Garland Pawsibilities partnership – The year began with a partnership intended to open more doors for homeless pets in Garland. Garland Pawsibilities, a non-profit volunteer group, began working with Animal Services to operate and staff an offsite adoption center at a vacant fire station site at 3136 South Shiloh Road. The group has worked tirelessly to prepare the location with the goal of improving the lives of animals by increasing adoptions, assisting with medical care, and offering pet education.

Railroad quiet zones established – In July, a railroad quiet zone was established along the Kansas City Southern Railroad mainline in order to improve safety and minimize the impacts of train horn noise. The KCS mainline runs alongside along South Garland Avenue and Lavon Drive and in downtown Garland.

Completion of branding project – In March, the City Council approved a brand identity that showcases the many things that make Garland unique including its manufacturing base, career opportunities and family friendly atmosphere. The logo features a Firewheel wildflower, which is native to the city. The Firewheel has a notched edge that resembles a gear, signifying forward motion, energy, and progressiveness. The tagline, “Texas Made Here,” speaks to all that is made in Garland.

Tax rate holds steady – Despite ongoing economic challenges, the City Council approved a budget for the new fiscal year that maintains a stable property tax rate and current service levels for citizens. The combined budget for 2011-12 is $10.4 million less than the previous fiscal year.

New buildings receive LEEDS certification – In September, the city was notified that it had achieved Silver LEED® certification for two buildings completed in 2010: the Duckworth Utility Services Building and the Garland Utility Payment Drive Thru. The Leadership in Efficiency and Environmental Design certification verifies that the construction used environmentally friendly methods and materials and that building operations support environmental principles.

Garland Power & Light joins transmission project – In September, GP&L announced participation in a transmission project that will establish a new interconnection between the Electric Reliability Council of Texas and eastern power grids, have potential to reduce power costs for all Texans, and result in additional revenue. The Southern Cross Project will deliver wind energy generated in Texas to utilities in the southeastern United States.

Central Library renovations – In October, city leaders cut the ribbon to unveil renovations at the Central Library. The facility features enhanced and expanded public spaces including new group study rooms, enlarged technology center with public access computers, an enhanced children’s department, periodical reading area, redesigned area for teens, and a larger new-book area with laptop chairs.

Good bond ratings save $$ - Garland was affirmed in November with a AAA bond rating from Fitch for its General Obligation refunding bond issues and all outstanding tax-supported debt. The rating company views the city’s economic outlook as stable. Such ratings save taxpayers money by reducing the long-term debt service cost. The AAA rating helped save almost $1.5 million in the most recent bond issue.

Firewheel Golf Park renovates Traditions Course – In November, Firewheel Golf Park reopened the Traditions Course following a renovation project. Golfers can now enjoy newly-planted Brent grass greens, dodge redesigned white sand traps, and enjoy other updates. The project also included improvements to drainage and sprinkler systems and replacement of cart paths.

PGBT Eastern Extension nears completion – The North Texas Tollway Authority opened the President George Bush Turnpike Eastern Extension. The 9.9 mile project extends through Garland, Sachse, and Rowlett. Construction began in August 2008.

Health Department releases 2010 statistics

Kim Everett | December 15, 2011

Richard Briley, the city of Garland’s managing director of health, updated Mayor Ronald Jones and the City Council members at the regular council meeting on Tuesday, December 13. He gave the following information for each branch of the department:

Environmental Health

·         1,468 unannounced food service inspections were conducted.

·         Food service inspection average score dropped to 82.7. Critical violations also dropped.

·         There were 51 inspections of child care facilities, which rated an average score of 90.

·         581 public pool inspections were performed.

·         2,371 mosquitoes were tested for West Nile Virus. None of the tests were positive.

·         461 pollution source control inspections of industrial and commercial sites were performed.

·         227 creek sites were sampled for storm water pollution. 96% were pollution free.

·         Only two daycare complaints were received this year.

Animal Services

·         21,716 citizen calls were made to the Animal Services Department with 8,543 being for strays.

·         Average response time of Animal Services officers was 17.75 minutes.

·         Animal owners gave up 2,666 pets to the shelter, which is a four percent increase over 2010.

·         1,369 animals were adopted, and because of partnership with Pawsabilities and PetSmart, an additional 241 found homes.

·         776 animals were rescued.

·         Reclamation rate of animals is up nine percent from 2010.

·         70 major and 321 minor bites were reported.

·         City veterinarian vaccinated 2,644 animals and sterilized 971.

·         No animals tested positive for rabies.

·         The use of carbon monoxide for euthanasia was eliminated.

·         Kennel cough vaccine was purchased and administered.

·         New flooring and paint was added at the shelter.

Public Health

·         Garland continues to be the only Texas municipality operating full service health department.

·         13,228 child and adult vaccinations were administered, along with 1,650 travel vaccines.

·         177 pediatric wellness health exams were performed.

·         689 communicable diseases were investigated and the department intervened on 73 occasions.

·         12,349 phone calls were received regarding health issues.

·         Public Health Administrator Vikki Yeatts was appointed to the Texas DSHS Public Health Policy and Funding Committee.

·         Department continued to be fully funded by grants, donations and program revenues.

Code Compliance

·         Each residential property was evaluated an average of three times.

·         55,699 properties were placed on notice.

·         2,378 non-compliant cases were abated by the city at a cost of $123,000. Abatement costs have been reduced by 36 percent over the last four years.

·         2,001 citations were issued; 73 percent were accepted by municipal court.

·         Response time of Code Compliance officers averaged five hours.

·         A 50 percent reduction in violations has been noticed over the last five years.

·         726 graffiti cases were opened and 507 work orders were issued at a cost of $39,874.

·         Nine high-risk apartment complexes were inspected.

·         3,734 exterior apartment inspections and 3,350 interior unit inspections were conducted.

·         11,920 illegally placed signs were removed.

·         Department director Steve Killen was elected president of Texas Environment Health Association.

·         OS Rodriguez was honored by the Keep Texas Beautiful organization.

City Council work session, regular meeting: December 5-6

GGI waste to energy project update

Deputy City Manager Martin Glenn provided an update to the Mayor Ronald Jones and the City Council on a proposed project in which GGI would partner with the city of Garland to develop a waste to energy facility. When the subject was first brought to council, it included the Hinton landfill, the wastewater treatment facility, and the transfer station. The current proposal version would only utilize the landfill.

The project consists of converting municipal solid waste and wastewater sludge into commercial diesel grade fuel. According to the proposal, a minimum of 110 tons per day of waste will be utilized, with the maximum being 500 tons per day. According to city staff’s estimates and projections, this would reduce the flow of waste into the landfill by 40 percent. The facility would operate six days per week.

GGI will be responsible for the design, construction, equipment, staffing, and operations of the facility and would also be tasked with getting all the necessary permits at local, state, and federal levels. Costs of the permitting process would also be absorbed by GGI. Additionally, all insurance costs and liability would be the responsibility of GGI.

The city would lease six acres to GGI at approximately $35,000 per year over 40 years and would also receive an annual flat revenue fee of $1 million. In addition to the revenue, there would be $800,000 in operational savings at the landfill.

Ronald Jones said that the project will not only bring 160 new jobs to Garland, but that it will also add $70 million to the tax base, which is $493,000 in taxes to the city and $877,000 to the Garland Independent School District.

“I’m extremely comfortable going forward with this,” Jones said.

Councilman Doug Athas asked Glenn if the project would add to the already existing odor at the landfill. Glenn said that all the waste will be inside, and it is anticipated that it will reduce the odor. He also said that emissions will be minimal.

General Dynamics and Automatic Products will be partnering with GGI on this project.

Carnival restrictions

Permit requirements for carnivals will be adjusted to require more distance between carnival locations and residential property lines. The current distance is set at 300 feet and will be changed to 500 feet. This matter was brought up because of citizen complaints about noise, trash, and other problems caused by traveling carnivals.

Downtown Garland rings in the holiday season

Kim Everett | December 11, 2011 -- Photos by Edd Holden

The city of Garland hosted its annual Christmas on the Square event in historic downtown on Thursday, December 1. The celebration included photos and visits with Santa for the kids, a tree lighting ceremony, and choir performances. Visitors also enjoyed horse drawn carriage rides, great food and shopping, and the kids loved the snow tubing hills.

The Garland Firefighters Association collected toys for needy children during the event. Gifts may be dropped off at any Garland fire station.

City Council work session, regular meeting: November 14-15

Kim Everett | November 20, 2011

Comprehensive plan update

City staff briefed the council and Mayor Ronald Jones on updates that have been made to the Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan. The changes made were based on citizen, council, and staff input. Terminology was explained and the glossary was expanded, along with other edits.

Councilman Doug Athas said that he continues to feel that the plan does not explain where the city is going. Councilman Jim Cahill said that it seemed to him that the only kind of development that is addressed is in the plan is high density, mixed use, urban.

More changes will be made, and the plan will be brought back to council.

Meeting date change

Because of the Christmas holidays, the work session and meeting scheduled for December 19-20 will be held December 12-13.

Knight/Goiter International Codes to be adopted

The city’s building compliance, along with the fire department, will adopt the International fire, residential, building, energy conservation, plumbing, mechanical, property maintenance, and fuel gas codes. Many other North Texas cities have already adopted the codes.

Bids for promotional materials awarded

The Payton Group won a $400K contract for the city’s logo clothing, and Divine Imprints was awarded a $200K contract for promotional items.

One citizen spoke on this issue and urged council to think about the total amount of money being spent on these items.

Car wash proposed for north Garland intersection

Jerry’s Express Car Wash will open a Garland location on the northeast corner of Jupiter and Arapaho Roads. City staff worked to make sure that requirements were put into place to keep the level of the vacuum cleaner noise at a minimum. In addition, there is a masonry wall between the proposed location and the closest residential area.

Several citizens were present to express their opposition to the car wash. Some are concerned about the noise level, and another said that he did not want a car wash behind his house. “I’m the one that lives within a stone’s throw of this,” he said.

City names new IT chief

Posted November 12, 2011

The city of Garland has named Steven Niekamp as its Chief Information Officer, overseeing the city’s information technology services.

Niekamp has been with the city since March as manager of the IT infrastructure. In that role, Niekamp has lead efforts to improve overall performance of processes, the city network, IT support services, radio and telecommunications services. He is integrally involved in ongoing strategies to upgrade billing, productivity and virtualization systems.

“When our CIO position became open, we conducted a nationwide search to find the right person to lead our overall IT program,” said Deputy City Manager Martin Glenn. “We were delighted to find we had an individual already on staff with proven success in leading critical projects, improving processes and instilling operational excellence. Steve has the technical expertise and the business experience to serve the city organization effectively.”

Mr. Niekamp has more than 20 years of IT experience in both the private and public sector. His background includes multiple examples of improved efficiency, cost savings and development and management of vital technology.

City Council work session, regular meeting: November 1

Kim Everett | November 4, 2011

Managing Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Jim Stone briefed Mayor Ronald E. Jones and City Council members on the process used to select North Star Construction, a Fort Worth Company, for the Spring Creek Greenbelt trails project.

A process called “competitive sealed proposal,” which has been an approved method in the State of Texas for more than 10 years, was used.

There were a total of 13 bidders from which to choose. The field was narrowed to three by bid amount: KCK, Tri-Con Services, and North Star Construction. KCK was dropped from the running early because of bid irregularities. A point evaluation system was used to decide between Tri-Con Services and North Star Construction, along with extensive research, meetings, and interviews. North Star Construction was chosen.

Tri-Con, a local company, was the least expensive choice, but North Star Construction had more experience in trail work.

A representative from KCK addressed council to express discontent over the choice. She believes that KCK was never actually considered and that the point method was unfair.

Stone repeated that KCK’s bid contained irregularities. He also said that they provided no references as a general contractor, or any references for trail projects. He said that North Star Construction gave six reference projects. He believes that the process was fair and that the project was awarded to the “contractor that provided the best value to the city.”

Library offers online business resource

Posted November 4, 2011

Free business, legal, and news resources are now available in LexisNexis, an online resource accessible from Garland's library.

LexisNexis is an electronic database consisting of business, legal, and news components. The business section provides financials and company dossiers searchable by name or ticker symbol. The legal section contains case law information, statutes, regulations, and legal journals. This part of the resource is only available within the library. The news component hosts full-text content from more than 350 newspapers, both foreign and domestic; 300 magazines, 600 newsletters, and hard-to-find television and radio transcripts.

A Garland library card is needed to access LexisNexis. Go to www.nmls.lib.tx.us and click on Online Resources. Next click on the Business subject area, then find LexisNexis. Enter library card number and PIN.

City initiates Stage 3 Water Conservation measures

Posted October 26, 2011

With lake levels the lowest they have been in decades, water resources have reached a critical stage. Due to drought conditions, and at the request of the North Texas Municipal Water District, Garland will implement Stage 3 Water Restrictions of its Drought Contingency Plan effective November 1.

The city of Garland’s Drought Contingency Plan is contained within the city’s Code of Ordinances. Under Stage 3 Drought Conditions, the following actions are mandatory for Garland residents and businesses:

· No operation of ornamental fountains/ponds except to support aquatic life

· No draining or refilling existing swimming pools

· No washing down exterior hard surfaces

· Lawn/landscape watering with sprinklers limited to two designated days per week

o Sundays and Thursdays for even numbered street addresses

o Saturdays and Wednesdays for odd numbered street addresses

o Mondays and Fridays for town homes and business complexes having a common irrigation system

o Apartments are to use the property’s business office address to determine watering schedule

· No watering lawn or landscape between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. except for hand watering or using soaker hoses

· Use of water to wash vehicle is prohibited unless the source of water is equipped with a positive shut-off control device

· Use of water that allows runoff or other waste is prohibited

Recent rains and cooler temperatures may make it seem as if the drought is ending, but severe drought conditions remain in effect. It may take months for area lake levels to return to normal. Garland water customers are urged to continue to conserve water.

For additional information on Garland’s Drought Contingency Plan and water conservation tips, visit www.GarlandWater.com.

Yeatts appointed to Texas Public
Health Funding & Policy Committee

Posted October 17, 2011

Vikki Yeatts, MSN, RN, Public Health Administrator for the city of Garland, was selected by the Texas Department of State Health Services to serve as a member of the Public Health Funding and Policy Committee established by Senate Bill 969.

In an announcement letter to Ms. Yeatts from David L. Lakey, M.D., Commissioner of the Texas DSHS, Dr. Lakey stated, “I look forward to meeting with you and having the benefit of your expertise and experience in advising me and the department on public health funding and policy issues in Texas.”

“With Vikki’s appointment to this critical state allocation committee, Garland will be well served. She will assure that municipalities are not forgotten when the funds are allocated and policies drafted,” said Richard Briley, the city’s managing director of health.

The nine-member committee was created by SB 969 to ensure the involvement of local health officials in setting policy priorities and to minimize duplication of services among federal, state, and local public health entities. It will make recommendations related to funding and communications between public health entities and the DSHS, as well as more general public health policy issues.

Ms. Yeatts was nominated for the appointment by the Texas Municipal League. The committee’s initial meeting will be held on October 24 in Austin.

City wins award for recycling program

Posted October 12, 2011

One business and nine communities were honored for their outstanding achievements in recycling and sustainability at the State of Texas Alliance for Recycling’s Environmental Leadership Awards on Oct. 4 in Austin.

“It is the highlight of our calendar to honor those people and programs that demonstrate outstanding leadership, truly furthering our collective STAR mission ‘to promote and enhance recycling and waste diversion activities in Texas,’” said STAR Executive Director Maia Corbitt.

A national panel of judges chose from a group of nominations for nine awards, and these winners were presented with their awards at the conclusion of STAR’s 14^th Annual Recycling and Sustainability Summit, which took place Oct. 2-4. Texas House Representative Donna Howard, District 48, kicked off the awards ceremony.

The Linda B. Smith Memorial Award for Outstanding Youth Education and Outreach Program was given to Frisco for their commitment to educating the youth of Frisco ISD by using animated characters and school competitions.

The competition for the Rick Fuszek Memorial Award for Outstanding Solid Waste Management ended in a tie. The city of Allen partnered with Keep Allen Beautiful to employ programs and events to encourage recycling. The city of Garland implemented a Standardized Workplace Recycling Initiative to increase recycling at local businesses.

The Cis Myers Sustainability Award, named for a previous STAR executive director, was given by Cis Myers herself to Coppell, who has implemented a sustainability program, saving the city an estimated $1.5 million since 2005.

Huitt-Zollars, Inc., an engineering and architecture company, received the Outstanding Construction and Demolition Debris Reuse/Recycling Award for their effort to divert material from local landfills during an office relocation.

The Outstanding Recycling Partnership Award was given to Hutto for their collaboration with Keep Hutto Beautiful and a local business, Beyond the Limits, to create a drop-off point for cardboard recycling.

A group of volunteers known as the Sabine County Recycling Committee were given the Volunteer of the Year Award for their dedication to implementing programs in Sabine County.

The Outstanding Environmental Public Education and Outreach Program Award went to Allen and Keep Allen Beautiful for their use of educational videos to encourage recycling.

Keller won the Outstanding Compost Program Award with its “Mulch Madness” program, which teaches Keller residents to collect and reuse residential yard waste.

The Outstanding Recycling Special Event Award was presented to Denton, who hosted two pharmaceutical take-back events, during which volunteers and local pharmacies collected unused and unwanted medication.

“These award winners will serve as examples for other communities and organizations to explore the positive impacts and effectiveness recycling and sustainability initiatives can have on the economy and environment,” Corbitt said.

Public health nurse receives national award

Posted October 1, 2011

During her 15 years as public health administrator at the Garland Health Department, Victoria Yeatts, MSN, RN, has forged a partnership with the Garland Independent School District resulting in a student immunization coverage level of 92 percent. For her leadership in ensuring the immunization of students and other efforts to promote vaccination, Yeatts has earned the American Nurses Association’s Immunity Award for September.

In addition to ensuring children receive required vaccinations, such as DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), Yeatts organizes seasonal influenza vaccine clinics for students, families, and school staff. At one school district clinic in 2010, Yeatts’ staff administered more than 1,000 doses of flu vaccine. Yeatts also oversees programs to provide immunizations to residents of all ages in the community. In 2010, the department administered more than 30,000 doses of vaccines.

As a health educator, Yeatts often speaks to community groups about immunization and was featured on a Texas radio broadcast promoting the Immunize for Healthy Lives® campaign.

"Garland is fortunate to have a healthcare professional of Vikki's caliber who cares so deeply about the community she serves," said Richard Briley, managing director of health for the city of Garland. "Her hard work benefits everyone in Garland and our surrounding communities."

ANA grants the national Immunity Award as part of its Bringing Immunity to Every Community project. ANA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are collaborating on the project, which focuses on maximizing nurses’ role in increasing vaccination rates and reducing incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases.

The project seeks to increase nurses’ knowledge and competency in immunization, encourage nurses to be vaccinated, and position nurses as leading advocates for immunization among peers, patients, and the public.

The ANA is the only full-service professional organization representing the interests of the nation's 3.1 million registered nurses through its constituent and state nurses associations and its organizational affiliates. The ANA advances the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the rights of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Congress and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public. For more information about the ANA, visit www.nursingworld.org.

Garland Power & Light celebrates Public Power Week

Posted October 1, 2011

Garland Power & Light is celebrating Public Power Week, October 2-8, along with more than 2,000 other electric utilities that collectively provide electricity on a not-for-profit basis to 46 million Americans.

“Public Power Week is a chance for GP&L to articulate why the public power formula works in Garland. We are absolutely dedicated to providing reliable electric service at competitive, stable rates,” said Ray Schwertner, electric utility director.

Public Power Week is a national, annual event sponsored in conjunction with the American Public Power Association in Washington, D.C. A tradition that began in 1986, this year APPA and its members celebrate its 25^thanniversary. APPA is the service organization for community- and state-owned electric utilities.

“We are proud to have served Garland for 88 years,” Schwertner said. “For us the hard work is rewarding since our customers are our neighbors and friends.

GP&L initiated electric service in Garland on April 23, 1923. Today, it serves nearly 68,000 customers and is the fourth largest electric utility in Texas and the 42nd largest in the United States.

Garland names new emergency management coordinator

Posted September 28, 2011

The city of Garland has named Mollie Gilmore Rivas as emergency management coordinator. The Office of Emergency Management is tasked with identifying potential hazards and coordinating the city’s efforts to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergency situations that may impact our community.

Rivas has served in Garland’s OEM since 2006 as Homeland Security Grant Program Administrator, liaison to Garland’s Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service groups, and project manager for the city’s multi-year emergency preparedness training and exercise strategy. She has achieved Advanced Planning Status Designation from the Texas Division of Emergency Management and represented Garland on several regional grant and emergency preparedness oversight committees.

Rivas has been involved in emergency responses ranging from winter ice storms, to hurricanes and H1N1 influenza. In 2009, she presented the results of an innovative biological response exercise conducted by Garland in conjunction with Dallas County and other regional agencies to the Urban Area Security Initiative National Conference.

“Mollie’s experience in emergency preparedness and management comes from first-hand experience with local, state, and federal responses and programs,” City Manager William E. Dollar said. “Our community will benefit from her detailed understanding of all-hazards preparation, response, and recovery processes.”

City Council work session, regular meeting: September 19-20

Kim Everett | September 26, 2011

Legislative change in competitive matters -- The Texas Legislature recently repealed the Competitive Matters Resolution. In the past, this resolution had given the governing bodies of municipally-owned utilities a great deal of authority in determining whether a matter concerning the utility was a “competitive matter.” A competitive matter is one that would be discussed in executive session rather than in a public meeting for reasons of confidentiality.

Repealing this resolution gives governing bodies less say in deciding whether a matter is competitive and lists those matters that would fall into that category. This action will unlikely have little effect on how the City Council governs Garland’s electric utility. “I don’t see a massive shift in how we do anything here,” said City Attorney Brad Neighbor.

DART Board member report -- Michael Cheney provided updates to Mayor Ronald Jones and the City Council. He reported that the DART Blue Line has now crossed Centerville and was completed one and one-half days ahead of schedule. The Rowlett extension was completed a day early as well. The project is on track to be completed in December 2012.

Cheney also reported that the reapportionment has been completed. Mark Enoch will continue as the representative for Garland and Rowlett, but he no longer represents Farmers Branch. Enoch did take on representation of Glenn Heights.

The total population of DART’s 13 member cities grew by 115,000 people from 2000 to 2010. Garland continues to have one and one-half seats on the DART Board.

There was extensive discussion of what the mayor described as a “hot-button issue” – people driving in from non-member cities to use the DART system and the possibility of and method by which Mesquite would be allowed into the system.

City Council work session, regular meeting: September 6

Kim Everett | September 12, 2011

Continued discussion of charter review: Mayor Ronald Jones and the Garland City Council have discussed during previous meetings whether there is a need for a review of the city charter. Several choices were presented on how they could handle the item including reviewing the entire charter or only defined, specific parts of it and when the review could be conducted. Council members Doug Athas, Larry Jeffus, and John Willis said that they have had no calls from constituents asking for a review. Consensus was reached to delay a decision until June 2012.

Meeting date changed: The first work session and regular meeting of October will both be held Monday, Oct. 3 to give council members the opportunity to attend National Night Out activities on Tuesday, Oct. 4.

2011-12 proposed budget: Council member Laura Perkins Cox requested that the council consider amending the proposed budget to add three items to be paid for with the $59,000 general fund surplus. She proposed $14,400 go to the Animal Services Department to purchase food for the shelter animals, $27,900 be designated for improvements to the senior center, along with $13,000 to be appropriated for the possibility of erecting “no cell phone use” signs for school zones.

Jeffus said that he does not see the need to spend the surplus. He also called the school zone signs a “non-issue” since the council had previously voted not to have them. Council member Rick Williams referred to the surplus as “mythical money” in that no one knows what the exact amount will be. “I’m all for fuzzy puppies and seniors and all that stuff,” he said. “But this whole thing is a bit weird.”

Athas referred to previous councils that he said had “pulled shenanigans” with the budget at the last minute, citing that for the reason that he would not vote for the changes. “I will not vote for any amendments that come at the last minute. I haven’t done it since I’ve been on the council, and I won’t do it now,” he said. “Every year we try to spend every last penny, and it always comes from District 2, and it’s the same thing.” He also pointed out that each of the three items proposed by Cox could be dealt with by the city manager on an individual basis without having to add budget amendments.

Cox said that the items are all needs that need to be funded and that they would benefit the entire city, no just District 2. “These are not shenanigans. … It takes time to pull these numbers together, and I approached the budget director with these a few days ago,” she said. She also commented that it was important to tell the city manager and staff what the council’s priorities are. “If we don’t articulate our priorities, the staff will make the decision on where the money should go,” Cox said.

After more discussion, Willis moved to add the $14,400 for animal food to the proposed budget. A vote was taken, and the item will be added.

Tax rate set: An ordinance was passed setting the tax rate at 70.46 cents per $100 of valuation.

Sign ordinance passed: Former Council member Annie Dickson expressed concern about allowing digital signs to be installed near residential areas. “Create a radius that forbids those types of signs in residential areas,” she said. … Protect the homeowners who have invested in this city.”

Dickson was told that the signs do not blink, that the transition between displays won’t have a burst of light, they will be less bright at night, and equipped with an automatic dimmer.

Cox assured Dickson that she is comfortable with the ordinance, which was passed.

Garland’s Code Compliance Department receives award

Posted September 10, 2011

The Building Official’s Association of Texas recently named the city of Garland Code Compliance Department as the recipient of its first annual “Excellence in Code Enforcement” awards program. The goal of the award is to recognize organizations which provide top quality certification, education and inspection programs. Garland Code Compliance was selected based on its Single Family Rental program.

In April 2005, the Garland adopted an ordinance to regulate the operation of single family rental properties. The ordinance requires landlords to obtain a permit for operation and stipulates that rental properties are inspected to ensure compliance with minimum housing codes to protect the life and safety of the occupants.

“We want to be responsive to the needs of the property owners and the occupants,” Code Compliance Director Steve Killen said. “So we have established an ongoing review process, to assure that the program and its procedures are continually updated.”

Garland’s program has served as a model for the development of similar programs across the state. Code Compliance staff conducts Landlord Certification Training to educate property owners and managers about the city’s inspection process and minimum housing requirements.

“We’ve created an education and incentive component that makes our program unique,” Killen said. “The training has been well-received and participants say they have benefited from being part of the process.”

So far, more than 3,600 single family rental properties have become certified with staff members conducting more than 24,000 inspections.

Mayor's Good Neighbor Award: accepting nominations

Posted September 10, 2011

Mayor Ronald Jones is accepting nominations for the next Mayor’s Good Neighbor Award. The quarterly award is given to residents or property owners who have demonstrated significant improvements or upgrades to their property that provide a positive physical impact for their neighborhood. It is granted based on project innovation, potential for replication, mitigation of unsightly conditions, collaboration or partnership, volunteer contributions, and increased property value.

Residents and property owners are encouraged to nominate their neighbors for this award. Nomination packets are available on the city’s website or at the mayor’s office, City Hall, 200 N. Fifth Street in downtown Garland. Call 972-205-2400 for more information.

The deadline for third quarter nominations is September 30. The winner will be announced at the October 4 regular meeting of the Garland City Council.

Policy changes in TMRS cause changes for retirees, employees, city

Kim Everett | September 8, 2011

Recent state legislation adjustments made in the Texas Municipal Retirement System’s policies, along with the discontinuation of Cost of Living Adjustments for retirees, commonly known as COLA, will cause a hardship for Garland’s fire and police department retirees according to Glenn Johnson, secretary/ treasurer of the Garland Firefighters Association.

It became necessary for the city to discontinue COLA in 2009 when a change in the TMRS system would have required that the COLA be pre-funded instead of post-funded as it had been in the past. Pre-funding the adjustment would have raised the city’s rate from 16 percent of payroll to 24 percent, which the city could not afford.

In addition, because TMRS was entirely invested in bonds and the bonds replacing old bonds had returns of less than 5 percent, compared to 12 percent of the expiring ones they replaced, the retirement system needed to diversify its portfolio in order to sustain its current level of retiree benefits. Texas House Bill 360 was passed in 2009 allowing TMRS to diversify, and it also guaranteed a 5 percent return on employee accounts. To guarantee the 5 percent return meant that the city would shoulder the risk in years when earnings were lower, so the legislation allowed cities to earn higher rates in good economic years, but they would earn lower rates in down years as well.

TMRS earned 10 percent in 2009 and 9 percent in 2010, and the excess over the 5 percent guaranteed return on employee and retiree money was placed in an interest reserve fund, along with earnings above 7.5 percent on city money. The plan was to allow this fund to build so that it would pay the cities’ accounts in down years.

Senate Bill 350 was passed in 2011, which changed the account structure of TMRS. Where there had been three accounts – the employee savings fund (ESF), the municipality accumulation fund (MAF), and a current service annuity reserve fund (CSARF) – there would now be only one fund – the benefit accumulation fund (BAF).

Johnson, 19-year GFD veteran, contends that combining the funds resulted in a loss to employees and retirees. “A 2 percent range of earnings that traditionally went to employees and retirees in the form of increased employee account balances or as bonus checks to retirees now goes toward calculating the cities’ rates,” he said.

Following the passage of SB 350, the money in the Interest Reserve Fund was placed in the cities’ BAFs because it was found that holding the money in the fund would have been inequitable in that cities that had been in the system longer would not have received a fair share of the funds. For Garland, $41.2 million was returned to its BAF, with $4.1 million currently on the books. As the remaining money is shown on the books over the next 10 years, the rate the city pays will be reduced slightly each year.

Johnson said that of this $41.2 million, an estimated $31 million came from interest earnings of the original employee funds and CSARF. This $41.2 million is being used as intended, to aid the city in taking on the risk of diversification while guaranteeing a 5 percent return on employee and retiree money. Johnson also contends that it is reasonable that a certain amount of the excess interest earnings from the employees and retirees be used.

According to City Manager Bill Dollar, the reduction in Garland’s contribution rate from 17.42 percent to 12.07 percent is based on a reduction of its unfunded future pension obligations that occurred when all of the city’s assets and liabilities were combined into one fund. Dollar said that the assets transferred into the new fund exceeded liabilities by almost $82 million and that TMRS has determined that approximately one-third of the rate decrease can be attributed to employee contributions, with the remaining two-thirds attributed to city contributions. “This information has been verified and confirmed by TMRS,” he said. “Of the 5.35 percent reduction in the city’s contribution rate, only 0.2 percent is the result of the excess earnings in the Interest Reserve Fund being placed in the BAF.”

Johnson said that the consequence of SB 350 is that a 2 percent range earnings on the former employee funds and CSARF funds is now included in the cities’ rate calculations and has caused a large reduction in the rates cities pay. And, consequently, has caused a loss of benefits to employees and retirees.

TMRS conservatively estimates its long term earnings will be 7 percent, and the rate of return on the BAF is also assumed to be 7 percent. The assumed rate of return for employee accounts is 5 percent. But in the past when earnings exceeded 5 percent, retirees received a bonus check and employees received the extra interest in their personal TMRS account balances. Now the extra earnings are included in the rate calculation for the city. So, as the city sees savings, retirees see the loss of their bonus check, and employees see slower growth in their retirement accounts.

City officials have proposed using the savings that are incurred as a result of these changes to balance the budget, covering decreases in revenues and increasing expenses in other areas of the budget. “The employees and retirees are being asked to balance the city’s budget at the expense of their retirements,” Johnson said. “We’re not trying to be greedy. We just need this for our retirement to work correctly.”

The Firefighters Association advocates that a COLA equivalent to 30 percent of inflation be instituted now and increased back to the original 70 percent level as the economy improves. “The cost of the 30 percent COLA represents approximately 63 percent of the savings the city is experiencing,” Johnson said. “We maintain that because the savings are benefitting the city at a cost to employee retirements, the savings should be used in a way that will benefit the employee retirements.”

Dollar said that to restore the 70 percent COLA, the city’s contribution rate would increase to 21.52 percent. To fund a 50% COLA would result in an increase of the city’s contribution rate to 18.28 percent, and a 30 percent COLA would bring the contribution rate to 15.46 percent. “Garland cannot afford to fund a COLA without a tax increase, service reductions, reduction in force, salary reductions, or some combination of these options due to three years of declining property tax values,” he said.

The city understands that not having the COLA will impact the retirees, but Dollar said that the goal is to provide the best possible pension plan that is affordable for taxpayers. “Garland has always been committed to providing the best possible benefits to its employees and retirees, and we will continue to pursue that goal to the best of our ability within the funding constraints placed upon us,” he said.

GP&L participates in new transmission project

Posted September 6, 2011

Garland Power & Light announces its participation in a transmission project that will establish a new interconnection between the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and eastern power grids, have the potential to reduce power costs for all Texans, and result in additional revenue for the utility.

The Southern Cross Project is being spearheaded by Pattern Energy Group LP. The transmission facilities built for this project will be used to deliver excess wind energy generated in Texas to utilities in the southeastern United States. The project will also increase reliability within ERCOT because power can also flow into Texas.

Unlike Texas, the southeast does not have the favorable wind patterns and geography for efficient wind power generation. While supporting the wind generation industry in Texas, the Southern Cross Project will deliver renewable energy to consumers in the east with a new high voltage direct current transmission tie of up to 3000 MW.

The amount of power that can be exported or imported into Texas through the new transmission facilities will be three times more than exists currently. The ability to import electricity into the state will be especially important if the Texas grid is running short of power, or if electricity can be procured at favorable prices outside of the state.

“The fact that Pattern approached GP&L to participate in this important project is an indicator of how well GP&L is respected as a utility,” said Electric Utility Director Ray Schwertner. “It also affirms that groups know GP&L is open to evaluating non-traditional opportunities to bring in revenue for the utility,” he added.

Participation in Pattern’s project will help GP&L in its goal of maintaining competitive electric rates. The revenues GP&L will earn will help offset increased costs for fuel, operations, capital investment and debt service that are anticipated in the coming years.

GP&L “fits the bill” for its part in the project. First, it meets one of the project’s requirements for a vertically integrated utility by having power generation, a transmission and delivery system, and serving load. Second, GP&L is one of only 14 NERC Transmission Operators within ERCOT, and will operate the substation at the Texas/Louisiana border and the 30 miles of transmission line leading to it. GP&L will earn revenues by operating and maintaining the facilities and from consulting fees. The utility will be reimbursed by Pattern for actual maintenance expenses.

The project is currently awaiting two orders from FERC, one of which will officially direct GP&L to interconnect transmission facilities with the Southern Cross Project. Pattern will build these facilities and sell them to GP&L at the time the system is energized in 2015. Construction will begin in 2014.

Schwertner credits GP&L’s Regulatory & Compliance Director David Grubbs and the Garland city attorney’s office for their outstanding work on completing the contract agreements with Pattern.

Santa comes to downtown Garland

Posted November 12, 2011

Santa’s elves are getting ready for a busy night in downtown Garland. Garland’s annual Christmas on the Square celebration is scheduled for Thursday, December 1, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. This year’s event features the traditional tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. complete with a spectacular fireworks and light display.

Santa Claus will be on hand to hear Christmas wishes from the children of Garland immediately following the tree lighting ceremony. Children may also have the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa and receive a free commemorative photo button and candy cane.

The festivities will also include:

Snow tubing hills
Horse-drawn carriage rides
Pet adoptions
Children’s activities
Choir performances
Delicious food vendors
Christmas Bazaar for holiday shopping

You can also get into the spirit of giving by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to the Garland Firefighter’s Association to be given to needy children. Unwrapped toys will be collected at the fire engine located at the corner of State and Sixth Streets during the event and at any Garland fire station prior to the event.

For a list of fire station addresses, visit www.garlandfire.com and click on “Fire Station Information” on the right side of the page.

This event is FREE and will take place on and near the Downtown Garland square, located on Sixth Street between Main and State Streets. For additional information, visit www.ChristmasontheSquare.com or call 972-205-2633.

Library system announces November activities

Posted October 6, 2011

Library offers LexisNexis, an online resource - Are you looking for business resources? How about legal or news resources? You can find them all in LexisNexis, an online resource accessible for free from your library.

LexisNexis is an electronic database consisting of business, legal, and news components. The business section provides financials and company dossiers searchable by name or ticker symbol. The legal section contains case law information, statutes, regulations, and legal journals. This part of the resource is only available within the library. The news component hosts full-text content from over 350 newspapers, both foreign and domestic; 300 magazines; 600 newsletters; and hard-to-find television and radio transcripts.

To access LexisNexis you will need your Garland library card. Go to www.nmls.lib.tx.us and click on Online Resources. Next click on the Business subject area, then find LexisNexis. Enter your library card number and PIN and you are ready to enjoy LexisNexis.

Walnut Creek Branch Library Hosts Family Game Time - To celebrate National Family Week, the Walnut Creek Branch Library will present a family game program on Saturday, November 26, from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. This free event will be open to gaming enthusiasts of all ages, and registration will not be required. Gaming options will include video games such as Wii and PlayStation 2, in addition to card games and board games.

Tribute planned for Garland’s fallen WWII veterans

Posted November 4, 2011

As part of the Veteran’s Day activities in Garland, the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Arts Department will commemorate the 31 Garland residents who were killed in action during World War II. The plaque dedication ceremony will start at 5 p.m. at the Veteran’s Tribute Garden on the grounds of the Senior Activity Center, 600 West Avenue A.

Several World War II veterans from the Garland area will attend the ceremony, including a Medal of Honor recipient, a survivor of the Bataan Death March, and a retired general. Garland City Council Member Rick Williams, a Vietnam War Veteran, will host the ceremony. Fireforce, the Garland Fire Department quartet, will sing the National Anthem before the plaque is unveiled. World War II veteran Jack McPherson will unveil the memorial plaque and Councilman Williams will read the names of the heroes who gave their lives for freedom. The ceremony will close with the lowering of the American flag and playing of taps.

Later that evening, Debbie Reynolds will perform to a sellout audience at the first of two shows at the Granville Arts Center. The beloved entertainer will bring music and comedy from her successful nightclub act to the stage. Although Friday's show is sold out, tickets for the Saturday evening performance are still available at the arts center box office, 972-205-2790.

For more information about Veteran's Day events, call 972-205-2882 or visit www.GarlandParks.com.

City initiates stage 2 water conservation measures

Posted August 24, 2011

Garland officials announced that Stage 2 Drought Response measures go into effect today. Under Stage 2, the city will accelerate efforts to reduce water use by 5%, and urge residents to conserve every drop of water. The implementation of Stage 2 comes at the request of the North Texas Municipal Water District, the city’s water supplier. NTMWD initiated Stage 2 of the NTMWD Water Conservation and Drought Contingency and Water Emergency Response Plan, March 2008, as a result of the continued area-wide drought conditions, pumping restrictions caused by the zebra mussel infestation at Lake Texoma, and temporary loss of capacity due to ongoing construction at their Wylie plant.

"The only perfect storm happening in North Texas is the drought affecting our water supply," said Jim Parks, executive director of NTMWD. "Not only are we facing one of the driest summers in recent years, but with the zebra mussels cutting off our Texoma supply, the need for Stage 2 restrictions is immediate."

The city of Garland’s Drought Contingency Plan is contained within the city’s Code of Ordinances. Under Stage 2 Drought Conditions, the following actions are mandatory for Garland residents and businesses:

Limit lawn/landscape watering with sprinklers to two days per week (see schedule note below).
No watering with sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Stop all non-essential water usage.
Postpone installation of new landscaping until the drought has passed.
Hand watering or use of soaker hoses is allowed at any time.

Under Stage 2, limiting lawn irrigation to two days per week is mandatory; however specific days for lawn irrigation are not designated. The following schedule is recommended: Even-numbered addresses may water on Sundays and Thursdays. Odd-numbered addresses may water on Saturdays and Wednesdays.

For additional details about Garland’s Drought Contingency Plan, as well as water conservation tips, visit www.GarlandWater.com.

GP&L activates generation units for ERCOT

Posted August 23, 2011

Garland Power & Light has activated Spencer Units #4 and #5 and officially released them to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas to help reduce the risk of rotating outages on the state’s electric grid.

Around-the-clock efforts returned the gas-fired units to service from their mothballed state. Unit #5 was turned over to ERCOT at midnight Sunday for Monday operation. Unit #4 was turned over at midnight Monday for Tuesday operation. If needed, ERCOT can call on these units to provide power to the grid to avoid emergencies. They will not displace units that were already on-line and bidding into the market.

“The state continues to experience extremely high temperatures and the demand for power remains high. We’re pleased that our units are now available as a resource for ERCOT,” GP&L’s Electric Utility Director Ray Schwertner said.

The units were originally targeted for return to service this Friday, but GP&L made these units available sooner. “It’s a tribute to our dedicated and highly skilled employees that we already have these units on-line,” Schwertner said.

As the units came on-line, ERCOT CEO Tripp Doggett expressed appreciation to Schwertner for GP&L’s efforts in bringing the units back earlier than expected.

The Spencer units are located in Denton, and the power they generate will support load in the North Texas region. Each of the units has a 61 megawatt capacity.

City Council work session, regular meeting: August 15-16

Kim Everett | August 21, 2011

Charter Review Committee discussion

According to Mayor Ronald Jones, there is language in the city’s charter that needs to be cleaned up. He said that it would be best to have the review at this time while there are more experienced members on the City Council. Some Council Members agreed, while others do not see the necessity.

Council Member Doug Athas said that he was not in favor of calling for a charter review at this time. He said that there is “nothing broken in the charter that is not taken care of in another part of it.” In addition, he expressed opposition at spending taxpayer money to conduct a city-wide election in May when only council district elections are currently scheduled.

Council Member Rick Williams also expressed that he does not see a need for a review at this time.

Council Member Jim Cahill said that it would be advantageous to have the review while more veteran council members are in office.

Council Member Larry Jeffus suggested that a list of proposed changes be compiled and presented to council. At that time, they could decide if a review was necessary. This suggestion was adopted, and a list will be made.

Use of electronic signs

The city attorney is currently drafting an ordinance for the use of electronic signage. The ordinance will include wording to protect residential areas where nearby businesses might want to display these signs.

Council district boundaries

The council district boundaries were last changed in 2006. The current boundaries meet the government guidelines, and there is no need to change them.

Review of 2011-12 proposed budget

There was one bit of good news regarding the budget: The North Texas Municipal Water District was expected to increase the wholesale water rates by 12.4%, but the increase has been lowered to 8.8%. Consequently, the residents’ rate increase will be lowered by 70 cents, from $1.79 to $1.09. Water is the only utility that will require a rate increase this year.

The property tax base has declined for the third consecutive year. It has decreased by nine percent since 2008. The sales tax revenues have declined by $2 million since the 2007-08 budget year.

New fees are proposed for fire inspection along with user fees for parks programs. Fee increases are proposed for building inspection; municipal court; parks, recreation and cultural arts; and code compliance.

Departmental budget presentations were given for Garland Power & Light; Water & Wastewater Department; Building Inspection; Code Compliance; Municipal Court; Parks and Recreation; Fire Department; and Police Department.

Public hearings were held for the proposed budget and tax rate. No residents were present to address council.

Transfer station reopens with schedule changes

Posted August 14, 2011

Beginning August 15, the city of Garland transfer station, located at 1434 Commerce St., will reopen for business Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., after an eight-week closure for structural repairs. However, the transfer station will no longer open on Saturdays.

“The volume of waste received from residents on Saturdays no longer warrants having both the transfer station and landfill facilities open,” said Environmental Waste Services Managing Director Lonnie Banks. “While the transfer station will be closed on Saturdays, the C.M. Hinton, Jr. Regional Landfill, located at 3175 Elm Grove Road in Rowlett, will be open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for residents needing to dispose of waste materials.”

Please note: the drop-off recycling center, located at 1426 Commerce St., will remain open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Fair Housing seeks residents’ feedback

Posted August 14, 2011

The city of Garland wants to hear from Garland residents about its fair housing programs and policies. Feedback options include an online survey and in person.

The city will hold a public meeting on Thursday, August 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the South Garland Library at 4845 Broadway Blvd. in Garland. This meeting is intended to inform Garland residents about the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice, as well as provide an opportunity for all to participate in the AI planning process.

Entitlement communities like Garland are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to complete an AI every five years. HUD defines an impediment to fair housing choice as any actions, omissions, or decisions that restrict, or have the effect of restricting, the availability of housing choices, based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin.

Persons living and working in Garland are encouraged to attend and provide input. Anyone unable to attend this meeting but wishing to make their views known may do so by submitting comments to: Mona Woodard, Garland Neighborhood Services, at 972-205-3310.

Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the city by writing or calling the following: Elaine Emmert at 972-205-3348 or by mail at 222 Carver, Suite B, Garland, Texas 75040.

Below is a link to a brief online survey, and we value your participation. The purpose of the survey is to gather information that will allow us to evaluate and assess current housing choices within Garland.

To complete the survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GarlandFairHousing

City Council work session, regular meeting: August 1-2

Kim Everett | August 8, 2011

2011-12 proposed city budget

The proposed budget for 2011-12 was presented to City Council members and Mayor Ronald Jones. Assistant City Manager Bryan Bradford outlined current economic trends before the presentation.

There has been a 2.3 percent decline in property tax values, which has resulted in a $1 billion loss since 2008. Residential values are down 10 percent since 2008, and commercial real estate values have seen a 2.5 percent drop in 2011, with a cumulative loss of 18 percent since 2008. Personal property has experienced a 3 percent decline.

Sales tax revenue showed a small increase for a short time but is decreasing again, and general fund revenues are down. New construction has also shown a decrease this year.

According to Bradford, the city is on “firm footing because of [previous] courageous steps taken by the City Council.” Some of these steps include the discontinuance of the cost of living adjustments for retirees, elimination of second language pay, a library closure, and a reduction in infrastructure funding.

City Manager Bill Dollar’s budget priorities included:

·         No tax rate increase

·         Maintaining current service levels

·         Implementation of more cost-saving measures

·         Delay of enhancements to city employee compensation and benefits

·         Adjustment of various fees to levels charged by other cities

Proposed totals:

·         General fund resources = $132.5 million

·         Expenditure funding = $132.4 million

·         Projected decline in total resources = $1.585 million

·         Expenditure decline = $1.6 million.

·         Proposed consolidated budget = $514.4 million, $9.7 million lower than last year’s amount

There will be no salary increases for city employees. Step increases for police and fire department employees will continue. Additionally, the city’s contribution to the Texas Municipal Retirement System will decline to 12.07 percent.

A $1.79 per month increase in water utility rates will be assessed to utility customers to offset price increases from the North Texas Municipal Water District.

Public hearings on the proposed budget and adoption of the 70.46 cent tax rate are scheduled for August 16 and 25.

TMRS update

Texas Municipal Retirement System representatives updated council and the mayor on changes in the retirement system and gave an outline of how the system works. The representatives said that there will be more diversification in the system’s portfolio and that funds have been restructured.

A representative from the Garland Firefighters Association addressed council and the mayor about the TMRS changes.

Watch for an upcoming article on the changes and how city employees will be affected.

Senate Bill 100 update

Even though Dallas County is no longer required to conduct the city’s elections, they will do so in May 2012. They asked that the city look at the number of polling locations and amount of equipment required in an effort to save money.

Mayor wants changes in city’s charter

According to the mayor, there is wording in the city’s charter that needs to be changed and brought up to date. He would like to appoint a Charter Review Committee to take on this task. Council Member Doug Athas would prefer to wait for these changes so the vote could be taken when a city-wide election is going to be scheduled anyway. Waiting, he said, would save money.

The mayor prefers to get the changes made now. “I’m not going to balance cheap against doing what’s right, doing what’s proper, doing what is professional, doing what needs to be done when it comes to parliamentary procedure,” Jones said.

Council Member Laura Perkins Cox said that since the charter had not been reviewed in the last four years, she believes that it should be done now. Council Member Rick Williams said that he doesn’t see a pressing need. Council Member John Willis suggested that the committee could be formed now and that council could make a decision when the committee brings back recommendations.

Citizen brings up possible conflict of interest for council member

During a public hearing on an ordinance that would amend a chapter of the Neighborhood Sanitation and Housing Services, Steve Miller asked Councilman Willis why he does not recuse himself from votes such as these. Miller said that because Willis owns and manages a family residential rental property business there is a conflict of interest. The mayor assured Miller that the city attorney advises council members when there is a possible conflict.

Call to conserve electricity continues

Posted August 8, 2011

With high temperatures in the forecast for the entire week, Garland Power & Light and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas continue to encourage everyone to conserve power at homes and businesses.

“The steps everyone took over the past week to reduce power consumption helped prevent the need for rotating outages. We thank you for your efforts and encourage everyone to continue conserving power this week,” said Ray Schwertner, GP&L’s electric utility director.

ERCOT recommends that consumers turn off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. each day this week and delay laundry and other activities that require electricity-consuming appliances until later in the evening.

Other conservation measures recommended by ERCOT include:

Turn off lights, appliances, and electronic equipment any time of the day they are not needed.
When at home, close blinds and drapes that get direct sun, set air conditioning thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, and use fans in occupied rooms to feel cooler.
When away from home, set air conditioning thermostats to 85 degrees and turn all fans off before leaving. Block the sun by closing blinds or drapes on windows that get direct sun.
Refrain from use of dishwasher, laundry equipment, hair dryers, coffee makers, or other home appliances during the peak hours of 3 to 7 p.m.
Avoid opening refrigerators or freezers more than necessary.
Use microwaves for cooking instead of an electric range or oven.
Set pool pumps to run in the early morning or evening instead of the afternoon.

Businesses should minimize the use of electric lighting and electricity-consuming equipment as much as possible. Large consumers of electricity should consider shutting down or reducing non-essential production processes.

City names new financial services chief

Posted August 3, 2011

The City of Garland has named David Schuler as the managing director of financial services. The Financial Services Department is responsible for providing accounting, investment, and debt management services for the city.

“David has been a vital contributor in the city’s Finance Department for many years,” says Assistant City Manager Bryan Bradford. “In his new role, he will bring vital insight to our overall financial services functions, particularly in this challenging economic climate.”

Schuler has served as the city’s investment and debt administrator since 1990, overseeing accounting, tax collection and revenue recovery services. His duties have included monitoring financial market trends, monitoring compliance with federal regulations, and analyzing investment performance.

His accomplishments include the successful creation of a tax-exempt commercial paper issuance program, issuance of variable rate debt for economic development purposes, and structuring a subsidized loan through a state revolving loan program for the completion of a five-year capital improvement project. He began his municipal career at the city of Garland in 1978 in the Accounting Department.

He is a certified public accountant and a past president of the Government Treasurers Organization of Texas, as well as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, Government Finance Officers Association, and the Government Finance Officers Association of Texas.

Central Library to host open house to showcase renovations

Posted September 7, 2011

The Nicholson Memorial Library System invites you to a Renovation Open House at the Central Library on Saturday, October 8, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. with fun activities scheduled throughout the day.

In recent months, the main floor of the library has been renovated and nonpublic areas have been converted for public use. Enhancements include:

Designated study rooms for people working together in groups
Technology center with public access computers
Jungle-themed children’s area
Early Literacy Stations for ages 2 through 10
Coffee and soft drink vending area
New periodical reading area
Enlarged new book area with laptop chairs
Redesigned young adult area
Window seating areas through the main floor
Centralized main floor help desk
Modular checkout desk with both staffed and self-check stations
Self-serve pickup area for requested materials

Although construction did not extend to the basement level, all basement shelving has been rearranged to create smaller group seating areas and allow better access to professional librarians at the reference desk. All general nonfiction, business, legal, and genealogy collections have been relocated to the basement level. This entire floor has now been designated as a quiet floor, with the main floor containing the more active areas.

The open house will begin at 10 a.m. with a welcoming ceremony featuring city officials. At 10:30 a.m. refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library System. At this time, children will also have the opportunity to meet Curious George and make a jungle animal foam bookmark.

At 11 a.m., musician and storyteller Baba Kwasi will present an African Drum show, and at noon Curious George returns for a jungle-themed story time. The festivities continue at 1 p.m. with a presentation of safari animals by Wildlife on the Move. Storyteller Bill Raley will perform his repertoire of jungle tales at 2 p.m., and Mad Science will teach audiences about scientifically made safari sounds at 3 p.m.

Other ongoing activities include electronic database demonstrations in the new technology lab, crafts and photo opportunities in the children’s area, and a scavenger hunt, also for children.

The Central Library is at 625 Austin St. in downtown Garland. For more information, call 972-205-2501.

City Council work session, regular meeting: July 18-19

Kim Everett | July 28, 2011

Animal Services Advisory Committee update

The six-member Animal Services Advisory Committee meets quarterly and is chaired by Pat Fowler. In an update to the City Council and Mayor Ron Jones, the committee reported that progress has been made in decreasing the number of animals that must be euthanized. In addition, there is a need for a new facility, and the current facility limits what the staff is able to do.

The total animal intake from October – June was 6,992. Of that number, 3,419, which is 48.9 percent, have been successfully placed through adoption, rescue, return to owner, or relocation as wild animals.

Partnerships with Pawsabilities and PetSmart are having a positive effect. So far this year, 185 animals have been placed through these collaborative efforts.

In addition, Garland’s shelter scored 100 percent on unannounced Texas DSHS inspections for the fifth year in a row.

Also reported by the committee, dangerous dog complaints have increased by 60 percent, and animal relinquishment is currently high.

The shelter has a need for cash donations, dry dog and cat food, bleach, and dish soap. Donations can be dropped off at the shelter at 600 Tower in Garland. Call 972-205-3570 for more information.

Recyclable items theft

Residents observing theft of items from red recycling bins placed at the curb for pickup are encouraged to call the Garland Police Department non-emergency number – 972-485-4840. Furnishing the address, description of the person and their clothing, along with the make and model of the vehicle will help police apprehend them.

Placing the items for pickup means that residents are giving the items to the city, and it is unlawful for anyone else to take them.

GFD receives grant for additional staff

The Garland Fire Department received a “staffing for adequate fire and emergency response grant” in the amount of $781,000. The grant will allow the department to fill voids in the staff for two years.

Electronic signage

A public hearing regarding the use of electronic signs is scheduled for the August 2 City Council meeting. Testimony will be heard and requirements/ordinances for the signage will be discussed.

New mayor pro tem elected

Councilman Preston Edwards was elected mayor pro tem. No one was nominated for a deputy mayor pro tem position.

Residents asked to reduce electricity usage

Posted July 15, 2011

Due to high temperatures, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which manages the state’s electricity grid, and Garland Power & Light encourage consumers and businesses to reduce electricity use as much as possible every afternoon this week to help avoid electricity emergencies or the need for rotating outages. Turn off all unnecessary lights, appliances, and electronic equipment from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. each day.

City Council work session, regular meeting: July 5

Kim Everett | July 9, 2011

The City Council had a light agenda for the July 5 meeting, which lasted only 16 minutes.

During the meeting, the Garland Parks and Recreation Department staff was recognized for its efforts and accomplishments. Mayor Ronald Jones proclaimed July “Parks and Recreation Month.”

The following teens were appointed to the Garland Youth Council: Paige Pospisil and Mason Porter nominated by Council Member Doug Athas and Mindy Le and Alexandria Nelson nominated by Council Member Lori Dodson.

City Council work session, regular meeting: June 20-21

Kim Everett | June 23, 2011

CREZ transmission project

The City Council and Mayor Ronald Jones were updated on the city’s participation in a project to build high voltage transmission lines from West Texas and the Texas panhandle. The lines would transmit electric power generated from wind from these areas to more populated areas in central Texas.

Five zones were identified – two in the Texas panhandle and three in west Texas – and a transmission plan has been adopted. The potential will be to bring 18,000 megawatts of power produced by wind to central Texas, which is one-fourth of the state’s energy usage today. Future potential could be as much as 57,000-60,000 megawatts, which would serve all of the state’s needs. It cannot be the sole source of power, however, because there is not always wind sufficient to generate power.

Garland was not selected to build the two transmission lines that will bring power this area, but the decision was appealed. The city won the appeal and will partner with South Texas Electric Cooperative to build the lines. Garland will take ownership of the lines when completed. The plan’s estimated cost to the state is $6.56 billion, and the city’s ownership of the lines will provide a return on the .8 percent of the total cost that it will contribute.

GGI and Automatic Products propose waste to energy project

GGI Energy, Inc. and Automatic Products Corporation provided an overview of a waste to energy project that they hope to bring to Garland. The intent is to convert some of the solid waste from the landfill and sludge from the waste water treatment facilities into diesel fuel.

GGI representatives said that the project will save taxpayer money; create jobs; generate incremental revenue; and be a landmark of environmental responsibility. The three proposed sites would bring in annual property tax revenue of $400,000 and a projected decrease in the city’s operating costs.

GGI representatives also said that the plants are clean, with no emissions to the air, water or soil, and there is no noise associated with the operations.

Emergency alert sirens – necessary or not

Staff recommended discontinuing use of the 19 emergency alert sirens in the city. 70% are currently inoperable. Since the city has implemented the CodeRed Warning System that automatically calls residents who have registered, and because the sirens are only for people who are outside at the time, Councilman Rick Williams does not see the need for the sirens. In addition, the city recently held a campaign encouraging residents to purchase weather radios.

The cost to repair existing sirens and add necessary equipment would be approximately $1 million, money that the city does not have. Councilwoman Lori Dodson and Councilwoman Laura Perkins Cox spoke in favor of keeping the alert system. Councilman John Willis said that there are outdoor locations, such as soccer fields, parks, and other sports venues, where it would be good to have the sirens. More research will be done.

Election dates affected by Senate Bill 100

City Secretary Mary Kayser briefed council on the repercussions that Senate Bill 100 will have on the election schedule. She explained that the bill will bring Texas into compliance with federal legislation called the Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act, which requires that in federal elections, ballots must be ready to be mailed to overseas and military voters 45 days before elections.

To bring Texas into compliance, the bill changes the primary runoff election date, which would be moved to May of even-numbered years. Garland’s election date is the second Saturday in May, and the new primary runoff date would be the fourth Tuesday in May, which results in these two elections being too close.

The county would not contract with Garland to conduct the second Saturday in May election because they would not be able to check the machines and get them ready for their elections when they were just used at Garland’s elections on Saturday; and there is not enough equipment to run the two elections separately. The odd-numbered years do not pose a problem.

The law allows municipalities to move their election date to November or Garland’s date could be moved to the second Saturday in May of odd-numbered years. With this method, all council members would be elected at the same time. It has been staggered so that there would always be experienced members on council. Either way, the terms of the sitting council will be affected.

Under normal circumstances, a change of this type would have to be voted on and the city charter changed. In this case, however, the legislation trumps the city’s charter and can be done by a resolution.

Appointments to boards and commissions

The City Council appointed Anita Rushlau to the Animal Services Advisory Board; Shannon Gray to the Garland Housing Finance Corporation; and Katrina Pierson to the Garland Health Facilities Corporation and Garland Economic Development Committee.

City secretary elected to international board

Posted June 19, 2011

Garland’s City Secretary Mary J. Kayser, MMC was elected to the Board of Directors of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks during the Institute's 65th Annual Conference on May 12. Kayser’s region represents Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Oklahoma. She will serve a three-year term.

Kayser has been city secretary since 2006. She earned her Texas Registered Municipal Clerk Certification in 1999, recertified in 2004 and 2009. She also holds IIMC’s Certified Municipal Clerk and Master Municipal Clerk designations.

Her IIMC committee service includes serving on the Resource Committee; Property Assessment Task Force; and, most recently, Chair of the Policy Review Committee. She has attended 10 IIMC Annual Conferences.

Kayser has spoken at Texas Municipal Clerks Election Law Seminars and at the Texas Municipal League seminar for Newly Elected City Officials and is co-author of several chapters in the Texas Municipal Clerks Handbook. She is active in the Texas Municipal Clerks Association and the North Texas Municipal Clerks Association Chapter. In addition, she has served on the TMCA board in all positions and currently serves as president. She has also served on the TMCA Certification Committee, and was selected as the 2010 Texas Municipal Clerk of the Year. In the North Texas Chapter of TMCA, Kayser has served in all positions and has volunteered on numerous committees.

Founded in 1947, IIMC is a professional nonprofit association with more than 10,000 members throughout North America and 15 other countries, representing municipalities with populations of 1,000 to more than 8 million. IIMC prepares its membership to meet the challenge of the diverse role of the municipal clerk by providing services and continuing educational development opportunities in 45 permanent college- and university-based learning centers.

City manager relieves fire chief of department head duties

Kim Everett | June 15, 2011

Garland’s Fire Chief Dan Grammer was removed as head of the Fire Department Friday, June 3. City Manager Bill Dollar did not cite a specific cause for the change in his statement to the media.

“As a result of a review of the Garland Fire Department and its leadership, I have determined that it is in the best interest of the city of Garland and the Garland Fire Department that Danny Grammer be removed as the department head of the Garland Fire Department,” he said.

Grammer has been with the department for 34 years. After being removed from his post, he was reinstated as Battalion Chief, the position he held before becoming the department’s chief.

Dollar appointed Assistant Fire Chief Raymond Knight as Interim Fire Chief. He will serve in that capacity until a permanent chief is appointed and confirmed by the City Council.

City Council work session, regular meeting: June 7

Kim Everett | June 12, 2011

Bryan Bradford, David Schuler, and Ron Young of the Financial Services Department updated council and Mayor Jones on the city’s financial health.

Schuler gave the annual financial report, stating that general fund revenues for current and prior four years exceeded the budget amount and that expenditures are being managed prudently.

The goal of maintaining 30 days of resources in the general fund is being met, and, the goal of maintaining 45 days of resources for utilities is being met.

In addition, Schuler said that the percentage of ad valorem taxes collected has not slipped in the economic downturn and that the Texas Municipal Retirement System funding has improved.

Current bond ratings:

	Standard & Poor’s	Fitch
General obligation, tax supported	AA+ stable	AAA stable
General obligation, commercial paper	A1+	--
Electric utility revenue bonds	AA- stable	A+ positive
Water and sewer utility revenue bonds	AA stable	AA+ stable

According to Bradford, new construction is down. He also reported that residential property values are down currently by 17 percent. A large part of the decline is in homes less than 1,300 square feet, and more than 30 percent of the city’s housing stock is in this category.

Sales tax revenue has shown a four and one-half percent average monthly increase since March 2010. March 2011 saw a decrease, however, and the thought is that it will continue to decrease because of the rise in gas and food prices. There is no sales tax revenue on gas and food, and families will have less money for discretionary spending, which is where tax revenue comes from.

Based on April figures, the unemployment rate in Garland is at eight percent, which translates into 8,900 citizens looking for work. May numbers are not yet available.

Young reported that several revenues are showing weakness. Municipal court fines are down and projected to end the year at 15 percent below budget. Landfill fees and EMS ambulance fees are projected to end the year three percent below budget. Alarm fees will be 36 percent below budget. Three of the four shortfalls are monies collected from citizens, and the city is experiencing trouble collecting the revenues because of the economy.

Property tax and sales tax revenues are on target, but total revenues are projected to end the year with a $250,000 shortfall. The rise in fuel costs is also affecting revenues. A hiring freeze was implemented by the city which will cover the revenue shortfall and fuel overage.

Next year’s budget numbers do not look promising because of the three and one-half percent decline in the property tax base. The total decline will reach 10 percent which equals $8 million in tax revenue. The general fund deficit, according to projections for next year, appears to be approximately $3.5 million.

Appointments to boards and commissions

Tom Jeffries will remain on the TMPA Board.

There are vacancies on the Animal Advisory Board, Garland Housing Finance Corporation, Garland Health Facilities Development Board, and the Garland Economic Development Authority. Council will interview applicants on June 20.

Street name change

The portion of Marketplace Drive between Centerville and Intervale will be changed back to its original name – Broadmoor Drive.

Summer Nutrition Program set to start next week

Posted June 5, 2011

The city of Garland is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided at the sites and times as follows:

Sites Opening June 6, 2011

Site	Address	Meal Times
Bradfield Recreation Center	1146 Castle Dr. Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Centerville Pointe Apt	4266 Duck Creek Garland, TX 75043	Lunch: 11:30 - 1:30
East Side Church of Christ	2000 S. First Street Garland, TX 75041	Breakfast: 8:30 - 9:30 Lunch: 12:00 - 2:00
Gale Fields Recreation Center	1701 Dairy Rd. Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Garland YMCA	1709 N. Garland Garland, TX 75040	Breakfast: 8:00 - 9:00 Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Granger Recreation Center	1310 W. Ave. F Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Greater Davis l, COGIC	716 Chandler Dr. Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Hollabaugh Recreation Center	3925 W. Walnut Garland, TX 75042	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Iglesia Pentecostés Monte de Sion, Inc.	548 Crestcove Dr. Garland, TX 75042	Breakfast: 8:00 - 9:00 Lunch: 11:00 - 12:00
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist	253 Marguerita Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Mt. Hebron Baptist Church Academy	901 Dairy Road Garland, TX 75040	Breakfast: 8:30 - 9:30 Lunch: 11:30 - 1:30
Parkridge Community Apartments	1839 Glenbrook Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:30 - 1:30
Richland Apartments	3200 Buckingham Garland, TX 75042	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Salvation Army / Boys & Girls Club	451 W. Ave. D Garland, TX 75040	Breakfast: 8:00 - 9:00 Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
The ROC (Metro Family Ministry)	3375 Edgewood Garland, TX 75042	Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00
Virgil M. Douglas Park	420 Carver Street Garland, TX 75040	Lunch: 11:30 - 1:30
Whisperwood Apartments	220 S. Jupiter Garland, TX 75042	Lunch: 12:00 - 2:00
Woodgate Apartments	2914 W. Walnut Garland, TX 75042	Lunch: 12:00 - 2:00
Wynne Park	3802 S. Glenbrook Garland, TX 75041	Lunch: 11:30 - 1:30

Sites Opening June 13, 2011

Site	Address	Meal Times
Axe Memorial United Methodist Church	1700 W. Kingsley Garland, TX 75041	Lunch: 11:30 - 12:30
Oak Creek Apartments	2710 W. Walnut Garland, TX 75042	Lunch: 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Saturn Road Church of Christ	3030 Saturn Rd. Garland, TX 75041	Breakfast: 8:50 - 9:30 Lunch: 11:50 - 1:00
The Foundry Church	1325 Ave. F Garland, TX 75040	Lunch 10:30 - 12:30

Sites Opening June 20, 2011

Site	Address	Meal Times
Mount Hebron Baptist Church	1233 State Hwy. 66 Garland, TX 75040	Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 Lunch: 11:00 - 1:00

Sites Opening June 27, 2011

Site	Address	Meal Times
Christ The Redeemer Church	4125 Broadway #A100 Garland TX 75043	Breakfast: 8:30 – 9:15 (July 25-29 only) Lunch: 11:30 - 12:30

USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410

(800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Mayor, Council Members look forward to serving

Kim Everett | May 24, 2011

A swearing in ceremony was held Monday, May 23 for newly elected Council Member Lori Dodson of District 6 as well as for Council Member Jim Cahill, who ran unopposed for the District 8 seat. Mayor Ronald E. Jones, along with Council Members Rick Williams and Preston Edwards, who had all run unopposed, was sworn in as well.

Both Cahill and Dodson said that they were looking forward to serving the citizens in their respective districts. Jones, Williams, and Edwards expressed gratitude for their constituents’ support and said that they look forward to continuing to serve.

Outgoing Councilman Darren Lathen was presented a flag and plaque for his service. “He has served faithfully for four years,” Jones said. Lathen served from May 2007 to May 2011.

Lathen said that it had been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of District 8.

Council Member Barbara Chick, also leaving office, was given a plaque and flag and recognized for her service from May 2005 to May 2011. Jones said that she had served the city of Garland in several roles and that she never missed a work session or council meeting during her three consecutive terms.

Chick said that serving on the council had been an adventure and an education and that she hoped that some of the things she was able to accomplish will enrich the lives of the people in District 6.

City Council work session, regular meeting: May 16-17

Kim Everett | May 22, 2011

Garland Youth Council update

Several Garland Youth Council members updated council on a town hall meeting that they conducted in October of last year. The town hall meeting was attended by the mayors of Rowlett and Sachse as well as Mayor Ronald Jones of Garland. Garland Independent School District Superintendent Curtis Culwell also attended.

During the town hall meeting, the GYC held topical discussions on:

Distracted driving
Leisure activities for youth
Bullying
Health and fitness for youth

The GYC also conducted a community planning activity which included:

Creating a revitalization plan for a key Garland location
Visiting and evaluating the current conditions at the location
Developing a vision for the project
Developing and illustrating a plan for a great new place.

Council Members Laura Perkins Cox, Rick Williams, Doug Athas, and Larry Jeffus, as well as Mayor Jones, praised the GYC for its efforts.

“Wow. I am blown away by the amount of wisdom that y’all have brought forward tonight,” Cox said. She also thanked the students for their hard work and vision.

“I see a group of leaders here,” Jeffus said.

Vacant board positions

Vacancies on the following boards/committees will be handled in accordance with the City Council’s policy of listing the openings for two weeks, then interviewing interested candidates:

Texas Municipal Power Association
Animal Services Advisory Committee
Garland Housing Finance Corporation
Garland Health Facilities Development Corporation
Garland Economic Development Authority

Mayor begins final term with continued willingness to serve

Kim Everett | May 15, 2011

Beginning his third term as Garland’s mayor, Ronald E. Jones, is enthusiastic about the future of this city, as well as that of all north Texas cities. Having just returned from a Metroplex Mayors Association meeting, where he addressed the group regarding the importance of north Texas mayors working together, he said that all cities benefit when a corporation locates in the region.

“If north Texas is going to stay strong and viable we must work together in unity and harmony for a common purpose…We are going to see the success of regions around the nation be determined by the ability of the mayors to work together,” Jones said. “That’s going to be the trend of the future.”

Jones worked for the city of Garland for 29 years, in several different capacities, before retiring in 2005. His first position was as assistant director of the Garland Neighborhood Services Center, an agency that was co-sponsored by the city, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the Garland Chamber of Commerce. In this position, he organized programs in east Garland neighborhoods to help stabilize the area and bring the people together.

When that agency became a part of the city in the State and Federal Relations Department, Jones was asked to be director. As the department grew, he became the senior staff person, and the name was changed to Community Development. He was a grant writer and had oversight of revenue sharing recipients and block grants.

From there he became the director of the Utility Customer Service Department where he educated employees on the importance of quality customer service.

Jones then became managing director over several other departments including the Municipal Court, Tax Department, Purchasing Department, and Warehouse Services as well as Customer Service.

In 1999, he was promoted to assistant city manager and given charge over the city’s Nicholson Memorial Library System, the Parks and Recreation Department, Granville Arts Theater operations, Garland Housing Department, Animal Services, and Code Compliance.

He estimates that during his 29 years with the city he was over 14-15 departments and said that experience has made his job as mayor a little easier. The experience of working with prior mayors was helpful as well. “I knew what mayors did. I knew what it took for mayors to be effective,” Jones said. “I knew what citizens wanted in their mayor because I heard it all the time.”

“The big disadvantage is that you don’t have room for error, because everyone is expecting you to know everything,” he said. “Someone who has never been in the system can say they made a mistake because they are still learning. I didn’t have that luxury.”

Jones believes that being accessible to citizens is one of the most important aspects of being mayor. To that end, he implemented the Mayor’s Evening In monthly program and the Mayor’s Evening Out quarterly program so that residents have opportunities to meet with him and discuss what’s on their minds. There is no agenda or list of allowed topics. “You name the issue,” he said.

He believes that accessibility to elected officials is one of Garland’s top commodities. “Many people do not have access to their elected officials. In many cases, corporate and civic leaders have access, but not other citizens,” Jones said.

The mayor also sees Garland’s diversified workforce as an asset. “We have a tremendous workforce…that’s what makes us attractive to corporate, industrial, manufacturers, and to sales. We are still, in the eyes of many people, considered a blue-collar city and there is nothing wrong with that image because it provides jobs and stability,” he said. He added that by the definitions of blue collar and white collar, Garland has actually been white collar for years.

“We have the workforce pool that can fill the need for sales, high tech, data processing, manufacturing, and industrial,” Jones said. “We have a strong industrial manufacturing base and that’s why we are still one of the top manufacturing cities in Texas and definitely a vital industrial manufacturing city in the nation…We are vital to the military and to the defense of this nation. Guidance systems, satellite systems, and military equipment are made here.”

He went on to list many items that are produced here: Hats, plastic bottles, heart surgery components, skin care products, and Craftsman tools to name just a few. “There’s nothing in space that MicroPac didn’t have something to do with,” Jones said.

The mayor has many things he would like to accomplish in his last term. A few items on his goal list are:

Complete the DART Blue Line extension on time (December 2012)

Complete George Bush Tollway extension (December 2011)

Build Holiday Inn on I-30 at Lake Ray Hubbard

Extend Sixth Street to open up at Walnut Street

Complete downtown improvements

Construct bike trail from Mesquite to Garland to Richardson

Reconstruction of the Pleasant Valley bridge

Complete LBJ Freeway frontage road improvements

Look at ways to enhance city hall

Enhance the arts in Garland by creating an Art Fund

Mayor Jones and his wife Peggy, who is active in service work through several organizations, have lived in Garland for 13 and one-half years.

Garland partners with low-cost spay/neuter program

Posted May 9, 2011

Garland Animal Services has an ongoing partnership with the Kaufman County Animal Awareness Program to offer low-cost spay/neuter services for Garland pet owners.

In an effort to stem the influx of stray pit bull dogs into the Garland Animal Shelter, the KCAAP is offering a $50 discount on the sterilization of pit bull dogs for Garland residents. The discount makes sterilization of pit bull dogs that weigh less than 40 pounds free. Costs for sterilization of pit bull dogs over 40 pounds depend on the gender of the dog and the overall weight, but prices are still phenomenal.

Using grant funding, KCAAP will offer the discount to the first 60 Garland residents that take advantage of the pit bull sterilization program. Residents must show proof of Garland residency and must submit a photograph of their dog at the time of surgery with the animal’s name on the back of the photograph.

To schedule surgery, contact Kaufman County Animal Awareness Program at 972-472-3500 or visit http://www.spayneuternet.org/. Free transportation is provided by the Animal Awareness Program on the first Thursday of each month.

Residents are also encouraged to take advantage of low cost sterilization services for all breeds of dogs and cats at KCAAP. For more information about this and other services offered by Garland's Animal Shelter, visit www.GarlandAnimalServices.org.

City Council work session, regular meeting: May 2-3

Kim Everett | May 5, 2011

Flagship RaceTrac to be built in Garland

Master Plan Development presented a proposal to council for a flagship RaceTrac convenience store to be built in the triangle at South Garland Avenue and Shiloh Road. The property is located in front of the vacant Hypermart property. Their plan for the 6.6 acres includes the store with 24 gas pumps, a park area, a Garland history area, and a round brick planter with a “welcome to Garland” message. In addition, they hope to find a bank and/or a restaurant to occupy the rest of the land.

The Planning Commission and city staff recommended against this development as inappropriate for this entryway to Garland. Neil Montgomery, Garland’s planning director said that the area was zoned planned development in 2008 and was identified as one of the city’s seven catalyst areas for redevelopment.

Montgomery said that whatever is built on this property is going to set a tone for the area. “The decision you make tonight really needs to take into account not just this 6.6 acres but the use that eventually goes on this property and the impact it has on the ultimate redevelopment of this entire area. He encouraged council to carefully consider the issue and look at it from a long term point of view.

The developer told council on behalf of RaceTrac that they had tried to look at the Envision Garland plan and make the development fit into the guidelines. “We’re not just a gas station…We can provide a mix of uses…We can help send a signal that this corridor is open and ready for business,” he said. He also said that the shape of the property, nearby switching station and transmission lines, and railroad track make the property difficult to develop.

This development would be the largest, most expensive, best landscaped site that RaceTrac has in the country, and they are ready to do it now. The interior would be more of a market atmosphere than a convenience store with a yogurt station, deli, and fresh area.

During the public hearing held on this issue, two citizens spoke out against the development. One said that the city has enough gas stations and that the development would aggravate an already bothersome travel problem in the area.

Several residents spoke in favor of the development. Former Councilman Randall Dunning said this is a good development, ideal for this entryway.

“I don’t think you can put anything any better looking down there. I don’t think Donald Trump is going to come down here and build Trump Towers,” Don Howard said.

Business owner Phillip Lathrop asked, “How many times can Garland say no to business before business says no to Garland.”

Attorney Donna Harris encouraged council, “Don’t wait for some unrealistic unknown and undefined vision for the future…We should let this RaceTrac be built. I believe it will be a catalyst. Let’s start the redevelopment of Garland Road.”

After several more people spoke, the residents who had registered against the development changed their position.

Councilman John Willis, whose district the property is located in, made a motion to postpone a decision until the next council meeting and Councilwoman Laura Perkins Cox seconded the motion. Willis’s concern is that this development sets the tone for an entryway to Garland and the decision should not be rushed.

Other Council Members did not agree with the need for a postponement, and the motion failed.

Councilman Doug Athas made a motion to approve RaceTrac’s request. After debate, council voted to approve the development.

DART Board member appointed

After interviewing Michael Cheney, Katrina Pierson, B.J. Williams, Tony Torres, and Chris Luna at Monday’s work session, council appointed Cheney to the DART Board at the regular meeting on Tuesday.

Animal Services Department news

Posted May 4, 2011

The following information was provided by the Animal Services Department of the city of Garland. The tips outlined below for being a responsible pet owner were written by Robert E. Osborne, D.V.M.

Owning pets is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. They rely on us for all their basic needs. Show them you are a loving, responsible owner.

1. Keep vaccinations current: Only rabies shots are required by law, but don’t neglect keeping their other shots up to date. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rhinotracheitis are ever present and can be deadly.

2. Spaying and neutering: Before your pets reach puberty at 8-10 months of age, have them spayed or neutered. Prevent adding to the epidemic pet overpopulation. Help prevent roaming, aggression, urine-marking, and other undesirable behaviors. Help prevent breast and testicular cancer and life-threatening infections of the uterus.

3. Prevent heartworms in dogs and cats: Give your dogs and outdoor cats a monthly heartworm preventative. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites and are very prevalent in our area. Heartworm disease is virtually 100% preventable. Dogs and cats that become infected become very ill and, if not treated early, often die within a few years. Treatment is expensive and can have severe side effects.

4. Fleas and ticks: Many of the animals that come through the shelter have a flea and/or tick infestation. These parasites carry many serious diseases, some of which can also be transmitted to people. Use effective topical treatments such as Frontline and Advantage year-round. Most flea and tick collars do a poor job controlling fleas and ticks.

5. Diet: Feed pets high-quality dog and cat foods. Avoid giving them human food, which leads to obesity. Some recommended brands are Science Diet, IAMS, Purina ONE and Eukanuba.

6. Exercise: As with humans, leading an active lifestyle is important for pet heath. Regular, rigorous activity keeps

them fit. Long walks, fetch, string toys (cats), even swimming, will keep pets lean and muscular.

7. Regular veterinary checkups: Even if, in your mind, your pets seem healthy, confirm that with regular checkups. Older pets need more frequent visits. Take these visits as opportunities to discuss diet, exercise, dental care, parasites, etc. with the vet. This will help prevent diseases and injuries before they happen.

SPECIAL NOTE: It is often misunderstood that because one’s dog is on the front yard without a leash and/or tethered that the dog is automatically okay to be loose since it is on one’s property. That is absolutely not so. It is against the law to allow pet to run at large. People are often confused by exactly what that means.

The Animal Services Department will be closed on Monday, May 30, in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday.

Garland Animal Services, 600 Tower Street, Garland, TX 75040 -- 972-205-3570

Central library closure extended

Posted May 4, 2011

The Nicholson Memorial Library System’s Central Library will be closed through Monday, May 16. It is expected to reopen on Tuesday, May 17, at which time the original (south) entrance to the building will also reopen. Access to the library’s web page, www.nmls.lib.tx.us, and all online resources and services will not be disrupted by the closure.

The North Garland Branch and South Garland Branch libraries will extend regular hours as follows: The North Garland Branch Library will be open Sunday, May 8, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Monday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The South Garland Branch Library will be open Sunday, May 15, from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. and Monday, May 16, from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.

This extension of hours at the two branch libraries is in addition to normal branch library operating hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sunday and Monday, closed.

North Garland Branch Library - 3845 North Garland Ave. - 972-205-2803.

South Garland Branch Library - 4845 Broadway Blvd. - 972-205-3931

Walnut Creek Branch Library - 3319 Edgewood Dr. - 972-205-2587

GP&L named ‘Tree Line USA’ utility

May 2, 2011

The Arbor Day Foundation has certified Garland Power & Light as a ‘Tree Line USA’ utility for practices that protect the community’s trees and other vegetation. The utility achieved the award the first year it applied.

“We have focused on both enhanced vegetation management and environmental sensitivity for a number of years,” said Transmission and Distribution Supervisor Jonas Whitehead. “This certification demonstrates our leadership in protecting trees while we meet our service objectives.”

To achieve the accreditation, GP&L fulfilled several requirements, all of which confirm its support of the environment. These requirements include following industry standards for quality tree care; training employees in best tree-care practices; and having tree planting and public education programs.

On behalf of GP&L, Whitehead has accepted national and state recognition for the Tree Line USA award. The most recent event was the 122^nd State Arbor Day Ceremony in Pearland, hosted by the Texas Forest Service.

Tree trimming guidelines, information on trees and shrubs that require less trimming, and GP&L’s vegetation standards are available at www.garlandpower-light.org.

City Council work session, regular meeting: April 18-19

Kim Everett | April 26, 2011

Taxation of leased vehicles

Vehicles leased for personal use are subject to personal property tax. The company that owns the vehicle’s title is taxed by the Dallas County Appraisal District, and they pass that expense on to the lessee. Council passed an ordinance to allow this tax in 2002. If discontinued, it would save lessees approximately $170 per year, but it would decrease the city’s property tax base by $32 million per year.

Councilman Darren Lathen said that this is an unfair tax that would not be assessed if the vehicle was purchased. “This is in fact a leasing penalty on the customer,” he said. He also pointed out that people who lease pay the same registration fee as for an owned vehicle. He asked council to discontinue the tax, but a decision was reached to leave it as is.

Stage 1 drought response imposed

The city imposed stage 1 drought response status. The problem is that zebra mussels have been discovered at Lake Texoma, so the North Texas Municipal Water District is not currently pumping water from there to Lake Lavon in an attempt to avoid spreading the mussels. They cause equipment damage and clog intake pipes but do not affect water quality.

Board appointments

Seven residents submitted applications for the vacant seat on the DART Board. All will be interviewed at the next work session.

Don Gordon’s seat on the North Texas Municipal Water Board will become open on May 31, but because no one has expressed interest in filling the position, Gordon will continue on the board.

CDBG, HOME, ESG allocations

Staff does not know the amount the city will receive from these grants, but it is estimated that it will be reduced by approximately 16 percent from last year’s amount. Council discussed the best way to distribute the money received between agencies that have requested assistance. They arrived at the following preliminary allocation amounts, but a vote has not yet been taken.

Achievement Center of Texas	$43,250
The Addicare Group of Texas	5,250
Axe Memorial United Methodist Church	1,877
Community of Vietnamese Nationals	6,000
Counseling Institute of Texas	10,500
Dental Health Program	42,000
Hope Clinic	27,000
Galaxy Counseling Center	16,000
Garland Family YMCA	9,000
Garland Police - Youth Boxing Program	27,500
Girl's Escape Club	3,750
Good Samaritans of Garland, Inc.	10,000
Mount Hebron Literacy Enhancement	6,000
Lawn Care Program (Code Compliance)	24,750
New Beginning Center	27,000
Parks S.T.A.R.S. Summer Program	29,000
Salvation Army - After School Program	7,500
Salvation Army - Rent\ Mortgage Assistance	7,500
Senior Citizens (Garland Ombudsman)	8,100
Urban League -Homeless Prevention	5,000

Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan

Questions, comments, and suggestions received regarding the Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan have been compiled into seven categories: definitions and language; sustainability; automobile business; implementation and regulation; market, business, and redevelopment; land use; and miscellaneous.

According to Director of Planning Neil Montgomery, the items will be addressed and appropriate changes will be made to the document. The document will then be resubmitted for further discussion.

Several Council Members expressed concerns about the document. Lathen’s concerns include the use of words such as “sustainability,” which he has heard in several different contexts. He gave examples of uses he has heard such as: “having a family with two cars is unsustainable,” or that “eating beef four times a week is unsustainable,” or “drinking water from Aquafina bottles is unsustainable.”

He also expressed concern over the following statement in the plan: “Be prepared to discourage vision-incompatible uses even if market feasible.” “At what point do we tell a property owner he may or may not use his property for his given purposes…I consider that a poison pill,” he said.

Councilman Rick Williams said that when one sees words like “social” and “lifestyle” and “touchy-feely stuff like that,” that it is beyond what the city should be doing. He said that a better should be found to explain the intent that is “less wordy and a little less fluffy.”

Councilman Doug Athas suggested that a preface be added to explain why the city is compiling a plan. He said that there are many reasons why the city cannot continue doing business as usual. He also said that the plan must be clear in that the market will be allowed to drive more decisions and that rights of the residents must be protected. There are some sections I still have heartburn over,” Athas said.

Mayor Pro Tem Larry Jeffus said that the word “lifestyle” appears in the plan 14 times and that he quit counting the word “sustainability.” “I don’t agree with the sociological type comments in the document,” he said. “I don’t think that we as a council should be advising people on how they should live their lives.

New businesses coming

An incentive agreement was approved for development of a Holiday Inn on I-30 at Harbor Point.

A plan to build an Applebee’s Restaurant at 1540 Eastgate Drive was approved.

Garland code inspector wins award

Posted April 24, 2011

Oswaldo Rodriguez, field supervisor in the city of Garland Code Compliance Department, is being recognized by Keep Texas Beautiful as the winner of the 2011 Ed Davis Litter Law Enforcement Award. This award recognizes an individual law enforcement professional who goes above and beyond the call of duty in their approach to the enforcement of environmental laws and regulations. The first place winner also receives a $500 cash award.

Rodriguez will be honored in Austin on June 23 at the 44^th annual Keep Texas Beautiful conference.

In 2006, Rodriguez introduced the concept of “Code Cares,” a program that serves citizens facing hardships, primarily focusing on Garland’s elderly and disabled. The program offers voluntary assistance to qualifying residents to help them maintain their properties. The entire Code Compliance Department is behind this program, with many employees volunteering their time on weekends to mow, prune, cut trees, repair fences, paint and remove trash. As the program has grown in popularity, several church and civic organizations have volunteered to work alongside the inspectors to improve the community and help their neighbors.

Rodriguez began his career in Code Compliance in 2002 as a weekend inspector. He became a certified code enforcement officer with the State of Texas in 2003. In 2005, he was promoted to field supervisor.

Garland wins state recognition

Posted April 18, 2011

The city of Garland is the third place winner in the prestigious Governor’s Community Achievement Award, an annual award that recognizes communities across the state with the best grassroots environmental programs.

Communities are judged based on their population size and the efforts of the community to involve citizens, businesses, schools, local government, and youth to keep their city beautiful. The GCAA program is sponsored by Keep Texas Beautiful and the Texas Department of Transportation.

Keep Garland Beautiful, under the leadership of Betty Roberts, president, submitted the award on behalf of the city. “While we did not win first place, we are very excited that the city is being recognized for its community leadership, environmental education, beautification and community improvement, and litter prevention programs. Programs of several departments within the city led to this recognition.” Garland's GCAA entry highlighted the Green 101 education classes sponsored by the Stormwater, Water Utilities, and Environmental Waste Services Departments; the Healthy Living Expo; and the Keep Garland Beautiful landscaping project at Rick Oden Park.

Garland initiates water conservation measures

Residents urged to conserve, check for leaks

Posted April 19, 2011

Garland city officials announced that Stage 1 Drought Response measures will go into effect April 19. Under Stage 1, the city will increase education efforts to reduce water use and urge residents to detect and repair water leaks around the house. Garland residents are requested to voluntarily practice water conservation, minimize or discontinue water use for nonessential purposes, and voluntarily follow the designated landscape watering schedule:

Even-numbered street addresses water on Sundays and Thursdays
Odd-numbered street addresses water on Saturdays and Wednesdays
Town homes and businesses having a common irrigation system water on Mondays and Fridays
Apartments use the address of the business office for the property

The implementation of stage 1 comes at the request of the North Texas Municipal Water District, the city’s water supplier. NTMWD initiated the stage 1 of the NTMWD Water Conservation and Drought Contingency and Water Emergency Response Plan, March 2008, because as a result of invasive zebra mussels being found in Lake Texoma and the temporary loss of the Lake Texoma raw water supply by NTMWD.

In August 2009, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department discovered zebra mussels in Sister Grove Creek, a tributary of the East Fork of the Trinity River and used by the NTMWD to transfer water from Lake Texoma. As a result, NTMWD voluntarily ceased pumping raw water supplies from Lake Texoma and has not resumed pumping. The infestation of zebra mussels in Lake Texoma has resulted in a loss of 22.5% of the NTMWD’s total raw water supply. At this point, NTMWD does not have a firm date for the resumption of pumping from Lake Texoma, however, NTMWD will continue to collaborate with the federal and state agencies to hopefully resume pumping later this year.

While zebra mussels are not harmful to humans, they do attach to water facilities and pipes causing millions of dollars in maintenance costs. NTMWD has and will continue to collaborate with federal and state regulatory agencies to develop a strategy to minimize the transport of zebra mussels into the Trinity River basin.

“This is a complex environmental and conservation issue,” said Parks. “It is the first time zebra mussels have been found in Texas and NTMWD is the only water supplier transferring water from Lake Texoma to the Trinity River basin. That’s why water conservation efforts are so important. We are working on a solution so this does not become a bigger issue for other water sources in the state.”

NTMWD officials are working closely with state and federal agencies on possible solutions for zebra mussels, which were first discovered in North America near the Great Lakes in 1988. Zebra mussels are typically transferred from one river basin to another by boaters and anglers.

Video wins state recognition

Posted April 17, 2011

The “Race to Save Space” video created by the Garland’s Public and Media Affairs and Environmental Waste Services Departments is being honored with a first place Keep Texas Beautiful Award in the electronic media category. Awards will be presented on June 23 in Austin at the 44^th Annual Keep Texas Beautiful Conference.

Leave it to a child to understand and teach adults how to minimize environmental problems. The “Race to Save Space” video depicts how one little boy can impact an entire community. He starts with his mother, who digs deeper into the problem of sending too much brush and other yard trimmings to the landfill. The video has aired on the local government access channel during peak brush season and can be accessed at www.Garlandtx.gov by clicking on Online Services and accessing CGTV.

The five-minute video and two educational utility bill inserts were created in 2010 to educate residents on how to properly set out tree trimmings and other brush for collection, the importance of saving landfill space by diverting brush to the city’s wood recycling facility, and the fact that clean brush is turned into mulch and provided to Garland residents for free. The actors also have Garland ties. Paula Breysacher, public education specialist in the Stormwater Management Department, and her 10-year-old son, are the featured actors.

"The video, now part of the education outreach programs offered by EWS and Keep Garland Beautiful, will continue to impact the community in a positive manner,” remarked Glenna Brown, EWS programs manager. “We are excited that it is receiving this statewide recognition.”

City Council work session, regular meeting: April 4-5

Kim Everett | April 13, 2011

Downtown parking regulations

Staff proposed an ordinance regulating parking at city-owned facilities in the downtown area. The ordinance would prevent skating and skateboarding on sidewalks, ramps, and loading docks and limit parking at city hall to three hours on voting days.

Councilman Darren Lathen asked for clarification on prohibiting of roller blading on sidewalks. He said that at a time when the city is trying to be greener and move toward other forms of transportation, and since there are people who roller blade as a form of transportation, that he did not understand not allowing them to use the sidewalks. After discussion, it was decided to remove the word “sidewalks” from the ordinance.

Mayor Pro Tem Larry Jeffus asked how the ordinance would be enforced. Brad Neighbor, city attorney, said that digital photography with a time stamp would be used. A vote will be taken at the next meeting.

Recycling processor proposals

Staff evaluated six proposals from recycling processors with the hope of discontinuing the use of multiple processors. They found two companies that would handle all of the city’s recycled items. Allied Waste Services of Plano was chosen over Garland based Green Star. Council discussed the fact that a Plano company was recommended over a local company, and it was concluded that Allied Waste, although not local, was the best choice.

NTMWD Board vacancy

There will be a vacancy on the North Texas Municipal Water District Board with the expiration of Don Gordon’s term. Gordon has expressed his wish to continue on the board. Council, however, has a policy that board positions of this nature will be advertised for 14 days to see if others express an interest. At the end of the 14-day period, the applications will be presented to council, and they will interview the applicants and make a decision.

DART Board vacancy

A vacancy recently opened up on the DART Board following the resignation of Tracey Whitaker, who left the board because of a potential conflict of interest.

Councilman Doug Athas expressed concern because council was not informed of the issue and the first he heard of it was in a Dallas Morning News article. He said that council should have had a chance to look at the issue and decide if there was a conflict of interest.

Whitaker, along with the chairman of the DART board, had taken his concerns to Mayor Ronald E. Jones about whether Whitaker should ask for a waiver of the potential conflict of interest. The matter was not taken in front of the entire council.

“It’s a moot point. I believe Mr. Whitaker served this city for three years, and I’d rather not discuss Mr. Whitaker,” Jones said. He maintained that the matter had been handled correctly. The mayor also said that Whitaker did not technically have to go to him because DART policy does allow for a waiver.

“This is about the future. Any time one of the council appointees wants to ask for a waiver or something of that nature, I think the council should be involved in that from the beginning,” Athas said.

“I hear you. I disagree with you in this situation,” Jones answered.

Councilman Rick Williams added that because it had to do with DART ethics rules, that he felt that it was for them [DART] to figure out whether there was a conflict or a waiver.

Jeffus said that because DART is discussing route changes that Garland needs someone on the board as soon as possible. Councilwoman Laura Perkins Cox said that council should use the policy they have in place for appointing board members.

Athas proposed that council ask Whitaker to remain on the board until a replacement was found. Other council members felt that because he had given his resignation to be effective at the end of March, they should respect that and not ask him to stay on. Consensus was reached, and Whitaker will be asked to remain on the board temporarily. All agreed that Whitaker did a great job during his time on the board.

Click It or Ticket grant

A $9,000 grant is available for a Click It or Ticket program. Lathen opposed the grant on the basis that a message should be sent to the state that Texas can “find better things to do with their money in these tough times than harass people for not wearing seatbelts.” Council voted to accept the grant.

CDBG, HOME, ESG budgets

Although staff does not know the amounts that the city will receive for the grants, estimates were made and public testimony was given by representatives from the agencies that are requesting a portion of the money. The agencies include: Achievement Center of Texas; Galaxy Counseling Center; Community Dental Center; Urban League; Counseling Institute of Texas; New Beginning Center; Hope Clinic; Axe Memorial United Methodist Church; STARS Camp; Ombudsman Program; Girls Escape Club, Salvation Army, Boys & Girls Clubs; and 9^th Street Boxing Gym.

City Council work session, regular meeting: March 21-22

Kim Everett | Posted April 5, 2011

Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan public hearing

Before beginning the public hearing on the Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan, city staff provided a plan outline. It was described as a city-wide master plan that guides the physical and economic development of the city through 2030. It provides an outline of goals, policies, and concepts for how the city should grow and identified strategic, short-term actions to provide visible progress over time.

The plan looks at community identity, quality of life, implications of demographic changes, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, obsolete and under-performing retail centers, implications of build-out, and sustainable development. Input for the plan has come from citizen surveys, workshops, one-on-one interviews, council workshops, a series of open house events, and community presentation.

The vision is: In 2030, Garland is a community that blends old and new, adapts to changing needs, and benefits from new opportunities, and is known for its appealing neighborhoods, business, parks, lakes, and natural areas.

Some of the concepts and strategies will include: diversify housing options, address aging housing stock, enhance development patterns, improve community aesthetics, enhanced mobility, build on city’s central location, embrace diversity, have positive identity, maintain and rehab community infrastructures, and guide redevelopment and revitalization.

The elements of the plan are: land use, economic development, housing and neighborhoods, infrastructure and transportation, and community design.

The city continues to need a comprehensive plan because it is approaching build-out and because there is a need for a plan of where we would like to go over the long term and what we’d like the city to become. “We can either sit back and not think about the future and be impacted by that or we can take a more active role in trying to determine what the future vision for the city is,” Neil Montgomery, the city’s director of planning, said.

More than 35 individuals gave testimony during the public hearing. Some spoke as representatives of businesses or organizations; others spoke as residents of the city. Of those, five expressed their support of the plan. The remainder expressed the concerns and/or objections and made the comments summarized below:

·         The plan requires taxpayer money, and the economy is different now than when the plan was started.

·         It is a vehicle for sustainable development, which we do not need.

·         It is not a plan, it is a philosophy.

·         It is a potential threat to individual property rights.

·         It is a potential violation of the U.S. Constitution.

·         There are a lot of buzz words (sustainable development, for example) in the plan.

·         It sounds like a city-wide homeowners association.

·         The plan is confusing and hard to read.

·         It discriminates against the auto industry.

·         Regardless of what we do to Garland, it’s still going to be Garland. It’s not going to be Highland Park.

·         The plan is unrealistic and overly ambitious.

·         It would create too much debt for the city.

·         It oversteps the role of government.

·         It is a guide that promotes urbanism.

Sky Helicopter lease extension

Sky Helicopter Heliport asked for a 12-year extension on their lease agreement with the city of Garland for the facility on Jupiter Road. They wish to expand the facility and take the lease back to the original 40-year time period. Staff recommended modifying the lease.

New Beginning Center wants to lease vacant library location

New Beginning Center asked to lease the city’s vacant Ridgewood library site for their resale. They proposed a $1 per year lease. The library has been vacant for approximately 18 months. The city would not be expected to make any substantial improvements to the property. If the center gets this property, they will close the resale facility on Buckingham Road. No other individuals, companies, or groups have shown interest in the property.

GP&L review of February cold weather event

ERCOT implemented emergency procedures when available generation was not sufficient to serve the load during the February cold weather snap. According to Ray Schwertner, the director of Garland Power & Light, no market manipulation was observed and the emergency alert system worked to inform customers of the necessary rolling blackouts. He also said that a lot of organizations are trying to find fault with the way the situation was handled. The fact that a complete blackout was prevented during these weather events is important to acknowledge . A full report is available at www.ercot.com.

Districts 6 and 8 council candidates Q&A

Posted March 29, 2011

The District 6 seat on Garland’s City Council will be pursued by Lori Dodson and Ricardo Rocha. The District 8 seat will be filled by Jim Cahill, who is running unopposed. The information below was provided by each of the candidates to help the voters get to know them:

LORI DODSON, who grew up in Garland and attended GISD schools, is employed at E2M Partners, a real estate investment group. She has the endorsement of current District 6 Councilwoman Barbara Chick and former District 6 City Council Member and Mayor Pro Tem, Sharon Stotts.

Volunteer and civic activities:

·         Served as Plan Commissioner for District 6, May 2006 – February 2011

·         Volunteer – Garland Police Department Criminal Investigative Division since 2004

·         Member of West Garland Neighborhood Association

·         Participated in Forest Ridge/Walnut meetings for the revitalization of West Garland

·         Participated in neighborhood meetings for Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan

·         Participated in neighborhood meetings regarding Harris Hollabaugh Recreation Center

·         Currently participating in downtown revitalization meetings

·         Senior Source Money Management Program – help low-income seniors who need budgeting and bill paying assistance

What do you see as Garland’s biggest asset? Garland benefits from great access to I-30, I-635, I-190, and DART mass transit. Garland is an affordable, diverse city with an excellent school district.

What would you most like to see changed about the city? I believe the regentrification will be the most important aspect for the financial well-being of the city.

What do you see as your district’s biggest asset? District 6 includes major roadways (Forest, Walnut, Buckingham, Plano, and Jupiter) that are entrances from neighboring cities and should focus on viable development to draw outsiders into Garland.

What changes do you most want to bring about in your district? Given that the district and city has basically reached full build-out, it will be important to encourage the redevelopment of the area to maintain a tax base that will allow the city to continue to operate in a fiscally responsible way without undue burden on the taxpayers. My personal desire is to encourage greater citizen involvement.

RICARDO ROCHA has lived in Garland for 21 years and in District 6 for three. He has been interested in getting involved in city government for a few years, but has been unable to get placed on a board or commission. He sees being on City Council as an opportunity to get involved and represent his neighbors. Born in Laredo, Rocha grew up in Garland and graduated from South Garland High School in 2001. He attended Richland College, and after receiving several scholarships, was able to go on to Texas A&M University where he majored in political science, minored in sociology and graduated in 2005. Since graduation, he has worked for federal and local government entities.

Volunteer and civic activities:

·         Chaplain and president - Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, Texas A&M

·         Member of North Texas Crime Prevention Association since 2007

·         Serve on Board of Trustees for UNT Chapter of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity

·         Served as a mentor for Richardson ISD and Communities in Schools

·         Active in the Big Brothers Program

·         Involved with political party for more than ten years

What do you see as Garland’s biggest asset? I am very glad to see the direction that Garland is taking in development through Envision Garland. It is something I would love to be a part of, especially for my district.

What would you most like to see changed about the city? I think communication can be improved between the city and its residents. The city of Garland has done a lot of things right, and the people need to know about it. The changes in downtown, Firewheel and Richland College, among other improvements, are great developments that should be promoted not only to our residents, but to everyone. I have heard from some residents that have not liked the introduction of the apartments in the downtown area, and many residents do not like our new logo. But for the most part, my understanding is that our residents are not aware of any of these changes until they were complete. Opposition and feedback of a negative nature can be positive if it is looked at the right way. Residents seem to be more accepting to change when they are notified beforehand with explanations.

What do you see as your district’s biggest asset? I love the location of District 6. Our close proximity to Dallas, major roadways, hospitals, and schools is a major asset that drew me here when I was buying my home.

What changes do you most want to bring about in your district? I think as the district diversifies and our neighborhoods are starting to see more first time home buyers, like myself, our residents need to be kept informed on what all our city has to offer them as well as rules and regulations they must abide by. We should all take equal part in keeping our neighborhood appearance clean, and it only takes a few bad homes to make an entire block look bad.

JIM CAHILL, who is running unopposed for the District 8 City Council seat, has lived in Garland for 12 years. He has been politically active, serving as precinct chairman for the last six years and would like to see men and women elected who will take a stand on the principles on which this country was founded. Cahill feels that there are too many politicians in office who are unwilling to stand up for what is right, so he decided to run. He has worked in finance at Texas Instruments for 34 years and has learned to manage money and live within a budget.

Volunteer and civic activities:

·         Member of the Creekside Village Homeowners Association, currently serving as board president

·         Active in the church ministries at Lavon Drive Baptist Church

·         Work with children in AWANA program

·         Teach first grade Sunday School children

What do you see as Garland’s biggest asset? We currently have a city government that works together well and seems to have the best interest of the people in mind. We also have a lot of good people living here with nice neighborhoods and parks and a good mix of services (retail, business).

What would you most like to see changed about the city? I really am not a visionary. I would like to see Garland maintain the infrastructure (roads, parks, etc.) and encourage distressed retail and business areas to be revitalized and remain vibrant.

What do you see as your district’s biggest asset? The people who live in the district are generally morally conservative and care about their property and their neighbors.

What changes do you most want to bring about in your district? I have no vision for changes in the district other than to maintain the property values and deal with areas that are headed toward decline.

Garland Fire Department names assistant chief

Posted March 29, 2011

Garland Fire Chief Danny Grammer has announced the promotion of Battalion Chief Todd Peele to Assistant Chief, replacing Assistant Chief Jack James who retired in January.

“In these times of limited staff and funds, each member of the Fire Department management team must be an innovative thinker and be able to offer a fresh vision,” said Grammer. “Todd Peele has always demonstrated intuitive abilities and sees things other people miss. If he sees something that is broken, he fixes it and pitches in when a person or project needs help.”

Assistant Chief Peele joined the Garland Fire Department in 1990. He was promoted to be a driver in 1994, a lieutenant in 1999, a captain in 2003, and a battalion chief in August 2009. During that time he has helped bring many positive innovations to the department.

As EMS Battalion Chief, he forged a relationship with the cardiac cath team at Baylor Medical Center at Garland which enabled paramedics to take heart attack patients directly to the cath lab, saving precious life-saving seconds. Paramedics were also able to monitor patient status to see the difference their actions made. Additionally, this program helped Baylor’s Garland facility achieve its cardiac accreditation.

Peele was responsible for implementation of devices used on all Garland ambulances to safely move persons weighing 400-500 pounds, and he initiated a change in the type of masks firefighters wear into burning buildings. Each of these issues improved safety for both citizens and firefighters.

Peele has saved the city thousands of dollars a year by initiating a change in medical supply purchasing procedures and certain field protocols for medication usage and developing changes in the department’s medical reporting system which is faster and will increase EMS revenue for the city.

April is Fair Housing Month

Posted April 6, 2011

April is Fair Housing Month and includes several events to be conducted at the city’s Unified Learning Center, 232 Carver Street in Garland.

Activities include a free Foreclosure Prevention Workshop on April 12 at 6 p.m. This workshop is made possible by a housing partnership between the North Texas Housing Coalition, Metro Tex Realtors, and the Garland Fair Housing Office. Workshop presenters will share valuable information about alternatives to foreclosure and key strategies to preserving home ownership. Individual counseling will be available so bring copies of the following documents:

* Latest mortgage statement

* 30 days of pay stubs

* Most recent tax return

* Two most recent bank statements

* Most recent utility bill

* A break-down of your monthly expenses.

The Garland Fair Housing Office will also conduct another Tenant Rights and Responsibilities Workshop on April 21 at 6 p.m. The workshop will be conducted in English and Spanish concurrently. The workshop will address application fees, lease agreements, evictions, lockouts, security deposits, and numerous other issues that concern renters. The information is intended to help minimize landlord/tenant disputes by creating an understanding of rental responsibilities.

The Garland Fair Housing Office serves the entire community with customer services and receives more than 500 specific landlord and tenant inquiries per year. On average, 70 residents file claims of discriminatory treatment annually. The GFHO neutrally investigates and attempts to resolve complaints on mutually agreeable terms, while preserving the public interest in fair housing choice and accessibility.

To register for Fair Housing Month activities or for additional information, please call 972-205-3300.

Council Members meet with congressman

Posted March 20, 2011

Congressman Jeb Hensarling, an outspoken advocate for limited government and unlimited opportunity, recently met with a group of city leaders from Garland who were in Washington, D.C. for the National League of City’s annual conference. City Council Members Laura Perkins Cox, Douglas Athas and John Willis, Mayor Pro Tem Larry Jeffus, Deputy City Manager Martin Glenn and Senior Managing Director Neil Montgomery met with the Congressman to discuss how federal issues are impacting the City of Garland.

Council members appointed to NLC CityFutures Panel

Posted March 12, 2011

Garland City Council Member Laura Perkins Cox (District 2) was recently reappointed to the National League of Cities’ CityFutures Panel on Community and Regional Development. Members of this panel create strategies for improving the coordination of regional economic development, land use, and growth-related issues in cities and regions.

The panel strives to provide local officials with the tools and opportunities to recognize, understand, and meet the emerging trends and challenges transforming their communities. For more information on NLC’s committees and councils, visit http://www.nlc.org/inside_nlc/committeescouncils.aspx.

“This is my third year on the CityFutures CRD panel. I have gained an in-depth understanding of development trends and economic shifts affecting Garland. Garland’s industries, retail, and neighborhoods are critical to sustaining our city and supporting the Metroplex as a whole,” Cox said. “No city is an island anymore. We are all interconnected. Building Garland’s regional vitality will grow our city, enhance our quality of life, and support our neighborhoods. I am proud to be part of the CRD panel’s important work.”

Council Member John Willis (District 5) was also appointed to the panel and is looking forward to serving. “In today’s economy, cities across the country face similar economic development problems. The CityFutures Panel on Community and Regional Development offers an opportunity for these leaders to sit down together and explore the issues at length, sharing ideas and discussing solutions that have worked in their communities,” Willis said. “As a voting member of the Garland Economic Development Partnership, I look forward to sharing the GEDP story with other cities and bringing back to that board and our city ideas that have proven successful in other communities.”

The National League of Cities is the nation’s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns, and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.

In addition, Cox has been recognized by the Texas Municipal League. On February 13, she received the 2010 Texas Municipal League Institute Certificate of Recognition, indicating her strong commitment to expanding her knowledge of municipal issues through participation in seminars and leadership training programs offered by TML. She also serves on TML’s General Governance Committee, which helps set TML’s legislative priorities on issues of vital importance to Texas cities.

City Council work session, regular meeting: February 28, March 1

Kim Everett | March 7, 2011

A public hearing was held during which Jeff Hahn, of Hahn, Texas, a marketing and branding company made another presentation on the logo and tagline that his company was hired to create for the city. For details and photo of the logo, see City Council work session, regular meeting: February 14-15.

Residents spoke both in favor and against adoption of the logo. Those who spoke in favor told the City Council and Mayor Ronald Jones that they felt that it was a positive move. “I’m excited to see it go forward,” said Jan Furtick, Garland resident and downtown Garland business owner. Mark King, President and CEO of MicroPac Industries, who participated in the focus group that provided input to Hahn, Texas, said that he believes in the “positive attributes of the logo.” “This community needs to communicate on all fronts,” he said.

President of the Garland Chamber of Commerce, Paul Mayer, also gave his stamp of approval to the new design.

Those speaking against the design gave a variety of reasons for their objections. Former Councilman Randall Dunning said that the logo will not help the city, but he does agree that there is a need for a marketing campaign. According to Dunning, the logo favors north Garland over south Garland because it includes an image similar to a firewheel. He also said that the design is not self-explanatory. “If you have to explain the design, you’ve failed with the design,” he said.

Resident Steve Miller’s problems with the logo include: It does not emphasize our education system; it will be the city’s third logo in the last 10-15 years; and if the logo has to be explained, it does not work.

During council discussion, Councilman Preston Edwards and Mayor Pro Tem Larry Jeffus were in favor of postponing the decision to the next meeting to give them more time to talk to constituents. “There is no deadline that we have to pass this tonight,” Edwards said. Jeffus, who has designed logos for companies himself, said that he provides several logo options to clients instead of a single choice, which is what he said has happened in this situation.

Mayor Ronald Jones said that he would be in favor of giving council members more time to speak to their constituents. However, the remaining members did not agree that waiting would be advantageous. The final vote was in favor of adopting the logo and tagline.

Holiday Inn Express incentives

A new Holiday Inn Express has been proposed on I-30 at the Bass Pro Development. The hotel will have 100 guest rooms, 3,000 square feet of meeting space, and balconies on the rooms that face Lake Ray Hubbard.

The Economic Development Steering Committee recommended a tax abatement that would be paid out of the hotel occupancy tax and would not exceed $120,000 per year for the next five years. The incentive would fill the gap between what the developers can get in funding and the cost of the project.

A final vote will be taken at the March 22 meeting.

Planning Commission passes Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan to council

The Planning Commission recommended acceptance of the Envision Garland Comprehensive Plan, and a public hearing is scheduled for March 22.

Councilman Daren Lathen expressed concerns about some items in the plan:

Create demonstration project that showcases solar, wind, and geothermal opportunities – Lathen’s concern: Why is this relevant to the comprehensive plan and why does the government need to showcase products of other manufacturers.
Establish programs focused on getting residents outdoors for healthier lifestyles – Lathen’s concern: It’s not the responsibility of the government to induce people to do what they are not otherwise inclined to do.
Incorporate urban design goals into adopted development standards. Lathen’s concern: Whose goals are those, why are we adopting them, and what are those goals?

Marketing/Events Committee report

Councilwoman Laura Perkins Cox reported on the activities of the Marketing/Events Committee. At the last meeting, committee members discussed the possibility of selling naming rights on some of the city facilities. They were told by the Parks and Recreation Department that most of the city’s facilities have been named for deserving community members. However, they will look at future opportunities for selling naming rights.

GPD announces promotions and assignment changes

Posted February 26, 2011

Promotions within the Garland Police Department will become effective next week and will lead to changes within the leadership of the department. Five officers are promoting to the rank of Lieutenant and two Lieutenants will promote to the rank of Captain.

Two current lieutenant assignments affected in the changes are in the successful and high profile Neighbor Police Officer program. Lieutenants Gary Gregory and Jeff Bryan who have lead the NPO program for the past several years are promoting to the rank of Captain. They are transferring to the Patrol Division in order to fill two captain’s positions recently vacated by retirements.

Transferring to the NPO supervisor positions are Lieutenants Scott Vornberg and Ben St Clair. Vornberg has been with the department 17 years and St Clair 14 years. These two lieutenants bring a wide range of career experience that is expected to be very helpful in leading the NPO program. The NPO unit consists of two lieutenants and 17 officers. The unit has a team approach that works throughout the city with citizens and business owners in an effort to solve problems and make Garland a safer place to both live and work.

The new promotions with assignments include:

Lieutenant Gary Gregory to Captain / Patrol
Lieutenant Jeff Bryan to Captain / Patrol
Officer Shawn Roten to Lieutenant / Patrol
Officer Ramiro Moreno to Lieutenant / Patrol
Officer Ernest Smith to Lieutenant / Patrol
Officer Daniel Wortman to Lieutenant / Patrol
Officer Dan Colasanto to Lieutenant / Patrol

Citizens get chance to weigh in on logo

Kim Everett | Feb. 24, 2011

At the Jan. 31 work session, Hahn, Texas, a marketing and branding consultant, presented its recommendation for a new tagline and logo for Garland. The item was then placed on the consent agenda for the Feb. 15 meeting. Placing the item on the consent agenda meant that a vote could be taken with no discussion.

The item was removed from the consent agenda, however, because the mayor and a few council members had received questions from constituents regarding the logo and tagline. In addition, Garland citizen Mike Rose asked council to hold a public hearing before voting on the issue. Rose also encouraged citizens to watch the recording of the Jan. 31 work session to see the proposed logo and tagline.

The public hearing has been scheduled for the March 1 council meeting.

Although there had not yet been a council vote, the logo and tagline were on the wall above the stage at the Special Events Center on Feb. 19.

The following information was published in a previous article at www.thegarlandtexan.com and briefly outlines the Hahn, Texas presentation to council. It includes the process that was used, an explanation of the concept, and why the marketing and branding company feels that it is an appropriate way to market the city.

“…Hahn said that one question and answer forms the reputation of the city: When you think of Garland, what do you think of?

The branding process started with a review of the city’s existing marketing materials, then moved on to in-depth interviews with residents, city officials, businesses, and community leaders. During these interviews, the city’s strengths and weaknesses were identified.

The cities’ seven major attributes, according to Hahn’s research are: cultural diversity, family-friendliness, numerous manufacturing companies, convention space, the Granville Arts Center, and the parks and recreation system, including Lake Ray Hubbard.

One of the most important is that many things, such as Resistol hats and Raytheon products, are made in Garland. “Dozens and dozens and dozens of products get made in Garland,” Hahn said. “That was one of the most striking things to me about your city.”

Hahn, Texas then used these strengths to come up with a brand. “Branding is important because there is competition between cities, and brand images make a city stand out and form a reputation,” Hahn said.

To identify Garland, Hahn and his staff created a tagline that depicts Garland’s strengths and can be used throughout the city and its departments as well as by local businesses and organizations. The tagline is “Texas made here.” For example, for the arts center, “Great shows made here;” for Firewheel Golf Course, “Birdies made here.”

The logo that goes with the tagline is a wheel, which represents industry and progress and is machined around the edges to give it the feel of a cog. According to Hahn, the center “echoes torques and screws and evokes the idea and sophistication of a Mont Blanc pen.”

According to Councilman Doug Athas, the trouble with describing who we are in a short phrase comes in part from there not being a need until recently. “I think most people in Garland have a good sense of who we are but to say that we have trouble articulating it would be an understatement. Part of the reason is that we haven't had to articulate it,” Athas said. “We were the first in this area and we're still here.”

Athas also said that the tagline can be used in many ways and that it is meant to be used not just by the city but by all of Garland, which would include businesses, schools, volunteer organizations, churches. “It takes a bit of getting used to and is most effective when used with something specific about our community. That's where it is genius,” Athas said. Take all the images we have of ourselves and combine that with the logo, and it works incredibly well. Devotion made here. Community made here. Nature made here. Champions made here. Hats made here. Almost endless possibilities open up as the community takes the logo and uses it to brag about an element of our community.”

Nicholson Memorial Library System announces online tutoring service

Posted February 17, 2011

The Nicholson Memorial Library System has launched HelpNow, JobNow and the Adult Learning Center. Access to these services is free to Garland library cardholders from the public computers at neighborhood libraries or from home computers and is available seven days a week, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

HelpNow is a comprehensive suite of tutoring services which includes homework help, state-aligned skills-building, a writing lab, study and collaboration tools, and an adult education center. Students of all ages may connect to a one-to-one live session with a carefully-screened tutor, and sessions can be conducted in English or Spanish. Tutors are available for K-Adult in math, science, social studies, English, reading, and language arts. The writing lab allows users to upload resumes and papers or reports for analysis, and the 24/7 question center allows users to post questions any time and receive a response within 24 hours.

The study and collaboration tools include resources to record and archive work, create flash cards or select cards from a vast library, set up a group study area for live tutoring with friends and colleagues, and a test center to study for state and national tests. Students can also create a learning account, save test results and share them with a tutor to get personalized skills-building lessons.

JobNow provides practical tools to help with a job search, including career resources and assessments, a resume builder, downloadable resume templates, and interviewing tips. In addition, a job seeker may work with a live interview coach who is trained to help with interviewing techniques and how to answer difficult interview questions.

The Adult Learning Center is dedicated to the needs of the adult learner and offers resources geared toward lifelong learning. This section also includes GED assistance, preparation for the U.S. citizenship test, academic skills building, ESL help, and Microsoft Office help. The writing lab offers help with business writing, term papers, and resumes. In addition, the writing lab allows you to submit your writing for analysis by trained experts. The Adult Learning Center is accessible from HelpNow or JobNow.

The Brainfuse eLearning Suite™, provider of HelpNow and JobNow, is one of the nation’s leading online tutoring providers, serving a diverse client base of libraries and school districts. HelpNow and JobNow replace Live Homework Help on the library’s online resources page at www.nmls.lib.tx.us.

For more information about any of these resources, visit your neighborhood library or call 972-205-2502.

City Council work session, regular meeting: February 14-15

Kim Everett | February 16, 2011

Audit Committee report

Councilman Rick Williams provided an Audit Committee update. The members of the committee covered several items at their recent meeting:

·         Oncor franchise fee – The committee learned that the city has the ability to renegotiate its contract with Oncor to change the franchise fee and will pursue this matter.

·         Fleet services – The city currently pays 10 percent over cost for items purchased from NAPA Auto Parts. The auditor recommended renegotiating the contract for higher priced items.

·         Police peripheral inventory – It was determined that the city has adequate control over peripheral items such as laptops, sirens, gun locks, etc. All items are closely tracked.

·         Franchise fee agreements with outside waste haulers – The city is in the business of commercial waste hauling and competes with other similar businesses. Because the city is a competitor, its representatives are not allowed to look at the books of the other businesses that serve the city in this capacity. An external audit could be requested, but the cost is high, and the city would be required to pay half. The question is, “should the city get out of the waste hauling business?” The subject will be revisited later.

Disbanding of the UAB

A 3-1 vote was reached by a council committee to recommend disbanding the Utility Advisory Board. The board was originally put in place to be a sort of liaison between Garland Power & Light and the citizens.

Councilman Rick Williams cast the lone vote against dissolving the board. “It seems like there ought to be some sort of Utility Advisory Board because utilities affect everyone, and it seemed to make philosophical sense,” Williams said. He added that he was unable to explain why he feels this way and did not know how the board could serve the citizens.

Councilman Darren Lathen shares Williams’ opinion. “The utility is such a big part of the city, and it impacts so many people, it seems right and proper to have some citizen input,” he said.

Councilwoman Laura Perkins Cox said that the board was doing a great job, but that conditions had changed. “I also regret seeing them go, but I don’t see how in the current market climate they could really benefit the citizens for the amount of time that they are going to have to devote to this,” she said.

With the changes in the market, waiting on the UAB to look at an issue and make a recommendation is no longer practical. “Over the last two years, we’ve been through issues around power, and there wasn’t time to send it to the UAB,” Councilman Doug Athas said.

Mayor Ronald Jones, who had hoped to find a way for the board to continue, asked for a consensus. The vote was unanimous to disband the UAB. “We have to be practical, as much as I want to keep this board…This is tough…I know they’ve worked hard,” Jones said.

Meetings rescheduled

The March 14 work session and March 15 regular meeting were rescheduled to March 21 and 22.

City branding project

At the Jan. 31 work session, Hahn, Texas, a marketing and branding consultant, presented its recommendation for a new tagline and logo for Garland. The item had been placed on the consent agenda for tonight’s meeting, but it was removed, and a public hearing will be held on the subject at the next council meeting.

City Council work session, regular meeting: Jan. 31 and Feb. 7

Kim Everett | February 9, 2011

The work session was held on the regularly scheduled date, but inclement weather caused the regular council meeting to be postponed until Feb. 7.

Branding project moves forward, logo and tagline unveiled

Jeff Hahn of branding and marketing company Hahn, Texas presented the proposed branding plan to the City Council and Mayor Ron Jones.

Hahn said that one question and answer forms the reputation of the city: When you think of Garland, what do you think of?

Council will vote on adoption of the marketing plan at the Feb. 15 meeting.

CIP approved

Council unanimously approved an ordinance establishing appropriations for the 2011 Capital Improvement Program.

Central library re-opens February 23

Posted February 22, 2011

The Nicholson Memorial Library System’s Central Library reopens to the public on Wednesday, February 23, at 10 a.m., after being closed seven days for construction. The Central Library returns to its normal hours of operation at that time.

Library visitors must now enter and exit through the back (north) entrance, while the front (south) entrance remains closed temporarily for further renovation.

For more information, consult the library’s web page, www.nmls.lib.tx.us, or call 972-205-2502.

Central library to undergo renovation

The central library will undergo interior renovation to its main floor, which will begin by mid-January. Demolition and construction on the ground floor will convert nonpublic areas for public use and create special use areas, including a theme-based children’s area. On the lower level, shelving and furniture will be rearranged for more effective and enjoyable use of the library’s research collections.

The central library is expected to remain open during most of the project except for brief temporary closures as needed. The entrance to the library will be closed for necessary demolition, with visitors entering on the north side of the building during the project.

Visitors may experience intermittent and temporary inconvenience during the anticipated four months of construction, with some materials not accessible during certain phases of the construction. However, access to the library’s web page will be available, including the online catalog, downloadable books, online homework help, book clubs and newsletters, and online subscription resources. Library programming may be relocated to other library locations, with the exception of Spring Storytimes, which have been cancelled at the central library.

Please ask for assistance if you have difficulty finding the materials you need. Updates on the status of construction and information about programming and services will be available at www.nmls.lib.tx.us, or by phone at 972-205-2502 (Adult Services), 972-205-2516 (Children’s Services), or 972-205-2524 (Circulation Services).

Athas re-appointed to NLC
First Tier Suburbs Council

Posted January 29, 2011

Douglas Athas, Garland City Council District 1, was re-appointed to the National League of Cities’ 2011 First Tier Suburbs Council. The First Tier Suburbs Council works to address the unique set of challenges faced by municipalities located outside of central cities and inside the ring of developing suburbs and rural areas.

“The challenges facing first-tier suburbs like Garland are unique. While we have been fortunate to gather good practices from other cities, we have also been able to share many of the successes that have been developed locally,” Athas said. “Our participation in the First Tier Suburbs Council has garnered positive national attention for us several times over the last few years, especially some of our economic development initiatives and work-force training, our efforts to strengthen neighborhoods, and how we are repositioning to continue growing even after the city has been built out.”

This re-appointment begins Athas’ fourth year of service on the First Tier Suburbs Council, having served as chair last year.

The 2011 chair of the First Tier Suburbs Council is Jim Woodward, Mayor At Large, Englewood, Colo. Working as this year’s vice chairs are Denny Doyle, Mayor Beaverton, Ore. and Joe Garcia, Council Member, Monrovia, Calif.

Local elected officials use the Council as an opportunity to network with one another and discuss common needs and articulate their unique challenges and opportunities. First tier suburbs benefit from proximity to job centers and established neighborhoods, but also confront challenges such as regional cooperation, housing and transportation needs, changing demographics, education and revitalization.

The National League of Cities is the nation’s oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 19,000 cities, towns and villages, representing more than 218 million Americans.

Garland's Atrium is bride's choice

Posted January 29, 2011

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce The Atrium at the Granville Arts Center has been selected once again to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Wedding/Reception venues!

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from more than 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

The Atrium at the Granville Arts Center stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud The Atrium for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that The Atrium is among the very best wedding venues within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™, visit www.WeddingWire.com.

Garland Animal Services announces cat

adoption partnership with PetSmart Charities^®

Posted January 25, 2011

Garland Animal Services is proud to announce a cat adoption partnership with PetSmart Charities^®. Selected cats from the Garland Animal Shelter will be available for immediate adoption at the new PetSmart store in Wylie. The cat habitat at the PetSmart store will provide a high profile venue for approximately 8 to 10 cats and the Garland Animal Shelter will ensure cats are consistently available at the store for adoption.

“We are excited about this new partnership between Garland Animal Services and PetSmart Charities, which will undoubtedly lead to more cat adoptions,” said Jason Chessher, Garland’s Deputy Director of Health.

The new store is at 3340 FM 544 in Wylie, and a variety of cats are already available for adoption.

For more information on adoptable animals from the Garland Animal Shelter, visit www.GarlandAnimalServices.org.

About PetSmart Charities^®

Established in 1994, PetSmart Charities, Inc. is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that creates and supports programs that save the lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of companion animal-welfare issues and promote healthy relationships between people and pets. The largest funder of animal welfare efforts in North America, PetSmart Charities has provided $110 million in grants and programs benefiting animal-welfare organizations and, through its in-store adoption program, helped save the lives of more than 4.4 million pets. To learn more about how PetSmart Charities is working toward its vision of a lifelong, loving home for every pet, visit petsmartcharities.org or call 1-800-423-PETS.

City Council work session, regular meeting: Jan. 18

Kim Everett January 22, 2011

Financial update

Director of Financial Services, George Kauffman, presented a financial update for Mayor Ronald Jones and the City Council members. He said that the economy is still stagnant, and that unemployment remains high. The interest rates from an investment standpoint are very low, and have increased from a debt standpoint.

Fund balances

	General	GP&L	Water Fund	Sewer Fund
Dollar amount	$15.3M	$52M	$5.2M	$11.3M
Actual days	46	104	56	181
Policy days	30	45	45	45

Bond ratings

Standard Fitch
& Poors

General fund AA+ AAA

Electric fund A+ A+

Water and sewer fund AA AA+

Development Services Committee report

Councilman Preston Edwards said that the committee discussed the bicycle thoroughfare plan and it has been recommended for implementation. $2.55M funding will be from regional toll revenues.

Public Safety Committee report

Councilman Doug Athas reported that the committee had discussed the use of K2 and similar substances. There might be a couple of places in Garland that these substances are available, but the committee is not aware of any specific incidents involving them. The committee decided to wait and see what the state does about the problem before taking any action.

According to an Allstate report, Garland is one of the most dangerous cities for drivers. However, Athas said that the data only covered Allstate policy holders, and that if one looks over a wider range, comparing Garland to other cities, that it is slightly better than the average.

City Council work session, regular meeting: Jan. 4

Kim Everett | January 7, 2011

Richard Briley updated the City Council and Mayor Ronald Jones on the 2010 activities of the Health Department.

Health and Code Division

Conducted more than 2,000 unannounced inspections of food service establishments.
Average inspection score increased to 83.2.
Inspected 179 child care facilities.
Inspected 672 public pools.
Tested 4,635 mosquitoes for West Nile Virus. All tests were negative.
Sprayed 72 miles of roadway for mosquitoes
Conducted 510 pollution source control inspections on commercial/industrial facilities.
Sampled 213 creek sites for storm water pollution. 93.3% were pollution free.

Animal Services Department

Received 20,261 citizen calls. 8,584 were for stray animals, 7,177 apprehended live.
Dispatched animal services officers to average of 67.9 responses per day.
Response time average was 24.56 minutes.
Animal rescues increased to 87 percent.
Began sponsored adoption program.
Enacted new requirements for six-foot fencing for pit bulls.
Improved department website and enhanced shelter software.
Successfully placed 44% of shelter animals.
58 major dog bites occurred, 312 minor bites.
City veterinarian vaccinated 1,695 animals, examined 3,191, and sterilized 784.
8,442 animals were registered with the department.
No animals tested positive for rabies.
The gas chamber was dismantled and new humane euthanasia policy has been implemented.

Public Health Division

Became fully funded by grants, contributions, and program revenue.
Added new exam room and office space using grants.
Maintained status as only municipality operating full service health department in Texas.
Initiated H1N1 and seasonal flu shot campaign with 19,795 people immunized.
Administered 1,624 travel vaccines.
Performed 288 pediatric wellness exams.
Investigated 455 communicable diseases and intervened on 89 occasions.
Received Certificate of Achievement for high immunization coverage.

Neighborhood Standards Division

47,604 properties placed on notice.
Complaints decreased by 11 percent with 13,162 calls received.
Issued 1,326 citations for non-compliance, 80% were accepted by municipal court.
Abated 2,389 non-compliant cases.
Residential code violations increased, but remain at 54 percent reduction over five years.
Opened 672 graffiti cases.
Removed 10,802 illegally placed signs through I-Sign Program.

Housing Standards Division

Multi-family

Conducted comprehensive inspections on nine high-risk apartment complexes.
Funded multi-family inspection program through revenue collected.
Performed 3,218 exterior and 3,735 interior inspections.

Single family

There are 6,930 active properties.
Conducted 1,156 changes in tenancy inspections. Found 1,282 life safety violations and 1,162 critical violations.
Continued certification classes with 3,400 properties certified.
Program was fully funded by revenue.

Proposed CIP presented to council

City Manager Bill Dollar presented the proposed Capital Improvement Program. The proposal includes $152 million in improvements to infrastructure and municipal facilities.

The tax supported portion of the CIP totals $47 million with 63 percent dedicated to street and transportation improvements and includes funding for public safety such as in-car video cameras for police cars and refurbishment of ambulances.

Also included are: replacement of heavy equipment at Hinton landfill; economic development; library improvements; renovation of Bradfield Recreation Center and Spring Creek Green Belt Trail; and projects related to environmental waste services.

The CIP will require approximately $15 million in new tax supported debt and $29 million in debt funded through utility rates.

No property tax increase was required to fund the plan.