ITEMS FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSIDERATION

ITEM 5C

TITLE: Consider a Resolution authorizing the application for and implementation of project/activity applications for FY2018 Community Development Block Grant funding with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through Dallas County.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY: Every other year, the City applies for grants through the CDBG program and Dallas County to be applied to low-moderate income areas of the City (Attachment 2). Since 2001, this grant has been utilized for the funding of a code enforcement officer, and any remaining funds have been used to assist in funding water and sewer improvements, street improvements, and/or park improvements. The City was notified by Dallas County that funds in the amount of $236,270.00 are available for the FY2018 CDBG Program. This is the equivalent of two year’s funding, as we will not receive funding for the FY2019 program year.
Due to the late notice of available funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Dallas County will hold two public hearings for this program on the behalf of the participating cities. Hearings will be held on July 3 and August 7, 2018, at the Dallas County Commissioners Court for suggestions on how these funds could be used in the unincorporated areas of the County and the six participating cities. Comments and/or suggestions received for the City of Duncanville during the citizen comment period will be forwarded to HUD after these hearings.

Staff suggests a portion of these funds be allocated for the continued funding of a Code Enforcement Officer. Since 2001, this grant has funded a Registered Code Enforcement Officer whose assigned duty is to visually inspect low-moderate income area properties. The code officer is typically looking for high grass, junk motor vehicles, dilapidation of structures, illegal storage, and graffiti. If violations are found, the code officer takes the necessary steps to have the property owner mitigate the violations.

In addition to continued funding for the Code Enforcement Officer, staff is recommending a wastewater improvement project along Meadow Crest Lane in the River Oaks subdivision as part of the FY2018 Pipe bursting Program. This project would benefit 16 homes at a cost of about $28,192.00 to the City (Attachment 3). The proposed project involves replacement of approximately 1,277 linear feet of substandard 6-inch wastewater line with an 8-inch PVC line. The project limits are from Linkhaven Drive to Linkmeadow Drive along the west right-of-way of Meadow Crest Lane. The old line will be replaced by pipebursting. The old clay tile line is approximately 58 years old and in poor condition with broken joints and cracking and is a source of infiltration.

An alternative project would be to install new sidewalk and barrier-free ramps in the Fairmeadows North subdivision as part of the FY2018 Accessibility Program. This project would benefit 58 homes at a cost of about $63,630.00 to the city (Attachment 4). The proposed project involves installing approximately 2,825 linear feet of new 4-foot sidewalk and 33 barrier-free ramps. The project limits are from Golden Meadow Lane to Trail Ridge Drive (between Oriole Boulevard and Winding Trail). The new sidewalks and ramps will provide accessibility in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act where accessibility does not currently exist.
Staff is recommending the project along Meadow Crest Lane in the River Oaks subdivision since this reconstruction is a part of the FY18 Five-Year Utility Capital Improvements Projects plan.

POLICY EXPLANATION: CDBG funds are available for various projects or programs as long as non-code projects have a budget of at least $70,000 and the projects meet one of three national objectives:
1. eliminates blight,
2. eliminates a community-threatening condition, or
3. principally benefits low/moderate income people

These projects must be in defined areas where at least 51% of the population that directly benefit are of low/moderate income. In Duncanville, the population classified as low/moderate income in the 2010 Census is 44.0%. To qualify as low/moderate, the maximum household income must be between $41,100.00 and $77,500.00, depending on the size of the household.
By submitting a grant application and entering into an implementation agreement upon acceptance, the City is continuing its commitment to code enforcement activities, which is a key element in maintaining properties in good condition and appearance. Well-maintained properties will also help preserve property values in our residential housing stock.he code enforcement application provides CDBG FY18 funding of $115,900.00 for 100% of a code officer’s salary, benefits and expenses for the next two years. Expenses include uniform rental, cell phone, data connection charges, office supplies, and training.

After providing continued funding for a code enforcement officer, a balance of $120,370.00 remains to be applied to an improvement project:
Option 1: Wastewater Improvements – Meadow Crest Lane from $148,562.00 Linkhaven Drive to Linkmeadow Drive
Option 2: Accessibility Improvements – Fairmeadows North Subdivision $184,000.00

A resolution has been prepared for each option, depending on which project application the Council wishes to submit. Completed applications must be submitted to Dallas County no later than June 6, 2018.

FUNDING SOURCE: The City sets up a budget for this activity and submits reimbursement requests for the CDBG Program through Dallas County. The County then reimburses the City on a quarterly basis. $120,370.00 will be reimbursed by Dallas County Community Development Block Grant funds for either project. The remaining balance on the Wastewater Improvements projects is provided for in the FY19 Utility Capital Improvements Project fund.

Council previously approved $600,000.00 in the FY18 Traffic Safety and Improvement Fund for a citywide sidewalk improvements program. If Council selects Option 2 – Accessibility Improvements for CDBG funding, staff is proposing $184,000.00 from the city-wide sidewalk improvements program be transferred to the FY19 budget for this purpose.

RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of a resolution authorizing the application for and implementation of project/activity applications for FY2018 Community Development Block Grant funding with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through Dallas County.

Council Action:
Approved 6-1 majority vote funding for Code Enforcement officer and Option 2, Accessibility Improvements – Fairmeadows North Subdivision.

Meeting Date: 5Jan2018

ITEMS FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSIDERATION

ITEM 5B

TITLE: Consider an Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances by amending Chapter 19, “Traffic”, Article IV “Traffic Control Devices” to add regulations applicable to the traffic control devices within the City of Duncanville; and Article VI “Stopping, Standing and Parking” to establish standards for the authority of the traffic engineer to prohibit parking on narrow streets within the City of Duncanville.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY: City Attorney Hager has provided updates to the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 19, “Traffic”, to provide additional regulations for traffic control devices and the prohibition of parking on narrow streets. Article IV, Traffic Control Devices, has not been updated since 1995. Updates to this section are intended to provide more concise guidance for the regulation and enforcement of the ordinance as it pertains to traffic signs, signals or devices. The update also provides for language that all traffic control devices shall conform with the current Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways and any future Manual amendments, a standard that was not previously contained in the ordinance. Article VI, Stopping, Standing and Parking, is being updated to provide more detailed requirements for the authorization of the traffic engineer to enact no parking zones on narrow streets. Although Section 19-111 currently authorizes the traffic engineer to prohibit such parking, additional language is being added for specific signage, pavement markings and curb painting to be determined, designated, and erected wherever a hazardous condition exists or a situation is created that restricts access for emergency vehicles on narrow streets.

POLICY EXPLANATION: City Council approval is required to amend the Code of Ordinances. This recommendation is to provide updated regulations and to establish standards based on public safety concerns.

RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of an Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances by amending Chapter 19, “Traffic”, Article IV “Traffic Control Devices” to add regulations applicable to the traffic control devices within the City of Duncanville; and Article VI “Stopping, Standing and Parking” to establish standards for the authority of the traffic engineer to prohibit parking on narrow streets within the City of Duncanville.

Council Action:
Approved 7-0.

ITEMS FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSIDERATION
ITEM 5A

TITLE: Conduct a public hearing and consider an ordinance amending the comprehensive zoning ordinance and map, as heretofore amended, by amending the existing “MU-1” Mixed Use 1 District zoning to include a Specific Use Permit for a Pet Daycare and Overnight Boarding Facility (Kennels) on James Anderson Abstract 17 Page 090, Tract 9, approximately 0.378 acres, more commonly known as 1103 S. Main Street in the City of Duncanville, Dallas County, Texas.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY:
On May 14, 2018, a public hearing was conducted before the Planning and Zoning Commission to consider the request of Pamela Norman and Victor Covarrubias, owners, to amend the Mixed Use 1 “MU-1” District Zoning to include a “SU” Specific Use Permit for a Pet Daycare and Overnight Boarding Facility (Kennels) on James Anderson Abstract 17, Tract 9, approximately 0.378 acres, more commonly known as 1103 S. Main Street.

Project Scope
The 0.378-acre site is developed with an existing approximately 896 square foot building. The applicant has already begun renovations on the building to include façade improvements and interior renovations. The property will be used for a retail pet store selling a variety of pet-related items as well as provide grooming services. The retail pet store and grooming services are permitted uses in the Mixed Use 1 “MU-1” District. However, the pet daycare and overnight boarding (kennels) require approval of a Specific Use Permit.
The applicant intends to have approximately thirty (30) kennels in the rear of the building for housing dogs overnight. The rooms containing the kennels will have sound dampening insulation to help mitigate noise. The hours of operation would be from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. The applicant states that the dogs will be boarded indoors and will only be outside between the hours of operation. The kennels are monitored by video surveillance that the applicant can view remotely. The applicant stated they live locally and can respond quickly to any issues that arise overnight.

The applicant intends to have two fenced in areas to separate the dogs by size, with solid wood fences approximately six (6) feet in height. Smaller dogs will be fenced in near the building and the rear yard will be fenced for the larger dogs. The applicant stated the yard would be cleaned daily to prevent unpleasant odors.

In addition to the ongoing building renovations, the applicant will be required to add a concrete parking lot with a minimum of five (5) parking spaces based on a one (1) parking space per 200 square foot requirement. The applicant is proposing some additional landscaping improvements at the front of the property.

Land Use
Duncanville’s Zoning Ordinance requires a Specific Use Permit for uses that under most circumstances would not be compatible but with certain conditions and development restrictions may be allowed. Granting the Specific Use Permit with conditions would allow the proposed use in a manner that aims to ensure compatibility with the surrounding properties. The surrounding area is Mixed Use 1 “MU-1” District along Main Street. Property to the west is zoned Apartment “A” and R-1.4 Single Family District.

Council Action:
Postponed to a future meeting.

Agenda Items for Consideration:

Consent Agenda 4B:

TITLE: Consider a Resolution authorizing purchase #18-092 of police patrol and crime prevention vehicles from Caldwell Country Chevrolet, through The Local Government Purchasing Cooperative (Buy Board) Contract #521-16 in the expenditure amount of $360,610.00.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The City of Duncanville identifies its fleet needs annually in the budget process and the City Council allocates funds for replacement needs per the annual replacement needs identified annually for those fleet units that have reached their useful life. During the FY17-18 budget process, the City Council allocated $269,000.00 toward the replacement of police patrol and crime prevention vehicles. The Duncanville Police Department has selected the Chevrolet Tahoe as its standard police patrol unit after experiencing major mechanical issues with the Ford Interceptor SUVs that it currently uses. These units have had safety issues with the emissions systems and engine issues resulting in replacing engines in three units. The Duncanville Police Department experienced a shortage of patrol units during these repairs.

POLICY EXPLANATION: The above referenced item is for the purchase of seven (7) units including six police patrol vehicles, one (1) crime prevention vehicle and the make ready equipment and services to outfit these vehicles. The acquisition includes: seven (7) Chevrolet Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicles, as well as the make ready equipment and services to outfit these vehicles.

These units are a critical component of the City of Duncanville’s ability to maintain an acceptable level of service to its citizens. The purchase of these vehicles will reduce maintenance costs, improve safety and reliability, and increase fuel economy. City staff is recommending the purchase of these units to replace existing units that have reached their useful life.

These vehicles are among a multitude of automobile and law enforcement products that are available through The Local Government Purchasing Cooperative (Buy Board) Contract #521-16. This authorization complies with Texas Local Government Code Section 271.102 and satisfies any state law requiring competitive bids. In the past, the city has sought bids from local vendors but has received minimal response, and some bids received did not meet the required vehicle specifications. Staff reviews multiple cooperative purchasing agreements to attain the best available pricing. In addition, each cooperative purchasing agreement includes bids from multiple vendors from around the state competing for the high volume of purchases that will be made by the multiple agencies using the cooperative agreements. This results in lower pricing than what a local vendor is typically able to provide.
FUNDING SOURCE: $269,000.00 is available in the Fleet Rotation Fund budget for this expenditure. The remaining $91,610.00 is available in the FY18 Equipment Services Budget.

Council Action: No action taken. Agenda item to be reconsidered at the next Council meeting.

Consent Agenda 4C:

TITLE:
Consider a Resolution authorizing purchase #18-094 for a senior center bus from Creative Bus Sales through the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) Cooperative Purchase Contract #BT01-17 in the expenditure amount of $71,065.78.

BACKGROUND/HISTORY:
The City of Duncanville identifies its fleet needs annually in the budget process and the City Council allocates funds for those fleet units that have reached the end of their useful life. Funds in the amount of $91,694.00 have been allocated toward the replacement of identified vehicles.

POLICY EXPLANATION:
This unit is a critical component of the City of Duncanville’s ability to maintain an acceptable level of service to its senior citizens. The purchase of this unit will reduce maintenance costs, improve safety and reliability, and increase fuel economy. City staff is recommending the purchase of this unit to replace the existing unit that has reached its useful life.
This unit is available from Creative Bus Sales through the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) Cooperative Purchase Contract #BT01-17. This authorization complies with Texas Local Government Code Section 271.102 and satisfies any state law requiring competitive bids. Staff reviews multiple cooperative purchasing agreements to attain the best available pricing. In addition, each cooperative purchasing agreement includes bids from multiple vendors from around the state competing for the high volume of purchases that will be made by the multiple agencies using the cooperative agreements. This results in lower pricing than what a local vendor is typically able to provide.

FUNDING SOURCE:
$91,694.00 is available in the Fleet Rotation Fund budget for this expenditure.

Council Action: Approved 7-0.

Fire Department –The Department has not had any major EMS events in Duncanville this week, but responded to five (5) structure fires this week:
• 1503 Marshall Dr. – occurred today. Cause appears to be from charging a battery operated ATV which over heated the battery causing it to catch fire. The back porch was involved in fire.
• 326 E Davis St. The occupant was working in the garage when he spilled gasoline. The pilot light from the water heater ignited the vapors. The structure was not inhabitable.
• 706 Lakeside Dr. at Lakeside Baptist Church – two separate incidents. The structure received minor damage and both fires were a result of arson. The structure has since been boarded up to secure the interior.
• 1406 Candlelight apartments. This was a minor fire, but also appears to have been intentionally set. The fire self-extinguished because of no air. The room of origin was smoked up, but no water was applied.

The quick response from our Fire Department is limiting the amount of damage to the structures.

Fire Prevention installed 58 smoke alarms in District 2 on Saturday.

Public Works – Water usage was 28.576 MG the week of April 23 through April 29, up from 26.099 MG the prior week. The daily peak water demand occurred on Friday, April 27, when 4.662 MG was used. There was 0.00 inches of precipitation that week.

Dallas County did not report any positive West Nile traps this week. Even so, continued use of an insect repellent containing DEET and removal of all areas of standing water is recommended. Insect repellent and mosquito dunks are available for Duncanville residents at the Building Inspection counter at City Hall. Residents should report dirty pools at abandoned homes where mosquitos are likely to breed to Code Services at 972780-5040.

Construction Update:
• The Street Division concrete construction crew removed and replaced 536 square feet of damaged sidewalks at 219, 227, 231, 235, and 239 W. Fain and 803 Smith Street.
• The Street Division asphalt crew repaired and modified the creek crossing on the Lakeside Park trail.
• Viking Construction began micro-surfacing selected streets throughout the city. They are using the City’s impound lot for their staging area for about three weeks.
• La Banda Contractors completed the tie-in at Vinyard Road and Main Street on Tuesday, May 1. Weather is prohibiting the completion of the remainder of the punch list for the FY18 Water Improvements project. The project is scheduled to be complete next week.

Library — Through a generous gift from the Friends of the Duncanville Library, the library was able to purchase a set of colorful metal pegboard panels that we have installed in the children’s area. We are awaiting the delivery of several magnetic interactive elements to use with the wall in what will be our new “Discovery Zone.” These elements will include various activities that are often found in children’s science museums and can be switched out seasonally to explore new topics and learning possibilities. Once again, we are very grateful for the generosity of our Friends!

As a result of our April Cleanout Days, Goodwill Industries reported they collected 4600 pounds of materials from 66 donors, which equates to approximately 128 hours of employment for the people they serve. Goodwill Industries provides employment and training for persons with disabilities including physical challenges, cognitive disorders, limited education, homelessness, and welfare dependency.

Parks and Recreation
Parks:
• Two members of our Athletics Maintenance Crew attended the FC Dallas Field Day for athletic turf maintenance personnel. It was a great opportunity to learn from turf professionals and discuss best practices with their peers in other cities.

Recreation:
• A big note of appreciation to Mr. Frank Torres, our newest Recreation Attendant. During his first week as a Rec Team member he showed great initiative by deep cleaning and buffing the gymnasium floors, the upstairs walking track, as well as the Teen Room and kitchen midway area. Kudos for his initiative and service to our customers!
• Registration for Summer Camp 2018 officially opened Tuesday, May 1. There are only 50 spots available. Some of the field trips planned include the Perot Museum, Altitude Trampoline Park, Cinemark Movies – Incredibles II, the Fort Worth Zoo and the Dallas Aquarium.
• With the excitement of our new cardio equipment, we continue to strive to provide optimal service and high-performance products for our customers. We have recently experienced some obstacles and are working to find resolutions. 1. A reconfiguration of all new cardio equipment has been performed to access private, dedicated internet access on each machine. This will provide a higher internet speed, allowing for better streaming during workouts.
2. We have contacted DISH Network and Precor, the equipment manufacturer, for technical assistance with recurring monitor issues. We hope to get a resolution next week.
3. Our next service enhancement will include current Recreation Center information on the display screens of all cardio machines.

Fieldhouse:
• Improvements — structure painting has been completed and a new green court divider curtain is scheduled to be installed the week of June 1. Concrete improvements and stamped concrete overlay will be completed during the next two weeks. New signage is scheduled to be installed the week of June 4 and will include structure signs, pole sign and monument sign.
• This coming week we have: o Hoop One Youth Basketball Camp – Friday, Saturday and Sunday o Jr. Sports & Recreation Youth Basketball League Playoffs – Sunday o Fieldhouse Feeder Men’s League – Sunday

Economic Development – ED staff is providing support and working on the following projects:
• Met with the Duncanville Logo Advisory Committee and received the results of the logo survey. The survey had 569 unique visitors and 249 responses. The consultants will bring back draft logo designs for the Committee to review and consider during its next meeting. The Committee will then make recommendations for City Council to consider.
• With the Development Team, met with the property owner of 1204 Crest Lane to discuss development options for the property.
• With Public Works staff, assisted Masco Cabinetry with issues they were having with their Fire Suppression System.

The DCEDC Board will hold a special called meeting on May 7, 2018, at 7 p.m., at City Hall in the City Council Briefing Room.

The La Quinta Inn and Suites anticipates opening in June and has indicated they will have a ribbon-cutting event to which they will invite City Council.

Certificate of Occupancy (CO) Permits Issued: • None this week

Certificate of Occupancy (CO) Applications Received • Providence Title Company; 336 S Cedar Ridge Dr. (Title Insurance Office) • Workout Anytime; 111 S Cedar Ridge Dr. Ste. # 118 (Health & Fitness Facility) • WTB Service Co. L.P.; 102 N Main St. (Corporate Office) • Master Touch Elite; 631 E Hwy 67 Suite #A (Auto Repair & Accessories)

Public Information – Telemundo is planning a live news broadcast event on May 10, 2018, at Armstrong Park from 3:00p to 6:00p. They will have 2 hours of live news coverage featuring Duncanville, its offerings, positive stories and programs/events offered by the City. They will be inviting viewers to come to the park. The City coordinated with them this past week to have our recreation specialist, a police officer and Library Director Julio Velasquez do some sound bites and news feeds with them in Spanish. We look forward to working with Telemundo and the opportunity to showcase Duncanville

Sister City Trip – the delegation from Duncanville to Monasterolo di Savigliano will be returning to Duncanville this weekend. They have sent some pictures of their trip and will make a report to City Council at the May 1, 2018 meeting. A few pictures are included at the end of this memo.

City Secretary – I am pleased to report that Ms. Narva Walker will begin employment on Monday, May 7 as the new City Secretary to replace Mary Jones who retired the end of February. Ms. Walker has a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. She has been previously employed as the Assistant City Secretary in Lancaster, a claims processor and health coordinator for Baylor Hospital in Dallas, and is currently working in accounts payable/accounts receivable for the city of Wilmer. She was previously certified as a Texas Registered Municipal Clerk (TRMC). We are excited to welcome her and my thanks to Assistant City Manager Paul Frederiksen and Economic Development Coordinator Cynthia Williams who assisted me in the interview process.

Police Department – Attached is the monthly crime report for March 2018 compared to previous month, and March 2018 YTD comparison to same period of 2017.

Fire Department – The Department has not had any major fire events in Duncanville this week, but did respond to a motor vehicle accident on I-20 involving four vehicles. A wrong way driver collided head-on with a vehicle on the west bound side late in the day Saturday. Unfortunately, a young driver was killed in the accident. Traffic was tied up on I-20 for hours due to the investigation and cleaning the highway of debris.

Fire Prevention will be installing smoke alarms in District 2 this coming Saturday. This program has been highly successful over the previous months.

Public Works – Water usage was 26.099 MG the week of April 16 through April 22, up from 23.943 MG the prior week. The daily peak water demand occurred on Monday, April 16, when 4.236 MG was used. There was 0.04 inches of precipitation that week.

Dallas County did not report any positive West Nile traps this week. Even so, continued use of an insect repellent containing DEET and removal all areas of standing water is recommended. Residents should report dirty pools at abandoned homes where mosquitos are likely to breed to Code Services at 972-780-5040.

City Planner Chasidy Allen Benson attended the National American Planning Association Conference in New Orleans held April 20-24. She attended several meaningful sessions including workshops on retail in underserved communities, comprehensive plan implementation, GIS training, downtown revitalization, and a tour of Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, winner of the Great American Main Street Award in 2017. The information she gathered from the conference can be applied in various ways in planning work for the City of Duncanville.

The concrete construction crew erected three barrier-free ADA ramps in the Flame East subdivision.

Design of the FY18 Water and Wastewater Improvements project has begun. Water main improvements will be made on West Center Street from Cedar Ridge Drive to North Horne Street and along Center Ridge Drive from Cedar Ridge Drive to the Center Ridge Apartment complex. Water and wastewater main improvements will be made along the current alignment in the Center Ridge Apartment complex existing easements.

Library — During the week of April 2-6 Library Director Julio Velasquez, and Librarians Stephanie Lott and Hannah Olsen attended the annual Texas Library Association (TLA) Conference in Downtown Dallas as panel presenters. They had the opportunity to use their expertise and experience to present on various panels to a diverse group of library professionals from across the state. Because the conference was local, several other library staff members also were able to attend informative sessions on Volunteer Recruitment and Coordination, STEM Programming, and Diversity Programming, which will be beneficial to the wide community that the library serves.

Repainting of the library was recently completed, creating a brighter and more vibrant space. Patrons have already expressed positive and enthusiastic comments on the new painting. Especially striking is the children’s area that has gained a much-needed colorful upgrade. The children’s area also received new colorful furniture to replace outdated and worn items and help create a more exciting space for our younger patrons and their parents.

Staff member Vickie Glass was one of the primary coordinators for Operation Clean Duncanville, which took place on Saturday April 7. Despite inclement weather being a potential deterrent, city employees working the event were able to assist 438 customers in dropping off waste and recyclables. Data Shred Services shredded and recycled approximately 11,500 pounds of materials.

Parks and Recreation Parks: • The horticulture crew completed the seasonal color plantings for all the flower beds with 500 flats of lantana and pentas. • Last weekend it was reported that the lightning detection unit at Harrington Park did not work correctly. Our staff immediately inspected the unit and determined that it is a battery issue. The new batteries are on order and will be here next week. The other lightning detection units are also being inspected to ensure they are functioning appropriately. • The replacement of the deteriorated athletic field light poles at Lakeside Park began this week.

Recreation: • The Recreation Center has signed both a new yoga program and a returning youth dance program for this upcoming season. The yoga program is hosted by Fitnessbyava and will look to incorporate both Yoga and Pilates in a PIYO format of fitness. There will be two nights a week dedicated to this core strengthening class. The returning youth dance class is a ballet focused curriculum taught by Lashonda Price. • All city departments gathered this week to continue working on the logistics of the two biggest events of the year: Juneteenth and Independence Day. The meeting was comprised of 5 different departments working together to ensure the success of these community events.

Building Maintenance: • Several facilities have received new paint over the past two weeks:
o Central Fire Station Bay Floors
o Fire Station #2 Bay Floors
o Utility Bill Dropbox
o Police Jail
o Senior Center Exterior
o Fieldhouse Exterior

New flooring has been installed in the meeting rooms at the Library/Recreation Center.
Senior Center: • Today is Rashidah Madyun’s last day as she begins her knew chapter of retirement. New Senior Center Supervisor Noel Garcia started this week and has been working with Rashidah to learn all he can before she leaves.

Fieldhouse: • The inaugural Under Armor event last weekend was a big success and they are already working to book future events at the Fieldhouse. • The smaller of the two major GASO events will be held at the Fieldhouse this weekend.

Economic Development – ED staff is providing support and working on the following projects: • Met with the Wyndham Hotel Corporation who is interested in building a hotel in Duncanville. • Met with the owner of the Rodeway Inn (formerly Quality Inn) and discussed their plans to put a pizza restaurant on the property. • With the development team, met with the owner of the old Calloway’s Nursery property located at 723 S Cockrell Hill Rd. They are interested in putting an event center and restaurant on the property.

Pappa’s BBQ has submitted site civil plans for their restaurant which will be located at Lot 1, Block A of Three Corners Addition. This is the property facing the northbound US 67 service road, adjacent to Costco and the new Popeye’s restaurant on Main Street.

The Duncanville Logo Advisory Committee will meet on Monday, April 30, 2018, at 3:30 p.m. in the City Council Briefing Room.

Certificate of Occupancy (CO) Permits Issued: • Nailizm; 620 S Cedar Ridge (Nail Salon)

Certificate of Occupancy (CO) Applications Received • Duncanville Nail Salon; 220 S Cedar Ridge Dr. (Nail Salon)

Public Information – Telemundo is planning a live news broadcast event on May 10, 2018, at Armstrong Park from 3:00p to 6:00p. They will have 2 hours of live news coverage featuring Duncanville, its offerings, positive stories and programs/events offered by the City. They will be inviting viewers to come to the park. The City has coordinated to have at least three City employees to do sound bites/live news feed in Spanish. We look forward to working with Telemundo and the opportunity to showcase Duncanville!

My thoughts and prayers to the families of all those affected by the violence here in Dallas and beyond.  On a personal note, I appreciate Chief Robert Brown, Ben Luna and all the men and women of the Duncanville Police department that serve this community with dedication and compassion.  I want to thank the City Manager, all the City staff and the Duncanville community for coming together and celebrating our nation on the Fourth of July peacefully and joyfully.  My wife took pictures of the celebration and placed it on my Facebook page and titled it “the Mayberry celebration”.  When I think of Mayberry, I think of a place when people know each other, and everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

We have too much anger.  We see too many adversaries.  We need courage.  We need to surround ourselves with neighbors.

It takes courage to face the adversity, to overcome the fear, to encounter the evil and respond with dignity…trusting in the God who promised that He would never leave us or forsake us, that He would withhold no good thing from us, that He would work all things together for good.  We all stand on the shoulders of Dr. Martin Luther King, Gandhi and others, but it takes courage to rise up and make it real right here and right now.  Pray to receive that courage and respond rightly to the challenge of life.

When you get an opportunity, read Luke 10:25-37.  Let’s be that guy.  Start now.  I will.

Will you?