By Karolyn Gephart
Pearland City Council held their regular meeting by videoconference April 13, 2020.
Public comments were offered by telephone and video conference in order to advance the public health goal of limiting face-to-face meetings to slow the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). All speakers had to register by noon on April 13.
Council input and discussion were held regarding Utility Billing Matters. The delay in Utility Billing has been discussed by Council February 17 and 24 and on March 3. Council agreed March 3 on Option B, the 32/30 Plan to reverse the gap that had built up to approximately 60 days.
At the March 3 meeting, City Council passed the first reading of an Ordinance to adjust the billing tiers by approximately 14.29 percent.
The adjustment to the tiers is a way to alleviate the cost for customers on the edges of each tier with the 32-day read cycle target (still within the 28-32 day industry standard), according to city officials.
On April 13, Council discussed tier adjustments and staff responses to Council and community questions regarding Utility Billing matters.
Council also heard the first reading of an ordinance amending the zoning map for approval of an amendment to the Stonebridge Planned Development to allow a pet store and care facility.
Other items included renewing a unit supply contract for electrical services (maintenance and repairs of Public Works Facilities with Boyer Inc. and amending nondevelopment usage and service fees from Ordinance 1358-19.
