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CITY ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Since my election as a Bellaire City Council representative in 2021, I have had the privilege of collaborating with dedicated council members and city staff. Together, we have achieved significant milestones that reflect our commitment to enhancing our community's quality of life. Our collective efforts have focused on initiatives aimed at improving public safety, infrastructure development, and community engagement. I am proud of what we've accomplished so far and look forward to continuing this important work for the benefit of all residents in Bellaire.

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TECHNOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS

  • Upgraded City’s financial system to Incode 10 for greater efficiency and functionality

  • Upgraded SCADA system for greater information and control over utilities

  • Upgraded Laserfiche for improved document and records management

  • Implemented new work order system for Public Works for greater efficiency and improved asset management

  • Reconfigured online permitting system to improve customer experience

  • Upgraded City’s network and office hardware and implemented replacement schedule to ensure business continuity and improve efficiency and functionality

  • Implemented three new layers of cybersecurity to protect City information, operations, and assets against cyberattacks and facilitate rapid recovery

  • Utilizing GIS for utility asset management

  • Created data dashboards for improved communication and decision making regarding public safety services

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OTHER

  • Established a drainage utility to ensure long-term, dedicated funding for stormwater infrastructure

  • Returned City to CRS Class 7 rating

  • Launched OneBellaire, Bellaire Collects apps

  • Authorized second EMS unit to run during peak hours

  • Implemented whole blood and ultrasound as part of EMS services

  • Placed two new garbage trucks in service

  • Placed new street sweeper in service and implemented street sweeping plan

  • Conducted citizen survey to understand community needs and wants

  • Created dedicated traffic unit to improve safety and increase visibility

  • Expanded recreation and camp offerings for greater adult and youth engagement

  • Expanded library offerings for greater youth and family engagement

  • Established Youth Advisory Board for greater teen engagement

  • Launched Police Citizens Academy for community education and engagement

  • Increased digital offerings at the Library

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GRANTS

  • Obtained $54M appropriation from State of Texas for Cypress Ditch project

  • Obtained $600K grant for Evergreen Park all access playground

  • Obtained annual grant to support Crime Victim Specialist position

  • Obtained grants to fund traffic system improvements

  • Grant applications filed for federal funding for Cypress Ditch Project (pending)

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PERSONNEL

  • Filled vacant positions across all City departments, including the following key leadership positions: City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Development Services Director, HR Director, IT Director, Public Works Director (currently at 5% vacancy rate)

  • Promoted current employees to key leadership positions including Library Director, Parks Director

  • Added four police officer positions for reduced response times and increased visibility

  • Improved City’s competitive position by benchmarking salaries to 50th percentile of market, creating job families for skills-based promotions, improved 457 retirement plan offering, and offering and processed first ever RFP for benefits resulting in a savings in cost

  • Implemented electronic employee performance evaluation system

  • Streamlined hiring process by integrating applicant tracking software with Human Resources Information System

  • Completed review of all job descriptions, and all employees have reviewed/signed and been provided a copy of their job description

  • Adopted Parental Leave Policy

  • Adopted Juneteenth as a paid holiday

  • Added three floating holidays for employees

  • Completed department organizational studies for Public Works, Administration

  • Adopted purpose and core values to guide staff​

 

 

PLANNING

  • Updated the Comprehensive Plan

  • Adopted and annually updated the Strategic Plan

  • Updated the Water Conservation Plan and Drought Contingency Plan​

BUDGET

  • Increased investment in public safety without increasing tax rate above the voter-approval rate (VAR)

  • Completed a cost-of-service study and adjusted rates to ensure long-term health of utilities and solid waste

  • Implemented Drainage Utility Fund to ensure dedicated funding for stormwater operations and maintenance

  • Obtained citizen approval for $40M stormwater bond and $30M wastewater/water bond to design and construct needed infrastructure improvements

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CAPITAL PROJECTS

  • Advancing flood mitigation through design and funding of Cypress Ditch project

  • Assessed condition of wastewater treatment plant and evaluated options for wastewater treatment

  • Acquired permanent facility for Public Works outside floodplain

  • Constructed new dog pound

  • Installed solar panels on City Hall for energy efficiency

  • Installed sidewalk on Maple Street at residents’ request

  • Installed Mulberry Park bathroom

  • Improved Joe Gaither Park playground

  • Installed shade structures as the Bellaire Family Aquatic Center

  • Installed storage sheds and automatic doors at the Bellaire City Library

  • Updated to LED lighting at the Fire Station and Recreation Center

  • Replaced roof on the Henshaw House

  • Completed Holly Street Trail Phase 2 project

  • Completed several ADA connections in parks (dog park ramp, parking space and path, several curb cuts, and connecting pieces at Evergreen, Feld, Gaither, Lafayette, Ware and Zindler)

  • Completed design and construction drawings to address safety and accessibility improvements at the Recreation Center, adjacent parking lot, and Loftin Park

  • Completed Library Greenspace project (added chess tables, fencing, landscaping, picnic tables, play pieces, and shade)

  • Refurbished the Trolley (removed and replaced rotted wood, cleaned, sanded and painted)

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CODE AMENDMENTS

  • Updated noise regulations to improve quality of life

  • Updated light regulations to improve quality of life

  • Updated dumpster servicing regulations to improve quality of life

  • Updating zoning ordinances to reflect updated Comprehensive Plan

  • Updated drainage criteria for increased resiliency

  • Adopted tree ordinance; implemented tree program

  • Adopted fats, oils, and grease (FOG) ordinance; implemented FOG program

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