Agenda

On July 22, 2020, the City of Belton City Council convened for a meeting that addressed crucial infrastructure projects, land use planning, and community development initiatives. Key decisions included the authorization of an Advanced Funding Agreement (AFA) with the Texas Department of Transportation for significant sidewalk construction, the approval of major steps for the Temple-Belton Wastewater Treatment Plant (TBWWTP) Phase II Expansion, and the advancement of several substantial residential and commercial developments through plat approvals and zoning changes.

Among the most important items discussed was the Temple-Belton Wastewater Treatment Plant Phase II Expansion, for which the Council authorized the award of a construction contract and a professional services agreement for construction administration, marking a critical progression in this vital regional infrastructure upgrade. The Council also approved an AFA with TxDOT to construct 5-foot sidewalks along both sides of E. 6th Avenue, from IH-35 to TX317, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and connectivity. Significant land development initiatives included the preliminary plat for River Farm, a substantial 478.5-acre project, and the preliminary and final plats for the nearly 19-acre Skyview Commercial Addition, signaling future growth in commercial and residential sectors. The Council additionally considered an amendment to the Belton Zoning Ordinance related to Overnight Truck Parking.

Public hearings were conducted on several impactful matters, providing opportunities for community input. These included proposed zoning changes from Agricultural to Retail for approximately 1.91 acres near Commerce and Sparta Road, and for a Specific Use Permit for an Electronic Changeable Copy Billboard on W. US Hwy 190 Service Road. Public hearings were also held regarding amendments to the Belton Zoning Ordinance on Overnight Truck Parking and existing Tax Abatement Agreements with CSC Group LP. While the agenda did not indicate any contentious votes or significant public opposition, these hearings underscored the Council's process for gathering public perspective on decisions impacting land use and economic development within the city.

Following the Council's decisions, upcoming actions include the City Manager executing the Advanced Funding Agreement with TxDOT, the construction contract and professional services agreement for the Temple-Belton Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion, and a Memorandum of Understanding with Bell County ESD 1 to realign fire response districts for improved emergency services. The approved zoning changes and plats will proceed to facilitate further development, with projects like River Farm and Skyview Commercial Addition moving forward in their respective phases, shaping Belton's future growth and infrastructure.