To: Mark R. Hafner, City Manager
From: Tracy Talkington, Captain/ Police Operations Division
Subject:
Title
Consider an ordinance amending the City of Keller Code of Ordinances by amending Chapter 18, Article II, Speed Limits, Section 18-200, various speed limits on public streets; establishing a prima facie speed limit for vehicles on Hidden Meadow Drive located in Hidden Lakes, under provisions of section 545.356(b-1) of the Texas Transportation Code; providing a severability clause; a penalty; authorizing publication; and establishing an effective date
Action Requested:
Consider amending the City of Keller Code of Ordinances to change the speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph on Hidden Meadow Drive.
Background:
The Police Department received a petition conducted by residents of Hidden Meadow Drive that contained thirty one (31) signatures which represents ninety-seven percent (97%) of the residents supporting a 25 mph speed limit on Hidden Meadow Drive. The present speed limit is 30 mph. The residents believe the current speed limit is too high due to the width of the street, allowed parking on both sides of the street, and concern for children playing in this area.
Section 545.356 (b-1) of the Texas Traffic Code allows the governing body of a municipality to declare a lower speed limit of not less than 25 mph on local roads that are thirty-five feet (35’) or less in width and allow vehicular parking if the governing body determines that the prima facie speed limit on the roadway (30 mph) is unreasonable or unsafe. The Police Department has no objections to the lowering of the speed limit as the streets are within a residential area, 97% of the residents approve of the change for the safety of their children
Financial Impact:
The financial impact will be the cost of the signs and poles which is a minimal impact on the City budget.
Citizen Input/Board Review:
A resident-initiated petition was submitted with thirty-one (31) signatures, which represents ninety-seven percent (97%) of the homes on Hidden Meadows Drive supporting a 25 mph speed limit.
Legal Review:
The proposed ordinance has been reviewed by City Attorney
Alternatives:
City Council has the following alternatives:
- Approve as submitted
- Approve with changes
- Denial
Council Action:
City Council approval of the proposed Ordinance as presented.