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07-30-2013 (City Council) Agenda Packet OF wyl ���• ° Wylie City Council NOTICE OF MEETING �LF.EOLOR.00 g'M.t•FQEpRIr I�Ly,F�� srA 887 Special Called Work Session Agenda July 30, 2013 - 6:00 p.m. Wylie Municipal Complex Council Chambers/CouncilConference Room 300 Country Club Road, Building #100 Eric Hogue Mayor Nathan Scott Mayor Pro Tern Keith Stephens Place 1 Todd Wintters Place 3 Bennie Jones Place 4 Rick White Place 5 Diane Culver Place 6 Mindy Manson City Manager Richard Abernathy City Attorney Carole Ehrlich City Secretary In accordance with Section 551.042 of the Texas Government Code, this agenda has been posted at the Wylie Municipal Complex, distributed to the appropriate news media, and posted on the City website: www.wylietexas.gov within the required time frame. As a courtesy, the entire Agenda Packet has also been posted on the City of Wylie website: www.wylietexas.gov. The Mayor and City Council request that all cell phones and pagers be turned off or set to vibrate. Members of the audience are requested to step outside the Council Chambers to respond to a page or to conduct a phone conversation. The Wylie Municipal Complex is wheelchair accessible. Sign interpretation or other special assistance for disabled attendees must be requested 48 hours in advance by contacting the City Secretary's Office at 972.516.6020. Hearing impaired devices are available from the City Secretary prior to each meeting. CALL TO ORDER Announce the presence of a Quorum. INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE CITIZENS COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Residents may address Council regarding an item that is not listed on the Agenda. Residents must provide their name and address. Council requests that comments be limited to three (3) minutes. In addition, Council is not allowed to converse, deliberate or take action on any matter presented during citizen participation. REGULAR AGENDA 1. Consider and act upon granting an extension of time for the FY 2013/2014 proposed budget filing with the City Secretary from August 5, 2013 to August 12, 2013 per the Home Rule Charter; Article V, Section 2. (M. Manson, City Manager) July 30,2013 Wylie City Council Special Called Meeting/Work Session Page 2 of 2 Agenda WORK SESSION • FY 2013-2014 Budget Discussion RECONVENE INTO REGULAR SESSION Take any action as a result from Work Session. ADJOURNMENT If during the course of the meeting covered by this notice,the City Council should determine that a closed or executive meeting or session of the City Council or a consultation with the attorney for the City should be held or is required,then such closed or executive meeting or session or consultation with attorney as authorized by the Texas Open Meetings Act,Texas Government Code§551.001 et. seq.,will be held by the City Council at the date,hour and place given in this notice as the City Council may conveniently meet in such closed or executive meeting or session or consult with the attorney for the City concerning any and all subjects and for any and all purposes permitted by the Act, including,but not limited to,the following sanctions and purposes: Texas Government Code Section: §551.071—Private consultation with the attorney for the City. §551.072—Discussing purchase,exchange,lease or value of real property. §551.074—Discussing personnel or to hear complaints against personnel. CERTIFICATION I certify that this Notice of Meeting was posted on this 26th day of July 2013 at 5:00 p.m. as required by law in accordance with Section 551.042 of the Texas Government Code and that the appropriate news media was contacted. As a courtesy, this agenda is also posted on the City of Wylie website: www.wvlietexas.gov. Carole Ehrlich,City Secretary Date Notice Removed +t`L OF Wp • ® Wylie City Council AGENDA REPORT "rE op S'E0 Meeting Date July 30, 2013 Item Num er 1. Department City Manager/Finance (City Secretary's Use Only) Prepare y Account Co e Date Prepare July 23,2013 u gete Amount Exhi its Consider, and act upon, granting an extension of time for the FY 2013/2014 proposed budget filing with the City Secretary from August 5, 2013 to August 12, 2013 per the Home Rule Charter; Article V, Section 2. Recommen ation Motion granting an extension of time for the FY 2013/2014 proposed budget filing with the City Secretary from August 5, 2013 to August 12, 2013 per the Home Rule Charter; Article V, Section 2. Discussion The City Charter specifies that as part of the normal budget process, a proposed budget be filed with the City Secretary each year by August 5th unless the City Council has granted an extension. This budget is to allow the general public access to the proposed budget for the ensuing year, thereby allowing public viewing prior to the actual adoption of the budget at a later date. Under normal circumstances, this will allow at least 30 days for the public to view the proposed budget before official adoption. Due to the extra council work session this year, we will need extra time to prepare the proposed budget to be filed with the City Secretary. Staff requests an extension until August 12, 2013 to allow for adequate preparation time. This will still allow almost three weeks for viewing until the public hearing on the budget and a month for viewing prior to the official adoption of the budget. Page 1 of 1 0 � o N • N Nv� cv;. v M , N 1 Y O " O CIF; General Fund Summary Audited General Fund Ending Balance 09/30/12 $ 11,286,328 Projected '13 Revenues 26,406,886 Available Funds 37,693,214 Projected '13 Expenditures (27,530,842) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/13 $ 10,162,372 Estimated Beginning Fund Balance - 10/01/13 $ 10,217,472 Proposed Revenues '14 27,726,407 Proposed Expenditures '14 (26,647,817) Excess Revenues Over Expenditures $ 1,078,590 Rollover of Funds for Public Safety Building Project (55,100) Use of Fund Balance - Transfer to Debt Service Fund for Debt Payments (400,000) Use of Fund Balance - New/Replacement Fleet & Equipment (969,298) a) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/14 $ 9,871,664 b) a) See list of Fund Balance items on slide #3. b) Policy is 25% of budgeted expenditures. As shown, this Ending Fund Balance is 37%. Based on a balanced budget (revenues = expenditures), Ending Fund Balance would be $8,793,074 or 31.7%. 2 Use of Excess Fund Balance General Fund Dept. Description Amount Dept. Description Amount FAC 40'Boom Lift $ 25,000 STR Heavy-Duty Truck Replacements (3) $ 126,000 IT Desktop (25)/Laptop(5)Replacements $ 51,500 PKS Truck Replacements (3) $ 78,000 IT Cisco Phone System -PSB $ 50,000 PKS Desktop Computer $ 1,650 PKS Replacement of Soccer Goals at Founders Park(2) $ 12,600 PD CID Vehicle-New $ 30,250 PKS Renovation of Community Park Parking Lot $ 16,000 PD Replacement Patrol/SRO Vehicles (8) $ 341,531 PKS Renovation of Muddy Creek Park Parking Lot $ 12,000 PD SWAT-Assault Vests (5) $ 11,500 PKS Renovation of Valentine Park Parking Lot $ 7,000 PKS Renovation of Kirby Park Parking Lot $ 3,000 AC Remodel of Office/Public Area $ 21,650 LIB Five-Bin Sorter(Upgrade From 3 Bin) $ 39,429 WFR Filling Station for Breathing Appa ratus $ 47,000 LIB Teen &Children Area Shelving $ 6,850 WFR LifePak 15 (1) $ 44,438 LIB Laptop Computers (3) $ 6,150 WFR Breathing Apparatus Replacements $ 32,000 COM Cross-Cut Shredder $ 3,000 COM Printer $ 700 COM Laptop Computer $ 2,050 3 UtilityFund Summary Audited Utility Fund Ending Balance 09/30/12 $ 9,316,045 Projected '13 Revenues 13,415,000 Available Funds 22,731,045 Projected '13 Expenditures (13,483,031) Less: 2007 Utility CO's Spent or Committed to Projects (3,596,132) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/13 $ 5,651,882 Estimated Beginning Fund Balance - 10/01/13 $ 5,651,882 Proposed Revenues '14 13,832,000 Proposed Expenditures '14 (13,696,436) Use of Fund Balance - New/Replacement Fleet & Equipment (425,500) a) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/14 $ 5,361,946 b) a) See list of Fund Balance items on slide #5. b) Policy requirement is 90 days of operating expenditures, which is equal to $3,377,203. Use of Excess Fund Balance Utility Fund Dept. Description Amount Water Pavement Cutter $ 26,000 Water Safety Shoring Equipment $ 5,500 Water Replace Bobcat - Unit 143 $ 31,000 Water Replace/Upgrade Valve Machine $ 52,000 Water 3/4 Ton Truck - New $ 32,000 Water Replace 1/2 Ton Truck - Unit 124 $ 25,000 Water Replace 1/2 Ton Truck - Unit 129 $ 25,000 Water Replace 1/2 Ton Truck - Unit 120 $ 25,000 Water EquipmentTrailer - New $ 9,000 Sewer SCBA Equipment $ 17,000 Sewer 12 Yd Dump Truck - New $ 115,000 Sewer Lift Station Pumps (2) $ 19,000 Sewer Hydraulic Pavement Breaker $ 6,000 Sewer Replace Skid-Steer Loa der $ 38,000 5 46 Sales Tax Fund Summary Audited 4B Sales Tax Fund Ending Balance 09/30/12 $ 1,404,544 Projected '13 Revenues 1,790,790 Available Funds 3,195,334 Projected '13 Expenditures (2,022,314) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/13 $ 1,173,020 Estimated Beginning Fund Balance - 10/01/13 $ 1,213,020 Proposed Revenues '14 1,857,235 Proposed Expenditures '14 (1,841,956) Rollover of Funds for Municipal Complex Trail Design (40,000) Use of Fund Balance - New/Replacement Fleet & Equipment (157,245) a) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/14 $ 1,031,054 b) a) See list of Fund Balance items on slide #7. b) Policy requirement is 25% of budgeted sales tax revenue ($1,856,035 x 25% = $464,009). 6 Use of Excess Fund Balance 4B Sales Tax Fund Dept. Description Amount 4B Senior 14 Person Bus - New $ 79,500 4B Senior New Computers (4) $ 6,600 4B Parks 3/4 Ton Truck - New $ 36,500 4B Parks Walk-Behind Turf Aerator $ 3,000 4B Parks Sod Cutter $ 4,310 4B Parks Replace Loader - Unit 318 $ 27,335 Recreation Fund Summary Audited Recreation Fund Ending Balance 09/30/12 $ 285,625 Projected '13 Revenues 1,283,596 Available Funds 1,569,221 Projected '13 Expenditures (1,276,900) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/13 $ 292,321 Estimated Beginning Fund Balance - 10/01/13 $ 292,321 Proposed Revenues '14 1,239,500 Proposed Expenditures '14 (1,298,828) Use of Fund Balance - New Equipment & One-Time Expenditures (50,500) Estimated Ending Fund Balance 09/30/14 $ 182,493 List of Fund Balance Items: Dept. Description Amount REC Tablet for Portable Scanning $ 2,050 REC Operations Assessment $ 10,000 REC Precor Strength/Training Equipment $ 38,450 Items Needing Council Direction Proposed Tax Rate Use of Unallocated General Fund Revenue Compensation Study Marketing / Communication Plan Personnel / Programming CITY OF WYLIE Memorandum TO: Mayor, City Council FROM: Mindy Manson DATE: July 26, 2013 SUBJECT: July 30, 2013 Budget Work Session The presentation included within the agenda packet provides fund summaries for the General Fund, the Utility Fund, the 4B Sales Tax Fund and the Recreation Fund. With respect to the General Fund Summary, updates include the following. - While we have the reports from the three county appraisal districts, we have not received the official statement from the Collin County Tax Office. The amount reflected in the fund summary is based on a 5.5% increase; however, we hope to be able to confirm a 6.5% increase by Tuesday night's meeting which will yield additional revenues. The FY14 expenditures consist of the proposed base budget which includes a 13% reduction to the current insurance costs to the City and employees based on a bid received from United Healthcare. The budget expenditures figures as shown do not include any new personnel at this time. - Proposed rollover of funds from the Public Safety Project in the amount of $55,100. This is for a portion of the project that will not be completed prior to the end of this fiscal year, making it necessary to carry those funds over to the FY14 Budget. - The proposed use of General Fund Fund balance of $969,298 for equipment and vehicle purchases. - The excess revenue over expenditure amount now stands at $1,078,590. Should any of that amount be allocated to an expenditure account, it will affect the fund balance. However, assuming a situation in which the expenditures equal the revenues (use of the entire $1,078,590), including the recommended use of excess fund balance, our estimated year end fund balance for FY14 still exceeds policy, sitting at 31.7% The updates shown for the Utility Fund, 4B Sales Tax Fund and Recreation Fund include the impact of the use of excess fund balances for vehicles and equipment, and the recommended reduction in the transfer amount from the 4B Sales Tax Fund to the Recreation Center Fund. Direction needed from Council at the July 30th work session includes: - Determination of the tax rate for the FY14 fiscal year - Confirmation on the use of excess Fund Balance to supplement Debt Service. - Direction regarding the use of excess General Fund revenues. If it is the desire of Council to be able to consider allocating funding to compensation and/or marketing pending the results of both of those studies, it is recommended that the excess funds be placed within the Special Services line item of the Combined Services Department. Once a determination has been made by Council regarding the use of those funds, they can be reallocated to the appropriate departmental line items via a budget amendment approved by Council. In response to Council questions during the July 23rd work session, we have included a summary of the Recreation Center Budget for FY11, FY12 and FY13 year-to-date. Also included is the Municipal Complex Property Master Plan excerpt from Open Space Master Plan. Staff will also be following up with an update from the Blackland Prairie Master Naturalists on the status of the reclamation project on the area shown on the Master Plan as The Commons. Recovery Analysis for Wylie Recreation Center Fiscal Year 2011(October 2010 to September 2011) Actual Expense Budget for the Recreation Fund (5125): $1,020,777.14 Actual Revenues for the Recreation Fund: $532,182.00 Recovery rate for FY2011 52% Subsidized by the 4B Fund 48% Fiscal Year 2012 (October 2011 to September 2012) Actual Expense Budget for the Recreation Fund (5125): $1,161,644.69 Actual Revenues for the Recreation Fund: $663,149.30 Recovery rate for FY2012 57% Subsidized by the 4B Fund 43% Budgeted Fiscal Year 2013 (October 2012 to September 2013) Expense Budget for the Recreation Fund (5125): $1,320,308.00 Revenues for the Recreation Fund: $586,000.00 Recovery rate for FY2013 45% Subsidized by the 4B Fund 55% Current Fiscal Year 2013 (October 2012 to July 2013) Expense Budget for the Recreation Fund (5125): $916,075.11 Revenues for the Recreation Fund: $533,163.78 Current Recovery rate for FY2013 58% Current Subsidy by the 4B Fund 42% Chapter 7—Municipal Complex Property Master Plan Chapter 7 Municipal Complex Property Master Plan INTRODUCTION This chapter of the Wylie Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan focuses on land use planning for the . . ` { Municipal Complex Property — an area • . - • • , , A i of the city largely defined by its diverse array of beautiful natural habitat and its _ ,•0`. }, central location within Wylie. However, a» ,,, this area is also defined by its future as y. the civic "core" of Wylie. With theloop Apo„'''�''`• establishment of the new signature City Hall, Library, and Recreation Center on 40 • ` the site, the Municipal Complex : Of ;,; Property has the potential to become a ' unique and vibrant area within the ,;�.,. ..., .e.';.:1, ,f. ,, ' >:r . community. Set against the backdrop of w, a wall of large trees growingalonga r �` ^ `N' • •g c r. creek corridor, one gets a sense that the ,�' i, 10, ' new civic complex is a hub of activity Q3 a.��f :'' ' t • - that lends itself to becoming a key focal `; k i 'M1..t 'slit`' ,�1 . '' • point of the city. 1 y. , ; This Municipal Complex Property ; ,k • hk;.s;.�R Master Plan is intended to function as a +,, �N 1,1 . . ; long-range guide for the preservation : . �x r. and recreational development of this " ' VA-,; area while supporting the development µ .‘ le- • ~• ��.. and activity occurring at the new civic '"k' complex. While beyond the scope of • , -4.•` =4 �, this Master Plan, it is important to ' '` ''-'' ' ' consider that the energy created by the �? ,.• At civic complex will spur continued - y development in and around the Municipal Complex Property. Through careful planning, however, surrounding development can be guided in a way that balances the benefits of economic development with the importance of preserving, maintaining, and enhancing our quickly-disappearing natural landscapes for the greater good of the surrounding community. 7- 1 2010 Parks, Recreation &Open Space Master Plan MASTER PLANNING PROCESS In developing the Municipal Complex Property Master Plan, the Planning Team performed a site analysis, conducted a program analysis, developed alternatives, and prepared the final Master Plan as shown toward the end of this chapter. The site analysis included examining site features and characteristics such as topography, vegetation, existing and proposed development and infrastructure, hydrology, and view corridors. This information led to a greater understanding of the site's opportunities and constraints which in turn informed an analysis of various programmatic options. From the site and program analysis, alternatives for the Municipal Complex Property were developed. Each of these alternatives explored different approaches of how to best preserve the quality and character of the Municipal Complex Property while providing quality recreational amenities which will support and be supported by the new civic complex. These various analysis and alternatives tasks, along with three preliminary design reviews with City Officials and City Staff, all contributed to the ultimate site plan for the property, which merges preservation of the natural environment, provision of recreational opportunities, and guidance for quality urban development. SITE ANALYSIS To arrive at the land use plan for the Municipal Complex Property, the Planning Team, in conjunction with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), conducted a series of analyses, both of the site itself and through the use of conceptual diagramming. To truly understand and appreciate the varying features of any site it is necessary to physically walk, explore, and experience with all of the senses what is special about that place, which in the case of the Municipal Complex Property, proved to be a delightful experience. The Planning Team visited the site on October 21, 2008 and was deeply impressed with what the site has to offer. A Vegetative and Physical Analysis The Municipal Complex Property provides a present-day snapshot of different habitats ranging from former corn fields to upland forests to pastures and hay meadows, resulting from past agricultural practices. It is possible this is reflective of over 100 years of management which has now led to most of the site being dominated by herbaceous cover. In addition, the site is also shaped by surrounding new development including neighborhoods, buildings, dams, and roads, each contributing in its own way to the opportunities and constraints of the property. Vegetative Analysis 4* V ��a Upland Forests s ' ''' ' 46@ • Possibly undisturbed due to the '' � f steeper slopes associated with water r, "� - s '�� � s .�� °'' ti< aim• •channels throughout the site, the ;' =s 3, c g : , areas surroundingthe creeks have F" = ;� .�° ' ' ' been left alone for at least a century k ..t and are now supporting mature `� `"41' 110 upland forests. Thepresence of dead ,t y° F'� < + ` P + and dying bois d'arc trees in this *" �� � 7-2 Chapter 7—Municipal Complex Property Master Plan area suggests that this was originally a bois d'arc savanna that is now largely replaced by cedar elm, green ash, and hackberry trees. One highly remarkable and attractive feature of these forests is the openness of the understory. Consequently, management of the area should be focused on preservation, removal of invasive species, and thinning of forest saplings and woody vines to ensure this extremely valuable landscape remains well-suited for hike and bike trails. Management of the adjacent land outside the forest is critical for the continued high level of quality expressed in this environment. Buffer strips should be considered along the perimeter of the Upland Forests which would allow for maintaining a wildlife corridor as well as providing a protective buffer to prevent unwanted encroachment and the negative impacts associated with such encroachment. Figure 7.1 Site Analysis Map I r' �(MdMERCI Id. 1'1'IER ! FOKI I SUC>CLS I(J\ _ - r 1 .r ik :.1 __- . �-- � , .,.._..._ ter ....... , r tii Y II,,,“, ( _I c /, , I/ - '''-\111111 i ,..,_ ‘.'7<.' 1 .,,,/, , ,„",', I,„ , ' ' ‘ s V K' . --,_ , f { Z, I/ , )el I .. \ 1,.,. ..r\\\\Ili,/ _ , ,UE---jc-,_:::./v-.:, _ ,- f., .IEN.IR0,1 i' (c, 1 \.1 \n vN \ y,-, 111(.11POINT sr!!i%%‘N '4 ,L, s'`,..,.fte r- ; ' e ), ,fir ► (fiC : - ,--- --- =- —; z Z. ' -_ - _• MY lµ. ti Wy11C '1 1 , fll�!Il School Y'r..,... ii''i y ` �1 ~-. APPROX III R FI,OOIWtAI� 7-3 2010 Parks, Recreation &Open Space Master Plan Pastures and Hay Meadows The area labeled East Meadow is largely characterized by introduced vegetation such as coastal Bermuda, �. King Ranch bluestem, and Johnson grass. This combined with actual skeletal remains of cattle suggest that - .• these areas were once used as fields '^ for livestock grazing. Remnants of native tall grasses are present, :4. • however, likely from the pre- settlement era when these fields would have been dominated by little bluestem. Maintaining this herbaceous character would be possible by mowing every two to three years, burning every several years, or cutting and grubbing woody saplings that quickly move into it. Interestingly, an approximately 5 acre section labeled "Forest Succession" is rich in silver bluestem, early succession native prairie grasses, and invading eastern red cedar trees. These characteristics are typical of the ecological process of transitioning toward a forest habitat dominated by conifer trees. Former Corn Fields Until approximately 2006, the areas labeled Central and West Meadow were plowed and planted with row crops. After the planting came to an ' end, broadleaf herbaceous plants would have most likely been the first to fill the void created by cessation of agricultural crops. In this area, ^_ - Johnson grass is expected to increase V -- - in abundance without management, ' but since there is little well established -•._ : • _ _• -• = . - • :: perennial vegetation, prairie restora- - , -• - - tion could take place with a high - •• t, _ expectation for success. • 7-4 Chapter 7—Municipal Complex Property Master Plan Physical Analysis Walking the Site The Municipal Complex Property is W naturally defined by the creek corridors that run through the site, but the influences of man are becoming very apparent. Starting with the new civic complex at the heart of the property, one can see how its setting in r� , • middle of the Central Meadow gives l' � � ' prominence to the structures. As one walks down to the creek corridor below, it is possible to move almost • - effortlessly through the trees due to the absence of any significant understory. r The large mature trees rise up from the forest floor like columns and create a very enjoyable experience along the clear waters of the creek. Standing outside the forest in one of the many concave nooks, a sense of safety and g- - security is felt and the gently sloping .+ terrain suggests that an amphitheater would be ideal in one of these locations. Walking in the East Meadow, which is intersected by large 3►l f , . power lines, the tendency is for one to _ skirt the edges of the forest, already hinting on a route that a trail may take. From the Muddy Creek Reservoir - dam, the civic complex development is clearly visible above the treetops as well as a wonderful panoramic vista of much of the city itself • • ./ ,,, 4,4 t • 7-5 2010 Parks, Recreation &Open Space Master Plan PROGRAM ANALYSIS Following the analysis of the physical and vegetative characteristics of the site, a programmatic analysis was performed. This analysis explored different development scenarios for the Municipal Complex Property, each with increasing levels of activity and impact. Each of these scenarios has its own merits and weaknesses but helped inform the development of refined alternatives (described in the next section). The development scenarios are described in further detail below. Figure 7.2 Low Impact Scenario Diagram rl . , "� err c.,. 1 i .„ r... - FOREST ,/ / y ....ii , %,... •- .,., 7--•---- ...--e-1, ,--•=r- ' . , ',.\-..,,,,,,,2,.; : . ' 14-:"' iiii- fr. T \\II'I Il11\I1.1( y i(T ' ! - I'M,I`t I/I I (� - •� ..,„fl% , ' 1 /Z./ .; f\If II iii.„---- ... ., ,.., VI\I.•\\ Jr y/ \Uruw alit/ - il• + II .../' . • -' 1:4r.:,... '...('. :741---.-1" -''.---"----,7:.----_-) _. ff Ili School )� The Low Impact Scenario closely follows the habitat management and preservation recommendations established earlier to maximize the amount of site that is dedicated to passive uses. These include uses such as meadow protection, prairie restoration, hard and soft surface trails, and an amphitheater. In all of the scenarios, the dam and spillway area are seen as a key view point, and have the possibility of becoming a signature overlook and amphitheater. The creeks and associated forest are entirely preserved aside from trail connections and possibly minor overlooks and interpretive signage. A large area for a learning center is shown next to the civic complex, which would create synergy between the two uses, and also act as a gateway to the woods for exploration of the natural environment. Feeding off of the new development, an additional civic use area has been designated on the West Meadow which further strengthens the civic complex now occurring on both sides of F.M. 1378. 7-6 Chapter 7—Municipal Complex Property Master Plan Figure 7.3 Medium Impact Scenario Diagram • s � � / •r ot. ' 1.11)7.. ..:. • .. :,11,13,... ,,,1,.,i .. ''./ ,. / i iliajl ' : • 0/ .f 0 . - •a.. +-/-�a�_•ti.. ' It .. i// 11\I1 111111. ; 1 ':;,-- : - 7, %. i ,....,..,r,f :- / v : 7/ 7, \\Irll ill%u m r _� / '" .tom. ___ 4. .(,�fi' • l..rHVI1l 11U ! f \\t l•I7111\IIK•� >y -/ I' l\IHIN I' �'�•/_�' __ ,. .tOrl1 /\11Ur.. 11)1 c ��544; High ti.h„1 1 ~- \rro� I•HA 1 nt,(:,L,;I'\ The Medium Impact Scenario looks at a higher level of development but is still mostly characterized by low intensity uses. While the forests are still intended to be left intact and managed to maintain their understory openness, large areas of the West and Central Meadows are dedicated to ball fields, helping to meet the City's need to provide more fields. The West Meadow is also shown as having civic use, once again creating synergy between both sides of F.M. 1378, and an aquatics center is proposed as an appendage on the east side of the civic complex. The northern part of the East Meadow is proposed to have limited ball fields, which provide a transition to the protected meadow further south. The limiting factors related to this concept include tight access from Brown Street, relatively steep grades that will require substantial cut and fill, and the power lines that bisect the site. Two possibilities for locating an amphitheater are shown: one just south of the civic complex which would be very visible and be seen as a destination passing through the building's breezeways and another to the west of the forest, taking advantage of the moderately sloping terrain and the attractive backdrop provided by the wooded edge. 7-7 2010 Parks, Recreation &Open Space Master Plan Figure 7.4 High Impact Scenario Diagram t ,uuu" , MIxrnt.� • -y- .J 0 ri . ; ( -.N.t ,,,,‘,./ ^ / 'i" 11,f1I I U „,rims Mk - ; \,,uvn1,uu 1 i fj ... .., - :I, uu,,, «yv~`�' J f 1Ib liii I! uh ticlw„I yi fi I§ The High Impact Scenario takes the approach of a "Town Center" type development at the heart of the Municipal Complex Property. The developments around the civic complex would be mainly mixed-use with retail, office, and residential space. "Green corridors" within the mixed- use area lead to the larger trail network beyond, which provides important pedestrian linkages between all the different areas of the site. The idea is for the mixed use development to "grow" out of the civic complex, to feed off of the activity going on throughout the day and becoming lively after hours through restaurants and cafés that keep the development active at night. A limited amount of ball fields are proposed on the East Meadow again transitioning to protected meadow. One can almost imagine looking out from the dam in the evening hours to the town center and hearing the faint sounds of a live band playing and the laughter of nearby residents walking home from dinner along one of the trails. 7-8 Chapter 7—Municipal Complex Property Master Plan Client Input City Council and Parks & Recreation Board - The Planning Team presented the program analysis diagrams discussed on the previous pages and the initial ideas for the Municipal Complex Property to the City Council and the Parks and Recreation Board on October 28, 2008. The Planning Team utilized photographs which convey the aesthetic beauty, habitat quality, and opportunities for nature experiences to help describe existing conditions and explain the various program scenarios. This premise was understood well and the overall consensus was to keep the property natural according to the Low Impact Scenario. No ball fields of any kind (as shown in the Medium and High Impact Scenarios) were desired, and the idea of mixed use was entertained, but questions arose as to whether or not that would violate the purchase agreement stating that the land be used for civic purposes only. The Planning Team suggested that a 100 year lease agreement may suffice. Many in the meeting questioned intense development stating that it may cause unfair competition with downtown Wylie businesses. Planning Staff— The consultant-led Planning Team presented the results of the site analysis and program analysis to the Planning Department on July 23, 2009. The pros and cons of each of the program analysis scenarios were weighed and discussed. One very significant point of discussion was the impending future development which will eventually occur(largely due to the new civic complex) north of the Municipal Complex Property at the intersection of Brown Street and F.M. 1378. The impact of this future development on the Municipal Complex Property, the need to address and guide such development, and the importance of better addressing how the Municipal Complex Property should interact with surrounding areas came out as important considerations for the future. Considering the input of the City Council, Parks and Recreation Board, and City Staff, the Planning Team has identified the need to preserve the natural features of the landscape while identifying ways in which the City can be prepared for and accommodate future high-intensity multi-use development near the Municipal Complex Property. This can be done without detracting from the beauty and quality of the natural land beyond, but will require the vision and will to make it happen through appropriate ordinances including setbacks, limited development footprint, stormwater management, and other environmentally conscious development requirements. In addition, programs for the meadows and forested areas to be kept natural, which will help retain the property's current character, should be employed. 7-9 2010 Parks, Recreation &Open Space Master Plan FINAL CONCEPT PLAN DEVELOPMENT Based upon the review and input of City Council, Parks Board and staff, the Planning Team developed the final concept plan. Figure 7.5 Final Concept Plan \ , ` Service Reservoir 4 C O O.a 00 e� 00 r "The Barn" Cultural Center Managed Wildflower/ p Tall Grass Meadow Rercrv°v nl , F, , "The f 14, `.'., G'= , I r = Commons" ,,fit ' o. v u p: ' F ' P�'L# Environmental 0��o ° $i Education , °y .Key 0.' :`r.,' p ', , a Center Overlook -- 6 x t 'j t,w a y' Q. 10` t 11i Amphitheater I ry c Complex a , '. (( PIIf AA _ F �q0 N � � I - � Yp O a Managed Wildflower/ *f ,,,, r er°t ii" Tall Grass Meadow ,, may, " ,, i. t!i}� F. g +`� �FfO H E ST7� H �' tiai c ye :R 4E'AS'4E R,V .E; �: <- ,x ��s y ' ,s • its ---,.- _-_ .. .„___ t now ` 3'`a !� .. Managed Wildflowers . j1 Tall Grass Meadow EMI --„o `ens +i+ ' LEGEND pro `' Trails 9e qrp i Civic r o �---- . w000 4 © Park ,b.aft The number one goal to be achieved through the Municipal Complex Property Master Plan is habitat protection. Through the vegetative and physical analysis of the site, it was discovered that the most interesting and beautiful parts of the property are also the most ecologically sensitive. The creeks are surrounded by majestic canopy trees which are a wonderful natural resource to take advantage of, but (as these areas are easily accessible) extra care must be taken to maintain this environment in its current form. For this to happen, it is crucial to entirely preserve the upland forest associated with the creek corridors while also preserving a 100' to 150' wide buffer strip of land around the edges of the forest. Any development in these areas should be limited to trails only. The buffer strip creates an added measure of protection for the creek environment by increasing the amount of time it takes for surface runoff to make its way to the creek and by filtering harmful pollutants and sediment from the runoff before it enters the creek. 7- 10 Chapter 7—Municipal Complex Property Master Plan Preserving the upland forest areas along the creeks as well as the buffer strip around it not only help to ensure that the environment will continue to thrive in its natural state, but also ensure the continued presence of wildlife within the corridor. This type of area generally provides a multi- layered habitat including trees, shrubs, grass, and herbaceous plants, as well as aquatic habitat, all of which supports a highly diverse array of flora and fauna. In addition to permanent habitat, these areas provide breeding, foraging, and resting areas for all types of birds, insects, reptiles, and mammals, whether permanent or transient. Finally, one of the primary reasons for establishing a buffer strip around these areas is due to the fact that the places where two ecological zones meet are extremely important from a vegetation and wildlife dynamic point of view. Animals may forage in one zone while resting in the other and plants are often adapted to that specific edge zone. In the designated buffer zones around the upland forests, management practices should be implemented based on the detailed analyses of existing vegetation and soils. As previously mentioned, these practices may range from yearly mowing to introducing an entirely new native seed mix. The large area of open space on the East Meadow is ideal for yearly mowing practices and specific restoration efforts in key areas where soils may tend to erode. With these principles in mind of preserving the ecologically sensitive parts of the site, an overall theme for the Municipal Complex Property begins to take shape: "tread lightly on the land." Building upon the signature City Hall, Library and Recreation Center, the design of the Municipal Complex Property focuses on striking a balance between high intensity, active areas and low intensity, passive areas in order to make the most of this new civic destination. The intent of the design is to purposely link the civic uses together in a looping pattern, hugging the edge of the woods like a string of pearls. Visual recognition is a key point in determining the layout of the site. Approaching the intersection of Brown and F.M. 1378, "The Commons" acts like a grand front yard for the civic complex and associated buildings. This open space functions as a space where the history and culture of Wylie are to be celebrated. Imagine a group of horses (real horses or sculptures of horses) in the space and a split-rail fence, likening back to historical Wylie when ranches and open space was the norm. Serving as the cultural center, "The Barn" is a facility with exhibits, artwork, and historical artifacts geared toward strengthening the bond everyday citizens have with their city. The environmental education center south of The Barn is another link in the string of pearls where programs that look after and maintain the vegetation on site can be managed; this can also be the location from which guided tours of the area originate and community outreach programs are held. A "Friends of The Municipal Complex Property" type organization can be a way of ensuring kids and adults alike are able to come to the area, explore, and learn about all the important ecological features readily on display here. Moving to the amphitheater, this facility utilizes the proximity of the civic complex to attract visitors for outdoor performances, summer evening movies, weddings, or any number of other uses. The enclosure of the trees makes this space feel comfortable and inviting. Walkability from within the civic complex and all throughout the site is important as this should be a very pedestrian oriented destination. As per the educational importance of the property and its management practices, it is important to provide trail connections throughout the preserved 7- 11 2010 Parks, Recreation &Open Space Master Plan areas in a way that is less impactful on the landscape. "Cow paths" are typical when users want to make their own way throughout the forest; to avoid this, boardwalks should be considered in the more sensitive areas such as next to the creek or through a prairie restoration area. Overall this plan recognizes the civic complex as the catalyst for a new "City Center" that embodies not only City government, but also creates a destination for recreation while celebrating the cultural and natural heritage of the City of Wylie. The end result will be a strong sense of community and increased quality of life for Wylie residents. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES In order to realize the vision set forth for the Municipal Complex Property in an efficient manner, certain implementation strategies should be considered. Suggested Phasing Due to its size and layout, phasing is an important part of implementing the master plan for the Municipal Complex Property. It is important to establish certain aspects of the design early-on in the process to maintain the overall integrity of the master plan. Phase One: Consists of hike and bike trails throughout the portions of the site intended to be left in a natural state and the implementation of signage for educational purposes and protective measures. Examples of this include interpretive signs identifying native plants or stream dynamics, establishing important viewpoints, and boardwalks and/or "no-access zones" through the most sensitive areas. Phase Two: Consists of establishing "The Commons," the amphitheater, and the environmental learning center, which will make up one half of the civic ring. With the protective measures in place from Phase One, the environmental learning center will become a gateway to experience the landscape itself, and the amphitheater and commons will provide the finishing touches to make the Municipal Complex Property a true destination. 7- 12