The administration of the City of College Station places a high value on openness in local government. In keeping with this philosophy, City Manager Glenn Brown issues a publication called The Link -- a report designed to highlight the day-to-day operations and noteworthy accomplishments of City staff.
Review of the Past, Preview of the Future
2008 was a year of significant accomplishment in College Station coupled with challenges both internally and externally. Internally, we continued to face the challenge of several vacancies in key positions within the organization. Most of those vacancies have now been filled with very qualified and experienced staff but there was impact on our staff during the year. Externally, we faced the challenge of the slowing economy and the threat of its impact locally. We continue to monitor the effect of the economy locally but fortunately the impact has been minimal to date.
In preparation of this report, I made the decision to provide you with what I believe to be the more significant accomplishments of 2008 and those that track most in alignment with the City Council’s Strategic Plan and overall stated mission. As such, many otherwise notable accomplishments are absent from this report and you should know that the absence of any such acknowledgment takes nothing away from the individual and collective achievements of each Department. [ top ]
Strong and Sustainable Neighborhoods
Accomplished several key council initiatives including the establishment and implementation of the single family overlay protection zones, establishment of a historic preservation ordinance, adoption of revised traffic impact analysis requirements, revision of Subdivision Regulations to better manage development in the ETJ, amended the Code of Ordinances to require rental registration for all rental single family and duplex properties and establish party host responsibilities. [ top ]
General Obligation Bond Election & Sale
One of the significant projects faced during 2008 was the preparation for the 2008 bond election. Voter approved 4 of 6 propositions on the November 4, 2008 ballot totaling $76,950,000 for streets and transportation, city library, fire station and parks. The City Hall and community Center propositions were defeated. The City also sold over $35 million in General Obligation Bonds and Certificates of Obligation to fund City capital projects. This was a successful debt issue during a difficult economic environment. [ top ]
Residents review the bond brochure
Environmental Awareness
In an effort to achieve long-term sustainability and resource conservation, we implemented the citywide Green College Station program. Focus areas include: Energy conservation and renewable energy resources, water conservation, solid waste and hazardous waste reduction, land us/green and open space/development codes, and air quality. To further these efforts, College Station Utilities began offering renewable power to electric customers through the Wind Watts program. City Council adopted a tiered water rate structure for Residential Single Family Customers, to discourage the wasteful or inefficient use of water. We began to update the bicycle, pedestrian, and Greenways master plan. Greenways are becoming increasingly recognized as ways to connect people and places with alternative transportation choices, such as bicycling, skating, and walking. Updating these plans and updating them in conjunction will ensure alternative modes of transportation are available for the population. [ top ]
Emergency Operations & Safety
The Community Emergency Operations Center (CEOC) construction was completed and opened in downtown Bryan in June 2008. The CEOC is staffed with management personnel from College Station, Bryan, Brazos County and Texas A&M University. The first full activation of this new emergency facility occurred in response to Hurricane Ike in September. In safety efforts, the Municipal Court successfully implemented new security measures including the installation of a metal detector as well as an X-ray machine. These security improvements have helped make the Municipal court a safer place for customers and staff. [ top ]
New Communication Approaches
City Council authorized the implementation of a new approach to our Public Communications efforts last year. I am pleased to report we are making strides to implement various components of the Communication Plan. Some of the elements of the Communication Plan completed in 2008: broadcast, publications, City’s website, community relation programs and marketing city events. [ top ]
The new CSTV-19 studio
Challenges in 2009
I am always excited about the future but especially this year. While we continue to face a number of challenges, including the effects of the national economy, I believe College Station and our region is poised for a highly successful year ahead. City Council, again, will be called upon to make several difficult choices as you weigh policy options. The staff and I are committed to assist you by providing quality well thought out policy options for your consideration. There are several significant programs and policy proposals forthcoming in the next 12 months. [ top ]
Projects to be completed in 2009 --
- Northgate Restrooms
- College Park/Breezy Heights Rehabilitation (Water, Sewer and Drainage)
- CSU Meeting and Training Building
- 2005 Bike Loop - Phase I (including pedestrian improvements at Longmire and FM 2818)
- Police Department Renovations
- Barron Road Capacity Improvements - Phase I
- William D. Fitch Widening - Phase II
- Completion of 2nd floor of Municipal Court Building
- Extension of Eagle Avenue
- Memorial Cemetery and Aggie Field of Honor
- Well No.7 Well Collection Line
- Hondo/Southwest Parkway Sewer Replacement
- College Main Sidewalks
Public Safety Updates
Fire Station #3 was completed in April and dedicated in August, with approximately 200 citizens in attendance. The station is designed to harmonize with the surrounding residential neighborhoods and blend with the environment. Fire Chief Magazine, in its November 2008 issue, granted the station its highest award, the “gold satellite” award for the station design. The new station improved response time and coverage to citizens due to its geographic location.
Fire Station #3
The Police Department also received re-accreditation of Police by the Commission for Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies. This was their 5th Re-accreditation since 1991. CSPD also represents the top 1% of accredited agencies as it has been designated as a “Flagship” agency by CALEA. The Communications Division also received Accreditation through CALEA. CSPD is one of only two law enforcement agencies in Texas to have a dual accreditation.
In recognition of our achievements and welcoming the future challenges, we should also take note of the many stakeholders and volunteers who share our vision and propel our drive. Residents, community-based organizations and business leaders are frequently our strongest supporters. Our ultimate mission, improving the quality of life of College Station citizens, has certainly been strengthened by those collaborations. [ top ]
KUDOS to the Staff
During 2008, the City government was recognized for a number of our programs and activities. National recognition confirms our commitment to providing quality services to our citizens. This is an outstanding group of professionals who bring enthusiasm and energy to the organization. [ top ]