Transcript: City Council Meeting Recap
Speaker: Heath City Manager Steven Alexander

Hello, I’m City Manager Steven Alexander with an update from the November 10 City Council meeting.

We had a full agenda, as City Council holds only one regular meeting in November and December due to the holidays.

Council conducted a public hearing regarding a request for a Conditional Use Permit to allow a 2,900-square-foot accessory structure on a two-and-a-half-acre property located in a Single-Family Residential District. Council approved the request.

Following a presentation by Director of Planning and Community Development Zack King, Council approved an ordinance establishing Neighborhood Traffic Management regulations. The ordinance provides a framework for residents and Homeowner Associations to apply for permits to install aesthetic entryway gates across public roads and streets. Subdivisions would remain accessible to all members of the public.

Assistant Director of Finance Tracy Rosalies presented the City's Investment Policy for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. Council adopted the policy along with minor revisions as recommended by the Finance and Audit Advisory Board.

During the meeting, the City Council also approved the execution of a new depository agreement and approved proposals for employee health benefits for 2027.

Director of Public Works Preston Jones presented bids for two important components of Heath's ongoing water supply expansion: Water Well No. 3, located on Smirl Drive, and Water Well No. 4, located at the Rockwall pump station site.

These projects are part of the City's continued efforts to strengthen water supply capacity and meet the community's long-term needs.

Council awarded the construction contract for both wells to C. Miller Drilling, Inc., in the amount of $13,097,777. Construction is anticipated to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2028. Both projects will include sound mitigation components and extensive communication with surrounding residents prior to the start dates.

Council also received an update on construction of the water well at 2490 Governors Boulevard in the Heath Golf & Yacht Club neighborhood, where drilling is now underway.

This property was designated as a Water Utility Site in 2013. Recognizing the proximity of nearby homes and the fact that drilling activity occurs around the clock, project planning included additional noise mitigation measures beyond those used during construction of the first well at Towne Center Park.

As part of that effort, the City invested $302,000 in a 24’ sound barrier wall. Additional measures have also been taken to attenuate noise leaving the site.

In an effort to address concerns presented by nearby residents regarding continuous noise, Mr. Jones presented additional noise mitigation measures for Council's consideration.
Based on the information presented, City Council approved an additional $48,665 for this second sound barrier.

In addition, City staff will personally follow up with Heath Golf & Yacht Club residents, going door to door to discuss these measures and provide ongoing updates throughout each additional phase of the project.

We appreciate the patience of our residents as we work to complete this important project and expand the City's long-term water supply.

Heath DPS Chief Brandon Seery presented information regarding the potential installation of a Safe Haven Baby Box at the new DPS Station #30 or #31.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes currently exist at the McClendon-Chisholm, Rowlett, and Ennis Fire Departments.

Council voted to table the item at this time and proceed with construction of Stations #30 and #31 as budgeted in the current Capital Improvement Program.

Council also considered the purchase of a rescue boat for the Heath Department of Public Safety. The total investment would be $87,191.90, including the boat, initial training, and equipment. Council tabled the item to allow additional research into funding and donation or sponsorship options.

Following Executive Session, Council approved an Emergency Water Supply Agreement with Rockwall County Municipal Utility District No. 10 for the Horizon Lakes development.

This agreement establishes emergency water supply coordination and reflects the City's continued commitment to water reliability and regional cooperation.

You can watch the full meeting and find the meeting packet on the City's website. As always, if you have questions, please contact us at City Hall.

Have a great week!