The First Week of 2020 in the City of Waxahachie!

Hello Neighbors!

I'd like to wish you all a Happy New Year!  There were many things, mostly good but some not-so-great, that happened this past year and I'm excited about what 2020 will bring.  I think it's going to be the best year yet!

As far as meetings for this week, we only have one scheduled so far, but as always, please check back on the city's website, to see if any new ones are added.  http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

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Thursday, January 2, 2020
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12:00 PM - Civil Service Commission - Regular Meeting
Mayor's Office, City Hall

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38707/1-2-20_Agenda_Packet.pdf

The main item of this meeting is to certify the promotional eligibility lists for police lieutenant, corporal, and sergeant positions.

This meeting is open to the public, if you wish to attend.  It will not be live-streamed by the city.

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As a reminder, residential trash pickup will NOT run on New Year's Day. 

Also, the packets are available in the City Secretary's office if you would like to run for City Council.  The notice of deadline to file applications for place on the ballot states applications may be turned in from 1/15/20 - 02/14/20.  Here is a copy of that order: http://www.waxahachie.com/Notice%20of%20Deadline%20to%20File%20Applications%202020.pdf  Each candidate must have a petition signed by at least 25 registered voters who live in the City of Waxahachie and the Place for which you'd like to run must be on your petition.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and has a SAFE and Happy New Year!  Have a wonderful week ahead Waxahachie!

Your Friendly Councilmember,
Melissa Olson
molson@waxahachie.com
817.507.5162 (text)

Christmas Week 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Merry Christmas, Neighbors!

There are no city meetings scheduled for the upcoming week.  As always, you can check the city's calendar throughout the week to see if any meetings have been posted, but none are planned as of now.  Here is the link to do that: http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

If you have a Facebook account, I highly encourage you to follow the City's official page where we have lots of good notices such as holiday trash pickup schedules and more.  The link to that page is: https://www.facebook.com/City-of-Waxahachie-Official-Municipal-Page-159533114724/ 

I'm posting pictures here for those who do not have access to Facebook, so you can get the same information.

If you are interested in Christmas service times, all are welcome at the Avenue Church. 

Waxahachie Campus
Monday, December 23 | 4:00pm & 6:00pm
Tuesday, December 24 | 2:00pm, 4:00pm & 6:00pm


Ennis Campus
Monday, December 23 | 6:00pm
Tuesday, December 24 | 4:00pm & 6:00pm

If you have any questions or need to look up the location, you can find that information on their website: http://www.theavenuechurch.com/

I would like to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas!  Please have a wonderful week ahead and keep in mind the true reason for the season.

Your Friendly Councilmember,

Melissa Olson
molson@waxahachie.com
817-507-5162 (text)

 


  

The Week of December 16th - 20th, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Hello Neighbors!


Here's an announcement from the City regarding trash service during the holidays. If you are on Facebook, please consider liking and following the City's page, where they post announcements such as this.  Here is a link to the page: https://www.facebook.com/City-of-Waxahachie-Official-Municipal-Page-159533114724/

Also, even though we are only week and a half away from Christmas, your City Council, staff and P&Z board members are still hard at work!  We have both City Council and Planning & Zoning meetings this week.

Here is a link to the DRAFT minutes from various recent board meetings that was in my packet for Monday's Council meeting.  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MzjymJbYJSBcUzZEIVFwEMyy8dbZPYTI/view?usp=sharing Reading the minutes is a fantastic way to know what is going on in the city.  

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Monday, December 16, 2019
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6:00 PM - City Council Briefing
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38587/12-16-19_City_Council_Briefing_Agenda.pdf

This meeting is to conduct a briefing to discuss agenda items for the 7:00 PM regular Council meeting.

It will not be live-streamed, but residents are welcome and encouraged to come.

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7:00 PM - City Council Regular Meeting
Council Chamber, City Hall

Agenda Packet:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38588/12-16-19_City_Council_Agenda_Packet.pdf

This seems to be a fairly routine Council meeting with the exception of items 23 - 36 and the Executive Session.  I don't know what the Executive Session will be regarding except the purpose which is to deliberate regarding real property as permitted under Section 551.072.

Items 23 - 36 are regarding the demolition/repair of substandard structures.  I don't recollect ever seeing this before on an agenda since I have been on the Council.  Staff is recommending that Council make the following motion regarding the below addresses: "I make a motion for the property located at [ADDRESS] to be repaired or or demolished within [XX] days.  If after the [XX] days, and Council's order has not been carried out, staff is authorized to demolish the property."

• 10 Yinger Street
• 608 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
• 214 Dunlap St.
• 712 Givens St.
• 218 Wyatt St.
• 400 Wyatt St.
• 908 Wyatt St.

I plan to visit these locations personally before rendering a decision.  It is a major decision, in my mind, to take such a drastic step, especially if these properties are occupied -which they may not be.

This meeting will be live-streamed and can be viewed via this link, once the meeting has started.  http://www.waxahachie.com/government/city_council/city_council_meeting_live_stream.php  After the meeting is over, there will be a link under the City Council tab from the link above.

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Tuesday, December 17, 2019
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6:15 PM - Planning & Zoning Commission Briefing
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38585/12-17-19_P_Z_Briefing_Agenda.pdf

This meeting is to conduct a briefing to discuss items for the 7:00 PM regular P&Z meeting.

It will not be live-streamed; however, the public is welcome to attend.

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7:00 PM - Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting
Council Chamber, City Hall

Agenda Packet:   https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38586/12-17-19_P_Z_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Items of interest on this agenda might include:

#10 - Request to build a 49 unit apartment complex on the corner of Northgate Dr. and Stadium Dr.  This property is already zoned PD-11-Multiple Family-1 and the applicant is requesting the same zoning and meeting all requirements of that zoning.  I state this because due to these conditions, I'm not sure that a denial can be done for this site plan (since most folks want apartments denied).  I don't think this is a good location for this use necessarily, for many reasons, so it will be interesting to see how this item goes during the P&Z meeting. Staff is recommending approval per comments.

#  11 & 12 - Request for a zoning change from Commercial to Central Area in order to get rid of the parking requirements that were unable to be attained at 106 S. Monroe. This is a great example of someone knowing the zoning ordinances in order for the Waxahachie Architectural Salvage store a Certificate of Occupancy for this location. Staff is recommending approval as presented.

# 13 & 14 - Request for a zoning change from PD- 30-office to PD- Single Family-3 on the undeveloped part of the former First Baptist Church at 315 N Rogers. Staff is recommending approval as presented.

#15 & 16 - Request for SUP (Special Use Permit) for Outside Storage at 100 W Sterrett.  This has been an ongoing case for a while.  See agenda packet (link above) for details. Staff is recommending denial.

# 17, 18 & 19 - Request to revise the existing PD (Planned Development) to construct an approximately 20,000 sq ft addition to an existing 485,000 sq ft movie theater.  Showbiz is implementing its plan for expansion!

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Those are all the meetings that are posted at this time.  Please check the city's website to see if more are added during the week:   http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

Also, packets for those who would like to run for City Council are now available (during regular business hours) in the City Secretary's office at City Hall.  Every candidate must, among the rest of their paperwork, submit a petition containing a minimum of 25 signatures from registered voters who live in the City of Waxahachie. Here is some election information on the City's website:  http://www.waxahachie.com/departments/city_secretary/elections.php

I would love to have your signature on my petition if you'd like to have my name on the ballot for City Council, Place 3! Please feel free to text me at the cell number below and I will come to you.  It takes about one minute to sign.

For those who would like to run, I'm happy to answer any questions I can about the process and/or city questions in general.  Don't hesitate to ask!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend and have a wonderful week ahead, Waxahachie!

Your Friendly Councilmember,

Melissa Olson
817-507-5162 (cell)




























  

Now Hiring: Waxahachie City Council

Just kidding... mostly!  There's no hiring because it's a volunteer position; however, it's that time of year when residents who are registered voters inside the city limits of Waxahachie can get the paperwork in order to be on the ballot for the May 2020 election. 

Let me make it clear that you will go to countless meetings and do it all for zero pay - but I wouldn't trade it for the world!  Being able to represent the residents of Waxahachie has been an incredibly rewarding experience.  I literally get to help people every day.


If you would like to run for Place 1, 2 or 3, in the City of Waxahachie, the City Secretary's office has put together a wonderful packet for all candidates and it lays out the requirements, procedures and important dates for the May 2, 2020 general election.




I have always stood for transparency and helping others learn more about the city, so if you have any questions, you can ask me (or the City Secretary's office) and I'll do my best to answer them - even if we are running against each other.  The most important thing is that we have the best people elected for the City of Waxahachie.

Because you have to get a petition signed by at least 25 registered voters who live in the City, I find that it's good to take care of that as soon as possible since it's near the holidays and all that.  I will be filing for Waxahachie City Council, Place 3.  I wish you the best of luck, if you decide to run!  It's a great way to be involved.

Sincerely,

Melissa Olson

The Week of December 9th - 13th, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie!

Hello Neighbors!

We have a few meetings this coming week, so let's get started!

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Monday, December 9, 2019
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8:30 AM - Firemen's Relief & Retirement Fund Meeting
Waxahachie Fire Station #1, 407 Water Street

Agenda Packet:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38456/12-9-19_FR_R_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Items include:

5. Consider Texas Local Fire Fighters' Retirement Act Annual Report for fiscal year end September 30, 2019

6. Discuss Pension Review Board Funding Policy and take any necessary action

This meeting will not be live-streamed, but the public are welcome to attend.

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Tuesday, December 10, 2019
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6:30 PM - Planning and Zoning Commission Briefing
Council Conference Room, City Hall (by City Secretary's Office)

Agenda: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38471/12-10-19_P_Z_Briefing_Agenda.pdf

This meeting is being held to conduct a briefing to discuss items for the 7:00 PM regular meeting.

It will not be live-streamed, but is open to the public.

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7:00 PM - Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting
Council Chamber, City Hall

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38472/12-10-19_P_Z_Agenda_Packet.pdf

This is a pretty standard meeting, with multiple solar panel cases.  Both of the planned development public hearings have been continued to the December 17th, P&Z meetings.

One item that many may find interesting/exciting is agenda numbers 20 & 21.  It is a public hearing for a Specific Use Permit (SUP) to open a Daiquiriville in the North Grove shopping center between SMD Boutique and Branded Burger.

I think that there has been a great job done so far to get businesses which compliment each other in this business park.  Facing 77, you currently have Three Rivers Coffee, Upscale Nails & Spa, Salon 180, Daiquiriville (if approved) and Branded Burger.  Just a few hundred feet away, is the new Cancun's location and we also have Atwoods there and a couple of fast food places as well.  This area is really coming along.

This meeting will probably be rather short, but will also be live-streamed, if you are unable to make it in person.  The link to view the live meeting will be: http://www.waxahachie.com/government/city_council/city_council_meeting_live_stream.php 

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Wednesday, December 11, 2019
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12:00 PM / Noon - Animal Care Advisory Committee
Waxahachie Police Department Training Room
630 Farley Street, Waxahachie, TX

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38458/12-11-19_Animal_Care_Advisory_Committee_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Based upon the agenda, this looks to be a very short meeting.

The only real order of business is to hear an update on Ordinance repealing and replacing Chapter 6 (Animal and Fowl) of the Code of Ordinances - which Council has already done.  They will then set the next meeting date and time.

This meeting is not live-streamed, but residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.

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Thursday, December 12, 2019
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4:00 PM - Mid-Way Regional Airport Board Meeting
Rex Odom Conference Room, Mid-Way Regional Airport
131 Airport Drive, Midlothian

Agenda: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38476/AA20191212.pdf

3. Board Announcements

4. Discuss and Consider the redesign of the Airport website.

5. Discuss and Consider an Airport Parking Policy.

This meeting is not live-streamed, but folks are welcome to attend.

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5:30 PM - Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting
Council Chambers / Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38461/12-12-19_HPC_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Among other items on the agenda will be considering plans for 421 S. College St.  (I'm not sure what those are going to be.)

This meeting will not be live-streamed, but residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.

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Many of us in Waxahachie have so much and there are others who are in need.  Friday, December 13, 2019 is the deadline to turn in items to help Senior Citizens in our community. Please consider helping those in our city who may need a little help this Christmas.

Here is a link to the December 2019 Senior Activity Center newsletter:  http://www.waxahachie.com/WSAC_December_2019_Final.pdf


We also have a lot going on this time of year and here's a link to some of those activities!  http://www.waxahachiecvb.com/p/events/waxahachie-holiday-event-listings-2019


I hope that everyone enjoys their weekend and that you have a wonderful week ahead!

Your Friendly Councilmember,

Melissa Olson
molson@waxahachie.com
817.507.5162 (text)

The Week of December 2nd - 6th, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Hello Neighbors!

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! There’s so much to be thankful for. I’m so thankful to have this opportunity to serve you all in the community.  I'm also thankful to live in a city that has a wonderful downtown with lots of local business owners.  Please support them on Saturday, November 30th!  The Arcade has even posted a special program to help as well.

As far as city business goes, here is a link to the draft minutes of city meetings that have been held recently.  https://drive.google.com/open?id=1ySD2hqFu2M3YiVlEFUNZnpsCqeTmhWPz

The only days this week that we have meetings posted so far are Monday and Wednesday.  You can check back on the city's calendar to see if more are posted.  That link is: 
 http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

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Monday, December 2, 2019
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6:30 PM - City Council Briefing
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38293/12-2-19_City_Council_Briefing_Agenda.pdf

The briefing will not be live-streamed but residents are welcome and encouraged to attend!

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7:00 PM - City Council Meeting
Council Chamber, City Hall

Agenda Packet:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38294/12-2-19_City_Council_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Some notable items include:

5d - Approving proposals for playground installation at Boat Dock Park, landscaping and irrigation at Spring Park, and Lions Park soccer field irrigation.  I've included pictures of the proposed playground equipment


13 - Consider proposed Resolution adopting a revised charter, as approved and amended by the voters at the election held on November 5, 2019 .   This item is on the agenda because it's the paperwork actually changing the city charter to the new way of electing councilmembers (creating places and elected via at large majority).  It's always a big deal for a city to change their charter because those are the basic governing rules for our city.  I consider this item routine because the matter has already been voted on by the people and the outcome determined.  This is just the paperwork to make it happen.  Thank you, again, to everyone who got out and voted for or against Proposition A.

14 - Consider proposed Resolution of votes cast to elect Directors for the Ellis Appraisal District for years 2020-2021.  Here is a link to the Ellis Appraisal District which discusses their positions more in detail. https://www.elliscad.com/board-members/    This is done under Texas Property Tax Code 6.03.  Here's a link to that tax code and you can scroll to section 6.03.  https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TX/htm/TX.6.htm

16 - Consider land exchange with Loren Gray Investments, LLC - I'm interested to hear what will be presented regarding this item.  You can see the details given to me in the agenda packet under #16  It seems that Loren Gray Investments has a parcel of land they would like to exchange with the City for another parcel of land.  My thoughts are leaning toward no because while I see how this exchange could help that company, I don't see exactly how the exchange would benefit the city.  I hope to have more clarity at the meeting. 

This meeting is open to the public but will also be live-streamed at the following link: http://www.waxahachie.com/government/city_council/city_council_meeting_live_stream.php

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Wednesday, December 4, 2019
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Noon - Civil Service Commission Meeting
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda Packet:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38274/12-4-19_Civil_Service_Agenda_Packet.pdf

There is actually a lot going on during this meeting and I ask that if you're interested, please visit the agenda packet link above.  You will be able to see all the details at that time.

This meeting is not live-streamed.

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We have so many exciting events coming up in Waxahachie.  It really is the most wonderful time of the year!  If you haven't gone to our annual parade and tree lighting, please take a moment to do that.  Is it crowded? Yes, but - it's literally one of the best small town events I've ever been to.  Event details are: http://www.waxahachiecvb.com/events/2019/christmas-parade--community-tree-lighting

For a list of all the great upcoming events, please go to this link: http://www.waxahachiecvb.com/events

Stay warm and have a wonderful week ahead, Waxahachie!

Your Friendly Councilmember,

Melissa Olson
817.507.5162 (text)
molson@waxahachie.com

 

Thanksgiving Week 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Hello Neighbors and Friends!

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!  WISD is out this whole week, so we can spend time with the kids (because we all know how quickly they grow up).

City Hall will be closed on Thursday for Thanksgiving and Friday, November 29th.

There are no posted meetings at this time, but you may always check the city's website calendar to see if any are added later. http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

I'm grateful to live in this amazing city with all of y'all who make our city what it is.

Sincerely,

Your Friendly Councilmember,
Melissa Olson

molson@waxahachie.com
817.507.5162 (text)

The Week of November 18th - 22nd, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Howdy Neighbors!!

I hope everyone is having a great weekend so far! 

There has been a lot of activity going on at the city, so I’ve uploaded the draft minutes of recent city meetings for your review.  They are a GREAT way to check into what has happened recently at the meetings and what’s going on in town. Here’s the link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18C9ultRRAWFVnpJrGDEMEMvUh8Mw16aS/view?usp=drivesdk

Here are the meetings for this upcoming week:

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Monday, November 18, 2019

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*** 6:00 PM : Council Work Session ***

Council Conference Room, City Hall

(Through the City Secretary’s office)

Agenda: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38025/11-18-19_City_Council_Work_Session_Agenda.pdf

Items of interest are:

2. Hear Waxahachie Fire-Rescue Annual Report 2018-2019

*3. Discuss votes cast to elect Directors for the Ellis Appraisal District Board of Directors for years 2019 - 2020*
This only happens in odd-numbered years, as board members serve 2 year terms.  To learn more about the ECAD’s Board of Directors’ duties, etc., here is a link to their website: https://www.elliscad.com/board-members/

This work session will NOT be live-streamed by the City.
 

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6:15 PM - Council Briefing Session

Council Conference Room, City Hall

(Through the City Secretary’s office)
 
Agenda: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38026/11-18-19_City_Council_Briefing_Agenda.pdf
 
2. Conduct a briefing to discuss agenda items for the 7:00 PM regular Council meeting. 
 
This is a great, informal meeting to prepare for the main meeting and residents are encouraged to attend.  It will NOT be live-streamed by the City.
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7:00 PM - City Council Meeting
Council Chamber, City Hall

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38027/11-18-19_City_Council_Agenda_Packet.pdf
Items of particular interest are:
 
7. Proclamation recognizing the 25th anniversary of The Dove’s Nest:  A big thank you and congratulations to Cindy and Andrew Burch, owners of The Dove’s Nest!

8. Proclamation proclaiming November 30, 2019 as “Small Business Saturday”.  - Please remember all of our local, small businesses when doing your holiday shopping this year, especially on “Small Business Saturday”, the Saturday after Thanksgiving.


9. Canvass and accept votes of City Council Special Election held on 11/5/19 (on changing how Council are elected). Out of 22,159 registered voters in the City of Waxahachie, 2,623 ballots were cast, resulting in 11.84% voter turnout. Thank you to each and every person who cast their vote.  The measure passed with 76.79 % FOR and 23.21% AGAINST. 
 

18-20 Regarding a new development off 287, by River Oaks subdivision called Cypress Creek Apartment Homes. This is a pretty large complex. It was approved by P&Z by 5-1 and staff is
 
recommending approval per a few comments.  One comment is about having a Developer’s Agreement in place, which if zoning passes, Council will approve in item 20. 
 


The meeting WILL be live-streamed by the city and you can go to this link during the meeting and afterward: http://www.waxahachie.com/government/city_council/city_council_meeting_live_stream.php
 
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Tuesday, November 19, 2019
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6:30 PM - P&Z Briefing
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38028/11-19-19_P_Z_Briefing_Agenda.pdf

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7:00 PM - P&Z Meeting 
Council Chamber, City Hall
 
Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38029/11-19-19_P_Z_Agenda_Packet.pdf
 
The agenda packet link is above if you'd like to review it, but it should be a fairly short, routine meeting.  Nothing really stands out specifically to share.

This meeting WILL also be live-streamed by the city, which you can view via this link:  http://www.waxahachie.com/government/city_council/city_council_meeting_live_stream.php
 
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Wednesday, November 20, 2019
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1:00 PM - Senior Center Advisory Committee
Senior Center - 122 Park Hills Drive, Waxahachie

Agenda Packet -  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/38000/11-20-19_Senior_Center_Agenda_Packet.pdf

4. Welcome new board members and reorganize committee

6. Discuss financial report on Senior Center, Inc. for period ending October 30, 2019 and take any necessary action

7. Discuss financial report on STEM Garden for period ending October 30, 2019 and take any necessary action

8. Review upcoming special events and activities

This meeting will NOT be live-streamed, but the citizens are welcome and encouraged to attend.

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Thursday & Friday, November 21st - 22nd, 2019
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There are no meetings currently scheduled for these dates, but please check the City Calendar as items may be added during the week.  http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

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That's all for this week!  Have a wonderful week ahead, Waxahachie!

Your Friendly Councilmember,

Melissa Olson
molson@waxahachie.com
817-507-5162 (text)

The Week of November 11th - 15th, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Hello Neighbors!

First of all, THANK YOU to all of our veterans.

The Veteran Appreciation Ceremony on Saturday was absolutely beautiful.  If you haven't attended this annual event before, I STRONGLY recommend doing so next year - and bring tissues.  It's for all veterans, their families and for anyone who appreciates them.

There is not a Council meeting this week, but we do have several others.

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Monday, November 11, 2019
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8:30 AM - FR&R Meeting
Fireman's Relief and Retirement Fund
Fire Station #2, 1600 Cleaver, Waxahachie


Agenda Packet:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36638/11-11-19_FR_R_Agenda_Packet.pdf

This is a great meeting to attend, if for no other reason than to see how hard this board works to ensure that our firefighters are taken care of in retirement.

Per the above agenda, they will be discussing the pension review board funding policy and taking any necessary action.  They will also hear a presentation regarding investments and consider the TX Local Fire Fighters' Retirement Act Annual Report.

This meeting will NOT be live-streamed.
The public are welcome to attend.

*** Today is Veteran's Day, so please thank a Veteran for their service and remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. ***

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Tuesday, November 12, 2019
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6:15 PM - P&Z Commission Briefing

Agenda (which provides location) - https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36664/PZAgenda20191112B.pdf

This meeting will NOT be live-streamed but is open to the public.

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7:00 PM - Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting
Council Chamber, City Hall

Agenda Packet:  https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36665/11-12-19_P_Z_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Mostly SUPs (Specific Use Permits) for solar panels and then two items of interest include:

Items # 14 & 15 on the agenda is generally located at the NW corner of Peters St. at Graham St.  This is an application by Jeff Crannell, CCM Engineering for property owners WISD.  The current zoning is for Multi-Family, but WISD wants to change it to small, single family homes and duplexes. Staff has recommended denial.

Items # 16 & 17 on the agenda is a request for a multi-family planned development located NW of Post Oak Drive at Hwy 287 (by the water tower and highway).

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Wednesday, November 13, 2019
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No meetings posted at this time, but please feel free to check the website to see if more are added:
http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

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Thursday, November 14, 2019
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4:00 PM - Mid-Way Regional Airport
Red Odom Conference Room, Mid-Way Regional Airport

Agenda Packet (first time I'm posting the full packet, as the link will be to the airport's website,  not the city's): http://www.mid-wayregional.com/images/MidWayRegional/files/Nov19packet.pdf

Appears to be a pretty standard meeting.

This meeting will NOT be live-streamed but is open to the public

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5:30 PM - Heritage Preservation Commission Meeting
Council Chambers, City Hall

Updated Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36676/11-14-19_HPC_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Among the regular items on the agenda, they will be considering plans for 108 E Franklin St. (Not sure what that entails, but it's on the agenda).

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Friday, November 15, 2019
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None posted at this time.

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Thank you to all those who reached out regarding my 'Setting the Record Straight' post.  I really, really appreciate your support.

Stay warm with that cool front coming in a day or two and have a wonderful week ahead, Waxahachie!

Your Friendly Councilmember,
Melissa Olson, CMO

molson@waxahachie.com
817-507-5162 (text)

Setting the Record Straight

Hi there, all!  This post is one that is painful to write, but I feel that it must be done.

It appears that the gloves are off and certain people in town are going (and already started) to attack  my character and performance on City Council.  I understand that not everyone feels the same as I do on issues, but in my book, that’s how we come out better. Different points of view during discussions should create a free-flowing exchange of ideas, not hatred. While serving on Council, I have asked many questions and sometimes disagreed with my peers, but that doesn’t mean I have any ill will toward anyone or wish harm on the city. I’m not even sure how one arrives at such a conclusion.  

I don't understand personal vendettas and tearing people down instead of building others up, but it appears that this is exactly what we should expect in the following weeks to months.  Am I scared about this?  No.  But, I am incredibly disheartened that some feel this is necessary.  I have children and don't want them negatively affected by my service on Council.  They have learned the importance of voting and serving others.  They've seen the excitement and passion that I've had for doing good in the community.  These are the rewards I'd hoped they would reap from this experience, as it truly is a family experience.  They've seen my heart break whenever untruths or flat out lies are told... and they have seen my tears from time to time.

I'm deeply troubled by all of this.  Never would I have expected this type of behavior in Waxahachie.  That is probably a bit naive on my part, but I didn't.  I don't think this way, so how could I have anticipated that someone would spew such hatred about others in our own community?

I come to the portion of this post where I ask a favor of you all.  Please reach out and talk with me if there's something that makes you say, "That doesn't sound like Melissa," or "Why would Melissa do something like that?"  I would appreciate the opportunity to set the record straight and explain a situation or at least confirm whether something is true or not before these things are taken as fact.  I appreciate those who have already done this. Integrity and honesty aren't just important to me, they are everything. Not knowing what will be said about me in the future, but feeling very certain that more misinformation will be circulated, I felt it was important to put this out there.  I've never liked politics and this is one reason why, but I have more important things to do than to use my time rebutting every misrepresentation that will be told about me. My priority isn't spent on trying to make everyone like me because some won't - and I respect that.  My priority is helping the good people of Waxahachie and it always will be.

The Week of November 4th - 8th, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Hello Neighbors! 

 Here is what we have scheduled so far for this week:

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Monday, November 4, 2019
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6:30 PM - City Council Briefing
Council Conference Room - City Hall

Agenda - https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36526/11-4-19_City_Council_Briefing_Agenda.pdf

This meeting will NOT be live-streamed but it IS open to the public, so please feel free to come!
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7:00 PM  - City Council Meeting
Council Chamber - City Hall

Agenda packet - https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36525/11-4-19_City_Council_Agenda_Packet.pdf

This is a really small agenda for this evening and I anticipate the meeting not taking very long at all.  The zoning cases that were set as public hearings, the first: Blue Bonnet Trails Phase 3, has been withdrawn completely.  The second: Symphony Estates, has been continued to the next Council Meeting which is on November 18th.

The only thing which is not routine, is a request for Council to approve disannexation of land by Todd Little.  Approximate address of 835 Interstate 35 Red Oak, TX 75154  I don't believe this has come across Council since I've been on there, so that will be interesting to hear.

Check out the agenda packet link above to see everything on the agenda in detail.

If you can't make it to the meeting, but would like to follow the meeting online, here is the link to watch it live: http://www.waxahachie.com/government/city_council/city_council_meeting_live_stream.php


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Tuesday, November 5, 2019
*** ELECTION DAY ***
    *** 7AM - 7 PM ***
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While our state Constitutional Amendments and Waxahachie Proposition A early voting has been pretty dismal, I'm encouraged by the upturn in voter participation on Friday, November 1st!  Early voting is now OVER, however, and only 4.19% of Ellis County has voted!  For Waxahachie, I'm using the Elections office location numbers (since it's the only poll in Waxahachie) and only 1500-ish people have cast their vote on these issues!  We have over 35k population and only 1500 people have voted?  Come on, y'all. 

Confession... I used to not vote.  I thought it didn't matter whether or not if I voted.  Well it does!  In fact, I only won my Council position by 38 or 39 votes.  EVERY VOTE MATTERS. Here are the results from that election if you'd like to see how close it was:  http://www.co.ellis.tx.us/DocumentCenter/View/8612/City-of-Waxahachie-Unofficial-Results?bidId=   Please try to get out on Tuesday and make your vote (and voice) be heard on how you want your Councilmembers elected (and Constitutional amendment #4 would allow a ban on state income tax if you vote FOR it).

Here is a link of Election Day voting centers! https://co.ellis.tx.us/DocumentCenter/View/10258/Nov2019-EDLocationsWEB?bidId=

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Wednesday, November 6, 2019
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Check back to see if any more meetings have been added to the City Calendar:
http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

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Thursday, November 7, 2019
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3:00 PM - Park Board Meeting
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36492/11-7-19_Park_Board_Agenda_Packet.pdf

Everything should be fairly routine, but number 5 deserves mentioning:

5) Discuss Park projects and lake park improvements and take any necessary action.

Even though I'm the Council liaison to this board, I will be gone to a seminar and will not be able to attend this meeting or the Keep Waxahachie Beautiful meeting later this afternoon.

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4:30 PM - Keep Waxahachie Beautiful Committee Meeting
Council Conference Room, City Hall

Agenda Packet: https://commondatastorage.googleapis.com/document-uploads-001/uploads/video/agenda_file/36491/11-7-19_KWB_Agenda_Packet.pdf

The only thing extraordinary about this meeting will be reorganizing the committee.  Other agenda items include discussion of: upcoming events and activities, projects and Project PIN.  Action may be taken on any of those items.

Neither the Park Board nor KWB Committee meetings will be live-streamed, but you are invited and encouraged to attend.  Each will have a section for public comments at the beginning.

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Friday, November 8, 2019
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Check back to see if any more meetings have been added to the City Calendar:
http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php

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Saturday, November 9, 2019
*Ellis County Veterans Appreciation Ceremony*
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10:00 AM - Waxahachie Civic Center
Come on out and honor our veterans!
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Have a wonderful week ahead, Waxahachie and enjoy this beautiful day!

Your Friendly Councilmember,
Melissa Olson, CMO
molson@waxahachie.com
(text) 817-507-5162

Waxahachie's Proposition A - November 2019

This is a CALL TO ACTION for all residents inside Ellis County and specifically those in the City of Waxahachie!  You have from 7a-7p today, Thursday, 10/31/19 and tomorrow, 11/1/19 to cast your vote!  All Ellis County residents who are registered voters have the ability to vote for or against 10 Proposed Texas State Constitutional Amendments!  City of Waxahachie registered voters have the ability to vote on those amendments as well as Proposition A. 

Let me convey the importance of Proposition A - whether you're for or against.  This, if approved, would be the FIRST change to our city's charter, since it was created.  Our charter is a fantastic document and dictates the laws the city must go by.  It is however, a bit dated.  The residents of Waxahachie, according to the charter, voted and approved it 48 years ago - in April 1971.  Many laws have changed since then and Waxahachie has almost tripled in that time! The population of Waxahachie in 1970 was 13,452 - compared to over 35,000 today! This is why I proposed adding council member seats to proposition A as well has having the Mayor elected from the people. (They aren't on there though - FYI). Anyway, those who created our charter did an amazing job and if anyone would like to read it, you can find it here: https://library.municode.com/tx/waxahachie/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=CH

Even though it is a wonderful document, there are some changes that should be made,  just to bring the charter a little more in line with how large our city has grown and changes in the law over the last 48 years.  In fact, we might create a charter review committee who can really delve into the charter at length and present the changes to voters. But, if Proposition A passes at the polls, we cannot make another charter change for 2 more years.  That's just something to keep in mind.  Personally, I would love to see those changes mentioned above as more of a priority than changing from an at-large plurality system to a majority place system.

This proposition does NOT create the same system that WISD has recently implemented.  WISD had 6 public meetings where people could speak on the issue and created an at-large, plurality place system.  That's just a lot of technical terms which means each board member represents the district as a whole instead of just one geographical district and are elected based on the top vote-getter in each place.

Proposition A would create an at-large, MAJORITY place system.  I'm glad that we would stay at-large, because I love helping people from all over the city - not just one geographical area.  I do NOT like the idea of places; however, because it makes people target specific seats.  Some have said that this is the whole point - to remove those who aren't doing their job, but we are still a small city and I think that having places will create a lot of divisiveness.  I really believe that having our current method is much more fair and allows for people to all run against each other, creating less of a political climate. Proposition A would create a majority system where a person must win by 50% of the vote or more or face a runoff election in their respective place.  This is wasting more tax payer dollars, in my opinion, because we have to pay to contract services with the Ellis County Elections Department and would have to pay for the runoffs.  Not only that, but the added stress and cost of a runoff election just doesn't seem to be worth it to me.

Another thing to consider about runoffs is that there will be more political advertising around longer AND folks would have to go vote again.  Voter apathy is a real thing and our turnout is really dismal. Look how many people have voted so far... less than 3% as of today... with only today, tomorrow and November 5th left for voters.


If we look at just the Elections Office numbers, assuming most people in Waxahachie have voted there (the only Waxahachie location), only 1001 people will decide how your City Council will be elected.  1001 people speaking for over 35,000!

Here is a pamphlet I put together which gives more information about Proposition A. https://drive.google.com/open?id=1M4srlbbtOWKfv_j-SwtHFA4MJFs4_Rhy

I'm really upfront and tell people that I don't like politics because I don't and the idea of having political signs around longer doesn't appeal to me (as would happen in runoffs). But - I DO love helping people and giving my constituents a voice.  Your vote is also your voice - whether you vote for or against Proposition A. Please speak up and let your voice and your vote be heard!

UPDATE to the Week of October 28th - November 1st, 2019 in the City of Waxahachie

Hello Neighbors!

The reason for this update is two fold.

1) I wanted to post a link to the video of the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting that transpired last night, 10/29/19.  It was a fairly short meeting, but good to keep y'all up to date on what is happening. Planning & Zoning Meeting Video 10/29/19

2) The WCDC (Waxahachie Community Development Corporation) has called a special meeting for Friday, November 1, 2019 at 9:00AM, if anyone wishes to go to that.  The only item of discussion is: Consider support of Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce WX Leaders Summit.  You can access the agenda here:  WCDC November 1, 2019 Special Meeting Agenda and the picture to the right is of the agenda as well.

Cases like this are why it is so important to make the City website one of your normal visits on the web, if you'd like to stay current on what is happening.  Meetings can still be added during the week, as long as it allows for proper notice (which this did). The only word of caution when using the calendar is that in this case, you would need to look at the month of October AND November, since Friday is November 1st, if using the monthly view. Here is a link to the City Calendar: http://www.waxahachie.com/calendar.php



Stay warm and dry, everyone!  Have a great day!

Your Friendly Councilmember,
Melissa Olson