OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE - June 20 VOLUME CVII NUMBER 6
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OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
June 20
VOLUME CVII
NUMBER 6
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 1 • JUNE 2020
t i m e l e s s t r a n s f o r m at i v e e n g i n e e r i n g
e n g i n e e r i n g t h e t e x a s w ay o f Li f e .
Clear Lake, a residential community in southeast Houston, launched a
massive flood-control project called the Exploration Green. Clear Lake
City Water Authority – partnering with Exploration Green Conservancy,
the community, and an ACEC Texas member firm – is transforming a
former 178-acre golf course into five detention ponds that can
each hold 100-million-gallons of stormwater.
Built in five phases, Exploration Green includes 105 acres of natural
www.acectx.org for the expertise you need habitat, 12 miles of hike-and-bike trails, and two athletic fields.
Want more? Visit us on Social Media
Phase 1 was completed in April 2018. During Hurricane Harvey,
facebook.com/acectx | twitter.com/acectx
the Phase 1 detention pond protected 150 homes.
CONTENTS H FEATURES
Official Publication of the
Texas Municipal League. 7 28
Texas Municipal League Institute 2020 TML Water and Wastewater
This publication assumes no responsibility Recognizes Elected City Officials Survey Results
for statements made by contributors
in signed articles. It is not operated for 14 30
pecuniary gain.
Finding the Silver Lining Public Works Projects During the
COVID-19 Pandemic
Editor Christina Corrigan
26
Creative Manager Jennifer Stamps
COVID-19 Orders: Whose Opinion 33
Designer Will Bowling
Advertising Sales Gray Bulman Really Matters? Hurst Focuses on Service While
Printing Publication Printers Corp. Supporting Redevelopment
27
Texas Town & City (ISSN 1084-5356) is Congress Needs Cities to Make an 36
published monthly except October for $30 Economic Comeback Cultivating Stronger Communities with
per year ($3.00 per single copy) by the the Resources We Have
Texas Municipal League, 1821 Rutherford
Lane, Suite 400, Austin, Texas 78754-5101.
Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas
and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: CONTENTS H IN EACH ISSUE
Send address changes to Texas Town & City,
1821 Rutherford Lane, Suite 400, Austin,
Texas 78754-5101.
5 18
Section 305.027, Government Code, requires
Message from the President Small Cities’ Corner
legislative advertising to disclose certain
6 22
information.
TML News Legal Q&A
A person who knowingly enters into a 8 42
contract or other agreement to print, publish, Risk Pool News Career Builder
or broadcast legislative advertising that
does not contain the required information 10 44
commits a Class A misdemeanor offense. City Lights Instagram Highlights
Texas Town & City contains material which
is legislative advertising as defined by law in
the state of Texas.
Mr. Bennett Sandlin has entered into an ABOUT THE COVER
agreement with Publication Printers Corp.
for the printing of Texas Town & City Dallas skyline lights up blue
magazine. Mr. Sandlin represents the to support essential workers
member cities of the Texas Municipal
during the Coronavirus pan-
League.
demic.
Photo Credit: Joseph Haubert
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 3 • JUNE 2020
ABOUT H TML BOARD OF DIRECTORS H TML
The Texas Municipal League exists solely TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
to provide services to Texas cities. Since
its formation in 1913, the League’s mission PRESIDENT AFFILIATE DIRECTORS
Eddie Daffern, CMO, Mayor, Staples Jimmy Chew, Fire Chief, Stephenville
has remained the same: to serve the needs Lee Battle, Director of Community
Enhancement, Allen Texas Fire Chiefs Association
and advocate the interests of its members.
PRESIDENT-ELECT American Planning Association-
Membership in the League is voluntary Aimee Nemer, City Secretary,
Karen Hunt, Mayor, Coppell Texas Chapter
Richardson
and is open to any city in Texas. From the
Texas Municipal Clerks
original 14 members, TML’s membership has Marissa Ximenez, Councilmember,
PAST PRESIDENTS Assocation, Inc.
Floresville
grown to more than 1,150 cities. Over 16,000 Holly Gray-Moore, CMO, Mayor Pro Association of Hispanic Municipal
Tem, City of Roanoke Tadd Phillips, Human Resources
mayors, councilmembers, city managers, Officials Director, Georgetown
city attorneys, and department heads are Mary M. Dennis, CMO, Mayor, Live Oak
Texas Municipal Human Resources
Jungus Jordan, Mayor Pro Tem, Selso A. Mata, Director of Building
member officials of the League by virtue of Association
Fort Worth Inspections, Plano
their cities’participation. Building Officials Association of Texas
Leonard Reed, CMO, Mayor, Willis Maria Redburn, Library Director, Bedford
Texas Municipal Library Directors
Henry Wilson, Mayor, Hurst Clifford Blackwell, CGFO, Interim City
The League provides a variety of services Association
Dock Jackson, Councilmember, Manager, Bedford
to its member cities. One of the principal Bastrop Government Finance Officers Glenn Dishong, Utility Director,
purposes of the League is to advocate Association of Texas Georgetown
Terry Henley, Board of Adjustment
municipal interests at the state and federal Member, Meadows Place Texas Municipal Utilities Association
Robin Mouton, CMO, Councilmember,
levels. Among the thousands of bills Beaumont Brian Frieda, Chief of Police, Sweetwater
introduced during each session of the Texas DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE Texas Association of Black City Council Texas Police Chiefs Association
Legislature are hundreds of bills that would Jeff Williams, Mayor, Arlington Members
Steve Adler, Mayor, Austin Sabrina Schmidt, Purchasing
affect cities. The League, working through its Beth Ann Unger, Information Services Supervisor, Pflugerville
Joe McComb, Mayor, Corpus Christi
Legislative Services Department, attempts Manager, Frisco Texas Public Purchasing Association
Eric Johnson, Mayor, Dallas Texas Association of Governmental
to defeat detrimental city-related bills
Dee Margo, Mayor, El Paso Information Technology Managers Vacant
and to facilitate the passage of legislation
Betsy Price, Mayor, Fort Worth Texas Recreation and Park Society
designed to improve the ability of municipal Martha Castex-Tatum, Vice Mayor Pro Tem,
David Rutledge, CMO, Mayor,
governments to operate effectively. Bridge City
Houston EX-OFFICIO NON-VOTING INVITED
Texas Association of Mayors,
Ron Nirenberg, Mayor, San Antonio Councilmembers and Commissioners REPRESENTATIVES
The League employs full-time attorneys who
are available to provide member cities with REGIONAL DIRECTORS Steve Killen, Director of Development TML Health Benefits Pool
2-Doyle Robinson, Mayor, Panhandle Services, City of Stephenville, Eddie Edwards, City Manager, Borger
information on municipal legal matters. On a Texas Association of Municipal Health
3-Latrelle Joy, Councilmember,
daily basis, the legal staff responds to member Officials
Lubbock TML Intergovernmental Risk Pool
cities’ written and oral questions on a wide Mary Gauer, Harker Heights
4-Raul J. Marquez, Councilmember, Will Hampton, Communications
variety of legal matters. The League annually and Marketing Director, Round Rock
Big Spring
conducts a variety of conferences and 5-Bill Lindenborn, Commissioner,
Texas Association of Municipal
training seminars to enhance the knowledge Information Officers
Burkburnett
and skills of municipal officials in the state. In 6-Robert Brown, Alderman, Menard R. Alan Shubert, Vice President,
addition, the League also publishes a variety 7-Suzanne de Leon, CMO, Mayor, Operations and Technical Services,
of printed materials to assist member cities Balcones Heights El Paso Water
Texas Chapter of American Works
in performing their duties. The best known 8-Tito Rodriguez, Councilmember,
Association
of these is the League’s monthly magazine, North Richland Hills
Texas Town & City. Each issue focuses on a 9-Ray O’Docharty, Mayor, Groesbeck Marcus Norris, Deputy City Attorney,
10-Connie Schroeder, CMO, Mayor, Amarillo
variety of contemporary municipal issues, Texas City Attorneys Association
Bastrop
including survey results to respond to
11-Patrick R. Rios, CMO, Mayor, Rockport Kelly Kuenstler, City Manager,
member inquiries.
12-Ramiro J. Rodriguez Jr., Mayor, Leon Valley
Palmhurst Texas City Management Association
For additional information on any of 13-Jim Pruitt, Mayor, Rockwall
these services, contact the April Christiansen, Court Administrator,
14-Andy Brauninger, Mayor, Huntsville
Cedar Park
Texas Municipal League at 512-231-7400 15-Shelley Brophy, Mayor, Nacogdoches Texas Court Clerks Association
or visit our website, www.tml.org. 16-W.L. Pate Jr., CMO, Mayor Pro Tem,
Beaumont
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 4 • JUNE 2020
MESSAGE H FROM THE PRESIDENT
EDDIE DAFFERN, CMO
MAYOR
CITY OF STAPLES
Dear Texas City Official,
TML surveys going back decades show that during tough financial times, the first budget item
that cities are likely to cut is infrastructure spending. As we go into what’s sure to be an economic
downturn in the coming months, infrastructure will surely be on the minds of city officials as they
begin their budgeting process.
Alongside public safety, most of us would agree that infrastructure is one of the most important
functions of city government. But it’s also one that doesn’t always pop into mind, which is
probably why it’s the first that gets cut in a crisis. This issue of the magazine will help put
infrastructure back on your mind, at least for a month! Inside you’ll read articles about water
and wastewater rates, cutting edge internet utilities, how COVID-19 is impacting infrastructure,
and more.
Cities will be under enormous budget pressure in the coming months, and both I and the League
staff are thinking of you during these trying times. While I can’t tell you to spend more or less
on your city’s infrastructure—like everything else that’s a decision best made at the local level—I
can promise that all of the League’s resources regarding infrastructure information will be at your
disposal should you need them. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.
Eddie Daffern, CMO
Mayor
City of Staples
TML President
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 5 • JUNE 2020
TML H NEWS
TML Annual Conference and Exhibition Online Public Funds Investment Act Training
The Coronavirus has taken its toll on cities - disrupting TML partners with Virtual Learning Concepts (VLC) to
work, projects, supply chains, and budgets. How do we offer online Public Funds Investment Act training for
overcome the resulting economic, health, and societal city officials. State law requires that the city's treasurer,
challenges, and develop the resiliency required to prepare chief financial officer, and investment officer attend at
for future crises? least one 10-hour PFIA training session within 12 months
after taking office, and an additional eight-hour course
This year, the Texas Municipal League’s Annual Conference
every successive two years. This online course offers
and Exhibition, “From Crisis to Recovery,” will be held
the full 10 hours of certified training from the comfort of
October 14-16 in Grapevine at the Gaylord Texan Resort
home or office. Testing will take place as course sections
& Convention Center. The Annual Conference will
are completed, and a certificate of completion can be
bring together city leaders and staff, state and federal
generated at the end of the course. Register for the course at
administrators, economic development specialists, and
www.virtuallearningconcepts.com.
recovery experts to discuss the resources, tools, and
strategies needed to rebound and rebuild post-pandemic.
Mandated Cybersecurity Training for Texas
Look for the Annual Conference program online in August Cities
at www.tmlconference.org. Conference registration and A new Texas law mandates that most city officials and
housing will open on August 12. We hope to see you there. employees complete cybersecurity training by June 14,
2020, and annually thereafter. The Texas Municipal League
TML Salary Survey Intergovernmental Risk Pool (TMLIRP) has released a
Visit salarysuvey.tml.org to view salary information for 27 cybersecurity training program, including an online video
common city positions. On the site, you can filter salary and test, which is available free of charge. The video and
data by region, population, job title, age of data, and more. If other training components are all certified by the Texas
your city has not completed the survey for this year, please Department of Information Resources (DIR). Access the training
contact Rachael Pitts on the TML staff at rpitts@tml.org. at http://info.tmlirp.org/cyber-security-training-program.
Senate Bill 2 Passed: Now What Are You Handbook for Mayors and Councilmembers
Going to Do? The Handbook for Mayors and Councilmembers (2019 edition)
After years of city opposition, revenue cap legislation finally is your go-to resource for information on the functions,
passed in 2019. TML now offers a recorded webinar on powers, and responsibilities of mayors and councilmembers.
the basics of the new tax rate requirements and timelines, Topics covered include policy development, budgeting
along with what your city can do to successfully manage the and financial administration, council meetings, conflicts of
transition to the new property tax rate setting process. Learn interest, personal liability, and media relations. Download
more about the webinar and other on-demand offerings at your free copy and browse the list of other TML publications
www.tml.org/218/Texas-Municipal-League-On-Demand. at www.tml.org/183/publications. H
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 6 • JUNE 2020
2019 TMLI Certificate of Achievement (54 CEUs)
Award Recipients Johnnie Allen, Councilmember, City of Everman
Susan Darst, Councilmember, City of Grey Forest
TEXAS All awarded recipients are listed in
Barry Gordon, Mayor, City of Duncanville
Patricia Hilborn, Councilmember, City of Haslet
MUNICIPAL the position they held at the time Jane Hughson, Mayor, City of San Marcos
LEAGUE of recognition.
Bert Miller, Mayor, City of Navasota
Melissa Olson, Councilmember, City of Waxahachie
INSTITUTE Edward Tidwell, Mayor, City of Lago Vista
Ray Don Tilley, former Councilmember, City of
RECOGNIZES Certified Municipal Official (72 CEUs with two
hours of open government training) Woodcreek
ELECTED CITY Shaunte Allen, Councilmember, City of Glenn Heights
Certificate of Recognition (42 CEUs)
OFFICIALS Frank Archuleta, Councilmember, City of Windcrest
Chris Armacost, Commissioner, City of Hitchcock Darrell Branch, Mayor, City of Brookshire
Racquel Belle, Councilmember, City of Forest Hill Kim Branch, Alderwoman, City of Brookshire
The Texas Municipal League Erica Bruce, Councilmember, City of Hewitt
Bill Bentley, Councilmember, City of La Porte
(TML) and the Texas Association Michael Braly, Councilmember, City of Red Oak Dawn Candy, Councilmember, City of Oak Ridge North
of Mayors, Councilmembers Ed Cimics, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Live Oak Julia Douglas, Councilmember, City of Glen Rose
Ralph Duran, Representative, City of Socorro
and Commissioners (TAMCC) Marilyn Clay, Councilmember, City of Cleveland
Duke Coon, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Conroe Victoria Farrar-Myers, Councilmember, City of Arlington
sponsor the Texas Municipal
Eddie Daffern, Mayor, City of Staples Renee Franklin, Councilmember, City of Benbrook
League Institute (TMLI) to Duane Ham, Councilmember, City of Conroe
Balis Dailey, Mayor, City of Grapeland
recognize elected city officials Martha Herden, Mayor, City of Blanco
Suzanne De Leon, Mayor, City of Balcones Heights
who are committed to continuing Mary M. Dennis, Mayor, City of Live Oak Cynthia Kelly, Alderwoman, Town of San Felipe
their professional development Scott Dowdle, Mayor, City of Frost Lynn Nowlin, Mayor, City of Slaton
Doyle Robinson, Mayor, City of Panhandle
and learning more about their Beverly Gaines, Councilmember, City of Webster
Seth Gibson, Councilmember, City of Conroe Jeremy Woods, Councilmember, City of Glenn Heights
governance role and city
Bob Golden, Mayor, City of Haslet
government. The TMLI program Award of Excellence
Clyde Hairston, Mayor, City of Lancaster
offers levels of recognition to (an elected official who has received a TMLI
Allison Heyward, Councilmember, City of Schertz
elected city officials who continue Joel Hicks, Councilmember, City of Cibolo certificate for five consecutive years)
their education, with a minimum David Hill, Mayor, City of Waxahachie
Leonard Reed, Mayor, City of Willis (20 years)
of 42 continuing education units Racheal Hill, Councilmember, City of Lancaster
Stanley Jaglowski, Councilmember, City of Lancaster Ed Cimics, Councilmember, City of Live Oak (10 years)
(CEUs) per TMLI credit year
Carlie Jones, Councilmember, City of Forest Hill Suzanne De Leon, Mayor, City of Balcones Heights (5 years)
(January 1-December 31). Beverly Gaines, Councilmember, City of Webster (5 years)
Dee Anne Lerma, Councilmember, City of Sealy
John B. Love III, former Mayor Pro Tem, City of Midland Stanley Jaglowski, Councilmember, City of Lancaster (5
Those receiving an award Raymond McDonald, Councilmember, City of Conroe years)
for the 2019 TMLI credit year Nina Morris, Councilmember, City of Lancaster Patrick Rios, Mayor, City of Rockport (5 years)
David Rutledge, Mayor, City of Bridge City (5 years)
were recognized by their peers Lyle Nelson, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Bastrop
W. L. Pate Jr., Mayor Pro Tem, City of Beaumont Carol Strain-Burk, Councilmember, City of Lancaster
during the TML-TAMCC Elected
Annette Pernell, former Councilmember, City of Orange (5 years)
Officials’ Conference in Frisco on
Leonard Reed, Mayor, City of Willis
March 4. The elected city officials Award of Leadership
Patrick Rios, Mayor, City of Rockport
who were honored at the award Derrick Robinson, Councilmember, City of Lancaster (a city that has had an elected official receive a TMLI
ceremony for their continued David Rutledge, Mayor, City of Bridge City certificate for five consecutive years)
commitment to excellence are Diana Salgado, Councilmember, City of Del Rio
Linda Sarabia, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Palmview City of Balcones Heights
listed here. Congratulations
Connie Schroeder, Mayor, City of Bastrop City of Bridge City
to all of the 2019 TMLI award City of Lancaster
Eric Scott, former Mayor, City of Brookshire
recipients! H Carol Strain-Burk, Councilmember, City of Lancaster City of Live Oak
Sandra Vrablec, Councilmember, City of Sealy City of Rockport
Janice Whitehead, Mayor, City of Sealy City of Webster
City of Willis
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 7 • JUNE 2020
RISK POOL H NEWS
deductibles are common, which can be beneficial for areas
Three Insurance of the state that are prone to inclement weather events.
Cost-Saving Tips Nevertheless, consideration of retaining a portion of that
risk by increasing deductibles is worthwhile. This is certainly
Given the revenue impacts of COVID-19, a reasonable
the case if you live in an area that is less likely to have
question that comes to mind as cities seek to balance
extreme weather. Another way to prudently retain more risk
their budgets is, “how can I save money on my insurance?”
is to eliminate physical damage coverage on older vehicles
Coverages that tend to be most costly include property,
and equipment since coverage is only for the depreciated
liability, and health benefits. Because insurance cost is
value. Similarly, deductibles can be assumed for liability
generally determined by operations and/or personnel,
and workers’ compensation coverages. While assumption
as well as the frequency and severity of claims, cutting
of deductibles results in coverage cost savings, the cost
insurance costs so that current service levels are maintained
of assuming additional risk should also be considered. If
requires taking a programmatic approach. This sort of
you are with the Risk Pool, your member services manager
approach allows for additional choices to trim costs, such as
can run a risk retention report based on your loss history
strategically retaining more risk and buying less coverage.
to help determine the most beneficial deductibles/self-
While some of the tips described in this article can be
insured retention across all coverage areas. As retention
applied to employee health benefits, this article focuses on
of additional risk is considered, keep two things in mind:
property, liability and workers’ compensation.
“Don’t risk a lot for a little” and “and don’t risk more than you
can afford to lose.” These statements succinctly state the
1. Increase deductibles or self-insured retentions: This
strategic goals of any organization when making decisions
is the quickest way to find savings within your insurance
to retain risk internally in concert with risk transfer to an
program. Low property and automobile physical damage
insurance carrier or self-funding through a partnership such
as the Risk Pool.
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 8 • JUNE 2020
2. Exposure changes relate directly to your operations and 3. Contractual transfer of risk is a solid risk management
the related cost of sharing risk as a part of the risk pooling practice by transferring potential exposures to another
partnership or transferring risk to an insurance carrier. party. Examples include transferring responsibility to
Payroll is the basis for developing the cost of workers’ contractors or requiring lessees to provide property and
compensation coverage. Therefore, if you have had a liability coverage for leased premises. This can be done
decrease in operations, such as parks and recreation or by appropriately worded insurance requirements and
other departments, you can contact the Pool or your current indemnity language. The Pool offers sample insurance and
insurance carrier, and adjust the payroll used for rating. This indemnity guidelines. If you would like a copy, contact your
will provide immediate savings. Payroll can be adjusted at member services manager.
any time during the year. Two other tips related to exposure
decreases include: These are just a few of the ways you can save money
on insurance costs. Your city can save substantially by
• Remove buildings that are not being utilized and would basing decisions on a risk analysis specific to your claims
not be replaced if damaged; or revise coverage from while adhering to good safety practices. Furthermore, a
“replacement cost” to “actual cash value” (ACV coverage programmatic approach to risk management can aid in
pays depreciated value for the loss). making tough financial decisions. If you would like help
in designing your risk management program or general
• Review automobile and property schedules carefully to assistance with best practices, please contact your member
ensure items not currently owned have been removed. services manager. H
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TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 9 • JUNE 2020
CITY H LIGHTS
#ThankYouThursday Honors North Texas “These weekly ovations are a great way for our community
Frontline Workers to rally together, safely, and show our appreciation for
Cheers have been ringing out in neighborhoods across those working tirelessly to battle COVID-19 and keep our
North Texas on Thursday evenings in a weekly display of community healthy and safe,” added Mayor Price.
appreciation for frontline workers. Mayors Betsy Price of Fort
Worth and Eric Johnson of Dallas have been encouraging Follow the displays of gratitude on social media using the
their residents to join them on Thursday evenings in a show hashtag #ThankYouThursday.
of support and gratitude for frontline workers in the battle
against COVID-19. TAMIU Engineering Students Help Laredo’s First
Responders
Fort Worth’s downtown buildings have been illuminated in Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) School
blue lights, while residents throughout the metroplex step of Engineering students and their professor went the
outside their homes at 7:00 p.m. to cheer for healthcare distance to create protective masks, shields, and aerosol
workers, first responders, and others working on the boxes for Laredo’s frontline first responders.
front lines. Participants are encouraged to wear a face
mask, practice social distancing, and cheer responsibly. The masks and shields were created and donated to three
Laredo hospitals for use by emergency room doctors,
“While the last months have been incredibly difficult, as well as to the City of Laredo and Webb County fire
these workers have bravely faced down unprecedented departments. The aerosol boxes, used to protect responders
challenges,” said Mayor Johnson. “They deserve our during intubation procedures, were presented to the Laredo
gratitude.” Fire Department for use by department paramedics and
local hospitals.
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 10 • JUNE 2020TAMIU President Dr. Pablo Arenaz recognized TAMIU School enduring economic hardships due to COVID-19. The grant
of Engineering Assistant Professor Dr. Tariq Tashtoush who will be funded by up to $1 million dollars in unallocated
lead the group of students in the 3D printing, design, and MCDC promotional funds, as legislative parameters allow.
PPE construction.
“Small businesses and nonprofits are the heartbeat of our
“In today’s COVID-19 pandemic response, we’ve found that community and we’re working diligently to get them the
many frontline first responders don’t have the access to critical support they need to survive this pandemic,” said
PPE they need. We decided to step in and assist by using Mayor George Fuller. “The McKinney Strong Grant program
our labs here to design and develop units,” Dr. Tashtoush is intended as relief support and one supplemental piece
explained. of broad recovery efforts including federal, state and local
programs.”
Working with CDC-approved social distancing, the class
printed 3D elements using an internally defined template. Recipients must have 50 or fewer full-time equivalent
Tashtoush said the COVID-19 pandemic has provided employees, conduct business out of a commercial location
students with a unique, real-world learning opportunity to in McKinney, and demonstrate a financial hardship during
see engineering applied. the COVID-19 pandemic. The one-time payment may be
used on eligible expenses incurred in March and April
Amarillo Held a Drive-Through Donation to Aid Homeless 2020 including rent, utilities (water, gas, electric and trash)
As part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Amarillo and communications (internet and phones). Home-based
hosted a drive-through donation event to help the city’s businesses and home-based nonprofits are not eligible.
homeless population.
The City of Amarillo’s Community Development Department
received grant funding to move 60 people from the
Salvation Army to alternative housing. The City plans for the
new residents to stay in the alternative housing indefinitely,
which will help provide adequate social distancing space at
the Salvation Army.
Although they have basic living accommodations,
the new alternative housing residents needed essentials
like bedroom furniture, blankets and pillows, living room
furniture, and kitchen and bathroom items.
The City set up a drive-through donation center at the Civic
Center, with safe distancing and health precautions, giving
Amarillo residents and businesses a safe and easy way to
drop off items.
McKinney COVID-19 Grant Program Supports Small
Businesses and Nonprofits
The City of McKinney has partnered with the McKinney
Community Development Corporation (MCDC) to establish
the McKinney Strong COVID-19 Small Business and
Nonprofit Grant program, offering up to $1,500 grants to
eligible McKinney-based small businesses and nonprofits
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 11 • JUNE 2020“We know businesses and nonprofits have been severely Carrollton and Metrocrest Chamber Offer “Safe to Work
impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jackie Brewer, and Shop” Kits
MCDC Chairman. “We want to see them back on their feet, The City of Carrollton partnered with the Metrocrest Chamber
thriving and continuing to provide the incredible services that of Commerce to assist local businesses that chose to reopen
make our community unique, and this is just the first step.” their doors in line with the Governor’s May 5 Executive
Order (GA-21). The program aims to support businesses
San Antonio Hosted a Virtual Children’s Town Hall with the tools they need to help protect employees
“Can I ride my bike out in quarantine?” and customers as Texans prepare to return to work.
“Why is everybody taking all the toilet paper from the
“The City of Carrollton is excited to partner with the
stores?”
Metrocrest Chamber of Commerce for this initiative,”
“How do people get the virus (because I don’t want my
Mayor Kevin Falconer said. “The City’s vision is to be
parents to get it)?” the community that families and businesses want to
“How long is this stay at home thing going to last?” call home, and we’re committed to assisting Carrollton’s
small businesses during this unprecedented time,
These were some of the poignant questions that San while continuing to encourage measures that maintain
Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Fourth Court of Appeals the health and wellbeing of our residents and visitors.”
Justice Luz Elena Chapa answered during a virtual town
hall for San Antonio children. Dozens of kids submitted As a first step of the program, the City and the
their questions and concerns related to COVID-19 in Chamber distributed “Safe to Work and Shop” startup
writing and through online videos for the digital meeting. kits designed to help small businesses reopen while
striving to keep employees and customers safe.
Broadcasted on TVSA and Facebook Live, Mayor Nirenberg The kits include items such as masks, hand sanitizer,
used the 30-minute Q&A session to allay children’s fears and floor clings encouraging social distancing, information
share factual information about COVID-19. He reassured resources available to small businesses, and more.
children that they are doing the right thing to help by
staying home, being safe, and maintaining social distancing. San Juan’s Curbside Grocery Donation Drive
Helped Local Families
“While this is something we need to take seriously, we don’t The City of San Juan partnered with One United RGV to
need to be afraid. Yes, some people might be pretty sick, collect groceries for San Juan families through a donation
but scientists and doctors think that most people will be curbside drive. San Juan Mayor Mario Garza served as
okay, especially children,” said the Mayor. alliance chair with support from members of the city
commission for the distribution location at the San Juan Fire
“You might miss your friends and your classmates. I know Department. Local residents in need of groceries provided
I do. And I know they miss you as well. So reach out to a valid identification or proof of address to qualify.
your parents and your school to find ways to talk to them,”
he added. “Our city will be so much safer, cleaner, and “During this time of crisis, it is wonderful to see community
healthier because of what we have learned and will learn in leaders and organizations coming together to help provide
the coming days.” some relief to families in need,” said Mayor Garza. “I
applaud the efforts of our San Juan City Commission
Mayor Nirenberg also talked about safety guidelines to and all event organizers for uniting as a coordinated
help fight COVID-19, including the five steps of proper force to support families in the Rio Grande Valley.” H
hand-washing.
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 12 • JUNE 2020Safety & Return
It Pays to Be Safe®
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money market deposit accounts, and CDs—by working directly with one bank.
And, deposits placed through ICS and CDARS have the potential to earn a rate comparable to prime money
market mutual funds1 with protection that is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Ask
your bank if it offers ICS and CDARS, or find one of the thousands that do.
www.ICSandCDARS.com
[1] Deposits placed using ICS and CDARS earn interest at rates set by the depositor’s relationship institution that places the funds. Rates will vary.
Placement of funds through the ICS or CDARS service is subject to the terms, conditions, and disclosures in the service agreements, including the Deposit Placement Agreement
(“DPA”). Limits apply and customer eligibility criteria may apply. In the ICS savings option, program withdrawals are limited to six per month. Although funds are placed at destination
banks in amounts that do not exceed the FDIC standard maximum deposit insurance amount (“SMDIA”), a depositor’s balances at the relationship institution that places the funds
may exceed the SMDIA (e.g., before ICS or CDARS settlement for a deposit or after ICS or CDARS settlement for a withdrawal) or be ineligible for FDIC insurance (if the relationship
institution is not a bank). As stated in the DPA, the depositor is responsible for making any necessary arrangements to protect such balances consistent with applicable law. If the
depositor is subject to restrictions on placement of its funds, the depositor is responsible for determining whether its use of ICS or CDARS satisfies those restrictions. ICS, Insured
Cash Sweep, CDARS, and It Pays to Be Safe are registered service T E Xmarks
A S Tof
O Promontory Y •13
W N & C I TInterfinancial Network,
• JUN LLC.
E 2020 0420FINDING THE
SILVER LINING
By Chris Corrigan, Deputy Executive Director,
Communications and Programs, Texas Municipal League
As state and local orders to restrict the spread of COVID-19 from home. “Our City operates through a locked door; all
are gradually lifted, it’s helpful to reflect on how the pandemic restaurants that couldn’t accommodate drive-through or
has changed us and our communities – our lifestyles, pickup meals are closed.”
communication, behavior, perhaps even relationships.
And while that distancing hasn’t been easy, he focused on
the silver linings.
Last month, when we started working on this issue of Texas
Town & City, we asked a handful of city officials and staff
“I feel the best thing that happened as a result of COVID-19
how the social distancing has affected them. We also asked
is that families are spending more time together and
if there’s something they’ve done or experienced over the
appreciating what they have and had,” said Anzaldua, “I
past few months that they hope might continue into the
hope this draws families together and they realize that
future.
spending time at home and rushing less is an advantage,
Lenny Anzaldua, an Alderman in Refugio and TML Region not a disadvantage.”
11 President, said social distancing has affected his entire
community. What used to be a warm greeting or hug is now While he has missed community gatherings, Anzaldua
a fist bump or an elbow bump. A town with a population of takes pleasure knowing his church’s Zoom service reached
around 3,000, Refugio is located on US Highway 77 and as three times as many as those who attend their traditional
a result, has been overrun with out-of-town shoppers who in-person service.
stop by to clean out their local HEB.
His church also started a feeding ministry to nourish
Anzaldua said the biggest change for him personally is families who are suffering through the pandemic. “Our
his job since he’s not out in the community, but working ministry was blessed with a $1,500 community grant from
the Methodist Healthcare Ministries, and our little church
will try to provide 1,500 meals with that grant,” he said.
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 14 • JUNE 2020“These good things I pray stay part of our community for Sowell also pointed to the inconveniences we’ve all
years and years after COVID-19 is in our rear view,” added experienced in taking care of what used to simple tasks
Anzaldua. outside the home, like running an errand or shopping.
In Wilmer, City Administrator Rona Stringfellow had been “This past weekend, I waited in my car for almost an hour
in her job just 100 days when COVID-19 hit. “The City looked before receiving a text that let me know I could enter
to me for direction, and I had to be decisive,” she said. a computer hardware store,” said Sowell. “I wanted to
purchase a Wi-Fi card for a computer I built for my daughter
Stringfellow explained that in considering what steps to so she could connect with friends.”
take, she thought of her young son and elderly parents
and all she’d do to keep them protected. Then, she He added that “Overall, social distancing has caused me to
thought about how important it was for the City’s staff be part of some difficult operational decisions, while also
to return home, healthy and safe, to their families. And making me further appreciate the complex economy and
this guided her decision to close the office to the public. family relationships which I had come to take for granted.”
“We met with our custodian to ensure there was protocol When asked if there’s anything he has experienced during
for cleaning the offices to protect everyone,” she said. recent months that he’d like to see continue, Sowell said “I’m
“We met frequently to discuss new information related to either a creature of habit, resistant to change, or any number
the pandemic and tailored our programming around it to of other euphemisms used to describe the challenges of
protect our most vulnerable populations. We closed the adapting to a new world, but the only positive benefit I’ve
library and restricted our senior programs to meal delivery come to like from this pandemic is the large improvement
only.” on my commute. I can get to work in less than 15 minutes,
a trip that used to take nearly 40 minutes. I also fill my gas
Stringfellow said “We’ll continue to be diligent about our tank just once every two weeks instead of once a week.”
interactions with the public as we slowly re-open. As much as
I am an extrovert and we are a social society with handshakes In Fort Worth, City Secretary Mary Kayser described the
and hugs, this experience will cause us to think twice.” empty downtown streets near city hall as eerie and sad.
Things are very different with most of her team working
She added that, after the pandemic, she hopes people from home.
will “continue to adhere to the social distancing that has
been modeled and practice good hygiene by washing “Finding ways to keep in touch and to keep things moving
their hands for at least 20 seconds, covering their forward was challenging at first, but we did a great job
mouths when they cough or sneeze, standing at least adjusting to that new normal. Holding council meetings
six feet apart, and staying home when they are sick.” with most councilmembers participating from home and
only a few staff in attendance was a new experience. Yet
Greg Sowell, Richardson’s Director of Communications, the councilmembers joked with each other as they do
described social distancing’s impact as dramatic on a when they’re together in person and that was good to see.”
professional level to mildly inconvenient at a personal
level. Sowell serves as president of the board for the Kayser reflected on the missed social connections. “With
Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers the travel restrictions, I wasn’t able to attend a conference
(TAMIO). TAMIO’s annual conference was cancelled with my peers, and I realized how much that time of
because of the pandemic, which had a large networking and connecting really meant,” she said. “I’ve
financial impact on the organization’s bottom line. also discovered how much I miss that personal interaction
with everyone that works for the City. Skype, Zoom,
and WebEx do not substitute for those one-on-one in
person conversations with your peers and co-workers.”
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 15 • JUNE 2020McAllen Mayor Jim Darling also talked about missing face- Among the positive outcomes is a shared commitment
to-face communications. He explained “I am on over 14 to health and safety. Wayman noted, “We are paying a lot
different boards and councils (mostly public), and meetings more attention to hygiene. Our cleaning crews are doing
have been called off, or conducted by teleconference, a much better job, and we are sanitizing work sites better.”
Zoom, and other services. The quality and logistics of
these kinds of meetings has been challenging. Decision- Mayor Darling agreed and added that post-pandemic
making is either delayed or affected by not meeting.” he’d like to see “personal responsibility for a healthful
lifestyle from less physical contact like handshakes and hug
Not seeing people on a daily basis is not only difficult, but greetings continue.”
contrary to the role that an elected city official has in leading
their community. Darling commented that instead of seeing As mayor, Darling regularly attends events where people
and talking to citizens at the grocery store, he now hears are sharing germs and catching colds from physical
from them via email and social media. contact. “Aspects for the most vulnerable should continue
to be practiced, such as health and safety in nursing
Scott Wayman, City Manager of Live Oak, misses the homes and hospitals, sanitizers in public areas, and more.”
communication that comes with sitting across the desk
or table from someone discussing a program or project. While it’s difficult to get beyond the virus’ terrible toll, there
are a few encouraging outcomes
“Sure, your department staff can come in to your office, but
Wayman noticed that people are kinder to one
you don’t want someone from the River Authority or your
another because we are all going through this “larger
electric provider bringing their six people into the room with
than life” pandemic together. He alluded to the strange
your six people,” explained Wayman.
comfort in this shared experience that binds us.
Wayman said he feels the pandemic has made people
Darling said he’d like to see “the enhanced teamwork
more distant and aloof.
among and between city and county governments
continue for many of the problems we jointly encounter.”
“I miss walking to the far end of the city hall complex
and talking to the staff members who are working at
Kayser said she hopes the support and appreciation that
different sites. At some level, you don’t want to expose
everyone is feeling for those who kept doing their jobs on
yourself to them because you don’t know what their
the frontline endures.
comfort levels are with regards to the spread of the virus.
It has made everybody more standoffish. The new norms “The City employees who kept the water flowing and the
of social distancing have forced us all to be more cautious.” streets repaired. The unsung heroes who manned the City’s
emergency operations. The store clerks, restaurant workers,
However, in the middle of the pandemic, when a Live Oak and delivery drivers who kept things moving forward and
officer was assaulted, Wayman said “you couldn’t have showed their innovative spirit. How can we ever thank the
stopped me from visiting that officer at the emergency doctors and nurses and all their support staff who just kept
room.” going and battling this invisible enemy? “
Wayman also pointed out that social distancing “And I admire the creativity that people used to stay
has helped us all grasp the intricacies of technology. connected to family and friends and their faith. I hope that
“These online communication platforms are continues,” added Kayser.
dependent upon people with different technology The coronavirus will pass, but the tragedy of lost lives and
fluency being forced to gain the same understanding.” economic destruction will stay with us for a while. Perhaps
the comfort that we’ve all experienced this together will
give us the insight and wisdom to rebound and rebuild. H
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 16 • JUNE 2020TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 17 • JUNE 2020
SMALL CITIES’ H CORNER
MONT BELVIEU’S
MB LINK FIBER
NETWORK:
AN INTERNET
SERVICE BUILT JUST
FOR YOU
By Dalton Rice, Management Analyst
Brian Ligon, Communications and Marketing Director
Dwight Thomas, Broadband and IT Services Director
Scott Swigert, Assistant City Manager; and
Nathan Watkins, City Manager, City of Mont Belvieu
Imagine a family moving into a new home which is located 60 percent of residents and 80 percent of businesses
in a new area with new schools and new careers. The considered local internet access inadequate. With the
closing documents signed, they prepare for the daunting large national telecommunications companies declining
task of moving in and setting up the essential services – to expand their services in Mont Belvieu, the city council,
water, electric, gas, and internet. After being on hold for leadership, and staff seized the opportunity to develop an
an hour, they learn from the cable provider that there is no innovative solution. For a city to provide internet service in
internet service in the area. Mont Belvieu citizens faced this a competitive market unparalleled to a municipality, there
reality for years until the City developed MB Link, Texas’ first are three essential components: fast and reliable speed,
municipally owned and operated gigabit internet utility, affordable pricing, and excellent customer service.
providing high-speed, reliable internet to residents.
The City confronted the problem in 2017 by filing a lawsuit to
History of MB Link address a 1900’s state statute that allowed home rule cities
The idea for MB Link stemmed from residents and businesses to provide electrical service. This move highlighted that in the
suffering from inadequate internet service coverage 21st century, fast and reliable internet access is as essential
throughout the area. In 2016, the City opened discussions as water and electricity were at the turn of the last century.
with telecommunications companies about providing faster The judge ruled in favor of Mont Belvieu allowing the City to
and more reliable internet, but the talks were unsuccessful provide internet access as a utility. The City began working
even after Mont Belvieu offered to pay to install the needed with consultants, the new Broadband and Information
infrastructure. A feasibility study confirmed that more than Technology Services Director Dwight Thomas, and the MB
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 18 • JUNE 2020Revenue
By fully owning and operating MB
Link, the City has the benefit of being
a one-stop-shop for its citizens. When
residents call or visit the City’s website,
they are able to sign up for water, trash,
and internet services at one time, and
billing now includes MB Link services.
At this time, residential services are $75
per month for up to 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps)
upload and download, and commercial
services have tiered packages based
on business needs. Current projections
show MB Link being cash flow positive
in the next five to eight years; however,
Link team to develop a business model,
these projections do not assume
establish the necessary infrastructure,
potential revenue sources such as long-
install over 75 miles of fiber, connect
term leases of fiber and data center co-
existing homes and businesses, and
location agreements.
establish a framework to fully own and
operate the broadband service. Opportunities
Operating as an enterprise within the City,
Funding
the necessity to innovate and expand is
This extraordinary feat, accomplished
essential. Although MB Link services are
with full community and city council
exclusive to residents and businesses, the
support, was funded through a bond
City’s business development activities
issuance that required no additional
ensure the enterprise operates and
taxes. The initial project to design the
expands using best practices and that
network, build the infrastructure, connect
align with technological advances. MB
existing homes, and hire MB Link staff
Link has opened the door for discussions
came in under budget at $13 million out
with cellular companies to bring new or
of the initial $14 million bond issuance.
expanded services into rural areas. These
The remaining capital is covering MB Link
alternate revenue sources also provide
network expansion and new projects to
improved services to our community
ensure all new businesses and residents
and the surrounding areas. Furthermore,
can enjoy the service. To keep up with the
these companies often move more
substantial growth of new commercial
quickly since the City is a single source
and residential properties, the city council
for internet backhaul, right-of-way
passed an ordinance in 2018 requiring
acquisition, antenna placement (i.e. water
developers to add fiber infrastructure
towers), and agreement negotiations. MB
by installing handholes and the conduit
Link is a testament to the success that
through which the fiber passes. To
municipalities can achieve in the best
include reducing capital expenditures,
interests of the community and a self-
the ordinance increases MB Link’s
sustainable revenue stream to carry the
penetration rates in new developments
City beyond the 21st century.
resulting in getting residents connected
with minimal delay.
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 19 • JUNE 2020penetration rate with over 1,500 residential customers and 30 business partners. The 1,000 customer
celebration occurred on March 6, 2019. MB Link continues to make strides in an area, which the Houston
Business Journal in 2018 considered the fourth fastest-growing city in the Houston metropolitan
statistical area. Figure 1 shows the current and projected subscribers since going live. Highly-rated,
industry-standard equipment ensures the community maintains fast and reliable speeds. Installation
standards, which include cutting-edge gateways and battery backups, keep subscribers connected and
informed through unforeseen power outages and various incidents.
MB Link Subscribers Pandemic Subscriber and Bandwidth
MB Link Subscribers
2500
Current
2000
Pre-Subscribed
Subscribers
Subscribers
1500
1000
500
0
March April Pre-Event During Subscrib
March
Gigabits Per Second April Pre-Event During Subscriber
Gigabits
MB LinkPer Second
2020 Pandemic Subscribers
MB Link Subscribers
The 1:connectivity
Figure that MB Link provides has been paramount
MB Link Subscribers and Bandwidth Usage
The connectivity that MB Link provides has been paramount
during the recent unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. With the during the recent unprecedented
This COVID-19
chart illustrates the impact on subscribers and
pandemic. With the global economy and operations shifting to new requirements, the need
Award-Winning
for
Customer Service
global economy and operations Award-Winning
bandwidth
The proven Customer
usageservice
customer Service
withmodel
thegivescommunity working advantage.
MB Link a competitive and The custome
telecommuting has substantially increased,shifting to new
emphasizing requirements,
the essential the internet
need for reliable The services.
proven customer service model gives MB Link a competitive advantage.services,
The customer se
need for telecommuting has substantially increased, emphasizing representatives
learning from (CSR)
home establish
duringthisthe
advantage by proactively
pandemic. Dwight monitoring
Thomas often de
representatives (CSR) establish
restoring service-related issuesthis advantage
before by proactively
the resident knows they monitoring
occurred.services,
The CSR often
teamdetec
ke
the essential need for reliable internet services. mentioned
restoring
and businesses his teamissues
service-related
informed observed
before
through thesome
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resident knows in
communication time
they
and where
occurred. The instead
relationships CSR team keeps
of reactin
and
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events. Residentsinformed
utilization through
continuously
reached activeGbps
praise
19.22 communication
the team theirand
butforwas relationships
sustained.instead of reacting t
professionalism.
not
events. Residents continuously praise the team for their professionalism.
Innovation
Innovation
The City of Mont Belvieu’s achievement has caught the attention of cities and internet serv
Current Service The City of the
Innovation
throughout Mont Belvieu’s
state achievement
and nation. In Aprilhas caught
2019, MonttheBelvieu’s
attention key
of cities
staff and
wereinternet
invitedservice
to spe
throughout
Broadband the state and nation.
Communities Summit In April
in 2019,The
Austin. Mont Belvieu’s key
presentation leftstaff were invited
attendees and to speako
members
Before going live in 2018, MB Link had over 700 pre- The City of Mont Belvieu’s achievement has caught the
Broadband Communities Summit in Austin. The presentation left attendees and members of th
asking how a city of just 15.3 square miles could drive this technological innovation into re
subscribers, and has since achieved a 60 percent penetration asking how of
attention a city of just
cities and15.3 square miles
internet couldproviders
service drive this technological innovation into reali
MB Link is indeed a testament to innovation and success, itthroughout
also demonstrates how munici
MB Link is indeed a testament to innovation and success, it also demonstrates how municipal
rate with over 1,500 residential customers and 30 business can
the be a reality for other cities and local governments. MB
can be a reality for other cities and local governments. MB Link key
state and nation. In April 2019, Mont Belvieu’s Link is not
is not a one-size-fits-all
staff
a one-size-fits-all so
solut
framework that
framework thatcan
canbebeused
usedby byother
othercommunities
communitiestotodevelop
develop business
business models
models that
that best
best fit fit
the
partners. The 1,000 customer celebration occurred on were invited to speak at the Broadband Communities
population.
population.
March 6, 2019. MB Link continues to make strides in an area, Summit in Austin. The presentation left attendees and
which the Houston Business Journal in 2018 considered the Mont Belvieu’s
members
Mont Belvieu’s
of MBMBLink
the Link
pressisisonly
onlythe
askingthebeginning.
beginning.
how a city The
The ofeffort
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hope theycould
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your citytechnological
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– an reality.service built for y
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hope can your city build MB Link – an internet service built for your
statistical area. Figure 1 shows the current and projected While MB Link is indeed a testament to innovation and
subscribers since going live. Highly-rated, industry- success, it also demonstrates how municipal broadband
standard equipment ensures the community maintains can be a reality for other cities and local governments. MB
fast and reliable speeds. Installation standards, which Link is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is a framework that
include cutting-edge gateways and battery backups, keep can be used by other communities to develop business
subscribers connected and informed through unforeseen models that best fit their needs and population.
power outages and various incidents.
Mont Belvieu’s MB Link is only the beginning. The effort by
Award-Winning Customer Service this small, far-east Houston suburb shows that this new
The proven customer service model gives MB Link utility can be successfully launched by cities large and
a competitive advantage. The customer service small. And, Mont Belvieu’s City staff hope they can help
representatives (CSR) establish this advantage by your city build a network like MB Link – an internet service
proactively monitoring services, often detecting and built for your community. H
restoring service-related issues before the resident
knows they occurred. The CSR team keeps residents
and businesses informed through active communication
and relationships instead of reacting to negative events.
Residents continuously praise the team for their
professionalism.
TEXAS TOWN & CITY • 20 • JUNE 2020You can also read
