Farmers Branch council reviews Charter Review Committee topics, flags ethics panel and capital‑plan timing

City Secretary Aaron Flores briefed the Farmers Branch City Council on Jan. 6 about topics being considered by the Charter Review Committee and an updated list of council‑initiated items.

Flores said the committee began meeting Dec. 17 and would continue detailed, article‑by‑article review. "We just had their first meeting on December 17 where the topics were initially introduced," Flores said, and staff will return with updates as the committee completes work.

Council members proposed several substantive changes for the committee to consider. Councilwoman Gonzales supported yearly mandatory council training, arguing periodic refreshers would prevent complacency. Councilwoman Bennett—after reviewing other cities' charters—praised the concept of an independent ethics commission (citing Houston's model) and said she wanted to shorten the capital program planning horizon from seven years to five so the budget is tied to a practical delivery plan: "We have a 7 year capital program. I'd like to change that to 5," she said.

Councilman Neal said he will consult the city attorney on additional items he plans to propose and suggested the charter include limits on how frequently a council member may participate remotely so that members attend executive sessions and council meetings in person when expected.

Flores said the committee may originate ideas on its own, and council members can request quarterly updates or major highlights; committee meetings are recorded for public review. No charter amendments were adopted during the session; the council asked staff to continue supporting the committee and to supply comparative examples and highlighted changes for easier review.