requirements for creation of subdivisions; ensures public and private development is
adequately served by public facilities; and the authority for subdivision regulations, when
adopted, is granted by the Texas Local Government Code Chapter 212. The
recommended amendments includes approval authority for plats; general platting and plat
review procedures; addition of a minor plat process; procedures for waivers and
modifications; and design criteria for subdivisions. The proposed amendments are the
result of substantial changes in state law (2019 and 2023), approval of Proposition "I" of
the Charter Amendment Election held on May 6, 2023, and to accommodate a digital
process implemented by the city. In preparation for drafting a proposed text ordinance to
amend the city's subdivision regulations, staff presented Resolution No. 2023-044 to City
Council at their May 17, 2023 meeting. The resolution formally initiated the amendment
process for the city's subdivision regulations. The approved resolution provided for the
process to include public input and work sessions with industry professionals, the
Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council. Staff is accepting public input via the
city's website beginning March 1 through March 29, 2024. A copy of the proposed
ordinance is available for the public's review via the city's website. Mr. Comstock shared
with City Council that most regulations and standards would remain the same. The
primary changes are regarding the processes and procedures for plat approvals. The
proposed ordinance provides for the final approval by staff for amending plats, minor
plats, and replats. The City Council has the final approval for preliminary plats and the
Planning and Zoning Commission has the final approval for final plats. Mr. Comstock
asked City Council what information they would like staff to provide at the April 8, 2024
work session.
Mayor Trevino asked staff to provide the comments from the Planning and Zoning
Commission and developers regarding the proposed subdivision regulations.
Council member Orr asked staff to provide information on the impact to the Development
Department.
DISCUSS CITY CHARTER ARTICLE VI. POWERS AND DUTIES OF
OFFICERS.
3.
Interim City Attorney Cara White informed City Council that she was asked to elaborate
on provisions of the City Charter with regard to making inquiries of staff. The City
Charter has two provisions, Article VI, Sections 3 and 4. The language in Section 3 of
the City Charter numerates the duties of the City Council, one of which is "to inquire into
the conduct of any office, department, or agency of the City and make investigation as to
municipal affairs." Article VI, Section 4 of the City Charter provides that "except for the
purpose of inquiry, the City Council and its members shall deal with the administrative
service solely through the City Manager and neither the City Council nor any member
thereof shall give orders to any subordinates of the City Manager, either publicly or
privately." The North Richland Hills City Charter states the form of government as the