business services, and manufacturing of construction materials. The largest numeric increases in employment were in business services, local government, construction, and retail. TABLE A-2: METROPLEX NON-FARM SECTOR EMPLOYMENT GROWTH, 1996-2000* 1996 2000 Percent Rank Industry Employment Employment Change 1 HEAVY CONSTRUCTION 13,700 21,400 56% 2 NONDE~SITORYINSTNS 21,200 33,000 56% 3 SPEGAL TRADE 71,900 103,000 43% 4 ENGINEERING & MNGMNT. 55,600 79,200 42% 5 BUSINESS SERVICES 206,300 289,900 41% 6 BLDNG MATLS, GRDN SUPL 13,200 18,500 40% 7 PRIMARY METAL INDUSTRIES. 6,300 8,500 35% 8 STONE, CLAY, GLASS 11,000 14,600 33% 9 TRUCKING & WAREHOUSE 38,800 50,800 31% 10 SECURITY & COMMODITY 9,700 12,700 31% 11 GEN BLDNG CONTRACTORS 21,700 28,200 30% 12 FURN, HOMEFURN, EQUIP 24,100 30,800 28% e 13 FURNITURE & FIXTURES 7,100 8,900 25% 14 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES 27,100 33,600 24% 15 MISC RETAIL 50,700 61,900 22% 16 LUMBER & WOOD PRODS. 11,300 13,700 21% 17 REAL ESTATE 36,500 44,200 21% 18 INSURANCE AGENTS 18,000 21,700 21% 19 AMUSEMENT, RECREATION 24,900 29,800 20% 20 DE~SITORYINSTNS 32,600 38,700 19% 21 FABRICATED METAL 27,200 32,200 18% 22 EATING & DRINKING 153,000 180,700 18% 23 TRANS~RTATION BY AIR 55,000 64,900 18% 24 TOTAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT 202,000 235,800 17% 25 APPAREL & ACCESSORY 20,600 23,900 16% 26 AUTO REPAIR & PARKING 24,000 27,500 15% 27 RUBBER & MISC PLASTIC 16,200 18,500 14% 28 ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT 65,100 74,200 14% 29 PERSONAL SERVICES 23,600 26,800 14% 30 MISC REPAIR SERVICES 7,400 8,300 12% 31 GENERAL MERCHANDISE 54,400 60,900 12% 32 LEGAL SERVICES 19,900 22,200 12% 33 HOTELS & OTHR LODGING 27,300 30,100 10% 34 AUTOMOTIVE DEALERS 41,000 45,200 10% 35 TOTAL FEDERAL GOVT. 42,400 46,700 10% e 36 HEALTH SERVICES 151,000 165,600 10% 13 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e 1996 2000 Percent Rank Industry Employment Employment Change 37 MOTION PICfURES 11,000 12,000 9% 38 HOSPITALS 54,300 59 ,000 9% 39 CHEMICALS & ALUED 13,700 14,500 6% 40 FOOD & KINDRED PROD. 22,500 23,800 6% 41 INSURANCE CARRIERS 38,000 40,100 6% 42 MISC MANUFACfURING 6,000 6,100 2% 43 LOCAL & INTERURBAN 6,500 6,600 2% 44 FOOD STORES 61,600 62,500 1% 45 PAPER & ALUED 10,200 10,300 1% 46 PRINTING & PUBUSHING 31,800 32,100 1% 47 TRANSPORTATION EQUIP. 45,100 45,400 1% 48 TOTAL STATE GOVERNMENT 35,800 36,000 1% 49 ELECfRIC,GAS,SANITARY 12,300 12,100 -2% 50 INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY 31,600 29,400 -7% 51 APPAREL & OTHER TXTLE 12,900 10,100 -22% 52 INSTRUMENTS & RELATED 22,200 17,300 -22% Source: Texas Workforce Commission, Current Employment Statistics */ndudes Da//as MSA and Fort Worth Arlington MSA e The Metroplex is becoming an increasingly popular location for corporate headquarters. Its central location within the U.S., transportation links, moderate cost of living, and pro-business climate, have attracted such major corporations as Exxon/Mobil, J.e. Penney, and Kimberly-Clark. In fact, the region hosts 18 Fortune 500 companies and three of Fortune Magazine's '1"op 10 Best Companies to Work For." TABLE A-3: Top PRIVATE EMPLOYERS IN THE METROPLEX Company Company No. of Employees AMR Corp./American Airlines 37,551 Raytheon 18,000 Texas Health Resources 17,100 Southwestern Bell 14,300 GTE 14,000 Baylor Health Care System 13,200 EDS Corporation 12,000 Texas Instruments 11,000 Lockheed Martin 10,600 Columbia/HCA 10,500 Sources: Greater Dallas Chamber and the City of Dallas J.e. Penney Tom Thumb Food & Pharmacy Bank of America Alcatel Associates of First Capital United Parcel Service Minyard Food Stores Albertson's Inc. Kroger Food Stores Nortel Networks e No. of Employees 10,000 9,000 8,961 8,717 8,000 8,000 7,622 7,407 7,300 7,300 14 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e Industrial Real Estate The Dallas-Ft. Worth area is the nation's 4th largest industrial market, with more than 400 million square feet of distribution and warehouse space. The average lease and vacancy rates for the first quarter of 2002 were $4.00 per square foot and 8.6 percent respectively. TABLE A-4: INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY STATISTICS, DALLAS-FORT WORTH, FIRST QUARTER 2002 Industrial Flex Total Average Rent per Square Foot $4.0 $7.8 n/a Vacancy Rate 8.6% 9.2% 8.8% Net Absorption 682,174 -318,144 364,030 Square Ft Under Construction (12/00) 2,931,271 1,051,846 3,983,117 Total Existing Square Feet 506,531,636 122,719,505 629,251,141 Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M Retail The DFW area is currently experiencing a decline in retail construction. Slower economic growth combined with an overcapacity of space has resulted in declining construc- tion in most areas. Construction in the north Metroplex remains strong, with almost 4 million square feet of retail space constructed in Frisco and PIano in 2000. The average rent and vacancy rates for Dallas downtown retail areas in 2000 were $15.00 per square foot and 26.7 percent respectively. Office TABLE A-S: Top RETAIL CONSTRUCTION AREAS, 2000 Area Square Feet 2,400,000 1,400,000 592,543 473,941 Frisco Piano Irving Far North Dallas Source: Weitzman Group Texas ranks 25th nationally in office jobs (i.e., jobs in offices as share of total number of jobs). Dallas- Ft. Worth ranked fifth in the nation for number of square feet leased in 2000. The downtown area has more than 28 million square feet of office space and the second highest downtown vacancy rate in the country (26.9 percent). Dallas is ranked 27th nationally in office rents with an average rent of $24.92 per square foot. Lease rates range from $7 to $37.50 per square foot. Far North Dallas leads the area for net leasing with 2.4 million square feet with the Richardson Telecom area close behind. 15 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan TABLE A-6: DALLAS OFFICE PROPERTY STATISTICS, FIRST QUARTER 2002 _'~."'"''.'.Y'Y.''''''' '''''., :if"-, ,""~~. .. t'.""_. ". ". "2'..-.'.'.~. ,',,,~,,,ê:', ,":'1~ ;~",.~:\ '" j -f,7~~~~At~D.At.OŠ't' ~\. , " , ", Cc ':, ',""~ ,;'+ :'.' '.'. . r,,ºI~~t._.._ ...HM ..~.' ~ Total space (in SQuare feet) 154,077,374 Absorption -1,287,377 Occupancy (in percent) 75.4 .. ,~E7.i9~,~~d Gross Rental Rate, ',,', '.'~ .,,$~0.7, ·'·!~;~;?~~~jr.Ð~~~~Q~W~i~~~if~~::';; Total space (in square feet) 29,995,235 Absorption -287,620 Occupancy (in percent) 71.4 e e Total space (in SQuare feet) 2,743,680 Absorption 31,681 Occupancy (in percent) 85.2 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $15.2 ·i·,:~,::1>S~,:Jli~~i~i~~'~~:Q)Ü~·-:,}~,· :','~,:~-:i~:;~,':~ ::;;'Ù·"'·;i,~,;~:~' Total space (in SQuare feet) 23,205,316 Absorption -296,345 Occupancy (in percent) 76.3 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $21.6 1.1:~:¡>:"_'-'" -','..' , ' """ '..'..:' -"'~DOOi~:i#'~ã't.?î~~~~\'r:"z~~"';ç~,~,,·,~ ~fi~_, "', ¡ "" ,~]Nº~1lt~w,~.jl~tJl¡:;;~~~3~t%Z~1~ Total space (in SQuare feet) 25,320,047 Absorption -123,712 Occupancy (in percent) 72.1 Weighted Gross Rental Rate~. .22.2 ~.:"., ,. ,r ' '., "dO _P'~~ ',,::~'" ._'._-¡"'~:~~,,'~,j;~~ ,~.. ._.. y...."....!\I~., .,.ø ' r,' ~.......~,~J! Total space (in SQuare feet) 14,758,355 Absorption -205,962 Occupancy (in percent) 74.9 Wei hted Gross Rental Rate 20.4 Total space (in square feet) 11,199,735 Absorption 44,510 Occupancy (in percent) 80.3 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $19.7 w'~~'*)Jm;:fi!~~h'Ji1¡î¡I¡!;~12;'.~iii'~""'~;~''''.''', ~~)~'l4;¡f~:!'"ø.!tfifø.MQs:"'~9t(:¢Lrm~~'iŒ~1j¡;f1 Total space (in SQuare feet) 3,671,224 Absorption -100,043 Occupancy (in percent) 86.4 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $22.6 <~';;: f(J -,~t:"'~:;f:,,~.1t t~ "~;$\,'; ~'IT'~;·. ~ '~>,~-,',^';Y ';.v " '; -i" .:, ·:'t":,;;,,,¡;;;UPTOWN- TURnE CREEK " Total space (in square feet) 8,771,694 Absorption -99,282 Occupancy (in percent) 83.2 »'7!9h~~d.§rq~~_~~~~~I~RaFe. $2~.9 A,;.;;~,·<;;;;;<;(S;;;;5TEMMONS FREEWAY Total space (in SQuare feet) 9,405,341 Absorption -29,726 Occupancy (in percent) 75.8 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $19.9 ~~~J!rl~~fij=-Pp1(~~~&~~~~;Æ~'IE?~j Total space (in square feet) 1,275,628 Absorption -10,877 Occupancy (in percent) 83.8 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $13.5 1'~~~~¡\~~tt:~":;-:;~;~·';:·~;q:tf~(t~~i;¡JW~~:~·ts~~~i:~~Â:!~ ^,,'.m~~~LBJ. FREEJNA'(:;¡;~'~;;'7j¡;;¿~¡{"~t:d0*~1\';~:¡ Total space (in SQuare feet) Absorption Occupancy (in percent) Weighted Gross Rental Rate 21,786,499 -295,252 75.7 $20.0 Total space (in square feet) 1,944,620 Absorption 82,251 Occupancy (in percent) 66.9 Weighted Gross Rental Rate $18.1 Source: Grubb & Ellis as published by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M e 16 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e TABLE A-7: FORT WORTH OFFICE PROPERTY STATImCS, FIRST QUARTER 2002 ".C¡--.">~';c"~~.."~~__"""""""""",,,,.~~__.,,,c._' .c",~"-_,,, ...... "it::~':¡::'''>i''' V1(1~';f"J,:';1~,., ;;~"'~';'~,;','t1:'k~,7'J;"',;;,":;:"~~J.,.zq'i"'- ,:~~t,; ;"';j;;':'>"!"">'';'\~'~ ~~, ,- , Jtt. ,1EQ8mYºR~ "ä.~~ Total space (in square feet) 29,248,675 Absorption -175,155 Occupancy (in percent) 79.8 Wei hted Gross Rental Rate $19.1 1t4 ".;"Qjj$Ï,.~W~à~;~~t%j;:'1l;1~·~:~:;; Total space (in square feet) Absorption Occupancy (in percent) Rate 1,339,387 -27,745 82.9 8,998,899 -157,360 81.8 $20.8 Total space (in square feet) Absorption Occupancy (in percent) Weighted.,~~()ss .,~;~t?l_ Rate ,,! ~,-;..~~i<¡',~>']:.,~(NoÅ.TltFORT WORTH Total space (in square feet) 12,603,838 Total space (in square feet) Absorption -6,398 Absorption Occupancy (in percent) 80.5 Occupancy (in percent) Weighted Gross Rental Rate $18.9 Weighted Gross Rental Rate Source: Grubb & Ellis as published by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M 2,540,781 10,503 56.4 $19.0 Approximately 2.2 million square feet of office space were added to the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area during the first quarter of 2002, with an additional 1.2 million under construction. Nearly all of this construction occurred in suburban areas, with only slightly more than 200,000 square feet completed in the central business district (CBD). Sales of office space for the DFW area range from $18.26 to $157 per square foot. TABLE A-8: DFW OFFICE CONSTRUCTION, JANUARY 2001 (in square feet) Under Construction CBD ° 207,600 Suburban 1,156,473 1,992,692 Total 1,156,473 2,200,292 Source: Grubb & Ellis as published by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M Completed Housing The average value of a permitted home in 2000 was $165,700, with 6,287 new homes permitted in the first quarter of 2001. In 2000, 45,800 homes were sold in the Dallas area with an average price of $171,800. Fifty-six percent of households in Dallas County can afford to purchase a median-priced home. In 2000, Dallas ranked first in the nation in number of seniors housing units under construction. 17 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e One-fifth of renters pay more than 30 percent of their income for housing in the Metroplex area. The average rent per square foot for a Dallas apartment is $.82. The Dallas apartment market maintained a 96.7 percent occupancy rate as of February 2001. There are a number of renovations are underway in the Dallas downtown area to convert offices into lofts to accommodate professionals working downtown. TABLE A-9: PRICE DISTRIBUTION OF MLS HOMES SOLD, FORT WORTH AREA, 2001 (in percent) Northeast Tarrant County 2.6 7.1 12.6 12.7 12.5 10.7 8.4 6.2 8.3 5.7 13.1 Arlington Fort Worth Less than $60,000 5.0 19.7 $60,000 - 79,999 10.8 18.8 $80,000 - 99,999 24.1 19.1 $100,000 - 119,999 16.6 11.4 $120,000 - 139,999 12.3 9.6 $140,000 - 159,999 9.7 5.9 $160,000 - 179,999 7.2 4.2 $180,000 - 199,999 4.9 2.9 $200,000 - 249,999 4.6 3.7 $250,000 - 299,999 2.0 1.9 $300,000 or more 2.6 2.7 Source: Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University 18 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e ApPENDIX B: DEMOGRAPHIC OVERVIEW e e The 1990s were boom years for America's economy. The United States, the State of Texas, and North Richland Hills experienced strong economic growth between the 1990 and 2000 decennial censuses. During the decade, the city's per capita income increased by nearly $10,000 or 60 percent, a full 8 percent higher than the increase for Texas and 12 percent higher than increases in Tarrant County and the Dallas-Fort Worth consolidated metropolitan statistical area (CMSA). A more meaningful measure of the increase in per capita income can be derived by adjusting 2000 income to 1990 dollars. By deflating wages using the Consumer Price Index, one can measure the degree to which income growth outpaced inflation. Appropriately adjusted, real per capita income in North Richland Hills increased by nearly 22 percent in this period, outpacing Texas' increase by more than six percent and exceeding DFW and Tarrant County by nine percent. TABLE B-1' PER CAPITA INCOME 1990-2000 , 1990 2000 % Change Texas $ 12,904 $ 19,617 52.0% Dallas-Ft Worth CMSA $ 15,902 $ 23,616 48.5% Tarrant County $ 15,178 $ 2,548 48.6% North Richland Hills $ 15,912 $ 25,516 60.4% Source: u.s. Census Bureau, TIP Strategies, Inc. TABLE B-2: PER CAPITA INCOME IN 1990 DOLLARS 1990 2000 % Change Texas $ 12,904 $ 14,889 15.4% Dallas-Ft Worth CMSA $ 15,902 $ 17,925 12.7% Tarrant County $ 15,178 $ 17,114 12.8% North Richland Hills $ 15,912 $ 19,367 21.7% Source: U.S. Census Bureau, TIP Strategies, Inc. North Richland Hills residents' wages moved ahead of the Metroplex and Tarrant County between 1990 and 2000. In 1990, North Richland Hills residents reported higher per capita income than the state, but had income levels very similar to metro and county information. By the 2000 census, NRH residents reported higher average incomes than did residents of Texas, the DFW Metroplex, or Tarrant County. North Richland Hills offers a relatively diverse employment base. According to 2001 statistics, the three largest employment sectors in the community are Trade, Transportation, 8: Utilities (25 percent), Manufacturing (13 percent), and Business 8: Professional Services (11 percent). Approximately half of all jobs in North Richland Hills fell within these three sectors. High employment in anyone of these sectors may indicate an over-dependence on a single industry or sector, or may point to a strong market cluster built around economies of scale. 19 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e GRAPH A-I: EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR, 2001 Information 3% Other Services 3% Trade, Transportation & Utilities 25% Natural Resources & Mning 1% Manufacturing 13% Local Governrrent 9% A"ofessional & Business Services 11% Education & Health Services 10% leisure & Hospitality 10% Source: Texas Workforce Commission e North Richland Hills experienced not only economic growth but also an increase in population over the last ten years. NRH grew by nearly 10,000 residents, or approximately 21 percent, between 1990 and 2000. Although this is a high growth rate, it is actually slightly lower than the Texas rate (22.8 percent) and the Tarrant County rate (23.6 percent). The population percentage increase in NRH was significantly less than that of the DFW Metroplex (34.4 percent). NRH was, and is, a predominantly TABLE B-3: POPULATION GROWTH, 1990-2000 white community-much more so than Texas, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, or Tarrant County. According to the 2000 Decennial Census, 83 percent of the population was white-higher than the corresponding statistics for Source: V.s. Census Bureau Texas (52 percent), 24 percent higher than the DFW Metroplex (59 percent), and 21 percent higher than Tarrant County (62 percent). Like the rest of the country, however, NRH is becoming more diverse, with minorities gaining an additional 7 percent of the community's population during the 1990s. 1990 2000 % Change Texas 16,986,510 20,851,820 22.8% Dallas-Ft Worth CMSA 3,885,415 5,221,801 34.4% Tarrant County 1,170,103 1,446,219 23.6% North Richland Hills 45,895 55 490 20.9% e 20 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e GRAPH B-2: RACIAL & ETHNIC COMPOSITION, 2000 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% Texas DFW CMSA oWhite I!I Hispanic or Latino Tarrant County North Richland Hills . Black or African American 0 Other Source: U.S. Census Bureau e A great deal of the growth in Texas has been in its Hispanic population. Through high immigration and fertility rates, Hispanics have increased 6.7 percent as a share of the state's population. When the 1990 census was conducted, Hispanics made up a little more than one-quarter of the population of Texas. By 2000, Hispanics comprised nearly one third of Texas' population. The DFW Metroplex and Tarrant have seen even higher growth, with each locality experiencing over 8 percent growth in this ethnic group. TABLE B-4: RACIAL & ETHNIC COMPOsmON, 2000 (with percent change from 1990) Black or African White Hispanic or Latino Other American Change Change Change Change % in from % In from % in from % in from 2000 1990 2000 1990 2000 1990 2000 1990 Texas 52.4% -8.4% 32.0% 6.7% 11.3% -0.4% 4.3% 2.1% Dallas-Ft Worth CMSA 59.3% -10.6% 21.4% 8.4% 13.5% -0.6% 5.7% 2.8% Tarrant Coun 61.9% -11.6% 19.7% 8.1% 12.5% 0.6% 5.9% 2.9% North Richland Hills 83.3% -7.0% 9.8% 4.1% 2,6% 0.7% 4,3% 2.2% e Source: u.s. Census Bureau 21 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e North Richland Hills has experienced a similar trend. In the last ten years, the city's Hispanic population has increased by approximately 4 percent to comprise nearly 10 percent of the total population. Although NRH's greatest numeric increase was in the white racial group-with an increase of nearly 5,000 people or 50 percent of total growth-significant growth has occurred among Hispanics as well, with an increase of 2,800 residents or 29 percent of the all growth. The African American population has remained relatively flat by comparison, growing by just 570 total residents or roughly 6 percent of the total. Texas, DFW, and Tarrant County all experienced much higher growth among Hispanics. TABLE 8-5: POPULATION GROWTH BY RACE & ETHNICITY, 1990-2000 Black or African White Hispanic or Latino Other American Net Percent Net Percent Net Percent Net Percent Growth Change Growth Change Growth Change Growth Change Texas 606 659 15.7% 2 376 002 61.5% 360 646 9.3% 522 003 13.5% Dallas-Ft Worth CMSA 380 560 28.5% 613 983 45.9% 157 407 11.8% 184 436 13.8% Tarrant Coun 35 563 12.9% 148844 53.9% 41 684 15.1% 50 025 18.1% North Richland Hills 4798 50.0% 2803 29.2% 570 5.9% 1424 14.8% Source: V.s. Census Bureau 22 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e ApPENDIX C: BUSINESS ACTIVITY IN NRH e e The City of North Richland Hills continues to have a diversified business base with all major sectors represented throughout the community. A recent comparison shows approximately 85% of NRH businesses to be in the Services and Retail sectors. In 1999 North Richland Hills had 1,003 businesses. A tabulation of businesses taken in late December, 2002 shows a 17% increase in total businesses with most of the growth in the Services sector (Table C-1). TABLE C-1' MAJOR SECTOR BUSINESS GROwrH 1999-2003* , Major Industry Growth 1999 2003 Change CONSTRUCTION 66 MANUFACTURING & WHOLESALE 45 RETAIL 256 SERVICES 597 GOVERNMENT & aVIC 39 TOTAL 1003 *City of North Richland Hills Economic Development Department 67 46 265 749 50 1177 +1 +1 +9 +152 +11 +174 Table C-2 North Richland Hills Business Growth, 1999-2003 itemizes each industry group by relative change in the number of businesses over the past four years. Major growth is dominated by Health Care, Administrative, Professional Offices, Finan~e 8: Insurance, Miscellaneous Retail and Restaurants. Declining businesses in NRH include Clothing, Home Furnishings and Convenience Stores. Health Care continues to be a growing industry for NRH and the importance of having a growing North Hills Hospital helps spawn many other support businesses throughout the city. NRH continues to grow in the Professional and Administrative office sector. Continued traffic congestion and quality of life issues throughout the Metroplex seem to encourage citizens to want to move their place of business closer to home. North Richland Hills has certainly benefited from this trend with a growing population and employment sector and opportunities to live and work locally. The City of North Richland Hills is seeing more trends toward the Service Sector and away from Retail as the city matures and other surrounding cities garner support for local retail. A recent demographic study just completed by the Birdville Independent School District in fact indicates this trend will continue as planned commercial and retail sites have been overstated on comprehensive land use plans in all of the cities encompassing BISD. New retail growth will have to draw from a larger regional audience to be successful. The recent construction of Home Depot, Super Wal-Mart and Super Target are evidence of this trend. The BISD study also points to pressures to convert commercial land uses to residential uses to create a new population for new retail and commercial uses to grow. 23 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan e e e Code Industry 1999 2003 Change TABLE C-2: NORTH RICH LAND HILLS BUSINESS GROWTH, 1999-2003* 62 HEALTH CARE 114 55-56 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 28 52 FINANCE AND INSURANCE 69 54 PROFESSIONAL OFFICES 35 453 MISCELLANEOUS RETAIL 29 61 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES 12 722 RESTAURANTS 108 811 AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES 66 443 ELECTRONICS 14 445 FOOD STORES 16 92 GOVERNMENTAL 10 446 PERSONAL CARE 12 532 RENTAL 7 813 CIVIC AND REliGIOUS 29 5312 REAL ESTATE 11 441 AUTOMOTIVE RETAIL 22 452 GENERAL MERCHANDISE 7 51 INFORMATION 7 48 TRANSPORTATION 3 53111 APARTMENTS 28 53113 MINI WAREHOUSES 9 31-33 MANUFACTURING 24 721 LODGING 5 812 PERSONAL SERVICES 83 23 CONSTRUCTION 66 42 WHOLESALE 11 71 ENTERTAINMENT 15 451 SPORTING GOODS/BOOKS 29 444 BUILDING MATERIALS 17 49 WAREHOUSING 7 447 CONVENIENCE STORES 37 442 HOME FURNISHINGS 31 448 CLOTHING 42 TOTAL 1003 *City of North Richland Hills Economic Development Department 142 54 90 56 46 26 120 76 21 22 16 17 12 34 15 26 11 10 6 30 11 26 7 85 67 12 15 28 12 2 29 22 31 1177 +28 +26 +21 +21 +17 +14 +12 +10 +7 +6 +6 +5 +5 +5 +4 +4 +3 +3 +3 +2 +2 +2 +2 +2 +1 +1 o -1 -5 -5 -8 -9 -11 +174 Table C-3 indicates major business growth in percentage change. In the past four years new business growth is dominated by the service sector including educational, professional, finance & insurance and health care. Strong retail businesses include miscellaneous retail, electronics and restaurants. 24 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan , 0/0 Code Industry 1999 2003 Change e TABLE C-3' GROWING BUSINESSES IN NRH 1999-2003* 61 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES 12 55-56 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 28 5452 PROFESSIONAL OFFICES 35 453 MISCELLANEOUS RETAIL 29 443 ELECTRONICS 14 52 FINANCE AND INSURANCE 69 62 HEALTH CARE 114 811 AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES 66 722 RESTAURANTS 108 *City of North Richland Hills Economic Development Department 26 54 56 46 21 90 142 76 120 + 116% +93% +60% +59% +50% +30% +25% +15% +11% Table C-4 Declining Businesses in NRH, 1999-2003, shows a trend of consolidation of building materials and home furnishings into large super stores such as Home Depot at the expense of smaller local stores. Smaller clothing and convenience stores have also experienced decline with the growth of larger category killers. 0/0 Code Industry 1999 2003 Change TABLE C-4: DECLINING BUSINESSES e 49 WAREHOUSING 7 444 BUILDING MATERIALS 17 442 HOME FURNISHINGS 31 448 CLOTHING 42 447 CONVENIENCE STORES 37 *City of North Richland Hills Economic Development Department 2 12 22 31 29 -71% -29% -29% -26% -22% Table C-5 shows how business activity is spread among the major thoroughfares throughout the city over the past 5 quarters. Grapevine Highway, Rufe Snow and Davis Boulevard clearly has the most business activity in NRH. Net changes are declining for businesses along Loop 820, Davis, Bedford Euless and Rufe Snow while positive growth is occuring along Grapevine Highway, North Tarrant, Mid Cities and Precinct Line. This chart only includes business activity over the last quarter of 2001 and the entire year of 2002. However, it is evident that construction activities along Loop 820 and Rufe Snow definitely impact businesses. It is also evident that new residential rooftops over the past few years in the northern portion of NRH have helped fuel new growth along North Tarrant Parkway and Mid Cities Boulevard. Positive business activity along Grapevine Highway continues to support this thoroughfare as an important business corridor in North Richland Hills. e 25 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan · e e e TABLE C-5: 2002 BUSINESS ACTMTY ON MAJOR THOROUGHFARES* Business Business Total Net Major Thoroughfares Openings Closings Activity Change LOOP 820 6 DAVIS BOULEVARD 20 BEDFORD EULESS ROAD 6 RUFE SNOW 32 GLENVIEW 2 HARWOOD 1 PRECINCT UNE 4 MID CITIES BOULEVARD 5 NORTH TARRANT PARKWAY 7 GRAPEVINE HIGHWAY 45 *City of North Richland Hills Economic Development Department 14 26 9 34 4 2 1 o o 38 20 46 15 66 6 3 5 5 7 83 -8 -6 -3 -2 -2 -1 +3 +5 +7 +7 The above tables are only a specific look in time but shows evidence that major roadway construction has a definite impact on business moving in and out of the city. This analysis shows that North Richland Hills has a diversified business base, but evidence appears to point out that continued business growth cannot be solely supported by the local population. To continue to be a growing and diversified business base, the City of North Richland Hills will have to compete on a regional basis to bring new visitors and investment to the community. 26 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan .. e ApPENDIX D: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES & ACTION ITEMS e · c, · · · · D, · · · · · · e A, Targeting Reuse of Vacant Retail Primary · Update inventory of major retail centers · Update demographic information from 2000 census for areas surrounding major centers · Conduct personal interviews with owners and leasing agents of retail centers · Develop specific target industry list for each major center · Conduct marketin cam ai n to tar et industries B, Redevelop South Grapevine Highway Primary · Facilitate completion of Corridor Plan by Leland Consulting Group and HNTB Planning Firm: -Stakeholder Involvement -Market Analysis -Community Consensus Building -Feasibility Study -Redevelop Plan 1m lement Corridor Plan and com onents Redevelop North Hills Mall Secondary Update tax abatement, sales tax rebate grants, and infrastructure incentives for mall revitalization Perform study of South Grapevine Highway to improve development surrounding the mall Consider an "Entertainment District" designation for North Hills Mall that would allow for mass gatherings, events and celebrations Actively encourage current developers and seek out potential investors and family entertainment businesses to locate in North Hills Mall Redevelop Loop 820 Land Uses Secondary Establish a Loop 820 Task Force Monitor widening of Loop 820 and provide staff input regarding design of roadway, exit ramps, final design, and landscaping of project Determine ways to "dress up" medians along entry points to the city Conduct study to determine the highest and best use of frontage along Loop 820 and transitional uses and buffers against existing neighborhoods Establish an overlay district along Loop 820 Prospect for new businesses from the city's target industry list to fill-up vacant buildin s and land 27 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan . . e · · e · · · B, · · · · · · · · C, · · · e · STRATEGIES & ACTION ITEMS I PRIORITY E, Redevelop Existing Neighborhoods · Continue implementation of Neighborhood Identity Program · Seek to register and build database on all neighborhood and homeowners groups in the city · Develop individual neighborhood needs assessment · Promote basic property maintenance and build peer support for encouraging higher standards in neighborhoods · Promote neighborhood programs and partnerships between city, neighborhoods, businesses and volunteers · Establish recognition awards for neighborhoods, businesses and volunteer groups Secondary , .... ~,'- ',' -'- .. "', , .. ,~" '.-'" ,~", ::., ;-- " :4:!;~(~tt: OS~E ,BuSIN.ESs CU~TE " ,~tl~~~::<~_~f~;i{t~1::~\~~-'~:~;'f;;~0"-::::~\~";¡:'\,' !-0~-~-':~;:': ;,.-:".-., A, Retention of Existing Businesses Primary · Develop formal program for visiting all major employers, new businesses and troubled businesses · Develop target industry list of businesses that provide products and services that support existing business in NRH Implement Redevelop plans for aging shopping centers and business parks Host annual business appreciation luncheon Communicate with existing businesses through NRH UpClose newsletter Promote Buy NRH Program and local businesses doing business with each other Promote NRH businesses by encouraging active participation in NE Chamber Support Diversified Business Recruitment Primary Support NE Tarrant "Quality of Life" Foundation (NRH, RH, Haltom City, Watauga, BISD, Keller lSD, NE Chamber) Update area-wide demographic data base Develop a target industry database Develop advertising and image campaign Attend appropriate regional and state trade shows Send quarterly newsletters to brokers and prospective businesses Look for ways to share business recruiting efforts Ensure accountability to all stake holders - cost/benefit analysis on all expenses, quarterly reports to all entities, annual reassessment of goals and objectives Facilitate Street Reconstruction Projects Secondary Provide construction updates to businesses before and during construction projects Implement cooperative marketing plan to drive more customers to affected businesses Make temporary changes to the sign ordinance during construction Work with police and public works departments to decrease congestion and increase traffic flow 28 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan ~ . e A, · · · · B, · · · · · C, · · e D, · · E, · · · F, · · · · · · · G, · · · e · · Promote High Development Standards Primary Continue to review and update aesthetic ordinances and regulations as needed Conduct annual survey of area cities to compare development standards Implement city image study Consider annual home and business improvement fair Promote Commuter Rail Service Primary Provide semi-annual status report to city council Organize local task force to monitor progress Determine best station location Active participation and discussions with COG regarding future commuter rail service in NRH Develo rail station Ian to romote access and surroundin land use develo ment Enhance Davis Boulevard Primary Establish a plan for Davis Boulevard which includes components relating to city image study and streetscape improvements Consider Overlay District for implementing specific development standards along Davis Boulevard Support the City Image Study Primary Update ordinances and development standards that promote the city image study Assist in the im lementation of a ublic art ro ram Promote the Smithfield Historical Area Secondary Complete Smithfield study Implement Smithfield Plan and components Activel romote location for tential rail sto in Smithfield area Promote Tourist and Entertainment Venues Secondary Continue to promote existing NRH20, Iron Horse, Blue Line, Mountasia Seek enhanced motel and convention facilities Promote the redeveloped North Hills Mall as a family entertainment center Create a marketing campaign to promote family oriented visitors and entertainment services Develop a travel brochure to distribute throughout D/FW and beyond Place directional signs and attractive light pole banners along major corridors that promote events and entertainment venues Work with TXDOT to get signage at exits directing motorists to food, lodging and entertainment venues Actively Market to Improve the Image of NRH Secondary Review current marketing initiatives Conduct image survey of regional business leaders Determine desired image based on community vision Design image campaign Be in im lementation of ima e cam ai n 29 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan . . . . e e e STRATEGIES & ACTION ITEMS I PRIORITY H, Promote the HomeTown Development Secondary · Work with brokers and developers to promote construction of commercial buildings in HomeTown · Facilitate construction of additional homes for the second phase of residential development · Actively promote HomeTown concept and development through joint marketing efforts and word of mouth at trade shows and community events · Facilitate opening of HomeTown Lakes Park and construction of library, recreation center and conference/ erformin arts center 30 North Richland Hills Draft Economic Development Plan ,.' ·T·,·,,··=···r.\..,"'O'.. '"'.' ,....., cC \ CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS . Department: Police Department Council Meeting Date: January 27, 2003 Subject: Public Hearing to Consider Extending Ordinance No. 1994 Juvenile Curfew Ordinance for I hree Years - Ordinance No. 2683 Agenda Number: GN 2003-008 . On July 11, 1994 the North Richland Hills City Council unanimously passed Ordinance No. 1994 adopting a curfew for juveniles. On February 14, 2000 Ordinance No. 2453 was approved extending this legislation for three years. Section 370.002 of the Local Government Code adopted by the 74th Legislature on May 31, 1995 requires that: (a) Before the third anniversary of the date of adoption of a juvenile curfew ordinance by a general-law municipality or a home-rule municipality or an order of a county commissioner's court, and every third year thereafter, the governing body of the general-law municipality or home-rule municipality or the commissioner's court of the county shall: (1) review the ordinance or order's effects on the community and on problems the ordinance or order was intended to remedy; (2) conduct public hearings on the need to continue the ordinance or order; and (3) abolish, continue, or modify the ordinance or order. (b) Failure to act in accordance with subsections (a) (1) - (3) shall cause the ordinance or order to expire. The North Richland Hills Police Department has found that Ordinance No. 1994 has had a positive effect on the safety of our youth and has reduced the probability that unsupervised juveniles will become involved in crimes during late night and early morning hours. Statistical information maintained by the Police Department has revealed that as a result of this ordinance, juvenile victimization during curfew hours has dropped by 52% since 1998. Attached is a general overview of the juvenile curfew statistics and a good indication of how effective the program has been since its inception. Also, at the meeting a brief presentation will be given to fully explain the data. Recommendation: That, after the public hearing on Monday January 27, 2003, the City Council pass Ordinance No. 2683 extending the operation of Ordinance No. 1994 for three years from this date. Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds Available . ~~d", City Manager Signature Page 1 of 1 ·2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 .24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 . ORDINANCE NO, 2683 AN ORDINANCE EXTENDING THE EFFECT OF JUVENILE CURFEW ORDINANCE NO. 1994 FOR AN ADDITIONAL THREE YEARS AFTER REVIEW AND PUBLIC HEARING. WHEREAS, the City Council has heretofore passed Ordinance 1994 establishing a juvenile curfew; and, WHEREAS, Section 370.002, Texas Government Code provides that: (a) Before the third anniversary of the date of adoption of a juvenile curfew ordinance by a general-law municipality or a home-rule municipality or an order of a county commissioners court, and every third year thereafter, the governing body of the general-law municipality or home-rule municipality or the commissioners court of the county shall: (1) review the ordinance or order's effects on the community and on problems the ordinance or order was intended to remedy; (2) conduct public hearings on the need to continue the ordinance or order; and (3) abolish, continue, or modify the ordinance or order. (b) Failure to act in accordance with Subsections (a)(I)-(3) shall cause the ordinance or order to expire; and, WHEREAS, a public hearing was held January 27, 2003, to determine the need to continue Ordinance No. 1994; and WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the effects of Ordinance No. 1994 on the community and problems the Ordinance was intended to remedy; and WHEREAS, the City Council has considered whether to abolish, continue or modify Ordinance No. 1994; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS, THAT: Section I: The City Council finds that there is a need to continue Ordinance No. 1994 in full force and effect for three (3) more years. OrdO ce No. 2683 Page of 2 W: enerallOrdinanccs·DraftlJuvenile Curfew.ord.2683 .2 4 Section 2: The terms of Ordinance No. 1994 establishing a curfew for minors shall continue in full force and effect and such Ordinance shall be in full force and effect until January 27,2006. 6 Section 3: The City Manager is ordered to comply with Section 370.002 of the Local Government Code by bringing this same matter to the attention of the City Council prior to January 27, 2006, to determine whether or not Ordinance No. 1994 is continued in force beyond that date. 8 10 AND IT IS SO ORDAINED. 12 PASSED this 27th day of January, 2003. 14 16 CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS 18 20 By: Oscar Trevino, Mayor 22 ATTEST: .24 26 Patricia Hutson, City Secretary 28 30 32 34 APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: 36 ~ 38 e OrdO ce No. 2683 Page of 2 W, Ordinances·DraftlJuvenile Cuñew.ord.2683 fI) 0 it) it) <Ø "t"- ã 0 0) "t"- O C") N "t"- "t"- '!!? N ... CU ~ 0) CO <Ø ; 0 0) 0) 0 0) "t"- C") to- N CU "t"- ...... CU Q CO CO C") <Ø 0) 0) "t"- . 0) N <Ø 0) <Ø "t"- to- <Ø "II:t C") 0) 0 "t"- O) N it) <Ø <Ø "t"- O tn 0 0 0 0 0 C tn 0 0 0 0 0 C tn 0 ... It) "II:t M N ~ 0 C ~ ,- (.) ... en 0 c CJ) .- .- 0.. ~ ... .- CJ) spa.lpunH CO CO ... ... tn ... (.) CJ) ;::, .- > E (J c en 0 ~ ~ ~ ~ CJ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 0 ;::, ;::, ;::, ;::, en (J (J (J (J CO f f f f Q) ~ < . . . & N o o N "II:t 0) 0) CO to- N it) "t"- "t"- "t"- O o N it) 0) "t"- "II:t N C") 0) "t"- C") CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS apartment: Administration Council Meeting Date: 1/27/03 Agenda Number: GN 2003-009 Subject: Youth Advisory Committee Mid-Year Report In accordance with the Youth Advisory Committee's By-Laws, Section VI, the committee shall submit a report to the City Council on the status of its activities to date by January 31 st of each year. The mid-year report of the Youth Advisory Committee is attached for your review. Paul Dorasil, Chair of the Youth Advisory Committee, will be in attendance to present the power point report to the City Council and to provide a brief summary of the report. Paulette Hartman and Vickie Loftice will be present to answer any questions you may have of staff. Recommendation Accept the Youth Advisory Committee's mid-year report to the City Council. e Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds Available Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other .~.4~"~- Depa ment Head Signature Budget Director Finance Director ~~æ Page 1 of 1 · Report of Youth Advisory Committee 2002-2003 To City council of North Richland Hills The Youth Advisory Committee is now into its sixth year of successful accomplishments. We met in September to discuss our goals and objectives for the upcoming year. The Youth Advisory Committee participated in a retreat on September 7,2002 at Texas Lil's Dude Ranch in Justin, Texas. The Committee learned the importance of teamwork with a low ropes course, were taught valuable leadership skills from Mayor Trevino, and learned goal setting and its' importance through the help of speaker Dina Davis. e The Youth Advisory Committee is continuing its' quest to become more involved with our local government. We have several guest speakers lined up for our monthly meetings to give us a better understanding of city government. Our November meeting evolved around Social Services. A representative from The Bridge Youth Shelter, as well as the Battered Women's Shelter gave a presentation to the Youth Advisory Committee. We learned what services the different agencies provide to the community as well as volunteer opportunities with these agencies. Our December meeting focused on Local Government. Steve Norwood spoke on behalf of City Management, and Paulette Hartman gave a power point presentation to the Youth Advisory Committee. We learned interesting new things about our City, and its functions. Our January meeting focused on Education. Dr. Larry Darlage, President of Northeast Tarrant County College spoke to us about education, leadership, and achieving goals. Our future meetings will include speakers on the topics of Finance, Economic Development, and Transportation. The Youth Advisory Committee has been greatly involved in the community. In July, we presented 36 trophies to various Veterans' in North Richland Hills. The trophies were provided to the Veterans as a show of appreciation for their service and sacrifice to our country. We have assisted in Teen Dances at the Recreation Center, and helped children decorate cookies at the Night of Holiday Magic. We also volunteered at Trinity Trash Bash, Boo Bash, and the DARE event at Mountasia. Some upcoming community events we plan to be involved in are the Daddy/Daughter dance, and Easter In The Park. The Youth Advisory Committee held its' Winter Social on January 6, 2003. We went to Dallas for lunch at the Hard Rock Café, then to the Dallas World Aquarium. Everyone had a great time socializing with other committee members. Six of the committee members will be accompanying Davina to the 3rd annual Texas Youth Advisory Committee Summit March 1-2 in Killeen, Texas. The summit allows Youth Advisory Committee's from all over the state of Texas to _ come together and discuss various projects within their communities. We will · - e - share ideas and gain new resources to help further develop our committee. We are excited about this opportunity. The Youth Advisory Committee will also begin fundraising in March to take a trip to Austin to tour the Capitol and get an insight into our State Government. The Youth Advisory Committee has begun working on a new project called Operation Backpack, 'VAC's Got Your Back', We want a project we can call our own. The committee voted unanimously to start this project. We want to provide backpacks with either school supplies or gift certificates to low-income children in North Richland Hills. We plan to do this through donations and fund raising. We're working on the application process and donation letters, and plan to have things up and running before the 2003/2004 school year. We're very excited about this project. The Youth Advisory Committee believes we have had a successful year thus far. We look forward to our future endeavors as a Committee and hope to continue our success in the future. CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS .epartment: Administration Council Meeting Date: 1/27/03 Subject: Approval of Amendment to the Youth Advisory Committee By-laws Agenda Number: GN 2003-010 The Youth Advisory Committee requests an amendment to the Youth Advisory Committee By- Laws relating to Representation. Currently, the by-laws state the number of two-year appointees from any school shall not exceed 3 appointees from each school. After numerous times of visiting, calling, and emailing Fort Worth Christian and Shannon Learning Center over the past 1 % years, we have been unç¡ble to get students from these schools involved with the Youth Advisory Committee. In addition, there is only a limited number of North Richland Hills residents that attend these two schools. The recommended amendment outline below will allow 10 representatives to serve 2 year terms based on their eagerness and motivation to be involved in the committee. Should this amendment be approved, staff will continue to insure that the 10 members that serve two year terms include a healthy mix of teens from the various schools in our City. Section I: Representation currently reads: e Ten representatives that attend public, private, or home school high schools in the area and reside in the City of North Richland Hills will be chosen to fill two year terms. The number of two-year appointees from any school shall not exceed 3 appointees from each school. The other 6 members will be chosen to serve a one-year term. Recommended chanqe would read: Ten representatives that attend public, private, or home school high schools in the area and reside in the City of North Richland Hills will be chosen to fill two year terms. The other 6 members will be chosen to serve a one-year term. Recommendation: Approve the amendment to the Youth Advisory Committee's by-laws as recommended. Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other ·a~a2~~ture Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds Available Budget Director Finance Director - CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS _partment: Administration Council Meeting Date: 1/27/03 Subject: Replacement of Youth Advisory Committee Members Agenda Number: GN 2003-011 The Youth Advisory Committee is recommending that the following members be replaced on the committee, due to one no longer living in North Richland Hills and the other is not able to attend meetings. Brittney Martin of Richland High School has not been attending meetings, and Shannon Mitchell of Harvest Academy has moved out of North Richland Hills. Recommendation for replacements to fill these positions will come at a future Council meeting. Recommendation Approve the Youth Advisory Committee's recommendation to replace committee members. . Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds Available Budget Director . Other Department Head Signature Finance Director Page 1 of 1 , CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS .partment: City Secretary Council Meeting Date: 1/27/03 Subject: Appointment of Alternate to Keep NRH Beautiful Commission Agenda Number: GN 2003-012 Ms. Holly Bullington who held the alternate position on the Keep NRH Beautiful Commission was recently appointed to Place 7 by Councilman Tim Welch. Mayor Trevino is recommending that Ms. Bobbi Arthur be appointed to fill the vacancy in the alternate position. Recommendation: To appoint Ms. Bobbi Arthur to Alternate on the Keep NRH Beautiful Commission, term expiring June 30, 2004. Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget Other Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds I\vallaDle ~áútit¿¿ ~ Department Head Signature Finance Director CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS eepartment: Administration Council Meeting Date: 1/27/2003 Subject: Consider 2003 Federal Legislative Program Agenda Number: GN 2003-013 Attached is the proposed Federal Legislative Program for 2003. We have modified this document based on previous discussions. The program is guided by four primary principles. These principles are: 1. Support for Local Control 2. Insuring a predictable and sufficient level of revenue to manage local affairs 3. Opposition to unfunded federal mandates 4. Support for legislation that increases quality of life for citizens of North Richland Hills The City's positions on various current issues are also outlined in four categories as follows: Protecting the Homeland 1. Local Priorities for Homeland Security 2. Public Safety and Collective Bargaining Sustaining Federal Support for Critical Municipal Programs 1. Water Infrastructure Financing 2. Modernization of Flood Maps Protecting Local Programs and Revenues 1. CDBG Funding Issues 2. Local Law Enforcement Block Grant 3. Telecommunications 4. Electric Deregulation 5. Transportation Issues 6. Air Quality 7. Internet Sales Tax 8. Library and Museum Funding Issues Balancing International Trade Agreements with Local Authority 1. Trade Promotion Authority Unfunded Mandates 1. Amusement Park Regulation Recommendation Approve the North Richland Hills 2003 Federal Legislative Program Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget ~)~~-< paf'fmen ead Signature Finance Review Account Number Sufficient Funds Available Finance Director · e e NRH City of North Rich/and Hills 2003 Federal Legislative Positions January 2003 · Table of Contents e Federal Legislative I ntraduction .... ... ... ..... ........... ... ............... .... ................. ...... 3 Protecti ng the Homeland..... .... ... ....... ............ ... ... ....... ................. ..... ........... ...... 4 Local Priorities for Homeland Security..............................................................4 Public Safety and Collective Bargaining........................................................... 4 Sustaining Federal Support for Critical Municipal Programs ,....................... 5 Water Infrastructure Financing.......... ............................................................... 5 Modernization of Flood Maps........................................................................... 5 Protecting Local Programs and Revenues ..........................,........................... 5 CDSG Funding Issues........................ .............................................................. 5 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant.................................................................6 Telecommunications......................................................................................... 6 Electric Deregulation......................................................................................... 7 Transportation Issues....................................................................................... 7 Air Quality............................................. ............................................................ 8 Internet Sales Tax............................................................................................. 9 Library and Museum Funding Issues.............................................................. 10 Balancing International Trade Agreements with Local Authority ................ 11 Trade Promotion Authority .............................................................................. 11 Unfunded Mandates.....,.........,......,...,.....,.. ................... ......,...... ............... ....... 11 Amusement Park Regulation .......................................................................... 11 Conta.cts....... ... ....... ...... ........ .... .... ... ........ ............... ... ........... ...................... ....... 12 City of North Richland Hills............................................................................. 12 North Richland Hills Mayor and City Council.................................................. 12 e 2 e Federal Legislative Introduction Throughout history, Congress has created laws and policies that greatly affect the administrative and political decisions of local governments throughout the country. The City officials of North Richland Hills would like to state definitive opinions on some of the issues at the federal level including local control, infrastructure needs, and public safety and provide our positions with a small portion of background and reasoning for such positions. The City of North Richland Hills uses four primary principles in rendering its opinions on legislative issues. These are: 1. We will vigorously oppose any legislation that erodes the authority to govern our own local affairs. 2. Cities represent the level of government closest to the people. We bear primary responsibility for the provision of capital infrastructure and for ensuring our citizens' health and safety. Thus, we must be assured of a predictable and sufficient level of revenue and must resist efforts to diminish those revenues. 3. We will oppose the imposition of any federal mandates, which do not provide for a commensurate level of compensation. e 4. We will support any legislation that increases the quality of life for our citizens. This includes legislation that will not only provide an equitable amount of revenue for our city, but also provide equitable services that will encourage pride and growth in our community. Other issues will arise in the future. This document will be amended and updated to suit the most current and important issues. However, if an issue arises that is not included in this position paper, we urge the Congress to keep our guiding principles in mind as they make important decisions concerning our future. e 3 e Protecting the Homeland Local Priorities for Homeland Security Since September 11, 2001, North Richland Hills has been providing for homeland security without the benefit of additional revenue. If this continues, other service areas will suffer as a result of insufficient revenue. Congress has only funded a small fraction of programs needed for local homeland security priorities. North Richland Hills will call on the Federal Government to recognize local governments as key players in homeland defense and will seek the federal funding guidance needed to help cities meet new national defense responsibilities. Any new plan must include a significant increase in direct federal funding to local governments for preparedness and response, training, threat assessments communications systems, public health systems and critical infrastructure protection. Public Safety and Collective Bargaining e The pending Federal legislation would force states and local governments to recognize unions of police, fire, and other public safety personnel as bargaining agents in all 50 states. This goes directly against the Right to Work Laws we have in Texas which protect the same employees from being required to join unions. The legislation would negate the labor protection laws of the states, labor agreements of states and municipalities, civil service systems and the North Richland Hills Personnel Procedures. North Richland Hills opposes federal legislation which singles out a class of municipal employees to be provided special bargaining rights and investigative and disciplinary procedures. e 4 e Sustaining Federal Support for Critical Municipal Programs Water Infrastructure Financing North Richland Hills supports a renewed federal financial commitment to assist local governments in meeting the water an wastewater infrastructure needs, including financing mechanisms such as loans, loan subsidies, grants, and negative interest loans. Because of EPA mandates and the inability of local governments to recoup the expense of updating the existing lines, there is a call for federal assistance for infrastructure needs. Funds would be allocated for both wastewater and drinking water through a proposed grant program, which calls for the money to be allocated to states through a 20 percent match for funds. Modernization of Flood Maps Accurate flood maps are an essential resource in helping cities plan long term major improvements and quality of life issues. Proper maps can reduce the risk to citizens and property by providing the necessary tools to help cities make informed decisions regarding development. The FEMA developed plan will need $100 million per year for the next seven years to convert all flood maps to a GIS e system. North Richland Hills strongly supports pre-disaster mitigation to help protect lives and property before a disaster strikes. We urge the federal government to provide local officials with the tools necessary to prepare for natural disasters and minimize the risk to citizens, including accurate flood information and technology to keep the information as current as possible. Protecting Local Programs and Revenues Community Development Block Grant Funding Issues Funding has remained static over the past ten years, and was even reduced last year by $50 million. There are 1,024 entitlement communities, including North Richland Hills, and last year 156 (15%) of them were unsuccessful in spending their allocation of money in a timely manner and it was taken back. NLC is concerned that this may lead to an even lower future allocation of funds if it is shown that the funds can not be used appropriately. North Richland Hills supports letting the cities who comply with the guidelines for spending not be penalized for those who do not and having Congress work with the non-complying cities to improve their systems. e 5 e e e Local Law Enforcement Block Grant The City of North Richland Hills has received funds from the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG) program since 1997. Funds from this grant program have provided emergency police vehicles, police motorcycles (which h~ve been critical to traffic control and enforcement in our City), and a school resource officer to insure public safety in our schools. Overall, LLEBG funds have assisted North Richland Hills in lowering the crime rate each year. Over the course of the past few years, total funding provided to cities under LLEBG has steadily decreased. Direct federal crime prevention assistance is an important component of the public safety program in North Richland Hills because it provides additional resources for necessary equipment and staff to better serve our community. As such, it is important that this significant program be continued for many years with a funding increase, or, at the very least, at a level consistent with current funding to allow for accurate strategic planning of public safety programs in our community. North Richland Hills supports the reauthorization of the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG) program with funding increased or maintained at the current level for local communities. Telecommunications A well funded broad coalition of telecom industry associations is making an effort to have Congress preempt the authority of local governments to set their own taxes and tax rates on telecommunications, but instead have uniform state taxes and rates, completely leaving localities out. Local officials across the nation believe that they must be fairly compensated by the telecom industry for the use of public rights-of-way. Telecom providers are seeking to avoid compensating local governments by asking Congress, the FCC, and state legislatures to limit local control. North Richland Hills will oppose any legislation that will restrict our ability to manage our rights of way. We also oppose any efforts to allow right of way users access without appropriate compensation to the City. Rights-of-way represent a valuable asset to municipalities and must be managed as such. 6 e Electric Deregulation Federal electricity deregulation would a have a large impact on all municipalities-not just localities that are "public power cities. The issues for local governments will involve local franchise authority and fees, rights-of-way and zoning issues, jobs and property taxes, municipal electric bills, and issues concerning municipal pension investments. North Richland Hills opposes federal preemption of local government authority regarding rights-of-way, franchise fees, and other revenue generation. North Richland Hills also opposes any federal efforts to preempt the ability of local governments to aggregate in order to purchase power at lower prices. State and local governments should continue to be the primary decision-makers in restructuring the electric utility industry. Any restructuring program should result in all consumers receiving benefits. Transportation Issues e States and localities develop long-range transportation plans while counting on a dedicated revenue stream that cannot be disrupted. The financial health of transportation programs in the nation's cities will be in jeopardy as credit and bond financing may be at risk. Many transportation projects are funded using financing techniques that anticipate federal revenue so that a project can be completed in a timely manner. TEA-21 provides funding to vital city programs, such as transportation infrastructure, to contribute a community's fiscal health and quality of life. North Richland Hills opposes funding cuts to TEA-21 and supports the reauthorization of TEA-21 , including funding for small transit operators such as the Northeast Transportation Services (NETS), which provides on demand transportation for the elderly and disabled in eight Northeast Tarrant County Cities. Mass transit and rail service funding increases, along with expediting transportation projects will provide relief for highway demands while helping to address air quality issues. Currently, the Dallas-Fort Worth region has several inter-city rail projects under study, including the Cotton belt Railway. Providing additional funds for mass transit and rail service projects and expediting the process to begin these projects could significantly benefit the area and result in a decrease in projected highway needs and improvements in air quality. North Richland Hills urges Congress to pass legislation to provide funding for the expansion of high-speed rail corridors and for the continued support of inter-city rail projects. e 7 e e e Air Quality It is important that federal legislation help Metropolitan Statistical Areas achieve EPA air quality standards. The DFW area is a serious non-attainment area. Through the coordination efforts of the North Central Texas Council of Governments (including the North Texas Clean Air Coalition and the Regional Transportation Council), and measures taken by cities, the DFW region has made great efforts over the last 10 years to improve air quality and meet EPA standards. However, additional measures must be taken for the region to be able to bring air quality to acceptable levels. If air quality is not improved, we could be facing loss of federal and state funds for transportation, economic development and other areas. North Richland Hills supports legislation that would assist in improving the air quality in our region including such measures as: · Continue providing funds for the implementation of alternative and low emissions fuel programs for public vehicle fleets · Open mass transit and fixed rail projects to additional federal funding without diverting highway trust fund monies to such projects . Funding for 1-35 NAFTA Corridor enhancements · Recognition of air quality problem in areas south of the border . Remove threat of funding loss if air quality standards are not met 8 R e l/l'.s,d /-d7·tJ~ . Internet Sales Tax State and local governments rely heavily on revenue from sales tax. In North Richland Hills, sales tax comprises almost one-third of the revenues that support our total operating budget. Sales tax also supports special districts, such as Crime Control and Prevention, and special projects such as the development of parks and recreation facilities. The migration of sales to the Internet, coupled with the difficulty in collecting sales tax for remote sales transactions will result in the erosion of the local tax base. As more shoppers migrate to the Internet to make their purchases, state and local governments stand to lose even more of their tax base. In fact, some projections estimate losses will jump to $45 billion by the year 2006. This is a particularly large problem for states, such as Texas, that do not levy a personal income tax. One study has found that the potential revenue loss will make up almost 10 percent of total expected tax collections by 2011. To make up for the lost revenue, Texas would have to raise its current statewide sales tax rate from 6.25 percent to 7.86 percent. . Another issue regarding sales tax of concern to the City deals with the Streamlined Sales Tax Project. When the project was originally conceived it was seen as a way for states and cities to capture sales taxes on remote sales, such as catalogue and Internet purchases. Texas cities were initially supportive of the Streamlined Project because all signs pointed to changes in state law that would affect only interstate remote sales. Unfortunately, the Streamlined Project has reversed itself and in its latest form, the Streamlined model statutes and agreements would require all participating states to adopt point-of-destination sales tax sourcing for intrastate sales as well as interstate sales. This change in sourcing would be harmful to Texas cities for two reasons. First, it will result in massive shifting of revenue from origin cities to destination cities. Second is the likely result that Texas cities will see a net loss in sales tax revenues overall because there would be no city sales taxes collected at all on goods shipped from incorporated to unincorporated areas of Texas. . The City of North Richland Hills has a multi-faceted position on this issue: · North Richland Hills supports the application of sales tax on applicable products and services purchased through electronic commerce to preserve the local tax base. · North Richland Hills opposes legislation in Congress that proposes to enact further limits on the ability to tax Internet sales. · North Richland Hills opposes any legislation that would "streamline" the state's sales tax system in a way that would negatively affect municipal revenues, municipal authority to impose the sales tax, or the flexibility cities currently have to impose various sales tax rates for various purposes. 9 e e e Internet Sales Tax State and local governments rely heavily on revenue from sales tax. In North Richland Hills, sales tax comprises almost one-third of the revenues that support our total operating budget. Sales tax also supports special districts, such as Crime Control and Prevention, and special projeçts such as the development of parks and recreation facilities. The migration of sales to the Internet, coupled with the difficulty in collecting sales tax for remote sales transactions will result in the erosion of the local tax base. As more shoppers migrate to the Internet to make their purchases, state and local governments stand to lose even more of their tax base. In fact, some projections estimate losses will jump to $45 billion by the year 2006. This is a particularly large problem for states, such as Texas, that do not levy a personal income tax. One study has found that the potential revenue loss will make up almost 10 percent of total expected tax collections by 20 11. To make up for the lost revenue, Texas would have to raise its current statewide sales tax rate from 6.25 percent to 7.86 percent. The City of North Richland Hills has a multi-faceted position on this issue: · North Richland Hills supports the application of sales tax on applicable products and services purchased through electronic commerce to preserve the local tax base. · North Richland Hills opposes legislation in Congress that proposes to enact further limits on the ability to tax Internet sales. · North Richland Hills supports ongoing efforts of states and local governments to simplify their tax systems, and urges Congress to assist states and local governments in reaching a resolution to this complex and difficult issue. 9 e e e Library and Museum Funding Issues The Library Services and Technology subtitle is the only federal program solely devoted to supporting libraries. This legislation assists libraries in providing crucial services to the communities they serve. As a result, today's 21st century library is not just a. provider of books; instead, the typical American library coordinates a complete and comprehensive approach to community development and services. Throughout the natkm, libraries are at the forefront of reading and family literacy programs. And importantly, libraries serve as essential links to the business community, assisting with job creation and training programs, and assisting with business development initiatives as well. They are also critical to many people with disabilities, providing them with specialized materials and resources that are obtainable in a single location. For older Americans, libraries provide a place to interact with others, use the Internet, and receive services. For those persons of limited financial resources or who live in remote areas, libraries provide access to books and reference materials, computers and the Internet, and community- based social services that are often available no where else. The Museum and Library Services Act also supports museums and libraries in their educational role and assists museums in modernizing their methods and facilities so that they are better able to conserve the cultural, historic, and scientific heritage of the United States. Museums play an important role in the education of people of all ages. Specifically, most American museums provide K- 12 educational programming, with most using local and state curriculum standards to shape their programs. Additionally, museums increasingly partner with libraries to offer joint educational opportunities for adults as well as children. North Richland Hills supports the reauthorization of the Library Services and Technology Act and the Museum and Library Services Act to give libraries and museums the resources they need to help our community get access to the valuable programs and services libraries provide. 10 e Balancing International Trade Agreements with Local Authority Trade Promotion Authority North Richland Hills is concerned that there is an inherent conflict between global trade agreements and local authority. In particular, there is concern that a single set of trade rules will have the potential to undermine traditional local responsibilities to design land use policies, economic development initiatives, as well as health and environmental regulations. There is also concern that current standards in takings and private property claims may be disrupted by a new set of foreign investor rights. These new avenues of recourse could conflict with current state and local ordinances that provide for a balanced approach to local zoning regulations. North Richland Hills opposes any preemption of local authority in international trade agreements, i.e. land use, economic development initiatives, and health and environmental regulations. e North Richland Hills also opposes restrictions that regulate private property or require additional compensation beyond the continually evolving judicial interpretations of the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution on this issue. Unfunded Mandates Amusement Park Regulation In the wake of several accidents at amusement parks across the nation over the last few years, there have been new efforts made to enact new federal legislation governing amusement parks. New legislation would include increased federal regulatory powers over such establishments and, possibly, unfunded mandates imposed upon amusement parks requiring expensive upgrades to equipment and facilities without additional revenue. North Richland Hills opposes any new efforts to pass legislation that increases the regulatory powers of the federal government over amusement parks. The City is opposed to such legislation because of the eroding effect it has on our authority to govern local affairs. We believe the current regulatory structure as it currently applies to fixed-site amusement parks is sufficient to protect against unreasonable risks associated with amusement park rides. e 11 e e . , . Contacts City of North Richland Hills 7301 NE Loop 820 P.O. Box 820609 North Richland Hills, Texas 76180 (817)427-6000 Fax: (817)427-6016 http://www.ci.north-richland-hills.tx.us Larry J. Cunningham City Manager (817)427 -6007 Email: Icunningham@nrhtx.com Steve Norwood Assistant City Manager (817)427 -6003 Email: snorwood@nrhtx.com Greg Vick ** Assistant CityManager (817)427-6009 Email: gvick@nrhtx.com Karen Bostic Managing Director of Fiscal and Administrative Services (817)427 -6005 Email: kbostic@nrhtx.com North Richland Hills Mayor and City Council (817)427 -6061 T. Oscar Trevino, Mayor Lyle E Welch - Place 1 Scott Turnage - Place 2 Frank Metts, Jr. - Place 3 JoAnn Johnson - Place 4 David Whitson - Place 5 Joe D. Tolbert - Place 6 Tim Welch - Place 7 ** Greg Vick is the primary legislative contact for North Richland Hills 12 CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS epartment: Administration Council Meeting Date: January 27,2003 Subject: Adoption of CAPP 2003 Leqislative Aqenda - Resolution No. 2003-004 Agenda Number: GN 2003-014 / The City of North Richland Hills is a member of Cities Aggregation P~er Project, Inc. ('''CAPP''). Together with the South Texas Aggregation Project ("S#Ap"), CAPP is one of the largest electric aggregation groups in Texas. CAPP and STAP have approximately 120 member cities, representing 13,000 municipal accounts. Total electric consumption of the two groups is around 1.2 billion kWh annually. CAPP has served as a vehicle to increase cities' ability to navigate the newly deregulated market and bargain for the best rates and contract terms. CAPP members enjoy the benefits of favorable contractual terms and a negotiated commodity rate that produces approximately 15 percent average savings compared to the current Price to Beat rates. Despite these double-digit savings, CAPP members have encountered obstacles, both cost and non-cost related, that have significantly decreased benefits promised with the restructuring of the Texas electric market. Major problems that have plagued cities and their citizens over the past year include: A.. .. Delays in switching CAPP accounts to new providers .. Erroneous, Duplicative, Sporadic, or Simply Missed Bills · Declines in Service quality · Price Increases for Residential Customers · Market Power Abuses The CAPP Board of Directors has voted to authorize certain legislative efforts on behalf of its members during the 78th Texas Legislative Session. CAPP's goal is to apprise legislators of CAPP Cities' perspective on issues arising as the result of the electric deregulation process and to recommend legislative action to address failures of the retail market. Several changes should be made to the deregulation statute to better protect cities' budgets, enhance cities' ability to protect their citizens, and increase competition among retail providers. The following changes will be proposed by the CAPP board: · To institute limits upon the ownership of generation within functional markets (ERCOT zones) and require further Commission action to mitigate market control. This change will address market power concerns and promote greater competition. Finance Review Source of Funds: Bonds (GO/Rev.) Operating Budget _ Other Account Number Sufficient Funds Ävallable Finance Director P::In¡:> 1 nf ? CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS e· To correct a discrepancy between the Public Utility Regulatory Act and the Local Government Code so that a political subdivision aggregator may control aggregation projects created to benefit citizens. This change will remove a significant disincentive for cities that are interested in bargaining for cheaper power for citizens. · To authorize Opt-Out Aggregation Projects that will allow political subdivisions to aggregate the load of all of their residents that have not specifically elected to be excluded from the aggregation project. This change should remove a further disincentive to citizen aggregation projects and enhance opportunities for residential customers to benefit from deregulation. . To reform the Price to Beat adjustment process to 1) require the affiliated REP to provide evidence that its proposed cost increase is justified; 2) allow cities and/or the Public Utility Commission to initiate an action to reduce inflated Price to Beat rates; and 3) authorize rate case reimbursement for municipal rate case expenses incurred in Price to Beat rate cases. This change should enhance efforts to protect price to beat customers from unnecessary increases and provide for greater restraint on the market price of electricity. · To delay deregulation of metering services. Confusion among market participants and problems in the exchange of information between ERCOT, retail electric providers and transmission and distribution companies has led to switching, billing and service quality problems. Deregulation of metering services would add further complexity to a confused situation and increase the problems being experienced by CAPP members. e The CAPP Board, made up exclusively of City representatives, requests that the City Council pass the attached resolution endorsing CAPP's legislative agenda. Recommendation: Staff recommends passage of the Resolution No. 2003-004. - CITY COUNCIL ACTION ITEM P::¡n¡:> ? nf ? e RESOLUTION NO. 2003-004 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TEXAS, ENDORSING CERTAIN LEGISLATIVE CHANGES TO S.B.7 SUPPORTED BY CITIES AGGREGATION POWER PROJECT, INC. WHEREAS, the City of North Richland Hills, Texas has historically been active in the process of regulation of electric utilities; and WHEREAS, the City is a member of Cities Aggregation Power Project, Inc. (CAPP) and, as such, made a decision to switch its municipal electric accounts from its incumbent provider to a retail electric provider prior to January 1, 2002; and WHEREAS, the City's experience with electric deregulation during 2002 has been frustrating because of: - (1) increased complexity and inefficiencies regarding service quality; (2) numerous account switchover and billing problems; (3) loss of budget and financial accountability ·regarding electric cost; (4) additional resources needed to manage and reconcile invoices for electricity; (5) current statutory restrictions make aggregation on behalf of citizens impractical; (6) the small number of bidders and narrowness of distinction between bids. WHEREAS, the City endorses efforts to modify the electric deregulation legislation to improve competition and reduce costs to the City and its residents. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of North Richland Hills that: 1. Legislative reforms regarding market power, citizen aggregation and price to beat fuel factors endorsed by CAPP be supported by the City. 2. A copy of the resolution shall be sent to the elected lawmakers representing the City's interests in the Texas House and Senate and to the chairman and legal counsel of CAPPo e Resolution No. 2003-004 Page 1 of 2 1 e PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 27th day of JANUARY 2003. APPROVED: Oscar Trevino - Mayor ATTEST: Patricia Hutson - City Secretary APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY .eorge Staples - Attorney for the City APPROVED AS TO CONTENT: e Resolution No. 2003-004 Page 2 of 2 2 · · · Announcements and Information January 27, 2003 Announcements A Bond Election has been called for Saturday, February 1. Earlv votinq will continue through tomorrow, January 28th. Registered voters can vote at City Hall, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 817-427-6060. The first Council Meetinq in February has been moved to Wednesday, February 5th. The meeting will begin at its regularly scheduled time of 7:00 p.m. Information February 1 Critter Connection North Hills Mall 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 817 -427 -6570 Februarv 1 Daddy Daughter Valentine Dance NRH Recreation Center 6720 NE Loop 820 817 -427 -6600 February 6. 7.10 Winter Camp NRH Recreation Center 6720 NE Loop 820 817 -427 -6600