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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJune 11, 2002 AgendaAgenda 02-020 06/11/02 AGENDA CITY OF DENTON CITY COUNCIL June 11, 2002 After determining that a quorum is present, the Denton City Council will convene in a Closed Meeting on June 11, 2002 at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Work Session Room at City Hall, 215 East McKinney Street, Denton, Texas to consider specific items when these items are listed below under the Closed Meeting section of this agenda. When items for consideration are not listed under the Closed Meeting section of the agenda, the City Council will not conduct a Closed Meeting and will convene at the time listed below for its regular or special called meeting. The City Council reserves the fight to adjourn into a Closed Meeting on any item on its Open Meeting agenda consistent with Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, as amended, as set forth below. 1. Closed Meeting: A. Consultation with Attomey -- Under TEX. GOV'T. CODE Section 551.071 Discuss, deliberate and consult with the City's attorneys regarding the claim filed against the City of Denton by Lark Schutte, where to discuss such issues and matters in a public meeting would conflict with the attorneys' duties and professional responsibilities to their client under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. Following the completion of the Closed Meeting, the Council will convene in a Special Called Session to consider the following: Consider adoption of an ordinance of the City of Denton, Texas authorizing the Mayor to execute a compromise settlement agreement and release of all claims in a claim filed against the City of Denton by Lark Schutte; authorizing the expenditure of funds therefor. The Council will convene in a Planning Session on Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at 4:30 p.m. in the City Council Work Session Room at City Hall, 215 E. McKinney, Denton, Texas at which the following item will be considered: NOTE: A Planning Work Session is used to explore matters of interest to one or more City Council Members or the City Manager for the purpose of giving staff direction into whether or not such matters should be placed on a future regular or special meeting of the Council for citizen input, City Council deliberation and formal City action. At a Planning Work Session, the City Council generally receives informal and preliminary reports and information from City staff, officials, members of City committees, and the individual or organization proposing council action, if invited by City Council or City Manager to participate in the session. Participation by individuals and members of organizations invited to speak ceases when the Mayor announces the session is being closed to public input. Although Planning Work Sessions are public meetings, and citizens have a legal right to attend, they are not public hearings, so citizens are not allowed to participate in the session unless invited to do so by the Mayor. Any citizen may supply to the City Council, prior to the beginning of the session, a written report regarding the citizen's opinion on the matter being explored. Should the Council direct the City of Denton City Council Agenda June 11, 2002 Page 2 matter be placed on a regular meeting agenda, the staff will generally prepare a final report defining the proposed action, which will be made available to all citizens prior to the regular meeting at which citizen input is sought. The purpose of this procedure is to allow citizens attending the regular meeting the opportunity to hear the views of their fellow citizens without having to attend two meetings. Receive a report, hold a discussion and give staff direction regarding Neighborhood Preservatior[ CERTIFICATE I certify that the above notice of meeting was posted on the bulletin board at the City Hall of the City of Denton, Texas, on the day of ., 2002 o'clock (a.m.) (p.m.) CITY SECRETARY NOTE: THE CITY OF DENTON CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION ROOM IS ACCESSIBLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. THE CITY WILL PROVIDE SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERS FOR THE HEAR1NG IMPAIRED IF REQUESTED AT LEAST 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THE SCHEDULED MEETING. PLEASE CALL THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE AT 349-8309 OR USE TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICES FOR THE DEAF (TDD) BY CALLING 1-800- RELAY-TX SO THAT A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER CAN BE SCHEDULED THROUGH THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE. Agenda02-020 06/11/02 SS#1 AGENDA DATE: DEPARTMENT: CM/DCM/ACM: AGENDA INFORMATION SHEET June 11, 2002 Legal Department Jerry E. Drake, Jr., Senior Assistant City Attorney/Litigation Chief SUBJECT: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE A COMPROMISE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS iN A CLAIM FILED AGAINST THE CITY OF DENTON BY LARK SCHUTTE; AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS THEREFOR. BACKGROUND: On July 18, 2000, a City of Denton vehicle was involved in a collision with a vehicle being driven by Lark Schutte. Ms. Schutte filed a claim against the City for damages. That claim has settled for $40,000, in addition to $27,447 already paid. OPTIONS: Pay settlement amount. RECOMMENDATION: The Legal Department recommends the City pay the above amount in order to settle this claim. PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (Council, Boards, Commissions): None. FISCAL INFORMATION: $40,000. Respectfully submitted, Jerry E. Drake, Jr. Senior Assistant City Attorney Litigation Chief S:\Our Docmments~Miscellaneous\02\agenda infbrmarion sheer schutre, doc ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DENTON, TEXAS AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE A COMPROMISE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE OF ALL CLAIMS IN A CLAIM FILED AGAINST THE CITY OF DENTON BY LARK SCHUTTE; AUTHORIZING THE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS THEREFOR; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DENTON HEREBY ORDAINS: SECTION 1. The City Council hereby approves the Compromise Settlemem Agreemem and Release of All Claims in a claim filed against the City of Demon by Lark Schutte, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein, and the Mayor, or in her absence the Mayor Pro Tem, is hereby authorized to execute said Settlement Agreement on behalf of the City. SECTION 2. The City Manager is hereby authorized to expend the funds in accordance with the attached Compromise Settlement Agreement and Release of All Claims. SECTION 3. This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its passage and approval. PASSED AND APPROVED this the day of ,2002. EULINE BROCK, MAYOR ATTEST: JENNIFER WALTERS, CITY SECRETARY BY: APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM: HERBERT L. PROUTY, CITY ATTORNEY S:\Our Documents\Ordinances\02\schutte csa.doc Agenda02-020 06/11/02 WS#1 AGENDA DATE: DEPARTMENT: CM/DCM/ACM: AGENDA INFORMATION SHEET June 11, 2002 Planning & Development Dave Hill, 349-8314 ~' SUBJECT Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction regarding Neighborhood Preservation efforts in Denton. BACKGROUND City Council identified Neighborhood Preservation as one of several Long-Range Planning work session topics to be discussed in 2002. The Neighborhood Preservation white paper (Attachment #2) submitted to City Council on May 31, 2002 describes a conceptual framework that can serve to determine the range of tools available to address neighborhoods, and the appropriate timing to consider their use. The purpose of the long-range planning work session is to determine if the framework provided by staff will serve City Council's decision-making needs. Limited resources require identification of priorities and the establishment of partnerships to make a significant impact on neighborhood quality, especially for areas experiencing decline. Each neighborhood has unique strengths and weaknesses, so a "one size fits all" approach will not work. A multi-faceted strategy is suggested that will allow the use of several tools, depending on Council priorities. If use of the "Neighborhood Succession Model" is favored by the City Council, staff will reexamine the way in which improvement efforts are undertaken. The topic of neighborhood preservation is sufficiently broad and complex that implementation efforts may require several follow-up discussions. During the June 11th Neighborhood Preservation long-range planning session, members of the community interested in neighborhood preservation will be invited to attend and share their views. All neighborhoods experience stages of succession. A neighborhood's sustainability is impacted by its stages of change and development. The first stage is a period of new construction (design and development). It is during this stage that cities have the greatest impact and opportunity to be proactive in ensuring sustainable neighborhood developments through established guidelines and regulations. The second stage is a built out and stable period (maturation). During this stage, the neighborhood is stable and sustainable and preservation and maintenance are the focus. The third stage is a gradual period of deterioration and blight (decline). The transition period between stability and decline is the period that intervention and revitalization efforts must occur. Revitalization efforts become more costly in proportion to the extent that decline has progressed. The City of DeNon has implememed or considered several programs, policies and initiatives imended to address neighborhood preservation and sustainability for all three phases (see Attachmem #1). These efforts seek to create livable and sustainable neighborhoods; to preserve successful neighborhoods, which build upon and create distinctive assets and character; and, revitalize blighted and deteriorated neighborhoods so that they once again are able to sustain and regenerate themselves. The ultimate goal of our efforts is to create patterns of development that reinforce rather than destroy the character of our neighborhoods. Imerest in preserving quality of life is also becoming an issue of concern at the regional level. With the Dallas-Fort Worth-Denton Metroplex expected to grow from 5.56 million to more than 9 million by 2030, major challenges in areas such as transportation, air quality, water supply, and environmemal quality will have to be addressed to sustain the region. To begin regional dialogue about regional sustainability, the North Central Texas Council of Govemmems (NCTCOG) recemly established the 'Cemer of Developmem Excellence' (CODE). An April 2002 CODE brochure containing a draft mission statement and "10 Principles of Development Excellence" is attached for Council review (see Attachmem #3). The brochure reinforces the notion that fast growth communities should spend considerable time making sure that new neighborhoods are developed correctly through proper planning and forethought. OPTIONS The long-range planning session is imended to facilitate Council discussion and to determine the goals and objectives neighborhood preservation efforts should seek to accomplish. Prioritization of Council imerests and issues would be helpful. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the neighborhood succession model be used to establish a framework for future improvemem efforts. If specific neighborhood preservation priorities are idemified by the City Council, staff will pursue those goals and develop appropriate implememation strategies. PROJECT SCHEDULE A project schedule will be developed in response to Council priorities. FISCAL INFORMATION Resources needed to address Council priorities will be idemified during implememation activities. ATTACHMENTS 1. City of DeNon Neighborhood Preservation Tools (Tools are organized according to the Neighborhood Preservation White Paper) 2. White Paper - "Neighborhood Preservation: Toward Sustainable Neighborhoods" 3. Center of Development Excellence - Draft Mission Statement & "10 Principles of Developmem Excellence". Sponsored by the North Cemral Texas Council of Govemmems, April 2002. 2 Respectfully submitted: Douglas S. Powell, AICP Planning and Development Director Prepared by: Dedra Dende Ragland, AICP Small Area Planning Manager WHITE PAPER NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION: TOWARD SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS Prepared By: Dedra Ragland, Smafl Area Planning Division City of Denton Planning & Development Department City Hall West, 221 North Elm Street, Denton, TX 76201 940.349.8350 Co-Authors: Stephen Cook, Development Services Linda Ratliff, Economic Development Jufie Glover, Main Street Barbara Ross, Community Development Ed Hodney, Parks and Recreation Greg Mitchell, Building Inspections Greg Hedges, Denton Pofice Department Lt. Scott Fletcher, Denton Pofice Department Katherine Barnett, Utilities TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................... I. Neighborhood Preservation: Toward Sustainable Neighborhoods .................................................... 1 II. The Stages of Neighborhood Change (The Neighborhood Succession Model) ............................... 2 Phase I: Design and Development ............................................................................................................ 3 Sustainability indicators for new neighborhood developments ........................................................ 4 Tools utilized to stimulate the creation of sustainable neighborhoods: .......................................... 4 1. Comprehensive Plans ......................................................................................................................... 4 Urban Design ......................................................................................................................................... 4 Design Revie,: ......................................................................................................................................... 5 Design G,i#e/ines .................................................................................................................................... 5 2. Master Plans ......................................................................................................................................... 5 3. Land Use Regulations ......................................................................................................................... 5 Zoning ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 P/at ~ S,bdig'sion Reg,/ations .............................................................................................................. 6 Park Dedi~wtion ...................................................................................................................................... 6 Impa~z Fees ............................................................................................................................................. 6 4. Building Permits & Inspections ........................................................................................................ 6 Geen Bm'/ding ........................................................................................................................................ 6 5. Economic Development .................................................................................................................... 6 Ta:~ Increment Einancing ........................................................................................................................ 6 Homeovmer ~qssociations ......................................................................................................................... 7 P,b/ic Improvement Distn'cts. .................................................................................................................. 7 Insert: How Can Cities Create Sustainable Neighborhoods? ...................................................... 8 Phase II: Maturation ................................................................................................................................. 0 Sustainability indicators for mature neighborhoods ......................................................................... Tools utilized to manage, maintain and/or increase sustainability ................................................. 1. Economic Development .................................................................................................................. B.siness Retention and Recr. itment Programs ....................................................................................... Conservation Dist~z'cts. .......................................................................................................................... 2 Histon'c Preservation ............................................................................................................................. 2 Local Histon'c Distn'cts. ........................................................................................................................ 2 2. Community Development ............................................................................................................... 2 Comm.ni[y Development Block Grants (CDBG) ................................................................................. 3 Home Investment Partnershi~ (HOME) ............................................................................................... 3 Other Programs ..................................................................................................................................... 3 3. Code Enforcement ........................................................................................................................... 3 Comm.ni[y ~testhetics. .......................................................................................................................... 4 4. Community Policing ......................................................................................................................... 4 5. Small Area Plans ................................................................................................................................ 4 6. Public Facilities Maintenance .......................................................................................................... Phase III: Decline .................................................................................................................................... 5 Sustainability indicators for declining neighborhoods ...................................................................... 6 Tools utilized to revitalize and reinvest in declining neighborhoods .............................................6 1. Economic Development .................................................................................................................. 6 Ente~n'se Zones ................................................................................................................................... 6 Transit On'ented Developments (TODs) ................................................................................................ 7 2. Community Development ............................................................................................................... 7 ~tjJbrdab/e Ho.sing oc trateg~ .................................................................................................................. 7 Preservation (Existi~ Ho.si~ ....................................................................................................... 7 In~#// Development .............................................................................................................................. 8 Rental Ho.si~ Im~ections ................................................................................................................ 8 III. Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................. 8 Insert: Neighborhood Deterioration Factors ................................................................................... 9 Appendix: Cities Promoting Sustainable Neighborhoods ......................................................... A1 NEIGHBORHOOD PRESERVATION: TOWARD SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS Neighborhoods are the building blocks of any city. The health of a city is largely dependent on the vitality of its neighborhoods. The physical and social conditions in neighborhoods define the quality of life for urban residents. A neighborhood is a cluster of homes with distinguishing features and amenities, established boundaries, and common interests and associations. The home is the single-most important purchase made during the life of most families, and neighborhood preservation affects both the investment value and quality of life issues. Neighborhoods can vary considerably in housing cost, density, amenities, open space, and services. Through the first quarter of the 20~h century, the United States was developed in the form of compact, mixed-use neighborhoods. The pattern began to change with the emergence of modern architecture, zoning and the ascension of the automobile. After World War II, a new development pattern occurred nationwide, replacing neighborhoods with a rigorous separation of uses that has become known as suburban development and at its worst, sprawl. By addressing neighborhood quality, cities can maintain overall health, desirability, livability and sustainability. One measure of a city's success is its sustainability over time--its ability to keep meeting demands of residents and businesses in a way that can be sustained with available resources. How do revitalization and preservation strategies relate to new and developed neighborhoods? New housing is built to respond to the perceived market demands of the time, with the neighborhood's design, services and other amenities reflecting the features desired by residents of that era. As demographics, lifestyles and other resident characteristics change, and as the structures age, a neighborhood remains desirable only if it is aesthetically maintained and if it continues to meet the needs of new residents. Local action, to create functional neighborhoods and maintain developed neighborhoods' physical assets and reinvest in features that meet new needs, is critical if neighborhoods and cities are to thrive in the future. Neighborhoods remain healthy only when they are able to sustain and regenerate themselves by attracting new residents and reinvesUnent. Declining neighborhoods are places that have lost their appeal to both longtime and prospective residents, who choose to move elsewhere. The topic of neighborhood preservation is very complex, and a majority of cities have used a variety of approaches to address unique needs. In this white paper, staff suggests that an understanding of a neighborhood's typical "life cycle" is necessary to determine appropriate governmental activities and priorities. If a municipality can identify neighborhood preservation goals, the proper tools can be employed to address problems on a prioritized basis. THE STAGES OF NEIGHBORHOOD CHANGE In general, most neighborhoods are subject to typical life cycle stages that have been experienced throughout the nation, as shown above. The concept of a neighborhood's life cycle demonstrates an important point: neighborhoods are dynamic places subject to significant changes over time. By recognizing that different stages do exist, municipal efforts can be utilized to sustain healthy and attractive neighborhoods. The graphic is an oversimplification and generalization of the evolution of neighborhoods. It does not reflect the duration of each stage. It is utilized to demonstrate that throughout a neighborhood's life cycle, there are various measures at a community's disposal to help neighborhoods become and remain viable, livable and attractive. The remaining sections of this paper discuss the different stages in a neighborhood's evolution, the indicators of each stage and the intervention tools appropriate to create sustainable neighborhoods; to preserve neighborhoods; and, to revitalize and transform neighborhoods that are no longer sustainable. Throughout a neighborhood's life cycle, there are numerous tools that cities can utilize to sustain neighborhoods. These tools are not strictly limited to one particular stage in a neighborhood's life cycle. In fact, there is often crossover between all three stages. For purposes of this discussion, each tool has been placed in the stage where it is believed to have the greatest impact. The life cycle model primarily focuses on neighborhoods that are predominantly residential in character with a limited mix of commercial, retail and institutional uses that support the residences. 2 Phase I: Design and Development The built environment is a critical factor in shaping the quality of life, accessibility, environmental burden, and unique character of a community, which contributes to a sense of place. The ways in which homes are designed and constructed, commercial buildings erected, roads and sewers laid, whole neighborhoods and communities planned and built, and open space allocated and preserved are all fundamental to creating a neighborhood, a community that over time will remain sustainable. Before a new neighborhood site is buildable, it must have adequate access to roads, utilities, water and sewer service. The site preparation, which requires grading and building streets and extending water, sewerage, and other utilities to the building sites, is a primary beginning point towards creating a sustainable neighborhood. New neighborhood developments should be checked for their compliance with the comprehensive plan. Master plans are checked for sanitary sewers, storm runoff, major and minor streets and public facilities to determine how well the proposed development fits into those community plans. The Capital Improvements Program (CIP) must be evaluated to determine how public facilities that are or are not programmed in the future may impact and/or serve a new development. Building codes can shape how much energy, water, and materials a building consumes in its construction and operation. Zoning ordinances frequently influence decisions on construction, design, and siting of buildings and developments, and therefore the degree of likely human interaction. During Phase Is cities have the greatest impact on creating sustainable neighborhoods. Many activities of daily living should occur within walking distance, allowing independence to those who do not drive. Interconnected networks of sweets should be designed to encourage walking, reduce the number and length of automobile trips, and conserve energy. Furthermore, a broad range of housing types bringing people of diverse ages, race and incomes interact to strengthen the personal and civic bonds essential to an authentic community are also desirable. Sustainability indicators for new neighborhood developments: Positive · Streets are aligned with existing or proposed streets · Utility lines are properly sized · Drainage or other natural hazards do not create problems for abutting properties or for future residents in the subdivision · Improvements are sufficient to serve the proposed uses and are of a quality of construction to minimize future public maintenance costs · Natural amenities are preserved · Size and shape of lots and blocks are compatible with the proposed uses and meet all land use restrictions · Subdivision can be served with necessary public services and facilities · Timing of development is in phase with the community's ability to provide services · Site plan is compatible with the neighborhood and community · Design of the subdivision creates maximum safety for the future occupants Tools utilized to stimulate the creation of sustainable neighborhoods: 1. Comprehensive Plans Urban Design Design Review Design G,ide#nes 2. Master Plans 3. Land Use Regulations S~bdivision Reg~&tions Pm~ Dedication Impact Fees 4. Building Permits and Inspections 5. Economic Development Home O~vner Mssodations ~IOM0 P~b/ic Impwvement Dhtdcts ~ID0 1. Comprehensive Plans The comprehensive plan is a powerful tool used to determine and coordinate desirable locations and patterns of neighborhood development. Through the comprehensive plan, growth is directed to areas that can accommodate new development and still retain local community character, and communities are assisted in determining the appropriate timing and location for infrastructure repair and extension. The comprehensive plan is a statement of what the community wants, of goals, of desires, and ambitions. It guides and influences decisions on how a neighborhood and community develops, grows and changes. Urban Design Urban design is a branch of planning primarily concerned with the functional and 4 visual relationships between people and their physical environment. Urban design is directly involved with housing, transportation, open space, institutional services, commerce and industry. Urban design focuses on conservation, the determination of what is to be protected; development focus, the determination of where and how development investments are to be located, and; development character, the determination of appropriate physical forms and types of use. Desig~ Review An important manifestation of increased concern for community appearance is the large number of communities that have adopted design review programs. The motivations for these programs are the desire to enhance the community's appearance, to protect its character and distinctiveness and to sustain its desirability, livability and economic benefits of appropriate design. Quality design is important especially in communities lacking obvious natural or cultural features that mark some places as inherently distinctive. Design review standards focus on attributes of development as visual harmony and character. Desig~ Guidelines Design guidelines function as a common set of parameters for new construction and rehabilitation. For builders and developers, guidelines explain the context within which design changes should take place, outline significant characteristics to be retained or supported by renovation or new construction, and provide recommendations and techniques for treating specific materials. For property owners, guidelines help ensure that future design changes in the district will enhance the values of exiting properties. For the community, guidelines increase the chances that the community image reflected in the built environment will be maintained for future generations. 2. Master Plans Master plans are functional plans that deal specifically with housing, transportation, open space, recreation, systems of water supply and sewage disposal, and other community facilities, each independently but in coordination with the Comprehensive Plan. Development proposals are measured against these service plans. Master plans are used to provide for: 1. The establishment of service areas, fl~e size, standards, location and phasing of water and sewer treatment facilities 2. The locations and standards for park and recreation areas 3. The identification of critical environmental areas fl~at should be protected 4. The location, capacity and nature of transportation systems 5. Standards for school size, land area and location considerations 6. Standards for control of septic systems, water wells, sewage treatment plants, etc. 7. The development proportion of costs of public facilities and services 8. Where and when physical improvements are to be made, fl~e size of these in~provements, and how they will be financed. 3. Land Use Regulations Cities have numerous regulatory tools and techniques at their disposal to help facilitate the implementation of neighborhood preservation. Land use regulations serve as predictable guides for change and also improve the economic health and harmonious evolution of sustainable neighborhoods. Zoning, Zoning is the most commonly used local device for regulating the use of land and implementing the comprehensive plan. Zoning regulates the use of land and structures and the dimensional characteristics of permitted uses, such as minimum lot sizes, the placement of structures on lots, the density of development, and the maximum height of buildings. In addition, zoning ordinances regulate non-dimensional aspects of development such as landscaping, architectural design and features, signage, traffic circulation and storm water management. Pla t & Subdivision Regula tions Subdivision regulations are a tool to fashion development in defined ways and by prescribed methods, regulating the use of private land in the public interest. Specifically, subdivision regulations provide for the division of property and infrastructure, including roadways, water, sewerage, drainage, and open space development and dedication. Park Dedica tion Park dedication is based on the premise that the costs of providing neighborhood parks, like streets and other public infrastructure, should be borne directly by the developments that generate the demand for and will most directly benefit from them. Parks and open spaces are places to play, to relax, to enjoy the natural environment, and to connect socially with others in the community. They can define a neighborhood and provide a cultural and historical focal point. If properly designed and maintained, parks can enhance the economic value of nearby properties. Linear open spaces can be used to knit together neighborhoods with other important elements of the urban fabric, including schools, government service centers and commercial developments. Such lands can also serve as an effective buffer between incompatible land uses. In short, public parks and open spaces help to protect the social, economic and aesthetic qualities that a city values. Impa ct Fees Impact fees are charges or an assessment imposed by a municipality against new development in order to generate revenue for funding or recouping the costs of capital improvements or facility expansions necessitated by and attributable to the new development. By requiring that new developments pay a proportional share of the costs of such improvements, cities are assured of providing adequate public facilities to serve the new development. 4. Building Permits & Inspections Inspection is the last step of the design and development process. It is where the 'built out' process is reviewed (inspected) to ensure that it meets the specifications of the previously approved plans submitted to obtain the required building permits. Inspections are performed based upon the details of the construction requirements contained within the approved plans. If the building complies, this process leads to a Certificate of Occupancy. Green Building Sustainable buildings are built to use less energy. Buildings are not alive, but they do have lives. They have life spans that include the periods of their design, construction, operation and maintenance, and finally recycling or death. Better design, new consmnction and remodeling can produce better buildings that save energy, reduce pollution and save money in the long run. 5. Economic Development A healthy environment and a strong economy are interdependent. By preserving and improving our natural environment, we are simultaneously ensuring our long-term economic prosperity. Tax Increment Financing (TI~): Tax increment financing is another economic development tool that local governments can use to publicly finance needed structural and enhanced infrastructure within a defined area. These improvements are undertaken to promote the viability of existing businesses and to attract new commercial enterprises to the area. The cost of improvements to the area is repaid by the contribution of future tax revenues by each taxing unit that levies taxes against the property. Specifically, each taxing unit can choose to dedicate all, a portion of, or none of the tax revenue that is attributable to the increase in property values due to the improvements within the reinvestment zone. The additional tax revenue that is received from the affected properties is referred to as the tax increment. Homeowner A ssoci a ti on s (H O A s) Traditionally, homeowners associations are legal entities that govern the business affairs of planned communities. These organizations are also called common interest realty associations, meaning that they are set up to jointly administer a piece of land or a building that is owned "in common." In older, established areas, homeowners associations are often initiated by a neighborhood to address a single issue and sometimes continue after the issue is resolved. HOAs in these older neighborhoods are extremely valuable because they serve as a common voice for the citizens and allow for the dissemination of information to the neighborhoods. Public Improvement Districts (PIDs) Cities often need to make certain improvements to their infrastructure to facilitate economic growth within a particular area in order to encourage the location of new businesses. Public Improvement Districts (riDs) may be considered as appropriate funding mechanisms in many instances, riDs have defined physical boundaries, and property owners within the boundaries pay a special assessment to finance the additional improvements and services provided, riDs offer cities a means for undertaking a variety of physical improvement projects. A riD may be a useful tool at the beginning phase of development as a way to fund needed infrastructure. PIDs may also be used during the maturing stage of development to encourage growth or at the declining stage to prevent blight. In some Texas cities, PIDs are being used in residential developments to fund the construction and/or maintenance of parks, landscaping, and other public improvements typically funded through cities and homeowners' associations. Not all HOAs are successful in maintaining the infrastructure and amenities in their developments, and riDs provide an alternative financing mechanism. Phase Ih Maturation Healthy and mature neighborhoods are characterized by the harmonious and complementary nature, mix and intensity of land uses and the appearance and form of the physical environment; the nature and extent of the interaction among residents; the presence of facilities and features that foster interaction on a variety of levels; and numerous opportunities for residents to choose alternative locations, life-styles, and living arrangements. This is the most stable stage in a neighborhood's life cycle. Ideally, this is the stage of complete sust~inability and where preservation efforts are focused. Intervention through revitalization efforts is likely to occur towards the middle of the cycle and near the transition period to decline due to the general aging of the neighborhood. 10 Sustainability indicators for mature neighborhoods: Positive · Boundaries are well-established · Limited number of undeveloped lots · Existing housing is in standard condition and low vacancy rates · Trees and vegetation are nearing maturity · The physical environment is mostly to completely built out · Infraslructure is in place and adequate (small scale infrastructure improvements may be necessary) · Public services and facilities are convenient · Neighborhood is self-supportive · Neighborhood parks and open space amenities are within close proximity · Adequate range of housing opportunities and choices · The center of the neighborhood is within a walkable distance Negative · Infrastructure is aging and signs of stress are evident (routine maintenance is becoming more frequent) · Pockets of vacant land, vacant and abandoned structures spring up · Owner occupied units are being converted to renter occupied · Filtering is occurring and housing affordability is on the decline · Sustained maintenance and operation of public facilities needed Tools utilized to manages maintain and/or increase sustainability: 1. Economic Development B~d~eJ's Refe~f/o~ ax# Recr~if~e~ Hh'tofiv Pre~'e~at/o~ 2. Communi~ Development Ho~e I~est~e~t Pazt~er3'~ Pro~ra~ O~3er Prodra$s 3. Code Enforcement 4. Communi~ Policing 5. Small &ea Planning 6. Public Facilities Maintenance 1. Economic Development Business Retention and Recru/tment Programs Many neighborhoods have commercial or service-related businesses located within their area. It is important to encourage the success of neighborhood businesses because they provide needed goods and services nearby, alleviating the need for residents to drive across town. Although most Texas cities promote economic development through business retention and recruiunent programs, typically, these programs focus on providing incentives to encourage the location or expansion of businesses. They do not address the needs of most slruggling small business owners. Since incentives are usually seen as beneficial only when the financial impact on the community is great, cities are now looking at other ways to provide 11 assistance to small businesses. In some instances, Community Development Block Grant funds are allocated to assist businesses that locate, or provide employment to residents in low/moderate income neighborhoods. Another growing trend is the development of community partnerships to provide guidance and counseling resources to small businesses. Conservation Districts Conservation districts are usually residential neighborhoods, with certain identifiable attributes embodied in architecture, urban design and history. These districts are created as an overlay- zoning tool used to preserve neighborhood character. Conservation districts can be used to protect neighborhoods that do not qualify for historic district status but have significant architectural or historic merit and a distinct character. A conservation district ordinance accomplishes this purpose by regulating new construction, major alterations or additions to existing buildings, and demolition. Each neighborhood applying for conservation district status is responsible for drafting design guidelines to address the unique needs and attributes of the area. Historic Preserva ti on Historic Preservation is a related economic development tool that uses resources that already exist in the neighborhood. Buildings and sites within an area have a history, a past that can contribute to the future. Historic buildings create a unique identity or sense of place. They make a neighborhood recognizable and unique. Historic buildings can provide efficient space for new uses or they may be returned to a former use. Adaptive reuse and historic preservation are in many ways no different than new development. They require planning, market analysis, financing, design and construction. The big difference is they take advantage of existing materials and invesUnents. They may make it quicker and less costly for an existing business to expand or for a new business to get started. Local Historic Districts Historic districts are generally created to protect entire areas or groups of historic structures. Such districts are often economic assets to communities and a source of civic pride. Local districts always serve a public purpose, which may be as simple as giving recognition to historic resources or as complex as establishing a financial incentive program to spur revitalization efforts. Most often, the reason for creating a local district is to prevent unregulated and insensitive change. This protection is accomplished through the adoption of a preservation ordinance, which is a local statute establishing a design review board and creating a design review process. The design review board is often called a preservation or historic district commission. 2. Community Development Cities with a population of more than 50,000 have the opportunity to participate in federally funded community development entitlement programs. These programs, funded through the US DeparUnent of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), provide annual support to communities. Funding from the programs is targeted to assist low and moderate-income households and neighborhoods. Two primary community development entitlement programs are the Community Development Block Grant 12 Program (CDBG) and the Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME). Commurffty Dev elopmet~t Block Grants (CDBG) The CDBG program was established to provide a flexible source of funding for State and local governments. Funding allocated to communities may be used for a number of eligible activities but must meet one of three national objectives: 1. Benefit low and moderate-income persons and/or households; 2. Eliminate or prevent sltm~s or blight; or 3. Meet an urgent commtmity need. Eligible CDBG activities include: · Public facility improvements · Demolition and clearance of substandard buildings · Housing rehabilitation · New affordable housing construction · Homeownership assistance · Assistance to social service organizations (15% cap) · Economic development activities · Planning and administration (20% cap) Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME) The HOME program was established to provide a separate source of funding in support of community efforts to increase the availability of safe, decent, affordable housing. Eligible HOME activities include: · Homeowner rehabilitation · Acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of rental housing · Homebuyer assistance · Tenant-based rental assistance HUD has set up the HOME program to support housing partnerships between cities and non-profit housing development organizations. To promote this concept, HOME regulations require that 15% of a community's allocation be provided to Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs). A CHDO's board of directors must represent the low-income community. At least one-third of the CHDO board membership is required to reside in, or be elected to represent, the low-income areas of the community. Other Programs Additional community development programs are offered on a competitive basis. Community leaders have the opportunity to review eligibility criteria and the focus of various programs to determine whether their communities could benefit. Often these programs are accessed through collaboration with other local agencies or other municipalities. There are a variety of additional community development programs, funded through HUD. HUD's community development programs include a technical assistance component designed to support appropriate use of funds by non-profits, local and State governments. This technical support is important as communities develop programs designed to preserve and revitalize low to moderate-income neighborhoods. Locally funded programs and initiatives can enhance the versatility and impact of community development programs. Many communities have developed infill- housing programs that include the use of vacant, tax-foreclosed properties; housing trust funds; impact fee grants; and also involve local nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. These programs serve to revitalize neighborhoods that may be experiencing blighting conditions. 3. Code Enforcement 13 Enforcement of codes discourages neglect of properties by absentee landlords; its absence unfairly penalizes responsible property owners by diminishing value of all properties in the neighborhood. Failure to enforce codes may also impact a neighborhood's rate of deterioration. Proactive, systematic, concentrated code enforcement, coupled with financial and tax incentives and penalties are needed to stabilize and upgrade residential and commercial areas within neighborhoods targeted for revitalization. Comm ut~i ty A es~ etJ cs Residents must play amore significant role in proiecting a positive image of their neighborhoods. Volunteer based beautification efforts, such as organized community cleanups and litter abatement strategies allow neighborhood residents to be actively involved in improving the physical condition and appearance of their neighborhood. This can serve to instill a sense of pride and empower residents to make their neighborhoods a better place to live, work, learn and play, while potentially reducing the incidence of code enforcement violations. 4. Community Policing Community-Oriented Policing (COP) is a philosophy whereby members of the police deparUnent establish partnerships with members of the community with the purpose of identifying and solving problems affecting the quality of life in their neighborhoods, and utilizing any and all available resources. Policing concepts currently in vogue have tended to isolate officers from the communities they serve, which can hamper crime-control efforts. Community policing allows law enforcement to get back to its founding principles, to integrate itself into the fabric of the community so people come to the police for counsel and help before a serious problem arises that could impact the viability of the neighborhood and the community. 5. Small Area Planning City officials and planners have come to recognize the need for individualized attention to address unique conditions that are not citywide in scope. Small Area Planning Programs are designed to provide a strategy of cooperative problem solving and mutual responsibility in order to address issues such as neighborhood stabilization, deterioration of property values, quality of life improvements, land use compatibility, and economic development objectives. By addressing issues in a comprehensive manner, single issue solutions can be coordinated and implemented according to a longer range implementation strategy, rather than requesting resources on an annual, incremental basis. Neighborhood plans are most effective during the latter phase of the maturation stage (the intervention point) to ward off decline and deterioration and to maintain or increase stability. Neighborhood plans may also be used during a neighborhood's declining stage to stimulate growth and redevelopment. 6. Public Facilities Maintenance It is possible for public property and facilities to deteriorate over time, with over-use and misuse. Such deterioration often mirrors the condition of housing and other structures in a neighborhood, and may even lead the process of decline. Adequate maintenance and repair activities at this stage will help sustain a positive community self-image and project an image of stability and value. 14 Phase III: Decline Blighted neighborhoods, particularly the older communities, are today's biggest threat to the economic well-being of the cities and metropolitan regions where they are located. Run-down neighborhoods constitute a drain on the entire community. They convey a poor image, which can reinforce out-migration of residents and businesses and can discourage new investment. Such neighborhoods consume large areas of land uneconomically, erode the tax base, and generate physical and social service costs that are paid by taxpayers. Deterioration tends to worsen and spread both within the troubled community and beyond to other areas, as those who can afford to move out do so. This trend discourages reinvestment in or near affected neighborhoods. If the area of impact is widespread, a city's economic health can be damaged: established businesses that have become discouraged by the city's image or by its workforce, services, or security problems may relocate. The transition period, just before a neighborhood slips into the decline stage 15 of its life cycle is most often where cities and communities want to focus preservation and sustainability efforts. The longer intervention is delayed, the more cost prohibitive preservation and revitalization become. Sustainability indicators for declining neighborhoods: Negative · Deteriorated residential property characterized physically by the poor condition of structures, by vacant lots, and by underused land. · Land uses are inconsistent, and building lots are often small or substandard by today's measures. · Housing stock varies in character, condition and value. Much of the housing is rented, or even if owner- occupied, is in poor repair. · Boarded-up housing is a common feature. · Commercial areas are characterized by poorly maintained structures interspersed with abandoned buildings and vacant lots. · Parking patterns and litter produce visual clutter. · Uses such as liquor stores, pawnshops and auto-related activities may proliferate and hinder high-quality development. · Few grocery stores, banks, theaters, restaurants, other neighborhood oriented services remain to serve the resident population. · Public areas and infrastructure - particularly streets and sidewalks -are often poorly maintained. · Movement and investment, decentralization is apparent. · Nearly all neighborhoods in decline suffer from economic disinvestments. Tools utilized to revitalize and reinvest in declining neighborhoods: 1. Economic Development E,te~dJ~e Zo,eJ~ 2. Communi~ Development Rental Ho,si~ 1. Economic Development E~ tetptise Zot~ es The State of Texas established the Enterprise Zone Program to encourage development and employment of "disadvantaged" individuals (unemployed, underemployed, disabled, etc.) in distressed areas. An enterprise zone can be as small as one square mile and may be no larger than ten square miles. The area within the zone must meet one of two primary distress criteria (1) One and a half times the state average unemployment rate for the most recent 12 months, or (2) a significant population loss. In addition, secondary distress criteria are considered - high poverty, low income, substantial losses of businesses or jobs, deteriorating structures, or federal disaster area. Qualified businesses locating within an enterprise zone receive state sales tax refunds on the construction materials purchased to build or expand their facilities. In addition, cities are required to 16 provide incentives to qualified businesses locating within the zone above the "normal consideration" for incentives. Transit Oriented Developments (TODs) In recent years, communities all across the nation are beginning to recognize that transit, and the areas around transit stops, can play a maior role in revitalizing older neighborhoods and creating new neighborhoods that are more livable, are more sustainable. 2. Community Development AtTorda Me Housing Strategy The major goals of housing initiatives in declining neighborhoods are to preserve existing stable homes and neighborhoods and to develop new rental and ownership housing to meet community housing needs. Cities need to develop an affordable housing strategy for itself as a whole and a housing preservation strategy for each community targeted for revitalization. A comprehensive housing affordability strategy will suggest needed housing types citywide, but an analysis of neighborhood housing needs will also target new development efforts within specific communities. Strategies must be tailored to individual neighborhood conditions and needs. Neighborhoods in different stages will require different strategies. In stable areas, the objective will be preservation: maintaining the existing housing stock and neighborhood conditions and protecting the area from encroaching decline. These strategies will emphasize code enforcement, infrastructure maintenance and repair, prompt public services and buffering from intrusive uses. Transitional neighborhoods in which the deterioration process has begun and its effects can be seen will require repair and rehabilitation of homes and businesses, new infill development, and perhaps infrastructure replacement and modernization. In severely distressed areas, revitalization may not be feasible. Where population loss has been great, large areas are abandoned, many lots are vacant, common facilities are in shambles, and the neighborhood fabric is badly eroded, clearance and redevelopment may be the preferred and perhaps the only possible approach. Preservation o£Existing Housing A city's existing housing stock is its most affordable source of housing. Preserving the stock of existing housing units in decent neighborhoods, especially infill areas, avoids expensive costs associated with new construction and the extension of public facilities and services to outlying areas. Action should be taken to stabilize existing areas of good housing stock, thereby preventing deterioration and loss of housing units and further degradation of the neighborhood as a whole. Many jurisdictions have responded by adopting regulatory and land acquisition measures to ensure that the existing housing stock and the supply of land is available for affordable housing is preserved. Preservation strategies include low- interest rehabilitation and modernization loan programs, coupled with limited tax abatement on improvements. Abandoned substandard housing should be acquired and demolished and the lots cleared. Derelict structures constitute visual and economic blight and can be safety hazards. Where many parcels are 17 vacant, a program to maintain and/or reuse the resulting vacant lots must accompany demolition activity. In~ll Development Infill development refers to the construction of new housing, workplaces, shops, other facilities and utilities. This development can be of several types: building on vacant lots, reuse of underutilized sites (such as parking lots and old industrial sites), and rehabilitation or expansion of existing buildings. Through infill, communities can increase their housing, jobs, and community amenities without expanding their overall footprint into open space or otherwise undeveloped lands. Infill development provides positive and constructive alternatives to sprawl development, alternatives that can help revitalize existing communities and provide much needed housing for the city. Small lot sizes, high land costs, and neighborhood resistance often hinder infill development. There is a need for regulatory incentives to promote infill, which might include administrative streamlining, density bonuses, reduced impact fees, forgiveness of delinquent taxes and the funding of off-site improvements. Governments may take a more active role through acquiring vacant land for land assembly, substandard housing demolition, land banking and joint venture arrangements using publicly owned land Rental Housing Inspeca ons In an effort to ensure proper maintenance of all multi-family complexes, many cities have adopted maintenance and inspection ordinances. The objectives of a rental housing inspection program are: 1. To prevent the decline of apartment buildings resulting from inadequate maintenance practices as well as ensure fl~at fundamental life safety issues are addressed. 2. Encourage proper maintenance of multi- family structures through an annual inspection program. 3. To remove or rehabilitate dilapidated multi-family structures throughout fl~e city. 4. To elin~inate fl~e existence of substandard multi-family structures. 5. To reduce fl~e number of tenant complaints fl~rough required interior inspections. CONCLUSION Many cities are beginning to realize that there is an urgent need to refocus efforts in achieving sustainable and successful communities, which build upon and create distinctive assets and character. As sprawl development draws jobs and people to the urban fringe, many older neighborhoods have languished, with declining tax bases and little new investment. Preserving neighborhoods requires local action, for it is principally at this level that most special places are known and valued. Partnerships with other public and private entities are also crucial to maximize improvement efforts. Nonetheless, local governments are uniquely qualified to know their neighborhoods' qualities and needs better than anyone else. Neighborhoods are dynamic and subject to several influences. As they evolve, so, too, should efforts to ensure their success. Similarly, observations on what ingredients make for successful communities continually change in 18 response to changing needs, opportunities and circumstances. 19 Appendix CITIES PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS There are literally hundreds of examples across the United States of cities engaging in sustainable community projects. Many communities in Texas are creating programs and policies that promote sustainable neighborhoods. Three Cities are highlighted as providing some of the best examples. 1. City of Austin, Texas The Sustainable Community Initiative (SC1) reflects the international trend to embrace sustainable development to meet these challenges. Locally, the Austin community has shown continuing interest in its quality of life. SC1 efforts propose a vision and actions that comprise important aspects of a sustainable community initiative. Programs such as Austin's Green Builder Program, the Capital Improvements Program Matrix and the City of Austin's Neighborhood Planning Program are considered leading examples of necessary elements promoting sustainable neighborhoods and communities. SC1 efforts are focused on all three phases of a neighborhood's succession. 2. City of San Antonio, Texas An objective identified in The San Antonio Master Plan is the development of safe, dynamic and sustainable neighborhoods. To implement this objective, the City of San Antonio has drafted a Community Building and Neighborhood Planning Program (CBNP Program). This program is designed to identify revitalization strategies for improving neighborhoods. This program is geared towards Phase II and Phase III of a neighborhood's succession. 3. City of Fort Worth, Texas The Model Blocks Program is the City of Fort Worth's premier neighborhood revitalization program aimed at "building strong neighborhoods, a safe community and sound economy". Twelve Model Blocks have been selected and the program is on a competitive basis. Because Model Blocks are frequently areas of high poverty and deterioration, the program addresses revitalization needs faced by neighborhoods in Phase III of the neighborhood succession model. CITIES PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS CITY OF AUSTIN CITIES PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS CITY OF SAN ANTONIO C o mm unity B ti i I d lng an d Neigh'bo:rhood Planning Program October 13, ]998 Amended February 8, 2()01 1.0 PROGRAM SUMMARY i~1 A Nm Era of Neighborhood Emphasis calls fVr sate, dy,namk: ~nd sustah:~able tmighborho~Ms wh:Jch o~:er empbymeat 0ppor:tamtf~s,: hich¢ qaali:~y educati~,m¢ adequate and affordable shelter, hea[~ care~ ami r~;:reational; amen d ti:e,$./'~ C:i.t} Cmmci! has encouraged ini ~:iativet, for t(:>ward.~ commnniW bet'tarmenk In re~p'~ i:o the~ effort:~ and ~ni~atives, fl'ds draft: cEc~;'u:m(m[ o~.es ~e Cemm. umty Bu;iM~ng al'~d Neighb~:~rh~:~od Plamm~g; Program (CBNP Prog~am)~ CJ),NP I?/'ogra:m was deYebp,ed ba~d City C~,m~'i] Met"tings with :neighk~:M'w4.~d ~7ou'ps and community 5h~kehoMem, {seu Ap,rqmd~x Naflo~I reseatd~ of other neighborhood planning p~:~gn,~ms (~,e Appe~ix C f°r ma trix), a:~d Biscassiqms 'wifl'~ C/tv lh:,partments (ir~h:,ding As,~t ManagemenL gudgel: and Maaagp:mpnt Analysis, Commtmi~, and bio,using Devek~pment; C:cm'm~uni ln:it~atives, Fk:¢nomic Developmenk Fh.~at'Ke.~ Neigh:borho~:M R¢~:r;reetion, and F~tblic Works}, 1.2 Goals of the CBNP Progra:m The, goals ot the CBNP Prob,:ram are from tl:'~e 1~7 Mast~,;r l'-'~a~ w[at{:,d w Ne~ghb,o:rh~a Ms: , ~ a' "" .... addr,;~ssed :irt O~e CBNP Program, CBNp p r o~-m~r~ Obiectives of the CBNP Program obj<tx:~ve:s, The primapr c~bl~x::t~ve of d'm C)~NP P~gtam ~s to s~mtg'ffm~ nejEhN?r)mc,~l~ as ~elf-sustah~,k~g commun[tk2~s ~vork~ng towards ~mpmve~ qtLahty ot ~ife, Stq:):por~:~g Master polities are shown in S~mpl~:y ~md provide more neighborhood planning (Ne~ghborh~,~ls, other P:mvMe a variety o~ ~mke Component~ ~o meet tlm nerds of ali ~p:es neighborhoods (N~tghbc, rhoods, pdwg Stl, p~rt the Ne~ghl~M~c~'~d Art[on am] i%onondc [kwelopment I~,'par~metnts' m~igh~ho~t pmgm:ms, Develop a C~t?¥1de Cornpreh~dve M~ster Plan, 1,4 Se:~,ic,e Components Re ¢oJ]©wir~g ~:,rvict, Cor[!tpcmen~ a, re ;i,lld:u:ded Jn the CBNP Program: Service [: gui'Ming Ca~city · Orga nb~ing · NeighN';M~ood [,,x~dpr Train:b'~g · Pub,lie [nfr>rmatkm Program · SeE~UHelp WotkNx~k · 'Volm~tt~r Corp · N~m pro ~it P:atmt~ · CySt-Hood - ~rvke !1: F~x'udng o~ ~he im'ues · S[~'da/~ Sl:t~dies · Om~]s and St'fa tegies · Planah'%g Partne~ - ~rvice I!1: Mastttr · Neighborh~md Plans · ' Commm'~ B" Ptans · Perimeter · Service ]V' impleme~ing ]m:,untives · NelghN~rhood hnp'rt~w:,men, t Crhallen~:, P~gr~n Amma:i impr,:~v~ment Pro~xt,: Repo~ CITIES PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS CITY OF FORT WORTH IVew construction for the benefit of all North Central Texas www.developmentexcellence.com The number of people living in North Central Texas has grown by more than 30 percent in the last 10 years and experts predict that this trend will continue. This means that today's population of over 5.56 million people in the Dallas/Fort Worth region is expected to grow to more than 9 million by 2030. This is an exciting time as growth brings new economic and cultural opportunities, but it is also a time in which we must plan for new and unique challenges. To prepare for the road ahead, the North Central Texas Council of Governments' Strategic Plan for 1999-2003 called for the creation of the Center of Development Excellence. The Center is envisioned as a comprehensive effort to bring together public- and private-sector experts in the environmental, transportation, development, and information analysis fields to address the regional issues and infrastructure concerns of the future. In December 2001, a 30-member steering committee of local government and private sector stakeholders was appointed to advise NCTCOG's Executive Board regarding development issues. During the past several months the committee has drafted a mission statement and "10 Principles of Development Excellence" that will guide this initiative. The "10 Principles" have been designed to address the many issues that will impact the region as its population grows, including transportation, air quality, water supply, and the environment. transpoA:ation Funding shortfall of $3 14 biBon for transportation system improvements prescribed in Mobihty 2025 Congesbon will cost the region $82 billion in travel delays ,n 2025 From 1995 to 1999. vehicte miles traveled (VMT)increased 1 percenl, nearly tw,ce the growth in population During the same period, s,gnal and congestion delay time increased 37 percent ISSME: water supply By 2050 based on population growth and water use. the Dallas/Fort Worth area will require 2.2 billion gallons per day (gpd~ Currently ava,labie resources can provide 1.6 biBon gpd representing a 32 percent shortfall Satisfying demand w,It requ,re . Development of 8 malor Joke ~n East Texas arrestor purchase of developed wafer from Oklahoma ar other Texas sources . Increased reuse of treated wastewater - Locat programs to use water more effectively and efhciently Urbanized area of the region violates the federa~ heai;Ih standard for ground !eve! ozone Vehicles are a major source of nitrogen oxide emissions Transpo~ation funding is dependent on air quality' conformity Energy efficiency measures are needed to reduce point source emissions from power p!ants · Each of our major rivers has sections that do not meet water quality standards · Storm water runoff from developed areas may cause floodin9, stream bank erosion, and poi!ution of streams and lakes · By 2003. approximately 70 local governments wi{l be required under state permits to address, pollution in r~t~off from ,~ew arid redeveiopment projects · Lack of natural areas with functiomng ecological systems in developed areas Statement~ The mission of the Center of Development Excel!enice is to promote quality, gro~h in North Central Texas that enhances the built environment, reduces vehicle miles of tr,avei, :uses water & energy resources effectively and efficient!y, and helps advance environmental stewardship in order to ensure continued economic vitality and provide the highest attainable quality of life for ali residents, ~ ccordingiy, the Center of Development Excel!ence recommends 10 Prin,ciples of Development ~Excellef~ce as a guide to local governments and private developers as they plan and create future ,# '%development and redevelopment in the region: ODevelopment Options Provide a variety and balance of development options and land use types in communities throughout the region ll~ Efficient Growth Foster redevelopment and infill of areas with existing infrastructure and promote the orderly and efficient provision of new infrastructure OPedestrian Design Create more neighborhoods with pedestrian-oriented features, streetscapes, and public spaces OHousing Choice Sustain and facilitate a range of housing opportunities and choices for residents of multiple age groups and economic levels OActivity Centers Create mixed use and transit oriented developments that serve as centers of neighborhood and community activity Environmental Stewardship Protect sensitive environmental areas, preserve natural stream corridors, and create developments that minimize impact to natural features Quality Places Strengthen community identity through use of compatible, quality architectural and landscape designs, and preservation of significant historic structures Transportation Efficiency Develop land use types, building sites, and transportation infrastru,cture to maintain the reliability and safety of the transportation system Resource Efficiency Provide building and site designs that use water, energy, and other resources effectively and efficiently Implementation Adopt comprehensive plans and ordinances that support Development Excellence and involve citizens and stakeholders in all aspects of the planning process TH~ DENTON Outreach Activities To achieve its mission, the Center of Development Excellence will conduct' three imPortant outreach activities durin9 2002 - 2003: Library of Technicai Tools · Assemble currently available technical and policy tools including development codes, design guidelines, incentives, and other innovative local government practices · Technical subcommittee will review the assembled tools to identify those that are compatible with and can be used to implement the 10 Principles of Development Excellence · Examples of technical tools that facilitate development excellence will be made available via outreach and on the web at www. developmentexcellence.com Avowal ds prrogram for ?tact ces · Center of Development Excellence will partner with professional development-related organizations to establish a prestigious awards program to recognize Development Excellence "best practices" · Award applications will be available in the fall of 2002, awards jury will select winning projects by spring 2003, and first annual awards will be presented at the NCTCOG General Assembly in June 2003 · First year award winners and finalists will be featured in a video and other outreach materials and activities · Provide an education program on growth/development issues and 10 Principles of Development Excellence · Program will include presentations, video of recognized best practices, classes at NCTCOG Regional Training Center, and sponsored tours of Best Practices award winners · Targeted groups include city councils, planning commissions, planning, development, and administration staff, the development community, and the general public Femando Costa (Steering Committee Chair), Planning Director, City of Fort Worth; Euline Brock, Mayor, City of Denton; Paul Cauduro; Director of Government Relations, Home Builders Association of Greater Dallas; Peter Coughlin, Development Coordinator, Southside on Lamar; Wendy Davis, Council Member, City of Fort Worth; Jim BesRoches, Councilmember, City of Decatur; Wayne Gent, County Judge, Kaufman County; Ron Harmon, County Commissioner, Johnson County; Bob Herchert, Chairman of the Board, Freese & Nichols, Inc.; Gap/Martin, Greater Dallas Planning Council; Larry May, Perot Systems; Fran McCarthy, Daedalus Development Corp.; Nell Montgomery, Managing Director of Development Services, City of Gadand; James M. Oliver, General Manager, Tarrant Regional Water District; Lucilo Pe~a, President, Billingsley Development Company; Alan Plummet, President, Alan Plummer Associates, Inc.; Phillip Poole, Partner, Poole 2 Design and Development; Ban Quinto, Executive Manager, Hometown North Richland Hills; Reid Reclor, ~utive Vice Presideat, Fort Worth Chamber of Comme~',,e; Terry Ryan, Texas Bar~k; Kathy $~ei, Mayel', City es Frisco; Robed Shaw, Amicus Partners; Gary Sheffield, Sheffield Development Co., Inc.; David Southern, Mayor, City of Granbup/; Terrace Stewart, Director, Dallas Water Utilities, City of Dallas; Joe Tolbert, Coundlman, City of North Richland Hills; Karen Walz, Executive Director, The Dallas Plan; Don Waters, Commercial Loan Officer, Summit Community Bank; Nell Welbom, Chair, Planning and Zoning, City of Rockwall; Ron Whitehead, City Manager, Town of Addison What is the NCTCOG? The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) is a voluntary association of local governments established in 1966. By state statute, the purpose of a council of govemments is "to make studies and plans to guide the unified, far-reaching development of a region, eliminate duplication, and promote economy and efficiency in the coordinated development of a region." NCTCOG works to strengthen both the individual and collective power of local governments and to help them recognize regional opportunities and make joint decisions. 616 Six Flags Drive, Suite 200 Centerpoint Two, P.O. Box 5888, Arlington, TX 76005-5888 PHONE: (817) 640-3300 FAX: (817) 640-4428 WEB SITE: www.dfwinfo.corn April 2002