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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAnnual_Report 2012 to 2013UnivE rSiTyUnivErSiTy ParkPark annUalannUal rEPorTrEPorT 20 12-20 132012-201 3 mmay o rayor ’’SS iin Tr o D UcT ionnTroDUcTion FFinancEinancE vviSiTiSiTTHETHEcciTyiTyonlinEonlinEaTaTWWWWWW..UPTExaSUPTExaS..orgorg FFina n cEinancE a nDanD bb UDgE TUDgET ccommUniTyommUniTyDDEvEv. . Continued from front inFormaTioninFormaTion SErvicESSErvicES HHUmanUmanrrESoUrcESESoUrcES Continued on inside flap, top left, first column 2012 information Services projects • The City’s Microsoft Exchange Email system was upgraded. The process involved a new Dell server, Exchange 2010 software, a new firewall and network switches. • Network infrastructure, communication system, and interactive technology was designed and configured to support the new library. The library’s technology includes RFID self-checkout, internet access, WiFi capability, online card catalog access, interactive smart tables, public computers, and a VOIP tele phone system. • To create a paperless Council agenda management process, Apple iPads were provided to the Mayor, Council and select staff. • LaserFiche Document Imaging was implemented for purchasing and accounts payable. Adopted in September 2012, the Fiscal Year 2013 budget totals $4,275,593, up 2.9% from last year. The FY2013 budget is the first in City history—which dates back to 1924—to include a full-service City public library. The City property tax rate remained unchanged from the previous two years, at 27.845 cents per $100 taxable property value. For the owner of a single-family home whose value mirrored the citywide average, the City tax bill actually decreased by $1, from $2,435 in FY2012 to $2,434 in FY2013. This is still $91 less than the FY2010 average tax bill of $2,526. Citywide, property values rose for the first time since 2009, aided by over $69,000,000 in new construction. University Park continues to enjoy safe neighborhoods, high quality fire and emergency medical service and beautiful parks and green space. Fueled by steady increases in both residential and commercial construction, the City’s financial outlook remains bright. All these successes result from the actions of a professional and caring staff. We are also ably served by residents who volunteer their time and provide guidance as board and committee members. 2013 promises to be a memorable year in University Park. Two much-anticipated building openings top the list of highlights. In January our public library opened for business in the Plaza at Preston Center. Unique in design and location, this state-of-the-art facility will serve the needs of all patrons for decades to come. In April, the Bush Presidential Center opens its doors. Located on the SMU campus within the boundaries of University Park, the Center includes an archive, a museum and a public policy institute. The 23-acre site also has a public wildflower meadow and a tall grass prairie. I invite you to learn more about City expenditures and services in the pages of this report. Mayor Dick Davis Both residential and commercial construction activity continue to increase in University Park. To meet the increased demand for building inspections and plan reviews, the department has added a new building inspector. residential construction activity Permit activity for new residential homes has reached a five-year high. This hike mirrors an increase in building permits nationally. • Total construction values for new residential construction in University Park increased from $45 million in 2011 to $66 million in 2012. • Community Development issued 82 permits for new residential construction in 2012, up over 40% from 2011. commercial construction activity • The George W. Bush Presidential Library and a five-story office building in the Plaza at Preston Center are nearing completion and will be fully occupied soon. • SMU has several major projects underway. The largest is a student housing complex. It includes five dorms, a dining hall, and a parking garage. SMU is also busy with remodels to several dorms and an addition to Moody Coliseum. Code compliance continues to focus on improving the appearance of University Park properties. This effort includes assistance from volunteers who partner with the City to rehabilitate properties with code violations Last year, a group partnered with Moore Disposal to clean up and remove waste from a senior citizen’s residence. Employment During Fiscal 2012, nine full-time employees left the City resulting in a turnover rate of 4%. The Human Resources Department hired 68 full-time, part-time and seasonal employees during the fiscal year. The City has 241 authorized full-time positions. Wellness program To improve workforce health and fitness, the depart- ment is developing a wellness program for employees. Lower health plan and worker’s compensation claims are also key objectives. Despite the addition of the UP Public Library’s $600,000 first-year budget, with three full-time and five-part time employees, the net impact to the City is only $300,000. This reduction is thanks to the $300,000 contribution to the City made by the UP Friends of the Library, the founders in 2000 of what is now the UPPL. This remarkable arrangement is unique among public libraries nationwide. The special part- nership among the Friends, the City, and Venture Commercial--builders of the five-story office tower that includes the UPPL--merited the Dallas Business Journal’s “Public/Private Deal of the Year” award in April 2012. For FY2013, changes to City water and wastewater (sanitary sewer) rates are planned. City advisory committee members, staff, and third-party consultants have been working to revamp the rates to promote water conservation, fairness, and cost recovery. A full briefing on the rates and opportunity for public review is expected in spring 2013. capital improvement program (ciP) Adopted in September 2012, the FY2013 CIP budget of $10,106,154 is the first year of the City’s five-year CIP. The CIP is the method by which the City identifies, plans, and funds capital projects, which are defined as non-recurring, multi-year efforts totaling over $25,000. Funding for the CIP comes from multiple sources, including operating budget transfers, fund balance drawdowns, and interest earnings. Unlike most cities, University Park is debt-free and borrows no money for its capital projects. The FY2013 CIP budget includes projects related to Information Technology ($716,037), Parks ($800,000), Public Safety ($90,000), and Public Works ($6,000,117). A downloadable PDF version of the FY2013-2017 CIP book is available on the City website, effective March 1, 2013. awards and accomplishments The City received two national financial awards again this year. The National Purchasing Institute (NPI) has awarded University Park the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award every year since 2001. Purchasing Agent Christine Green manages the City's procurement oper- ations. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the City the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence In Financial Reporting each year since 1998, and six times before then. Controller Tom Tvardzik and the City's accounting staff prepare the "Comprehensive Annual Financial Report" (CAFR) that is the basis for the award. The CAFR is available as a PDF file on the City’s website. PPUblicUblicllibraryibrary Upcoming project in 2013 • A new EnerGov Community Development System will improve parcel management, plan review, permitting, and inspection activity and provide residents and contractors with additional online access. • Work will begin on redesigning the City’s website. Enhancements will reflect current technologies and best practices, including support for social media. • Two rooms that can be used for groups wanting to study together or work on a project. • A teen area with the latest and classic young adult literature, as well as a MediaScape table where users can share data from their laptops on two video screens. • A children’s areathat visitors enter through a large red bookworm. The area also has an interactive computer game table, called a SMARTable. • A third-floor meeting roomthat will be used for library programs, community meetings, and City staff training. Hours for the library have increased. The library is now open until 8 p.m. three nights a week: • Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday10am to 8pm • Friday and Saturday10am to 5pm The library became a City Department on October 1, 2012. After operating for a full year in a temporary facility at the Peek Service Center, the library moved into its permanent home at Preston Center Plaza and opened to the public in January 2013. The new facility has approximately 15,000 square feet and features: • Alocal history/conference roomhousing a collection of books about Texas and the Park Cities. Equipped with a ceiling-mounted projector and drop- down screen, the room can be used for staff training and webinars. • A magazine/quiet study roomcontaining over 60 magazine and newspaper titles, and comfortable seating. FF I REIRE DDE PART ME NTEPARTMENT PPARKARK DDEPA RTM E N TEPARTMENT PPUb li cUblic WWork SorkS PPol ic EolicE FFi rEirE FFirEirE SSTaTiSTicSTaTiSTicS PPa rkSarkS 2010 2011 2012 Fire Responses 1,350 1,280 1,254 Building Fires 016 21 24 EMS Responses 1,160 1,004 1,018 MICU Transports 673 504 496 Fire Code Inspections 443 802 958 Commercial Pre-Fire Plans ----298 ccommUniTyommUniTy DDEvEloPmEnTEvEloPmEnT SSTaTiSTicSTaTiSTicS Park maintenance Along with daily maintenance of over 60 acres of park landscape, the Department is annually involved in an aggressive project and special event schedule to enhance the appearance of City’s parks and provide recreational value for the benefit of our residents. major park improvements completed in 2012: • Curtis Park bridge renovation • Barns Park renovation • Pardoe Park (University Blvd. medians) • Hunters Glen/Druid median project • Central Expressway bridge overpass landscape improvements • Williams Park landscape improvements major park projects started in 2012/2013: • Peek Service Center landscape improvements • McFarlin Median landscape improvements • Caruth Park playground resurfacing project • Goar Park Creek channel improvements The department continued its program to reforest University Park parkways. “Trees for Town” also gives homeowners the opportunity to purchase smaller trees to plant on their property. • For the seventh straight year, the City was reaccredited as a Tree City USA community. annual Special Events in 2013: • “Eggstravaganza” egghunt in Goar Park – March 2013 • Children’s Fishing Derby in Caruth Park – June 2013 • July 4 Fun Run – July 2013 • Dive-in Movies – summer 2013 • Doggie Splash Day at the pool – September 2013 • Movies in the Park – fall 2013 • Arbor Day Observance – November 2013 • Snider Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting – Nov. 2013 Fire/EmS Training • The department teamed with Highland Park Public Safety personnel in a mass casualty incident training exercise. Emergency response procedures to a multi-casualty event and patient triage procedures were evaluated. • To improve response coordination, firefighters trained with police personnel in an “active shooter” drill at McCulloch Middle School. • The department replicated research conducted by Texas A&M that evaluated alarm responses for photoelectric and ionization style smoke detectors. The tests were part of a feature story on CBS 11. • Six personnel completed 40 hours of Fire Officer II training. Now, all UPFD officers hold Fire Officer II certification through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. • Ten personnel completed a 16-hour Fire Incident Safety Officer course developed and presented by Texas A&M University. Fire Prevention & community Education • Implemented a tactical pre-fire plans project using Firehouse Sketch software. At this point Operations personnel have conducted on-site reviews of 90% of all commercial occupancies in University Park. • Conducted the first citizens Fire academy with 10 residents graduating. • Performed 56 child safety seat installations or inspections for University Park residents. • Initiated a smoke detector awareness program. A key element of the program involved distribution of 5,000 door hangers throughout the community. Fire personnel also installed 72 smoke detectors, checked existing detectors, and replaced batteries in homes of residents who requested assistance. • Conducted initial and final inspections for all fire protection systems in the George Bush Presidential Library. should dial 9-1-1 immediately. calls for Service The department answered 26,065 calls for service in 2012, a 3% increase over 2011. community Services • In 2012 the department continued to provide an officer at McCulloch Intermediate School for the D.a.r.E. program and a School resource officer at Highland Park High School. Funded by the City of University Park and Town of Highland Park, both programs are popular and worthwhile. • The City employs 13 part-time School crossing guards. Under the control of the police department, they assist children at Hyer Elementary, University Park Elementary, and McCulloch Middle School. • The department conducts free on-site security surveys for homes and businesses. UPPD is one of the few police agencies that has trained all its officers to conduct these reviews. Department reaccreditation Three years ago, the department was recognized as a “Flagship Agency” by the Commission for Accredited Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). In 2012 the department worked on completing its third CALEA national reaccreditation. During a December visit CALEA assessors labeled their review “one of the best ever.” crime University Park remains a very safe place to live and work. In 2012 the most reported crime was burglary to a motor vehicle. SUV third-row seat thefts in neighborhoods across University Park contributed substantially to a final tally of 155 incidents. Otherwise, robberies and residential burglaries both increased slightly last year, when compared with figures for 2011. On the plus side, reported business burglaries, auto thefts and bike thefts all dropped last year. Traffic Safety Traffic accidents are becoming less frequent in University Park. There was 16% decline in reported accidents last year over 2011. Injury accidents dropped significantly, down 38%. The department’s Traffic Unit deserves much of the credit for these reductions. School Safety The department works closely with the Highland Park Independent School District to increase school safety on all its campuses. University Park officers make random safety checks on each campus every school day. Residents who observe any suspicious activity on or near school campuses The operational divisions of the Public Works Department consist of Engineering, Facility Maintenance, Infrastructure Maintenance, Sanitation, and Traffic. Engineering In 2012, Engineering Division staff managed the planning, design, and construction of nearly $5 million in capital projects. The City annually awards contracts for routine capital projects including in- place recycling of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter replacement, and the “mile-per-year” (MPY) water and sanitary sewer replacement program. During the past year, projects were completed at dozens of locations across the community. infrastructure maintenance The Infrastructure Maintenance Division is responsible for maintaining and repairing the City’s 71 miles of street pavement, 33 miles of alley pavement, 74 miles of water mains, 61 miles of sanitary sewer mains, 16 miles of storm sewer mains, and 469 fire hydrants. In 2012, the division completed 69 work orders totaling over $463,000 for the replacement of alley pavement. The division also repaired 118 water main breaks. Traffic The Traffic Division maintains and repairs over 6,000 traffic signs, 32 signalized intersections, 120 decorative street lights, school zone flashers, pavement markings, public parking areas, and miscellaneous traffic control devices. In 2012, the division distributed barricades and signs for 94 block parties. Sanitation The Sanitation Division collects residential waste twice • Conducted a CERT class for 7 people. Instruction included CPR/AED training. • Installed 8 residential Knox Box key storage devices. • Trained 17 residents in CPR/AED. Equipment: • The department received delivery of a 2012 Dodge chassis MICU from Frazier. The reserve MICU removed from service was a 2002 Freightliner. • The fire training tower project was completed, improving the quality and frequency of fire and rescue training evolutions. • To practice various techniques, firefighters began training with a forcible entry simulator called “The Enforcer.” Personnel In 2012 UPFD filled two spots due to retirement, and held promotional exams for all ranks. Three personnel were issued the Life Saving Award for outstanding performance of duty. Nine letters of commendation were issued to personnel for outstanding delivery of service to the community. Permits Issued 20092009 - 1,971 2010 2010 - 2,356 2011 2011 - 2,629 2012 2012 - 2,786 Permit Fee Revenue 2009 -2009 -$1,277,718 2010 2010 - $3,097,538 2011 2011 - $1,406,173 2012 2012 - $3,507,389 a week. Residential recycling, brush and yard waste is collected weekly. Commercial waste and recycling dumpsters are emptied up to six times a week. In 2012, Sanitation crews collected more than 18,000 tons of material. 32% of that material was diverted from the landfill and either recycled or composted. Plans for 2013 With City Council approval, Infrastructure Maintenance will implement a 5-year project to replace all water meters. The new meters feature electronic registers for automatic meter reading. The equipment will provide detailed information on water consumption by the City and its residents to improve efficiencies. The Traffic Sign & Signal Division will oversee installation of signal improvements at the Hillcrest-Daniel and Lovers Lane- Baltimore intersections. FF I REIRE DDE PART ME NTEPARTMENT PPARKARK DDEPA RTM E N TEPARTMENT PPUblicUblicWWorkSorkS PPol ic EolicE FFi rEirE FFirEirE SSTaTiSTicSTaTiSTicS PParkSarkS 2010 2011 2012 Fire Responses 1,350 1,280 1,254 Building Fires 016 21 24 EMS Responses 1,160 1,004 1,018 MICU Transports 673 504 496 Fire Code Inspections 443 802 958 Commercial Pre-Fire Plans ----298 ccommUniTyommUniTy DDEvEloPmEnTEvEloPmEnT SSTaTiSTicSTaTiSTicS Park maintenance Along with daily maintenance of over 60 acres of park landscape, the Department is annually involved in an aggressive project and special event schedule to enhance the appearance of City’s parks and provide recreational value for the benefit of our residents. major park improvements completed in 2012: • Curtis Park bridge renovation • Barns Park renovation • Pardoe Park (University Blvd. medians) • Hunters Glen/Druid median project • Central Expressway bridge overpass landscape improvements • Williams Park landscape improvements major park projects started in 2012/2013: • Peek Service Center landscape improvements • McFarlin Median landscape improvements • Caruth Park playground resurfacing project • Goar Park Creek channel improvements The department continued its program to reforest University Park parkways. “Trees for Town” also gives homeowners the opportunity to purchase smaller trees to plant on their property. • For the seventh straight year, the City was reaccredited as a Tree City USA community. annual Special Events in 2013: • “Eggstravaganza” egghunt in Goar Park – March 2013 • Children’s Fishing Derby in Caruth Park – June 2013 • July 4 Fun Run – July 2013 • Dive-in Movies – summer 2013 • Doggie Splash Day at the pool – September 2013 • Movies in the Park – fall 2013 • Arbor Day Observance – November 2013 • Snider Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting – Nov. 2013 Fire/EmS Training • The department teamed with Highland Park Public Safety personnel in a mass casualty incident training exercise. Emergency response procedures to a multi-casualty event and patient triage procedures were evaluated. • To improve response coordination, firefighters trained with police personnel in an “active shooter” drill at McCulloch Middle School. • The department replicated research conducted by Texas A&M that evaluated alarm responses for photoelectric and ionization style smoke detectors. The tests were part of a feature story on CBS 11. • Six personnel completed 40 hours of Fire Officer II training. Now, all UPFD officers hold Fire Officer II certification through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. • Ten personnel completed a 16-hour Fire Incident Safety Officer course developed and presented by Texas A&M University. Fire Prevention & community Education • Implemented a tactical pre-fire plans project using Firehouse Sketch software. At this point Operations personnel have conducted on-site reviews of 90% of all commercial occupancies in University Park. • Conducted the first citizens Fire academy with 10 residents graduating. • Performed 56 child safety seat installations or inspections for University Park residents. • Initiated a smoke detector awareness program. A key element of the program involved distribution of 5,000 door hangers throughout the community. Fire personnel also installed 72 smoke detectors, checked existing detectors, and replaced batteries in homes of residents who requested assistance. • Conducted initial and final inspections for all fire protection systems in the George Bush Presidential Library. should dial 9-1-1 immediately. calls for Service The department answered 26,065 calls for service in 2012, a 3% increase over 2011. community Services • In 2012 the department continued to provide an officer at McCulloch Intermediate School for the D.a.r.E. program and a School resource officer at Highland Park High School. Funded by the City of University Park and Town of Highland Park, both programs are popular and worthwhile. • The City employs 13 part-time School crossing guards. Under the control of the police department, they assist children at Hyer Elementary, University Park Elementary, and McCulloch Middle School. • The department conducts free on-site security surveys for homes and businesses. UPPD is one of the few police agencies that has trained all its officers to conduct these reviews. Department reaccreditation Three years ago, the department was recognized as a “Flagship Agency” by the Commission for Accredited Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). In 2012 the department worked on completing its third CALEA national reaccreditation. During a December visit CALEA assessors labeled their review “one of the best ever.” crime University Park remains a very safe place to live and work. In 2012 the most reported crime was burglary to a motor vehicle. SUV third-row seat thefts in neighborhoods across University Park contributed substantially to a final tally of 155 incidents. Otherwise, robberies and residential burglaries both increased slightly last year, when compared with figures for 2011. On the plus side, reported business burglaries, auto thefts and bike thefts all dropped last year. Traffic Safety Traffic accidents are becoming less frequent in University Park. There was 16% decline in reported accidents last year over 2011. Injury accidents dropped significantly, down 38%. The department’s Traffic Unit deserves much of the credit for these reductions. School Safety The department works closely with the Highland Park Independent School District to increase school safety on all its campuses. University Park officers make random safety checks on each campus every school day. Residents who observe any suspicious activity on or near school campuses The operational divisions of the Public Works Department consist of Engineering, Facility Maintenance, Infrastructure Maintenance, Sanitation, and Traffic. Engineering In 2012, Engineering Division staff managed the planning, design, and construction of nearly $5 million in capital projects. The City annually awards contracts for routine capital projects including in- place recycling of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter replacement, and the “mile-per-year” (MPY) water and sanitary sewer replacement program. During the past year, projects were completed at dozens of locations across the community. infrastructure maintenance The Infrastructure Maintenance Division is responsible for maintaining and repairing the City’s 71 miles of street pavement, 33 miles of alley pavement, 74 miles of water mains, 61 miles of sanitary sewer mains, 16 miles of storm sewer mains, and 469 fire hydrants. In 2012, the division completed 69 work orders totaling over $463,000 for the replacement of alley pavement. The division also repaired 118 water main breaks. Traffic The Traffic Division maintains and repairs over 6,000 traffic signs, 32 signalized intersections, 120 decorative street lights, school zone flashers, pavement markings, public parking areas, and miscellaneous traffic control devices. In 2012, the division distributed barricades and signs for 94 block parties. Sanitation The Sanitation Division collects residential waste twice • Conducted a CERT class for 7 people. Instruction included CPR/AED training. • Installed 8 residential Knox Box key storage devices. • Trained 17 residents in CPR/AED. Equipment: • The department received delivery of a 2012 Dodge chassis MICU from Frazier. The reserve MICU removed from service was a 2002 Freightliner. • The fire training tower project was completed, improving the quality and frequency of fire and rescue training evolutions. • To practice various techniques, firefighters began training with a forcible entry simulator called “The Enforcer.” Personnel In 2012 UPFD filled two spots due to retirement, and held promotional exams for all ranks. Three personnel were issued the Life Saving Award for outstanding performance of duty. Nine letters of commendation were issued to personnel for outstanding delivery of service to the community. Permits Issued 20092009 - 1,971 2010 2010 - 2,356 2011 2011 - 2,629 2012 2012 - 2,786 Permit Fee Revenue 2009 -2009 -$1,277,718 2010 2010 - $3,097,538 2011 2011 - $1,406,173 2012 2012 - $3,507,389 a week. Residential recycling, brush and yard waste is collected weekly. Commercial waste and recycling dumpsters are emptied up to six times a week. In 2012, Sanitation crews collected more than 18,000 tons of material. 32% of that material was diverted from the landfill and either recycled or composted. Plans for 2013 With City Council approval, Infrastructure Maintenance will implement a 5-year project to replace all water meters. The new meters feature electronic registers for automatic meter reading. The equipment will provide detailed information on water consumption by the City and its residents to improve efficiencies. The Traffic Sign & Signal Division will oversee installation of signal improvements at the Hillcrest-Daniel and Lovers Lane- Baltimore intersections. FFIREIREDDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPARKARKDDEPARTMENTEPARTMENT PPUblicUblicWWorkSorkS PPolicEolicE FFirEirE FFirEirE SSTaTiSTicSTaTiSTicS PParkSarkS 201020112012 Fire Responses1,3501,2801,254 Building Fires162124 EMS Responses1,1601,0041,018 MICU Transports673504496 Fire Code Inspections443802958 Commercial Pre-Fire Plans ----298 ccommUniTyommUniTy DDEvEloPmEnTEvEloPmEnT SSTaTiSTicSTaTiSTicS Park maintenance Along with daily maintenance of over 60 acres of park landscape, the Department is annually involved in an aggressive project and special event schedule to enhance the appearance of City’s parks and provide recreational value for the benefit of our residents. major park improvements completed in 2012: • Curtis Park bridge renovation • Barns Park renovation • Pardoe Park (University Blvd. medians) • Hunters Glen/Druid median project • Central Expressway bridge overpass landscape improvements • Williams Park landscape improvements major park projects started in 2012/2013: • Peek Service Center landscape improvements • McFarlin Median landscape improvements • Caruth Park playground resurfacing project • Goar Park Creek channel improvements The department continued its program to reforest University Park parkways. “Trees for Town” also gives homeowners the opportunity to purchase smaller trees to plant on their property. • For the seventh straight year, the City was reaccredited as a Tree City USA community. annual Special Events in 2013: • “Eggstravaganza” egghunt in Goar Park – March 2013 • Children’s Fishing Derby in Caruth Park – June 2013 • July 4 Fun Run – July 2013 • Dive-in Movies – summer 2013 • Doggie Splash Day at the pool – September 2013 • Movies in the Park – fall 2013 • Arbor Day Observance – November 2013 • Snider Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting – Nov. 2013 Fire/EmS Training • The department teamed with Highland Park Public Safety personnel in a mass casualty incident training exercise. Emergency response procedures to a multi-casualty event and patient triage procedures were evaluated. • To improve response coordination, firefighters trained with police personnel in an “active shooter” drill at McCulloch Middle School. • The department replicated research conducted by Texas A&M that evaluated alarm responses for photoelectric and ionization style smoke detectors. The tests were part of a feature story on CBS 11. • Six personnel completed 40 hours of Fire Officer II training. Now, all UPFD officers hold Fire Officer II certification through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. • Ten personnel completed a 16-hour Fire Incident Safety Officer course developed and presented by Texas A&M University. Fire Prevention & community Education • Implemented a tactical pre-fire plans project using Firehouse Sketch software. At this point Operations personnel have conducted on-site reviews of 90% of all commercial occupancies in University Park. • Conducted the first citizens Fire academy with 10 residents graduating. • Performed 56 child safety seat installations or inspections for University Park residents. • Initiated a smoke detector awareness program. A key element of the program involved distribution of 5,000 door hangers throughout the community. Fire personnel also installed 72 smoke detectors, checked existing detectors, and replaced batteries in homes of residents who requested assistance. • Conducted initial and final inspections for all fire protection systems in the George Bush Presidential Library. should dial 9-1-1 immediately. calls for Service The department answered 26,065 calls for service in 2012, a 3% increase over 2011. community Services • In 2012 the department continued to provide an officer at McCulloch Intermediate School for the D.a.r.E. program and a School resource officer at Highland Park High School. Funded by the City of University Park and Town of Highland Park, both programs are popular and worthwhile. • The City employs 13 part-time School crossing guards. Under the control of the police department, they assist children at Hyer Elementary, University Park Elementary, and McCulloch Middle School. • The department conducts free on-site security surveysfor homes and businesses. UPPD is one of the few police agencies that has trained all its officers to conduct these reviews. Department reaccreditation Three years ago, the department was recognized as a “Flagship Agency” by the Commission for Accredited Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). In 2012 the department worked on completing its third CALEA national reaccreditation. During a December visit CALEA assessors labeled their review “one of the best ever.” crime University Park remains a very safe place to live and work. In 2012 the most reported crime was burglary to a motor vehicle. SUV third-row seat thefts in neighborhoods across University Park contributed substantially to a final tally of 155 incidents. Otherwise, robberies and residential burglaries both increased slightly last year, when compared with figures for 2011. On the plus side, reported business burglaries, auto thefts and bike thefts all dropped last year. Traffic Safety Traffic accidents are becoming less frequent in University Park. There was 16% decline in reported accidents last year over 2011. Injury accidents dropped significantly, down 38%. The department’s Traffic Unit deserves much of the credit for these reductions. School Safety The department works closely with the Highland Park Independent School District to increase school safety on all its campuses. University Park officers make random safety checks on each campus every school day. Residents who observe any suspicious activity on or near school campuses The operational divisions of the Public Works Department consist of Engineering, Facility Maintenance, Infrastructure Maintenance, Sanitation, and Traffic. Engineering In 2012, Engineering Division staff managed the planning, design, and construction of nearly $5 million in capital projects. The City annually awards contracts for routine capital projects including in- place recycling of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter replacement, and the “mile-per-year” (MPY) water and sanitary sewer replacement program. During the past year, projects were completed at dozens of locations across the community. infrastructure maintenance The Infrastructure Maintenance Division is responsible for maintaining and repairing the City’s 71 miles of street pavement, 33 miles of alley pavement, 74 miles of water mains, 61 miles of sanitary sewer mains, 16 miles of storm sewer mains, and 469 fire hydrants. In 2012, the division completed 69 work orders totaling over $463,000 for the replacement of alley pavement. The division also repaired 118 water main breaks. Traffic The Traffic Division maintains and repairs over 6,000 traffic signs, 32 signalized intersections, 120 decorative street lights, school zone flashers, pavement markings, public parking areas, and miscellaneous traffic control devices. In 2012, the division distributed barricades and signs for 94 block parties. Sanitation The Sanitation Division collects residential waste twice • Conducted a CERT class for 7 people. Instruction included CPR/AED training. • Installed 8 residential Knox Box key storage devices. • Trained 17 residents in CPR/AED. Equipment: • The department received delivery of a 2012 Dodge chassis MICU from Frazier. The reserve MICU removed from service was a 2002 Freightliner. • The fire training tower project was completed, improving the quality and frequency of fire and rescue training evolutions. • To practice various techniques, firefighters began training with a forcible entry simulator called “The Enforcer.” Personnel In 2012 UPFD filled two spots due to retirement, and held promotional exams for all ranks. Three personnel were issued the Life Saving Award for outstanding performance of duty. Nine letters of commendation were issued to personnel for outstanding delivery of service to the community. Permits Issued 20092009 - 1,971 2010 2010 - 2,356 2011 2011 - 2,629 2012 2012 - 2,786 Permit Fee Revenue 2009 -2009 -$1,277,718 2010 2010 - $3,097,538 2011 2011 - $1,406,173 2012 2012 - $3,507,389 a week. Residential recycling, brush and yard waste is collected weekly. Commercial waste and recycling dumpsters are emptied up to six times a week. In 2012, Sanitation crews collected more than 18,000 tons of material. 32% of that material was diverted from the landfill and either recycled or composted. Plans for 2013 With City Council approval, Infrastructure Maintenance will implement a 5-year project to replace all water meters. The new meters feature electronic registers for automatic meter reading. The equipment will provide detailed information on water consumption by the City and its residents to improve efficiencies. The Traffic Sign & Signal Division will oversee installation of signal improvements at the Hillcrest-Daniel and Lovers Lane- Baltimore intersections. Annual Report 2012-13 8.0:Layout 1 2/13/13 9:09 AM Page 2 UnivE rSiTyUnivErSiTy ParkPark annUalannUal rEPorTrEPorT 20 12-20 132012-201 3 mmay o rayor ’’SS iin Tr o D UcT ionnTroDUcTion FFi nan c EinancE vviSiTiSiT THETHE cciTyiTy onlinEonlinE aTaT WWWWWW..UPTExaSUPTExaS..orgorg FFina n cEinancE a nDanD bb UDgE TUDgET ccomm U ni TyommUniTy DDEvEv. . Continued from front inForm aT i o ninFormaTion SE rvi cE SSErvicES HHUm a nUman rr ESoU r cE SESoUrcES Continued on inside flap, top left, first column 2012 information Services projects • The City’s Microsoft Exchange Email system was upgraded. The process involved a new Dell server, Exchange 2010 software, a new firewall and network switches. • Network infrastructure, communication system, and interactive technology was designed and configured to support the new library. The library’s technology includes RFID self-checkout, internet access, WiFi capability, online card catalog access, interactive smart tables, public computers, and a VOIP tele phone system. • To create a paperless Council agenda management process, Apple iPads were provided to the Mayor, Council and select staff. • LaserFiche Document Imaging was implemented for purchasing and accounts payable. Adopted in September 2012, the Fiscal Year 2013 budget totals $4,275,593, up 2.9% from last year. The FY2013 budget is the first in City history—which dates back to 1924—to include a full-service City public library. The City property tax rate remained unchanged from the previous two years, at 27.845 cents per $100 taxable property value. For the owner of a single-family home whose value mirrored the citywide average, the City tax bill actually decreased by $1, from $2,435 in FY2012 to $2,434 in FY2013. This is still $91 less than the FY2010 average tax bill of $2,526. Citywide, property values rose for the first time since 2009, aided by over $69,000,000 in new construction. University Park continues to enjoy safe neighborhoods, high quality fire and emergency medical service and beautiful parks and green space. Fueled by steady increases in both residential and commercial construction, the City’s financial outlook remains bright. All these successes result from the actions of a professional and caring staff. We are also ably served by residents who volunteer their time and provide guidance as board and committee members. 2013 promises to be a memorable year in University Park. Two much-anticipated building openings top the list of highlights. In January our public library opened for business in the Plaza at Preston Center. Unique in design and location, this state-of-the-art facility will serve the needs of all patrons for decades to come. In April, the Bush Presidential Center opens its doors. Located on the SMU campus within the boundaries of University Park, the Center includes an archive, a museum and a public policy institute. The 23-acre site also has a public wildflower meadow and a tall grass prairie. I invite you to learn more about City expenditures and services in the pages of this report. Mayor Dick Davis Both residential and commercial construction activity continue to increase in University Park. To meet the increased demand for building inspections and plan reviews, the department has added a new building inspector. residential construction activity Permit activity for new residential homes has reached a five-year high. This hike mirrors an increase in building permits nationally. • Total construction values for new residential construction in University Park increased from $45 million in 2011 to $66 million in 2012. • Community Development issued 82 permits for new residential construction in 2012, up over 40% from 2011. commercial construction activity • The George W. Bush Presidential Library and a five-story office building in the Plaza at Preston Center are nearing completion and will be fully occupied soon. • SMU has several major projects underway. The largest is a student housing complex. It includes five dorms, a dining hall, and a parking garage. SMU is also busy with remodels to several dorms and an addition to Moody Coliseum. Code compliance continues to focus on improving the appearance of University Park properties. This effort includes assistance from volunteers who partner with the City to rehabilitate properties with code violations Last year, a group partnered with Moore Disposal to clean up and remove waste from a senior citizen’s residence. Employment During Fiscal 2012, nine full-time employees left the City resulting in a turnover rate of 4%. The Human Resources Department hired 68 full-time, part-time and seasonal employees during the fiscal year. The City has 241 authorized full-time positions. Wellness program To improve workforce health and fitness, the depart- ment is developing a wellness program for employees. Lower health plan and worker’s compensation claims are also key objectives. Despite the addition of the UP Public Library’s $600,000 first-year budget, with three full-time and five-part time employees, the net impact to the City is only $300,000. This reduction is thanks to the $300,000 contribution to the City made by the UP Friends of the Library, the founders in 2000 of what is now the UPPL. This remarkable arrangement is unique among public libraries nationwide. The special part- nership among the Friends, the City, and Venture Commercial--builders of the five-story office tower that includes the UPPL--merited the Dallas Business Journal’s “Public/Private Deal of the Year” award in April 2012. For FY2013, changes to City water and wastewater (sanitary sewer) rates are planned. City advisory committee members, staff, and third-party consultants have been working to revamp the rates to promote water conservation, fairness, and cost recovery. A full briefing on the rates and opportunity for public review is expected in spring 2013. capital improvement program (ciP) Adopted in September 2012, the FY2013 CIP budget of $10,106,154 is the first year of the City’s five-year CIP. The CIP is the method by which the City identifies, plans, and funds capital projects, which are defined as non-recurring, multi-year efforts totaling over $25,000. Funding for the CIP comes from multiple sources, including operating budget transfers, fund balance drawdowns, and interest earnings. Unlike most cities, University Park is debt-free and borrows no money for its capital projects. The FY2013 CIP budget includes projects related to Information Technology ($716,037), Parks ($800,000), Public Safety ($90,000), and Public Works ($6,000,117). A downloadable PDF version of the FY2013-2017 CIP book is available on the City website, effective March 1, 2013. awards and accomplishments The City received two national financial awards again this year. The National Purchasing Institute (NPI) has awarded University Park the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award every year since 2001. Purchasing Agent Christine Green manages the City's procurement oper- ations. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the City the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence In Financial Reporting each year since 1998, and six times before then. Controller Tom Tvardzik and the City's accounting staff prepare the "Comprehensive Annual Financial Report" (CAFR) that is the basis for the award. The CAFR is available as a PDF file on the City’s website. PPUb licUblic lli bra ryibrary Upcoming project in 2013 • A new EnerGov Community Development System will improve parcel management, plan review, permitting, and inspection activity and provide residents and contractors with additional online access. • Work will begin on redesigning the City’s website. Enhancements will reflect current technologies and best practices, including support for social media. • Two rooms that can be used for groups wanting to study together or work on a project. • A teen area with the latest and classic young adult literature, as well as a MediaScape table where users can share data from their laptops on two video screens. • A children’s area that visitors enter through a large red bookworm. The area also has an interactive computer game table, called a SMARTable. • A third-floor meeting room that will be used for library programs, community meetings, and City staff training. Hours for the library have increased. The library is now open until 8 p.m. three nights a week: • Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10am to 8pm • Friday and Saturday 10am to 5pm The library became a City Department on October 1, 2012. After operating for a full year in a temporary facility at the Peek Service Center, the library moved into its permanent home at Preston Center Plaza and opened to the public in January 2013. The new facility has approximately 15,000 square feet and features: • A local history/conference room housing a collection of books about Texas and the Park Cities. Equipped with a ceiling-mounted projector and drop- down screen, the room can be used for staff training and webinars. • A magazine/quiet study room containing over 60 magazine and newspaper titles, and comfortable seating. UnivE rSiTyUnivErSiTy ParkPark annUalannUal rEPorTrEPorT 20 12-20 132012-201 3 mmay o rayor ’’SS iin Tr o D UcT ionnTroDUcTion FFinancEinancE vviSiTiSiT THETHE cciTyiTy onlinEonlinE aTaT WWWWWW..UPTExaSUPTExaS..orgorg FFina n cEinancE a nDanD bb UDgE TUDgET ccommUniTyommUniTyDDEvEv. . Continued from front inForm aT i o ninFormaTion SE rvi cE SSErvicES HHUm a nUman rr ESoU r cE SESoUrcES Continued on inside flap, top left, first column 2012 information Services projects • The City’s Microsoft Exchange Email system was upgraded. The process involved a new Dell server, Exchange 2010 software, a new firewall and network switches. • Network infrastructure, communication system, and interactive technology was designed and configured to support the new library. The library’s technology includes RFID self-checkout, internet access, WiFi capability, online card catalog access, interactive smart tables, public computers, and a VOIP tele phone system. • To create a paperless Council agenda management process, Apple iPads were provided to the Mayor, Council and select staff. • LaserFiche Document Imaging was implemented for purchasing and accounts payable. Adopted in September 2012, the Fiscal Year 2013 budget totals $4,275,593, up 2.9% from last year. The FY2013 budget is the first in City history—which dates back to 1924—to include a full-service City public library. The City property tax rate remained unchanged from the previous two years, at 27.845 cents per $100 taxable property value. For the owner of a single-family home whose value mirrored the citywide average, the City tax bill actually decreased by $1, from $2,435 in FY2012 to $2,434 in FY2013. This is still $91 less than the FY2010 average tax bill of $2,526. Citywide, property values rose for the first time since 2009, aided by over $69,000,000 in new construction. University Park continues to enjoy safe neighborhoods, high quality fire and emergency medical service and beautiful parks and green space. Fueled by steady increases in both residential and commercial construction, the City’s financial outlook remains bright. All these successes result from the actions of a professional and caring staff. We are also ably served by residents who volunteer their time and provide guidance as board and committee members. 2013 promises to be a memorable year in University Park. Two much-anticipated building openings top the list of highlights. In January our public library opened for business in the Plaza at Preston Center. Unique in design and location, this state-of-the-art facility will serve the needs of all patrons for decades to come. In April, the Bush Presidential Center opens its doors. Located on the SMU campus within the boundaries of University Park, the Center includes an archive, a museum and a public policy institute. The 23-acre site also has a public wildflower meadow and a tall grass prairie. I invite you to learn more about City expenditures and services in the pages of this report. Mayor Dick Davis Both residential and commercial construction activity continue to increase in University Park. To meet the increased demand for building inspections and plan reviews, the department has added a new building inspector. residential construction activity Permit activity for new residential homes has reached a five-year high. This hike mirrors an increase in building permits nationally. • Total construction values for new residential construction in University Park increased from $45 million in 2011 to $66 million in 2012. • Community Development issued 82 permits for new residential construction in 2012, up over 40% from 2011. commercial construction activity • The George W. Bush Presidential Library and a five-story office building in the Plaza at Preston Center are nearing completion and will be fully occupied soon. • SMU has several major projects underway. The largest is a student housing complex. It includes five dorms, a dining hall, and a parking garage. SMU is also busy with remodels to several dorms and an addition to Moody Coliseum. Code compliance continues to focus on improving the appearance of University Park properties. This effort includes assistance from volunteers who partner with the City to rehabilitate properties with code violations Last year, a group partnered with Moore Disposal to clean up and remove waste from a senior citizen’s residence. Employment During Fiscal 2012, nine full-time employees left the City resulting in a turnover rate of 4%. The Human Resources Department hired 68 full-time, part-time and seasonal employees during the fiscal year. The City has 241 authorized full-time positions. Wellness program To improve workforce health and fitness, the depart- ment is developing a wellness program for employees. Lower health plan and worker’s compensation claims are also key objectives. Despite the addition of the UP Public Library’s $600,000 first-year budget, with three full-time and five-part time employees, the net impact to the City is only $300,000. This reduction is thanks to the $300,000 contribution to the City made by the UP Friends of the Library, the founders in 2000 of what is now the UPPL. This remarkable arrangement is unique among public libraries nationwide. The special part- nership among the Friends, the City, and Venture Commercial--builders of the five-story office tower that includes the UPPL--merited the Dallas Business Journal’s “Public/Private Deal of the Year” award in April 2012. For FY2013, changes to City water and wastewater (sanitary sewer) rates are planned. City advisory committee members, staff, and third-party consultants have been working to revamp the rates to promote water conservation, fairness, and cost recovery. A full briefing on the rates and opportunity for public review is expected in spring 2013. capital improvement program (ciP) Adopted in September 2012, the FY2013 CIP budget of $10,106,154 is the first year of the City’s five-year CIP. The CIP is the method by which the City identifies, plans, and funds capital projects, which are defined as non-recurring, multi-year efforts totaling over $25,000. Funding for the CIP comes from multiple sources, including operating budget transfers, fund balance drawdowns, and interest earnings. Unlike most cities, University Park is debt-free and borrows no money for its capital projects. The FY2013 CIP budget includes projects related to Information Technology ($716,037), Parks ($800,000), Public Safety ($90,000), and Public Works ($6,000,117). A downloadable PDF version of the FY2013-2017 CIP book is available on the City website, effective March 1, 2013. awards and accomplishments The City received two national financial awards again this year. The National Purchasing Institute (NPI) has awarded University Park the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award every year since 2001. Purchasing Agent Christine Green manages the City's procurement oper- ations. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded the City the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence In Financial Reporting each year since 1998, and six times before then. Controller Tom Tvardzik and the City's accounting staff prepare the "Comprehensive Annual Financial Report" (CAFR) that is the basis for the award. The CAFR is available as a PDF file on the City’s website. PPUb licUblic lli bra ryibrary Upcoming project in 2013 • A new EnerGov Community Development System will improve parcel management, plan review, permitting, and inspection activity and provide residents and contractors with additional online access. • Work will begin on redesigning the City’s website. Enhancements will reflect current technologies and best practices, including support for social media. • Two rooms that can be used for groups wanting to study together or work on a project. • A teen area with the latest and classic young adult literature, as well as a MediaScape table where users can share data from their laptops on two video screens. • A children’s area that visitors enter through a large red bookworm. The area also has an interactive computer game table, called a SMARTable. • A third-floor meeting room that will be used for library programs, community meetings, and City staff training. Hours for the library have increased. The library is now open until 8 p.m. three nights a week: • Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10am to 8pm • Friday and Saturday 10am to 5pm The library became a City Department on October 1, 2012. After operating for a full year in a temporary facility at the Peek Service Center, the library moved into its permanent home at Preston Center Plaza and opened to the public in January 2013. The new facility has approximately 15,000 square feet and features: • A local history/conference room housing a collection of books about Texas and the Park Cities. Equipped with a ceiling-mounted projector and drop- down screen, the room can be used for staff training and webinars. • A magazine/quiet study room containing over 60 magazine and newspaper titles, and comfortable seating.