City of Brenham

The commission reviewed a preliminary plat request for the Vintage Farms Subdivision, Phases IX through XVI, and conducted a public hearing regarding a city-initiated rezoning of the Timber Oaks Subdivision from B-1 to R-1. During the work session, the commission discussed potential text amendments to the Code of Ordinances regarding multifamily density requirements in R-2 districts, bufferyard and landscaping standards, water conservation regulations for new car washes, and the zoning of data centers as specific uses.

Key discussions included the appointment of a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson for a one-year term, and the appointment of members to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library Committee. The board also addressed discussion items concerning the library's 125th birthday events schedule for 2026, received administrative reports covering library statistics, grant applications for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, policy drafting, and staffing updates, including a resignation and an upcoming maternity leave. The board also reviewed the 2026 meeting schedule.

The meeting agenda includes the election of a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for the calendar year. Key items involve a review and possible approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness for property at 111 South Saint Charles Street, and another for the building at 216 West Alamo Street. The Board will also discuss and provide direction regarding the development of a local preservation plan for submittal to the Texas Historical Commission in preparation for becoming a Certified Local Government community.

The meeting included introductions, noting the arrival of Assistant City Manager Megan Mainer who possesses 18 years of experience in Parks & Recreation. The primary discussion involved Fiscal Year 2025-26 funding requests from the Brenham Community Development Corporation (BCDC) for parks and recreation projects. Due to a reduction in sales tax revenues, available funding dropped to approximately $900,000. Staff presented two funding scenarios: Option 1, which prioritized $500,000 for the Brenham Family Park (BFP) to leverage existing grant dollars, and Option 2, which allocated all funds to existing parks and aquatic facilities, delaying BFP progress. Staff recommended Option 1. Staff also provided updates on various park and aquatics maintenance items, including progress on splashpad repairs, irrigation work, and recreation programs like Movies in the Park and Story Walk.

The key discussion points included a presentation and analysis of the Brenham Police Department's patrol and performance statistics covering February through May 2025. Administrative updates covered the progress of the Police Chief selection process, aiming for a candidate selection by mid-July. Further discussion addressed restarting the K9 Program, including details on funding and donations, and the procurement of red dot optic sights for duty weapons using seizure funds. Recruitment updates indicated the department is currently short approximately five positions.