Click here to read about the City of Keene and our services.
Questions from the Public Hearing on December 10, 2009
Does Keene have any resources to provide services to us? We have bobcats and coyotes, can you protect us?
Keene is providing services to the newly annexed residents pursuant to the annexation service plans. Residents in the North Hill Estates have been receiving waste water services prior to annexation and will continue to receive this service in addition to other services under the service plan.
The resources such as manpower and financing are budgeted on an annual basis. It is the City Council’s desire to ensure adequate resources while being fiscally responsible as well. Please see Texas Local Government Code 229.002 referring to firearms.
An individual who lives on CR 702 East of Keene wants to know why his property has not been annexed.
The 2009 annexation did not include CR 702 area in which this resident resides. Anyone who would like to be involved in the annexation planning process may attend annexation workshops. Your feedback is valuable in the workshop process. Details of workshops and dates are posted on the City of Keene website and posted at Keene City hall.
What is the future of our shooting range?
The shooting range currently located near the intersection of CR 318 and FM 3136 is accessible from FM 3136, however, the shooting range area is outside the city limit boundaries. Therefore, generally speaking, the City’s codes and regulations do not apply.
What about school district and Alvarado address – how will that be changed?
Your current school district will remain the same.
How are you going to continue with this annexation when you can’t get it correct?
During the process of annexation, the City has abided by the Texas Local Government Code annexation procedures.
How many others did not receive a letter?
Notices were sent by mail to tract owners in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code. Owner information was obtained through the central appraisal district; this is also in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code. The City of Keene sent the notices by certified mail to ensure proper delivery.
How do you want to spend taxpayer dollars?
Tax payer dollars are spent in accordance with the law. City services are subject to change in priority from fiscal year to fiscal year. With this in mind, City Council’s efforts are to utilize tax dollars in areas of priority and need. This will be done in a responsible manner and presented to you, the citizens, not only as a matter of abiding by the Texas Local Government Code, but to promote communication.
Are we getting Christian fairness?
The City of Keene abides by the laws set forth by the Federal, State and Local Governments and will strive to provide the very best service to our citizens.
Will I have to get rid of my donkeys and goats?
The City has no current plans to seek removal of any of the livestock or pets owned by anyone in the annexed areas. However, the city will address any nuisance complaints in accordance with the city ordinances and the Texas Local Government Code. Also see Texas Local Government Code 43.002 and 215.027. The City reserves the rights to take any and all actions in the future as permitted by law in regard to animals within the city limits.
Did you seek out grants and loans to repair?
The City of Keene has taken action in pursuit of both federal and state grant opportunities. In 2010, we have already been granted $114,000.00. Currently we have an application for a $40,303.00 grant that is under review. We will continue to be aggressive in seeking these opportunities and ultimately easing any budget burdens.
Do you enforce City Ordinances?
Our city ordinances are designed to ensure public health and safety. City ordinances are important to the local government framework. Our Code Enforcement addresses city ordinance violations.
Could they produce a map?
Maps reflecting the annexations of December 30, 2009 are in the process of being finalized and will be made available in the near future.
What is your bond rating?
Our bond rating is AAA.
What is the mission of Keene?
Our Strategic Planning Team has been instrumental in establishing a mission statement that will provide a goal and sustain a measure by which we meet our citizens’ expectation. This is part of the strategic planning initiatives and the mission is developing through this process.
Why do you maintain CR 318 when you don’t own it?
Through an inter-local agreement with Johnson County, we have agreed to maintain the road due to industrial park traffic and to complete a second phase of the industrial park which includes widening CR 318.
Have you studied the cost of this?
During the annexation process, annexation workshops addressing costs and resources were held and discussed with Department Directors.
Are you going to hire additional police and fire personnel?
The 2009-2010 budget included adding staff to Police, Fire and Public Works departments. There will be ongoing analysis by department directors to identify future personnel needs. Department directors provide recommendations to the City Administrator who then presents recommendations to the Mayor and City Council.
Are you going to train them?
It is important to train city personnel in their specific field of work. It is not only important for qualified individuals to be well trained, but there are task-specific state and federal mandates that city staff must abide by. The City of Keene believes in ongoing professional development for city staff, so that the citizen receives great customer service they deserve.
If this isn’t about money, why rush this just so you can tax us at the end of the year?
It was the City’s decision to accomplish the annexations in question for various legal and strategic reasons and for the City’s best interests.
Would you stand for it if someone crushed your dream?
City officials acknowledge that annexation can sometimes be an uncomfortable process for those involved. However, annexation is a necessary tool to allow cities to prepare themselves for future growth, especially in areas where growth is projected to occur at a fast pace. North Texas is a flourishing area, not only in this state, but nationwide. Foresight is key to being prepared for anticipated growth.
Is your mind and heart made up?
The City council spoke through its adoption of the four annexation ordinances. In the end, the majority vote expressed the need to move forward with annexation.
Has your heart been changed tonight?
The experience of public hearings for not only the respected individuals who spoke, but to city council members listening, will be an experience that will last a lifetime. Your thoughts are always welcomed, and encouraged.
How can I sign what you call a legal document with all the mistakes you’ve made on the documents?
If at any time you receive any city documents that you feel is in error, please do not hesitate to bring it to the attention of city officials. It is important to us that you receive information that is correct. The City of Keene encourages you to contact city hall with any questions or concerns.
Are you exploring other possibilities?
Any future annexation plans will be analyzed by city council in open meetings for all who have interest to attend and express themselves. Our website will post meetings and/or workshops, as well as the posting outside city hall located at 100 N. Mockingbird Lane in Keene.