Page 352 - Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council

BENBROOK HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

design and related construction cost estimate. Funding for this project is from General Fund reserves; no debt will be
issued or incurred.

The FWISD began construction of the new Westpark Elementary School in 2015; the 80,281 square-foot elementary
school opened for the 2016-17 school year. The new school supports the continued transition to Benbrook Middle/High
School which welcomed its first sophomore class for the 2015-16 school year.

2016

Looking back at 2016, Benbrook experienced changes in City ordinances and operations, completed of a myriad of
projects, hosted various events and programs, received accolades and awards, and continued providing high-quality
services while maintaining financial integrity and aiding the environment.

January kicked-off the first quarter of the new year with the adoption of an ordinance updating prohibition of firearms
and changes to requirements for use of bows and arrows in City Parks. Street Department crews completed an erosion
control project at Timbercreek Park. Approval was granted for design work on the Chapin Road cross culvert project
and the Van Deman drainage project. A Developer Agreement for the extension of Vista Way from Mercedes Street
to the I-20 frontage road. Council reviewed and approved updates to the City’s Comprehensive plan. In March, the
City hosted a household hazardous waste/electronic waste collection even. The City’s contract for refuse and recycling
services was renewed for another year. Design work on Plantation West and Sundown Drive drainage projects was
approved.

The second quarter of 2016 featured a wide-range of events designed to safeguard the local environment and to foster
safety. In April, the City hosted an electronic waste/document shredding event. The Police and Fire departments
partnered to host “National Take-Back Initiative” for safe disposal of over-the counter and prescription medications.
The Council renewed an interlocal agreement to provide transportation for elderly and disabled residents. The Police
Department sponsored a “Bicycle Safety Rodeo” at Westpark Elementary School. The Police Department also hosted
“Coffee with a Cop” an event to facilitate improved communications between Police Officers and local community
members. Just after the school term ended, Benbrook hosted FWISD students involved in the Vital Link Program; over
a week-long period the students met with departmental representatives to learn about municipal government.

CITY OF BENBROOK 2018-19 ANNUAL BUDGET
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