>> can we do a head count. >> good evening, everybody.
good to see everybody. 7:00.
we will be opening this meeting of the city council on
may fifth, 2026. For those of you noticing that the mayor is not here in his stead, he had a medical
emergency last night and he was treated last night, he is at home resting, he is a fine. But it did sort of knock him off
his pins a little bit so I will be filling in tonight.
we have a quorum present and the first item of business will be
our invocation. Giving the invocation will be
pastor alton mckinley from rowlett french baptist church.
>> let a spray, gracious god, we thank you for...
with such great use... Grant us this opportunity to...
we thank them for what they do. We pray for their family...
understanding love, one community.
there is a lot of stuff going on around us or we are thankful for how you have watched over our people.
work because you've got a plan ...
we are leaders to those who you have around you...
all men -- amen. >> now the pledge of allegiance.
>> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the united states of america, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
texas flag, I pledge allegiance to thee, one state, under god,
indivisible. >> we have a lot going on
tonight and we have a lot of presentations this evening to begin with. And also some arts and
humanities awards. We are over limit for what this rope -- room can hold. It cannot hold 106 people.
so if you are here for public comment, whatever the topic is
if you would not mind may be weighed in the lobby so we can
finish the presentations and get them done. Those people can than lead -- leave and everybody can come
back in. I think we will be okay as far as the fire marshal is concerned.
so if you can do that that would be helpful.
if you are here for public comment may be if you could just wait in the lobby for a few minutes so we can get the
numbers down here in the room. Okay.
I'm sorry. Yes.
okay. That is a good idea.
yes. So we would change the order just a little bit here so that we can get some of the larger
groups out of here. So we will go ahead and do we
will do the number 2b a proclamation recognizing city of
well-lit employees for the week of may 3 e-9, 2026 as public
service recognition week. And making that presentation will be councilmember lisa bowers.
>> hello. There we go. I figured we had a number of city employees here so thank you all you guys thank you for showing up and then clearing out
that will free up some of the space. I am delighted to be here to recognize and thank all of our
public employees. I have worked, let me think. With at least three quarters of these people and I can tell you
it was always a joy and pleasure to work with them.
so, here is the proclamation. Here we go. Were asked congress, and the president of the united states,
have designated may third through ninth as public service
recognition week, and whereas the city of rowlett is strengthened and sustained by the dedication, professionalism,
and service of its municipal employees. And were as these individuals work diligently across all
departments to support residents and local businesses and local visitors ensuring the continued growth, safety, and vitality of
the community. Whereas the contributions of the
city of rowlett employees reflect a commitment to excellence, integrity, in public service, that enhances the
quality of all who live here and work here and play here and visit in the city. Whereas public service
recognition week 2026 provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the hard work, collaboration, and impact of
municipal employees who helped drive the city of rowlett
forward and whereas it is fitting and proper to honor
these employees for their ongoing dedication and invaluable service to the public and the community as a whole.
on be hot -- behalf of jeff winget and the city council we proclaim this week of may third through ninth as public service
recognition week. [applause]
>> take a photo. Come on, get in.
>> thank you thank you. >> all right.
thank you. Now we will kind of get on track here and we make the presentation of the rowlett
federal recognition -- veteran recognition program certificate
to veteran, master sergeant john francis massad jr. Of the
united states air force. I will be making this presentation along with chris khazar,'s granddaughter,and the
family. [applause]
all right. This is always a great win. The city instituted this program in 2017 in order to show
appreciation to those members of our community who have dedicated their time in service to our nation.
assisting with the selection of the recognitions of the honors peace is a veteran's,, and outreach center.
the rowlett veteran at center recognition program also brings awareness to issues in our community, what is being done,
what is still being. Mayor winget and city council is
honored to continue formerly recognizing all branches of the armed services at city meetings. I will turn it over to chris.
>> all right. This is one of the largest
groups we have probably ever had at one time. We are excited about this welcome and thank you for coming
out today to obviously recognize and draw some attention to this month's honorary in. This one is an air force master
sergeant. A lot of work for us at the
veteran resource outreach center. So thanks to michelle, she is the master of arms over there
and our director. [applause]
for those of you who know, there has been a handful of times that my granddaughter has come up here and on a handful of these
and I do not think she was quite ready for quite so many today. So a little bit of warm fuzzy make her feel good about coming
up here. Usually we have ford e-50 and today it was about 150. So we will read this bio and get
the show on the road. [applause]
>> good evening. My name is alexis cole tucker. Before I get started, can we have the veterans stand up so we
can all give them a round of applause, please?
[applause] thank you, guys, for your
service. Okay. The city of rowlett, alongside the veterans resource and
outreach center, probably honours retired u.s. Air force retired master sergeant john francis massad jr. Of the
united states air force as her 39th veteran for his dedicated commitment to his community. John and listed in the
united states air force in 1992 at the age of 25 as a heavy
equipment operator. With the 89 civil engineer squadron andrews air force base in maryland.
what began as a practical decision to secure employment quickly evolved into a distinguished 22 year career
military career defined by hard work, resilience, and leadership. In 1996 john was stationed in korea at pilsen? Sorry, guys.
arranged for a 12 month tour and experience that challenged him both personally and professionally and prepared them
for the demands of future deployments. In 1997 he was assigned to fort walton beach florida where he
joined in the 823rd red horse squadron.
during this time he deployed multiple times in support of operations in iraq, afghanistan, and quite -- ultimately
deploying to iraq 14 times over the course of his career. Over the course of his career john and his family were
transferred to... I know it is there.
yes? Okay germany. We're they spent four memorable years experiencing new cultures
and building lasting memories. And 2006 they relocated to
spokane, washington, wear john served with the 92nd civil
engineer squadron for seven years. Continuing to deploy while balancing the responsibilities
of a military service and family life. He honorably retired from the united states air force in 2014.
in april 2000 john married his wife, talley, beginning a beautiful partnership built on love, faith, and shared purpose.
their story began in 1998 through an online connection
that grew into a lifelong commitment. Together they built a large and loving family raising and
adopting seven children. John adopted her three children
from her previous marriage and together they went on to adopt four more children. Today their children range in
age from 14 up to 36 and they are proud grandparents to 13
grandchildren. Good for you guys.
following his retirement from the air force john continued serving his community as a construction inspector for the
city of rowlett from 2014 until 2024. Due to health challenges he transitioned to permanent
disability but his commitment to service has never wavered. Dolly has dedicated her life to serving others from being a
foster parent to abused and neglected children, to running a licensed home day care, to serving as a crossing guard with
the rowlett police department since 2017. Her heart for community mirrors john's own.
together john and dolly have remained deeply involved in both
their local and veteran communities. John coached youth baseball for eight seasons leading teams to
multiple championships. Their family has been active in martial arts, youth sports, and community outreach efforts
including collecting food and toys for the rowlett needy children's fund. They are active members of the
church community where they have served in children's ministry, recovery programs, in leadership roles and a want.
they also support federal -- fellow veterans through participation in ptsd support groups and danny willett wounded
warrior support camps. They volunteer their time at the veterans resource outreach center.
today they enjoy camping, fishing, gardening, and spending time with their children and grandchildren, while continuing
to get back to the community they love. Like many veterans, they found their way to the veterans
resource and outreach center drink a time when support in connection it mattered most. What they discovered was more
than just resources, they found a place where they felt scene, heard, and genuinely cared for. They have shared that the
outreach programs and the consistent support offered
through the center have made a meaningful difference in their
lives. They also expressed deep appreciation for the leadership and heart behind veterans
resource and outreach center noting the work being done requires an extraordinary level of dedication and compassion and
personal sacrifice. They've witnessed first-hand the
time and effort that goes into ensuring the veterans and their families receive the support they need often beyond regular
hours and expectations. To tim -- to them the vroc is not just a resource it is a lifeline.
it is a lifeline. The work being done there is both essential. His life is a reflection of
service not only to his family but his community periods
dedication, sacrifice, and continued commitment to others embodies the very best of what it means to serve.
drink is 22 years of service he received more than 20 metals and
accommodations. Plase stand and help me welcome our 49th veteran's recognition program master sergeant john
francis massad jr. >> I will go ahead now and read
the proclamation and then we will turn it over to our friends. So certificate of recognition
master sergeant john francis massad jr., the freedom and security of the united states enjoyed it today our direct
result of the bloodshed and continued vigilance given by the united states armed forces over the history of our great nation.
defending the constitution, protecting the blessings of liberty, and paying the price of freedom for us all.
we are eternally grateful for those who have seen the horrors of war and the rest of society yet continue to serve and ensure
the best of what humanity can do [applause]
I want to go to our next segment which is very important for us. We invite teresa. Sorry, we cannot forget amber.
>> my name is teresa jones and I am very glad you all showed up
tonight to help me present this quote to master sergeant john
francis massad jr. Very proud to be here to present this quote to him. I have a little bit of a story
to tell you tonight so it will just take me a few minutes if you will bear with me. I am here today as a volunteer
to join the community and on the rink one of our distinguished
veterans. I also want to take a moment to tell you about quilts of valor. This is an international
organization whose mission is to provide quotes of comfort and healing to those who have been touched by war.
the organization started in 2003 by a blue star mom, katherine
roberts. And has awarded over 430,000 quilts as of this month. So I guess it is a 430,001.
the idea for quotes of valor came to miss roberts literally in a dream. At the time her son was deployed
in iraq and in her dream she saw another young soldier sitting at
the side of his bed in the middle of the night hunched over. She saw him being dragged down
into an emotional gutter. Then, as if viewing the movie, she saw in the next scene him wrapped in a quote periods holy
demeanor changed from one of the spirit of one hope and well-being. Made a very dramatic change.
the message of her dream was that quilts equal healing. Miss roberts developed a model where volunteers would donate
their time and materials to make a quote. Perhaps one person in the group would peace the top and the
other would quilted. And then others would present it all these steps ould be done by the same person or group.
she saw th name of the special quotes group as a quilt of
valor. This would unequivocally say
thank you for your service, your sacrifice, your valor in serving our nation. The first quilt of valor was
awarded in november 2003 at walter reed medical center to a
young soldier in minnesota who lost his leg and arm in iraq.
since 2003 quilts of valor has spread across the nation and beyond. Today in conjunction with our
veterans resource outreach the efforts of quilts of valor and
our particular group witches for patriots, we are very honored to be awarding this group to mr. John francis massad jr. I
believe. Through quotes of a valor you will become part of our quote family.
each time a quilt of valor is formed by loving hands joining
bits of fabric together one piece at a time we believe that as we construct these quotes at the love, the key ring, the
gratitude flows through our hearts and into our hands into the quote. We all as volunteers want you to
know that through our quilts you will forever be in our hearts.
amber, let's hold that. [applause]
[applause] >> on behalf of quilts of valor
foundation and a grateful nation, with our deepest appreciation, we thank you for our service to our country and
with this quote of valor award we welcome you home.
each quote that has a personalized label and it is on
here somewhere. It is right here. It says his name and to who put the quote together for him.
we also have a recognition for you on behalf of the quilts of
valor foundation. It is a privilege to serve, on
her, and comfort you through the award of this quilt of valor.
that we may never know the death of your sacrifice to protect and defend the united states of america.
as a gesture of gratitude from a grateful nation we award this
quilt of valor to you. >> thank you very much.
[applause] >> would you like to say something? Okay, she talked him into it.
>> I just would like to say thank you for this presentation
and for this quilt. It is my pleasure to serve when
I served and for all of the other veterans out here I just
want to say thank you. [applause]
[applause] >> everybody up in the picture.
picture time. >> okay.
>> that one. Going to do this one.
>> very quickly it one more thing so tomorrow we have recognition aspects of our own veteran groups.
>> it is called sister heard in service it is a women's veterans group so if you a route women veteran come on by.
[applause] >> all right.
we will go ahead and move another one of the presentations just in the interest of making this go more smoothly.
we will be having the presentations of the winners of the annual writing contest sponsored by the humanities
writing commission. [laughter]
>> I see you standing out in the lobby. Or you okay? I see I need to turn.
>> all right. So thank you for coming tonight. I am here to present the winners of the 2026 writing contest
sponsored by the arts and humanities commission.
I am here with estella hunter and michelle stoped right.
you should have received your awarded check if not after this presentation and the artist presentation see me in the
entryway if you do not have your check and I will get that for you. Each year the arts and
humanities commission sponsors I'm writing contest dallas and
rocco county. Entries are accepted in the
divisions of adult, youth, and youth spanish with categories of
poetry, short stories of fiction and short stories of nonfiction.
this theme was shared stories shared spaces and the commission
received 118 entries. This evening our first place winners will be awarded 150th place winners will be awarded
$50. The winning entries can be viewed at rowlett.com/arts. When we call your name please
come down here stay here for a group of photo and then you are free to go. In the adult poetry division of
first place it goes to stephanie hawkins for this could have been
an email. [applause]
second place goes to alexandria for everything is not up home
and in the youth poetry division first place goes to...
for foreign in childhood and a second place goes to lily for
what we all share. And the youth spanish poetry
division first place goes to alien for.
for we are all different. For the adult short stories
division first place goes to patrick for stories shared in a waiting room, second place goes to alan for at the kitchen table
youth short story division first place goes to kaylee for some
nightmares and never end. [applause]
second place goes to lucy for the victoria and albert museum.
for the youth spanish story division first place goes to cash a choir for.
[applause] second place goes to kevin for
the time travel machine adult short work division first place
goes to stephanie hawkins for built different.
[applause] second place goes to amber lee for the room. Youth short work division first
place goes to sadie for our church. [applause] second place goes to lucy for is
of this fame? Youth short work spanish
division first place goes to... For be yourself second place
goes to allison sanchez for my dog big.
congratulations to all of the winners and to their teachers.
thank you so much for helping guide them through this and like
I said if you did not get your awarded check we would do one other award presentation and then I will be able to give
checks in the entryway if you cannot wait we can also mail your check. [applause]
[applause] >> just stay there.
>> just wait out there. >> all right.
and continuing with the winners of the 2026 and he will young
artist exhibit contest sponsored by arts and humanities commission and laura will again be making those presentations.
there we go. Got it.
>> okay. Now we are on to present the
winners of the 2026 young artist exhibit each year the arts and humanities commission hosts an art competition for students in
the rock wall garden districts in kindergarten through 12th grade enrolled in private and homeschool.
the commission's goal is to recognize talented young local artists and their young -- and there are teachers.
the commission received 99 entries in the 2d and 3d divisions. First place winners in grades
e-two and k3, and then a first place winners in grade nine
through 12 with a few hundred dollars. Grades non122nd place winners receive 100th place winners
receive $50. All at first, second, third, and
honorable mention winners receive prize ribbons. This evening we will be presenting checks to individuals
who have one prize money. You can visit our website to see
all of these exhibits. First place in the 2d division
kindergarten through second grade, a very cold winter. [applause] first place in the 2d division 3
through five, a place called home.
first place it division 2d, division 6-8, marianna,
unwrapping. [applause]
first place in the 2d division at 98 through 12.
hernandez, portrait with white sheets.
first place 3d division k to kingsley with living waters.
first place in the 3d division 3 through five river with animal decline and extinction preventer stilt walker.
first a place 3d division six through eight ferris with sushi.
[applause] first place 3d division at nine
through 12, max a with three faces. [applause] second place 2d division nine it
through 12, swan, t with the letter and.
sorry if I mispronounce that. Second-place division nine through 12 bound by time got to pick it up, remember.
there to place 2d division nine through 12. Angel s with behind nature. [applause]
and lastly third place 3d division nine through 12. The intertwined giraffes so again if you have an awarded
check coming to you and you have not received it meet me in the
entryway and we will disperse those. And lets we also have some art teachers in the audience could
we have the art teacher stand up so we can recognize you because
you guys are just as responsible as the kids. Can we have the art teachers rise so we can give them a round
of applause? [applause]
thanks so much to all of you for entering and supporting the arts and all of these great kids. Let's get a group photo.
>> come together a little closer.
[applause] >> good job.
>> all right. We will now move onto item 2c
recognizing the week of may 3rd through 2026 as rowlett
detention officer week. Councilmember gibbs will make
that presentation do you want to bring it on down?
>> I'm sorry. >> I've got it here.
>> I know. >> instead of doing all the
speech do you want to do this part and I will do.
>> just rating like. >> okay want to do that? Okay. So that you do that first.
>> all right. Typically the mayor it gets to do this so I have the honor to do it today.
chief denning I will let him go first I will let him tell you about these detention officers and the great job they do and
then we will get to the proclamation. >> thank you. Good evening everyone.
so it is my honor this week to be here to stand before you to
recognize may third through ninth as national detention
officer week. We take this opportunity to recognize these dedicated professionals who serve one of
the most demanding rolls in all of public safety.
are detention officers are truly the unsung backbone of law enforcement. They work behind the scenes
every day to maintain safety security and order within our facility. Their role extends far beyond
custody and control. They are responsible for entering every person in our care is treated with dignity and
kindness and respect regardless of the circumstances. That requires patience, restraint, and a steady
commitment to doing things the right way even in the most
difficult moments. Detention officers play a critical role in our overall public safety commission. Simply put we would not be able to do our jobs as police
officers without them. Their work ensures that individuals are securely and appropriately managed after an
arrest allowing our officers on the street to focus on responding to calls, protecting the community and preventing
crime. As chief I could not be more proud of the work this team performs.
we were previously recognized by the chief magistrate judge of
dallas county who stated that the rowlett jail it stands out as one of the finest if not the called and get the gold standard
of detention facilities. That recognition speaks volumes about these folks behind me and about the caliber have these
individuals who make this excellence possible. We also routinely hear end of it -- feedback from individuals who
take the time to return back to us to the jail that they were
once incarcerated in to express their appreciation. Not just for the situation they were in but for the way they
were treated while they were here. So that kind of feedback speaks directly to the character of our
detention officers. Their work strengthens accountability, supports every division of our department, and
ensures that we operate effectively as a whole. They truly embody our mission of providing exceptional service to
all, and reflect the values that we stand for as an organization.
so to our rowlett detention officers thank you for your professionalism, your commitment, and the way you
represent this department and our community. Into our community I invite you to join me in recognizing and
thinking these outstanding professionals not just this week but throughout the year. Thank you.
[applause] now for the proclamation.
whereas no group of americans has some more difficult or less publicly visible job than the brave men and women who work in
our detention facilities these officers are entrusted with a difficult and often dangerous assignment of ensuring they
custody, safety, and well-being of the inmates and minutes to pull jail. Their positions are essential to
the day-to-day operations of the police department and without
them it would be impossible to achieve the foremost institutional goals and security and where as -- whereas must
protect inmates from other inmates and protecting the
safety and security of the community and in recent years the duties of these officers have become increasingly more
complex and demanding as they are called upon to fill
simultaneously custodial supervisory and accommodating grows. The professionalism and encouragement exhibited by these officers throughout these
demanding and often conflicting rolls is deserving of our utmost respect. Where as the important work of
detention officers often does not receive the recognition it deserves it is important that the public know and appreciate
the capable handling and the physical and emotional demands
made upon them daily. Their profession requires careful and constant vigilance and the threat of violence is
always present. And whereas it is appropriate we
honored the detention officers for their invaluable contributions, they're consistent and dedicated
commitment to society, and from any contribution and accomplishments made by these men and women who are vital
components of law enforcement. Now therefore councilman gibbs on behalf of mayor winget on behalf of city council do
proclaim may third through 29th 2026 as rowlett detention
officers week. And I encourage our residents to join the city council in recognizing not only the
outstanding detention officers of rowlett, the detention and correctional officers throughout the nation who dedicate their
professional lives to the security for their communities thank you. [applause]
>> want to do a photo real quick?
all right. Now.
>> this will be for national police week chief do you want to come out and do this? >> any other rowlett officers
please come on down all right. So once again it is my honor to
be here as well of this week to recognize may tenth through 16th
as national police week. This week is not just a date on the calendar every year it is a time we set aside for reflection
for gratitude and for solemn remembrance. National police week matters because it calls us to do four
things. To honor those who have given their lives in the line of duty, to remember the families who
carry that loss every day, to support those who continue to serve, and to reaffirm as a community hour shared commitment
to public safety. As of the most recent 2026
year-to-date dated the fbi preliminary reports show that 21 a line of duty deaths have occurred between january first
and march 31st in the first three months of the year.
looking back in 202511 officers died serving their communities
eight of which were here in texas. And 2024 bid lost 148 with 18 in texas which was among the
highest in the nation and unfortunately that is a trend. In 2023 we lost 118 and 102-02-2224.
in 2020 when we experience the most devastating care in modern
history with 586 officers lost in one year many during the pandemic and at a time of national unrest.
these numbers matter because behind everyone a person behind every badge is a person. A name, a family, and a
sacrifice that will never be forgotten. So here in the city we are extremely fortunate.
we serve our community that stands with its police department. Your support, the city council,
our city leadership, and our residents matters more than you know. It strengthens our resolve and
reminds all of us out here that are officers and their hard work is valued. Policing demands courage in the
face of uncertainty and commitment to serve others even at great personal risk. The men and women of the rowlett
police department are officers, dispatchers, detention officers and professional staff and to the family to stand beside them
who sacrifice and support mixer service even possible thank you. Your work matters, your service makes a difference in this
community and it stands up firmly behind you. This week remember the following we honor those who serve, and we
commit ourselves to supporting you every step of the way thank you very much. [applause]
>> a good job. [applause]
>> just to be clear, chief, I like your font better than mine.
all right, proclamation, whereas the president and the congress of united states have designated may 15th for the week of which
may 15th falls as national police week and whereas the members of the police department of the city of rowlett play an
essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of rowlett and where as it is important that all citizens know
and understand the duties and responsibilities, hazards, and sacrifices of their police department, and that members of
our police department recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property by protecting them
against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent
against deception and the weak against oppression, and whereas the men and women of the city of rowlett police department
unceasingly provide a vital public service and, whereas we
honor the law enforcement officers who through their courageous deeds have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of
their community and, have become disabled and/or have become disabled and the performance of duty and let us recognize and
pay respect for the survivors of our fallen heroes.
now therefore councilman marvin gibbs on behalf of mayor jeff
winget and city council call upon all citizens of rowlett and
dull patriotic civic and educational organizations to observe the week of may 10th through 16th of 2026 as national
police week. With appropriate ceremonies and observances in which all other people may join in the commander
rating -- commemorating law enforcement officers passed
and present to have loyal devotion to their responsibilities have it rendered and dedicated service
to their communities and in so doing have established for themselves and injuring reputation for preserving the
rights and security of all citizens. I further call upon this incident -- citizens of rowlett
to honor the day of may 15th as national peace officers
memorial day. And the city of rowlett texas encourage the police officers a further to have law enforcement
officers and the communities across this nation thank you very much. [applause]
[applause] [applause]
>> we will now move on to item to e the presentation of
proclamation recognizing the month of may 2026 as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or als awareness month.
making that presentation will be councilmember john bowers the third. >> thank you, schupp, for
allowing me to come up here. To we have anybody in the audience who deals with als or has a family member who deals
with als? The one reason I'm happy to do this is as a citizen and a resident a neighbor of ours
brought this year and said als was something he dealt with his daughter deals with it and it is commonly unrecognized.
so they proclamation it reads and as well thank you guys fort wearing a red because that is als awareness month color so I
appreciate you guys wearing that. [applause] so, whereas amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis, commonly known as als, also known as lou gehrig's disease is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease
in which the brain loses the ability to control voluntary muscle movement, gradually impairing a person's ability to
walk, talk, eat, and ultimately breathe. And whereas thousands of individuals are diagnosed with
als each year it is estimated every 90 minutes somebody is
diagnosed with als another person loses their life to the disease and whereas the average life expectancy following
diagnosis as 2-5 years, underscoring the urgent need for
effective treatments under care. And whereas the exact cause of als remains unknown and there is currently no cure.
and whereas military veterans are disproportionately affected
by als and more likely to develop and die from the disease than those of no history of military service.
and whereas the als association is the largest philanthropic
funder of als research worldwide haven't committed more than $154 million to support more than 550 research projects
across the united states and in 18 countries. And whereas amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, als awareness month
provides an important opportunity to raise public awareness, recognize then individuals, and their families.
and encourage continued investment in research to eradicate this disease. Therefore I john bowers the
third on behalf of jeff winget, mayor of the city of rowlett, in the city council, do hereby proclaim the month of may 2026
as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis awareness month.
and the city of rowlett encourage our residents to support efforts to support research and advocate for
increased funding and stand in solidarity with those affected by this disease. Thank you. [applause] >> now we will move on to item
two h. Update city council financial
operations projects, upcoming dates of interest, and upcoming items of community interest. We have a lot of them so we will
break them up into two. First we will let councilmember bowers go and then he will be followed by councilmember
reeves. >> perfect thank you for bringing that back to meet so shortly.
so from the city secretary's office the unofficial election results of the general election held on saturday may second
20262 alex city council place as one, three, and five are in. Congratulations to chris, vibrant, and carter place five.
city council will canvass the final election results on wednesday may 13th 2026 and the duly elected council members
will be sworn in at that time. Join us on may 13th as we have a
reception for outgoing and incoming council members. From community engagement, outcome and community events,
join us in downtown rowlett for our live on a mainstream series.
happening friday night on may eighth and 15th from six until 9:00 p.m. Enjoy a lively evening with a
free concert shot from a variety of local craft vendors and be
sure to visit our wonderful downtown restaurants and shops while you are here. It is the perfect way to spend
the spring evening. See you on a main.
rowlett writes is rolling into downtown rowlett for the city's
first-ever car, truck, and a motorcycle show. Putting together an impressive lineup of vehicles, live music,
food trucks, and family fund, participants can register from 8:00 a.m. Until 11:00 a.m. For $25 and compete across 30 judged
classes with multiple awards including eight best of show awards and the fan favorite people's choice award.
with the award ceremony at 1:00 p.m. Spectators can exploit
roads of classic and custom rides and enjoy a high energy performance from jukebox heroes and soak up a full festival
atmosphere so the burning cars a culture and community. Joined the city of rowlett on monday may 25th at 10:00 a.m. At
rowlett vitamins a park for a heartfelt memorial ceremony featuring this keynote speaker. May rate will share her powerful
journey as a mother and advocate for wounded veterans offering a unique perspective on the tragedy and triumph of service.
we invite the entire community to come together for this meaningful morning of remembrance and gratitude to
honor those who gave their lives for our country. They rowlett community survey, we invite every community
resident to take part in the 2026 city of rowlett community survey, and independently conducted assessment to ensure
your voice directly shapes the future of our community.
your participation provides meaningful insight that guards are planning and priorities and commitment to enhancing the
quality of life for all who call rowlett on. For more information please visit rowlett.com.
the 2026 greatest american cleanup and texas trash off. The city of rowlett in partnership with...
is proud to announce the greatest american cleanup on saturday may 16th from 9:00 a.m. Until 11:00 p.m.
the signature event is part of the nation's largest community improvement program and serves as a vital initiative to remove
letter from our local roadways, parks, and sewer line. This year's event also features the fifa world cup fifa
world cup mayors challenge encouraging residents to join forces where there is high-impact spring cleaning of
our city. Volunteers of all ages are invited to participate in this collective effort to protect our
local wildlife habitats and enhance rowlett's natural
beauty. If you need more information visit keep rowlett beautiful.org.
>> good evening everyone here is the rest of the announcements from the library. Summer is almost here so looking
for something fund to do? Register in person for the library summer reading program starting monday may 26.
this year's theme on earth the story invites readers of all ages to take into exciting adventures activities and
challenges. Next, give your craft supplies a second life and refresh the creative stash on saturday
may 16th. That's come and go that will last from 10:00 p.m. Until 2:00 p.. Bring what you do not need and take what you love.
also, did you know you can read and listen to e-books from rowlett library from the cloud library app in addition to the
libby app? For more details call the libra at 972 for 126161 or visit rowlett.com/library.
for the arts and humanities commission they invite you to
shine which stands for supporting humanities integration neurodiversity and expression geared towards the
developmental disorder community this program features calming sounds and movement with yoga creations following the right
pizza and a movie. Shien is at rowlett library on
saturday may 16th starting at 3:00 p.m. Please preregister at rowlett.com forwards a charts.
the police department dog walker watch is a crime prevention program that trains residents walking their dogs to act as
extra eyes and ears for law enforcement. It helps neighbors identify and report suspicious activity while
on daily walks. The next dog walker watch meeting will be on may 28th from 6:00 p.m. Until 7:00 p.m. At the
rowlett police department at 40 for one rowlett road.
please email... To rsvp in an application.
no pets will be allowed at the meeting. From the fire department it is coming into grilling season.
I'm very excited about that personally so here are some guerrilla safety tips. Real estate outdoors at least
3 feet away. Never leave a grill unattended, keep children and pets at a safe distance, clean it grease build
up frequently to avoid fires, I had that personally so learned that the hard way. Always look before lighting a
gas grill. From parks and recreation summer captains will lessen registrations have begun you can
register by going to www.rowlett.com or give us a call at 972 for one to 6170. And also we have a pet supply
drive the rowlett pet supply council is collecting pet
supplies to benefit the animal shelter. Food, toys, beds, collars, leashes, will be graciously
accepted. Donation box can be found at the rowlett community center also at the rowlett library and that
bankhead brewery. The last date to donate will be may 11th. Lastly we also have it would be
amazing and great if before the next council meeting we could find a river a new home. So see she sold herself.
a lamb mix who is heartwarming negative. She is friendly with other people and other dogs but she
has not been, tested it yet but who knows maybe she will be a,
best friend as well. She is crate trained she enjoys going on walks and would make an excellent hiking companion.
she seems to have some prior training. River is ready for a patient and loving home where she can settl%
and continue learning and share her infectious personality. So if you are interested in meeting river please contact
animal services at 972 for one to 6219 or come by the shelter
at 4402 industrial street from 10:00 a.m. Until 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through saturday. Lastly we have a happy story
here. Since november 21st, maverick has been patiently waiting for his forever family.
last week as dream finally came true. He found his home and two boys to call his very own.
maverick, you hit the jackpot. Thank you to everybody who shared the story, offered support, and believed he
deserved a second chance. And please do not forget to spay and neuter your pets [applause] >> very good.
okay. So we are coming to the item three, citizens and put. Likely just a couple comments.
one, we have about half a dozen folks here who are talking about
something other than the fire department so I will go ahead and let them go first because I know we have a lot of people
wanting to talk about the layer department so we will let them
make their comments and then we will move onto that part of. Also, I would ask that we all maintain a sense of decorum.
I know that passions are running high tonight and I certainly appreciate that, but if we could refrain from clapping, cheering,
having outbursts that would be much appreciated. Having said that, our first speaker is paschal pain.
and if you will come up and give your name and city of residence and to hear it would followed by jackpot off.
-- jack. >> good evening.
mayor and council members, my name is pascal pain I live at
3306 wayne's way. My husband and I have been proud rowlett residents for 30 years. I am here to speak in opposition
of agenda item 5e regarding the short-term rental.
we raise our family here this community is our home. I want to be clear we are not out of town investors or tiktok
influencers. As was suggested in the january 6th meeting. We live on the property where
our short-term rental is located. We are present, we are attentive, and we are mindful of
every guest because this is our home. Not an investment property. We began using an accessory
building on our property as a short term rental.
simply to help offset the ever increasing property taxes that the city levies it based on unrealized market value.
like many longtime homeowners we are trying to keep up.
at first we did not expect many guests. Rowlett is not is not a tourist destination.
but we quickly learned that our guests were not tourists at all.
they were people connected to rowlett families. Many came to welcome a new grandchild, or to care for an
aging parent going through medical procedures.
others as stated during the holidays because their family home was full. Some were interviewing for jobs
or shopping for a home because they wanted to make rowlett their home as well. We have posted traveling nurses
who may very well have cared for the loved one of somebody in this town. These guests were not here to
party or cause problems. They stayed with us because they wanted a safe, clean, and compliant and secure place.
and because we live on site that is exactly what we provide.
we have worked hard to maintain the highest standards.
we are proud super hosts of airbnb with a 4.97 out of 5 star rating. That level of quality requires
consistency, safety, and accountability. We believe this is the kind of s tr the city should want to
encourage. One that supports families,
supports our economy, and strengthens neighborhood livability. But instead of support the city
has quadrupled are permitting a fee from $500 a year to 2000.
essentially taking two months of revenue on top of the 7% hotel tax and our rising property taxes.
and now the city wants us to hang an exterior sign on our
home, my home, announcing to anybody that drives by that our property may be unoccupied. >> thank you.
that is time that is your time. >> okay.
>> our next speaker will be jack and t will be followed by
denise. >> and I want to build on what
my wife has shared. By shift to go a way from who we
are to the issues with the ordinances that have been proposed. The city council has already
been advised by the city attorney's office that any
short-term rental ordinance should be narrowly tailored to support and be supported by evidence and.
yet, to date, no such evidence has been presented. The committee has produced no analysis whether the current
ordinances are effective, no data showing that additional restrictions are necessary, and no engagement with the
short-term rental owners who as you can see are clearly directly impacted. They committee produced
recommendations that no findings or supporting materials should accompany these ordinances. So I want to address each
ordinance and turn. First, the proposed density restriction, the ordinance would restrict a property owner's
rights based on an arbitrary distance between short-term rentls, there has been no data showing that sdr density is a
problem. Nor that spacing short-term
rentals apart would solve anything in a fair and equitable way. The distance between these has
very little to do with the actual experience of rowlett residents, what matters most is whether an str is operated
safely, responsibly, and compliant. And policy should encourage good-quality, highly rated
operators, not punish them because of somebody that lives
999 feet away. Second, the exterior signage requirement, this ordinance creates a real safety risk for
our home and family. We live on the property, we are
present. And the hosting platform that we use intentionally hides our address until a booking is confirmed for safety reasons. This ordinance bypasses those
safety guards. And it ignores the fact that
neighbors already have an annual notice in writing as required by
permitting restrictions. And str registrations can be a made available to any of the staff and emergency responders
anytime. The convenience of law enforcement and of neighbors should not justify a
transference of risk and burden to the homeowner. The larger issue is this. The subcommittee has produced no
supporting data, no analysis, and no plans to justify these%
ordinances. Which is directly contrary to the legal guidance the city attorney has provided.
moving forward without that evidence is not just unwise, it is a responsible governance. We respectfully request that
these ordinances be rejected until full diligence can be completed including data analysis.
>> thank you. Next will be denise followed by
a sod. >> can you hear me?
okay. I want to start by addressing the interim city manager's office recently requested a
written administrative and legal determination regarding the application of city code in ordinance 1025 for the
noncompliant structure on warwick drive. I showed this to the interim city manager and the only
response I received was a dismissive email from the interim city manager state think I am not going to revisit the
past with you. And claiming the city has no
legal authority to address my concerns. Before I continue I want to said that the structure stood
for seven months it had been in that state for a year and a half without a demolition permit. The city clearly has the
authority to rewrite section 77908 for one address but suddenly hits a jurisdiction law how convenient.
I did not realize my neighbors concrete dam came with the primitive trespass on my yard every time it rains.
then the final inspection, I would be interested to see it because it is hard to imagine how any professional could sign
up on a firewall with inflammable plastic. This is not just... The fence as they said my family
includes a firefighter who was alarmed there's 226 square foot addition of violate csr 2280, is that correct, 1405 and fpa 285
without astm e1 and nine at test. My property line is a fuse. It is a tragedy to lose...
for leadership he actually cared about the residents.
we fully support interim fire chef chris and to trust him to prioritize safety. It seems the city finds
authority when it wants to help one person but finds a limitations when it is time to protect a taxpaying neighbor.
I'm not asking for a favor, I'm asking for the equal application of the law. Has anybody ever laid eyes on
this a final inspection? I have not and I am not the only one asking. When the city grants of zero
setback it assumes the legal duty to ensure structures meet the strictest fire and drainage are coded.
our safety net was priority and they june seventh 2022
city council meeting item 8b. With a selective enforcement, if
you look at this right here this heart has a chris ainslie in it,
our fire department, and our police department. Thank you. >> we will not have...
to please maintain the quorum within the council chambers thank you. Speaking that will be...
followed by patrick. >> good evening, first of all I
want to put all my support for that fire department and they
police department we support them 100%. In the city council meeting june seventh 2022 item eight to
be, mr. Jeff winget acting as mayor brought...
stated that permit was so important to keep neighbors
safe. But today that safety net is gone. It was not for the...
complement structure at 6602 were record drive.
and the city council session 11182024 mr. Blake...
warned the council that making ...
a legal building was not legal. Mr. Blake was a leader who truly
cared about the resident it is a real loss for our city that he
was recently let go. You know the history of that
shanty shack. Blake scott building official
and chief building official issues in notice because of both
structure had no setback and... Fire hazard along with unwanted
water drainage trespass. The owner knew that this was a
no-no but he extended the building 2016 and even larger
building without permit anyways. They even built a roof and
brought... To offer the property line.
they just cut it off. With no demolition permit and
left it in the building for eight and a half.
it is really strange that the mayor and the interim city manager pushed so hard to ignore the...
from the planning and zoning commission that is does not is in no way normal. Please watch planning and zoning
committee being january 2825 letter for e -- number 4e and
fire chief chris ainslie. He is a man of integrity who
understands. >> thank you, sir.
>> our next speaker will be patrick followed by dave holt.
>> patrick, rowlett. City council members, we
recently received a reply from the city stating that lake bend estate screening well project is still on schedule and that if
anything changes and update will be provided. We truly hope that remains the case and more importantly that
the city continues to uphold the transparency that we as
residents have consistently asked for. We were also told that if the project stays on track the
city council will see this item at the second meeting on june 16th. That gives our neighborhood
something to look forward to and we are holding onto that
timeline with cautious optimism. However, we were also informed by something there is an important questions.
we understand that property owners where the existing wall sits on private property without easements.
we were told the city will be contacting contacting these property owners directly. So tonight we are asking who
exactly is having those conversations with the property owners, and to have already begun?
d.c. Ccm was allowed on their properties without signatures as one of those property owners is currently here tonight.
so what changed? And beyond that we need clarity
on something that simply does not add. The city has maintained their wall on those same four corners
four years. Since the wall was originally built over 35 years ago. Repairs and upkeep have always
been done in the past without this issue being raised, so why
now are at the easements and signatures suddenly required for the rebuild when maintenance and reconstruction have always been
handled before? From a residence perspective this raises concern about consistency and process.
if something has changed than we deserve a clear explanation. These details matter. They directly impact whether
this project truly stays on schedule or faces delays.
and as residents have been patient and engaged and hopeful
throughout this process we believe we deserve straightforward answers. Another concern is the fact that
the legal team who has this issue with the easements is the
same legal team who said that the residence owned the wall and that even though it is separated by an alley.
and continued to try to manipulate the law for several months until we had shawn rabbit come and do a news report to
bring this to the attention of everybody in the city. A serious question is is there time for my wife to reach out to
him and do a follow-up? As always we do appreciate the
hard work each of you has put into this project moving
forward. We will continue to ask for transparency not just in words but an action.
we are ready to see progress we are ready to see movement and we are very much looking forward to the day construction begins on
this long-awaited wall thank you. >> our next speaker will be dave hall.
>> dave hall, rowlett. Redshirt day at the, crossing
outpost you will see these redshirts the overwhelming majority of young ladies wearing these will, r, and have earned
stem degrees, graduate stem degrees, a couple mds, and a few
phds. They have earned them at tcu,
smu, ut austin, college station, and several hbcus. The man wearing these you should become firefighters or joined
the military. Redshirt logic. Of always found it easier to manage people when they have
supported me in my programs and vice versa. Next, abandoned ski boat is tied up at the paddle point park
shoreline. It was supposed to be removed yesterday but we have boats, tires, washing machines all
dumped into the lake. It reminds me of junk yard on
the gorge class three in west virginia. That is where you dump your trash into the river over the
cliff we call it erosion control in the guidebook it reads junk
yard rapid class three. Not too difficult but watch out for a link washing machines and cars tossed off the cliff by
locals. Maybe we can generate some interest in our waterfront parks by rebranding them to lakeside
park. How about junk yard? The abandoned lakes by north. How about junk yard north?
paddle point park in the middle. We will call it metal junk yard
that is the one with the broken 88 doc.
may fifth redshirt day to recognize outstanding firefighters and outstanding staff at the, crossing outpost.
thank you for the opportunity to address the council and residents. >> thank you.
we will now start our citizens input from the dealing with the
firefighters. I'm going to call up first josh brock and josh has will be bringing four or five other
people with him or for other people who will be ceding their time to him and for that reason he will be speaking for
15 minutes. Those that have yielded time are norman, todd higgins, jeremy myers, and justin ritchie did I
get everybody? >> yes, sir,.
>> point of order can we get the time on the screen to reflect.
>> let it stand. >> let it set up for 15 and we will get it going. >> yes, sir,.
>> you want to go ahead and keep resetting? We will be doing it in 53 minute increment so somebody keep
count. >> thank you. >> you bet. >> josh brock president of the rowlett firefighters association iff local 3358.
we would like to give a statement.
we would give our lives for you. You won't even give us your time. That is why I stand here tonight
because every other door has been closed. Tonight I speak of 100% of the firefighters in this department
I speak of their behalf. Of those numbers sinking 100%. 105 men and women. There is no division there is a
attire fire department speaking with one unified voice. And we are telling this counsel something is wrong.
this is not a labor dispute. This is not a personality
conflict. This is 100% of your fire department standing in this chamber on the record telling
its elected officials that the hiring process for the next fire chief is broken. And city management has lost our
trust. Consider the numbers are
attrition rate is 7%. Below the national average.
we do not leave we do not quit we do not stay this is not a
job, it is our family, it is our home, it is her life. 100% of a department that does not leave that should mean
something to the people elected to govern the city.
the city launched a nationwide a search of more than 50 people
applied. A process was established. Candidates were evaluated, but final four were selected.
the city manager who it is she did that process was terminated. And interim city manager was installed and from that point
forward that was authorized to stop functioning as designed.
3 of 4 finalists withdrew on their own.
rather than resorting to search with integrity the interim city manager restructure the process midstride pulling candidates
from the original applicant pool and inserting at least one individual who never applied during the open posting period.
the roles changed. The candidate pool changed.
the standards changed. A qualified internal candidate, when the city had already evaluated, already advanced, and
already entrusted with operational command of the department was told he would not be considered.
the stated reason was the lack of a master's degree. But this city's own a job posting listed a master's degree
as preferred not required. That distinction it matters.
weather preferred qualification when it is applied as a disqualify or to one person while the processs
simultaneously open to individuals who never went through it at all of that is not a merit-based selection, that is
the appearance of a predetermined outcome. And the optics have only gotten worse.
every remaining candidate subsequently withdrew. The city then remove the sitting interim chief and replaced him
with an outside interim who by the city's own public statement
will not be considered for permanent appointment. Ask yourselves what that message it sends to our department, to
future applicants, and to the citizens of the city.
we want to be clear about something, the city accused of
this association of contacting candidates to discourage them from pursuing the position. That accusation was made in an
official statement that for each of your names and the weight of
this council's authority. It is not true. No member of this association contacted any candidate.
we have said so publicly and we say so again tonight. We ask for the acknowledgement, we ask for an apology, we
received a silence, deafening silence. Your own a charter that document the says the city manager shall
make appointments upon merit and fitness alone. That is not our standard that is yours.
and when the process by which those appointments are made
changes repeatedly, when standards shift between candidates, when the stated reasons do not match the stated
requirements, the question is no longer whether the best person was chosen, the question is whether the process itself can
be trusted. We made ourselves available for
dialog. Leadership questioned our motives explicitly and in writing.
we came to the table they moved the table. So tonight we have made our choice.
we will not be silent. Regardless of what is decided here our people will still answer the call the exact same
way we always have. Doing what is best for the citizens of rowlett. We will give our lives for this
community. That has never been in question that will never be in question. What is in question is whether
this counsel has the courage to do its job. You hired this leadership, you can hold them accountable.
you can choose tonight to be the council that listened or the council that did not. History does not record silence
kindly. And the people in this department and the citizens watching will remember which one
we would give our lives for each one of you. We are asking you to give us your time and listen.
thank you. [applause]
>> thank you. >> all right.
if we could if we could maintain the quorum, please please sit
down and we will continue to listen to our other speakers who have asked to speak. [appluse]
our next speaker christine robinette and she will be
followed by shell be coleman. >> christine, rowlett texas.
that is tough to follow, right? Pretty hard to do guys pay
attention? Because josh is a good guy. Every one of them are good guys. My husband has been a
firefighter for 40 plus years here in rowlett.
most of them have been as well. They are not here to mess with
the city. They are not here to be mad at you guys. They are asking what is fair.
they want what is fair. Would each one of you look at me for a minute. Would you do what is right
tonight? How about you? And you? Will you do what is right?
that you were elected to do? I am asking you. Will you fire him? Will you fire him tonight?
will you end of this? Will you respect to the citizens and the firefighters of this that you guys were elected to
protect! And do what we asked to do. What is fair! I'm not sure that you will.
so I'm going to ask you mr. Bauer, will you do what is
right? Will you stand. >> please direct your comments to the council and not to an
individual, please. >> will you step down and do what is right. I'm asking you all please do
what is right you know what it is. Thank you. >> please maintain the quorum.
if we continued to have outbursts I will ask officer to have people removed. So just be respectful.
thank you. Speaking now shall be followed by allison hopp. >> shall be coleman, rowlett.
before I read my statement I want to mention while staff under management had a massive turn over, almost 300 staff
members turned over. Fire remained below the national average winter city was in crisis the entire time.
I really need you guys to have them to consult you will.
I think that is super important to note. As we close out this I want to congratulate those who are in
the votes of this community. I want to see how you represent
us. With new leadership we have an opportunity to define what kind of city we want to be.
we all have heard rowlett does not know what it wants to be. I don't believe that is true. Our community has been very
clear we want to be heard, collaborated with, and represented well. We want to trust that when we
show up our voices actually matter. It is city of 70,000 people we have a small fraction
participating in the civic process. I do not believe people do not care. I believe they do not believe their voice will make a
difference because historically in most issues it has not. This culture was built or broken by patterns.
we have seen patterns where concerns are raised and take years to address. Where staff turnover concerns
are brought forward and citizens are called malicious and spreading misinformation. Now we are seeing it again when
104 firefighter speak with one voice and it becomes a point of tension instead of a moment to listen.
these are not isolated situations. I believe that believe that if the community was listened to
the high cost of staff turnover would have been addressed well over a year ago saving us millions of dollars and allowing
us to attract great talent. The miller bridge would have been a planet not a reaction. Council would not hae wasted
two years of planning amid a supple complex prior to a public hearing. Now at the fire department to a
very long running list of symptoms of our culture issue. It is time to ask what action we can take.
because we will not accidentally become a city with a strong
culture. A culture reset starts with a clear public statement from our mayor.
setting the tone of what the city stands for and how we move
forward. I understand that addressing challenges like this can feel costly but I believe the cost of
not addressing them is much greater. Intentionality looks like ownership.
acknowledging when trust has been strained and apologizing rather than defending. It looks like collaboration
bringing people into the process earlier not after the decisions have already been made. And it looks like valuing the
people who serve the city every day including the experience of
institutional knowledge and the trust over decades. Thank you. [applause]
>> thank you. Our next speaker is allison followed by michelle. >> good evening mayor and
council members. My grandfather served at 39 years with the fire department and retired as a captain.
because of his service my family knows firsthand the sacrifices that these brave men and women make every single day for our
community. There were many years growing up we did not have him at home for christmas or thanksgiving.
he was often on duty serving others while we celebrated without him but I will always say that those years actually
gave us something special. We were invited to visit the fire station on holidays and those visits became some of my
favorite holiday memories. I remember the sense of pride
the laughter and the bond between families and firefighters. Those men and women that my grandfather served with were some of the kindest, most
selfless, and funniest people I have ever met. But they are also some of the most serious when it mattered.
they took their responsibility to the community seriously every single day. One of those firefighters quite
literally saved my life when I was a small child choking on a
heart of county in downtown garland. That moment has stayed with me my entire life. It is a reminder these are not just employees or positions on
the roster they are the people who show up when our lives are on the line. The firefighter brotherhood
means more than citizens and you all understand. It is an unbreakable sacred bond of forged through shared danger.
my point is simple, these men and women are deeply respected and trusted by this community so it is hard to understand when
decisions are being made that feel like they disregard that
their voice. Former interim chief ainsley is somebody who my family has known for many years.
is respected personally professionally and buy 104 firefighters who served under him.
there is real concerned the recent appointment of a new interim fire chief made it just days after his city council
election undermines stability and morale in a department that should have been supported and not being disrupted.
we just had that election the new council was chosen by the voters who will take off his soon.
that council will have a responsibility of selecting the next city manager of the city manager serves that the
direction of council not the other way around. When major leadership changes are made in a transition period
like this it raises serious questions about judgement timing and respect for the incoming collected body and the employees
who are affected. I believe we owe our firefighters better. We owe them stability, respect,
and a voice in a decision that directly impacts their ability
to serve their community. It is our responsibility to hold her interim city manager accountable to those principles.
leadership is not just about making decisions it is about knowing when those decisions build trust and when they
damage. You firefighters have always shown up for us we need to show up for them and we support you
are fpd and petey and I hope nothing else crazy happens before next council meeting so I don't have to make it at the
t-shirt. I would like to at the wife who spoke her husband has served 40 years.
that is over 13 years that she has not had with her husband
because they work every 1 out o% that. She has lost 13 years with her family okay?
>> please hold the a plus thank you. Our next speaker is michelle of followed by elaine richard.
>> I 100% agree with all the speakers before me. Going get a slightly different direction what is happening in
the city is not just concerning3 it is unacceptable. The pattern of poor judgement and lack of accountability and
repeated missteps has reached a point where it can no longer be
dismissed as isolated incidents. These are systematic failures and are being made in plain view of the taxpayers.
I understand that the city may again be utilizing the same
recruiting firm to fill up both vacant city manager position and the firm -- per minute fire chief role at the same firm that
previously presented a finalist slate including david. Of accurate this decision warrants immediate scrutiny,
reengaging a firm associated with prior unsatisfactory outcomes suggests a lack of institutional accountability and
raises concern about the effectiveness of current human
resources leadership. The termination of emergency management coordinator blake is especially troubling good.
if he was fired over a private off-duty text messages sent from his personal phone, then the city has stepped into dangerous
territory. Legally and constitutionally. That kind of action suggests either a fundamental
misunderstanding of employee rights, or a willingness to ignore them. Both expose the city to
significantly ability. The public deserves a clear
answer under what a policy or legal authority does the city believe it can monitor, judge, and terminate employees for
private communications. Is there anything provided in writing to employees that state their personal text messages and
emails could subject them to immediate termination? More broadly, these decisions point directly to the conduct of
the interim city manager. Interim leadership is not a blank check to make sweeping high-impact decisions that shape
the future of the city. It is cemented to stabilize operations, not to execute controversial...
engage questionable vendors and lock and decisions just before a
newly elected council member takes office. That timing alone is a problem. It undermines the voters and
raises serious questions about intent. The pattern here is clear. Rushed decisions, a poor
judgement, no transparency and no accountability. And the consequences are being borne by the residents of this
city through embarrassment, wasted tax dollars and declining trust in leadership if that is even more possible.
this needs to stop immediately. All major personnel and
contractual decisions should be paused. The recent actions particularly the determination I am out of time. >> thank you let us please hold
applause. Our next speaker is elaine ritchie followed by terry I believe.
>> you were good at? Okay.
elayna, rowlett council stuff. Thank you for your time I'm here to advocate for the rowlett fire department and request the city
but to support our city. My husband dustin has been a firefighter paramedic for 16 years in the state of texas and
in 2022 despite being a driver in his existing department dustin left to join rowlett after he did this because he was
hungry for a department that matched his energy. Passionate in its pursuit of excellence in a culture that
promoted to growth. For those who do not know firefighters cannot transfer they have to start at the bottom
of a new department so he took a pay cut to be here. He is one of the oldest rookies in the history of the
department. But for our family it was worth it because of the long game. He saw a place where he could
reach his full potential surrounded by those who wanted the same. Of the three cities he has
worked in over his 16 year career rowlett is by far the least supported city I have seen and here are a few reasons why.
of the past four years the department has experienced significant staffing issues in key leadership positions that
includes fire chief to be the fire marshal, complete fire instructor and emergency management director.
the compensation has fallen behind comparables comparable cities. Four years ago rowlett was
around mid point in the competition pay range and we have since dropped to near the bottom when compared to 19 of
those comparable cities. Their mental health budget has gone away and then there is the seemingly little things.
I cannot tell you how many times I have talked to him drink a 40 8-hour shift when the fridge or the ac is broken or there is a
gas league and they cannot even use the oven to cook. These men and women do not need psychological fatigue when they
are at the station. When they are out there serving you and me doing god knows what it is imperative they have the
ability to fully focus on the task. Their mental distraction is a risk for us all plain and simple. This should sound familiar I was
here a few weeks ago saying the exact same thing. It felt necessary to repeat myself because it has been
anything but support over the past 14 days.
the most bizarre circus rode into town and I am employing this governing body to get more visibly involved.
that I -- guide collaborative solution include constructive debate. There is common ground here.
it is my community behind me find that sure footing on that common ground place. >> if we could please hold
applause link to your comments. >> cherry, the citizens and our
firefighters once again have been blindsided by the actions and audacity of our city management.
the decision by the interim city manager to fire the emergency
manager coordinator and replace the interim chief with a
different a different interim chief presumably with support of changing city council just after an election is an appropriate --
inappropriate and extremely ill-timed. With our city government and flux why are important personnel
decisions being implemented to? When the entirety of the firefighters and their association stand behind their
current interim fire chief, allowed ing is a unifying
leadership including endorsing kim to officially be promoted to fire chief only to be slapped in the face is disgraceful.
a nice move on international firefighters day. They wfh a headline read city of rowlett appoints new interim
fire chief with -- amidst spot with rowlett firefighters
association. Basically this implies that the interim city manager had a beef with the rowlett firefighters
association and its endorsement. So he had a tantrum and replaced a strong leader serving the city for years with the different
interim serving city chief. To what end. What did the fire department gain by replacing respected and
admired interim chief that was not a problem with a complete unknown that is not even in the running to be named chief?
city manager or interim city manager bowers said the appointment was to quote, ensure uninterrupted services while the
city retools its hiring process." this makes no sense. What services were being
interrupted under chief ainsley? How embarrassing that this is
how rowlett was portrayed on the local evening news and its website. The dismissal of our emergency
management coordinator blake for a personal text from a personal
devices suggested that suggest that the appearance of preferential treatment in the hiring process by city
management process was also labeled a disruption. This alleged disruption apparently happened after the
hiring process was put on pause. Furthering the perceived
coverups by city management in this entire process. What a waste of time, money, and resources.
if there is an exodus and our fire department everybody will
wonder what the problem is. You are the problem.
your actions cannot be willy-nilly just because you want to waive the big stick and proof that you are in control
against a unified consensus of the entire fire department.
the city manager and council os an honest explanation.
I stand with our firefighters and first responders and a call for the resignation and firing of christophe bauer.
>> again please hold the applause. Our next speaker will be... Followed by brooke allen.
>> rowlett texas. I'm not one much for public speaking but I wanted to make a point is somebody who works in
health care and has worked closely with the ems team in
durham, north carolina, and austin, texas in their emergency departments. These people see other people on
the worst day of their lives. The disrespect shown to the
rior interim city managercs absolutely disgusts me. The removal of interim fire chief ainsley who was trusted
and respected by the very people who laid their lives down for our citizens in favor of somebody who retired from the
temple fire department a? That makes zero sense. This new interim fire chief retired on january fifth 2026.
awfully interesting kathy came out of retirement less than six months later. Even more interesting because
retirement came before a vote of no confidence from its membership that served under him as communicated by the rowlett
fire association. Something the city manager failed to mention in his statement while enlisting his
accolades. And that is who was chosen over chief ainsley. Let it be known that I am
particularly disgusted by the interim city manager. How dare you treat the people who go out and save lives and
run into fires and stabilize people in a rush to the hospital like their opinions do not matter.
all because of what? You were throwing a tantrum about your petty spat with the rowlett fire association?
because he does not have a master's degree. I would be so embarrassed honestly.
[applause] >> again, please hold the
applause. Next speaker brooke allen will be followed by kendra main. >> I am from rowlett good to see
you all again. I obviously want to address the public mistreatment of our firefighters association and a
rowlett. There is a difference between transparency and defensiveness. Transparency is proactive,
direct, respectful, and focused on accomplishing common goals
together. Defensiveness is reactive dismissive and divides rather than unites.
treating our firefighters the way they have been treated these past weeks is a serious breach of trust with employees to make
significant risks to protect us. When staff members offer feedback it is a sign of investment and dedication.
by disempowering first responders with public statements that have been made over the past few weeks the city
is creating a work environment of suspicion adverse and complacency at best. Many of us have worked for
organizations were upper management is out of touch with workers on the ground. When this dynamic exists in a
place like the fire department that puts all of us at risk.
our firefighters are the experts to know what knowledge and experience is needed from the person supporting them to go out
there and support us through the scariest moments of our lives.
I admire the courage it takes for our firefighters association to speak up for our leaders. There is a pattern in the city
of accusing residents of spreading misinformation when
they are simply providing input. Any city that considers the good
faith feedback and involvement of its citizens an employee's a
threat rather than an asset is facing serious leadership issues. Our mayor and city council
showed great courage recently when they listen to the call of citizens to terminate our city manager who is also engaging in
this kind of disrespectful treatment of employees and citizens. It is now clear that a major cultural shift is needed it that goes beyond one person.
the city's own letter disclosing the large amounts of candidates
in this process to have rejected our offers, or drawn their names
from consideration for fire chief is alarming. And was clearly a problem long before the firefighters
association made their statement a couple weeks ago. Mayor and city council, if you are watching, mayor, you have
the power to make decisions regarding important city position such as interim city manager, city manager, city
attorney, a few others I do not remember. Please use this power to make sure we retain and recruit
professional and respectful city officials. And begin to repair the reputation of our city that we
all we all love so dearly. And if you are watching, mirror,
I hope you feel better soon thank you.
>> thank you our next speaker will be ken tremaine. >> yes 3000 lane resident since the early 90s.
city... Adjustments, charter review,
caribbean, et cetera. There's absolutely flabbergasted
me when I was chair of the board of adjustments we had three hearings and voted three times this structure at 6602 to be
removed. I am flabbergasted that that issue is stil going on in our city.
so sorry people I mean three times we were asked to review it three times we voted it had to be taken down.
now I came tonight you know I started working at the city
mayor asked me to get involved. Mr. Harper self-destructed and in this chamber the largest group that he had seen here I
think mayor harper events and... Events a few years later the
call may have been larger glad to be elected for you.
but again I am ashamed of I am I am a gm director so I'm working
with... Got to talk to mr. Pro several times. High school vocational
education. My customers cared and I delivered the product, are citizens, do I do it on budget?
and are my employees happy. When I finally got that message
to my vp that I reported to the fact that I did not have a
degree sort of one away. Because I was on budget, my customers were happy, and my employees were happy.
I do not know our past fire chief interim you know I have
seen this I do not know him personally but that man has been able to keep 100% of his employees happy, serve the city,
I've had the fire department to my house my wife three times in less than a year for diabetes issues.
now they were there in minutes every time.
they serve our city, right? They did their job. We should promote from within. Unless there is no other way to
do. A good manager a good manager
builds staff and people to promote from within. In order to lose motivation and morale of people you start
yanking people from outside in with no while it defined a clear reason you bring the people up from within that is how you
build a community that is how you build the business, all right a? The last thing, after 25 years
as a volunteer, when I did not- reup this last december you know
what I heard from the city? Goose eggs.
you would think I would get a note of thank you for 25 years.
>> thank you for your comments. That will go ahead and concluded city input it is 9:00 we will take a recess for 5 minutes, we
have items of five and 5b has some legal time requirements
that we have to complete by 10:00 tonight. So as soon as we return we will tackle five a and 5b, and then
we will get back on schedule. Five-minute break we will be back here at 8:00 >> everybody.
okay, it is 9:06 we are back in session.
we will go ahead and move to item five a and 5b.
item 580 will be conduct a public hearing and consider asked to adopt a public ordinance accepting and
approving a service assessment plan and assessment roles for
the trails at cottonwood creek public improvement district, levying special assessments against certain property in neighborhood improvement area number 2 and neighborhood
improvement area number 3 of the district, and making certain
findings and determinations relating to the district.
michael will be giving that presentation.
>> good evening council. Tonight we have two relevant
agenda items both considering the trails at cottonwood creek item improvement district. Adopted assessment ordinances
for neighborhood assessment areas.
item 5b is the bottom ordinance authoring serving the issuance
and sale of 2026 special assessment levying.
as discussed on the prior slide council has been asked to take reactions tonight versus convene and close the public hearing on
proposed levy special assessments against property and neighborhood area number 2 and number 3.
is required under texas general code. Second adopt item 58, the ordinance accepting and
approving the service assessment plan and it levying assessment. And third adopt item 5b, authorizing the issuance of
6.4 million series 2026 special revenue assessment bonds and approving all their related transaction documents.
so to revisit this project, development was a master plan
signal and residential development located at the northeast corner of vincent and stonewall road on the left you see the concept plan for the community and on the right the
improvement area showing how the district is broken apart. Improvement area number 1 was funded with the 2021 a bonds
improvement areas number 2 and number 3 are underway. And is contemplated to be funded with this bond issuance.
this slide shows the plan to build out of the district and the full completion. Improvement coming online and in
connection with public infrastructure water and sewage and drainage on skate. Improvement number 1 is already
built out. Contemplates 194.
neighborhood improvement area number 2 and number 3.
consisted of 10293 broken up and 40, 50, 60-foot lots.
>> number 3 is estimated to be completed by june 2026.
favorite improvement area numbe. Estimated to be completed by december of 2026. In october 19 the adoption of
ordinance for 65 lack of a limited. And again in october council approved a million other
facilities agreement for offside wastewater improvement. Created the council make -- creek pit council improvement.
and that established the next pit frantic assessment eligible improvement special adopted findings along with the
home buyer requirements. In april of 2021, counsel except at the assessment plan and assessment roles and inmate 18,
2021 council adopted the service assessment plan and authorized
the sale of the neighborhood improvement area number 1. Last year in march of 2025 the development agreement was
amended to remove some duplications on trails and
sidewalks. Just with hoa ownership and
certain amenities. Increase the pit authorizations from 11 million to 20 million. Without increasing the max
assessment rate and fire station contribution developed to the city. Last month in april council
adopted a resolution accepting and approving a preliminary service assessment plan at assessment roles and called for
a public hearing current today for the special assessments
against the property and approved a second assessment to the allowing for extension of maturity of the bonds a lot for
30-year maximum maturity as well as clarified the timing of the
development contribution for the project.
so to recoup everything tonight, we are here to hold a public hearing, and settle -- consider approval of the assessments and
consider approval of serious 2026 bonds. I would like to know that the bonds sold today underwriter did
a great job. The par amount dropped slightly which is what is shown in the preliminary service assessment
plan. It was sized at 6.395 million.
and that must have caused the tax improvement wait to equal
3.24 as required under the development agreement. And the tic which is the interest cost came in at 5.83%.
if there are any questions about the development, the service and
assessment plan, the pricing, we have the developer, the pit
administrator, bond council as well as our financial advisor here to answer any questions. The next two slides have they
suggested language for adoption of ordinances as provided by council. >> thank you.
we will open the public hearing at 9:12. To be have anybody from the public that wishes to speak?
>> a mr. Mayor, do you need a card for me or can I introduce myself. Okay.
preston, 4040 north central dallas, texas, master developer
for the project and I just want to say thank you. Today was wildly successful from everybody that served on this
team. This may be the last time I see
someone you at the site if I want to say thank you for working with us on this project we started in 2018 and here we are and we still have a long-term partner with the city
and we really appreciate the help of council with the help of staff and the help of all the consultants who have made this
entire process possible. So formally we would like to request the approval and the levy issuance of the bonds that
were priced today. Thank you.
>> thank you, sir. All right.
so I will go ahead and close this public hearing at 9:13 p.m.
and a discussion from council. If not I will entertain a
motion. >> I'm sorry.
I'm reading this year. Okay.
>> if somebody wants to make the motion and it is on the screen
do you see. >> I moved to adopt an ordinance
except ticket approving the service and assessment plan and assessment roles are for the trails of cottonwood creek
public improvement assessment levying special assessments against certain property and a bright improvement area number 2
and neighborhood improvement area number 3 of the district and approving all of the matters related thereto.
>> second. >> second. >> let's call the boat. >> that item passes unanimously.
we will now move onto item 5b. Consider action to adopt an
ordinance approving the issuance and sale of "city of rowlett, texas special assessment revenue% bonds, series 2026 (trails at cottonwood creek public improvement district neighborhood improvement areas #2-3 projects)" and approving various
documents related to such bonds.
michael will be presenting this item.
>> holdback at the powerpoint. >> we have the suggested motion
language presented here. >> okay this item was combined
with the last presentation does anybody have any questions. I will entertain a motion. We have a motion by
councilmember britton. >> I moved to adopt an ordinance
approving the issuance and city of sale of rowlett texas trails
of cottonwood creek, public improvement district neighborhood improvement areas two through three and approving
various documents related to such bonds. >> second by councilmember bowers.
>> let's call the vote. That passes unanimously.
>> so now we will do we want to go to number 4? We will go to the consent agenda now.
let me get my notes here. Okay.
does anybody wish to remove any items from individual or I'm
sorry, there's anybody wish to remove any items for individual consideration? There has been a request to remove item number 4c from the agenda.
city secretary would you please read those items into the record. >> consider action approving the
minutes. 4b, consider action approving a one-year contract renewal period for standby disaster debris removal services. Item number 4d consider action
approving and abetment to section 2-132 of the code of ordinance. Item for e, consider action
approving an appointment of an ex officio position to the economic the filament advisory board.
item number 4f, consider action correcting a scrivener's error in ordinance number oh rd26-04- 07.
>> I will consider motion. Reeves seconded by councilmember
gibb. >> I make a motion to approve the consent agenda items -- agenda items as read.
>> let's call the vote. >> okay and that passes
unanimously with one absent. All right.
so now we will move back in to our individual consideration. Item 5c, consider action to adopt a resolution establishing
a public art policy. Presenting this item will be laura. >> good evening counsel, mayor,
citizens, I am laura turner, staff liaison for the arts and
humanities discussion, I spoke with you at the april 20th work
session. And we presented the public art policy draft. I apologize in your original
packet the public art a policy you may have had in their did
not have some of the final legal wording but we worked with the city attorney to get some of the small nuances in there for
example as we get to that in the slide I will point out just
three places where we added some things.
I need for policy the arts and humanities commission would like to involve the public art program from a collection of
projects to a unified and strategic vision with the
planning and foresight. The policy that we have drafted
it defines things like the public art policy's vision, the
purpose of it, the scope, when it covers, what it does not
cover. This policy also goes into the different project types and where they would go and what
type of projects that would be pursued.
each public art project would have a project manager attached to. And each public art project
would start with a or it would have a project proposal.
that project proposal would identify the location, the setting, the goals, the budgeting for that.
along with a schedule of stakeholders and maintenance for that. Each public art project would
also have an artist selection panel, it would be community
members outside of the arts and humanities commission and the public art policy defines their responsibilities and these
individuals would be responsible for going through proposals and
selecting art. The public art work flow,
initially there would be the project generation. And the project proposal submission, a project proposal
could be generated from city administration, or it could be
the arts and humanities commission. Citizens could also approach the commission with these projects.
each once the proposal is submitted and the commission
then decides to go ahead with that there is an artist
selection panel. The project manager is assigned. They create a selection panel. Then there is a call for artists
to get the entries, the artist selection panel will help review
the submissions, select and recommend a finalist, a contract would be administered, this is one of the sections where we did
add something to the wording to just stay think that, of course,
go with purchasing guidelines, qualifications require risk of
loss insurance and indemnification and waiver of claims to make sure we are all in legal compliance with
contracts issued. The art would be created then
and then it would just be maintained.
the policy has of course selection criteria.
excellence it has to be appropriate it has to be maintained easily. If it is something that requires
just costly maintenance than that perhaps is something that we would not want to select. The design also has to be safe.
we need to make sure since it will be in the public does not create any kind of hazards. The selection criteria also
requests artistic diversity and that is saying the variety of
different kinds of art, not just sculptures, not just murals, not
just abstract art, but a variety the public art policy it defines
selected approaches that can be used such as open competitions where everyoe can apply to submit their art.
unlimited or invitation competition direct selection or
direct purchase and then as this process goes as the arts and
humanities commission acquires a more art, works more with this process, they will encounter more artists and they will build
a sort of a registry of artists so that way if there ever is a
limited or an invitation they have a list of people to go from. There are exemptions for this
policy. Repairs to existing public art
would not have to go through this process. Also temporary engagement projects, decoration projects
scarecrows on main. The christmas trees on main
would not have to go through the public policy process.
other things like banners or way finding signs, decoration
kind of the reps on the traffic boxes.
those are temporary in nature so they would not have to go through the long process established in this policy.
existing artwork in the property so will have to go back make
sure the art goes through the process.
the process would be it would be maintained by the city.
>> the policy also it currently there is a donation policy in place for public art. This new policy would replace
that. The reason why there is a donation policy first is some of the first pieces of public art
that the arts and humanities commission worked with were
donations. And so the city wanted to get
that and place to make sure those donations were being handled correctly. And that the policy also reviews
the deaccessioning process. Not that anybody wants to get
rid of art and city assets but there are times if something
gets damaged beyond repair or if something falls out of favor
heavily. A lot of places are seeing this
now. Places that had maybe sculptures or some kind of marrow to commemorate says our chavez
people are now kind of pulling those back because it is no
longer favorable to favor somebody like that.
do you have any questions about the public art policy?
or what we are wanting to finalize this evening?
>> council have any questions. >> quick question thank you I
appreciate that presentation I fully support the public art policy I just want to ensure all of these kind of community
council acquisition cost, maintenance costs, from the art and humanities commission comes for approval to council before
the artist purchased and all that.
>> that is correct thank you for asking that.
>> so they cannot make these decisions they would make that recommendation to council and it would also show you how much the
art will cost how much it will be with the maintenance is of it
so that council can make those decisions and council can decide this is too expensive or this really is not driving with the
feel of the city where you know it will ultimately be counsel's
decision to give a thumbs-up or thumbs down.
>> I'm fully in favor of this I think it provides governance a framework for this personally I think public art is a fantastic
thing it gives a real sense of character and space and so you
know I hope that by adopting this we actually put some effort in getting more public art because I think a lot of people
enjoy that so thank you for this and I will be voting for this.
>> if nobody has anything else I will entertain a motion.
>> I make a motion to approve to adopt a resolution establishing the public art policy. >> I second.
>> let's call the vote. >> there it is.
so six of voting and affirmative with one absent tatian.
we will now move onto our next item which will be item 5d.
consider action to adopt an ordinance in chapter 10 the businesses by adding a new article eight.
article 13. [laughter]
“donation bins” to define donation bins, establish permit and applications requirements, provide for location restrictions, create revocation and appeal process, and provide for requirements for maintenance of donation bins;
for providing for a repelling clause; providing for a severability clause; providing for a savings clause; and for a penalty not to exceed two thousand dollars ($2,000.00); and for providing for an effective date.
and giving this presentation will be andrew.
>> good evening council members thank you for having us this evening. We have a brief presentation to go over the newly proposed ordinance for donation bins.
so what we are asking the council to do is take action on approving an ordinance that will help us address letter,
graffiti, illegal dumping, things that typically are associated with donation bins. Also with the maintenance of the
events, clinic up around them, and then also making sure we
hold the individuals that place the bins on property to be
accountable. These are typically placed by mp ellis, nonprofit organizations and they collect clothing items,
shoes which is a good thing but sometimes it leads to property
maintenance issues. Currently there is no ordinance
or rules or regulations within the city of rowlett to address these issues. And so some of the things that
we want to address and proactively focus on is the
illegal dumping once again. There's no ordinance will
include some definitions, "click ability, permitting, the application process, location. We're can you put them.
impoundment fees, revocation of permit and also an appeals process and enforcement mechanism.
>> let's talk a little bit about the applicability. It applies to all bins whether today or replaced there six
months ago they need to comply with the ordinance.
we would host a 30 day outreach to folks that do have bins so
they can come into compliance and partner with them and really educate them so they can understand and be given the
opportunity to ask questions. On the permitting and
application requirements it would be an anti-will permit, they would have to play to kyle on events so it could be edified
by court off -- officers and they would have to have
authorization from the property owner sometimes the property owner does not know so we want to make sure they are working
together as a team. The location and maintenance.
so where can they put them? Strictly on nonresidential commercial zones and parking lots only.
minimum 200 feet from any residential zone so they do not
cause any disturbance. And interfere with those communities. The responsible went once a week
so they have to be actively maintaining. And then one banned per lot. Impoundment.
the city will be allowed to impound nonpermitted bins or if
they did not have the cal or if they are issued to notices of
violations in the last 12 months and there would be 200 other impoundment fee and 200 other per day charge.
revocation if the application provides false information if
there's any other violations of the city can revoke that permit.
of course an appeal process because we want to give individuals the opportunity that due process.
and then the penalties for each of them. So our next step would be proactive outreach with these
particular business partners periods we would launch our
online permit application process so customers can work
this entire process online. Not have to come visit us.
and then implement and modify the master fee schedule to include the fees that have been recommended.
so what we are asking is for approval, approval with conditions, or a denial of the ordinance and so we are open to
any feedback or any questions at this time.
>> thank you. Counsel, does anybody have any questions? >> quick question thank you for
the presentation I appreciate steph putting this together. In the presentation you mentioned nonprofits but
donation bin is either for the nonprofit organizations or the
for-profit organizations it is just the donation bin box itself is a clarification, correct? >> that is my understanding,
yes. >> again, I would just ask for this, you know I really appreciate staff bringing this.
this I think was part and parcel came about because of resident reached out that a donation bin 48 for-profit was put on their
property. There commercial property.
and there was no way for the city do anything about it it became a simple matter. The donation bin showed up on
the property owner was not asked that they called the number there was no response and so they were left in the lurch.
I really appreciate steph jumping on this. And be given out property owners on this.
>> I have some comments as well. Thank you guys and staff for taking the time to talk about this ordinance.
>> we have enforcement now. >> you don't know if they are
manned or unmanned you don't know if they are bringing clutter. So happy we are keeping our
streets clean and helping nonprofit organizations and for-profit keep their cause together but also make sure that
rwlett is taken care of appreciate you.
>> permit for each then. >> yes that is correct.
>> make sure they do that research before reremoved. >> thank you. >> just one question.
we had discussions about this before and I cannot remember. Do you know approximately how many bins are in the city right
now that will fall under this new ordinance? >> I do not know. Education run, so to speak, then
we will also have an idea of how many we have in the community.
>> for some reason I thought maybe I had seen that number and I guess I did not all the right. >> a long lakeview parkway they
did assess you are correct we did provide some approximate
number but. >> okay. Very good. Thank you very much.
if there are no more questions I want to maintain a motion.
>> I will make a motion to approve action to adopt an ordinance amending chapter ten businesses by adding new article
13 donation bins defined as donation bins establish permit
requirements, rate revocation and provide for requirements for maintenance of donation bins. For providing a repelling
clause, clause, providing a severability clause, providing a savings clause, I did not know this was as long or I would not
make the motion. Or a penalty not to exceed $2000
and for providing an effective. That is my motion.
>> I second that motion. >> we have a motion in a second
that is what I call the vote. And the vote is 6-0 with one
abstention. Thank you.
>> right ahead of you are still in, okay. So next is considered an action to adopt an ordinance of the
city council the city of rowlett amending the ordinance chapter 10 businesses article 11 “rental housing”, division 7
“short term rentals” by adding a new section 10.458a “density regulations; exceptions”, and by amending section 10—459 to require an exterior sign; providing a severability clause; providing a conflict clause; and providing an
effective date. Giving this presentation.
>> I would like to call a point of order I think.
I'm not sure when they do this. Can I would like to postpone this section on the st are. -- str's I think there has been
quite a bit of citizen input that it should go to the next council. So I would like to make a motion
to table these ordinances. >> I will second that motion and
if I could make a couple comments.
>> saving you the trouble of going to the presentation. I appreciate the residence that have a short-term rental that
came in and talked. I was the chair of the short-term subcommittee. And I realize I am not the
smartest person in the room I'm smart enough to realize I do not know it all and when you learn something new you have not
thought about before I think you should take the time to get it right. And so I think the intention was
we do have some resident complaints around short-term
rentals. And the subcommittee we admit
and attempted to address the concerns that we heard from some of these challenges that some of the residents have.
however, in light of some information we receive via email and public comments tonight, I appreciate you all coming out.
I do think that it would make sense for the city to take a
little bit more time and really may be get a little bit more
information and get this right. I am sad to say that. From the standpoint this is my last council meetings are not
able to finish the job there and I was the nature of the subcommittee so I feel like I'm a little bit at fault here.
but I think it is important to get it right.
so what I would suggest, as a basis of this being tabled for the next council, is the if the mayor other council members that
will still be present would take this up and maybe include some
of the property owners they short-term rentals to really figure this out. We do not want to be be onerous
on good property owners. Certainly know there have been some challenges. As an airbnb customer myself you
know I like staying in airbnb's. I just think we should get a
little bit more data to get this right.
>> I would like to wait on that and I think that is a good idea.
that it will carry on into the next one I think that is a good thing. Just step back and pause and
look at that again. I know when we talked about this before I do not know that it was said maybe it was just an
assumption that I made what I kind of thought most of the
short-term rental owners probably lived in another state
a thousand miles away or whatever. And I don't know that we even really gave much thought and I
apologize for that, for any short-term rental owners that
actually live on the property. So I think it is a good idea to specifically address the signage issue as well as maybe taking a
look at the permitting cost may be there are two scales that we
look at. You know a little bit more favorable to the ones who live here.
>> thank you guys I appreciate that support. And I'm sorry that I'm not going to get this done but I do
believe our incoming council members are wise and will be able to adjudicate this effectively.
>> and last thing, do not beat yourself up for not getting it
done drink your turn -- term I'm glad to be here in welcoming citizens and put so we can get better good governance and very
last one to speak. >> so I as well when I saw the
input and some of the stuff I started trying to work on some stuff because it is true all we heard was negative negative
negative. And so we focused on the negative. And so our apologies and we will
try to make it right and see what we can do.
>> all right. >> all right so can I have a motion and a second to table this item?
>> okay there it is. Okay let's go ahead then and call the vote and the vote is 6-0 with one abstention.
all right. We will have mr....
up again I believe here. Yes.
so we will consider and make sure I have the right one.
okay. Consider action to adopt an
ordinance of the city of rowlett, texas, amending the code of ordinances city of rowlett, texas article iv (“regulation of sex offender residency”) of chapter 34 (“miscellaneous offenses”) by amending section
34—71 to provide for an additional offense, prohibiting property owners from renting certain real property to registered sex offenders; providing a repealing clause; providing a savings clause; providing a
serviceability clause; providing for a penalty of fine not to exceed the sum of $500 for each offense; and,
providing an effective date. >> I would like to move to table
this agenda. >> I second that.
>> we have a motion and a second. I guess we will. >> yes thank you.
>> we have a motion we need a second-tier okay there we go.
so let's call a vote. All right.
>> I have a comment. >> I'm sorry.
>> so I think it is a good idea you know we make sure that we are protecting especially our small kids that may live next to
somebody who is a sex offender. I think it is a good approach I
do not have a problem tabling get to give it more thought in relation to short-term rentals. >> I completely agree with you
it is a good idea I just think in the spirit of tabling for the short-term rental owners that we should postpone it at this time.
>> all right I think we need the vote and so it passes to table
the item 6-0 with one abstention all right, moving on, we move
onto item five g. Conduct a public hearing and
consider action to adopt an ordinance to amend the zoning for an approximately 2.85 acre tract described as a portion of lot 6ra, block a of the amending replat of lukes landing lots 5ara and 6ra, block
a, in the city of rowlett, dallas county, texas and being more commonly known as 5408 kenwood drive in the city of rowlett, texas by amending the zoning for
the property from general commercial/retail with an existing special use permit
(c-2-sup) approved through ordinance (ord. 018-25) to commercial/retail with a new special use permit which will
allow expansion of the currently allowed unmanned aircraft systems hub use (c-2-sup2).
making this presentation will be michael king .
>> good evening, council members. Michael king, community lead development department.
thankyou. It gives me a chance to take a breath. We are here tonight to look at
5408 kenwood their sep application. Some people know this as a zip line.
the request is for approval of special use permit to expand and
operate unmanned aerial assistance hub within existing unmanned aerial assistant hub site located in commercial
retail district I will shorten up unmanned aerial systems to
uas going forward. So when we look at the site plan they have 2.85-acre site but they will only use about a third
of an acre maye a half acre of. But what we are shown is the existing site and the new area just north of.
all surrounded and blue that will be the extent of the sep --
sup area. The conditions are itemized below. We have paving, city council
permitted gravel of paving up to 12 months used in lieu of
concrete paving as an alternative paving material from the date of the issuance which was back on november 19th of
2025. So that extension that temporary
extension expires on november 19th of this year.
when we talk about landscaping city council waive the perimeter landscaping requirements for up to 18 months from the date of
the issuance expiring on 719-2027.
so july 19th. Other proposed conditions
include fencing, so masonry perimeter fences required but
city council waived the perimeter screening requirements for up to 12 months expiring on 1119-2026.
applicants requesting 8-foot chain link fence for 18 months
after which they will replace the chain link fence with the wrought iron fence. We also have a request for
temporary they have a temporary container structure.
so no temporary structures are allowed. Nope shipping consider on-site. So basically using technology
and computers. What runs they systems?
>> keep that temporary structure and then we will replace it with more permanent structure of the applicants requested that
temporary container be replaced with permanent structure approved by the city within 18 months planning and zoning staff
allowing it to break with permanent structure approved by
the city with 12 months. A bit of a faster turnaround for that structure. So notification would out on
march 27th 2026. We have just one response in favor from 500 feet. They have been a good neighbor.
planning and zoning commission had a public hearing on april 14th 2026. They voted 5-2 to recommend
approval of the proposed sup with the condition they meet our
requirements. So they want that 11-19-2026 date to stand. Staff recommends approval
consistent with the recommendation with the following conditions these are very similar if you go back and
read the ordinance the property shall not be required to comply
with the requirement for concrete paving but may use gravel paving for a period of 12 months commencing on the date of
the issuance of the original certificate of occupancy for the
help. The property she'll be screened by installation of 8 feet tall chain-link fence for a period of 12 months commencing on the date of issuance for the help the
expiration of which property must comply with the requirement
for 8 feet tall wrought iron fence. And a temporary container placed on the property she'll be
replaced with a permanent structure and associated landscaping complete within 18 months.
number four the property she'll be developed substantially in accordance with the site plan a uas help on the property shall
not exceed 15,000 square feet and she'll be composed of no
more than 11 double dot towers with kiosk floating that is a
long name for what the equipment does. The help shall be located at least a 500 feet from adjacent
existing residential structures to the north and northeast.
the governing body may take the following action approval, approval with conditions, or denial.
it would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
>> council any questions? >> thank you for the presentation. I am assuming the owners can
comply with the new timelines that are specified. >> after the meeting I talked with them and there is no
problem. >> okay thank you. >> quick question thank you for this for the presentation.
was there an operational reason they wanted an extended period of time? >> more than anything it was
just to get the improvements and get them approved, also get the equipment shipped in. Just allowing some leniency in
the timeline to have everything manufactured and broaden.
>> I think also there was a question about whether the model would be successful and so they want the trial period to prove
the success of the project before they have additional
expense and place. >> so the 12 months will be an operational hazard for them. >> I'm seeing them around I'm
seeing them delivered. >> they expanded their service area. >> right.
>> the applicants would you like to speak? >> I have one more question for staff before the applicants
speak. Have there been any enforcement or complaints registered to the city around any of this?
>> when I was writing a report I called the police department I asked them had no complaints about them as of about late
february. >> right. >> I have used them personally zip line, thank you.
with a nice chipotle delivered from 300 feet up it is the coolest thing I've ever had think what are you doing what is
going on it as it was kind of the top of the town for my neighborhood for the evening. And I started getting text
messages it was great. Anyways I approve of this I appreciate the supplied investing in the coming to
rowlett. >> anybody else would like to speak? The applicant would you like to say anything? >> thank you so much for your
time we've been working on this. >> all right thank you.
>> so if there is no more questions I will open the public
hearing at 9:53 p.m. Do we have anybody from the
public that wishes to speak? >> all right if we have nobody I
will close this public hearing at 9:54 p.m., is there any discussion? If not I will entertain a motion
we have a motion and a second make the motion.
>> yes thank you so hopefully this suffices without reading on this I move that we approve as presented.
>> all right and we will take the vote.
if it comes up there. All right.
>> coming up. >> there it is.
>> so that passes 6-0 with one abstention.
and so we will move onto our next item.
conduct a public hearing and consider action to adopt an ordinance regarding a request to amend the zoning ordinance and map of the city of rowlett, as previously amended, by amending the zoning from
limited commercial/retail (c-1) district to a planned development district with a base zoning of single family residential-5/15 (pd-sf5) for an approximately 1.8 acre tract commonly known as 2345 fuqua
road, and being more particularly described as block 1, tract 1 of la costa addition, in the city of rowlett, dallas county, texas. >> good evening council members.
happy to be back. We will be talking about summit
estates planned development at 2345 fuqua.
this request is to amend the zoning ordinance in the city of rowlett from limited commercial c-1 district to pd -- cell five
-- pdness f5 -- pd-sf%. This is on fuqua road.
the property has remained undeveloped for over 40 years.
public land use pattern shows to the north there is a vacant lot. Religious use zone sf number 8 and sf number 20.
you can see it is commonly used with sf8 is owning.
to the south and the west you have the subdivision which is pd for residential r2 uses when we go back to the old coat and you
can see there are townhouses mixed in closer to the lake.
so a comprehensive plan. This is interesting because we
do not have the comprehensive plan future land use map because it is already showing the right thing, what we want.
the proposed rezoning is consistent with planning.
this designates the property is median density residential under
7000 square feet. The proposed base zoning district aligns with the future land use plan.
the proposed concept plan reflects, my next slide I will
have a bigger view of this so you can see it better. Total of 12 lots. They want to meet the r5 zoning
district of eight dwelling units per acre with minimum dwelling unit acre area of 1500 square feet.
minimum lot area 5000 square feet. And where we, what we have here on these 12 lots, we have four
of the lots which exceeded 7000 square feet. We have eight of the lots which range from 500 square feet to
389 square feet. So striked -- trying to stay within the sf5. In the neighborhoods kind of
blending in with the r2 uses and the sf8 nearby.
so shows the houses. Dolphin drive and fuqua road.
out of those 12 lots we even had the three that are actually to
the north. They will be a larger lots, 9000
square feet or more. They will stretch the whole length of that area. The reason we are going forward
to ask for a 94-foot lot depth is just because of the physical
constraints of this 1.8-acre lot you will see that in this table
coming. Following development standards proposed that do not comply with sf5 and they are asking before
these standards. The production of minimum lot depth from 100 feet to 94 feet. Reduction of minimum rear
setback from 25 feet 10 feet. Alleyway waiver and street front
entry weight garages, some front entryway, and screening wells around the development will not be required.
so we have to codify that. The reason we want to have, I
told you about the site constraints for the lot depth.
we also have production of minimum rear setback from 25 feet down to 10 feet. The reason they want to do that
is because they want to increase the front setback 25 feet instead of 15 feet. So let me see.
the alleyway and straight front entry garage just as just being a minimal to the site. If you put the alley they are
the lot will be even smaller. Subdivision entryway with
screening walls. Would not really have much of a screening wall would be about 7s backyards.
these are the kind of building front facade said that they would have. Showing it rises to the front,
different rooflines considerations.
this requires that the recommendations and decisions on rezoning be based on consideration of the ten criteria items outlined in section 77 data 805c I will not
read those out but I will tell you how they comply.
so they beat the challenge of some change in condition turned
to a fact. This proposal is consistent with the comprehensive plan and the purposes.
there is no negative impact the health, safety, morals, or
general welfare. They meet all the transportation facilities services there is no adverse impacts on the natural
environment. No significant adverse impacts
and other property in the vicinity. Standards are suitable for the subject property due to
compatibility with surrounding land uses. Staff anticipates there will be no excessive proliferation of
the use or similar uses. Aligns with the medium density
residential designation and proposed rezoning established
residential zoned lots as shown on the comprehensive plan.
and the got notification on march 27th 2026 we received two
of them in opposition from 500 feet, two of them in favor, within 500 feet. We also received three responses
outside f the 500-foot buffer. They had a public hearing
april 14th 2026. They voted 6-1 recommended approval of the proposed request.
staff recommends approval of the proposed rezoning plan to development and concept plan. The governing body make the
following action. May approve approved with conditions, or deny I'm here to answer any questions and I
believe the applicant might still be.
>> council do you have any questions before we provide the applicant? >> no questions?
>> the applicant would like to come up and speak.
>> all right thank you. Okay then if there is no more
questions or input I will open the public hearing at 10:03 p.m.
do we have anybody from the public that wishes to speak?
okay, if not I will close this public hearing at 10:03 p.m.
any additional discussion? If not then I will entertain a motion we have a motion if you would like.
>> I would like to make a motion as written.
>> approved. >> to improve. >> trying to use councilman. >> that is valid.
>> yes, I second that motion. >> okay, we have a motion to
second let's call the vote. >> and that passes 6-0 on
abstention. All right.
and that concludes at least that part of the meeting. Members of city council may request topics to be placed on
the agenda for the subsequent subsequent meeting. Any deliberation or decision she'll be limited to a proposal
that places the topic on the agenda for a subsequent meeting. Does anybody have anything to add?
if we have anything than we are