Sidewalks will once again be the topic of discussion at Bellaire’s City Council meeting but this next debate, could have a city-wide impact.
The meeting, slated for Monday at 5:30 p.m., will see the council consider directing the city manager to use available data — including the 2013 Sidewalk Inventory — to develop a plan for city-initiated sidewalk installation.
Mayor Pro Tem Roman Reed and council member Trisha Pollard requested are the lead in the initiative.
This is the first council action, as it relates to a city-wide sidewalk ordinance, in the city council history, according to city documents.
Sidewalks were the topic of discussion at a recent May council meeting.
At that meeting, the city voted 4-3 favor of giving the city manager and staff direction in drafting a new sidewalk ordinance, which council would adopt at a later time.
When drafted, that ordinance will require the installation of sidewalks during the construction of new single-family homes, or allow a fee in-lieu of sidewalks, in specific situations where a complete or near completed sidewalks exists on one-side of the street.
Mayor Andrew Friedberg and council member Gus Pappas were two who opposed that decision in May. The duo raised concerns over its application and prefer adopting a comprehensive community pathway master plan first.
“I don’t think it solves the bigger problem we have, is that developing a total comprehensive policy about pathways in this city as well as sidewalks,” said Pappas at that meeting.
Monday’s meeting could be the start of what Friedberg and Pappas have in mind.
Other agenda items include the council hearing a presentation by Jeff Garber, President and CEO, Pierce, Goodwin, Alexander & Linville.
The presentation concerns the floor plan development, relationship to the park and other items associated with the Municipal Facilities Project. The council is expected to provide feedback.
Gerber and his staff have worked with the city council appointed Ad Hoc committee to ensure the direction provided by council is satisfied. The Ad Hoc previously provided recommendations that were heard by the council at a prior meeting.
Gerber has also worked with the police department, municipal courts and city hall staff to ensure the building floor plans and spaces adequately meet the needs of the community and the operational needs of the buildings.
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