Fort Worth council approves parkland easements, zoning cases and eminent domain resolution

FORT WORTH — The Fort Worth City Council on March 25 approved a package of land-use and development items, including eight parkland or right-of-way actions under Chapter 26 of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, a board appointment, multiple zoning approvals and a resolution authorizing use of eminent domain for a wastewater lift station.

The approvals included temporary and permanent use of portions of public parks for utility and maintenance access and the formal documentation of rights of way through Forest Park. City staff said the actions are needed to support utility projects and to minimize construction impacts.

Laurie Gordon, planning manager for the Park and Recreation Department, told council the parkland conversions follow the notice and review process required by state law and that the Park and Recreation Board had endorsed the proposals earlier. Gordon said no trees would be impacted for several of the smaller maintenance-area changes; for Zebo South Park staff identified 37 impacted trees and estimated a tree-mitigation fee of about $134,000.

The council also confirmed a board appointment recommended by District 10: “I would request your consideration to appoint the following individual… Mr. Brian Ketchum to the Historical and Cultural Landmark Commission,” Councilmember Bylock said from the dais. The council voted to approve the appointment.

On zonin…