March 4, 2024 Newsletter

Home  ============ Citizens Defending Freedom vs. AISD Lawsuit ============== Taxpayers' Funds at Risk ============ March 25, 2024 Newsletter ============= Arlington City CouncilGrades ============= AISD Board Grades ============ March 18, 2024 Newsletter ============ March 11, 2024 Newsletter =========== March 4, 2024 Newsletter ============ February 26, 2024 Newsletter ============ ================D1  Jacob Franklin, Candidate for ===District1=== Tim Goss, Candidate for ===District1=== Mauricio Galante, Candidate for ===District1=== ================D2  Raul Gonzalez, District2 ============= ================D6  Long Pham, District6 ============= ================D7  Bowie Hogg, District7 ============== Chris "Dobi" Dobson, Candidate for ===District7=== ================  Jim Ross, Mayor ============= Helen Moise, District1 ============= Nikkie Hunter, District3 ============= Andrew Piel, District4 ============= Rebecca Boxall, District5 =============  Barbara Odom-Wesley, District8 ============= ================P1  Sarah McMurrough, AISDPlace1 ============= ================P2  Kendall Orr, Candidate for ==AISDPlace2== Melody Fowler, AISDPlace2 ============= ================P3  Larry Mike, Candidate for ==AISDPlace3== Kathi Arocha, Candidate for ==AISDPlace3== April Williams Moore, Candidate for ==AISDPlace3== ================  Aaron Reich, AISDPlace3 ============= David Wilbanks, AISDPlace4 ============= Justin Chapa, AISDPlace5 ============= Brooklyn Richardson, AISDPlace6 ============= Leanne Haynes, AISDPlace7 ============= Fact Sheet - November 8, 2022 Election ============ ++++++++++++  ============= Kennedale Observer Homepage =========== Kennedale City CouncilGrades ========== Kennedale Observer - Latest Newsletter ============ Prior to That Newsletter ============== ================M  Jan Joplin, Kennedale Mayor ============ Brad Horton, Candidate for Kennedale Mayor ============= ===============P2  Matthew Dyer, Candidate for Kennedale Place 2 =========== Ebony Berry, Candidate for Place 2 =========== Thelma Kobeck, Candidate for Place 2 =========== ===============P4  Bryant Griffith, Kennedale Place 4 ============= Chris Gary, Candidate for Place 4 =========== =================  David Glover, Kennedale Place 1 ============== Ken Michels, Kennedale Place 3 ============== Jeff Nevarez, Kennedale Place 5 ============== Kennedale City Council Compare ========== 1083 Bowman Springs Road Kennedale ============ What to Know About the Texas Raceway Project ================ Kennedale City Council Agenda ============== Kennedale Financial Reports ============== P&Z agenda ============== EDC agenda ==============



 

March 4, 2024 – Volume 17 Number 10

Highlights:

* City council approves high-density townhomes in north Arlington that P&Z had already denied. Good buddy, Mojy Haddad, is very happy.

* City set to approve four wells on the recently approved drill site.

* The council will hear about the new Lincoln Square development at work session.

 

Taxpayers' Funds at Risk:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_83.html

 

City Council grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_39.html

 

AISD Board grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_1.html

 

Citizens Defending Freedom vs. AISD

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_14.html

 

...

 

Arlington is a city where citizens are relegated to being spectators, rather than players on the field. The SPECTATOR helps citizens know what is happening on the field. Only a few of the in-house team members are allowed to play ball in Arlington. The SPECTATOR helps citizens understand the game.

 

GAME SCHEDULE:

Tuesday, March 5: Primary Election Day, 7:00am – 7:00pm.

Tuesday, March 5: City Council meetings, 101 W. Abram Street, 9:45am, 2:30pm, 6:30pm. (You must preregister by 5:00pm to speak during citizen participation.)

Wednesday, March 6: P&Z meeting, 101 W. Abram Street, 5:30pm. (Work session at 4:00pm.)

Sunday, March 10: Daylight Savings Time begins, 2:00 a.m. (spring forward one hour).

Sunday, March 17: St. Patrick's Day.

Wednesday, March 20: P&Z meeting, 101 W. Abram Street, 5:30pm. (Work session at x:xxpm.)

Thursday, March 21: AISD Board meeting, AISD Administration Building, 690 E. Lamar Boulevard, 5:00pm. (You must be signed up online by 3:00pm if you wish to speak.)

Tuesday, March 26: City Council meetings, 101 W. Abram Street, 6:30pm. (You must preregister by 5:00pm to speak during citizen participation.)

Friday, March 29: Good Friday holiday.

Sunday, March 31: Easter.

 

From THE LOCKER ROOM

Arlington City Council Update

The council met last Tuesday, February 27, for a full slate of meetings. Mayor Ross and Council member Hunter were not present.

The city council will also meet this Tuesday, March 5 for a full slate of meetings. The first of two committee meetings is at 9:45am. The afternoon meeting starts at 12:15pm and goes into executive session. The open portion of the meeting starts no sooner than 2:30pm. The evening meeting is at 6:30pm.

 

Committee Meetings – Last week

The Finance and Audit Committee met. They discussed the FY2023 Budget Report (presentation , report). Sales tax was over budget by $1.7 million. Expenses were under budget by $8.7 million, mainly because of vacant positions.

The Community and Neighborhood Development Committee did not have a quorum. They are expected to discuss the PY2024 Action Plan and CDBG proposal review (presentation , attachment) on March 5.

The Municipal Policy Committee discussed the Form Based Code (presentation). Staff had provided five potential pilots. The committee accepted three: a) east Abrams (Collins to Hwy 360), b) Division Street (Cooper to Collins) [How many millions has the city already invested in this area???], and c) Matlock-Cooper-Hwy303 intersection, to be studied by a consultant.

They also discussed tree preservation and mitigation (presentation). The committee made three recommendations: a) a tree preservation of 25% for multi-family and nonresidential sites, b) add a half point deduction per caliber inch for any Cross Timbers trees, and c) add a $600 fine per caliber inch for unauthorized removal of any tree.

 

Afternoon Meeting – Last Week

The afternoon meeting can be viewed at: https://arlingtontx.granicus.com/player/clip/4764?view_id=9&redirect=true . Mayor Ross and Council member Hunter were not present.

(3:08) They opened the meeting and went into executive session. The executive session agenda included three items regarding easements (including one condemnation) on the evening agenda, and the always expensive offers of incentives to business prospects.

The open portion of the afternoon meeting will begin no earlier than 3:00pm. The agenda for the open portion of the meeting includes two work session items and seven informal staff reports.

(47:25) Reconvene. The first work session item was the GO bond tracker (presentation).

(1:04:47) The second work session item is the Police Profiling Analysis (presentation , report).

(1:28:33) Informal staff reports:

1. Traffic Safety in Arlington (staff report , hotspotsA , hotspotsB)

2. Right-of-Way Construction and Permitting (staff report)

3. Timeline for 2024 Property Tax Exemption for Eligible Childcare Providers (staff report).

(1:40:22) 4. Fall 2023 Residential Curbside Collection Pilot - Update (staff report).

5. Transition to Residential Trash Cart Service Update – "Oops" Tags (staff report).

(1:57:49) 6. International Corridor History and Vision Implementation (staff report).

7. Enhance region mobility (newsletter).

(1:58:17) Committee meetings.

(2:08:54) Appointments and evening agenda items. No appointments tonight.

(2:10:31) Future agenda items.

 

# # # # # # # # # # # #

 

Evening Meeting – Last Week

The evening agenda included 19 consent agenda items and three public hearings. The meeting may be viewed at https://arlingtontx.granicus.com/player/clip/4765?view_id=9&redirect=true . Mayor Ross and Council member Hunter were not present.

(2:41) Start of meeting.

(12:14) Executive session items and minutes. The one condemnation executive item, the other two executive session items, and the minutes were approved with three 7-0 votes.

(15:27) Consent agenda items. There was one speaker in opposition to each of 8.5, 8.9, and 8.18.

The speaker opposing 8.5, the Beard's Towing contract, brought up reported problems with this towing company and the City of Fort Worth. He also brought up the company’s ties to a political group.

The speaker opposing 8.9, the $99,460 engineering professional services contract for the Heartfullness sculptor, questioning the bringing in of outside art instead of showcasing local artists.

The speaker opposing 8.18, the police store front on the east side of the city, felt this was over policing on this part of the city.

The consent agenda was approved, 7-0.

(24:30) The first public hearing was a modification to the Thoroughfare Plan to help the next zoning case pass (staff report). Since the approval of the developer's project (public hearing #2) will not leave enough space for the acquisition for the planned roadway expansion, they are removing the planned expansion of the roadway. [It sure is nice when you are a special buddy of the council.] It was approved, 7-0.

(28:01) Public hearing #2 was for developer buddy Mojy Haddad, for PD23-25 (1940 Ballpark Way). He wishes to build high-density townhomes (staff report). P&Z denied the zoning, but the city council voted to give him a public hearing so they can approve the zoning and override the P&Z’s decision. A super-majority vote is required because of the neighboring opposition. After the four development speakers there were five speakers in opposition who were pointedly ignored. At 53:42 the speaker states what many long-time residents feel. The once upon time great City of Arlington is not so anymore. This was of course approved, 7-0.

(1:06:48) Public hearing #3 was for SUP08-11R1 (2250 E. Arbrook Lane) to expand the drill site boundaries for the High Point drill site (staff report). There were 16 speakers I opposition. It was approved, 6-1, with Gonzalez opposed.

(2:04:02) Citizen participation. Council Member Piel evidently decided to leave. There were 17 speakers. Two speakers spoke of a night club operating in a restaurant zone in south Arlington. Fifteen speakers wanted a cease-fire resolution.

 

Committee Meetings – This Week

The Community and Neighborhood Development Committee is the first of two committee meetings. They are scheduled to begin at 9:45am and spend an hour to discuss the PY2024 Action Plan and CDBG proposal review (presentation , attachment).

The Economic Development Committee will meet at 11:00am and spend about 15 minutes in open session to discuss a SCORE partnership update (presentation). They will then go into executive session to discuss the ground lease at the Arlington Airport and offers of incentives to business prospects.

 

Afternoon Meeting – This Week

The city council is to meet at 12:15pm and go into executive session. The executive session agenda includes discussion of Troy Brooks and Scott Hofstrom v. City of Arlington, Texas lawsuit, the two easement items on the evening agenda, the airport ground lease, and the always expensive offers of incentives to business prospects.

The open portion of the afternoon meeting will begin no sooner than 2:30pm. That portion of the agenda includes two work session items, and three informal staff reports.

Work session #1, 2024 Capital Budget development (presentation).

Work session #2, Lincoln Square redevelopment (presentation).

Three informal staff reports:

1. Victim Services Unit (staff report).

2. Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act update (staff report).

3. Invest in our economy (newsletter).

 

# # # # # # # # # # # #

 

Evening Meeting – This Week

The agenda for the 6:30pm evening meeting includes 19 consent agenda items, two public hearings, and one special ordinance.

Consent agenda item 8.7 is $5,592,947.78 for a contract for River Legacy Park trail improvements Phase I & II and sewer main replacement (staff report).

Consent agenda item 8.9 is $953,680 to execute a contract for work related to the renovation of the Arlington Tennis Center (staff report).

Consent agenda item 8.16 is a fix based operator fee schedule (staff report). [You must wonder if fees went up since it is not run by the private sector.]

The first public hearing is for the annual modifications/clarifications/corrections to the UDC (Unified Development Code) (staff report).

The second public hearing is to allow four wells on the just approved drill site (staff report).

The special ordinance is for the newly created property tax exemption for childcare providers of low-income families (staff report).

 

# # # # # # # # # # # #

 

The Arlington Spectator's City Council grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_39.html

 

This week's question:

How much of a priority should be placed on protecting taxpayers' dollars? If we are granting dollars for “economic development” should the company be vetted? Should an “economic development” grant require an actual application? Why or why not?

 

District 1

Jacob Franklin - Efficient usage of the taxpayers’ dollars is extremely important and a top priority. Companies should certainly be vetted before being granted funding. An application makes sense in order to formalize and standardize the process, as well as increase transparency.

Tim GossDid not respond.

Mauricio Galante - All companies receiving any economic incentive or public grants should apply and be properly vetted.

 

District 2

Raul Gonzalez - Fiscal responsibility is critical for effective governance. Economic development dollars should only be given to companies that have been throughly vetted, an application process could certainly be part of this process. Economic development grants have been and will continue to be important for Arlingtons economy however funds must benefit the city through increased employment and or taxes into the city coffers.

 

District 6

Long Pham Did not respond.

 

District 7

Bowie Hogg - As a council member, top priority should always be placed on protecting the taxpayers dollar. The council is the stewards of the public's money and we must always be diligent in any use. Granting economic development dollars must show we are doing it for the best interest of Arlington Taxpayers. As a council we must assure that the dollars of the EDC are used in the best way possible for the trust of the taxpayer and try to create more economic development. All companies should (and are) vetted, but beyond vetting the contract must attempt to protect the City to achieve the results for all parties.

Chris “Dobi” DobsonDid not respond.

 

# # # # # # # # # # # #

 

Economic Development Corporation (EDC)

The EDC Board met last Tuesday, February 20. The agenda and packet can be found at: https://www.arlingtontx.gov/common/pages/DownloadFileByUrl.aspx?key=GJi3xfeSTY1LnRQGk1YkwYT9k8JbUKv7mL0DV0dqUZJMLybd5Ge0vq28%2f9TmIXG7yyezAq%2fPZGbyu3WekXT2miz%2bhBA22pk7CQdbVKCFHtx6VaNZSwlbcefSBNsCp2UwxyGvTqkE4mmc7ypalrHP%2bU9XG2UftoeqDB2ijJgqK2H9%2fX8nieV5jaDkuVVyA1b2QXh8mQ%3d%3d .

They did approve their two action items, that will appear before the city council this Tuesday.

Arlington’s EDC is easily the largest sales tax supported EDC in the state. This gives spending addicted politicians greater than $20 million annually with which to fund their buddies.

 

Upcoming Public Hearings

On Tuesday, March 5, the city council will hold a public hearing on more UDC (Unified Development Code) updates.

On Tuesday, March 5, the city council will hold a public hearing for four gas wells on the just approved drill site at 2250 E. Arbrook Boulevard.

On Wednesday, March 6, P&Z will hold a public for UDC (Unified Development Code) updates for hotel standards.

On Wednesday, March 6, P&Z will hold a public hearing on PD23-40, on the 0.964 acres at 1850 Park Springs Boulevard where they wish to change zoning to more major auto repairs. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 9.

On Wednesday, March 6, P&Z will hold a public hearing on ZA24-1, on the 6.91 acres at 100/120/150/200 Stephens Street where they wish to change land zoned for general commercial to light industrial. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 9.

On Wednesday, March 20, P&Z will hold a public hearing on SUP24-1, on the 1.424 acres at 3400 S. Watson Road where they wish to allow for a private club in 961 sq. ft. of the existing building. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 23.

On Wednesday, March 20, P&Z will hold a public hearing on SUP22-3R1, on the 1.63 acres at 2118 E. Abram Street where they wish to allow vehicle sales. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 23.

On Tuesday, March 26, the city council will hold a public hearing on PD23-18 (Lincoln Square) on 45 acres.

On Tuesday, March 26, the city council will hold a public hearing on ZA24-2, on the 0.196 acres at 2010 Duval Drive where they wish to change land zoned for single family to townhomes (RMD-12).

 

P&Z Commission

P&Z will meet this Wednesday, March 6. There are three public hearings, one to update the UDC (Unified Development Code) for hotel standards (staff report), and two zoning case public hearings.

Zoning Case PD23-40 (1850 Park Springs Boulevard) is to allow Auto Garage Repair – major (staff report).

Zoning Case ZA24-1 (100/120/150/200 East Stephens Street) is to change the zoning from GC commercial to LI light industrial (staff report).

 

AISD School Board

The next scheduled AISD Board meeting is Thursday, March 21.

The AISD will have three seats available for filing, Place 1, Place 2, and Place 3. All school board places are district-wide. Ballot order has been set.

The Arlington Spectator's AISD Board Grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_1.html

 

Place 1

Sarah McMurrough Did not respond.

 

Place 2

Kendall Orr The school board must exercise prudence and due care with taxpayers' dollars. They are responsible and accountable to the taxpayers and have an obligation to safeguard taxpayer dollars by preventing wasteful spending. School districts are facing fiscal challenges that could have been avoided by eliminating wasteful spending. All expenses should be justified each year rather than increasing the budget. District spending is a crucial component of student success. The success of the students relies on every taxpayers dollars spent intentionally, efficiently and effectively.

Melody Fowler Did not respond.

 

Place 3

Larry Mike Did not respond.

Kathi ArochaIt is a top priority for Trustees to be fiscally responsible. As a trustee, the allocation of taxpayer money must be managed wisely. A trustee should ensure the minimization of unnecessary administrative costs while managing structured capital cost-effectively. Ultimately, a Trustee should continuously operate ethically and transparently.

April Williams MooreDid not respond.

 

TEA Accountability Data:

2022 Accountability

2021 Accountability

2019 Accountability

 

In 2020, the AISD was tied for the highest M&O rate of all the school districts in Tarrant County. Since then, there has been NO tie. The AISD HAS the highest M&O rate in Tarrant County. [school district tax rates]

 

Top 5 of Tarrant County's 21 ISDs M&O Rates

1. Arlington ISD $0.824900

2. Fort Worth ISD $0.790400

3. Mansfield ISD $0.789200

3. Birdville ISD $0.789200

3. Everman ISD $0.789200

 

Of Tarrant County's 21 ISDs - Lowest Tax Rates

1. HEB ISD $0.921100

2. Burleson ISD $0.924700

3. Carroll ISD $1.002500

4. Azle ISD $1.025000

5. Fort Worth ISD $1.062400

6. Keller ISD $1.087500

7. Northwest ISD $1.090200

8. Everman ISD $1.094146

9. Arlington ISD $1.115600

10. Lewisville ISD $1.130100

 

Press Box

New Trash Carts

Everybody is now on the carts and once/week trash pickup. The Fort Worth Report story: https://fortworthreport.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=799820caaea9dedfcb357e30f&id=6c810d315c&e=026783244a .

 

More Taxpayer Funds Down the Drain

The Tomorrow Fund gives Downtown Arlington $100,000. The story: https://downtownarlington.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=ba56e87e50e957af8861e6dfc&id=f67f0b6cae&e=fde52e40ae

 

HELPFUL CONTACTS

The Spectator: www.ArlSpectator.mysite.com

 

to be added/deleted to/from the mailing list e-mail: ArlSpectator@yahoo.com

 

We can be found on Facebook at ArlSpectator.

 

Taxpayers' Funds at Risk:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_83.html

 

City Council grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_39.html

 

AISD Board grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_1.html

 

City of Arlington website: www.arlingtontx.gov

 

e-mails of mayor and council

.................... first.last@arlingtontx.gov

mayor = jim.ross

district 1 (north) = helen.moise

district 2 (sw) = raul.gonzalez

district 3 (se) = nikkie.hunter

district 4 (west) = andrew.piel

district 5 (central/east) = rebecca.boxall

district 6 (all) = long.pham

district 7 (all) = bowie.hogg

district 8 (all) = barbara.odom-wesley

 

AISD website ....................... www.aisd.net

McMurrough............ - sarahforaisd@gmail.com

Fowler ................... - fowler.aisd@gmail.com

Reich......................... - areich.aisd@tx.rr.com

Wilbanks .......... - david@wilbanksforaisd.com

Chapa ...................... - chapa.aisd@gmail.com

Richardson ... - brooklyn.richardson.aisd@gmail.com

Haynes ................... - haynes.aisd@gmail.com

 

TEA Accountability Data:

2022 Accountability

2021 Accountability

2019 Accountability

 

Opinion Arlington

www.opinionarlington.com

 

ARC Political Watch Committee Reports

includes coverage of Mansfield ISD and national, state, county , & city

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HBliPv5JKafA5bOnksLUi1_pCYUJ_mtL?usp=sharing

 

 

Texas Legislative Online:

http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Home.aspx

 

To be added to/deleted from our mailing list please e-mail: ArlSpectator@yahoo.com

 

 

March 4, 2024 – Volume 17 Number 10

Highlights:

* City council approves high-density townhomes in north Arlington that P&Z had already denied. Good buddy, Mojy Haddad, is very happy.

* City set to approve four wells on the recently approved drill site.

* The council will hear about the new Lincoln Square development at work session.

 

Taxpayers' Funds at Risk:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_83.html

 

City Council grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_39.html

 

AISD Board grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_1.html

 

Citizens Defending Freedom vs. AISD

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_14.html

 

...

 

Arlington is a city where citizens are relegated to being spectators, rather than players on the field. The SPECTATOR helps citizens know what is happening on the field. Only a few of the in-house team members are allowed to play ball in Arlington. The SPECTATOR helps citizens understand the game.

 

GAME SCHEDULE:

Tuesday, March 5: Primary Election Day, 7:00am – 7:00pm.

Tuesday, March 5: City Council meetings, 101 W. Abram Street, 9:45am, 2:30pm, 6:30pm. (You must preregister by 5:00pm to speak during citizen participation.)

Wednesday, March 6: P&Z meeting, 101 W. Abram Street, 5:30pm. (Work session at 4:00pm.)

Sunday, March 10: Daylight Savings Time begins, 2:00 a.m. (spring forward one hour).

Sunday, March 17: St. Patrick's Day.

Wednesday, March 20: P&Z meeting, 101 W. Abram Street, 5:30pm. (Work session at x:xxpm.)

Thursday, March 21: AISD Board meeting, AISD Administration Building, 690 E. Lamar Boulevard, 5:00pm. (You must be signed up online by 3:00pm if you wish to speak.)

Tuesday, March 26: City Council meetings, 101 W. Abram Street, 6:30pm. (You must preregister by 5:00pm to speak during citizen participation.)

Friday, March 29: Good Friday holiday.

Sunday, March 31: Easter.

 

From THE LOCKER ROOM

Arlington City Council Update

The council met last Tuesday, February 27, for a full slate of meetings. Mayor Ross and Council member Hunter were not present.

The city council will also meet this Tuesday, March 5 for a full slate of meetings. The first of two committee meetings is at 9:45am. The afternoon meeting starts at 12:15pm and goes into executive session. The open portion of the meeting starts no sooner than 2:30pm. The evening meeting is at 6:30pm.

 

Committee Meetings – Last week

The Finance and Audit Committee met. They discussed the FY2023 Budget Report (presentation , report). Sales tax was over budget by $1.7 million. Expenses were under budget by $8.7 million, mainly because of vacant positions.

The Community and Neighborhood Development Committee did not have a quorum. They are expected to discuss the PY2024 Action Plan and CDBG proposal review (presentation , attachment) on March 5.

The Municipal Policy Committee discussed the Form Based Code (presentation). Staff had provided five potential pilots. The committee accepted three: a) east Abrams (Collins to Hwy 360), b) Division Street (Cooper to Collins) [How many millions has the city already invested in this area???], and c) Matlock-Cooper-Hwy303 intersection, to be studied by a consultant.

They also discussed tree preservation and mitigation (presentation). The committee made three recommendations: a) a tree preservation of 25% for multi-family and nonresidential sites, b) add a half point deduction per caliber inch for any Cross Timbers trees, and c) add a $600 fine per caliber inch for unauthorized removal of any tree.

 

Afternoon Meeting – Last Week

The afternoon meeting can be viewed at: https://arlingtontx.granicus.com/player/clip/4764?view_id=9&redirect=true . Mayor Ross and Council member Hunter were not present.

(3:08) They opened the meeting and went into executive session. The executive session agenda included three items regarding easements (including one condemnation) on the evening agenda, and the always expensive offers of incentives to business prospects.

The open portion of the afternoon meeting will begin no earlier than 3:00pm. The agenda for the open portion of the meeting includes two work session items and seven informal staff reports.

(47:25) Reconvene. The first work session item was the GO bond tracker (presentation).

(1:04:47) The second work session item is the Police Profiling Analysis (presentation , report).

(1:28:33) Informal staff reports:

1. Traffic Safety in Arlington (staff report , hotspotsA , hotspotsB)

2. Right-of-Way Construction and Permitting (staff report)

3. Timeline for 2024 Property Tax Exemption for Eligible Childcare Providers (staff report).

(1:40:22) 4. Fall 2023 Residential Curbside Collection Pilot - Update (staff report).

5. Transition to Residential Trash Cart Service Update – "Oops" Tags (staff report).

(1:57:49) 6. International Corridor History and Vision Implementation (staff report).

7. Enhance region mobility (newsletter).

(1:58:17) Committee meetings.

(2:08:54) Appointments and evening agenda items. No appointments tonight.

(2:10:31) Future agenda items.

 

# # # # # # # # # # # #

 

Evening Meeting – Last Week

The evening agenda included 19 consent agenda items and three public hearings. The meeting may be viewed at https://arlingtontx.granicus.com/player/clip/4765?view_id=9&redirect=true . Mayor Ross and Council member Hunter were not present.

(2:41) Start of meeting.

(12:14) Executive session items and minutes. The one condemnation executive item, the other two executive session items, and the minutes were approved with three 7-0 votes.

(15:27) Consent agenda items. There was one speaker in opposition to each of 8.5, 8.9, and 8.18.

The speaker opposing 8.5, the Beard's Towing contract, brought up reported problems with this towing company and the City of Fort Worth. He also brought up the company’s ties to a political group.

The speaker opposing 8.9, the $99,460 engineering professional services contract for the Heartfullness sculptor, questioning the bringing in of outside art instead of showcasing local artists.

The speaker opposing 8.18, the police store front on the east side of the city, felt this was over policing on this part of the city.

The consent agenda was approved, 7-0.

(24:30) The first public hearing was a modification to the Thoroughfare Plan to help the next zoning case pass (staff report). Since the approval of the developer's project (public hearing #2) will not leave enough space for the acquisition for the planned roadway expansion, they are removing the planned expansion of the roadway. [It sure is nice when you are a special buddy of the council.] It was approved, 7-0.

(28:01) Public hearing #2 was for developer buddy Mojy Haddad, for PD23-25 (1940 Ballpark Way). He wishes to build high-density townhomes (staff report). P&Z denied the zoning, but the city council voted to give him a public hearing so they can approve the zoning and override the P&Z’s decision. A super-majority vote is required because of the neighboring opposition. After the four development speakers there were five speakers in opposition who were pointedly ignored. At 53:42 the speaker states what many long-time residents feel. The once upon time great City of Arlington is not so anymore. This was of course approved, 7-0.

(1:06:48) Public hearing #3 was for SUP08-11R1 (2250 E. Arbrook Lane) to expand the drill site boundaries for the High Point drill site (staff report). There were 16 speakers I opposition. It was approved, 6-1, with Gonzalez opposed.

(2:04:02) Citizen participation. Council Member Piel evidently decided to leave. There were 17 speakers. Two speakers spoke of a night club operating in a restaurant zone in south Arlington. Fifteen speakers wanted a cease-fire resolution.

 

Committee Meetings – This Week

The Community and Neighborhood Development Committee is the first of two committee meetings. They are scheduled to begin at 9:45am and spend an hour to discuss the PY2024 Action Plan and CDBG proposal review (presentation , attachment).

The Economic Development Committee will meet at 11:00am and spend about 15 minutes in open session to discuss a SCORE partnership update (presentation). They will then go into executive session to discuss the ground lease at the Arlington Airport and offers of incentives to business prospects.

 

Afternoon Meeting – This Week

The city council is to meet at 12:15pm and go into executive session. The executive session agenda includes discussion of Troy Brooks and Scott Hofstrom v. City of Arlington, Texas lawsuit, the two easement items on the evening agenda, the airport ground lease, and the always expensive offers of incentives to business prospects.

The open portion of the afternoon meeting will begin no sooner than 2:30pm. That portion of the agenda includes two work session items, and three informal staff reports.

Work session #1, 2024 Capital Budget development (presentation).

Work session #2, Lincoln Square redevelopment (presentation).

Three informal staff reports:

1. Victim Services Unit (staff report).

2. Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act update (staff report).

3. Invest in our economy (newsletter).

 

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Evening Meeting – This Week

The agenda for the 6:30pm evening meeting includes 19 consent agenda items, two public hearings, and one special ordinance.

Consent agenda item 8.7 is $5,592,947.78 for a contract for River Legacy Park trail improvements Phase I & II and sewer main replacement (staff report).

Consent agenda item 8.9 is $953,680 to execute a contract for work related to the renovation of the Arlington Tennis Center (staff report).

Consent agenda item 8.16 is a fix based operator fee schedule (staff report). [You must wonder if fees went up since it is not run by the private sector.]

The first public hearing is for the annual modifications/clarifications/corrections to the UDC (Unified Development Code) (staff report).

The second public hearing is to allow four wells on the just approved drill site (staff report).

The special ordinance is for the newly created property tax exemption for childcare providers of low-income families (staff report).

 

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The Arlington Spectator's City Council grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_39.html

 

This week's question:

How much of a priority should be placed on protecting taxpayers' dollars? If we are granting dollars for “economic development” should the company be vetted? Should an “economic development” grant require an actual application? Why or why not?

 

District 1

Jacob Franklin - Efficient usage of the taxpayers’ dollars is extremely important and a top priority. Companies should certainly be vetted before being granted funding. An application makes sense in order to formalize and standardize the process, as well as increase transparency.

Tim GossDid not respond.

Mauricio Galante - All companies receiving any economic incentive or public grants should apply and be properly vetted.

 

District 2

Raul Gonzalez - Fiscal responsibility is critical for effective governance. Economic development dollars should only be given to companies that have been throughly vetted, an application process could certainly be part of this process. Economic development grants have been and will continue to be important for Arlingtons economy however funds must benefit the city through increased employment and or taxes into the city coffers.

 

District 6

Long Pham Did not respond.

 

District 7

Bowie Hogg - As a council member, top priority should always be placed on protecting the taxpayers dollar. The council is the stewards of the public's money and we must always be diligent in any use. Granting economic development dollars must show we are doing it for the best interest of Arlington Taxpayers. As a council we must assure that the dollars of the EDC are used in the best way possible for the trust of the taxpayer and try to create more economic development. All companies should (and are) vetted, but beyond vetting the contract must attempt to protect the City to achieve the results for all parties.

Chris “Dobi” DobsonDid not respond.

 

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Economic Development Corporation (EDC)

The EDC Board met last Tuesday, February 20. The agenda and packet can be found at: https://www.arlingtontx.gov/common/pages/DownloadFileByUrl.aspx?key=GJi3xfeSTY1LnRQGk1YkwYT9k8JbUKv7mL0DV0dqUZJMLybd5Ge0vq28%2f9TmIXG7yyezAq%2fPZGbyu3WekXT2miz%2bhBA22pk7CQdbVKCFHtx6VaNZSwlbcefSBNsCp2UwxyGvTqkE4mmc7ypalrHP%2bU9XG2UftoeqDB2ijJgqK2H9%2fX8nieV5jaDkuVVyA1b2QXh8mQ%3d%3d .

They did approve their two action items, that will appear before the city council this Tuesday.

Arlington’s EDC is easily the largest sales tax supported EDC in the state. This gives spending addicted politicians greater than $20 million annually with which to fund their buddies.

 

Upcoming Public Hearings

On Tuesday, March 5, the city council will hold a public hearing on more UDC (Unified Development Code) updates.

On Tuesday, March 5, the city council will hold a public hearing for four gas wells on the just approved drill site at 2250 E. Arbrook Boulevard.

On Wednesday, March 6, P&Z will hold a public for UDC (Unified Development Code) updates for hotel standards.

On Wednesday, March 6, P&Z will hold a public hearing on PD23-40, on the 0.964 acres at 1850 Park Springs Boulevard where they wish to change zoning to more major auto repairs. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 9.

On Wednesday, March 6, P&Z will hold a public hearing on ZA24-1, on the 6.91 acres at 100/120/150/200 Stephens Street where they wish to change land zoned for general commercial to light industrial. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 9.

On Wednesday, March 20, P&Z will hold a public hearing on SUP24-1, on the 1.424 acres at 3400 S. Watson Road where they wish to allow for a private club in 961 sq. ft. of the existing building. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 23.

On Wednesday, March 20, P&Z will hold a public hearing on SUP22-3R1, on the 1.63 acres at 2118 E. Abram Street where they wish to allow vehicle sales. If passed, it will go to the city council on April 23.

On Tuesday, March 26, the city council will hold a public hearing on PD23-18 (Lincoln Square) on 45 acres.

On Tuesday, March 26, the city council will hold a public hearing on ZA24-2, on the 0.196 acres at 2010 Duval Drive where they wish to change land zoned for single family to townhomes (RMD-12).

 

P&Z Commission

P&Z will meet this Wednesday, March 6. There are three public hearings, one to update the UDC (Unified Development Code) for hotel standards (staff report), and two zoning case public hearings.

Zoning Case PD23-40 (1850 Park Springs Boulevard) is to allow Auto Garage Repair – major (staff report).

Zoning Case ZA24-1 (100/120/150/200 East Stephens Street) is to change the zoning from GC commercial to LI light industrial (staff report).

 

AISD School Board

The next scheduled AISD Board meeting is Thursday, March 21.

The AISD will have three seats available for filing, Place 1, Place 2, and Place 3. All school board places are district-wide. Ballot order has been set.

The Arlington Spectator's AISD Board Grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_1.html

 

Place 1

Sarah McMurrough Did not respond.

 

Place 2

Kendall Orr The school board must exercise prudence and due care with taxpayers' dollars. They are responsible and accountable to the taxpayers and have an obligation to safeguard taxpayer dollars by preventing wasteful spending. School districts are facing fiscal challenges that could have been avoided by eliminating wasteful spending. All expenses should be justified each year rather than increasing the budget. District spending is a crucial component of student success. The success of the students relies on every taxpayers dollars spent intentionally, efficiently and effectively.

Melody Fowler Did not respond.

 

Place 3

Larry Mike Did not respond.

Kathi ArochaIt is a top priority for Trustees to be fiscally responsible. As a trustee, the allocation of taxpayer money must be managed wisely. A trustee should ensure the minimization of unnecessary administrative costs while managing structured capital cost-effectively. Ultimately, a Trustee should continuously operate ethically and transparently.

April Williams MooreDid not respond.

 

TEA Accountability Data:

2022 Accountability

2021 Accountability

2019 Accountability

 

In 2020, the AISD was tied for the highest M&O rate of all the school districts in Tarrant County. Since then, there has been NO tie. The AISD HAS the highest M&O rate in Tarrant County. [school district tax rates]

 

Top 5 of Tarrant County's 21 ISDs M&O Rates

1. Arlington ISD $0.824900

2. Fort Worth ISD $0.790400

3. Mansfield ISD $0.789200

3. Birdville ISD $0.789200

3. Everman ISD $0.789200

 

Of Tarrant County's 21 ISDs - Lowest Tax Rates

1. HEB ISD $0.921100

2. Burleson ISD $0.924700

3. Carroll ISD $1.002500

4. Azle ISD $1.025000

5. Fort Worth ISD $1.062400

6. Keller ISD $1.087500

7. Northwest ISD $1.090200

8. Everman ISD $1.094146

9. Arlington ISD $1.115600

10. Lewisville ISD $1.130100

 

Press Box

New Trash Carts

Everybody is now on the carts and once/week trash pickup. The Fort Worth Report story: https://fortworthreport.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=799820caaea9dedfcb357e30f&id=6c810d315c&e=026783244a .

 

More Taxpayer Funds Down the Drain

The Tomorrow Fund gives Downtown Arlington $100,000. The story: https://downtownarlington.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=ba56e87e50e957af8861e6dfc&id=f67f0b6cae&e=fde52e40ae

 

HELPFUL CONTACTS

The Spectator: www.ArlSpectator.mysite.com

 

to be added/deleted to/from the mailing list e-mail: ArlSpectator@yahoo.com

 

We can be found on Facebook at ArlSpectator.

 

Taxpayers' Funds at Risk:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_83.html

 

City Council grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_39.html

 

AISD Board grades:

http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_1.html

 

City of Arlington website: www.arlingtontx.gov

 

e-mails of mayor and council

.................... first.last@arlingtontx.gov

mayor = jim.ross

district 1 (north) = helen.moise

district 2 (sw) = raul.gonzalez

district 3 (se) = nikkie.hunter

district 4 (west) = andrew.piel

district 5 (central/east) = rebecca.boxall

district 6 (all) = long.pham

district 7 (all) = bowie.hogg

district 8 (all) = barbara.odom-wesley

 

AISD website ....................... www.aisd.net

McMurrough............ - sarahforaisd@gmail.com

Fowler ................... - fowler.aisd@gmail.com

Reich......................... - areich.aisd@tx.rr.com

Wilbanks .......... - david@wilbanksforaisd.com

Chapa ...................... - chapa.aisd@gmail.com

Richardson ... - brooklyn.richardson.aisd@gmail.com

Haynes ................... - haynes.aisd@gmail.com

 

TEA Accountability Data:

2022 Accountability

2021 Accountability

2019 Accountability

 

Opinion Arlington

www.opinionarlington.com

 

ARC Political Watch Committee Reports

includes coverage of Mansfield ISD and national, state, county , & city

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1HBliPv5JKafA5bOnksLUi1_pCYUJ_mtL?usp=sharing

 

 

Texas Legislative Online:

http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Home.aspx

 

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