Friendswood City Council The 2015–16 Friendswood City Council, from left: Carl Gustafson, John Scott, Patrick McGinnis, Mayor Kevin Holland, Mayor Pro Tem Jim Hill, Billy Enochs and Steve Rockey[/caption]

Big decisions made in 2015

  • Whitcomb Property development Council approved a zone-change application in July filed by Clear Creek Community Church for an 135-acre undeveloped tract of land along FM 528. The site, known locally as the Whitcomb Property, was one of the largest remaining undeveloped pieces of land in Friendswood, according to officials. Following months of debate and multiple changes to CCCC’s application, council ultimately approved the planned development by a vote of 6-1. The decision advanced CCCC’s planned development, which includes a house of worship expected to be approximately 70,000-100,000 square feet upon build-out in addition to commercial options.
  • Downtown improvements Council targeted improving the downtown district with many decisions in 2015, including adding beautification amenities to buildings such as City Hall.

Top issues for 2016

  • Economic development Although the council declared 2015 the “Year of the Business,” economic development in the city continues to be a priority. With a limited amount of undeveloped land remaining, attracting businesses to Friendswood is crucial to balance the tax base in the mostly residential community.
  • Infrastructure The widening of Friendswood Link Road will conclude in 2016, and four streets are in the process of repavement as part of a 2013 bond referendum. Maintaining thoroughfares throughout the city will be a focus.
  • Capital projects The city will continue work on capital projects, including the Friendswood Public Library expansion and renovation, a pair of water plant replacements and a pair of lift station upgrades. Several parks improvements are in the works as well.

Meetings

The council meets at 4:30 p.m. on the first Monday of the month.

910 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood 281-996-3200 www.ci.friendswood.tx.us

Terms and pay

Mayor and council members serve three-year terms and are limited to four terms. The mayor and council members are volunteers.

Video coverage

Friendswood City Council meetings can be viewed on the city’s YouTube channel.