City Council Meeting Agenda Packet 9-7-2021Page 1 of 3
MINUTES FROM THE HUNTSVILLE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING HELD ON THE 17th DAY OF AUGUST 2021, IN THE CITY HALL, LOCATED AT 1212 AVENUE M, IN THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, COUNTY OF WALKER, TEXAS, AT 6:00 P.M. The Council met in a workshop and regular session with the following: COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: Daiquiri Beebe, Russell Humphrey, Dee Howard Mullins, Joe P. Rodriquez, Andy Brauninger, Pat Graham, Vickie McKenzie, Bert Lyle, Blake Irving COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT: None OFFICERS PRESENT: Aron Kulhavy, City Manager; Kristy Doll, City Secretary; Leonard Schneider, City Attorney WORKSHOP [5:00 P.M.] The City Council received a presentation on the FY21-22 Budget MAIN SESSION [6:00 P.M.] CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Brauninger called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. INVOCATION AND PLEDGES U.S. Flag and Texas Flag: Honor the Texas Flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state, under God, one,
and indivisible. Mayor Brauninger gave the invocation and led the pledges. 1. PUBLIC HEARING a. Consider adoption of Ordinance 2021-24 amending the City of Huntsville Development
Code Article 7 "Landscape and Buffers", Article 15 "Terminology and Definitions",
adding "Residential Planting Requirements", Tree Preservation Standards and making other provisions and declaring an effective date. [Kevin Byal, Director of
Development Services/Building Official]
Mayor Brauninger opened the public hearing at 6:02 p.m. City Planner Charles Young provided a presented on the Tree Preservation Ordinance. Cheryl Spencer and Ed Davis gave citizen
comments in support of the Tree Preservation Ordinance. No citizen comments in opposition of
the Ordinance were received. Mayor Brauninger closed the public Hearing at 6:17 p.m. 2. CONSENT AGENDA Public Comments will be called for by the presiding officer before action is taken on these items. (Approval of Consent Agenda authorizes the City Manager to implement each item in accordance with
staff recommendations. An item may be removed from the Consent Agenda and added to the Statutory Agenda for full discussion by request of a member of Council.) a. Consider approving the minutes of the regular City Council meeting held on August 3, 2021. [Kristy Doll, City Secretary] b. Consider authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract to lease multifunction copy machines for a period of 60 months with Xerox Corporation through the Harris
County Department of Education Cooperative. [Steve Ritter, Finance Director]
c. Consider authorizing the City Manager to enter into a Landscape Maintenance Agreement with Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for landscape
maintenance along IH-45 between State Hwy 19 and State Hwy 30 [Mark McClure,
Professional Engineer]
Page 2 of 3
Councilmember Beebe made a motion to approve the consent agenda; the motion was seconded by
Councilmember Graham. The motion was adopted, 9-0. 3. STATUTORY AGENDA a. First Reading - Consider adoption of Ordinance 2021-24 amending the City of
Huntsville Development Code Article 7 "Landscape and Buffers", Article 15
"Terminology and Definitions", adding "Residential Planting Requirements", Tree
Preservation Standards and making other provisions and declaring an effective date. [Kevin Byal, Director of Development Services/Building Official]
No action required, first reading.
b. First Reading- Consider authorizing the City Manager to award a purchasing agreement for water and wastewater supplies maintained in the City of Huntsville's warehouse. [Brent S. Sherrod, P.E.,
Director of Public Works] Councilmember Beebe made a motion to waive the requirement for readings on two separate
days and to authorize the City Manager to award a purchasing agreement to multiple vendors as
based on product price, availability, and reasonable delivery time; the motion was seconded by Councilmember Lyle. The motion was adopted, 9-0. c. Second Reading-Consider authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment #3 to the professional services agreement with Randall Scott Architects, Inc. for the design of 2016 Bond Proposition No. 2 - City Hall and Service Center Project Number. 18-04-02. [Aron Kulhavy, City Manager] Councilmember Beebe made a motion to authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment #3 to the professional services agreement with Randall Scott Architects, Inc. for the design of 2016 Bond Proposition No. 2 - City Hall and Service Center Project Number 18-04-02; the motion
was seconded by Councilmember Rodriquez. The motion was adopted, 9-0.
4. CITY COUNCIL/CITY MANAGER/CITY ATTORNEY a. Consider the appointments to City of Huntsville Boards and Commissions for expired terms or vacant board positions. [Andy Brauninger, Mayor] Mayor Brauninger made a motion to appoint the Board and Commission members as presented; The
motion was adopted, 9-0.
BOARDS & COMMISIONS SEATS BOARD MEMBER
TERM
EXPIRES
Board of Adjustments &
Appeals 3 seats
#2 Reappoint - Debra Durda 8/31/2023
#4 Reappoint - Nate Grigsby 8/31/2023
#5 Reappoint - Matt Hannes 8/31/2023
Public Library Board 4 seats
3-year terms #1 Reappoint - Cathy Drew 8/31/2024
Page 3 of 3
#4
Reappoint - Michelle
Lyons 8/31/2024
#5
Reappoint - Douglas
Wright 8/31/2024
#6 Reappoint - Tom Waddill 8/31/2024
5. REQUESTS FOR CITIZEN PARTICIPATION An opportunity for citizens to be heard on any topic and for the City Council to participate in the discussion. No action will be taken. Citizen comments were heard from John Jafreh and Markus Jones about Mr. Jafreh’s business located at 517 11th Street. 6. MEDIA INQUIRIES RELATED TO MATTERS ON THE AGENDA
None 7. ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST (Hear announcements concerning items of community interest from the Mayor, Councilmembers, and City staff, for which no action will be discussed or taken.)
Councilmember Lyle mentioned the Family Fishing Celebration at 9 am on August 21 at the Huntsville State Park.
Councilmember Humphrey introduced the Huntsville Public Library’s new program called KidsScape. Meetings start at 12pm on August 26. Mayor Brauninger spoke about TML Region 14 Fall meeting that he attended over the weekend.
City Manager, Aron Kulhavy introduced Charlie Thomas as the Interim City Engineer to the Council. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Brauninger adjourned the meeting without objection at 7:03 p.m.
ATTEST: CITY OF HUNTSVILLE ________________________________ ________________________________ Kristy Doll, City Secretary Andy Brauninger, Mayor
Agenda Item # 3a
Item/Subject: First Reading Consider adoption of Resolution 2021-the City of Huntsville’s
Comprehensive Plan Update 2040 to be the city’s updated comprehensive plan to follow as a guide for
future growth and development.
Initiating Department/Presenter: Development Services
Presenter: Armon Irones, City Planner and Meredith Dang, Practice Leader-Community Planning,
Kendig Keast Collaborative
Recommended Motion: Consent
Strategic Initiative: Goal #1 - City Appearance - Provide policies, amenities, and events that enhance
the City’s already beautiful and historic natural environment.
Discussion: September 15, 2020 was the kickoff meeting for the Comprehensive Plan Update. There
has not been an update done to the Comprehensive Plan since it was adopted in 2007. There were
several community meetings and listening sessions to get the feedback from the community. The
Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee was formed and had three advisory meetings to discuss goals
and objectives of the plan. There was also three Joint Meetings throughout the planning process with
City Council and the Planning Commission. On August 5, 2021 the final draft went before the Planning
Commission and they reviewed it and recommended it approval to City Council. The final draft is a
collaborative work between staff, the consultant, input from the citizens and students, and the Planning
Commission and are presented to City Council for their consideration.
Previous Council Action: None
Financial Implications: ☒ There is no financial impact associated with this item.
Approvals: ☒City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☒City Manager
Associated Information:
• Kick off Meeting Agenda
• Comprehensive Plan Update Final Overview
• Comprehensive Plan Update Final Draft
• Planning Commission Minutes August 5, 2021
9/7/21
Agenda Item: 3a
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
RESOLUTION NO. 2021-14 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPTING THE HUNTSVILLE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2040 AS DEVELOPED BY THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CPAC), A CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND
RECOMMENED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION. WHEREAS, a copy of the Comprehensive Plan Update, which includes the text, maps, charts, and any other items which for the whole of the comprehensive plan and was made available for public view in the City Hall offices, the City of Huntsville Service Center, and the City of Huntsville’s website is attached hereto as Exhibit “A”
WHEREAS, the CPAC Committee Edition of the Huntsville Comprehensive Plan 2040 was reviewed by the Huntsville City Council in joint workshops with the Planning and Zoning Commission on July 6, 2021; WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the comprehensive plan and on August 5, 2021, recommended its approval; WHEREAS, community input and comment was gathered between September 2020 and July 2021 through letters, e-mails, interviews, focus groups, public forums, and a community briefing;
and, WHEREAS, a hearing before the City Council at which the public was given the opportunity to testimony and present written evidence was held on September 7, 2021; WHEREAS, City Council finds the Huntsville Comprehensive Plan 2040 to be beneficial to the health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the community; and, WHEREAS, City Council wishes to recognize the many valuable contributions made by citizens and officials within the community and extend our heartfelt thanks for the continued commitment
to public service by these individuals, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS THAT, the Huntsville Comprehensive Plan 2040, a copy of which is attached to the original of this Resolution as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein as if set out
verbatim, is hereby adopted as a primary planning tool in the City of Huntsville, Texas.
PASSED AND APPROVED this the ____ day of ____________ 2021.
THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE
___________________________________
Andy Brauninger, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________ __________________________________ Kristy Doll, City Secretary Leonard Schneider, City Attorney
448 SH 75 N ˑ Huntsville, TX 77320-1118 ˑ 936-294-5700 ˑ 936-294-5701 fax ˑ www.huntsvilletx.gov
Our vision for the City of Huntsville is a community that is beautiful, historic, culturally diverse, affordable, safe, and well planned with great opportunity for our citizens.
Huntsville
Huntsville Comprehensive Plan Update Overview
September 15, 2020 was the kickoff meeting for the Comprehensive Plan Update. There
has not been an update done to the Comprehensive Plan since it was adopted in 2007. The City
of Huntsville has grown in several ways since then and this update was needed. There were
several community meetings and listening sessions to get the feedback from the community. The
Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee was formed and had three advisory meetings to
discuss goals and objectives of the plan. There was also three Joint Meetings throughout the
planning process with City Council and the Planning Commission. The first one was on October
20, 2020, the second one was February 2, 2021, and the final one was held on July 6, 2021. On
August 5, 2021 the final draft went before the Planning Commission and they reviewed it and
recommended it approval to City Council.
Our consultants have taken the comments and suggestions that were given by the
Planning Commission, as well as the community, through previous meetings and discussions and
used those to make the final draft to Comprehensive Plan Update 2040. This document is now
ready for review by the Huntsville City Council.
C I T Y O F
Incorporated in 1845 under the Republic of Texas
September 15, 2020
AGENDA for KICK-OFF MEETING
Huntsville Comprehensive Plan
1. Project Schedule Detail
See Preliminary Timeline
- Proposed timing for Comprehensive Plan.
2. Data and Information Needs
Initial needs (prefer digital copies of reports when available):
- Updates on ongoing plans/studies.
- Status of population projections KKC did last fall.
- Janis Burall will follow up on digital data transfer and ongoing GIS coordination.
- Peer/comparison cities that Huntsville routinely uses for “benchmarking.”
3. Other Early Project Logistics
Considerations for identifying specific meeting dates, from which deliverable due dates are set
(regular City/other meetings, community events, Wednesday “church night,” etc.).
First Joint Workshop.
Advisory Committee formation and composition.
Day in the Community series (and COVID considerations for months ahead).
Who at City should receive our monthly invoice/progress emails – copy anyone in Finance?
4. Other Items/Questions from City Staff
Latest trending or “hot button” issues to be aware of.
Focus issues/priorities for plan to be aware of.
Key Project Contacts:
Gary Mitchell, President (Project Manager)
Kendig Keast Collaborative
(281) 721-4105
gary@kendigkeast.com
Meredith Dang, Practice Leader,
Community Planning (Deputy Project Manager)
Kendig Keast Collaborative
(281) 721-4109
meredith@kendigkeast.com
Janis Burall, Senior Associate (GIS liaison)
Kendig Keast Collaborative
(281) 721-4111
janis@kendigkeast.com
Lata Krishnarao, Practice Leader,
Community Planning
Gunda Corporation
(713) 541-3530
lkrishnarao@gundacorp.com
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft |
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Planning Commission City Council
S.O. Woods Jr., Chairman
Les Thompson, Place 1
Sharon Lynch, Place 2
Al Hotten, Vice-Chairman, Place 3
Jim Gumm, Place 4
Rhonda Carpenter, Place 5
Joseph Emmett, Place 6
Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC)
Andy Brauninger, Mayor
Daiquiri Beebe, Ward 1
Russell Humphrey, Ward 2
Blake Irving, Ward 3
Joe Rodriquez, Ward 4 (Mayor Pro Tem)
Bert Lyle, Position 1 At Large
Dee Howard Mullins, Position 2 At Large
Vicki McKenzie, Position 3 At Large
Pat Graham, Position 4 At Large
Bobby Lumpkin, TDCJ
Trey Wharton, HISD Board Key City Staff
Dr. Alisa White, SHSU President
Bobby Lumpkin, TDCJ
Kevin Byal, Director of Development
Services
Trey Wharton, HISD Board Armon Irones, City Planner
Dr. Alisa White, SHSU President Charles Young, Staff Planner
Dr. Lee Miller, SHSU Faculty Senate Chair Y.S. "Ram" Ramachandra, City Engineer
Ray Hernandez, Walker County Chamber of Commerce Mark McClure, Staff Engineer
Danny Pierce, Walker County Judge Aron Kulhavy, City Manager
Stacey Loll, Senior Center of Walker County Rick Rudometkin, Deputy City Manager
Dr. Timothy Deahl, Hospital District Board Janet Ridley, Former City Planner
Andy Isbell, Walker County Planning Leigha Larkins, Former Staff Planner
Rhonda Ellisor, Small Business Development Center Ileana Sanchez, Former Planning Tech
Rev. Dave Smith, Good Sheperd Mission
Michelle Spencer, Boys and Girls Club of Walker County Consultant Team
Kendig Keast CollaborativeCheryl Spencer, City of Huntsville Main Street Advisory
Board Bret Keast - AICP - CEO/Owner
Mary Jane Crowe, Downtown Business Alliance Gary Mitchell, AICP - President
Catherine Santamaria, Cultural District Advisory Committee
Kody Waters, Huntsville State Park
Meredith Dang, AICP - Practice Leader,
Community Planning
Daiquiri Beebe, City of Huntsville City Council Janis Burall, AICP - Senior Associate
Matthew O'Rourke, AICP - Senior
Associate
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft |
Consultant Team - Gunda Corporation Sharon Cadena - Client Care and
Operations ManagerLata Krishnarao, AICP, LEED ND, Practice, Leader,
Community Planning Alexys Irwin, Lead Build Associate
Lokesh Vijayagopal, PE, PTOE, Traffic Design Group
Manager
Vanessa Ortero, Digital Marketing
Associate
Shashank Krishnamurthy, EIT, Traffic Group
Lori Sanguedolce, PE, CFM, Senior Project Manager
Special Thanks To...
Individual residents, business owners, property owners, students, and others who contributed their insights
and ideas to Huntsville's long-range planning process.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 1
DRAFT HUNTSVILLE FUTURE CITY
Contents:
Huntsville Future City
INTRODUCTION
Introduction
The Huntsville Comprehensive Plan is intended to guide future development, redevelopment, and community
enhancement efforts over the next 20 years through 2040. It serves as a framework for thoughtful community
discussion on the real and perceived challenges facing Huntsville currently, as well as the upcoming
opportunities that will shape its future. Through long-range planning efforts, the community can accommodate
its projected growth and revitalization in a manner that preserves its history, culture, and overall quality of life
for current and future residents.
The Huntsville Comprehensive Plan resulted from a 12-month planning process. The plan’s findings and
recommendations focus on the physical and economic aspects of the community’s projected growth and
development in the coming years. It provides guiding principles, goals, and strategic action priorities that will
help City officials and staff in determining the location, financing, and sequencing of public improvements;
administering development regulations; and guiding reinvestment efforts. The plan also provides a basis for
coordinating the actions of many different functions and interests within and outside of municipal government.
Purpose
A comprehensive plan is usually the most important
policy document a municipal government prepares
and maintains. This is because the plan:
Lays out a “big picture” vision regarding the future
growth and enhancement of the community.
Considers at once the entire geographic area of the
community, including areas where new development
and redevelopment may occur.
Assesses near- and longer-term needs and desires across a variety of inter-related topics that represent the key
“building blocks” of a community (e.g., land use, transportation, urban design, economic development,
redevelopment, housing, neighborhoods, parks and recreation, utility infrastructure, public facilities and
services, cultural facilities, etc.).
Comprehensive Plan Focus Areas
• Land Use and Development
• Growth Capacity
• Transportation
• Economic Opportunity
• Housing and Neighborhoods
• Recreation and Amenities
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 2
Through a comprehensive plan, a community determines how best to accommodate and manage its projected
growth, as well as the redevelopment of older neighborhoods and commercial and industrial areas. The
Huntsville Comprehensive Plan is aimed at ensuring that ongoing development and redevelopment will proceed
in an orderly, well-planned manner so that public facilities and services can keep pace and residents’ quality of
life will be enhanced.
Significantly, by clarifying and stating the City’s intentions regarding the area’s physical development and
infrastructure investment, the plan also creates a greater level of predictability for residents, land owners,
developers, and potential investors.
Why Plan?
Local planning allows Huntsville to better control its future rather than simply react to change. Planning enables
the City to manage future growth and development actively as opposed to reacting to development and
redevelopment on a case-by-case basis without adequate and necessary consideration of community-wide
issues.
Long-range comprehensive planning provides an opportunity for the City’s elected and appointed officials to
step back from pressing, day-to-day issues and clarify their ideas on the kind of community they are trying to
create and maintain. Through the plan development process, they can look broadly at programs for
neighborhoods, housing, economic development, and provision of public infrastructure and facilities and how
these efforts may relate to one another. The plan ultimately represents a “big picture” of the community and
its near-term and longer-range future. Bottom line, the essential reasons for long-range planning include to:
• Provide a balance of land uses and services throughout the community to meet the needs and desires of
the population.
• Ensure adequate public facilities to meet the demands of future development and redevelopment.
• Achieve and maintain a development pattern that reflects the values of the community, and which ensures
a balanced tax base between residential and non-residential development.
• Ensure the long-term protection and enhancement of the perception and image of the community.
• Involve local citizens in the decision-making process, provide a transparent planning process, and reach
consensus on the future vision for Huntsville.
Use of This Plan
A comprehensive plan, if embraced by the community and its leadership, has the potential to take a community
to a whole new level in terms of livability and tangible accomplishments.
The plan is ultimately a guidance document for City officials and staff, who must make decisions on a daily basis
that will determine the future direction, financial health, and “look and feel” of the community. These decisions
are carried out through:
• Targeted programs and expenditures prioritized through the City’s annual budget process, including
routine but essential functions such as code compliance.
• Major public improvements and land acquisitions financed through the City’s budgeting efforts.
• New and amended City ordinances and regulations closely linked to Comprehensive Plan objectives (and
associated review and approval procedures in the case of subdivision and land development activities).
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 3
• Departmental work plans and resources in key areas.
• Support for ongoing planning and studies that will further clarify needs, costs, benefits, and strategies.
• Pursuit of external grant funding to supplement local budgets and/or expedite certain projects.
• Initiatives pursued in conjunction with other public and private partners to leverage resources and achieve
successes neither could accomplish on their own.
Despite these many avenues for action, the Comprehensive Plan should not be considered a “cure all” for every
tough problem a community faces. This plan focuses primarily on the responsibilities of City government in the
physical planning arena, where municipalities normally have a more direct and extensive role than in other areas
that residents value, such as education and social services. Of necessity, long-range plans, as vision and policy
documents, also must remain relatively general.
The resulting plan may not touch on every challenge before the community, but it is meant to set a tone and
motivate concerted efforts to move the community forward in coming years.
Planning Authority
Unlike in some other states, municipalities in Texas are not mandated by state government to prepare and
maintain local comprehensive plans. Section 213 of the Texas Local Government Code provides that, “The
governing body of a municipality may adopt a comprehensive plan for the long-range development of the
municipality.” The Code also cites the basic reasons for long-range, comprehensive community planning such
as, “The powers granted under this chapter are for the purposes of promoting sound development of
municipalities and promoting public health, safety and welfare.” The Code also gives Texas municipalities the
freedom to “define the content and design” of their plans, although Section 213 suggests that a comprehensive
plan may:
• Include but is not limited to provisions on land use, transportation, and public facilities;
• Consist of a single plan or a coordinated set of plans organized by subject and geographic area; and,
• Be used to coordinate and guide the establishment of development regulations.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 4
What Huntsville Stakeholders Had to Say
Community and leadership engagement activities during the Plan included:
• Initial joint workshop with City Council and Planning Commission (October 2020).
• Background information from City departments (October-December).
• Informal listening sessions with groups from the community and with City Department heads, totaling 15
meetings (November-January).
• Two Town Hall Meetings on Huntsville’s Future (November 9 and November 16).
• An online survey that received 226 responses.
• Three meetings with the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee.
Comments from small-group sessions, surveys, and community events held during the comprehensive planning
process demonstrated concern and hopes for Huntsville related to growth, economic development, downtown,
housing and neighborhoods as well as a desire for more retail and entertainment options, and enhanced pedestrian
and bicycle connectivity.
Key Issues and Considerations
Pro-actively Preparing for Growth and Development
• Identify areas of preferred growth, infill development, and revitalization, recognizing the limitations of
some land within the city and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) being “off-limits”/agency-owned land.
• Consider the implications of new growth for the City, including impacts to infrastructure and City revenues.
• Balance the maintenance of existing infrastructure with needs for new infrastructure to keep pace with
development.
• As growth continues, review appropriate land use and growth management tools to ensure land use
compatibility and properly located and timed infrastructure.
• Maintain the elements that give Huntsville a “small town feel” even while growing.
• Explore strategies for reducing wildfire and flooding risk and impacts, including development and site
design practices, vegetation management, storm water management, and multi-purpose open space.
Enhancing Mobility and Access
• As the I-45 expansion project through the city occurs, ensure project outcomes beneficial to Huntsville.
• Continue to monitor the potential for high-speed rail and impacts to Huntsville.
• Expand the range of options for traveling within Huntsville, with a focus on safely linking Sam Houston
State University (SHSU), downtown, and other key areas for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Explore the potential for public transit service, linking popular destinations and serving residents in need
of enhanced mobility.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 5
Building Huntsville’s Economic Base
• Diversify the area’s industry and employer base, also recognizing the changing nature of the office and
retail landscapes.
• Ensure infrastructure supports evolving employer, workforce and educational needs, including fiber/high
speed internet and other technology upgrades.
• Retain workers and talent in Huntsville, capturing a larger percentage of those who work in the area but
choose not to live in Huntsville.
• Improve city appearance and image, including the revitalization of older commercial properties.
• Enhance the positive image of the city by sharing Huntsville’s success stories, including those of key
community partners such as SHSU and the Huntsville Independent School District.
• Support, retain and recruit establishments to address desires for more leisure/entertainment activities for
residents, particularly youth and students.
• Bolster Huntsville’s tourism industry, focusing on elements where Huntsville can differentiate itself from
the competition, such as proximity to natural resources and extent of historic and cultural amenities.
• Continue active involvement of residents, through community events such as Fair on the Square and
parades.
• Seek to improve the availability of quality healthcare options within Huntsville, including specialists.
• Support residents in need, seeking to provide opportunities for all residents to improve their quality of life,
and recognizing the importance of equitable development and policies.
Making Housing Needs a Core Focus
• Revitalize and improve upkeep of older housing stock, including through code enforcement of derelict or
unsafe properties.
• Attract more residential development to increase housing supply and meet workforce needs, at varying
price points including housing that can make home ownership attainable for more residents.
• Maintain a diversity of housing types, including housing for students and for various life-cycle stages of
residents, in appropriate locations.
• Manage the potential effects of rental activity in neighborhoods.
Expanding Recreational Opportunities
• Enhance opportunities for residents of all ages, particularly youth, to have active and healthy lifestyles,
through provision of high quality recreational and park facilities and more options for safe pedestrian and
bicycle circulation.
• Evaluate the feasibility of new sports and recreational facilities, including those with the potential to bring
economic benefits by attracting tournaments or minor league sports teams.
• Enhance awareness of and access to the Huntsville area’s incredible natural resources, including the Sam
Houston National Forest and Huntsville State Park.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 6
New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities
• Update the City’s development regulations and standards based on its new long-range plan.
• Maintain up-to-date master plans (for infrastructure, public facilities, airport, parks, etc.).
• Itemize mechanisms suitable to Huntsville for promoting economic development and facilitating
redevelopment.
• Continue emphasis on progress through partnerships (public/public, public/private, public/non-profit).
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 7
LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT
Introduction
This plan section establishes the necessary policy guidance to enable the City of Huntsville to plan effectively
for future development and redevelopment. Sound land use planning is essential to ensure that Huntsville is
prepared for future growth, including public infrastructure and service needs, but also to create and maintain a
desired community character. Throughout the planning process, residents expressed their desire to maintain
Huntsville’s “small town” appeal, have a vibrant downtown, and preserve the semi-rural feel provided by
adjacent natural resources. The impacts of future growth and the ability of Huntsville to effectively channel
growth and redevelopment in a manner that benefits existing and future residents, through improved
employment and leisure options for example, is a primary focus for the Comprehensive Plan.
Land use considerations are integrated with all other components of the Comprehensive Plan. For instance, the
transportation network provides access to land, which influences the type and intensity of development. The
provision or lack of public utilities can also dictate the location, amount and timing of development. Similarly,
proximity to parks and public facilities promotes public health and safety at specific locations and, as a result,
affects the development potential of an area. Site design and development character shape community
aesthetics and, thus, the perceptions held by area residents and those considering investment in Huntsville.
Additionally, Huntsville’s location between two large metropolitan areas and assets such as the historic
downtown area will be a continuing draws for development.
Legacy of Past Planning
Previous Relevant Plans/Studies
The Huntsville Horizon Plan 2025, Huntsville’s 2007 Comprehensive Plan, included the following still relevant
land use and development goals:
• Well-managed growth that is fiscally responsible.
• Development patterns that promote economic vitality.
• A balance of new growth and careful redevelopment within Huntsville.
• Development and resource protection outcomes that preserve and bolster community character.
Accomplishments
The City of Huntsville and partner organizations have accomplished the following land use and development
related initiatives to support the items stated above:
• Utilization of economic development tools, including Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ), to
incentivize new commercial development along I-45.
• Continued design and construction of 2016 bond proposition projects that benefit existing and future
residents.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 8
Key Issues and Considerations
Through the Existing City and Plan Direction phases of this comprehensive planning effort, a set of six top
strategic items were identified based on input from the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, joint
workshops with City elected and appointed officials, results of varied public engagement activities and
consultant team input. Four of the six strategic items are most relevant to the Land Use and Development
portion of the Comprehensive Plan, along with the specific related issues under each:
Pro-actively Preparing for Growth and Development
• Identify areas of preferred growth, infill development and revitalization, recognizing the limitations of
some land within the city and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) being “off-limits”/agency-owned land.
• Consider the implications of new growth for the City, including impacts to infrastructure and City revenues.
• As growth continues, review appropriate land use and growth management tools to ensure land use
compatibility and properly located and timed infrastructure.
• Maintain the elements that give Huntsville a “small town feel” even while growing.
Building Huntsville’s Economic Base
• Diversify the area’s industry and employer base, also recognizing the changing nature of the office and
retail landscapes.
• Support residents in need, seeking to provide opportunities for all residents to improve their quality of life,
and recognizing the importance of equitable development and policies.
Making Housing Needs a Core Focus
• Attract more residential development to increase housing supply and meet workforce needs, at varying
price points including housing that can make home ownership attainable for more residents.
• Maintain a diversity of housing types, including housing for students and for various life-cycle stages of
residents, in appropriate locations.
New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities
• Update the City’s development regulations and standards based on its new long-range plan.
Land Use and Development Goals
Goal LUD 1: A land use allocation and pattern that supports Huntsville’s key focuses of increasing quality housing
supply, economic development opportunities, and quality of life, while maintaining its “small town” and semi-
rural feel.
Goal LUD 2: Revitalized high-profile corridors and continued focus on downtown, providing increased retail and
entertainment options within the city.
Goal LUD 3: Focused growth within the city, promoting fiscal sustainability.
Strategic Action Priorities
Capital Investments
SAP 1. Further community beautification through the design and construction of specific capital projects.
Explore adding criteria to the City’s capital improvements planning (CIP) process to ensure community
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beautification, neighborhood needs, and enhancement opportunities are considered when identifying
and prioritizing candidate capital projects.
SAP 2. Utilize the CIP process to ensure development occurs in suitable locations, based on the availability,
sizing and timing of adequate water, wastewater, drainage and transportation improvements.
Programming of capital improvements should help to further the City's economic development
potential, and directing development intensity to locations that are suitable for such uses will help
ensure the demands of business and industry are met.
Programs and Initiatives
SAP 3. Examine the use and development of incentives for new housing and/or commercial development in
areas desired for new growth. This may include financial incentives (such as property tax abatements,
fee waivers, public infrastructure funding, etc.), use of Chapter 380/381 agreements, non-financial
incentives such as expedited development reviews, or creation of special districts for financing
infrastructure and other improvements. Guidelines for any new incentives should be created. See SAP
#8 in the Housing and Neighborhoods section for more information.
SAP 4. Identify and acquire vacant and/or dilapidated properties in key growth areas that become available
through tax sales or other processes. See SAP #8 in the Economic Opportunity section for more
information.
• Assess where the City, Walker County, Sam Houston State University (SHSU), or other entities own
vacant properties in Huntsville and look for land consolidation opportunities to create larger
development sites.
• Coordinate with ongoing capital improvements planning (CIP) to ensure that identified
infrastructure improvements are coordinated with new growth.
Regulations and Standards
SAP 5. Evaluate the potential for the development and use of a fiscal impact model to gauge the economic
impacts of proposed new development. This can help ensure new development will contribute
positively to the tax base and offset expenditures to provide public facilities and municipal services.
SAP 6. Update the City’s development ordinances and standards to reflect new Comprehensive Plan priorities
including:
• Expand the number of development districts from the current three districts to address
incompatible land uses, intensities and differences in character types.
o The expanded development districts will allow for delineation of appropriate uses by district
category, and address emerging land uses such as Recreational Vehicle (RV) parks.
o The current “Management” development district encompasses almost all land uses and
should be replaced by more specific development districts that better reflect the desired
character of new development and redevelopment.
o Expansion of Downtown District boundaries to encompass a larger area will
promote additional connections between Downtown and SHSU.
• Incorporate zoning strategies that allow, promote and incentivize a variety of housing types for
both infill development and new development.
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o Evaluate impact of manufactured housing and ways to better manage this housing type
within the City.
• Incorporate zoning strategies that include more detailed standards and guidance to enable
permitted-by-right development approvals when defined standards are met.
• Incorporate additional provisions that address community beautification, such as landscaping,
buffering, screening, and lighting.
• Include neighborhood design guidance in the subdivision regulations and elsewhere to promote
quality residential development.
• Consider alternative methods and provisions for achieving desired development and
redevelopment other than through the Planned Development mechanism, which can be time-
consuming and unpredictable for development applicants and for the City.
• Clearly allow for and promote mixed-use developments where appropriate, particularly in the
downtown area, near Sam Houston State University, and along major corridors, including
corridors identified for Corridor Mixed Use.
• Allow for accessory dwelling units where appropriate as a means to increase housing supply.
SAP 7. Integrate corridor standards to promote effective management of development quality, impacts and
aesthetics along Huntsville's major roadway corridors. High priority corridors include the I-45 corridor,
Sam Houston Avenue/Highway 75, 11th Street/U.S. Highway 190, FM 2821, and SH 30, among others.
Provisions such as enhanced requirements for landscaping; screening and buffering between
uses; outdoor storage, display and use activity; the type, size, number and placement of signs; site
access and circulation; and building placement and orientation should be examined.
Partnerships and Coordination
SAP 8. Work with the Chamber of Commerce, economic development groups, and local developers to
identify potential development and redevelopment sites, with a focus on infill and corridor sites within
the city.
More Targeted Planning/Study
SAP 9. Complete targeted neighborhood and corridor plans, focusing on housing conditions, connectivity to
parks and services, and any other priorities of the specific neighborhood.
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Encouraging Redevelopment and Infill Development
During public engagement activities, participants stressed the need for expanded housing options as well as retail
and entertainment options. Stakeholders mentioned the necessity of creating new housing to entice the employees
of the area's businesses to choose Huntsville as their home. One of the issues identified in the Housing and
Neighborhoods and Economic Opportunity sections is the need to work with the development community to
encourage new development in Huntsville.
Huntsville should strive to remove obstacles to creating a development site by focusing on sites that have multiple
positive redevelopment factors either in place or planned such as:
• Multiple vacant properties located within close proximity to one another to create a larger development site;
• Recent or planned public infrastructure improvements;
• Properties purchased/owned by the City of Huntsville or Walker County;
• Existing financial assistance mechanisms (e.g., TIRZ, Opportunity Zone);
• Near local shopping centers, employment centers or other attractions; and
• Close to community resources (e.g., schools, parks, open space, etc.).
Larger total acreages are preferred by the development community to help them achieve the economies of scale
required to access construction capital and increase their return on investment. The City should consider the
proximity to potential redevelopment areas when contemplating potential property acquisition.
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FUTURE LAND USE MAP
A Future Land Use map is intended to show the general pattern of uses anticipated and/or desired in and around
the community in the years ahead. The map indicates the type of use that is expected to predominate in an area
based on what is already on the ground and will likely remain or possibly evolve over time, as well as projected
new development. Additionally, it is recognized that other complementary uses will also remain or emerge in
each area of the city along with the predominant use types (e.g., small-scale, neighborhood-oriented retail uses
near the edges of largely residential areas).
Specific locations are not yet known in some cases, such as for some future public facilities (e.g., schools, fire
stations, parks, etc.), as well as places of worship, that often locate in or near primarily residential areas. Some
uses are highly market-driven, with their timing and particular location dictated by the extent and pace of other
types of development. This includes the typical trend of retail uses following residential “rooftops” – and
typically locating at key roadway intersections. The location and extent of multi-family development can be
difficult to predict ahead of housing market trends and cycles, and developer interest in whether, where and
when to bring this product to market.
The Future Land Use Map focuses growth within the city, increasing residential, commercial, and industrial uses
to respond to the key focuses of housing supply growth, increase in primary job opportunities, and increase in
retail opportunities within the city.
The remainder of this section describes the land use categories shown on the City of Huntsville Future Land Use
Map:
• Rural
• Parks/Recreation
• Estate Residential
• General Residential
• Multi-Family Residential
• Commercial
• Corridor Mixed Use
• Downtown Area Mixed Use
• Industrial
• Public Facilities/Institutional
The descriptions indicate the types of development anticipated in each category. Also described is the intended
character of the areas in which these land uses occur. Specific standards for land development based on these
designations are articulated through the City’s implementing regulations (zoning and subdivision) as they
currently exist and may be further amended over time based on this planning guidance. The Future Land Use
Map may also be amended over time, based on criteria listed in this plan.
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Rural
This designation consists of lands that are sparsely developed, with mainly natural areas and very low-density
residential as the primary uses. It is unusual to find extensive undeveloped areas within the city limits, except
in areas that have been annexed for eventual development or that are not suitable for future development.
Floodplain areas may also retain their rural character over the long term given their unsuitability for any
intensive land development.
Development Types
• Agricultural uses
• Timber uses and supporting facilities
• Residential homesteads
• Public/institutional uses
• Parks and public spaces, nature preserves, and passive recreation areas
Characteristics
• Rural character from wide open landscapes, with minimal sense of enclosure and views to the horizon
unbroken by buildings in most places.
• Scattered residential development on relatively large acreages, resulting in very high open space ratios and
very low site coverage, and providing greater detachment from neighboring dwellings than in estate
residential areas.
• Typically no centralized water or sanitary sewer service available. Much greater reliance on natural
drainage systems, except where altered significantly by agricultural operations or regional storm water
management projects and/or infrastructure.
• Potential for conservation developments that further concentrate the overall development footprint
through cluster designs, with increased open space set-aside to maintain the overall rural character and
buffer adjacent properties. May also make alternative community wastewater treatment methods feasible
to eliminate the need for individual on-site septic systems.
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Parks / Recreation
This designation includes the locations of City-owned and maintained public parks, designed for both active and
passive recreational enjoyment as well as open space. This designation also includes Huntsville State Park and
protected national forest areas.
Development Types
• Public parks and open space
• Public trails
• Joint City-school park areas
• Public recreation areas
• State or national parkland/forests
Characteristics
• Public parkland theoretically will remain so in perpetuity compared to other public property and buildings
that can transition to private ownership at some point.
• Park design, intensity of development, and planned uses/activities should match area character (e.g., public
squares/plazas in urban downtowns relative to nature parks for passive recreation in less developed areas).
Estate Residential
This designation is for areas that, due to public service limitations and/or prevailing rural character, should have
limited development activity other than large-lot residential. Such areas provide a transition between a city’s
rural fringe and more urbanized in-city development patterns and intensities. Lots in this category typically
range from one to three or more acres, which provides substantial openness and separation between individual
dwellings.
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Development Types
• Detached residential dwellings
• Subdivisions planned with large acreages that are clearly set apart from other dwellings
• Public/institutional uses (including certain public assembly uses such as places of worship)
• Parks and public spaces
Characteristics
• Transition between rural areas and in-city development.
• Larger lots (typically one acre or larger), especially where required by public health regulations to allow for
both individual water wells and on-site septic systems on properties where centralized water and/or
wastewater service is not available or feasible.
• One-acre lots are usually adequate in wooded areas to achieve visual screening of homes from streets and
adjacent dwellings. Three-to five-acre lots may be needed in more open areas with less vegetation.
General Residential
This designation covers areas with predominantly single-family residential uses at typical in-city densities.
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Development Types
• Detached residential dwellings
• Townhomes and patio homes
• Duplexes
• Manufactured home park
• Planned development, potentially with a mix of housing types and varying minimum lot sizes, subject to
compatibility and open space standards
• Public/institutional uses
• Parks and public spaces
Characteristics
• Residential neighborhoods with less openness and separation between dwellings compared to residential
areas with larger lots.
• Potential for auto-oriented character, especially where driveways and front-loading garages dominate the
front yard and building facades of homes. This can be offset by “anti-monotony” architectural standards,
landscaping and limitations on “cookie cutter” subdivision layouts characterized by straight streets and
uniform lot sizes and arrangement.
• Neighborhood-scale commercial uses are expected to emerge over time and should be encouraged on
corner sites or other locations within (or near the edge of) single-family residential areas that are best
suited to accommodate such uses while ensuring compatibility with nearby residential uses.
Multi-Family Residential
This designation involves areas devoted primarily to structures with multiple residential units, at a greater
intensity (i.e., units per building or acre) than found in single-family residential. Higher intensities may be
appropriate in certain locations. Site design and open space standards may be applied to offset the relative
density of this residential type, to ensure adequate recreational space on the site for residents, and to provide
buffering and screening between this and less intensive residential uses. This use category can also provide a
transition from primarily residential to mainly non-residential areas.
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Development Types
• Multi-unit attached residential in concentrated development, whether for rent (apartments) or ownership
(condominiums)
• Public/institutional uses
• Assembly uses such as places of worship
• Parks and public spaces
Characteristics
• Auto-oriented character typically due to the extent of off-street parking needed. However, the auto-
oriented appearance can be softened by perimeter and on-site landscaping, minimum spacing between
buildings, site coverage limits, and on-site recreation or open space criteria.
• Multi-family residential can blend in with single-family residential areas if such standards and associated
buffering requirements are set appropriately within the context of attached residential and/or single-family
detached residential uses in the vicinity.
• May be limited to two or three stories, with setbacks and/or buffering also increased near less intensive
residential uses for compatibility.
• May locate near medical facilities, parks and public services, and shopping areas.
Commercial
This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses, primarily along portions of major
roadway corridors within the community for high visibility and accessibility, but also in other locations to
accommodate neighborhood-focused businesses. Commercial uses include typical “big-box” developments that
will draw patrons from a wide area, while neighborhood-focused businesses include smaller footprint sites that
cater to serving a smaller area.
Development Types
• “Strip” commercial centers along major roadways, with a range of uses, including those on high-profile
“pad” sites along the roadway frontage
• “Big-box” commercial stores (e.g., grocery, appliances, clothing, etc.)
• Restaurant chains including various “fast food” and casual dining establishments
• Automobile service related enterprises (e.g., gas stations, automobile service/repair, car washes)
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• Offices
• Hotels and motels
• Mixed-use developments
• Public/institutional uses
• Parks and public spaces
Characteristics
• Commercial areas with an auto-oriented character that have significant portions of development sites
devoted to vehicular access drives, circulation routes, surface parking, and loading/delivery areas, making
pavement the most prominent visual feature. This can be offset by enhanced building design, landscaping,
reduced site coverage, well-designed signage, etc.
• Buildings typically set back toward rear of site to accommodate expansive parking areas in front, closest to
passing traffic, resulting in less emphasis on architectural design in many cases.
• Development desire to maximize signage (number, size) to capitalize on site visibility to passing traffic.
• Often not conducive for access or on-site circulation by pedestrians or cyclists.
Corridor Mixed Use
This designation is for properties in commercial retail, office and service uses along and near a high-profile
roadway corridor where mixed-use development outcomes are desired and encouraged. The mix of uses may
include residential, especially to provide additional housing options and forms within the community. Major
public and/or institutional facilities may also serve as development anchors within the area. Where non-
residential and mixed-use developments in Corridor Mixed Use areas are adjacent to residential neighborhoods,
site standards involving building scale and placement should be triggered to ensure compatibility.
Development Types
• Planned development to accommodate custom site designs or a mixture of uses
• Wide range of commercial retail and service uses, at varying scales and development intensities depending
on the site
• Office (involving large and/or multi-story buildings or small-scale office uses depending on the site)
• Live/work units
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• Multi-unit attached residential whether for rent (apartments) or ownership (condominiums, townhomes,
row houses, etc.)
• Mixed-use developments
• Public/institutional uses
• Assembly uses such as places of worship
• Parks and public spaces
Characteristics
The intent of a Corridor Mixed Use area may be to achieve a more urban character outcome, although this may
be difficult to achieve in a setting where most business patrons, employees and visitors to the area will still
reach their destinations by private vehicle. Site design and development criteria may at least be set to soften
the auto-oriented development character found along most busy roadway corridors, as well as to enhance
walkability and safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Site design and development criteria (landscaping
requirements, setbacks, etc.) may also be used to improve continuity/compatibility between adjacent varying
uses.
• Often not conducive for access or on-site circulation by pedestrians or cyclists. Although the corridors may
not currently be conducive for pedestrians/cyclists, as these areas re-develop emphasis for a more
walkable context should be a priority.
Downtown Area Mixed Use
This designation, in many cities, involves the most intensively developed area of the community in terms of the
greatest coverage of sites with building footprints and the least amount of private development area devoted
to off-street parking and landscaping. Instead, most parking is accommodated on-street and/or within public
parking areas. This enables most streets and other public spaces to be framed by buildings with zero or minimal
front setbacks, creating “architectural enclosure” versus the progressively more open feel in other character
areas (auto-oriented, suburban, etc.). All of these elements, along with a mixed-use orientation, makes these
areas of a city the most conducive for pedestrian activity and interaction. Public plazas and pocket parks can
provide green space amid the urban environment and a place to gather and host community events.
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Development Types
• Mixed uses, on single sites and within individual structures
• Potential for residential space above commercial or office uses
• Attached residential types (e.g., townhomes, brownstones), and potential for detached residential on small
lots in some cases
• Live/work units
• Commercial retail and services
• Office
• Entertainment uses (e.g., restaurants, pubs, live music venues, theater, cinema, etc.)
• Potential for parking structures and limited public or commercial surface parking areas in some downtowns
• Public/institutional uses (including certain public assembly uses such as places of worship)
• Parks and public spaces
Characteristics
• Multi-story structures encouraged or required in some downtowns to bolster urban character, encourage
vertical mixed-use, promote retail viability, support transit ridership, etc.
• Mostly on-street parking and minimal off-street surface parking (until the urban character begins to give
way to auto-oriented site design in transition areas around downtowns).
• Streetscape enhancements in public ways usually emphasized given limited area for private on-site
landscaping relative to other areas.
• May exclude some auto-oriented uses that, by their very nature, cannot achieve an urban character.
• Public/institutional uses should be designed to match the urban character.
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• Alleys and rear-access garages can reinforce urban character on blocks with attached or detached
residential dwellings.
• Often the only place in a community where multi-level parking structures may make sense and be
financially viable.
Industrial – Light and Heavy
These designations accommodate uses that are intensive in terms of how “light” industrial and especially
“heavy” industrial activities can affect other nearby properties. This can include factors such as noise, vibration,
light/glare, odor, truck traffic, and hours of operation, as well as the sheer scale and intensity of some heavy
industrial uses. Depending on the standards applied through development regulations, an industrial area can
allow for a wide range of uses, from office/warehouse to wholesale, product assembly, and manufacturing.
Some communities aim for a more aesthetic business or industrial “park” environment, with specific standards
for building arrangement and orientation, extensive landscaping, and especially full screening of loading and
outdoor activity/storage areas, if such external activity is even permitted. A campus feel may be further
reinforced by private or public streetscape and design enhancements, including special signage at industrial area
entries and key intersections, unified lighting design, etc.
Light Industrial Development Types
• Warehousing
• Light manufacturing and/or processing/assembly
• Business parks
• Office uses accessory to a primary industrial use
• Retail sales and services, including heavy commercial uses (e.g., building supply)
• Public/institutional
Light Industrial Characteristics
• Typically auto-oriented character, although master-planned business or industrial park developments may
feature more open space and landscaping, regulated signage, enhanced screening, etc.
• Potential for outdoor activity and storage, which should be screened where visible from public ways and
residential areas.
• On-site large-scale moving equipment in some cases.
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• Potential for environmental impacts that may affect the proximity and type of adjacent uses, including
particulate emissions, noise, vibrations, smells, etc., plus the risk of fire or explosion depending on the
materials handled or processed.
• Certain intensive publicly-owned uses are best sited within industrial areas (e.g., public works facilities,
fleet maintenance, treatment plants, fire training).
Heavy Industrial Development Types
• Heavy manufacturing
• Oil and gas and petrochemical operations
• Office uses accessory to a primary industrial use
• Public/institutional
• The sole permissible location for sexually-oriented businesses under some local regulations
Heavy Industrial Characteristics
• Outdoor activity and large visible structures and storage facilities, which are difficult to screen from
neighboring properties aside from fencing, landscaping and/or berms along site perimeters.
• On-site large scale moving and construction equipment in most cases.
• Environmental impacts expected that will affect the proximity and type of adjacent uses, including
particulate emissions, noise, vibrations, lighting/glare, smells, etc., plus the risk of fire or explosion
depending on the materials handled or processed.
• Often operate “24/7,” which also requires adequate separation and buffering from any nearby residential
areas.
Public/Institutional
This designation is for public facility land uses and their vicinities that warrant special consideration. Such
consideration is necessary either to: (1) protect a major community asset or other highly-valued use; or (2)
buffer and protect nearby properties from potential adverse effects depending on the nature and operational
aspects of the public use.
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Development Types
• Government offices and other facilities (e.g., community centers, libraries, post offices, etc.)
• Educational campuses or clusters of education facilities (public, private and parochial)
• Correctional facilities
• Cemeteries, whether publicly or privately owned
• Water and wastewater treatment facilities
• Other intensive public works sites and facilities, especially with outdoor activity and/or storage
• Sanitary landfills, active and/or closed sites
Characteristics
• As with all public/institutional uses, a facility developed and operated by a government entity should be
designed to match the prevailing character of its vicinity, for compatibility with the character and quality
expectations placed upon private properties and developments.
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Future Land Use Map - Core Area
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Future Land Use Map – Full Extent
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Future Land Use Planning Versus Zoning
The side-by-side comparison below highlights the distinct purposes and uses of a future land use map relative
to a zoning (development district) map.
Future Land Use Map Zoning Map
Purpose
Outlook for the future use of land and
the character of development in the
community.
Macro level - generalized development
pattern.
Basis for applying different land use regulations
and development standards in different areas of
the community ("zones").
Micro level—site and area-specific focus.
Use
Guidance for the City’s zoning map and
related decisions (zone change
requests, variance applications, etc.).
Baseline for monitoring consistency of
actions and decisions with the
Comprehensive Plan.
Regulating development as it is proposed, or as
sites are positioned for the future with
appropriate zoning (by the property owner or the
City).
Inputs and
Considerations
Existing land use in the city.
The locational aspects of community
planning priorities involving economic
development, housing, infrastructure,
parks and recreation, public facilities,
etc.
Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use map for
general guidance.
Zoning decisions that differ substantially from the
general development pattern depicted on the
Future Land Use map should indicate the need for
some map adjustments the next time the
Comprehensive Plan is revised.
The City’s development regulations are among the primary tools for implementing the Comprehensive Plan. The
zoning regulations, in particular, play a significant role in establishing and protecting the physical character of
the community. These regulations delineate land use districts and the types of uses permitted within them,
together with standards for buildings and site improvements. As a result, the zoning regulations, together with
the City’s subdivision regulations where applicable, largely direct development outcomes. This is essential as it
provides a regulatory context in which local land use decisions may be made to foster a prosperous economy, a
sustainable environment, and a high quality of life for residents.
Although the Comprehensive Plan and associated future land use map provide only general planning guidance,
their role is especially relevant as it can lead to rewrites and updates of the zoning regulations and district map.
It is only through the official zoning map and the ongoing zoning administration process that binding, legally
enforceable decisions are made about property uses and compatibility on a case-by-case basis. Adoption of this
Comprehensive Plan, including the future land use map, does not mean that the City’s zoning approach or
mapping will automatically change. Instead, the future land use map provides a tool for ongoing evaluation of
how land uses in certain parts of the community may evolve over time while some areas (e.g., established, stable
neighborhoods) are likely to stay much as they are over the long term.
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Current Zoning (Development Districts)
Provided in the table below, Designations on Future Land Use Map Relative to Current Zoning (Development)
Districts, is a comparison between the land use and character designations described above and the current
districts in Huntsville’s zoning regulations.
Designations on Future Land Use Map Relative to Current Zoning (Development) Districts
Designation Most Closely Associated Development District(s)
Rural Management District (M)
Parks and Recreation Management District (M)
Estate Residential Management District (M)
General Residential Neighborhood Conservation District (NC)
Management District (M)
Multi-Family Residential Management District (M)
General Commercial Management District (M)
Corridor Mixed Use Management District (M)
Downtown Area Mixed Use Downtown District (D)
Industrial - Light Management District (M)
Industrial - Heavy Management District (M)
Public/Institutional Management District (M)
Criteria for Proposed Amendments to the Future Land Use Map
Along with procedures for monitoring and periodically updating the Comprehensive Plan, another specific issue
involves consideration of proposed amendments to the adopted future land use map. A first consideration is
whether a map amendment is necessary immediately, such as in conjunction with a particular rezoning request?
Or, can a potential adjustment to the future land use map wait so that it may be examined more holistically,
along with any other map changes under consideration, through the next interim review and update of the
entire Comprehensive Plan?
The items below should be reviewed and addressed, especially by the Planning Commission, when a future land
use map adjustment is proposed:
• Scope of Amendment: Is the proposed map change limited to one or a few parcels or would it affect a
much larger area?
• Change in Circumstances: What specific conditions have changed sufficiently to render the current map
designation(s) inappropriate or out-of-date (e.g., city’s population size and/or characteristics, area
character and building form, property/structure conditions, infrastructure or public services, market
factors including need for more land in a particular designation, etc.)?
• Consistency with Other Plans: In addition to the Comprehensive Plan, is the proposed map change
consistent with the intent and policy direction of any other applicable plans (utility infrastructure or
drainage plans, parks master plan, etc.)?
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• Adequate Information: Do City staff, the Planning Commission, and/or City Council have enough and
appropriate information to move ahead with a decision (e.g., utility capacity, potential traffic impacts,
other public service implications, resident/stakeholder concerns and input)?
• Stakeholder Input: What points, concerns and insights have been raised by area residents, property
owners, business owners, or others?
Land Use Policies
The written policy statements below are intended as a supplement to the Future Land Use Map, which provides
only a visual depiction of desired land use patterns and sound development practices. City officials and staff
should use these statements as a guide and reference, particularly when making decisions regarding proposed
development activity in the city limits and ETJ, and/or changes in zoning classifications within the city.
General
• Land uses should not detract from the enjoyment or value of neighboring properties.
• Potential negative land use effects (noise, odor, dust, excessive light, traffic, etc.) should be considered in
development review/approval and mitigated.
• Adequate transportation access and circulation should be provided for uses that generate large numbers
of trips. Pedestrian and bicycle access should be addressed where appropriate.
• Well-planned mixed-use projects are encouraged where compatible with nearby development.
• Floodplain areas should not be encroached upon by future development unless there is compliance with
stringent floodplain management practices. These areas should be used for parks or recreational or related
purposes, or for agricultural uses.
• Environmentally sensitive areas should be protected, including wildlife habitat areas.
Residential
• Residential areas should not be located next to industrial areas where avoidable.
• Residential and commercial areas may be adjacent if separated by a buffer.
• Schools, parks and community facilities should be located close to or within residential neighborhoods.
• Houses should have direct access to local residential streets but not to collector streets or thoroughfares.
• Houses should not be adjacent to major highways.
• New residential development should be buffered from collector streets and thoroughfares.
• Residential developments should include adequate area for parks and recreation facilities, schools and
places of worship.
Retail / Office
• Neighborhood retail and service uses should be located at intersections of thoroughfares or collector
streets or at the edge of logical neighborhood areas unless appropriately placed within a planned
development.
• Retail development should be clustered throughout the city and convenient to residential areas.
• Buffers should separate retail/office uses and residential areas.
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• The downtown area should be a focus for office, retail and service activities in appropriate locations relative
to existing residential uses, particularly through adaptive re-use of existing structures or redevelopment of
vacant properties and sites with heavy commercial or industrial uses.
• Office and professional uses should be compatible with nearby residential areas and other uses through
appropriate building height limitations and adequate buffering and landscaping.
• Low-intensity office and professional uses should provide a transition between more intense uses and
residential areas.
Commercial
• Commercial uses with more intensive operational or traffic characteristics should be located away from
most residential areas.
• Heavy commercial development should be concentrated in nodes at intersections and along major
thoroughfares that are designed and constructed to accommodate higher traffic volumes.
• Buffers should separate heavy commercial uses from any adjacent residential areas, especially where the
commercial use involves visible display or outdoor storage of merchandise or materials.
Industrial
• Industrial development should not be directly adjacent to residential areas.
• Industrial uses should be located in dedicated industrial development areas.
• Industrial development should be separated from other uses by buffers.
• Industrial development should have good access to major thoroughfares and highways.
• Industrial development involving trucking operations should have good access to truck routes and
designated hazardous material routes.
Parks and Open Space
• Parks should be evenly distributed throughout the city and include larger community parks and smaller
neighborhood parks.
• Pedestrian connections should be provided between parks, schools, residential areas, and employment
centers.
• Parks are a desirable use for floodplain areas.
• Parks and open space should be used to buffer incompatible land uses.
• Natural features should be used as buffers or preserved open space between or around developed areas.
• Community attractions that draw many external visitors should be in locations with good regional
transportation access and visibility.
Community Facilities
• Community facilities should be located in easily accessible areas within the community.
• Community facilities, depending on their scale and level of activity, should be located adjacent to
thoroughfares or collector streets to accommodate traffic.
• Community facilities should be well buffered from nearby residential areas.
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• The downtown area should continue to be enhanced as a preferred location for civic, cultural,
entertainment and tourism activities.
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GROWTH CAPACITY
Introduction
This plan section focuses on the utility infrastructure, public safety services, and community facility needs of
Huntsville in the decades ahead. Infrastructure investment, capacity, and maintenance are a critical component
of the ability of Huntsville to successfully attract and accommodate new population and business
growth. Likewise, infrastructure investment and maintenance are central components of successful
revitalization of Huntsville’s established neighborhoods and non-residential areas.
Capital investments in public infrastructure such as utilities and streets signal the desired locations for growth
and revitalization, help maintain a high quality of life for residents, and create a framework for land
development.
Legacy of Past Planning
Previous Relevant Plans/Studies
The Huntsville Horizon Plan 2025, Huntsville’s 2007 Comprehensive Plan, included the following still relevant
growth capacity goals:
• Adequate, reliable water supply and associated infrastructure to serve long-term community needs.
• Adequate wastewater collection and treatment capacity to accommodate long-term growth objectives and
projected needs.
• Minimized risk to lives and property from flooding through effective storm water management practices.
• Reliable, cost-effective public safety services that assure the security of residents and businesses.
• Adequate community facilities to house essential City functions and also enrich the experience of living in
Huntsville.
Accomplishments
Recent investments in Huntsville’s facilities and infrastructure to support the items stated above include:
• 2016 Water and Wastewater Condition and Capacity Assessment Study and resulting capital projects
• 2016 voter-approved bond and resulting infrastructure and facility projects
Key Issues and Considerations
Through the Existing City and Plan Direction phases of this comprehensive planning effort, a set of six top
strategic items were identified based on input from the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, joint
workshops with City elected and appointed officials, results of varied public engagement activities and
consultant team input. Three of the six strategic items are most relevant to the Growth Capacity portion of the
Comprehensive Plan, along with the specific related issues under each:
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Pro-actively Preparing for Growth and Development
• Identify areas of preferred growth, infill development and revitalization, recognizing the limitations of
some land within the city and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) being “off-limits”/agency-owned land.
• Consider the implications of new growth for the City, including impacts to infrastructure and City revenues.
• Balance the maintenance of existing infrastructure with needs for new infrastructure to keep pace with
development.
• As growth continues, review appropriate land use and growth management tools to ensure land use
compatibility and properly located and timed infrastructure.
• Explore strategies for reducing wildfire and flooding risk and impacts, including development and site
design practices, vegetation management, storm water management, and multi-purpose open space.
Building Huntsville’s Economic Base
• Ensure infrastructure supports evolving employer, workforce and educational needs, including fiber/high
speed internet and other technology upgrades.
New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities
• Update the City’s development regulations and standards based on its new long-range plan.
• Maintain up-to-date master plans (for infrastructure, public facilities, airport, parks, etc.).
• Continue emphasis on progress through partnerships (public/public, public/private, public/non-profit).
Growth Capacity Goals
Goal GC1: A balanced approach to infrastructure investment that meets the infrastructure needs of new
development and the reinvestment and rehabilitation needs of existing development.
Goal GC2: Continued high-quality public safety services that receive budget and community support to maintain
responsiveness and levels of service.
Goal GC3: Public facilities and infrastructure that are well-maintained and serve the needs of Huntsville
residents, visitors, and businesses, while allowing for growth.
Strategic Action Priorities
Capital Investments
SAP 1. Continue use of, and focused implementation of short to mid-term capital projects with formalized
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) process for identifying, prioritizing and funding essential capital
projects. CIP projects should include basic infrastructure (water, wastewater, streets, and storm
drainage), parks, trails, sidewalks, municipal buildings and property, rights-of-way / easement
acquisition, plans and studies, design, construction, and signage. Grants can be utilized to supplement
capital improvement projects.
Prioritization factors should include:
• Immediate public health and safety issues.
• Improvements dictated by state/federal mandates or as a permit condition.
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• Geographic and/or socioeconomic fairness across the city.
• Public meetings and input (such as accomplished for this Comprehensive Plan).
• Input from City staff and/or consultants on technical and financial readiness for particular
projects.
• Inter-departmental working groups, especially to coordinate on sequencing considerations for or
across multiple projects.
SAP 2. Continue maintenance and rehabilitation of City assets and provide capacity increases to meet
planned growth needs. Photo: Existing City Hall, 13th Street and Avenue M.
SAP 3. Continue to implement the mitigation actions for the Huntsville Hazard Mitigation Plan Update and
evaluate the plan for changing needs and potential funding opportunities.
City Hall Re-location
At the time of this plan update, discussions were
ongoing about the potential relocation of city hall,
currently located in downtown Huntsville. The current
city hall has foundation and structural issues and will
need to be demolished according to project architects.
The current 2.5 acre location has minimal parking and
limited expansion potential, but is centrally located. The
2016 bond package included $13 million for a new city
hall. Several options are under consideration, including
relocating city hall to other city-owned property,
acquiring other property, or rebuilding on the existing
site.
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Huntsville Hazard Mitigation Plan
The City of Huntsville adopted the Huntsville Hazard Mitigation Plan Update in 2018. This plan identifies hazards and
mitigation actions to alleviate or respond to hazards. The plan addresses the following hazards and risks:
• Wildfires
• Hailstorm
• Windstorms
• Tornadoes
• Expansive Soils
• Floods
• Hurricanes/Tropical Storms
• Dam/Levee Failure
• Drought
• Extreme Heat
• Severe Winter Storms
• Lightning
Programs and Initiatives
SAP 4. Continue to improve City's water and wastewater systems, through continued implementation of the
System Capacity CIP and Renewal Program CIP projects identified within the 2016 Water and
Wastewater Condition and Capacity Assessment Study.
• Identify development that will trigger water and wastewater treatment plant capacity expansions
and/or water distribution system and wastewater collection system upsizing.
• Evaluate lift station elevation and existing gravity collection lines. Examine the potential to
eliminate the need for lift stations by extending gravity collection lines.
• Review the City’s Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) for water and wastewater
services and add or remove areas based on growth patterns of the city.
SAP 5. Consider regional storm water detention facilities in areas that will alleviate flooding and
potentially establish new developable areas.
• A drainage analysis will need to be performed to validate the feasibility of regional storm water
detention facilities within the city. The regional concept should be evaluated for a fee structure
to allow developers to purchase volume or construction options based on City of Huntsville
detention requirements.
SAP 6. Expand water conservation education efforts for residents, in alignment with Region “H” Regional
Water Plan.
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Texas Regional Water Planning Areas
The Texas Water Development Board has divided the state into 16 regional water planning areas. Huntsville is located
within what is known as the Region H Regional Water Planning Area. Each regional water planning area is responsible
for identifying water supply needs and projects for their planning area.
SAP 7. Continue to support improvements to the broadband and fiber internet network as a component of
Huntsville's infrastructure, for example by encouraging "dig once" policies for infrastructure
improvements.
SAP 8. Work to expand Huntsville’s voluntary cell phone registry for emergency notification of residents, in
coordination with Walker County’s Public Safety Command Center’s CodeRED notification enrollment
to ensure that residents that register with either system receive the appropriate emergency
communications.
SAP 9. Continue funding support to maintain high-quality public safety services, including staff levels,
facilities, and equipment at an adequate level to maintain public safety.
• Maintain the Huntsville Fire Department’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating
of 2, while continuing to strive to improve the rating to a coveted 1 (on a scale
of 1 to 10).
• Continue the Huntsville’s Police Department membership in the Texas Law
Enforcement Best Practices Recognition Program.
SAP 10. Continue wildfire preparedness efforts, including Firewise education efforts, to reduce the risk of
wildfires.
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Wildfire Preparedness
A significant portion of the City and ETJ currently consists of undeveloped, forested land including Huntsville State
Park and portions of the Sam Houston National Forest. Forested areas may experience wildfires. In 2011 Walker County
experienced 104 wildfires that led to more than 6,700 acres of land burning. Substantial efforts by community leaders
and state and federal agencies in recent years have helped to reduce the number and severity of wildfires.
“Ready, Set, Go!” Initiative
The City of Huntsville is part of the “Ready, Set, Go!” Initiative, a national program managed by the International
Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). The main goal of this initiative is to develop and improve the communication
between residents and the fire department. In order to achieve this mission, the Huntsville Fire Department
identifies individuals living in high risk wildfire areas and the wildland-urban interface and teaches them safety
precautions to follow in the event of a wildfire.
Firewise Communities
The Firewise Communities Program is led by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). As part of the program,
federal and state land management agencies and local fire departments team up to provide resources for wildfire
prevention. This program is only available to communities that meet certain criteria, including:
• Completing a community assessment
• Forming a Firewise board or committee to accept the assessment, create an action plan, and monitor activity
• Holding a Firewise Day event
• Investing at least $2 per capita annually in community mitigation activities
Once a community becomes a part of the program it receives periodic workshops and training sessions from program
leaders and advocates that teach residents effective risk communication and behavior change techniques to reduce
manmade ignition risks. Firewise communities may be eligible to receive funding from the Secure Rural Schools and
Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 for Firewise activities and, in the event of a fire, have access to FEMA
pre- and post-disaster hazard mitigation grants.
The Elkins Lake community was the first in Walker County to receive
the Firewise community recognition in 2012.
Walker County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (WCCWPP)
With the rising cases of wildfires across Texas in 2005, a partnership
was formed between Walker County, Huntsville, Elkins Lake
community leaders and the Texas Forest Service to help protect rural
homes surrounded by the forest lands of the Sam Houston National
Forest. The Walker County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
(WCCWPP) was the first county-wide community wildfire protection
plan in Texas. The main mission for this plan was to identify wildfire
risks, create mitigation strategies and empower residents to protect
their properties.
Elkins Lake Community over Satellite Image. Google Maps.
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Regulations and Standards
SAP 11. Evaluate the potential to include provisions in the City’s development ordinances and standards to
incentivize “green” practices for ongoing operations and maintenance that reduce water and energy
use, storm water runoff, and wastewater and solid waste generation.
SAP 12. Update the Unified Development Ordinance, Article 9 Flood Reduction, to develop higher standards
for flood prone areas and critical facilities.
• Evaluate the required finished floor elevations to protect from flooding.
• Higher standards should address any new needs based on precipitation levels identified in Atlas
14. The floodplains and floodways may expand with analysis of Atlas 14. This may make it more
difficult to develop in some areas of the city without mitigation of stormwater and flooding
impacts. Consideration for regional detention and floodplain mitigation ponds should be analyzed
and evaluated.
• Most of the wetlands identified within the city are in the southern portion of Huntsville, adjacent
to rivers and streams. Wetlands should be considered during design and construction and
mitigation measures taken for any potential wetlands loss or disturbance.
Atlas 14
In 2018 the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) published Atlas 14, a study that found
increased precipitation values in parts of Texas. This resulted in changes to the rainfall amounts that define
100-year events, which are those events that on average have a one percent chance of happening in any given
year. NOAA Atlas 14 rainfall values are used to design infrastructure and for planning activities under local,
state and federal regulations. The rainfall values also help delineate flood risk and manage development in
floodplains.
SAP 13. Require or create incentives for use of “firewise” landscaping techniques and materials on private
development sites.
SAP 14. Keep abreast of State level changes in annexation law (see sidebar). Continue to entertain and/or
solicit owner-initiated annexations in areas that further City goals and/or pursue development
agreements that address service provision, compliance with City development and building codes and
standards, and potential cost-sharing arrangements. The City should not extend its utility
infrastructure or other services into the ETJ without requiring annexation as a condition of such
service provision.
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Current State of Annexation in Texas
HB 347, effective as of May 24, 2019, effectively eliminated most unilateral annexations by any city, regardless of
population or location. As later codified in Texas Local Government Code Chapter 14, Municipal Annexation, the bill:
• Authorized certain narrowly-defined types of annexation (e.g., city-owned airports, navigable streams, etc.) to
continue using a service plan, notice, and hearing procedure.
• Eliminated the distinction between Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities and counties created by SB 6 (2017).
• Eliminated existing annexation authority that applied to Tier 1 cities and made most annexations subject to the
three consent annexation procedures created by SB 6 (2017), which allow for annexation:
o on request of each owner of the land;
o of an area with a population of less than 200 by petition of voters and, if required, owners in the area; and
o of an area with a population of at least 200 by election of voters and, if required, petition of landowners.
Partnerships and Coordination
SAP 15. Continue regional water coordination and planning with the Region H Regional Water Planning Group.
SAP 16. Expand partnerships and marketing of “Project Help”, which allows current Huntsville utility account
holders to donate funds to assist other users with their utility bills. Consider expansion of the program
to allow for donations beyond utility account holders.
• Advertise on the City's website not only how to donate to the program, but also eligibility for
utilizing the program for those in need.
• The City suspended utility cut-offs during the COVID-19 pandemic, but when utility cut-offs are
reinstated, delinquent utility account holders will be in need of assistance.
SAP 17. Continue emergency management coordination with local and regional partners, including Walker
County, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), Sam Houston State University (SHSU), and
the Houston-Galveston Area Council.
More Targeted Planning/Study
SAP 18. Update the 2016 Water and Wastewater Condition and Capacity Assessment Study. The study
analyzed the water and wastewater systems and made recommendations for capital improvements
through 2040. This assessment should be updated every five years to evaluate the needs of the City
based on actual growth and anticipated growth changes. The City should continue to implement
projects proposed in the most current plan.
SAP 19. Consider development of a Master Drainage Plan. The Master Drainage Plan can examine the potential
for regional detention facilities through a drainage analysis.
SAP 20. Evaluate the potential to develop impact fees based on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) or an
Infrastructure Master Plan. There are many different ways to structure impact fees. The first step is
to determine if impact fees are needed and desired and the potential costs and benefits of such a
fee.
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Impact Fees
Texas Local Government Code Chapter 395 authorizes municipalities, counties, and other local governments to assess
impact fees based on a CIP or Infrastructure Master Plan. Impact fees can be calculated for infrastructure such as water,
wastewater and drainage. The purpose of impact fees is to ensure that new development, rather than existing
taxpayers, shoulder the primary costs of the necessary infrastructure upgrades or extensions required by new
development or redevelopment. The fees are assessed on infrastructure improvements and expansions, including
distribution, transmission, collection systems and facility expansion that are needed by development.
SAP 21. Ensure that the Huntsville Hazard Mitigation Plan is kept up to date. This ensures eligibility for Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation grants. Identify projects to include in the
plan that could be eligible for grant funding.
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TRANSPORTATION
Introduction
This plan section focuses on current, near-term and long-range transportation needs and priorities in and
around Huntsville. Many of these are outward focused, involving regional partners and coordination,
recognizing the important role that the Texas Department of Transportation plays in Huntsville’s transportation
network. Top transportation-related issues facing Huntsville include improving safety and connectivity and
enhancing ways to move around Huntsville by walking and bicycling, particularly around Sam Houston State
University and downtown.
Legacy of Past Planning
Previous Relevant Plans/Studies
The Huntsville Horizon Plan 2025, Huntsville’s 2007 Comprehensive Plan, included the following still relevant
transportation goals:
• An efficient and effective roadway network.
• Available and convenient parking in the University and Downtown areas.
• A mobility system that offers a variety of choice in modes of travel.
• A mobility system that is integrated into and complements neighborhood and community character.
In addition to Huntsville Horizon Plan 2025, in 2019 the City completed a Transportation Master Plan that
addressed the transportation network, including pedestrian and bicycle circulation and safety,
and recommended specific improvements.
Accomplishments
The City of Huntsville and partner organizations have accomplished the following transportation related
initiatives to support the items stated above:
• 2019 Transportation Master Plan
• 2020 Airport Master Plan
• Ongoing public transportation feasibility study with the Houston-Galveston Area Council
• Ongoing coordination with the Texas Department of Transportation for I-45 reconstruction and widening
project
• 2021 Transportation Alternatives Program grant applications for multi-modal projects
Key Issues and Considerations
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Through the Existing City and Plan Direction phases of this comprehensive planning effort, a set of six top
strategic items were identified based on input from the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, joint
workshops with City elected and appointed officials, results of varied public engagement activities and
consultant team input. Three of the six strategic items are most relevant to the Transportation portion of the
Comprehensive Plan, along with the specific related issues under each:
Enhancing Mobility and Access
• As the I-45 expansion project through the city occurs, ensure project outcomes beneficial to Huntsville.
• Continue to monitor the potential for high-speed rail and impacts to Huntsville.
• Expand the range of options for traveling within Huntsville, with a focus on safely linking Sam Houston
State University (SHSU), downtown, and other key areas for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Explore the potential for public transit service, linking popular destinations and serving residents in need
of enhanced mobility.
Expanding Recreational Opportunities
• Enhance opportunities for residents of all ages, particularly youth, to have active and healthy lifestyles,
through provision of high quality recreational and park facilities and more options for safe pedestrian and
bicycle circulation.
New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities
• Update the City’s development regulations and standards based on its new long-range plan.
• Maintain up-to-date master plans (for infrastructure, public facilities, airport, parks, etc.).
• Continue emphasis on progress through partnerships (public/public, public/private, public/non-profit).
Transportation Goals
Goal T1: Enhanced connectivity throughout the city that allows Huntsville’s residents and visitors to travel safely
by multiple modes, including walking and bicycling.
Goal T2: A road network that is in good repair and is safe and inviting for all users.
Goal T3: Enhanced partnerships and collaborative relationships with the Texas Department of Transportation
(TxDOT) and other transportation partners.
Strategic Action Priorities
Capital Investments
SAP 1. Develop a Capital Improvements Program (CIP) specifically for transportation related projects,
prioritizing projects that:
• Address safety issues along various roadways and intersections within the city.
• Reduce congestion along major roadways such as 11th Street, Sam Houston Avenue, and
Montgomery Road.
• Enhance mobility by providing a multi-modal transportation system for the residents of
Huntsville.
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• Enhance connectivity in and around the city and address Huntsville's development needs.
Focus on Transportation Safety
Over 6,000 crashes were recorded along Huntsville's roadways between 2015 and 2019 with 22 fatalities. High crash
locations included I-45, State Highway (SH) 30, and Sam Houston Avenue.
SAP 2. Focus on implementation of short to mid-term projects identified in the 2019 Transportation Master
Plan, and incorporated into the CIP. As many of the capital projects recommended are on TxDOT
maintained roadways, Huntsville has to be in constant coordination with TxDOT to undertake the
recommended projects. Currently, the following projects are being undertaken in a phased manner:
• TxDOT has scheduled the installation of overhead flashing beacons at the intersections of FM
2821 at Rosenwall Road, and Sam Houston Avenue at 22nd Street. This serves as an intermediate
step until the intersection volumes increase to warrant a traffic signal.
o The short-term signal coordination project is being undertaken in a phased manner and is
expected to be completed by TxDOT as a mid-term capital improvement project.
• TxDOT has also scheduled contract letting for intersection improvement projects on Southwood
Drive at SH 75 and SH 75 at Montgomery Road.
• The City is also undertaking a public-private partnership for a partial extension of American Legion
Drive to Jenkins Road.
2019 Transportation Master Plan Projects
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The following graphic compares the total estimated cost of all the projects recommended in the 2019
Transportation Master Plan, with the sum of funding secured thus far for the implementation of the projects.
SAP 3. Conduct pro-active preventative maintenance on streets and sidewalks and schedule targeted
reconstruction in locations with deteriorated street conditions.
• Prioritize street repair projects in a transparent way and incorporate into a formalized CIP. The
prioritization of street repairs should be based on a street condition inventory which uses
technology to determine the condition of sub-surfaces and surfaces.
SAP 4. Repair, replace, or install new sidewalks, crosswalks, and curb cuts in high pedestrian use areas
adjacent to, and leading to and from schools (including SHSU), public buildings, highly utilized parks
and other areas with the potential for high sidewalk usage, taking into account the sidewalk network
analysis and recommendations from the 2019 Transportation Master Plan.
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Sidewalks and Trails
In approaching sidewalks and trails, the first and foremost consideration should be pedestrian safety. A key for a
well-utilized sidewalk or trail is that users feel safe. Accessibility and routing are also important, and these issues are
often related as many pedestrians will consider safety as they choose their routes. Pedestrian facilities are required
by federal law to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and this must be considered in design.
Some of the greatest needs in the city for safe and effective pedestrian travel will require installing sidewalks or trails
on existing roadway corridors. Sometimes this involves filling “gaps” along a corridor to create a continuous
pedestrian facility. Other times an entire corridor needs treatment to allow safe and accessible pedestrian travel.
This includes both City-owned and TxDOT roadways.
Any roadway project within the city should consider
pedestrian facilities as part of the project’s scope.
Some existing corridors present a challenge to installing
sidewalks and pedestrian features, often due to right-of-way
constraints. Streets with open ditch drainage also present a
challenge because ditches may need to be filled and piped,
which can increase costs. Despite challenges in obtaining
funding and retrofitting corridors, these improvements can
have a positive effect in promoting safety and accessibility.
Photo: Downtown pedestrian improvements.
Programs and Initiatives
SAP 5. Evaluate the potential to launch a dedicated bike program to promote usage of bikes among the
residents and students in Huntsville. The bike program should focus on make bicycling safer by
planning and executing efficient biking solutions. The program should develop a long-term plan for
improving access to bicycling.
SAP 6. Encourage traffic demand management strategies to anticipate and mitigate traffic congestion. Traffic
demand management is the use of techniques and policies to reduce the need for use of the roadway
system, particularly by single-occupancy vehicles.
• Educate and encourage the public regarding available transportation choices, including
teleworking and carpooling.
• Encourage ride sharing among commuters. Identify the origin and destination of commuter traffic
and create a platform for ride-matching.
• Ensure adequate telecommunications infrastructure is in place (such as broadband internet) to
enable teleworking as a transportation alternative to commuting. See the Economic Opportunity
section for more information regarding broadband planning.
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SAP 7. Preserve traffic capacity by implementing access management and other Transportation Systems
Management (TSM) provisions in the city. For predominantly commercial corridors within the city,
consider the applicability and benefit of implementing access management improvements, such as
shared driveways.
• Additional TSM approaches may include signal improvements, special events management (such
as for SHSU athletic events or other high-traffic generating events), and data collection.
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Access Management Principles
With projected growth the need for access management will increase. The following principles should guide and direct
any future access management planning.
• Provide a Specialized Roadway System. Design and manage roadways according to the primary functions that
they are expected to serve.
• Limit Direct Access to State Highways and Other Major Roadways. Roadway operations can be improved by
achieving the proper balance between traffic flow and access to abutting property.
• Promote Intersection Hierarchy. Roadways with high functional classifications (such as highways and arterials)
should receive a higher application of access management techniques so that the roadway continues to
perform according to the primary traffic flow function it was designed to serve.
• Locate Signals to Favor Through Movements. Failure to carefully locate access connections or median openings
that may later become signalized can cause substantial increases in arterial travel times.
• Preserve the Functional Area of Intersections and Interchanges. Driveways located too close to intersections
or interchange ramps can cause serious traffic conflicts that impair the function of the affected facilities.
• Limit the Number of Driveways and Other Conflict Points. Simplifying the driving task by limiting the number
of conflict points a motorist is faced with contributes to improved traffic operations and fewer collisions.
• Separate Driveways and Other Conflict Points. Drivers need sufficient
time to address one potential set of conflicts before facing another.
Separating conflict areas helps to simplify the driving task and contributes
to improved traffic operations and safety.
• Remove Turning Vehicles from Through Traffic Lanes. Turning lanes
allow drivers to decelerate gradually out of the through lane and wait in
a protected area for an opportunity to complete a turn, thereby reducing
the severity and duration of conflict between turning vehicles and
through traffic.
• Use Non-Traversable Medians to Manage Left-Turn Movements.
Medians channel turning movements on major roadways to designated
locations. Non-traversable medians and other techniques that minimize
left-turns or reduce the driver workload can be especially effective in
improving roadway safety.
• Provide a Supporting Local Street System and On-Site Circulation
System. Interconnected local street systems and on-site circulation
systems provide alternative routes for bicyclists, pedestrians, and drivers
alike.
• Match Driveway Design with Operational and Safety Needs. Driveways accommodate a wide range of vehicle
types, traffic volumes, and vehicle turning speeds. Consequently, driveway design should be tailored to meet
the needs of the vehicles using the driveway.
• Coordinate Actively with Other Agencies Regarding Transportation and Land Use. To optimize the benefits of
access management, coordination and cooperation with all the appropriate transportation agencies is essential
when introducing design techniques along a roadway or preparing an Access Management Plan.
Source: FHWA
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SAP 8. Emphasize resiliency in future transportation network planning, including both redundancy in systems
as well as protection from potential hazards and threats.
• Continue discussions with TxDOT about the impact of evacuations from the Houston area on
Huntsville’s transportation network and any needed improvements.
• Work to expand the number of residents who are signed up to receive emergency alerts via
notification systems utilized by Huntsville and Walker County. Vulnerable residents, such as the
elderly, the mobility impaired, and residents lacking personal transportation, need special
evacuation and emergency planning attention, including potential coordination with Huntsville
ISD for use of buses.
SAP 9. Integrate the “Complete Streets” concept into local transportation planning and projects. This concept
recognizes that streets should be designed for use by all modes, where appropriate. Complete streets
can take the form of built projects and policies. Roadway projects should be planned to integrate all
modes through appropriate design and facilities for private vehicles, public transit vehicles,
pedestrians and cyclists.
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Complete Streets
In communities across the country, a movement is growing to “complete” the streets. States, cities, and towns are
requesting their planners and engineers build roads that are safer, more accessible, and easier for everyone to travel
on. In the process, they are creating better communities for people to live, play, work, and shop. Complete Streets
are streets for everyone. Pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and public transportation users of all ages and abilities
are able to safely move along and across a complete street.
According to the National Complete Streets Coalition, instituting a complete streets policy ensures that
transportation planners and engineers consistently design and operate the entire roadway with all users in mind –
including bicyclists, public transportation vehicles and riders, and pedestrians of all ages and abilities.
An ideal complete streets policy:
• Includes a vision for how and why the community wants to complete its streets;
• Specifies that "all users" includes pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit passengers of all ages and abilities, as well
as trucks, buses, and automobiles;
• Applies to both new and retrofit projects, including design, planning, maintenance, and operations, for the entire
right-of-way;
• Makes any exceptions specific and sets a clear procedure that requires high-level approval of exceptions;
• Encourages street connectivity and aims to create a comprehensive, integrated, connected network for all
modes;
• Is adoptable by all agencies to cover all roads;
• Directs the use of the latest and best design criteria and guidelines while recognizing the need for flexibility in
balancing user needs;
• Directs that complete streets solutions will complement the context of the community;
• Establishes performance standards with measurable outcomes; and
• Includes specific next steps for implementation of the policy.
Source: Smart Growth America, National Complete Streets Coalition. http://www.smartgrowthamerica.org/
SAP 10. Continue to plan for future transportation technology
advancements such as more widespread use of electric
vehicles, automated vehicles, and ride sharing. Photo:
Public electric vehicle charging station at SHSU Police
Headquarters.
Regulations and Standards
SAP 11. Ensure consistency between adopted design and
construction standards, the Comprehensive Plan, the
2019 Transportation Master Plan, and the Major
Thoroughfare Plan (TMP).
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 50
• Evaluate updating right-of-way (ROW) requirements and supporting cross-sections for roadway
classifications. Appendix 1 contains draft proposal cross-sections for each roadway classification,
as well as supporting documentation. The proposed cross-section and ROW standards represent
minimum design requirements per TxDOT's Roadway Design Manual. Further analysis and
discussion will be needed to finalize the cross-sections and ROW standards for each roadway
classification.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 51
Functional Roadway Classification
Traffic flows through a network of interdependent roadways, with each roadway segment moving traffic through the
system towards destinations. The concept of functional classification defines the role that a particular roadway
segment plays in serving this traffic flow through the network. Roadways are assigned to one of several possible
functional classifications within a hierarchy according to the character of travel service each roadway provides. The
functional classification adopted by the city of Huntsville is as follows:
1. Expressway/freeway
2. Primary Arterial
3. Secondary Arterial
4. Collector
5. Local Streets
The characteristics of each of the functional classifications are shown in the table below:
Source: 2007 Comprehensive Plan and Highway Functional Classification Concepts, Criteria and Procedures,
2013 Edition
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Existing Functional Roadway Classification (from 2019 TMP)
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 53
SAP 12. Evaluate whether existing parking regulations and standards are appropriately addressing parking
issues on major roadways and local streets, particularly around high traffic areas such as SHSU. Ensure
parking is restricted on any future bike lanes.
SAP 13. As new pedestrian and bicycle facilities are completed, utilize wayfinding signage that encapsulates
the uniqueness of Huntsville. Standards developed for the signage should adhere to federal and state
signage standards.
Partnerships and Coordination
SAP 14. Continue to monitor the potential for the development of high speed rail connecting Dallas/Fort
Worth with Houston, with a potential station west of Huntsville.
Proposed High Speed Rail
The proposed Texas Central rail line connecting Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston has a planned station in the Roans
Prairie area, around 25 miles west of Huntsville. If completed, the train will provide fast and efficient access to
both metropolitan areas south and north of Huntsville. This may result in increased commuter traffic between the
city and the train station. A possible shuttle service can be evaluated which provides the benefit of increasing the
resident population within the city limits without increasing the commuter traffic within the city.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 54
SAP 15. Continue active partnership and dialogue with the TxDOT Bryan District to ensure that TxDOT projects
and roadways reflect the City’s desires and needs. Of particular importance is the ongoing I-45
reconstruction and widening project.
• Advocate to advance state and regional funding for priority transportation projects. Much of the
capital investment required for Huntsville’s roadway projects may be funded through various
TxDOT funding programs such as:
o Highway Safety Improvement Program
o Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program
o Systemic Widening Program (SSWP)
Transportation Funding Programs
Highway Safety Improvement Program:
The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) is one of the largest funding programs for improving highway
safety across Texas. The program is federally funded and is administered by TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Division. For any
safety project selected under the program, the project will be eligible for 90 percent of the construction costs. The
City will have to coordinate with the TxDOT Bryan District to apply for funding under the program.
Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program:
The Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program is funded by TxDOT for construction of a variety of alternative
transportation projects. Potentially eligible projects include ADA/pedestrian infrastructure, on- and off-street
bikeways, shared use paths, infrastructure for access to public transportation, and access for non-motorized roadway
users, including safe routes to schools. This program provides an opportunity for the City to apply for funding for
installation and improvement of sidewalks, shared-use paths/trails, etc.
Systemic Widening Program:
TxDOT's Systemic Widening Program (SSWP) funds projects that help improve safety on rural 2-lane 2-way highways
that have a paved width of 24 feet or less and have an Average Daily Traffic of more than 400 vehicles per day.
Currently, the planned budget to fund SSWP projects is $15.5 million per year which can increase in the future years.
The City can explore this funding opportunity to complete eligible roadway widening projects which address safety
issues.
SAP 16. Actively work with TxDOT to prepare for the transition of traffic signals from TxDOT to Huntsville's
management, which will occur when Huntsville reaches the 50,000 population threshold.
• Partner with TxDOT to create an ad-hoc team for transfer of knowledge from TxDOT. The City will
have to recruit a maintenance crew knowledgeable in the operations of traffic signals and other
related equipment. Feedback mechanisms, such as a website and/or call line, should be set up to
receive any complaints regarding issues with the operation of traffic control devices. Successful
fulfillment of these responsibilities requires successful collaboration and partnership with TxDOT.
SAP 17. Explore public-private partnerships as a funding source for minor transportation projects within the
city. Projects such as minor roadway extensions, sidewalk extensions, installation of shared-use
paths/trails, upgrading signage and pavement markings, and other minor projects are potential
candidates for public-private partnership funding.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 55
SAP 18. Consider establishing and hosting a formal quarterly meeting of key transportation related officials to
facilitate better coordination of transportation planning goals and projects, including the Public Works
Department, Police and Fire Departments, TxDOT, the Huntsville Independent School District, and
Walker County.
SAP 19. Actively participate during regional transportation planning and funding processes to secure
transportation funding and advance projects of regional significance. Huntsville is located within the
13-county planning area of the Houston-Galveston Area Council of Governments (H-GAC), which
serves as the Metropolitan Planning Organization for transportation planning within the eight-county
region surrounding Houston. Note that while Huntsville is not currently in the planning area for H-
GAC’s transportation planning functions, H-GAC has periodically coordinated on transportation
planning projects with Huntsville, such as the current transit feasibility study.
More Targeted Planning/Study
SAP 20. Keep pedestrian and bicycle components of the 2019 Transportation Master Plan up to date. Continue
to examine potential improvements to promote safety and non-motorized mobility, as well as to
enhance pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, particularly to schools, parks, and other nodes of activity.
o Evaluate the potential for a pedestrian bridge across Sam Houston Avenue, as recommended by
the 2019 Transportation Master Plan, to enhance safety and efficiency in moving pedestrians
across Sam Houston Ave. A feasibility study should be undertaken to study the benefit-cost ratio
along with the practicality of constructing a pedestrian bridge across Sam Houston Ave between
17th St and Lake Rd.
SAP 21. Keep the Major Thoroughfare Plan up to date, following a similar update schedule to that of the
Comprehensive Plan. As noted below, it is recommended that the existing MTP be updated to remove
the future extension of 20th Street, after further coordination and evaluation of alternatives is
completed by the City.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 56
Major Thoroughfare Plan (MTP)
A major thoroughfare plan represents a vision for the region’s future transportation network. The MTP provides a
framework for the orderly development of the area as well as the transportation network while responding to the
present and future traffic needs of the community.
Uses
• Program and Project prioritization: Since resources to address the needs of transportation infrastructure and
mobility are constrained, the MTP helps in prioritizing expenditures and allocating resources.
• Preservation of Right-of-Way: The MTP acts as a guiding document to preserve right-of-way based on the
functional requirements of the roadway. Preserving the right-of-way provides an opportunity for the city to
undertake future roadway expansion, adding capacity and reducing congestion.
• Establish Design Standards: The MTP helps the city to develop geometric design standards for each functional
classification. The standards aid in the design of travel lanes, sidewalks, drainage, etc., based on the functional
classification of the roadways.
Relationship between the MTP and Future Land Use
The MTP has a significant effect and influence on future growth and development within the city. The MTP acts as a
guide for future development within the city. Any development activity should be considered when updating the
MTP.
Recommended Update to Major Thoroughfare Plan
The existing MTP was reviewed as a part of the Comprehensive Plan process. A review of the existing and future
roadway classifications in conjunction with the proposed Future Land Use Map revealed no major updates required
for the MTP. However, based on the input and discussion with the members of the Comprehensive Plan Advisory
Committee, a review was performed to see the rationality of the proposed extension of 20th Street to the I-45 North
Freeway Service Road. Based on the examination of existing conditions, feedback received from the CPAC, and the
limited potential for future development along 20th Street, the future extension of 20th Street is proposed to be
removed from the MTP.
Further coordination with the City of Huntsville will be required to update the 2019 MTP.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 57
Existing MTP (from 2019 Transportation Master Plan)
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 58
SAP 22. Continue implementation of the 2020 Airport Master Plan, including identifying grant and funding
opportunities.
SAP 23. Upon completion, review recommendations of H-GAC's transit feasibility study to determine what
type of transit service might be appropriate in Huntsville. The 2019 Transportation Master Plan
suggests a high-level transit plan that aims at catering to the needs of the students and other residents
of Huntsville by providing connectivity to the university, retail centers, health centers, etc.
SAP 24. Conduct Roadway Safety Audits to enhance safety along various roadways in Huntsville. Roadway
safety audits should be performed along roadway segments and at intersections that experience an
unusually high number of crashes. Performing such studies can be helpful in applying for funding
under the Highway Safety Improvement Program.
Roadway Safety Audits
A Roadway Safety Audit (RSA) is performed to examine safety issues resulting in a high number of crashes within the
study area. Performing an RSA along these high-crash corridors provides an opportunity to address the underlying
safety issues and reduce incapacitating injuries and fatalities. The map below shows the crash heat map for the crash
data recorded in Huntsville between 2015 and 2019.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 59
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
Introduction
The creation of new economic opportunities in Huntsville requires a combination of capitalizing on existing
strengths and industries, realizing the full potential of organizational partnerships, and pursuing capital
investments. New business creation and growth market assistance may carry inherent financial risk and
significant time expenditures by staff and partner agencies. This plan section highlights enhancements to
policies, direct financial assistance, and programming (e.g., branding, events, marketing, etc.) identified through
an assessment of Huntsville's existing conditions in the Existing City report.
The city is located between the Houston and Dallas/Fort Worth Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) and
Huntsville residents and businesses can access both cities within one to three hours. While this makes Huntsville
part of a broader regional economy, proximity to larger urban and suburban economic centers creates unique
circumstances that affect the city's regional competitiveness. The City of Huntsville can influence economic
development in several areas, whether involving infrastructure availability and capacity, the size and skills of
the local workforce, public improvements, "shovel ready" development sites and buildings, and development
approvals and processes.
Increased economic activity grows the City’s tax base,
allowing the City to provide the infrastructure and
services desired by residents and businesses. In turn,
the services, infrastructure, and amenities the City
provides are enticements that encourage further
economic growth. Well-constructed economic
development policies and incentives will provide City
government the greatest opportunity to influence the
quality, quantity, and timing of development. Such
policies will create the ability to shift some of the
financial cost of funding public improvements to
private sector partners and will afford the opportunity to ensure growth pays for itself.
Legacy of Past Planning
Previous Relevant Plans/Studies
Among various other topics, the Huntsville Horizon Comprehensive Plan of 2007 included goals, objectives, and
recommendations addressing Economic Development. In 2020, Huntsville adopted the Huntsville Economic
Development 2020-2023 Strategic Plan. Relevant themes from these documents included:
• Promote economic development opportunities in Huntsville by leveraging the presence of Sam Houston
State University (SHSU) and its enrollment growth;
• Encourage entrepreneurship and retain recent graduates/alumni;
Links to Other Plan Sections
• Growth Capacity
• Land Use and Development
• Mobility
• Housing and Neighborhoods
• Recreation and Amenities
• Implementation
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 60
• Leverage the presence of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to expand economic
development opportunities in Huntsville;
• Transform downtown Huntsville into a “university village”;
• Support the retention and expansion of existing businesses in Huntsville;
• Increase the number and diversity of housing opportunities in Huntsville;
• Promote the development of a business/industrial park to increase competitiveness in the recruitment of
new businesses;
• Support excellence in the school system; and
• Identify and promote the image of Huntsville as a tourist destination through marketing.
Accomplishments
The City of Huntsville, partner organizations, and local businesses have accomplished the following economic
opportunity related programs and initiatives to support the items stated above:
• Completion of the Airport Master Plan;
• Designation as a Main Street community by the Texas Historical Commission;
• Creation of the "Huntsville First" brand and downtown business marketing campaign;
• Promotion of downtown and local businesses through local events and programming (e.g., farmers market,
sip and shop, cars shows, Fair on the Square, Scare on the Square, etc.);
• Successful creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone along I-45 and eventual completion of all
development-related projects;
• Location of a portion of four Opportunity Zones within the city limits; and
• Response to COVID-19 with the Small Business Resource Grant.
Key Issues and Considerations
Through the Existing City and Plan Direction phases of this comprehensive planning effort, a set of six top
strategic items were identified based on input from the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, joint
workshops with City elected and appointed officials, results of varied public engagement activities, and
consultant team input. All six strategic items are relevant to the Economic Opportunity portion of the
Comprehensive Plan, along with the specific related issues under each:
• Pro-actively Preparing for Growth and Development.
o Identify areas of preferred growth, infill development, and revitalization, recognizing the limitations of
some land within the city and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) being “off-limits”/agency-owned land.
o Balance the maintenance of existing infrastructure with needs for new infrastructure to keep pace with
development.
• Enhancing Mobility and Access.
o As the I-45 expansion project through the city occurs, ensure project outcomes beneficial to
Huntsville.
o Continue to monitor the potential for high-speed rail and impacts to Huntsville.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 61
• Building Huntsville’s Economic Base.
o Diversify the area’s industry and employer base, also recognizing the changing nature of the office and
retail landscapes.
o Ensure infrastructure supports evolving employer, workforce and educational needs, including
fiber/high speed internet and other technology upgrades.
o Retain workers and talent in Huntsville, capturing a larger percentage of those who work in the area
but choose not to live in Huntsville.
o Improve city appearance and image, including the revitalization of older commercial properties.
o Enhance the positive image of the city by sharing Huntsville’s success stories, including those of key
community partners such as SHSU and the Huntsville Independent School District.
o Support, retain and recruit establishments to address desires for more leisure/entertainment activities
for residents, particularly youth and students.
o Bolster Huntsville’s tourism industry, focusing on elements where Huntsville can differentiate itself
from the competition, such as proximity to natural resources and extent of historic and cultural
amenities.
o Continue active involvement of residents, through community events such as Fair on the Square and
parades.
o Seek to improve the availability of quality healthcare options within Huntsville, including specialists.
• Making Housing Needs a Core Focus.
o Attract more residential development to increase housing supply and meet workforce needs, at
varying price points including housing that can make home ownership attainable for more residents.
• Expanding Recreational Opportunities.
o Evaluate the feasibility of new sports and recreational facilities, including those with the potential to
bring economic benefits by attracting tournaments or minor league sports teams.
o Enhance awareness of and access to the Huntsville area’s incredible natural resources, including the
Sam Houston National Forest and Huntsville State Park.
• New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities.
o Itemize mechanisms suitable to Huntsville for promoting economic development and facilitating
redevelopment.
o Continue emphasis on progress through partnerships (public/public, public/private, public/non-profit).
Economic Opportunity Goals
Goal EO1: An economically resilient business environment that supports the attraction, creation, retention, and
expansion of national, state, and local employers to create a robust tax base.
Goal EO2: Shopping and entertainment options that encourage area residents and employees to shop and live
in the community.
Goal EO3: Recognition of the essential role of housing in economic development and the need to have
an adequate supply and mix of housing for students and employees.
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Goal EO4: A continued focus on Huntsville’s existing economic assets, including the municipal airport, historic
downtown, cultural and recreational tourism, Huntsville Memorial Hospital, TDCJ headquarters, and SHSU.
Goal EO5: A business climate that encourages entrepreneurs and local business start-ups to serve potential
growth markets.
Strategic Action Priorities
Capital Investments
SAP 1. Coordinate future capital improvement projects and identify new projects that will most effectively
advance Huntsville's economic development agenda.
• Essential infrastructure improvements should be targeted in high-priority development and infill
areas, such as the existing Opportunity Zones, the I-45 corridor, parcels surrounding the airport,
and downtown.
• Create physical enhancements at Huntsville's primary gateways and along busy arterial
routes. Aesthetic enhancements may include:
o Architecturally pleasing entrance signage – particularly in coordination with planned I-45
enhancements – announcing that visitors and residents have entered Huntsville;
o Determine if additional wayfinding signage is necessary to help visitors find area attractions,
museums, parks, and shopping/entertainment districts from the highway;
o Landscaping enhancements; and
o Public art and permanent sculptures.
• Develop a plan and the physical infrastructure to link Huntsville's economic assets (e.g., hospital,
Huntsville State Park, City-owned parks, museum campuses, downtown, airport, and SHSU).
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Opportunity Zones
"The Opportunity Zone Program was created through the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017 and is a federal initiative
administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury. The program is designed to spur economic development and job
creation in distressed communities throughout the United States. The program offers incentives, in the form of capital
gains tax abatement, for those who invest eligible capital into Qualified Opportunity Zone assets. For more information,
visit the U.S. Treasury Department’s website.
On March 22, 2018, Governor Greg Abbott submitted the state’s Opportunity Zone designations to the U.S. Treasury
Department to encourage long-term investment in eligible Texas communities. Governor Abbott nominated 628
census tracts in 145 Texas counties as potential Opportunity Zones across the state's 5,265 census tracts."
Source: https://gov.texas.gov/business/page/opportunity-zones
Huntsville has a portion of four Opportunity Zones within its city limits.
Image source: https://www.huntsvilletx.gov/922/Opportunity-Zones-Map
SAP 2. Utilize vacant City-owned or SHSU buildings (alternatively, consider the purchase/lease of vacant
office space) to host a business accelerator program in conjunction with community partners.
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SAP 3. Consider the purchase of vacant, for-sale, land (potentially in combination with partner agencies,
SHSU, and the Huntsville Memorial Hospital) to create a business park with "shovel ready"
development sites. Any purchases should target for-sale properties and not utilize eminent
domain. Important site selection factors include:
• Access to I-45;
• Proximity to existing employment centers, the airport, area attractions, and downtown;
• Presence of existing assistance programs or funding such as location within Opportunity Zone;
and
• Land cost.
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Government-Owned Business Parks
Business parks consist of improved "shovel ready" development sites, typically zoned for light industrial and office
uses. In the context of a business park, shovel ready means that a development entity performs the land preparation
efforts, such as obtain necessary zoning approvals, utility installation, road construction, and site grading. Developers
often construct a speculative building space to kickstart interest from potential occupants. In turn, prospective
businesses receive the benefit of not having to invest their time and capital dealing with these initial steps/approvals.
Often commercial/industrial property developers decline to take on this role due to perceived or actual investment
obstacles. Real estate investors by nature are risk-averse and reluctant to "bet" on sites/markets with potential or
known high-risk factors and expected low financial returns, such as:
• Lack of interest from employers and businesses;
• Low residential growth rates;
• Environmental contamination;
• No or limited access to regional highways, utilities, and broadband internet;
• Workforce mismatches; or
• High-land costs.
When the market declines to take on these projects, government or quasi-government entities (e.g., economic
development corporations, regional economic development entities, development authorities, etc.) can step in to help
create business interest/physical space. Public assistance models range from financial incentivization to assuming the
developer's role in full from land acquisition to the construction of speculative building space.
Case Study
Hutto, TX, developed the Innovation Business Park in 2017. Partnering with a developer who acquired a 72-acre
property in Hutto's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), the City committed to annexing the site and constructing $5
million in capital improvements. Phase I of the Hutto Innovation Business Park has a planned full build-out of 800,000
square feet in six buildings and will provide needed speculative industrial space to attract job creators and
diversify Hutto's tax base. By the end of 2020, the first building was completed and partially leased, and the second
building was under construction. Buildings three and four were sold as build to suit lots directly to
businesses. (Building five shown below as "Building III" is a rendering for a third planned speculative building.)
Hutto Innovation Business Park
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 66
SAP 4. Similar to SAP 2 in the Housing and Neighborhoods section, consider adding a line item in the CIP for
high-speed internet provisions, including the acquisition of right-of-way, conduit for fiber optic cables,
and potentially the installation of these physical items. Providing access to high-speed internet
infrastructure will assist to attract certain target industries discussed later in this section.
Programs and Initiatives
SAP 5. Develop a local entrepreneur pipeline.
• Identify local growth markets and under-served business categories. Restaurants, entertainment
venues, and coffee shops were frequently cited during engagement activities.
• Actively recruit residents and new businesses to utilize the entrepreneur pipeline.
• Develop a referral "match-making" service for all business assistance resources to include: the
City's economic development staff, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SHSU,
mentors, Huntsville/Walker County Chamber of Commerce, tourism groups, lending institutions,
and local landlords. "Match-making" is the process of helping prospective businesses navigate
the local business climate and typically involve assisting prospective business owners with:
o Finding a location suitable for the business (e.g., appropriate zoning, right-sized space,
affordable rent, etc.)
o Navigating any land development and/or permit approvals required;
o Investigating any available assistance or grant programs; and
o Developing a marketing strategy once a new business is ready to open.
• Research the feasibility of developing one or more coworking spaces to recruit, train, and identify
local entrepreneurs.
• Determine if these shared workspaces are most appropriate to be run by private entities or by
local public agencies.
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• Continue to work with SHSU and the Huntsville Independent School District (HISD) to expand on
and develop entrepreneurial classes and new training programs related to identified target
industries or retail needs.
SAP 6. Encourage local entrepreneurs and regional businesses to serve the demand for increased
entertainment options.
• Create specialized incentives to help business owners convert vacant retail or office space into
entertainment uses.
• Utilize the specialized demographic studies (see SAP 18 under More Targeted Planning/Study) to
market Huntsville to regional and small market entertainment businesses.
• Research potential franchise entertainment businesses and match them with local
entrepreneurs that are interested in starting a business and having national brand name
recognition. Create financial or location assistance programs to help these new business owners
meet franchise business minimum requirements.
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The Evolving Shopping Environment
Approximately 25 years ago an online bookstore
named Amazon started in Jeff Bezos’ garage, the
proliferation of discount goods via “big-box”
stores began to disrupt the way consumers
priced goods, and the overall rise of the internet
predicted the need for a new type of commodity
- the “experience”. Fast forward to 2021 and the
experience economy has arrived.
While attributed to the millennial generation this
phenomenon has roots in the prevalence of
technology. Long work days, the integration of
social media as a primary source of interaction,
and the ability to simply click a button and have
a good arrive at your door all play a role in
current trends. Shoppers don’t need to go to
physical stores to obtain a good; however, the
desire to have an experience has driven some of
the new and popular trends such as:
• Craft breweries/tasting rooms;
• Axe throwing clubs;
• Escape rooms;
• Food trucks and niche dining experiences;
• Food halls; and
• Indoor skydiving facilities.
Local entrepreneurs may have the capacity and local knowledge to fill the need for increased entertainment options
in local shopping districts. Many of the uses listed above require a lower amount of initial capital investment and – if
catered to local interests – create a niche set of businesses that will attract more tourists and provide additional
reasons to spend the night in Huntsville.
“There are only three reasons why a consumer visits a store or a shopping center to purchase goods or services. They
come either because of convenience, value, or experience. In the 'Age of Amazon', convenience is no longer enough.
This leaves us with value or experience.” – Garrick Brown, Vice President, Retail Intelligence – Cushman Wakefield
Source: Cushman Wakefield, The Great Retail Reinvention Experience Matters.
SAP 7. Recruit nearby industries or area entrepreneurs to set up second or auxiliary extensions of their
businesses in downtown. (For example, work with nearby wineries to open second tasting rooms in
downtown.)
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Coworking Spaces
The term coworking space has evolved to encompass a variety of "shared" working space models. Examples include:
• Coworking;
• Food halls;
• Maker spaces;
• Incubators;
• Accelerators; and
• Farmers markets.
Food Halls
Food halls are spaces that provide multiple small kitchen setups
to vendors that are available for rent on a monthly or sometimes
weekly basis with a shared dining room. They operate similar to
a mall food court with one important distinction, the business
does not own the space/equipment they use to cook. This setup
is ideal to help young restaurateurs learn the basics of creating a
menu, cooking items to order, and in some cases managing
serving staff. This type of venue creates a logical tie-in to HISD's
Career and Technical Education (CTE) culinary arts program.
Source: Food Halls 3.0, Cushman and Wakefield
Traditional Coworking Space
Coworking is a service model that involves individuals working
independently or collaboratively in shared office spaces. The
typical user of a coworking facility is self-employed, a
telecommuter, or a freelance worker. Larger enterprises
sometimes use coworking facilities to provide office space when
they have more than the normal number of employees working
at any given time. These businesses may also offer perks such as
free coffee and networking events.
Source: https://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/coworking
Image Source: https://www.25ncoworking.com/locations/frisco-
tx/
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Coworking Spaces
Maker Space
A maker space is a collaborative workspace for making, learning,
exploring, and sharing that uses high-tech and low-tech tools.
These spaces may be open to youth, adults, and entrepreneurs
and have a variety of equipment including 3D printers, laser
cutters, computer numerical control (CNC) machines, soldering
irons, sewing machines, metal-working equipment, etc. The key
difference between a maker space and a coworking space is that
they provide equipment for tenants to "make" prototypes, test
products, and fine-tune these items before and after they are
pushed to market, as opposed to just providing a desk and WIFI.
Source: https://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/coworking
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Incubators and Accelerators
Business incubators and accelerators are geared toward speeding up the growth and success of startup and early-stage
companies. In addition to physical space offered at a coworking facility, they include more business assistance services,
such as mentoring, links to investors, and technological help. Huntsville should examine linking and potentially co-
locating all related business development and growth assistance partners into one incubator/accelerator space to
improve efficiencies and create a "one-stop-shop" for future business owners/entrepreneurs. If the City and partners
pursue a potential business park, as recommended in Economic Opportunity SAP 3, consider building a permanent
location for this type of facility within that business park. An accelerator located adjacent to leasable space will
encourage successful businesses to stay in Huntsville. Additionally, this close physical proximity may create synergies
between new entrepreneurs starting the accelerator program and potential mentors who have recently succeeded
and benefited from its existence.
Case Study
The Don Ryan Center for Innovation (DRCI) –
located in Bluffton, SC – was founded in 2012 as
a not-for-profit organization dedicated to
helping entrepreneurs succeed and innovative
companies grow. The center provides innovators
with space, resources, experienced guidance,
and contacts/mentors to assist with successful business launches and continued growth. This accelerator and
incubator space was an initiative spearheaded by the City of Bluffton and their partner economic development
agencies to deliberately develop local entrepreneurs into Bluffton businesses that create jobs in local identified target
industries.
The DRCI offers local businesses these services:
• Assistance in helping businesses prioritize,
reshape, communicate and maximize
governmental policies and programs in
preparing for the new normal of business;
• Convenient flex space in the heart of the
Bluffton business community;
• Business-building resources, including
marketing/PR/ branding support; and
• Pro bono assistance to help businesses
navigate through legal questions and
parameters facing businesses today.
Source: https://www.donryancenter.com/154/Don-Ryan-Center-for-Innovation
Regulations and Standards
SAP 8. Evaluate and update development regulations to encourage infill and revitalization of existing
commercial space and housing supply.
• A holistic approach to revitalization could include infrastructure rehabilitation, public services,
code enforcement, property maintenance assistance, rental property inspection and licensing,
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 72
commercial space to housing conversion programs, redevelopment and infill incentives, and
special district and financing tools to encourage redevelopment.
• Evaluate long-standing vacant properties/buildings to identify necessary code or zoning
designation changes based on frequent use requests, size/appropriateness of the property to the
uses contained in the underlying Development District, and this plan's Future Land Use Map.
SAP 9. Continue to utilize code enforcement to ensure proper maintenance of commercial properties.
SAP 10. Review signage and landscaping ordinances for commercial properties to ensure a high-quality
commercial environment is achieved.
SAP 11. Review existing land development regulations, policies, and business incentives to promote equity
and provide ample opportunity for all neighborhoods to have access to essential businesses and
services, such as grocery stores, financial lending institutions, and utilities.
Partnerships and Coordination
SAP 12. Develop benchmarks to measure the
effectiveness of economic development
initiatives.
• Benchmarks can include a variety of
measures. (Examples: new jobs
created, new sales taxes generated,
and new businesses started.)
SAP 13. Continue to focus efforts on revitalizing
downtown as a primary shopping, dining,
cultural, entertainment, and
entrepreneurial hub of the city.
• Leverage the Downtown Historic
Restoration and Improvements Grant
to assist with building renovations and
beautification efforts.
• Evaluate the potential for new
grant/financial assistance programs for
permanent signage, outdoor cafes,
awnings, etc. that increase business
visibility to visitors.
• Consider recruiting or locating one or
more types of coworking space
downtown (see the sidebar titled "Coworking Spaces").
• Utilize the "Huntsville First" brand narrative for all City-sponsored and partner agency branding
efforts.
SAP 14. Evolve the "Huntsville First" branding narrative to include promoting ongoing success stories of the
City and key partners, such as SHSU and HISD.
• Develop a tourism-specific sub-marketing campaign to attract local and regional visitors to
Huntsville's cultural and recreational leisure assets.
Beyond Traditional Benchmarks
Traditional economic development benchmarks
consist of easily quantifiable measures, such as:
1.Job creation;
2.Jobs retained;
3.Increases in sales tax revenue; and
4.Vacancy rates.
Typical benchmarks are valuable but do not reflect all of
the effort expended by communities to create or retain
economic activity.
Metrics that examine the amount of time and energy it
takes City staff and partner agencies to create and
implement new programs should become part of the
benchmarking process. For example, cities may
document how many staff hours are required to market,
connect, and attract new businesses. This type of
performance measure provides valuable insights into
which business attraction/retention activities are
yielding results or whether a program is in need of
revision.
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• Create "mini-brands" to inform residents and visitors about Huntsville's unique districts,
neighborhoods and activity centers (e.g., downtown, The Avenues, historic neighborhoods,
Huntsville State Park, SHSU, etc.). This will also help to create distinct identities for these unique
areas.
• Initiate an online shared community calendar that lists all events and activities in Huntsville.
SAP 15. Work with partner agencies to create an increased number of cultural and eco-tourism events
centered on Huntsville's history, SHSU, natural resources and local sporting events to add to the mix
of existing events and festivals. For example:
• Huntsville's history is tied to Sam Houston's life and the presence of TDCJ. The various Sam
Houston museums and artifacts and the Texas Prison Museum create interesting and niche
reasons to visit Huntsville.
• Events may be tied to education about the Huntsville area's natural resources, in
coordination with Huntsville State Park, to increase awareness and appreciation of the value
of conservation and natural resources.
SAP 16. Partner with medical institutions to determine any workforce challenges they may be experiencing to
reinforce Huntsville’s desire for continued strong medical and hospital presence, including specialists.
SAP 17. Add "micro-events" to the already impressive list of annual and monthly events and festivals hosted
by the City and partner organizations. These types of events should be more frequent – weekly or bi-
weekly – to constantly drive patrons to area attractions or shopping districts, such as restaurant
weeks, free live music and performances, and pop-up business events (e.g., food truck gatherings,
movies under the stars, and temporary in-store locations for new entrepreneurs testing out new
products or markets).
SAP 18. Examine the retail gap analysis included in this plan section to determine which retail and
entertainment categories will add variety and interest to the current mix of existing businesses.
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Micro-Event Example
The Downtown Business Alliance of St. Charles,
Illinois, organizes performances every Wednesday and
Friday from May to September of each
year. Performances range from live music to magic
shows. The business alliance maintains a list of artists
and arranges for them to play at a specific public place in
downtown St. Charles or inside a business. Acts agree
not to charge any money to the Alliance or venues in
exchange for a free showcase space and exposure to
potential future clients.
Source: https://www.stcalliance.org/stclive
This type of micro-event drives interest to downtown
with a constantly evolving mix of new and staple
entertainment acts. More importantly, patrons always
know that there will be a performance on Wednesday
and Friday nights.
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Retail Gap Analysis
A retail gap analysis examines how much money is being spent locally and compares this to how much money “should”
be spent locally based on the local population’s income. This analysis helps to:
• Uncover unmet demand and possible opportunities;
• Understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local market area; and
• Measure the difference between actual and potential retail sales.
The Gap
This retail gap is stated in two categories, “leakage” and “surplus.”
Retail Leakage
A positive number indicates a “leakage” and that money is being spent outside of the retail trade area boundary. It
suggests that there is unmet demand in the identified retail trade area and that there is an opportunity for local
businesses to capture more of this spending.
Retail Surplus
A negative number is called a “surplus” and means that more people are spending money in the area than just the
local population. Surpluses, depending on a local retail trade area’s market profile, may have multiple implications. It
may mean that a retail trade area is over-capacity for certain goods and services (e.g., there are more stores than the
trade area can support, and additional stores may struggle to survive). However, for specialty items (typically high-
cost items such as jewelry, automobiles, and boutique clothing stores) a surplus may indicate that a regional business
cluster exists and may support additional businesses despite more spending than the base local retail trade area
population "should" support. Other factors that might create a surplus are regional shopping centers, high amounts
of tourism, or convenient access from a nearby interstate.
Table: Huntsville Retail Gap Analysis, summarizes a high-level gap analysis of the Huntsville retail trade area (includes
the city of Huntsville and a 20-minute drive time from the City's corporate limits). The overall gap is further broken
down into North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) three-digit categories. Huntsville's retail trade
area indicates that there is a total surplus of (-$449,319,842). The overall retail surplus is not surprising given
the number of reasons to visit Huntsville (e.g., museums, students, and inmate visitors). This also confirms that
tourism and SHSU are drivers of retail activity and that continuing to focus efforts on creating attractive and active
entertainment options will help increase the number of visitors and business activity in the local market.
Upon closer review of individual business categories, the analysis reveals potential leakages in the following categories:
• Furniture and home furnishing stores;
• Electronics and appliance stores; and
• Clothing and clothing accessories stores.
The observed leakages in these categories indicate that shoppers are leaving Huntsville to purchase these goods or
services. Existing businesses that sell these goods or services and can cater to the area's clientele represent potential
growth opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
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Table: Huntsville Retail Gap Analysis
Huntsville Gap Analysis All NAICS Categories
NAICS Category Name NAICS Category Number Retail Gap Leakage/Surplus Factor
Total retail trade and food and drink 44-45,722 -$449,319,842 -32.2
Total retail trade 44-45 -$396,965,351 -31.7
Total food and drink 722 -$52,354,491 -36.1
Huntsville Gap Analysis NAICS Category Breakdown
NAICS Category Name NAICS Category Number Retail Gap Leakage/Surplus Factor
Motor vehicle and parts dealers 441 -$127,567,673 -40.3
Furniture and home furnishings stores 442 $2,541,057 9.8
Electronics and appliance stores 443 $4,861,539 19.0
Building materials, garden equipment, and supply stores 444 -$11,398,257 -17.7
Food and beverage stores 445 -$63,431,070 -29.0
Health and personal care stores 446 -$24,477,899 -33.0
Clothing and clothing accessories stores 448 $5,599,048 17.6
Sporting goods, hobby, book, and music stores 451 -$16,886,123 -37.3
General merchandise stores 452 -$14,798,345 -9.2
Miscellaneous store retailers 453 -$999,888 -2.9
Nonstore retailers 454 -$22,175,591 -62.9
Food services and drinking places 722 -$52,354,491 -36.1
More Targeted Planning/Study
SAP 19. Develop a detailed demographic report and methodology that identifies the population characteristics
of Huntsville's demographic subsets that are not always separated out by traditional reporting systems
to present to developers and business prospects.
• Focus on the characteristics of Huntsville's non-institutionalized residents (excluding the TDCJ
population).
• Investigate the spending patterns of SHSU students.
• Monitor daytime population demographics (e.g., median income, commute times, and where
employees currently reside).
• Discover the origins and destinations of Huntsville's tourists.
SAP 20. Examine the market for hotel space in downtown and near SHSU's campus.
SAP 21. Identify potential target industries by building on known industry clusters (public administration,
criminal justice, and education) and physical assets (I-45, the municipal airport, land values, existing
and planned infrastructure, and proximity to Houston and Dallas MSAs). Begin with analyzing
these foundational items:
• Expand on early results from this plan's location quotient and shift-share analyses (see below) to
determine specific business types that may consider locating in Huntsville.
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• Examine existing community assets – workforce skills, student population, and existing
degree and Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered by SHSU and HISD – and
determine which national and regional growth industries utilize these technical skills.
• Define a list of aspirational industry categories (e.g., data centers, robotics, web development,
etc.). Aspirational business sectors are not ones already located or highly likely to locate in
Huntsville on their own. In order to entice these industries, a determination of the necessary new
building spaces, workforce skills, infrastructure, partnership, and incentives are needed to
transform Huntsville into an attractive destination for these enterprises.
Potential Target Industries
Performing a target industry analysis will help identify the employment sectors that make logical sense to
"court" based upon existing concentrations of industry sectors, suppliers to existing businesses, or categories
the City and partners want to attract. Identifying target industries is a process that considers an area's strengths,
such as location, infrastructure, available workforce, housing, and existing industry clusters. Inherent
geographic weaknesses (e.g., lack of housing stock, high commuter ratios, etc.) should also be examined to
determine how to address these challenges. The following location quotient and shift share analyses lay a high-
level foundation to assist Huntsville leaders to determine which industry clusters already located in the city
should be examined for expansion, and sectors not found in high concentration that might be good fits for
attraction efforts. The information contained in the following tables creates a data foundation for local officials
and partners to embark on Economic Opportunity SAP 19 above.
Location Quotient
Location quotient ratios indicate when there is a higher concentration of an employment industry within a given
economy (Huntsville) as compared to a larger economy, such as the United States. If a local industry’s ratio is 1.0 or
higher, it suggests that this particular local economy has a competitive advantage related to these types of businesses.
Also, high location quotients can indicate that a local economy has a large workforce trained in these industries, which
can be used to promote industry clusters and complementary businesses. Table: Location Quotient Calculations
compares Huntsville's economy to the Dallas/Fort Worth Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), Houston MSA, and
United States economies.
In Huntsville, educational services and public administration show a high location quotient ratio. This attests to the
importance and jobs created through SHSU and TDCJ as well as the City and County governments. Public engagement
participants stated that these two employers are the major job creators in Huntsville. This analysis supports those
comments. The majority of other industries have a ratio of under 1.0, meaning they are not considered high
concentration employment sectors.
Huntsville's strategic location between both the Houston and Dallas MSAs metropolitan areas may provide an
advantage in industry categories that have high location quotient values as compared to the U.S. economy. One
example is in the transportation and warehousing category. Huntsville's property values combined with the I-45
expansion may provide an actionable advantage in the future for logistics and warehouse companies.
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Table: Location Quotient Calculations
NAICS Industry Category
LQ
Between
Huntsville
and Dallas/
Fort Worth
MSA
LQ Between
Huntsville
and
Houston
MSA
LQ Between
Huntsville
and the US
LQ
Between Houston
MSA and the US
LQ
Between Dallas/
Fort Worth MSA
and
the US
Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and
hunting 0.53 0.52 0.08 0.15 0.14
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas
extraction 0.15 0.03 0.22 7.70 1.51
Utilities 0.66 0.30 0.36 1.21 0.54
Construction 0.21 0.15 0.26 1.73 1.23
Manufacturing 0.15 0.15 0.15 1.03 1.04
Wholesale trade 0.12 0.11 0.19 1.70 1.64
Retail trade 0.71 0.72 0.79 1.09 1.11
Transportation and warehousing 0.02 0.02 0.03 1.32 1.57
Information 0.19 0.42 0.24 0.58 1.25
Finance and insurance 0.20 0.38 0.35 0.94 1.81
Real estate and rental and leasing 0.35 0.36 0.54 1.49 1.54
Professional, scientific, and technical
services 0.25 0.25 0.35 1.38 1.38
Management of companies and
enterprises 0.01 0.01 0.01 1.13 1.16
Administration and support, waste
management, and remediation 0.13 0.15 0.18 1.23 1.37
Educational services 9.51 7.90 1.64 0.21 0.17
Health care and social assistance 0.74 0.71 0.56 0.79 0.75
Arts, entertainment, and recreation 0.44 0.47 0.30 0.64 0.69
Accommodation and food services 0.72 0.70 0.72 1.03 1.00
Other services (excluding public
administration) 0.48 0.43 0.43 1.01 0.90
Public administration N/A* N/A* 10.92 0.00 0.00
Notes:
* No employment numbers reported for this category in the Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston MSAs.
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Shift Share
Shift share analyses compare a local economy's growth over a specified timeframe to the amount of growth in a larger
economy (U.S.) over the same period of time. This type of analysis is typically broken down into these calculations:
• National Growth for Industry – The national growth for the industry number shows the number of local jobs a
business category is expected to gain or lose based on that same category's national performance. Essentially,
how many local jobs were created or lost because of that industry's rise or decline nationally.
• Industrial Shift – This measurement provides insight as to whether an industry is growing or shrinking
nationwide. An industry with a negative industrial shift is declining may help a local economy identify if they are
reliant on a shrinking industry or where not to focus recruiting efforts.
• Competitive Share – A positive competitive share value indicates that a particular industry is growing faster
locally than the national economy and may indicate that the local economy has an industry-specific competitive
advantage. Negative competitive share values indicate that this local industry is losing jobs faster than the
national economy.
• Absolute Change – Absolute change illustrates the total number of jobs gained (positive number) or lost (negative
number) in the local economy during the time period used for the shift-share analysis.
A shift share analysis was performed for Huntsville with the results displayed below in Table: Shift Share
Analysis. The two time periods examined were total employment in 2008 compared to total employment in
2018. The competitive share value is the data point that is most insightful when performing this type of analysis. The
largest competitive share values determined for Huntsville were:
• Public administration sector (410);
• Retail trade (219); and
• Accommodation and food services (167).
The positive results in the public administration category are likely the result of the TDCJ's presence in Huntsville,
plus being the county seat along with staffing. Relatively high performance in the retail trade and accommodations
and food services sectors performance is the likely result of successful developments along I-45 (and the TIRZ district
used as a catalyst for this activity) and the attraction of new businesses to downtown.
The lowest negative values were found in:
• Education services (-671);
• Healthcare and social assistance (-604);
• Professional, scientific, and technical services (-209); and
• Construction (-143).
Given the presence of SHSU in the city, a negative shift share in the education services category was not
expected. However, the absolute change during this 10-year period was -237 which is relatively low given the total
amount of individuals employed locally in this industry. This data also includes HISD and any private schools,
daycares, or for-profit institutions. Given all these variables, this analysis indicates that total Huntsville jobs in this
industry should be monitored regularly, and given this category's high location quotient, considered a target
industry. Public engagement activity participants mentioned that Huntsville Memorial Hospital had recently gone
through some industry shifts which may explain the negative competitive Health Care and Social Assistance.
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Table: Shift Share
NAICS Industry Category National
Growth Industrial
Shift Competitive
Share Absolute
Change
Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting 19 -11 -51 -43
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction 4 -5 13 12
Utilities 24 -21 -26 -23
Construction 146 -117 -143 -114
Manufacturing 118 -133 -7 -22
Retail trade 589 -466 219 342
Transportation and warehousing 14 -4 -22 -12
Information 46 -41 -13 -8
Finance and insurance 88 -68 82 102
Real estate and rental and leasing 60 -45 11 26
Professional, scientific, and technical services 203 -44 -209 -50
Management of companies and enterprises 1 0 0 1
Administration & support, waste management,
and remediation 57 -20 84 120
Educational services 1308 -874 -671 -237
Health care and social assistance 662 4 -604 62
Arts, entertainment, and recreation 39 -11 -8 20
Accommodation and food services 408 -83 167 492
Other services (excluding public administration) 126 -105 -59 -39
Public administration 3171 -893 410 2688
Based on these preliminary analyses and public engagement activities, the City and its partners should consider
the following as new target industries or retention/expansion industries for further investigation before
deciding on specific target industries:
• Transportation and warehousing;
• Retail trade;
• Wholesale trade;
• Healthcare and social assistance;
• Information (specifically data warehouses, IT support, and cybersecurity companies or start-ups related to
SHSU's Master's degree program in Computer Forensics);
• Arts, entertainment, and recreation; and
• Accommodations (particularly to add hotels and bed and breakfast uses in the downtown area).
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HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS
Introduction
Huntsville's ability to attract and retain residents and Sam Houston State University students is inextricably tied
to the condition and availability of its housing stock. As Huntsville plans for the future, the quality, affordability,
and selection of housing options will impact how the city grows. An increased supply of housing may
allow Huntsville to capture a larger percentage of those who currently work in Huntsville but live elsewhere.
Challenges to the Huntsville housing market include
regional competition from nearby recent residential
construction (with new and updated amenities) in the
Conroe and The Woodlands and a relatively low
supply of new housing stock in Huntsville. Having a
diverse stock of housing, both of varying types and
price points, is instrumental in offering choice and
providing for the individual needs of all households,
regardless of economic status. In addition to tackling
the challenge of addressing future housing needs,
Huntsville must also work to sustain and enhance the
condition of existing housing and neighborhoods. The purpose of this plan section is to identify strategies to
ensure that Huntsville meets its existing and future housing needs through the provision of high-quality,
attainable, and diverse housing offerings within safe, livable, and attractive neighborhood environments.
Legacy of Past Planning
Previous Relevant Plans/Studies
Among various other topics, the Huntsville Horizon Comprehensive Plan of 2007 included goals, objectives,
and recommendations addressing Housing and Neighborhoods. Relevant themes included:
• Balance of new growth and careful redevelopment within Huntsville;
• Protect established neighborhoods in Huntsville to stabilize and reinvigorate older neighborhoods that
have experienced some decline;
• Broaden the range of housing types and price diversity to meet the affordability needs of the population;
and
• Use the City's development regulations to directly prevent and/or mitigate adverse impacts on the City's
natural features and assets.
Accomplishments
The City of Huntsville, partner organizations, and local businesses have accomplished the following housing and
neighborhood related programs and initiatives to support the items stated above:
Links to Other Plan Sections
• Growth Capacity
• Land Use and Development
• Mobility
• Economic Opportunity
• Recreation and Amenities
• Implementation
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 82
• Adopted new Huntsville Development Code (HDC) in 2015.
• Completion of the H-GAC Housing & Economic Development Case Study Huntsville, Texas: Harnessing
Huntsville’s Potential Report.
Key Issues and Considerations
Through the Existing City and Plan Direction phases of
this comprehensive planning effort, a set of six top
strategic items were identified based on input from
the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, joint
workshops with City elected and appointed officials,
results of varied public engagement activities, and
consultant team input. Four of the six strategic items
are most relevant to the Housing and Neighborhoods
portion of the Comprehensive Plan, along with the
specific related issues under each (follow the links
below to see all related issues for each category):
• Pro-actively Preparing for Growth and
Development.
o Balance the maintenance of existing
infrastructure with needs for new
infrastructure to keep pace with
development.
o As growth continues, review appropriate
land use and growth management tools to
ensure land use compatibility and properly
located and timed infrastructure.
o Maintain the elements that give Huntsville a
“small town feel” even while growing.
• Building Huntsville’s Economic Base.
o Support residents in need, seeking to
provide opportunities for all residents to
improve their quality of life, and recognizing
the importance of equitable development
and policies.
• Making Housing Needs a Core Focus.
o Revitalize and improve upkeep of older housing stock, including through code enforcement of derelict
or unsafe properties.
o Attract more residential development to increase housing supply and meet workforce needs, at
varying price points including housing that can make home ownership attainable for more residents.
o Maintain a diversity of housing types, including housing for students and for various life-cycle stages
of residents, in appropriate locations.
Housing Market Demand and Public Action
On the demand side of the housing market, any public
action must be aimed at making a home purchase viable
upfront and in the early years of ownership (e.g., down
payment assistance, property tax relief, utility assistance,
payment of homeowner association fees, etc.), especially
for first-time homebuyers.
Housing Market Supply and Public Action
In general, any potential public action must be aimed at
reducing upfront development costs while still ensuring
that expectations for quality dwellings, neighborhoods,
and amenities are not lowered. For municipal
governments themselves – or entities they establish to
engage and collaborate with the private real estate and
development communities (e.g., nonprofit development
corporations) – some options are "at arm's length" (e.g.,
tax or other financial incentives, cost-sharing
arrangements for utility infrastructure and/or streets,
etc.) while other strategies require very direct
involvement (e.g., land acquisition/assembly, direct
provision of street or utility infrastructure, neighborhood
park improvements, etc.). Some Texas cities have
extended the use of Public Improvement Districts (PIDs)
to new residential development, enabling private
development to deliver new, desirable housing units at a
lower price point. Establishment of a new Neighborhood
Empowerment Zone (NEZ) is another tool that can be
utilized to incentivize infill development.
Huntsville, TX | Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing Draft | Future City Report Page 83
o Manage the potential effects of rental activity in neighborhoods.
• New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities.
o Update the City’s development regulations and standards based on its new long-range plan.
o Maintain up-to-date master plans (for infrastructure, public facilities, airport, parks, etc.).
Housing and Neighborhoods Goals
Goal HN1: An increased housing supply within the city limits, capturing an increased amount of county and
regional growth within the city.
Goal HN2: A wider variety of housing types available within the city, including rental options and options
affordable across the income spectrum to meet the housing needs of residents, students, and local employees.
Goal HN3: Well-maintained existing housing stock, including multi-family complexes and single-family homes,
that provide safe and quality housing options.
Strategic Action Priorities
Capital Investments
SAP 1. Focus infrastructure improvements in the City's Capital Improvements Program near sites identified
as prime residential neighborhood development opportunities.
SAP 2. Consider adding a line item in the CIP for high-speed internet provisions, including the acquisition of
right-of-way, the conduit for fiber optic cables, and potentially the installation of these physical items
to supply new residential neighborhoods to promote "work from home" capabilities.
• Public engagement revealed that the decision of some employees who work but do not live in
Huntsville stems from the location of a spouse's employment outside of Huntsville. With the
increase in virtual workers, the City should position itself as a highly desirable "work from home"
community, where broadband internet is easily accessible.
• Once established, assist local employers to advertise this feature as a reason to work and live in
Huntsville.
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Embracing Remote Work – Has the Office Changed Forever?
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how people work
and these trends will most likely continue into the
foreseeable future. According to a recent study by
commercial real estate brokerage firm Cushman and
Wakefield, "To work remotely or in the office is not a
binary decision. Because people want flexibility and
choice, and because organizations will need to cater to
more dynamic uses of space, they will measure density
differently."
According to their most current research on work from
home trends, employees prefer a mix of work that takes
place in a physical office and remotely. The right mix will
vary by organizations and individuals. However, it is
reasonable to expect reaching an equilibrium where the
average employee works remotely approximately two
days a week.
Source: Cushman and Wakefield, Center for Real Estate and Urban Analysis; Workplace Ecosystems Of The Future
Implications for Huntsville
Remote work is a two-sided proposition for Huntsville's employment base. The potential to attract current and
future area employees to live in the City is increased as their spouses/significant others may be able to work at home
and forget their previous long commute concerns. However, current employers may decide to move to a hybrid
approach; therefore, making it easier for workers to commute long distances to Huntsville businesses. As Huntsville
plans housing and neighborhood improvement strategies, focus needs to remain on creating an environment that
appeals to visitors, employers, workers, and residents to ensure that Huntsville is providing an attractive, high-quality
place to live, work and raise a family.
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Programs and Initiatives
SAP 3. Develop a program to highlight successful neighborhood beautification efforts, such as a
beautification spot of the month program, potentially in collaboration with local community groups.
SAP 4. Increase code compliance education efforts geared toward homeowners, landlords, and property
owners focused on both resources available and legal responsibilities.
• Increase enforcement efforts of existing maintenance and nuisance codes and development
guidelines.
• Produce materials for homeowners detailing homeowner versus City maintenance
responsibilities. Materials should include resources available for those who may need assistance
in meeting their responsibilities.
• Enforce existing regulations through increased efforts to identify potential and existing issues and
solutions before issuing citations.
• Work with landlords of student rental housing to ensure they understand maintenance
responsibilities and that they are held to code compliance standards set by the City.
• Ensure homeowners, tenants, and landlords are aware of resources available through various
state and federal programs, such as weatherization programs to improve energy efficiency.
• Develop guidelines and brochures to assist homeowners in historic neighborhoods to understand
the value preserving historic neighborhoods and features brings to their properties and to
Huntsville.
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Property Revitalization
Revitalization of properties in Huntsville's existing
neighborhoods will be an ongoing focus. An example of a
successful City-led revitalization initiative is the City of The
Colony, Texas.
The Colony’s Volunteer Assistance Program seeks to
address the needs of residents who are unable to abate
property maintenance violations due to various hardships,
including age, disability, and finances. A coalition of
volunteers aids in the process.
A tool-lending program, called The Colony Cares,
complements the Volunteer Assistance Program. The tool-
lending program allows residents to checkout a variety of
common home improvement tools for use on their
property, free of charge. Most of the tools and equipment
used in the program were acquired through donations or
grants.
SAP 5. Evaluate, in coordination with not-for-profit, faith-based groups, SHSU, and Huntsville Independent
School District (HISD), the potential for the creation of volunteer programs to assist elderly residents,
or residents with limited means, with home repairs and property maintenance.
• Reach out to Huntsville Independent School District (HISD) officials to understand if students
enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) horticulture or construction programs are
able to offer assistance to residents for landscaping and home maintenance projects and track
how many homes these efforts help.
SAP 6. Continue to prioritize protection of established neighborhoods in Huntsville and stabilization and
reinvigoration of older neighborhoods.
• Coordinate with property owners and residents to identify and prioritize needed neighborhood
improvements funded through a targeted-area capital investment program.
• Promote redevelopment or compatible infill development that maintains neighborhood
character through incentive-based approaches such as permit streamlining and fee waivers.
• Assist residents of older areas with formation of official neighborhood organizations. Participation
in neighborhood improvement and revitalization efforts may also be initiated by churches,
schools and businesses through programs such as neighborhood clean-ups, home improvement,
and beautification.
SAP 7. Create a financial assistance program that targets existing home maintenance.
• Investigate zero percent interest deferred payment loans to help very-low and low-income
qualified residents perform structural, mechanical, and facia repairs to their homes.
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• Utilize the City's bulk-purchasing power to create incentives for local businesses to offer lower
rates to non-capable homeowners with regular maintenance, such as lawn mowing, tree and
shrub pruning, planting flowers, and weeding.
SAP 8. Develop first-time homebuyer financial assistance programs (e.g., down payment assistance, closing
cost grants, first-year property tax forbearance, etc.) to encourage recent college graduates employed
in local industries to purchase homes in the city.
SAP 9. Attract a wider range of residential developers to build within the city. There is currently a limited
number of developers that have pursued development of new housing within the city. Incentives may
be financial incentives (such as property tax abatements, fee waivers, public infrastructure funding,
etc.), use of Chapter 380/381 agreements, non-financial incentives (such as expedited development
reviews), or creation of special districts for financing infrastructure and other improvements.
• Guidelines for any new incentives should be created to clearly define the parameters and
outcomes.
• Incentives should prioritize development in areas already served by existing infrastructure or
planned for future utility expansion.
• Seek and arrange information meetings with a range of developers to provide them information
about Huntsville’s development process.
• Prepare information to make available on the City’s website, with specific information available
for prospective buyers/renters and for builders. The information should detail both the process
and provide prospective buyers/ renters with information on resources to find housing (whether
through local realtors, online listings, etc.)
• Coordinate with Geographic Information Services (GIS) to maintain a vacant properties inventory
and add City-owned parcels available for development.
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Build-to-Rent Single Family Homes
As the name implies, the build-to-rent housing model consists of constructing homes with the original intent to rent
them from the start. Two common examples of build-to-rent homes include:
Single-Family Rental Homes
Homes within this space are usually located within master
planned communities and have a suburban style theme to them.
These homes are generally developed in platted subdivisions at
less than 10 units an acre. Typically renters pay a premium of
about 5 percent to 20 percent per square foot compared to non-
professionally managed homes but may receive the benefits of
community amenities and front yard maintenance.
Image source: AHV Communities
Detached Single-Family Horizontal Apartment Complexes This
type of apartment model offers a high number of homes as well
as high density living. Typically, these complexes hold anywhere
between 90 to 200 units and are developed at more than 10 units
per acre over a single lot. Common plans include one, two, and
three-bedroom units ranging between 700 to 1,300 square feet.
Additionally, they may be branded as luxury apartments, with
attractive features such as pet-friendly spaces, optional garages,
community pools, and available recreation areas.
Image source: Christopher Todd Communities
Target Audience Build-to-rent homes play a large role in filling in a set of diverse housing options communities may
lack. Known as missing middle housing, and as defined by Opticos Design, they represent “a range of multi-unit or
clustered housing types, compatible in scale with detached single-family homes.” The target demographic primarily
consists of millennials, or those aged between 24 to 39 years, who may seek the benefits of a private, suburban lifestyle
but may not be able to afford housing ownership or want the commitments that come with it. As housing prices get
higher in some urban settings, and teleworking becomes a more common option, more millennials are choosing less
urban settings. This trend may also have been augmented due to the social and economic effects of COVID-19
Growth and Projections Currently, detached
one-unit rentals make up 12 million of the total
housing units available in the United States,
which is also about 27 percent of all rental
housing units. Built-for-rent homes represent
approximately 6 percent of all new single-family
homes and are expected to encompass about
700,000 new units within the next
decade. Source: 2018 American Community
Survey (Table S2504); RCLCO.
Although the build-to-rent practice is
significantly growing, according to RCLCO, this
number falls short as the growing demand for
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rentable homes continues to rise. Provided more firms and developers learn about the benefits of this practice, the
expansion of build-to-rent projects may meet demand within the following decade.
Notes and Links
Quotes on Data: According to the 2018 American Community Survey there were 12 million detached one-unit rentals
in the U.S., representing 27% of total occupied rental housing in the U.S.
Links to pictures:
1. https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/single-family-rental-communities-growing-popularity/
2. https://www.azcentral.com/story/money/real-estate/catherine-reagor/2017/12/24/tiny-apartment-complexes-
new-metro-phoenix-sparks-rental-trend/961893001/
3. https://www.rclco.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Figure-1.png
Regulations and Standards
SAP 10. Ensure development regulations allow a variety of housing types, including moderate density housing,
accessory dwelling units, and other forms of "missing middle" housing. These housing types can often
be developed more quickly and at lower cost than larger multifamily complexes.
SAP 11. Create mixed-use development guidelines, and potentially incentives, to clarify how and where the
City would like to see mixed-use developments occur.
SAP 12. Develop a new master-planned community overlay district that permits a range of housing types and
densities for residential developers to utilize while entitling large tracts of land. This new district
should:
• Permit and require a variety of housing types at different densities that appeal to existing
residents, area employees, and recent SHSU graduates; and
• Encourage a mix of for-sale and rental housing products.
SAP 13. Amend the Huntsville Development Code (HDC) to permit upper story apartment units in the
Downtown District to ensure that land/building owners can develop rental apartments above retail
stores.
SAP 14. Expand the Downtown District's footprint towards SHSU's campus to create a mix of shopping,
residential, and entertainment uses along University Avenue and Avenue J. Zoning this area into the
Downtown District will encourage redevelopment and physical links between these two cultural
centers.
SAP 15. Review development regulations to pinpoint potential ways to streamline the development process
and ensure that City permitting and approval processes do not unnecessarily hinder development and
promote a variety of housing types. Ensure the development process is easy to understand,
transparent, and results in desired outcomes.
• Update development, zoning, and subdivision regulations to ensure consistency with the
Comprehensive Plan.
• Conduct interviews, roundtable, or focus groups with home builders to get feedback on the City's
development process and learn what it would take for them to consider home development in
Huntsville.
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Partnership and Coordination
SAP 16. Discuss "gap" financing programs with local banks, financial institutions, and corporate employers to
assist eligible buyers to purchase homes within neighborhoods with declining market values.
SAP 17. Develop relationships with local and regional not-for-profit groups, such as Habitat for Humanity, to
increase the supply of attainable housing within Huntsville and address other needs of residents.
SAP 18. Continue an active partnership with SHSU to understand enrollment projections and potential student
housing needs, including projections for on-campus housing.
SAP 19. Work with Huntsville primary employers to develop employer-assisted housing programs that entice
employees of these organizations to choose Huntsville as their home in addition to their place of
employment.
• Develop a workforce housing task force and partner with local employers to better understand
what price points and housing types are desired by their employees (such as high amenity rental
housing, mid-range housing, executive-level housing, etc.), particularly for those employees who
currently work, but do not live, in Huntsville.
• Examine the potential to develop a workforce housing incentive policy to assist developers with
the infrastructure costs of new housing development.
• Investigate the feasibility of creating an Employer Assisted Workforce Housing program in which
area employers help employees with rent or down payment assistance to live and work in
Huntsville.
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Employer Assisted Housing
Employer Assisted Workforce Housing programs are an employee benefit that employers have been using to help
retain their workforce and provide affordable living solutions. At its core, this type of program is a direct financial
benefit available for a company's employees. Indirectly, the unavailability of quality housing or lack of desire for
employees to live close to the employer's physical location creates difficulties for employers to attract quality
employees. By offering housing benefits, employers are able to set themselves apart from their competitors, while
improving their competitive position.
In the City of Huntsville, this may also encourage new employees to live within its corporate limits as opposed to
commuting. Employer-assisted housing is not just for the employees. Employer-assisted housing programs help build
employee loyalty and increase productivity through improved morale, enhanced employee work/life balance, and
decreased absenteeism. Increased retention saves companies money by reducing costs associated with losing
employees such as lost revenue, productivity, and expenses related to hiring and training new employees.
Source: https://www.fels.upenn.edu/recap/posts/1570
Employer Assisted Housing Program Example: University of Chicago
The University of Chicago's Employer Assisted Housing Program showcases how this type of program is potentially
structured. Their program provides down payment assistance and has assisted more than 240 employees since the
program's inception in 2003. To qualify, applicants must be full-time employees of the University of Chicago and have
passed their probationary period. Applicants must be purchasing or renting a home within one of the nine
neighborhoods that surround the University's campus. The program has eligibility requirements that can be tailored
to any community's needs. The following chart (for illustrative purposes) details the eligibility requirements and
amount of assistance available to University of Chicago employees.
More Targeted Planning/Study
SAP 20. Conduct a Housing Action Plan to better understand the gaps and opportunities in the local and
regional housing market and what current and future market conditions can support.
• The study should pay particular attention to the housing needs of SHSU students and should
examine the types of housing that college students deem most desirable. Student preferences
should focus on these variables:
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o Price point;
o Physical types of housing (e.g., single-family, apartment buildings, university village, etc.);
o Location variables including on-campus vs. off-campus and proximity to downtown.
SAP 21. Conduct neighborhood-level plans for SHSU and downtown areas and examine the best way to create
a transition between these two cultural centers along University Avenue and Avenue J.
• Survey SHSU students – in partnership with SHSU – to gain a better understanding of which
neighborhoods students favor and how they commute to SHSU's campus and align housing and
zoning policies to ensure these neighborhoods are prepared to accommodate housing.
What is a Housing Action Plan
A Housing Action Plan (HAP) is a holistic approach to addressing
housing challenges within a city. As opposed to housing studies
that focus solely on one housing issue, such as affordability, an
HAP examines the full range of housing challenges in a
community, which are often interrelated.
Quality Neighborhood Design
As with economic development, where municipal government helps to ensure a positive and supportive
“business climate” for commercial and industrial investment, the City has an essential role in promoting
adequate and affordable housing development in quality neighborhood settings. The City’s development and
subdivision regulations help to ensure sound design practices, and the zoning regulations determine the range
of housing types that may be built in the community, and where and in what amounts. These are critical
functions given the proportion of developed land in Huntsville, as in most communities, that is devoted to
residential use.
Effective land use planning and management also balances the convenience of shopping and services in close
proximity to neighborhoods with the need to ensure compatible non-residential development near homes.
Capital investments by the City and others in infrastructure, public facilities, and parks and trails provide the
framework for private development to bring needed new dwellings to market. Furthermore, housing options
and value are a key ingredient for economic development success – and that success, in turn, drives further
housing demand, including for “move-up” homes when local income growth increases purchasing power and
lifestyle aspirations.
Contemporary subdivision design too often overlooks the time-honored elements of what makes a
neighborhood appealing and sustainable for the long term. Typical features of a quality neighborhood design
include:
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• Some focal point, whether a park or central green, school, community center, place of worship, or small-
scale commercial activity, that enlivens the neighborhood and provides a gathering place.
• Equal importance of pedestrian and vehicular circulation. Street design accommodates, but also calms,
necessary automobile traffic. Sidewalks along or away from streets, and/or a network of off-street trails,
provide for pedestrian and bicycle circulation (especially for school children) and promote interconnectivity
of adjacent neighborhoods.
• A variety of dwelling types to address a range of needs among potential residents (based on age, income
level, household size, etc.).
• Access to schools, recreation and daily conveniences within relatively close proximity to the neighborhood,
if not within or at its edges (such as along bordering major streets).
• An effective street layout that provides multiple paths to external destinations (and critical access for
emergency vehicles) while also discouraging non-local or cut-through traffic.
• Appealing streetscapes, whether achieved through street trees or other design elements, which “soften”
an otherwise intensive atmosphere and draw residents to enjoy common areas of their neighborhood. This
should include landscape designs consistent with local climate and vegetation.
• Compatibility of fringe or adjacent uses, or measures to buffer the neighborhood from incompatible
development.
• Evident definition of the neighborhood “unit” through recognizable identity and edges, without going so
far (through walls and other physical barriers) as to establish “fortress” neighborhoods.
• Set-aside of conservation areas, greenbelts or other open space as an amenity, to encourage leisure and
healthful living, and to contribute to neighborhood buffering and definition.
• Use of local streets for parking to reduce the lot area that must be devoted to driveways and garages, and
for the traffic calming benefits of on-street parking.
• Respect for historic sites and structures, and incorporation of such assets into neighborhood design.
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RECREATION AND AMENITIES
Introduction
This plan section emphasizes the essential
contribution that natural resources, parks, open
space and recreation facilities make to Huntsville’s
quality of life. Parks are integral parts of any city and
are often among the public services most valued by
residents and also enjoyed by visitors. Huntsville
offers a well-utilized variety of parks and recreation
facilities, in addition to its historic locations and
cultural assets. Huntsville State Park and Sam Houston
National Forest; in particular, represent the abundant
natural resources, which contribute to the City's
livability.
Legacy of Past Planning
Previous Relevant Plans/Studies
The Huntsville Horizon Plan 2025, Huntsville’s 2007 Comprehensive Plan, included the following still relevant
parks and recreation goals:
• A balanced and wide variety of public parks, recreational areas and open space in near proximity to all
residents;
• Conservation and public enjoyment of natural resources;
• Incremental development of a complete community trail network; and
• Coordinated and cooperative approaches to addressing the area’s recreational needs and environmental
conservation priorities.
Accomplishments
The City of Huntsville and partner organizations have accomplished the following recreation and amenities
related initiatives to support the items stated above:
• Completion of the 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plan;
• Feasibility study for the renovated Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center; and
• Identification of funding for a new skate park.
Links to Other Plan Sections
• Growth Capacity
• Land Use and Development
• Mobility
• Economic Opportunity
• Recreation and Amenities
• Implementation
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Key Issues and Considerations
Through the Existing City and Plan Direction phases of this comprehensive planning effort, a set of six top
strategic items were identified based on input from the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, joint
workshops with City elected and appointed officials, results of varied public engagement activities and
consultant team input. Four of the six strategic items are most relevant to the Recreation and Amenities portion
of the Comprehensive Plan, along with the specific related issues under each:
• Pro-actively Preparing for Growth and Development.
o Explore strategies for reducing wildfire and flooding risk and impacts, including development and site
design practices, vegetation management, storm water management, and multi-purpose open space.
• Building Huntsville’s Economic Base.
o Bolster Huntsville’s tourism industry, focusing on elements where Huntsville can differentiate itself
from the competition, such as proximity to natural resources and extent of historic and cultural
amenities.
• Expanding Recreational Opportunities.
o Enhance opportunities for residents of all ages, particularly youth, to have active and healthy lifestyles,
through provision of high quality recreational and park facilities and more options for safe pedestrian
and bicycle circulation.
o Evaluate the feasibility of new sports and recreational facilities, including those with the potential to
bring economic benefits by attracting tournaments or minor league sports teams.
o Enhance awareness of and access to the Huntsville area’s incredible natural resources, including the
Sam Houston National Forest and Huntsville State Park.
• New and Improved Implementation Tools to Advance Plan Priorities.
o Update the City’s development regulations and standards based on its new long-range plan.
o Maintain up-to-date master plans (for infrastructure, public facilities, airport, parks, etc.).
o Continue emphasis on progress through partnerships (public/public, public/private, public/non-profit).
Recreation and Amenities Goals
Goal RA1: Conservation of natural resources, including trees, environmentally sensitive areas, and future park
areas in planning for future growth and development.
Goal RA2: A park and recreation system that adds to the positive image of Huntsville, provides enjoyment to
residents, and attracts new visitors.
Goal RA3: A park and recreation system that promotes healthy and active living and is connected to the rest of
the community through safe multi-modal trails, sidewalks, and/or bicycle facilities.
Strategic Action Priorities
Capital Investments
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SAP 1. Continue implementation of the priority projects identified in the 2016 Parks and Recreation Master
Plan, identifying next steps for each project, any challenges to implementation, and any needed
updates to the project list.
• Priority projects identified in the 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plan include:
o Renovation of Kate Barr Ross Sports Complex;
o Construction of a multi-purpose recreation center at Eastham Thomason Park;
o Renovation of TH Ball “Josey” Park to include an additional adult softball field;
o Construction of a new Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center at Emancipation Park; and
o Development of a City-Wide Trail System.
New Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center at Emancipation Park
Design and renovation of an updated Recreation Center at Emancipation Park was one of the priority projects identified
in the 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. A feasibility study was concluded in December 2020 to examine potential
enhancements to the existing 1970s structure. Proposed renovations would nearly double the amount of space in the
center, add a multi-purpose classroom, teen room, conference rooms and event space. The approximate cost of the
project is $2.9 million. Image: Feasibility study rendering of proposed enhancements to the Recreation Center.
SAP 2. Identify upgrades and improvements desired by the community for enhancing existing parks. Expand
upon the range of amenities available, based upon the desires of residents for additional leisure and
recreational options, targeting improvements that meet the needs of varying age groups.
• This may include amenities such as free-standing outdoor exercise equipment for seniors, a spray
park, local art park, wildlife observation area, frisbee golf, additional fields for sports leagues or
other elements.
• Ensure safety within parks is integrated as a key improvement factor.
• Upon completion of new skate park in Eastham Thomason Park, monitor usage to determine
feasibility and need for additional skate park in Emancipation Park.
SAP 3. Evaluate potential to fund design and implementation of multi-modal improvements recommended
in 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plan and/or 2019 Transportation Master Plan. The 2016 Parks
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and Recreation Master Plan and the 2019 Transportation Master Plan both contain maps of proposed
sidewalk, trail, and bicycle networks, as well as identification of specific projects and early
implementation steps. These recommendations should proceed to the next step of design and
feasibility for priority projects.
Multi-Modal Recommendations
2016 Parks and Recreation Park Master Plan Multi-Modal Recommendations Include:
• 3-miles of bicycle lanes and 24.6 miles of multi-use trails;
• Multi-purpose trail west side of Veteran’s Memorial Parkway (concept image shown);
• Pedestrian connection/corridor enhancements linking Sam Houston State University (SHSU) to
downtown;
• Bicycle path along 20th Street towards Bowers Boulevard; and
• I-45 South Feeder Road multi-use trail to connect to the trailhead into national Forest (in coordination
with TxDOT).
2019 Transportation Master Plan Multi-Modal Recommendations Include:
• Upgrading existing sidewalks that are non-compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
requirements and have obstructions in the pedestrian path;
• Conduct extensive sidewalk inventory to upgrade sidewalks to ADA standards;
• Sam Houston Avenue pedestrian and bicycle improvements;
• Prioritize completing sidewalk gaps within the five and ten-minute walk sheds of schools; and
• Improve the existing pedestrian infrastructure (including crosswalks and curb ramps, with a particular
focus on intersections along Sam Houston Avenue with substandard conditions.
Programs and Initiatives
SAP 4. Evaluate future park needs and identify potential locations for regional-scale parks.
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• The Huntsville Parks with Service Areas
Map depicts the existing parks in the
city with quarter-mile and half-mile
radii around them, representing the
typical distances that people are willing
and able to walk to reach recreational
facilities. Additionally, the map shows
areas of the city that are lacking in park
space (areas not covered by service
area circles).
Future Park Needs
The 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plan noted that
the areas west of I-45 have fewer parks.
The plan notes that Huntsville, as of 2016, offers 6.70
acres per 1,000 residents (non-institutionalized
population).
If the population grows as projected by this plan, the level
of service will fall to 3.5 acres per 1,000 residents if no
additional park acreage is developed. Of note, existing
development regulations do require parkland dedication
so if the non-institutionalized population is increasing,
the amount of park space should also be increasing.
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Map – Huntsville Parks with Service Areas
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SAP 5. Develop a means to monitor, on an annual basis, parks and recreational facilities use. Reprogram parks
as needed to ensure continued and enhanced active and passive participation, seeking input on
programming desires from residents.
Health and Parks
Well-designed parks and trails can encourage and allow a safe place for exercise and community interaction and can
provide mental health benefits such as stress reduction. Tools such as Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) are used to
quantify and qualify the public health impacts of proposed policies, plans or development projects.
HIAs help communities assess the potential effects of a proposed policy, plan, program or project on community
health, including the distribution of benefits and costs within the community. HIAs recommend strategies for
monitoring and managing health and bring public health issues to decision makers outside of the public health field,
such as in transportation and land use. HIAs can be voluntary or regulatory processes that focus on health outcomes.
HIAs specific to parks and trails can be completed to evaluate how to maximize the positive impact of new park and
trail investments on public health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a Parks and Trails Health
Impact Assessment Toolkit available on its website.
Source: ULI - Intersections: Health and the Built Environment
SAP 6. Provide greater opportunities for individuals, including youth, families and seniors to participate in
cultural, recreational, and educational activities that foster health and wellness and strengthen body
and mind.
• Low-cost options can include facilitating events such as “Walk with a Doc” or Pop-Up Play Days in
the Park, which encourage people to utilize parks for social, wellness, and fitness activities.
• Continue popular parks and leisure programming, such as Dance Fitness, and identify any gaps in
residents served.
• Increase awareness of Huntsville parks and provide maps showing park areas and amenities.
SAP 7. Evaluate additional passive recreational enhancements for particular demographics that may not be
engaged in organized, team-oriented, active recreational programming, including young people not
involved in team sports, adults, and elderly citizens. Depending on the desires of residents, this can
include low-cost options such as providing community meeting space for knitting circles.
SAP 8. Develop a park volunteer/stewardship program or Adopt-A-Park program. Build upon Huntsville’s
strong volunteerism spirit to create a pool of volunteers to aid in park clean-ups, plantings, general
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maintenance and potential fundraising opportunities. In addition to individual volunteer recruitment,
solicit the involvement of neighborhoods and local organizations to create shared stewardship.
• Develop formalized standards for park maintenance and improvement activities (such as where
picked up trash is to be disposed, what plants to use in plantings, how far apart plants should be
spaced when planting, etc.). It is also advisable that each adopting organization agree to an initial
one-year trial basis, with an evaluation before extending their program.
SAP 9. Utilize low-maintenance, drought tolerant and fire-resistant plant materials that are native to Texas
and the region for all supplemental park land enhancements.
• Identify local growers of native Texas trees, shrubs, groundcovers and ornamental grasses.
• Develop annual targets for replacements and new plantings throughout the city.
SAP 10. Encourage and incentivize community gardens, local food production, and the sale of nutritious items
in neighborhood retail groceries, to promote healthy food consumption.
• The success of community gardens often depends on the buy-in of nearby residents. Any new
community gardens should ensure that active communication and support from residents exists.
• Partnerships with local schools to provide hands-on educational experience to children should be
investigated for new community gardens.
• Ensure any community gardens are right-sized to encourage proper ongoing maintenance.
Photo: BearKat Community Garden.
SAP 11. Work to improve off-site accessibility to each park by developing a sidewalk improvement program to
repair, replace, or install new sidewalks, crosswalks and curb cuts in high pedestrian use
neighborhoods immediately surrounding parks, schools, and other community facilities. Photo: Forest
Hills Park.
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SAP 12. Improve on-site accessibility for persons with physical disabilities, the elderly, and people with
strollers, among others, so that one can travel from off-site (e.g., neighborhoods or parking lots) into
and through parks to their amenities. Photo: Josey Ball Park.
• Ensure that ADA-compliant handicapped accessible ramps, play structures, and equipment are
incorporated into parks in Huntsville.
• As new playground equipment becomes needed in parks, consider inclusive playground
equipment that is accessible to children with a variety of physical and sensory needs and abilities.
• The Huntsville Junior League is currently undertaking a playground upgrade project at Kate Barr
Ross Memorial Park to include inclusive sensory equipment.
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Dream Park Fort Worth
The Dream Park in Fort Worth opened in April 2019 as one of the largest all-inclusive playgrounds in the nation. The
playground is designed above and beyond ADA requirements to provide a place for children of all abilities to play.
Regulations and Standards
SAP 13. Evaluate the possibility of allowing parkland fee-in-lieu as an additional option to the existing land
dedication requirement for new developments, to allow for the creation of larger-scale parks.
• Ensure the parkland dedication requirements establish the legal authority to allow the City the
ability to devote more funding, and a higher priority, to develop community-scale parks so that
the City has the opportunity to invest in larger parks that benefit a larger service area. To ensure
that residents receive the benefits of dedicated parkland, establish parkland dedication “zones”
within which fees-in-lieu of parkland dedication can be expended.
• Include provisions and some degree of surety that will require an implementation timetable for
the installation of parks to ensure that developers follow-through in their construction in a timely
matter (i.e., certificate of occupancy may be deemed temporary until the park is determined to
be sufficiently implemented).
SAP 14. Identify additional tree preservation options to ensure that city canopy contributing trees situated on
public or private properties, along streets and/or are of a significant caliper are maintained as
development (new and infill) occurs (beyond those currently provided in Article 7 Landscaping and
Buffers).
• Expand resource protection standards within the Development Code to preserve stands of
existing vegetation.
• Adopt street repair and improvement specifications that, to the maximum extent practicable, will
not disrupt the drip line of existing trees, including provisions for protective construction fencing,
limitations on grade changes, and prohibition of storing or dumping materials.
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SAP 15. Incorporate into the City’s development standards additional provisions for the protection of natural
resources.
• For properties that have sensitive resources, a density bonus may be given to transfer
development density to a less vulnerable area of the property, utilizing conservation development
practices.
• The City should establish clear criteria for land dedications to avoid problematic, impractical sites
with limited value for public use.
• Pursue open space preservation within adjacent development, dedication of conservation
easements or fee simple acquisition of land near valued creeks and water bodies.
• The provisions should also require dedication of public access easements along natural features
and linear greenways to promote recreational opportunities and to enable new developments to
comply with parkland dedication requirements.
SAP 16. Utilize development regulations and coordination to ensure that new development links
neighborhoods and parks with schools and commercial centers.
• Evaluate the potential to establish requirements within the Huntsville Development Code and
development design standards for the dedication of easements or rights-of-way for trail network
development.
Partnerships and Coordination
SAP 17. Continue coordination with Huntsville Independent School District and SHSU on the use of sports
fields and recreational facilities, identifying additional opportunities for leveraging resources.
SAP 18. Maintain partnerships and communication with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and U.S.
Forest Service to determine mutual ways to ensure the effective long-term management and
conservation of Huntsville State Park and Sam Houston National Forest.
• Potential off-road trail linkages between the community
and these regional recreational assets should be explored
cooperatively, as this could incorporate bicycle rental
concessions and other tourist-oriented services,
interpretive signage and historical monuments and
conservation initiatives along and near such trail
segments.
SAP 19. In coordination with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
and U.S. Forest Service, seek to boost visitation, awareness
and accessibility of Huntsville State Park and the Sam Houston
National Forest, to promote economic development, eco-
tourism and environmental education.
• Coordinate walking tours or field trips for various groups
such as seniors or youth.
• Promote awareness of Huntsville State Park among SHSU
students.
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• Solicit corporate sponsorship for family or student memberships to the State Park to off-set
visitation costs, which were identified as a barrier during Comprehensive Plan engagement.
• Pursue educational initiatives related to local natural resources, such as identifying
plaques/signage identifying local fauna and ecosystems and their importance.
SAP 20. Coordinate with public and private entities to provide access to and across their easements and/or
rights-of-way for any new trails.
• The City’s Parks and Leisure Department should work with the City’s Public Works and
Development Services Departments, homeowners’ associations and other neighborhood groups
to identify unimproved land that may be appropriate for trails or other open space.
SAP 21. Ensure on-street bicycle facilities, off-street recreational trails, and complete streets-related
improvements are considered within any future TxDOT improvements for TxDOT roadways.
• Continue to identify potential grant or other funding sources for trail and pedestrian/bicycle
related transportation improvements.
• Partnerships for funding applications and projects, such as recent efforts between City
engineering staff and Texas Parks and Wildlife to help connect trail systems and create new trail
opportunities should continue.
SAP 22. Continue to support existing recreation and leisure programs offered by the City, non-profits, and
other local partners.
More Targeted Planning/Study
SAP 23. Update the 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The plan recommends five-year updates to
maintain eligibility to apply for Local Parks Grants funding. The plan is currently at the five-year mark
(2021).
• The plan update should include an assessment of progress toward implementing items identified
in the 2016 plan.
Economic Development Potential of Sports Tourism
Youth sports tourism is a recent trend in youth sports, where families will travel and spend time at a destination,
often overnight, as part of an athletic themed tournament. A 2017 study by WinterGreen Research found 55 percent
growth in the industry since 2010, making youth sports tourism a $15.3 billion industry as of 2017, with visitors
spending an average of $250 per day. While sports facilities of the caliber to attract tournaments can bring needed
revitalization, they can also be expensive to build and maintain.
SAP 24. Conduct a feasibility study to determine the potential economic impact (cost and benefit) of the
development of new sports complex facilities, or upgrades to existing facilities at Kate Barr Ross, with
the necessary amenities to attract tournaments.
• The feasibility study should, at a minimum, contain the following components:
o Examine not only the breadth of the sports facilities needed to attract and support
tournaments (including parking), but also the tourist infrastructure, such as hotels,
restaurants and other attractions.
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o Explore existing regional market competition of area sports facilities, the potential demand
for programming and tournaments, and where the population served may come from.
o Determine what sports the facility would serve based on the desires and needs of existing
residents and the potential to draw visitors. The complex should also focus on local
community benefits, not solely on tourist attraction.
o Review case studies of other Texas cities that have gone down this path to see what lessons
have been learned.
o Perform input-output modeling to determine direct spending, total economic impact, and the
potential number of out-of-town visitors.
o Estimate facility costs (new or renovations of existing), annual operating and maintenance
expenses, and marketing/advertising costs to draw tournaments. Economic impacts should
distinguish between general recreation impacts and tournaments specifically.
o Examine the staffing needed to support a sports complex, including ongoing marketing and
coordination of tournament bookings. Consider forming a sports committee within the
Chamber of Commerce upon completion of the feasibility study.
Sports Tourism Case Study: Round Rock, Texas
The City of Round Rock is located in central Texas, north of the City of Austin. Round Rock markets itself as the “Sports
Capital of Texas” and sports tourism is a central component of its long-range tourism plan. The City has a Sports
Management and Tourism Department that programs, schedules, markets and maintains the City’s sports facilities.
The City has invested heavily in making Round Rock a sports tourism destination. Facilities include:
Round Rock Sports Center: Opened in 2014. Total of 82,800 square feet of indoor space and capacity for over
3,000 people. The facility cost $14.9 million.
Round Rock Multipurpose Complex: Opened in 2017. Includes ten multipurpose fields.
Dell Diamond: Home of minor league team for the Texas Rangers.
Local residents use the facilities for 50 percent of bookings, and hosting tournaments constitutes 26 percent of the
facility usage. The Sports Center was primarily financed through hotel occupancy taxes (HOT). The multi-purpose
complex was funded one-third by HOT revenue. The minor league baseball complex (Dell Diamond), was funded by a
taxpayer approved bond. Operating costs of the facilities are paid completely by HOT revenue.
Total direct employment in Round Rock for the travel industry in 2017 was 3,250 jobs and $114 million in total direct
earnings.
Round Rock documented $319 million in total direct spending to the city for international and domestic travel in
2017. State and local tax revenue generated directly by travel spending was $29 million the same year.
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IMPLEMENTATION
The Comprehensive Plan provides the City of Huntsville and other partner agencies and organizations an
essential document that should be frequently referred to for guidance in community decision-making. The plan
should be a “living document” that is responsive to ongoing change. Its key planning considerations, goals,
policies, and action strategies must also be revisited periodically to ensure that the plan is providing clear and
reliable direction on a range of matters, including land development issues and public investments in
infrastructure and services.
Why this Final Plan Section is Important for Huntsville
• Emphasizes the importance of not only creating a plan, but translating it into real action and tangible, beneficial
results.
• Adds a shorter-term strategic perspective to what is otherwise intended as a guide to Huntsville’s long-term
enhancement over the next 20 years.
• Includes a list of priority actions for the City and other plan implementation partners to focus on during the next
several years after plan adoption.
• Underscores the need to keep the plan fresh and relevant through annual review and reporting procedures and
periodic updates.
• Advocates ongoing community engagement as the plan is implemented.
Implementation is not just about a list of action items. It is a challenging process that requires the commitment
of the City’s elected and appointed officials, staff, residents, business owners, major institutions, other levels of
government, and other organizations and individuals who will serve as champions of the plan and its particular
direction and strategies. Among its purposes, this final plan section highlights specific roles, responsibilities, and
methods of implementation to execute priority plan recommendations. Equally important are formalized
procedures for the ongoing monitoring and reporting of successes achieved, difficulties encountered, and new
opportunities and challenges that have emerged since plan adoption. This is in addition to any other change in
circumstances, which may require a rethinking of plan priorities. Scheduled plan evaluations and updates, as
described later in this section, will help maintain its relevance and credibility as an overarching policy and action
guide.
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Planning for the 50,000 Population Threshold
Once a city's population reaches 50,000 or higher it may be designated an “urbanized area.” Designation as an
urbanized area typically occurs after the official decennial Census population numbers are released. Currently, some
federal and state agencies use this urbanized area classification to allocate program funds and set program
standards. Huntsville's population was 42,241 as of 2019 and is expected to surpass the 50,000 population mark by
2035. Population projections completed for the Comprehensive Plan indicate a population of 51,138 in 2035 and
54,231 by 2040. Discussions and feedback during the Comprehensive Plan process indicated that some believe
Huntsville may grow at an even faster rate. Given these variables, Huntsville should start planning for reaching the
50,000 population threshold sooner rather than later.
It should be noted that as part of the 2020 Census, the U.S. Census Bureau proposed changes to the process and
criteria for the designation of urbanized areas. As of June 2021, these proposed changes had not been adopted. As
currently proposed, the 50,000 population criteria for urbanized areas may be eliminated. This does not mean that
federal agencies and programs that utilize the 50,000 population criteria will also make such a change. Huntsville
should monitor the outcome of the proposed criteria change process and any resulting changes to federal and state
program criteria and funding.
Responsibilities
One of the primary responsibilities a local government currently assumes when exceeding 50,000 population is the
operation of traffic signals within the city not already owned by the City. Previously handled by the Texas
Department of Transportation (TxDOT), this responsibility includes installation, operation and maintenance
of all traffic signals. Exceptions include when roadways intersect with the state highway system, in which case
TxDOT handles these duties. Urbanized areas are also encouraged to have local police agencies respond
to traffic incidents on interstate highways falling in their jurisdiction.
In addition to traffic signal responsibilities, urbanized areas that operate small municipal separate storm sewer
systems are also subject to certain Phase II Storm Water Program regulations administered by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the federal Clean Water Act.
Once a city reaches the 50,000 population threshold, it may also become eligible for a variety of grants. For example,
metropolitan cities with populations of at least 50,000 are eligible grantees for the Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) Entitlement Program. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) distributes its funding authorizations
according to three population-based formulas, through which areas between 50,000 and 200,000 population receive
just under eight percent of total funds.
Potential Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) to Join
Due to its close proximity to two established MPOs, Huntsville should initiate discussions with both the Bryan-College
Station MPO that extends across most of Brazos County and the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) that
encompasses eight counties in the Houston region to determine the process, desire, and benefits of potential
membership in the respective MPOs. Currently, Huntsville is part of H-GAC’s Council of Government service area in a
13-county region that includes Walker County, but not part of its 8-county MPO service area that extends north only
to Montgomery County.
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Implementation
During the development of this plan, representatives of government, business, community groups, and others
came together to inform the planning process. These community leaders – and new ones that will emerge over
the horizon of this plan – must maintain their commitment to the ongoing implementation and updating of the
plan’s goals, policies, and action strategies.
Education
Long-range plans such as the Comprehensive Plan are relatively general in nature, but they are still complex
policy documents that account for interrelationships among various policy choices. As such, educating decision-
makers and administrators about plan implementation is an important first step after plan adoption. As the
principal groups that will implement the plan, City department heads, the City Council and Planning Commission
should all be “on the same page” with regard to priorities, responsibilities, and interpretations.
Consequently, an education initiative should be undertaken immediately after plan adoption, which can include:
• A discussion of the individual roles and responsibilities of the Council, Planning Commission (and other
advisory bodies), City departments and individual staff members;
• A thorough overview of the entire Comprehensive Plan, with emphasis on the parts of the plan that relate
to each individual group;
• Implementation tasking and priority setting, which should lead to the establishment of a one‑year and
three-year implementation agenda; and
• An in-depth question and answer session, with support from the City Attorney and other key staff.
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Types of Implementation Actions
Capital Projects
The City of Huntsville currently utilizes a multi-year Capital Improvements Program, or “CIP,” to
identify and budget for “big ticket” projects, especially those that must be phased and/or
coordinated with other initiatives. Continued utilization and formalization of the CIP is one of the
recommended Strategic Action Priorities of this plan. A Capital Improvements Program may
include: street infrastructure; water, wastewater, and drainage improvements; parks, trails, and
recreation facility construction and upgrades; and, construction and renovation of public buildings.
Anticipating and adequately budgeting for major capital projects will be essential to implementing this plan. Likewise,
decisions regarding the prioritization of proposed capital improvements should reflect the direction and priorities of
this plan.
Programs and Initiatives
Programs involve the routine activities of City departments and staff, as well as special projects
and initiatives they may undertake. As part of plan implementation, this may include initiating new
or adjusting existing City programs and activities, expanding community outreach efforts, or
providing specialized training to accomplish a priority objective more promptly and/or effectively.
Regulations and Standards
In Huntsville, zoning and subdivision regulations and associated development criteria and technical
engineering standards are the basic keys to ensuring that the form, character, and quality of
development reflect the City’s planning objectives. These codes should advance the community’s
desire for quality development outcomes while recognizing economic factors. They should not
delay or interfere unnecessarily with appropriate new development or redevelopment that is
consistent with plan principles and directives.
Partnerships and Coordination
Some community initiatives identified in this plan cannot be accomplished by Huntsville on its own.
This is particularly salient in Huntsville given the level of public and institutional partners with
projects and property within the city, including Sam Houston State University, Texas Department
of Criminal Justice, Walker County and TxDOT, among others. Some initiatives may require direct
coordination, intergovernmental agreements, or funding support from other public entities or
levels of government. Additionally, the unique role of potential private and non-profit partners to
advance the community’s action agenda should not be underestimated. This may occur through cooperative efforts,
volunteer activities, and in-kind services (which can count toward the local match requirements for various grant
opportunities), and from public/private financing of community improvements.
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More Targeted Planning/Study
Various areas of City governance require more detailed study and planning, especially as required
to qualify for external funding opportunities. These studies involve targeted planning work at a
“finer grain” level of detail than is appropriate for long-range planning purposes (e.g., utility
infrastructure master plans, public facility needs assessments, neighborhood-level or corridor-
focused plans, etc.). As such, some parts of this plan will be implemented only after some additional
planning or special study to clarify next steps and associated costs and considerations.
Definition of Roles
As the community’s elected officials, the City Council should assume the lead role in the implementation of this
plan. The key responsibilities of the City Council are to decide and establish priorities, set timeframes by which
actions will be initiated and completed, and determine the budget to be made available for implementation
efforts. In conjunction with the City Manager, Council members must also help to ensure effective coordination
among the various groups that are responsible for carrying out the plan’s action strategies.
City Council
The City Council should take the lead in the following general areas:
• Adopting and amending the plan, after recommendation by the Planning Commission.
• Acting as a “champion” of the plan.
• Establishing the overall implementation priorities and timeframes by which action strategies in the plan
will be initiated and completed.
• Considering and approving the funding commitments that will be required.
• Adopting new or amended land development regulations to implement the plan.
• Approving intergovernmental and development agreements that implement the plan.
• Offering final approval of projects and activities and their associated costs during the City’s annual budget
process, keeping in mind the need for consistency with the plan and its policies.
• Providing policy direction to the Planning Commission, other appointed City boards and commissions, and
City staff.
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission should take the lead in the following general areas:
• Ensuring that recommendations forwarded to the City Council are reflective of the plan goals, priorities,
and action strategies.
• Recommending adoption of new or amended land development regulations to implement the plan.
• After holding one or more public hearings to discuss new or evolving community issues and needs, making
recommendations to the City Council regarding plan updates and plan amendments.
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City Staff
City Staff should take the lead in the following general areas:
• Managing day-to-day implementation of the plan, including coordination through an interdepartmental
plan implementation committee.
• Supporting and carrying out capital improvement planning efforts.
• Managing the drafting of new or amended land development regulations.
• Conducting studies and developing additional special-purpose and/or special area plans.
• Reviewing land development applications for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan.
• Negotiating the specifics of intergovernmental and development agreements.
• Administering collaborative programs and ensuring open channels of communication with various private,
public, and non-profit implementation partners.
• Maintaining an inventory of potential plan amendments, as suggested by City staff and others, for
consideration during annual and periodic plan review and update processes.
• Generating and presenting an annual report to the Planning Commission and City Council concerning
progress toward implementation of the Comprehensive Plan.
• Periodically obtaining public input to keep the plan up to date, using a variety of community outreach and
citizen and stakeholder involvement methods.
Action Agenda
The goals in this plan will ultimately be attained through a multitude of specific actions. Many of the initiatives
highlighted in this section cut across – and are supported by – multiple elements within the plan. Compiled in
the Action Agenda Table is a set of 14 key action items derived from the various plan elements. The table does
not include every recommendation found throughout this plan. Instead, it details a shorter “to do” list of
strategic priorities.
The action strategies have been categorized regarding those actions that will involve (1) capital investments, (2)
programs and initiatives, (3) regulations and standards, (4) partnerships and coordination, and (5)
more targeted planning/study. Most capital projects will also require, to varying degrees, additional feasibility
analysis, construction documentation, specifications, and detailed cost estimates.
The Action Agenda Table provides a starting point for determining immediate, near-term, and longer-term task
priorities. This is an important first step toward plan implementation and should occur in conjunction with the
City’s annual budget process, during CIP preparation, and in support of departmental work planning. Then, once
the necessary funding is committed and roles are defined, a lead City staff member should initiate a first‑year
work program in conjunction with City management, other departments, and other public and private
implementation partners. A prioritization exercise of the Action Agenda was conducted during a Joint Workshop
of City Council and Planning Commission members in July 2021. This informal exercise revealed that top
priorities within the Action Agenda items include updating the City's development districts, protecting
established neighborhoods (including increased code compliance), continuing to revitalize downtown, and
determining the feasibility of the development of a sports complex. Full results from the prioritization exercise,
including results from the Open House held in August 2021 are available in Appendix 2.
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The near-term action priorities should be revisited by City officials and staff annually to recognize
accomplishments, highlight areas where further attention and effort are needed, and determine whether some
items have moved up or down on the priority list given changing circumstances and emerging needs, including
available funding and resources. It should be kept in mind that early implementation of certain items, while
perhaps not the uppermost priorities, may be expedited by the availability of related grant opportunities, by a
state or federal mandate, or by the eagerness of one or more partners to pursue an initiative with the City. On
the other hand, some high-priority items may prove difficult to tackle in the near-term due to budget
constraints, the lack of an obvious lead entity or individual to carry the initiative forward, or by the community’s
readiness to take on a potentially controversial new program.
Progress on the near-term items, in particular, should be the focus of the first annual review and report a year
after adoption of this plan, as described later in this section. Then, similar to multi-year capital improvements
programming, the entire action agenda – and all other action strategies dispersed throughout the plan sections
– should be revisited annually to decide if any additional items are ready to move into the next near-term action
timeframe, and what the priority should be.
Action Agenda Table
Action Where in Plan Action Type
Support residents in need, seeking to provide
opportunities for all residents to improve their quality of
life, and recognizing the importance of equitable
development and policies.
Economic Opportunity,
SAP 11
Housing and
Neighborhoods, SAP 17
Regulations and Standards,
and Partnerships and
Coordination
Protect established neighborhoods and stabilize and
reinvigorate older neighborhoods, including through
increased code compliance for maintenance of
properties.
Housing and
Neighborhoods, SAP 4, SAP
6 Programs and Initiatives
Enhance safe mobility options, including the provision of
trails, for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Recreation and Amenities,
SAP 20, SAP 21
Transportation, SAP 3,
SAP 4, SAP 20
Capital Investments,
Partnerships and
Coordination, and More
Targeted Planning/Study
Encourage local entrepreneurs and regional businesses to
serve the demand for increased entertainment options. Economic Opportunity,
SAP 6 Programs and Initiatives
Consider regional storm water detention facilities to
reduce flood risk and potentially establish new
developable areas. Growth Capacity, SAP 5 Programs and Initiatives
Update the City's development ordinances and standards
to reflect new Comprehensive Plan priorities. Land Use and
Development, SAP 6 Regulations and Standards
Bolster Huntsville's tourism industry, focusing on
elements where Huntsville can differentiate itself from
the competition, such as proximity to natural resources
and the extent of historic and cultural resources.
Recreation and Amenities,
SAP 19
Economic Opportunity,
SAP 14, SAP 15
Partnerships and Coordination
Continue to focus efforts on revitalizing downtown as the
primary shopping, dining, cultural, entertainment and
entrepreneurial hub of the city.
Economic Opportunity,
SAP 13 Partnerships and Coordination
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Action Agenda Table
Action Where in Plan Action Type
Support improvements to the broadband and fiber
internet network.
Economic Opportunity,
SAP 4
Growth Capacity, SAP 7
Housing and
Neighborhoods, SAP 2
Capital Investments and
Programs and Initiatives
Focus on improvements to the transportation network
and the airport through the implementation of projects
identified in the 2019 Transportation Master Plan and the
2020 Airport Master Plan.
Transportation, SAP 2, SAP
22 Capital Investments and More
Targeted Planning/Study
Conduct a feasibility study to determine the potential
economic impact of the development of a sports complex
or upgrades to existing facilities.
Recreation and Amenities,
SAP 24 More Targeted Planning/Study
Develop a detailed demographic report specific to
Huntsville's unique characteristics to present to
developers and business prospects.
Economic Opportunity,
SAP 19 More Targeted Planning/Study
Promote success stories of the City and key partners,
including SHSU and HISD. Economic Opportunity,
SAP 14 Partnerships and Coordination
Retain workers and talent in Huntsville, capturing a larger
percentage of those who work in the area but choose not
to live in Huntsville.
Housing and
Neighborhoods, SAP 19,
SAP 20
Partnerships and Coordination
and More Targeted
Planning/Study
Financial Implications
Implementation of strategic action priorities will take funding commitments. Some items are already accounted
for within the City’s annual budget, particularly for priorities that focus on continuing an existing program that
the City currently administers. In general, items that are policy based (such as revision of City codes and
ordinances) will be less expensive than capital projects (such as roadway construction).
Implementation of some strategic action priorities will necessitate new funding sources (such as bonds, taxes,
etc.), grants, or partnerships. Not all strategic action priorities will occur through City funding and may be funded
by external sources such as federal, state or regional grants, non-profit organizations, or other partner
organizations. The reality is that not all items that are priorities will be feasible due to financial limitations. The
City’s annual budgeting process, and the resulting CIP, will identify how essential capital projects will be funded.
Comprehensive Plan Amendment Process
The Comprehensive Plan is meant to be a flexible document allowing for adjustment to changing conditions
over time. Shifts in political, economic, physical, technological, and social conditions, and other unforeseen
circumstances, may influence and change the priorities and fiscal outlook of the community. As Huntsville
evolves, new issues will emerge while others will no longer be as relevant. Some strategic actions will be found
impractical or outdated while other plausible solutions will arise. To ensure that it continues to reflect the overall
goals of the community and remains relevant over time, the plan must be revisited on a regular basis to confirm
that the plan elements are still on point and the associated goals and action strategies are still appropriate.
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Revisions to the Comprehensive Plan are two-fold, with minor plan amendments occurring at least every other
year and more significant updates and modifications occurring every five years. As an example, a minor
amendment could include revisions to certain elements of the plan as a result of the adoption of another
specialized plan. Major updates will involve: reviewing Huntsville’s base conditions and anticipated growth
trends; re-evaluating the plan findings and formulating new ones as necessary; and adding, revising, or removing
strategic actions in the plan based on implementation progress.
Annual Progress Report
City staff should prepare an annual progress report for presentation to the Planning Commission, Mayor and
City Council. This ensures that the plan is consistently reviewed and that any needed modifications or
clarifications are identified for the biennial minor plan amendment process. Ongoing monitoring of consistency
between the plan and the City’s implementing regulations should be an essential part of this effort.
The Annual Progress Report should include and highlight the following:
• Significant actions and accomplishments during the last year, including the status of implementation for
each programmed task in the plan.
• Obstacles or problems in the implementation of the plan.
• Proposed content amendments that have come forward during the course of the year.
• Recommendations for needed actions, programs, and procedures to be developed and implemented in the
coming year.
• Priority coordination needs with public and private implementation partners.
Biennial Amendment Process
Plan amendments should occur on at least a biennial basis (every two years), allowing for proposed changes to
be considered concurrently so that the cumulative effects may be understood. Factors that should be
considered in deciding on a proposed plan amendment include:
• Consistency with the goals, policies, and strategic actions set forth in the plan.
• Potential effects on infrastructure provision including water, wastewater, drainage, and the transportation
network.
• Potential effects on the City’s ability to provide, fund, and maintain services.
• Potential effects on environmentally sensitive and natural areas.
• Whether the proposed amendment contributes to the overall direction and character of the community as
captured in the plan goals, and as reflected in ongoing public input.
Five-Year Update / Evaluation and Appraisal Report
An evaluation and appraisal report to City Council should be prepared every five years. This report should be
prepared by City staff with input from City departments, the Planning Commission, and other boards and
commissions. The report process involves evaluating the existing plan and assessing how successful it has been
in achieving the community’s goals. The purpose of the report is to identify the successes and shortcomings of
the plan, look at what has changed over the last five years, and make recommendations on how the plan should
be modified in light of those changes.
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The report should review baseline conditions and assumptions about trends and growth indicators. It should
also evaluate implementation potential and/or obstacles related to any unaddressed major action strategies.
The evaluation report and process should result in an amended plan, including identification of new or revised
information that may lead to updated goals and action strategies.
More specifically, the report should identify and evaluate the following:
1. Summary of major actions and interim plan amendments undertaken over the last five years.
2. Major issues in the community and how these issues have changed over time.
3. Changes in the assumptions, trends, and base studies data in the Existing City Report, including the following:
• The rate at which growth and development is occurring relative to the projections put forward in the
plan.
• Shifts in demographics and other growth trends.
• City-wide attitudes, and whether apparent shifts, if significant, necessitate amendments to the stated
goals or action strategies of the plan.
• Other changes in political, social, economic, technological, or environmental conditions that indicate a
need for plan amendments.
4. Ability of the plan to continue to support progress toward achieving the community’s goals. The following
should be evaluated and revised as needed:
• Individual sections and statements within the plan must be reviewed and revised, as necessary, to
ensure that the plan provides sufficient information and direction to achieve the intended outcome.
• Conflicts between goals and strategic actions that have been discovered in the implementation and
administration of the plan must be pointed out and resolved.
• The list of priority actions must be reviewed and major accomplishments highlighted. Those not
completed by the specified timeframe should be re‑evaluated to ensure their continued relevance
and/or to revise them appropriately.
• As conditions change, the timeframes for implementing major actions in the plan should be re-evaluated
where necessary. Some actions may emerge as a higher priority given new or changed circumstances
while others may become less important to achieving the goals and development objectives of the
community.
• Based upon organizational and procedural factors, as well as the status of previously assigned tasks, the
implementation task assignments must be reviewed and altered, as needed, to ensure timely
accomplishment of the plan’s strategic actions.
• Changes in laws, procedures and missions may impact the community’s ability to achieve its goals. The
plan review must assess these changes and their impacts on the success of implementation, leading to
any suggested revisions in strategies or priorities.
Ongoing Community Outreach and Engagement
All review processes and updates related to this plan should emphasize and incorporate ongoing public input.
The annual and continual plan evaluation and reporting processes should also incorporate specific performance
measures and quantitative indicators that can be compiled and communicated both internally and to elected
officials and citizens in a “report card” fashion.
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Examples might include:
• Amount of new development and redevelopment (including number of residential units and square
footage of commercial and industrial space) approved and constructed in conformance with this plan and
Huntsville’s development regulations.
• Various measures of service capacity (gallons per day, etc.) added to the City’s major utility infrastructure
systems – and the number of dollars allocated to fund the necessary capital projects.
• New and expanded businesses, added jobs, and associated tax revenue gains through economic
development initiatives.
• Lane miles of rehabilitated road, plus sidewalk, trail, and other improvements, added to Huntsville’s
transportation system to increase mobility options.
• Increase in usage of park and recreation system facilities and programming.
• Indicators of the benefits from redeveloped sites and structures (appraised value, increased property
and/or sales tax revenue, new residential units, and retail and office spaces in mixed-use settings, etc.).
• The numbers of residents and other stakeholders engaged through City-sponsored education and outreach
events related to Comprehensive Plan implementation and periodic review and updating, as outlined in
this section.
Appendix 1: Updates to Major Thoroughfare Plan, Right of Way Requirements and Cross-Sections
The Major Thoroughfare Plan was reviewed as a part of Huntsville’s comprehensive plan process. The City
of Huntsville has a well-structured roadway classification that helps in the hierarchical movement of traffic
from Local Streets to Primary Arterials. A review of the existing and future roadway classifications in
conjunction with the Future Land Use Map revealed no major updates required for the thoroughfare map
at this point. However, based on the input and discussion with the members of the Comprehensive Plan
Advisory Committee, a review was performed to see the rationality of the proposed extension of 20th
Street to the I-45 North Freeway Service Road. Based on the examination of existing conditions, feedback
received from the CPAC meeting, and the potential for future development along 20th Street, the future
extension of 20th Street is proposed to be removed from the Thoroughfare Map.
Further coordination with the City of Huntsville will be required to update the 2019 Major Thoroughfare
Plan.
Update to the Right of Way requirements
As part of the review of the thoroughfare plan, an evaluation was performed to update the Right of Way
(ROW) requirement for each roadway classification adopted by the City of Huntsville. The following
documents were reviewed as part of this review:
• ROW Requirements from the 2010 City of Huntsville Land Development Code
• ROW Requirements from the 2015 City of Huntsville Land Development Code
• ROW Requirements from the 2019 Transportation Master Plan
• Future Land Use Map
• Feedback from CPAC Meeting (May 27, 2021)
Guidelines and recommendations from various sources such as the Federal Highway Administration,
AASHTO’s Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities, and TxDOT’s Roadway Design Manual, were
reviewed. The TxDOT Roadway Design Manual is a comprehensive document providing guidelines for the
design of various roadway elements based on the functional classification of roadways. ROW requirement
varies for each roadway depending on the combination of various cross-sectional elements such as
number of travel lanes, parking lanes, sidewalk, bike lane, etc. The required ROW is computed once the
cross-section of each roadway is determined.
To determine the minimum ROW required for each roadway classification, the existing cross-section
standards (Exhibit 1) were evaluated from the City of Huntsville’s Engineering Design Criteria (Exhibit 2).
Exhibit 3 shows the cross-sections of each roadway class based on the guidelines prescribed in City of
Huntsville’s Engineering Design Criteria. For the draft proposal, the same roadway cross-sections were
adopted. The width of the cross-sectional element was determined by the recommendation of minimum
requirements by TxDOT. A summary of all the values recommended by TxDOT’s Roadway Design Manual
is included in Exhibit 5. Exhibit 4 contains the cross-sections contained in the 2019 Transportation Master
Plan, for comparative purposes.
Draft Proposed Cross-Sections
The draft proposed cross-sections for each roadway classification are shown in Exhibit 6. The proposed
minimum pavement width and ROW requirement for each roadway classification is shown in Table 1. It
should be noted that the proposed cross-section standards represent the minimum design requirement
as per TxDOT’s manual. Further analysis and discussions should be held to determine the required cross-
sectional elements for each roadway classification and the desired width of each of these elements to
compute the minimum pavement width as well as the minimum Right of Way width.
Table 1: Proposed minimum Pavement Width and Right of Way (draft)
Street Classification
Proposed
Travel
Lanes
Proposed
Parking
Lanes
Proposed
Minimum
Pavement
Width
(Feet)
Proposed
Minimum
ROW
Width
(Feet)
Arterial
Primary Arterial 5 2 78 108
Secondary Arterial 5 0 58 88
Collector
Standard Collector 2 2 38 68
Local
Local - 1 2 1 29 49
Local -2 (Low Volume) 2 0 22 42
Exhibit 1: RIGHT OF WAY REQUIREMENTS - COMPARISON
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE DEVELOPMENT CODE, 2010 (PREVIOUS STANDARDS)
STREET CLASSIFICATION TRAVEL
LANES
PARKING
LANES
MINIMUM
ROW WIDTH
(IN FEET)
MINIMUM
PAVEMENT
WIDTH (IN
FEET)*
ARTERIAL
Standard with Parking, A-1 5 2 110 85
Standard without Parking, A-2 5 0 80 61
COLLECTOR
Standard, C-1 2 2 70 41
LOCAL
Local Commercial, LC-1 (1) 2 2 60 41
High Volume Residential, LR-1 2 2 60 41
Medium Volume Residential, LR-2 2 1 50 32
Low Volume Residential, LR-3 (2) 1 2 50 28
Alternative Local Residential 1 (3),
ALR-1 2 0 60 28
Alternative Local Residential 2 (3)
ALR-2 2 0 60 28
PRIVATE
Private Streets/Emergency Access
Easements 2 0 28 28
(1)With Council or Commission approval, a developer may reduce pavement width if the developer
furnishes and installs "No Parking" signs. Never shall pavement width be less than 28 feet, and
increased driveway and intersection radii may be required for truck turning movements if developer
reduces pavement width.
(2)Low Volume provides access to 20 or less dwelling units (d.u.) or equivalent or short connecting
streets.
(3)All local residential streets shall be designated as LR-1, LR-2 or LR-3. Alternative construction
standards, as established in Section 614.2 and Figures 6-6 and 6-7 may be used where the conditions
shown in Section 614 exist.
* Back of curb to back of curb or edge to edge.
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE DEVELOPMENT CODE, 2015 (EXISTING STANDARDS)
STREET CLASSIFICATION TRAVEL
LANES
PARKING
LANES
MINIMUM
ROW WIDTH
(IN FEET)
MINIMUM
PAVEMENT
WIDTH (IN
FEET)*
ARTERIAL
Standard with Parking, A-1 5 2 120 90
Standard without Parking, A-2 5 0 90 61
COLLECTOR
Standard, C-1 2 2 70 41
LOCAL
Local-1 2 1 50 32
Low Volume, L-2(1) 1 2 50 28
PRIVATE
Private Streets/Emergency Access
Easements 2 0 28 28
(1) Low Volume provides access to 20 or less dwelling units (d.u.) or equivalent or short connecting
streets.
*Back of curb to back of curb or edge to edge.
TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN, 2019 (PROPOSED)
STREET
CLASSIFICATION
PROPOSED
TRAVEL
LANES
PROPOSED
PARKING
LANES
PROPOSED
MINIMUM
ROW
WIDTH
(FEET)
PROPOSED
MINIMUM
PAVEMENT
WIDTH
(FEET)
ARTERIAL
Primary Arterial 4 0 100 84
Secondary Arterial - - - -
COLLECTOR
Standard Collector 2 2 72 52
LOCAL
Standard Local 2 0 48 32
Exhibit 2:
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE
EXISTING STANDARDS FOR
MINIMUM GEOMETRIC
DESIGN CRITERIA FOR PUBLIC
STREETS
SOURCE: CITY OF HUNTSVILLE ENGINEERING DESIGN CRITERIA - 2015
CHAPTER 2
REVISED OCTOBER 22, 2015 2-7 CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS
A-1 ARTERIAL STREET (PRIMARY)
120 Ft. R.O.W.
Five 13 Ft. Travel Lanes
Two 12 Ft. Parking Lanes
Ninety Foot R.O.W.
Five 12 Ft. Travel Lanes
A-2 ARTERIAL STREET (SECONDARY)
ARTERIAL STREET
(PRIMARY AND SECONDARY) FIGURE
2-1
CHAPTER 2
REVISED OCTOBER 22, 2015 2-8 CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS
L-1 LOCAL STREET
LOCAL STREET FIGURE
2-2
Fifty Foot R.O.W.
Two 12 Ft. Travel Lanes
One 7 Ft. Parking Lane
CHAPTER 2
REVISED OCTOBER 22, 2015 2-9 CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS
L-2 LOCAL LOW VOLUME STREET
L-2 LOCAL LOW VOLUME STREET
FIGURE
2-3
Fifty Foot R.O.W.
Two 12 Ft. Travel Lanes
Exhibit 3:
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE
PROPOSED ROADWAY CROSS
SECTIONS FROM
TRANSPORTATION MASTER
PLAN – 2019
Neighborhood Bikeway
Four Lanes with Narrow Median and Sidepaths
Four Lanes with Wide Median and Sidepaths
Four Lanes with Sidewalks
Two Lanes with One Bike Lane and Sidewalks
Two Lanes with Street Parking, Bike Lanes, and Sidewalks
Four Lanes with Bike Lanes and Sidewalks
Four Lanes with Grassy Buffers and Sidewalks
Six Lanes with Sidewalks
Six Lanes with Raised Cycletracks and Sidewalks
Exhibit 4: CITY OF HUNTSVILLE EXISTING TYPICAL ROADWAY CROSS-SECTION STANDARDS
Note: 1. The standard cross-sections are developed from the guidelines prescribed in the City of Huntsville's Engineering Design Criteria updated in 2015. 2.For cross-sections of Arterials, Collector, and Local Street-1, an addtional width of 0.5 feet is shown along with the edge lane pavement width toaccount for offset from edge of travel lane/parking lane to face of curb.
;�,GUNDA CORPORATION Engineers, Planners & Managers
11750 Katy Freeway, Suite 300 Houston, Texas 77079 713.541.3530 www.gundacorp.com TBPE Registration Number: F-3531
Primary Arterial [Pav-90', ROW-120']
- - -----------
,s 12)1; '13' U 13 U
Planting strip Parting lane Driwlane Oriwlane Cent•lurn"""' Orifflane
U 12)1; 1S'
Driv•lan• Parting lane Planting.trip
Secondary Arterial [Pav-61 ', ROW-90']
- -------
14li° �• 12· 12' 12' 12W 14X'
Plantngstrip (lr;,,.1a.,. OriwlaM Cant•lurn..,,. Drive lane Oriwlar,a Pla<rt1ngstnp
Collector [Pav-41', ROW-70']
- -----
14W e"' 12' 12' ex, •14>1•
P\.lintongstrip ParkinQlane Dlivelane Ortvelane Partcinglane Planting strip
Local Street-1 [Pav-32', ROW-SO']
-----
t2)!,' 12' 7)1, 9•
Oriwl-Orwelane Parking la,,. Plafltlngstrip
Local Street-2 [Pav-28', ROW-SO']
----
,r 2· 12' 12' 2' '11'
Pl.anting strip Oriv.lane Om.lane Planting5trip
PROJECT NAME: SHEET TITLE:
��,,I CITY OF CITY OF HUNTSVILLE EXIST ICNRGOTYSSPISCEACLTRIOO
NADWAY
�,.-HUNTSVILLE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN STANDARDS
Exhibit 5: Summary of TxDOT Requirements for Roadway Elements
The TxDOT Roadway Design Manual (RDM) provides guidelines in the geometric design of roadway
facilities. The RDM provides both the minimum requirement as well as the desirable values for each
roadway element to obtain an efficient functioning transportation network. The table below provides
the minimum and desired values of each roadway element for different functional classifications. The
RDM was last updated in July 2020.
Table: Summary of TxDOT minimum and desirable values for roadway elements
Arterials
Elements Minimum Desirable Comments
Lane Width 11 12
Raised median with turn lane 16 18 Accommodating pedestrian refuge
Raised median without turn lane 2 6 Accommodating pedestrian refuge
Two Way Left-Turn Lane 12 14
Parking lane 10 12
Shoulder 4 10
Offset to face of the curb 1 2 Measured from edge of travel/parking lane
Border 15 20 Accommodates sidewalk and other utilities
Collectors
Elements Minimum Desirable Comments
Lane Width 11 12
A minimum of 10 ft. width is also mentioned
but only in non-industrial areas without many
heavy vehicles.
Raised median with turn lane 16 18 Accommodating pedestrian refuge
Raised median without turn lane 2 6 Accommodating pedestrian refuge
Two Way Left-Turn Lane 12 14
Parking lane 7 10
Shoulder 3 8
Offset to face of the curb 1 2 Measured from edge of travel/parking lane
Border 15 20 Accommodates sidewalk and other utilities
Local Streets
Elements Minimum Desirable Comments
Lane Width 10 12 A minimum of 9 ft. width is also mentioned but
in residential areas.
Two Way Left-Turn Lane 12 14
Parking lane 7 9
Shoulder 2 - Desirable value is not provided
Offset to face of the curb 1 2 Measured from edge of travel/parking lane
Border 10
Clear zone value is taken instead of border value
from table 2-12 of RDM. Desirable value is not
provided.
Other Design elements
Elements Minimum Desirable Comments
Sidewalk 5 6
Buffer for sidewalk 4 6
Shared lane 14 - Desirable is not provided but maximum is 16 ft. -
AASHTO guidelines.
Bike lane 4 5
Shared use path 10 14
Exhibit 6: CITY OF HUNTSVILLE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TYPICAL ROADWAY CROSS SECTIONS DRAFT PROPOSAL
Note:
1.The width of each roadway element represent the minimum value prescribed
in the TxDOT Roadway Design Manual.
2.The cross-sectional elements in cross sections - A are same as elements in the
existing cross-section standards for City of Huntsville.
3.Cross sections - B represent the utilization of the border area (Edge of Pavement to Right of Way)
to install elements like sidewalk, shared-use path, etc.
PRIMARY ARTERIAL
I A. Primary Arterial [Pav-78', ROW-108'] I
- - ----------- - -,s !-I I I I --,. I ,. I llliill! ,,. -" " . " " -
P..._"'IJ_ ---�-C.,,to,tum-----P0'1<»g-
I B. Primary Arterial [Pav-78', ROW-108'] I
11 11 t2 11 11
PO<•lng-O<lvt-[l,'lyO-C.,,to,tum-O<lvt-O<tvt-Po,t»g-
SECONDARY ARTERIAL
I A. Secondary Arterial [Pav-58',ROW-88'] I
- -------
111 llm.ll ll!,,
11 12 11
[Inyo-Cento,1umLono Oriv<,-
I B. Secondary Arterial [Pav-58',ROW-88'] I
- -------
!II llm.ll ll!
1t 12 11
IIJM-Cent«tum-OoiYo-
COLLECTOR
I A. Collector [Pav-38',ROW-68'] I
--- ---...... . ....
-� ,. " "' ,. 1 -
P .. •"'G-Orlvt-°"""-p ... o,g_
B.Collector [Pav-38',ROW-68']
11 "'
-�!> P .. k>,g-O<lvt-ClolvO-p ... r,g_
LOCAL STREET-1
I A. Local Street-1 [Pav-29',ROW-49'] I
---....... .
!1 1 l 1 ill!
I B. Local Street-1 [Pav-29',ROW-49'] I
-;-; ;-;A . -! 1 1 l 1 ill!-
LOCAL STREET-2
A. Local Street-2 [Pav-22',ROW-42']
8. Local Street-2 [Pav-22',ROW-42']
Appendix 2: Action Agenda Prioritization Exercise Results
At the July 6, 2021 Joint Workshop, a prioritization exercise of key short-term initiatives was conducted.
The purpose of the exercise was to initiate thought and discussion about potential future
implementation of the Comprehensive Plan. Participants were given five pom poms to distribute among
14 key initiatives that they consider most important to pursue immediately. The results from the Joint
Workshop are shown below.
Initiative
Number
of Votes
from Joint
Workshop
Joint
Workshop
Priority
Level
Support residents in need, seeking to provide opportunities for
all residents to improve their quality of life, and recognizing the
importance of equitable development and policies.
2 9
Protect established neighborhoods and stabilize and
reinvigorate older neighborhoods, including increased code
compliance for maintenance of properties. 12 2
Enhance safe mobility options, including provision of trails, for
pedestrians and bicyclists. 5 7
Encourage local entrepreneurs and regional businesses to serve
the demand for increased entertainment options. 7 5
Consider regional storm water detention facilities to reduce
flood risk and potentially establish new developable areas. 4 8
Update the City’s development ordinances and standards
(including development districts) to reflect new Comprehensive
Plan priorities.
13 1
Bolster Huntsville’s tourism industry, focusing on elements
where Huntsville can differentiate itself, such as proximity to
natural resources and extent of historic and cultural resources. 1 10
Continue to focus efforts on revitalizing downtown as the
primary shopping, dining, cultural, entertainment and
entrepreneurial hub of the city. 11 3
Support improvements to the broadband and fiber internet
network. 6 6
Focus on improvements to the transportation network and the
airport through implementation of the 2019 Transportation
Master Plan and the 2020 Airport Master Plan.
2 9
Conduct a feasibility study to determine the potential
economic impact (cost/benefit) or the development of a sports
complex or upgrades to existing facilities.
8 4
Develop a detailed demographic report specific to Huntsville’s
unique characteristics to present to developers and business
prospects.
0 n/a
Promote success stories of the City and key partners, including
SHSU and HISD. 0 n/a
Retain workers and talent in Huntsville, capturing a larger percentage of those who work in the area but choose not to
live in Huntsville.
4 8
1
Appendix 3: Funding Opportunities for
Implementation
LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT
Funding Opportunities
• Business Improvement Districts - Housing and Economic Development;
• Certified Local Government Grants (CLG) - U.S. Department of the Interior;
• Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development;
• Community Restoration and Resiliency Fund - Keep America Beautiful (KAB).
GROWTH CAPACITY
Funding Opportunities
• Community Development Fund (CDBG) (Rural)- Texas Department of Agriculture;
• Community Disaster Loan (CDL) Program – FEMA;
• Community Development Block Grant Mitigation Funds- Texas General Land Office;
• Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) - Texas Water Development Board (TWDB);
• Economically Distressed Areas Program - Texas Water Development Board (TWDB);
• FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance (FEMA) Grants - Texas Water Development Board (TWDB);
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program – FEMA;
• Wetlands Reserve Program - Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS);
• Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) -U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development;
• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Mitigation Funds - Texas General Land Office;
• LEED for Cities and Communities Grant Grantor: U.S. Green Building.
• The Texas Rural Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) Assistance Program provides funding to rural VFDs
for the acquisition of firefighting vehicles, fire and rescue equipment, protective clothing, dry-hydrants,
computer systems and firefighter training;
• City of Huntsville’s Main Street Program - Downtown Life Safety Grant.
2
TRANSPORTATION
Funding Opportunities
• TxDOT Funding categories:
*Category 2 – METRO and Urban Area Corridor Projects
*Category 3 – Non Traditionally Funded Transportation Projects (Local)
*Category 4 – Statewide Connectivity Corridor Projects
*Category 5 – Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement
*Category 7 – Metropolitan Mobility and Rehabilitation
*Category 9 – Transportation Alternative Program
*Category 10 – Supplemental Transportation Projects
*Category 12 – Strategic Priority Funding Summary
• Texas Traffic Safety Program- TxDOT (reducing the number and severity of traffic accidents);
• Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Transportation Grants Program
(formerly TIGER) - Department of Transportation;
• Capital Investment Grants (CIG) Program - Federal Transit Administration;
• Discretionary Bus and Bus Facilities (Section 5309): State of Good Repair Initiative -Department of
Transportation;
• Enhanced Mobility of Seniors & Individuals with Disabilities - Department of Transportation;
• Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Formula Program - Department of Transportation;
• Grants for Rural Areas to Support Public Transportation- 5311 - Department of Transportation;
• National Trails Training Partnership - American Trails and NTTP;
• Routes To School - Department of Transportation;
• Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG) - Department of Transportation;
• The Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) Program - League of American Bicyclists;
• The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) - U.S. Department of Transportation Federal
Highway Administration;
• Transportation for Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities - Department of Transportation;
• Walk Friendly Community (WFC) - U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway
Administration.
3
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
Funding Opportunities
• Texas Capital Fund (Rural)- Infrastructure/ Real Estate Development Programs -Texas Department
of Agriculture;
• U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Opportunity Zones to spur
economic development and job creation;
• City of Huntsville’s Main Street Program - Downtown Historic Restoration & Improvements Grant;
• City of Huntsville’s Main Street Program - Downtown Life Safety Grant;
• City of Huntsville’s Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) Fund Reimbursement Grants;
• Texas Capital Fund (Rural)- Main Street/ Downtown Revitalization Programs - Texas Department
of Agriculture;
• The Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program - The National Park Service and the
Internal Revenue Service in partnership with State Historic Preservation Offices;
• Texas Capital Fund (Rural)- Infrastructure/ Real Estate Development Programs - Texas Department
of Agriculture.
HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOODS
Funding Opportunities
• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) targeted towards housing rehabilitation and repair
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD);
• Housing Preservation Grants (HPG) - U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development;
• Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
RECREATION AND AMENITIES
Funding Opportunities
• Outdoor Recreation Grants, by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to acquire and develop
parkland or to renovate existing public recreation areas;
• Recreational Trail Grants by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department;
• 10-Minute Walk Planning Grant and Technical Assistance by the National Recreation and Park
Association with support from the JPB Foundation to support planning efforts that help cities
increase access to high-quality parks within a 10-minute walk.
• Texas Urban and Rural Conservation Projects (TURCP) grants for establishing or improving
gardens for food production, rainwater harvesting systems, pollinator habitat ,etc.;
• Growing Roots for Education, Environment, and Nutrition (G.R.E.E.N.) grants for community
gardens, pollinator habitat, high tunnels and rainwater harvesting systems;
• Various Keep Texas Beautiful grants for waterways, recycling, native gardens, local parks, arts
endowments, tree planting, and others.
Appendix 4: Huntsville Population Projection
Population Outlook for Huntsville (Pre-Census 2020 Release)
Population projections are an important component of a long-range planning process. They help
determine and quantify the demands that will be placed on public facilities and services based on the
potential pace and scale of the community’s physical growth. Projections reflect local, regional, national
and international trends and offer a basis to prepare for the future. However, forecasting population
changes can be challenging, particularly for the long term, because it is often difficult to account for all
circumstances that may arise. Therefore, it will be important for the City to monitor population and
economic growth continually to account for both short- and longer-term shifts that can influence
development activity and trends in the community and larger region. The projections below were
completed in early 2021, prior to Census 2020 estimates being released. An updated projection, with
preliminary 2020 Census figures, is included beginning on page 3.
Alternative Growth Scenarios
Demographers caution that population projections become trickier as the geographic area gets smaller,
making city-level population the most difficult to forecast. This is because local population change is
strongly influenced by less predictable factors such as housing prices and options, availability of vacant
land to develop, results from economic development efforts, potential future annexation of additional
territory, and other factors.
Given this context, the chart in this section provides a comparison of several potential scenarios for future
population change in Huntsville. The projections build on the latest U.S. Census estimate of 42,241 for
2019 and identify potential population levels in five-year increments out to 2040.
Varying Quantities and Rates of Growth
Linear growth forecasts are “straight line” projections that result in the same absolute number of new
persons being added to the population in each period. This produces a declining rate of growth over time
as the same amount is being added to an ever-expanding base (in the case of Huntsville, adding 4,103
residents per decade). Exponential growth projections produce higher numbers than linear by assuming
a constant rate of growth over time. This is similar to the power of compound growth in a savings account
over time; the interest (i.e., growth) rate may not change, but it is being applied to an ever-expanding
balance, resulting in larger and larger interest earnings over time. In the case of Huntsville, the Exponential
Growth scenario results in 1,435 more residents by 2040 than the Linear Growth scenario.
The Exponential Growth line, labeled as “Steady Growth Rate” in the Huntsville scenarios chart, is based
on the 1.02 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) the city had from 2010 to 2019. The
Exponential Growth line leads to a 2040 population of 52,293 while the Linear Growth line, labeled as
“Steady Numeric Growth” on the chart, leads to a 2040 population of 50,858.
County Step-Down
This method considers the trend in city share of the countywide population in past decades and prospects
for its future share. It also draws upon population estimates and projections produced for all counties
statewide by the Texas Demographic Center. The City of Huntsville’s share of Walker County’s population
was 57.3 percent in 1980, when the city had 23,936 residents relative to 41,789 in the entire county
Appendix 4: Population Outlook
Page 2 of 5
(including the city). By 2010, Huntsville’s share had decreased slightly to 56.8 percent of 67,861 persons
county-wide and then increased slightly to 57.9 percent in 2019.
The County Step-Down line shows where the City of Huntsville’s population would be through 2040
(54,094) if it continues the trend of accounting for a slightly increased share of the county’s population
(59.9 percent by 2040, up from the current 57.9 percent in 2019).
Accelerated Growth Rate
This projection is a variation on the Exponential Growth scenario. It examines what would happen if
growth in Huntsville proceeds at a faster rate than in the past. An accelerated growth rate may be the
result of various “game changing” factors. This could include residential subdivision activity and volume
construction of new homes continuing to progress northward from the Houston/Woodlands/Conroe
metropolitan area past Willis and New Waverly toward Huntsville. Another factor could be faster than
expected student growth, especially on campus, at Sam Houston State University. This scenario applies
2019 2025 2030 2035 2040
County Step Down 42,241 45,553 48,198 51,180 54,094
Steady Numeric Growth
(4,103 per decade)42,241 44,702 46,755 48,806 50,858
Steady Growth Rate (1.02%)42,241 44,894 47,238 49,697 52,293
Accelerated Growth 42,241 46,074 49,635 53,471 57,603
Midpoint 42,241 45,388 48,195 51,138 54,231
40,000
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
Population Scearios, Pre-Census 2020
Appendix 4: Population Outlook
Page 3 of 5
an accelerating growth rate in phases, with a 1.25 CAGR during the 2020s decade, and a 1.5 percent CAGR
during the 2030s to 2040. This is in comparison to the fixed 1.02 CAGR applied through all decades in the
original Exponential Growth scenario. This results in population growth to 57,603 by 2040 relative to the
52,293 outcome under the original Exponential Growth scenario.
Bottom Line
It is wise for cities to think in terms of a range of potential growth rather than an absolute number given
the uncertainty of any small-area forecast that extends beyond a few years. It is assumed for this
Comprehensive Plan that Huntsville’s 2040 population will fall within a forecast range of 50,858 to
57,603 persons, which yields a midpoint of 54,231.
As illustrated by the Midpoint projection line in the scenarios chart, the midpoint of a potential growth
range to assume for this Comprehensive Plan – between the lower Steady Numeric Growth (Linear)
projection and the higher Accelerated Growth projection – would put Huntsville’s population at 45,388 in
2025; 48,195 in 2030; and 54,231 in 2040. This would mean an additional 11,990 residents from 2019
and implies that Huntsville could add the equivalent of 28.4 percent of its current population by 2040.
The newest U.S. Census Bureau estimates for 2019 showed an average household size in the City of
Huntsville of 2.49 persons for owner-occupied housing and 2.19 for renter-occupied housing. The 2019
data also showed 30.9 percent owner-occupied and 69.1 percent renter-occupied housing within the city.
Combining these factors yields a weighted average household size of 2.25 persons for the City of
Huntsville. Applying this weighted average household size means that 5,329 additional housing units
would be needed by 2040 to accommodate 11,990 added residents.
Census 2020 Update
On August 12, 2021, preliminary Census 2020 population numbers were released by the U.S. Census
Bureau. The preliminary population numbers indicate an estimated 2020 population of Huntsville of
45,941. This represents faster growth than experienced in Huntsville in previous decades. The population
projections have been updated to reflect these preliminary Census figures. When the finalized Census
2020 population numbers are released for Huntsville, they should be compared against the numbers
utilized in this analysis and updated as needed. This can be accomplished through an update to the
Comprehensive Plan. It will be important for the City to continue to monitor population and economic
growth to account for both short- and longer-term shifts that can influence development activity and
trends in the community and larger region.
Alternative Growth Scenarios
The chart in this section provides a comparison of several potential scenarios for future population change
in Huntsville. The projections build on the preliminary U.S. Census estimate of 45,941 for 2020 and identify
potential population levels in five-year increments out to 2040.
Varying Quantities and Rates of Growth
Linear growth forecasts are “straight line” projections that result in the same absolute number of new
persons being added to the population in each period. This produces a declining rate of growth over time
as the same amount is being added to an ever-expanding base (in the case of Huntsville, adding 7,393
residents per decade). Exponential growth projections produce higher numbers than linear by assuming
Appendix 4: Population Outlook
Page 4 of 5
a constant rate of growth over time. This is similar to the power of compound growth in a savings account
over time; the interest (i.e., growth) rate may not change, but it is being applied to an ever-expanding
balance, resulting in larger and larger interest earnings over time. In the case of Huntsville, the Exponential
Growth scenario results in 4,526 more residents by 2040 than the Linear Growth scenario.
The Exponential Growth line, labeled as “Steady Growth Rate” in the Huntsville scenarios chart, is based
on the 1.7 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) the city had from 2010 to 2020. The Exponential
Growth line leads to a 2040 population of 65,253 while the Linear Growth line, labeled as “Steady Numeric
Growth” on the chart, leads to a 2040 population of 60,727.
County Step-Down
This method considers the trend in city share of the countywide population in past decades and prospects
for its future share. It also draws upon population estimates and projections produced for all counties
statewide by the Texas Demographic Center. Note that as of August 19, 2021 the Texas Demographic
Center had not yet updated any population projections based on the August 12, 2021 Census 2020 data
release. The County Step-Down projection may increase if re-run following any updates to County level
projections by the Texas Demographic Center. The City of Huntsville’s share of Walker County’s population
was 57.3 percent in 1980, when the city had 23,936 residents relative to 41,789 in the entire county
(including the city). By 2010, Huntsville’s share had decreased slightly to 56.8 percent of 67,861 persons
county-wide and then increased to 60.1 percent in 2020.
The County Step-Down line shows where the City of Huntsville’s population would be through 2040
(56,729) if it continues the trend of accounting for a slightly increased share of the county’s population
(62.8 percent by 2040, up from the current 60.1 percent in 2020).
Accelerated Growth Rate
This projection is a variation on the Exponential Growth scenario. It examines what would happen if
growth in Huntsville proceeds at a faster rate than in the past. An accelerated growth rate may be the
result of various “game changing” factors. This could include residential subdivision activity and volume
construction of new homes continuing to progress northward from the Houston/Woodlands/Conroe
metropolitan area past Willis and New Waverly toward Huntsville. Another factor could be faster than
expected student growth, especially on campus, at Sam Houston State University.
Based on the growth rate experienced between 2010 and 2020 (1.7 percent CAGR), this scenario applies
an accelerating growth rate of 2.0 percent CAGR. This results in population growth to 68,266 by 2040
relative to the 65,253 outcome under the Exponential Growth scenario.
Bottom Line
It is wise for cities to think in terms of a range of potential growth rather than an absolute number given
the uncertainty of any small-area forecast that extends beyond a few years. It is assumed based on
preliminary Census 2020 numbers that Huntsville’s 2040 population will fall within a forecast range of
60,727 to 68,266 persons, which yields a midpoint of 64,496.
As illustrated by the Midpoint projection line in the scenarios chart, the midpoint of a potential growth
range – between the lower Steady Numeric Growth (Linear) projection and the higher Accelerated Growth
projection – would put Huntsville’s population at 50,180 in 2025; 54,668 in 2030; and 64,496 in 2040. This
Appendix 4: Population Outlook
Page 5 of 5
would mean an additional 18,555 residents from 2020 and implies that Huntsville could add the
equivalent of 40.3 percent of its current population by 2040.
Applying the weighted average household size means that 8,246 additional housing units would be
needed by 2040 to accommodate 18,555 added residents.
Preliminary Census 2020 Updated Population Projection Chart
2020 2025 2030 2035 2040
County Step Down 45,941 47,189 49,954 53,421 56,729
Steady Numeric Growth
(7,393 per decade)45,941 49,638 53,334 57,031 60,727
Steady Growth Rate (1.7%)45,941 50,346 54,752 60,002 65,253
Accelerated Growth 45,941 50,723 56,002 61,831 68,266
Midpoint 45,941 50,180 54,668 59,431 64,496
40,000
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
70,000
Population Scenarios, 2020 Census
Page 1 of 2
Approved 8-19-2021
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION HELD IN THE COUNCIL
CHAMBERS, AT CITY HALL, 1212 AVENUE M, HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS ON THE 5th DAY OF
August 2021 AT 5:30 PM.
Members present: Woods; Hooten; Thompson; Lynch; Carpenter; Gumm; Emmett
City staff present: Irones; Young; Miller
Audience present: Gene Woods – 907 Lincoln Drive, Meredith - Comprehensive Plan Update, Daniel
Beamon – Rockbridge Phase 4 & Phase 5, and Charles Von Schmidt
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Woods. [5:30 PM]
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
a. U.S. Flag
b. Texas Flag
3. INVOCATION
Vice-Chairman Hooten led the invocation.
4. CONSIDER the Reduction of a Setback line at 907 Lincoln Drive in conjunction with a 20’ wide
Utility Easement on the property, located in the City Limits of Huntsville.
City Planner, Armon Irones gave an overview of the subject property stating that it is
proposed to be used for a manufactured home. The property owner would dedicate a 20’ Utility
Easement to the City of Huntsville in exchange for a reduced front setback of 15’ instead of 25’.
Staff recommended the approval of the reduced setback from 25’ to 15’ for 907 Lincoln Drive since
the property owner would be dedicating a 20’ wide Utility Easement to City. Commissioner Gumm
questioned if the City would be losing anything with granting the 15’ front setback and the reason
for a 25’ front setback. Mr. Irones and Chairman Woods answered Commissioner Gumm’s
questions to his satisfaction. City Surveyor, Gene Woods, introduced himself and gave more insight
and background of the property. Commissioner Emmett questioned if granting the 15’ front setback
would interfere with the 20’ Utility Easement and Mr. Woods insured that it would not. Chairman
Woods asked if the City was pleased with agreement and Commissioner Lynch asked if the city
needed the 20’ Utility Easement. Mr. Woods answered both of these questions in the affirmative.
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to approve. Second was by Commissioner Thompson. The
vote was unanimous.
5. CONSIDER the Final Review and Recommendation to City Council for the Huntsville
Comprehensive Plan Update.
Armon Irones gave an overview of the special meeting that was held at 5:00 p.m.
subject property. It was brought to everyone’s attention that an area on Highway 30 on
the Future Land Use Map should be residential instead of commercial. It was agreed that
the Future Land Use Map should reflect what currently exist in that area.
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to accept the Comprehensive Plan Update as corrected and
recommended that it be sent to City Council for review. Second was by Commissioner
Lynch. The vote was unanimous.
6. CONSIDER the Final Plats of Rockbridge Subdivision, Phase 4 & Phase 5, located in the City
limits of Huntsville.
Planning Commission Minutes
August 5, 2021
Page 2 of 2
Approved 8-19-2021
Armon Irones gave an overview of the subject property. The applicant submitted a
Modification/Waiver of Subdivision Standards to not provide turnarounds on dead-end
streets, those streets being Pecos Drive in Phase 4 and Blanco Drive in Phase 5. Staff
recommended approval of the final plats as submitted. Chairman Woods questioned the
number of streets affected and the design of the subject street. Commissioner Thompson
questioned if the street would be extended and why there was no cul-de-sac or turnaround.
Daniel Beamon explained that the developer does not own the neighboring property in
order to extend the street and that there is a cross street that can service as a turnaround.
Mr. Beamon also pointed out the area to the commissioners on a map.
Commissioner Lynch moved to approve the final plats as submitted. Second was by
Commissioner Thompson. The vote was unanimous.
7. CONSIDER the Final Re-Review for the proposed City of Huntsville Tree Ordinance.
Planner, Charles Young gave an overview of the proposed City of Huntsville Tree
Ordinance. Commissioner Lynch suggested that word may on Page 4 in Section 7.1101C be
changed to shall. Commissioner Lynch questioned if it was still a requirement that a tree survey be
done by a registered surveyor, architect, or landscaper for Page 2 of 8 in Section 7.101B. That
requirement was removed.
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to accept the final re-review with the minor word change
on Page 4 in Section 7.1101C and recommended that it be sent to City Council for review.
Second was by Commissioner Gumm. The vote passed 6-1. Commissioner Emmett voted
against the motion.
8. CONSIDER the minutes of the July 15, 2021 meeting.
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to approve the minutes from the July 15th meeting. Second
was by Commissioner Lynch. The vote was unanimous.
9. PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were none.
10. ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Announcements concerning items of community interest from the Commission and City
Staff for which no action was discussed.
Main Street Program will be having Concert in the Park every Thursday in August
at Rather Park from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
9. ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Thompson moved to adjourn the meeting. Second was by Vice-Chairman
Hooten. The vote was unanimous. [6:09 PM]
Agenda Item # 3b
Item/Subject: Consider adopting Ordinance 2021-25 amending the Huntsville Code of Ordinances,
specifically Chapter 12, Buildings and Building Regulations.
Initiating Department/Presenter: Development Services
Presenter: Kevin Byal, Director of Development Services/Building Official
Recommended Motion: 1st Reading.
Strategic Initiative: Goal #7 - Public Safety - Provide safety and security for all citizens.
Discussion: Construction codes are key to keeping occupants of the buildings in our community safe.
Updated building codes are the most effective, least expensive way to protect public health and safety
as well as providing for the safety of our first responder during catastrophic events.
Attempting to guide development and building safety with dated codes presents challenges for both
building designers and contractors alike since newly developed materials and construction methods
that are now available in the industry are not recognized by older code edition. With the adoption of
the 2021 International Codes, the provisions contained within will facilitate the design and construction
of new buildings in our city by recognizing the advancements that are not available in previous editions.
In addition, keeping with current codes is necessary to maintain or reduce the City’s ISO ratings, to
minimize insurance costs for the citizens.
At present, the code editions that prescribes the way buildings are to be constructed and maintained
in Huntsville is the 2015 edition of the International Codes, published by the International Code Council
(ICC). This ordinance proposes to adopt the 2021 edition of the International Codes and updates the
following;
▪ International Building Code
▪ International Fire Code
▪ International Fuel Gas Code
▪ International Mechanical Code
▪ International Plumbing Code
▪ International Property Maintenance Code
▪ International Residential Code
▪ International Swimming Pool & Spa Code
▪ International Existing Building Code (New)
In the revised Building Code, all provisions that previously addressed existing buildings have been
removed and placed into the International Existing Building Code. It is necessary to include this code in
the adoption as it will continue to provide flexibility necessary when repairing or remodeling existing
buildings and recognizes conditions of previous code editions.
9/7/21
Agenda Item: 3b
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Agenda Item # 3b
At this time staff is not proposing the adoption of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code as
our research indicates that by doing so would increase the cost of new construction in meeting the
elevated requirements.
On August 18, 2021, the Board of Adjustments and Appeals met and held a public hearing. Staff gave
the Board a presentation outlining the proposal to recommend the adoption of the 2021 edition of the
International Codes. One person from the public requested to speak. The Board concluded the meeting
with the vote reflecting 3 to 1 in support of advancing a positive recommendation to City Council for
adoption of the 2021 International Codes and a unanimous vote to support amendments that will
proved for permits for driveways, parking lots and operating safety certificate.
In addition to the adoption of the 2021 International Codes, several amendments to our local ordinance
are required that address revised numbering of various code sections for consistency, deletion of
outdated and obsolete requirements and redundant or repeated code provisions that are found
elsewhere in the code.
Previous Council Action:
• March 6, 2012, the City Council adopted the 2009 edition of the International Codes.
• September 20, 2016, the Council adopted the Energy Efficiency provisions of the 2015
International Residential Code
• December 21, 2017, Council adopted the 2015 edition of the International Codes.
Financial Implications: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☐City Manager
Associated Information:
• Ordinance 2021-25
• Exhibit A
ORDINANCE NO. 2021-25
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS CODE OF
ORDINANCES, SPECIFICALLY CHAPTER 12 “BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS”; MAKING OTHER PROVISIONS AND FINDINGS THERETO; AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Huntsville Code of Ordinances, Chapter 12 “BUILDING AND BUILDING REGULATIONS” provides for the regulation of residential and commercial buildings for the health, safety and public welfare of the City’s residents:
WHEREAS, the City of Huntsville, as a home rule city may regulate this activity pursuant to its broad powers of self-government; and
WHEREAS, City Council finds it necessary to amend its existing regulations of these activities to protect the health and public safety; now therefore
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Huntsville, Texas now wishes to amend Chapter 12 to help promote the health, safety and welfare of its residents;
WHEREAS, notice of the agenda for this meeting, was given in accordance with law by posting the same at the place reserved and designated for notices of public meetings and public activities and prior to the adoption of this ordinance.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, that:
SECTION 1: The facts and matters set forth in the preamble of this Ordinance are found to be true and correct and are hereby adopted, ratified, and confirmed.
SECTION 2: Huntsville Code of Ordinances Chapter 12 “BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS”, Article II, Sections 12-19, 12-20, 12-22, 12-23, 12-24, 12-25, 12-26, 12-27 are
amended and a new section 12-30 is added as shown on the attached Exhibit “A”.
SECTION 3: All ordinances or parts of Ordinances that are in conflict or inconsistent with the
provisions of this Ordinance shall be, and the same are hereby, repealed and all other ordinances of the City not in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance shall remain in full force and effect. SECTION 4: Should any paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or section of this Ordinance be adjudged or held to be unconstitutional, illegal or invalid, the same shall not affect the validity of this Ordinance as a whole or any part or provision thereof, other than the part so declared to be invalid, illegal or unconstitutional.
SECTION 5: This Ordinance, being a penal ordinance, becomes effective ten (10) days after its date of passage by the City Council, as provided by Article 4.14 of the Charter of the City of Huntsville, Texas.
PASSED AND APPROVED on this the __________th day of ________________ 2021.
THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE ___________________________________
Andy Brauninger, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________ __________________________________ Kristy Doll, City Secretary Leonard Schneider, City Attorney
Exhibit A
Chapter 12 - BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS[1]
ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL
Secs. 12-1—12-18. - Reserved.
ARTICLE II. - BUILDING CODES
Sec. 12-19. - Codes adopted by reference.
(a) The book entitled "International Building Code, 2015 2021 Edition," a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in
the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the building code of the city as fully as if copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall be controlling in the construction of all buildings
and other structures within the corporate limits of the city.
(b) The book entitled "International Property Maintenance Code, 2015 2021 Edition," a copy of which,
authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the housing code of the city as fully
as if copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for occupancy of buildings.
(d) The book entitled "International Mechanical Code, 2015 2021Edition," a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file
in the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the mechanical code of the city as fully as if copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for the design,
construction or installation, repair or alterations of mechanical systems.
(e) The book entitled "International Plumbing Code, 2015 2021Edition," a copy of which, authenticated
by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the plumbing code of the city as fully as if it was
copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for plumbing work in the city.
(f) The book entitled "International Fuel Gas Code, 2015 2021 Edition," a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file
in the city secretary's office, is adopted as the fuel gas code of the city as fully as if it was copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for the design,
construction, installation, repair or alteration of gas piping systems and gas appliances.
(g) The book entitled "International Residential Code, 2015 2021 Edition," a copy of which, authenticated
by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file in the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the residential code of the city as fully as if it was
copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for residential work in the city.
(h) The book entitled "International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2015 2021 Edition." a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this
section, is on file in the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the swimming pool and spa code of the city as fully as if it was copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish
the minimum standards for commercial swimming pools and spas in the city.
(I) The book entitled "International Existing Building Code, 2021 Edition." a copy of which, authenticated
by the signatures of the mayor and city secretary, and made a public record by this section, is on file
in the city secretary's office, is hereby adopted as the existing building code of the city as fully as if it was copied at length in this article, and the provisions thereof shall establish the minimum standards for the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of existing buildings in the city.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.01; Ord. No. 81-31, § 1, 7-7-1981; Ord. No. 82-25, § 1, 11-2-1982; Ord. No. 86-19, § 1, 7-15-1986; Ord. No. 87-39, § 1, 12-8-1987; Ord. No. 87-40, § 1, 12-8-1987; Ord. No.
91-16, § 1, 8-6-1991; Ord. No. 97-35, 11-25-1997; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2006-
02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 2, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2012-18, § 2, 3-6-2012; Ord. No. 2017-43, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2018-03, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2018-07, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017)
Sec. 12-20. - Amendments to International Building Code.
(2) Section 3409.1 is hereby amended to read:
3409.1—Historic Buildings. The provisions of the International Building Code (other than chapter 34) relating to the alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified as Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks, National Historic Landmarks, or buildings entered into the National Register of Historic Places, or qualified as such by the building official. It is further provided, however, that:
a. Such buildings or structures are judged by the city building official to be safe;
b. The owner submits complete architectural and engineering plans and specifications bearing the seal of a registered professional engineer or architect; and
c. The owner complies with the requirements of article III of this chapter.
(4) Section 105 is hereby amended to read:
105.1—Application for permit.
105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, change commercial tenant or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert, or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, or to erect or construct a sign of any description, or to install or alter fire extinguishing systems, or to move, change, or construct an access to or from any public street from a driveway including repair, removal or installation of curbs or culverts, the installation of which is regulated by this or other codes, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
105.2 delete (5), (6), (8), (10), - add to (2). However, all new and existing fences shall be maintained.
(5) Section 107 is hereby amended in part to read:
107.2.5 6 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the site, distance from lot lines, the established street grades, proposed finished grades, all existing and proposed easements, storm sewers, natural drains, waterlines, sewer lines, location of water and sewer connections, landscaping and parking; and it shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot. The building official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan when the application for permit is for alteration or repair or when otherwise warranted.
Appendix B is amended to read:
B101.2101.3—Membership of board. Each member shall be appointed to a two-year
term of office. Members are appointed by the Mayor with approval of the City Council.
B101.2.2101.3.1—Qualifications. There is hereby established a board to be called the board of adjustments and appeals, which shall consist of five members. Such board shall be composed of three persons with technical background in building design or construction
or experience in the building trades industry, and two other citizens. The mayor (chief appointing authority) shall appoint board members with the approval of the city council.
B101.3.3101.5.3—Postponed hearing. Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum. In varying the application of any provision of this code or in modifying an order of the building official, affirmative votes of the majority present, but not less than three affirmative votes, shall be required. A board member shall not act in a case in which he has
a personal interest.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.02; Ord. No. 94-13, 5-10-1994; Ord. No. 97-35, 11-25-1997; Ord. No. 2000-19, 9-26-2000; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2006-22, § 9.02.02(109.3.05), 10-3-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2017-43, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2019-50 , § 2(Exh. A), 9-17-2019)
Sec. 12-22. - Amendments to International Swimming Pool and Spa Code.
The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code is amended as follows:
(1) Section 105 108 is amended as follows:
105.6.2108.2 Fee schedule. Permittees shall be as established by ordinance from time to time.
105.6.3108.6 Fee Refunds. The code official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid
except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. No refund will be authorized once work has commenced under the permit.
(2) Section 106 110 is amended by the addition of a new paragraph 106.20 which shall read as follows:
106.20110.17—Final inspection: operating permit required. All swimming pool installations must be completed. The pool shall be completely filled with water and in operation before requesting
a final inspection.
(3) Section 107 113 Violations is amended to read as follows:
107.4113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters, repairs or
occupies a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall
be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $2,000.00.
(4) Section 108 111 is amended as follows:
Section 108 111 Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the
code official to the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code Appendix G B and as amended therein Section 12-20(6) of this code.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.05; Ord. No. 92-05, 3-31-1992; Ord. No. 97-35, 11-25-1997; Ord. No. 2000-19, 9-26-2000; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3,
8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2017-43, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2018-07, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-
2017)
Sec. 12-23. - Amendments to International Mechanical Code.
The International Mechanical Code is amended as follows:
(1) Section 101.2.1.1. Add section 101.2.1.1 which shall read:
The following appendices are intended for enforcement and are made a part of this code
and the city's adopting ordinance for all intends and purposes:
Appendix A—Combustion Air Openings and Chimney Connector Pass-Throughs;
(3) Section 106 109 is amended as follows:
106.5.2109.2 Fee schedule. Permit fees shall be established by ordinance from time to
time.
106.5.3109.6 Fee Refunds. The code official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid
except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. No refund will be authorized once work has commenced under the permit.
(4) Section 108.3115.3. Delete section 108.3115.3.
(5) Section 108.4115.4. is amended as follows:
108.4115.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters, repairs or
occupies a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall
be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $2,000.00.
(6) Section 109114. Amend section 109114, Appeals, to read:
Section 109 114 Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the
code official to the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code Appendix G B and as amended therein Section 12-20 (6) of this code.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.06; Ord. No. 97-35, 11-25-1997; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No.
2005-21, 9-20-2005; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2007-02, § 3, 2-6-2007; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2018-03, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017)
Sec. 12-24. - Amendments to International Plumbing Code.
The International Plumbing Code is amended as follows:
(1) Section 101.2 is amended by adding:
The appendices included in the Code are intended for enforcement and are made a part of this code and the city's adopting ordinance for all intents and purposes:
Appendix FC—Structural Safety
Appendix G—Vacuum Drainage System
(4) Section 106 109 is amended as follows:
106.6.2109.2 Fee schedule. Permit fees shall be as established by ordinance from time to
time.
106.6.3109.5 Fee Refunds. The code official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. No refund will be authorized once work has commenced under the
permit.
(5) Section 108.4115.4. is amended as follows:
108.4115.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters, repairs or occupies a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall
be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $2,000.00.
(6) Section 109 114 is amended as follows:
Section 109 114 Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the code official to the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code
Appendix G B and as amended therein Section 12-20 (6) of this code.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.07; Ord. No. 97-35, 11-25-1997; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2005-21, 9-20-2005; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2007-02, § 4, 2-6-2007; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2018-03, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2019-50 , § 2(Exh. A), 9-17-2019)
Sec. 12-25. - Amendments to International Fuel Gas Code.
(4) Section 106 109 is amended as follows:
106.6.2109.2 Fee schedule. Permit fees shall be as established by ordinance from time to
time.
106.6.3109.6 Fee Refunds. The code official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee
paid except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. No refund will be authorized once work has commenced under the
permit.
(5) Section 108.4115.4. is amended as follows:
108.4115.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters, repairs or
occupies a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall
be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $2.000.00.
(6) Section 109 113 is amended as follows:
Section 109 113 Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of
the code official to the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code
Appendix G B and as amended therein Section 12-20 (6) of this code.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.08; Ord. No. 97-35, 11-25-1997; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2018-03, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-
2017; Ord. No. 2019-50 , § 2(Exh. A), 9-17-2019)
Sec. 12-26. - Amendments to International Residential Code.
(1) R102.5. Appendices: The following appendices are intended for enforcement and are made a part of this Code and the city's adopting ordinance for all intents and purposes:
Appendix AAA—Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping
Appendix BAB—Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped with Draft Hoods, Category I Appliances, and Appliances Listed for Use and Type B Vents
Appendix CAC—Exit Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-Vent Venting Systems
Appendix JAJ—Existing Buildings and Structures
Appendix G—Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs
(2) R103.1. The division of central inspections is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official.
(3) R103.2. Delete R103.2.
(4) R105.2. (1) is amended to addas follows:
R105.2 (1) Add “Regardless of size, accessory structures require a development permit.“
R105.2 (5) is deleted.
(5) R109.1.505. Required site surveys. Prior to inspections involving footings, foundations, concrete slabs or any item requiring under-floor inspection the building official shall require a site survey prepared by a registered professional land surveyor showing the location of placed forms to be inspected.
(7) P2602.1. Delete "if available" in the first sentence and add when public water and sewer is within 300 feet of the property.The first and second paragraphs are amended to read “The water-distribution system of any building or premises where plumbing fixtures are installed shall be connected to a public water supply. Where a public water-supply system is not available within 300 feet of the property boundary, or connection to the supply is not feasible, an individual water supply shall be provided. Individual water supplies shall be constructed and installed in accordance with the applicable state and local laws. Where such laws do not address the requirements set forth in NGWA-01, individual water supplies shall comply with NGWA-01 for those requirement s not addressed by state and local laws.
Sanitary drainage piping from plumbing fixtures in buildings and sanitary drainage piping systems from premises shall be connected to a public sewer. Where a public sewer is not available within 300 feet of the property boundary, the sanitary drainage piping and systems shall be connected to a private sewage disposal system in compliance with state or local requirements. Where state or local requirements do not exist for private sewage disposal systems, the sanitary drainage piping and systems shall be connected to an approved private sewage disposal system that is in accordance with the International Private Sewage Disposal Code.”
(Code 1961, § 9.02.09; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2004-08, 3-23-2004; Ord. No.
2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2006-23, § R109.1.05, 10-3-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3, 8-16-
2011; Ord. No. 2016-43, § 2(Exh. A), 9-20-16; Ord. No. 2017-43, § 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2019-50 , § 2(Exh. A), 9-17-2019)
Sec. 12-27. - Amendments to International Property Maintenance Code.
The International Property Maintenance Code shall be amended as follows:
(3) Section 103.5.104 Delete Section 103.5104.
(4) Section 106.4109.4 amended to read:
106.4109.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters, repairs or occupies a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $2,000.00.
(5) Section 107.1111.4 amended to read:
Section 107.1111.4. Last sentence should read: Whenever the code official determines that there has been a violation of this code or has grounds to believe that a violation has occurred, notice shall be given in the manner prescribed Notices for condemnation procedures shall comply with in Section 12-61 62 of the Code of Ordinances.
(6) Section 111.4.1 and 111.4.2. Delete Sections 111.4.1 and 111.4.2.
(67) Section 110.1113.1 is amended to read:
110.1113.1. When a building is to be demolished, it shall be done so in accordance with Section 12-61 66 of the Huntsville Code of Ordinances.
(78) Section 111 107 Means of Appeal amended to read:
Section 107 Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the
code official to the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code Appendix G B
and as amended therein Section 12-20 (6) of this code. 111.1 Application for appeal. Any person directly affected by a decision of the code official or a notice or order issued under this code shall have the right to appeal to the Board of Adjustments and Appeals, provided that a written application for appeal is filed within 15 days after the day the decision, notice or order was served. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted.
(9) Section 108. Delete 108.
(8) Section 111.2 through 111.8. Delete 111.2 through 111.8.
(910) Section 302.4. Add 10 inches to jurisdiction height.
Section 302.2. Grading and drainage. All premises, including driveway approaches and associated appurtenances shall be graded and maintained to prevent the erosion of soil and to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water thereon, or within any structure located thereon.
Exception: Approved retention areas and reservoirs.
Section 302.3 Sidewalks and driveways. All sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways, driveway approaches and associated appurtenances, parking spaces and similar areas shall be kept in a proper state of repair, and maintained free from hazardous conditions.
(1011) Section 302.10. Add Section 302.10.
(1112) Add Section 302.11. Section 302.11 Tire Storage and Disposal.
(Code 1961, § 9.02.11; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2006-25, § 9.02.11, 10-6-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 3, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2015-24, § 2(Exh. A), 7-7-2015; Ord. No. 2017-43,
§ 2(Exh. A), 11-21-2017; Ord. No. 2019-02 , § 2(Exh. A), 11-20-2018)
Sec. 12-30. - Amendments to International Existing Building Code.
(1) Section 103. Section 103 is deleted.
(2) Section 108 is amended as follows:
108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Permit fees shall be as established by ordinance from time to time.
108.5 Refunds. The code official shall not authorize the refunding of any fee paid except upon written application filed by the original permittee not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. No refund will be authorized once work has commenced under the permit.
(3) Section 112. Amend section 112, Appeals, to read:
Section 112 Means of Appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the code official to the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code Appendix B and as amended therein Section 12-20 (6) of this code.
(4) Section 113.3. Delete section 113.3.
(5) Section 113.4. is amended as follows:
113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters, repairs or occupies a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $2,000.00.
(6) Section 115.3 amended to read:
Section 115.3. Whenever the code official determines that there has been a violation of this code or has grounds to believe that a violation has occurred, notice shall be given in the manner prescribed in Section 12-62 of the Code of Ordinances.
(7) Section 117.1 is amended to read:
117.1. When a building is to be demolished, it shall be done so in accordance with Section 12-66 of the Huntsville Code of Ordinances.
(8) Section 202. Amend section 202, Definitions, to change or add the following definitions:
Code Official: The city's building official.
Secs. 12-3012-31—12-59. - Reserved.
Agenda Item # 3c
Item/Subject: Consider adopting Ordinance 2021-26 amending the Huntsville Code of Ordinances,
specifically Chapter 20, Fire Prevention and Protection
Initiating Department/Presenter: Public Safety
Presenter: Greg Mathis, Fire Chief
Recommended Motion: 1st Reading.
Strategic Initiative: Goal #7 - Public Safety - Provide safety and security for all citizens.
Discussion: The International Fire Code is part of the group of International Codes considered for
adoption. The City of Huntsville Code of Ordinances Chapter 20 is titled Fire Prevention and Protection.
The requested Ordinance adoption and amendments to Chapter 20 are an effort to clean up,
reorganize, and add clarification to the duties and abilities of the Fire Department. Language has been
added that includes the Building Official in areas of the Ordinance where not previously included such
as enforcement and right of entry. This will aide us as we continue to work closely together as a code
enforcement organization. Currently in Chapter 20 there is an amendment that addresses fire
apparatus access roads and the way they are painted and marked. The Ordinance is a bit unclear on the
use of signage, so I have added language to clarify that for our customers. The Huntsville Fire
Department has issued residential burning permits for many years. These permits are designed for the
homeowner to clean up and dispose of yard debris by burning. These residential permits inform the
resident of the requirements and steps to follow to burn safely, are free of charge and available on the
City Website. The State of Texas regulates commercial burning operations as reflected in Title 30 of the
Texas Administrative Code section 106.496. I have proposed that individuals wanting to conduct a
commercial burning operation go to the same website and fill out some basic information on the state
burning permit. This no fee permit will have several functions. It will give the customer an opportunity
to review and be informed of the State guidelines for commercial trench burning operations. This
permit will also be available to the fire department as needed and we will retain the ability to perform
site inspections as necessary. This process will help commercial trench burning operators to be
informed, conduct operation safely and help to eliminate some of the public impact of these types of
operations.
On August 18, 2021, the Board of Adjustments and Appeals met and held a public hearing. Staff gave
the Board a presentation outlining the proposal to recommend the adoption of the 2021 edition of the
International Codes which includes the Fire Code. A unanimous vote was received in support of the
amendments and revisions to Chapter 20 of the City of Huntsville Code of Ordinances.
9/7/21
Agenda Item: 3c
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Agenda Item # 3c
Previous Council Action:
• December 21, 2017, Council adopted the 2015 edition of the International Codes and amended
Chapter 20 of the Code of Ordinances to reflect accurately.
Financial Implications: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☐City Manager
Associated Information:
• Ordinance 2021-26
• Exhibit A
ORDINANCE NO. 2021-26
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS CODE OF ORDINANCES, SPECIFICALLY CHAPTER 20 “FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION”; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY; MAKING OTHER PROVISIONS AND FINDINGS THERETO; AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Huntsville Code of Ordinances, Chapter 20 “FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION” provides for regulations for fire prevention and protection for residential and commercial buildings for the health, safety and public welfare of the City’s residents:
WHEREAS, the City of Huntsville, as a home rule city may regulate this activity pursuant to its
broad powers of self-government; and WHEREAS, City Council finds it necessary to amend its existing regulations of these activities to protect the health and public safety; now therefore
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Huntsville, Texas now wishes to amend Chapter 20 to help promote the health, safety and welfare of its residents. WHEREAS, notice of the agenda for this meeting, was given in accordance with law by
posting the same at the place reserved and designated for notices of public meetings and public
activities and prior to the adoption of this ordinance. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, that:
SECTION 1: The facts and matters set forth in the preamble of this Ordinance are found to be true and correct and are hereby adopted, ratified, and confirmed. SECTION 2: Huntsville Code of Ordinances Chapter 20 “FIRE PREVENTION AND
PROTECTION” is hereby amended by amending Sections 20-1 and 20-2 and amending
re-numbering 20-3 of Article 1 “General” as shown in the Exhibit “A” attached hereto and adopted for all purposes. SECTION 3: Huntsville Code of Ordinances Chapter 20 “FIRE PREVENTION AND
PROTECTION” is hereby amended by deleting Sections 20-29 and 20-30 and/or amending
and re-numbering sections 20-27, 20-28, 20-31, 20-32 and 20-33 of Article II “Fire Marshal” as shown in the Exhibit “A” attached hereto and adopted for all purposes. SECTION 4: Huntsville Code of Ordinances Chapter 20 “FIRE PREVENTION AND
PROTECTION” is hereby amended by deleting Section 20-58 and amending sections 20-
55, 20-57 and adding sections 20-58 thru 20-63, of Article III “Enforcement” as shown in the Exhibit “A” attached hereto and adopted for all purposes.
SECTION 5: All ordinances or parts of Ordinances that are in conflict or inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance shall be, and the same are hereby, repealed and all other ordinances of the City not in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance shall remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 6: Should any paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or section of this Ordinance be adjudged or held to be unconstitutional, illegal or invalid, the same shall not affect the validity of this Ordinance as a whole or any part or provision thereof, other than the part so declared to be invalid, illegal or unconstitutional.
SECTION 7: This Ordinance, being a penal ordinance, becomes effective ten (10) days after its date of passage by the City Council, as provided by Article 4.14 of the Charter of the City of Huntsville, Texas. First Reading Date: __________________ PASSED AND APPROVED on the Second Reading on this the ____th day of ____________2021. THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE ___________________________________ Andy Brauninger, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM: ___________________________ ___________________________ Kristy Doll, City Secretary Leonard Schneider, City Attorney
EXHIBIT A Chapter 20 - FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL Sec. 20-1. - International Fire Code—Adopted. The book entitled , "International Fire Code, 2015 Edition 2021 Edition a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and the city secretary, and is on file in the city
secretary's office with signatures, is hereby adopted as the fire prevention code of the city as fully as if copied at length in this chapter, and the provisions thereof shall be controlling in the storage, use or handling of hazardous materials, substances or devices, and in the repair, equipment, use, occupancy, and maintenance of every existing building or structure within the city.
Sec. 20-2. - Same—Amendments. The following provisions of the International Fire Code are adopted, amended, or modified for purposes of administration of the Code in the city:
(1) Section 108 is changed in its entirety to read: In order to have an appeal to any order, decision or determinations made by the Fire Official, the appeal request shall be heard by the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the
provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code Appendix G and as amended therein Section 12-20(6) of the code of ordinances. Section 103.1 shall have Huntsville Fire Department inserted as the Code Compliance agency
(2) Sections 103.1 through 103.3, Administration, are deleted. Section 111 is changed in its entirety to read: In order to have an appeal to any order, decision or determinations made by the Fire Official, the appeal request shall be heard by the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the
International Building Code Appendix B and as amended therein Section 12-20(6) of the code of ordinances.
(3) Section 307.6 is added to read:
307.6 Open flame cooking devices shall be prohibited on balconies of multiple-family dwellings and single-family rental dwellings of two or more stories in height and shall be prohibited within ten feet of the building of multiple-family dwellings or
single-family rental dwellings regardless of number of stories in height.
Section 308.1.4 is added to read:
308.1.4 Open flame cooking devices shall be prohibited on balconies of multiple-family dwellings and single-family rental dwellings of two or more stories in height and shall be prohibited within ten feet of the building of multiple-family dwellings or single-family rental dwellings regardless of number of stories in height.
(4) Section 503.3 is hereby amended to read:
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs installed in accordance with "appendix D" of this code or permanent striping painted on the curb or
edge of the paved access shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. Signs or striping shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to
provide adequate visibility. Signs shall have the words, ‘NO PARKING - FIRE LANE – TOW AWAY” and spaced every 40 feet. This spacing may be adjusted with the approval of the fire code official. Striping shall consist of a minimum six inch (6") wide red background stripe applied the full length on each side of the fire access road and shall be marked at each end and at least every 20 feet with minimum four inch (4") high white letters stating, "NO PARKING - FIRE LANE - TOW AWAY."
(5) Appendix D, Fire Apparatus Access Roads, is adopted.
(6) Section 105 is deleted.Section 603.5.2 Application and use of relocatable power taps delete exemption 1 and 2
(7) Section 113 is deleted.
Sec. 20-3 moved to Article III and re-numbered 20-58 Secs. 20-3—20-24. - Reserved.
ARTICLE II. - FIRE MARSHAL
Secs. 20-27, 20-28 moved to Article III and re-numbered 20-59 and 20-60
Sec. 20-29. - Authority to summon witnesses and order production of documents.
The fire marshal shall have the power to summon witnesses before him to testify in relation to any fire or other matter which is, by the provisions of this article, a
subject of inquiry and investigation, and may require the production of any paper, book or document deemed pertinent thereto.
Sec. 20-30. - Investigations may be private; sequestering witnesses.
All investigations held by or under the direction of the fire marshal may, in his
discretion, be private and persons other than those required to be present may be excluded from the place where such investigation is held. Witnesses may be kept separate and apart from each other and not allowed to communicate with each
other until they have been examined.
Secs. 20-31, 20-32, and 20-33 moved to Article III and re-numbered 20-61, 20-62 and 20-63
Secs. 20-27—20-54. - Reserved.
ARTICLE III. - ENFORCEMENT Sec. 20-55. - Inspection of mercantile, manufacturing, and public buildings.
It shall be the duty of the fire marshal to enter upon and make, or to cause to be entered upon and made, annually or more often a thorough examination of all business mercantile, manufacturing and public buildings, together with the premises belonging thereto. The city
building official and fire marshal shall be responsible for the enforcement of the fire code of the city in each instance where such code calls for action by the fire marshal, fire chief in the adopting ordinance for such fire code.
It shall be the duty of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or designee to enter upon and make, or to cause to be entered upon and made, annually or more often a thorough examination of all business mercantile, manufacturing, and public buildings, together with the premises belonging thereto. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal and the City Building Official shall be responsible for the enforcement of the fire code of the city in each instance where such code calls for action by the
Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal.
Sec. 20-57. - Right of entry. The city building official and fire marshal, each separately, shall have the authority, at all times of day or night, when necessary in the performance of the duties imposed upon him by the provisions of this chapter, to enter upon and examine any building or premises where any fire has occurred and other building or premises adjoining or near the same, which authority shall be exercised only with reason and good discretion.
The city Fire Chief/Fire Marshal and or the Building Official, each separately, shall have the authority, at all times of day or night, when necessary in the performance of the duties imposed
upon him by the provisions of this chapter, to enter upon and examine any building or premises where any fire or other emergency has occurred and other building or premises adjoining or near the same to establish the safety of the building and its occupants. This authority shall be exercised only with reason and good discretion.If access is denied or removed, an administrative search warrant may be requested through the court and or legal processes. The search warrant should be justified by a showing of reasonable governmental interest, and supported by a statute,
ordinance, or regulation. If a valid public interest justifies the intrusion, then a valid and reasonable probable cause has been demonstrated.
Sec. 20-58. Warrants. For the purpose of search warrants issued under Vernon's Ann. C.C.P. art. 18.05, the city
building official shall be the code enforcement officer for the city.
Sec. 20-3 20-58 - Outdoor burning; when permit required; duties of Fire Chief/Fire
Marshal; fees; penalty for violation.
(a) It shall hereafter be unlawful for any person to burn any unprocessed natural vegetation within the corporate limits of the city unless such person first obtains a residential burning permit from the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal. Such unprocessed natural material shall include
limbs, brush, and grass clippings and shall not include materials such as and including garbage, dead animals, asphalt, petroleum products, paints, plastics, paper, cardboard, treated lumber, construction/demolition debris or any product that emits toxic emissions, dense smoke or obnoxious odors. Even if a burn permit is issued for burning, no burning will be allowed within the city limits during any period in which a determination has been made by the County Judge that burning within the county poses an imminent safety risk or threatens the health and welfare of the citizens or by the Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal that burning within the city poses an imminent safety risk or threatens the health and welfare of the citizens of the city (commonly referred to as a "burn ban"). Any burn permit for burning shall be suspended during any period in which a burn ban is in effect, and it shall be unlawful for any person to burn any unprocessed natural vegetation within the corporate limits of the city
during any period in which a burn ban is in effect.
(2) Burning on property as part of a land clearing operation will be done by trench burning under the conditions set out in Title 30 Texas Administrative Code § 106.496, as
amended from time to time. The term "land clearing operation" means the uprooting, cutting, or clearing of vegetation in connection with conversion for the construction of buildings, rights-of-way, residential, commercial, or industrial development, or the
clearing of vegetation to enhance property value, access or production. The TECQ permit for trench burning is located on the Fire Department website and must be completed prior to the burning operation. The burn site is then subject to the guidelines stated in the permit and is also subject to inspection by the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or designee. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal or designee may direct the burn operation be terminated if the conditions of the permit are not followed or a hazardous or nuisance condition is being created.
(4) It shall be unlawful for any person to burn combustible material in a manner inconsistent or contrary to the conditions and regulations contained in the permit.
(c) Any person violating the terms of this chapter shall, upon conviction, be deemed guilty of a class C misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punished as provided in section 1-11.
Sec. 20-27. 20-59- Investigation of fires. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal or designee shall investigate the cause, origin and circumstances of every fire occurring within the city by which property is destroyed or damaged and shall especially make investigation as to whether such fire was the result of carelessness or design. Such investigation shall commence within 24 hours, not including Sunday, of the
occurrence of such fire as soon as reasonable possible after the occurrence of such fire. If access is denied or removed, an administrative search warrant may be requested through the court and or legal processes. The search warrant should be justified by a showing of reasonable governmental interest, and supported by a statute, ordinance, or regulation. If a valid public interest justifies the intrusion, then a valid and reasonable probable cause has been demonstrated. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal or designee may also during any fire investigation, may be responsible for locating, collecting, identifying, storing, examining, and arranging for the testing of physical evidence. The fire investigator should be familiar with the recommended and accepted methods of processing such physical evidence.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.03; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 2)
Ordinance No. ________ Fire Prevention and Protection Page 7
Sec. 20-28.20-60 - Taking of testimony in investigation of fire. The Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or designee shall have the power to summon witnesses before
him to testify in relation to any fire or other matter which is, by the provisions of this article, a subject of inquiry and investigation and may require the production of any paper, book or document deemed pertinent thereto.. The Fire Chief/Fire Marshal, or designee when in his
opinion further investigation of a fire is necessary, shall take or cause to be taken the testimony, on oath, of all persons supposed to be cognizant of any facts or to have means of knowledge in relation to the matter under investigation, and shall cause the same to be reduced to writing. According to NFPA 921, the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or designee, is hereby authorized to advise the person being questioned of his or her Miranda rights. Those questioned may also be advised if the questioning is being conducted in a custodial environment which may or may not be on the fire scene, depending on the circumstances.
Sec. 20-31 20-61. - Offenses by witnesses summoned by Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal
Any witness who refuses to be sworn or who refuses to appear and testify, or who disobeys any lawful order of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal, or who fails and refuses to produce any book, paper or document touching any matter under examination, or who is guilty of any contemptuous
conduct during any of the proceedings of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal during any investigation or inquiry, after being summoned to give testimony in relation to any matter under investigation, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and it shall be the duty of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal to cause all such offenders to be prosecuted.
Sec. 20-32. 20-62.- Duty when evidence sufficient to charge person with crime in connection with fire. If, after an investigation of a fire as provided for in this article, the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal is of the opinion that there is evidence sufficient to charge any person with the crime of arson, or with an attempt to commit the crime of arson, or of conspiracy to defraud, or criminal conduct in connection with such fire, he shall cause such person to be lawfully arrested and charged with
such offense, or either of them, and shall furnish to the proper prosecuting attorney all such evidence, together with the names of the witnesses and all information obtained by him, including a copy of all pertinent and material testimony taken in the case.
Sec. 20-33 20-63. - Record of fires to be kept. The Fire Marshal shall keep a record of all fires occurring within the city by which property is
destroyed or damaged, together with all facts, statistics, and circumstances, including the origin of the fire and the amount of the loss, which may be determined by the investigation required by this article.
Secs. 20-64—20-80. - Reserved.
Chapter 20 - FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION[1]
Footnotes:
--- (1) ---
State Law reference— Home rule municipality, fire department, V.T.C.A., Local Government Code § 342.011; appointment of fire protection personnel, V.T.C.A., Government Code § 410.032; volunteer firefighters and fire departments, V.T.C.A., Government Code § 419.071; state law does not preempt municipal authority to prohibit or regulate use of fireworks, V.T.C.A., Occupations Code § 2154.004.
ARTICLE I. - IN GENERAL
Sec. 20-1. - International Fire Code—Adopted.
The book entitled, "International Fire Code, 2021 Edition," a copy of which, authenticated by the signatures of the mayor and the city secretary, and is on file in the city secretary's office with signatures, is hereby adopted as the fire prevention code of the city as fully as if copied at length in this chapter, and the provisions thereof shall be controlling in the storage, use or handling of hazardous materials, substances or devices, and in the repair, equipment, use, occupancy, and maintenance of every existing building or structure within the city.
(Code 1961, § 12.01.01; Ord. of 10-3-1961; Ord. No. 76-2, 1-13-1976; Ord. No. 86-21, 7-15-1986; Ord.
No. 92-07, 4-7-1992; Ord. No. 98-20, 9-22-1998; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 7, 8-
16-2011; Ord. No. 2017-45, § 2, 9-5-2017)
ARTICLE II. - FIRE MARSHAL
Sec. 20-2. - Office created.
The office of Fire Marshal of the city is hereby created.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.01; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 1)
Sec. 20-3. - Appointment.
The Fire Marshal for the city shall be appointed by the City Manager.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.02; Ord. No. 77-3, § 1, 3-15-1977; Ord. No. 92-07, 4-7-1992)
ARTICLE III. - ENFORCEMENT
Sec. 20-4. - Inspection of mercantile, manufacturing, and public buildings.
It shall be the duty of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or designee to enter upon and make, or to cause to be entered upon and made, annually or more often a thorough examination of all business mercantile, manufacturing, and public buildings, together with the premises belonging thereto. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal and the City Building Official shall be responsible for the enforcement of the fire code of the city in each instance where such code calls for action by the Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal.
(Code 1961, § 12.03.01; Ord. No. 92-07, 4-7-1992; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 7, 8-16-2011)
Sec. 20-56. - Ordering removal or repair of dangerous buildings, accumulations, etc.; appeal.
Whenever the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or the Building Official finds any building or other structure which, for want of repair or by reason of age or dilapidated condition or for any cause, is specially liable to fire, and which is so situated as to endanger other buildings or property or so situated that fire would endanger persons or property therein, and whenever he shall find an improper or dangerous arrangement of stoves, ranges, furnaces or other heating apparatus of any kind, including chimneys, flues and pipes with which the same may be connected, or a dangerous arrangement of lighting devices or systems or a dangerous or unlawful storage of explosives, compounds, petroleum, gasoline, kerosene, chemicals, vegetable products, ashes or combustible, inflammable and refuse materials, or other conditions which may be dangerous in character or liable to cause or promote fire or create conditions dangerous to firemen or occupants, he shall order the same to be removed or remedied, and such order shall be forthwith complied with by the owner or occupant of such building or premises. If the owner or occupant deems himself aggrieved by such order, he may, within five days, appeal to the board of adjustments and appeals.
(Code 1961, § 12.03.02; Ord. No. 92-07, 4-7-1992; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 7, 8-16-2011)
Sec. 20-57. - Right of entry.
The city Fire Chief/Fire Marshal and or the Building Official, each separately, shall have the authority, at all times of day or night, when necessary in the performance of the duties imposed upon him by the provisions of this chapter, to enter upon and examine any building or premises where any fire or other emergency has occurred and other building or premises adjoining or near the same to establish the safety of the building and its occupants. This authority shall be exercised only with reason and good discretion.If access is denied or removed, an administrative search warrant may be requested through the
court and or legal processes. The search warrant should be justified by a showing of reasonable governmental interest, and supported by a statute, ordinance, or regulation. If a valid public interest justifies the intrusion, then a valid and reasonable probable cause has been demonstrated.
(Code 1961, § 12.03.03; Ord. No. 92-07, 4-7-1992)
(Code 1961, § 12.03.04; Ord. No. 92-07, 4-7-1992)
Sec. 20-2. - Same—Amendments.
The following provisions of the International Fire Code are adopted, amended, or modified for purposes of administration of the Code in the city:
(1) Section 103.1 shall have Huntsville Fire Department inserted as the Code Compliance agency
(2) Section 111 is changed in its entirety to read: In order to have an appeal to any order, decision or determinations made by the Fire Official, the appeal request shall be heard by the board of adjustments and appeals in accordance with the provisions defined by the International Building Code section 113, the International Building Code Appendix B and as amended therein Section 12-20(6) of the code of ordinances.
(3) Section 308.1.4 is added to read:
308.1.4 Open flame cooking devices shall be prohibited on balconies of multiple-family dwellings and single-family rental dwellings of two or more stories in height and shall be prohibited within ten feet of the building of multiple-family dwellings or single-family rental dwellings regardless of number of stories in height.
(4) Appendix D, Fire Apparatus Access Roads, is adopted.
(5) Section 503.3 is hereby amended to read:
503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs installed in accordance with "appendix D" of this code or permanent striping painted on the curb or edge of the paved access shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. Signs or striping shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.
Signs shall have the words, ‘NO PARKING - FIRE LANE – TOW AWAY” and spaced every 40 feet. This spacing may be adjusted with the approval of the fire code official. Striping shall consist of a minimum six inch (6") wide red background stripe applied the full length on each side of the fire access road and shall be marked at each end and at least every 20 feet with minimum four inch (4") high white letters stating, "NO PARKING - FIRE LANE - TOW AWAY."
(6) Section 603.5.2 Application and use of relocatable power taps
delete exemption 1 and 2
(Code 1961, § 12.01.02; Ord. No. 86-21, 7-15-1986; Ord. No. 95-06, 2-14-1995; Ord. No. 98-20, 9-22-1998; Ord. No. 2002-08, 3-5-2002; Ord. No. 2004-07, 3-23-2004; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-
2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 7, 8-16-2011; Ord. No. 2017-45, § 2, 9-5-2017)
Sec. 20-3. - Outdoor burning; when permit required; duties of Fire Chief/Fire Marshal; fees; penalty for
violation.
(a) It shall hereafter be unlawful for any person to burn any unprocessed natural vegetation within the corporate limits of the city unless such person first obtains a residential burning permit from the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal. Such unprocessed natural material shall include limbs, brush, and grass clippings and shall not include materials such as and including garbage, dead animals, asphalt, petroleum products, paints, plastics, paper, cardboard, treated lumber, construction/demolition debris or any product that emits toxic emissions, dense smoke or obnoxious odors. Even if a burn permit is issued for burning, no burning will be allowed within the city limits during any period in which a determination has been made by the County Judge that burning within the county poses an imminent safety risk or threatens the health and welfare of the citizens or by the Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal that burning within the city poses an imminent safety risk or threatens the health and welfare of the citizens of the city (commonly referred to as a "burn ban"). Any burn permit for burning shall be suspended during any period in which a burn ban is in effect, and it shall be unlawful for any person to burn any unprocessed natural vegetation within the corporate limits of the city during any period in which a burn ban is in effect.
(2) Burning on property as part of a land clearing operation will be done by trench burning under the conditions set out in Title 30 Texas Administrative Code § 106.496, as amended from time to time. The term "land clearing operation" means the uprooting, cutting, or clearing of vegetation in connection with conversion for the construction of buildings, rights-of-way, residential, commercial, or industrial development, or the clearing of vegetation to enhance property value, access or production. The TECQ permit for trench burning is located on the Fire Department website and must be completed prior to the burning operation. The burn site is then subject to the guidelines stated in the permit and is also subject to inspection by the Fire
Chief/Fire Marshal or designee. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal or designee may direct the burn operation be terminated if the conditions of the permit are not followed or a hazardous or
nuisance condition is being created.
(4) It shall be unlawful for any person to burn combustible material in a manner inconsistent or contrary to the conditions and regulations contained in the permit.
(c) Any person violating the terms of this chapter shall, upon conviction, be deemed guilty of a class C
misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punished as provided in section 1-11.
Chief Lunsford asked that Leonard review Section 1-11 of the Code Of Ordinances
(Code 1961, § 12.01.03; Ord. No. 75-2, § 1, 2-25-1975; Ord. No. 77-1, 1-26-1977; Ord. No. 2001-02, 1-9-2001; Ord. No. 2001-29, 11-13-2001; Ord. No. 2006-02, 1-3-2006; Ord. No. 2011-50, § 7, 8-16-2011)
Sec. 20-27. - Investigation of fires.
The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal or designee shall investigate the cause, origin and circumstances of every fire occurring within the city by which property is destroyed or damaged and shall especially make investigation as to whether such fire was the result of carelessness or design. Such investigation shall commence as soon as reasonable possible after the occurrence of such fire. If access is denied or removed, an administrative search warrant may be requested through the court and or legal processes. The search warrant should be justified by a showing of reasonable governmental interest, and supported by a statute, ordinance, or regulation. If a valid public interest justifies the intrusion, then a valid and reasonable probable cause has been demonstrated. The Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal or designee may also during any fire investigation, may be responsible for locating, collecting, identifying, storing, examining, and arranging for the testing of physical evidence. The fire investigator should be familiar with the recommended and accepted methods of processing such physical evidence.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.03; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 2)
Sec. 20-28. - Taking of testimony in investigation of fire.
The Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or designee shall have the power to summon witnesses before him to testify in relation to any fire or other matter which is, by the provisions of this article, a subject of inquiry
and investigation. The Fire Chief/Fire Marshal, or designee when in his opinion further investigation of a fire is necessary, shall take or cause to be taken the testimony, on oath, of all persons supposed to be
cognizant of any facts or to have means of knowledge in relation to the matter under investigation, and shall cause the same to be reduced to writing. According to NFPA 921, the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal or
designee, is hereby authorized to advise the person being questioned of his or her Miranda rights. Those questioned may also be advised if the questioning is being conducted in a custodial environment which
may or may not be on the fire scene, depending on the circumstances.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.06; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 6)
Sec. 20-31. - Offenses by witnesses summoned by Fire Chief/ Fire Marshal
Any witness who refuses to be sworn or who refuses to appear and testify, or who disobeys any lawful order of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal, or who fails and refuses to produce any book, paper or document touching any matter under examination, or who is guilty of any contemptuous conduct during any of the proceedings of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal during any investigation or inquiry, after being summoned to give testimony in relation to any matter under investigation, shall be deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor and it shall be the duty of the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal to cause all such offenders to be prosecuted.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.07; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 5)
Sec. 20-32. - Duty when evidence sufficient to charge person with crime in connection with fire.
If, after an investigation of a fire as provided for in this article, the Fire Chief/Fire Marshal is of the opinion that there is evidence sufficient to charge any person with the crime of arson, or with an attempt to commit the crime of arson, or of conspiracy to defraud, or criminal conduct in connection with such fire, he shall cause such person to be lawfully arrested and charged with such offense, or either of them, and shall furnish to the proper prosecuting attorney all such evidence, together with the names of the witnesses and all information obtained by him, including a copy of all pertinent and material testimony taken in the case.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.08; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 3)
Sec. 20-33. - Record of fires to be kept.
The Fire Marshal shall keep a record of all fires occurring within the city by which property is
destroyed or damaged, together with all facts, statistics, and circumstances, including the origin of the fire and the amount of the loss, which may be determined by the investigation required by this article.
(Code 1961, § 12.02.09; Ord. of 10-5-1915, § 2)
Secs. 20-34—20-54. - Reserved.
Agenda Item # 3d
Item/Subject: Second Reading: Consider adoption of Ordinance 2021-24 amending the City of
Huntsville Development Code Article 7 “Landscape and Buffers”, Article 15 “Terminology and
Definitions”, adding “Residential Planting Requirements”, Tree Preservation Standards and making
other provisions and declaring an effective date.
Initiating Department/Presenter: Development Services
Presenter: Kevin Byal, Director of Development Services/Building Official
Recommended Motion: Recommend approval
Strategic Initiative: Goal #1 - City Appearance - Provide policies, amenities, and events that enhance
the City’s already beautiful and historic natural environment.
Discussion: On February 2, 2021, the City Council adopted their 2021 Strategic Plan which identified
the need for tree preservation standards that apply to both residential and commercial development.
Staff went into the creative process with the goal of crafting a tree preservation ordinance that
promotes and protects the ecological, environmental, and health aspects as well as the physical
character of the City of Huntsville and its residents, but that is also not too onerous and will not
discourage development. Planning Staff presented the ordinance before Planning Commission for the
first time on May 20, 2021. Planning Staff took the comments, corrections, and additions from the
Planning Commission and presented a revised standard on July 1, 2021. With minimum comments,
corrections, and additions from the Planning Commission, planning staff made a few more edits and
brought forth the revised version of the tree preservation standard to Planning Commission on August
5, 2021. The resulting standards are collaborative work between staff, input from the development
community and the Planning Commission and are presented to City Council for their consideration.
At the August 25, 2021, City Council meeting a public hearing was conducted to give the public the
opportunity to provide comments on the proposed tree preservation ordinance. Two citizens spoke in
favor or the ordinance and no one spoke in opposition.
Councilman Irving requested that staff incorporate a tree trimming policy into the ordinance that would
address the removal of tree branches blocking streetlights and trees overhanging public streets. Follow
up discussion between staff noted that Public Works already has a policy in place that addresses these
issues as they arise. Consequently, staff did not attempt to incorporate into the tree preservation
ordinance policy addressing tree trimming or removal from public right-of-way.
Previous Council Action: There was a Public Hearing at the 8/17/2021 City Council Meeting. There
were two speakers that came to the public hearing and spoke in support of the Tree Preservation
Ordinance. There were no citizens that spoke in opposition of the Tree Preservation Ordinance.
Financial Implications: ☐ There is no financial impact associated with this item.
9/7/21
Agenda Item: 3d
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Agenda Item # 3d
Approvals: ☒City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☒City Manager
Associated Information:
• Planning Commission Discussion Form
• Tree Presentation Ordinance Overview
• Tree Preservation Ordinance
• Exhibit A – Tree Preservation Standards
• Planning Commission Minutes May 20, 2021, July 1, 2021, and August 5, 2021
ORDINANCE NO. 2021-24 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE AMENDING CHAPTER 24 LAND DEVELOPMENT OF THE HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS CODE OF ORDINANCES BY ADOPTING REVISIONS TO THE DEVELOPMENT CODE OF THE CITY OF
HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS; REQUIRING THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; REPEALING ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT WITH THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY; MAKING OTHER PROVISIONS AND FINDINGS THERETO; AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Development Code of the City of Huntsville, Texas Article 7 “Landscaping and Buffering” establish minimum requirements for landscaping and screening for the purpose of protecting and promoting the public health, safety and general welfare; and implementing the policies and goals contained in the City of Huntsville’s Comprehensive Plan and other adopted plans of the City:
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommended adopting the updates to the City of Huntsville Development Code; and WHEREAS, the City Council held a public hearing at their meeting on August 17, 2021 prior to
consideration of amending the Ordinance; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS, that: SECTION 1: All of the above premises are hereby found to be true and correct legislative and factual findings of the City of Huntsville, Texas, and are hereby approved and incorporated into the body of this ordinance as if copied in their entirety. SECTION 2: The Development Code of the City of Huntsville, Texas, Article 7.102.C, 7.503.A
are hereby amended; Article 7.305 is added; Article 7.900 through Article 7.1300 are added; and Article 15.200 is hereby amended by adding new definitions; all as shown on Exhibit “A” attached hereto and incorporated herein. SECTION 3: All ordinances or parts of Ordinances that are in conflict or inconsistent with the
provisions of this Ordinance shall be, and the same are hereby, repealed and all other ordinances of the City not in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance shall remain in full force and effect. SECTION 4: Should any paragraph, sentence, clause, phrase or section of this Ordinance be adjudged or held to be unconstitutional, illegal or invalid, the same shall not affect the validity of
this Ordinance as a whole or any part or provision thereof, other than the part so declared to be invalid, illegal or unconstitutional. SECTION 5: This Ordinance, being a penal ordinance shall be published in the official City newspaper at least twice within ten (10) days of its passage and becomes effective ten (10) days after
its date of passage by the City Council, all as provided by Article 4.13 of the Charter of the City of Huntsville, Texas. SECTION 6.
It is hereby officially found and determined that the meeting at which this Ordinance was passed was open to the public and that public notice of the time, place and purpose of said meeting was given as required by the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code.
First Reading Date: __________________
PASSED AND APPROVED on the Second Reading on this the ____th day of
____________ 2021.
THE CITY OF HUNTSVILLE ___________________________________
Andy Brauninger, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________ __________________________________ Kristy Doll, City Secretary Leonard Schneider, City Attorney
Page 1 of 8
Exhibit A
ARTICLE 7 Landscaping and Buffers
7.102 General Exemption
7.102.C Detached houses and duplexes, except that the Residential Planting Requirements of Article 7.305 shall be provided for; and
7.305 Residential Planting Requirements
The minimum planting requirement for new single-family dwellings, Duplexes and
Townhouses is two (2) Protected Trees per residential unit, one of which must be located in the front setback of the lot.
7.503.A Location
Buffers must be provided along the entire property line that abuts the NC district or lot occupied by a detached house. Buffers may not be located on any existing, dedicated, or reserved public or private street or right-of-way.
Removal of existing vegetative buffers adjacent to lots occupied by detached
homes is prohibited. A minimum of ten feet (10’) of existing vegetative buffer
must be retained.
7.900 Tree Preservation
7.901 Purpose
The purpose of this section is to establish rules and regulations governing the protection of trees within the City of Huntsville, to encourage the protection of native, healthy and desirable trees and to provide for the replacement and replanting of trees that are removed from developed or undeveloped property, or are necessarily removed during construction,
development, or redevelopment. This Tree Preservation Criteria may be used as credit to
comply with the Landscaping and Buffer requirements of Article 7.100
7.902 Applicability.
The terms and provisions of this section shall apply to real property as follows:
7.902.A All real property upon which any designated protected tree is located.
7.902.B All vacant and undeveloped property.
7.902.C All property to be redeveloped, including additions and alterations.
7.902.D The yard areas of all developed property, excluding owner-occupied single-family residential property; rental properties are not excluded and are
specifically subject to the provisions of this section.
Page 2 of 8
7.902.E All easements and rights-of-way except those included in a plat approved by the City Planning Commission shall meet the terms and provisions of this
section. Protected trees located within platted rights-of-way, easements and
buildable areas need not be included in calculated replacement plans.
7.902.F City of Huntsville Officials may require the removal of nuisance trees that can have an adverse effect on other trees or structures, either on public or private properties, by requiring their removal.
7.1000 Inspections, permits and fees
7.1001.A Tree removal permit required A tree removal permit shall be required when protected trees are to be
removed from a site. No person, directly or indirectly, shall cut down, destroy,
remove or move, or effectively destroy through damaging, any protected tree situated on property described above without first obtaining a tree removal permit from the city.
7.1001.B Protected tree removal permit
Permits for removal or replacement of protected trees covered herein shall be obtained by making application on a form prescribed by the city and submitted to the Development Services Department. The application shall be accompanied by a Tree Survey/Inventory showing the exact location, caliper
size, height, and common name of all protected trees to be removed. The
application shall also be accompanied by a written document indicating the reasons for removal or replacement of protected trees and two copies of a Tree Survey/Inventory plan drawn to the largest practicable scale indicating the following:
1. Location of all existing or proposed structures, improvements such as
streets, alleyways, etc. and site uses, properly dimensioned and referenced to property lines, setback and yard requirements and special relationships.
2. Date, scale, north point, and vicinity map.
3. Location of existing and proposed public utility easements, public access
easements and drainage easements on the lot.
4. Location and dimensions of visibility triangles on the lot.
5. Location of all protected trees on the site to remain that are three-inch caliper or greater when measured at a point 4½ feet above the ground level. Protected trees to remain shall be designated by a circle.
6. Location of all protected trees on the site to be removed that are three-inch
caliper or greater when measured at point 4½ feet above the ground level. Protected trees to be removed shall be designated by a triangle.
7. Tree information required above shall be summarized in legend form on the plan and shall include the reason for the proposed removal.
Page 3 of 8
8. Protected tree replacement plan: The plan shall exhibit the location of protected trees proposed to be replaced and include a legend indicating the
species, caliper size and height of proposed tree replacement. Replacement
trees shall be designated by a square.
7.1002.B Tree protection plan: The plan shall describe how existing healthy protected
trees proposed to be retained will be protected from damage during construction.
7.1002.C Application review. Upon receipt of a complete application, Development Services staff shall review the applications for compliance with this section;
said review may include a field inspection of the site, and the application may
be referred to such departments as deemed appropriate for review and recommendations. Following the review and inspection, the permit applications will be approved, disapproved, or approved with conditions by Development Services staff as appropriate.
7.1100 Regulations and Restrictions
7.1101.A Protected tree removal.
No protected tree or trees shall be removed prior to issuance of a tree removal permit unless one of the following conditions exist:
1. The protected tree is located in a public utility easement, public access
easement or public street right-of-way as recorded on a plat initially
approved by the Planning Commission.
In the event that certain protected trees outside the above areas or protected trees located partially outside the easement are requested to be removed to allow the operation of equipment, the applicant shall submit a site plan
which indicates the exact operation area needed.
2. The protected tree is diseased, injured, in danger of falling, interferes with utility service, creates unsafe vision clearance, or conflicts with other ordinances or regulations, the protected tree may be removed with the approval of the director of development services.
3. Except for the above, under no circumstances shall there be clear cutting of
protected trees on a property prior to the issuance of a tree removal permit.
4. The Director of Development Services may approve the removal of protected trees that interfere with the construction of a building and/or the drainage of a lot.
5. The Director of Development Services may approve of the removal of a
protected tree or trees located within a drainage easement if the removal is determined to be necessary to ensure the proper construction or maintenance of said drainage easement.
6. The following species of trees are exempt from the protection and
preservation requirements stated within this ordinance and are considered
Page 4 of 8
invasive species. Invasive trees shall not be planted nor counted towards any tree caliper credit.
• Tree of Heaven
• Mimosa, Silk Tree
• Paper Mulberry
• Chinese Parasol Tree
• Large Leaf Privets
• Chinaberry 1
• Chinese Pistache 1
• Chinese Tallow
This list may not be all inclusive and is subject to change and will be periodically reviewed and updated if necessary, by the Planning Commission.
7. If under brushing is essential in order to conduct survey work necessary to produce a Survey/Inventory plan, the applicant shall request approval from
the Director of Development Services prior to any under brushing activities
taking place.
7.1101.B Upon issuance of a tree removal permit: a developer shall be allowed to remove protected trees located on the buildable area of the property as identified on the approved tree survey/inventory.
7. 1101.C Protected tree replacement requirements. In the event that it is necessary to
remove protected tree(s) outside the buildable area, the developer, as a condition of issuance of a protected tree removal permit, may be required to replace the protected tree(s) being removed with comparable trees somewhere within the development. Trees removed from the Buildable Area are not
required to be replaced
7. 1101.D Replacement tree specifications: A sufficient number of trees shall be planted to equal, in caliper, the ratio of diameter of the trees removed. Said replacement trees shall be a minimum of two inches caliper and six (6) feet in height when planted and shall be selected from the list of approved
replacement trees maintained by the Development Services Department.
7. 1101.E In order to maximize the preservation of existing trees, surveyed trees in good health that have a caliper of at least six (6) inches measured four feet – six inches (4’-6”) from the ground may provide credit towards the replacement requirements. Each existing tree preserved between six inches (6") and twelve
inches (12") in diameter measured four feet – six inches (4’-6”) from the
ground may receive replacement credits for two (2) replacement trees. Each existing tree preserved greater than twelve (12") inches in diameter measured four feet – six inches (4’-6”) from the ground may receive credit for three (3) replacement trees.
Page 5 of 8
7. 1101.F Protected trees that are removed without a permit shall be replaced at an equivalent caliper inch equaling 100 percent of those protected trees removed
from the site as estimated by the Director of Development Services.
7. 1101.G No replacement tree may be planted within a visibility triangle, a watercourse, utility easement or an existing or proposed street or alley.
7. 1101.H A replacement tree must have a minimum caliper of at least two inches when measured at 4 to 6 inches above ground level.
7. 1101.I A replacement tree that dies must be replaced by another replacement tree that
complies with the tree removal permit.
7.1102 Tree reforestation fund: In situations in which it is not feasible to place the replacement trees on either the subject site or an alternate site, the applicant, upon approval of the Director of Development Services, may make a payment into the tree reforestation fund.
The fund amount shall be equivalent to 100 percent of the tree ratio replacement cost. For
those protected trees removed without a permit, the fund amount shall be the equivalent of 100 percent of the cost to replace the same caliper of trees removed without a permit. The funds shall be used only for purchasing and planting trees on public property. The amount of payment that is required for each replacement tree should be calculated based on the
average cost of a quality tree added to the average cost of planting a tree. No certificates of
occupancy shall be issued for the site until the required payment has been made to the tree reforestation fund.
7.1200 Development Standards
7.1201 Tree protection.
7.1201.A During any construction or land development, the developer shall clearly mark all protected trees to be maintained and may be required to erect and maintain protective barriers around all such trees or groups of trees. The developer shall not allow the movement of equipment or the storage of equipment, materials,
and debris or fill to be placed within the drip line of any protected tree.
7.1201.B During the construction stage of development, the developer shall not allow the cleaning of equipment or material under the canopy of any protected tree or trees to remain. Neither shall the developer allow the disposal of any waste material such as, but not limited to, paint, oil, solvents, asphalt, concrete,
mortar, etc., under the canopy of any protected tree or trees.
7.1201.C No attachment or wires of any kind, other than those of a protective nature, shall be attached to any protected tree.
7.1201.D Exceptions.
1. In the event that any tree shall be determined to be in a hazardous or
dangerous condition so as to endanger the public health, welfare or safety,
and require immediate removal without delay, authorization may be given by the Director of Development Services and the tree may then be removed without obtaining a written permit as herein required.
Page 6 of 8
2. During the period of an emergency such as a tornado, storm, flood, the requirements of this section may be waived as may be deemed necessary by
Director of Development Services.
3. Utility companies franchised by the City may remove trees which endanger public safety and welfare by interfering with utility service.
4. Properties that retain Walker County Appraisal District agricultural, timber or wildlife exemptions are excluded from the provisions of this section.
5. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any development that has
received a building permit approval prior to the effective date of this ordinance.
7.1300 Enforcement for Violations
7.1301 The City Arborist, Building Official or an authorized representative of the City shall have
the authority to place a Stop Work Order on any activity involving the removal of Protected
Tree(s) or that may otherwise endanger trees contrary to the provisions of this Subsection. The Director of Development Services may deny all Permits and Certificates of Occupancy for any site which is not in compliance with this Subsection.
7.1302 It shall be a violation of this article for any person to intentionally or knowingly remove or
destroy or allow the removal or destruction of a protected or Historic tree(s) located on any
property to which this article applies, or for any person to knowingly or intentionally perform any regulated activity in manner that does not conform to the requirements of this article. Any act or omission contrary to the requirements or directives of this article, or any breach of any duty imposed by this article shall constitute a violation hereof.
7.1303 Any person, firm, company or corporation violating any provision of this article shall, upon
conviction be subject to a minimum fine of $200.00 per violation. Each and every tree removed in violation of this article will be considered a separate violation. Additionally, each and every day until the illegally removed tree has been replaced or otherwise mitigated may be considered a separate violation.
7.1304 Protected Tree Species
• Live Oak
• Pecan Tree
• Smooth Hackberry
• American Elm
• Water Oak
• Redbud
• Loblolly Pine
• Crepe Myrtle
• Catalpa
• Post Oak
Page 7 of 8
• Bois d’Arc
• Southern Red Oak
• Black Hickory
• Cherry Laurel
• Winged Elm
• Sycamore Tree
• Box Elder
• Southern Magnolia
• Cottonwood
• Mimosa
• Chinaberry
This list may not be all inclusive and is subject to change and will be periodically reviewed and updated if necessary, by the Planning Commission.
ARTICLE 15 Terminology and Definitions
15.200 DEFINITIONS
Buildable Area
That portion of a building site on which a structure or building improvements may be erected, and including the actual structure, driveway, parking lot, pool, and other construction as shown on the site plan.
Caliper-Existing Tree(s)
Existing tree caliper shall be determined by measuring the tree width at a point 4½ feet above
ground level.
Caliper-Replacement Tree(s)
Replacement tree caliper shall be determined by measuring the tree width at a point 4 to 6 inches above ground level. This measurement is used for measuring nursery stock and is only
used for trees that are to be planted or relocated. The minimum caliper of a replacement tree
is 2 inches.
Protected Tree Replacement Plan
Is a plan that include all information necessary to demonstrate tree replacement along with tree preservation meet the forestation requirements of this section.
Ratio of Replacement
Refers to protected trees to be replaced at a ratio of one inch for every three inches removed and historic trees are to be replaced at a ratio of two inches for every one inch removed.
Tree
Page 8 of 8
Any self-supporting woody plant species, which normally grows to an overall minimum height of 20 feet.
Tree(s) Historic
A tree(s) which has been found by the city to be of a notable historic interest because of its age, type, size or historic association and has been so designated as part of the official records of the city.
Tree(s) Nuisance
A tree(s) that is non-native invasive, diseased, invested with harmful insects, dying or dead.
Tree(s)Protected
Any self-supporting woody perennial plant which has a caliper of three inches (3”) or more when measured at a point of 4½ feet above ground level and which normally attains an overall height of at least 20 feet at maturity, usually with one main stem or trunk and many branches. It may appear to have several stems or trunks as in several varieties of oaks and is not diseased,
dying, dead, or a nuisance tree as determined by an urban forester or International Society of
Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist.
Tree Survey/Inventory
A survey that depicts the location, size and number of trees within the survey area. The survey shall summarize the total number of trees and the diameter inches of trees that will be removed
and/or will be preserved. A Tree Survey/Inventory for treed areas that exceed one acre shall
be prepared by a registered landscape architect, registered architect, registered engineer or registered surveyor.
Page 1 of 1
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA ITEM DISCUSSION FORM
Prepared by: Charles A. Young, Planner
SUBJECT: City of Huntsville Tree Preservation Ordinance
MEETING DATE: August 5, 2021
TYPE OF REVIEW: Ordinance Review - Final Review
Overview On February 2, 2021, the City Council encouraged the Planning Division to develop a tree preservation ordinance for the City of Huntsville. Planning Staff took on this important task and started constructing a draft of a tree preservation ordinance. Staff went into the creative process with the goal of making a tree preservation ordinance that promotes and protects the ecological, environmental, and health aspects as well as the physical character of the City of Huntsville and its residents, but that is also not too onerous and won’t discourage development. Planning Staff presented the ordinance before Planning Commission for the first time on May 20, 2021. Planning Staff took the comments, corrections, and additions from the Planning Commission and presented a revised version at the July 1, 2021 Planning Commission Meeting. After receiving feedback from the community, planning staff made a few more minor edits and is bringing forth the second revised version of the tree preservation ordinance to the Planning Commission. The tree ordinance’s intention is to clearly identify all applicable areas within the city, the steps one must take to determine the type and number of trees on a property, the procedure for potential tree removal, replacement tree requirements, and penalties for not adhering to the tree ordinance. This document is also designed to discouraged developers from destroying trees that are protected in the Huntsville area. It is our hope that this document is our final draft, however the tree ordinance is open for review, comments, and/or corrections from the Planning Commission. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Planning Commission review and make a recommendation that the final Tree Preservation Ordinance goes before City Council for approval and adoption into the City of Huntsville’s Development Code under Article 7. ATTACHMENTS: Revised Final Tree Preservation Ordinance.
Page 1 of 2
Approved 6- 3-2021
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION HELD IN THE COUNCIL
CHAMBERS, AT CITY HALL, 1212 AVENUE M, HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS ON THE 20TH DAY
OF May 2021 AT 5:30 PM.
Members present: Woods; Hooten; Thompson; Lynch; Carpenter
Members absent: None
City staff present: Irones; Byal; Young; Sanchez
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Woods. [5:30 PM]
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
a. U.S. Flag
b. Texas Flag
3. INVOCATION
Chairman Woods led the invocation.
4. DISCUSS the Preliminary Review for the proposed City of Huntsville’s Tree Ordinance.
Chairman Woods stated his disappointment for subdivisions that have stripped trees in
order to build. Planner, Charles Young gave brief introduction of the Proposed Tree Ordinance.
The goal of this ordinance is to promote and protect the ecological, environmental and health
aspects as well as the physical character of the City. City Staff hopes to clearly identify all
applicable areas within the city, all the steps one must take to determine the type and number of
trees on a property, the procedure for potential tree removal, replacement tree requirements,
penalties for not adhering to the tree ordinance, and protected, common, and invasive species in
the Huntsville area. The goal is to present a final ordinance to Planning Commission in June
2021.
Commissioner Thompson began by asking for more clarification to whom this ordinance
is applied to. City Planner, Armon Irones clarified that is applied to single-family home
developers. Commissioner Lynch stated that it applies to personal property but not rented
property (Section C4). Commissioner Thompson asked if this will prevent residents from doing
upkeep on their homes after they have moved in already, to which Armon stated that this does not
prevent residents from up keeping their homes, rather it is for developers who wish to build
single-family dwellings.
Commissioner Lynch raised a question about parks and cemeteries. Armon confirmed
that the ordinance does not apply to parks and cemeteries, but that could be open for discussion.
Chairman Woods referenced the Mayor, who is seated in the audience, because he is
building a new home; if he wanted, the Mayor could clear cut the trees on his property to build
the home – this is something we want to prevent. He asked the Mayor about the process of
building a new home in Elkins Lake. The Mayor responded with by first needing approval by the
subdivision, then by receiving a Certificate of Compliance from the Planning Department. Vice-
Chairman Hooten asks if Staff would be willing to change the definition to any development that
undergoes a process with the City Development Services must meet the requirements of the Tree
Ordinance.
Commissioner Thompson asked for clarification in regards to enforcement after a family
has moved into their home. Per the Draft Ordinance, it states that before the home is occupied by
the home owner, they must comply with the ordinance, however after they have moved in, they
no longer have to comply with the ordinance. It is difficult to enforce the ordinance after the
owner has moved into the home already. Commissioner Lynch referenced a state law that claims
there cannot be restictions on personal property.
Chairman Woods wishes that the property owner have agency in choosing which trees
are places on their property via replacement. Armon gave a suggestion on the changing or
Planning Commission Minutes
May 20, 2021
Page 2 of 2
Approved 6-3-2021
additional verbiage to include what is being discussed. Chairman Woods reiterated what is
desired going forth: the inclusion of both residential and commercial uses, and for the City to not
be so strict on the replacement of trees. Commissioner Thompson wished for it to specified in the
ordinance, not implied.
One suggestion for smaller lots and their ability to remove trees and replace them is for
designating green space on the property and within that green space, having trees. City Staff
should clarify what “green space” is in the ordinance as well as what makes up green space. Staff
should consider working with the City Arborist.
In regards to the replacement of trees, if any developers wish to remove trees, they would
have to submit a tree survey showing every tree on the property, the species and diameter. If a
developer wishes to remove any trees, they must replace an equivalent diameter inch of the trees
originally removed. When Commissioner Thompson suggests heavier regulation, City
Development Director, Kevin Byal stated that while the City wants to protect the landscape and
environment, City Staff should not regulate too much to where it drives developers away.
The ordinance would not be applied to developers to must remove trees in roadways and
actual footprint of the house.
Vice-chairman Hooten asked who would be convicting and fining the developers, not
homeowners, if they do not comply with the ordinance. Kevin stated that they would be issued a
citation if found in violation and would have to go through the municipal court.
Commissioner Carpenter asked how long the developer would have to replace the
removed trees since the time of their removal. Kevin clarified that it is perpetual, in any given
time in the future it must be replaced with no time limit. City Staff will look at the trees listed in
the ordinance and their compatibility with the City. Chairman Woods asked if current
developments would have to comply with the new adopted ordinance. Kevin stated this is a
decision for the City Attorney.
City Staff will apply the revisions to the draft and have it as an action item by June.
5. DISCUSS & CONSIDER the minutes of May 6, 2021 meeting.
Vice-chairman Hooten moved to approve the minutes from the May 6, 2021 meeting.
Second was by Commissioner Thompson. The vote was unanimous.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were none.
8. ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Announcements concerning items of community interest from the Commission and City
Staff for which no action was discussed.
Armon Irones stated that Thursday, May 27, at 1:30, there will be the third and
final CPAC meeting for the Comprehensive Plan at the Huntsville Public Library
Meeting Room.
The first City Council meeting in July will host a joint workshop with the
Planning Commission to discuss the Comprehensive Plan and 4:30 PM.
Planning Commission is still in need of two members and are taking applications
from the public.
The Mayor states that City Council would like community input in choosing the
new location for City Hall.
9. ADJOURNMENT
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to adjourn the meeting. Second was by Commissioner
Carpenter. The vote was unanimous. [6:21 PM]
Page 1 of 3
Approved 7-15-2021
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION HELD IN THE COUNCIL
CHAMBERS, AT CITY HALL, 1212 AVENUE M, HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS ON THE 1ST DAY OF
JULY 2021 AT 5:30 PM.
Members present: Woods; Hooten; Lynch; Carpenter; Gumm, Emmett
Members absent: Thompson
City staff present: Irones; Byal; Young
Audience present: Larry and Cherry Mock – Modification and Waivers of Subdivision Standards request
for the Replat of Mock Property Tract 2 & Sarah Green – Northgate Meadows Section
4, Block 4, Lot 13
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Woods. [5:30 PM]
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
a. U.S. Flag
b. Texas Flag
3. INVOCATION
Vice-Chairman Hooten led the invocation.
4. CONSIDER the Replat of Mock Property Tract 2, located in the ETJ of the City of Huntsville.
City Planner, Armon Irones gave an overview of the Minor Plat stating that is the subject
property is proposed to be single family homes. The purpose of the plat was to create Lots 2B and
2C out of Tract 2. The applicant asked for Waivers for the maximum length of the staff and the
minimum width to depth ratio. Staff recommended to approve the plat with the Modification and
Waiver of subdivision standards. Vice-Chairman Hooten asks for the reason of subdividing the
tract. The applicant, Larry Mock, stated that the reason for this was to get the property put in his
name.
Commissioner Lynch moved to approve the plat with modification waiver. Second was by
Commissioner Gumm. The vote was unanimous.
5. CONSIDER the Preliminary Plan and Modification and Waivers of Subdivision Standards for
Northgate Meadows Subdivision, Section 4, Block 4, Lot 13 located in the ETJ the City of
Huntsville.
Armon Irones gave an overview of the subject property. The applicant is asking for
Modification/Waivers of Subdivision Standards from the paving width requirements for
Hadley Creek Bend and Cyntolyn Lane. The applicant informed staff that there is not
enough room to provide the required 28’ width of paving along those roads as they each
are only 15’ wide. They are also asking for a waiver not to pave Cyntolyn Lane. City
Staff recommends the Planning Commission to approve the Modification/Waivers of
Subdivision Standards. Chairman Woods inquired if Northgate Meadows had complied
the previous Waivers that were granted and Armon Irones confirmed that they had.
Commissioner Lynch questioned if the City would be responsible for paving the road if
this area were to be annexed into the City and the Director of Development Services,
Kevin Byal confirmed that it would.
The applicant, Sarah Green, gave a detailed overview of the land. She explained the tract
is being subdivided to match the rest of the properties around it. She feels that it is in the
best interest of the property owners and the community to not pave Cyntolyn Lane and to
keep it as a gravel-mix road.
Planning Commission Minutes
July 1, 2021
Page 2 of 3
Approved 7-15-2021
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to approve the modification waivers. Second was by
Commissioner Gumm. The vote was unanimous.
6. CONSIDER the Final Review for the proposed City of Huntsville’s Tree Ordinance.
Chairman Woods gave the new Commissioners a brief background of the want and need
for a tree ordinance in the City of Huntsville. Planner, Charles Young gave a brief introduction of
the revised Proposed Tree Ordinance. Staff took the recommendations from the Planning
Commission from the last meeting and made the necessary changes. The goal of this ordinance is
still to promote and protect the ecological, environmental and health aspects as well as the physical
character of the City. City Staff hopes to clearly identify all applicable areas within the city, all the
steps one must take to determine the type and number of trees on a property, the procedure for
potential tree removal, replacement tree requirements, penalties for not adhering to the tree
ordinance, and protected, common, and invasive species in the Huntsville area. The goal is to
present a final ordinance to City Council in August 2021.
Commissioner Lynch suggested that the pages be numbered. She also questioned the
connection of the tree diameter/caliper requirements on Page One under Planting Requirements
and Page Four Section 3a. Chairman Woods questioned the specifics of the Protected Tree category
and Commissioner Gumm questioned about not including native and desired trees in the Protected
Trees definition and suggested that they be added. All questions were answered by Kevin Byal to
the satisfaction of the commissioners. Commissioner Emmett questioned how the ordinance would
be implemented. Kevin Byal described the implementation and review process. Commissioner
Emmett expressed concern about the ordinance potentially being too onerous to developers and
commissioners discussed how the ordinance would help stop the reduction of trees and that the
City Council seemed supportive of an effort to preserve trees in Huntsville. Commissioner Gumm
questioned about the work that had to be done to determine the historic status of a tree(s). Kevin
Byal explained that the City would determine if a tree is historic or not. Commissioner Carpenter
questioned if small property owners would have to hire a tree surveyor and Kevin Byal explained
that those whose property is less than one acre will not need a tree survey. Commissioner Carpenter
questioned Page 5 and any standards for utility companies to remove trees. Kevin Byal explained
that the City doesn’t have any enforcement authority in that area.
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to forward the tree preservation criteria to City Council for
review and adoption if appropriate with the changes and suggestions made by the Planning
Commission. Second was by Commissioner Carpenter. The vote passed 5-1. Commissioner
Emmett voted in opposition.
7. CONSIDER the minutes of the June 3, 2021 meeting.
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to approve the minutes from the June 3rd meeting. Second
was by Commissioner Carpenter. The vote was unanimous.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were none.
8. ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Announcements concerning items of community interest from the Commission and City
Staff for which no action was discussed.
City Council and Planning Commission have a joint workshop for the
Comprehensive Plan Update on July 6th at 5:00 PM. at the Huntsville Library.
Planning Commission Minutes
July 1, 2021
Page 3 of 3
Approved 7-15-2021
There will be a Planning Commission meeting on July 15th.
9. ADJOURNMENT
Vice-Chairman Hooten moved to adjourn the meeting. Second was by Commissioner
Gumm. The vote was unanimous. [6:09 PM]
Agenda Item #4a
Item/Subject: First Reading: Consider a request from Huntsville Memorial Hospital for American
Rescue Plan Act (ARP) funds to provide additional nursing staff in response to COVID-19.
Initiating Department/Presenter: City Manager
Presenter: Aron Kulhavy, City Manager
Recommended Motion: No action needed - first reading
Strategic Initiative: Goal #7 - Public Safety - Provide safety and security for all citizens.
Discussion: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act
(ARPA) to provide $350 billion for eligible state and local governments. The City has received the first
half of the monies made available under the ARPA. The City is set to receive about $10.4 million in
total, with half currently available and the second half being made available next year. Under the
guidance of the treasury, the City may use the funds to support urgent COVID-19 response efforts to
continue to decrease the spread of the virus and bring the pandemic under control.
Huntsville Memorial Hospital (HMH) has reached out to the City and Walker County to see if it would
be possible for the entities to assist HMH with funding the necessary nurses needed during the surge
of COVID-19 patients being treated in the hospital. As of September 1, 2021, HMH has 46 COVID-19
patients in the hospital and the rate of increase has been growing considerably. As HMH continues to
plan and prepare for the weeks and more likely months ahead, they are in great need of additional
nursing staff in order to continue to medically care for the people of Walker County.
HMH has requested assistance to meet the need of eight RNs to staff a secondary COVID-19 ICU space
that has been designated in the Cath Lab recovery area. Since the nurse agencies are charging them
$145/hour, the projected costs for these nurses creates a deficit or loss of about $8,000 per day in the
Intensive Care Unit environment.
HMH is asking for City and County assistance through the ARP to fund the deficit for 13 weeks. The
contracts with these agencies are at a 13-week minimum. Therefore, at $8,000 per day for 13 weeks,
HMH is requesting $728,000. This amount is to be split evenly between the City and Walker County,
with each entity's portion being $364,000. The county has not yet acted on this request.
As the amount is over $300,000, there is a two-reading requirement for this request. Funds have not
been budgeted yet for the spending of the ARP monies; therefore, a budget amendment will be
necessary and will be scheduled for consideration at the next Council meeting in conjunction with the
second reading of this request.
Previous Council Action: The Council entered into an agreement with Walker County Hospital District
last year for COVID testing in the amount of $1 million using Coronavirus Relief Funds. No action has
been taken by the Council in regard to the American Rescue Plan funding and this request.
9/7/2021
Agenda Item: 4a
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Agenda Item #4a
Financial Implications: ☒ Item is not budgeted: A Budget Amendment in the amount of $364,000 will be necessary with
monies available from the City’s American Rescue Plan fund allocation.
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☒City Manager
Associated Information:
INTERLOCAL COOPERATION AGREEMENT FOR PAYMENT FOR COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH 2019 NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) TESTING
This Interlocal Cooperation Agreement is entered into, effective on the date when the last Party
executes the agreement, by and between the City of Huntsville, Texas, (hereinafter, "City"), and
the Walker City Hospital District, (hereinafter, "District").
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Chapter 791 of the Texas Government Code allows local government entities to make
the most efficient use of their powers by enabling them to contract with other governmental entities
for the provision of services to the public; and
WHEREAS, the City and the District each possesses the power and authority to engage in activities
that promote health and safety, and to provide services to further those ends; and
WHEREAS, the City and the District agree that the COVID-19 virus is a health hazard and
threat to the health and safety of our community and that expanded testing at no cost to those
being tested would provide health benefits; and
WHEREAS, the parties agree that their respective contribution of funding and/or in-kind labor and service to the project allows the burden of the cost for the improvements to be lessened on
each entity;
NOW, THEREFORE, the City and the District hereby agree as follows:
1. City will provide funding for COVID-19 virus testing to the District. 2. The cost for each test shall be $250 individually, or One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00)
cumulative.
3. The project shall terminate on December 1, 2020, or when the $1,000,000 has been expended,
whichever occurs first.
4. City is contributing only monetarily to the project. No in-kind services are expected or required of the City.
5. District or its designee shall arrange for all staffing, structure, equipment, and materials
necessary to perform the testing.
6. District or its designee shall arrange for advertising costs and for establishing a procedure to schedule tests. 7. The District shall invoice the City weekly for all costs for the preceding period. Invoices shall
include the number of tests for persons who live in the City limits.
8. The City shall process the invoices from the District in a timely manner.
9. No Party to this Agreement will be responsible for the acts of an employee of another Party except as may be decreed against that Party by a judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction. It is expressly understood and agreed that by executing this Agreement no Party waives, nor
shall be deemed to have waived, any immunity or defense otherwise available to it under the
law. Each Party to this Agreement waives all claims against every other Party to this
Agreement for compensation for any loss, damage, personal injury, or death, occurring as a consequence of the performance of this Agreement, except for acts in violation of law.
10. If any one or more of the provisions of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability will not affect any other provision and the Agreement will be construed without the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision.
11. District and City will make payments under this agreement from current revenues. 12. Any notice given hereunder by one party to the other party shall be in writing and may be effected by personal delivery, by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, when mailed to the proper party, in care of the official signing this Agreement or by fax transmission as agreed to by the Parties and as evidenced by a confirming return fax transmission.
If to Walker City Hospital District: Walker County Hospital District 1300 11th, Suite 515 Huntsville, Texas 77340
Phone: (936) 295-0038 If to City: Aron Kulhavy, City Manager City of Huntsville
1212 Ave M Huntsville, Texas 77340 Phone: (936) 291-5401 Fax: (936) 291-5409
13. This is the complete and entire Agreement between the Parties with respect to the matters herein and supersedes all prior negotiations, agreements, representations, and understandings, if any. This Agreement may not be modified, discharged, or changed in any respect whatsoever except by a further agreement in writing duly executed by the parties hereto. No official, representative, agent, or employee of the City of Huntsville, has any authority to modify this
Agreement, except pursuant to such express authority as may be granted by the City Council. No official, representative, agent, or employee of the District has any authority to modify this Agreement, except pursuant to such express authority as may be granted by the District. 14. The Parties agree to execute such other and further instruments and documents as are or may
become necessary or convenient to carry out the purposes of this Agreement. 15. This Agreement shall be construed under the laws of the State of Texas. Any suits relating to this Agreement will be filed in a district court of Walker County, Texas. 16. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to confer upon any person, other than the Parties hereto, any benefits, rights, or remedies under or by reason of this
Agreement. 17. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together constitute one and the same instrument. 18. The initial term of this agreement shall begin on the date when executed by the last party and shall continue until the project is completed, unless sooner terminated by either Party as provided herein. Either Party may terminate this agreement by giving the other Party written
notice of its intent to terminate at least thirty (30) days prior to the effective date of the termination. The termination of the contract shall not prevent nor eliminate either party’s
responsibility to pay any outstanding balances due for expenses incurred under the contract.
Approved on the date or dates indicated.
WALKER COUNTY HOSPITAL DISTRICT _______________________________
ATTEST: _______________________________
Secretary APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________________ Attorney Executed on this the ____ day of _______________ of 2020.
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE _______________________________ Aron Kulhavy, City Manager
ATTEST: _______________________________
Brenda Poe, City Secretary APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________________ Leonard Schneider, Attorney Executed on this the ____ day of _______________ of 2020.
Agenda Item #4b
Item/Subject: First Reading: Consider authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary
documents for the purchase of approximately 2.75 acres from the Walker County Hospital District
located near the intersection of 12th Street and Avenue O for the City Hall expansion project.
Initiating Department/Presenter: City Manager
Presenter: Aron Kulhavy, City Manager
Recommended Motion: No action necessary-first reading.
Strategic Initiative: Goal #4 - Infrastructure - Ensure the quality of the City utilities, transportation and
physical structures so that the City’s core services can be provided in an effective and efficient
manner.
Discussion: As part of the design process and review for the construction of the new City Hall project,
it was determined that there was not enough property at the current site to provide all the necessary
parking. Options for the acquisition of property and other options for parking were discussed with the
Council in Executive Session at the July 6th meeting.
Walker County Hospital District owns a 2.75-acre tract adjacent to the northwest corner of the existing
City Hall property for which the City has entered into a contract to purchase. The intention of the
acquisition of this property is to provide the parking required for the City Hall project. The property is
under contract for a purchase price of $750,000 and requires two readings under the rules of
procedure. Staff is not requesting a waiver of the second reading requirement.
Previous Council Action: A presentation was made to Council at their May 4, 2021 meeting providing
4 options for consideration of the City Hall construction project. "Option 3" with adding 9,000 square
feet via a 3rd story addition to the project with a cost of $4.6M was selected as the most viable option
to move forward with. The Council discussed the purchase of additional property for the City Hall
project during Executive Session at the July 6, 2021 meeting.
Financial Implications: ☒Item is not budgeted: A budget amendment in the amount of $750,000 will be presented for
consideration at the next Council meeting.
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☒City Manager
Associated Information:
• Map of Property
• Survey of Property
9/7/21
Agenda Item: 4b
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
WCHD Tract City Hall
CITY SERVICE CENTER448 STATE HIGHWAY 75
HUNTSVILLE, TX, 77320
Map Created At:
www.huntsvilletx.gov/gis
CITY OF HUNTSVILLE, TXENGINEERING DEPARTMENT / GIS DIVISION800.01 0.020.005
mi
CREATED DATE: 8/30/2021
Coordinate System: NAD 1983 StatePlane Texas Central FIPS 4203 Feet
On Any Print Size
1 in = 100 ft
On 8.5 x 11 inch Print
Service Layer Credits: City of Huntsville GIS Division
WCHD Property Purchase
Huntsville GIS Division
The City of Huntsville, Texas or its employees gives NO warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data. See the full GIS Data Disclaimer at: www.huntsvilletx.gov/438/City-Maps
Agenda Item #4c
Item/Subject: Consider Decision Packages for the 2021-22 Budget.
Initiating Department/Presenter: Finance
Presenter: Steve Ritter, Director of Finance, and Aron Kulhavy, City Manager
Recommended Motion: Move to approve the Decision Packages listed as items 4c (1)-(5) on the City
Council Agenda.
Strategic Initiative: Goal #7 - Finance - Provide a sustainable, efficient and fiscally sound government
through conservative fiscal practices and resource management.
Discussion: Attached are five decision packages provided for Council’s consideration as part of the
budget adoption process. These decision packages are provided as specified by the City’s Fiscal and
Budgetary Policies, and are provided for Council consideration for one (or more) of the following
reasons:
1. They include individual items whose cost exceeds $50,000. As such, to procure these items or
services, the City Council will have to award contracts or bids to execute the expenditure of
these funds.
2. They are to be funded using Unallocated Reserve appropriations.
3. They are of sufficient cost and scope that they qualify as policy issues and represent a significant
amount of discretionary spending in the budget.
These items are prepared for Council to adopt with the motion above. Should a Councilmember(s)
wish, an item (or items) may be pulled from the motion and amended and adopted individually (as is
the case with a consent agenda). Amendments require approval by a majority vote of Council Members
present. Amendments may include changes to amounts, removal of items within a decision package,
or adding items (with cost) in a decision package, and other. For any pulled and proposed amendments
that are not approved the item returns to its original language and should be voted on by Council.
Previous Council Action: Virtually every item included in each of the attached decision packages was
included in the July 20th Pre-Budget Workshop Presentation. They are also included as tab 5 in the City
Manager’s Recommended Budget that was provided to the City Council on August 13th.
Financial Implications: Each of these items is included in the City Manager’s Recommended Budget.
Each decision package includes its own Financial Implications section illustrating the amounts and
proposed uses of funds for each project.
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☒Director of Finance ☒City Manager
9/7/2021
Agenda Item: 4c
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 DECISION PACKAGE 1
Item: Proposed funding sources and levels of various employee benefits
Initiating Department/Presenter: Finance Department, Steve Ritter, Director of Finance
Human Resources Department, Julie O’Connell, Director of
Human Resources
Executive Summary: The City Manager’s recommended 2021-2022 Budget proposes funding the
vacation buy-back program as well as the Merit/Step Plan increase with Unallocated Reserves. The City
is traditionally spending less than 100% of budgeted salary and benefit accounts, resulting in contributions
to Unallocated Reserves in each fund sufficient to fund these employee benefits.
Financial Implications:
Funding Source
Fund Operational
Budget
Proposed Use of
Fund Unallocated
Reserves
Proposed Use
of CIP Fund
Unallocated
Reserves
Total
General 259,184 259,184
Utility 51,292 51,292
Solid Waste 19,383 19,383
PD School Resource Officer 9,622 9,622
Arts & Visitor Center 1,689 1,689
H/M Tourism 3,675 3,675
Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
Merit/Step Plan – The City returned to Grade & Step pay scale in Fiscal Year 12-13. Upon receiving a
satisfactory evaluation from their supervisor at their annual anniversary date, the employee is awarded a
2.5% merit increase until the employee reaches the top step of their respective grade. Once employees
are at the top step, and if they meet performance standards, they will be eligible for a lump sum payment
coinciding with the date of their annual evaluation. This lump sum payment will not exceed the
percentage merit increase approved in the budget.
Vacation Buyback Policy –
If an employee has taken at least 80 hours of vacation time off during the previous fiscal year and so
elects, he/she may buy back up to 40 hours of unused vacation time. The buyback option may be used to
make a one-time contribution to the employee’s deferred compensation plan for that year, or it may be
distributed in a one-time payment through payroll. Employee requests for approval must be completed
by the first Monday in November, with payment occurring on the second payroll date in November. This
option is subject to available funding and city council approval through the budget process each year.
5 - 1
Decision Package # 1
FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 DECISION PACKAGE 2
Item: General Fund / Airport Fund Capital Improvement Projects
Initiating Department/Presenter: Engineering, Mark McClure, Acting City Engineer
Executive Summary: Every year, the City budgets as part of its operational budget an amount of money
within each individual fund for Capital Improvement needs. This year, three capital projects are
recommended for funding. Each is explained in greater detail below.
Financial Implications:
Funding Source
Fund Operational
Budget
Proposed Use of Fund
Unallocated Reserves
Proposed Use of
CIP Fund
Unallocated
Reserves
Total
General 300,000 175,000 475,000
Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
General Fund:
Bleacher Cover for KBR Field # 10 & 11 - ($60,000) - Sail covers will be used to shade the bleachers at
Field 10 (baseball field) and bleachers at Field 11 (football field).
New Sports Complex Feasibility Study - ($100,000) – Feasibility study will help determine the wants and
needs for a new Sports Complex to include proposed location, size, and cost estimates for the construction
as well as ongoing maintenance of the facility. This study will also assist with the cost
recovery/programming element of the new Sports Complex.
Eastham Thomason Park Improvements - ($40,000) - Funding will assist with additional amenities to the
park such as play modules and picnic tables as well as some additional engineered wood fibers for fall
zones.
Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment for MLK – ($100,000) – Funding for furniture, fixtures and equipment
for the renovated MLK Community Center as well as the new addition to the Community Center.
Sidewalk Repairs & Improvements (As Need Basis) – ($50,000) – The City has approximately 105 miles of
sidewalk in the City limits. There are several segments throughout the City needing extensive repairs to
sidewalk and upgrades to sidewalk ramps to meet current ADA requirements. The funds will be utilized
to repair sidewalks, to repair or provide new ADA compliant ramps and to extend small segments of
sidewalks to connect existing sidewalks, where most needed during the fiscal year. Also, it is anticipated
that these small sidewalk improvement works can be achieved with minimal design.
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Decision Package # 2
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Decision Package # 2
Update Development District Map – ($125,000) - With increasing development within the City Limits
over the past several years, the Planning Division has seen a variety of developments that have been
proposed. These forms of development may have worked in the past with a one size fits most approach
but in regards to the present development zoning districts it is not practical for current or future
planning. City Council, the Planning Commission, City leadership, and citizens have expressed the need
for updating the development districts. The current development districts need an upgrade to help
preserve existing and new residential housing and to help sustain the undeveloped areas that may be
targeted in the future. Once the Comprehensive Plan has been adopted, the proposed project will look
to hire a consultant to assist in the updating of the development districts. The consultant will also be
needed to host town hall meetings, conduct presentations at meetings with Council and Planning
Commission, and listening sessions with the public to get feedback.
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Decision Package # 3
FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 DECISION PACKAGE 3
Item: Utility Fund Capital Improvement Projects
Initiating Department/Presenter: Engineering, Mark McClure, Acting City Engineer
Executive Summary: Every year, the City budgets as part of its operational budget an amount of money
within each individual fund for Capital Improvement needs. This year, City staff is recommending the
following Capital Improvement Projects in the Utility Fund. Each of these projects is described in detail
below.
Financial Implications:
Operational Budget Proposed Use
of Fund
Unallocated
Reserves
Total
Utility Fund 3,794,870 3,794,870
Grand Total Utility Fund 3,794,870 3,794,870
Water Projects Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
Miscellaneous Waterline Replacements ($700,000) - The City has been replacing existing undersized and
deteriorated waterlines in the various parts of the City each year, to the extent funding is made available
for this purpose. Several such aged, undersized, and deteriorated segments have been replaced in the
last several years. Replacing and upsizing will help reduce waterline breaks & associated maintenance
costs, avoids costly waterline and pavement repairs, improves water circulation and pressure in the water
distribution system to serve domestic and fire protection needs. Moreover, replacing these deteriorated
waterlines will reduce water loss.
For FY 21-22, the staff is recommending replacement of waterlines in the following segments
•Birmingham (Ave J to Ave H) – Approximately 1,250 LF of 6”
•University (7th St. to Thomason) – Approximately 1,500 LF of 6”
•Thomason (FM 247 to University Ave) - Approximately 600 LF of 6”
14th St. (I to G) Replace 8” + Ave I (12th to 14th) - Replace 10” ($400,000): - Replacement of
approximately 1,950 LF of deteriorating DI Pipe around the Walls Unit.
Water production / Pipe Storage – New Covered Storage Area ($250,000): - Funding for (2) metal
buildings with three sides and roof to protect pipe and fittings from the weather. This material is
utilized in day-to-day operations and needs to be covered so the elements do not affect the quality of
the material.
Wastewater Projects Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
Sanitary Sewer Replacements– ($1,144,870) Based on the findings during condition and capacity
assessment studies carried out during 2015 & 2016, several sanitary sewer basins determined to have
excessive infiltration and inflow (I&I) of groundwater and storm water into the sanitary sewer system.
City replaced aged and deteriorated sanitary sewer line segments during the previous fiscal years based
on the study recommendations. Replacing these deteriorated sewer line segments (and upsizing if
needed) will help avoid / reduce sewage seepage to the ground, potential groundwater contamination,
costly maintenance costs to repair associated damaged (such as pavement, sink holes, etc.). Consistent
with the study, the following sanitary sewer line segments are proposed for replacement for FY 21-22
budget year:
•1502 Sam Houston Ave to 1412 Sam Houston Ave ($114,870): - Replace 350 LF 6” sewer/ 2 MH’s
•608 Sam Houston Ave to 505 Ave M (75,000): - Replace 345 LF 8” sewer / 2 MH’s
•16th St. (Sam Hou Ave to Ave M) ($100,000): - Replace 420 LF sewer 10” / 3 MH’s
•1726 Ave Q to 1711 Ave R ($75,000) – 300LF 6” sewer / 3 MH’s
•Sowell/Gospel Hill Intersection to 98 Smith Hill ($300,000): -1,500 LF 6” sewer / 5MH’s
•1798 Smith Hill to Roosevelt/Mary Int ($260,000): - 1,300 LF 6” sewer / 7 MH’s
•14th & Ave I ($120,000) – Realign and Upsize Wall Unit Sewer Approx. 200 LF / 4 MH’s
•500 to 546 Normal Park Dr. (Behind townhomes) ($100,000) – 450 LF 6” sewer/ 4 Manholes
Wastewater Masterplan & Model Updates ($150,000) : - The 2016 Water and Wastewater Condition and
Capacity Assessment Study included evaluating the existing water and wastewater systems. The Bentley
developed software was utilized to develop the models based on the existing facilities, locations, field
testing, and evaluations. The models and data will need to be updated to account for changes and
addition of development and growth planned and unplanned.
Revenue Bond - Debt Service ($1,000,000) – Revenue bonds are a “class” of municipal bonds
issued to fund public projects. Revenue bonds are tied to specific revenue sources. The Utility fund
would be required to repay bondholders directly from Utility revenues. The City has approximately
$20,370,000 of individual projects that are all tied to the AJ Brown Wastewater treatment plant.
Currently, the interest rates are very low and the City would like to issue debt to pay for these projects by
the end of the calendar year.
These recommended lines are sized to serve future development in the A. J. Brown service area
and convey projected peak 2041 wastewater flows. This project will alleviate the existing lack of capacity
in
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Decision Package # 3
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Decision Package # 3
these lines to convey peak wet weather wastewater flows, as evidenced by surcharged conditions during
flow monitoring. The additional capacity provided by this replacement line will help the City maintain
regulatory compliance regarding the prevention of surcharging and sanitary sewer overflows in a gravity
sewer system (TCEQ§217.53).
•Replace 30” w/ 48” trunk sewer line – ($4,000,000) - Project includes the construction of a
48” replacement trunk line along Parker Creek to the A. J. Brown Wastewater Treatment
Plant.
•Replace AJ-08 Sewer line –Construction of Segment A - ($3,620,000) – This project includes
the construction of Segment A of a 42” replacement trunk line in the AJ-08 Basin.
•Replace AJ-08 Sewer line Construction of Segment B - ($3,150,000) – This project includes the
construction of Segment B of a 42” replacement trunk line in the AJ-08 Basin.
•Replace AJ-08 Sewer line Construction of Segment C - ($3,600,000) – This project includes the
construction of Segment C of a 42” replacement trunk line in the AJ-08 Basin.
•Replace 24” w/ 42” trunk AJ-10 Sewer Line - ($6,000,000) – This project includes the
construction of a 42” replacement gravity line in the AJ-10 Basin.
Drainage Projects Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
18” Storm Sewer Replace on 17th (Ave M to Sam Houston) ($100,000): Replacement of approximately
320 LF of currently failed clay tile pipe and addition of manholes, junction box, and street repair/valley
gutter.
Open Ditch lining improvements ($50,000) - Rehabilitation of drainage area running between Pine
Valley Street & Peach Tree Streets.
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Decision Package # 4
FISCAL YEAR 2021-22 DECISION PACKAGE 4
Item: Proposed funding sources and levels of various position and benefit additions.
Initiating Department/Presenter: Finance Department, Steve Ritter, Director of Finance
Human Resources Department, Julie O’Connell, Director of
Human Resources
Executive Summary: The City Manager’s Recommended 2021-22 Budget proposes the addition of
twelve and one-half (12.5) full-time positions and one re-class position in in the General Fund, three (3)
full-time positions (one new crew) in the Utility Fund and one (1) new position in the Solid Waste Fund.
New Positions:
General Fund positions:
•two (2) new fire fighter positions,
•one (1) accountant,
•one (1) Street maintenance worker,
•two (2) parks maintenance workers,
•one (1) facility service maintenance worker,
•one (1) administrative coordinator for Criminal Investigations,
•one (1) administrative coordinator for the Fire department,
•one (1) System Analyst position,
•one (1) Economic Development Specialist,
•one (1) building inspector.
•½ position for Part-time planning tech to Full Time
Other funds new positions:
•one (1) Water distribution crew (3 positions – Crew leader, Equipment Operator, and a
maintenance worker- (Utility Fund)
•one (1) Solid Waste driver – (Solid Waste Fund)
Financial Implications:
Funding Source
Fund Operational
Budget
Proposed Use of
Unallocated Reserves
Total
General 1,249,345 1,249,345
Utility 262,980 262,980
Solid Waste 85,539 85,539
PD School Resource Officer SRF 16,133 16,133
Art 2,141 2,141
Hotel/Motel 5,671 5,671
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Decision Package # 4
Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
General Fund:
New Positions:
•Two Fire Fighters (Fire Dept.) -$129,310 -Salary & Benefits & $29,000 Safety/Bunker Gear/ Training
•Accountant (Finance Dept.) - $73,372 - Salary & Benefits
•Greenspace Maintenance worker (Street Dept.) - $48,979 - Salary & Benefits
•Two Maintenance Workers (Parks Dept.) - $99,182 - Salary & Benefits
•Facility Maintenance Worker (Building Maint. Dept.) - $49,824 - Salary & Benefits
•Administrative Coordinator (Police Dept.- CID) - $53,064 - Salary & Benefits
•Administrative Coordinator (Fire Dept.) - $62,506 - Salary & Benefits
•System Analyst (IT Dept.) - $82,727 - Salary & Benefits
•Building Inspector (Central Inspections Dept.) - $68,979 - Salary & Benefits
•Economic Development Specialist (ED Dept.) – 78,322 - Salary & Benefits
•Part-time planning tech to Full Time (Planning Dept.) – Additional Salary & Benefits - $37,380
Additional Salary & Benefit Considerations:
•Reclass - Fleet Mechanic to Lead Fleet Mechanic - $10,069
•Additional Boot Allowance – Fire Dept. - $8,085
•TMRS Increase - $148,316
•Market Adjustment (9 Months) - $270,230
Utility Fund:
New Crew – Three Positions – Water Distribution
•Crew leader - $64,221 - Salary & Benefits
•Equipment Operator - $58,821 - Salary & Benefits
•Maintenance Worker - $52,293 - Salary & Benefits
Additional Salary & Benefit Considerations:
•TMRS Increase - $31,035
•Market Adjustment (9 Months) - $56,610
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Decision Package # 4
Solid Waste Fund:
New Position – Solid Waste Driver (Commercial Collections Dept.) - $55,407 – Salary & Benefits
Additional Salary & Benefit Considerations:
•TMRS Increase - $10,528
•Market Adjustment (9 Months) - $19,604
School Resource Officer SRF:
Additional Salary & Benefit Considerations:
•TMRS Increase - $5,856
•Market Adjustment (9 Months) - $10,277
Art SRF:
Additional Salary & Benefit Considerations:
•TMRS Increase - $655
•Market Adjustment (9 Months) - $1,486
Hotel/Motel SRF:
Additional Salary & Benefit Considerations:
•TMRS Increase - $1,703
•Market Adjustment (9 Months) - $3,968
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Decision Package # 5
FISCAL YEAR 2021-22 DECISION PACKAGE 5
Item: Proposed Uses of Unallocated Reserves from each fund
Initiating Department/Presenter: Finance Department, Steve Ritter, Director of Finance
Executive Summary: Each fund within the City accumulates Unallocated Reserves. Unallocated
Reserves result from when revenues exceed expenditures. Because Unallocated Reserves result from
one-time, unanticipated circumstances, it is recommended that Unallocated Reserves be spent on one-
time expenditures with minimal and identified associated operating expenses.
In the City Manager’s Recommended 2021-2022 Budget, various one-time expenditures are proposed for
Council’s consideration. Below is a detailed listing of the projects proposed for the use of Unallocated
Reserves by fund.
Financial Implications:
Fund Audited Beginning
Unallocated Reserves as
of September 30, 2020
Estimated Amount of Unallocated
Reserves in excess of stated policy
level at September 30, 2021
Proposed Use of Fund
Unallocated Reserves
FY 21-22
General 12,978,724 3,701,000 941,759
Utility 10,557,869 1,376,000 291,355
Solid Waste 3,258,914 938,000 302,238
Art SRF 133,420 No policy stated 32,000
Hotel/Motel 751,924 No policy stated 20,011
Detailed Discussion and Explanation:
General Fund:
•Repair to Garage/Warehouse Roof & Insulation - $93,000
•Walk behind Reel Mower for ballparks - $19,759
•Additional Skate Park Modules - $15,000
•Non-Serviceable fire equipment - $32,000
•New Fire truck - $747,000
•New Truck for Building inspector - $35,000
Utility Fund:
•Water and Wastewater Rate Study - $75,000
•Pickup Truck for new water crew - $44,000
•Mini Excavator and Trailer for new water crew - $42,000
•Implement for skid steer - Hydraulic Brush Mower - $6,000
•Additional lease payment for Street Sweeper replacement - $64,000
•Remote Control Slope Mower w/ trailer - $60,355
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Decision Package # 5
Solid Waste Fund:
•Roll Off Truck for Commercial Collection dept. - $124,900
•Container for new Roll Off truck - $ 41,900
•Residential & Recycling Containers w/ Lids - $135,438
Art Fund:
•HVAC System for Wynne Home - $32,000
Hotel/Motel Fund:
•New Lights at General Sam Houston Statue – $20,011
Agenda Item # 4d Page 1
Item/Subject: Public Hearing on the FY 21-22 proposed Budget and consider motion to postpone
approval of the fiscal year 2021 – 2022 Budget to the September 21, 2021 Council meeting.
Initiating Department/Presenter: Finance
Presenter: Steve Ritter – Finance Director
Recommended Motion: Move to postpone approval of the fiscal year 2021 - 2022 Budget to the
September 21, 2021 Council meeting. (Sec. 102.007 (a) of the Texas Local Government Code states “At
the conclusion of the public hearing, the governing body of the municipality shall take action on the
proposed budget.” The action can, and should be, to postpone approval of the budget to the September
21, 2021 meeting. The action to postpone should take place after the Public Hearing/Comment time.
Strategic Initiative: Goal #5 - Finance - Provide a sustainable, efficient and fiscally sound government
through conservative fiscal practices and resource management.
Discussion: The City Manager’s recommended budget for FY 21-22 was provided to Councilmembers
and the City Secretary on August 13, 2021.
Motion to postpone is due to a state requirement that the public hearing for the Budget be held “before
the date of the tax levy” (date the tax rate is adopted/approved which will be September 21, 2021) and
that “action be taken on the budget at the end of the hearing” – thus the action is to move to postpone
approval of the budget to the September 21st meeting. The normal process has been to approve the
Budget and Tax Rate at the Council’s second meeting in September each year.
State statutes, Sec. 102.006 of the Texas Local Government Code requires cities to “hold a public
hearing on the proposed budget.” The City Charter, in Sec. 11.05, also requires a public hearing on the
budget stating “…public hearings shall be held thereon in the manner prescribed by the laws of the
State of Texas relating to budgets in cities and towns.” This Public Hearing will meet all requirements
of the Texas Local Government Code. Staff has complied with all Budget Hearing notice postings and
publishings for this evening’s Public Hearing.
Previous Council Action: No previous Council action
Financial Implications: ☒There is no financial impact associated with this item. Financial impact will come with the
adoption/approval of the FY 21-22 Budget at Council’s September 21, 2021 meeting.
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☒Director of Finance ☐City Manager
9/7/2021
Agenda Item: 4d
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
Agenda Item # 4e
Item/Subject: Consider.. authorizing the city manager to find solutions to address the speeding by
traffic calming devices and limit the destruction of city roads by limiting travel for class 6 trucks or higher
in the New Addition area.
Initiating Department/Presenter: City Council
Presenter: Blake Irving, Councilman Ward 3
Recommended Motion: Move to authorize the City Manager to look at traffic calming measures to
address the speeding and limiting the direction in which trucks bigger than a class 6 can travel. In the
New Addition Area (Old Colony Rd & Geneva Rd) East of SH 19N and North of US HWY 190 E.
Strategic Initiative: Goal #4 - Infrastructure - Ensure the quality of the City utilities, transportation and
physical structures so that the City’s core services can be provided in an effective and efficient
manner.
Discussion: I would like the city manager to look at options for traffic calming measure that will address
the speeding in this neighborhood. It is also in the best interest of preserving street conditions for
extended use, it would be advantageous for the city manager to investigate limiting heavy trucks of at
least a class 5 or 6 (dump trucks) which will put the road on a path to be maintained sooner than
scheduled.
I have had a community meeting, and the take back was they wanted speed bumps or some type of
traffic calming. According to the traffic study it was not warranted, but council can override the survey
to fulfil what that community wants.
Previous Council Action: Use this section to provide the Council with background on when and what
action they may have taken previously. If the Council requested this action, list the date and what
action they requested. If this is a second reading on an Ordinance, list the date of the first reading. If
the Council previously considered the item at a Work Session, provide the date.
Financial Implications: ☐There is no financial impact associated with this item.
☐Item is budgeted: ____-_____-________ In the amount of $ ____________ (amount
in the budget account) ☒Item is not budgeted:
☐Item is estimated to generate additional revenue:
Approvals: ☐City Attorney ☐Director of Finance ☐City Manager
Associated Information:
•
9/7/21
Agenda Item: 4e
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Aron Kulhavy, City Manager
FROM: City Engineer
Katherine Beaman, Graduate Engineer CC: Kevin Lunsford, Police Chief DATE: October 15th, 2020
SUBJECT: Traffic Study Geneva Road
NATURE OF REQUEST:
The request is to consider providing speed control measures, potentially by installing speed
humps, along the corridor of the collector Geneva Road from 190 heading north. The request
was made by City of Huntsville council member Blake Irving.
LOCATION DESCRIPTION:
Geneva Road is considered to be a collector road under the most current Master
Transportation Plan for the City of Huntsville and has a posted speed limit of 30 mph. Geneva
Road is an unstriped road which contains one (1) lane of moving traffic in each direction.
TRAFFIC & SPEED DATA:
Traffic and Speed Data were gathered with MH Corbin traffic counters for three days from
October 6th, 2020 through October 9th, 2020 in both directions at all traffic counter locations.
Two traffic counters were placed at 260 Geneva Road and 151 Geneva Road.
Evaluation of the data indicates that all traffic counters measured that the 85th percentile
speeds exceeded 7 mph over the posted speed of 30 mph, as shown in the attached map which
displays the location of the traffic counters and associated average daily traffic (AADT) & 85th
percentile speeds. It was therefore determined that a speeding issue does exist at this location.
Given that the corridor is classified as a collector road, per the City of Huntsville Speed Hump
Installation Policy, speed humps may not be warranted, as the policy applies only to local roads
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in order to provide adequate access to emergency vehicles. Furthermore, the criteria that
speed humps are warranted if AADT volumes are between 500 and 2000 vehicles per day is not
met. Should action be taken to implement speed hump(s) along Geneva Road, a petition from a
minimum of 75% of residents supporting the implementation of speed humps would be replied.
However, prior to the implementation of physical traffic calming measures, it would be
appropriate to implement non-physical traffic calming measures, such as targeted enforcement
along the street and/or a radar speed sign. Should it be determined that non-physical traffic
calming measures are ineffective in ameliorating the speeding issue, it would then be
recommended to implement physical traffic calming measures.
Attached is a map showing the location of the traffic counters and associated average daily
traffic (ADT) & 85th Percentile speeds. Also attached to this memo are the summary traffic
reports generated from the data gathered by the MH Corbin traffic counters.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION:
At every traffic counter location within this traffic study, 85th percentile speeds exceeded 37
mph, or 7 mph over the post speed limit of 30 mph. As the corridor is classified as a collector
rather than a local road and AADT volumes are lower than 500 vehicles per day, and as such
does not meet the operational characteristics prescribed by the City of Huntsville Speed Hump
Installation Policy, it is recommended that actions be taken to proceed with the consideration
of speed humps only after non-physical traffic calming measures such as targeted enforcement
and radar speed signage are exhausted.