OPENING
All councilmembers are present as well as City Manager (CM) Don Magner and City Secretary Aimee Nemer.
Councilwoman Justice leads an efficient 10-second prayer and the pledges of allegiance.
Mayor Omar takes the opportunity to go off script for just a moment. He invites Council to the center of the room to read a proclamation recognizing City Manager Don Magner’s 30 years of service to the City of Richardson.
Council now continues with the agenda and hears from the public. CM Magner first acknowledges one comment card received last week after the 4 p.m. deadline from William Stansfield regarding the water rate structure.
Eight speakers and nine singers are also present. (That’ll make sense here in just a moment.) The first is Darrell Day. Mr. Day was an applicant for the current Place 3 vacancy. He wishes Council would have decided to hear from all 13 applicants in an interview. He provides feedback on Council’s stated criteria for selecting the eight applicants chosen for an interview tonight. He criticizes Councilman Barrios for resigning to run for another office.
The second speaker is Melinda Lawrence. She advocates on behalf of Place 3 Applicant Rick Bell. She emphasizes his friendly qualities, longevity in the city, and business expertise. The third speaker is Euan Blackman. He also speaks on behalf of Rick Bell. He explains that Rick reached out to him to offer assistance and a listening ear when he needed it. He also emphasizes Rick’s longevity in the community and professional expertise.
The fourth speaker is Samuel Seaman. He expresses concerns about the city’s use of Flock cameras. The fifth speaker is Dr. Steven Butler. He explains that his historical research has revealed that an original 1873 rail depot was constructed in the same location as the new Interurban Commons park. This depot was previously thought to be located further south. He asks the city to place a plaque recognizing this history at the park.
The sixth speaker is Sidarth Kumar (spelling unverified). He recognizes and expresses gratitude and celebration on behalf of the Richardson Hindu community for the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America. The seventh speaker is Brian Bristow. He expresses concerns about short-term rentals and the impact they have on the residential character of neighborhoods in Richardson. He cites several court cases that support a city’s right to ban or further regulate the ability of short-term rentals to operate.
The eighth and final speaker is Sandy Hanne. Sandy has led the Heart of Dallas Chorus, a ladies barbershop chorus, since 2001. Members of her chorus join her at the microphone. Sandy first thanks Mayor Omar for assisting with a trash issue in her neighborhood. She also thanks City Manager Don Magner for his 30 years of service to Richardson. She presents a card signed by city staff and other citizens and cupcakes to CM Magner. Sandy leads the Heart of Dallas Ladies Chorus in singing “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” The chorus also sings “I Don’t Mind Being All Alone (When I’m All Alone With You)” to thank Council for their service and say a special goodbye to outgoing Place 3 Councilman Dan Barrios. Watch this performance beginning at 40 minutes and 50 seconds here: https://richardsontx.new.swagit.com/videos/398908
PLACE 3 APPLICANT INTERVIEWS
It is now time to interview the eight remaining Place 3 applicants. CM Magner explains that these applicants met at 5:15 for a drawing to determine the order of interviews tonight. This is the order from first to eighth that the drawing determined: Jeff Davis, Daniel Burdette, Rick Bell, Jeffrey Griffin, Scott Ricamore, Eric Willadsen, Jordan Noret, and Genevra Thomas. I’ll do my best to summarize the opening and closing statements and questions and answers to each of Council’s seven questions for each interview below.
JEFF DAVIS
Starting with Jeff Davis, his opening statement focuses first on what he thinks Council should prioritize for this appointment. Preparedness and demonstrated dedication through regular Council meeting attendance, neighborhood leadership experience, city board/commission service, and volunteerism through nonprofits should be the priorities as he sees it. He states that he is independent and willing to listen and learn from others. He has no agenda or affiliation with any political organization. He sees the people of Richardson and neighborhoods as our most valuable assets. He wants to see HOAs and Neighborhood Associations connect more and share ideas.
Councilman Shamsul asks how Mr. Davis would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Davis answers that he appreciates the prioritization of infrastructure needs by this Council in the current proposed FY 27 budget, especially for streets and alleys. He would rely on staff’s expertise for recommendations on how long current infrastructure can last. Water and drainage infrastructure and other needs should also be prioritized over desires or wants in his eyes.
Councilman Corcoran asks how Mr. Davis views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. (Places 1 -4 on Council require a one-year residency in that district to qualify for the seat. Place 5, 6, and Mayor can live anywhere in the city. All voters get to vote for every Council seat, and all councilmembers represent the whole city at large, in case any readers are unaware.)
Mr. Davis answers that he views every Council seat as having a responsibility to represent the entire city. The advantage of having district residency requirements for four seats is to ensure familiarity with that part of the Richardson community.
Councilman Barrios asks how Mr. Davis would transition his regular advocacy for his local neighborhood into a focus on the needs of the entire city. Mr. Davis answers that he sees Richardson as a large neighborhood. A representative ought to feel the same sense of responsibility for the entire city as they do for their local neighborhood.
Councilwoman Justice asks Mr. Davis to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Davis disagrees with the decision to prioritize the Breckenridge Park capital project over other parks and recreation needs against the recommendation of the Parks & Rec Commission that he serves on. He states that the list of decisions that Council has gotten right is much longer. He agrees with the economic development and rezoning decisions that have been made for the Downtown area north of Belt Line.
Councilman Dorian asks what unique perspective or life experience Mr. Davis would bring to Council. Mr. Davis answers that he brings unique familiarity with the city’s volunteer community. He is deeply involved with Richardson Real Heroes, a local nonprofit that recognizes dedicated unsung volunteers in Richardson.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider asks what Mr. Davis’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Davis answers that his top priorities would be infrastructure, pursuing unique parks and recreation opportunities, and connecting more of Richardson.
Mayor Omar asks Mr. Davis if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Davis answers that this would be guided by the comprehensive plan. He believes Council should think 10 – 20 years out and strive to prioritize longer-term goals over short-term gains.
Mr. Davis’s closing statement compliments city management and encourages Council to strive for continuous improvement. He describes his experience in the photography business as balancing budgets through difficult changes while creating beauty. He brings expertise in creativity and problem solving. He feels this approach will guide him well in all aspects of this responsibility.
DANIEL BURDETTE
The next interview is Daniel Burdette. In his opening statement, he cites Council’s stated priorities they are looking for in this appointment, specifically a vast array of experience in the community and a heart for service. He states that he has 20 years volunteering and serving in Richardson through First United Methodist Church Richardson, Wildflower Festival talent competition producing and steering committee service, Leadership Richardson, the Richardson Adult Literacy Center Executive Board, Parks & Rec Commission, CARES, and Citizens Fire & Police Academies. He is guided by his family mission statement to “Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back.”
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mr. Burdette would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Burdette acknowledges that different parts of the city were built at different times. He would take into account the age and condition of infrastructure, the highest need, and not overconcentrating projects in one area of the city. He would also trust the expertise of staff to make recommendations.
Councilman Corcoran also repeats his same question about how Mr. Burdette views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mr. Burdette answers that the district residency requirement ensures that Council has someone from each part of the city. These are positions, however, that still serve the entire population of Richardson.
Councilman Barrios notes that Mr. Burdette is the only applicant who has previously run for Council. He asks what he learned from this and how it might impact this appointment. Mr. Burdette answers that the 2,500 votes he received in his race show that he would be representing members of the public and their voice on Council.
Councilwoman Justice repeats her same question, asking Mr. Burdette to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Burdette answers that he feels that Council made the right decision on the Interurban Industrial Flex Buildings zoning case. He is not able to provide an example of a decision that he feels Council got wrong.
Councilman Dorian asks what Mr. Burdette feels the three most important issues are that Richardson is facing for the remainder of this term. Mr. Burdette answers that threats to local control from the state and zoning cases might be some of the most important issues facing Richardson for the remainder of this term.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mr. Burdette’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Burdette answers that Council training will be his first priority. Economic Development and redevelopment would be a priority. Ensuring that we maintain the current commercial vs. residential tax base split would be another priority.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mr. Burdette if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Burdette answers that these should both be balanced. At times, interim uses can be important to approve. He does not feel that Council should say yes to every request that comes before them. He feels that if the market is not supporting the current plan, Council should look at potentially adjusting the plan.
Mr. Burdette’s closing statement elaborates on his family’s financial investment in different nonprofits in the city, showing his dedication to the community. He also explains his professional experience in software development.
RICK BELL
Rick Bell is interviewed next. In his opening statement, Mr. Bell explains that he has lived here since 1971. His family goes way back in Richardson. He also highlights his 25 years of enterprise IT and business experience.
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mr. Bell would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Bell answers that he would prioritize the highest need. He again highlights his professional experience in handling complex problems. He would also seek to leverage community partnerships for funding needs.
Councilman Corcoran asks his same question about how Mr. Bell views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mr. Bell answers that he views it like home. He explains his long residency in Place 3 and emphasizes his excitement to serve in this seat.
Councilman Barrios asks what unique perspective Mr. Bell would bring to this Council. Mr. Bell feels this Council has a gap with long-term IT experience at the enterprise level. He doesn’t want Richardson to miss out on potential new corporate stakeholders due to a lack of this type of professional experience.
Councilwoman Justice asks her same question, asking Mr. Bell to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Bell compliments Council’s decision to downscale Wildflower Festival as a responsible financial decision to help sustain future years of Wildflower. He doesn’t provide an example of a Council decision he disagrees with.
Councilman Dorian asks what the three most important issues facing Richardson are for the remainder of this term. Mr. Bell answers that this Council term should create momentum for future Council terms. He explains that water will continue to be a major issue. He also feels that last mile connectivity for public transit is an important issue. He also feels Richardson should rally around neighboring communities regarding retaining local control against the state legislature’s attempts to diminish it. He supports exploring new revenue streams.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mr. Bell’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Bell answers that economic development would be his top priority. Public safety would be another priority. Fiscal discipline would be his final priority.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mr. Bell if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Bell answers that Richardson should never just wait for something to come to us. This would cause us to fall behind. He feels that Richardson should lead from the front and continue to look for ways to improve internally.
In his closing statement, he explains that God has been preparing him for this moment his entire life. He emphasizes that he returned to Richardson because this is home. He strongly feels that Richardson’s connected community is our biggest asset.
JEFFREY GRIFFIN
Jeffrey Griffin is the next interview. In his opening statement, he acknowledges that he will not seek to run for this seat in May, and requests to move immediately to Council’s questions.
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mr. Griffin would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Griffin answers that he likes Richardson’s current system of prioritization.
Councilman Corcoran asks his same question about how Mr. Griffin views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mr. Griffin feels these types of councilmembers help to balance each other out. A councilmember with a district residency requirement might be more familiar with local neighborhood needs whereas one without a district residency requirement will help to balance the needs of the whole city.
Councilman Barrios asks what Mr. Griffin would hope to accomplish in his service on Council. Mr. Griffin answers that he would prioritize continuity. He does not seek to rock any boats.
Councilwoman Justice asks her same question, asking Mr. Griffin to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Griffin answers that he agrees with the revitalization decisions for Downtown. He acknowledges that these have not been without consequence as some projects have been delayed for various reasons. He also acknowledges the importance of being able to disagree respectfully. He does not provide an example of a decision he feels Council got wrong.
Councilman Dorian asks Mr. Griffin what his perceived strengths and knowledge gaps are. Mr. Griffin answers that he is an independent thinker who isn’t afraid to express his opinion. He acknowledges that this can sometimes be a great thing and sometimes comes back to bite.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mr. Griffin’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Griffin answers that water rates will be a priority. Planning for the future will also be a priority. His final priority will be ensuring that Richardson continues to do great things.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mr. Griffin if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Griffin answers that sometimes we must challenge the market. Richardson must have a vision for the future that is not just limited by what the market is currently bringing.
Mr. Griffin’s 24-second closing statement compliments Council and his fellow applicants.
SCOTT RICAMORE
Scott Ricamore is interviewed next. In his opening statement, he highlights his long ties to Richardson and specifically District 3. He also highlights his professional experience in television production and how that would help him on Council. He understands how to hire experts and navigate unexpected obstacles. He seeks to listen first and prioritize the long-term interests of Richardson in his votes.
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mr. Ricamore would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Ricamore answers that he would trust staff’s expertise to guide these decisions. He acknowledges that perfect decisions aren’t possible. He would want to avoid deferred maintenance since this can be very costly down the road.
Councilman Corcoran asks his same question about how Mr. Ricamore views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mr. Ricamore answers that, while a councilmember with a district residency requirement has a certain responsibility to their district, they have a bigger responsibility to the city as a whole. All of Council is accountable to all of Richardson.
Councilman Barrios asks what Mr. Ricamore has done to prepare for this appointment. Mr. Ricamore answers that he watches every Council meeting. He has watched the budget workshop. He has made sure to follow the decisions that Council makes so he can be an informed citizen.
Councilwoman Justice asks her same question, asking Mr. Ricamore to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Ricamore acknowledges that healthy debate is a good thing. He feels that Council’s decision to approve the special permit for Amazon drone delivery was wrong. He explains that this decision has had fallout with residents who have been negatively impacted by this decision. He feels that Council has made many decisions that he agrees with, such as the 2026 Bond Program and this year’s proposed budget.
Councilman Dorian asks what Mr. Ricamore would use to judge the city’s financial health. Mr. Ricamore answers that he would prioritize maintaining Richardson’s high bond rating.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mr. Ricamore’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Ricamore answers that he is not entering into this appointment with specific areas of focus. His focus would be on learning the job, asking good questions, and helping make good decisions.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mr. Ricamore if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Ricamore answers that Richardson should always hold out for the better options. Given the metroplex’s expected population growth, he feels Richardson is attractive enough to leverage better options to achieve the visions we have. He supports using economic development strategies carefully to maximize opportunities.
In his closing statement, Mr. Ricamore emphasizes that there is no such thing as a temporary caretaker for Place 3. While the appointment may be short, the decisions made will have lasting impacts. He reveals that he intends to run for Council in May. He wants to be held accountable by voters and intends to remain involved on or off Council.
ERIC WILLADSEN
The next interview is Eric Willadsen. Mr. Willadsen’s opening statement highlights his service as a police officer in Richardson for over 25 years. He has experience leading people and making difficult decisions while being held accountable, for better or for worse. He understands how to make decisions that affect people’s lives. He explains that his approach would be to listen and show respect and understand the facts when making decisions.
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mr. Willadsen would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Willadsen answers that he would prioritize the greatest need.
Councilman Corcoran asks his same question about how Mr. Willadsen views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mr. Willadsen answers that at-large councilmembers have greater responsibility and should expect to be hearing from a wider array of residents citywide. Inversely, councilmembers with a district residency requirement will be reached out to by their local neighbors.
Councilman Barrios asks how being a former employee of the city would impact his service on Council. Mr. Willadsen answers that he would need to separate his experience in Richardson as an employee from his role as councilmember.
Councilwoman Justice asks her same question, asking Mr. Willadsen to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Willadsen’s answer acknowledges that people seem not to like the way things are while also opposing change. He feels Council has made a lot of good decisions. He would always question spending decisions to determine necessities from immediate wants.
Councilman Dorian asks what Richardson should seek from DART to encourage productive development near transit stations while addressing neighborhood impacts. Mr. Willadsen answers that DART offers benefits and problems. He feels that DART can bring public safety issues into the city. He feels this can be managed and Richardson should ensure that DART is keeping their transit system safe.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mr. Willadsen’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Willadsen answers that his top priorities would be to make sure that city employees are taken care of, that citizens are heard, and managing street construction.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mr. Willadsen if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Willadsen answers that Richardson should always strive to be better. He feels we should build on our strong foundation.
Mr. Willadsen’s closing statement emphasizes his professional experience and willingness to listen and learn. He is prepared to work together. He wants to make residents feel heard and continue to ensure that Richardson is an attractive city to businesses.
JORDAN NORET
The next interview is Jordan Noret. His opening statement emphasizes his family values and 16 years living in Richardson, his professional background, and nonprofit experience leading Live Like Luke of Texas. He describes himself as balanced. He also leads a cub scout pack where he prioritizes inclusion and accessibility. He coaches youth sports teams and also leads the JJ Pearce HOA.
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mr. Noret would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mr. Noret answers that streets and water and sewer infrastructure should be the priority. He would prioritize the greatest needs. He would also trust the expertise of staff.
Councilman Corcoran asks his same question about how Mr. Noret views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mr. Noret answers that he sees this as an opportunity to serve his neighbors. The relationships he has built through Place 3 are what inspired him to apply for this appointment.
Councilman Barrios asks what Mr. Noret feels the biggest hurdle will be for him in this role. Mr. Noret answers that the biggest hurdle would be getting up to speed quickly. He has spent months preparing for this by watching and attending Council meetings and budget sessions.
Councilwoman Justice asks her same question, asking Mr. Noret to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mr. Noret answers that the Amazon drone delivery decision was exciting to him initially. In the time since, after experiencing a drone delivery at his own residence, he has questioned if this truly was the best decision.
Councilman Dorian asks how Mr. Noret would manage the balance between Council duties and all the responsibilities he currently has. Mr. Noret answers that he has thought long and hard about this and discussed it with his family. He accepts that he would have to prioritize Council duties over certain scouting and other events and is prepared to do so. He is already working on transitioning his roles in Live Like Luke, the Cub Scout pack, and his HOA.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mr. Noret’s top priorities would be on Council. Mr. Noret answers that his top priorities will be public safety, community engagement, and infrastructure.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mr. Noret if he would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mr. Noret answers that this would need to be handled on a case-by-case basis. It is also important to have the courage to be patient when the right opportunities present themselves. He acknowledges that there will also be times where he would support filling a space more immediately.
His closing statement re-emphasizes his family values and compassion for people. He also, as a scientist, prioritizes making data-backed decisions. He will prioritize balance between what residents might prefer and what the data concludes is the best decision. He is committed to being transparent and accountable with voters. He asks that Council prioritize readiness in making this appointment.
GENEVRA THOMAS
The final interview is Genevra Thomas. Her opening statement explains why Richardson’s close-knit community is the reason she chose to buy a home here after the pandemic. She wants to contribute to this being a sustainable and economically prosperous, family-friendly community.
Councilman Shamsul asks his same question about how Mrs. Thomas would prioritize capital needs when there isn’t enough money to do everything needed. Mrs. Thomas answers that she would prioritize the greatest assessed need.
Councilman Corcoran asks his same question about how Mrs. Thomas views the role of a councilmember with a district residency requirement compared to a councilmember with no such requirement. Mrs. Thomas answers that she would need to be familiar with the residential and business needs of District 3. She would also need to keep all Richardson residents in mind in the decisions she would make on Council.
Councilman Barrios asks what Mrs. Thomas’ current area of doctoral study is and what that should tell this Council about her. Mrs. Thomas answers that she has worked as a special education coordinator for RISD for eight years. Her current special study area is special education transition outcomes after a student graduates. She would prioritize inclusion and maximizing opportunities for all.
Councilwoman Justice asks her same question, asking Mrs. Thomas to provide examples of a decision Council got right and a decision that Council got wrong. Mrs. Thomas answers that losing Staycation in the Polk St. apartments decision was a tough decision to accept. She agrees with this Council’s decisions to prioritize infrastructure projects and reduce the scope of Wildflower Festival.
Councilman Dorian asks how Mrs. Thomas would weigh different factors in zoning decisions. Mrs. Thomas answers that she would proactively solicit input from neighboring residents. She would balance all factors to make a sound decision after studying all the information.
Mayor Pro Tem Hutchenrider repeats his same question and asks what Mrs. Thomas’s top priorities would be on Council. Mrs. Thomas answers that she would prioritize family-friendly decisions that foster growth, economic prosperity, and sustainability to keep Richardson a quality city for future generations.
Mayor Omar also repeats his question, asking Mrs. Thomas if she would accept what the market brings or hold out for other potential options when it comes to zoning decisions. Mrs. Thomas answers that Richardson should hold out for the best opportunities. Development decisions should align with our vision for the city’s future.
Her closing statement focuses on her family values and what makes Richardson such a special place. She is passionate about service and is willing to not run for the seat in May if Council prefers.
This concludes the interviews and the meeting adjourns.