Photo courtesy city of Cedar Park

Big decisions made in 2013

Blue Ribbon Task Force

In August, Mayor Matt Powell established three subcommittees of City Council to address Cedar Park's needs, including the recruitment of office and flex space developers, attracting higher education opportunities and maintaining a low-tax, low-regulation economic environment.

Incentives for Dana Limited

In November, City Council approved $1.2 million in incentives for Dana Limited Corp., which plans to occupy the first building at Scottsdale Crossing Commerce Park by March. Construction of the business park began in early 2013 and was also incentivized by the city.

TIRZ created near Cedar Park Center

Following the creation of a tax increment reinvestment zone located in front of the Cedar Park Center in July, City Council unveiled a $2 million economic incentive agreement with developer Hicks Cedar Park LLC in September that aims to spur new construction.

Top issues for 2014

Comprehensive master plan update

A committee has been working with consultants since March 2013 to update the city's comprehensive master plan and future land use map. City Manager Brenda Eivens said the first draft, which outlines how Cedar Park should develop, will be done in March. Powell said the plan will help establish the city's identity.

Major road projects

The city will embark on the design and construction of several major road improvement projects including Whitestone Boulevard between Sam Bass Road and Parmer Lane, Anderson Mill Road from FM 1431 to Lime Creek Road and portions of Little Elm Trail.

Diversified tax base

Powell said work continues within the Blue Ribbon Task Force committees, which are intended to help attract a more diverse tax base and, therefore, ease the tax burden on homeowners. Eivens said several new retail announcements are in store for 2014.

Meetings

Cedar Park City Council usually meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of the month in Council Chambers at City Hall, 450 Cypress Creek Road, Bldg. 4, Cedar Park.

Terms and compensation

Council members serve two-year terms and receive reimbursement for cell phone use, meals, travel and other expenses directly related to their role on City Council.

Recordings

Meetings are broadcast on government cable station CPTV–10. Meetings are also recorded and archived on the city's website, www.cedarparktexas.us