Ken Michels, Kennedale Place 3

1. Past Decisions – please respond by February 27, 2025

Although the city council cannot dwell on past councils' decisions and it must move forward, we would like to know if current council members have learned from past decisions, including those made by previous councils. From history, were each of the following zoning case items a good decision or a poor decision, and why?

a) “UV” zoning on Kennedale Sublett Road just east of Kennedale Parkway?

At this time, I do not believe that UV zoning is the best fit for Kennedale. While it is essential to carefully consider the needs and character of our community, I also recognize the importance of having a diverse range of options available for potential future use. Maintaining flexibility in zoning regulations ensures that we are prepared to adapt to changing economic, residential, and commercial needs should the demand arise. Thoughtful planning and a well-balanced approach will allow us to make informed decisions that best serve the long-term interests of Kennedale and its residents.

b) “MF” zoning on Joplin Road just south of Kennedale Sublett Road?

I would not have supported MF zoning on Joplin Road, just South of Kennedale Sublett Road, because I do not believe this location is suitable for multifamily development. The proximity to an existing neighborhood raises concerns about compatibility, particularly due to the lack of a proper buffer between the multifamily housing and the neighboring single-family homes. A well-planned transition between different zoning types is essential to preserving the character of established communities, minimizing potential traffic and congestion issues, and maintaining property values. Thoughtful zoning decisions should prioritize responsible growth while ensuring that new developments enhance, rather than disrupt, the surrounding area.

 

2. Property Taxes – please respond by March 6, 2025

Kennedale is the fifth highest taxing city of the 41 cities in Tarrant County. What are some viable potential solutions to alleviate the tax burden on the citizens or is this just something that the citizens of Kennedale must learn to accept? Why?

The city manager is responsible for preparing the budget based on projected tax revenue, primarily from property taxes and sales taxes. Once the budget is drafted, it is presented to the city council, where we carefully review expenditures and make adjustments to ensure financial responsibility. As a council member for the past three years, I've worked alongside my colleagues to reduce the tax rate in 2022 and maintain that lower rate for the following two years. However, further reductions present challenges due to years of deferred maintenance on critical infrastructure.

When discussing infrastructure, it's important to consider both visible and invisible assets. Roads, sidewalks, and public facilities are the more obvious needs, but underground utilities- such as sewer lines and water storage tanks- are just as vital to a functioning city. Addressing these long-overdue repairs requires funding, which makes it difficult to continue lowering tax rates without compromising essential services.

That said, there are viable solutions to alleviate the tax burden on residents. The key is to increase overall revenue without raising individual tax rates. One way to achieve this is by encouraging responsible growth, particularly in residential development. More rooftops mean a broader tax base, spreading the financial load across more property owners. Additionally, a growing population makes Kennedale more attractive to businesses, which in turn generates more sales tax revenue. A well-balanced mix of residential and commercial development can help ease the burden on existing taxpayers.

Beyond revenue generation, the city council plays a crucial role in evaluating and prioritizing expenditures. During budget workshops, we carefully assess spending, distinguishing between essential needs and discretionary wants. Last year, for example we invested in much-needed IT upgrades for several city departments, including courts, planning, finance, and human resources. While the upfront cost was significant, these improvements will streamline operations and ultimately save money over time.

Additionally, we took a significant step in voting to provide relief to our senior citizens by implementing a senior tax freeze. This measure ensures that property taxes for eligible seniors will not increase, offering them much needed financial stability. While this does not lower the overall tax rate, it helps protect a vulnerable portion of our community from rising costs.

In summary, while high taxes are a challenge, they are not an unchangeable reality. Through strategic development, smart budgeting, and responsible long-term planning, we can work toward reducing the tax burden while ensuring Kennedale's infrastructure and services remain strong. It's a continuous effort, and it requires both fiscal responsibility and forward-thinking economic growth strategies.

 

3. Senior Tax Freeze – please respond by March 13, 2025

Back in June of 2023 the city council approved a senior tax freeze. Details of some of the issues can be seen at: http://arlspectator.mysite.com/blank_7.html . What is your opinion of the actions of:

a) the city attorney?

b) the city manager?

c) the June 2023 City Council?

Why do you hold these opinions (what supports your viewpoint)?

I had the privilege of serving on the City Council in June 2023 when we approved the Senior Tax Freeze. I understand there has been some confusion surrounding this issue, so I'd like to clarify my position and provide some context.

It is my opinion that the tax freeze is being processed exactly as was originally planned and how I understood the ordinance. I believe the council, city manager, and city attorney handled this matter responsibly. The ordinance was properly communicated, voted on, and implemented according to the outlined timeline. This tax freeze represents a meaningful step in supporting our senior residents, and I am confident that it was executed with the best interests of the community in mind.

The agenda packet that we received for that meeting had the ordinance which needed to be voted on by the council; it was listed in the agenda packet to be in effect 1/1/24. As it came up in the meeting, there was some discussion and former Mayor Joplin read the statement from the ordinance in the agenda packet, "This ordinance shall be in full force and effective on January 1, 2024." Motion was made, seconded, and approved 5-0. No one countered to suggest that we should retro activate the start date to 2023 because it wasn't a budgeted item for 2023-our budgets start in October. The start date for the tax basis is 1/1/24 and that freeze is currently in effect as shown on the ordinance.

As with all exemptions, qualifying seniors will need to update their homestead status with TAD. Since we're on this topic, ALL qualifying residents need to make sure to fill out their Homestead Exemption paperwork especially in light of TAD's new policy that exemptions will need to be reconfirmed every 5 years. Qualifying seniors that file the necessary forms with TAD will see the freeze on their bill that they receive this October 2025; they will not see a city increase moving forward.

Online Homestead Exemption forms from TAD's website; can be filled out electronically or printed and mailed: https://www.tad.org/forms/homestead-exemption

 

4. EDC Grant for Community Garden – please respond by March 20, 2025

The EDC (Economic Development Corporation) awards grants to spur business growth with the idea being that helping a business expand will help generate more revenue for the city, thus paying for the grant and more in several years.

In July 2024 the EDC (with three council members serving on the EDC) approved a grant of $24,300 for a community garden. Thankfully, several months later the EDC came up with much improved guidelines/requirements for issuing the grants. What are your thoughts on using grant money, meant to spur business activity and leading to more city revenue, on a community garden?

At the time of the grant offering, there were no policies in effect on which businesses could receive or be denied a grant. If a business filled out an application, met in front of the EDC board, and explained their business plan they essentially qualified. There were 4 applicants and all 4 met the qualifications at that time and received a grant from the EDC. The EDC recognized that technically it was a flaw to not have more stringent guidelines and so enacted more in-depth official policies and guidelines for future recipients of grants.

A community garden with a smart business plan can be a revenue generating business within the city- income can be generated from the rental of spaces by community members, selling surplus produce/goods at local farmer's market(s), selling gardening tools or soil, hosting events like farmer's markets, or onsite fresh produce stand, offering gardening workshops, etc. Additionally, while working in their rented garden space, community members might get hungry or thirsty and decide to grab lunch around town.

 

5. Communications – please respond by March 27, 2025

If you receive an e-mail from a constituent on a Kennedale issue logically laid out and well documented, will you respond to the constituent? Why or why not? What actions will you take?

I always make it a priority to respond to all questions asked by Kennedale residents and business owners. I typically will not respond to an email that is just a general statement nor will I respond to threatening emails.

I believe in the power of in-person communication. When residents reach out with questions or concerns, rather than email, I prefer to call or show up in person, listen, and work together to find reasonable solutions. Understanding the needs of our community is my priority, and I am committed to being accessible and responsive to every resident or business in Kennedale.

 

 

6. Issue – please respond by April 3, 2025

What is the most important issue the city council is currently facing? Why? What are your suggestions for addressing this issue?

 

 

 

 

 

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1. Past Decisions – please respond by March 2, 2023

Although the city council cannot dwell on past councils' decisions and it must move forward, we would like to know if current council members have learned from past decisions, including those made by previous councils. From somewhat recent history, were each of the following three zoning case items a good decision or a poor decision, and why?

a) “UV” zoning on Kennedale Sublett Road just east of Kennedale Parkway?

b) “MF” zoning on Joplin Road just south of Kennedale Sublett Road?

c) denying “R4” zoning at the old Texas Raceway property (approximately 3830 S. New Hope Road)?

Did not respond.

 

2. Property Taxes – please respond by March 9, 2023

Kennedale is the seventh highest taxing city of the 41 cities in Tarrant County. What are some viable potential solutions to alleviate the tax burden on the citizens? Or is this just something that the citizens of Kennedale must learn to accept? Why?

Did not respond.

 

3. Moratorium – please respond by March 16, 2023

In January the council approved a temporary moratorium of applications for MF or TH zoning. Do you agree with the temporary moratorium? Why or why not?

Did not respond.

 

4. Removing Former City Manager George Campbell – please respond by March 23, 2023

In 2021 the city council removed former city manager George Campbell. Mr. Campbell's contract allowed him to receive the same year's additional salary even if he was removed mid-contract or if his contract was not renewed. Do you agree with the council's action? Why or why not?

Did not respond.

 

5. Communications – please respond by March 30, 2023

If you receive an e-mail from a constituent on a Kennedale issue or problem similar to the top of this webpage [ http://arlspectator.mysite.com/rich_text_83.html ], will you respond to the constituent? Why or why not? What actions will you take?

Did not respond.

 

 

6. Issue – please respond by April 6, 2023

What is the most important issue the city council is currently facing? Why? What are your suggestions for addressing this issue?

Did not respond.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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