Page 319 - Benbrook FY20 Approved Budget

CITY OF BENBROOK 2019-20 ANNUAL BUDGET

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.

As summer began, the Street Department crews completed asphalt overlay of Benbrook streets and re-striping projects; Tarrant County assisted
in this joint venture by providing equipment and workers. The City hosted another electronic waste/document shredding even in July. In
preparation for increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic associated with the opening of the new Westpark Elementary School in August, the
Council adopted an ordinance amending the speed limit on FM 2871 between the Benbrook City limit line and Benbrook Boulevard and portions
of Jerry Dunn Parkway and Whitestone Ranch Road. The Benbrook Economic Development Corporation promoted the Veggie Van at Dutch
Branch Park to create a market for fresh produce and to stimulate more-healthy living. The City ended the summer with acceptance of three
honors: the 2016 Certificate for Planning Excellence from the Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association, the GFOA award for
Distinguished Budget Presentation, and the GFOA certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Planning.

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