UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY PARK PARK ANNUAL ANNUAL REPORT REPORT 2007-2008 2007-2008 As Mayor, I am pleased to provide a quick overview concerning the projects and initiatives discussed in more detail in this Annual Report. During 2007 your City Council, our able City staff, and those residents who serve voluntarily on more than a dozen committees made great progress for all those who live and work in this cherished community. This past year we celebrated the re-birth of Goar Park. In connection with the ongoing renovation of City Hall, the park now has a brook that runs from the gazebo area into Turtle Creek, new walkways and observation decks, new trees and landscaping, and two new fountains. In 2007 the Fire Department moved into its new home on the west side of City Hall. Now, for the first time in 30 years all fire apparatus, including the reserve apparatus, is being housed at the fire station. Moreover, the firefighter living quarters are vastly improved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman. That wing's second floor is also the Finance Department's new home. By the end of 2008 we anticipate that other City departments will be able to move back to a fully renovated City Hall. The project's last major piece features expanded work space for the Police Department, the 911 dispatch center and Municipal Court personnel. Keeping its Colonial Williamsburg look inside and out, City Hall will also have new audio-video equipment in the Council Chamber and renovated office space for the Executive and Human Resources Departments. 2008 will be a banner year for public space city-wide. Water features will soon be in place at Barbara Hitzelberger Park and Sis Germany Park. In the next few months the Park Department will also finalize a Master Plan design for Coffee Park. After a busy summer, renovation work will begin on the Curtis Park Swimming Pool. In 2008 the Northwest Parkway Wall project is scheduled for completion. Running from Airline to Turtle Creek Boulevard, the 10 foot high wall will provide nearby residents with a buffer from the constant traffic on Northwest Highway. Because the section of Northwest Parkway that has been open to traffic will be permanently closed, we'll also gain usable space in adjacent Coffee Park. Late this year, Public Works is scheduled to start construction on a new booster pump station just south of Germany Park. The new facility will replace the current booster pump station that has been in service since the 1950's. The booster pump is connected directly to the Dallas County Park Cities Municipal Utility District treatment plant. Public Safety is always a high priority. In 2007, to reduce speeding on Lovers Lane, a continuous left turn lane was installed in a six-block stretch from Hillcrest to Boedeker. To target traffic and speeding concerns throughout the city, the City Council approved funding for a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit for the Police Department. To guard against pedestrian injuries, last December, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of hand- held cell phones in active school zones. Last month the City Council passed an ordinance requiring the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in all new homes and duplexes. The ordinance, which takes effect in August, also covers major residential remodeling projects. In addition to providing more protection for our neighborhoods and our firefighters, I believe this measure is a fitting way to recognize the accomplishments and dedication of Fire Chief David Ledbetter. On the day this report is presented to the public, David will retire with 35 years of service to University Park. MESSAGE MESSAGE FROM FROM THE THE MAYOR MAYOR James H. “Blackie” Holmes, III Mayor
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UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITYPARKPARK
ANNUALANNUALREPORTREPORT2007-20082007-2008
As Mayor, I am pleased to provide a quick overview concerning the projects and initiatives discussedin more detail in this Annual Report. During 2007 your City Council, our able City staff, and thoseresidents who serve voluntarily on more than a dozen committees made great progress for all thosewho live and work in this cherished community.
This past year we celebrated the re-birth of Goar Park. In connection with the ongoing renovation ofCity Hall, the park now has a brook that runs from the gazebo area into Turtle Creek, new walkwaysand observation decks, new trees and landscaping, and two new fountains. In 2007 the Fire
Department moved into its new home on the west side of City Hall. Now, for the first time in 30 years all fireapparatus, including the reserve apparatus, is being housed at the fire station. Moreover, the firefighter living quartersare vastly improved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman. That wing's second floor is also theFinance Department's new home. By the end of 2008 we anticipate that other City departments will be able to moveback to a fully renovated City Hall. The project's last major piece features expanded work space for the PoliceDepartment, the 911 dispatch center and Municipal Court personnel. Keeping its Colonial Williamsburg look insideand out, City Hall will also have new audio-video equipment in the Council Chamber and renovated office space forthe Executive and Human Resources Departments.
2008 will be a banner year for public space city-wide. Water features will soon be in place at Barbara HitzelbergerPark and Sis Germany Park. In the next few months the Park Department will also finalize a Master Plan design forCoffee Park. After a busy summer, renovation work will begin on the Curtis Park Swimming Pool.
In 2008 the Northwest Parkway Wall project is scheduled for completion. Running from Airline to Turtle CreekBoulevard, the 10 foot high wall will provide nearby residents with a buffer from the constant traffic on NorthwestHighway. Because the section of Northwest Parkway that has been open to traffic will be permanently closed, we'llalso gain usable space in adjacent Coffee Park. Late this year, Public Works is scheduled to start construction on anew booster pump station just south of Germany Park. The new facility will replace the current booster pump stationthat has been in service since the 1950's. The booster pump is connected directly to the Dallas County Park CitiesMunicipal Utility District treatment plant.
Public Safety is always a high priority. In 2007, to reduce speeding on Lovers Lane, a continuous left turn lane wasinstalled in a six-block stretch from Hillcrest to Boedeker. To target traffic and speeding concerns throughout thecity, the City Council approved funding for a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit for the Police Department. Toguard against pedestrian injuries, last December, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of hand-held cell phones in active school zones.
Last month the City Council passed an ordinance requiring the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in all newhomes and duplexes. The ordinance, which takes effect in August, also covers major residential remodeling projects.In addition to providing more protection for our neighborhoods and our firefighters, I believe this measure is a fittingway to recognize the accomplishments and dedication of Fire Chief David Ledbetter. On the day this report ispresented to the public, David will retire with 35 years of service to University Park.
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In 2008, the Parks Department will again implement an aggressive parkscapital improvements program. The Department will finalize a MasterPlan design for Coffee Park. Staff is also working with architects onupgrades to the Curtis Park Swimming Pool. The first phase of theproject will include the renovation of the children's pool and theconstruction of a water "sprayground." Construction is scheduled tobegin in fall 2008 with improvements completed in time for the 2009pool season.
FFINANCEINANCE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTIncrease in over-65 homestead exemption: Following study by theFinance Advisory Committee and City staff, in December 2007 the CityCouncil approved in concept an increase in the over-65 homesteadexemption for property tax payers. Currently the over-65 homesteadexemption is $50,000. The increased over-65 exemption is intended toprotect over-65 taxpayers from tax hikes related to property valueincreases. Adoption of the higher over-65 exemption is scheduled forearly 2008.
Other goals for 2008 include orderly relocation of Utility Billing andMunicipal Court to the renovated office space in City Hall, usefulanalysis of the Bush Presidential Library impact on the City, andenhancement of the City's investment portfolio management.
IINFORMATIONNFORMATION SSERVICESERVICESThe technology spotlight will again focus on the City Hall remodel.
• City Hall will house the primary Police, Fire, and EMS DispatchCenter. The center will be constructed to mirror the alternatedispatch center that was built in 2007. The new center will havethree console positions.
• The reconstruction of the Council Chamber will include theinstallation of new audio and video equipment specifically designedto facilitate meeting production and presentation.
• All other City Hall conference and training rooms will be equippedwith state-of-the-art audio/video equipment.
• The final major technology change related to City Hall will be theintroduction of a new security camera system and electronic accesscontrol of the doors with ID cards.
City budgetRobust fiscal health continues to be a hallmark of the City. TheFiscal Year 2008 budget totals $39.6 million, an increase of4.48%. The budget includes increases in water, wastewater, andsanitation rates. For the 13th consecutive year, the City propertytax rate decreased, as displayed in the chart below. The currentCity tax rate is 26.8 cents per $100 of taxable property value.
Capital improvement program (CIP) adoptionIn October 2007 the City Council approved a FY2008 CIPbudget of $18.4 million as the first year of the five-year CIP.The CIP is the method by which the City identifies, plans, andfunds capital projects, which are defined as non-recurring, multi-year efforts totaling over $25,000. Funding for the CIP comesfrom multiple sources, including operating budget transfers,fund balance drawdowns, and interest earnings. During fiscal2007 capital project expenditures totaled $16.4 million forprojects like the City Hall renovation and addition, Goar Parkimprovements, Northwest Parkway wall and water line, andalley/underground utility replacement.
Comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) available onWeb siteFinance personnel added the two most recent CAFR's to theCity's Web site. The documents were converted into electronicPDF files for placement on the site and are now available toanyone with Internet access.
Implementation of credit card drafting for utility billsJust as residents can pay their City utility bills by monthlyautomatic bank draft, they now have the option of paying bymonthly automatic charge to a credit card. The Utility Billingoffice implemented this feature in mid-2007. For moreinformation, call 214-987-5320.
UUNIVERSITYNIVERSITY PARKPARK TAXTAX BASEBASE ANDAND RATESRATES,, FYFY 2003-20072003-2007
The City's 3-1-1 system was launched in December 2006. 3-1-1 call takers answer approximately 275 calls per week. Callvolumes increase during holiday periods. Residents use the 24-hour-a-day number for non-emergency requests for serviceand as a source for answers to a wide variety of questions about Cityservices and operations.
Since 2002, through payroll deductions, cash donations and proceeds from themed events,University Park employees have given more than $50,000 to the United Way of MetropolitanDallas. In 2007, with the assistance of a charity-based Rubber Duck Race in the brook at Goar Park,the annual employee fund drive topped $10,000 for the first time.
Park ProjectsA number of major park improvementprojects were completed in 2007.
• The installation of park entrance signsat Caruth and Goar Park.
• The first two phases of landscapeenhancements to City Hall and GoarPark.
• The installation of Phase I of the City.secondary entrance marker program
• The upgrade of lighting at the CurtisPark tennis courts.
• The resurfacing of tennis courts atSmith Park.
• The installation of electrical upgradesto the Snider Plaza fountain
Park Projects underway include• Landscape improvements and fountain installation at Sis
Germany Park• Completion of the water feature at Barbara Hitzelberger Park,
located at the intersection of Lovers and Hillcrest• Phase II of the city-wide secondary street entrance marker
program.• The installation of landscaping in conjunction with the
Northwest Parkway screening wall and the adjoining gatewayentrance feature at the intersection of Hillcrest and NorthwestHighway.
Special Event ProgramsThe department hosted two newcommunity events in 2007. InJune, a Children's FishingDerby was held at Caruth Park.More than 130 childrenparticipated in the event, whichincluded prizes for the largestfish and free hot dogs. In lateNovember, in cooperation withthe Snider Plaza Merchants
Association, the department hosted aHoliday Tree Lighting Ceremony.More than 500 people watched a liveperformance by the Dallas Ballet beforeSanta Claus and Mayor Holmes flippedthe switch on the holiday tree. Based ondozens of positive resident comments,both events will occur annually.
In 2008, prior to the annual July 4th Parade, the department willhost its first "Fun Run," sponsor its annual Arbor Day treeplanting event with assistance from with local elementary schoolstudents and continue the popular Dive-In Movie program at theCurtis Park Pool.
PPARKARK DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPLANSLANS FORFOR 20082008
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PPUBLICUBLIC WWORKSORKSCapital projects currently underway and scheduled for completion in2008 include:
• Northwest Parkway Wall• Reconstruction of sidewalks around Highland Park Independent
School District campuses.• Booster pump station: One of the more high profile projects scheduled
to begin in 2008 is the Germany Park Booster Pump Station. Built inthe 1950's, the existing underground pump station, located south ofGermany Park, is connected to water coming from the Dallas CountyPark Cities Municipal Utility District treatment plant. It pumps nearly9 million gallons per day into the city. In the summer of 2002, thepump station flooded, and the city lost all ability to pump water into thedistribution system. To eliminate the possibility of flooding and toensure reliability, the Engineering Division has worked with anengineering firm to design an above ground facility located adjacent tothe existing pump station. Completion of the Germany Park BoosterPump station is scheduled for the summer of 2009.
PPOLICEOLICE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTGoals and objectives for 2008 will reflect increased efforts by thedepartment to involve individual members of the business and residentialcommunities in crime prevention and personal safety programs andactivities. This strengthened partnership will in turn reduce crimesthroughout the City. With the involvement of the Traffic EnforcementUnit, the department will increase roadway enforcement to reduce thepotential for accident related injuries and deaths.
FFIREIRE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTCERT Program: Fire Department personnel have purchased andreceived response equipment to outfit citizens who will become membersof the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The equipmentwas purchased with a $6,500 federal grant. The department will beginadvertising for CERT volunteers by mid-2008. CERT members will betrained in response techniques to assist their neighborhoods should amajor disaster occur. Fire and Police personnel will train CERTmembers in fire safety, light search and rescue techniques, first aid,terrorism awareness, traffic and crowd control, and the IncidentManagement System.
VVISITISIT THETHE CCITYITY ONLINEONLINE ATAT WWWWWW..UPTEXASUPTEXAS..ORGORGJames H. “Blackie” Holmes, IIIMayor
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engineers and architects. This new service will dramaticallyimprove the turnaround time from plan submittal to buildingpermit issuance. The CH2M Hill contract will also allow the cityto reallocate existing resources that will result in a greateremphasis on quality field inspections.
Engineering divisionResponsible for overseeing theplanning, design, andconstruction of all Public Workscapital improvement projects,the division in 2007 managednearly $9 million worth ofactivity. On an annual basis, theCity awards contracts for routine capital projects such as in-placerecycling of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter concrete repairs,and the mile-per-year water/sewer/alley replacement. In 2007, themile-per-year program completed replacement of the 4100through 4300 blocks of the Shenandoah-Stanhope alley. Inaddition to annual capital projects, the Engineering Divisionoversees special large construction projects. The City Hallrenovation is an example of this type of project.
Operational divisionsThe operational divisions consist of Sanitation, Streets, Utilities, &Traffic.
• The Sanitation Division collectsresidential waste twice a week,commercial dumpsters up to sixtimes per week, and recycling onceper week.
• The Traffic Division is responsiblefor maintaining and repairing over6,000 traffic signs, 33 signalizedintersections, pavement markings,and public parking areas. Inaddition, the Traffic Division performs special projects such asoverseeing the recent re-striping of Lovers Lane for theinstallation of a continuous left turn lane from Boedeker toHillcrest.
• The Streets Division is responsible for maintaining and repairingthe City's 71 miles of street pavement and 33 miles of alleypavement. In 2007, the division poured over one linear-mile ofconcrete in the City's alleys.
• The Utilities Division maintains the City's water, sanitary sewer,and storm sewer infrastructure, consisting of over 150 miles ofpipe. On occasion the division also installs new water mainsseparate from the City's mile-per-year capital improvementprogram. This year was highlighted by the installation of over200 feet of an 8-inch water main along Boedeker.
In summer 2005, afteryears of community-widediscussion and carefulplanning, the City began aphased, three-yearconstruction project toexpand and renovate itsdistinctive ColonialWilliamsburg-style CityHall. Funded without debtaccording to a carefully constructed multi-year funding plan, the$20 million project is the largest and most extensive improvementproject in the City's history. Throughout the pages of this report,specific components of the project are discussed in some detail.
Construction Timeline• June 2005 - City Council holds groundbreaking
ceremony for project, first phase of project(dredging of Turtle Creek channel and pond andconstruction of box culvert begins).
• Late summer 2006 - Construction starts onaddition to City Hall.
• Summer 2007 - Police Department temporarilyrelocates to the City's Peek Service Center. Fire Departmentmoves into completed new wing.
• May 2008 - Remodel of existing City Hall scheduled to start.• December 2008 - Construction on existing City Hall completed.
Building inspection divisionIn 2007, construction activity was virtually unchanged incomparison with the same statistics for 2006. Despite a drasticslow down in the housing sector and a reduction of housingpermits at the national and regional levels, new single familypermits totaled 147 in 2007 compared to 149 in 2006. Totalconstruction values for new single family homes increased 3percent from $203 million in 2006 to $210 million in 2007.Permits for repair and remodel of existing homes declined 7percent from 187 in 2006 to 175 in 2007.
The Building Inspection Division is implementing new planreview procedures in 2008. The City has contracted with theengineering firm CH2M Hill to supplement existing plan reviewservices. The majority of residential and commercial planssubmitted for building permits will be reviewed by the firm's
Re-accreditationIn December 2006 the Commissionon Accreditation for LawEnforcement Agencies, Inc.(CALEA), conducted an on-sitereview of the Police Department'saccreditation program. Followingan intense review of all areas of thedepartment's administration and operation, UPPD was re-accreditedfor another three-year period. In its report summary, the on-siteteam of independent assessors noted, "The agency is responsive tothe needs of the community and is truly committed to providing thebest law enforcement services."
Staff promotionsSergeant Robert Flood, a 13-year veteran of the department, waspromoted to the rank of Police Captain and was placed in charge ofPolice Operations. This promotion came about after Captain RobertBrown was appointed Police Chief for the City of Duncanville,Texas. In conjunction with those moves, Officer Greg Spradlin waspromoted to Police Sergeant and was placed in charge of theCriminal Investigation Division.
Traffic enforcement unitFollowing the City Council's approval of three additional positions,the department created a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit.All three officers in the unit will have specialized training in trafficaccident investigation and accident reconstruction. Two currentofficers, Robbie Keenan and Jonathan Ingelido held such expertiseprior to creation of the unit, and they have already been assigned totheir new duties. The department will add a final officer to the unitwhen the department's new officers have completed their training.In addition to working traffic accidents, the officers in thisspecialized unit will work targeted areas for speeding and otherreported violations inneighborhoods throughout the city.
Traffic safetyTraffic safety on Lovers Lanebetween Hillcrest and Boedekercontinues to be a focus ofenforcement efforts. Following therecommendation of the City's PublicSafety Advisory Committee, theCity Council approved the installation of a continuous left turn laneand the placement of additional "speed monitoring" display boardsalong that six-block area. Both enhancements were completed.
The department is continuing enforcement in conjunction with a25 mph study that is taking place in the northeast section of thecity between Lovers and Southwestern and Boedeker andHillcrest. At the direction of the City Council, the program seeksto determine the extent of voluntary compliance in the postedneighborhoods.
The department has added crossing guards at the intersections ofColgate and Tulane and Caruth and Tulane. Traffic studies atboth locations determined that two new guards were necessary.The studies were requested by parents at Hyer ElementarySchool.
DARE program and School Resource OfficerIn 2007-2008 the Police Department will continue to provide theDARE program (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) atMcCullouch Intermediate School. Officer Suzette Elwonger isthe current DARE instructor. Since 1994, DARE has sought toprovide sixth-graders at the school with a launching pad forconversation with peers, and by extension with parents, on theharmful effects of drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The DAREprogram is funded annually in a 75-25 percent split between theCity of University Park and the Town of Highland Park.
In early 2007, the department assigned a full-time SchoolResource Officer at Highland Park High School. Officer A.J.Sherrill, a five-year veteran of the Department, was selected forthe position. The majority of Officer Sherrill's time is spent at theschool, where he interacts with students and staff to provide asafer and more secure campus for all concerned. Officer Sherrillalso attends on-campus school athletic events and dances and theschool's out-of-town play-off games. The position is fundedannually in a 72-28 percent split between the City and Town.
New fire stationIn June 2007, uponcompletion of the first phaseof the City Hall renovationproject, the Fire Departmentmoved into its newlyconstructed fire station. Forthe first time in 30 years allfire apparatus, including thereserve apparatus, is being
housed at the fire station. The firefighters' living quarters are vastlyimproved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman.The spacious day room and kitchen are both comfortable andfunctional. The new station also has a large patio where they cansit in privacy and enjoy a meal cooked outside.
Fire Chief retirementFire Chief David Ledbetter retired in February2008, culminating 35 years of service with theCity. The Waters Consulting Group was retainedto recruit candidates for this position. A newChief should be named by March 2008.
Emergency management activitiesIn September 2007, the Mayor and Emergency ManagementCoordinator attended a Senior Officials workshop conducted byHomeland Security and the Texas A&M Engineering ExtensionService.
In October 2007, the Mayor, City Council and DepartmentDirectors were given a refresher course on the National IncidentManagement System (NIMS). Under a Presidential HomelandSecurity Directive, local governments are required to becomeNIMS compliant to manage and work with Federal, State andother local governments during times of disaster.
The Fire Department staff isbeing trained in IC 300 and 400courses required by FEMA tobe compliant with NIMS.These courses are designed forpersonnel who will be in chargeof emergency incidentsescalating to Unified Commandan multi-jurisdiction situations.
Emergency warning system upgradesThe City's All Hazard Emergency Warning System was upgradedin 2007. This increased the size and type of the warning sirens andimproved coverage to all parts of the city. The new sirens areomni-directional and emit sound 360 degrees simultaneously.Each siren has ten cells which provides for greater sound level andincreases the distance the sound travels. As with the old system,voice messages can be delivered through loud speakers with pre-recorded messages or live instructions. The new system features aone-touch control panel that simplifies its operation which isstrictly controlled by the Fire/Police Communication Centerpersonnel. The new system is equipped with self-diagnosticsoftware capable of reporting potential problems with the units. Itis important to note, however, that the outdoor alert system is notintended to penetrate into homes and businesses.
Re-banding radiosIn 2007, the City negotiated a contract with Sprint/Nextel to re-band the radio frequencies used by the Public Safety and PublicWorks departments. This effort is mandated by the FederalCommunication Commission. The contract requires Nextel to re-band the radios to a lower frequency while ensuring that eachagency has the same level of service that existed before the re-banding. This effort will reduce Nextel's interference with day-to-day Public Safety radio transmissions. The re-banding contractstipulates that re-banding must be completed before June 2008.
HHUMANUMAN RRESOURCESESOURCESEmploymentDuring fiscal year 2006-07, the City had an employee turnoverrate of 4.8%, with seven of the 12 terminations coming fromservice retirements. The Human Resources Department hired 57employees during thefiscal year: 12 regular fulltime positions and 45swimming pool positions.
City Hall expansion and remodelIn conjunction with the remodeland expansion of City Hall, it wasnecessary to temporarily relocateall employees, and at the sametime, make sure that continuity ofservice was maintained forcomputing systems, data, phones, radios, 911, and direct alarmmonitoring. A state-of-the-art alternate dispatch center wasconstructed with new consoles and computing equipment at thePeek Service Center. The Police, Fire, and EMS computer-aideddispatch software, along with the 911, Public Safety Radio,Direct Alarm Monitoring, Security Camera, and Access ControlSystems were also upgraded to the latest versions available. Thevery successful relocation was completed in three phases with noloss of service. As part of the City Hall expansion, the FireTraining Room and Finance Conference Room were equippedwith new Audio/Video Systems.
Mapping softwareThe City also began migrating to the industry standard ESRI(Environmental Systems Research Institute) GIS (GeographicInformation System) mapping software. Now data related toparcels, streets, and the City's utility infrastructure arecontinually being linked to the map. An ESRI-based interactivemap of the City with multiple layers of information is also nowavailable on the City Web site.
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2007 Employee of the Yearaward recipients picturedfrom left to right:CurtisFortner, Jimmy Lee, LizSpector and George Jones.
In 2008, a proposed Capital Improvement Project will allow forthe replacement of all portable and mobile Public Safety radios.Due to age, many of the City's current radios are becomingobsolete and will not meet upcoming requirements forinteroperability with other agencies. During the terrorist strikeon the World Trade Center in 2001, many emergency personnellost their lives when responding agencies were unable to talk toone another via radio. Since then, the federal government hasrequired all Public Safety radios be Project 25 compliant.
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engineers and architects. This new service will dramaticallyimprove the turnaround time from plan submittal to buildingpermit issuance. The CH2M Hill contract will also allow the cityto reallocate existing resources that will result in a greateremphasis on quality field inspections.
Engineering divisionResponsible for overseeing theplanning, design, andconstruction of all Public Workscapital improvement projects,the division in 2007 managednearly $9 million worth ofactivity. On an annual basis, theCity awards contracts for routine capital projects such as in-placerecycling of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter concrete repairs,and the mile-per-year water/sewer/alley replacement. In 2007, themile-per-year program completed replacement of the 4100through 4300 blocks of the Shenandoah-Stanhope alley. Inaddition to annual capital projects, the Engineering Divisionoversees special large construction projects. The City Hallrenovation is an example of this type of project.
Operational divisionsThe operational divisions consist of Sanitation, Streets, Utilities, &Traffic.
• The Sanitation Division collectsresidential waste twice a week,commercial dumpsters up to sixtimes per week, and recycling onceper week.
• The Traffic Division is responsiblefor maintaining and repairing over6,000 traffic signs, 33 signalizedintersections, pavement markings,and public parking areas. Inaddition, the Traffic Division performs special projects such asoverseeing the recent re-striping of Lovers Lane for theinstallation of a continuous left turn lane from Boedeker toHillcrest.
• The Streets Division is responsible for maintaining and repairingthe City's 71 miles of street pavement and 33 miles of alleypavement. In 2007, the division poured over one linear-mile ofconcrete in the City's alleys.
• The Utilities Division maintains the City's water, sanitary sewer,and storm sewer infrastructure, consisting of over 150 miles ofpipe. On occasion the division also installs new water mainsseparate from the City's mile-per-year capital improvementprogram. This year was highlighted by the installation of over200 feet of an 8-inch water main along Boedeker.
In summer 2005, afteryears of community-widediscussion and carefulplanning, the City began aphased, three-yearconstruction project toexpand and renovate itsdistinctive ColonialWilliamsburg-style CityHall. Funded without debtaccording to a carefully constructed multi-year funding plan, the$20 million project is the largest and most extensive improvementproject in the City's history. Throughout the pages of this report,specific components of the project are discussed in some detail.
Construction Timeline• June 2005 - City Council holds groundbreaking
ceremony for project, first phase of project(dredging of Turtle Creek channel and pond andconstruction of box culvert begins).
• Late summer 2006 - Construction starts onaddition to City Hall.
• Summer 2007 - Police Department temporarilyrelocates to the City's Peek Service Center. Fire Departmentmoves into completed new wing.
• May 2008 - Remodel of existing City Hall scheduled to start.• December 2008 - Construction on existing City Hall completed.
Building inspection divisionIn 2007, construction activity was virtually unchanged incomparison with the same statistics for 2006. Despite a drasticslow down in the housing sector and a reduction of housingpermits at the national and regional levels, new single familypermits totaled 147 in 2007 compared to 149 in 2006. Totalconstruction values for new single family homes increased 3percent from $203 million in 2006 to $210 million in 2007.Permits for repair and remodel of existing homes declined 7percent from 187 in 2006 to 175 in 2007.
The Building Inspection Division is implementing new planreview procedures in 2008. The City has contracted with theengineering firm CH2M Hill to supplement existing plan reviewservices. The majority of residential and commercial planssubmitted for building permits will be reviewed by the firm's
Re-accreditationIn December 2006 the Commissionon Accreditation for LawEnforcement Agencies, Inc.(CALEA), conducted an on-sitereview of the Police Department'saccreditation program. Followingan intense review of all areas of thedepartment's administration and operation, UPPD was re-accreditedfor another three-year period. In its report summary, the on-siteteam of independent assessors noted, "The agency is responsive tothe needs of the community and is truly committed to providing thebest law enforcement services."
Staff promotionsSergeant Robert Flood, a 13-year veteran of the department, waspromoted to the rank of Police Captain and was placed in charge ofPolice Operations. This promotion came about after Captain RobertBrown was appointed Police Chief for the City of Duncanville,Texas. In conjunction with those moves, Officer Greg Spradlin waspromoted to Police Sergeant and was placed in charge of theCriminal Investigation Division.
Traffic enforcement unitFollowing the City Council's approval of three additional positions,the department created a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit.All three officers in the unit will have specialized training in trafficaccident investigation and accident reconstruction. Two currentofficers, Robbie Keenan and Jonathan Ingelido held such expertiseprior to creation of the unit, and they have already been assigned totheir new duties. The department will add a final officer to the unitwhen the department's new officers have completed their training.In addition to working traffic accidents, the officers in thisspecialized unit will work targeted areas for speeding and otherreported violations inneighborhoods throughout the city.
Traffic safetyTraffic safety on Lovers Lanebetween Hillcrest and Boedekercontinues to be a focus ofenforcement efforts. Following therecommendation of the City's PublicSafety Advisory Committee, theCity Council approved the installation of a continuous left turn laneand the placement of additional "speed monitoring" display boardsalong that six-block area. Both enhancements were completed.
The department is continuing enforcement in conjunction with a25 mph study that is taking place in the northeast section of thecity between Lovers and Southwestern and Boedeker andHillcrest. At the direction of the City Council, the program seeksto determine the extent of voluntary compliance in the postedneighborhoods.
The department has added crossing guards at the intersections ofColgate and Tulane and Caruth and Tulane. Traffic studies atboth locations determined that two new guards were necessary.The studies were requested by parents at Hyer ElementarySchool.
DARE program and School Resource OfficerIn 2007-2008 the Police Department will continue to provide theDARE program (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) atMcCullouch Intermediate School. Officer Suzette Elwonger isthe current DARE instructor. Since 1994, DARE has sought toprovide sixth-graders at the school with a launching pad forconversation with peers, and by extension with parents, on theharmful effects of drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The DAREprogram is funded annually in a 75-25 percent split between theCity of University Park and the Town of Highland Park.
In early 2007, the department assigned a full-time SchoolResource Officer at Highland Park High School. Officer A.J.Sherrill, a five-year veteran of the Department, was selected forthe position. The majority of Officer Sherrill's time is spent at theschool, where he interacts with students and staff to provide asafer and more secure campus for all concerned. Officer Sherrillalso attends on-campus school athletic events and dances and theschool's out-of-town play-off games. The position is fundedannually in a 72-28 percent split between the City and Town.
New fire stationIn June 2007, uponcompletion of the first phaseof the City Hall renovationproject, the Fire Departmentmoved into its newlyconstructed fire station. Forthe first time in 30 years allfire apparatus, including thereserve apparatus, is being
housed at the fire station. The firefighters' living quarters are vastlyimproved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman.The spacious day room and kitchen are both comfortable andfunctional. The new station also has a large patio where they cansit in privacy and enjoy a meal cooked outside.
Fire Chief retirementFire Chief David Ledbetter retired in February2008, culminating 35 years of service with theCity. The Waters Consulting Group was retainedto recruit candidates for this position. A newChief should be named by March 2008.
Emergency management activitiesIn September 2007, the Mayor and Emergency ManagementCoordinator attended a Senior Officials workshop conducted byHomeland Security and the Texas A&M Engineering ExtensionService.
In October 2007, the Mayor, City Council and DepartmentDirectors were given a refresher course on the National IncidentManagement System (NIMS). Under a Presidential HomelandSecurity Directive, local governments are required to becomeNIMS compliant to manage and work with Federal, State andother local governments during times of disaster.
The Fire Department staff isbeing trained in IC 300 and 400courses required by FEMA tobe compliant with NIMS.These courses are designed forpersonnel who will be in chargeof emergency incidentsescalating to Unified Commandan multi-jurisdiction situations.
Emergency warning system upgradesThe City's All Hazard Emergency Warning System was upgradedin 2007. This increased the size and type of the warning sirens andimproved coverage to all parts of the city. The new sirens areomni-directional and emit sound 360 degrees simultaneously.Each siren has ten cells which provides for greater sound level andincreases the distance the sound travels. As with the old system,voice messages can be delivered through loud speakers with pre-recorded messages or live instructions. The new system features aone-touch control panel that simplifies its operation which isstrictly controlled by the Fire/Police Communication Centerpersonnel. The new system is equipped with self-diagnosticsoftware capable of reporting potential problems with the units. Itis important to note, however, that the outdoor alert system is notintended to penetrate into homes and businesses.
Re-banding radiosIn 2007, the City negotiated a contract with Sprint/Nextel to re-band the radio frequencies used by the Public Safety and PublicWorks departments. This effort is mandated by the FederalCommunication Commission. The contract requires Nextel to re-band the radios to a lower frequency while ensuring that eachagency has the same level of service that existed before the re-banding. This effort will reduce Nextel's interference with day-to-day Public Safety radio transmissions. The re-banding contractstipulates that re-banding must be completed before June 2008.
HHUMANUMAN RRESOURCESESOURCESEmploymentDuring fiscal year 2006-07, the City had an employee turnoverrate of 4.8%, with seven of the 12 terminations coming fromservice retirements. The Human Resources Department hired 57employees during thefiscal year: 12 regular fulltime positions and 45swimming pool positions.
City Hall expansion and remodelIn conjunction with the remodeland expansion of City Hall, it wasnecessary to temporarily relocateall employees, and at the sametime, make sure that continuity ofservice was maintained forcomputing systems, data, phones, radios, 911, and direct alarmmonitoring. A state-of-the-art alternate dispatch center wasconstructed with new consoles and computing equipment at thePeek Service Center. The Police, Fire, and EMS computer-aideddispatch software, along with the 911, Public Safety Radio,Direct Alarm Monitoring, Security Camera, and Access ControlSystems were also upgraded to the latest versions available. Thevery successful relocation was completed in three phases with noloss of service. As part of the City Hall expansion, the FireTraining Room and Finance Conference Room were equippedwith new Audio/Video Systems.
Mapping softwareThe City also began migrating to the industry standard ESRI(Environmental Systems Research Institute) GIS (GeographicInformation System) mapping software. Now data related toparcels, streets, and the City's utility infrastructure arecontinually being linked to the map. An ESRI-based interactivemap of the City with multiple layers of information is also nowavailable on the City Web site.
IINFORMATIONNFORMATION
SSERVICESERVICES
PPUBLICUBLIC WORKSWORKS SSTATISTICSTATISTICS
2007 Employee of the Yearaward recipients picturedfrom left to right:CurtisFortner, Jimmy Lee, LizSpector and George Jones.
In 2008, a proposed Capital Improvement Project will allow forthe replacement of all portable and mobile Public Safety radios.Due to age, many of the City's current radios are becomingobsolete and will not meet upcoming requirements forinteroperability with other agencies. During the terrorist strikeon the World Trade Center in 2001, many emergency personnellost their lives when responding agencies were unable to talk toone another via radio. Since then, the federal government hasrequired all Public Safety radios be Project 25 compliant.
FFIREIRE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
PPARKARK DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
CCITYITY HHALLALL
RRENOVATIONENOVATION
2007 I2007 INN RREVIEWEVIEW
FFIREIRE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
FFIREIRE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT SSTATISTICSTATISTICS
PPOLICEOLICE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT SSTATISTICSTATISTICS
PPOLICEOLICE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
PPUBLICUBLIC WWORKSORKS
DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
engineers and architects. This new service will dramaticallyimprove the turnaround time from plan submittal to buildingpermit issuance. The CH2M Hill contract will also allow the cityto reallocate existing resources that will result in a greateremphasis on quality field inspections.
Engineering divisionResponsible for overseeing theplanning, design, andconstruction of all Public Workscapital improvement projects,the division in 2007 managednearly $9 million worth ofactivity. On an annual basis, theCity awards contracts for routine capital projects such as in-placerecycling of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter concrete repairs,and the mile-per-year water/sewer/alley replacement. In 2007, themile-per-year program completed replacement of the 4100through 4300 blocks of the Shenandoah-Stanhope alley. Inaddition to annual capital projects, the Engineering Divisionoversees special large construction projects. The City Hallrenovation is an example of this type of project.
Operational divisionsThe operational divisions consist of Sanitation, Streets, Utilities, &Traffic.
• The Sanitation Division collectsresidential waste twice a week,commercial dumpsters up to sixtimes per week, and recycling onceper week.
• The Traffic Division is responsiblefor maintaining and repairing over6,000 traffic signs, 33 signalizedintersections, pavement markings,and public parking areas. Inaddition, the Traffic Division performs special projects such asoverseeing the recent re-striping of Lovers Lane for theinstallation of a continuous left turn lane from Boedeker toHillcrest.
• The Streets Division is responsible for maintaining and repairingthe City's 71 miles of street pavement and 33 miles of alleypavement. In 2007, the division poured over one linear-mile ofconcrete in the City's alleys.
• The Utilities Division maintains the City's water, sanitary sewer,and storm sewer infrastructure, consisting of over 150 miles ofpipe. On occasion the division also installs new water mainsseparate from the City's mile-per-year capital improvementprogram. This year was highlighted by the installation of over200 feet of an 8-inch water main along Boedeker.
In summer 2005, afteryears of community-widediscussion and carefulplanning, the City began aphased, three-yearconstruction project toexpand and renovate itsdistinctive ColonialWilliamsburg-style CityHall. Funded without debtaccording to a carefully constructed multi-year funding plan, the$20 million project is the largest and most extensive improvementproject in the City's history. Throughout the pages of this report,specific components of the project are discussed in some detail.
Construction Timeline• June 2005 - City Council holds groundbreaking
ceremony for project, first phase of project(dredging of Turtle Creek channel and pond andconstruction of box culvert begins).
• Late summer 2006 - Construction starts onaddition to City Hall.
• Summer 2007 - Police Department temporarilyrelocates to the City's Peek Service Center. Fire Departmentmoves into completed new wing.
• May 2008 - Remodel of existing City Hall scheduled to start.• December 2008 - Construction on existing City Hall completed.
Building inspection divisionIn 2007, construction activity was virtually unchanged incomparison with the same statistics for 2006. Despite a drasticslow down in the housing sector and a reduction of housingpermits at the national and regional levels, new single familypermits totaled 147 in 2007 compared to 149 in 2006. Totalconstruction values for new single family homes increased 3percent from $203 million in 2006 to $210 million in 2007.Permits for repair and remodel of existing homes declined 7percent from 187 in 2006 to 175 in 2007.
The Building Inspection Division is implementing new planreview procedures in 2008. The City has contracted with theengineering firm CH2M Hill to supplement existing plan reviewservices. The majority of residential and commercial planssubmitted for building permits will be reviewed by the firm's
Re-accreditationIn December 2006 the Commissionon Accreditation for LawEnforcement Agencies, Inc.(CALEA), conducted an on-sitereview of the Police Department'saccreditation program. Followingan intense review of all areas of thedepartment's administration and operation, UPPD was re-accreditedfor another three-year period. In its report summary, the on-siteteam of independent assessors noted, "The agency is responsive tothe needs of the community and is truly committed to providing thebest law enforcement services."
Staff promotionsSergeant Robert Flood, a 13-year veteran of the department, waspromoted to the rank of Police Captain and was placed in charge ofPolice Operations. This promotion came about after Captain RobertBrown was appointed Police Chief for the City of Duncanville,Texas. In conjunction with those moves, Officer Greg Spradlin waspromoted to Police Sergeant and was placed in charge of theCriminal Investigation Division.
Traffic enforcement unitFollowing the City Council's approval of three additional positions,the department created a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit.All three officers in the unit will have specialized training in trafficaccident investigation and accident reconstruction. Two currentofficers, Robbie Keenan and Jonathan Ingelido held such expertiseprior to creation of the unit, and they have already been assigned totheir new duties. The department will add a final officer to the unitwhen the department's new officers have completed their training.In addition to working traffic accidents, the officers in thisspecialized unit will work targeted areas for speeding and otherreported violations inneighborhoods throughout the city.
Traffic safetyTraffic safety on Lovers Lanebetween Hillcrest and Boedekercontinues to be a focus ofenforcement efforts. Following therecommendation of the City's PublicSafety Advisory Committee, theCity Council approved the installation of a continuous left turn laneand the placement of additional "speed monitoring" display boardsalong that six-block area. Both enhancements were completed.
The department is continuing enforcement in conjunction with a25 mph study that is taking place in the northeast section of thecity between Lovers and Southwestern and Boedeker andHillcrest. At the direction of the City Council, the program seeksto determine the extent of voluntary compliance in the postedneighborhoods.
The department has added crossing guards at the intersections ofColgate and Tulane and Caruth and Tulane. Traffic studies atboth locations determined that two new guards were necessary.The studies were requested by parents at Hyer ElementarySchool.
DARE program and School Resource OfficerIn 2007-2008 the Police Department will continue to provide theDARE program (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) atMcCullouch Intermediate School. Officer Suzette Elwonger isthe current DARE instructor. Since 1994, DARE has sought toprovide sixth-graders at the school with a launching pad forconversation with peers, and by extension with parents, on theharmful effects of drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The DAREprogram is funded annually in a 75-25 percent split between theCity of University Park and the Town of Highland Park.
In early 2007, the department assigned a full-time SchoolResource Officer at Highland Park High School. Officer A.J.Sherrill, a five-year veteran of the Department, was selected forthe position. The majority of Officer Sherrill's time is spent at theschool, where he interacts with students and staff to provide asafer and more secure campus for all concerned. Officer Sherrillalso attends on-campus school athletic events and dances and theschool's out-of-town play-off games. The position is fundedannually in a 72-28 percent split between the City and Town.
New fire stationIn June 2007, uponcompletion of the first phaseof the City Hall renovationproject, the Fire Departmentmoved into its newlyconstructed fire station. Forthe first time in 30 years allfire apparatus, including thereserve apparatus, is being
housed at the fire station. The firefighters' living quarters are vastlyimproved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman.The spacious day room and kitchen are both comfortable andfunctional. The new station also has a large patio where they cansit in privacy and enjoy a meal cooked outside.
Fire Chief retirementFire Chief David Ledbetter retired in February2008, culminating 35 years of service with theCity. The Waters Consulting Group was retainedto recruit candidates for this position. A newChief should be named by March 2008.
Emergency management activitiesIn September 2007, the Mayor and Emergency ManagementCoordinator attended a Senior Officials workshop conducted byHomeland Security and the Texas A&M Engineering ExtensionService.
In October 2007, the Mayor, City Council and DepartmentDirectors were given a refresher course on the National IncidentManagement System (NIMS). Under a Presidential HomelandSecurity Directive, local governments are required to becomeNIMS compliant to manage and work with Federal, State andother local governments during times of disaster.
The Fire Department staff isbeing trained in IC 300 and 400courses required by FEMA tobe compliant with NIMS.These courses are designed forpersonnel who will be in chargeof emergency incidentsescalating to Unified Commandan multi-jurisdiction situations.
Emergency warning system upgradesThe City's All Hazard Emergency Warning System was upgradedin 2007. This increased the size and type of the warning sirens andimproved coverage to all parts of the city. The new sirens areomni-directional and emit sound 360 degrees simultaneously.Each siren has ten cells which provides for greater sound level andincreases the distance the sound travels. As with the old system,voice messages can be delivered through loud speakers with pre-recorded messages or live instructions. The new system features aone-touch control panel that simplifies its operation which isstrictly controlled by the Fire/Police Communication Centerpersonnel. The new system is equipped with self-diagnosticsoftware capable of reporting potential problems with the units. Itis important to note, however, that the outdoor alert system is notintended to penetrate into homes and businesses.
Re-banding radiosIn 2007, the City negotiated a contract with Sprint/Nextel to re-band the radio frequencies used by the Public Safety and PublicWorks departments. This effort is mandated by the FederalCommunication Commission. The contract requires Nextel to re-band the radios to a lower frequency while ensuring that eachagency has the same level of service that existed before the re-banding. This effort will reduce Nextel's interference with day-to-day Public Safety radio transmissions. The re-banding contractstipulates that re-banding must be completed before June 2008.
HHUMANUMAN RRESOURCESESOURCESEmploymentDuring fiscal year 2006-07, the City had an employee turnoverrate of 4.8%, with seven of the 12 terminations coming fromservice retirements. The Human Resources Department hired 57employees during thefiscal year: 12 regular fulltime positions and 45swimming pool positions.
City Hall expansion and remodelIn conjunction with the remodeland expansion of City Hall, it wasnecessary to temporarily relocateall employees, and at the sametime, make sure that continuity ofservice was maintained forcomputing systems, data, phones, radios, 911, and direct alarmmonitoring. A state-of-the-art alternate dispatch center wasconstructed with new consoles and computing equipment at thePeek Service Center. The Police, Fire, and EMS computer-aideddispatch software, along with the 911, Public Safety Radio,Direct Alarm Monitoring, Security Camera, and Access ControlSystems were also upgraded to the latest versions available. Thevery successful relocation was completed in three phases with noloss of service. As part of the City Hall expansion, the FireTraining Room and Finance Conference Room were equippedwith new Audio/Video Systems.
Mapping softwareThe City also began migrating to the industry standard ESRI(Environmental Systems Research Institute) GIS (GeographicInformation System) mapping software. Now data related toparcels, streets, and the City's utility infrastructure arecontinually being linked to the map. An ESRI-based interactivemap of the City with multiple layers of information is also nowavailable on the City Web site.
IINFORMATIONNFORMATION
SSERVICESERVICES
PPUBLICUBLIC WORKSWORKS SSTATISTICSTATISTICS
2007 Employee of the Yearaward recipients picturedfrom left to right:CurtisFortner, Jimmy Lee, LizSpector and George Jones.
In 2008, a proposed Capital Improvement Project will allow forthe replacement of all portable and mobile Public Safety radios.Due to age, many of the City's current radios are becomingobsolete and will not meet upcoming requirements forinteroperability with other agencies. During the terrorist strikeon the World Trade Center in 2001, many emergency personnellost their lives when responding agencies were unable to talk toone another via radio. Since then, the federal government hasrequired all Public Safety radios be Project 25 compliant.
UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITYPARKPARK
ANNUALANNUALREPORTREPORT2007-20082007-2008
As Mayor, I am pleased to provide a quick overview concerning the projects and initiatives discussedin more detail in this Annual Report. During 2007 your City Council, our able City staff, and thoseresidents who serve voluntarily on more than a dozen committees made great progress for all thosewho live and work in this cherished community.
This past year we celebrated the re-birth of Goar Park. In connection with the ongoing renovation ofCity Hall, the park now has a brook that runs from the gazebo area into Turtle Creek, new walkwaysand observation decks, new trees and landscaping, and two new fountains. In 2007 the Fire
Department moved into its new home on the west side of City Hall. Now, for the first time in 30 years all fireapparatus, including the reserve apparatus, is being housed at the fire station. Moreover, the firefighter living quartersare vastly improved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman. That wing's second floor is also theFinance Department's new home. By the end of 2008 we anticipate that other City departments will be able to moveback to a fully renovated City Hall. The project's last major piece features expanded work space for the PoliceDepartment, the 911 dispatch center and Municipal Court personnel. Keeping its Colonial Williamsburg look insideand out, City Hall will also have new audio-video equipment in the Council Chamber and renovated office space forthe Executive and Human Resources Departments.
2008 will be a banner year for public space city-wide. Water features will soon be in place at Barbara HitzelbergerPark and Sis Germany Park. In the next few months the Park Department will also finalize a Master Plan design forCoffee Park. After a busy summer, renovation work will begin on the Curtis Park Swimming Pool.
In 2008 the Northwest Parkway Wall project is scheduled for completion. Running from Airline to Turtle CreekBoulevard, the 10 foot high wall will provide nearby residents with a buffer from the constant traffic on NorthwestHighway. Because the section of Northwest Parkway that has been open to traffic will be permanently closed, we'llalso gain usable space in adjacent Coffee Park. Late this year, Public Works is scheduled to start construction on anew booster pump station just south of Germany Park. The new facility will replace the current booster pump stationthat has been in service since the 1950's. The booster pump is connected directly to the Dallas County Park CitiesMunicipal Utility District treatment plant.
Public Safety is always a high priority. In 2007, to reduce speeding on Lovers Lane, a continuous left turn lane wasinstalled in a six-block stretch from Hillcrest to Boedeker. To target traffic and speeding concerns throughout thecity, the City Council approved funding for a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit for the Police Department. Toguard against pedestrian injuries, last December, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of hand-held cell phones in active school zones.
Last month the City Council passed an ordinance requiring the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in all newhomes and duplexes. The ordinance, which takes effect in August, also covers major residential remodeling projects.In addition to providing more protection for our neighborhoods and our firefighters, I believe this measure is a fittingway to recognize the accomplishments and dedication of Fire Chief David Ledbetter. On the day this report ispresented to the public, David will retire with 35 years of service to University Park.
MESSAGEMESSAGE FROMFROM THETHE MAYORMAYOR
FFINANCEINANCEDDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPARKARK DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
In 2008, the Parks Department will again implement an aggressive parkscapital improvements program. The Department will finalize a MasterPlan design for Coffee Park. Staff is also working with architects onupgrades to the Curtis Park Swimming Pool. The first phase of theproject will include the renovation of the children's pool and theconstruction of a water "sprayground." Construction is scheduled tobegin in fall 2008 with improvements completed in time for the 2009pool season.
FFINANCEINANCE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTIncrease in over-65 homestead exemption: Following study by theFinance Advisory Committee and City staff, in December 2007 the CityCouncil approved in concept an increase in the over-65 homesteadexemption for property tax payers. Currently the over-65 homesteadexemption is $50,000. The increased over-65 exemption is intended toprotect over-65 taxpayers from tax hikes related to property valueincreases. Adoption of the higher over-65 exemption is scheduled forearly 2008.
Other goals for 2008 include orderly relocation of Utility Billing andMunicipal Court to the renovated office space in City Hall, usefulanalysis of the Bush Presidential Library impact on the City, andenhancement of the City's investment portfolio management.
IINFORMATIONNFORMATION SSERVICESERVICESThe technology spotlight will again focus on the City Hall remodel.
• City Hall will house the primary Police, Fire, and EMS DispatchCenter. The center will be constructed to mirror the alternatedispatch center that was built in 2007. The new center will havethree console positions.
• The reconstruction of the Council Chamber will include theinstallation of new audio and video equipment specifically designedto facilitate meeting production and presentation.
• All other City Hall conference and training rooms will be equippedwith state-of-the-art audio/video equipment.
• The final major technology change related to City Hall will be theintroduction of a new security camera system and electronic accesscontrol of the doors with ID cards.
City budgetRobust fiscal health continues to be a hallmark of the City. TheFiscal Year 2008 budget totals $39.6 million, an increase of4.48%. The budget includes increases in water, wastewater, andsanitation rates. For the 13th consecutive year, the City propertytax rate decreased, as displayed in the chart below. The currentCity tax rate is 26.8 cents per $100 of taxable property value.
Capital improvement program (CIP) adoptionIn October 2007 the City Council approved a FY2008 CIPbudget of $18.4 million as the first year of the five-year CIP.The CIP is the method by which the City identifies, plans, andfunds capital projects, which are defined as non-recurring, multi-year efforts totaling over $25,000. Funding for the CIP comesfrom multiple sources, including operating budget transfers,fund balance drawdowns, and interest earnings. During fiscal2007 capital project expenditures totaled $16.4 million forprojects like the City Hall renovation and addition, Goar Parkimprovements, Northwest Parkway wall and water line, andalley/underground utility replacement.
Comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) available onWeb siteFinance personnel added the two most recent CAFR's to theCity's Web site. The documents were converted into electronicPDF files for placement on the site and are now available toanyone with Internet access.
Implementation of credit card drafting for utility billsJust as residents can pay their City utility bills by monthlyautomatic bank draft, they now have the option of paying bymonthly automatic charge to a credit card. The Utility Billingoffice implemented this feature in mid-2007. For moreinformation, call 214-987-5320.
UUNIVERSITYNIVERSITY PARKPARK TAXTAX BASEBASE ANDAND RATESRATES,, FYFY 2003-20072003-2007
The City's 3-1-1 system was launched in December 2006. 3-1-1 call takers answer approximately 275 calls per week. Callvolumes increase during holiday periods. Residents use the 24-hour-a-day number for non-emergency requests for serviceand as a source for answers to a wide variety of questions about Cityservices and operations.
Since 2002, through payroll deductions, cash donations and proceeds from themed events,University Park employees have given more than $50,000 to the United Way of MetropolitanDallas. In 2007, with the assistance of a charity-based Rubber Duck Race in the brook at Goar Park,the annual employee fund drive topped $10,000 for the first time.
Park ProjectsA number of major park improvementprojects were completed in 2007.
• The installation of park entrance signsat Caruth and Goar Park.
• The first two phases of landscapeenhancements to City Hall and GoarPark.
• The installation of Phase I of the City.secondary entrance marker program
• The upgrade of lighting at the CurtisPark tennis courts.
• The resurfacing of tennis courts atSmith Park.
• The installation of electrical upgradesto the Snider Plaza fountain
Park Projects underway include• Landscape improvements and fountain installation at Sis
Germany Park• Completion of the water feature at Barbara Hitzelberger Park,
located at the intersection of Lovers and Hillcrest• Phase II of the city-wide secondary street entrance marker
program.• The installation of landscaping in conjunction with the
Northwest Parkway screening wall and the adjoining gatewayentrance feature at the intersection of Hillcrest and NorthwestHighway.
Special Event ProgramsThe department hosted two newcommunity events in 2007. InJune, a Children's FishingDerby was held at Caruth Park.More than 130 childrenparticipated in the event, whichincluded prizes for the largestfish and free hot dogs. In lateNovember, in cooperation withthe Snider Plaza Merchants
Association, the department hosted aHoliday Tree Lighting Ceremony.More than 500 people watched a liveperformance by the Dallas Ballet beforeSanta Claus and Mayor Holmes flippedthe switch on the holiday tree. Based ondozens of positive resident comments,both events will occur annually.
In 2008, prior to the annual July 4th Parade, the department willhost its first "Fun Run," sponsor its annual Arbor Day treeplanting event with assistance from with local elementary schoolstudents and continue the popular Dive-In Movie program at theCurtis Park Pool.
PPARKARK DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPLANSLANS FORFOR 20082008
NNOTABLESOTABLES......
PPUBLICUBLIC WWORKSORKSCapital projects currently underway and scheduled for completion in2008 include:
• Northwest Parkway Wall• Reconstruction of sidewalks around Highland Park Independent
School District campuses.• Booster pump station: One of the more high profile projects scheduled
to begin in 2008 is the Germany Park Booster Pump Station. Built inthe 1950's, the existing underground pump station, located south ofGermany Park, is connected to water coming from the Dallas CountyPark Cities Municipal Utility District treatment plant. It pumps nearly9 million gallons per day into the city. In the summer of 2002, thepump station flooded, and the city lost all ability to pump water into thedistribution system. To eliminate the possibility of flooding and toensure reliability, the Engineering Division has worked with anengineering firm to design an above ground facility located adjacent tothe existing pump station. Completion of the Germany Park BoosterPump station is scheduled for the summer of 2009.
PPOLICEOLICE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTGoals and objectives for 2008 will reflect increased efforts by thedepartment to involve individual members of the business and residentialcommunities in crime prevention and personal safety programs andactivities. This strengthened partnership will in turn reduce crimesthroughout the City. With the involvement of the Traffic EnforcementUnit, the department will increase roadway enforcement to reduce thepotential for accident related injuries and deaths.
FFIREIRE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTCERT Program: Fire Department personnel have purchased andreceived response equipment to outfit citizens who will become membersof the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The equipmentwas purchased with a $6,500 federal grant. The department will beginadvertising for CERT volunteers by mid-2008. CERT members will betrained in response techniques to assist their neighborhoods should amajor disaster occur. Fire and Police personnel will train CERTmembers in fire safety, light search and rescue techniques, first aid,terrorism awareness, traffic and crowd control, and the IncidentManagement System.
VVISITISIT THETHE CCITYITY ONLINEONLINE ATAT WWWWWW..UPTEXASUPTEXAS..ORGORGJames H. “Blackie” Holmes, IIIMayor
UNIVERSITYUNIVERSITYPARKPARK
ANNUALANNUALREPORTREPORT2007-20082007-2008
As Mayor, I am pleased to provide a quick overview concerning the projects and initiatives discussedin more detail in this Annual Report. During 2007 your City Council, our able City staff, and thoseresidents who serve voluntarily on more than a dozen committees made great progress for all thosewho live and work in this cherished community.
This past year we celebrated the re-birth of Goar Park. In connection with the ongoing renovation ofCity Hall, the park now has a brook that runs from the gazebo area into Turtle Creek, new walkwaysand observation decks, new trees and landscaping, and two new fountains. In 2007 the Fire
Department moved into its new home on the west side of City Hall. Now, for the first time in 30 years all fireapparatus, including the reserve apparatus, is being housed at the fire station. Moreover, the firefighter living quartersare vastly improved, with private sleeping rooms for each on-duty fireman. That wing's second floor is also theFinance Department's new home. By the end of 2008 we anticipate that other City departments will be able to moveback to a fully renovated City Hall. The project's last major piece features expanded work space for the PoliceDepartment, the 911 dispatch center and Municipal Court personnel. Keeping its Colonial Williamsburg look insideand out, City Hall will also have new audio-video equipment in the Council Chamber and renovated office space forthe Executive and Human Resources Departments.
2008 will be a banner year for public space city-wide. Water features will soon be in place at Barbara HitzelbergerPark and Sis Germany Park. In the next few months the Park Department will also finalize a Master Plan design forCoffee Park. After a busy summer, renovation work will begin on the Curtis Park Swimming Pool.
In 2008 the Northwest Parkway Wall project is scheduled for completion. Running from Airline to Turtle CreekBoulevard, the 10 foot high wall will provide nearby residents with a buffer from the constant traffic on NorthwestHighway. Because the section of Northwest Parkway that has been open to traffic will be permanently closed, we'llalso gain usable space in adjacent Coffee Park. Late this year, Public Works is scheduled to start construction on anew booster pump station just south of Germany Park. The new facility will replace the current booster pump stationthat has been in service since the 1950's. The booster pump is connected directly to the Dallas County Park CitiesMunicipal Utility District treatment plant.
Public Safety is always a high priority. In 2007, to reduce speeding on Lovers Lane, a continuous left turn lane wasinstalled in a six-block stretch from Hillcrest to Boedeker. To target traffic and speeding concerns throughout thecity, the City Council approved funding for a three-officer Traffic Enforcement Unit for the Police Department. Toguard against pedestrian injuries, last December, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of hand-held cell phones in active school zones.
Last month the City Council passed an ordinance requiring the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in all newhomes and duplexes. The ordinance, which takes effect in August, also covers major residential remodeling projects.In addition to providing more protection for our neighborhoods and our firefighters, I believe this measure is a fittingway to recognize the accomplishments and dedication of Fire Chief David Ledbetter. On the day this report ispresented to the public, David will retire with 35 years of service to University Park.
MESSAGEMESSAGE FROMFROM THETHE MAYORMAYOR
FFINANCEINANCEDDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPARKARK DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT
In 2008, the Parks Department will again implement an aggressive parkscapital improvements program. The Department will finalize a MasterPlan design for Coffee Park. Staff is also working with architects onupgrades to the Curtis Park Swimming Pool. The first phase of theproject will include the renovation of the children's pool and theconstruction of a water "sprayground." Construction is scheduled tobegin in fall 2008 with improvements completed in time for the 2009pool season.
FFINANCEINANCE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTIncrease in over-65 homestead exemption: Following study by theFinance Advisory Committee and City staff, in December 2007 the CityCouncil approved in concept an increase in the over-65 homesteadexemption for property tax payers. Currently the over-65 homesteadexemption is $50,000. The increased over-65 exemption is intended toprotect over-65 taxpayers from tax hikes related to property valueincreases. Adoption of the higher over-65 exemption is scheduled forearly 2008.
Other goals for 2008 include orderly relocation of Utility Billing andMunicipal Court to the renovated office space in City Hall, usefulanalysis of the Bush Presidential Library impact on the City, andenhancement of the City's investment portfolio management.
IINFORMATIONNFORMATION SSERVICESERVICESThe technology spotlight will again focus on the City Hall remodel.
• City Hall will house the primary Police, Fire, and EMS DispatchCenter. The center will be constructed to mirror the alternatedispatch center that was built in 2007. The new center will havethree console positions.
• The reconstruction of the Council Chamber will include theinstallation of new audio and video equipment specifically designedto facilitate meeting production and presentation.
• All other City Hall conference and training rooms will be equippedwith state-of-the-art audio/video equipment.
• The final major technology change related to City Hall will be theintroduction of a new security camera system and electronic accesscontrol of the doors with ID cards.
City budgetRobust fiscal health continues to be a hallmark of the City. TheFiscal Year 2008 budget totals $39.6 million, an increase of4.48%. The budget includes increases in water, wastewater, andsanitation rates. For the 13th consecutive year, the City propertytax rate decreased, as displayed in the chart below. The currentCity tax rate is 26.8 cents per $100 of taxable property value.
Capital improvement program (CIP) adoptionIn October 2007 the City Council approved a FY2008 CIPbudget of $18.4 million as the first year of the five-year CIP.The CIP is the method by which the City identifies, plans, andfunds capital projects, which are defined as non-recurring, multi-year efforts totaling over $25,000. Funding for the CIP comesfrom multiple sources, including operating budget transfers,fund balance drawdowns, and interest earnings. During fiscal2007 capital project expenditures totaled $16.4 million forprojects like the City Hall renovation and addition, Goar Parkimprovements, Northwest Parkway wall and water line, andalley/underground utility replacement.
Comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) available onWeb siteFinance personnel added the two most recent CAFR's to theCity's Web site. The documents were converted into electronicPDF files for placement on the site and are now available toanyone with Internet access.
Implementation of credit card drafting for utility billsJust as residents can pay their City utility bills by monthlyautomatic bank draft, they now have the option of paying bymonthly automatic charge to a credit card. The Utility Billingoffice implemented this feature in mid-2007. For moreinformation, call 214-987-5320.
UUNIVERSITYNIVERSITY PARKPARK TAXTAX BASEBASE ANDAND RATESRATES,, FYFY 2003-20072003-2007
The City's 3-1-1 system was launched in December 2006. 3-1-1 call takers answer approximately 275 calls per week. Callvolumes increase during holiday periods. Residents use the 24-hour-a-day number for non-emergency requests for serviceand as a source for answers to a wide variety of questions about Cityservices and operations.
Since 2002, through payroll deductions, cash donations and proceeds from themed events,University Park employees have given more than $50,000 to the United Way of MetropolitanDallas. In 2007, with the assistance of a charity-based Rubber Duck Race in the brook at Goar Park,the annual employee fund drive topped $10,000 for the first time.
Park ProjectsA number of major park improvementprojects were completed in 2007.
• The installation of park entrance signsat Caruth and Goar Park.
• The first two phases of landscapeenhancements to City Hall and GoarPark.
• The installation of Phase I of the City.secondary entrance marker program
• The upgrade of lighting at the CurtisPark tennis courts.
• The resurfacing of tennis courts atSmith Park.
• The installation of electrical upgradesto the Snider Plaza fountain
Park Projects underway include• Landscape improvements and fountain installation at Sis
Germany Park• Completion of the water feature at Barbara Hitzelberger Park,
located at the intersection of Lovers and Hillcrest• Phase II of the city-wide secondary street entrance marker
program.• The installation of landscaping in conjunction with the
Northwest Parkway screening wall and the adjoining gatewayentrance feature at the intersection of Hillcrest and NorthwestHighway.
Special Event ProgramsThe department hosted two newcommunity events in 2007. InJune, a Children's FishingDerby was held at Caruth Park.More than 130 childrenparticipated in the event, whichincluded prizes for the largestfish and free hot dogs. In lateNovember, in cooperation withthe Snider Plaza Merchants
Association, the department hosted aHoliday Tree Lighting Ceremony.More than 500 people watched a liveperformance by the Dallas Ballet beforeSanta Claus and Mayor Holmes flippedthe switch on the holiday tree. Based ondozens of positive resident comments,both events will occur annually.
In 2008, prior to the annual July 4th Parade, the department willhost its first "Fun Run," sponsor its annual Arbor Day treeplanting event with assistance from with local elementary schoolstudents and continue the popular Dive-In Movie program at theCurtis Park Pool.
PPARKARK DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPLANSLANS FORFOR 20082008
NNOTABLESOTABLES......
PPUBLICUBLIC WWORKSORKSCapital projects currently underway and scheduled for completion in2008 include:
• Northwest Parkway Wall• Reconstruction of sidewalks around Highland Park Independent
School District campuses.• Booster pump station: One of the more high profile projects scheduled
to begin in 2008 is the Germany Park Booster Pump Station. Built inthe 1950's, the existing underground pump station, located south ofGermany Park, is connected to water coming from the Dallas CountyPark Cities Municipal Utility District treatment plant. It pumps nearly9 million gallons per day into the city. In the summer of 2002, thepump station flooded, and the city lost all ability to pump water into thedistribution system. To eliminate the possibility of flooding and toensure reliability, the Engineering Division has worked with anengineering firm to design an above ground facility located adjacent tothe existing pump station. Completion of the Germany Park BoosterPump station is scheduled for the summer of 2009.
PPOLICEOLICE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTGoals and objectives for 2008 will reflect increased efforts by thedepartment to involve individual members of the business and residentialcommunities in crime prevention and personal safety programs andactivities. This strengthened partnership will in turn reduce crimesthroughout the City. With the involvement of the Traffic EnforcementUnit, the department will increase roadway enforcement to reduce thepotential for accident related injuries and deaths.
FFIREIRE DDEPARTMENTEPARTMENTCERT Program: Fire Department personnel have purchased andreceived response equipment to outfit citizens who will become membersof the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The equipmentwas purchased with a $6,500 federal grant. The department will beginadvertising for CERT volunteers by mid-2008. CERT members will betrained in response techniques to assist their neighborhoods should amajor disaster occur. Fire and Police personnel will train CERTmembers in fire safety, light search and rescue techniques, first aid,terrorism awareness, traffic and crowd control, and the IncidentManagement System.
VVISITISIT THETHE CCITYITY ONLINEONLINE ATAT WWWWWW..UPTEXASUPTEXAS..ORGORGJames H. “Blackie” Holmes, IIIMayor
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