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MINUTES
The Community Services Committee of the City of Garland convened in regular session at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, in the Work Session Room, 200 North Fifth Street, Garland, Texas, with the following members:
Present:
Deborah Morris, Chair
Margaret Lucht, Council Member
Ed Moore, Council Member
Staff Present:
Mikayla Ray, Management Services Coordinator
Kevin Slay, Managing Director
Art Munoz, Animal Services Director
Laura De La Vega, Senior Planner
Scott Bollinger, Neighborhood Resources Administrator
Becky King, Managing Director
Phillip Urrutia, Assistant City Manager
Brian England, City Attorney
Brita Van Horne, Building Official
Lance Polster, Code Compliance Manager
Rick Barker, Code Compliance Manager
1.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE OCTOBER 11, 2022 MEETING
The minutes of the October 11, 2022 meeting were approved unanimously after a motion by Moore.
2.
FALL 2022 NEIGHBORHOOD VITALITY MATCHING GRANT APPLICATIONS
De La Vega provided an overview of the Firewheel Estates project which includes proposed median enhancements and hardscaping. De La Vega outlined the project application and staff comments. Moore stated that it looks like a good use of the area and asked about tree removal. Morris stated hardscaping seems to be a popular trend and motioned for approval of the application. The motioned was approved unanimously. De La Vega provided an overview of the Heron bay lighting project and reviewed staff comments. Moore stated it appeared to be a very good project for the area and supports the application. Morris motioned for approval and the motion carried unanimously.
3.
DISCUSS RETAIL PET STORE HEALTH INSPECTION RULES
Morris stated that several on council had been approached by citizens expressing concerns about retail pet shops that sell animals. There is a concern about the animal’s environment and the quality of care animals are receiving. Munoz stated an establishment that sells animals must apply for a permit with Garland Animal Services, and we currently have two that we are aware of in the City of Garland. Munoz stated inspections are conducted prior to issuing a permit which is to be renewed annually. Lucht asked if it was common to find violations and how often inspections were occurring. Munoz stated none have been found in Garland. Munoz stated that one pet store was inspected in August and the other, if it’s still open, is due now. Lucht inquired about application process and asked if we knew where the animals were coming from. Munoz stated we ask but do not verify. Moore asked if we’ve seen any problems. Munoz stated there haven’t been any problems in Garland, but there is a state wide issue related to the sale of animals from puppy mills. Munoz stated our inspection process probably need to be tweaked to inspect more often and include surprise visits. Lucht asked if any complaints had ever been received regarding the purchase of an animal. Munoz stated no. Moore stated it sounds like your wanting to be more proactive and could you prepare us a new plan going forward. Munoz stated he could put something together for the next meeting. Morris requested an outline be prepared and brought to the next meeting for further discussion.
4.
DISCUSS MULTIFAMILY PROPERTY A/C REQUIREMENTS
Morris provided a brief overview and stated we need to ensure the proper tools are in place to better assist citizens deal with delays in air conditioning repairs at apartment complexes. Morris stated we need to ensure we have tools in place that can assist citizens in addressing the issue with the apartment owners and managers. Barker provided an overview of Garlands requirements and a matrix of other cities. The matrix indicates our current requirements and what we are proposing going forward. Barker stated our proposed recommendations include many of Deputy Mayor Pro Team Smiths comments and recommendations. Moore stated we need proactive processes in place to ensure property owners immediately address this type of problem and fully understand our requirements. Lucht inquired about the current fine amount per violation. Polster stated it was $259 per day. Morris stated that our temp zone seemed to be out of step with surrounding cities. Morris stated we should consider changing it to 85 to be in sync with others. Lucht asked what is the current timeframe for making repairs? Barker stated that once we’ve provided notification they have 24 hours to resolve the issue or make other accommodations for their residents. Morris asked Barker to develop a written draft proposal based on the discussion items and staff recommendations. Morris requested Barker collect more information related to the unit temperature zone of 81 verses 85.
5.
ADJOURN
There being no further business to come before the committee, Chair Morris adjourned the meeting at 4:56 p.m.
Submitted By:
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Deborah Morris, Chair
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Kevin Slay, Staff Liaison
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