Bastrop, City of

The meeting commenced with special recognition for students from Bastrop Intermediate, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the students and a subsequent invocation. The council moved to an executive session to hear an appeal regarding a disciplinary employment action termination and to confer with the city attorney. Upon returning to the regular session, the council addressed presentations, including a joint proclamation with the county declaring May 3rd, 2018, as the National Day of Prayer, and a proclamation declaring May 4th as Firefighter Day, honoring local firefighters and first responders. Arbor Day was also proclaimed for April 27th. The Mayor provided an extensive report on recent civic activities, including ribbon cuttings, participation in community events, and the success of a local marketing seminar. The council discussed the proposed ethics ordinance, which received positive feedback from a concerned citizen and the city attorney, and agreed to place it on the agenda for a vote at the next meeting. A quarterly investment report for the period ending March 31, 2018, was presented, showing a portfolio book value of approximately 27 million dollars. Citizen comments were heard, emphasizing rules for respectful dialogue during public input sessions.

The primary discussion revolved around the Piney Creek rezoning request from SF-9 to Planned Development (PD). Key topics included clarifying the legal differences between zoning and subdivision regulations, particularly how PD ordinances provide flexibility compared to standard zoning. The council reviewed the potential development outcomes under current SF-9 zoning (estimated at 209 lots) versus the proposed PD (maximum 170 lots), noting the PD would provide significantly more parkland dedication. Discussions also covered the timeline for development under both scenarios, the consistency of the PD with the city's comprehensive land use plan, and the provision for connecting a planned trail along Piney Creek.

The meeting commenced with the City Council convening into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code section 551.074 to deliberate the employment evaluation and duties of the City Attorney, including the review of qualifications and establishment of a final list of candidates for interviews scheduled for September 26, 2017. Upon returning to the regular session, the Council addressed necessary and appropriate actions regarding matters posted for consideration in the closed executive session. A motion was passed to request personal interviews with representatives from the Kisan and Ortiz Law Firm, The Nichols Law Firm, The Night Law Firm, and Bojorquez Law Firm.

This Master Design Plan outlines the development of the Cultural Heritage Trail at Bob Bryant Park for the City of Bastrop, aiming to create a multi-purpose public space and arts and culture destination. The plan focuses on enhancing community connections, stimulating the local economy, and portraying the rich cultural heritage through art, sculpture, and educational features. Key priorities include incorporating nature enhancements, health and wellness opportunities, and safety measures, all designed to foster civic engagement and celebrate the community's history and natural resources.

The document outlines several staff reports associated with a City Council meeting date. Key items include a proclamation recognizing Emily Bowlin as a Girl Scout Gold Award Recipient for her 'Storytelling to Seniors' project. Other sections detail Mayor's Report items of community interest, Councilmembers' Reports, and the City Manager's Report, which provided an update on the Bastrop 1832 Farmer's Market property use agreement. Furthermore, there are discussions and requests for input regarding proposed changes to the City's Boards & Commissions Ordinance, including standardizing term limits, residency requirements, and appointment timelines, as well as a review of a revised application form for these positions.