STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Quality of Life, Arts & Culture
AGENDA DATE: March 27, 2024
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 10
DEPARTMENT: Park & Recreation Department
EXECUTIVE: John D. Jenkins
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SUBJECT
Title
A public hearing, pursuant to Chapter 26 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, to receive comments on the proposed use of a portion of Orbiter Park located at 9100 Orbiter Drive, by Dallas Water Utilities for the construction of a 16-inch water line totaling approximately 10,071 square feet (0.23 acres) of land, for the public benefit; and, at the close of the public hearing consideration of a resolution authorizing the proposed use of parkland pursuant to Chapter 26 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code - Estimated Revenue: Capital Gifts, Donation and Development Fund $700.00
Body
BACKGROUND
The City of Dallas owns municipal parkland known as Orbiter Park (approximately 11.0 acres) located at 9100 Orbiter Drive, on the northeast side of Dallas. The park is currently used for active recreation with White Rock Creek Trail running along the Park’s western boundary.
Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) currently maintains a 12-inch water main that is plugged on the east side of the park. DWU needs to connect to this waterline along the southern boundary of the park for the purpose of connectivity to a dead-end main and create a looped water main. This use will require an approximate 10,071 square feet (0.23 acres) public utility easement in parkland (Exhibit A). The project will cause little to no disruption of the existing trail or trail operations. This project is needed to provide for increased water volume, higher water pressure and improved water quality for the next few decades for Dallas residents in this area.
In consideration for this conveyance by easement, DWU will pay the fair market value of $27,564.00 for these easements, as determined by an independent appraisal, and public hearing advertising costs of $700.00.
In compliance with the law, the City must determine that there is a need, that there is no feasible and prudent alternative, and that all reasonable care will be taken not to damage the remainder of the park property and to mitigate any disruption of park services.
In accordance with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, Chapter 26 (Sections 26.001 through 26.004) the City Council must advertise and hold a public hearing on the change of use of parkland.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On February 8, 2024, the Park and Recreation Board authorized a public hearing to be held on March 27, 2024, to receive comments on the proposed use of a portion of Orbiter Park located at 9100 Orbiter Drive, by Dallas Water Utilities for the construction of a 16-inch water line totaling approximately 10,071 square feet (0.23 acres) of land.
FISCAL INFORMATION
Estimated Revenue: Capital Gifts, Donation and Development Fund $700.00
MAP
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