Title
Discuss the appointment and/or removal of Farmers Branch-appointed Valwood Improvement Authority board members.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Councilmember Omar Roman
BACKGROUND:
The Valwood Improvement Authority (“Authority”) was initially enacted by state legislation as a special-purpose district to address and manage flood control within the Valwood District. The Authority was established to ensure the coordinated planning, financing, and implementation of flood mitigation projects that protect public safety, preserve property values, and promote responsible development within the service area.
Governance of the Authority is vested in a Board of Directors, designed to reflect regional representation and accountability. Membership on the Board is comprised of appointees from the Cities of Farmers Branch and Carrollton, with an additional appointment designated by the Dallas County Commissioners Court. This structure ensures that the interests of both municipalities, as well as the broader county jurisdiction, are adequately represented in the Authority’s decision-making process.
Over time, the Authority’s statutory purpose has expanded beyond flood control to encompass related public improvements that support infrastructure resiliency, environmental stewardship, and economic growth within the Valwood District. Today, the Authority continues to operate under its legislative mandate, serving as an intergovernmental partner that provides strategic oversight, funding mechanisms, and project coordination in collaboration with local governments and regional stakeholders.
The Valwood Improvement Authority District’s boundaries are from Beltline Road to Interstate Highway 635 (North and South) and President George Bush Turnpike to Interstate Highway 35 (East and West). Members of the Valwood Improvement Authority must own land within these borders.
The City of Farmers Branch appoints three positions to the board of directors. Terms are two (2) years with no term limits.
Current members include:
- David Koch, Place 1
- Term Expires December 31, 2025
- Michelle Holmes, Place 2
- Term Expires December 31, 2025
- Andrew Jones, Place 3
- Term Expires December 31, 2026
The City currently has three applications on file for the Valwood Improvement Authority Board of Directors that include:
- Albert Wolfe
- Sabrina Martin
- Patrick Trapp
At the July 1, 2025, City Council meeting, Andrew Jones was appointed to Place 3 of the Valwood Improvement Authority. At this meeting, staff were directed to bring back an item to discuss the removal and appointments of Farmers Branch-appointed Valwood Improvement Authority members.
DISCUSSION:
Council will discuss the appointment and removal of Farmers Branch-appointed Valwood Improvement Authority members.
Staff will be available to answer any questions the Council may have.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Valwood Improvement Authority Roster
2. Valwood Improvement Authority Boundary Map
3. Valwood Improvement Authority Legislation
3. Presentation