the city

city manager

• Kean is the President of the Texas Public Power Association, representing the 72 municipal utilities in the state of Texas and is on the board of directors for the Texas Municipal Power Agency.
• The city manager and deputy city managers are active in several associations (TCMA, ICMA, APPA, TPPA) which provides technical assistance as well as a convenient network connection for the City.
• Successfully relocated the municipal golf course to the Phillips Event Center.
• Gameday Shuttle: Our program that provides free parking and shuttle service to and from each Texas A&M home football game demonstrated growth in ridership for the third consecutive year.
• Staff continues to work with Texas Army National Guard to find them an alternative site to their current location.
• Transitioned from a full-time internal auditor to an internal audit contract.
• Partnerships: Continued to partner with the Bush School (involved in classes, attend sessions sponsored by the Bush School, etc.) and BISD (new technical training facility).
• Fitch ratings upgraded BTU debt from stable to positive, while the city’s overall financial position remains healthy and very strong.
• Began implementing plans to beautify major corridors into the city to include under grounding utilities.
• HOT revenues were up 20% over 2017 and sales taxes were up over 8% easing the burden of dependence on property taxes.
• New home permits are up from a low of 176 in 2009 to over 400 in 2018.

city secretary

• Conducted candidate orientation for Council candidates.
• Successfully conducted 2017 city elections.
• Conducted records audits in four city departments.
• Certified two RNC petitions.
• Implemented voter approved Charter amendments.
• Old cemetery records housed at the Bryan City Cemetery were preserved through deacidification, encapsulation and binding in new books. This should ensure the integrity of these records for 100 years.
• Promoted and implemented records management techniques city-wide during Records Management Month, including staff training sessions, email deletion contest and a large records destruction campaign for records past retention or superfluous copies.
• Continued preservation of City’s archival records and expanded web based repository of public records.
• The City Secretary’s Vital Statistics Office met Payment Card Industry (PCI) SAQ B Compliance and received excellent reviews on annual compliance report by the Texas State Department of Health Services Vital Statistics Unit.
• Offered a training session for local hospitals, funeral homes and justices of the peace regarding appropriate procedures for filing birth and death certificates with my office (local registrar).
• Received the Five Star Exemplary Award from the Texas Department of State Health Services for excellence in vital statistics reporting (top award in the State).
• All staff recertified in paternity training by the Attorney General’s Office.
• Continued the Youth Advisory Commission and Teen Court in the Schools programs. Obtained grant funding for new program initiatives regarding youth at risk. Combined the Youth Case Manager and Community Service Coordinator positions, resulting in General Fund savings to the City.
• Tracked federal legislation of importance to the City.
• Continued to serve as Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce Legislative Action Committee Chair in order to ensure the City of Bryan’s interests are represented and included in the Chamber’s state and federal legislative action plans.
• Participated in the Chamber’s legislative trip to Washington, D.C. Assisted in formulation of state and federal legislative action plans.
• Continued the implementation of streamlined and automated business processes utilizing Laserfiche workflow and forms components.
• Oversaw recruitment/appointment process for Council’s boards, committees and commissions.
• Conducted Texas Open Meetings Act training for new board/committee/commission members.
• Coordinated Council’s annual volunteer reception.
• Continued the Volunteer Bryan! Program. A total of 9,819.59 hours with a dollar value of $241,954.70 were donated by volunteers the past fiscal year.
• Hosted city-wide neighborhood association forum.
• Implemented new agenda management software for Council and other City boards, transitioning 19 City boards to the new software.
• Assisted in distribution of free birth certificates for citizens impacted by Hurricane Harvey.
• Timely and efficiently provided responses to 872 open records requests filed with the City this year.
• Served as an instructor for the International Institute of Municipal Clerks and Texas Municipal Clerks Certification Program, as well as several state organizations and other cities.

BTU

• The safety of our employees continues to be our top priority at BTU. In FY18, BTU matched last year’s all-time safety record with only 2 recordable incidents, for an incident rate of 1.08. This is top-tier in any safety measure. We were also one of only three public power utilities in Texas to be awarded the American Public Power Association’s (APPA) Safety Excellence Award.
• Improvements to Lake Bryan Park were a focal point in FY18, including the installation of a new wastewater collection system to tie-in the back half of the park to the rest of the park’s city sanitary sewer system. This infrastructure improvement to utility services makes it possible to add amenities to Lake Bryan to foster a more enjoyable experience for lake patrons. A new limestone and metal entry sign was installed, and safety improvements including high resolution security cameras and a code access only gate for after hours. These improvements have been made to facilitate the transition of operations and maintenance of the park from a private company to BTU’s direct oversite and management effective October 1, 2018.
• In an effort to modernize electrical infrastructure along major corridors in Bryan, BTU worked with contractors to convert 1.25 miles of aging overhead electrical distribution facilities on South College Avenue to underground infrastructure.
• In a joint project with TxDOT, BTU participated in the construction of over 6 miles of new LED streetlights along FM158 (Boonville Road). This project was possible due a combination of grant funding and BTU investment, and improves safety and visibility on the east side of Bryan for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
• BTU is proud to have closely partnered with Texas A&M University to provide service to their new state-of-the-art RELLIS campus off of Highway 47 in Bryan.
• A new Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliant system was implemented to better protect the personal information of BTU customers when using credit or debit cards.

animal services

• Hosted the 5th Annual Pawpaloosa Animal Health Fair and Adoption Reunion
• Distributing 150 free microchips and 190 free rabies vaccinations
• An estimated 1,000 visitors to the event
• YTD: Adopted more than 700 animals to new homes
• YTD: Sent more than 63 animals to rescue partners throughout Texas and the U.S.
• YTD: RTO (Return to Owner) more than 618 animals in the field!
• YTD: Over 272 animals reclaimed by their owners
• YTD: Over 3,800 hours logged by volunteers
• Successfully concluded another year with our partnerships with Texas A&M and Blinn Veterinary Programs
• Contracted with Aggieland Humane Mobile Clinic to spay/neuter BAC animals and provide opportunities in Bryan for citizens to acquire low-cost/no cost spay/neuter services. Resulting in 100% of all animals adopted from BAC to be spayed/neutered before going to their new home.
• Finalized and presented a Feasibility Study for a new Animal Services and Adoption Center
• Implemented Body Cameras in the field with Animal Control Officers
• Implemented a new shelter software program, ShelterLuv
• Facility improvements:
• 19 new kennels with tops added to Canine Enrichment Center
• New sidewalks added to connect different areas of the Canine Enrichment Center

bryan isd

• Celebrated the opening of the new school buildings for Stephen F. Austin Middle School and Sul Ross Elementary as well as many school building improvements and expansions.
• Overwhelming approval of our tax ratification election that will help bring $4.4 million in additional operating revenue to the District.
• Launched 1st Annual Evening of Academic Excellence and Bryan ISD Showcase featuring our students, programs, and opportunities.
• Increased community and parent engagement and partnerships.
• Purchased land and buildings for Career and Technical Education (CTE) expansion.
• Dr. Christie Whitbeck, Bryan ISD Superintendent, was awarded the CTAT Champion of the Year. The Champion of the Year recognizes individuals who contribute to the improvement, promotion, development and progress of CTE goals.
• Kevin Ross, CTE Coordinator, was named the CTAT CTE Administrator of the Year, which recognizes administrative CTE professionals at the state level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success
• City of Bryan Mayor Andrew Nelson, along with the Bryan City Council, were recognized as the CTAT Business of the Year.
• Business owner and community leader Bobby Gutierrez was recognized as the CTAT Business Leader of the Year.
• Student representation at local, regional, state and national level competitions among Fine Arts, CTE, and athletic programs.
• Kimberly Lamb named a National Merit Finalist student at Bryan HS
• Bryan Collegiate HS ranked as one of the top high schools in Texas and the Nation by US News and World Report.This is the sixth straight year the dual credit high school has been ranked by the publication, and it was among the top 30 percent of schools ranked in 2018.
• Houston Elementary named a 17-18 Honor Roll School
• Monyell Nutall, Bryan High senior, won a Class 5A 182-pound State Wrestling Championship.
• The Bryan High Choir perform

code enforcement

• As of Aug. 1, Code has worked 3,199 cases and is on pace to work 3,800 cases. This is consistent with proactive enforcement.

communications and marketing

• Produced Fiscal Year 2018 State of the City video and electronic report highlighting each City department.
• Produced BTU Annual Report, Parks and Recreation Activity Guides, Bryan Fire Department Strategic Plan, Bryan Fire Department Annual Report, Bryan Police Department Annual Report, and Texas Triangle Park economic development brochure.
• Created and produced numerous graphic projects, including logo rebuilding/design, print/digital advertisements, brochures, promotional items, posters, articles, web banners, badges, event invitations, etc. for City departments.
• Redesigned City of Bryan website, Bryan Texas Utilities (BTU) website, created Lake Bryan website, created new Economic Development website, updated Visit landing page and updated Gameday Shuttle webpage.
• Produced and aired numerous video Public Service Announcements (PSAs) for broadcast on Municipal TV Channel 16, KBTX, KAGS, and KYLE stations as well as the City’s website. Also ran PSA’s for Bryan ISD.
• Assisted in planning and/or promoting special events such as the grand opening of the City Course at the Phillips Event Center; 10 Year Partnership Community Welcome for Belgian Delegates; Gameday Shuttle service; Downtown Bryan events such as Texas Reds, First Friday, Lights On!, and Mayor’s Downtown Impact Award; Bryan Animal Center events such as Pawpaloosa and Clear the Shelter month; Parks & Recreation events including Culinary Classes, Pee Wee Sports, Thunderbolts Track, Breakfast with Santa, Blue Bunny Breakfast & Egg Hunt, and Holiday Magic; BTU’s Inaugural Family Fall Fest at Lake Bryan; Mounce Library events, etc.
• Increased promotion of Bryan as an economically viable climate for new business ventures through targeted marketing campaigns directing viewers to building.bryantx.gov. The first economic development video continued to serve the City well.
• Strengthened the City’s presence on social media, adding NextDoor to our repertoire of communication tools, and tailored information to fit each communication channel to engage citizens through purposeful dialogue on each platform.
• Focused marketing initiatives and strategies to external audiences to improve the City’s image, attract visitors, and showcase quality of life in an effort to attract new residents and businesses. This was done by promoting positive accolades about Bryan ISD, City parks and amenities, access to world-renowned healthcare and higher education.
• Enhanced the programming efforts of the City with timely, targeted communications that can be easily adapted to a variety of communication channels.
• Produced 12 issues of Plug In, BTU’s monthly newsletter included with each customer’s bill, providing energy and water conservation tips, electric safety tips, and special events/announcements.
• Designed and produced 12 issues of Texas Co-op Power Magazine, a monthly publication received by each BTU customer, and maintained full responsibility for all content.
• Increased the number of subscribers that receive direct email updates through Constant Contact.
• Hosted media luncheon to strengthen partnerships with local TV, radio, and print publication media outlets.
• Won four State awards and two National awards for excellence in electronic reporting, video reporting, print reports, and website design.
• Financed video production of Chet Garner’s Daytripper show featuring downtown Bryan.

community development

• Community Development (Department) administers federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (Community Development Block Grant and Home Investment Partnership program). Statutory programs goals include decent housing, suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities. Through these national goals, each city provides programs that addresses local housing and non-housing needs, primarily for special needs populations (i.e. elderly, disabled, low and moderate income). The Department also seeks local partnerships to increase leverage of the funds and serve additional families.
• In the 2027/2018 program year the Department the Department anticipates completing over sixty minor repair projects enabling eligible homeowners to have health and safety issues reduced or eliminated; reconstructed 3 dilapidated owner occupied homes, provided home buyer’s assistance (counseling down payment assistance) to ten first time homebuyers, worked with volunteer groups such as UMARMY and others volunteer groups, for additional housing assistance such as landscaping, painting and wheel chair ramps (approximately 40 projects). Staff worked with another private company to do a major rehabilitation on approximately six owner occupied homes. The staff member who coordinates the minor repair program received a VIVA Award from the College Station Rotary Club. This award recognizes those employees on the front line of service oriented organizations.
• Additionally, staff monitored current grant contracts for five health/social service agencies that provide direct services for financial literacy, recreational, physical therapy, and a case management program for families/individuals who are experiencing homelessness. Staff coordinated the Joint Relief Funding Review process, in conjunction with the city of College Station, to fund ten agencies for the 2018/2019 year that provide health and social service programs that focus on local needs such as prenatal care, financial literacy, food insecurity, homelessness, recreational, mental health, and physical therapy. The Bank on Brazos Valley program is coordinated by the Department and focuses on youth and family financial literacy. Members of the Bank on Brazos Valley group completed approximately six separate projects including a Credit Fair workshop, workshops for Bryan Housing Authority, two financial simulations for Bryan High school seniors, Health and Safety Expo, and a financial essay/art contest for Bryan Independent School district K-12 grades.
• The Department was federally monitored in May and received an excellent rating, which included no findings and no concerns for the administration of the federal grants. The Department was also noted for a best practice.

coulter field

Capital Improvement Project

• Phase I of an airport rehabilitation project in partnership with TxDOT Aviation was completed. As part of the project, new game fence and security gates were installed. The 8-foot tall game fence runs along the eastern and southern boundaries of the airport, decreasing wildlife access to the airport. The security gates prevent random vehicles from entering the taxiway and runway. Additionally, the northern end of the Taxiway was reconstructed, an area of degraded asphalt was rehabilitated and poor drainage around the taxiway was addressed.

Hangar Developments

• Aligning with the 2014 Coulter Field Business Plan, several hangar developments, including a 10-unit T-hangar and corporate hangar, were completed, thus increasing rent revenue for the City of Bryan. The development, adjacent to Taxiway Alpha, included private and city development projects. Privately, a new commercial box hangar, which houses two aircraft, was completed. Additionally, a commercial box hangar was purchased, again increasing rent revenue for the city.

Height Hazard Zoning

• Height Hazard Zoning was also mentioned in the above referenced business plan as a key component for compatible uses at Coulter Field and for its neighbors. Presentations are scheduled for the Planning and Zoning Commission in August and the City Council in September.

Community Events

• Coulter Field was pleased to host two community events this year, the Brazos Valley Cares and Scotty’s House Great American Steak Out event. The Brazos Valley Cares brought 400 people out to Coulter Field, while Scotty’s House drew nearly 900 individuals to the airport. Both events provided positive awareness of the airport to the community.

economic development

Retail & Commercial: 2018 Retail Strategy

• In January 2018, staff along with the Bryan Business Council’s (BBC) Commercial Subcommittee, presented the Retail Action Plan to the BBC. The plan was met with eagerness and direction was provided to move forward as presented. To date, two key action items have been implemented relating to the City economic development web presence, as well as access to detailed world-class demographic data via Zoom Prospector. In addition, the plan focus is on targeted strategies for the commercial area of South College Avenue as a catalyst for revitalization playing off of the “Super Park” initiative, as well as the City of Bryan’s downtown north properties starting with the preparation of a RFP sell piece which is expected to be posted August 2018.

Priority Action Items Accomplished

• Web Site (Comprehensive Economic Development Web Site for City)
• South College Commercial District (BBC Champion)
• Restaurant Incubator Project
• Land Bank/Spec Space (BBC Investment Portfolio)
• Downtown North Initiative
• Developer Recruitment & Catalyst Targeting

Priority Action Items Remaining

• Retail Retention/Expansion Survey
• Small Business Development Revolving Loan Program (BBC Investment Portfolio)

Retention/Recruitment

• During FY 17-18, the economic development team has been heavily engaged with multiple existing retail businesses on expansion opportunities, “second store” locations in Bryan, and new independents seeking to enter the Bryan market place. Additionally, the team has prioritized working on several catalyst/impact projects that would anchor strategic locations in Bryan for future significant economic development and redevelopment. Furthermore, the team has engaged externally on a limited basis to promote Bryan to both developers and retailers alike.

Advisory Support

• In addition to the day activities of the economic development team’s retail and commercial focus, advisory support has been provided across City departments and divisions primarily Development Services. These support activities have ranged from Midtown RFP review and economic development guidance to the evaluation of the fiscal impact analysis conducted as part of the RELLIS Annexation initiative in support of the various redevelopment/revitalization grants offered by the City of Bryan. Furthermore, the team continues to evaluate opportunities to improve these programs and possibly implement new initiatives linked to the Priority Action Items.

Current Economic Development Projects

• Current Economic Development Projects:
• Bowie School
• Traditions/Atlas/Lake Walk/Stella
• Austin’s Colony Parkway Extension
• Oakmont
• PARC Senior Living
• CamWesT
• 500 Bryan North
• Lorca Project
• Ice House
• Downtown North RFP
• Temple Freda

Home Builder Incentive Program

• This Chapter 380 Program was created in March 2014, modified slightly in 2015 and again in 2018. The program waives building permit fees and sewer and water tap fees (Bryan utilities only) on homes in the program target range of 2,000-3,000 square feet (heated and cooled). The target range was expanded in April 2018 to the 2000 – 3000 square feet of heated and cooled space. From January 2018 to the end of July, a total of 49 homes were in the program. When compared to the same period last year, a decrease of 27% (49 versus 73) exists of homes participating in the incentive program. These 49 homes represent an approximate ad-valorem value of $10,991,193. This permit numbers for 2018 we are up by 132% by the end of July vs 2017. The current housing market in Bryan remains strong.

Corridor Beautification Partnership: Texas Avenue

• This matching grant focuses on stimulating redevelopment in one of the City’s most traveled corridors through aesthetic improvements to properties fronting on Texas Avenue. This was the grant’s second year in use and three applicants were awarded funding for a total of $100,000. All three projects are expected to have a high impact on the Texas Avenue Corridor. The recipients for 2018 are Bryan Pediatric Dentistry, Saenz Cleaning and Midtown Shopping Center.

Bryan Business Council

• The Bryan Business Council’s subcommittees were very busy this year. The following list outlines their accomplishments:
• Education Subcommittee: This group continues to play a key part in the newly created CTE program with BISD.
• Commercial: Efforts continue to support redevelopment of major corridors.
• Residential Infill: Work continues with participating in the City’s ad hoc residential infill committee.
• Coulter Field: The longest standing subcommittee, the Bryan Business Council through this subcommittee continues to provide vital oversight and advice to city staff on business practices and promoting the airport as an economic asset to the City of Bryan.

engineering services

• Capital Improvement Program Delivery:
• Completed $2,185,350 Construction of Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Grant w/ TXDOT – 4 traffic signals (29th/Texas, S. College/Villa Maira, S. College/Carson, Carson/Finfeather) and Finfeather road paving and restriping with the City’s first buffered bike lanes with the City paying $207,547. (the timing of these will be close to complete by end of FY18)
• $6.4MM Fire Station 2 construction completed
• $4MM W 28th Street Construction completed (Palasota to Logan)
• $5.5MM W 26th Street Construction completed
• $7.3MM Old Hearne Phase 2 construction completed (Wilkes and Old Hearne to Wilhelm including regional detention on Bonham School)
• $4MM S College Reconstruction and Utility Relocation completed
• Transportation Alternatives Grant w/ TXDOT on S. College – sidewalk construction will finish up after end of FY18
• $2.8MM St Joseph Hospital Area Improvements Project construction completed - overhead to underground utility relocation completed
• $220,000 Clay street extension and Shared Use Path completed
• WJB MPO project schematic design completed in FY18 / Plan preparation to begin in FY19.
• On-Street Parking construction complete for Downtown at Main/23rd
• $2MM Transportation Alternatives Set Aside Grant awards from TXDOT – Coulter Bike Lanes and Sidewalks and Earl Rudder Shared Use Path (Old Reliance to Boonville) – designs started.
• Completed Municipal Office Building ADA modifications after original contractor defaulted.
• Implementing Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Buyout Grant for 4 flood homes leveraging up to $225,000 of local to receive up to $675,000 federal
• 5 year update to Flood Mitigation Plan completed
• Contractor Registration Program started: requirement for contractors building public infrastructure or working in public rights of ways to be registered with City to ensure quality of contractors including their continuing education efforts.
• ROW permitting process implemented: intention is to permit activity by contractors within City’s rights of ways. New ordinance went into effect for how we permit wireless telecommunication facilities (small cell technology) within the rights of ways that are co-located on city owned infrastructure (BTU poles and City Traffic Signals)
• Issued Master RFQ for Professional Engineering Services (every 3 years) and short listed consultants in area of Streets, Drainage, Surveying, Water & Sewer, and Parks.

facility services

• LED area lighting upgrades to Sadie Thomas and Tanglewood parks.
• New vinyl flooring and breakroom remodel at the Bryan Municipal Building.
• Roofing repairs to the Bryan Municipal Service Center office building.

fire department

• Earned Class 1 ISO rating
• Completed construction, and opened the new Fire Station No. 2
• TFCA Best Practices recognition

fiscal services

Awards

• Received Distinguished Budget Preparation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for previous year’s budget.
• Received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for previous year’s CAFR.
• Received the bi-annual Investment Policy certification from the Government Treasurers Organization of Texas.

Accomplishments

• Teamed with the City’s legal department to establish a Council approved Lien policy.
• Completed the final roll-out of Laserfishe travel authorization form process to all departments. Very well received.
• Established new depository, safekeeping and merchant services banking arrangement in 2018.
• Two financings/refinancing’s in 2018 totaling $18.4 million including:
• Issued $12.0 million in Certificate of Obligation bonds in March 2018 at a rate of 3.14%.
• Issuing $6.5 million in General Obligation refunding bonds in August 2018 with interest savings of $687,000.
• Lead discussions with Fitch ratings of BTU debt that resulted in an improved outlook from “Stable” to “Positive”, opening the door to a future ratings upgrade.

fleet services

• The City of Bryan Fleet Services Operations is a division of the City of Bryan, Public Works Department.
• The Fleet Service Operations’ mission is to plan, direct, coordinate and manage an effective maintenance, procurement and replacement program for the City’s fleet inventory within the limits of the City’s financial resources; provide advice and information on fleet requirements through a constant evaluation of fiscal resources, manpower, programs, facilities and equipment.
• Fleet Service Operations is responsible for the entire scheduled preventive maintenance, non-scheduled in shop repairs and emergency roadside service as requested or required on 500 plus vehicles and equipment of various types and configurations (referred as Rolling Stock). These include all City owned Fire Apparatus and Ambulances, Refuse and Sewer Trucks, Construction and Infrastructure Maintenance Equipment as well as all Standard Vehicles and Police Patrol Vehicles (currently excludes Bryan Texas Utilities units and Golf Carts/Course equipment).
• Fleet Service Operations is also responsible for repairs on all small engine equipment, including saws, weed trimmers, mowers, pumps, etc.
• Fleet Service Operations also (until very recently) performed all Welding and Fabrication tasks for all the various City of Bryan Departments. This included numerous projects as large as Bridges and Railings for the Parks System and Trailers for the various operations to transport their equipment. This service has recently been scaled down to only Fleet related services in effort to allow fleet staff to better focus on other core services on an aging fleet.
• Fleet Service Operations is staffed 50 business hours per work week to provide service to our customers, Monday through Friday, 7:00AM-5:00PM with personnel overlapping in split shifts (additional hours and emergency call out as necessary). We currently process approximately 7,000 Work Orders, at approximately 14,000 Billable Hours annually with a staff of only 9 Full Time employees (currently operating with 2 open positions with the reorganization and hiring transition). This translates into approximately $1,470,000.00 Retail Labor annually.

human resources

• The Human Resources Department coordinated another successful “Teacher Externship Program” developed with the Community and Business Leaders Partnership and Workforce Solutions Brazos Valley. This exciting and rewarding career development opportunity partners local employers with the educational community to collaborate and aid in the development of our future labor force. Bryan ISD teachers met with and job-shadowed COB employees in several departments in order to learn more about what we do as a City and the opportunities we may offer as an employer. The teachers are then able to impart the necessary skills and requirements to their schools and students – the future labor force. A special thank you to the City of Bryan departments that participated this year: BTU (Customer Service, Distribution, and Meter Shop), Communications & Marketing, Police, Public Works (Engineering, Solid Waste, Fleet, Streets & Drainage, Code Enforcement, and Water), Library Services, Community Development, Information Technology Services, Facility Services, Fire, Finance & Accounting, and Human Resources.
• Human Resources and Risk Management, consulting with the Bryan Police Department, provided a mandatory refresher course to all employees on Active Shooter training, which included walk-throughs of employees’ work areas to address certain “what if” scenarios. We are very fortunate we have not yet faced this type of situation in our workplace; we need to continue to train and be diligent and aware for these types of situations in the future.

information technology

• Installed additional fiber paths throughout the city – traffic lights, utility assets, city facilities; provides for more effective and redundant electronic communications
• Centralized information technology budgeting between the City and BTU; reduced expenditures by ~$1MM
• Reduced O&M costs by centralizing all domain administration and hardware and software maintenance
• Implemented a major upgrade to Public Safety system that provides our public servants with more accurate and real-time information

library services

The Family Place Library

• The Mounce Library became a Family Place Library in 2016. The goal of Family Place Libraries is to teach parents how they can support language development in infants and toddlers through active play. Parents engage their children with a variety of toys and manipulable objects to enhance vocabulary building and creativity. A primary goal of Family Place Libraries is to enhance children’s pre-literacy skills so that they are prepared to learn to read.
• Family Place Libraries is a two-part program. Part one is a permanent play area located in the Mounce Library Children’s Department. The play area is available during library business hours and features different toys each day. Children and parents are encouraged to play together to help children develop basic literacy skills. Part two of the program is workshops for parents and toddlers. The library has 3 Play2Learn workshops each year. Each workshop meets once a week for a 5 week period. The Mounce Library has also provided special one day Play2Learn programs to Bryan ISD students and Head Start.

Brazos County Master Gardner’s Workshops

• The Mounce Library partnered with the Brazos County Master Gardner’s to provide a series of workshops on a variety of gardening topics. Approximately 30 people have attended each workshop. Topics include Simple Propagation Techniques, Composting at Home, and Unlocking the Secrets of Drought Hardy Gardens. The Master Gardner’s and the library are scheduling more workshops for the fall.

Estimated statistics for FY18

• 187,250 visitors
• 420,000 items checked out
• 352 programs
• 17,790 attendance

municipal court

• The Municipal Court Judges heard cases pertaining to the Penal Code, Traffic Code, and Health and Safety Code just to name a few. In addition, the Judges magistrated several hundred individuals that were arrested on Class C misdemeanors.
• The Court Administrator maintained certification as a Certified Court Manager from the National Center for State Courts Institute of Court Management. In addition, he met training requirements to maintain Level I and Level II certification through the Texas Court Clerks Association (TCCA) as well as maintaining a Master Peace Officer license through TCOLE.
• The Deputy Court Administrator as well as six Deputy Court Clerks maintained their Level I and Level II certifications through TCCA this past year. The Warrant Technician, Juvenile Case Manager, Community Service Coordinator, and one City Marshal also hold TCCA clerk certifications. All clerks attended regional training to further their professional development and to maintain clerk certification.
• The City Marshal office had all four Marshals certified as Court Security Specialists.
• As with the clerks of the court, the City Marshals and Judges attended all the necessary trainings to maintain their respective licenses and certifications.
• The Juvenile Case Manager and Community Service Coordinator positions were merged into one position, creating savings to the General Fund.
• The Municipal Court implemented new case management software, replacing the 20-year-old software that had been previously used. The new software is much more robust and allows for a near paperless process. The ability of the new software allows for much greater customer service and accountability. It also comes at a much lower overall cost to the City than the previous software.
• Processed over 12,700 new cases and closed over 11,600 cases.
• Issued approximately 3,700 warrants due to lack of compliance.
• Over 2,600 warrants were served in an attempt to gain compliance.
• Collected over $2,316,000 in fines and fees of which over $1,604,000 was retained by the City.
• There were 520 cases (equivalent to 13,891 hours) in which Community Service was granted as an alternate method of satisfying fines and fees.
• Participated in the OmniBase program to aide in increasing compliance.
• Court staff scanned over 97,000 documents into Laserfiche for records retention.

neighborhood and youth services

• Awarded one neighborhood association grant for a partner in the City’s Neighborhood Association Partnership Program.
• Participated in various neighborhood association meetings.
• Prepared and distributed newsletter for neighborhood associations.
• Conducted city-wide neighborhood association forum.
• Provided support to various youth programs and activities.
• Continued swimming lesson program and winter clothing program for youth at risk.
• Continued to foster communications at the neighborhood level.
• Assisted Community Development with infill redevelopment projects.
• Provided support to organizations that serve at risk populations, such as youth at risk, seniors, disabled, etc.
• Served on literacy council advisory group.
• Represented City of Bryan at various community events associated with services to at risk populations.

parks and recreation

• Opening of the City Course at the Phillips Event Center – January 2018
• Completed the Concept Master Plan for the Bryan Regional Park
• Completion of the Water Slides at the Bryan Aquatic Center
• Co-Hosted the 2018 Texas Amateur Athletic Federation Games of Texas
• Total estimated Economic Impact: $7,756,350
• 7,605 participants
• Total Visitors to B/CS for 2018 Games of Texas: 25,286
• The City of Bryan and College Station Parks and Recreation Department Bidding on T.A.A.F. Games of Texas for 2022 and 2023.

planning and development services

By the Numbers

• Residential Permits (Jan.-July 2018): 253
• Residential Permits (Jan.-July 2017): 267


• Residential Permit Value (Jan.-July 2018): $43,250,276
• Residential Permit Value (Jan.-July 2017): $49,381,655


• Commercial Permits (Jan.-July 2018): 48
• Commercial Permits (Jan.-July 2017): 91


• Commercial Permit Value (Jan.-July 2018): $15,940,417
• Commercial Permit Value (Jan.-July 2017): $13,321,881
• Total permit valuation (residential, commercial, renovation) has increased by $379,000 while the total number of permits have increased from 1142 in YTD 2017 to 1599 YTD 2018. Below is a list of projects that were completed or in the building or development process. This list is not exhaustive, but contains a good sampling of projects across the City of Bryan.

Commercial Development Projects (Current or Recent)

Hotels

• The Stella Hotel (Traditions): Six stories with 177 guest rooms
• Sleep Inn (North Bryan): Three stories with 58 guest rooms
• 6 at 21 Crossing Hotel (Hwy 21 at Bypass 6): Three stories with 79 guest rooms
• Holiday Inn Express (Center): Four Stories with 109 rooms
• Hyatt House (Bryan Towne Center): Four stories with 112 rooms
• Tru by Hilton (Boonville Town Center): four stories with 98 guest rooms

Health

• Parc at Traditions: Rehabilitation facility which offers assisted and independent living, as well as memory care located near Club Drive and South Traditions
• Office Complex at Park Hudson: new clinic and three more offices to be constructed (Dr. Dudycha ~24,000 sq. ft.)
• Dr. Michael Reece: 5,273sq. ft. new office to house Reece Cosmetic Dentistry
• Trufit: 35,642 sq. ft. to house the newest location of Trufit workout facility
• Traditions Raquet Club: the addition of a new racquet facility to phase 1 of the Traditions subdivision.
• Camwest Crossing: 60,924 sq. ft. office building on HSC Parkway in BioCorridor

Industrial

• Lubrizol: 58,000 expansion in the Brazos Industrial Park(recently completed)
• Expansion of Carrabba Industrial Park: addition of five new phases to the current industrial park (109.4 acres)

Retail / Commercial

• Taco Bell: 3,000 sq. ft. fast food restaurant on the corner of Austin’s Colony and Boonville Rd.
• Brazos Bank: 5650 sq. ft. bank to be built on the corner of East Crest and University Dr.
• Brazos County Appraisal District: New location is Brazos Place Subdivision, ~12,000 sq. ft.
• Domino’s Pizza: New location on West Villa Maria
• Hooter’s: 6,556 Sq. Ft. restaurant built in the Premiere subdivision
• IceHouse (Downtown): remodeled event center and restaurant in Downtown Bryan
• Kiddie Academy: 12,500 sq. ft. child care facility in Park Hudson
• Marshall’s: ~25,000 sq. ft. apparel and home furnishing store
• Urban Air: ~35,000 trampoline and entertainment park.
• Jiffy Lube: 4,375 sq. ft. oil and lube to be located in the Bryan Towne Center
• Chick-Fil-A: new location in front of Walmart at Rudder’s Landing

Bryan ISD

• Stephen F Austin Middle School: Redevelopment for the Administration expansion
• Sam Rayburn: Parking lot redevelopment for queuing space on frontage road.
• Jane Long: New portable buildings
• Rudder: Expansion, parking lot and enclosure of rotunda, CTE Building

Multi-family

• Springs at University: 10 buildings with 216 units University and 158
• Sterling Northgate: 54 units in Bryan(wellborn and Natalie Street
• Downtown - 500 N Bryan: Multi use development in Downtown, will have retail on ground floor with loft apartments
• Downtown - 401 N Main: three story,~10,000 retail/office on bottom floor and 26 residential units on 2nd and 3rd floor
• The Ranch at Turkey Creek: 61 Luxury units on Riverside Parkway
• The Residences of Oakmont: 260 unit luxury apartment complex off Pendleton and Boonville Rd.
• Broadstone at Traditions: 261 luxury apartment complex off Atlas Pear in Traditions
• Forest Pines: 324-units apartment complex at the corner of Leanard Road and North Harvey Mitchell Pkwy
• Parker Street Apartments: 21 unit apartment Complex on the Corner of Parker and West 23rd St. in Downtown Bryan
• Park Hudson Phase 12: A 62 Unit Condo development on corner of Boonville and Crosspark Drive.
• Row on Villa Maria: An 8 unit townhome development on East Villa Maria
• The Villages at Traditions (2nd): phase of residential development in this phase

Commercial Development Projects (Current or Recent)

New Phases

• Edgewater
• Greenbrier
• Highland Park
• Autumn Ridge
• Green Branch Ridge
• Austin’s Estates
• Austin’s Colony
• Oakmont
• Miramont
• Follett
• Saladiner- Oakwood Forest
• Four-Point O South
• Boulder Creek

Planning Stages (Annexation and Rezoning)

• Yaupon Trails
• Rudder Pointe
• Trefalgar Square (mixed use)

City of Bryan

• Fire Station No. 2
• Siena Park
• Edgewater Park

Planning

• Planning Excellence Recognition: The Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA) recognizes cities throughout Texas for planning excellence. In FY18, for the second year in a row, the City of Bryan was one of 35 Texas cities that received this recognition in October 2017. Evaluation criteria include the level of training of Planning Commissioners and professional staff, professional qualifications of the planning staff, breadth and currency of master plan components and completion of other planning related projects. The program intends to increase community awareness of the importance of planning, recognize planning departments which meet certain professional requirements, recognize planning efforts that have achieved community support, encourage the funding of professional training for Planning Commissioners and staff, and aide economic development and community image.
• RELLIS Campus Area Annexation Feasibility Study: On January 23, 2018, the City Council approved a contract with Sugar Land-based consultants Kendig Keast Collaborative (KKC), to research and provide options for unilateral annexation in the RELLIS Campus area, either under the exempt or 3-year annexation plan statues, or a combination thereof, as provided for in Chapter 43 of the Texas Local Government Code. It was opined that annexing the area around the ~2,000-acre campus would protect the perimeter and benefit the City, by being able to direct and regulate growth and development. Since approval of the contract, City staff from various departments, together with outside agencies such as TEEX, Texas A&M, TXDOT, Brazos County, and local residents have met to discuss existing conditions and future land uses. In July, the consultant released to City staff a study and final discussions and details are currently being reviewed. Consideration of the final report is now scheduled for the City Council workshop meeting on September 11, 2018.
• Midtown Area Plan: In September 2016, the City of Bryan Planning and Zoning Commission began studying the area “north of Northgate” specifically due to citizen concerns that were brought forward regarding so-called “stealth dorms”, i.e., single-family homes that are rented by-the-room to 4 or more unrelated individuals, usually students. As part of this process, the Midtown Area was defined as the area surrounding the former Travis B. Bryan Municipal Golf Course property from downtown Bryan to the city limits shared with the City of College Station, generally bounded by Finfeather Road to the west and South College Avenue to the east. This area has seen most impact from this residential rental development type. On February 13, 2018, the Bryan City Council agreed with the Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for consultant services to develop a small area master plan for the Midtown Area. The purpose of the plan is to help assure that the City’s investment in a new regional park and the Midtown Area in general can help maximize the development and re-development potential for the Midtown Area from Northgate to Downtown Bryan. The City received nine (9) competitive responses from firms interested in developing and implementing the Midtown Area plan. A selection committee, composed of City staff and Planning and Zoning Commissioners, interviewed four (4) of the nine (9) firms that submitted a proposal in response to the RFP. The committee has identified a preferred firm and contract negotiations are ongoing. Consideration of a contract is tentatively scheduled for the September 11 Council meeting.
• Coulter Airfield Height Hazard Zoning: On May 12, 2017, the City of Bryan consulted R.A. Wiedmann & Associates, Inc. to review existing conditions at and surrounding Coulter Field Airport and to identify existing and future impacts of development in the vicinity of airport operations. The consultant was tasked with preparing and establishing Height Hazard Zoning surrounding the runway and within runway approach zones. Height Hazard Zones are established to prohibit unsafe height obstructions and land uses from developing around the airfield. Height obstructions within such zones and surrounding the airport endangers the lives and property of users of the airport and occupants of land in the vicinity. The consultant and city staff have finalized the proposed Height Hazard Zoning ordinance draft and have scheduled the amendment for consideration by the Planning and Zoning Commission on August 16, 2018 and the Bryan City Council on September 11, 2018.
• P&Z Subcommittee on Stealth Dorms/Detached Shared Housing Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments: In response to citizens’ concerns about by-the-room rental homes in established neighborhoods, the Planning and Zoning Commission formed a subcommittee in January 2017 to study the subject. The subcommittee held two public meetings, reviewed 280+ citizen surveys, had multiple stakeholder meetings and met more than 20 times to study the issue and recommend solutions, which were recommended by the full Commission during a special meeting in January 2018. On February 13, 2018, the Bryan City Council adopted a new land use definition and specific development requirements for stealth dorms (“detached shared housing”) and now requires these uses to seek approval of Conditional Use Permits, subject to certain specific use standards.
• Substandard Structure Abatement Program: Substandard structures are structures that are deteriorating, dilapidated, or decayed to the point of being a hazard to the health and/or welfare of the general public or the occupants of the structure. These structures are then scheduled for consideration by the Building and Standards Commission (BSC), which can order the repair or demolition of such structures. Having a pro-active dangerous building demolition program helps the community eliminate these health and safety hazards and eyesores from Bryan neighborhoods. Deteriorated structures also have a direct detrimental impact on neighborhood property values and overall living quality and comfort. City demolition budget funds are used pay a City contractor to remove condemned structures if the responsible party fails to remove the structure as ordered. In FY18, the BSC considered 52 new properties, and condemned 50 structures. The City’s contractor removed 17 condemned structures.
• Online Permitting Software: The City of Bryan continues to working on upgrading a computer software solution supporting the administration of the City’s land use, permitting, and code enforcement functions. The proposed system (TrakIt) will allow developers and citizens a modern, online interface to City services, e.g., online permit applications. This multi-departmental effort (referred to as OP-ICE, which is short for Online Permitting/Inspections/Code Enforcement) was kicked-off in March 2017, following the City Council’s approval of a 5-year contract with SunGard Public Sector (now Superion) in December 2016. Staff from the Development Services Department continues to assist in this process, helping develop key components of the new software through review, input, and feedback as subject matter experts, project team leads, and testers.

police department

Community

• We conducted three CPA classes: English, Spanish, and Junior.
• We have continued our “Coffee with a Cop” program. We met with a number of neighborhood groups including Castle Heights and Carver/Kemp
• NET continues to communicate with neighborhoods through “nextdoor.com”
• Officers participated in many community events; MLK march, Blue Bunny, National Night Out, and Blue Angel to name a few.
• The Bryan Police Department has been selected as a City Award winner by the National Association of Town Watch for its participation in National Night Out 2017. This is the third consecutive year the Bryan Police Department has received recognition for this accomplishment.

Technology

• The new Records Management System went “live” July 1, 2018. This is a comprehensive system which affects every report made by the Police Department. The new Tritech system allows the Bryan Police Department to seamlessly share information and reports with the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office, helping to make our area safer.

Training

• The BPD received our Academy License from TCOLE (Texas Commission on Law Enforcement). This allowed us to open the 1st Bryan Police Department Academy at the Twin Oaks Training Center on July 2nd with 10 new recruits. The new academy allows our officers to train our own from start to finish giving us a stronger better prepared cadet.
• Our firearms range, built in partnership with BVSMA and College Station (2016) continues to serve both Bryan and College Station. Our police academy is primarily conducted at this facility. We are in current discussions regarding expansion of the facility.
• The Regional Mobile Field Force is in place and all Bryan PD officers have been trained in its tactics and procedures.
• The training unit has conducted nearly 2000 hours of training to include: Active Shooter Level 2, Emergency Vehicle Operations, Defensive Tactics, Firearms, de-escalation and shoot-don’t-shoot scenarios.

Policing Activities

• The officers of the Bryan Police Department provided professional and effective services for the citizens of Bryan. We responded to over 70,000 calls for service this past year.
• Part I crime rate was down 19% in 2017 and 49% since 2009. This marks the lowest crime rate since at least 1985 (which is the earliest our crime stats are readily available for). Our School Resource Officers worked in partnership with the Bryan Independent School District, making sure our schools provide a safe environment for our students. All of our SROs are fully trained to deal with any active shooter at our schools, in order to protect our students.
• The Bryan Police Department conducted numerous successful investigations during the past years. We made a wide range of arrests ranging from drug possession to violent felonies. We also proactively attacked crime using criminal intelligence and the Compstat process, successfully arresting burglars, tire & rim thieves, robbers, and other felons.

public works call center

• FY 2018 (as of Aug. 15): Fielded 42,148 calls
• FY 2018 (as of Aug. 15): Created 20,011 work job orders for Public Works
• Distributed Mosquito dunks to residents and HOA’s as part of the COB Mosquito Abatement Program @ MSC
• Assisted in coordinating the Local Area Traffic Management Program

risk management

• As a self-insured entity, and with over 900 employees enrolled in the city’s health insurance plan, the City has a vested interest in the health and wellness of our employees. When employees are well and at work functioning to their greatest potential, they can better serve the citizens of Bryan.
• The City of Bryan’s Risk Management Department houses the City’s employee wellness program. A few of the programs offered through the city’s wellness program include:
• An annual biometric screening and health risk assessment that maintains a high participation rate of 95%.
• An employee health center provided in partnership with the Bryan ISD and CHI St. Joseph Health. No copay is required at the center and employees and their covered dependents can be seen for acute and routine primary care. A recent survey indicated over 65% of respondents consider the center to be their primary care home, and its existence has helped them avoid visiting more costly options such as an urgent care facility or emergency room.
• Onsite fitness classes including yoga and Zumba.
• Monthly health and wellness related seminars.
• Chronic disease management programs, including the popular technology-based weight loss program, Naturally Slim.
• Annual health & safety expo featuring over 70 local health and safety related vendors; held in conjunction with two other local governmental entities.
• Motor vehicle crashes cost employers $60 billion annually in medical care, legal expenses, property damage, and lost productivity. Recognizing the impact of these crashes, the City of Bryan implemented a comprehensive fleet safety program last summer. This program included management commitment, enhanced written policies and procedures, vehicle inspection program, increased fleet safety training—group and individual, repetitive training, awareness campaigns, and use of evolving fleet technology. Since implementation, the total number of negligible vehicle crashes decreased 24% compared to the prior 12 months, and the total number of crashes decreased 37%.
• Risk Management and Human Resources provided mandatory Active Shooter training to all employees. The training included an online refresher course followed by a walk-through of employees’ work areas to address “what if” scenarios and help employees develop a response plan.

solid waste

• Received APWA In-House Project of the Year for tornado response and clean-up
• Implemented new Rate Resolution based on Rate Study
• Enhanced the Downtown area by actively collecting litter and street sweeping every Friday
• Upgraded DVR monitors and cameras within collection fleet
• Upgraded Brush & Bulky equipment with quad stick controllers
• Staff participated and volunteered in multiple events such as: Texas Reds Festival, Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days (HHW), Brazos Valley Earth Day, and other local events
• Participated in multiple city wide tire cleanups with Code and Compliance Officers and collected over ~2,000 tires
• Purchased over 1,200 residential containers and made repairs to over 1,000 residential containers
• As of Aug. 15: Recycled over 500 tons of recyclable waste through the City of Bryan Drive-In Recycling Center
• As of Aug. 15: Solid Waste department has completed over 10,000 work orders

streets and drainage

• Widened creek from MLK to SH6 for increased capacity
• Cleared several creeks within the ROW to include:
• Park Hudson, Beck St., Thornberry, Bullinger Creek, Austin’s Colony Parkway, Broadmoor, Dean, and Silkwood
• Repaired erosion issues in several creeks:
• Apple Creek, Phillips Event Center, East 29th and Choctaw (gabions and creek lining)
• Assisted other departments with projects such as:
• Temple Freda, Sue Haswell flumes, delineators for Jane Long, Archery Club box culverts and Animal Center kennel pad/sidewalks
• Leveled brick pavers in Downtown Bryan
• As of Aug. 15: Repaired ~ 366 potholes
• Street repairs completed under the Street Maintenance Contract
• Asphalt Streets: Wallis, Circle Creek, Culpepper, Inwood, Vinewood, Getttysburg, Trent, Gordon, Hutchins, Howell, Thompson, Virginia and West Virginia
• Concrete Streets: Meadow, Eagle Pass, Brook, Oak, Lawrence, Maloney, Briar Cliff and Winter St

traffic

• Local Area Traffic Management Program for speeding mitigation: implemented first mini-roundabout at Esther and Bennett intersection, installed raised medians on Broadmoor and speed humps on various other roadways. Continued to receive and evaluate citizen requested candidate projects for the future.
• Fiber connections made to traffic signals at 11 intersections: 29th/Texas, Texas/Villa Maria, Memorial/29th, Villa Maria/29th, Broadmoor/29th, Texas/Coulter, Leonard/FM2818, F&B/Wellborn, Dodge/S. College, 29th/Still Meadow, 29th/ Carter Creek. These provide faster more reliable connection to communicate with traffic signals, which also provides better platform for Pan, Tilt, Zoom camera installations at key intersections to observe major traffic corridors.
• Signal Replacements: Villa Maria / Carter Creek, Villa Maria / 29th, 29th / Memorial, S. College/Sulphur Springs.
• Signal Timings / coordination: utilized consultant to update timings on signals for major corridors improving progression of traffic thru corridors, saves on idling and improves safety along corridors.
• Downtown Railroad Quiet Zone: direction received to keep Groesbeck crossing open – looking for design consultant – will begin steps to issue public authority application with the Federal Rail Administration – they have already received our Notice of Intent. Funds are available in CIP for implementation in FY22. Quiet zone could be established between 2021 and 2022 depending on a number of factors.
• Regional Thoroughfare Plan: developed through BCS Metropolitan Planning Organization – includes combining arterial roads in both cities with proposed ones throughout the county to create a masterplan of roadway networks for planning horizon of 2050.
• City’s Thoroughfare plan updated to match regional plan developed at the MPO
• Installing Fiber Optics to provide faster more reliable connection to communicate with traffic signals, which also provides better platform for Pan, Tilt, Zoom camera installations at key intersections to observe major traffic corridors.
• Pan Tilt Zoom cameras now installed at following intersections: Texas/WJB, Sandy Point/SH21, Texas/Villa Maria, Wellborn/F&B, WJB/Nash, Briarcrest/VM

water services

Water Production

• Completed Wellfield Transmission Loop (installed 3,944 feet of 42” pipe and 3,364 feet of 36” pipe).
• Repainted the North Texas Elevated Water Tower
• Pilot phase of the Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) project.

Water Distribution

• Replaced 5,155 feet of 10” waterline with 12” waterline to improved water service along North Hwy 6.
• Installed 2,800 feet of 12” waterline in Traditions to loop the water service to the Health Science Center and to serve vacant properties owned by BCD.

wastewater services

Wastewater Collection

• Reduced Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) and increased carrying capacity by replacing 19,000 feet of wastewater collection lines utilizing underground pipe bursting technology.

Wastewater Treatment

• Replaced the bar screen at Wastewater Treatment Plant 1 to reduce solids entering the plant.
• Installed a Dumpster-Veyor at Wastewater Treatment Plant 1 to help automate the Press Building Operations.