City Council Workshop or Special Called Meeting

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL CALLED MEETING TUESDAY - MAY 28, 2024 - 9:30 AM Notice of AGENDA Council Chamber/Municipal Court Building 2801 Ranch Road 1869 Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 Diane Williams Jacquetta Thayer Crystal Mancilla Wade Ashley Michael Helbing Amanda L Young NOTICE Notice is hereby given that a Special Meeting of the City Council of Liberty Hill, Texas has been called by Mayor Crystal Mancilla, to consider the submission of a grant application for Park Improvements. LIVE VIDEO STREAMING Please click the link on the City's Facebook page to watch the meeting live. PLEASE SILENCE YOUR CELL PHONES 1) CALL TO ORDER Establish quorum. 2) PUBLIC COMMENTS Regarding items not on this agenda/Public Comments: Those desiring to speak on a topic not listed on the agenda, please complete a speaker form and present to the City Secretary before the meeting. Speakers will have three minutes each to speak, this time cannot be transferred or shared. Council members may not take action during this item and any responses will be limited to factual statements, recitation of existing policy, or request for the topic to be placed on a future agenda. Regarding topics listed as an agenda item/During specific agenda item: Council requests that speakers complete a speaker form, indicate which agenda item they are interested in speaking about, and submit form to the City Secretary before the agenda item is addressed. Speaker forms may be emailed to the City Secretary before the meeting at esimpson@libertyhilltx.gov. 3) REGULAR AGENDA 1  a) Approve and authorize city staff to submit application for Williamson County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for City Park improvements. (P. Brandenburg, K. Amsler) 20230705_Liberty Hill City Park Phase1.pdf Budget.pdf WILLIAMSON COUNTY FY 2024 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BL.pdf 4) ADJOURNMENT The City Council, Boards, and Commissions reserve the right to reconvene, recess, realign, change the order of business, or adjourn into Execu ve Session at any me during the course of the mee ng, prior to adjournment, to discuss any item listed above, as authorized by Texas Government Code Sec on §551.071 (Consulta on with A orney), §551.072 (Delibera ons about Real Property), §551.073 (Delibera ons about Gi s and Dona ons), §551.074 (Personnel Ma ers), §551.076 (Delibera ons about Security Devices), and §551.087 (Development). In compliance with the Americans with Disabili es Act, the City of Liberty Hill will provide reasonable accommoda on for persons a ending mee ngs. To be er serve you, requests need to be received 48 hours prior to the meeting. Contact the City Secretary at 512-778-5449 – Extension 125. POSTING CERTIFICATION: I, ELAINE SIMPSON – CITY SECRETARY – CITY OF LIBERTY HILL certify that the attached notice of meeting was duly posted on the bulletin board at City Hall located at 926 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 and on the City website (www.libertyhilltx.gov) on the ______ day of ____________________, 202_ at ______. Elaine Simpson – City Secretary. REMOVAL CERTIFICATION: I ELAINE SIMPSON – CITY SECRETARY – CITY OF LIBERTY HILL certify that the attached notice of meeting was removed from the bulletin board at City Hall located at 926 Loop 332, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642 on the ______ day of __________________, 202_ at _______. INITIALS _______ 2  CITY COUNCIL CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL CALLED MEETING TUESDAY - MAY 28, 2024 2801 Ranch Road 1869 - Liberty Hill AGENDA ITEM 3.a Approve and authorize city staff to submit application for Williamson County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for City Park improvements. (P. Brandenburg, K. Amsler) 3 l:IBER • Hll:I: PAR� MASTER Pl:AN 0 GRAP3� c s�� LE IN FEE i20 Kimley>>) Horn JULY 2023 4  Project Budget Details City of Liberty Hill LP-2024-Liberty Hill-00061 For TPWD use only Grant Overmatch Grant + Approved Approved Grant + Elements Overmatch Grant Over-Match Total Total Elements B. LAND ACQUISITION TOTAL LAND ACQUISITION COST $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Grant Overmatch Grant + Approved Approved Grant + Elements Overmatch Grant Over-Match Total Total Elements C. CONSTRUCTION Amphitheatre $250,000 $250,000 $0 Green Space/Natural Space $33,208 $33,208 $0 Trees and Landscaping $200,000 $200,000 $0 Walking Trails $81,600 $81,600 $0 4" Concrete Trail $170,000 $170,000 $0 5" Concrete Trail $125,000 $125,000 $0 Pavilion Canopy $200,000 $200,000 $0 Benches / Picnic Tables $75,000 $75,000 $0 Playground $205,015 $205,015 $0 $0 $0 Site Lighting/Electrical Allowances $230,000 $230,000 $230,000 Fencing $170,000 $170,000 $170,000 Concrete Parking Lot $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 TOTAL CONSTRUCTION COST $1,339,823 $500,000 $1,839,823 $0 $500,000 TOTAL PROJECT COST $1,500,000 $500,000 $2,000,000 $0 $500,000 GRANT FUNDS REQUESTED - 50% $750,000 Rounded up to the nearest dollar, will populate after page save. SPONSOR MATCH - 50% $750,000 Rounded up to the nearest dollar, 07/06/2023 Page 3 of 6 5  WILLIAMSON COUNTY FY 2024 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) DO NOT USE THIS APPLICATION FOR SOCIAL SERVICE PROJECT FUNDING REQUESTS FY2024 (OCT. 1, 2024 – SEPT. 30, 2025) Applicant Organization Name & Contact Information Organization Name * City of Liberty Hill Name and Title of Contact Person * Katie Amsler, Director of Community Engagement and Communications Address * 926 Main Street City * State * Zip * Liberty Hill TX 78642 Phone * Fax * 512-417-8448 512-778-5418 Email * kamsler@libertyhilltx.gov Project Information Project Title * Liberty Hill - Heart of the Park Project Description * The City of Liberty Hill, in collaboration with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is embarking on an exciting initiative to transform an underutilized site into a vibrant community park. The "Heart of the Park" project aims to enhance the quality of life for residents by providing accessible and inclusive recreational opportunities, fostering community engagement, and preserving the natural beauty of the area. The focal point of the project is the development of Liberty Hill's first public amphitheater and community green space. This versatile outdoor event center will serve as a gathering place for various community events, such as festivals, concerts, and cultural celebrations. With ample seating, performance areas, and recreational amenities, the amphitheater will create memorable experiences and strengthen community bonds. Complementing the amphitheater, the project includes the construction of a scenic walking trail that winds through the park's natural surroundings. The trail will provide a safe and enjoyable space for individuals of all ages to engage in physical activity, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. Lined with shade-providing trees and featuring educational signage about native plants, pollinators, and ecology, the trail will offer opportunities for learning and appreciation of the local environment. To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, the park will feature an upgraded playground designed to accommodate various age groups and abilities. The playground will incorporate innovative equipment, engaging play structures, and unique amenities like swings and sensory play elements. Accessible picnic tables will allow individuals with mobility challenges to fully participate in gatherings and social activities. 6 The project will prioritize conservation and sustainable design practices. Careful placement of new amenities, along with buffers of native vegetation, will protect existing trees, greenery, and sensitive riparian zones. Directional, dimmable lighting along the walking trail will improve safety and accessibility during evening hours without disrupting the natural environment. Strategically relocated trees and new shade structures will provide sustainable sources of shade, enhancing comfort during hot Texas summers. Throughout the planning process, the City of Liberty Hill has actively engaged the community to gather input and ensure that the park reflects the needs and desires of its residents. Public meetings, online surveys, stakeholder sessions, and outreach events have been conducted to incorporate diverse perspectives and foster a sense of ownership among the community. The development of the Heart of the Park will take place over a one year period of time. By creating an inclusive, accessible, and environmentally-conscious park, the Heart of the Park project aims to enhance the well-being and vitality of the Liberty Hill community. It will provide a space for residents to connect with nature, engage in recreational activities, and strengthen social bonds. Through this CDBG-funded initiative, Liberty Hill demonstrates its commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents and creating a vibrant, thriving community. Will the project be ready to begin on or about October 1, 2024? * Yes No Is the project phased? * Yes No Estimated Number of Low and Moderate Income Persons, Households or Limited Clientele to be Served Number of Persons Number of Households 1150 Please Identify the Community Need * The community of Liberty Hill has expressed a significant need for enhanced outdoor recreational opportunities and gathering spaces. The current lack of a public amphitheater and limited community green spaces have hindered the ability to host events, celebrations, and cultural activities that bring residents together and foster a sense of community pride. Through various public engagement efforts, including community meetings, online surveys, and stakeholder sessions, residents have consistently voiced their desire for a park that caters to the diverse needs of the population. The community has highlighted the importance of creating inclusive and accessible spaces where individuals of all ages and abilities can engage in physical activity, social interaction, and leisure pursuits. The existing playground equipment is in need of upgrades to accommodate different age groups and provide a safe and stimulating environment for children to play and socialize. The absence of sufficient shade structures and trees has made the playground challenging to enjoy during hot weather, limiting its usability and attractiveness to families. Furthermore, the community has expressed a strong interest in having access to walking trails that offer opportunities for exercise, nature appreciation, and peaceful recreation. The current lack of designated walking paths and connectivity within the park has restricted residents' ability to fully enjoy and explore the natural surroundings. The need for an outdoor event center has also been prominently mentioned by the community. Liberty Hill currently lacks a dedicated space for hosting large gatherings, performances, and community events. The desire for an amphitheater and community green space reflects the residents' eagerness to come together, celebrate their shared identity, and participate in cultural and entertainment activities. Moreover, the community has emphasized the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. Residents have expressed their desire for a park that preserves and showcases the natural beauty of the area while providing educational opportunities to learn about native plants, pollinators, and local ecology. The Heart of the Park project directly addresses these identified community needs by creating a multifaceted park that offers a range of 7 recreational amenities, gathering spaces, and educational features. By involving the public throughout the planning process, the project ensures that the park will be tailored to the specific requirements and aspirations of the Liberty Hill community, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering a stronger sense of community cohesion. Who is going to operate and maintain the facility or program and how will its operation be funded? * The City of Liberty Hill will be responsible for operating and maintaining the new Heart of the Park facilities. We plan to utilize existing Parks & Recreation staff in collaboration with community partners to ensure proper upkeep: The City of Liberty Hill is strategically planning to make use of its existing Parks & Recreation technicians in partnership with the local Youth Soccer Association to ensure the proper maintenance of its facilities. At present, the city employs three full-time Parks & Recreation technicians who are dedicated to preserving the grounds at City Park. With the proposed park improvements, these technicians will continue their vital responsibilities while also contributing to the enhancement efforts. The City of Liberty Hill has established a collaborative agreement with the Youth Soccer Association, granting them the responsibility of maintaining the soccer/football fields as specified in their contract. By entrusting this particular aspect of park maintenance to the Youth Soccer Association, the Liberty Hill staff will be able to focus their efforts on caring for the remaining areas of the park. Annual municipal budget funding will support basic upkeep like mowing, landscaping, inspections, repairs, and utilities. Following manufacturer recommendations, specialized features and amenities will receive preventative maintenance tailored to their needs. As assets reach their lifespan (10-25 years), replacement will be systematically budgeted based on expected deterioration. Embracing sustainable elements like native plants and bioswales will reduce long-term maintenance demands. Community assistance through volunteer days can also aid upkeep efforts. So in summary, the City of Liberty Hill will handle the majority of maintenance responsibilities using their existing parks staff, with some delegation to the Youth Soccer Association for the fields. The annual city budget will cover routine maintenance costs, while funds will be set aside to address capital replacement needs as amenities age over the 25+ year lifespan of the park. The city is taking a proactive and sustainable approach to keep maintenance manageable. If the project requires staff, what are the staff costs? * The project does not require staffing. Service Area * Identify the geographic boundaries of the proposed service area. City of Liberty Hill residents and visitors. ***Maximum upload size of files combined is 250MB Map of Service Area (PDF, TIF, TIFF OR JPG) * Vicinity Map.jpg 129.16KB Site Photos.pdf 11.45MB 20230705_Liberty Hill City Park Phase1.pdf 6.61MB Map of Liberty Hill.pdf 271.37KB THC Atlas Map-Libery Hill Park.jpg 217.59KB Aerial Map.jpg 276.35KB Upload any other attachments (Excel, Word, PDF, TIFF, TIF, JPG files only) LMISD.pdf 10.74KB 2023-R-025_Parks Master Plan Update 2023.pdf 1.23MB 8 Project Funding Amount of CDBG funds requested * Total funds obtained from other resources * $750,000.00 $750,000.00 Total cost of project * $1,500,000.00 CDBG Project Budget Estimate State, City or Budget Sponsor Total Cost CDBG Funding Contributions Federal Other Funding Categories Funding Funding Eng/Plan $160,177.00 $160,177.00 Constr $1,339,823.00 $750,000.00 $589,823.00 Other Please note Funds obligated to the project will be tied to that obligation unless authorized to do otherwise. CDBG funds do not require leveraged funds. Budget Narrative * The Heart of the Park grant project in the City of Liberty Hill has a total cost of $1,500,000. It requires a match contribution of 50%, amounting to $750,000, and a grant request of $750,000. The City is requesting $750,000 for the required match. There there is no land acquisition involved in this grant. The construction costs for the project are as follows: General Conditions cost $100,000, Grading and Site Preparation require $200,000, Onsite Utilities amount to $200,000, 4" Concrete Trail costs $200,000, 5" Concrete Trail comes to $150,000, Pavers total $81,600, Pavilion Canopy is estimated at $200,000, Site Furnishings require $75,000, and Playground expenses are $293,400. ***Maximum upload size of files combined is 250MB Budget (Excel, Word and or PDF files only) * Budget.pdf 72.48KB Signature * Executive Director * Katie Amsler Date Signed * 9 5/24/2024 10