Update: What is being done for homeless – Deputy City Manager Martin Glenn updated Mayor Douglas Athas and City Council members on the city’s efforts to work with other agencies to help homeless individuals. He said that the city of Garland already works with area faith-based and other community agencies to help the homeless but is working on other things that can be done. There is currently a group of individuals working on a report that will identify, among other things, the number of homeless individuals in Garland.
When that report is submitted to the city manager’s office, they a policy with suggestions will be compiled and presented to the City Council for input and discussion. The policy will contain recommendations and information on what the city will do in working with outside organizations to assist the homeless population.
One thing that is currently being considered is a plan to provide warming shelters on especially cold, inclement weather days for homeless people and others that might need that type of facility.
Recently, the city of Garland worked with the Salvation Army and conducted a trial on letting the homeless people know that a warming shelter would be available on a night when extremely cold night weather was predicted. Thirteen people went to the shelter.
Appearance of sound wall – A discussion was held to decide on the appearance of the sound wall on IH 635 between LaPrada and Centerville Roads. Two choices were shown and council was asked for input on which design to go with.
Detail plan approved – A public hearing was held to consider approving a detail plan by Harlan Properties for 123 townhouses to be constructed on Beltline Road at North Garland Avenue. The proposed residential development will have a homeowner’s association and amenities such as a pool and walking trail. Detail plan was approved by council.
Council approves CIP – The 2015 Capital Improvement Program was approved by the City Council.