2001-05-21 CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION JOINT PUBLIC HEARING MEETING MINUTES219
MINUTES OF A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND THE
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PEARLAND, TEXAS,
HELD ON MAY 21, 2001, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 3519
LIBERTY DRIVE, PEARLAND, TEXAS.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The Joint Public Hearing was called to order at 6:40 p.m. with the following present:
Mayor Pro -Tem
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
P & Z Chairman
P & Z Vice -Chairman
P & Z Commissioner
P & Z Commissioner
P & Z Commissioner
Larry Marcott
Woody Owens
Klaus Seeger
Richard Tetens
Larry Wilkins
H. Charles Viktorin
Donald Glenn
Todd locco
Richard Scherrer
Russ Selemon
Also in Attendance: Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples, City
.— Attorney Darrin Coker, Deputy City Manager Alan Mueller, City Manager Bill
Eisen, and P&Z Secretary Jennifer Gonzales. Mayor Tom Reid and P&Z
Commissioner Randy Patro were absent.
II. PURPOSE OF HEARING
Consider a proposed amendment to the Land Use Plan (Figure 5.1), of the
City of Pearland Comprehensive Plan Ordinance (Cullen Boulevard
Overlay).
Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples briefly explained that last
September or August City Council was approached by a group of citizens who
lived in the Cullen Boulevard area, which was annexed back in 1999. He
explained that the citizens wanted the Master Plan for that area re-evaluated. He
said that due to development pressures in the area, City Council appointed a
steering committee to assist in analyzing the Master Plan for the Cullen
Boulevard area. He stated that the committee has worked together for the past 6
or 7 months to come up with a proposal. Mr. Maples gave a brief explanation of
the open house meeting that was held last Thursday that was very well attended.
He stated that the City is now at the point to hold a Joint Public Hearing so that
the citizen's comments can be entered on record. He stated that staff is
recommending that after the public comments are made then at City Council's
direction the proposal should be sent back to the steering committee to analyze
what the citizens have commented on, and bring it back for a Public Hearing
however many times needed to get the proposal right. He then emphasized that
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the Master Land Use Plan is different from zoning. He explained that the Master
Land Use plan is used as a guidance tool to help make Land Use decisions for
the next 30 years. He stated that the Master Plan is not locked in stone, and will
probably be re-evaluated every 3 to 5 years. Mr. Maples then briefly explained
the "grandfathering" clause, and stated that all the uses out their can continue
forever regardless of whether or not this plan is adopted. He stated the only time
the uses can be taken away is if they are ever unoccupied. He then briefly
explained annexation and de -annexation and pointed out that the City has put
together the Master Land Use Plan is to control the growth. He again explained
the reason for the gathering tonight and stated he looks forward to hearing the
citizen's comments once again.
III. PERSONS WISHING TO SPEAK FOR THE PROPOSED REQUEST
Joe McQuarter, 2322 Hawk Meadows, Pearland, TX, stated that he is on the
committee and he is the vice-president of the Hawk Meadow's HomeOwners
Association. He stated that there are obviously a lot of questions, however the
plan of putting the steering committee together has been a good plan. He stated
that he is aware that the plan still needs a lot of work, and the City should not
back off of the process because it is a difficult one. He stated that everyone
should work together to come up with a good plan that is defined.
IV. PERSONS WISHING TO SPEAK AGAINST THE PROPOSED REQUEST
Byron Sutherland, 2458 Country Club Drive, Pearland, TX, stated that he has
property on both sides of Cullen. He stated that they don't need any more help
from the City, and that the original plan showing low density single family
residential is just fine. He reminded City Council that the majority of people who
move to Pearland move here for the quiet rural area, and this new proposal is
making Pearland become more like Houston. He then stated that he has two
points to address. He stated that first of all he has heard a misleading statement
numerous times about how this is not anything immediate, and this is all for the
future. He stated that those statements are bologna and if this plan is adopted,
then the barriers will be down and the gates will be open. He then stated his
second point is that there are businesses out there have been unregulated and
Pearland has not done much of a job of watching the businesses that are their
now. He stated that there is already one place that has 18 -wheelers driving in
and out of Stone Road and their driveway is not adequately wide enough to
accommodate them. He then requested that the City should try to talk to more of
the residents in that area because they out number the businesses.
Jim Humlick, 1212 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated he would like to speak
about the green space along the creek that would go right through the middle of
his swimming pool. He then stated that he moved here over 20 years ago for the
green space. He stated that it would too short of a trail to even break a sweat,
and on the other side of the creek is one of the nicest parks in the country. He
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would like to know how the trail got put on the plan. He stated that he would like
to know how the City can annex him, raise his taxes three years consecutively,
take 200' proposed buffer space of his land, and not tell him anything about it.
He stated that he has not received any notifications. He stated that he doesn't
mind paying school taxes, because good schools mean good communities. He
stated that he is aggravated that someone is coming to him wanting 60' of his
front and 200' of his back so that someone else can jog in his back yard.
Monica Daly, 1156 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated that first of all the 200'
buffer zone cuts right through her living room. She stated that she has two
issues. She stated that first of all regarding the buffer zone, and what the
restrictions would be to build her house if it is ever destroyed. She stated that
she doesn't think there should be any restrictions. She then stated that she
doesn't know the difference from the Land Use Plan or Zoning, but she does
know that if she is ever trying to sell her property and they see a green belt or
something that will make it more of a flood area more then it is, then it will detract
from the value of her land. She stated that her second issue is the green
belt/jogging space and that she does not want it in her back yard. She stated
that there is a beautiful park across the street and people's homes should not be
taken away or invaded.
Lucy Gehring, 1129 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated that she feels like the
entire proposed map should be totally rejected and she stated her reasons. Her
first reason was that the steering committee was not a true representation of the
residents in the entire area. She stated that 5 of the committee live in Pasadena,
Friendswood, or the Brookside area. She stated that they need to totally do
away with the hike -n -bike trail. She stated that the proposed trail will be taking
property from citizens because it will be taking their home entirely or will cause
needless problems with crime and violence. She stated they live south of the
world's largest crime area in the United States. She stated that the trail could not
be properly fenced due to the flood zone and the area could not be properly
watched by the police department to prevent crime. She stated that two
policemen have told her that just across the creek drug deals are made because
it is a secluded area. She stated that it was said at the town meeting that nothing
would happen for 30 years, however, her children and grand -children would be
greatly affected. She said it was also stated at the meeting that no one wants to
live along a thoroughfare, and she does not think that is true, and she referred to
Houston. She stated that only one business is addressed on the map, and the
other businesses that were already there, according to the proposal will be zoned
residential. She stated that the one commercial property on Stone Road has
obtained "Commercial" status, and he is a committee member. She gave the
remaining portion of her letter to City Council.
Suzanne Dietrich, 2225 Hawk Meadows, Pearland, TX, stated that she is mostly
concerned about the "Commercial" area on the map. She stated that
"Commercial" is much different from "General Business" or "Office Professional".
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Mrs. Dietrich then listed all of the uses allowed in "Commercial" zoning, and she
listed what can be allowed with a "Specific Use" permit. She stated that she
doesn't feel that this is compatible with the existing area. She stated that there is
currently Crystal Lake Subdivision, Southdown, Countryplace (which is
enlarging), schools, a church, a cemetery, a nice shopping center, and another
church area at the end of Cullen Boulevard. She then stated that "Commercial"
uses are not compatible next to the Creek because of pollution, or flooding. She
stated that there are 10 homes across from Brookside Rd, and 6 homes in the
area zoned "Commercial", and they should not be next to any of these allowable
"Commercial" uses. She argued that this is not just a "vision", and it should be
pointed out to the people that if this approved then when ever there is a request
for zoning, the Master Plan will be referred to. She suggested that they consider
having this "Commercial" area zoned as "General Business", "Office
Professional", "Residential", or "Neighborhood Services". She said that Cullen
Boulevard can still be very nice with out the "Commercial" zoning. She finished
by stating that she does not approve of the Steering Committee and that
planners should be doing the planning.
Joe Cavazos, 2338 Hawk Meadows Dr, Pearland, TX, stated that he is the
President of the HomeOwner's Association for Hawk Meadows. He stated that
20 years ago he and his bride came shopping for property and chose this area.
He stated that the Cullen Corridor is one of the most beautiful parts of Pearland.
He pointed out that when you're coming down Cullen you see a lake, stables,
and then you cross a creek. He compared the area to a Norman Rockwell
painting. He pleaded for the City to maintain the natural beauty of the area. He
stated that he does not like all the "Commercial" area on the proposed map, and
asked how they are supposed to have children around that kind of area.
Suzanne Danz, 1357 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated that there are a couple of
major flaws. She stated that first of all, large commercial areas should not be
adjacent to a waterway, a residential street, and a major entrance to the City.
She stated that this is not a logical place for "Commercial" zoning, and referred to
businesses that store products such as liquids and petroleum being allowed next
to a creek. She listed more appropriate locations for "Commercial" zoning would
be Beltway 8, along a railroad track, or along Hwy 288. She stated that the large
"C" area only contains 1 business. She stated that this plan needs to be adjusted
to match the decision made by City Council to keep Stone Road as a collector
street. She said that Stone Road has 42 homes, and 4 businesses and should
be kept residential, and the existing businesses should be zoned "General
Business" and no businesses should be added. She stated that the second flaw
would be the park along the creek. She stated that there are currently many
acres of a park located across the creek, and there are currently 10 homes in the
designated area. She suggested that the Land Use for this area should be
primarily Residential with General Business and Neighborhood Services only
along the thoroughfare. She finished by stating that the voters of Pearland would
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not support any bond issues regarding the current proposed Cullen Boulevard
overlay.
Marian Haynes, 4717 Brookside Rd, Peadand, TX, stated that she has been a
resident of Peadand for 20 years. She lived in Houston and fell in love with
Pearland 20 years ago. She purchased 10 acres of property so that her children
could live there. She opposed heavy industrial because she wants her
grandchildren to be safe. She stated that a week and a half ago something hit
her brick mailbox, and she knows it was either a big truck or 18 -wheeler, and
these are the kinds of things she does not want happening. She stated that she
wants the best for themselves and their children and asked City Council to
consider them as though they were thinking of themselves.
Juanita Sutherland, 2458 Country Club Dr, Pearland, TX, stated that she has two
pieces of property located next to the proposed commercial site. She said that
one of them is a two-story residence with a two -car garage and on nine acres,
and a Commercial Business next door is the last thing they need. She stated
that the same residence has the 200' open space buffer which is suggested to
have a linear park, and she asked if City Council could imagine people
wondering through their backyard day and night. She then stated the house
across from the business is a brick house with a yard full of trees and is 65 years
old. She stated that during the busy season there are trucks and cars that go in
and out of the business day and night, and large 18 -wheelers cannot effectively
turn in the driveway, and then end up blocking Stone Road. She stated that the
business is currently zoned "General Business" and she wonders what it would
be like if it was zoned "Commercial". In her opinion, the proposed "Commercial"
zoning is a sellout of the people who came earlier and invested their time and
money in the area. She asked to be put down as "Just Say No" to the
"Commercial" zoning and the linear park along the creek.
Phillip Padilla, 1142 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated that he is at the very end
of the dead end street. He stated that the green zone would take him completely
out of his property, and it would leave him a small lot. He stated that he has a
two story Victorian house that he does not want to lose. He stated that he is
currently on a water well and septic system, and if a business comes in without
proper facilities their water could be contaminated. He stated that he welcomes
the City of Pearland out there, but does not want to lose his house, and asked
that they reconsider the park trail.
Paul Ridgeway, 1833 Hillhouse, Pearland, TX, currently a resident of Pearland
for 12 years. He stated he would like to make a few points. He first of all
received a notice in the mail addressed to 633 Hillhouse, and his address is 1833
Hillhouse because the City changed his address. He stated that he would like to
challenge proper notification to the people, and it is amazing he even got his
letter at all. He hasn't seen a lot of representation from his street, but is sure
they would be concerned. He then stated that the notification really isn't clear
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enough for the average citizen to understand. He referred to Susan Dietrich, and
how she clarified what "C" on that map really means. He stated if the City would
send out proper notification the Council Chambers would be full. His second
point was about the hike -n -bike trail. He stated when he first moved to Pearland
he was on the Keep Pearland Clean committee, and does not remember seeing
that trail on their Master Plan. He last of all challenged City Council about what
Pearland is all about. He stated that he wants his children to be here 30 years
from now. He asked that the City re-evaluate the proposal.
Dr. Rebecca Dodds, 3510 E. Broadway, Pearland, TX, stated that unlike most
people who have spoken, she has only been in Pearland for one year, and does
not live anywhere near the proposed site. She is speaking as a representative
for all the young professionals who are moving into the City of Pearland. She
works in Clear Lake and could have chosen to live closer to her work, however,
she chose to live here because it gives a rural feeling, and she is close enough to
commute with the City. She stated that what this Master Plan represents is what
she is trying to get away from. She stated that she understands that the City has
to have businesses, however, industry does not have to be here. She stated that
if this is the kind of thing the City is headed for, then this is not the kind of place
she wants to live, and she will look for someone else.
Dr. Gary Arwell, a veterinarian, stated he has been a 21 year resident of
Pearland, and lives at the southern tip of Cullen. He stated that he cannot accept
the oxymoron of an "industrial greenbelt". He stated that he would like to suggest
making the whole "C" area a greenbelt with staggered residences. He stated that
he drives down Telephone Road, and that is what the City will have 20 years
from now. He has a degree in Wild Life Science, and he feels that the Creek has
enough problems, and doesn't think the City is aware of what type of wildlife
exists there now. He stated it would totally disrupt the area if the City comes in
and starts clearing out land now.
Victor Patterson, 1833 Stone Road, Peahand, TX, stated he was here opposing
the Stone Road opening a few weeks ago, and likewise he is opposed to this
project. He stated that it would bring a lot of problems to mix businesses with
residences. He referred to an incident regarding the business on Stone Road,
and how one of their employees harassed his wife. He stated that there should
somehow be a segregation between the businesses and the residences.
Charlotte Gates, 1617 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated she is at the corner of
Stone Road and Brookside Road, and the proposed McHard Road will go
through her home. She stated she is totally opposed to any "Commercial"
businesses, and that her family makes a living off the land out here. She stated
that they hand dug a septic tank, and put in mobile homes. She stated that they
have cows, chickens, 5 children and 3 grandchildren. She stated that she wants
the City to understand that there are families out there. She stated that her
husband runs a small construction business out of her home, and if the City
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would like to zone her residential and charge less taxes then that would please
her, but she would like to operate her businesses and keep her cows. She is
hoping that the City will back off a lot of this proposal. She compared the area to
Missouri City and how they have put in beautiful areas and would like to see this
for Pearland. She stated that her area is a nice area and she would like to keep
it residential.
Steve Bowers, 7002 Brookside, Pearland, TX, also has a house on Stone Road.
He stated that he moved out here for horses, cows, and trees, and they do not
need "Commercial" out there because it will cause more traffic and it will be
dangerous. He stated that the hike -n -bike trails either, for the simple fact that the
police department will not be able to monitor people's property out there. He
stated that the area is nice and he would like to keep it that way. He said the City
mailed him three letters to the old address and doesn't know his new address.
He pleaded with City Council to not put that "Commercial" area out there.
Mrs. Beatrice, 8210 Brookside Rd, Pearland, TX, stated she has been there for
42 years, and she has seen the area grow into a group of wonderful neighbors
and friends. She stated that she has 9 acres where her grandchildren play, and
her husband is 86 years old, who was told back in 1939 that he would never work
and he has worked to own this property. She stated that he has asbestos of the
lungs, and having "Commercial" across the street would not help anybody. She
stated it is a nice area that should have homes on it. She understands that
progress has to go on, however, she cannot understand the hike -n -bike trail.
She stated that just recently she had a tiller stolen out of her pump house, and if
someone would steal a tiller, then just imagine what would come across from
Houston.
Craig Buyajian, 14207 Hawk Meadows, Pearland, TX, stated that he has been a
resident for 25 years. He looked and looked for a house, and finally found a
house in Pearland. He stated that he didn't know he was buying property that
would be next to Commercial or Industrial area. He stated that he saw a note
stuck to his mailbox from a concerned neighbor, otherwise, he would not have
known anything about this. He stated that the trail would be a great idea if they
were building a new subdivision, but there is existing properties that no one
seems to be thinking about. He stated that Pearland has done a lot of growth
without thinking about a lot of things. He stated that he may not be able to afford
to stay here with the continuous tax increases, and he just received another letter
today stating that they are going up 10%, which is allowable by state law.
Russell Norris, 1310 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, stated that he moved out here
over 15 years ago. He stated that he protested against the widening of Stone
Road and he is also against this. He stated that they were taken into the City of
Pearland in 1999, and were immediately put into a park and a "Commercial"
zone. He stated that he knows everyone in the City of Pearland has someone
that represents them on City Council, and whoever represents these people out
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here and would let this type of legislation take place is not a very good politician.
He stated that he and the people resent this type of legislation. He stated that he
found out about this from one of his neighbors. He has learned more and more
as he has been sitting here tonight, and he knows he is totally against the
proposal, and anything he can do to fight it he will do it.
Jack Harris, 1258 Stone Road, Pearland, TX, County Commissioner for this area,
and he stated that he has an obligation just as City Council does to the citizens
who are here tonight. He stated that he worked very hard to keep the area clean
when it was a county area, and hopes that City Council does the same thing. He
stated that first of all he thinks its time for the City to start mowing out there and
invited the City to join him. He stated that secondly he received a nice letter from
Alan Mueller on the Reid Road/Stone Road situation. He then wished that Alan
Mueller would make a little note that he doesn't live at 12810 Stone Road
anymore and that he lives at 1258 Stone Road, and pointed out that Mr. Mueller
is the one who changed his address. He stated that in looking at the committee,
there are property owners, but they don't live at the property. He asked that the
proposal is reconsidered and to widen the committee with more representation
from the area, especially those who have invested in the area with their homes.
He stated that the green belt along the creek may be the most expensive jogging
trail in the world because first you would have to give fair market value of the
property and you would have the Texas Takings Law which states that the City
would have to reimburse for the decrease in the value of the properties along that
creek. He stated that the City would not only destroy the back end of the
property, but would also destroy the part, which is there to protect the citizens
from flooding. He stated that right now the County, the school district, and the
City of Brookside are working very hard on having a regional park, and if the City
wants to spend money on a park, then come join everyone else because the
city's property line backs up to the edge of the property that surrounds Lawhon
School. He briefly explained the project and invited the City to get involved.
John Brown, 2333 Hawk Meadows Dr, Pearland, TX, stated he has been here for
3 years. He stated that one -day he was driving down Max Road where he saw
some green substance on the road. He called the County and talked to the
health dept and they couldn't help. He then called EPA and they came out and
found out it was radiation. He stated that it was on the road, someone's house,
and it was going into the creek and EPA shut down the business. He said that
was only one incident of a "Commercial" place. He then referred to the blowup
that happened on Mykawa Road and how they couldn't tell the fire department
what was in each section of the building. He doesn't mind progress, but if this
does pass, then the City better keep a tight grip on what is going on.
Jim Mathis, 8013 Brookside Rd, Pearland, TX, stated that he has been a resident
for 24 years, he is married, and has 4 children. He briefly explained that Culle
Boulevard overlay would not be good for the area. He stated that it would be
good thing if it would preserve the quality of life that most residents moved t_
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Pearland for. He stated that this proposal is not in the best interest of our
community but is good for a fast buck. He stated that some of the participants of
the committee don't even live in Pearland. He explained that the area is mainly
residential where people moved to raise their families, and the businesses that
were grandfathered should be protected allowing them to conduct business, but
none of them should be allowed any zoning upgrades. He stated that the
community has an internet web page, and there is a whole page on Pearland and
the quality of life, and there is a history page stating that they are building toward
the future done by planning in the present based on lessons learned in the past.
He stated that they are a community that looks out for each other, and he stated
that the don't need any "Commercial" or "Industrial" in their residential area. He
then summarized what he has stated to City Council and encouraged them to
preserve the quality of life, and he asked them to consider what is right in this
matter.
Phillip Swartz, resident of Silverlake area, stated that he and some friends were
looking to put a bid down on some property at the end of Hillhouse, and they
would have closed on the property by now if they wouldn't have seen this master
plan. He then asked City Council how many strip centers does a particular area
need. He stated that there are lots of areas on Hwy 288 and along the Beltway
for development such as this. He pointed out that any property value of property
backing up to this Commercial area will be decreased. He then showed concern
regarding the middle school that will be located next to the "General Business"
area. He stated that he moved to this area because it is a rural community, and
he understands that businesses need to be brought in however, they should not
be brought in at the expense of the residencies.
Walter Pasciak, 7705 Brookside Rd, Pearland, TX, stated that he would like to
support Mr. Long, who was very helpful with the address issue, however he did
not like it when it was mentioned that after a year his own people, the City of
Pearland, has not made a change of address yet. He then asked how the City
could go forward with something when they can not do something as simple as
change of addresses. He then stated that he never did get to speak to Mr. Long
directly and that he probably spoke to his secretary. He stated that he has also
worked with Ed Hersh on getting the grass cut, and he has been very supportive.
He stated that he has also worked with Kevin in Animal Control, who has been
helpful in picking up stray animals and dead wildlife. He then questioned the
map used for the proposal and spoke of some high-pressure gas lines that run
through the area that has restrictions on them. He was concerned that they are
not shown on the map. Mr. Pasciak then suggested that the whole issue be
tabled until everything is straight. He then stated that there is not an ISL slope
that is not shown on the map and then stated that the City better get with the
FAA to see what kind of restrictions there is. He stated that his wife already has
lung problems now caused by the industry, and he stated that City does not need
any more industry. He stated that the Police Department has not been able to
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control the speed limit in the area. He stated that the City can't control the area
now, and they are just going to add to their problems.
V. COUNCILIPLANNING COMMISSIONISTAFF DISCUSSION
Mr. Tobin Maples, Manager of Administrative Support
Council Member Seeger stated that he is glad to see some concerns regarding
the make of the committee, and he did protest that there was not enough
homeowners on it, and was unfortunately overruled. He encouraged to try to get
more homeowners on the Committee and based on the presentation they have
seen tonight from the residents.
Council Member Tetens thanked the citizens for coming out and giving the
information they have given, and it will help the Committee to re -study the plan,
as well as City Council.
Council Member Owens spoke regarding the green space and stated that
Commissioner Harris is right in his comments. He commented on the citizens
concern regarding the city taxes and stated that city taxes did not go up and that
the property valuation went up, which the City Council has nothing to do with. He
also stated that he appreciates everyone coming out and expressing their
concerns.
Council Member Wilkins stated that he concurs with everything that has already
been said and he feels this plan is far from being done. He also stated that he
hopes there will be some additional homeowners on the committee. He stated
that at this time he could not support the proposal, so he hopes there will be a
compromise and he feels that one way to do that would be to change the make
up of the Committee.
P&Z Chairman Viktorin stated that regardless of the turnout he would like the
citizens to know that he grew up west of Pearland, and have been here long
enough to remember "dead mans curve". He went to Brookside High School,
and has seen numerous changes occur on the west side. He stated that he now
has over 1,000 vehicles an hour that passes by his road, and he is okay with this
and he takes the good with the bad. He reminded the citizens that the people
here at the City are trying to make decisions based upon input from these
groups, and from the citizens, and he asked for their patience.
Council Member Owens stated that since he has been on City Council he has
heard a lot of comments about why people have moved out to the City of
Pearland, and he copes that through whatever changes, that in the year 2010
people are still moving here for the same reason they did in 1937.
Council Member Marcott stated that he has some questions he would like to
input from staff on. He first of all asked about the green space.
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Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples stated that green space that is
shown on the current plan is identical to the one shown on the existing plan, and
it is nothing new. He stated that every creek in Pearland on the Master Plan calls
for a linear park. He stated that is not sure whether or not it will ever be
developed.
Councilmember Owens asked about the concerns of the citizens regarding
parking, and Mr. Maples responded that they could only control what is in our
jurisdiction. He stated that from they way it is shown, the City could possibly
build bridges or loops to tie into the park across to the north.
Council Member Marcott asked about the flood plain and asked if staff could talk
more about that issue.
Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples stated that he does not have
any flood maps in front of him, and he reminded Council that the City of Pearland
does not have anything to do with establishing the 100 year flood plain, and that
it is done by a core of engineers for FEMA. He stated that the 100 year flood
plain does not allow any construction in it under today's rules, so even if a house
is in that area, and if a hurricane comes through to blow it down, then federal
government will not allow the city to issue a permit.
Council Member Marcott then asked about questions from the citizens about
"taking the land".
Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples stated that this plan is not
looking to condemn any property, however, if a property owner should decide to
sell, and someone wants to come in and re -develop the whole area then at that
point we would start looking at establishing a trail system.
Council Member Marcott then referred to a question asked by the citizens about
how nothing would be done for 30 years, and asked staff to comment on that.
Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples stated that he would like to
point out to the citizens that if someone comes in for a request for "Residential"
or "Commercial" zoning in the area then the City would use this plan as a guiding
tool.
Council Member Marcott asked about Council Member Owens comment on the
process and the people that are on the committee.
Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples stated that staff would be
looking for direction from City Council on expanding or reducing the Committee.
He stated that from the beginning they have tried to create this committee based
on similar committees created from other cities. He pointed out that the Steering
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230
Committee comes up with the plan, guides
public for comments so that it can be sent
evaluated. He then stated that it is obviously
what he has heard tonight.
it, and then it is presented to the
back to the Committee to be re -
not ready to be adopted based on
Council Member Marcott asked how the Committee got started, and Mr. Maples
replied that he was approached by both business and residential property owners
with the same concern that they would not be able to get their developments
through the existing Comprehensive Plan, so they actually wanted this plan to be
re-evaluated.
Council Member Marcott stated there were several comments made regarding
the addressing, and he asked if the City can get more accurate.
Manager of Administrative Support Tobin Maples stated that it is our problem
because it is our responsibility to notify all of the utility providers (SWBT, HL&P,
Appraisal District, and County) and it is up to them to change their databases.
He stated that the City is required to go off the tax rolls when notifying people.
He stated that we physically changed these addresses, and Brazoria County or
the Appraisal District hasn't made the changes yet.
Council Member Marcott asked if Mr. Maples can verify if it is the City's problem
or if it is County's problem, and Mr. Maples replied that it is County's problem.
County Commissioner Harris stated that the letter he received came from the
City and had nothing to do with County, so the City is still carrying him on the
City's rolls as 1218 Stone Road and the City changed it to 1258 Stone Road.
Mr. Maples stated that the City uses the rolls certified from the County.
Mr. Harris argued that obviously the City has not submitted the information to
County.
Mr. Pasciak stated that he talked to Mr. Long today, and it takes Brazoria County
up to 2 years to get these addresses changed, and he told Mr. Long that wasn't
good enough because the mail is going to stop running to the old address this
month.
Council Member Marcott asked if staff could try to get this corrected with County,
and Mr. Harris stated that if they don't get the data from the City then County
can't make their changes. Mr. Harris stated that he will get with the tax assessor
in the morning to make sure that County is not involved in this.
Council Member Marcott referred to a speaker who had trouble with the
notification not being clear enough and he asked if there is anyway the City can
do a better job with the explanations. Mr. Maples stated that that is one of the
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reasons these Joint Public
found on the City's website.
or planning department and
over anything.
231
Hearings are held, and the information can also be
He then stated that anyone can also call the permit
he would be more then glad to set a meeting to go
Discussion ensued regarding the green space, and again, Mr. Maples explained
that the green space was on the original plan, which was adopted in 1999.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
The Joint Public Hearing adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Minutes respectful submitted by,
J nnifer a an ' & Zoning Secretary
Minutes approved as submitted and/or corrected this _
June AD, 2001
Larry Marc&, Mayor Pro -Tem
13
li day of
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